In a recent interview with Canal 4’s Live Magazine, Ambassador Fonseca emphasized the enduring legacy of Fidel Castro, whose influence transcends national boundaries and serves as a model for social justice, revolutionary change, and the defense of marginalized communities across Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world. Fonseca highlighted Castro’s unwavering commitment to these ideals, which began during his formative years in high school and university, where he first demonstrated a profound sensitivity to social injustices and a relentless pursuit of solutions to improve the lives of the Cuban people. This dedication culminated in the revolutionary triumph of January 1, 1959, marking a pivotal moment in Cuban history. Fonseca also noted that Castro’s vision, articulated in his 1953 plea ‘La Historia me absolverá’ following the Moncada assault, laid the groundwork for the transformative policies of the Cuban Revolution. These policies encompassed economic, social, cultural, sporting, and scientific advancements, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. Beyond Cuba, Castro’s internationalist approach positioned the Revolution as a beacon of solidarity for Latin America and the global community. Fonseca underscored Castro’s emphasis on communication as a critical tool in the fight for truth, particularly through the establishment of Prensa Latina, an agency dedicated to providing accurate information about Cuba and the region. In today’s digital age, this battle continues on social media platforms, where efforts to counter misinformation and present the reality of Cuba remain vital. Fonseca also condemned the U.S. blockade on Cuba, describing it as ‘cruel and genocidal,’ and expressed confidence that the resilience of the Cuban people and the enduring legacy of Castro’s ideals will ultimately lead to a brighter future, sustained by collective commitment and the defense of revolutionary achievements.
分类： politics
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Boundaries Commission Begins Comprehensive Review of Constituency Lines
The Boundaries Commission of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a nationwide review of constituency boundaries, emphasizing its constitutional duty to uphold fair representation and electoral integrity. In a bid to foster transparency and inclusivity, the Commission is extending an invitation to key stakeholders and interest groups to participate in a pivotal consultation session. This initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to civic engagement and democratic principles. The consultation, scheduled for December 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM, will take place at the John E. St. Luce Finance & Conference Centre. The primary focus will be on gathering insights and recommendations regarding proposed adjustments to constituency boundaries. The Commission has highlighted the importance of community perspectives in shaping decisions that directly impact local representation. Stakeholders are encouraged to share their views on the necessary revisions and the implications for affected communities. For further inquiries, Chairman Mr. Danley Philip and Secretary Ms. Nicole Edwards can be contacted at 4648565 and 4645286, respectively. The Commission has requested confirmation of attendance by December 8, 2025, and expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of democratic governance in Antigua and Barbuda.
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Pierre defends students’ Nomination Day cheers amid public debate
A recent incident involving schoolchildren chanting for political candidates has ignited a heated national debate about the appropriateness of minors engaging in partisan politics. Last Friday, videos surfaced on social media showing students from Ave Maria Girls School enthusiastically chanting ‘SLP! SLP!’ as Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) candidate Richard Frederick and his entourage passed by on their way to a nomination center. The footage has drawn mixed reactions, with some condemning the act as inappropriate, while others defend it as a form of civic education. Critics, including radio host Timothy Poleon, argue that involving children in partisan activities sets a dangerous precedent. ‘It ought not to be partisan,’ Poleon emphasized, questioning whether parents were consulted. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre dismissed the criticism, framing the outcry as politically motivated. He defended the children’s right to express their political preferences, linking their support for SLP to his administration’s education policies, such as covering CXC subject fees and providing material allowances for teachers. The National Principals Association and the Ministry of Education have yet to comment on the matter, leaving the debate unresolved.
