Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Thompson ‘baffled’ as official results show 4,000 voters stayed home

    Thompson ‘baffled’ as official results show 4,000 voters stayed home

    Election officials in The Bahamas expressed profound puzzlement at the strikingly low voter participation during Monday’s Golden Isles by-election, where official data revealed more than 4,000 registered voters abstained from casting ballots. Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson disclosed that merely 3,884 individuals exercised their democratic right despite a constituency registry of 7,926 eligible voters.

    The electoral outcome saw Progressive Liberal Party candidate Darron Pickstock secure victory with 1,873 votes, followed by Free National Movement contender Brian Brown with 1,637 votes. Brian Rolle of the Coalition of Independents garnered 352 votes, while independent candidate Karen Butler received 16 votes, with six ballots invalidated as spoiled.

    This alarming voter disengagement has triggered concerns across political establishments and electoral observers. Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard acknowledged his party’s need to intensify voter mobilization efforts, while PLP insiders expressed apprehension about potential implications for the approaching general election.

    Commissioner Thompson suggested the proximity of expected national elections might have diminished voter motivation for this interim contest. Historical patterns indicate governing parties typically perform strongly in Bahamian by-elections, with the PLP having dominated most such contests since independence.

    The electoral atmosphere intensified when former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham predicted prior to the vote that a PLP victory would precipitate an early general election, potentially by March, while a loss would cause the governing party to ‘stench’—presumably meaning stall or become stagnant.

    Post-election developments show increased activity at satellite registration stations nationwide, though Thompson anticipates minimal impact on overall registration numbers given the existing national registry has surpassed 196,000—an all-time high. Simultaneously, authorities continue urging residents to verify information for newly implemented biometric identification cards.

    With Golden Isles and Killarney maintaining their status as the most populous constituencies, and Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis having previously supported boundary adjustments to balance voter distribution rather than create new seats, Thompson confirmed his department stands prepared to implement whatever changes the electoral commission may recommend.

  • Serve citizens, not silence the critics

    Serve citizens, not silence the critics

    The recent uproar involving allegations against the family of St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and the social media assertions made by Minister Anil Roberts highlights a critical issue that goes beyond individual political figures – the fundamental responsibility of governance and its true focus. Governments are established to serve their citizens, ensuring justice, stability, economic advancement, and overall well-being. When governance deviates from addressing national priorities to engaging in personal disputes or political distractions, it undermines public trust and weakens democratic foundations. Defensive reactions to criticism, rather than transparent engagement, signal insecurity and discourage dissent. This environment fosters fear, stifling voices from citizens, journalists, and civil society who seek to address pressing issues. Such a climate borders on tyranny, where freedom of expression is curtailed, and governance becomes self-serving rather than people-centric. The core focus of any government should remain on essential pillars of national development: education, healthcare, housing, security, economic growth, and social justice. Citizens demand action on critical challenges like unemployment, cost of living, crime, and infrastructure, not distractions from political feuds or media battles. Leadership must exhibit composure and clarity of purpose, rising above personal affronts to prioritize the improvement of citizens’ lives. It is imperative for governments in Trinidad and Tobago and across the region to refocus their efforts on governance that fosters confidence and unity. Transparency, accountability, and respect for diverse opinions must guide public discourse. When controversies overshadow progress and personality clashes replace policy, it is the people who suffer. If controversy is used to mask inefficiency or divert attention from unresolved national issues, it is the duty of citizens, media, and civil society to demand a return to focus. True leadership is not threatened by criticism but strengthened by it. Governance is about fulfilling public trust, not protecting personal interests. It is time for governments to rise above the noise and recommit to the service, development, and empowerment of their people.

  • Mitchell tells diplomats to do the ‘honourable thing’ as Fox confirms election bid

    Mitchell tells diplomats to do the ‘honourable thing’ as Fox confirms election bid

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell has delivered a forceful declaration regarding diplomatic conduct, asserting that ambassadors unable to fully endorse the government’s mandate should recognize their appropriate course of action. The statement arrives amid Ambassador-at-Large Rick Fox’s declared intentions to pursue elected office while maintaining his diplomatic position.

