A senior police officer with 26 years of service in the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force has been charged with assaulting a constable during a campaign rally for the New Democratic Party (NDP) in Owia. Acting Corporal Kenroy Martin, who is reportedly close to the NDP’s West St. George candidate, Cashaka Cupid, was placed on no-pay leave immediately after the incident, despite regulations requiring half-pay leave for officers facing criminal charges. Martin, represented by NDP candidate Israel Bruce, was granted EC$1,500 station bail and is set to appear in court. The incident occurred on Saturday when Martin, off-duty and a passenger in a vehicle delivering medical personnel and food to the rally, allegedly took over driving after the original driver became unnerved by the constable’s actions. The constable reportedly refused entry to the rally site, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the alleged assault. This incident follows a prior altercation in Sandy Bay, where the constable allegedly disobeyed Martin’s traffic instructions. Martin’s recent transfers within the police force have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the charge.
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Alianza País leader warns government’s U.S. deal violates sovereignty
SANTO DOMINGO – Opposition leader Guillermo Moreno, president of the Alianza País party, has launched a vehement critique against the Dominican government’s recent authorization permitting the U.S. Department of War to utilize key national infrastructure for military logistics. The approved sites include the strategic San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport.
Moreno condemned the move as a direct violation of the nation’s constitutional principles and a severe compromise of its sovereignty. While the government has framed the agreement as essential cooperation in the multinational fight against drug trafficking, Moreno posits a more alarming ulterior motive. He contends that this access could potentially be leveraged to stage military operations against neighboring Venezuela and Colombia, nations he referred to as ‘sister republics.’
Citing historical precedent, the politician invoked the memory of two separate U.S. military incursions into Dominican territory. This history, he argued, bestows upon the nation a profound ‘moral and political responsibility’ to resist any measure that could enable aggression against fellow Latin American and Caribbean states. He asserted that the agreement fundamentally undermines the country’s stance of neutrality and contravenes established international doctrines advocating for non-intervention and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Concluding his address, Moreno issued a dual call to action. He urgently appealed to the administration to rescind its authorization and simultaneously urged the citizenry to maintain vigilant oversight of the situation. He emphasized the imperative for the Dominican Republic to conduct its international relations ‘with dignity’ and to steadfastly avoid becoming a staging ground for foreign military agendas or a catalyst for escalating regional tensions.
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Airport Department activates High-Season Plan to manage holiday passenger surge
Santo Domingo – In preparation for the anticipated holiday travel influx, the Dominican Republic’s Airport Department (DA) has officially launched its comprehensive High-Season Passenger Flow Management Plan. This strategic initiative, developed through close collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) and multiple airport-sector agencies, aims to optimize operational efficiency across all international airports during the busy Christmas period.
The newly enhanced guidelines received formal approval during a recent Airport Commission session, paving the way for distribution to airport operators and concessionaires for immediate implementation. DA Director Víctor Pichardo emphasized that the program’s core objective centers on delivering a secure, efficient, and comfortable travel experience for all passengers despite seasonal congestion.
Operational enhancements feature coordinated inter-agency cooperation involving Customs (DGA), Migration authorities, the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), and the Specialized Airport Security Corps (CESAC). Key measures include strategic staffing increases, adjusted work shifts, and various operational improvements specifically designed to manage elevated passenger volumes.
The Airport Commission, operating under the leadership of Public Works Minister Eduardo Estrella with DA director Pichardo serving as secretary, comprises representatives from Mitur, DGA, IDAC, CESAC, Migration, and two additional members appointed by the Executive Branch, ensuring comprehensive oversight of the seasonal initiative.
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Abinader breaks ground on US$700M City Center project
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader has officially inaugurated construction of City Center by Lady Lee, a landmark $700 million mixed-use development poised to redefine the urban and commercial dynamics of Santo Domingo East. This transformative initiative stands as a powerful testament to the nation’s robust economic trajectory and flourishing investment environment, with projections indicating the creation of over 6,000 direct employment opportunities and a substantial multiplier effect generating thousands more indirect jobs.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, President Abinader positioned the megaproject as a direct reflection of the Dominican Republic’s sustained economic momentum. He underscored the profound significance of Lady Lee Corporation’s decision to invest, interpreting it as a robust vote of confidence in the nation’s political and economic stability. Strategically situated along the Autopista de las Américas corridor, merely minutes from Las Américas International Airport, the complex is designed to holistically integrate retail, residential, tourism, and service sectors within a forward-thinking, sustainable ‘city center’ framework. The development will incorporate advanced energy-efficient technologies and environmentally responsible systems.