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ABEC Officials Selected to Serve on CARICOM Election Observer Missions in St. Vincent & the Grenadines and St. Lucia
The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has announced that two of its senior officials have been chosen by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to participate in Election Observer Missions for the upcoming General Elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Lucia. Commissioner Clovis St. Romain has been appointed to serve as a member of the CARICOM Election Observer Mission for the General Elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, scheduled for November 27, 2025. His role will reinforce CARICOM’s dedication to fostering free, fair, and transparent electoral processes across the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Mr. Ian S. Hughes, Supervisor of Elections, has been selected as Chief of Mission for the CARICOM Election Observer Mission to the General Elections in St. Lucia on December 1, 2025. In this capacity, Mr. Hughes will provide leadership and oversight to the observer team, ensuring adherence to CARICOM’s established guidelines and principles of impartiality. H.E. Arthur G. B. Thomas, Chairman of ABEC, emphasized the significance of these appointments, stating, ‘Our continued selection for these missions reflects the trust placed in us and our commitment to building organizational capacity. Each deployment is both an affirmation of our institutional credibility and an opportunity to enhance the technical competencies of our team.’ ABEC remains steadfast in its support of regional democratic processes, with the participation of Commissioner St. Romain and Mr. Hughes underscoring the Commission’s expertise, professionalism, and contributions to strengthening electoral systems across the Caribbean.
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Chastanet previews potential UWP Cabinet
Allen Chastanet, the Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), has provided a glimpse into his prospective Cabinet should the party emerge victorious in the upcoming elections. Speaking at the UWP manifesto launch last weekend, Chastanet emphasized the party’s determination to reclaim four key constituencies: Dennery North, Dennery South, Micoud North, and Micoud South. He assured supporters that the candidates representing these areas would secure prominent roles in his Cabinet. Chastanet outlined specific ministerial assignments, including Bradley Marcelle Fulgence (Dennery North) as Minister for Agriculture and Gaming, Benson Emile (Dennery South) as Minister for Health, and Elisha Norbert (Micoud North) as Minister for Education. For his own constituency, Micoud South, Chastanet confidently declared, “Of course, the people of Micoud South, you will have the PM, your PM.” Throughout the event, Chastanet underscored the importance of unity within the UWP, asserting that only a cohesive party could effectively lead the nation. His remarks exuded confidence in the UWP’s ability to triumph on December 1, with the presented team poised to govern and guide Saint Lucia into its next chapter.
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US embassy denies external influence in visas
The US Embassy in Port of Spain has issued a definitive statement clarifying that no foreign government influences its visa approval, denial, or revocation processes. This announcement follows reports that Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, had requested the embassy to deny and revoke visas of citizens allegedly spreading defamatory and misleading narratives about joint security operations in the region. In a media release dated November 26, the embassy emphasized that visa decisions are solely made by the US government, based on individual merits and adherence to US laws. The statement underscored that visas are not revoked due to the exercise of free speech, a fundamental American value, but may be denied or revoked in cases involving criminal activity. The controversy gained traction after Gary Aboud, corporate secretary of Fishermen and Friends of the Sea, revealed on November 21 that his US visa had been revoked. Aboud speculated that his vocal opposition to US missile strikes in the Southern Caribbean and Pacific, which have reportedly killed over 80 alleged drug traffickers since September 2, led to the decision. He further accused the Trinidad and Tobago government of influencing the visa revocation. However, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has firmly denied any involvement by her administration in the matter.
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Gen Caine, Kamla discuss regional crime
In a significant diplomatic engagement, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, made a brief but impactful visit to Trinidad and Tobago on November 25. The high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar underscored the enduring alliance between the two nations, particularly in addressing regional security challenges. Caine, who had initially planned to visit Puerto Rico to engage with US troops stationed there, altered his itinerary to include a stop in Port of Spain. The meeting, held at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, also included key Trinidadian officials such as Attorney General John Jeremie, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. Lasting less than two hours, the discussions focused on combating narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and transnational crime, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to regional stability. Following the meeting, Caine departed in a heavily guarded convoy, emphasizing the high-security nature of the visit. Meanwhile, Suriname has voiced concerns over US aggression towards Venezuela, with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil and Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons jointly condemning US military actions in the Caribbean. This development highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, as nations navigate alliances and tensions.
