Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Jarbandhan vraagt president om uitleg over forse prijsstijgingen

    Jarbandhan vraagt president om uitleg over forse prijsstijgingen

    VHP Assembly Member Ameerani Jarbandhan has formally requested President Jennifer Simons to provide clarifications regarding Suriname’s alarming surge in consumer prices, as documented in recent statistical reports. In an official correspondence dated December 1st, the parliamentarian cited data from the General Statistics Bureau (ABS) revealing that retail prices in October 2025 were 11.9% higher compared to the same period in 2024.

    The statistical breakdown reveals particularly dramatic increases in specific sectors: (para)medical services experienced an unprecedented 115.7% price surge, while goods and services collectively rose by 21.5%. Children’s clothing prices increased by 20.2%, followed closely by bread, rolls, and snacks at 19.9%. Transportation services climbed by 15.3%, with housing, maintenance, repairs, and utilities rising by 14.6%.

    Jarbandhan emphasized the continuous nature of these price escalations and their direct impact on household economies and societal welfare. She notably contrasted the current figures with May 2025’s 5.6% year-over-year inflation rate, highlighting the accelerated pace of recent economic deterioration.

    The assembly member posed three critical questions to the president:

    1. Root Cause Analysis: Jarbandhan seeks clarification regarding the fundamental drivers behind the recent inflationary spike, specifically requesting input from the Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation.

    2. Economic Impact Assessment: She questions whether the government acknowledges that current currency devaluation effectively constitutes ‘purchasing power theft’ that undermines citizen economic stability.

    3. Policy Response: The legislator demands details about concrete measures the administration plans to implement to prevent further price increases and stabilize the economic situation.

    Copies of the formal inquiry have been concurrently delivered to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation for coordinated response.

  • Casimir breaks two-decade pattern, wins Gros Islet by record margin

    Casimir breaks two-decade pattern, wins Gros Islet by record margin

    In an unprecedented electoral triumph, Gros Islet has returned Kenson Casimir of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) to parliament with a record-breaking margin of victory. Official results confirm Casimir secured 8,175 votes, surpassing United Workers Party (UWP) challenger Marcella Johnson by 4,314 votes—the largest victory margin in the constituency’s history and the first back-to-back win since Mario Michel’s tenure (1997-2006).

    The landmark result came during Saint Lucia’s December 1 general election that saw the SLP secure 14 parliamentary seats alongside two independents and UWP leader Allen Chastanet. Casimir’s victory speech, broadcast via livestream as he toured the celebrating constituency, acknowledged the historic nature of the mandate: “Thank you for making history today! A margin of over 4,000 votes—never before in Saint Lucia’s history.”

    His opponent, Marcella Johnson, conceded gracefully in a social media statement, reflecting that while unsuccessful, her campaign had built “something far greater than a simple victory or defeat.” She extended sincere well-wishes to Casimir, expressing hopes that “God guide your decisions, strengthen your purpose and bless your service to Gros Islet.”

    The electoral outcome followed Casimir’s first term that delivered substantial infrastructure improvements including upgraded sporting facilities (Baba Lastic Grounds, Monchy playing field), road repairs, bus shelters, a new commercial center, expanded Gros Islet Polyclinic, Police Headquarters construction, and the Gros Islet Beach Park development. The constituency has also attracted significant tourism investment, notably the A’ila Resorts project.

    Campaign debates centered on traffic congestion along Rodney Bay Highway and rising living costs, with Johnson pledging coastal reconstruction to stimulate business activity. Casimir faced—and denied—opposition allegations regarding real estate acquisitions, dismissing them as a “smear campaign.” His platform emphasized continuing development initiatives, with major road works and dual-carriage expansions scheduled to address the rapidly growing district’s congestion issues.

  • Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Greater Hotel Cooperation Ahead of CHOGM 2026

    Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Greater Hotel Cooperation Ahead of CHOGM 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene has issued a stern directive to hospitality industry leaders, demanding closer collaboration with government planners for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The minister’s remarks came during a National Task Force assembly on Tuesday, where he confronted concerning reports about accommodation sector practices.

    Minister Greene addressed what government officials characterize as unreasonable demands from certain hotel operators, alongside plans for substantial room rate increases during the international summit. He explicitly condemned these approaches as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that such tactics undermine national interests. The government’s ongoing efforts to secure major international events ultimately generate substantial revenue for the hospitality industry, creating a symbiotic relationship that requires responsible cooperation.

