分类: politics

  • UDP Slams Briceño Over Crime, Redistricting Delays, and Rising Costs

    UDP Slams Briceño Over Crime, Redistricting Delays, and Rising Costs

    The United Democratic Party has launched a comprehensive assault on Prime Minister Johnny Briceño’s administration, citing multiple policy failures that are allegedly creating national hardship. Under the leadership of Chairwoman Sheena Pitts, the opposition party has articulated a detailed indictment of the government’s performance across several critical areas.

    Central to the UDP’s criticism is the escalating crime situation across Belize, which the party characterizes as a growing threat to public safety and national stability. The opposition has also condemned the administration’s delay in executing the constitutional redistricting exercise, despite affirming their fundamental support for the boundary revision process.

    Financial management has emerged as another major point of contention. The UDP highlighted the stagnant two-million-dollar People’s Constitution Commission Report, questioning the government’s commitment to constitutional reform after significant financial investment. Chairwoman Pitts further emphasized the crippling cost of living increases affecting Belizean families, noting that rising expenses extend beyond basic food items to encompass property taxes, utilities, and other essential services.

    The controversial Fortis energy acquisition received particular scrutiny, with the UDP warning about potential rate increases in telecommunications services should the deal proceed. The party leadership characterized the government’s approach as potentially ‘unlawful’ and dangerous for creating monopolistic market conditions.

    Additional economic concerns included persistently high fuel prices despite global market fluctuations and what the UDP described as excessive borrowing that places financial burden on Belizean citizens. The party’s comprehensive critique signals intensified political opposition as national challenges continue to mount.

  • Pitts Declares UDP Battle-Ready Under Panton

    Pitts Declares UDP Battle-Ready Under Panton

    In a forceful declaration of political readiness, United Democratic Party Chair Sheena Pitts has proclaimed the opposition party fully prepared for electoral combat under Tracy Panton’s leadership. Speaking on January 14, 2026, Pitts outlined the UDP’s comprehensive policy agenda centered on governmental accountability and transparency reforms.

    The UDP’s battle plan includes three cornerstone initiatives: advancing a robust Whistleblowers Act with substantial financial incentives, strengthening Freedom of Information legislation, and eliminating nepotistic appointments within government structures. Pitts revealed that the party has already engaged with business communities and financial stakeholders regarding these proposals.

    A particularly striking element involves the proposed Whistleblowers Act, which would offer six-figure awards to public service employees who expose governmental corruption. ‘That is what we mean by zero tolerance,’ Pitts emphasized. ‘We won’t just talk—we will implement concrete measures.’

    The UDP chair also addressed what she characterized as the current administration’s ‘rampant disregard’ for Freedom of Information requests, asserting that Belize’s anti-corruption mechanisms exist merely ‘on paper’ without proper implementation or enforcement. Pitts committed that a future UDP government would address these issues ‘in real time,’ positioning the party as fit, fine, and in fighting form to restore governmental integrity and international credibility.

  • Draft Bill and Policy Statement for the Decriminalisation of Cannabis in Grenada

    Draft Bill and Policy Statement for the Decriminalisation of Cannabis in Grenada

    The Caribbean nation of Grenada has taken a historic step toward drug policy reform with the publication of draft legislation to decriminalize cannabis. The Cannabis Legalisation and Regulation Secretariat has released the comprehensive Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Amendment Bill, 2026, scheduled for parliamentary consideration on Tuesday, January 20.

    The groundbreaking legislation establishes a carefully regulated framework that balances personal freedoms with public safety concerns. Under the proposed measures, adults aged 21 and above would be permitted to possess up to 56 grams of cannabis and 15 grams of resin without criminal penalty. The bill further acknowledges cultural and religious practices by creating legal protections for Rastafarian communities to use cannabis as a sacrament in registered places of worship.

    A significant social justice component mandates the expungement of past criminal records for minor cannabis offenses and immediately halts all pending court cases related to such charges. For young adults aged 18-20, the legislation replaces criminal prosecution with mandatory rehabilitation and counseling programs, preventing the creation of permanent criminal records.

    The bill introduces regulated domestic cultivation, allowing households to grow up to four cannabis plants for medicinal, therapeutic, or horticultural purposes. However, the legislation explicitly does not establish a fully legalized recreational market. Public consumption remains prohibited with fixed penalties of EC$300, and strict boundaries are established around educational institutions and public spaces.

    The framework includes robust protections for minors, maintaining strict prohibitions for anyone under 21 and imposing severe penalties on adults who involve young people in cannabis activities. The legislation is designed to pave the way for a comprehensive regulated cannabis industry while prioritizing public health and safety.