Rachid Maalouf, President of Lady Lee Corporation, characterized City Center as a world-class endeavor destined to reshape the urban fabric of the eastern capital district. The ambitious blueprint includes over 400 curated commercial spaces, a diverse array of dining and entertainment venues, comprehensive health and financial service facilities, alongside modern hotel accommodations, residential towers, and premium office spaces. Beyond its architectural footprint, the project commits to extensive urban enhancements aimed at significantly upgrading public mobility and regional connectivity infrastructure, setting a new benchmark for large-scale urban development in the Caribbean.
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Dodelijke flatbrand in Hongkong eist 44 levens; bouwdirecteuren aangehouden
A devastating fire that engulfed multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday has claimed 44 lives, marking one of the deadliest residential fires in the city’s recent history. The blaze, which rapidly spread through the apartment complexes, left 45 individuals critically injured and 279 others still unaccounted for. Witnesses described the flames as overwhelming, with one survivor recalling, ‘It felt like the fire was coming from all directions at once. We had no time to spare.’ Emergency exits were quickly filled with smoke, trapping many residents. The fire reportedly originated on the lower floors of one tower before spreading to adjacent buildings under unclear circumstances. Authorities have arrested three construction company employees—two directors and a technical advisor—on suspicion of gross negligence related to the building’s safety standards. Investigations revealed the use of highly flammable polystyrene panels, which blocked windows and significantly accelerated the fire’s spread. Inferior construction materials, failing to meet local safety regulations, were also discovered on-site. As the fire continued to rage on Thursday, hundreds of families anxiously awaited news of their missing loved ones at an impromptu identification center. The Hong Kong government has opened temporary shelters for displaced residents and announced a comprehensive investigation into building code compliance and oversight procedures. Housing Minister Anthony Ching emphasized the urgency of the inquiry, stating, ‘We must determine exactly what went wrong. Safety is paramount, and there will be consequences for any failures.’ The tragedy has reignited debates over the safety of older and under-construction residential buildings in Hong Kong, where high population density and limited space often lead to rushed and substandard construction projects.
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Red Shoes Project turns silence into national action call
The Red Shoes Project, a poignant initiative unveiled at the Barbados Museum, has transformed crimson-painted shoes into a stark symbol of lives lost to gender-based violence. Each pair represents a woman whose life was tragically cut short, urging the nation to confront a crisis often overlooked or concealed. The project, launched during the annual 16 Days of Activism, aims to create visual memorials in public spaces, fostering collective awareness and action against this pervasive issue.
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A strategic enclave for your Investment in Cuba
Positioned as Cuba’s premier industrial and logistics center, the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZED Mariel) is demonstrating remarkable resilience and competitive advantages for international investors. Following Hurricane Rafael’s impact in late 2024, the zone showcased exceptional recovery capabilities, restoring full operations within one month—a testament to its robust infrastructure designed for operational continuity during extreme weather events.
At the recent 41st Havana International Fair, Zone Director Ana Teresa Igarza Martínez highlighted the innovative Single Window system that provides comprehensive investor support throughout the business lifecycle. This streamlined approach facilitates everything from initial documentation to ongoing operational requirements.
The development zone currently offers 35 strategic projects across multiple sectors including food processing (dairy, pasta, processed meats), biotechnology (pharmaceutical production, protein exports), chemical manufacturing, logistics services, and construction materials. A distinctive feature emphasized by officials is that all goods produced and marketed within ZED Mariel are 100% Cuban-made, providing both national production strengthening and market competitive advantages.
Recent enhancements include updated financial, tax, labor, and commercial incentives designed to maximize profitability for established companies. The zone’s deep-water port and integrated logistics platform enable companies to import components, conduct assembly and packaging operations, and redistribute products throughout the region leveraging Cuba’s trade agreements.
An upcoming milestone includes a modern glass container production plant that will eliminate costly imports while fostering collaboration among local producers. Current investors report positive experiences, with Vietnamese company Thai Binh expanding to two operational factories and a photovoltaic panel park after six years of production. Similarly, Nescor S.A. Deputy General Manager Alexei Pica Páramo confirmed the zone’s development potential, urging prospective investors to verify opportunities directly rather than relying on potentially distorted information.
