Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • PM hits Caricom as ‘unreliable partner’ – Thin mask of unity

    PM hits Caricom as ‘unreliable partner’ – Thin mask of unity

    In an extraordinary diplomatic rupture, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has launched a severe condemnation of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), labeling the regional bloc as an “unreliable partner” and accusing it of operating in a “dysfunctional and self-destructive manner.” The remarks represent the strongest criticism to date from a sitting leader of one of CARICOM’s founding members.

    The Prime Minister’s statement came in direct response to CARICOM’s Bureau of Heads of Government criticizing recent U.S. immigration restrictions imposed on several Caribbean nations. Rather than joining regional counterparts in their concerns, Persad-Bissessar positioned Trinidad and Tobago separately from the collective stance, asserting that “CARICOM will not determine our future; only the citizens of our country will choose our path.”

    Persad-Bissessar detailed what she characterized as systemic failures within the organization, citing “poor management, lax accountability, factional divisions, destabilizing policies, private conflicts between regional leaders and political parties, and the inappropriate meddling in the domestic politics of member states.” She called for CARICOM to address internal “rot” with “transparency and honesty,” warning that without reform, the organization faces potential “implosion” due to “many widening fissures.”

    The context for this extraordinary rebuke stems from recent U.S. policy changes that imposed entry restrictions on nationals from 15 countries, including Caribbean nations Haiti, Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica. The U.S. government stated these measures were necessary due to insufficient information to assess immigration risks and to advance national security objectives.

    While CARICOM’s Bureau expressed concern about the lack of prior consultation and potential adverse effects on legitimate travel and economic well-being, Persad-Bissessar distanced Trinidad and Tobago from this position. She instead defended the United States as “our greatest ally” and criticized CARICOM for what she characterized as supporting Venezuela’s “narco-government headed by a dictator” over maintaining relations with the U.S.

    The Prime Minister’s stance has drawn sharp criticism domestically and regionally. Former Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Amery Browne condemned what he called an “anti-CARICOM rant” that was “erratic, inflammatory, full of baseless rhetoric.” Browne accused the Prime Minister of deliberately undermining fundamental CARICOM principles and attempting to “divide and destroy” the regional organization.

    Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, while not naming Persad-Bissessar directly, challenged the assertions that Caribbean leaders had been “cursing the US administration,” calling for factual evidence to support such claims. Despite acknowledging challenges within CARICOM, Browne reaffirmed his commitment to regional integration.

    The escalating diplomatic tension highlights significant fractures within the Caribbean community at a time when coordinated regional responses to external policy changes are increasingly important for small island developing states.

  • Philip J. Pierre: “They cannot read me; I’m a mystery.”

    Philip J. Pierre: “They cannot read me; I’m a mystery.”

    Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has embarked on his second consecutive term following a landmark electoral victory that solidifies his political legacy in Saint Lucia. The December 1, 2025 general election saw Pierre’s Saint Lucia Labour Party secure a commanding majority with 14 out of 17 parliamentary seats, marking his record seventh term as MP and making him only the third prime minister since independence to achieve back-to-back terms.

    The administration’s first term was characterized by significant advancements in national infrastructure and social programs. The most notable achievement came with the November 16 handover of the reconstructed St. Jude Hospital, finally replacing the temporary facilities at George Odlum Stadium that had served healthcare needs since the original hospital’s destruction by fire in 2009. The new facility is scheduled to become fully operational within the first quarter of 2026.

    Economically, Pierre introduced Saint Lucia’s largest-ever national budget at $2.06 billion for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. This financial plan builds upon documented successes including record-low single-digit unemployment, substantial tourism growth, increased foreign investment, and strengthened consumer confidence. While acknowledging potential global economic uncertainties, the government maintains that its fiscal policies have created capacity for unprecedented support to vulnerable populations.

    The administration has demonstrated particular commitment to youth development and sports, exemplified by an additional $500,000 allocation for sports equipment following the Prime Minister’s Independence T20 Cup final. This funding supplements a previously announced $1 million commitment and will be distributed through the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports with priority given to communities most in need.

    Pierre’s political persona, encapsulated in his parliamentary declaration “They cannot read me; I’m a mystery,” has resonated with the electorate and even inspired musical compositions by local DJs. Following his December 6 swearing-in ceremony at Government House, the Prime Minister characterized his electoral mandate as a profound expression of public trust that would drive his people-first governance approach.

