Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • WIN weighing legal options for Region 10 Council chairmanship

    WIN weighing legal options for Region 10 Council chairmanship

    A constitutional impasse over the leadership of Guyana’s Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) has escalated into a potential legal confrontation, with the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party contemplating litigation against Regional Executive Officer Dwight John. The political stalemate stems from John’s failure to convene additional council meetings following September’s general and regional elections, which resulted in an unprecedented 9-9 tie between WIN and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for the regional chairmanship.

    WIN Leader Azruddin Mohamed revealed his party is consulting legal counsel before proceeding with potential judicial intervention. “I have to consult with my attorney because to be honest, I don’t know if we take legal action now even that will delay the process further,” Mohamed stated in an interview with Demerara Waves Online News. He expressed frustration with the administration’s handling of the situation, alleging deliberate delays by the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

    The deadlock has created unprecedented consequences for regional governance. President Irfaan Ali notably excluded Region 10’s leadership from Thursday’s swearing-in ceremony for all other regional chairs and vice-chairs. The President maintained constitutional compliance, stating: “I am sure that within the ambit of the Constitution and within the ambit of the rules of any elections that the chair and vice chair of Region 10 will be sworn in at the appropriate time when they conclude their elections.

    Complicating matters further, the impasse has created jurisdictional complications within local government structures. Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper confirmed that the situation involves APNU’s Dominique Blair, who refuses to resign as Deputy Mayor while potentially assuming the regional chairmanship. Gasper has sought legal guidance from Attorney General Anil Nandlall regarding whether Blair can simultaneously hold both positions, as no existing legislation explicitly prohibits such dual roles.

    The ongoing constitutional crisis highlights growing tensions in Guyana’s decentralized governance system and raises questions about procedural mechanisms for resolving electoral deadlocks at the regional level.

  • Taiwan : The commune of La Victoire is modernizing

    Taiwan : The commune of La Victoire is modernizing

    In a significant demonstration of bilateral cooperation, Haitian Presidential Transitional Advisor Emmanuel Vertilaire and Taiwanese Ambassador Hu Cheng Hao jointly inaugurated a comprehensive modernization initiative for the commune of La Victoire during recent patron saint celebrations. The high-level delegation’s visit to Vertilaire’s hometown in the Saint-Raphaël district marked a substantial advancement in Haiti-Taiwan diplomatic relations.

    Following ceremonial observances, the officials conducted an extensive assessment of security infrastructure, local development needs, and public utilities. Their inspection included critical facilities such as the La Victoire police station and municipal government offices, where they addressed pressing concerns regarding access to clean drinking water with local authorities.

    The visit culminated in the announcement of four fully-funded development projects that will transform La Victoire into a major construction zone. The initial phase includes building a modern administrative complex, establishing a new public marketplace, renovating the central public square, and implementing comprehensive street paving operations.

    Additionally, three strategic infrastructure proposals are currently under formal consideration: constructing vital road connections linking Pignon/La Victoire/Mombin Crochu to Ouanaminthe, developing the transportation artery connecting La Victoire to Bohoc, and erecting a new National School facility for the community.

    Collaborative efforts with the National Education Fund (FNE) have already commenced for school construction and rehabilitation throughout the municipality. Vertilaire expressed particular satisfaction with the rapid progress achieved in preliminary planning stages for these essential initiatives. The Haitian government has committed an initial 150 million gourdes to launch this transformative modernization program, heralding a new developmental era for the commune.

  • NDP sweeps to power, ending 24-year reign of Gonsalves’ ULP

    NDP sweeps to power, ending 24-year reign of Gonsalves’ ULP

    The Caribbean nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines has witnessed a monumental political transformation as the New Democratic Party (NDP) emerged victorious in Thursday’s general election, conclusively terminating the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) 25-year governance. This watershed moment represents a profound rejection of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves’ administration that had governed since 2001.

