Carib Scope

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  • PM Friday says official residence a fire hazard

    PM Friday says official residence a fire hazard

    Prime Minister Godwin Friday has disclosed alarming safety hazards at the official prime ministerial residence, describing the property as fundamentally uninhabitable due to critical structural failures. During parliamentary debates on the national budget, Friday defended the allocation of EC$1.5 million for urgent repairs, revealing that the roof structure has severely corroded, electrical systems present fire hazards, and guardrails have deteriorated to dangerous conditions.

    The revelation sparked immediate criticism from former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who vacated the property following his party’s electoral defeat last November. Gonsalves contested the assessment, asserting the residence remained “liveable” during his tenure and questioning the substantial funding allocation, suggesting costs would inevitably “balloon” beyond projections.

    Financial records reveal significant historical allocations for residence maintenance, with EC$540,000 budgeted between 2022-2025 for “enhancement” projects, though only EC$241,747 had been expended by November 2024. The previous administration approved EC$75,000 annually in 2021-2022 for improvements, followed by EC$250,000 in 2023 for furniture and minor works.

    Friday detailed his unexpected discovery of the property’s condition post-election, initially anticipating minor cosmetic updates but finding comprehensive structural deficiencies requiring complete electrical system replacement and roof reconstruction. The national infrastructure agency BRAGSA conducted assessments confirming the severity of deterioration.

    Additionally, Friday highlighted deplorable living conditions for security personnel stationed at the residence, describing overcrowded quarters with four officers sharing bunk-style accommodations in single rooms. National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock corroborated these concerns following nationwide inspections of police facilities.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the residence represents national heritage requiring preservation, proposing institutional management through BRAGSA or specialized units to prevent future deterioration. He expressed confidence in securing private sponsorship for heritage conservation, aiming to alleviate taxpayer burden for maintaining historically significant government properties.

  • Chantel Alert Issued for Missing Johnson’s Point Sisters

    Chantel Alert Issued for Missing Johnson’s Point Sisters

    Law enforcement authorities have activated a Chantel Alert following the mysterious disappearance of two adolescent sisters from the Johnson’s Point locality. The missing individuals have been identified as Kelisha Osborne, aged 13, and her sister Amire Osborne, aged 15. Their last confirmed sighting occurred during the morning hours of Sunday, February 1, between approximately 9:00 and 10:00 AM.

    Despite ongoing investigative efforts, critical details regarding the circumstances of their disappearance remain unknown, including the specific attire they were wearing at the time they went missing. The lack of clothing description has further complicated search operations conducted by local law enforcement agencies.

    Police officials have issued an urgent public appeal for assistance, emphasizing that any information—no matter how seemingly insignificant—could prove vital in tracing the sisters’ whereabouts. Community members who may have witnessed any relevant activity or possess potential leads are strongly encouraged to immediately contact local law enforcement or communicate directly with the family. The collaborative effort between authorities and civilians represents the most promising approach to ensuring the safe recovery of the Osborne sisters, whose unexplained absence has generated considerable concern throughout the community.

  • Antigua And Barbuda Triumphs At 2026 Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travel Awards

    Antigua And Barbuda Triumphs At 2026 Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travel Awards

    The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has achieved an extraordinary triumph at the prestigious 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards, securing top honors in three major categories and cementing its status as the Caribbean’s premier luxury destination. Caribbean Journal, the region’s leading travel authority, recognized the destination’s exceptional offerings across multiple dimensions of tourism excellence.

    In a remarkable sweep, Antigua and Barbuda claimed the coveted title of Caribbean Tourist Board of the Year, acknowledging the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s innovative global marketing strategies and leadership in destination promotion. The islands simultaneously captured Honeymoon Destination of the Year, celebrated for their romantic ambiance featuring 365 pristine beaches, intimate luxury resorts, and enchanting experiences from sunset sails to candlelit dining. Completing the triple crown, the destination earned Luxury Destination of the Year for its world-class accommodations, bespoke experiences, and unparalleled service catering to discerning travelers.

    Adding to this impressive haul, Pineapple Beach Club received the distinctive honor of Pickleball Resort of the Year, highlighting the destination’s growing emphasis on wellness and active travel experiences beyond traditional beach tourism.

