Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Santokhi reageert op aanhouding zoon in VS: Vertrouw op rechtvaardige afhandeling

    Santokhi reageert op aanhouding zoon in VS: Vertrouw op rechtvaardige afhandeling

    Former President Chan Santokhi has publicly responded to reports regarding the detention of his son, Richano Santokhi, in the United States due to issues surrounding his immigration status. In his statement, Santokhi emphasized that his son’s residency application is currently under review by the relevant authorities and that he is receiving legal assistance from an attorney.

    Santokhi expressed confidence in a fair and thorough resolution of the matter, stating, ‘As a father, I trust in a careful and just handling of this case, in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations.’ He lamented that some individuals are exploiting his son’s personal situation for political or publicity purposes.

    ‘It is unfortunate that there are those who misuse this issue to inflict political and public damage,’ Santokhi remarked. He called for respect for his family’s privacy and urged society and the media to exercise restraint in addressing this private matter. ‘In the interest of my family’s privacy and protection, I will limit myself to this explanation,’ he concluded.

  • President: Heb gratieverzoek niet gezien; Kanhai toont bewijs van ontvangst

    President: Heb gratieverzoek niet gezien; Kanhai toont bewijs van ontvangst

    In a surprising turn of events, President Jennifer Simons has claimed she has neither received nor reviewed a pardon request for the four individuals convicted in the December 8 case. This statement was made in response to questions posed by journalist Jerrel Harderwijk of DTV Express during a public event on Monday evening. When asked how she would address the pardon request, Simons replied, ‘I don’t know; I haven’t seen it yet,’ suggesting the request had not been presented to her for consideration. However, Irvin Kanhai, the attorney representing the convicts, countered this claim by presenting evidence that the request had indeed been received by the President’s Cabinet. Kanhai displayed a document dated September 17, 2025, bearing a signature confirming receipt. The pardon request pertains to Ernst Gefferie, Stephanus Dendoe, Benny Brondenstein, who are currently serving their 15-year sentences in Santo Boma, and Iwan Dijksteel, who remains at large. Kanhai expressed his expectation that the President would act appropriately, stating, ‘These individuals deserve clemency. That is what I expect.’ The reason for the delay in the request reaching the President, despite its receipt by her Cabinet, remains unclear. The President’s Office has yet to issue further comments on the matter.

  • Kamla’s budget

    Kamla’s budget

    The recently unveiled budget by the Kamla Persad-Bissessar administration has been hailed as a deeply political maneuver, strategically timed months after the April 28 general election. Presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo on October 13, the budget was more than an economic roadmap; it was a victory lap for the United National Congress (UNC) and a testament to Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s enduring influence. Tancoo’s repeated acknowledgment of her as the driving force behind the budget underscored her centrality in shaping its measures, which aim to fulfill campaign promises and strengthen the social contract with citizens. Key initiatives, such as the public servant pay increase, not only fulfill pledges but also strategically weaken the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) by placing them on the defensive. The budget also highlights a shift in governance style, with Persad-Bissessar taking a more hands-on approach compared to her first term, where figures like Winston Dookeran and Larry Howai were more prominent. A notable feature is the establishment of a financial oversight committee chaired by the Prime Minister, signaling her heightened control over fiscal matters. Beyond domestic concerns, the budget carries geopolitical undertones, with references to global leaders like Donald Trump and Narendra Modi, reflecting Persad-Bissessar’s broader vision for Trinidad and Tobago’s place on the world stage. Her recent speech at the Siparia Divali celebrations, where she vowed to ‘go to war’ for citizens, further emphasized the interconnectedness of fiscal policy and international relations. This budget is not just about economic management; it is a calculated move to cement Persad-Bissessar’s legacy and position the country for a future shaped by both domestic and global priorities.

