作者: admin

  • Politic : PM convened all Gov member’s to discuss efficiency and republican discipline

    Politic : PM convened all Gov member’s to discuss efficiency and republican discipline

    In a decisive move to break from historical inefficiencies, Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé convened a comprehensive working session with all government members on March 7, 2026. The meeting at Villa d’accueil served as the operational launch of the administration’s governance framework, emphasizing strategic priorities and performance-based governance.

    The gathering transcended ceremonial formalities to establish concrete operational parameters. Ministers received detailed sectoral roadmaps complete with control mechanisms and precise performance indicators designed to ensure rigorous implementation of public policies. The administration’s focus on measurable outcomes represents a significant departure from previous governance approaches.

    Financial governance took center stage during discussions, with particular emphasis on Haiti’s macroeconomic situation and public finance management. New authorizing officers received comprehensive briefings on budget preparation and execution protocols, including critical distinctions between operational and investment budgets. The session clarified disbursement procedures under public financial law and reinforced the complementary roles of financial controllers and public accountants in maintaining expenditure regularity and transparency.

    Government authorities highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic resource mobilization and consolidate fiscal balance within the framework of the 2025-2026 Finance Law. The Prime Minister articulated expectations for united, competent, and action-oriented governance, mandating quarterly submission of ministerial action plans with performance indicators subject to periodic evaluation during Cabinet meetings.

    This conclave established a new paradigm of republican discipline, demanding accountability through structured performance metrics and transparent financial management practices that prioritize national service over previous operational norms.

  • Popular businessman attacked in Vieux Fort

    Popular businessman attacked in Vieux Fort

    A prominent Vieux Fort entrepreneur became the victim of a violent armed assault during the early hours of Saturday morning, according to local reports. Junior Clery, the recognized proprietor of the widely-frequented Clery’s Car Wash and Entertainment Yard, was reportedly shot and robbed immediately outside his private residence in the La Ressource area.

    Preliminary accounts indicate that emergency services transported the injured businessman to St. Jude Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Official confirmation regarding his current health status remained unavailable at the time of reporting, with hospital authorities maintaining strict confidentiality around patient information.

    The criminal incident occurred mere hours after Clery had hosted one of his regularly scheduled entertainment events at his commercial establishment. The venue has established itself as a major social hub within the Vieux Fort community, consistently drawing substantial crowds and generating significant economic activity for the region.

    Law enforcement agencies have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. Police officials remain tight-lipped about potential motives or suspects, citing the ongoing nature of their investigative proceedings. The absence of confirmed details has sparked considerable concern among local business owners and residents regarding community safety measures.

    This violent episode has sent shockwaves through the southern Saint Lucian business community, raising questions about security protocols for entrepreneurs operating evening entertainment venues. The attack on such a visible community figure has prompted calls for enhanced police patrols and security coordination following large-scale public gatherings.

  • Dominican Republic reaffirms commitment to confront drug trafficking and terrorism in the Western Hemisphere alongside the United States

    Dominican Republic reaffirms commitment to confront drug trafficking and terrorism in the Western Hemisphere alongside the United States

    DORAL, FL – In a significant display of hemispheric solidarity, the Dominican Republic has declared its unwavering commitment to combat narcoterrorism and drug trafficking alongside the United States. The announcement came from Lieutenant General Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre, the nation’s Defense Minister, during the pivotal ‘Anti-Cartels of the Americas’ Conference held at the U.S. military headquarters in Miami.

    The high-level gathering, orchestrated by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and attended by National Security Advisor Stephen Miller, assembled over twenty regional leaders. Minister Fernández Onofre articulated a stark reality facing the region: “There can be no sustainable development without security. There can be no prosperity without stability.” Emphasizing the Dominican Republic’s critical geostrategic position in the Caribbean, he positioned the nation as a responsible actor confronting transnational organized crime and emerging threats that jeopardize societal safety.

    The conference served as a foundational platform for the forthcoming Shield of the Americas Presidential Summit, scheduled at the Donald Trump National Golf Club in Doral. This subsequent event will see participation from Dominican President Luis Abinader, U.S. President Donald Trump, and numerous other Latin American heads of state. The summit aims to broaden the dialogue to encompass strengthening regional democracy and fostering prosperity, themes repeatedly emphasized by President Trump.