    “Government is the entity attracting thousands of visitors who will fill those rooms,” Greene stated, framing CHOGM as a national endeavor rather than a political event. He articulated the sector’s obligation to support this collective effort, asserting that hoteliers must contribute actively to ensuring the summit’s success rather than pursuing short-term profit maximization.

    Scheduled for November 1-4, 2026, CHOGM is projected to draw between 5,000 and 7,000 distinguished visitors to Antigua and Barbuda. The anticipated attendees include numerous heads of government, high-ranking officials, and representatives from various royal families, marking one of the most significant international gatherings in the nation’s recent history.

  • Former SVG PM Ralph Gonsalves to attend Pierre’s swearing-in

    Former SVG PM Ralph Gonsalves to attend Pierre’s swearing-in

    In a significant display of regional political unity, former Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves has formally accepted an invitation to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister-elect Philip J. Pierre. This confirmation follows the decisive victory of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) in the December 1 general election, where they secured a commanding 14-1 parliamentary majority.

    The invitation was extended personally during a conversation between the two leaders, as documented in a public Facebook post by Gonsalves. “This morning, I spoke with my brother and comrade, Hon. Philip J Pierre,” Gonsalves stated. “In conversation, Philip extended an invitation, which I’ve accepted, to be at his swearing in ceremony on Friday December 5th. Labour stays together!”

    The ceremony will mark a historic moment for Pierre, who has now achieved a record seventh consecutive term as Member of Parliament for Castries East. Following his electoral triumph, Pierre addressed supporters from his constituency office in Marchand, striking a tone of gratitude and forward-looking determination. He specifically acknowledged the “special relationship” with his constituents that made this victory possible.

    While celebrating the overwhelming mandate, Prime Minister Pierre immediately shifted focus to governance priorities. He announced immediate plans including a VAT-free day and back pay for civil servants, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to economic relief measures. In a gesture of political reconciliation, Pierre also extended congratulations to United Workers Party leader Allen Chastanet, who emerged as his party’s sole successful candidate.

    The new administration is expected to be formally sworn in by week’s end, with a complete Cabinet implementation anticipated by next week as the country moves forward on what Pierre described as “the right trajectory.”

  • Govt to reform expungement law, allowing ‘clean slate’ after 15 years

    Govt to reform expungement law, allowing ‘clean slate’ after 15 years

    The Barbadian government has unveiled sweeping reforms to its criminal rehabilitation system, introducing legislation that would permit offenders who have remained crime-free for 15 years to have their convictions expunged—regardless of their original sentence length. Attorney General Dale Marshall presented the Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) (Amendment) Bill in Parliament on Tuesday, marking a significant shift in the nation’s approach to criminal justice and societal reintegration.

    The proposed framework establishes tiered rehabilitation periods: one year for non-custodial sentences, five years for prison terms of 1-5 years, ten years for sentences of 5-7 years, and a uniform 15-year threshold for all lengthier incarcerations. This revolutionary approach means even individuals who served decades in prison could qualify for record clearance after maintaining a clean record for 15 years post-release.

    However, the legislation maintains permanent ineligibility for severe crimes including murder, rape, treason, child exploitation offenses, terrorism-related acts, and firearms violations. Attorney General Marshall emphatically stated: “Our capacity for forgiveness does not run that far when it comes to firearm offenses. We must send a clear message about the seriousness of these crimes.”

    The proposed bill will undergo extensive public consultation through the Select Committee on Governance and Social Policy. Marshall emphasized this participatory approach: “We recognize that Parliament must engage in sensible dialogue with our citizens on transformative legislation of this nature.”

    Since initial reforms took effect in 2021, the system has processed 246 expungement applications, with 136 approved, 73 deferred due to documentation issues, and 22 denied. Marshall expressed particular concern about employment barriers faced by rehabilitated individuals, noting historical limitations that confined them to casual labor positions regardless of their rehabilitation efforts.

    The Attorney General clarified that the system offers no second chances for repeat offenders: “If the state provides this mechanism and you reoffend, you cannot return seeking the same generosity.” The government’s position is that sustained law-abiding behavior represents the primary evidence of rehabilitation when no objective measurement exists.

  • Prime Minister Gaston Browne Reaffirms Full Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty Over Its Sahara

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne Reaffirms Full Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty Over Its Sahara

    At the prominent MEDays Forum in Tangier, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne delivered a significant endorsement of Morocco’s territorial sovereignty. The Caribbean leader expressed firm support for Morocco’s position regarding the Sahara, aligning his nation with a recent United Nations Security Council resolution that affirms the credibility of the Kingdom’s autonomy initiative.