    The Caribbean Travel Awards represent the highest recognition of excellence within the regional tourism industry, honoring those who demonstrate consistent innovation and outstanding visitor experiences. These accolades underscore Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic commitment to creating meaningful, memorable journeys for diverse travelers, whether couples seeking romance, families desiring connection, or luxury enthusiasts pursuing inspiration.

    Beyond its award-winning attributes, the destination boasts rich cultural heritage including Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only continuously operational Georgian-era dockyard and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The islands’ vibrant events calendar features the Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Culinary Month, and the renowned Antigua Carnival—hailed as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival.

    Barbuda, Antigua’s secluded sister island located 27 miles northeast, serves as an exclusive celebrity retreat accessible via a 15-minute flight. This pristine sanctuary features an spectacular 11-mile pink sand beach and hosts the Western Hemisphere’s largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary, offering unique ecological experiences alongside luxurious seclusion.

  • Joseph Says Ghanaian Nurses Strengthen Health System Beyond Staffing Needs

    Joseph Says Ghanaian Nurses Strengthen Health System Beyond Staffing Needs

    In a landmark move that transcends conventional healthcare recruitment, Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed approximately 120 Ghanaian nurses as part of a strategic bilateral partnership. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph characterized the initiative as a historically significant policy that simultaneously addresses clinical staffing needs while reestablishing ancestral connections between Africa and the Caribbean diaspora.

    Speaking at an official reception ceremony, Minister Joseph emphasized that this recruitment drive represents a deliberate long-term collaboration rather than a stopgap solution to workforce shortages. The program is specifically designed to enhance healthcare capacity, ensure continuity of medical services, and reinforce the foundational role nursing professionals play in healthcare delivery systems.

    The Minister directly addressed public skepticism regarding the nurses’ qualifications, asserting that African medical professionals maintain globally recognized standards of excellence. He referenced previous Ghanaian physicians who served with distinction in Antigua and Barbuda, noting their lasting legacy of clinical professionalism within the national health system.

    Joseph framed the partnership within broader historical context, highlighting centuries-old connections between West Africa and the Caribbean. He described the initiative as the most direct policy pathway yet established to foster structured professional cooperation between the two nations, with healthcare serving as merely the inaugural sector for collaboration.

    The Health Minister revealed that bilateral discussions are already advancing to expand the partnership into education, potentially bringing Ghanaian teachers to address shortages in mathematics, science, and technical subjects. He suggested this framework could eventually facilitate comprehensive trade and development cooperation.

    Acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by the relocated nurses, Joseph assured them of government support during their integration process. He emphasized that their transition demonstrates remarkable courage and adaptability, qualities that will be valued within Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare family.

    The Minister concluded by urging both healthcare workers and the general public to welcome the Ghanaian nurses with respect and openness, recognizing them not as outsiders but as qualified professionals answering a call to service. He characterized the partnership as transcending institutional cooperation to encompass ancestral, cultural, and human connections that strengthen both healthcare delivery and shared purpose.

  • Bad Bunny makes Grammy history as stars protest against ICE

    Bad Bunny makes Grammy history as stars protest against ICE

    In a historic moment for both the Grammy Awards and Latin music, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny shattered a 68-year barrier by becoming the first Latin artist to claim the prestigious Album of the Year award. His winning work, ‘Debí Tirar Mas Fotos,’ a profound exploration of Puerto Rico’s rich musical heritage, triumphed over formidable contenders including Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar.

    The victory served as a catalyst for a ceremony dominated by political discourse, with numerous artists vocally opposing the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Upon accepting his award, the 31-year-old artist, set to headline the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, dedicated the honor to immigrants worldwide who courageously “leave their home, land, their country, to follow their dreams.”

    This sentiment was echoed across the event. British newcomer Olivia Dean, crowned Best New Artist, paid tribute to her immigrant grandmother from the Windrush generation, stating, “I’m a product of bravery and I think those people deserve to be celebrated.” Prominent figures including Kehlani, Gloria Estefan, and Billie Eilish delivered speeches in support of immigrants, while many attendees sported ‘ICE out’ badges on the red carpet.

    Bad Bunny, born Benito Ocasio, appeared visibly moved by his win. Earlier in the evening, while accepting the award for Best Música Urbana Album, he delivered a more direct message: “We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens, we are humans and we are Americans,” he declared, referencing recent tensions in Minneapolis.

