Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Kamla ‘unbothered’

    Kamla ‘unbothered’

    In a striking display of political composure, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly declared her indifference toward derogatory comments made by opposition leader Keith Rowley. The former prime minister had repeatedly used the term “jamette”—a historically derogatory term referring to women of low social standing—during a March 17 press conference to dismiss Persad-Bissessar’s allegations about drug money financing the opposition party’s headquarters.

    Speaking to TV6 News, Persad-Bissessar stated: “While it might appear superficially that I remain unbothered when Rowley and PNM affiliates direct such vulgar remarks toward me, the profound truth remains that internally, I am profoundly, thoroughly unbothered.” She confirmed she would not pursue legal action against Rowley or media outlets that broadcast his comments.

    The incident has triggered significant institutional response, with the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) formally notifying Guardian Media Ltd about potential regulatory violations. In a March 20 correspondence, TATT referenced Section D9 of broadcasting licenses, which prohibits content that “degrades or portrays in a negative manner any person or group by reason of race, origin, class, religion or sex.”

    Rowley has intensified his stance despite mounting criticism, questioning TATT’s intervention as potentially infringing upon media freedom. He asserted his intention to continue publicly responding to parliamentary attacks, framing the regulatory scrutiny as a threat to democratic discourse. The confrontation highlights deepening political divisions and evolving debates about acceptable speech, gender politics, and regulatory oversight in Trinidad and Tobago’s media landscape.

  • US TROOPS LEAVE

    US TROOPS LEAVE

    A contingent of 108 United States military personnel formally concluded their four-month security deployment in Tobago yesterday morning, departing from ANR Robinson International Airport aboard an Atlas Air aircraft. The departure marks the end of a controversial security cooperation initiative between the US and Trinidad and Tobago governments that began in November last year.

    The exit follows last week’s dismantling of the advanced Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) system that had been operational since late November. Military personnel departed in full uniform, with some offering farewell gestures as they boarded the aircraft.

    Defence Minister Wayne Sturge expressed gratitude for the cooperation, stating, “We are thankful for their assistance and support and look forward to continuing our partnership.”

    However, the presence of foreign troops sparked significant political opposition in Tobago. Ancil Dennis, political leader of the Tobago Council of the People’s National Movement, accused the government of misleading citizens about the mission’s true nature and potentially exposing the nation to security risks. “The fact that it has been removed already shows us clearly that we were lied to and misled and our lives were placed at risk,” Dennis asserted.

    Dennis further contextualized the deployment within regional geopolitics, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s fortunate avoidance of potential conflict spillover from neighboring Venezuela. He emphasized the nation’s narrow escape from becoming entangled in international military tensions similar to current Middle East conflicts.

    Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus of the Innovative Democratic Alliance welcomed the departure as “a great relief” and closure to a concerning chapter in Tobago’s history. While acknowledging some minimal economic benefits through troop spending at local businesses, she emphasized the importance of stabilizing Tobago’s tourism industry, which continues to face challenges due to ongoing travel advisories from the US Embassy.

    The logistical withdrawal process commenced last Tuesday when US military aircraft GROG71 arrived to transport the dismantled radar system off the island, setting the stage for yesterday’s final troop departure.

  • Abinader signs OECD memorandum in Paris

    Abinader signs OECD memorandum in Paris

    PARIS – In a significant diplomatic ceremony attended by President Luis Abinader, the Dominican Republic formalized a strategic partnership with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) through the signing of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding. The signing event, held during the OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum in Paris, marks a pivotal step in the Caribbean nation’s integration with global governance standards.

    Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez and OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann executed the agreement that establishes an institutional framework for enhanced cooperation across multiple policy domains. This partnership is designed to facilitate knowledge transfer, promote transparency initiatives, and implement international best practices within the Dominican Republic’s public administration systems.

    The memorandum outlines specific collaboration areas including economic policy reform, fiscal management modernization, environmental sustainability programs, and public governance enhancement. These measures are strategically positioned to attract foreign direct investment by demonstrating the country’s commitment to institutional integrity and international compliance standards.