    Prime Minister Browne characterized the UN resolution as a landmark development that substantially reinforces Morocco’s international standing and legitimizes its governance approach. He specifically praised the leadership of King Mohammed VI, whom he described as possessing exceptional vision among developing world leaders, crediting the monarch’s guidance for Morocco’s regional influence.

    Beyond territorial matters, Browne highlighted the strengthening bilateral relationship between Morocco and Antigua and Barbuda, noting that their partnership is founded on mutual respect and shared principles of sovereignty. He identified Morocco’s advancements in renewable energy, agricultural development, and African diplomacy as particularly valuable models for island nations seeking sustainable development pathways.

    The Caribbean leader also commended the MEDays Forum itself as a crucial international platform for substantive geopolitical discussion. In his concluding remarks, Browne emphasized that the UN resolution merely formalizes what many international observers already recognized: Morocco’s role as a stabilizing force committed to dialogue and progressive development across Africa and the Arab world.

  • Prime Minister Meets Global Call Finalists to Discuss Innovative Project Proposals

    Prime Minister Meets Global Call Finalists to Discuss Innovative Project Proposals

    The Prime Minister’s Office of Antigua and Barbuda convened a strategic session today with ten distinguished finalists from the UN-Government Global Call for Project Pitches initiative. These innovators are currently participating in a Proof-of-Concept Workshop on the island, presenting groundbreaking proposals designed to enhance sustainable development and national resilience.

    During the high-level meeting, the Prime Minister conveyed profound admiration for the exceptional creativity and technical sophistication evident in the submissions. He specifically praised the finalists’ dedication to confronting pressing national challenges including food security systems, climate adaptation strategies, and economic diversification efforts.

    In his official address, the Prime Minister remarked: ‘The exceptional quality of these visionary proposals has left me genuinely inspired. They embody the innovative spirit and progressive mindset essential for our region’s prosperity within an increasingly dynamic global landscape. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all finalists as they advance to the subsequent stage of this critical undertaking.’

    The Prime Minister singled out several particularly promising proposals for potential national implementation:

    – Mushroom Production Expansion: An agricultural initiative focused on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women and youth through scaled fungal cultivation.

    – Integrated Waste-to-Energy Framework: A circular economy model addressing waste management challenges while enhancing energy security through resource-efficient conversion processes.

    – Solar Agricultural System: A hybrid hydroponic and aeroponic farming solution powered entirely by solar energy and managed through sophisticated data analytics ecosystems.

    – Fisheries Enhancement and Sargassum Reduction: An innovative approach utilizing specialized fish food formulations to support marine ecosystem health while mitigating sargassum seaweed accumulation.

    – BEACON Coastal Protection Project: A cutting-edge engineering solution designed to address the critical Codrington Lagoon Barrier breach using advanced technological interventions.

    The Government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting initiatives that directly align with both national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals framework.

  • PM Pierre relieved at general election victory

    PM Pierre relieved at general election victory

    CASTRIES, St. Lucia – The St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has achieved a resounding victory in Monday’s general election, securing a second consecutive five-year term in government. Preliminary results indicate the party has surpassed its previous 13-2 parliamentary majority from the 2021 elections, firmly rejecting the regional trend of victories by parties associated with the color yellow.

    Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre, addressing jubilant supporters, praised the maturity of St. Lucian democracy following what he characterized as a peaceful and violence-free electoral process. The 71-year-old leader specifically thanked party members, constituency workers, and the electorate for their tireless efforts in achieving this political triumph.

    The main opposition United Workers Party (UWP), led by Allen Chastanet, suffered a devastating defeat with initial results suggesting the former prime minister would be the party’s sole parliamentary representative. Prime Minister Pierre extended congratulations to his political opponent, emphasizing the importance of maintaining democratic traditions through an effective opposition presence.

    The election campaign was notably contentious, with the UWP focusing allegations of corruption and mismanagement against the SLP administration. Particular scrutiny was directed at the government’s handling of the Citizenship by Investment program and allegations against Deputy Prime Minister Ernest Hilaire, though these were dismissed earlier this year by the Caribbean Court of Justice.

    Independent candidates supported by the SLP, including government ministers Stephenson King and Richard Frederick, secured decisive victories in their constituencies. The National Congress Party and other independent contenders failed to gain significant traction, losing their electoral deposits.

