Keisal Peters, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for West Kingstown, has vowed to bring significant change to the constituency, currently represented by the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) Daniel Cummings since 2010. Peters, a trailblazing lawyer and St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ first female Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that young voters in the area are disenchanted with Cummings, who secured his third term in 2020 with a narrow margin of 714 votes. Speaking at a ULP campaign rally in Calliaqua, Peters accused the NDP of planning to privatize healthcare, sell national assets, and compromise the country’s future. She criticized the NDP’s alleged intentions to sell the EC$700 million Kingstown port, the Arnos Vale hospital under construction, and even the nation’s passports. Peters declared, ‘We cannot allow the NDP to lead us down a path of unrighteousness for their political agenda.’ She highlighted the ULP’s commitment to progress, including scholarships, housing, and the development of a Beaches Resort in Mt Wynne, a $500 million project in collaboration with Sandals Resorts International. Peters also outlined her vision for West Kingstown, promising innovative ideas, modern business complexes, and support for local initiatives like the seafood festival at Lowmans Bay. She criticized Cummings for relying on the legacy of the late John Horne, a former NDP representative, and accused him of offering nothing to the youth. Peters underscored the ULP’s role as the ‘last line of defence’ for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, contrasting it with the NDP’s alleged mismanagement and private debts. She urged voters to choose progress over empty promises, asserting that the ULP is ‘red and ready’ to lead the nation forward.
分类: politics
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Security: Monitoring of the latest targeted operations of the GSF (ex MSS)
In a concerted effort to combat gang violence and restore public safety, Haiti’s Gang Suppression Force (GSF), alongside the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Haitian Armed Forces (FAD’H), has executed a series of targeted operations across key regions. Over the past week, the GSF focused on clearing the Petite-Rivière–Liancourt–Pont Sondé route in the Artibonite Department, ensuring the safe transportation of PNH officers and essential supplies to St. Marc. These actions aim to bolster security in the area and protect local communities from gang-related threats. A significant operation took place on October 17, 2025, from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM, during which the joint forces successfully cleared the main road between Pont Sondé and Verret. Despite resistance from the Gran-Griff gang, which included barricades, trenches, and Molotov cocktail attacks, the GSF and PNH units neutralized the threats and secured the delivery of armored vehicles to local police stations. These vehicles are expected to significantly enhance the region’s security infrastructure. The GSF also refuted false social media claims regarding the death of a Kenyan officer during the operation, expressing gratitude for the Haitian population’s cooperation. In Port-au-Prince, joint patrols continued across multiple neighborhoods, including Kenscoff, Downtown, and the airport area, with objectives ranging from intelligence-led counter-gang operations to securing critical infrastructure and combating arms trafficking. The GSF praised the dedication of its officers, emphasizing their commitment to restoring peace and stability in Haiti.
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Tsang: Strijd tegen corruptie is ook een strijd van licht tegen duisternis
During the Divali celebration at the Kwatta Sports Complex, Minister Stephen Tsang of Public Works & Spatial Planning delivered a powerful message on behalf of President Jennifer Simons, emphasizing the government’s unwavering resolve to eradicate the ‘darkness of corruption and fraud.’ Drawing parallels between the festival’s symbolism of light overcoming darkness and the administration’s fight for justice and transparency, Tsang declared, ‘We will dispel this darkness with the bright light of accountability.’
The event, marked by vibrant festivities, included two Divali processions along the Kwattaweg, culminating at the sports complex. Attendees were treated to spectacular fireworks, live music, and a vegetarian feast, creating a festive atmosphere. Tsang underscored the broader significance of Divali, stating that its light could illuminate not only homes but also national governance, provided there is collective political and societal will.
Addressing the deep-rooted issue of corruption, Tsang acknowledged the government’s relentless efforts to revitalize the economy, public services, and state institutions. However, he stressed that success hinges on the active participation of every Surinamese citizen, calling for responsibility and love for the country. He also issued a cautionary note on the fragility of national unity, warning against the rising polarization in the multi-ethnic, multicultural, and multi-religious society.
Concluding his speech, Tsang invoked a quote from former minister Soewarto Moestadja: ‘It is time to move from unity in diversity to diversity in unity,’ urging a collective commitment to harmony and progress.
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King presents first term report card
Retired educator and incumbent MP Curtis King has outlined his accomplishments and future initiatives as he campaigns for re-election in West St. George. Speaking at a Unity Labour Party (ULP) rally in Calliaqua, King emphasized his commitment to community development and education. Among his key achievements, he highlighted the allocation of land to residents of Upper Queens Drive at a nominal rate of 50 cents per square foot, addressing a decades-long issue. He also transformed the Gomea mineral spring into a community-integrated project, fostering small business opportunities. King’s focus on education was evident in the establishment of a food preparation laboratory at West St. George Secondary School, aimed at equipping youth with skills for the expanding tourism sector. Additionally, he underscored ongoing infrastructure projects, including the construction of a hospital in Arnos Vale and upgrades to the Belair Health Clinic. King also celebrated the recent lighting of the Arnos Vale Playing Field, a long-awaited development for sports enthusiasts. Looking ahead, he pledged to continue advancing projects like the Daphine and Dorsetshire Playing Fields. King concluded by urging voters to register and support the ULP, emphasizing the party’s vision to elevate St. Vincent and the Grenadines to first-world standards.
