Retired educator and incumbent MP Curtis King has outlined his accomplishments and future initiatives as he campaigns for re-election in West St. George. Speaking at a Unity Labour Party (ULP) rally in Calliaqua, King emphasized his commitment to community development and education. Among his key achievements, he highlighted the allocation of land to residents of Upper Queens Drive at a nominal rate of 50 cents per square foot, addressing a decades-long issue. He also transformed the Gomea mineral spring into a community-integrated project, fostering small business opportunities. King’s focus on education was evident in the establishment of a food preparation laboratory at West St. George Secondary School, aimed at equipping youth with skills for the expanding tourism sector. Additionally, he underscored ongoing infrastructure projects, including the construction of a hospital in Arnos Vale and upgrades to the Belair Health Clinic. King also celebrated the recent lighting of the Arnos Vale Playing Field, a long-awaited development for sports enthusiasts. Looking ahead, he pledged to continue advancing projects like the Daphine and Dorsetshire Playing Fields. King concluded by urging voters to register and support the ULP, emphasizing the party’s vision to elevate St. Vincent and the Grenadines to first-world standards.
分类： politics
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FLASH : «The battle will go to the end» says the leader of the Bel-Air gang
Kempès Sanon, the 46-year-old leader of the Bel-Air armed gang, one of Haiti’s most notorious and violent groups, has vowed to continue the fight against the Haitian system until it is overthrown. In a recent interview with EFE, the world’s largest Spanish news agency, Sanon declared, “The battle will go to the end. Even if they launch drones at us, the battle will not stop.” The Bel-Air gang, part of the “Viv Ansanm” terrorist coalition led by former police officer Jimmy Chérizier (aka “Barbecue”), has been accused of numerous attacks on public institutions and civilians. The United States recently sanctioned Sanon and Chérizier, with a $5 million reward offered for the latter’s capture. Sanon accused the U.S., Canada, and France of undermining Haiti’s interests, claiming their actions have perpetuated the country’s insecurity and poverty. He argued that the gangs’ fight aims to bring about change and development, asserting that the Haitian state has failed its people. Sanon also criticized the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), labeling its members as “thieves” who exploit insecurity for personal gain and prolonged power.
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Courtenay Closes Fortis Debate with Sharp Rebuke
In a heated parliamentary session on October 20, 2025, Lead Government Senator Eamon Courtenay concluded the debate on the controversial Fortis acquisition with a sharp and unexpected rebuke. Courtenay criticized the opposition for their ‘Who Thief Budna’ t-shirts, which were worn during a previous session, and controversially suggested that only those who support pedophiles could dismiss the benefits of the Fortis deal. He emphasized that the government’s decision to purchase Fortis Belize Limited was driven by national interest, as Fortis had threatened to sell to a foreign entity. Courtenay stated, ‘It occurred to me when I listened to senators opposite that only if you love a pedophile and support Budna and publicly come out and embrace him that you can rationalize away this project.’ UDP Senator Shenna Pitts countered Courtenay’s remarks, calling his accusations uncharacteristic and unrelated to the core issue of the Fortis acquisition. She questioned the relevance of the ‘Who Thief Budna’ slogan to the debate, asserting that it had no bearing on the matter at hand. The debate highlighted the deep political divisions surrounding the Fortis deal, with Courtenay defending the government’s actions as necessary for national security and economic stability.
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SDO Mayor’s Office signs cooperation agreement with the City of Lawrence, Massachusetts
In a landmark event at Lawrence City Hall, Massachusetts, Mayor Brian A. De Peña of Lawrence and Mayor Francisco Peña of Santo Domingo Oeste, Dominican Republic, solidified a groundbreaking cooperation agreement. This pact, formalized during a ceremony on October 12 in honor of Hispanic Heritage Day and ahead of Santo Domingo Oeste’s founding anniversary on October 16, marks a significant step toward fostering institutional and cultural collaboration between the two cities. The agreement is designed to enhance international relations and stimulate cultural, educational, social, and economic exchanges through joint initiatives that will benefit both communities. The event drew a diverse audience, including local officials, community leaders, and cultural representatives. Councilor Jassiel Díaz and coordinator Francia Santana were instrumental in facilitating this partnership. As a symbol of unity, the mayors exchanged meaningful gifts, such as city keys, national flags, and an honorary award, highlighting the shared commitment to strengthening ties between the Dominican Republic and the United States.
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Abinader clarifies U.S. is official convener of the Summit of the Americas
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic clarified on Monday that while the country will host the upcoming Summit of the Americas, the event remains officially convened and organized by the United States. The U.S. has been the driving force behind this continental forum since its inception. During his weekly press briefing, ‘La Semanal con la Prensa,’ Abinader addressed inquiries about the absence of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who recently confirmed she would not attend. He highlighted that the summit encompasses more than just the assembly of heads of state, featuring parallel meetings for business leaders, civil society, youth, and environmental sectors. These sessions will be held in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, depending on logistical arrangements. Abinader assured that the Dominican Republic, as the host nation, will provide full support to ensure the event’s success and to promote meaningful discussions on democracy, development, and regional cooperation. Sheinbaum’s decision to skip the summit stems from her opposition to the exclusion of any country and her focus on addressing domestic priorities and emergencies.
