In a significant development, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of his Gaza peace plan, describing it as a “historic and unprecedented” move toward ending the two-year conflict. The agreement, brokered during talks in Egypt, outlines a hostage-prisoner exchange and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Trump, via his Truth Social network, stated that Hamas will release all hostages, while Israel will withdraw its troops to a mutually agreed line, marking the first steps toward a lasting peace. He extended gratitude to mediators Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, emphasizing their pivotal role in the negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism about bringing the hostages home, while Hamas submitted a list of Palestinian prisoners it seeks to have released. The negotiations, attended by key figures including Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, unfolded amidst global pressure to end the war, which has devastated Gaza and claimed thousands of lives. The deal also includes provisions for a ceasefire, Hamas’s disarmament, and a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the territory. As anticipation built in Gaza, residents expressed cautious hope, with celebratory chants and gunfire echoing in the air. The agreement, however, comes against the backdrop of immense human suffering, with over 67,000 casualties reported in Gaza and ongoing humanitarian crises. Trump hinted at a potential visit to the region to solidify the deal, underscoring his commitment to the peace process.
分类： politics
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Relief and regret
Jamaica’s Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton, has been exonerated by the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding allegations of involvement in the awarding of a $15-million contract to the communications agency Market Me. The IC’s investigation, which spanned over five years, concluded that there was no evidence of direct involvement by Tufton in the procurement process. However, the commission noted that his introduction of Market Me to the ministry could have indirectly influenced the contract awards, totaling $78.5 million over four years. The IC also highlighted procurement irregularities, particularly the use of direct contracting methods, and recommended stricter adherence to procurement laws. Tufton expressed relief at the findings, stating that they vindicate his integrity and allow the public to understand the facts clearly. He also emphasized the success of the Jamaica Moves campaign, which aimed to reduce non-communicable diseases, and apologized for the reputational damage caused to non-political actors involved in the controversy. Market Me, in its response, affirmed its commitment to integrity and professionalism, expressing readiness to continue serving its clients.
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US faces travel delays as government shutdown wears on
The ongoing US government shutdown has intensified concerns over widespread flight delays and unpaid federal workers, as senators failed to reach a resolution on Wednesday. Democrats have repeatedly blocked Republican proposals to reopen government departments, leaving much of the federal workforce either at home or working without pay. Now in its eighth day, the shutdown has led to increased absenteeism among airport security and safety staff, causing growing lines at major hubs across the country. Air traffic controllers, deemed essential, are required to work but are increasingly calling in sick due to financial stress, resulting in staffing shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported issues at nearly a dozen airports, including Chicago, Boston, and Houston, with further disruptions anticipated at Newark, a key hub for the New York City area. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the strain on air traffic controllers, urging them to return to work despite their financial anxieties. He noted that over half of current flight delays are due to staffing shortages, a significant increase from the usual 5 percent. FlightAware reported approximately 10,000 delayed flights on Monday and Tuesday, with the FAA warning of potential worsening conditions. The shutdown shows no signs of ending soon, as Democrats insist on extending health care subsidies for 24 million people in any funding bill. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has repeatedly pushed for a temporary fix, but Democratic opposition remains steadfast. Meanwhile, President Trump has hinted at converting furloughs into permanent layoffs, exacerbating fears among federal workers. A White House memo has further unsettled employees by suggesting they may not receive back pay. The crisis is set to deepen next Wednesday when 1.3 million active-duty service members and thousands of National Guard and Coast Guard personnel miss their first paychecks.
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DLP’s Rosie Douglas lecture to host speaker Dr Ralph Gonsalves on 25th anniversary of his death
The Dominica Labour Party (DLP) is preparing to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the passing of Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas, the late Prime Minister of Dominica, with the annual Rosie Douglas Memorial Lecture. Scheduled for October 9, 2025, at the State House Conference Room, the event will feature Hon. Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as the keynote speaker. Dr. Gonsalves, a close associate of Douglas, is expected to address pivotal themes that defined Douglas’s political career, such as regional unity, people-centered development, and strengthening ties between the Caribbean, Africa, and the global community. The DLP emphasized that the event is open to all who wish to honor Douglas’s enduring legacy, describing him as a visionary leader whose dedication to social justice and Caribbean unity left a profound impact on Dominica and the region. Douglas, who passed away on October 1, 2000, served as Prime Minister for only eight months following his election on January 31 of that year. The Memorial Lecture provides a platform to reflect on his contributions to nation-building and the empowerment of small states. The event will commence at 6:30 PM.
