Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Belize Transfers CIRSA Presidency to Guatemala

    Belize Transfers CIRSA Presidency to Guatemala

    In a significant diplomatic transition for Central American agricultural cooperation, Belize has formally transferred its presidency of the International Regional Committee on Agricultural Health (CIRSA) to Guatemala. The handover ceremony occurred during the 73rd CIRSA convening in Guatemala City on March 17, 2026, marking the conclusion of Belize’s year-long leadership tenure focused on regional food security and agricultural health initiatives.

    The transfer of authority was executed between Belize’s Minister of Agriculture, Rodwell Ferguson, and his Guatemalan counterpart, Minister María Fernanda Rivera Dávila. This ceremonial transition included the presentation of a comprehensive report detailing Belize’s accomplishments throughout its presidential term, along with the exchange of symbolic recognition for the country’s stewardship.

    CIRSA functions as the principal coordinating body for agricultural ministers throughout Central America, providing strategic oversight to OIRSA—the regional organization dedicated to protecting plant and animal health across member nations. Belize originally assumed the committee’s presidency in April 2025 during proceedings hosted in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

    The current ministerial assembly is addressing pressing regional challenges, with particular emphasis on containing the New World Screwworm infestation, which continues to jeopardize livestock production throughout Central America. This pestilence represents one of the most substantial biosecurity threats currently facing the region’s agricultural sector.

    The presidential rotation occurs amidst ongoing collaborative efforts to strengthen integrated agricultural health systems and enhance regional response capabilities to emerging threats to food security and animal welfare.

  • Flyovers in the works to ease traffic congestion, says Straughn

    Flyovers in the works to ease traffic congestion, says Straughn

    In a substantial policy reversal, the Barbadian government has officially reinstated flyover construction as a central component of its national infrastructure agenda. The announcement, delivered by Finance Minister Ryan Straughn during Monday’s budget presentation, signals a return to a transportation strategy initially conceived nearly two decades ago.

    The administration revealed it has recommenced negotiations with the original contractor engaged prior to the 2008 general election to design and construct overpasses along the critically congested ABC Highway. Minister Straughn confirmed that Cabinet authorized this re-engagement last Thursday, noting that the company had already completed comprehensive design work for the proposed overpass network.

    This decision represents a revival of infrastructure planning first initiated under former Prime Minister Owen Arthur’s administration in 2006, which was subsequently abandoned following the 2008 governmental transition. Straughn sharply criticized this earlier termination, revealing that Barbados paid over $20 million in cancellation damages while failing to implement any alternative traffic management solutions.

    “Some might view this as good politics, but Bajans have paid a heavy price for it,” Straughn asserted. “Today, no alternative solution was put in place. The traffic is choking us everywhere we turn.”

    The comprehensive transportation strategy extends beyond flyover construction to include widening pivotal sections of the ABC Highway, particularly Highway 2A. Minister Straughn contextualized these measures within a historical pattern of inconsistent infrastructure planning, tracing current challenges to decisions made during the highway’s original development in the 1980s.

    Originally conceptualized under Prime Minister Tom Adams as a four-lane corridor connecting the airport to seaport while bypassing Bridgetown, governmental changes resulted in only two lanes being completed by 1989. “Poor decision making and lack of foresight continues to cost our citizens dearly,” Straughn remarked, suggesting Barbados would presently enjoy superior infrastructure had original specifications been maintained.

    Complementing these physical infrastructure projects, the government will launch a nationwide consultation on traffic congestion beginning next week. A series of town hall meetings will commence March 23 at Deighton Griffith Secondary School, with subsequent sessions scheduled for March 25 (Princess Margaret Secondary), March 30 (The St Michael School), and April 1 (Alexandra School). All sessions will convene at 6:30 p.m. with public participation encouraged.

    Minister Straughn positioned these efforts within his party’s legacy of infrastructure planning, while cautioning that delays have substantially increased project costs compared to previous decades. “Don’t forget the significant increase in associated cost of executing those works in today’s money compared to previous periods,” he emphasized.

    The minister concluded with a forward-looking statement: “I really hope we will solve the problem this time, so someone else in 20 years’ time would not be here to make the same point.”

