On November 18, 2025, Haiti marked the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières with an official ceremony at the Villa d’Accueil. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, alongside Laurent Saint Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of the Transition Council, led the commemorative activities. The event was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civil service representatives, and high-ranking military and police commanders. The ceremony honored the heroes of 1803, whose courage and unity secured Haiti’s freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. A floral tribute was laid at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH) in Champ de Mars, symbolizing respect for the ancestors who fought for the nation’s independence. In his address, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé emphasized the historical significance of Vertières as a moral compass for Haiti, inspiring efforts to modernize the Armed Forces (FAd’H) and ensure national security. Laurent Saint-Cyr echoed this sentiment, calling for unity and dialogue to address contemporary challenges, including gang violence and political instability. He urged all stakeholders to participate in the electoral process, framing it as a continuation of the ancestors’ vision for a free and stable Haiti.
分类： politics
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OPINION: The Shameful Erosion of Dignity in Our Public Life: A Call to End Toxic Political Culture
The recent actions of our Prime Minister have highlighted a troubling decline in the quality of public discourse within our nation. Attempts to justify his behavior as mere ‘political jest’ or ‘Caribbean tradition’ are not only misguided but represent a moral abdication that must be unequivocally rejected. Framing this as ‘satire’ consistent with our political culture deliberately ignores the stark distinction between harmless political banter and the use of the highest office to demean and humiliate a woman by focusing on her body. This is not clever commentary; it is outright bullying. My stance is not partisan but a universal call to address and rectify a toxic and destructive culture. Both the UPP and other political entities have been guilty of similar behavior, and my condemnation is directed at the culture itself. To argue that the Prime Minister is not targeting women because he is ‘confrontational with all opponents’ is to deliberately overlook the gendered nature of his attack. When male opponents are critiqued on policy or competence, but female opponents are targeted based on their appearance, it is undeniably misogynistic. Excusing this behavior by citing the ‘high-pressure environment’ of politics or claiming it was seen as ‘political ribbing’ by his supporters is an attempt to normalize toxicity. I am justified in demanding better from our leader. This incident, which diverted attention from a serious issue—the multi-million dollar vehicle scandal—occurred while the opposition was calling for transparency and accountability. The Prime Minister’s defensive, aggressive, and unapologetic tone throughout this saga has been consistent. Particularly troubling was the spectacle of women ‘standing with MP Maria Browne’ against a call for an inquiry into her ministry, coinciding with the Prime Minister’s shameful post. What were these women standing for? Good governance and the accountability the Prime Minister claims to champion would dictate that an inquiry is the right course of action. This ‘stand’ was, by definition, a contradiction. I am left to wonder if these women know something that needs to be kept hidden, prompting their premature support for the Minister. Even more concerning was the presence of the Minister, her husband, and children during this counter-protest. Was the Prime Minister there in his personal capacity as a husband or as the head of government? His presence, regardless of capacity, elevated the event, transforming a matter of departmental accountability into a dramatic political spectacle framed as a personal attack on a family. This strategy blurs the lines between governance and personal persecution, making it harder for the public to demand institutional oversight. This selective outrage, concentrated in a single news cycle, reveals a deep moral flaw in our community’s political compass: protection and respect are granted based on party affiliation, not shared gender or human dignity. The message this sends to our girls is clear and cruel: if you dare to lead or disagree, your appearance will be weaponized. As the global theme for the upcoming 16 Days of Activism is to ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ our leader is modeling the very behavior we should be campaigning against. Our community is better than this base and vulgar spectacle. I must reject the low standards of apologists and the deafening silence of those in power who privately disagree but are too afraid to speak. Their silence is tacit approval and self-preservation, allowing this toxic culture to thrive. We must demand that our leaders, regardless of party, model integrity, not juvenile rage. The future of our nation’s character depends on it.
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Minister Ferguson Back In PM’s Good Graces?
In a surprising turn of events, Prime Minister John Briceño has reinstated Rodwell Ferguson to the Belizean Cabinet, less than a week after a significant reshuffle. Ferguson, who previously served as Minister of Transport from 2020 to 2025, has been appointed as the new Minister of Agriculture, Food Security, and New Growth Industries. This decision comes after the removal of Jose Abelardo Mai, who was embroiled in controversy linked to unspecified activities. Ferguson’s reappointment has sparked debate, particularly due to his track record of replacing three CEOs during his tenure in Transport. However, Briceño has expressed unwavering confidence in Ferguson’s capabilities. The Prime Minister highlighted Ferguson’s extensive political experience, including his role as deputy leader of the party and his consistent electoral support since 2003. Briceño emphasized Ferguson’s deep connection to rural communities, stating that his background provides a unique understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and agricultural-dependent populations. To bolster Ferguson’s efforts, Briceño assured that a robust team of advisors, including the ministry’s CEO and technical officers, would support him in driving Belize’s agricultural growth. This move underscores Briceño’s strategy of leveraging experienced leaders to address critical national issues.