    Additionally, the agreement provides mechanisms for expanded participation in OECD technical committees and policy networks, accelerating the alignment of Dominican legislation with OECD instruments. This engagement is expected to drive state modernization efforts and elevate the nation’s economic competitiveness on the global stage through improved regulatory frameworks and governance practices.

  • Determination in Preventing and Confronting Terrorism

    Determination in Preventing and Confronting Terrorism

    Cuba has formally reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism in all manifestations, citing its extensive history as a victim of externally orchestrated attacks. The Caribbean nation has implemented a robust legal and strategic framework to address ongoing security threats, particularly those originating from foreign soil.

    Historical records indicate that over six decades, Cuba has endured numerous terrorist incidents including the bombing of Cubana de Aviación Flight 455 that killed 73 passengers, the La Coubre explosion, hotel bombings, and armed assaults on fishing vessels. These acts, predominantly organized and financed from United States territory, have frequently resulted in impunity for perpetrators despite Cuba’s presentation of evidence to international bodies.

    In response, Cuba has ratified approximately twenty United Nations counterterrorism instruments and integrated these provisions into domestic law through Article 8 of its Constitution. The nation developed a Comprehensive National Strategy against Terrorism outlining prevention protocols, operational plans, and international cooperation mechanisms.

    The 2022 Criminal Code amendment significantly strengthened penalties for terrorism-related offenses, establishing sentencing ranges from 10-30 years imprisonment to life sentences or capital punishment for extreme cases. The legal definition encompasses acts intended to coerce governments, international organizations, or terrorize populations through various means including hostage-taking, attacks on protected persons, and cyber terrorism.

    Notably, the Code specifically criminalizes terrorism financing, addressing the collection, transportation, or provision of resources intended for terrorist activities. Judicial procedures mandate that convicted terrorists serve at least two-thirds of their sentence before parole eligibility, with no statute of limitations for prosecution and permanent criminal records for offenders.

    Cuba’s Prosecutor General published an updated National List identifying 62 individuals and 20 entities based in the United States allegedly involved in organizing, financing, and executing terrorist acts against Cuba. This inventory, documented in 2025’s Resolution 13, represents Cuba’s implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1373 regarding counterterrorism obligations.

    The government emphasized that despite ongoing threats, its revolutionary policy remains committed to preventing terrorism without exemption, including opposition to state-sponsored terrorism. Cuban authorities assert there will be no impunity for those involved in anti-Cuba terrorist activities.

  • Column: Drie namen, maar waar zijn de anderen?

    Column: Drie namen, maar waar zijn de anderen?

    Suriname’s National Assembly confronts a constitutional crossroads today as it deliberates on whether to authorize criminal proceedings against three former high-ranking officials. The decision transcends individual cases involving Riad Nurmohamed, Bronto Somohardjo, and Gillmore Hoefdraad, representing instead a fundamental test of how the nation handles the serious constitutional process of charging political officeholders.

    While no one disputes the necessity of thorough investigation or advocates for impunity, the Assembly cannot be expected to rubber-stamp the Public Prosecutor’s requests without proper scrutiny. Significant unanswered questions persist across all three cases, and the legislature maintains the constitutional authority to establish an investigative commission for further examination.

    The Nurmohamed case presents particularly complex allegations regarding the Pan Am project, raising concerns about whether the investigation has adequately addressed potential accomplices beyond the primary suspect. The Somohardjo matter relies heavily on a CLAD report that remains inaccessible to lawmakers, despite the defendant’s persistent claims of innocence and his unusual request for formal charges to clear his name. The Hoefdraad situation proves most problematic as the former official remains missing, making cross-examination impossible despite this being the third attempt to bring charges against him.

    This unprecedented situation crosses political boundaries, with each former minister representing different parties: Hoefrabd (NDP), Nurmohamed (VHP), and Somohardjo (Pertjajah Luhur). The Assembly’s decision must therefore demonstrate legal rigor rather than political motivation, avoiding any appearance of partiality.

    The incomplete nature of the current files suggests this process represents merely the beginning of a broader accountability effort. Strong indications point to wider involvement in the Pan Am case, suggesting that charging a single former official would be inadequate. The political ramifications will undoubtedly be significant as Suriname establishes precedents for handling allegations against political figures.