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VIDEO: The former United Progressive Party sold Antigua and Barbuda Diplomatic Passports, PM Says
The sale of diplomatic passports in Antigua has sparked significant debate and scrutiny. These passports, which grant holders diplomatic immunity and other privileges, are reportedly being sold to foreign nationals, raising concerns about potential misuse and security risks. Critics argue that this practice could compromise national security and diplomatic integrity, while proponents claim it boosts the country’s economy through foreign investment. The Antiguan government has yet to issue a formal statement addressing these concerns, but the issue has drawn attention from international observers and human rights organizations. As the controversy unfolds, questions about transparency and accountability in the issuance of diplomatic passports remain at the forefront of the discussion.
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Senators Debate Government’s $256 Million Fortis Buyout
A heated debate unfolded in the Belizean Senate on October 20, 2025, as lawmakers deliberated the government’s proposed $256 million acquisition of Fortis’s operations in Belize, including its 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). The discussion highlighted divergent perspectives on the economic, environmental, and social implications of the landmark energy deal. Senator Louis Wade, representing the Churches, voiced environmental concerns about the dams, labeling them costly and not environmentally friendly. However, he emphasized the importance of Belizean ownership of national assets, suggesting that citizens should have the opportunity to invest directly. ‘Government shouldn’t own everything,’ he remarked, advocating for public participation in the acquisition. UDP Senator Sheena Pitts raised critical questions about accessibility, questioning whether average Belizeans could afford to purchase shares in BEL given the current economic climate. ‘At a time of inflation and high living costs, which Belizean has disposable income to invest?’ she asked, highlighting broader concerns about economic inequality. Senator Eamon Courtenay, from the governing party, defended the structural integrity of the dams, asserting that they are in good operational condition and require only minor repairs. His comments aimed to reassure the public about the viability of the assets. Senator Janelle Chanona, representing non-governmental organizations and a BEL board member, addressed misconceptions about electricity rates, stating that Belize’s energy costs are not as high as perceived. Meanwhile, Opposition Senator Patrick Faber criticized the rushed legislative process, accusing the government of failing to incorporate stakeholder feedback. ‘Consultation doesn’t mean just informing people; it means listening to them,’ he argued, underscoring concerns about transparency and inclusivity. The debate underscores the complexity of the Fortis acquisition, balancing national interests, environmental considerations, and public accessibility.
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OPINION: The End of Free-Market Hypocrisy? What America’s U-Turn Means for the Caribbean?
For decades, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank pressured Caribbean nations to privatize essential services, framing it as a prerequisite for economic development. However, recent actions by the United States government have starkly contradicted this long-standing narrative. In August 2025, the U.S. acquired a 10% stake in Intel, followed by equity positions in four other strategic companies, marking a significant shift toward state capitalism. This move has unmasked what many see as a double standard in global economic policy, where free-market fundamentalism was less about sound economics and more about geopolitical power. Caribbean nations, which were forced to privatize their assets under harsh conditions, now have every reason to feel both vindicated and outraged.
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Harold Lovell Backs Independent Probe into $15 Million Vehicle Scandal
Harold Lovell, the former Finance Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has urged for a comprehensive and independent investigation into a $15 million vehicle procurement scandal. Lovell highlighted concerns over fairness, accountability, and transparency, emphasizing the need for an impartial inquiry to address the allegations. The scandal involves the purchase and distribution of hundreds of vehicles without Cabinet approval, raising serious questions about governance and oversight. Lovell stressed that no individual should be judged in the court of public opinion, calling for a fair process where all facts are properly examined. He criticized the selective use of information to exonerate some while targeting others, particularly in media discussions. Lovell also expressed unease about key figures allegedly involved in the scandal remaining unaccountable, underscoring the importance of holding all public officials to the same standards. He framed the investigation as a critical step toward restoring public trust in government accountability. Linking the scandal to broader governance issues, Lovell warned that without true transparency and justice, corruption will continue to thrive. As of now, the government has not responded to Lovell’s call for an independent probe.
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U.S. Envoys Rush to Save Fragile Gaza Ceasefire After Weekend Violence
In a bid to prevent the collapse of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, U.S. envoys have urgently arrived in Israel following a surge in violence that claimed at least 30 lives over the weekend. The recent escalation began with a Palestinian attack that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers, prompting retaliatory airstrikes by Israel that killed 28 people in Gaza. This violence threatens to unravel the week-old truce brokered by former President Donald Trump.
Residents of Gaza expressed deep concern over the potential for further bloodshed. A displaced businessman from Gaza City shared his despair, stating, ‘I felt my heart dropping to the ground; I felt the ceasefire collapse.’
U.S. officials, including Trump’s advisers Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to advance the peace plan. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to join discussions on regional security by Tuesday. Additionally, U.S. representatives are set to meet with Hamas leaders in Egypt to advocate for restraint and progress in the negotiations.
The next phase of the peace plan involves Hamas relinquishing the bodies of remaining hostages and establishing a new governing body in Gaza that excludes Hamas representation. However, Hamas leaders have firmly rejected any foreign control or disarmament, posing significant challenges to the ongoing talks.