In a significant move, Caribbean-American Democratic Congresswoman Yvette Clarke has announced her support for the US House of Representatives’ resolution to release documents related to the alleged sexual abuse and trafficking of underage girls by Jeffrey Epstein. Clarke, representing New York’s 9th Congressional District, emphasized that the vote marked the end of a prolonged effort to obstruct the release of these files. The resolution passed almost unanimously in the House, with only one Republican objection, and was swiftly approved by the Senate, paving the way for President Donald Trump’s signature. Clarke, who chairs the Congressional Black Caucus, accused Trump and his Republican allies of deliberately delaying the process, describing their eventual support as a tactical retreat rather than a genuine change of heart. She asserted that the release of the Epstein files is crucial for holding accountable those involved in the heinous crimes and ensuring justice for the victims. Democratic Congressman Adriano Espaillat, the first Dominican Republic-American in the House, echoed Clarke’s sentiments, labeling the situation a White House cover-up and stressing the importance of transparency. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer also highlighted the resolution’s role in exposing Epstein’s enablers and providing closure for survivors. The move has reignited debates about accountability and the influence of powerful figures in obstructing justice.
分类： politics
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A tale of two PNM leaders
The recent actions of former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister and PNM leader, Dr. Keith Rowley, have sparked significant political discourse. On November 17, Dr. Rowley hosted a media conference at his Diego Martin residence under the banner of the ‘Office of the Former Prime Minister,’ a title that does not officially exist. This move has raised eyebrows and concerns about his intentions to institutionalize his post-retirement influence on public affairs. While Dr. Rowley, as a private citizen, retains the right to free expression, his frequent interventions and press conferences have created a sense of disarray within the PNM. Current Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles appears increasingly sidelined as Dr. Rowley continues to dominate the political narrative. His prolific commentary, including numerous Facebook posts, contrasts sharply with Ms. Beckles’ more collaborative approach. This dynamic not only undermines her leadership but also weakens the PNM’s strategic coherence. The situation highlights a broader issue in democratic governance, where the presence of multiple figureheads can dilute a party’s message and effectiveness. Dr. Rowley’s persistent public presence, while legally permissible, raises questions about his political judgment and the legacy of his governance.
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What are the Epstein Files?
WASHINGTON, DC, United States — The long-sealed ‘Epstein Files,’ a subject of intense speculation and public curiosity, are now on the verge of being made public. On Tuesday, both the US House of Representatives and the Senate took decisive steps to mandate the release of government documents tied to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking of underage girls. His death did little to quell the controversy surrounding his connections to high-profile figures, including former President Donald Trump, business executives, and celebrities. The Epstein Files encompass a vast collection of evidence gathered by the Justice Department and the FBI during investigations that led to Epstein’s 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution and his subsequent indictment in New York. While only a fraction of these materials has been disclosed to date, recent revelations have emerged from emails surrendered by Epstein’s estate. The newly passed Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the release of all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days. Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year sentence for recruiting underage girls for Epstein, remains the only person convicted in connection with the disgraced financier. However, Trump’s supporters have long alleged that ‘deep state’ elites shielded Epstein’s associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood. Earlier this year, the FBI and DOJ sparked political outrage by releasing a memo stating that no further evidence from the Epstein files would be disclosed, citing a lack of credible evidence of blackmail or a ‘client list.’ Despite uncovering over 300 gigabytes of data and physical evidence, the agencies found no grounds to investigate uncharged third parties. Trump, who initially campaigned on releasing the Epstein Files, reversed his stance upon taking office but recently supported their disclosure as Congress moved to vote on the matter. Before this shift, Trump ordered Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Epstein’s ties to prominent Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton. This move could complicate the release of certain materials, as the House Bill permits withholding information that might jeopardize active federal investigations or prosecutions.