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Former AG: By-Election a boost for Pintard, ‘knock in the head’ for PLP
The recent Golden Isles by-election has sparked significant political discourse, with former Attorney General Sean McWeeney, KC, offering a nuanced analysis of the results. While the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) emerged victorious with candidate Darron Pickstock securing 1,873 votes, the Free National Movement (FNM) led by Michael Pintard demonstrated notable strength by winning more polling divisions, capturing 1,636 votes. The Coalition of Independents (COI) trailed far behind with 348 votes, and independent candidate Karen Butler received a mere 16 votes. McWeeney highlighted that despite the PLP’s win, the FNM’s performance has bolstered Pintard’s leadership credibility, describing it as a political boost for the FNM leader. He emphasized that the FNM’s ability to secure a majority of polling divisions (8-6) underscores Pintard’s viability as a leader of a resurgent party. Conversely, McWeeney characterized the PLP’s narrow victory as a ‘knock in the head,’ particularly given the substantial resources deployed by the government. He cautioned the PLP against complacency, pointing to the national trend of one-term governments over the past two decades. McWeeney also critiqued the COI’s underwhelming performance, noting their failure to meet the legal threshold of 16.6 percent and their role as potential spoilers in future elections. He praised Pickstock’s campaign, acknowledging his rapid rise from a virtual unknown to a victorious candidate in just 41 days. Overall, McWeeney’s analysis suggests that the by-election results should serve as a wake-up call for the PLP while solidifying Pintard’s position within the FNM.
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Opposition demands clarity on Government’s US$150m loan to JPS
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP), Jamaica’s primary opposition party, has issued a stern call for the government to provide full transparency regarding a contentious $150 million (J$24 billion) loan extended to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) and its handling of the company’s license negotiations. The PNP’s Spokesperson on Energy and Telecommunications, Phillip Paulwell, voiced significant concerns over the lack of critical details surrounding the loan in a statement released on Wednesday. Paulwell emphasized that the government has failed to address key questions, including the risks to taxpayers, the valuation of JPS assets, and the interest rate attached to the loan. He criticized the administration for committing such a substantial sum without disclosing terms that safeguard public interest. Paulwell further revealed that if the loan remains unpaid within two years, the government plans to convert the debt into equity, effectively acquiring JPS assets. He questioned the current valuation of these assets and whether such an assessment has been completed. Additionally, Paulwell raised concerns about JPS’s ability to secure the remaining $200 million of the $350 million it claims is necessary for full service restoration. He demanded clarity on which state agency will oversee the loan disbursement. The opposition also criticized the government for creating instability by sending JPS a letter hinting at a possible termination of its license in 2027. Paulwell urged the government to release the letter in full, asserting that Jamaicans deserve to understand the rationale behind such a destabilizing move. He highlighted the urgency of restoring power to thousands of Jamaicans and recommended leveraging the loan to secure concessions from JPS, including suspending its monopoly during national emergencies and allowing alternative energy sources to supply nearby households. Paulwell also warned of potential electricity price hikes and stressed the need for transparency on the restoration of liquefied natural gas (LNG) generation, which offers cost advantages over heavy fuel oil and diesel. The PNP reiterated its willingness to support responsible and transparent strategies to restore electricity and strengthen Jamaica’s energy resilience but vowed to oppose decisions that unduly burden taxpayers.
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‘Playing politics’
Members of Parliament (MPs) from the People’s National Party (PNP) have voiced strong criticism against the Jamaican Government’s handling of the recovery process following Hurricane Melissa. At a press conference held at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, PNP legislators from Westmoreland and Hanover expressed their frustration over the widespread homelessness and suffering experienced by thousands of Jamaicans. Dr. Dayton Campbell, MP for Westmoreland Eastern, highlighted the extensive damage, estimating that approximately 5,000 houses were completely destroyed, with many others suffering significant damage to infrastructure. He praised the efforts of private sector entities and non-governmental organizations for stepping in to provide relief, but criticized the Government’s response as inadequate, delayed, and politically motivated. Campbell emphasized the need for urgent intervention to provide temporary housing for displaced individuals and called for greater involvement of elected officials in the distribution of aid. Other MPs, including Duane Vaz, Ian Hayles, Heatha Miller-Bennett, and Andrea Purkiss, also expressed disappointment with the Government’s approach, citing issues with shelter conditions, relief distribution, and the under-reporting of devastation in their constituencies. They urged the Government to take more decisive action to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure that affected communities receive the support they need.