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PM Briceño says Jose Mai on “Leave of Absence”
Prime Minister John Briceño of Belize has addressed the sudden resignation of former Agriculture Minister Jose Abelardo Mai, attributing it solely to health reasons rather than external pressures. Mai stepped down on Monday, shortly after a Cabinet reshuffle and amidst rumors of influence from the US Embassy in Belize. Briceño emphasized that Mai’s decision was prompted by the need to undergo major surgery for injuries sustained in a horse-riding accident over a year ago. The Prime Minister recounted how Mai had previously shared the incident with the Cabinet, though the severity of his injuries was not fully understood at the time. Briceño stated that Mai chose to take a “leave of absence” to focus on his recovery, ensuring the government’s operations would not be hindered. The timing of the resignation, however, has sparked public skepticism, particularly due to a recent procurement of two bulletproof vests under Mai’s ministry, linked to an armed-robbery investigation. Briceño firmly denied any connection between Mai’s departure and alleged pressure from the United States regarding cartel-related accusations, clarifying that discussions with the US Chargé d’Affaires never involved requests to remove any Cabinet member.
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Global EITI board asked to intervene in impasse over local civil society representation
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a global anti-corruption watchdog, has been called upon to intervene in a growing dispute over the selection of civil society representatives in Guyana’s local EITI chapter, GYEITI. The controversy centers on allegations that the Guyana government is exerting undue influence over the process, undermining the independence required by EITI standards. Policy Forum Guyana (PFG), alongside EITI chapters from Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and Australia, has formally requested the EITI Board to issue a public statement condemning the government’s actions. The Board is set to meet this week in Armenia. The civil society groups argue that the government’s approach violates the EITI Standard 2023, which mandates the independence of all sectors involved in the Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG). The Ministry of Natural Resources has been accused of monopolizing the selection process, despite already controlling the GYEITI Secretariat’s financial, staffing, and communications decisions. Earlier this year, the ministry appointed Dr. Ivor English as the convenor of civil society organizations, a move criticized by PFG and other groups. The organizations are demanding a return to compliance with EITI standards, including the reconvening of previous MSG co-chairs to oversee the selection process. They also recommend an early validation of Guyana’s adherence to EITI requirements. The dispute highlights broader concerns about the government’s influence over civil society and its commitment to transparency in the extractive industries.
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OPINION: Why Saint Lucia’s ministers still hold power – and why the constitution says they should
Last week, Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre announced the dissolution of Parliament, invoking Section 55(4) of the Constitution. This move, which paves the way for a general election, sparked debates over the authority of Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire, who subsequently issued ministerial statements. Critics questioned the legitimacy of his actions, arguing that the executive branch had effectively ceased to exist with the dissolution. However, this interpretation is a misconception rooted in a misunderstanding of the constitutional framework. The Constitution of Saint Lucia remains the supreme law, and its provisions ensure the continuity of government functions during such transitional periods. The dissolution of Parliament, as outlined in Section 40, halts legislative activities but does not dismantle the executive branch. Ministers, including the Prime Minister, retain their roles under the ‘caretaker’ convention, ensuring the day-to-day governance of the country. The Governor General, while vested with executive authority, typically acts on the advice of the Prime Minister, reflecting Westminster conventions. This constitutional continuity allows ministers to exercise their powers until the new Parliament convenes. The debate over the legitimacy of initiatives like the VAT-free holiday and the St. Jude Hospital ceremony during this period is thus unfounded. The Constitution, supported by legal precedents and conventions, provides a clear framework for governance during dissolution, ensuring stability and continuity in Saint Lucia’s democratic processes.