    According to preliminary electoral data, the NDP—under the leadership of Dr. Godwin Friday—secured commanding leads in 12 of the nation’s 15 parliamentary constituencies. This decisive outcome thwarted Dr. Gonsalves’ ambitious attempt to achieve an unprecedented seventh consecutive term in office, marking a significant realignment in the country’s political landscape.

    Despite his party’s comprehensive defeat, Dr. Gonsalves appeared poised to retain his parliamentary position representing the Windward constituency. Simultaneously, Dr. Friday comfortably maintained his electoral stronghold in the Northern Grenadines constituency, positioning him to assume the premiership following this historic political transition.

    The electoral outcome signals a dramatic shift in voter sentiment and ushers in a new era of governance for the Eastern Caribbean nation, with implications for both domestic policy and regional diplomatic relationships.

  • Gonsalves Defeated as Friday Steers NDP to Resurgence in St Vincent

    Gonsalves Defeated as Friday Steers NDP to Resurgence in St Vincent

    In a historic political shift, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has clinched a decisive victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 2025 general election, marking its return to power after a quarter-century in opposition. The electoral outcome concludes the extensive tenure of incumbent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labour Party (ULP).

    Official results confirm the NDP secured a commanding majority of nine parliamentary seats, effectively ending Gonsalves’ 25-year administration. This victory paves the way for Dr. Godwin Friday, the NDP leader, to ascend as the nation’s seventh Prime Minister since gaining independence. The leadership transition is scheduled to occur imminently.

    The electorate’s decision reflects widespread demand for new governance approaches amid pressing national concerns. Dr. Friday’s incoming administration faces immediate challenges including economic revitalization, social program modernization, and addressing systemic public service issues. Political analysts characterize this election as a watershed moment demonstrating democratic maturity within the Caribbean nation.

    International observers have commended the peaceful electoral process, while regional leaders extend congratulations to Dr. Friday. The Prime Minister-elect has pledged inclusive governance and comprehensive policy reforms, emphasizing economic stability and social equity as paramount priorities for his government’s agenda.

  • NDP secures historic victory in 2025 elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

    NDP secures historic victory in 2025 elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

    In a historic electoral upheaval, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has achieved a decisive victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 2025 national elections, conclusively terminating the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) quarter-century grip on power. This political watershed moment positions Dr. Godwin Friday to ascend as the nation’s seventh prime minister since gaining independence in 1979.

    The electoral outcome represents a profound shift in the Caribbean nation’s governance trajectory, with Friday emerging victorious following an intensely competitive contest against incumbent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, whose administration had guided the island’s destiny for over two decades. The transition marks not merely a change in leadership but potentially a comprehensive reorientation of national policy directions and international alignments.

    Throughout the capital city, jubilant NDP supporters engaged in widespread celebrations, characterizing the triumph as the culmination of persistent opposition efforts and a mandate for transformative governance. Political observers emphasize that this power transfer could precipitate substantial modifications in both domestic agenda-setting and foreign policy engagements.

    The impending swearing-in ceremony, scheduled within days, will formally inaugurate Friday’s administration, presenting the new government with the complex challenge of implementing its campaign commitments while navigating post-election expectations. This transition period generates heightened anticipation regarding policy innovations across economic management, social development, and diplomatic relations.

    Analysts project that the leadership change may stimulate recalibrations in regional partnerships and international cooperation frameworks, as the incoming administration establishes its distinctive governance approach following extensive political incubation in opposition roles.

  • FLASH : Sectoral Table on the Gang Supression Force

    FLASH : Sectoral Table on the Gang Supression Force

    Port-au-Prince witnessed a significant security coordination summit on November 27, 2025, as Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé convened the fifth Sectoral Roundtable on Security at the Karibe Hotel. The high-level gathering, orchestrated by the Center for Analysis and Research in Human Rights (CARDH), focused exclusively on operationalizing the transition from the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) to the newly mandated Gang Suppression Force (GSF) under UN Security Council Resolution 2793.

