In a startling revelation during his weekly radio address, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has accused certain Treasury employees of accepting bribes from influential business figures to expedite large government payments. This alleged corruption has reportedly left smaller local suppliers and contractors waiting for years to receive their dues, while larger entities enjoy swift disbursements. Browne emphasized the inequity of this practice, which disproportionately affects small businesses that rely on timely payments to sustain their operations. To combat this issue, the Prime Minister has instructed the Accountant General to halt the issuance of significant payments or check exchanges without prior Cabinet approval. This directive aims to restore fairness and transparency in the government’s financial operations. Browne’s announcement has sparked widespread debate, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations. The Prime Minister’s commitment to addressing these systemic issues highlights his administration’s focus on combating corruption and supporting local enterprises.
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Rain fails to dampen UWI Cave Hill celebration of academic excellence
The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill campus, celebrated its 2025 graduating cohort on Saturday with a powerful message of connection and bridge-building. The dual ceremonies, held under the theme ‘Pelicans in an AI-driven Future – Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow,’ emphasized the importance of uniting purpose, action, and impact across the Caribbean and beyond. Despite a brief disruption caused by heavy rain, the events proceeded with a sense of solemnity and celebration, culminating in the conferral of awards at the Roy Marshall Complex. The highlight of the evening was the inspiring keynote address by honorary graduate Lyndon Gardiner, a trailblazing Caribbean aviation entrepreneur awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Laws. Gardiner urged graduates to leverage their education to build not just systems but societies, emphasizing that vision is key to creating lasting change. Valedictorian Shawnalee Gordon, who graduated with first-class honours in economics and finance, echoed this sentiment, reflecting on the challenges faced by regional students and the sacrifices behind academic success. She reminded her peers that their place at UWI was earned through courage and consistency, calling on them to use their education to contribute meaningfully to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the Caribbean. The ceremonies underscored the transformative power of education and the responsibility it carries to shape a better future.
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Saint Lucian boxing delegation heads to Guadeloupe
A formidable delegation of six boxers and two coaches from Saint Lucia is gearing up to compete at the 1st Annual Open International Boxing Tournament in Guadeloupe, scheduled for October 25-26, 2025. The Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA) has announced the eight-member team, which includes some of the nation’s most promising emerging and elite talents, ready to make their mark on the international stage. The event, which will host participants from across the Caribbean and Canada, offers a unique opportunity for Saint Lucia’s athletes to gain exposure, experience, and developmental growth. The delegation features boxers Kyghan Mortley, John Didier, Kyle Marcel, Danail Cooman, Nacham Alex, and Orlando Monrose, supported by National Head Coach Conrad Frederick and Cuban Specialist Coach Yunior Quintero-Perez. David Christopher, president of the SLBA, expressed optimism about the team’s preparedness, emphasizing that the tournament is a stepping stone for future competitions such as the Commonwealth Games and Olympic qualifiers. The team will depart Saint Lucia on October 21, following final training and fitness assessments. The SLBA also acknowledged the invaluable support of sponsors, including the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee Inc. and the French Embassy to the OECS, for facilitating this international endeavor.
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Cycling star Jean Louis dead at 66
The cycling community in Saint Lucia and beyond is mourning the tragic loss of Jean Louis, a revered figure in Caribbean cycling, who passed away on October 17 at the age of 66. Louis, a former champion cyclist, died in a tragic accident while riding his bicycle in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. He was struck by a vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Louis’s legacy extends far beyond his competitive achievements, as he was widely celebrated for his mentorship and unwavering support for younger cyclists. Born in the Anse La Salopwe community of La Toc, Louis rose to prominence in the 1980s, winning numerous titles, including the inaugural Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Cycling Championships men’s title in 1987. His brother, Daniel Louis, who was named Saint Lucia’s Sportsman of the Year in 1985, credited Jean with introducing him to the sport. Jean Louis was known for his sportsmanship and dedication to fostering talent, often providing equipment and guidance to aspiring cyclists. Even after relocating to Canada, he remained deeply involved in the sport, participating in national championships as recently as 2023 and 2024 to support the next generation. Tributes poured in from cycling administrators, fans, and former athletes, including Saint Lucia Cycling Association president Cyril Mangal, who described Louis as a father figure and a pillar of the cycling community. Gregory Downie, a former cyclist, paid homage to Louis on Facebook, acknowledging the risks of road cycling and honoring his enduring legacy as a pioneer and champion. Louis’s contributions to Caribbean cycling will continue to inspire future generations.
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Saint Lucian turns passion into purpose teaching Kwéyòl to a new generation
Centuries ago, on the plantations of colonial Saint Lucia, a unique language emerged from the fusion of French, African, and English influences. This language, Kwéyòl, became a symbol of resistance, rhythm, and resilience for the island’s people. For generations, it thrived in homes, markets, and hillsides, passed down orally but rarely written. Over time, English dominated public spaces, relegating Kwéyòl to informal use, often seen as less prestigious. However, in a wave of cultural revival, Kwéyòl is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among the younger generation, who are reclaiming it as a source of pride and identity. Leading this movement is Sylvie Soir Kwéyòl Smith, a Saint Lucian author and Creole enthusiast. Smith’s passion for Kwéyòl stems from her childhood immersion in the language, but it was her time abroad that deepened her commitment to preserving it. She realized that many people, even Saint Lucians, lacked understanding of Kwéyòl’s roots and significance. Determined to bridge this gap, Smith began sharing her knowledge on social media, starting with simple tweets in Creole. Her posts quickly gained traction, revealing a widespread desire to learn and write the language. This digital outreach evolved into a global movement, inspiring Smith to create *The Kwéyòl Phrase Book*, a practical guide for everyday use. The book has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, helping locals and the diaspora reconnect with their heritage. Despite lingering misconceptions about Kwéyòl’s value, Smith remains dedicated to changing perceptions and fostering unity through language preservation. For her, Kwéyòl is more than a linguistic artifact—it’s a reflection of Saint Lucia’s shared history and a vital part of its identity.