  • Pickstock expected to be ratified for Golden Isles

    Pickstock expected to be ratified for Golden Isles

    The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is poised to finalize its roster of candidates for the forthcoming general election, with a significant focus on the Golden Isles constituency, where a by-election is anticipated. Senator Darren Pickstock is expected to be ratified as the candidate for Golden Isles, following the recent passing of area MP Vaughn Miller. House Speaker Patricia Deveaux has officially notified the Governor General of the vacancy, triggering the constitutional requirement for a by-election within 60 days of the vacancy, with the vote to follow within 21 to 30 days after the writ is issued. Golden Isles, a pivotal swing constituency, has seen voter dissatisfaction due to inconsistent representation in recent years. PLP insiders revealed that several incumbents, including Seabreeze MP Leslia Miller-Brice, Garden Hills MP Mario Bowleg, and Golden Gates MP Pia Glover-Rolle, are also set to be confirmed. These decisions follow thorough interviews conducted by the PLP’s Candidates Committee, which has endorsed several hopefuls. Videos circulating on social media last week depicted Mrs. Miller-Brice, Mr. Bowleg, and South Beach MP Bacchus Rolle celebrating their re-nominations with supporters. Mrs. Miller-Brice expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving her constituents. Additionally, broadcaster and former government press secretary Clint Watson, the frontrunner for the Southern Shores seat, is expected to face the committee this week. PLP officials emphasized that the final approval lies with the party’s National General Council, which convenes on Thursday to formalize nominations. PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell urged reporters to await the outcome, while Deputy Chairman Obie Roberts highlighted the dual process of recommendation and ratification. The Candidates Committee may endorse nominees, but the council, comprising stalwart councillors and senior members, must approve each candidate by vote. Branch chairman Henrico Ellis expressed high anticipation for Thursday’s meeting, noting that a candidate has already been identified but stressing that the final decision rests with the council. “It’s going to be an exciting night,” he remarked.

  • Morris hits ‘deceitful’ budget: Tobago’s development allocation reduced

    Morris hits ‘deceitful’ budget: Tobago’s development allocation reduced

    Tobago’s Minority Leader Kelvon Morris has sharply criticized the island’s $2.96 billion fiscal package for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, labeling it as ‘seasoned with deceit, deception, and in some respect, dishonesty.’ Speaking at a media conference on October 15 at the Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort in Lowlands, Morris emphasized that ‘the devil is in the details,’ pointing out a significant reduction in development funds for Tobago.

  • Moore: FNM cannot back off from by-election

    Moore: FNM cannot back off from by-election

    Maurice Moore, a founding member of the Free National Movement (FNM), has emphasized the importance of the opposition party contesting the upcoming Golden Isles by-election. Speaking to The Tribune, Moore warned that allowing the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) to run uncontested would be a strategic misstep. He argued that the FNM must remain in the political fray, even if the odds are stacked against them. While some believe the FNM could leverage the late Vaughn Miller’s limited popularity in the area, Moore acknowledged the PLP’s significant financial and organizational advantages, describing the race as challenging but not unwinnable. ‘We’re one of the two major parties, so we have to contest it,’ Moore stated. ‘Even if we win by a narrow margin, it demonstrates the FNM’s potential to secure victory in a general election.’ Moore also stressed that the party’s success will hinge on its candidate selection process. The FNM has yet to confirm whether it will field a candidate for the by-election, with party insiders divided on the issue. Some advocate for conserving resources for the national campaign, while others view the by-election as an opportunity to rally supporters and attract new funding. FNM leader Michael Pintard has remained noncommittal, reiterating his call for Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis to call an early general election instead. The party’s hesitation follows a recent defeat in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election, where the FNM ignored advice from former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to avoid the race. Despite the setback, Moore insists that the FNM must not signal retreat. ‘If we don’t run, it gives the impression that we’ve given up,’ he said. ‘The FNM must always be in the fight.’

  • Warmington wants gov’t to take full responsibility for housing scheme roads

    Warmington wants gov’t to take full responsibility for housing scheme roads

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Everald Warmington, Member of Parliament (MP) for St Catherine South Western, has urged the Jamaican Government to assume full responsibility for the maintenance of roads in housing schemes, particularly those constructed four to five decades ago, which are now in a state of severe disrepair. Warmington presented a motion to this effect in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, aiming to establish this as official Government policy if debated and approved.

  • US strike kills 6 more, off Venezuelan coast

    US strike kills 6 more, off Venezuelan coast

    In a significant escalation of efforts to combat narcotrafficking, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a military strike in international waters off the coast of Venezuela on October 14, resulting in the deaths of six individuals. The operation, carried out under Trump’s authority as commander-in-chief, targeted a vessel linked to a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) involved in drug trafficking. U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike, which occurred within the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) operational area. Trump described the deceased as ‘narcoterrorists’ and emphasized that no U.S. personnel were harmed. This marks the fifth such strike in the past month, bringing the total death toll to 27. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the U.S. military presence, accusing Washington of attempting to orchestrate regime change. Maduro has vowed to protect Venezuela’s sovereignty, launching nationwide military exercises like ‘Independence 200’ to bolster defense against external threats. Venezuelan officials, including Delta Amacuro State Governor Loa Tamaronis, have reaffirmed their commitment to national independence, rejecting foreign intervention. The U.S. has long accused Maduro of facilitating narcoterrorism, a claim he denies, further straining bilateral relations.

