In a significant development in the ongoing immigration enforcement saga, a US appeals court has temporarily halted the release of hundreds of individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Illinois. This decision comes after the Trump administration challenged a federal judge’s ruling that had ordered the release of approximately 450 detainees. The detainees, part of a broader operation known as ‘Midway Blitz,’ were arrested in September as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified crackdown on undocumented immigrants, particularly in Chicago, a Democratic stronghold. Last week, a federal judge in Chicago sided with lawyers representing over 600 detainees, arguing that their arrests lacked reasonable grounds or outstanding warrants. The judge had planned to release the detainees on Friday, contingent on each paying $1,500 in bail and agreeing to surveillance measures like ankle monitors. However, the appeals court has now suspended this release pending a hearing scheduled for December 2. Since taking office, Trump has prioritized stringent immigration policies, frequently framing the issue as an ‘invasion.’ This latest legal battle underscores the contentious nature of immigration enforcement under his administration.
分类： politics
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Haitian-American congresswoman charged for allegedly stealing millions in emergency funds
MIAMI, United States – Haitian-American Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly embezzling $5 million in disaster relief funds, laundering the money, and diverting a significant portion to finance her 2021 congressional campaign. The indictment, issued by a federal grand jury in Miami, also names her brother Edwin Cherfilus and several associates as co-defendants.
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Mitchell hints Fox should resign over political comments
In a striking statement, Bahamas Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell appeared to issue a veiled rebuke to Ambassador-at-Large Rick Fox, emphasizing that ambassadors serve the government that appoints them and suggesting resignation as the honorable course of action in cases of disagreement. Mitchell’s remarks came during an audio statement congratulating four newly appointed ambassadors following a ceremony at Government House on November 17. He underscored long-standing diplomatic practices, stating that ambassadors traditionally resign after a general election confirms a new government, regardless of whether the same political party remains in power. Mitchell added that ambassadors represent the government in office and implied that Fox, who has publicly expressed differing views, should consider stepping down if he cannot align with the appointing authority. This follows a recent Facebook post by Fox, a former NBA star, who pushed back against claims that he should refrain from commenting on the Golden Isles by-election due to his diplomatic role. Fox argued that he serves the Bahamian people, not a political party, and rejected the notion that ambassadors must remain silent during elections. He also criticized politicians for only appearing as ‘Action Heroes’ during election seasons and lamented the lack of progress in addressing local issues like road repairs. Fox hinted that he is considering entering frontline politics, further fueling speculation about his future role in Bahamian governance.
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Search warrants by JPs
In a contentious move, the Senate has passed legislation on November 15, reinstating the power of Justices of the Peace (JPs) to issue search warrants. This decision marks a reversal of a two-year-old policy that had stripped JPs of this authority. Historically, JPs held this power from 1917 until 2023, but its removal was seen as a necessary reform. The recent legislative action has sparked significant debate, with critics labeling it a regressive step in the evolution of the criminal justice system. While the government has been praised for codifying Justice Carol Gobin’s ruling on station bail, the restoration of JP search warrant powers has drawn widespread criticism. Attorney General John Jeremie defended the bill, citing its urgency and the police’s preference for JP assistance. However, concerns remain about the lack of stringent regulations and training for JPs, with one currently facing legal charges. The bill, which still requires House approval, has been criticized for potentially expanding police authority and undermining property and privacy rights. Critics argue that JPs, often rubber-stamping warrants without proper oversight, lack the judicial rigor necessary for such decisions. Instead of reinstating JP powers, the recommendation is to assign more judges to handle emergency applications, ensuring a more robust and accountable judicial process.
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PSA agitated ahead of CPO meeting: Ten per cent or nothing
Public Services Association (PSA) President Felisha Thomas has issued a stern warning to the Chief Personnel Office (CPO), demanding nothing less than a 10% wage increase for public servants. This comes ahead of a crucial meeting scheduled for November 21, which Thomas claims was initially intended to discuss the economy rather than commence negotiations. Thomas expressed frustration over the CPO’s perceived delays, noting that wage discussions began as early as April 2022. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo had previously instructed the CPO to propose the 10% increase, a key campaign promise by the United National Congress (UNC) during the April 28 general election. However, Thomas accused the CPO of disregarding this directive and failing to prioritize public officers’ welfare. Meanwhile, CPO Commander Dr. Daryl Dindial emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of Trinidad and Tobago’s macroeconomic profile before negotiations could proceed. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the wage increase but remained non-committal on the Christmas payout timeline. Former Finance Minister Brian Manning criticized Thomas, calling for her resignation, while former UNC economist Taharqa Obika defended the CPO’s role in the process. The CPO outlined its negotiation procedures, stressing transparency and collaboration in achieving sustainable outcomes.
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Eastern Caribbean authorities unite to strengthen anti-gang cooperation
In a landmark initiative to bolster regional security, judicial and law enforcement authorities from across the Eastern Caribbean recently gathered in Saint Lucia for a high-level seminar titled ‘Gangs of the Eastern Caribbean and Their Involvement in International Drug Trafficking.’ Hosted by the French Embassy to Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) from November 13 to 14, 2025, the event aimed to enhance cooperation and develop strategies to dismantle organized gangs and their role in international drug trafficking. Over 120 distinguished participants, including Attorneys General, judges, magistrates, senior police and gendarmerie officers, intelligence officials, and correctional representatives from 11 Caribbean countries and territories, as well as mainland France and Croatia, attended the seminar. Attendees engaged in comprehensive discussions on legal frameworks and practices, striving to establish a unified, coordinated regional approach to combat increasingly sophisticated transnational criminal networks. In a pre-recorded message, French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the critical importance of the gathering, reaffirming France’s unwavering commitment to eradicating organized crime and drug trafficking. The seminar is a cornerstone of France’s strategic plan, ‘Drug Trafficking: Eradicating the Problem at its Roots.’ Barrot highlighted the partnership as a testament to shared determination and mutual trust in this collective fight. The French Embassy underscored that the event marked a significant milestone in advancing regional security cooperation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening partnerships with Eastern Caribbean states.