    The administration has immediately moved to implement key campaign promises, including the approval of a VAT-free day on December 22, 2025, excluding certain items such as motor vehicles, fuel, alcohol, tobacco, and firearms. Looking forward, Pierre has outlined an ambitious development agenda including:

    – Continued redevelopment of Hewanorra International Airport with new air traffic control tower and terminal improvements
    – Construction commencement on the Gros Islet to Castries highway project within first quarter 2026
    – Equipment installation and operational transition for St. Jude Hospital
    – Preparatory work for the fifth wing of Owen King EU Hospital with construction expected in first half 2026
    – House of Justice project completion targeted for 2027
    – New police headquarters in Gros Islet and northern regions operational by first quarter 2026
    – School building extensions scheduled for September completion
    – Development of super administrative building and Soufrière elderly home

    Structural governmental changes include the creation of a new ministry dedicated to continuing education, special education, and early childhood development, with ambitions toward universal early childhood education. The agriculture portfolio has been expanded to include climate change and nutrition, strengthening connections between food production, public health, tourism, and school feeding programs.

    Emphasizing human development investment, the forthcoming budget will include targeted programs for young men addressing frustration and social challenges through collaborations with institutions like the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (CARE). As he assumes his second term, Prime Minister Pierre has committed to governing with “purpose, discipline, and confidence” in pursuit of making Saint Lucia “the best place to live and work.”

  • ‘Presidential Walk of Fame’ introduces plaques mocking former presidents

    ‘Presidential Walk of Fame’ introduces plaques mocking former presidents

    In a controversial move that has sparked widespread debate, former President Donald Trump has established a “Presidential Walk of Fame” within the White House grounds. This installation features plaques bearing sharply critical commentaries placed beneath official portraits of previous commanders-in-chief, particularly targeting Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

    The inscriptions, written in Trump’s characteristic social media style, present scathing assessments of his predecessors’ administrations. The plaque dedicated to President Biden—notably displayed without a portrait—contains particularly harsh language, describing him as “the worst President in American History” and alleging he assumed office through “the most corrupt Election ever seen in the United States.”

    While Trump has publicly characterized the exhibit as “a tribute to past Presidents, good, bad, and somewhere in the middle,” factual verification efforts have identified multiple claims on the plaques as unfounded or misleading. This installation represents the latest in a series of controversial modifications Trump has made to the White House complex.

    Among previous contentious renovations was the removal of the historical Rose Garden to accommodate a grand ballroom project, funded by supporter contributions with estimated costs approaching $400 million. Construction continues on this significantly expanded facility, which is planned to exceed the scale of any existing structure within the White House campus.

    The Presidential Walk of Fame has raised questions about the appropriate treatment of historical presidential legacies and the traditional decorum associated with the nation’s highest office.

  • Bangladesh in nationale rouw na dood prominente studentenactivist

    Bangladesh in nationale rouw na dood prominente studentenactivist

    Bangladesh declared a national day of mourning on Saturday in honor of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 student uprising movement, whose tragic death has ignited two days of massive protests across the nation. The 32-year-old activist, who succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during an attack by masked assailants over a week ago, was laid to rest in a heavily secured funeral ceremony at the Parliament Building in Dhaka.

    Authorities deployed extensive police forces equipped with body cameras throughout the capital ahead of the funeral procession, which commenced at 2:00 PM local time at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. The national flag flew at half-mast across all government buildings as a symbol of collective grief.

    While protests had largely subsided by Saturday, media outlets continued reporting fresh incidents of violence. Cultural institutions, newspaper offices, and political buildings faced arson attacks and storming throughout the week, highlighting the nation’s escalating tensions. The residence of Anisul Islam Mahmud, chairman of the National Democratic Front and leader of a Jatiya Party faction, was vandalized and set ablaze in Chattogram, Bangladesh’s second-largest city.

    The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the state-sponsored cultural center, announced temporary suspension of all activities due to security concerns following attacks on its premises. Major newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, both targeted by protesters, struggled to maintain operations with staff forced to evacuate to rooftops during fires while pledging to continue digital publications.

    Hadi served as spokesperson for Inquilab Moncho (Platform for Revolution), a leading force within the student protest movement. He passed away Thursday at a Singapore hospital from head injuries sustained during the assassination attempt. The activist had been preparing to contest the February 2026 parliamentary elections representing Dhaka-8 constituency.

