In a surprising turn of events, Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has announced his retirement, effective December 12, 2025. This decision comes just one year into his tenure as commander, raising questions about the timing and underlying reasons for his departure. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the news in a social media post on X, praising Holsey for his 37 years of dedicated service to the US Navy. Holsey, who assumed command in November 2024, previously served as the deputy commander of SOUTHCOM. His retirement follows a series of high-profile military actions in the Caribbean, including multiple strikes against alleged drug cartels and recent operations off the coast of Venezuela. These actions, authorized by President Donald Trump, have drawn scrutiny for their legal ambiguity and strategic implications. Holsey’s departure also coincides with broader leadership changes within the US military, as Hegseth has replaced several senior officers since taking office. In a statement on X, Holsey expressed gratitude for his role, emphasizing the SOUTHCOM team’s contributions to national defense. The US Navy and SOUTHCOM have yet to comment on the circumstances surrounding his retirement.
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Dr. Eck Shares Update on Cancer Battle and Return to Paediatrics
Dr. Cecilio Eck, a cherished paediatrician, has provided an inspiring update on his ongoing battle with stage four cancer. Over a year into his diagnosis, Dr. Eck describes the journey as profoundly humbling, marked by both financial and emotional challenges. Despite the high costs of treatment—approximately $25,000 every three weeks—he remains deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from his community, friends, colleagues, and even his young patients.
Dr. Eck has undergone a rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, spending countless hours in hospitals. He shared touching anecdotes, such as a young patient who sold avocados to contribute to his treatment fund, highlighting the unexpected kindness he has encountered.
His faith and the unwavering support of his community have been pivotal in sustaining his strength. Dr. Eck emphasized the importance of living each day to the fullest, acknowledging the uncertainty of life. Recent scans have shown promising results, and he remains hopeful for remission.
While he still has another year of treatment ahead, Dr. Eck has returned to his practice, caring for his ‘little patients’ with the same dedication and compassion that has defined his career. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the resilience of the human spirit.
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Speaker Valerie Woods Rings Bell After Cancer Treatment Milestone
In a heartwarming moment of triumph, House Speaker Valerie Woods marked a significant milestone in her cancer treatment journey by participating in the traditional bell-ringing ceremony at her treatment center. This symbolic act, often shared with loved ones and fellow patients, signifies the completion of intensive treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The ceremony is a cherished tradition in the cancer community, representing hope, resilience, and the strength to overcome adversity. Speaker Woods’ achievement coincides with Global Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day, observed this week, which sheds light on a lesser-known yet serious form of breast cancer. While Woods remains abroad for her recovery, the House of Representatives continues its regular session, with updates on both legislative proceedings and her health anticipated in the coming days.
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Police Arrest Tafaree Sanchez for Daylight Shooting
In a significant breakthrough, Belize District police have apprehended 25-year-old Tafaree Sanchez of Vernon Street in connection with a violent daylight shooting that occurred in September. Sanchez now faces three counts of attempted murder following the high-speed chase and gunfire exchange along the Phillip Goldson Highway. The incident unfolded near mile three of the highway, where Sanchez and a 17-year-old minor allegedly pursued a light blue Chevy Equinox. The pursuit intensified near Reimer’s Feed Mill, where gunmen reportedly exited their vehicle and opened fire on the SUV. The chase continued, culminating in another round of gunfire in front of Maheia’s United, which left 36-year-old Glenford Reed and 28-year-old Joshua Augustine injured. Jahreem “32” Staine, the suspected target, managed to escape unharmed. The minor was arrested shortly after the incident, while Sanchez remained at large until his recent capture. Authorities are actively investigating the motive behind the attack and whether additional individuals were involved. The entire incident was captured on camera, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation. Sanchez is expected to be arraigned today in the lower court.
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Gov’t to crack down on online gambling, betting shops
In a decisive move to address growing societal concerns, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced on Thursday, October 16, 2025, that the government will implement stricter regulations and impose higher taxes on online gambling and betting shops. This decision comes in response to widespread complaints that gambling activities are diverting essential income away from families, particularly affecting single parents and breadwinners. Jagdeo emphasized that the proliferation of gambling apps and hundreds of betting shops across the country has created a ‘major social problem,’ leading to family breakdowns and financial hardships. He highlighted that the government has already signaled its intent to curb this issue, citing the negative impact on communities. Additionally, Jagdeo noted that the religious community has raised concerns about the detrimental effects of habitual gambling on livelihoods. The Vice President also mentioned that while licensed casinos at two hotels remain accessible to registered guests, the new measures aim to discourage excessive gambling by increasing taxes on online platforms. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the socio-economic challenges posed by the gambling industry.
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MP’s From Both Sides Back New Regional Authority to Police Citizenship by Investment Program
In a historic display of bipartisan cooperation, opposition and government Members of Parliament in Antigua and Barbuda came together on Thursday to ratify the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) Agreement and pass the ECCIRA Bill 2025. This landmark legislation formalizes a regional framework designed to harmonize and strengthen oversight of citizenship by investment (CBI) programs across the Eastern Caribbean. The agreement, initially signed in September by Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia, establishes ECCIRA as a centralized authority to regulate and monitor CBI initiatives. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who introduced the measures, hailed the move as a “historic turning point” for the region’s investment migration sector. He emphasized that the framework would set a “global gold standard” for transparency, accountability, and security. The new authority will monitor promoters, agents, and due-diligence providers, maintain a regional register of licensed service providers, enforce sanctions of up to US$250,000 for regulatory breaches, and coordinate with CARICOM IMPACS and other international bodies. Additionally, ECCIRA will promote risk-based auditing, publish annual transparency reports, and spearhead regional training to enhance compliance and investigative capabilities. The governance structure includes a Council of Ministers from each member state and a nine-member board with representatives from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, OECS Commission, and CARICOM IMPACS. Opposition MPs supported the initiative, praising it as essential for protecting the region’s reputation and investor confidence. The unanimous approval of both the treaty and the bill underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to regional cooperation and self-regulation. Prime Minister Browne concluded, “This is about sustainability and protecting our people’s interests. It shows that, as a region, we are capable of integrity, accountability, and collective leadership.”