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Return of Vision 2020 with revitalisation plan
In a recent announcement, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar unveiled the ambitious Revitalisation Blueprint, promising a transformative economic overhaul. The plan includes the creation of 50,000 new jobs, the establishment of an “innovation corridor,” the conversion of Carrera Prison into a resort, and the development of a 500-acre “prison campus” at Tamana. Additionally, the government anticipates a surge in foreign investment to fuel these initiatives. However, critics argue that this blueprint bears a striking resemblance to Vision 2020, a similar plan introduced two decades ago by former Prime Minister Patrick Manning, which ultimately failed to materialize. The parallels between the two plans are undeniable, with the only notable update being the Tamana prison campus, ironically proposed on lands originally designated for science and technology under Vision 2020. Skepticism deepens as the 2025-2026 fiscal budget lacks any allocated funding for these projects, raising questions about their feasibility. Without clear financial backing, legislative groundwork, or detailed timelines, the blueprint risks becoming another unfulfilled promise. Critics highlight the government’s history of grand announcements without concrete results, pointing to ongoing challenges such as a shrinking manufacturing base, sluggish private sector investment, and security instability. Until the administration presents a measurable, costed, and time-bound plan supported by actual budgetary allocations, the Revitalisation Blueprint remains a well-written dream lacking financial substance. Citizens are urged to hold the government accountable, ensuring that vision does not devolve into illusion.
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Italy to toughen rape law to include non-consensual sex
In a historic display of cross-party unity, Italian lawmakers have taken a significant step toward redefining sexual violence in the country’s penal code. On Wednesday, Members of Parliament voted to expand the definition of rape to include non-consensual acts, a move that marks a rare collaboration between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s far-right Brothers of Italy party and opposition leader Elly Schlein’s centre-left Democratic Party (PD). The proposal, which now awaits Senate approval, aims to simplify the prosecution of sexual assault by eliminating the requirement for victims to prove physical coercion, threats, or abuse of authority. Currently, Italy’s legal framework defines rape solely through these criteria, a standard that advocates argue places undue burden on survivors. The amendment, spearheaded by PD MP Laura Boldrini, seeks to shift the focus of trials to the perpetrator’s conduct rather than the victim’s actions. Boldrini emphasized that the reform is crucial to countering persistent societal prejudices that often blame women for the violence they endure. The proposed law does not alter the existing penalty for rape, which remains a prison sentence of six to twelve years. This legislative push follows a series of controversial court rulings in recent years, including a case where a man’s acquittal was overturned after an appeals court rejected the initial verdict that the victim, a 17-year-old, should have anticipated assault because she was not a virgin. The lower house’s Justice Commission approved the amendment last week, with direct support from both Meloni and Schlein, signaling a potential turning point in Italy’s approach to addressing sexual violence.
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IR expert hopes for US-Venezuela dialogue
Recent statements by US President Donald Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have sparked cautious optimism for a potential de-escalation of tensions between the two nations in the Caribbean. Maduro, during his television program ‘Con Maduro’ on November 17, expressed willingness to engage in talks with US officials, a sentiment echoed by Trump, who confirmed Venezuela’s request for formal discussions. Caribbean Policy Consortium co-chairman Prof Anthony Bryan emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating, ‘Dialogue is always better than sabre rattling.’ These developments come amidst a significant US military presence in the region, including the arrival of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford and its strike group. The deployment, which began in August, has been framed by the US as part of anti-narcotics efforts, though critics, including the UN and European Union, have raised concerns about extra-judicial killings. Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has supported the US military presence while reaffirming her country’s sovereignty and refusal to be used as a launchpad for attacks on Venezuela.
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Guyana supports United Nations Security Council adoption of Gaza resolution
In a significant diplomatic development, Guyana has expressed its support for the United Nations Security Council’s adoption of a resolution endorsing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza. President Irfaan Ali, in a statement on his Facebook page, emphasized Guyana’s principled stance in voting in favor of the resolution, which aims to solidify the existing ceasefire and foster sustainable peace for the Palestinian people. He also commended the United States for its leadership in this initiative. The resolution, approved on Monday, provides a UN mandate for Washington’s vision to rebuild Gaza after two years of conflict described by the international community as a genocide against Palestinians. This marks a notable diplomatic achievement for the Trump administration, which had faced isolation at the UN due to its unwavering support for Israel. The resolution calls for the deployment of an International Stabilisation Force to demilitarize and govern Gaza, alongside the establishment of a ‘Board of Peace’ to oversee the peace process. The vote saw 13 members in favor, with Russia and China abstaining, influenced by support from several Arab and Muslim nations. Guyana has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Gaza conflict, with President Ali urging the UN to prioritize principle over power in addressing global crises. He reiterated Guyana’s commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, condemning the destruction in Gaza as a systematic slaughter and displacement of Palestinians.