    His death triggered violent demonstrations that targeted residential properties, party offices, and even the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong. Protesters expressed fury over alleged Indian involvement, suggesting the perpetrator might have fled to India.

    Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation in August 2024, strongly condemned the violence while appealing for calm. Demonstrators continued demanding extradition of suspects and justice for Hadi and other victims. Hasina herself received a death sentence in November for human rights violations during the brutal suppression of the student uprising that claimed approximately 1,400 lives.

    Families of victims maintain hope that the former prime minister and others responsible for the crackdown will eventually face trial.

  • Ministry of Agriculture participated in CHOGM Training

    Ministry of Agriculture participated in CHOGM Training

    Antigua and Barbuda has initiated comprehensive security preparations for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) through an intensive training program conducted by the Canadian Armed Forces. The two-week workshop, described by participants as exceptionally rigorous, brought together key security personnel from multiple government ministries, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF), the Royal Police Force, and the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

    Held at Camp Blizzard under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the training program represents the initial phase of the nation’s security strategy for hosting the prestigious international gathering. Canadian military experts delivered specialized instruction aimed at enhancing the capabilities of local security forces in managing large-scale international events.

    The collaborative initiative underscores the strengthening bilateral relations between Canada and Antigua and Barbuda while demonstrating the Caribbean nation’s proactive approach to ensuring a secure environment for the high-profile summit. This preparatory phase focuses on establishing robust security protocols, coordination mechanisms, and emergency response procedures necessary for successfully hosting world leaders and dignitaries.

    The training initiative marks a significant milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s journey toward becoming the third Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state to host the Commonwealth’s premier political gathering, following The Bahamas (1985) and Trinidad and Tobago (2009).

  • Analysts: Cabinet built for control, continuity, calculated risk

    Analysts: Cabinet built for control, continuity, calculated risk

    Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s newly unveiled Cabinet emphasizes strategic continuity rather than radical transformation, according to political analysts Rahym Augustin-Joseph and Earl Bousquet. The February 12th announcement revealed a structure where Pierre maintains control over critical portfolios including Finance, National Security, Justice, while assuming additional responsibilities for Constituency Development and People Empowerment.

    Augustin-Joseph, a Rhodes scholar and political commentator, characterizes the arrangement as a clear centralization of authority within the Westminster system. “This configuration leaves no ambiguity regarding accountability,” he noted. “The Prime Minister stands at the center of governance, meaning governmental success or failure will directly correlate with his performance across these key areas.”

    Veteran analyst Bousquet offered a contrasting perspective, interpreting the cabinet composition as a deliberate equilibrium between experience and innovation. He emphasized that the structure reinforces Pierre’s longstanding position that no minister possesses exclusive control over any portfolio, describing the reshuffle as demonstrating both continuity and adaptability.

    The government’s economic strategy remains anchored by Dr. Ernest Hilaire, who retains Tourism and Investment while gaining Commerce oversight. This consolidation brings major agencies including Invest Saint Lucia, Export Saint Lucia, and Lucian Carnival under his unified direction. As Deputy Prime Minister, Hilaire continues shaping Saint Lucia’s global economic presence, building upon his first-term achievements in revitalizing the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival and expanding Lucian Carnival.

    Augustin-Joseph highlighted the critical nature of Hilaire’s role, stating, “The administration’s fortunes are intrinsically linked to his performance, given tourism’s fundamental importance to our economy.” Bousquet concurred, noting Hilaire’s collaborative environment within cabinet ensures he won’t operate in isolation, with former Commerce Minister Emma Hippolyte remaining available for policy continuity consultation.

    The cabinet maintains several experienced figures, with Stephenson King continuing as senior minister and Alva Baptiste retaining External Affairs—a decision analysts attribute to requiring steady diplomacy amid global uncertainties. Bousquet interpreted King’s reassignment from Infrastructure as reinforcing Pierre’s message that experience doesn’t guarantee entitlement, characterizing it as affirming collective responsibility rather than demotion.

    Infrastructure responsibilities transition to Shawn Edward, a move Augustin-Joseph suggests addresses public concerns regarding infrastructure delivery. Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation consolidate under Kenson Casimir, despite public debate about the expanded workload. Bousquet defended the appointment, citing Casimir’s electoral success and demonstrated resilience.

