Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • House warming

    House warming

    The opening of Jamaica’s highly anticipated legislative session on Thursday set the stage for a dynamic and contentious political landscape. The Opposition made it clear that it intends to rigorously hold the Government accountable for the pledges made during the general election campaign. This declaration underscores the heightened scrutiny expected in the coming term.

    However, the reappointment of Juliet Holness as Speaker of the House, a decision opposed by the Opposition, sparked immediate criticism. Opposition Leader Mark Golding expressed concerns, suggesting that the Parliament’s commencement was marred by discord and a lack of consensus.

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness reaffirmed his administration’s ambitious vision for Jamaica’s future. He emphasized the Government’s commitment to achieving sustained economic growth, reducing crime rates, providing affordable housing, and developing First World infrastructure. Holness stressed that this third term is not about personal legacy but rather about elevating Jamaica to a position of greatness on the global stage.

    The contrasting perspectives of the Government and Opposition highlight the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Jamaica’s political and socio-economic development. For more detailed coverage, refer to Pages 4 and 5.

  • Holness doubles down on plan to transform Jamaica

    Holness doubles down on plan to transform Jamaica

    Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Jamaica into a nation characterized by sustained economic growth, reduced crime rates, affordable housing, and world-class infrastructure. Addressing the newly sworn-in Parliament, Holness emphasized that his focus is not on his personal legacy but on Jamaica’s destiny. This follows his historic third consecutive victory in the September 3 General Election, where his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) triumphed over the People’s National Party.

  • Acting PM meets with British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

    Acting PM meets with British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean

    On Friday, September 12, Acting Prime Minister of Dominica, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, hosted a significant meeting with His Excellency Simon Mustard, the British High Commissioner to the Commonwealth of Dominica. The discussions took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in Roseau, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. Earlier in the day, Mustard formally presented his Letter of Credence to Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, the President of Dominica, solidifying his official role in the region. The bilateral talks centered on reinforcing mutual commitments to enhance cooperation and explore shared interests across multiple sectors, including trade, climate resilience, and regional security. Simon Mustard, who assumed his position as British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in May 2025, brings over two decades of experience in policy, crisis management, and consular affairs. His previous roles include serving as Special Envoy to Africa’s Great Lakes region and British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone. Currently based in Barbados, Mustard’s appointment underscores the UK’s strategic focus on strengthening ties with Caribbean nations. This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to foster a robust partnership between Dominica and the United Kingdom, with both sides expressing optimism about future collaborations.

  • Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham

    Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham

    In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne have jointly nominated Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic as the island’s second president. Political analyst Peter Wickham interprets this consensus as a strong endorsement of Bostic’s credibility and impartiality, transcending political divides. Wickham emphasized that Thorne’s agreement to the nomination reflects confidence in Bostic’s ability to serve without conflict, avoiding a parliamentary vote that would have been a mere formality given the government’s majority. Bostic, a former Member of Parliament and Minister of Health and Wellness, gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wickham dismissed concerns about Bostic’s political background, noting that he has fulfilled the required cooling-off period from politics and is widely respected. However, retired lecturer Dr. George Belle downplayed the significance of the nomination, stating that it adheres to constitutional norms and reflects the reality of selecting politically affiliated individuals for such roles. Belle emphasized that the process, supported by both the prime minister and opposition leader, follows established protocols and will proceed to parliamentary affirmation. While some view the nomination as a positive step toward unity, others see it as a routine constitutional procedure.

  • Bostic speaks on nomination

    Bostic speaks on nomination

    Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic, the nominated President of Barbados, is set to bring his pandemic-era mantra of “no retreat, no surrender” into a ceremonial role devoid of executive power. While Bostic refrained from elaborating on his nomination until parliamentary ratification, he emphasized that the mantra, which became synonymous with his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, remains a core part of his identity. “That is within me, that comes from within me, that is something that will remain with me,” Bostic told Barbados TODAY on Wednesday. He expressed elation at the nomination, stating, “I am indeed elated at the nomination to become the second president of Barbados,” but stressed the importance of respecting the parliamentary process. Bostic, who received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2022, highlighted his eagerness to serve the nation once more, pending ratification. The retired military officer, who became the public face of Barbados’ pandemic response, is set to succeed Dame Sandra Mason as Head of State on Independence Day. His leadership during the crisis, marked by a military-style focus, earned him national honours and widespread respect. Bostic, a former Cabinet Minister, is expected to receive full approval during a joint parliamentary session on October 7. His nomination was announced in Parliament by Deputy Speaker Neil Rowe, following correspondence from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne. Bostic’s career spans military service, including as director of operations at the Regional Security System, and political representation of The City of Bridgetown.

