In a powerful display of solidarity, constituents and supporters gathered for the ‘Standing with Maria’ rally to back their Member of Parliament (MP) amid recent political challenges. The event, held in the heart of the district, drew a diverse crowd of citizens, activists, and local leaders who voiced their unwavering support for Maria’s leadership and dedication to their community. Attendees highlighted her tireless efforts in addressing key issues such as healthcare, education, and economic development. The rally also served as a platform for Maria to reaffirm her commitment to her constituents, promising to continue advocating for their needs in Parliament. The event underscored the strong bond between the MP and her community, showcasing a united front in the face of adversity.
分类： politics
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“Standing with Maria” Supporters Rally Behind their MP
In a powerful display of unity, constituents and supporters gathered to rally behind their Member of Parliament, Maria, in a heartfelt event titled ‘Standing with Maria.’ The gathering, held in the heart of the district, saw a diverse crowd of citizens, activists, and local leaders voicing their unwavering support for Maria, who has been a vocal advocate for community-driven policies and social justice. Attendees highlighted her dedication to addressing key issues such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and education reform. The rally also served as a platform for Maria to reaffirm her commitment to her constituents, emphasizing the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change. The event underscored the deep connection between the MP and her community, showcasing the mutual trust and respect that has been cultivated over her tenure.
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The unfinished fight for women’s political inclusion in Saint Lucia
The recent political ascendancy of women in Trinidad and Tobago has sparked a broader conversation about gender equality in the Caribbean. Christine Kangaloo, Kamala Persad-Bissesser, and Penelope Beckles have shattered glass ceilings, becoming President, Prime Minister, and Leader of the Opposition, respectively. Their achievements have been celebrated by the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus and have challenged outdated stereotypes of the Caribbean as merely a tourist destination. However, this progress has also highlighted the stark contrast in Saint Lucia, where women remain significantly underrepresented in politics. Despite the contributions of notable female politicians like Heraldine Rock and Dr. Gale Rigobert, the political arena in Saint Lucia is still dominated by men. Recent elections saw only 11 women out of 45 candidates, a mere 25% of the field. This is below the regional average of 30% and the Commonwealth average of 25.9%, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) recommends that 33% of decision-making roles be held by women, a target Saint Lucia has yet to meet. Cultural and institutional barriers continue to hinder women’s political participation. Societal norms often relegate women to domestic roles, and the political process is seen as ‘nasty’ and unsuitable for women. Additionally, women face challenges in balancing political careers with family responsibilities, and they often lack access to the networks and funding necessary for successful campaigns. Despite these obstacles, women in Saint Lucia are outpacing men in educational achievements and leadership roles in the workplace. The International Labour Organisation found that 52.3% of bosses in Saint Lucia are women, suggesting that other factors are at play in the political sphere. To address this disparity, experts recommend public education on gender equality, increased support for female political candidates, and the implementation of quotas to ensure greater female representation. As Saint Lucia moves forward, it is crucial to create an inclusive political environment that empowers women to take on leadership roles and contribute to the nation’s development.
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It’s your right: protect it, cherish it
As Saint Lucia gears up for its upcoming general election, the political atmosphere has grown increasingly volatile, raising concerns about the integrity of the democratic process. Reports have emerged of private properties being vandalized with slogans and emblems representing the two major political parties. Additionally, instances of name-calling, both in person and on social media, as well as acts of intimidation by opposing supporters, have become alarmingly common. Rumors suggest that some confrontations have escalated from verbal exchanges to physical altercations, though no direct involvement from candidates has been confirmed. Despite these troubling developments, neither the candidates nor their parties have issued strong condemnations of such behavior. Earlier calls for political parties to adopt a code of conduct during this critical period have gone unanswered. The Constitution of Saint Lucia guarantees citizens the right to vote, freedom of association, and the right to assemble, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful and democratic election process. It is imperative that all political leaders and candidates uphold these principles and set a positive example. The media and law enforcement must also play their roles in ensuring that the election remains free from violence and intimidation. As the campaign progresses, it is crucial for all stakeholders to act with civility and respect, fostering an environment of peace and fairness. The election date coinciding with the Advent season serves as a poignant reminder of the values of peace and goodwill, which should guide the nation during this pivotal time.
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Rowley warns government: Leave Paria out refinery sale
Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has raised significant concerns over the government’s proposal to reopen the Pointe-a-Pierre refinery, cautioning that it could burden taxpayers with new financial losses and potentially lead to private interests gaining control of Paria Fuel Trading Company. During a Facebook Live broadcast on November 17, Rowley refuted claims that the refinery’s closure under the previous PNM administration was politically motivated, asserting that it was solely due to the facility’s unsustainable financial condition. He revealed that the State is still servicing over US$400 million in debt tied to oil purchases for the refinery, emphasizing that Petrotrin had been hemorrhaging billions of dollars. Rowley argued that unless the government can secure a credible and sustainable oil supply to make the refinery commercially viable, any reopening linked to Paria could pave the way for private or quasi-private control of the nation’s fuel supply. He warned that such a scenario would allow private owners to dictate fuel prices, urging citizens to remain vigilant. Rowley also criticized the government’s lack of transparency on key details of the refinery proposal and expressed concerns about the potential politicization of First Citizens bank, whose share price has declined significantly. He called for the restoration of investor confidence and cautioned against repeating past financial missteps.