    Security for the upcoming event is unprecedented, orchestrated by a coalition of the U.S. Secret Service, major federal agencies, and the City of Doral Police, transforming Doral into a temporary epicenter of global geopolitical attention. Local officials, including Mayor Christi Fraga, have dedicated immense effort to ensure the event’s success and the dignified reception of hemispheric leaders.

    Minister Fernández Onofre’s address culminated in a powerful call for collective action, stating, “These challenges know no borders; therefore, our response must be collective as a region.” He framed the creation of a hemispheric coalition not as a mere option but as a “historical necessity,” advocating for aligned priorities, shared best practices, and enhanced collaborative opportunities to deter threats and protect citizens across the Western Hemisphere.

  • Governor General Urges Compassion as AUA Medical Students Receive White Coats

    Governor General Urges Compassion as AUA Medical Students Receive White Coats

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – In a poignant address at the American University of Antigua College of Medicine’s White Coat Ceremony on Friday, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams drew upon his four decades of medical expertise to inspire the next generation of physicians. The ceremony, held at the university’s Convention and Conference Center, signified a critical transition for students entering the clinical phase of their medical education.

    Sir Rodney articulated the profound symbolism of the white coat, describing it not merely as attire but as a sacred covenant between doctor and patient. ‘For those of us in medicine, it represents trust—the sacred trust placed in you by patients who will reveal their fears, their vulnerabilities, and sometimes their very lives into your hands,’ he told the assembled students.

    While acknowledging the transformative impact of technological advancements in healthcare, the Governor General emphasized the irreplaceable human element at medicine’s core. ‘No algorithm can replace compassion. No machine can replace a listening ear. No prescription can substitute for respect,’ he asserted, identifying the simple phrase ‘I am here’ as among the most powerful therapeutic tools a physician can offer.

    The ceremony, chaired by Dr. Hani Morcos, gathered university leadership including Dr. David Graham, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, and Dr. Matthew Hogan, Dean of Clinical Sciences. Dr. Graham joined in congratulating the students, urging them to embrace their clinical training with professionalism and unwavering dedication to patient care.

    Sir Rodney also recognized the vital support network behind each student, noting that this achievement reflected both their personal dedication and the sacrifices made by families and loved ones. The event culminated in the formal presentation of white coats, a tradition symbolizing the students’ commitment to medical ethics and service.

    Established in 2004, the American University of Antigua College of Medicine has emerged as a significant force in global medical education, training international physicians while positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a hub for medical studies.

  • Suriname verkent samenwerking met VAE-bedrijf voor digitalisering overheid

    Suriname verkent samenwerking met VAE-bedrijf voor digitalisering overheid

    Surinamese President Jennifer Simons has engaged in high-level discussions with a delegation from United Arab Emirates-based technology firm Dalil to explore collaborative opportunities for the nation’s digital modernization initiatives. The meeting, held at the Presidential Cabinet, focused on accelerating the digital transformation of government services and enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure.

    During Friday’s meeting, President Simons outlined her administration’s policy objectives to digitize government operations and improve citizen service efficiency. The head of state emphasized that while this modernization represents a top government priority, the process must be implemented meticulously in accordance with established procedures and protocols.

    The Dalil delegation, representing an Abu Dhabi-based company specializing in secure identification systems and border management solutions, has conducted extensive site visits to multiple ministries and government institutions in recent days. Under the coordination of Suriname’s e-Government unit, a comprehensive assessment has been conducted to map the current state of digitalization across government agencies, according to the Communication Service Suriname.

    Llydion Dalfour, Director of e-Government, highlighted the significant learning opportunities for Suriname from the UAE’s expertise in digital government systems. “This is a highly regarded technical organization within the United Arab Emirates that plays a crucial role in their digital transformation journey and is now sharing their valuable experience with Suriname,” Dalfour stated.

    Ahmed Al Houti, Business Development Director at Dalil, expressed the company’s commitment to establishing a sustainable partnership with Suriname. He emphasized that the collaboration extends beyond technology implementation to strengthening government efficiency and enhancing citizen services. Dalil also identified potential cooperation opportunities in additional sectors, including aviation infrastructure.

