分类： politics

Dick Cheney, the 46th Vice President of the United States and a central figure in the nation’s post-9/11 foreign policy, has passed away at the age of 84. His family confirmed his death, attributing it to complications from pneumonia, cardiac disease, and vascular conditions. Cheney, who served under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, was a towering yet polarizing figure in American politics, known for his role in shaping the “war on terror” and the controversial Iraq War.

Cheney’s career spanned decades, beginning as a White House aide under President Richard Nixon and later serving as Defense Secretary under President George H.W. Bush. He was instrumental in the U.S. invasion of Panama in 1989 and Operation Desert Storm in 1991. As Vice President, Cheney wielded significant influence, particularly in advocating for the Iraq War based on claims of weapons of mass destruction—later proven false. His aggressive policies, including support for enhanced interrogation techniques and the detention of terror suspects at Guantanamo Bay, drew widespread criticism.

Despite his controversial legacy, Cheney remained unapologetic, asserting that his actions were necessary to protect the nation. In his later years, he became a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, whom he labeled a “coward” and a threat to the republic. Cheney’s final years were marked by his endorsement of Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, a symbolic gesture reflecting his disillusionment with the modern Republican Party.

Cheney’s life was also marked by significant health challenges, including multiple heart attacks and a heart transplant in 2012. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lynne, their two daughters, Liz and Mary, and seven grandchildren. His death marks the end of an era for a man who shaped American politics in profound and often contentious ways.

The co-chairs of the Caribbean Caucus in the United States House of Representatives have issued a stern condemnation of what they label as illegal and unilateral military airstrikes ordered by the Trump administration in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. Congresswomen Yvette Clarke, who also leads the Congressional Black Caucus, and Maxine Waters jointly expressed their concerns in a statement released on Friday. They criticized the administration for employing a ‘kill first, ask questions never’ strategy, arguing that such actions violate international law, strain relations with Caribbean nations, and endanger civilian lives. The lawmakers demanded an immediate cessation of the strikes and greater transparency regarding the operations. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, also voiced his disapproval, emphasizing that the airstrikes breach international human rights law. Türk reported that over 60 individuals have allegedly been killed since early September and urged the US to halt these ‘unacceptable’ operations to prevent further ‘extrajudicial killings.’ While the Trump administration has justified the strikes as part of counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism efforts, Türk dismissed this rationale, stating that drug enforcement must adhere to strict limits on the use of lethal force. He called for independent investigations into the reported incidents. Amnesty International has separately labeled the strikes as ‘murder’ and urged the US Congress to intervene and stop the operations. The human rights organization noted that US officials have confirmed 13 strikes—eight in the Caribbean and five in the Pacific—and argued that the US is not engaged in any armed conflict in the region that would legally justify such military actions. Amnesty officials also pointed out that the administration has failed to provide evidence that the targeted individuals posed imminent threats or that the vessels could not have been intercepted and boarded.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has been a decisive and strategic leader, with notable achievements such as his response to Hurricane Irma, the resolution of the Scotiabank issue, and the establishment of the University of the West Indies’ fourth landed campus. However, his approach to dissent and media freedom has raised concerns among citizens, including members of his own party and cabinet. On the nation’s Independence Day, Browne was accused of launching an attack on a fellow citizen who expressed views contrary to his own. This incident has sparked a debate about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in the country. The citizen, who was interviewed by a regional media outlet, emphasized the importance of an independent investigation into a recent procurement scandal and called for a more inclusive and respectful public discourse. The incident coincided with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, highlighting the growing dangers faced by media professionals worldwide. The Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda guarantees freedom of expression and the press, which are essential for a healthy democracy. Critics argue that Browne’s actions have a chilling effect on public discourse and call for a more civil and inclusive approach to governance. As the nation moves forward from its 44th anniversary of political independence, there is a collective aspiration for a healthier democracy and a more respectful public discourse.

In a momentous ceremony during Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence celebrations, Ambassador Lionel Alexander Hurst was honored with the prestigious title of Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation (KCN). The accolade, bestowed at the National Awards Ceremony held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, recognizes his extraordinary contributions to diplomacy, national development, and public service. The official citation lauded Hurst’s lifelong dedication to scholarship, leadership, and patriotic commitment, highlighting his multifaceted career as a diplomat, legal expert, scholar, media personality, and national advisor. Hurst’s distinguished career includes pivotal roles as Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United Nations, where he chaired critical international committees and represented the nation at numerous General Assembly sessions. He also served as Ambassador to the United States and Head of Mission in Washington, D.C., where he adeptly championed the country’s political and economic interests before the U.S. government, the World Bank, and other global institutions. Beyond diplomacy, Hurst has profoundly enriched Antigua and Barbuda’s intellectual, cultural, and civic spheres. His academic engagements at institutions like Princeton University, New York University, and the U.S. National War College have amplified the nation’s global voice. Additionally, his work in broadcasting and media has educated and inspired citizens on law, governance, and international affairs, fostering a deeper understanding of national and global issues. With the title of Sir Lionel Alexander Hurst, this recognition marks a crowning achievement in a career defined by service, intellect, and unwavering national pride.