    [Editor’s Note: The article concludes with a tribute to former police spokesperson Ro Gajadhar, recognizing his unparalleled contribution to police communications and media relations.]

  • Politic : Towards strengthening cooperation with the UN system

    Politic : Towards strengthening cooperation with the UN system

    In a significant diplomatic engagement on March 23, 2026, Haiti’s Minister of Planning and External Cooperation Sandra Paulemon convened with United Nations System Resident Coordinator Nicole Kouassi to reinforce institutional collaboration. The high-level meeting marked a pivotal step in aligning international support with Haiti’s national development agenda.

    UN representative Kouassi extended formal congratulations on Minister Paulemon’s appointment, acknowledging her distinguished professional trajectory. She articulated the UN’s comprehensive cooperation framework, emphasizing the organization’s sustained commitment to advancing priorities outlined in Haiti’s National Pact for Stability and Election Organization. Kouassi specifically highlighted UN support for policies facilitating the return of internally displaced populations, economic rehabilitation initiatives, and institutional capacity building.

    The Resident Coordinator reaffirmed the UN’s readiness to serve as a strategic technical partner for government programs, ensuring alignment with established objectives. This commitment extends across multiple sectors including humanitarian assistance, governance strengthening, and sustainable development initiatives.

    Minister Paulemon emphasized the critical importance of rigorous project alignment with national priorities as defined in the National Pact. She outlined the Ministry’s structured approach through short, medium, and long-term planning frameworks under Prime Minister Fils-Aimé’s directives, designed to address the population’s most urgent needs effectively.

    The Minister detailed ongoing efforts to harmonize interventions across sectoral ministries, prioritizing operational performance and sustainable outcomes. She stressed the implementation of quick-impact projects and enhanced coordination mechanisms to generate measurable benefits for vulnerable communities. Key initiatives include subsidy programs for disadvantaged families, healthcare infrastructure restoration, SME support mechanisms, and educational access equality measures.

    Paulemon affirmed her Ministry’s central role in coordinating public actions to tangibly improve living conditions within Haiti’s broader economic and social recovery framework.

    Both parties agreed to establish strengthened monitoring mechanisms and continue high-level exchanges to further consolidate this strategic partnership in service of Haiti’s development objectives.

  • Abinader promotes transparency, anti-corruption agenda at OECD Forum

    Abinader promotes transparency, anti-corruption agenda at OECD Forum

    PARIS – Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader delivered a powerful address at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum in Paris, positioning institutional integrity as the fundamental driver of his nation’s economic and democratic advancement.

    In his keynote speech, President Abinader articulated a comprehensive governance model structured around four strategic pillars: prevention, transparency, coordination, and compliance. He emphasized that integrity constitutes more than political rhetoric—it represents an operational system founded on rigorous legal frameworks, institutional accountability, and public openness. This system, he argued, directly fortifies citizen trust and ensures long-term governmental stability.

    The President characterized corruption as an ‘invisible tax’ that inflates operational costs, deters foreign investment, and suppresses national productivity. To counter this, his administration has implemented innovative structural measures including the establishment of Integrity and Compliance Commissions across all government bodies. These commissions are tasked with proactively identifying institutional risks and strengthening internal control mechanisms.

    Abinader detailed significant constitutional reforms demonstrating his commitment to judicial independence, notably the appointment of an autonomous attorney general and the removal of presidential influence over this critical role. He referenced ongoing high-profile corruption prosecutions as evidence of the government’s unwavering commitment to equitable justice.

    Recognizing Milagros Ortiz Bosch for her pioneering transparency initiatives, Abinader concluded that integrity serves as a strategic national asset that catalyzes foreign investment, fosters innovation, and reinforces democratic resilience, ultimately positioning the Dominican Republic as a leader in international governance standards.

  • Elections : New political dynamic to include the diaspora in the democratic process

    Elections : New political dynamic to include the diaspora in the democratic process

    In a landmark move toward democratic inclusion, Haiti’s government has initiated a comprehensive strategy to formally incorporate its diaspora population into the nation’s electoral framework. On March 23, 2026, Minister J.E. Kathia Verdier of the Ministry for Haitians Living Abroad (MHAVE) convened a high-level assembly at the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) headquarters, gathering representatives from key state institutions including the National Identification Office (ONI).

