Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Leonel Fernández accuses PRM government of losing control over public safety

    Leonel Fernández accuses PRM government of losing control over public safety

    San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic – In a scathing critique of the ruling Partido Revolucionario Moderno (PRM) government, former President Leonel Fernández, leader of the opposition Fuerza del Pueblo (FP) party, accused the administration of failing to maintain public safety and address critical issues in essential services. Speaking at a swearing-in ceremony for new FP members at the Nigua Gremio Club on Sunday, Fernández asserted that the country has become a breeding ground for criminal activity, leaving citizens living in constant fear of robbery or violence. He attributed the surge in crime to inadequate planning and the absence of coherent public policies, claiming that the government has reneged on its promise to ensure national security.

    Fernández also condemned the government’s inability to provide basic public services, particularly the widespread lack of access to clean drinking water in numerous communities. ‘We are lacking drinking water,’ he emphasized, calling on the administration to address long-standing demands for the construction of new aqueducts.

    Highlighting the growing momentum behind FP, Fernández noted that the influx of new party members reflects widespread disillusionment with the current government. ‘People are realizing that this government hasn’t met the country’s challenges,’ he declared. Following the event, Fernández attended the Expo Constitución 2025 Multisector Fair, organized by the San Cristóbal Chamber of Commerce and Production, further engaging with local stakeholders.

  • VIDEO: PM Says Some Treasury Staff Paid by Big Business to Fast-Track Large Payments, While Poor People Wait Years

    VIDEO: PM Says Some Treasury Staff Paid by Big Business to Fast-Track Large Payments, While Poor People Wait Years

    In a startling revelation during his weekly radio address, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has accused certain Treasury employees of accepting bribes from influential business figures to expedite large government payments. This alleged corruption has reportedly left smaller local suppliers and contractors waiting for years to receive their dues, while larger entities enjoy swift disbursements. Browne emphasized the inequity of this practice, which disproportionately affects small businesses that rely on timely payments to sustain their operations. To combat this issue, the Prime Minister has instructed the Accountant General to halt the issuance of significant payments or check exchanges without prior Cabinet approval. This directive aims to restore fairness and transparency in the government’s financial operations. Browne’s announcement has sparked widespread debate, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations. The Prime Minister’s commitment to addressing these systemic issues highlights his administration’s focus on combating corruption and supporting local enterprises.

  • VIDEO: Department of War releases footage of drug-carrying submarine being destroyed by U.S forces

    VIDEO: Department of War releases footage of drug-carrying submarine being destroyed by U.S forces

    In a significant move against international drug trafficking, the United States Department of War has unveiled footage capturing the destruction of a submarine laden with illegal narcotics. The vessel, intercepted on a notorious narcotrafficking route, was reportedly transporting a substantial quantity of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. President Donald Trump revealed that four individuals, described as ‘narcoterrorists,’ were aboard the submarine. Two were killed during the operation, while the remaining two were handed over to authorities in Ecuador and Colombia for prosecution. Trump emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the intercepted drugs could have claimed the lives of at least 25,000 Americans had they reached US shores. He also confirmed that no US military personnel were harmed during the mission. This operation is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to combat drug trafficking by land and sea, targeting the networks that fuel the opioid crisis in the United States. The release of the footage underscores the administration’s commitment to transparency and its aggressive stance against narcoterrorism.

  • Grenada government pressed for response to alleged US refugee ultimatum

    Grenada government pressed for response to alleged US refugee ultimatum

    The Government of Grenada is under increasing scrutiny following reports that the United States has issued an ultimatum demanding the island nation accept refugees being deported from the US. The civil society group, Coalition for a Zone of Peace, revealed in a Sunday statement that it had received credible information about Washington’s approach to Grenada regarding the resettlement of third-country nationals. While Grenada’s government had previously denied a similar proposal in February, the coalition’s latest statement suggests renewed efforts by the US. The group is now calling for transparency, urging authorities to confirm the reports and inform the public. The coalition has taken a firm stance, asserting that Grenada, as a sovereign nation, will not support what it describes as an inhumane US immigration policy. It emphasized that the country will not accept non-Grenadian refugees, some of whom could pose security risks. The coalition framed the issue as a matter of national dignity and sovereignty, declaring that Grenada is not for sale. The statement was released on October 19, coinciding with the anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and others in 1983, a period marked by US-led intervention in Grenada. The controversy also unfolds amid reports of a US request to install radar equipment in Grenada, part of a broader military buildup in the region. In response, the coalition has organized a series of public activities, including a mass demonstration on October 22 and candlelight vigils on October 25. A petition opposing the alleged US request has also been circulated, urging citizens to voice their opposition. Notably, several countries, including South Sudan and Eswatini, have already accepted refugees under the Trump administration’s third-country deportation program.