    Minister Mitchell emphasized established diplomatic conventions requiring all ambassadors to submit resignations following the confirmation of a new administration, regardless of whether the incumbent party retains power. He characterized this protocol as neither novel nor exceptional within international diplomatic practice.

    ‘An ambassador represents the government, its policies, and its positions abroad,’ Mitchell stated in an official communication. ‘Should any ambassador find themselves incapable of faithfully executing this mandate due to ideological disagreements with the appointing authority, the honorable path forward is self-evident. No explicit directive is necessary; honorable individuals inherently understand the required actions in such circumstances.’

    The minister simultaneously addressed what he termed ‘baseless and damaging’ allegations from Opposition Leader Michael Pintard concerning passport administration and Bahamasair operations. Mitchell dismissed these claims as demonstrably false and counterproductive to national interests.

    ‘A particular public official persists in circulating claims that have been thoroughly disproven,’ Mitchell continued. ‘This conduct benefits neither the public, the nation, nor the individual involved. It merely erodes institutional trust and generates unwarranted confusion. These activities should terminate immediately.’

    The ruling Progressive Liberal Party has formally challenged Pintard to either produce substantiating evidence for his allegations or retract them entirely. Mitchell reinforced that his ministry remains dedicated to fulfilling its governmental responsibilities while maintaining the high standards expected by Bahamian citizens.

  • Power play

    Power play

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago showcased her diplomatic finesse during a high-profile meeting with General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s on November 25. The encounter, marked by warm smiles and symbolic gestures, underscored the growing alliance between the two nations. While the specifics of their two-hour discussion remain undisclosed, the optics of the meeting conveyed a clear message of mutual collaboration and strategic alignment. This visit followed Persad-Bissessar’s earlier engagement with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 30, where discussions centered on the revival of the Dragon gas project. For General Caine, the stopover in Trinidad and Tobago served as a subtle yet pointed signal to Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, emphasizing the US’s presence in the region. The official statement from the US Embassy highlighted shared objectives in combating illicit activities, though the language left room for interpretation. Notably, General Caine’s appointment by President Trump earlier this year broke from traditional military protocols, adding an air of intrigue to his role. Amid ongoing debates about the legality of US military operations, Persad-Bissessar’s enthusiastic embrace of this diplomatic engagement reflects her strategic positioning on the global stage.

  • JLP scraps annual conference for 2025

    JLP scraps annual conference for 2025

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In an unprecedented move signaling a shift from decades of political tradition, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has officially called off its scheduled 2025 Annual Conference. The decision emerged from a unanimous vote during the party’s Standing Committee assembly on November 18, as confirmed by Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, Chairman of the JLP Communication Taskforce.

    The resolution will proceed to the JLP’s Central Executive for final ratification at their December 7 convening. This marks the first cancellation of the party’s hallmark November event in recent history, breaking with customary political gatherings that typically serve as platforms for policy announcements and membership mobilization.

    Senior party representatives emphasize that this strategic reallocation of resources stems from the urgent need to address Jamaica’s recovery trajectory in Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath. The catastrophic weather event inflicted substantial damage across the island nation, compelling a unified governmental and societal response.

    Rather than channeling funds and organizational energy into conference preparations, the JLP will pivot全部 focus toward disaster relief initiatives, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community support programs. The party’s leadership asserts that national rebuilding efforts must take precedence over political ceremonies during this critical recovery period, demonstrating institutional adaptability in times of crisis.