    The Cannabis Legalisation and Regulation Secretariat is soliciting public feedback on the draft legislation through their official email address before the parliamentary debate.

  • FLASH : Mgr. Dumas withdraws from the mediation process and explains his decision

    FLASH : Mgr. Dumas withdraws from the mediation process and explains his decision

    In a significant development within Haiti’s ongoing political crisis, Bishop Pierre-André Dumas of Anse-à-Veau and Miragoâne has formally withdrawn from his potential role as national mediator. The announcement came through an extensive statement released on social media platforms on January 14, 2025.

    The bishop, who also serves as Vice-President of the Haitian Episcopal Conference, clarified that his initial involvement stemmed from external requests by political coalitions, civil society organizations, and international figures rather than personal ambition. He emphasized that his participation was always conceived within a strictly pastoral context, aligned with Church teachings but not as an official representative of Haiti’s Conference of Bishops.

    Bishop Dumas articulated his philosophical approach to conflict resolution, referencing the Church’s ‘culture of encounter’ principle that emphasizes inclusive listening and dialogue without condemnation. His vision centered on creating spaces where constructive conversation could replace violence, though he explicitly denied any intention to develop political solutions directly.

    However, recent developments including misinformation campaigns, misinterpretations of his role, and apparent political manipulation have compelled his withdrawal. After consulting with advisors and engaging in spiritual reflection, the bishop determined that continued operational involvement would be counterproductive to the peace process.

    Notably, Bishop Dumas referenced personal physical scars from past violence as symbolic of Haiti’s broader wounds from internal divisions and fratricidal conflicts. Despite his withdrawal from formal mediation, he reaffirmed his unwavering belief in Haiti’s potential for renewal and called for authentic Haitian-led solutions faithful to the nation’s founding ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

    The bishop’s statement concludes with a powerful call to honor Haitian sovereignty while choosing responsibility and hope, maintaining his commitment to supporting dialogue and national reconstruction through spiritual rather than political channels.

  • Former DLP heavyweight Lashley flocks to Bees, seeks City nod

    Former DLP heavyweight Lashley flocks to Bees, seeks City nod

    In a significant realignment of Barbados’s political landscape, veteran attorney and former Democratic Labour Party (DLP) minister Michael Lashley has announced his bid for the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) nomination in The City of Bridgetown constituency. This development follows sitting MP Corey Lane’s confirmation that he will not contest the next general election, expected to be called imminently.

    Addressing supporters at the Pondside Bar on Wellington Street, Lashley acknowledged Lane’s contributions before formally declaring his intention to seek the nomination. “Corey Lane has resigned, and I must pay respect to the contribution he has made to the constituency,” Lashley stated, emphasizing that he only entered the race following Lane’s departure to respect the democratic process.

    The former housing minister, who represented St Philip North for 15 years under the DLP banner, outlined an ambitious platform focused on addressing Bridgetown’s most pressing challenges. Highlighting housing as a critical issue, Lashley pointed to his previous accomplishments: “As minister of housing, I engineered the land acquisition at Whitepark Road where completed units now house families. I also initiated the acquisition process at Mason Hall Street for 84 units, which will now receive attention from the National Housing Corporation.”

    Beyond housing, Lashley pledged to tackle waste management, youth unemployment, and educational deficiencies. His proposed initiatives include reintroducing a school breakfast program, creating specialized projects for elderly residents, and establishing mobile libraries alongside youth sports organizations. “Sometimes we have to put aside our differences,” Lashley emphasized. “It’s all hands on deck to work for the betterment of the country and for the betterment of The City.”

    The candidacy received immediate endorsement from Henderson Williams, who previously ran as the DLP’s Bridgetown candidate in 2018 before joining the BLP. Williams praised Lashley’s commitment to forming a council to manage the city’s diverse needs, noting that “every other parish comes into The City for some kind of support, which puts tremendous stress on the environment.”

    Political analyst Devaron Bruce characterized Lashley’s move as strategically significant, describing it as a reflection of the DLP’s diminished national standing. “This shows where the Democratic Labour Party stands nationally if they’re losing what would have been one of their few viable previous MPs,” Bruce observed. He noted that the BLP gains a figure with “national persona and identity in both the legal and political realm” without needing to disrupt existing constituency arrangements.

    With the nomination meeting scheduled for Saturday, Bruce concluded that Lashley’s extensive experience—including three elections to the House of Assembly and established legal reputation—positions him favorably against prospective DLP candidate Dale Rowe, characterizing the transition as “clean” from a party management standpoint.