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Controversial Trinidad Politician Jack Warner Earns PhD at 82
In a remarkable academic achievement, Jack Warner, the polarizing former politician from Trinidad and Tobago, has earned his PhD at the age of 82. Warner, a figure often embroiled in controversy due to his past involvement in corruption allegations and his role in international football governance, completed his doctoral studies at the University of the West Indies. His thesis focused on governance and leadership, topics that have been central to his tumultuous career. Despite his checkered history, Warner’s academic accomplishment has sparked mixed reactions, with some applauding his perseverance and others questioning the timing and motivations behind his pursuit of higher education. This milestone adds a new chapter to Warner’s complex legacy, blending his political and academic endeavors.
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High Court to hear challenge of FTC’s refusal to demand Light & Power financial records
The High Court of Barbados is poised to determine whether the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) must compel the Barbados Light and Power Company (BLPC) to disclose financial documents. This decision follows renewed legal action by public interest intervenors, reigniting a prolonged dispute over electricity rates. Earlier this month, the court canceled a scheduled hearing after discovering that no formal application had been properly filed. However, last week, the intervenor team, led by Ricky Went, resubmitted a comprehensive set of documents, including their notice of application, a certificate of urgency, and a draft order they seek the court to approve. The court has set next Wednesday to hear the application, filed by the intervenors’ lead attorney, senior counsel Hal Gollop. The case centers on whether the FTC can require BLPC to provide information following its February 2023 rate review decision, which the intervenors argue remains unresolved. The FTC maintains that the process is concluded and lacks the statutory authority to mandate the release of the documents. A hearing initially scheduled for last Tuesday was canceled when the court discovered procedural errors in the filing process. Senior counsel for the FTC, Alrick Scott, informed the court that BLPC had not been served with any notice of application and was unaware of Gollop’s filing. Further investigation revealed no formal application had been made, prompting the court to vacate the hearing date. The intervenors argue that analyzing BLPC’s financial data is crucial before the FTC issues its final ruling on the rate decision, as rate proceedings are infrequent. They emphasize the importance of public trust in the regulatory process. However, the FTC, through Scott, has reiterated its refusal to comply, citing no statutory obligation to release the requested documents.
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Grenada and Embassy of Japan commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations
On November 12, 2025, Dr. Akima Umezawa, the Ambassador of Japan, announced the historic appointment of Dr. Nicole Phillip as Grenada’s first Honorary Consul of Japan. Dr. Phillip, the Acting Director of the University of The West Indies Global Campus in St. George’s, is renowned for her expertise in history and academic leadership. This landmark announcement was made during celebrations marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between Grenada and Japan, a partnership rooted in mutual respect, cooperation, and shared vision. Over the past five decades, Japan has significantly contributed to Grenada’s development in education, disaster resilience, agriculture, and technical training, while Grenada has actively engaged in cultural and academic exchanges. The appointment ceremony, held at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and other distinguished guests. Ambassador Umezawa described the appointment as a pivotal step in strengthening the bilateral relationship, referring to the anniversary as a “Golden Jubilee.” He highlighted key achievements, including Grenada’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan’s support for sargassum countermeasures, and vocational training initiatives. Dr. Phillip expressed her gratitude and commitment to fostering deeper ties between the two nations. The celebrations continued on November 13 with a musical concert featuring the Japanese Bamboo Flute and the National School Orchestra, symbolizing cultural harmony. Acting Foreign Minister Senator Adrian Thomas emphasized the significance of the 50-year friendship and expressed optimism for future collaboration in cultural exchange, innovation, and economic ties. He also congratulated Dr. Phillip on behalf of the Government and People of Grenada, recognizing her contributions to education and leadership.
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Opposition steps up pressure over stalled VAT pledge
The opposition in Barbados has escalated its demands for the government to fulfill its 2018 pledge to reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate from 17.5%, a rate established nearly 15 years ago. The call comes as rising living costs continue to burden ordinary households, with critics accusing the government of inaction. During a parliamentary debate on the Companies (Economic Substance) (Repeal) Bill and the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne highlighted the pressing issue of taxation and its impact on citizens. Thorne reminded the government of its promise to lower VAT, which was initially increased from 15% to 17.5% in December 2010 as a temporary measure under the Freundel Stuart administration. He argued that the current VAT rate is a direct financial burden on all citizens, regardless of their economic status, and serves as a disincentive to spending. Thorne emphasized that while VAT may benefit government revenues, the primary responsibility of any administration is to alleviate the tax burden on its people. He linked lower taxes to economic freedom and urged the government to act on its promise, questioning whether the current VAT rate is reasonable and whether its reduction could provide partial relief to the populace. Thorne challenged the government to clarify its intentions regarding VAT reduction and to specify the extent of any planned cuts. In response, government representative Ryan Straughn defended the administration’s economic record, acknowledging the unfulfilled VAT reduction promise but highlighting efforts to stabilize the economy and support families. Straughn suggested that a VAT reduction remains a future possibility, while emphasizing the government’s ongoing commitment to improving citizens’ welfare.