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Barbados Ambassador calls for end to alleged ‘Zone of Peace’ violations
In a passionate address during a ceremony marking the 49th anniversary of the Cubana Airliner tragedy and the third year of CARICOM-Cuba Day Against Terrorism, Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong, called on the United States to dismantle its 63-year-old economic blockade against Cuba. He also denounced the US designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism as “fraudulent and ridiculous.” Speaking on behalf of the Barbados government and the broader Caribbean Community, Comissiong urged the US to terminate the blockade and remove Cuba from its terrorism list, emphasizing that the blockade has been repeatedly condemned by the United Nations. He highlighted the severe impact of the blockade on Cuba’s ability to engage in international trade, conduct financial operations, and secure essential goods for its citizens. Comissiong further argued that Cuba has been a victim of terrorism, citing 713 acts of terrorism, many of which were orchestrated from US soil. He also referenced the 2014 Zone of Peace Declaration, adopted by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), which emphasizes non-intervention, sovereignty, and peaceful coexistence. Comissiong criticized recent US military actions in the Caribbean, particularly against Venezuela, as a violation of the Zone of Peace principles. He called on CARICOM governments to uphold these principles in the face of such interventions.
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Two decades in: Deepening trust ahead for Dominica and China, says Ambassador Chu
Chinese Ambassador to Dominica, His Excellency Chu Maoming, has expressed optimism about the deepening political trust and cooperation between China and Dominica. Speaking at a reception commemorating the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, held at the Chinese Embassy in Morne Daniel, Ambassador Chu highlighted the progress in bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties 20 years ago. He emphasized the pivotal role of head-of-state diplomacy, particularly the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit in Beijing, in guiding the relationship forward. Ambassador Chu reiterated China’s appreciation for Dominica’s steadfast commitment to the one-China principle and outlined future collaboration in areas such as mutual support on core interests, advancing global initiatives, and safeguarding the international order. Practical cooperation in agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure has already yielded significant results, with key projects like the international airport and post-hurricane school reconstruction progressing efficiently. Cultural exchanges have also flourished, with Chinese intangible cultural heritage, Kung Fu, and cuisine making a lasting impact in Dominica. The Confucius Classroom at Dominica State College continues to promote Chinese language and culture, with plans for a study tour to China. Ambassador Chu expressed confidence that closer people-to-people exchanges will further strengthen the foundation of trust and friendship between the two nations.
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OPINION: When friendships rupture, when cooperation becomes collusion
In a dramatic turn of events on the first Monday of October 2025, the spotlight fell on Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, who were indicted on 11 serious charges including gold smuggling, tax evasion, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. This father-son duo is now accused of running an unprecedented criminal enterprise in Guyana, raising questions about their connections with high-ranking officials and the political elite. The charges, spanning from 2017 to 2024, implicate two successive governments, with leaders at various levels reportedly cultivating close ties with the Mohameds. Their alleged criminal activities were seemingly overlooked for years, with their names evoking both fear and reverence in equal measure. The author reflects on the surreal nature of being entangled in this web of corruption and questions the integrity of the friendships and protections that once shielded the Mohameds. The article also delves into the political ramifications of their indictment, particularly in light of Azruddin Mohamed’s foray into politics and his bold stance against the Exxon oil contract. The author raises critical questions about the timing of the charges and the sudden cooperation between the Guyanese and U.S. governments, suggesting that collusion may have replaced cooperation. The piece concludes with a call for Guyanese citizens to reflect on these developments and consider the broader implications for their nation’s future.