  • New courts to fast-track gun cases, ease legal backlog

    New courts to fast-track gun cases, ease legal backlog

    In a significant move to combat firearm-related crimes and enhance public safety, the Barbadian government has announced the establishment of two specialized gun courts as part of its latest budgetary measures. Finance Minister Ryan Straughn revealed during Monday’s Budget address that these courts will operate on a dual-track system: one court will exclusively handle recent firearms offences, while the second will focus on clearing the substantial backlog of cases predating 2025.

    The specialized judicial approach aims to accelerate trial proceedings and strengthen deterrence against gun violence. Minister Straughn emphasized that “these dedicated gun courts would allow gun-related cases to be heard more quickly and reduce the backlog in the justice system,” acknowledging the Barbados Police Service’s effectiveness in apprehending offenders while recognizing the need for judicial efficiency.

    Complementing these judicial reforms, the government announced substantial fiscal incentives to boost security measures. Beginning next month, CCTV security surveillance systems and burglar alarms will be exempt from customs duties and value-added tax (VAT) on importation or installation. Additionally, from April 1, dashcams and GPS devices will receive duty- and VAT-free status for one year, encouraging widespread adoption among motorists.

    The finance minister urged insurance companies to provide benefits for policyholders who install dashcams, noting that the 2024 policy change ending police response to minor accidents has proven successful. He specified that devices should have a minimum of 30 gigabytes of storage to facilitate accident adjudication.

    Infrastructure improvements include plans for a new police station at Six Roads Civic Centre, representing the initial phase of upgrading accommodations for the Barbados Police Service. The comprehensive package of measures demonstrates the government’s multifaceted approach to addressing crime through judicial reform, technological adoption, and infrastructure enhancement.

  • Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    Court of Appeal dismisses Mohameds’ case of bias against Home Affairs Minister in extradition case

    In a significant judicial ruling, the Guyana Court of Appeal has unequivocally dismissed allegations of political bias against Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond regarding her authorization of extradition proceedings against political figures Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar “Shell” Mohamed. The unanimous decision, delivered by Chancellor of the Judiciary Roxane George-Wiltshire on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, found the case “has absolutely no merit” and upheld the minister’s compliance with statutory requirements under the Fugitive Offenders Act.

    The court determined that Minister Walrond merely executed an administrative function in accordance with legal provisions when issuing the Authority To Proceed (ATP) on October 30, 2025. Chancellor George-Wiltshire emphasized that the appellants failed to substantiate claims that the process was tainted by political prejudice, stating that “bias does not arise” in circumstances where the minister fulfills statutory obligations without discretion between competing parties.

    The ruling also addressed and rejected the application for a stay of extradition committal proceedings pending appeal to the Caribbean Court of Justice, suggesting that matter should be directed to the regional judicial body. Furthermore, the court clarified that the ultimate decision regarding extradition rests with the judicial system—specifically the magistrate and potentially the Court of Appeal—rather than the minister.

    The appellate court additionally dismissed arguments concerning potential delegation of ministerial authority, noting that any cabinet minister would similarly operate within the same governmental framework. The court awarded substantial costs of GY$1.5 million each to the Minister of Home Affairs and the Attorney General, reinforcing the lack of merit in the appellants’ claims.

    The case originated from committal proceedings currently before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, who issued arrest warrants for the Mohameds on October 31, 2025. The appellants had contended that political statements made during the 2025 election campaign by President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Minister Walrond demonstrated institutional bias against them, particularly as Azruddin Mohamed leads the opposing We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party.

  • Browne Calls for Unity and Reflection After By-Election Defeat

    Browne Calls for Unity and Reflection After By-Election Defeat

    Following a significant by-election defeat, prominent political figure Alex Browne has issued a comprehensive statement reframing the loss as a moment for organizational reflection and renewed commitment. Delivering his remarks with notable resilience, Browne emphasized that his party’s foundational spirit remains unbroken despite the electoral outcome.

    Browne characterized the campaign as merely one chapter within a broader struggle for equitable governance, stating that the political journey transcends any single electoral contest. He articulated a vision centered on securing fairness, expanded opportunities, and substantive change for all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, asserting that these efforts would persist beyond the recent defeat.