    This groundbreaking meeting, conducted under Prime Minister Fils Aimé’s vision for a more representative democracy, marks a significant shift in Haiti’s political landscape. The government is establishing a structured process to examine, guide, and implement mechanisms for broader diaspora participation while maintaining compliance with institutional requirements and national circumstances.

    Technical discussions centered on critical aspects including legal frameworks, organizational prerequisites, and essential technical conditions necessary for evolving Haiti’s electoral system. This methodological approach emphasizes gradual development through consultation, institutional accountability, and the pursuit of context-appropriate solutions.

    Minister Verdier characterized this initiative as a pivotal political advancement in modernizing state infrastructure and strengthening democratic legitimacy. She highlighted the growing acknowledgment of the diaspora’s strategic importance in shaping national policy directions, while emphasizing the need for rigorous, systematic, and inclusive implementation methodologies.

    The Prime Minister’s office reaffirmed its dedication to advancing this democratic expansion with transparency and public service ethos, ensuring alignment with institutional equilibrium and national development priorities.

  • Panton Puts Cost‑of‑Living Crisis Front and Center

    Panton Puts Cost‑of‑Living Crisis Front and Center

    BELIZE CITY – Opposition Leader Tracy Panton launched a fierce critique of government taxation policies during Monday’s budget debate, positioning the cost-of-living crisis as the central issue affecting Belizean families. Panton strategically shifted focus from abstract economic projections to the tangible realities confronting citizens, particularly emphasizing the impact of fuel prices on household budgets.

    The political confrontation centered on what Panton characterized as excessive government taxation on petroleum products, with her analysis revealing that 41% of regular fuel costs and 46% of premium fuel prices directly fund government coffers through various levies including revenue replacement tax, import duties, excise tax, environmental tax, and GST.

    Panton delivered a comprehensive assessment of economic pressures, citing consecutive increases across essential services and commodities including water rates, electricity costs, grocery items, rent expenses, and licensing fees. She issued a stark warning about impending price hikes for liquid petroleum gas (butane), predicting the government would soon attribute increases to ‘unpredictable global developments.’

    The opposition leader specifically targeted Prime Minister Briceño’s ‘budgeting for prosperity’ framework, labeling it profoundly disconnected from contemporary economic realities. Panton argued that global geopolitical tensions, particularly Middle East instability and ongoing conflicts, have created sustained volatility in oil markets that immediately impacts Belizean consumers long before new shipments arrive in port.

    Her critique extended to the administration’s approach to global economic influences, suggesting the government’s apparent disregard for international political changes has left Belize vulnerable to external shocks rather than providing insulation from their effects.

  • Opposition Leader Calls Out PM’s ‘Hypocrisy’ on Pump Prices

    Opposition Leader Calls Out PM’s ‘Hypocrisy’ on Pump Prices

    In a dramatic turn during Belize’s budget debate proceedings, Opposition Leader Tracy Panton launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister John Briceño, accusing him of blatant hypocrisy regarding fuel pricing policies. The political confrontation escalated into a deeply personal exchange that shifted the discourse from policy matters to questions of parliamentary decorum.

    Panton strategically reminded the assembly of Briceño’s previous tenure as opposition leader, when he orchestrated public protests demanding a two-dollar reduction in fuel taxes during the Barrow administration. She highlighted the stark contrast between his former advocacy and current policies, noting that premium fuel prices have surged dramatically from ten dollars per gallon during his protest leadership to significantly higher rates under his current governance.

    The debate took an unexpectedly personal turn when Panton, who has a physical disability, accused the Prime Minister of mocking her decision to remain seated during her parliamentary presentation. This allegation prompted her emotional rebuttal referencing Briceño’s wife’s work with disabled individuals, transforming the political disagreement into a charged personal confrontation.

    The intense exchange has fundamentally altered the tone of the budget debate proceedings, creating a palpable tension that observers suggest may influence subsequent parliamentary discussions. Panton’s dual-pronged attack—combining policy criticism with personal allegations—has positioned this confrontation as a defining moment in the current political session, potentially affecting public perception of both leadership figures.