    International observation missions from the Organization of American States and CARICOM monitored the electoral process, which was called nearly a year ahead of the constitutional deadline. Prime Minister Pierre indicated he would be formally sworn in later this week, with cabinet announcements expected next week.

  • Dag 2: Koningspaar bezoekt jeugd, onderwijs, buurtwerk en bedrijfsleven

    Dag 2: Koningspaar bezoekt jeugd, onderwijs, buurtwerk en bedrijfsleven

    King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands continued their state visit to Suriname on Tuesday with a focus on youth engagement, cultural preservation, and bilateral cooperation. The second day of their diplomatic mission featured visits to key institutions demonstrating the nations’ shared commitment to education, innovation, and sustainable development.

    The royal itinerary began at Villa Zapakara Children’s Museum, where the monarchs and President Jennifer Simons explored interactive exhibitions blending art, culture, and education. The royal participants engaged in workshops including music production and video creation while learning about Javanese cultural elements such as gamelan music, batik art, poco-poco dance, and traditional cuisine. Director Coco Duivenvoorde emphasized the institution’s role in connecting youth with cultural heritage and global citizenship.

    At the Natural Technical Institute (NATIN), the delegation witnessed Suriname’s advancements in vocational education. Minister Dirk Currie highlighted the critical importance of technical training for developing nations during a tour of modern facilities featuring process technology and electrical engineering simulation equipment supported by oil companies including Staatsolie. The visit featured presentations from Hackathon Deltares participants developing solutions for climate resilience and water management, alongside Anton de Kom University students showcasing food security innovations from the WUR 2025 Food Systems Innovation Challenge.

    A significant milestone emerged with the launch of the Netherlands-Suriname Educational Cooperation Platform, formalizing collaboration between vocational, higher education, and university institutions through joint projects, exchanges, and research initiatives stemming from the 2023 Memorandum of Understanding.

    The royal couple subsequently visited Stibula community center in Latour, where coordinator Wilgo Koster demonstrated decades-long social programs operating without government subsidies. The center provides safe spaces for sports, cultural activities, and theater productions for both youth and seniors.

    At Fernandes Bottling Company, the monarchs examined production methodologies and quality control systems during a facility tour highlighting 45 years of Dutch partnership. Sustainability took center stage through discussions about the FUSE Kitchen project—a mobile mini-factory converting plastic waste into construction materials—developed in collaboration with green technology firm Great Plastic Bake Off to reduce pollution while creating local recycling employment.

    The day concluded with a CEO Roundtable addressing economic cooperation, investment climate improvement, talent development, workforce capacity building, and sustainable economic transition, followed by a gratitude concert featuring Dutch artist Sabrina Starke at Thalia Theater.

  • U.S. halts citizenship and residency applications for Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, and 16 others

    U.S. halts citizenship and residency applications for Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, and 16 others

    The Trump administration has implemented a significant suspension of residency permit and citizenship application processing for migrants from 19 countries, marking a substantial escalation in its hardline immigration agenda. This policy specifically targets Cuba, Haiti, and Venezuela while encompassing numerous other nations previously subject to travel restrictions.

    The suspension comes amid heightened tensions with Venezuela, following an unprecedented U.S. military deployment to the Caribbean that Washington claims targets drug trafficking operations. Venezuelan authorities contend the military movement represents an attempted overthrow of President Nicolás Maduro’s government.

    Cuba continues to operate under longstanding U.S. embargo restrictions, while Haiti faces severe humanitarian crises exacerbated by widespread gang violence, making the immigration suspension particularly consequential for citizens of these nations.

    According to an official memorandum obtained by AFP, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has halted processing of green cards and naturalization applications for individuals from countries already subject to expanded travel restrictions implemented in June. The comprehensive list includes Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Eritrea, Equatorial Guinea, Iran, Laos, Libya, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Yemen alongside the three Latin American nations.

    The policy shift follows the fatal shooting of two National Guard members near the White House, with the suspect identified as an Afghan national who entered during the 2021 mass evacuations. Senior administration officials have cited this incident to justify enhanced vetting procedures, emphasizing USCIS’s critical role in preventing potential terrorists from entering the country.

    The memorandum explicitly states that national security considerations must take precedence in all screening and adjudication processes, warning that inadequate vetting could endanger American citizens. This position aligns with President Trump’s campaign promise to implement mass deportations and his November 26 declaration to ‘permanently pause immigration from all Third World countries’ to allow systemic recovery.

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has concurrently advocated for expanding the list of restricted countries, utilizing inflammatory rhetoric on social media platforms to justify implementing stricter immigration bans.