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Grenada High Commission re-established in Ottawa, Canada
In a significant diplomatic move, Grenada has officially reopened its High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, on November 14, 2025. This marks the return of Grenada’s independent diplomatic presence in Canada after decades of representation through the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), which ceased operations in 2011. The reestablishment ceremony was attended by key officials, including Grenada’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Canada, His Excellency Sylvester Quarless, who formally presented his credentials to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on September 17, 2025. The event also saw the presence of Hon. Joseph Andall, Grenada’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade & Export Development, alongside former High Commissioners George Griffith and Jennifer Hosten-Craig. Representatives from Global Affairs Canada, the Diplomatic Corps, and the Grenadian Diaspora joined the celebrations, highlighting the importance of this milestone. High Commissioner Quarless emphasized Grenada’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Canada and fostering deeper ties with the Grenadian diaspora. The High Commission aims to engage the diaspora community in Canada to leverage their skills, knowledge, and resources for Grenada’s development. Hon. Andall expressed gratitude to the Canadian government and people for hosting the High Commission, acknowledging Canada’s longstanding support through initiatives like the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the Canada-Caricom Strategic Partnership. The newly reestablished High Commission, located at 350 Sparks Street, Suite 1210, Ottawa, is poised to serve as a vital bridge between Grenada and its diaspora, ensuring the preservation of Grenadian culture and heritage for future generations.
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Activate Data Protection law to prevent repeat of political, malicious use of ‘cash grant’ personal data- EU Observer Mission
The European Union Election Observation Mission (EUEOM) has issued a final report on the September 1 general and regional elections in Guyana, urging the government to activate the 2023 Data Protection Act. The move aims to prevent the recurrence of politically motivated misuse of personal data, particularly information collected for cash grant processing. The report, published on Tuesday, highlights that the absence of enforced data protection legislation allowed for unchecked doxing and the exploitation of government-held personal data for political gains. The EUEOM emphasized the need for the establishment of a publicly accountable Data Protection Office to safeguard voters’ personal information from unauthorized publication and political misuse. This recommendation comes amidst the government’s push for public servants to register for the Digital Identity Card, despite the lack of a commencement order for the Digital Identity Card Act and the Data Protection Act. The report also criticized the incumbent People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) for allegedly using mobile phone numbers of cash grant recipients to solicit votes, a practice deemed inconsistent with Guyana’s international commitments, including the EU-Latin America and Caribbean Joint Declaration on a Digital Alliance. The EUEOM noted that police failed to take action against PPP/C activists accused of profiling individuals from We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party events, leading to intimidation and unwarranted publicity. The report, already presented to the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and political party representatives, calls for the appointment of a Data Commissioner and the establishment of a Data Protection Office, which are yet to be realized. The 2023 Data Protection Act, praised for its alignment with international standards, mandates individual consent for personal data use and protects against unwarranted profiling. The EUEOM’s recommendation references Article 17 of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which safeguards against arbitrary interference with privacy.
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Peter David is latest licensed local CBI agent
Charles Peter David, a prominent Member of Parliament for the Town of St George, has been officially appointed as a local agent for Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, now rebranded as the Investment Migration Agency (IMA). This appointment, announced in the 14 November 2025 issue of the Government Gazette, grants David the authority to operate under the 2013 Citizenship by Investment Act, with his license number being #GCBI-LA-046. The notice explicitly states that David is authorised to conduct business in Grenada in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the Act. David, who has previously served as a government minister in both the Tillman Thomas National Democratic Congress Administration and the Dr Keith Mitchell New National Party administration, recently launched his own political party, the Democratic People’s Movement. As a local CBI agent, David is tasked with assisting applicants in preparing and submitting their documents, managing their applications, and liaising with the CBI Unit throughout the process. The role of a local agent is crucial, as all applications must go through these intermediaries rather than being submitted directly to the government processing unit. Currently, there are over 20 licensed local CBI agents in Grenada. Since its inception 11 years ago, the CBI programme has generated significant revenue for the government and has granted citizenship to nearly 20,000 individuals from various countries.
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Opposition members seek answers from ministers through Parliament
In an upcoming parliamentary session scheduled for Wednesday, 18 November 2025, Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre and Member of Parliament Clarice Modeste are poised to challenge the government on a range of critical issues. The session, set to take place in the Lower House or House of Representatives, will see Pierre and Modeste address pressing matters concerning public projects, cannabis policy, and agricultural support. Pierre’s inquiries will focus on the status of the newly established Cannabis Commission, the government’s stance on cannabis legalization and decriminalization, and the restructuring of the Marketing and National Importing Board (MNIB). Additionally, she will seek transparency regarding the distribution of funds from the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) to local farmers and fishermen. Meanwhile, Modeste will question Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell on the progress of the Waltham Land Expansion Project, the renovation status of the Victoria Hotel, and the development of key farm roads, including the Red Mud and Mt Cenis to Brothers routes. These questions, listed on the Order Paper, will precede ministerial statements, highlighting the opposition’s commitment to holding the government accountable for its policies and projects.