  • OPINION: Nuts and bolts of Caricom ‘free movement’ for Saint Lucia in the future

    OPINION: Nuts and bolts of Caricom ‘free movement’ for Saint Lucia in the future

    In a significant move towards regional integration, four CARICOM nations—Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines—recently implemented full freedom of movement for their citizens. This decision, made during Saint Lucia’s political campaigning period, fulfills a commitment made at CARICOM’s 50th anniversary. However, Saint Lucia’s silence on the matter raises critical questions about its position in this evolving regional landscape. Historically, Saint Lucia has been a champion of regionalism, from the efforts of Nobel laureate William Arthur Lewis to the aspirations of the failed federation. Yet, the current lack of action calls for practical, forward-thinking discussions to prepare for potential future steps towards freedom of movement. This phase presents an opportunity for public education and engagement on the implications of regional obligations. The four pioneering countries have rejected the outdated requirement under Article 45 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC), which limited CARICOM nationals to a six-month stay as tourists. Instead, they invoked the Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation, allowing nationals to enter, reside, work, and remain indefinitely without permits, while also granting access to healthcare and education. For Saint Lucia, joining this movement requires careful planning. Policymakers must address key questions: What benefits will CARICOM nationals receive? How will healthcare and education access be defined? What systems will integrate migrants? Will social security benefits be transferable? These issues demand national dialogue to ensure transparency and fairness. The legacy of regional integration, championed by figures like Elma Gene Isaac, must inspire deliberate and thoughtful action. As Saint Lucia contemplates its next steps, clarity and inclusivity must guide the process, ensuring that regional integration moves from rhetoric to reality.

  • DNA-leden getraind in genderanalyse van Staatsbegroting 2026

    DNA-leden getraind in genderanalyse van Staatsbegroting 2026

    In a significant step toward fostering inclusive governance, 23 members of various factions in De Nationale Assemblée participated in an interactive training session on analyzing the National Budget through a gender lens. The session, titled ‘A Fair Budget: The National Budget Through a Gender Lens,’ was organized by Stichting Projekta in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Held on Friday, the training underscored the importance of recognizing that budgetary policies are not neutral and can disproportionately impact different societal groups. Sharda Ganga, Director of Projekta, led the session, which was funded by the Equality Fund. Participants were equipped with practical tools to assess the 2026 budget’s effects on women, men, boys, and girls, with applications extending to indigenous communities, people with disabilities, and vulnerable youth. During the opening remarks, Director Nasier Eskak, representing Minister Bee, emphasized the necessity of collaboration in crafting policies that reflect societal diversity. The training highlighted the potential of budgetary measures to either reinforce inequality or promote equal opportunities and social justice. One experienced parliamentarian noted, ‘The gender lens reveals who benefits and who is left out, making it clear that the National Budget is not neutral.’ Practical examples and a checklist provided insights into unintended consequences of policies. Participants stressed that the gender lens encompasses all societal groups, not just women. Shiefania Jahangier, Head of the Bureau for Gender Affairs, urged attendees to integrate gender equality into economic, political, and institutional policies. This training is part of a broader initiative by Projekta to strengthen gender-responsive policymaking within the government and De Nationale Assemblée, aligning with its mission to build a human rights-based, inclusive society.

  • Colombia recalls ambassador to US as Trump-Petro feud intensifies

    Colombia recalls ambassador to US as Trump-Petro feud intensifies

    Colombia has recalled its ambassador to the United States, Daniel Garcia Pena, for consultations as tensions between the two nations escalate over drug policy and aid disputes. The move follows a series of heated exchanges between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US President Donald Trump, who recently threatened punitive tariffs and an end to US aid to Colombia. Trump accused Petro of being an ‘illegal drug leader’ and vowed to ‘close up’ drug cultivation in Colombia if Petro fails to act. Colombia’s Interior Minister Armando Benedetti interpreted Trump’s remarks as a ‘threat of invasion or military action.’ The rift deepened after the US deployed warships off the South American coast in August, targeting drug trafficking operations. At least 27 people have been killed in these operations, with recent strikes allegedly targeting Colombian armed groups. Petro has accused Trump of violating Colombia’s sovereignty and committing murder. The US has historically been Colombia’s largest aid provider, with $740 million allocated in 2023, half of which was earmarked for anti-drug efforts. However, relations have soured, with the US decertifying Colombia as an ally in the drug war and revoking Petro’s US visa. Petro’s administration has shifted focus from forced eradication to addressing the social issues driving drug trafficking, leading to a 70% increase in coca cultivation, according to UN estimates.