  • Stop car ownership double standards

    Stop car ownership double standards

    In a recent letter to the editor, Lyndon De Gannes addresses the ongoing debate surrounding affordable cars and public transportation. He critiques the elitist notion that ordinary citizens must choose between owning a vehicle and relying on public transit. This perspective, he argues, is both absurd and counterproductive. De Gannes highlights the recent measures introduced by Ministers Satyakama Maharaj and Eli Zakour to make vehicles more affordable, a policy long championed by the UNC. Instead of welcoming this relief for middle- and lower-income families, critics have raised objections, often from the comfort of their luxury vehicles. De Gannes emphasizes that affordable cars and efficient public transport are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many developed countries successfully integrate both systems, allowing citizens to enjoy the benefits of personal mobility and mass transit. He points out that under the previous PNM government, citizens faced a lose-lose situation: vehicles became more expensive, and public transportation deteriorated. De Gannes argues that owning a car provides essential freedom and dignity, enabling families to transport elderly parents, children, and groceries with ease. It also empowers small entrepreneurs who rely on mobility for their livelihoods. He calls for an end to the elitist treatment of affordable cars and supports Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s efforts to create a win-win system that improves the quality of life for all citizens.

  • PM: US Marines improving radar surveillance in Tobago

    PM: US Marines improving radar surveillance in Tobago

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has confirmed the presence of United States military personnel in Tobago, characterizing their mission as technical assistance for radar surveillance enhancement at the island’s airport. The disclosure came during a media interaction following a laptop distribution event at Penal Secondary School on November 27.

    Persad-Bissessar clarified that US Marines are actively supporting improvements to runway infrastructure and radar capabilities at the Arthur NR Robinson International Airport. ‘They will help us to improve our surveillance and intelligence we gather…the narco traffickers in our waters and outside our waters,’ the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing the counter-narcotics focus of the cooperation.

    This development forms part of broader US military activities across the southern Caribbean initiated in August, which initially involved three guided missile destroyers and has since expanded to include nuclear submarines, amphibious assault vessels, and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford with its strike group. The 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit recently conducted joint exercises with Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force personnel.

    The military cooperation occurs under the framework of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed between both nations in December, facilitating bilateral military coordination. Persad-Bissessar explicitly denied any offensive intentions toward Venezuela, asserting, ‘Trinidad has not been asked to be a base for any war against Venezuela.’

    This stance has generated significant political controversy domestically and regionally. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has filed a motion condemning the Prime Minister’s statements as ‘inflammatory’ and damaging to Trinidad and Tobago’s international standing. The motion calls for reaffirmation of commitment to CARICOM and international law.

    Persad-Bissessar’s position notably diverges from the traditional CARICOM consensus maintaining the Caribbean as a zone of peace, placing her at odds with regional leaders including Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. The Prime Minister has additionally predicted potential CARICOM fragmentation, alleging interference by regional leaders in member states’ elections—a claim particularly directed at Gonsalves regarding upcoming elections in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

  • Sands claims 3,000 voters ‘unlocatable’ in Golden Isles due to outdated register

    Sands claims 3,000 voters ‘unlocatable’ in Golden Isles due to outdated register

    Political tensions are escalating in The Bahamas as the nation anticipates the forthcoming Boundaries Commission report, with Free National Movement (FNM) chairman Dr. Duane Sands expressing expectations that any constituency revisions will likely favor the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). Dr. Sands remarked that while gerrymandering has historically proven ineffective in the Bahamian political landscape, he remains unconcerned about potential adjustments, stating, “Let them do what they will—it ain’t gonna change anything.” He did caution, however, that boundary modifications typically create advantages for some at the expense of others.

    The Golden Isles constituency, which recently held a by-election, along with Killarney, are anticipated to undergo significant redistricting. Prime Minister Philip Davis had previously identified these areas as requiring careful examination back in 2021 while serving as opposition leader.

    When questioned whether the recent by-election outcome—where PLP candidate Darron Pickstock defeated FNM’s Brian Brown—might influence boundary decisions, Dr. Sands declined to speculate, emphasizing that the FNM would await the official report before formulating their response.

    The FNM chairman also addressed concerns regarding the report’s release timeline, noting that the prime minister retains sole discretion over its presentation—a power Dr. Sands characterized as a “trump card” historically employed by sitting leaders. He criticized this arrangement as contrary to the Bahamian people’s best interests and advocated for fixed election dates, pledging that an FNM administration under Michael Pintard would implement such electoral reforms.