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BWA warns water levels lower than last year, but no prohibition planned
As Barbados transitions into the dry season, the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) has reported that water levels are lower than last year but have not yet reached a critical threshold requiring restrictions. Hydrogeologist Jaime Paul addressed the situation during a press conference on Saturday, noting that rainfall during the rainy season has been insufficient. “Our reservoirs are not being replenished as we had hoped, and we are urging the public to conserve water,” Paul stated. She emphasized that while the current conditions are concerning, they do not yet warrant a water prohibition like the one implemented in 2023. However, the BWA is closely monitoring the situation and will make monthly assessments to determine if stricter measures are necessary. Paul also highlighted the importance of coastal wells, which are connected to the sea and can signal severe water shortages through rising salinity levels. “Increased salinity indicates a significant reduction in water availability, which would be a serious issue,” she explained. The BWA is encouraging residents to adopt water-saving practices and install water-efficient devices to prepare for the dry months ahead. In 2023, Barbados imposed a water prohibition due to critically low levels in reservoirs and wells, restricting non-essential water use. BWA Project Manager Shelley Parris underscored ongoing efforts to promote water conservation, particularly through educational initiatives in schools, with plans to expand these programs to the broader public.
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VIDEO: Department of War releases footage of drug-carrying submarine being destroyed by U.S forces
In a significant move against international drug trafficking, the United States Department of War has unveiled footage capturing the destruction of a submarine laden with illegal narcotics. The vessel, intercepted on a notorious narcotrafficking route, was reportedly transporting a substantial quantity of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. President Donald Trump revealed that four individuals, described as ‘narcoterrorists,’ were aboard the submarine. Two were killed during the operation, while the remaining two were handed over to authorities in Ecuador and Colombia for prosecution. Trump emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the intercepted drugs could have claimed the lives of at least 25,000 Americans had they reached US shores. He also confirmed that no US military personnel were harmed during the mission. This operation is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to combat drug trafficking by land and sea, targeting the networks that fuel the opioid crisis in the United States. The release of the footage underscores the administration’s commitment to transparency and its aggressive stance against narcoterrorism.
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Windies beaten by 74 runs in Mirpur
The West Indies faced a crushing 74-run defeat against Bangladesh in the first One Day International (ODI) of their three-match series on Saturday, October 18, at Mirpur. This series holds immense significance for both teams as they vie for crucial points to secure a spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.
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Grenada government pressed for response to alleged US refugee ultimatum
The Government of Grenada is under increasing scrutiny following reports that the United States has issued an ultimatum demanding the island nation accept refugees being deported from the US. The civil society group, Coalition for a Zone of Peace, revealed in a Sunday statement that it had received credible information about Washington’s approach to Grenada regarding the resettlement of third-country nationals. While Grenada’s government had previously denied a similar proposal in February, the coalition’s latest statement suggests renewed efforts by the US. The group is now calling for transparency, urging authorities to confirm the reports and inform the public. The coalition has taken a firm stance, asserting that Grenada, as a sovereign nation, will not support what it describes as an inhumane US immigration policy. It emphasized that the country will not accept non-Grenadian refugees, some of whom could pose security risks. The coalition framed the issue as a matter of national dignity and sovereignty, declaring that Grenada is not for sale. The statement was released on October 19, coinciding with the anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and others in 1983, a period marked by US-led intervention in Grenada. The controversy also unfolds amid reports of a US request to install radar equipment in Grenada, part of a broader military buildup in the region. In response, the coalition has organized a series of public activities, including a mass demonstration on October 22 and candlelight vigils on October 25. A petition opposing the alleged US request has also been circulated, urging citizens to voice their opposition. Notably, several countries, including South Sudan and Eswatini, have already accepted refugees under the Trump administration’s third-country deportation program.
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Nieuw kunstgrasveld in Albina moet jongeren perspectief en structuur bieden
A state-of-the-art multifunctional artificial turf field has been officially inaugurated in Albina, Marowijne, marking a significant step forward in providing local youth with opportunities for sports development, talent discovery, and social cohesion. The facility, designed to accommodate football and various other sports and youth activities, will also serve schools lacking their own sports infrastructure. The opening ceremony was led by Miquella Huur, Minister of Regional Development, alongside Lalinie Gopal, Minister of Youth Development and Sport, who represented President Jennifer Simons. Minister Gopal highlighted the field’s role in creating safe and positive spaces for young people, stating, ‘This field is more than just a sports facility. It’s a foundation for building character, opportunities, and community strength.’ Minister Huur emphasized the facility’s importance in addressing the need for structured activities for youth in the district, noting, ‘Here, children can gather after school, engage in sports, collaborate, and grow—away from negative influences.’ Originally initiated by the former Ministry of Regional Development and Sport, the project has now been completed under the current Ministry of Regional Development. A local maintenance committee will ensure the sustainable use of the facility. Minister Gopal urged the Albina community to care for the field, calling it ‘an investment made with heart and a vision for the future. Cherish it so that future generations can also benefit.’ A similar multifunctional artificial turf field is set to open soon in Galibi.