    The strategic dialogue assembled key stakeholders including representatives from the Organization of American States, United Nations agencies, Haitian judicial authorities, the Haitian National Police (PNH), Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H), and civil society organizations. This multidisciplinary participation underscored the comprehensive approach required to address Haiti’s escalating security crisis.

    Prime Minister Fils-Aimé characterized the GSF’s establishment as a beacon of hope for the Haitian populace, signaling a transformative phase in combating organized crime and reclaiming territorial control. He revealed concrete deployment timelines, announcing that the first supplementary component of the international force would arrive by mid-December 2025, with full operational capabilities expected by April 1, 2026. The Prime Minister further disclosed plans for a mid-December coordination meeting in New York with nations pledging support to the security initiative.

    Emphasizing the critical need for domestic cohesion, the Prime Minister asserted that strengthened national unity remains indispensable for supporting security operations, combating impunity, and restoring state authority. The roundtable also acknowledged recent commitments from Francophone nations, following a November 20 special session in New York where Chad and Burundi pledged four battalions, while France, Benin, Djibouti, and Equatorial Guinea offered technical, financial, logistical, and personnel support through the International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF).

  • Office of the Prime Minister Accuses 7News of “Malicious Attacks”

    Office of the Prime Minister Accuses 7News of “Malicious Attacks”

    The Office of the Prime Minister of Belize has launched an extraordinary counteroffensive against Channel 7 News, accusing its Director Jules Vasquez of orchestrating “petty, personal, malicious, and ridiculous attacks” against Prime Minister John Briceño. The escalating conflict emerged following a November 26 social media post by the news outlet connecting PM Briceño to Mexican businessman Raúl Rocha, who faces criminal charges in Mexico.

    The Prime Minister’s Office characterized the reporting as a deliberate attempt to create false associations, emphasizing that Briceño’s 2024 meeting with Rocha occurred within the context of official government business focused on investment and trade opportunities. The OPM statement highlighted that such diplomatic engagements with international business figures fall within the prime minister’s normal professional responsibilities.

    In a striking escalation, the government response referenced past corruption allegations involving Vasquez’s late father, former Belize Telemedia Limited executive Nestor Vasquez. The statement pointedly noted that if Vasquez sought corruption, “he need not look far,” referencing Briceño’s previous meetings with Nestor Vasquez, who had reached a settlement with BTL over funds allegedly misused during his tenure.

    The 405-word official statement maintained that the administration supports press freedom and factual reporting, describing Belize as a democratic nation with the “most accessible prime minister in Belize’s political history.” However, the OPM issued a clear warning that continued personal attacks would prompt the government to pursue “every legal recourse available.”

    When contacted for response, Vasquez offered a terse reply: “Is he ok?” The confrontation represents a significant deterioration in government-media relations in Belize, with potential implications for press freedom and political discourse in the Central American nation.

  • VIDEO: Bequia hopes to give SVG another PM

    VIDEO: Bequia hopes to give SVG another PM

    As citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines participated in national elections this Thursday, the small island community of Bequia in the Northern Grenadines found itself at the center of a potential historic political achievement. Local residents expressed collective hope that their constituency could become the nation’s first to produce two individuals who have held the office of Prime Minister.

    The electoral process unfolded across the multi-island nation, with voters casting ballots to determine the composition of their next government. This democratic exercise carries particular significance for Bequia, which takes pride in its political heritage. The island previously produced Sir James Mitchell, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 2000, establishing a remarkable legacy of leadership.

    Political analysts note that while smaller island communities in archipelagic nations often have limited representation in national governance, Bequia has consistently demonstrated outsized political influence within the Vincentian context. The possibility of producing a second prime minister represents not just local pride but a significant moment in the nation’s political narrative, potentially shifting perceptions about political power distribution across the archipelago.