    Despite the by-election loss, Dr. Sands expressed satisfaction with Mr. Brown’s performance and expressed confidence in his prospects during the general election, whenever it may occur.

    Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper dismissed suggestions that low voter turnout diminished the legitimacy of the PLP’s by-election victory. With approximately 3,000 of 7,900 registered voters participating, Mr. Cooper asserted that eligible Golden Isles residents had clearly selected Mr. Pickstock as their representative for the coming months. He interpreted the result as demonstrating confidence in both the PLP leadership and their candidate, noting that Mr. Pickstock secured over 50 percent of the official vote.

  • Montague, church leaders discuss land titling and adverse possession issues

    Montague, church leaders discuss land titling and adverse possession issues

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark move to address systemic property rights challenges, the Jamaican government has initiated a collaborative partnership with religious institutions through high-level consultations with the Jamaica Umbrella Group of Churches (JUGC). The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development (MEGID) is spearheading this initiative to streamline land titling processes and resolve complex adverse possession issues affecting faith-based organizations nationwide.

    The strategic dialogue was chaired by Minister Robert Montague, who holds portfolio responsibility for land titling and settlements. He was accompanied by senior technical experts from the National Land Agency (NLA) and representatives from the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, which maintains oversight of faith-based institutions.

    Minister Montague articulated the government’s ambitious vision of achieving comprehensive land ownership documentation across Jamaica. “Our objective is to secure legal titles for 100 percent of lands nationwide,” Montague stated. “This collaboration is essential as churches have historically served as pillars within their communities for generations. They warrant an unambiguous, economically feasible, and streamlined pathway to formalize property ownership.”

    Technical specialists from the NLA conducted an extensive briefing session detailing the procedural requirements for obtaining land titles, available institutional support mechanisms, and the legal parameters surrounding adverse possession claims. Church representatives engaged in a substantive question-and-answer segment, voicing specific institutional concerns and receiving direct technical advisory support.

    This initiative operationalizes a commitment previously made by Jamaica’s Prime Minister and constitutes a critical component of the nation’s broader land reform and titling strategy. The program aims to dramatically increase the number of Jamaicans—including community collectives and religious organizations—with formally registered and legally secure property rights.

  • Why crowd sizes still matter in politics

    Why crowd sizes still matter in politics

    As Saint Lucia’s election campaign gains momentum, the debate over the significance of crowd sizes in determining electoral success has intensified. Political analysts and candidates alike are divided on whether large rallies translate into votes, with some dismissing them as irrelevant while others see them as a crucial indicator of popularity. This discourse highlights the complex interplay between perception and reality in electoral politics. On one side, politicians boast about their ability to draw massive crowds, while opponents argue that such gatherings do not guarantee victory. Meanwhile, many voters remain indifferent, believing that elections are decided at the ballot box, not at rallies. However, the truth lies somewhere in between. Crowd size does matter, but its impact depends on how it is interpreted within the broader context of a campaign. Elections are not just about votes; they are also about mobilizing support, generating enthusiasm, and shaping public perception. In Caribbean politics, where energy and excitement are vital, large crowds serve as a visible manifestation of a candidate’s ability to connect with voters. They create a sense of momentum and legitimacy, influencing both participants and observers. Behavioural science explains this phenomenon, noting that people are drawn to groups they perceive as successful. The ‘bandwagon effect’ plays a significant role, as individuals often align themselves with what appears to be the popular choice. Crowds also provide emotional validation and social cohesion for supporters, boosting campaign morale. However, relying solely on crowd size can be misleading, as history has shown that even massive rallies do not always translate into electoral victories. Ultimately, while crowd size shapes perception, it is the ballot box that determines the outcome. The challenge for politicians is to strike a balance between generating visible support and addressing the substantive issues that truly matter to voters.