  • US Supreme Court to rule on gun ownership by drug abusers

    US Supreme Court to rule on gun ownership by drug abusers

    The United States Supreme Court has agreed to examine a federal law that prohibits individuals who abuse illegal drugs from owning firearms. This case, which will test the boundaries of the Second Amendment, involves Ali Danial Hemani, a dual US-Pakistani national and alleged habitual marijuana user, who was indicted for unlawfully possessing a Glock pistol. An appeals court previously ruled that denying Hemani the right to own a firearm violated his constitutional rights. The case has drawn attention due to its implications for gun control and individual liberties. The conservative-majority court, known for its pro-gun rulings, will determine whether the law imposes an unjustifiable burden on Second Amendment protections. The Justice Department, under former President Donald Trump, has argued that habitual drug users with firearms pose a unique societal danger, but the restriction is temporary and can be lifted if the individual ceases illegal drug use. This case is one of two gun rights disputes the court will address this term, the other involving a Hawaii law on concealed carry permits.

  • Prime Minister absent from Divali Nagar finale

    Prime Minister absent from Divali Nagar finale

    Amid escalating security concerns following a United States advisory to its citizens in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar was conspicuously absent from the final night of Divali Nagar on October 19, where she was slated to deliver the keynote address. Despite multiple attempts by Newsday to reach her for comment, the Prime Minister remained unresponsive. Surujdeo Mangaroo, president of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), which organized the nine-night event, indicated around 1 pm on Sunday that no security sweep had been conducted at the Chaguanas venue, suggesting Persad-Bissessar’s attendance was unlikely. Nevertheless, the NCIC implemented additional security measures as a precaution. Later that evening, ushers and NCIC members confirmed to the media that the Prime Minister would not be attending. In her Divali message, Mangaroo emphasized the importance of unity and harmony, urging citizens to strengthen the bonds that unite them. In a special message in the Divali Nagar 2025 commemorative magazine, Persad-Bissessar reflected on the event’s theme, ‘Loka Sangraha – the Welfare of the World,’ highlighting the need for compassion, justice, and peace in a world plagued by conflict and division. She underscored the nation’s commitment to building a society where every individual can live with dignity, opportunity, and hope. Meanwhile, tensions have been rising nationwide since the US deployed military assets off the Venezuelan coast to combat the drug trade. Persad-Bissessar has faced criticism for her support of US operations and her controversial statement advocating violent measures against drug runners. On October 18, the US Embassy in Port of Spain issued a social media alert warning of a heightened state of alert and advised its nationals to avoid US government facilities in Trinidad and Tobago. Rumors circulated that Persad-Bissessar and Attorney General John Jeremie had been relocated to safe houses, a claim denied by acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin. Both Benjamin and Minister of National Security Roger Alexander acknowledged a credible threat but urged the public not to panic. Calls have grown for the Prime Minister to address the nation regarding the nature of the threat, particularly its connection to the US military presence in the southern Caribbean and potential risks to Trinidad and Tobago nationals. While Persad-Bissessar has remained publicly silent, she shared photographs on October 18 of herself and Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers hosting US Embassy staff at a private Divali celebration at her home in Phillipine, South Trinidad—coinciding with the embassy’s alert.

  • Bahamians urged to avoid fast speed boats leaving Venezuela

    Bahamians urged to avoid fast speed boats leaving Venezuela

    NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) – In light of the United States’ escalating military presence in the Caribbean as part of its campaign against alleged drug traffickers from Venezuela, Bahamian National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has issued a stern warning to citizens. Munroe advised Bahamians to steer clear of ‘go fast boats’ departing from Venezuela, emphasizing the potential dangers posed by the US operations. While the Bahamas does not intend to mirror the US military actions, Munroe stressed the importance of avoiding any involvement that could lead to unintended consequences.