    The productive discussions have resulted in the development of an initial action plan. Dalil is expected to submit a formal proposal in the near term based on the comprehensive data collected during their assessment. This proposal will undergo thorough evaluation by Surinamese authorities to determine feasibility and establish subsequent steps for the potential partnership.

  • Jalon Samuel makes history with seventh Gold Cup win aboard Public Sector

    Jalon Samuel makes history with seventh Gold Cup win aboard Public Sector

    In a spectacular display of horseracing prowess, jockey Jalon Samuel secured an unprecedented seventh Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup victory aboard Public Sector in the event’s 43rd edition. The champion horse delivered a breathtaking performance, mounting a stunning comeback from near-last position in the final quarter mile to clinch victory with an outside homestretch surge that captivated the massive Garrison Savannah crowd.

    Public Sector’s dramatic win marked a dual triumph for trainer Saffie Joseph Jnr, who celebrated his second Gold Cup victory. The closely contested finish saw Smokin’ T claim second position, followed by Bulldoze in third and Divin Propos securing fourth place in the region’s most prestigious equestrian event.

    The historic Saturday spectacle, now sponsored by Sandy Lane for a quarter-century, featured a total guaranteed purse of $316,500, with the 1800-meter champion earning $173,000 in prize money. The event showcased Barbados’ finest racing talent amid vibrant pre-race festivities featuring the Sandy Lane Dancers and local cultural presentations.

    Earlier races set the stage for the main event, with Rush capturing the Green Monkey Trophy in Race One. Valiant delivered a commanding pillar-to-post performance to win the Country Club Handicap in Race Two. Flying Jenny continued the excitement with a dominant 10-length victory in the Bajan Blue Restaurant Trophy, maintaining her undefeated record after three starts.

    Race Four’s Monkey Club Restaurant Trophy witnessed Luscious prevailing in a homestretch duel against Manderin Oriental. The Old Nine Trophy in Race Five saw Espresso blaze past competitors in the final furlong, granting jockey Rasheed Hughes his third victory of the day. Charisma concluded the preliminary events with a four-length triumph in the Sandy Lane Suite Trophy before the spotlight turned to the main Gold Cup spectacle.

  • Arrested and deported In coordination with the U.S., a man who had been a fugitive for 16 years for homicide is captured

    Arrested and deported In coordination with the U.S., a man who had been a fugitive for 16 years for homicide is captured

    In a significant international law enforcement operation, a fugitive evading Dominican justice for 16 years has been apprehended through coordinated efforts between U.S. and Dominican authorities. The capture marks the conclusion of one of the Caribbean nation’s longest-running manhunts.

    The subject, identified as 65-year-old Ygnacio Ney Díaz, commonly known by the alias ‘Bácora,’ was deported from United States territory via a specially coordinated immigration enforcement flight. His arrival at Dr. José Francisco Peña Gómez Las Américas International Airport (AILA) culminated in immediate arrest by awaiting National Police officials.

    Díaz’s legal troubles originate from a violent incident dated December 17, 2010, in Barahona province. Dominican judicial authorities had issued arrest warrant No. 2909-2011 on February 1, 2011, charging him with homicide alongside multiple violations under the nation’s Weapons Law, including illegal trade, carrying, and possession of firearms.

    The breakthrough came through the Organized Crime Network (OCN) unit of INTERPOL Santo Domingo, which verified Díaz’s status under an active Red Notice—an international request to locate and provisionally arrest an individual pending extradition. This verification triggered coordinated surveillance and capture procedures with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

    Following his arrest, Díaz was transferred to the custody of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, where he will face formal judicial proceedings for the alleged crimes. The operation demonstrates enhanced bilateral security cooperation between the United States and the Dominican Republic in combating cross-border crime and apprehending long-term fugitives.

  • ULP to call Canadian citizenship experts to testify against gov’t MPs

    ULP to call Canadian citizenship experts to testify against gov’t MPs

    A landmark legal battle challenging the eligibility of two senior St. Vincent and the Grenadines government officials is unfolding in Kingstown’s High Court. The opposition Unity Labour Party (ULP) has launched constitutional petitions against Prime Minister Godwin Friday and Foreign Minister Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble, alleging their Canadian citizenship disqualifies them from holding parliamentary office.

