Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Rick Fox hints at possible political future

    Rick Fox hints at possible political future

    Rick Fox, a former NBA player and Bahamian actor, has ignited widespread speculation about a potential foray into politics following a series of introspective social media posts shared over the holiday weekend. On Sunday, Fox revealed that he had been approached by numerous individuals inquiring whether he would consider running in the upcoming general election. “I’ve been hearing from a lot of you lately asking if I’m thinking about politics… if I’d consider running in the next general election,” he wrote. “Truth is, I didn’t expect so many people to care. But I’ve been having real conversations with women, youth, business owners, everyday Bahamians, and I keep hearing the same thing: ‘We’re ready for something different.’”

    While Fox emphasized that he was not making any formal announcements, he expressed that he was “listening, reflecting, and exploring what the next chapter could look like.” He added his belief that The Bahamas’ best days lie ahead “if we come together with vision and purpose.”

    The following day, on National Heroes Day, Fox shared another post honoring the individuals who have shaped his life and the nation’s history. Among those he celebrated were his father, grandparents, and prominent national figures such as Sir Lynden Pindling, the Women’s Suffrage Movement, Sir Sidney Poitier, Mychal Thompson, and Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. Fox revealed that Davis had encouraged him four years ago to return to The Bahamas and bring his innovative ideas “to the front lines of climate change” to help establish “a global industry from The Bahamas.”

    “These leaders and icons of mine remind me daily what it means to serve, inspire, and build a better life for my family, my community, and our nation,” Fox wrote.

    In addition to his potential political aspirations, Fox serves as The Bahamas’ Sports Ambassador and is the founder and CEO of Partanna, a climate technology company specializing in carbon-negative building materials. In 2022, Fox signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bahamian government to develop a carbon-negative concrete manufacturing facility. The initiative aimed to construct the first 30 affordable homes using the sustainable material in Abaco the following year.

  • Grange receives CPA Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award

    Grange receives CPA Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Commonwealth Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award. This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to advancing gender equality, social justice, and inclusion both in Jamaica and on the international stage. Grange is the first Jamaican parliamentarian to receive this honor from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), which celebrates leaders who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion within their legislatures and communities. The award highlights Grange’s decades-long dedication to creating a more equitable society through impactful legislation, policies, and programs. Among her notable achievements is the implementation of the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act of 2021, which strengthens protections for women and vulnerable groups. Additionally, Grange has spearheaded public education campaigns to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote positive gender representations. Through the Bureau of Gender Affairs, she has advanced the National Policy for Gender Equality and the National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Gender-Based Violence, establishing state-run shelters and helplines for survivors. In her 33-year political career, Grange has consistently championed women’s leadership, youth engagement, and disability inclusion. Upon receiving the award, she expressed humility and gratitude, stating, ‘An equitable society can only exist when its members are afforded the opportunity to maximize their potential without fear or restrictions. That has been my life’s purpose.’ The award was presented at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados, solidifying Grange’s reputation as a regional leader in equality and inclusion. It was accepted on her behalf by Juliet Holness, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

  • Comparing the two SoEs

    Comparing the two SoEs

    The recent state of emergency (SoE) in Trinidad and Tobago has sparked a debate over its effectiveness compared to the previous one under the PNM government. While both SoEs aimed to curb crime, the current administration has achieved a significant reduction in murders, with only 78 recorded compared to 114 during the last SoE. This improvement, despite a recent uptick, highlights a more focused and stable approach under the current UNC government.

    However, the previous SoE was marred by political and institutional chaos. It began with the shocking assassination of state attorney Randall Hector, followed by then-Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley’s abrupt resignation announcement. This triggered widespread confusion and instability, compounded by the controversial appointment of Stuart Young as Rowley’s successor without internal or national elections. The arrest and suspension of then-Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher further deepened the turmoil.

    In contrast, the current SoE has been marked by stability and tangible results. Deputy Commissioner of Police Benjamin reported a 22% drop in violent crimes, a 15% reduction in serious crimes, and a 34% decrease in vehicle thefts. These achievements, coupled with the absence of political drama, underscore the effectiveness of the current administration’s approach.

    The PNM’s mismanagement of its SoE, characterized by instability and heavy-handedness, likely contributed to its historic electoral defeat, paving the way for the UNC’s landslide victory. The stark contrast between the two SoEs serves as a reminder of the importance of stability and focus in governance during crises.