  • Cabinet Brief Makes No Mention of BTL/SpeedNet Deal

    Cabinet Brief Makes No Mention of BTL/SpeedNet Deal

    The Belizean Cabinet’s official briefing document from its Tuesday session has generated significant attention due to a conspicuous omission—the complete absence of any reference to the proposed BTL/SpeedNet telecommunications acquisition. This high-profile deal has been at the center of intense public discourse and mounting questions regarding governmental transparency in recent weeks.

    While the Cabinet communiqué highlighted agricultural sector advancements—specifically the establishment of a National Cacao Committee designed to enhance international market compliance—it remained silent on the telecommunications matter that has dominated national conversation.

    The absence of the telecom deal from official records stands in stark contrast to the detailed coverage of agricultural initiatives. The approved cacao sector measures aim to bolster competitiveness through strategic implementation of international standards, yet the telecommunications industry continues operating without comparable regulatory oversight frameworks.

    Opposition Leader Tracy Panton addressed these transparency concerns during a Tuesday press briefing, emphasizing the critical need for robust competition laws. “Effective legislation must encourage market competition, which inherently drives innovation and creative solutions while ensuring consumers receive optimal services at fair pricing structures,” Panton stated.

    She acknowledged existing provisions within the Telecommunications Act that theoretically address anti-competitive practices but highlighted systemic issues: “The fundamental problem resides in the appointment process—the same government that constitutes BTL’s board simultaneously positions their associates within the Public Utilities Commission.”

    Panton concluded with a call for structural reform, insisting that statutory bodies and public boards must include formal opposition representation to ensure balanced governance and prevent conflicts of interest.

  • Symmonds: ‘Abundance of other avenues’ despite US visa halt

    Symmonds: ‘Abundance of other avenues’ despite US visa halt

    In a significant shift in immigration policy, the United States Department of State has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries worldwide. The sweeping measure, which takes effect next Wednesday, particularly impacts citizens from Barbados and most CARICOM (Caribbean Community) member states seeking permanent relocation to the US.

    The policy exemption applies to only three CARICOM nations: Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. The suspension encompasses numerous South American countries including Brazil and Colombia, alongside substantial portions of Africa.

    State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott clarified that the suspension stems from concerns that immigrants from these nations “take welfare from the American people at unacceptable rates.” The move utilizes longstanding “Public Charge” provisions within US immigration law, allowing authorities to deny entry to applicants deemed likely to become financial burdens on public resources.

    Barbados Foreign Minister Kerrie Symmonds addressed the development with measured diplomacy, acknowledging the US right to implement border regulations while reassuring Barbadians that the nation’s “highly regarded and globally respected” status provides alternative relocation opportunities. He emphasized that the suspension exclusively affects immigrant visas for permanent residency and employment, leaving non-immigrant categories such as tourist, student, and temporary work visas unchanged.

    The policy refinement follows increased scrutiny directives issued last year under the “public charge” provision, targeting individuals the administration believes might strain public resources. Historical immigration data indicates that while Caribbean immigrants demonstrate relatively high labor-force participation (approximately 67%, exceeding the US-born rate), households headed by Caribbean immigrants show elevated welfare usage at about 51% compared to 30% for native households.

    Notably, Barbados distinguishes itself through its migration patterns and policy approach. Unlike some regional neighbors identified as significant sources of economically vulnerable migrant populations, Barbados and Eastern Caribbean states typically experience skilled, tertiary-educated emigration. Barbados has further differentiated itself by rejecting Citizenship by Investment programs in favor of a reputation-sensitive approach to citizenship and residency.

  • SVG not notified of changes in US visa policy – Bramble

    SVG not notified of changes in US visa policy – Bramble

    Multiple Caribbean nations find themselves in a state of diplomatic uncertainty following widespread media reports indicating the United States has suspended immigrant visa processing for their citizens. The development emerged through international news channels rather than official diplomatic channels, creating confusion among affected nations.

    Foreign Minister Fitzgerald Bramble of St. Vincent and the Grenadines confirmed Wednesday that his government had received no formal notification from US authorities regarding any visa policy changes. Despite multiple international news organizations, including CNN, reporting that SVG and several other Caribbean countries were among 75 nations facing immigrant visa processing suspensions, official confirmation remains absent.

    “We have not been officially informed by the US embassy in Barbados to the Eastern Caribbean nor any other US government official,” Minister Bramble stated through the state-owned Agency for Public Information. He acknowledged awareness of media reports but emphasized that his administration was actively seeking clarification through both the US Embassy in Barbados and SVG’s embassy in Washington, DC.

    The reported policy would specifically target immigrant visas, including those for employment or family reunification purposes, while excluding non-immigrant categories such as tourist and student visas. According to media sources, the suspension is scheduled to take effect on January 21 as part of the Trump administration’s ongoing immigration crackdown.