    During a case management hearing presided over by Justice Gertel Thom, both legal teams revealed intentions to summon Canadian citizenship experts as witnesses. Lead counsel for the petitioners, former Trinidad and Tobago prime minister Stuart Young, SC, successfully secured court-ordered disclosure of critical nomination documents (Forms 2 and 3) from both defendants by March 12, 2026.

    The constitutional challenge hinges on Section 26(1)(a) of the SVG Constitution, which prohibits parliamentary members from holding “acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state” through their own actions. The petitioners contend that although Canada is a Commonwealth nation, it constitutes a “foreign power” under constitutional interpretation.

    Justice Thom has established an accelerated timeline for the joint trial, scheduling hearings for July 28-30, 2026, while cautioning against procedural delays. The court must determine two pivotal issues: whether Canada qualifies as a foreign state under constitutional provisions, and the circumstances under which both officials obtained Canadian citizenship.

    The petitioners’ legal team received three weeks to file additional evidence, while the respondents’ counsel secured eight weeks for their evidentiary preparations. The next case management conference is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

    This unprecedented legal challenge marks the first electoral petition against Prime Minister Friday, who has held the Northern Grenadines seat for six consecutive terms since 2001. Both ministers acknowledge acquiring Canadian citizenship voluntarily rather than through birthright, potentially placing their parliamentary qualifications in constitutional jeopardy.

  • Police Seize Cannabis Valued at EC$78,000 During Joint Drug Interdiction Operation

    Police Seize Cannabis Valued at EC$78,000 During Joint Drug Interdiction Operation

    In a significant interdiction effort, Antiguan authorities confiscated a substantial cannabis shipment valued at approximately EC$78,000 during a coordinated operation at V.C. Bird International Airport. The joint mission, conducted on Saturday, March 7, 2026, targeted the airport’s cargo facilities where law enforcement officials discovered the illicit substances.

    While the successful seizure represents a notable victory against drug trafficking networks, investigators have not yet made any arrests in connection with the incident. Authorities have confirmed that multiple agencies are actively pursuing leads as the investigation continues to develop.

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda emphasized their ongoing collaboration with Customs officials and interagency law enforcement partners to disrupt the flow of illegal narcotics into the country. This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-agency cooperation in combating sophisticated drug importation attempts.

    Law enforcement officials have issued a public appeal for information regarding this case, encouraging citizens with relevant knowledge to come forward. Confidential tips can be provided to the Narcotics Department at 462-5150, the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913, or through the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline at 800-TIPS (8477).

  • Partial closure of Barbados airspace was due to staff shortage, minister says

    Partial closure of Barbados airspace was due to staff shortage, minister says

    A critical staff shortage within Barbados’s air traffic control services triggered a significant seven-and-a-half-hour closure of the island’s airspace on Saturday, causing widespread disruption at Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA). The incident led to numerous flight cancellations and diversions, stranding passengers and highlighting systemic operational challenges.

    According to a formal statement issued by Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport, the Air Navigation Services department was unable to maintain full operations due to the personnel deficit. While the airport managed to accommodate key afternoon services from the United Kingdom, including flights operated by British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, alongside all air-to-sea arrivals, several major carriers were severely impacted.

    Notable disruptions included the complete cancellation of American Airlines flights. A JetBlue service originating from New York was compelled to return to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and an Air Canada flight turned back to its point of origin in Canada. In another instance, a JetBlue flight from Boston was diverted to San Juan, Puerto Rico, with an expected arrival in Barbados delayed until later that afternoon. Amidst the chaos, authorities successfully facilitated the safe departure of one emergency medical evacuation (medivac) flight.

    Normal flight operations were restored at approximately 2:30 p.m. following an urgently convened high-level meeting. The gathering included representatives from the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport, the Ministry of the Public Service, and leaders from the Barbados Workers’ Union and the National Union of Public Workers. The discussions were characterized as productive, focusing on resolving several persistent issues affecting staff welfare and operational capacity. A subsequent meeting is scheduled for March 11 to urgently finalize solutions and prevent future occurrences.

    GAIA management is now actively collaborating with affected airlines to reschedule cancelled flights and mitigate the inconvenience caused to travelers.