In a robust defense against recent media allegations, the author, under the pseudonym Nomad, has issued a detailed rebuttal to claims made by Harold Lovell and D. Gisele Isaac. Lovell’s article, titled ‘Chain Gang Exposed: Gaston’s Culture of Creating Enrichment Blows Wide Open,’ and Isaac’s piece, ‘Ask What Your Country Can Do for You,’ have sparked significant controversy. While acknowledging Lovell’s eloquence, Nomad criticizes his lack of veracity, accusing him of habitual falsehoods. Specifically, Lovell’s assertion that Prime Minister Gaston Browne and his son profited from a land deal at Long Bay is categorically denied. Nomad clarifies that the transaction was a private treaty and not involving government land, with all details verifiable through the Register of Lands. Furthermore, Lovell’s claim that Browne became a millionaire solely through this deal is dismissed as an egregious lie, with Nomad pointing to Browne’s transparent declaration of his wealth under the Integrity in Public Life Act 2004. The rebuttal also addresses Lovell’s allegations of corruption in the ‘shadowy WIOC share deal’ and the ‘Antigua Airways fiasco,’ questioning the basis of these claims. Nomad highlights that it was Prime Minister Browne who initially exposed the ‘chain gang scandal’ and emphasizes the government’s ongoing audit to ensure financial oversight. The call for an independent inquiry is scrutinized, with Nomad arguing that the current audit suffices to uncover any irregularities. Additionally, Nomad defends Minister Maria Browne against accusations of involvement in the scandal, noting her role in bringing the issue to light and the longstanding nature of the illegal activities. The rebuttal concludes with a promise to address Gisele Isaac’s accusations in a forthcoming Part 2.
作者： admin
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ST LUCIA: Drug bust results in four Port Authority employee arrests
In a significant development at the Castries Port, four employees of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) were apprehended following a high-profile drug bust. The arrests were the result of an intelligence-driven operation executed by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) on Saturday, October 18, as reported by The St Lucia Times. The operation led to the interception of a motor vehicle driven by one of the SLASPA employees. Authorities discovered a barrel that had not yet undergone customs inspection, which upon further search, revealed substantial quantities of controlled substances, including cannabis and MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. The driver was immediately taken into custody. Subsequently, three additional individuals suspected of involvement in the incident were also arrested. The RSLPF continues to delve deeper into the matter, and the accused are expected to face formal charges this week.
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TS Melissa takes aim on region, potential for hurricane strength, DA not affected
Tropical Storm Melissa is rapidly advancing toward the Caribbean, with meteorologists warning of its potential escalation into a hurricane within the next 24 to 48 hours. The storm is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and powerful winds, to several island nations, including Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica. Forecasters highlight that the storm’s path will traverse waters with temperatures 4 to 5 degrees above average, creating ideal conditions for intensification. The National Weather Service has issued a hurricane watch for southwestern Haiti, from the Dominican Republic border to Port-Au-Prince, and a tropical storm watch for Jamaica. Aruba and Puerto Rico may also experience milder impacts from the storm’s outer bands. Heavy rainfall, ranging from 5 to 10 inches, is anticipated in southern regions of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and eastern Jamaica, raising concerns of flash flooding and landslides. Northern areas of these countries and western Jamaica are expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of rain. Residents in vulnerable areas are urged to remain alert and follow updates from local authorities. Meanwhile, the Dominica Meteorological Service noted that while Melissa does not directly threaten Dominica, overcast skies, scattered showers, and gusty winds are expected, with a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms. High Surf and Small Craft Advisories are also in effect for the next 24 hours. The Atlantic hurricane season continues until November 30, underscoring the need for preparedness in the region.
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Ministry of Agriculture & Lands Refutes Malicious Claims Regarding Vehicles Used for Land Clearance and Farm Assistance
In a significant move to enhance national development, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the procurement and allocation of specialized vehicles, including trucks and excavation equipment, to the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands. These vehicles are now actively utilized for two primary purposes: clearing lands in subdivisions to prepare for new land sales to citizens and residents, and providing critical support to the nation’s farmers through agricultural land clearing operations. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering agricultural growth and land development, ensuring tangible benefits for all Antiguans and Barbudans. The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & The Blue Economy has reaffirmed its dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations. It has pledged to address legitimate inquiries promptly while addressing and rectifying any instances of deliberate misinformation.
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Grenada in no rush to provide a response
In response to a request from the Donald Trump US Administration to install temporary radar at Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) and deploy military assets in or near Grenada, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell announced that he will provide an update to Parliament on October 28. The Lower House of Parliament, initially set to meet on October 24, rescheduled its session to accommodate this update. Mitchell clarified that his statement will not announce a government decision but will instead inform the public about the ongoing consideration of the request, which was received in August 2025. He emphasized that the matter is highly technical and requires extensive input from experts. Mitchell also noted that Grenada has historically received similar national security requests from regional and international partners, including the US, Trinidad, and France. He assured the public that the government is taking its time to deliberate on the issue, as there is no urgency to respond. The Prime Minister’s update will be delivered during his weekly social media program, ‘DMs with the PM,’ ensuring transparency and public awareness.
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Fire Victim Shadia Magaña Dies from Injuries
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, 17-year-old Shadia Magaña, one of the victims of a horrific fire in San Felipe, Belize, has tragically passed away due to severe burn injuries sustained in the incident. The devastating attack, which occurred in the early hours of October 20, 2025, involved Shadia, her mother Angelita Magaña, and her younger brother Tishan being doused in gasoline and set ablaze by Angelita’s estranged partner, 35-year-old Francisco Godoy. Godoy, the alleged perpetrator, also died this morning at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in Belize City. Shadia, a recent high school graduate, was initially treated at the Northern Regional Hospital before being transferred to KHMH for advanced medical care. Despite the relentless efforts of medical professionals, she succumbed to her injuries on October 22, 2025. This tragic incident has cast a somber shadow over the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence.