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FNM calls for removal of Golden Isles Returning Officer Neil Campbell
The Free National Movement (FNM) has formally requested the removal of Neil Campbell as Returning Officer for the Golden Isles constituency, citing concerns over his suitability and alleged conflicts of interest. In a letter addressed to Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson, FNM Leader Dr. Duane Sands emphasized the party’s ‘serious concerns’ about the integrity of the electoral process, particularly following challenges during and after advanced polling. The FNM contends that Mr. Campbell should have recused himself voluntarily, given his public admissions of personal ties to key political figures, including Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and FNM Leader Michael Pintard. The party is urging his replacement with ‘a more suitable public officer’ to ensure the election’s fairness and credibility. Meanwhile, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has dismissed the FNM’s claims as ‘reckless,’ accusing the opposition of fabricating the confrontation during Monday’s advance poll. The PLP has expressed full support for the Parliamentary Commissioner and warned against undermining public trust in the electoral system. Mr. Campbell, for his part, has vehemently denied allegations of bias, asserting that his personal relationships have never influenced his professional duties. The dispute stems from a chaotic standoff on Monday, where FNM and Coalition of Independents supporters blocked the removal of ballot boxes, alleging breaches in transport protocols. Election officials maintain that the process was conducted lawfully, with all agents witnessing and approving the sealing of the boxes. The FNM has pledged to raise further concerns in upcoming meetings with election officials, underscoring the heightened political tensions surrounding the electoral process.
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President tells diplomats: Co-operation better than conflict
President Christine Kangaloo of Trinidad and Tobago hosted the Annual Heads of Missions Dinner at the President’s House on November 5, 2023, welcoming 31 members of the diplomatic corps. The event, attended by both resident and non-resident heads of missions and their spouses, served as a platform for fostering camaraderie, cultural appreciation, and diplomatic goodwill. Among the distinguished guests were Venezuelan Ambassador Alvaro Enrique Sanchez Cordero, Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers, Acting Permanent Secretary Randall Karim, and Chief of Protocol Andria Narinesingh. In her address, President Kangaloo commended the diplomats for their efforts in bridging divides, promoting consensus, and facilitating urgent relief efforts for citizens in Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. She emphasized the importance of cooperation over conflict, dialogue over disputation, and respect over regret. Ambassador Cordero expressed the diplomatic community’s collective sorrow over the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and other Caribbean islands. The evening concluded with a traditional toast by President Kangaloo, reaffirming Trinidad and Tobago’s dedication to fostering enduring and respectful international partnerships.
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Pintard says ‘unexplained wealth’ among public officials a cause for concern
The Bahamas is facing mounting scrutiny over allegations of unexplained wealth among public officials and their relatives, with Free National Movement (FNM) leader Michael Pintard leading the charge for greater accountability. Pintard has expressed deep concern over the Public Disclosure Committee’s failure to produce a full compliance list for 2023, despite a legal mandate requiring Members of Parliament (MPs), senators, and senior civil servants to submit their financial declarations by March 1. The committee has attributed delays to accessibility and facility challenges, but critics dismiss these explanations as mere excuses. Pintard revealed that he has sought a comprehensive report from the committee but has only received partial information regarding senators, leaving parliamentarians’ disclosures unaccounted for. He emphasized that the alleged rise in unexplained personal enrichment among officials is a systemic issue that undermines governance and called for the establishment of an independent body to investigate the sources of their wealth. Pintard suggested that some individuals in office may be leveraging contracts to benefit themselves or their political parties. He also highlighted that the problem extends beyond elected politicians to include permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, and procurement committee members, warning that without intervention, corruption will persist. Currently, there are no effective consequences for officials who fail to disclose their wealth, as only the prime minister or the leader of the opposition can act on delinquent filings, potentially exposing offenders to fines or imprisonment. Governance advocates and the US Department of State have long criticized The Bahamas for its lack of transparency, urging reforms to address these issues. Pintard accused the government of showing insufficient urgency in tackling corruption, describing its efforts as laughable.