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Land Dispute Deepens as Ministry Documents Reveal Same-Day Approval
A contentious land dispute in Independence Village has escalated dramatically following the revelation of Ministry of Natural Resources documents that expose irregularities in the approval process. Sherene Garbutt, a local resident, claims she was blindsided after discovering that a 22-acre parcel of land she had applied for was granted to another applicant, Charles Anthony Price, on the same day his application was submitted. Garbutt, who had spent three years navigating the ministry’s procedures, had already received permission to survey the land, completed the surveys, and submitted her lease application. However, she was informed earlier this year that the land was no longer available. The documents indicate that Price’s application was approved on April 29, 2025, and a lease was issued last year, valid until a title is granted. The land was reportedly sold for a mere $10,000, raising questions about transparency and fairness in the process. Garbutt, who had applied for 20 acres, is now preparing to take legal action against the Ministry of Natural Resources, arguing that her application was still pending when the land was transferred. The case has sparked widespread concern over the integrity of land allocation procedures in the region.
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Sandals challenge surpasses £100,000 for neonatal care, pushes on for more
The Sandals Foundation’s 2025 Island Challenge has achieved a remarkable milestone, raising over £100,000 (EC$363,000) to provide life-saving neonatal equipment for Saint Lucia’s Millennium Heights Medical Complex. Surpassing its initial target, the initiative now aims to secure even more funds to enhance the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU).
From October 17 to 20, thirty UK residents and six Saint Lucian athletes will undertake a grueling multi-day endurance challenge. Their efforts will fund critical medical equipment, including a neonatal ventilator, incubator, infant warmer, jaundice meter, infusion pump, nesting system, and specialized blankets. These tools are essential for treating premature and critically ill newborns.
Karen Zacca, Operations Director of the Sandals Foundation, hailed the event as “extremely successful,” noting that the team has already exceeded its fundraising goal. The challenge features a half-marathon, a 12km rainforest trek, a 10km sea kayak, and a climb up Gros Piton, all designed to raise awareness and support for Saint Lucia’s most vulnerable patients.
Dr. Lashorn Christian, Head of the Paediatric Department at Millennium Heights Medical Complex, expressed deep gratitude for the initiative. She emphasized that the new equipment will provide premature and critically ill babies with a fighting chance for survival. “A neonatal ventilator is crucial for babies with breathing difficulties, while incubators help maintain body temperature for premature infants,” she explained. Additionally, specialized blankets for jaundice treatment will allow mothers to continue bonding with their babies during care.
The Sandals Foundation attributed the event’s success to strong partnerships, including support from British Airways, TripAdvisor, Nico Tours, CPJ, and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. The Foundation described the initiative as a testament to the power of the tourism network to bring hope and improve lives. Reaffirming its commitment, the Foundation pledged to go beyond its goal, ensuring every newborn in Saint Lucia receives the best possible start in life.
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Pringle Calls for Clarity on Public Accounts Committee Rules; AG Promises Review
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has raised significant concerns in Parliament regarding procedural gaps affecting the operations of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). During the House of Representatives session on October 16, 2025, Pringle emphasized the urgent need for clarity on the committee’s legal standing and the rules governing its oversight functions. He pointed out that the rules of procedure for the PAC, which he presented to Parliament in July, remain unratified. Additionally, the Standing Orders—the official guide to parliamentary operations—do not mention the PAC, creating uncertainty about its proper functioning. Pringle stressed the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure the committee’s effectiveness. In response, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin acknowledged the oversight and committed to initiating a formal review. He assured that the government is dedicated to strengthening the PAC’s framework to enhance transparency and accountability. The PAC, chaired by Pringle, is Parliament’s primary financial oversight body, tasked with scrutinizing government spending to ensure the appropriate use of taxpayers’ money. Pringle has been advocating for public meetings of the PAC to further promote transparency. Benjamin stated that the review process would involve consultations with parliamentary staff and an examination of Hansard records to ensure adherence to proper parliamentary procedures.
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Twee baby’s geboren in Marwina Ziekenhuis: activiteiten komen weer op gang
Marwina Hospital in Albina is on the brink of a significant transformation as it prepares to officially open its newly completed maternity ward. The hospital recently welcomed two newborns, marking a pivotal milestone in its journey toward full operational capacity. Director Henk Aviankoi shared with Starnieuws that the hospital is finalizing technical details to ensure the maternity ward is fully functional soon. “These births symbolize a major step forward for us,” Aviankoi remarked. In addition to the maternity ward, the hospital’s cafeteria is nearing completion, and essential services such as emergency care and ambulance operations have resumed regular operations. The hospital’s modernization efforts are part of a broader initiative funded by the French Development Bank (AFD), aimed at restructuring and upgrading its facilities. A newly appointed project manager, assigned by Health Minister André Misiekaba, is accelerating the implementation of the AFD project plan. Aviankoi highlighted that specialists, including a pediatrician and gynecologist, have committed to supporting the hospital, with discussions underway to bring in a cardiologist and youth dental care services. Another significant development is the resolution of long-standing salary issues, ensuring timely payments for staff. Aviankoi expressed optimism about the hospital’s progress, stating, “Step by step, Marwina Hospital is returning to full functionality, and the community will soon witness the positive changes.” Collaboration with French hospital partners in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni remains strong, with regular exchanges and technical missions furthering the hospital’s development.