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LETTER: A Response to Chet Greene
In the wake of Chet Greene’s article, ‘UPP’s Politically Motivated Memo Aimed at Undermining Anti-Corruption Reforms Unmasked,’ a pressing demand for transparency and accountability has emerged. The article underscores the necessity of a thorough reckoning before any meaningful reform can be achieved. To address systemic failures, critical questions must be answered: Were Treasury controls inadequate? Was procurement oversight lacking? Did Cabinet supervision falter? Without clarity on these issues, any anti-corruption efforts risk being superficial. The concerns extend beyond the Ministry of Public Works, raising alarms about potential irregularities in other government ministries shielded by secrecy and political influence. What is urgently needed is an independent, wide-ranging investigation, not a meticulously crafted public relations campaign. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s reluctance to initiate such an inquiry has fueled speculation about potential conflicts of interest, particularly concerning his Ministry of Finance and his wife, Minister Maria Browne. The current narrative, framed as reform, is perceived by many as damage control masquerading as leadership. True accountability requires exposing all involved parties without bias, paving the way for genuine solutions. The people of Antigua and Barbuda deserve the truth, not political spin. The focus must shift from partisan blame to a steadfast commitment to integrity and transparency.
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BNA calls for stronger legal protection after nurse assault case
The Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has voiced strong disapproval over a recent court decision that imposed a mere $400 fine on a man who assaulted a nurse while she was on duty. The association described the ruling as a ‘slap in the face’ to nurses and a failure to address the gravity of the offense. The incident involved 22-year-old Josiah Lovell, who physically assaulted 64-year-old nurse Hyacinth Green at the Randall Phillips Polyclinic last month. Lovell pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was ordered to pay the fine as compensation. He had been remanded for 28 days and released on $2,500 bail after paying the fine. BNA President Dr. Fay Parris emphasized that the penalty does not reflect the seriousness of the crime or the trauma experienced by the victim. ‘This decision sends a troubling message that violence against nurses may result in minimal consequences,’ Parris stated. ‘The penalty must act as a deterrent, not just a token response.’ The BNA has called for stronger legal protections for healthcare workers, a review of existing legislation, and the introduction of insurance coverage and support systems for nurses affected by workplace trauma. The association also urged public education to promote a zero-tolerance approach to violence in healthcare settings. ‘Nurses are essential to our healthcare system. Reducing such assaults to nominal fines undervalues their contributions and dignity,’ Parris added. The BNA is rallying policymakers, legal authorities, and the public to support nurses in demanding stronger protections and respect across all sectors.
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Panton, Gregg, Swann set for final Rally2 clash
The Barbados Motoring Federation’s (BMF) 2025 Rally2 Championship is set for an electrifying conclusion this Sunday, with nine special testing stages in the island’s northern region determining the ultimate champion. The double-header finale promises high-octane drama, as just 17 points separate the top three contenders, with a total of 46 points up for grabs. Jamaican drivers Jeff Panton and Kyle Gregg, alongside Britain’s Rob Swann, lead a diverse field of ten cars in their quest for the title. Panton, the 2023 champion, currently tops the standings in his Ford Fiesta Rally2, co-driven by Mike Fennell Jnr. Gregg, also in a Fiesta, has been a consistent performer, securing second place in the first four rounds. Swann, a seasoned rally veteran, is poised for his best shot at the championship, sitting third in the standings. The event, hosted by the Barbados Rally Club (BRC) Winter Rally, marks rounds six and seven of the championship, following the cancellation of last month’s Motoring Club Barbados Inc (MCBI) Rally of the Sun & Stars. Other notable contenders include Josh Read, Adam Mallalieu, and Roger Hill, all vying for a strong finish. The competition will feature challenging routes, including runs from French Village to The Rock and Pickering to Luke Hill, with reverse stages adding to the complexity. The rally will also see participation from international teams, including Paul Horton of the Turks & Caicos Rally Team and America’s George Sherman, ensuring a truly global showdown.
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SVG launches Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament
St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is gearing up to host the 2025 Independence International Masters Cricket Tournament, a marquee event that will bring together some of the finest cricket teams from the Caribbean, North America, and the United Kingdom. Scheduled from October 24 to November 1, the tournament is a highlight of the nation’s 46th Independence celebrations, showcasing 21 teams in a thrilling display of cricketing excellence. The event is organized by the SVG government, the SVG Tourism Authority, the SVG National Sports Council, and the Ministries of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development, Culture, and Sport. The grand finale on November 1 will feature a T20 night match at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground, where the West Indian Masters XI, boasting legends like Courtney Walsh, Curtly Ambrose, and Mervyn Dillon, will take on the Rest of the World Masters XI. Minister of Tourism, Carlos James, emphasized the tournament’s significance in celebrating SVG’s talent, unity, and resilience, while also boosting sports tourism and creating opportunities for local communities. Minister of Sports Orando Brewster highlighted the event’s role in youth engagement and community development, calling it a bridge that connects generations and inspires national pride. The SVG Tourism Authority is collaborating with the National Sports Council and the Ministry of Sports to position the tournament as a cornerstone of sports tourism, enhancing SVG’s reputation as a premier sporting destination in the Caribbean.