    The political commentary extended beyond immigration. Song of the Year winner Billie Eilish, honored for ‘Wildflower,’ addressed the nation’s broader turmoil, urging continued activism: “Our voices really do matter, and the people matter.”

    The ceremony also witnessed host Trevor Noah provoking former President Donald Trump with jokes linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, prompting an angry threat of legal action from Trump on social media.

    In other major wins, Kendrick Lamar made history himself by surpassing Jay-Z to become the most awarded rapper in Grammy history, securing his 26th and 27th trophies for Best Rap Album (‘GNX’) and Record of the Year (‘Luther,’ a duet with SZA).

  • 42 militairen bevorderd; uitvoering defensiebeleid

    42 militairen bevorderd; uitvoering defensiebeleid

    In a significant move to strengthen national security infrastructure, Suriname’s Defense Ministry has elevated 42 military personnel to higher ranks during a formal ceremony presided over by Defense Minister Uraiqit Ramsaran. The February 2nd promotions represent a concrete implementation of the country’s 2026 defense policy focused on organizational reinforcement from within.

    Minister Ramsaran emphasized that these advancements serve dual purposes: recognizing individual dedication and discipline while demonstrating tangible execution of announced policy initiatives. The minister specifically highlighted the improvement of military legal status as a cornerstone of the ongoing modernization efforts, with additional promotions scheduled throughout the coming months.

    Army Commander Werner Kioe A Sen reinforced the gravity of these advancements, stating that rank elevation signifies increased responsibility rather than mere privilege. Many promoted personnel have served under challenging operational conditions, including deployments in remote interior regions and along national borders.

    Military leadership articulated that motivated and valued personnel form the foundation of a professional, reliable, and resilient defense force—essential components for maintaining Suriname’s national security and stability. The promotions align with broader strategic goals to enhance operational capacity through investment in human capital and institutional strengthening.

  • St. Lucia Bars Medical Studies in Cuba, PM Cites U.S. Pressure

    St. Lucia Bars Medical Studies in Cuba, PM Cites U.S. Pressure

    In a significant policy reversal driven by geopolitical pressures, Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has announced the termination of the nation’s medical student program in Cuba. The decision, revealed during the Second World Congress on Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, marks the end of a decades-long educational partnership that has trained numerous Caribbean physicians.

    Pierre characterized the move as “unprecedented but unavoidable” given current international relations, directly attributing the change to mounting diplomatic pressure from the United States. This development disrupts a longstanding regional arrangement that provided medical education opportunities for St. Lucian students through Cuban scholarship programs.

    The sudden policy shift has created substantial uncertainty for aspiring medical professionals and raised alarms about potential shortages in the future physician workforce. Prime Minister Pierre acknowledged the gravity of the decision while emphasizing the government’s constrained options in balancing educational needs against broader diplomatic and economic considerations.

    In response to the emerging crisis, Pierre issued an appeal to the St. Lucian diaspora—especially those in medical fields—to contribute through mentorship, financial investment, and professional support. Simultaneously, government officials are exploring alternative pathways including international medical school partnerships, enhanced regional cooperation, and strengthened domestic training capabilities.

    Healthcare administrators are urgently evaluating the potential consequences for hospital staffing and long-term service capacity, cautioning that delayed policy adaptations could exacerbate existing systemic strains. Government representatives have promised to unveil details regarding replacement programs and transitional measures for affected students within coming weeks.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Welcomes Ghanaian Health Workers in Healthcare Partnership

    Antigua and Barbuda Welcomes Ghanaian Health Workers in Healthcare Partnership

    In a significant move to fortify its national healthcare infrastructure, the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has officially welcomed a contingent of more than 100 medical professionals from Ghana. The historic arrival marks a strategic partnership rooted in shared heritage and a common purpose to enhance public health services.

    The formal welcoming ceremony, held on Saturday evening, was attended by a high-level delegation including Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, senior health officials, and members of the diplomatic corps. Speakers at the event underscored the deep historical and cultural connections between Africa and the Caribbean, framing the collaboration as more than a simple workforce transfer.

    Sir Rodney Williams, himself a medical doctor, articulated the profound symbolism of the initiative. He characterized the arrival of the nurses and health workers as a powerful testament to international cooperation and a celebration of a common ancestry, noting that the partnership is fundamentally built upon a foundation of mutual respect and aligned objectives.