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Defence Force begins training for expanded police powers under new Police Act
The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) has embarked on a transformative journey toward exercising police powers, as the inaugural Law Enforcement Training Course commenced on Monday. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with The Barbados Police Service (TBPS), is a direct result of the recently enacted Police (Amendment) Act 2025. The legislation grants BDF personnel the authority to perform police duties during joint land-based operations with TBPS and under presidential directive. The legal foundation for this expansion of authority is rooted in Section 79A of the amended Police Act Cap 167 and Section 9(2) of the Defence Act Cap 159. However, the move has sparked significant debate, with civil society groups, including the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), voicing concerns over potential abuses of power and the erosion of the police’s exclusive mandate to maintain law and order. Critics have highlighted risks such as arbitrary arrests and the militarization of civil policing. The training program, designed to address these concerns, emphasizes legal literacy, human rights, and coordinated enforcement. Deputy Commissioner of Police Erwin Boyce underscored the importance of ethical enforcement and procedural clarity, while BDF Chief of Staff Brigadier Carlos Lovell hailed the legislative amendment as a historic step in Barbados’ security framework. Assistant Chief of Police Barry Hunte emphasized the necessity of unifying police and military procedures to enhance national sustainability, pointing to shared responsibilities and improved crisis response capabilities. The BDF has framed this initiative as an investment in a more agile and unified security framework, aiming to ensure the peace and security of all Barbadians.
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UPP Supporter Questions Harold Lovell’s Commitment to All Saints West
In a recent development that has stirred significant debate within the United Progressive Party (UPP), a long-time supporter has openly criticized the party’s leadership decisions, particularly focusing on Harold Lovell, the former leader of the UPP. Lovell, who is currently residing in Canada and working as a professor, is reportedly planning to contest the upcoming election for the constituency of All Saints West. This revelation has sparked frustration and disappointment among some party members and supporters.
The supporter expressed admiration for Hon. Anthony Smith, a former UPP member and current Member of Parliament for All Saints West. “Anthony Smith was always someone I admired in his time at the UPP,” they said. “He was seen as the future leader of the party, and his departure was a significant loss. However, he continues to work diligently in his constituency, earning the love and support of many constituents.”
In contrast, the supporter criticized the UPP’s decision to back Barbara Coates for the constituency seat, suggesting she was not the right candidate. “They asked her to step aside for Harold Lovell, but where is Harold now? He initially came out strongly but then disappeared, only to resurface as a professor in Canada. How can he effectively represent and serve the people of All Saints West from overseas?”
The supporter also highlighted concerns about the party’s consistency, recalling that the UPP had previously criticized Michael Browne for living overseas while serving as a representative. “If they criticized Browne for that, how can they justify Harold’s situation now? It doesn’t make any sense,” they lamented.
This criticism extends beyond Lovell’s absence from the constituency. The supporter expressed deep frustration with what they perceive as ongoing dysfunction within the UPP. “Harold is now trying to challenge Pringle for the party leadership while living abroad and having stepped down from leadership roles three times. It just shows how unstable and disorganized the party has become,” they said.
This dissatisfaction reflects a broader concern among some members and supporters who believe the party’s focus should be on genuine leadership and commitment to the country, rather than political maneuvering or personal ambitions. “I love my country, and I want the best for it. Right now, I don’t see the UPP as the party that can lead us forward. We need real leaders who are present, dedicated, and ready to serve, not just political figures living overseas,” they concluded.
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Antigua and Barbuda Bids Farewell to Chinese Ambassador
Antigua and Barbuda has officially bid farewell to Her Excellency Zhang Yanling, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, concluding a four-year tenure marked by significant advancements in bilateral relations. The farewell ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was attended by Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Permanent Secretary Dr. Clarence E. Pilgrim, and other dignitaries. Minister Greene lauded Ambassador Zhang for her “remarkable service” and unwavering commitment to fostering cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted her pivotal role in enhancing partnerships across infrastructure, health, education, and investment sectors, as well as her coordination of Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s official visit to China, which he described as a cornerstone of her tenure. Ambassador Zhang expressed her gratitude to the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, describing her time in the country as “a warm and meaningful experience.” She pledged to remain a steadfast advocate for the partnership, stating, “You will always have a steadfast friend in me.” Dr. Pilgrim also acknowledged her contributions, particularly her efforts in advancing the Booby Alley Housing Project, which he termed “a lasting legacy.” Ambassador Zhang’s departure signifies the end of a chapter defined by mutual respect, friendship, and continued collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and China.