    The politician extended profound gratitude to the network of supporters, campaign volunteers, and voters who demonstrated commitment throughout the contest. Browne highlighted that their collective energy and unwavering belief in the movement’s principles demonstrated the powerful outcomes achievable through unity, noting that this foundational support structure remains intact.

    In a strategic pivot, Browne declared the moment would serve as an opportunity for recalibration rather than retreat. He framed the defeat as a reflective period during which the party would engage in active listening, implement organizational learning, and emerge strengthened as a cohesive political family dedicated to public service.

    Concluding with forward-looking determination, Browne affirmed the uninterrupted continuation of the party’s work through persistent engagement, continuous development, and unwavering advocacy for national improvement. He reinforced the message that the political movement maintains its vitality and characterized the current moment as merely the preliminary phase of a prolonged transformation effort.

  • Somohardjo: Parlement krijgt geen kans om te spreken over rechtsstaat

    Somohardjo: Parlement krijgt geen kans om te spreken over rechtsstaat

    A critical parliamentary session addressing judicial reform legislation in Suriname has been unexpectedly postponed, triggering concerns about democratic transparency and legislative accountability. The scheduled open meeting of De Nationale Assemblée concerning judiciary laws was delayed before deliberations could commence, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders.

    PL faction leader Bronto Somohardjo characterized the postponement as a worrying development that undermines public confidence in the rule of law. “Parliament could have spoken Monday about a subject that directly affects the people’s trust in our judicial system,” Somohardjo stated in an interview with Starnieuws. “That debate did not take place.”

    Emphasizing that the issue transcends political differences, Somohardjo framed it as a matter of institutional responsibility. “Precisely on subjects that carry such weight, parliament must do its work. Not later, but at the moment when it matters,” he asserted. The opposition leader clarified that his concern wasn’t about achieving political victory but about maintaining democratic processes: “I’m not asking to be proven right. I’m asking for the debate to be held. Parliament must be able to speak its mind.”

    Somohardjo warned that delays in crucial decision-making create room for public doubt, directly contradicting citizen expectations. “The people expect clarity. They expect choices. And they expect us to speak here when necessary. When parliament does not speak at the moment it is needed, space emerges for doubt, and that is precisely what the people do not want.”

    While public deliberations have been suspended, lawmakers will continue refining the legal amendments behind closed doors, a approach that has raised questions about governmental transparency and legislative urgency in addressing judicial reforms.

  • Trump Criticises NATO Allies for Declining to Help

    Trump Criticises NATO Allies for Declining to Help

    In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized NATO member nations for their refusal to participate in military operations against Iran. Through an extensive post on his Truth Social platform on March 17, 2026, Trump characterized the allied nations’ decision as a grave strategic error.

    The former president asserted that despite direct appeals for military collaboration, the majority of NATO members declined involvement in U.S.-led operations in the Middle East. Trump further minimized the potential contributions of key Pacific allies including Japan, Australia, and South Korea, maintaining that American military capabilities alone were sufficient for the mission.

    ‘Our unprecedented military achievements have rendered assistance from NATO countries unnecessary—indeed, such support was never required from the outset,’ Trump declared in his characteristically emphatic tone. ‘The United States operates independently without requiring supplementary support from any nation.’

    These remarks preceded Trump’s Oval Office statements regarding allied participation in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor essential to global energy transportation. While acknowledging NATO’s previous support for strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Trump confirmed allied nations had withdrawn from committing forces to the proposed task force.

    The position received explicit validation from French President Emmanuel Macron, who confirmed France would abstain from Hormuz security operations until cessation of active hostilities. When questioned about Macron’s stance, Trump dismissed the significance of the French position by referencing Macron’s impending departure from office and emphasized that Iranian reconstruction would require a decade if U.S. forces withdrew immediately.

  • Belize Delegation Attends UK Governance Seminar

    Belize Delegation Attends UK Governance Seminar

    A high-level Belizean delegation has concluded a significant international engagement in London, participating in the 74th Westminster Seminar on Effective Parliaments. The event, orchestrated by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, convened legislators from across the Commonwealth to deliberate on enhancing governmental transparency and operational efficiency.