    From a operational standpoint, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph outlined the strategic intent behind the deployment. The infusion of approximately 120 skilled professionals is a calculated effort to significantly boost the capacity and resilience of the nation’s hospitals and clinics, addressing critical gaps in the healthcare system.

    Looking beyond immediate healthcare needs, Minister Joseph revealed potential for a broader bilateral relationship, suggesting the collaboration with Ghana could expand into other strategic sectors such as education and trade. This sentiment was reinforced by Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige, who personally assured the newly arrived professionals of the government’s full institutional support as they integrate into their new roles within the Antiguan and Barbudan health system.

  • Heftig interruptie debat hervorming OM: ‘Er is geen vertrouwen in de pg’

    Heftig interruptie debat hervorming OM: ‘Er is geen vertrouwen in de pg’

    A contentious parliamentary session in Suriname’s National Assembly has exposed deep divisions over proposed constitutional reforms affecting the judicial system and Office of the Attorney General. The debate, which unfolded during Friday’s session, revealed fundamental disagreements between governing and opposition parties regarding the future of Suriname’s legal framework.

    NDP Assembly Member Michael Marengo delivered the most striking criticism, declaring that Surinamese society has lost confidence in the current Attorney General and warning that the nation faces a profound “crisis of trust” in its judicial institutions. This blunt assessment set the tone for a heated exchange that crossed party lines.

    The core disagreement centers on two competing visions: the governing NDP faction advocates for establishing a domestic third judicial instance, while the opposition VHP party supports joining the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). NDP Member Ann Sadi expressed concerns that CCJ membership would primarily benefit wealthy Surinamese citizens due to high costs and accessibility barriers, creating a two-tier justice system.

    VHP representative Krishna Mathoera pressed for concrete details about the proposed College of Attorneys General, questioning how many members it would contain, what safeguards would prevent political influence, and how the organization would function practically. Meanwhile, NDP members Jennifer Vreedzaam and Tashana Lösche argued that systemic reform is necessary to strengthen institutions rather than target individuals, suggesting that a distributed responsibility model could reduce vulnerability to pressure and selective enforcement.

    The most vehement opposition came from VHP Assembly Member Mahinder Jogi, who characterized the proposed college as a form of “political interference” that would increase pressure on the Office of the Attorney General. Jogi asserted the concept was unsuitable for Suriname’s context and would ultimately prove unworkable.

    In response to the emotional debate, initiator Raymond Sapoen (NDP) emphasized that constitutional amendments require pragmatic rather than emotional approaches. He clarified that the reform seeks to modernize an outdated system centered on a single Attorney General—a model he described as “no longer of this time”—while explicitly denying any personal targeting of current officeholders. Sapoen indicated that specific operational details would be established through subsequent legislation, with the current focus being on creating constitutional flexibility for future restructuring.

  • PM Urges Businesses, Banks in particular to do more to help the community

    PM Urges Businesses, Banks in particular to do more to help the community

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a compelling appeal to private enterprises across the nation, urging them to assume greater responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of public infrastructure adjacent to their commercial properties. During a recent public address, the Prime Minister specifically highlighted the potential adoption of bus shelters as a tangible demonstration of corporate social responsibility.

    This initiative represents a strategic shift toward public-private partnerships in urban maintenance, positioning business entities as active stakeholders in community development. Browne emphasized that well-maintained public spaces not only enhance civic pride but also contribute significantly to the overall business environment and customer experience.

    ‘The private sector must recognize its vested interest in maintaining the public realm,’ Browne stated during his speech. ‘Businesses benefit directly from improved public infrastructure through increased foot traffic and enhanced accessibility.’

    The government’s proposal suggests that companies could ‘adopt’ nearby bus shelters through sponsorship programs that would cover maintenance costs while providing businesses with recognition opportunities. This approach mirrors successful models implemented in other Commonwealth nations where private sector involvement has substantially improved public amenities.

    Business leaders have responded with cautious optimism, acknowledging the potential benefits while seeking clarification on liability frameworks and potential tax incentives. The Prime Minister’s office has indicated that detailed guidelines for the adoption program will be released in the coming weeks, outlining the specific mechanisms for private sector participation.