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FLASH : «The battle will go to the end» says the leader of the Bel-Air gang
Kempès Sanon, the 46-year-old leader of the Bel-Air armed gang, one of Haiti’s most notorious and violent groups, has vowed to continue the fight against the Haitian system until it is overthrown. In a recent interview with EFE, the world’s largest Spanish news agency, Sanon declared, “The battle will go to the end. Even if they launch drones at us, the battle will not stop.” The Bel-Air gang, part of the “Viv Ansanm” terrorist coalition led by former police officer Jimmy Chérizier (aka “Barbecue”), has been accused of numerous attacks on public institutions and civilians. The United States recently sanctioned Sanon and Chérizier, with a $5 million reward offered for the latter’s capture. Sanon accused the U.S., Canada, and France of undermining Haiti’s interests, claiming their actions have perpetuated the country’s insecurity and poverty. He argued that the gangs’ fight aims to bring about change and development, asserting that the Haitian state has failed its people. Sanon also criticized the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), labeling its members as “thieves” who exploit insecurity for personal gain and prolonged power.
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Courtenay Closes Fortis Debate with Sharp Rebuke
In a heated parliamentary session on October 20, 2025, Lead Government Senator Eamon Courtenay concluded the debate on the controversial Fortis acquisition with a sharp and unexpected rebuke. Courtenay criticized the opposition for their ‘Who Thief Budna’ t-shirts, which were worn during a previous session, and controversially suggested that only those who support pedophiles could dismiss the benefits of the Fortis deal. He emphasized that the government’s decision to purchase Fortis Belize Limited was driven by national interest, as Fortis had threatened to sell to a foreign entity. Courtenay stated, ‘It occurred to me when I listened to senators opposite that only if you love a pedophile and support Budna and publicly come out and embrace him that you can rationalize away this project.’ UDP Senator Shenna Pitts countered Courtenay’s remarks, calling his accusations uncharacteristic and unrelated to the core issue of the Fortis acquisition. She questioned the relevance of the ‘Who Thief Budna’ slogan to the debate, asserting that it had no bearing on the matter at hand. The debate highlighted the deep political divisions surrounding the Fortis deal, with Courtenay defending the government’s actions as necessary for national security and economic stability.
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SDO Mayor’s Office signs cooperation agreement with the City of Lawrence, Massachusetts
In a landmark event at Lawrence City Hall, Massachusetts, Mayor Brian A. De Peña of Lawrence and Mayor Francisco Peña of Santo Domingo Oeste, Dominican Republic, solidified a groundbreaking cooperation agreement. This pact, formalized during a ceremony on October 12 in honor of Hispanic Heritage Day and ahead of Santo Domingo Oeste’s founding anniversary on October 16, marks a significant step toward fostering institutional and cultural collaboration between the two cities. The agreement is designed to enhance international relations and stimulate cultural, educational, social, and economic exchanges through joint initiatives that will benefit both communities. The event drew a diverse audience, including local officials, community leaders, and cultural representatives. Councilor Jassiel Díaz and coordinator Francia Santana were instrumental in facilitating this partnership. As a symbol of unity, the mayors exchanged meaningful gifts, such as city keys, national flags, and an honorary award, highlighting the shared commitment to strengthening ties between the Dominican Republic and the United States.
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Abinader clarifies U.S. is official convener of the Summit of the Americas
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic clarified on Monday that while the country will host the upcoming Summit of the Americas, the event remains officially convened and organized by the United States. The U.S. has been the driving force behind this continental forum since its inception. During his weekly press briefing, ‘La Semanal con la Prensa,’ Abinader addressed inquiries about the absence of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who recently confirmed she would not attend. He highlighted that the summit encompasses more than just the assembly of heads of state, featuring parallel meetings for business leaders, civil society, youth, and environmental sectors. These sessions will be held in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, depending on logistical arrangements. Abinader assured that the Dominican Republic, as the host nation, will provide full support to ensure the event’s success and to promote meaningful discussions on democracy, development, and regional cooperation. Sheinbaum’s decision to skip the summit stems from her opposition to the exclusion of any country and her focus on addressing domestic priorities and emergencies.
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Senators Debate Government’s $256 Million Fortis Buyout
A heated debate unfolded in the Belizean Senate on October 20, 2025, as lawmakers deliberated the government’s proposed $256 million acquisition of Fortis’s operations in Belize, including its 33% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). The discussion highlighted divergent perspectives on the economic, environmental, and social implications of the landmark energy deal. Senator Louis Wade, representing the Churches, voiced environmental concerns about the dams, labeling them costly and not environmentally friendly. However, he emphasized the importance of Belizean ownership of national assets, suggesting that citizens should have the opportunity to invest directly. ‘Government shouldn’t own everything,’ he remarked, advocating for public participation in the acquisition. UDP Senator Sheena Pitts raised critical questions about accessibility, questioning whether average Belizeans could afford to purchase shares in BEL given the current economic climate. ‘At a time of inflation and high living costs, which Belizean has disposable income to invest?’ she asked, highlighting broader concerns about economic inequality. Senator Eamon Courtenay, from the governing party, defended the structural integrity of the dams, asserting that they are in good operational condition and require only minor repairs. His comments aimed to reassure the public about the viability of the assets. Senator Janelle Chanona, representing non-governmental organizations and a BEL board member, addressed misconceptions about electricity rates, stating that Belize’s energy costs are not as high as perceived. Meanwhile, Opposition Senator Patrick Faber criticized the rushed legislative process, accusing the government of failing to incorporate stakeholder feedback. ‘Consultation doesn’t mean just informing people; it means listening to them,’ he argued, underscoring concerns about transparency and inclusivity. The debate underscores the complexity of the Fortis acquisition, balancing national interests, environmental considerations, and public accessibility.