    The most discussed appointment proved to be Lisa Jawahir’s elevation to Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Climate Change. While critics questioned her background, Bousquet dismissed assumptions that formal training alone determines competency, noting her regional parliamentary work on food security and climate change initiatives. Her appointment marks Saint Lucia’s first female Agriculture Minister, representing broader inclusion efforts that have increased female representation in both Cabinet and Senate.

    Other significant changes include Jeremiah Norbert assuming a newly created Conflict Resolution portfolio addressing crime and social cohesion concerns, while Emma Hippolyte’s expanded ministry unites equity, labour and social justice under centralized leadership. Danny Butcher joins Education with responsibility for Early Childhood, Continuing and Special Education and Digital Transformation, supporting foundational reforms.

    Analysts ultimately agree this cabinet configuration prioritizes delivery above symbolism. Augustin-Joseph summarizes it as “more continuity than change,” while Bousquet characterizes it as “a forward-looking team tasked with fulfilling manifesto promises made by the SLP and its independent affiliates—a cabinet appointed to deliver not just for today, but for the future.”

  • PM teases possibility of heading to the polls next year

    PM teases possibility of heading to the polls next year

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has strongly indicated potential early general elections in 2026, deviating from the constitutionally mandated 2027 timeline. During her Christmas gathering at Ilaro Court, the official residence, Mottley delivered a rallying cry to Barbados Labour Party (BLP) supporters, emphasizing the need for preparedness in the coming year.

    The Prime Minister, who secured unprecedented 30-0 victories in both 2018 and 2022 elections, declared: ‘We are all turning up for work in 2026. If something can be done, it is this Barbados Labour Party that will do it.’ Her address received enthusiastic applause from attendees as she urged party members to remain ‘red and ready’ for potential political mobilization.

    This early election speculation aligns with regional trends, following Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s similar decision earlier this month. Political analyst Peter Wickham previously noted the likelihood of Mottley continuing her pattern of early election calls, citing her political history.

    Several developments suggest election preparations are underway: approximately 2,000 public servants are receiving permanent appointments, teacher vacation leave reinstatements are planned, and significant voter list reforms are progressing. Electoral Boundaries Commission Chairman Ramon Alleyne confirmed the removal of over 8,000 ineligible voters—including 4,923 overseas residents and 3,368 deceased individuals—with a cleaned register targeted for January 31 completion.

    Simultaneously, BLP has addressed parliamentary vacancies created by retiring MPs Dale Marshall (St. Joseph) and Cynthia Forde (St. Thomas), appointing Senator Gregory Nicholls and businessman Ryan Brathwaite as respective replacements. Both governing and opposition Democratic Labour Party representatives have intensified constituency engagements nationwide.

    Mottley framed the Christmas event as a unification opportunity, acknowledging sustained economic progress including 17 consecutive growth quarters, record-low unemployment, and unprecedented foreign reserve levels, while recognizing ongoing challenges requiring continued political commitment.

  • Trump sluit oorlog met Venezuela niet uit

    Trump sluit oorlog met Venezuela niet uit

    President Donald Trump has declined to rule out potential military confrontation with Venezuela during a recently published interview, signaling heightened tensions following increased U.S. naval operations in the Caribbean region.

    When questioned by NBC News regarding possible armed conflict, Trump responded unequivocally: “That’s not something I would exclude, no.” The president similarly avoided clarifying whether his administration seeks to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from power, stating instead that “He knows exactly what I want. He understands better than anyone.”

    This strategic ambiguity comes alongside reinforced American military deployments throughout the Caribbean basin over recent months. U.S. Marines have been conducting amplified amphibious exercises in Puerto Rico’s Arroyo region, demonstrating heightened operational readiness.

    The administration has intensified economic pressure through petroleum sanctions, with Trump announcing further seizures of Venezuelan oil tankers following last week’s interception of a vessel departing the South American nation. Trump asserted that “more seizures will follow” while making controversial claims regarding Venezuela’s nationalized oil industry, alleging the country had “taken all our energy rights, taken all our oil not so long ago, and we want it back.”

    Concurrently, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions against seven individuals allegedly connected to Maduro and his wife, accusing them of supporting what officials termed a “rogue narcostate.” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared the administration would not permit Venezuela to “continue flooding our nation with lethal drugs,” characterizing Maduro’s government as threatening hemispheric stability.