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Massive Crowds Expected for Prime Minister’s Cup Finale
The highly anticipated Prime Minister’s Cup final is poised to captivate Barbados as Weymouth Wales and Kickstart Rush compete for the championship trophy and a $100,000 cash prize on December 1 at Kensington Oval. The event, already a resounding success in its second year, has drawn over 9,000 ticket sales, nearing full capacity despite inclement weather. Project Manager Shane Archer highlighted the tournament’s impact, noting its role in empowering local communities and vendors. The day’s festivities begin at 2 p.m., featuring a series of matches, including the Barbados Lady Tridents vs. Trinidad and Tobago Soca Warriors in the Concacaf W Qualifiers at 4 p.m., followed by a Christ Church derby at 6:30 p.m., and culminating in the final at 9 p.m. Archer addressed challenges with the online ticketing system, urging fairness and responsibility among spectators. The finals night will also showcase live entertainment from artists like Jordan English and Lil Rick, alongside performances by the Barbados Cheerleading Association and a tuk band. All matches will be streamed live via CBC TV and Flow Sports. Chairman of the Organising Committee Eastmond emphasized the cultural and economic significance of the event, which has provided opportunities for small entrepreneurs and fostered national pride. Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith praised the tournament’s success, noting the participation of nearly 600 players and officials. Barbados Football Association President Randy Harris lauded the organisers for elevating the sport’s profile, while Marketing and Communications Officer Danielle Toppin outlined strict spectator policies, including prohibitions on food, drinks, and smoking. Sponsors such as Flow, Body Bliss Zone, and the National Cultural Foundation were acknowledged for their support.
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Quiz to inspire young minds on clean energy
The Barbados National Energy Company Limited (BNECL) concluded its inaugural Energy Quiz finals on Wednesday at its Woodbourne headquarters in St Philip, showcasing young students’ knowledge of energy and sustainability. The event, themed ‘All Things Energy, Igniting Young Minds,’ aimed to educate participants about Barbados’ clean-energy future and foster environmental awareness. The competition followed three preliminary rounds held earlier this month at Luther Thorne Primary School, Gordon Walters Primary School, and St Bartholomew Primary School. Finalists Tariq Forde, Skylar Alexander, and Kamari Burke emerged from these rounds to compete in a Jeopardy-style quiz. Categories included ‘Everything Energy,’ ‘Sustainability,’ ‘All About BNECL,’ ‘Science,’ and ‘Barbados Our Homeland.’ Skylar Alexander dominated the first round with 3,500 points, while Kamari Burke and Tariq Forde trailed behind. The second round featured topics like ‘Energy and Sustainability,’ ‘Environment and Climate,’ and ‘Barbados and Our Culture,’ with Alexander extending her lead to 4,900 points. A special intermission performance by former Junior Calypso Monarch Dynamo energized the audience, featuring songs like ‘Potential’ and ‘Bring Dem Back.’ The final bidding round reshuffled the scores, with Alexander securing first place with 5,800 points, Forde in second with 2,600, and Burke in third with 1,800. Prizes were awarded by officials from the Ministry of Energy and Business and BNECL, with Alexander receiving a trophy, a laptop, and $500. BNECL emphasized that the quiz is part of a broader initiative to educate youth about the energy sector and sustainability, aligning with its mission to empower the next generation through knowledge of Barbados’ evolving energy landscape.
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Those innocent young people
HAVANA – The haunting memory of November 27, 1871, continues to cast a profound shadow over Cuba’s historical consciousness, marking one of the most tragic judicial miscarriages in the nation’s colonial history. On this date, eight young medical students—most still in their teenage years—faced a firing squad for crimes they never committed, their lives extinguished by Spanish colonial authorities in an act that would become symbolic of colonial oppression.
The sequence of events began innocuously when first-year medical students gathered at the San Dionisio Asylum amphitheater adjacent to Espada Cemetery, awaiting their anatomy professor. When the instructor failed to appear promptly, several students ventured into the cemetery grounds—an action not prohibited—where some engaged in minor mischief including climbing onto a corpse transport cart. The most trivial act, plucking a single rose from the garden by 16-year-old Alonso Álvarez de la Campa, would ultimately carry fatal consequences.
Spanish authorities fabricated charges accusing the students of desecrating the burial niche of Gonzalo de Castañón, a Spanish journalist who had advocated for the extermination of Cubans. Despite conclusive evidence proving the vandalism predated the students’ presence, colonial officials proceeded with a sham trial. The accused ranged from 16 to 21 years old, with Carlos Verdugo not even present in Havana during the alleged incident.
At 4:20 PM on that fateful November afternoon, three volleys of gunfire ended the lives of eight promising young scholars. Their executions were compounded by the additional killing of five Abakuá men who attempted to rescue the students, amplifying the tragedy’s human toll. Contemporary accounts describe how the victims’ parents succumbed to grief and helplessness, while the students themselves faced their final moments bewildered by the unjust accusations against them.
Now commemorated 154 years later, this episode remains etched in Cuba’s national memory as both a testament to colonial brutality and a symbol of resilience. Annual ceremonies honor the students’ legacy, ensuring that new generations understand the price paid by those who fell victim to unjust power.