  • Urgent need to prevent military aggression against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

    Urgent need to prevent military aggression against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

    The Revolutionary Government of Cuba has issued a strong condemnation of the United States’ escalating military actions in the Caribbean Sea, which it claims are aimed at justifying aggression against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The Cuban government asserts that the U.S. has been amassing military resources and personnel in the region, engaging in unlawful attacks on civilian vessels, and detaining ships in violation of international norms. These actions, Cuba argues, demonstrate a hostile and irresponsible approach by the U.S. government. Additionally, Cuba accuses the U.S. of employing psychological warfare tactics to legitimize its operations, falsely portraying Venezuela as a threat to U.S. national security and citizen welfare. The Cuban statement highlights that key U.S. political figures, including the Secretary of State, congressmen, and senators, are complicit in this escalation, drawing parallels to their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Cuba warns that the true U.S. objective is to seize control of Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and natural resources. The deployment of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean is seen as a deliberate provocation, potentially triggering a military conflict that would force Venezuela to defend its sovereignty. Cuba emphasizes that such aggression would have devastating consequences for regional peace, stability, and security, urging the international community to mobilize against these actions. The statement calls for adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, stressing the need to separate fact from fiction. Cuba reaffirms its commitment to preserving Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, as declared by regional leaders. Havana, September 18, 2025.

  • What could Cuba have done if the blockade hadn’t existed?

    What could Cuba have done if the blockade hadn’t existed?

    On September 18, 2025, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla presented a comprehensive report detailing the devastating effects of the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba. The report, covering the period from March 2024 to February 2025, revealed that the damages during this phase alone exceeded $7.556 billion, marking a 49% increase compared to the previous period. This surge is attributed to intensified measures aimed at crippling Cuba’s economy. Over six decades, the cumulative damage has reached a staggering $170.677 billion, equivalent to $2.103 trillion when adjusted for gold prices to account for dollar fluctuations. Rodríguez Parrilla emphasized that the blockade has inflicted profound emotional and economic suffering on Cuban families, with over 80% of the population born under its constraints. The policy has severely hindered access to advanced technologies, medicines, and essential supplies, exacerbating challenges in healthcare, transportation, and communications. The Cuban Foreign Minister also highlighted the U.S. government’s role in exacerbating migration flows, resulting in a loss of $2.57 billion in qualified personnel and workforce. He condemned the politically motivated measures, including Cuba’s inclusion on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and the enforcement of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, as violations of international law. Rodríguez Parrilla called on the international community to mobilize in defense of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, reaffirming Cuba’s resilience and commitment to its constitutional order and socialist principles.

  • Tavares-Finson reappointed as Senate president

    Tavares-Finson reappointed as Senate president

    In a significant political development, King’s Counsel Tom Tavares-Finson was reinstated as the President of Jamaica’s Senate during the ceremonial commencement of Parliament on Thursday. The reappointment, marked by bipartisan cooperation, saw Tavares-Finson nominated by Senator Kamina Johnson Smith of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). The nomination garnered support from Senator Donna Scott-Mottley of the opposition People’s National Party (PNP), who seconded the motion. Following this, Tavares-Finson solemnly took the oath of allegiance, reaffirming his commitment to his role. Additionally, Senator Charles Sinclair was appointed as the Deputy President of the Senate, further solidifying the leadership structure. This event underscores the collaborative spirit within Jamaica’s political landscape, as both governing and opposition parties united to endorse Tavares-Finson’s leadership.

  • Morgan named new Parliamentary Whip

    Morgan named new Parliamentary Whip

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Robert Morgan, a second-term Member of Parliament for Clarendon North Central, has been appointed as the new Parliamentary Whip by Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness. Morgan, who also serves as a minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, will take on the additional role of deputy to the Leader of Government Business in the House of Representatives, Floyd Green. He succeeds veteran MP Olivia “Babsy” Grange, who previously held both positions.

  • US Democrats say will introduce bill to protect free speech

    US Democrats say will introduce bill to protect free speech

    In a significant move to uphold constitutional rights, US Democratic lawmakers announced on Thursday their intention to introduce legislation aimed at protecting free speech. This initiative comes in response to allegations that President Donald Trump is attempting to silence his political opponents, particularly in the wake of the tragic murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk in Utah last week. Senator Chris Murphy, addressing a press conference in Washington, described Kirk’s death as a “national tragedy” that should have been a moment for unity. However, Murphy accused Trump and his allies of exploiting the incident to suppress dissent, citing the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show by ABC as an example of censorship. Kimmel had criticized Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement for allegedly politicizing Kirk’s death. Murphy condemned such actions as “state speech control” and emphasized that the proposed legislation would provide legal protections for individuals targeted for political reasons and impose consequences on government officials who violate First Amendment rights. Senator Alex Padilla highlighted additional concerns, including the Attorney General’s pledge to prosecute hate speech and Trump’s lawsuits against major media outlets like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal for unfavorable coverage. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that such actions could lead to autocracy, stressing that free speech is a cornerstone of American democracy. The proposed bill seeks to reinforce this principle and prevent its erosion.