  • Residents from across MICAL arrive in Nassau to show support for Dupuch-Carron’s nomination

    Residents from across MICAL arrive in Nassau to show support for Dupuch-Carron’s nomination

    Residents from the MICAL constituency have made a significant journey to New Providence to rally behind Robert Dupuch-Carron, founder of the Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Networks Ltd (BACSWN), as he prepares to appear before the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) Candidates Committee. This surge of support comes in the wake of MICAL MP Basil McIntosh’s announcement that he will not seek re-election, a decision that has sparked criticism from some PLP supporters who feel let down by his performance. Dupuch-Carron, who has expressed his honor at being considered for the role, represents a lineage of political service, with his grandfather, great-uncle, and uncle all having served parts of the southern Bahamas. Timothy Thompson Sr, a Crooked Island resident and member of the PLP’s National General Council, has voiced his belief that Dupuch-Carron is the ideal candidate to bring true representation to MICAL, a constituency he claims has been neglected for years. Thompson has called for investments, airport development, and projects to showcase Crooked Island’s potential. Constituents from Mayaguana, Acklins, Inagua, and Crooked Island have flown in to support Dupuch-Carron, who is expected to meet with the PLP’s Candidates Committee for an interview. Thompson has warned of a potential protest vote against the PLP if Dupuch-Carron is not selected, emphasizing the urgency of effective representation. Henry Rolle, PLP branch chairman for Acklins, has highlighted the dire need for basic necessities like potable water and proper hurricane shelters, pointing to longstanding issues on Acklins. Father James Palacious, an Inagua native, has praised Dupuch-Carron’s innovative ideas, particularly his BACSWN project, which includes aviation-grade ambulances, enhanced search-and-rescue capabilities, and upgrades to radar and meteorological services. Palacious believes this project could significantly benefit Inagua. As the PLP’s nomination process unfolds, at least two other candidates, Angela Michelle Cox-Lockhart and Laverne Bertrum “Dyie” Ingraham, have also declared their intentions to represent the governing party in the vast constituency, which includes Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins, and Long Cay. Cox-Lockhart has outlined a “7-Pillar Development Plan” focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, economic empowerment, education, culture, climate readiness, and inter-island connectivity, while Ingraham has cited long-standing political neglect and unfulfilled promises as his motivation for running.

  • Trump’s H-1B visa fee hike could send Jamaican professionals to other countries

    Trump’s H-1B visa fee hike could send Jamaican professionals to other countries

    The Donald Trump administration’s decision to impose a staggering $100,000 application fee for employers seeking to hire foreign professionals through the H-1B visa programme has raised significant concerns among immigration experts. Immigration attorney Dayle Blair warns that this move could ‘backfire’ on the US, potentially driving skilled workers to countries like Canada and China, which are actively courting global talent in fields such as information technology, engineering, healthcare, and education. Blair highlighted China’s recent introduction of the K-Visa, a sponsor-free visa category aimed at attracting STEM professionals, as a direct response to the US’s restrictive measures. The K-Visa, launched on October 1, 2025, is part of China’s broader strategy to compete for skilled workers, though details on fees and requirements remain undisclosed. Blair also noted that remote work could offer an alternative for US employers, but concerns over data security and client permissions persist. The H-1B visa, which allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialised fields, has seen a 20-fold fee increase from $5,000 to $100,000, effective September 21, 2025. This sharp rise comes as the US government pushes for companies to hire more local talent. However, Blair and other experts argue that this policy could stifle US innovation and businesses by restricting access to a global talent pool. Smaller companies, in particular, may struggle to afford the new fee, potentially limiting their ability to hire skilled foreign workers. The announcement has already caused widespread concern among employers, with many scrambling to bring employees back to the US before the deadline. Additionally, Jamaicans are being warned to remain vigilant against scams that often arise during periods of immigration uncertainty. Immigration attorney Nadine Atkinson-Flowers urged individuals to rely on credible sources and make informed decisions to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.