    The Belizean contingent was comprised of Minister of State for Foreign Trade Marconi Leal Jr., UDP Senator Sheena Pitts, and Parliamentary Officer Manuel Grant. Their participation emphasized practical governance improvements with direct implications for citizens, particularly in mechanisms for scrutinizing government decisions and optimizing the management of public finances.

    The seminar’s agenda extended beyond theoretical discourse, addressing contemporary challenges such as the integration of artificial intelligence into parliamentary procedures to streamline operations and improve data-driven policymaking.

    Complementing the formal sessions, the delegation conducted field visits to Liverpool communities. These engagements provided firsthand insight into local governance structures through meetings with municipal officials and civic organizations, offering comparative perspectives on public administration.

    Notably, the Belizean government confirmed that the mission incurred no public expenditure, with all travel and accommodation expenses fully covered by the UK branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, ensuring fiscal responsibility toward Belizean taxpayers.

  • Trump says US could ‘take Cuba’ as island faces power crisis

    Trump says US could ‘take Cuba’ as island faces power crisis

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared his anticipation for what he termed “the honour of taking Cuba,” during remarks made as the Caribbean nation struggled with a catastrophic nationwide power outage. Speaking to press corps at the White House on Monday, Trump suggested the United States could play a definitive role in shaping Cuba’s political trajectory.

    “Throughout my lifetime, the subject of U.S. relations with Cuba has persisted. The question always arises—when will America act?” Trump stated to journalists. He further asserted, “I am confident that I will have the privilege of assuming control over Cuba. Whether that means liberating it or acquiring it—I possess the capability to execute any course of action. In reality, they currently function as a severely weakened state.”

    These statements coincided with another massive electrical failure across Cuba, following the collapse of the national power grid earlier that day. This incident represents the most recent in an escalating series of blackouts, exacerbated by antiquated infrastructure, persistent fuel scarcities, and restrictions on petroleum imports.

    A university student from Saint Lucia presently studying in Cuba confirmed to St. Lucia Times that although a complete blackout occurred, power was reinstated by approximately 9:00 p.m. the same evening. The student noted that prolonged daily outages lasting six to seven hours have become commonplace.

    Regional authorities have recognized the deteriorating humanitarian situation. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), following its February 27 summit in St. Kitts and Nevis, committed to formulating a coordinated humanitarian assistance strategy for Cuba. While CARICOM indicated that a comprehensive plan would be finalized imminently, no subsequent public updates have been provided regarding these initiatives.

  • Rowley dismisses accusation that drug money funded party headquarters

    Rowley dismisses accusation that drug money funded party headquarters

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – In a forceful rebuttal, former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has categorically denied allegations that his People’s National Movement (PNM) party headquarters was financed through drug trafficking proceeds. The accusations were leveled by current Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar during a parliamentary session last Friday, where she characterized the PNM as a “narco-party” in league with criminal elements.

    Addressing journalists at a press conference, Rowley expressed profound disappointment with what he termed “evidence-free allegations” from the sitting prime minister. The former PNM leader, who stepped down following his party’s electoral defeat in April 2025, emphasized his five-decade association with the party since 1974, including 15 years at its helm.

    “For 70 years, the PNM has participated in Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape both in government and opposition,” Rowley stated. “To suggest that Balisier House’s operations under my stewardship were funded by narco-terrorists represents a reckless disregard for truth.”

    Rowley drew parallels between Persad-Bissessar’s allegations and the treatment of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, suggesting the prime minister’s close alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump’s security policies could lead to similar extraterritorial actions against himself. He questioned whether the government’s participation in the U.S.-led Shield of Americas initiative – a multinational security pact established in March 2026 – effectively endorsed extrajudicial measures in anti-narcotics operations.

    The former prime minister raised grave concerns about the initiative’s implications for due process, noting that Guyana remains the only CARICOM member participating in the project. He referenced the Attorney General’s reported legal advice that lethal force could be employed against suspected traffickers without evidence gathering or judicial oversight.

    “This policy effectively permits our Coast Guard to eliminate suspected individuals based merely on suspicion, without any evidentiary requirements or legal proceedings,” Rowley warned. “Such approaches risk devastating our societal fabric and international standing.”