    The election occurs amid broader regional discussions about governance models in small island developing states, where personal connections and community representation often play crucial roles in political dynamics. Bequia’s unique position highlights how specific geographic communities can maintain sustained political influence within Caribbean democracies, challenging conventional assumptions about political geography in multi-island nations.

  • PM Briceño Met with Raúl Rocha A year Before Drug Trafficking Charges Surfaced

    PM Briceño Met with Raúl Rocha A year Before Drug Trafficking Charges Surfaced

    A high-profile meeting between Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño and Raúl Rocha, president of the Miss Universe organization, has gained renewed significance following Rocha’s indictment on serious criminal charges. Mexican authorities have charged Rocha with leading an international trafficking network involving narcotics, weapons, and fuel between Guatemala and Mexico.

    According to investigative reports, Rocha allegedly orchestrated a sophisticated smuggling operation moving contraband across the Usumacinta River via boat, with subsequent transportation via tanker trucks through Chiapas and Tabasco en route to Querétaro.

    The previously undisclosed meeting occurred in October 2024 at the corporate offices of Rocha’s company, Legacy Holding, during an official visit by Prime Minister Briceño to Mexico City. Two government ministers—Michel Chebat and Dr. Osmond Martinez—accompanied the Prime Minister during the engagement. Rocha subsequently documented the encounter on social media, characterizing the discussions as focusing on “economic development, trade, tourism, and technology opportunities between Mexico and Belize.”

    In response to developing reports, Prime Minister Briceño clarified that this constituted his only encounter with Rocha, emphasizing that his company had expressed interest in Belizean investment opportunities. The government has committed to issuing a formal statement addressing the matter.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has also met with Rocha, has formally requested the Attorney General’s office to confirm whether an active investigation or arrest warrant exists against the business executive, underscoring the importance of transparent judicial processes.

  • Finance Minister McIntyre announces VAT exemptions on 26 items; Trade minister urges more importation from CARICOM

    Finance Minister McIntyre announces VAT exemptions on 26 items; Trade minister urges more importation from CARICOM

    In a significant move to alleviate economic pressure on citizens, Dominican Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre has declared the complete removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on 26 essential consumer products. The announcement was formally made during a parliamentary session this week, marking a substantial fiscal policy shift aimed at direct public relief.

    Minister McIntyre emphasized the government’s commitment to finding alternative revenue streams that do not disproportionately burden the population. “To avoid hardship on our people, we find ways other than through taxes to raise revenue and provide relief when required,” he stated. The extensive exemption list encompasses basic food staples and household necessities including salted herrings, codfish, various legumes (split peas, red kidney beans, black-eyed peas, lentils, pigeon peas), core grains (cream of wheat, cornmeal, oats, wheat bran cereals), canned protein products (luncheon meat, corned beef, herring, sardines, tuna, mackerel), unsweetened biscuits, orange juice, tomato ketchup, toothpaste, laundry detergents, toilet paper, and sanitary napkins.

    Crucially, Dr. McIntyre highlighted that these items already benefit from zero import duties, creating a compounded reduction in consumer costs. He formally requested suppliers and retailers to fully transmit these fiscal benefits to end consumers, ensuring the policy achieves its intended effect.

    The implementation of these measures requires a legislative amendment to Schedule II of the Value Added Tax Act, Chapter 67-8 of the 2017 revised laws.

    In a related development, Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy, reinforced the regional economic dimension of this policy. He strongly encouraged domestic importers to prioritize sourcing these goods from within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), noting that member states possess the capacity to supply over 75% of these essential items. “Therefore, they should be protected,” Dr. Henderson asserted, confirming that CARICOM had granted the Dominican Republic’s request for a zero-rating period under the Common External Tariff (CET) framework. He revealed that only eight items on the exemption list are not sufficiently produced within the CARICOM region, presenting a substantial opportunity for regional trade expansion and economic cooperation.