    CARICOM members reportedly affected include Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Notably exempted from the list are Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.

    Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, provided additional context after making direct inquiries with State Department officials. He revealed that the measure under consideration would involve a temporary pause of up to sixty days for immigrant visa applications while vetting procedures undergo review, contradicting some media reports that suggested broader restrictions.

    The ambassador emphasized that individual countries have no administrative role in US immigration decisions, characterizing the matter as exclusively between applicants and US authorities. Meanwhile, the Gaston Browne administration continues diplomatic efforts to remove Antigua and Barbuda from various US visa restriction lists, including requirements for certain applicants to post bonds.

    State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott characterized the move as preventing “abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people.” The reported expansion of immigration restrictions would additionally affect countries including Somalia, Russia, and Iran, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

  • Cabinet Doesn’t Have Full Details of BTL/SpeedNet Deal

    Cabinet Doesn’t Have Full Details of BTL/SpeedNet Deal

    BELIZE CITY – A significant transparency crisis has emerged within the Belizean government regarding the proposed acquisition of telecommunications provider SpeedNet by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). Immigration Minister Kareem Musa confirmed to press on Monday that Cabinet members have not received comprehensive briefings on the agreement, despite months of closed-door negotiations.

    The controversy deepened when Opposition Leader Tracy Panton revealed during a Tuesday press briefing that the proposal had never undergone formal Cabinet discussion. More alarmingly, Panton disclosed that the arrangement had not been ‘fully disclosed to the members of the BTL board,’ raising serious questions about governance protocols.

    Although Cabinet convened on Tuesday, reliable sources indicate the matter received only peripheral attention during discussions. Panton challenged the procedural irregularities surrounding the major national decision, emphasizing that while investment remains welcome, it cannot come at the expense of governmental transparency.

    The Opposition Leader highlighted BTL’s constitutional status as a public institution, thereby mandating rigorous public scrutiny of any significant operational changes. ‘At whatever point this country decides that consolidation serves its best interest… it will require certain non-negotiables,’ Panton asserted, adding that ‘the people must decide, not a government, or six people in a room.’

    When questioned whether her position opposed the acquisition itself or merely its opaque handling, Panton clarified her party’s stance: ‘We do not support this deal. We don’t even have information available to us to say yes or no.’ This statement underscores the complete information vacuum surrounding the proposed merger, leaving parliamentarians unable to conduct proper due diligence on the arrangement’s national implications.

  • Somohardjo: OCER-terrein NDP deels uitgegeven in vorige periode

    Somohardjo: OCER-terrein NDP deels uitgegeven in vorige periode

    A significant land management scandal has emerged in Suriname, revealing that a portion of the National Democratic Party (NDP) party grounds operated by Stichting Ontspanningscentrum Eerste Rijweg (OCER) was unlawfully allocated during the previous government term. This finding comes from an official investigation conducted by the Ministry of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB).

    Assembly Member Bronto Somohardjo, who chairs the GBB’s permanent committee, provided documented evidence to substantiate these claims. The disputed property has been legally leased to OCER since 1991 for social and recreational purposes. According to cadastral maps and official registrations, the allocated parcel was not state-owned domain land but fell entirely within an existing land lease right.

    The Land Survey Service’s conclusion is unequivocal: the allocation was legally incorrect. Somohardjo disclosed that over recent months, he has been approached by hundreds of citizens and organizations who had completely lost confidence in the land management system. These individuals presented concrete cases with requests for official verification of what had actually occurred.

    “These were not mere stories or rumors,” Somohardjo emphasized. “People came forward with documents in hand, stating: ‘Check this for us because we no longer trust the system.’ I take such concerns seriously.”

    The OCER case confirms what many citizens have experienced for years, according to Somohardjo. “If even OCER wasn’t safe, then no one was safe during that period. That’s the harsh reality we must face.” He noted that rules provided no protection, and people who believed their rights were secure could still lose them, causing profound damage to public trust in government.

    However, Somohardjo highlighted that a different approach now prevails. “What matters to me is that complaints today aren’t dismissed. They’re investigated. This isn’t an easy path and progress can be challenging, but it’s the correct approach.”

    The politician pointed out that the GBB ministry has since addressed and resolved multiple stalled cases. Despite significant backlogs and complex problems, progress is being made step by step toward restoring legal certainty.

    “People no longer need to fear that their property might simply disappear,” Somohardjo stated. “Those who come forward today will be heard. As long as I bear responsibility, I will ensure that rules provide protection rather than uncertainty.”