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US names Maduro headof Cartel de los Soles
The United States Department of State has announced its intention to designate Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), effective November 24. The announcement, made on November 16 by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accuses the cartel of being based in Venezuela and led by President Nicolás Maduro. The statement further alleges that high-ranking officials within Maduro’s regime are involved in the cartel, which has allegedly corrupted Venezuela’s military, intelligence, legislature, and judiciary. The US government asserts that neither Maduro nor his associates represent Venezuela’s legitimate government. The release also claims that Cartel de los Soles, alongside other designated FTOs such as Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel, is responsible for terrorist violence across the hemisphere and drug trafficking into the United States and Europe. The US vows to utilize all available tools to safeguard national security interests and disrupt funding to narco-terrorists. The designation was made under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and will take effect upon publication in the Federal Register. This move follows recent debates among US politicians regarding the legality of President Trump’s military strikes on alleged narco-terrorist boats in the southern Caribbean Sea, which resulted in numerous casualties.
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TTP nominees vow to tackle crime, unemployment
The Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has entered the second day of its rigorous screening process for candidates vying for seats in the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. The event, held at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on November 16, saw nominees accompanied by enthusiastic supporters as they presented their cases to the party’s screening committee. Led by TPP political leader Farley Augustine, the committee has been meticulously evaluating candidates since November 13, focusing on three of the 15 electoral districts. Among the districts under scrutiny were Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, Plymouth/Black Rock, and Bethel/New Grange. Notably, incumbent Terance Baynes, Assistant Secretary of the Division of Infrastructure, Quarries and Urban Development, was among the two candidates screened for the Bethel/New Grange district. The remaining eight candidates for this seat, including Tynielle Jack and Cloyd Williams, faced the committee on November 16. Earlier in the day, nominees for the Mason Hall/Moriah seat, including incumbent Ian Pollard and first-time contender Allan Stewart, underwent the screening process. Stewart, accompanied by his family, expressed confidence in his performance, emphasizing the importance of youth representation. Retired police officer Bevon Dennis highlighted his focus on safety, security, and employment opportunities for young men. Pollard, seeking re-election, defended his track record, attributing challenges to financial constraints and political opposition. The TPP’s screening process underscores the party’s commitment to selecting capable candidates for the THA elections, with a focus on community development and effective representation.
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The social media government
In a striking shift from traditional parliamentary discourse, Senator Anil Roberts has taken to his daily blog to level accusations against the family of St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. This unconventional approach, characterized by short video clips produced over morning coffee, marks a bold new venue for government communication. Roberts is not alone in this endeavor; Phillip Alexander, a fellow Minister in the Housing Ministry, has similarly used social media to voice contentious opinions, including those targeting Venezuela’s executive vice president, Delcy Rodriguez. These online rants have drawn rebukes from the Prime Minister, yet they continue unabated, reflecting a broader trend of politicians leveraging social media to bypass traditional journalistic scrutiny. The Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has not enforced her public demand for Alexander to ‘stay in his zone,’ suggesting a tacit acceptance of this new communication methodology. This shift towards social media as a primary tool for political communication is not without consequences. The pursuit of viral spread often replaces reasoned debate with theatrics, as seen in Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s inflation of a plastic bag for local media. This trend not only leaves the public uninformed but also fosters an environment ripe for misinformation and idle speculation, ultimately devolving political discourse into dissonance and despair.
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Rick Fox claps back at PLP suggestion he must mute himself during by-election
Former NBA star and Bahamian Ambassador at Large, Rick Fox, has vehemently rejected calls to remain silent on political matters, particularly during the Golden Isles by-election. In a recent Facebook post, Fox criticized those who argue that his ambassadorial role should restrict his commentary, pointing out the apparent double standard where another ambassador, Sebas Bastian, is openly endorsing a candidate while running for office himself. Fox emphasized that he serves the Bahamian people, not a political party, and questioned whether ambassadors are free to speak on national issues or are confined to party lines. He also dismissed suggestions that he should seek guidance on what he is ‘allowed’ to say, asserting that no one had ever informed him that his title came with restrictions on free expression. Fox’s comments come amid his critique of politicians who only act as ‘Action Heroes’ near elections, accusing them of neglecting infrastructure until polls approach. He also revealed that he was asked to endorse the Progressive Liberal Party’s candidate, Darren Pickstock, but declined, citing a lack of familiarity with Pickstock’s leadership. Fox compared political rivalries to his days playing with Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, noting that public clashes often mask private respect among leaders. He concluded by stating that he would not withhold his views out of fear, friendship, or family ties, and hinted at a potential entry into frontline politics.
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Battle to save nation needs a joint effort
The recent prison riots in Ecuador, which resulted in the deaths of 31 inmates, have drawn attention to the escalating issues of drug trafficking and gang violence in the region. The riots, involving notorious gangs Los Cheneros and Los Lobos, were marked by the discovery of firearms, knives, and explosives within the prison walls. Ecuador, situated between Peru and Colombia—both major drug-producing nations—has become a focal point in the global fight against narcotics. President Daniel Noboa, 37, has strengthened ties with the United States, notably with former President Donald Trump, and has plans to re-establish a US military base in Manta, a move that underscores the strategic importance of the region. The situation in Ecuador bears striking similarities to Trinidad and Tobago (TT), where drug exportation, gang turf wars, and political alliances with the US on drug interdiction are prevalent. TT’s prison system is also plagued by gang activity, with inmates reportedly using sophisticated cell phones to coordinate external operations. Hayden Forde, the newly appointed head of prisons, faces scrutiny over the allowance of internet connections in jails. The Prime Minister of TT remains steadfast in her commitment to curbing drug flow, emphasizing her partnership with the US. The crisis calls for a unified approach involving the homeland security minister, the police commissioner, and the acting prisons commissioner to safeguard the nation’s future.