    Trump has consistently labeled Maduro as leading a “narco-terrorist” cartel, with U.S. forces conducting multiple engagements against suspected drug trafficking vessels since September that have resulted in over 100 casualties. The president has repeatedly hinted at impending ground operations against narcotics networks, though the recent focus has shifted prominently toward energy resources.

  • VIDEO: PM Friday chats about national issues, son’s role in gov’t

    VIDEO: PM Friday chats about national issues, son’s role in gov’t

    In an exclusive interview with iWitness News correspondent Kenton Chance, Prime Minister Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) engaged in a comprehensive discussion covering his administration’s recent policy implementations and ongoing political developments. The dialogue provided significant insights into the nation’s first VAT-free shopping day—a landmark economic measure designed to alleviate financial pressure on citizens by allowing tax-exempt purchases. Prime Minister Friday elaborated on the initiative’s objectives, emphasizing its role in stimulating consumer spending and providing tangible economic relief to households.

    Further addressing campaign commitments, the Prime Minister provided updates on the promised bonus salary for public sector employees, detailing the government’s methodology and timeline for fulfilling this electoral pledge. The conversation took a personal turn when questioned about his son’s involvement in the current administration, with Friday offering transparent commentary on familial roles within governmental structures.

    The interview also tackled the contentious election petitions filed against both the Prime Minister and his Foreign Minister, with Friday presenting his legal perspective on these challenges while reaffirming his administration’s legitimacy and commitment to due process. Throughout the exchange, the Prime Minister maintained a focus on his government’s policy agenda while addressing both the achievements and controversies that have characterized his tenure since taking office.

  • Veel kritiek in DNA op initiatiefwet Duurzaam Natuurbeheer: terug naar tekentafel

    Veel kritiek in DNA op initiatiefwet Duurzaam Natuurbeheer: terug naar tekentafel

    Suriname’s National Assembly witnessed intense parliamentary debate on Friday regarding the proposed Sustainable Nature Management Act, with widespread concerns about legislative preparation, institutional power imbalances, and inadequate protection for indigenous communities.

    The contentious legislation, designed to replace the outdated 1954 Nature Conservation Act, faced scrutiny from multiple parliamentary factions. Rossellie Cotino (NDP), chair of the rapporteurs committee, acknowledged Suriname’s need for modern environmental legislation to maintain its status as a heavily forested nation with minimal deforestation. However, she highlighted significant flaws in the current proposal.

    Central to the criticism was the concerning concentration of power within the National Environmental Authority (NMA). Cotino and other assembly members questioned why the legislation didn’t instead strengthen the existing Forest Management Agency (LBB) and establish clear management under a single organization. This overlap, critics warned, could create operational tension between LBB and NMA.

    Additional concerns included insufficient coordination with existing legislation such as the Hunting Act and Animal Protection Act, and the unusual absence of specified ministerial responsibility for implementation—a standard provision typically included in final provisions.

    Jerrel Pawiroredjo (NPS faction leader) emphasized that legislation shouldn’t be rushed, even with potential external funding at stake. International environmental organizations have pledged $20 million for sustainable projects, contingent on proper legislation. Parliamentary members, including Assembly President Ashwin Adhin, unanimously asserted that parliament wouldn’t be pressured by external factors.

    The legislation’s treatment of indigenous rights emerged as another critical issue. Jennifer Vreedzaam (NDP) delivered sharp criticism regarding the inadequate implementation of the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) principle, noting that parliament had recently extensively debated the importance of consultation with indigenous and tribal peoples. She emphasized that FPIC represents a fundamental legal principle rather than optional consultation.

    Tashana Lösche (NDP) noted that while the law references areas traditionally used by indigenous and tribal communities, it fails to specify their exact locations or establish formal boundary demarcation. Steven Reyme (A20) questioned why the proposal doesn’t explicitly recognize collective land and usage rights, despite Suriname’s international obligations.

    One of the initiative’s proponents, Wedperkash Joeloemsingh (NDP), acknowledged during consultations that the law requires amendments and thanked members for their critical contributions. He emphasized that the legislation wasn’t intended as rushed work and wasn’t related to financial considerations, but rather aimed to establish clear responsibility allocation.

    The session has been adjourned until Monday for further deliberation.