  • Voter verification stations now open across country, says Thompson

    Voter verification stations now open across country, says Thompson

    The Parliamentary Commissioner of the Bahamas, Harrison Thompson, has confirmed that Family Island residents initially unable to register in New Providence have now been successfully processed. This development comes as the nation gears up for the upcoming general election. During a press conference at the Parliamentary Registration Department (PRD) on Tonique Williams-Darling Highway, Thompson announced the nationwide opening of voter verification stations. These stations, operational from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Monday to Friday, aim to ensure the accuracy of the voter register by allowing individuals to confirm or update their details. Thompson emphasized the importance of this exercise, noting that the current voter count stands at 195,610, the highest in Bahamian history. Verification requires a valid Bahamian passport or voter’s card and takes only five to seven minutes. Locations in New Providence include St Paul’s Catholic Church, Aquinas College, and the University of The Bahamas, among others. Thompson also addressed concerns raised by Xavier Knowles, President of the Free National Movement’s Torchbearers Youth Association, regarding young voters being denied registration. He clarified that only a small number of individuals, including those from Inagua, were affected, and the issues have since been resolved. Additionally, the PRD is upgrading its digital platform with assistance from the Organisation of American States, incorporating biometric data from passports to modernize the electoral system. So far, 590 individuals have completed biometric verification, with data integration underway. Thompson reassured the public that biometric verification is voluntary and that no one will lose their voting rights for opting out. He also dismissed online rumors, reaffirming the department’s commitment to safeguarding the electoral process and combating misinformation. In related news, a by-election will soon be announced for the Golden Isles constituency following the passing of MP Vaughn Miller in September.

  • Juliet Holness to serve on CPA

    Juliet Holness to serve on CPA

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Juliet Holness, Speaker of the House of Representatives, has been appointed to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s (CPA) International Executive Committee as the Representative for the Caribbean, Americas, and Atlantic Region. This significant appointment, effective October 12, 2025, was announced following the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Barbados, where Holness led a distinguished delegation including Government member Andrew Morris, Opposition member Yvonne Rose-Marie Shaw, Clerk to the Houses Colleen Lowe, and legislative counsel Ashleigh Ximines. This role positions Jamaica at the forefront of the CPA’s global leadership for the next three years, enabling Holness to influence policy and enhance parliamentary democracy across over 180 legislatures worldwide. As Regional Representative, Holness will also serve on the CAA Regional Executive Committee, fostering inter-parliamentary cooperation, advocating for good governance, and promoting the CPA’s mission at regional and international levels. In her acceptance statement, Holness expressed gratitude and reaffirmed her dedication to advancing parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth. She emphasized her commitment to representing the region with integrity and ensuring its voices remain prominent within the CPA. The CPA, encompassing over 17,000 parliamentarians across nine regions, provides a platform for collaboration and the exchange of best practices. Holness’s appointment highlights Jamaica’s ongoing leadership and active role in promoting democratic values and inter-parliamentary unity within the Commonwealth.

  • Young: Budget unrealistic, expect raid on H&S Fund

    Young: Budget unrealistic, expect raid on H&S Fund

    Former Energy Minister Stuart Young has sharply criticized the 2025/2026 budget presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, labeling it as a ‘smoke and mirrors’ strategy. Young expressed concerns over the government’s potential raid on the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund to cover revenue shortfalls. The $59.232 billion budget, announced on October 13, is projected to fall short by $3.865 billion in revenue. Key measures include a $1 per litre reduction in super gasoline prices, a revised 10% salary increase for public servants, an electricity surcharge for commercial and industrial customers, a landlord tax, and an asset levy on banks and insurance companies. Young, in a Facebook post on October 14, supported the gasoline price cut but condemned the budget as ‘populist’ and warned of rising inflation and job losses. He questioned the government’s optimistic oil price projection of US$73.25 per barrel, which is 40% higher than global forecasts, and predicted serious revenue shortfalls. Young also criticized the lack of new energy initiatives, the closure of employment programs like URP and CEPEP, and the potential economic impact of new taxes on banks, insurance companies, and landlords, which he argued would lead to higher costs for consumers. Additionally, he raised concerns about the government’s plan to appoint majority directors at Republic Bank, warning against interference in critical financial institutions.

  • Chief Sec: A step in the right direction

    Chief Sec: A step in the right direction

    Tobago has been allocated a substantial $3.72 billion in the 2025-2026 national budget, a development hailed as a “step in the right direction” by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). Speaking after the budget was presented in the House of Representatives on Monday, Augustine emphasized that this allocation signifies that for every $100 spent on national development, $5 will be directed to Tobago. This marks a significant increase from previous budgets, where the highest allocation was $4.37. Augustine noted that the THA had requested 5.9% of the national budget in June, and while the current allocation falls slightly short at 5%, it reflects improved communication and cooperation with the central government. Augustine commended the government for its willingness to engage in dialogue, even in times of disagreement, and for considering Tobago’s needs in national policy. He described the allocation as a tangible demonstration of the central government’s commitment to Tobago’s development. THA Secretary of Finance, Trade, and the Economy, Petal Ann Roberts, expressed excitement about the budget, stating that it provides an opportunity to accelerate Tobago’s progress and transform it into “the greatest little island on the planet.” The allocation of $3.72 billion, close to the $3.71 billion requested in June, is expected to enable significant advancements in Tobago’s development, marking a new momentum for the island.

  • Cameroon opposition candidate Tchiroma declares victory in presidential vote

    Cameroon opposition candidate Tchiroma declares victory in presidential vote

    In a dramatic turn of events, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former Cameroonian minister turned opposition leader, declared victory in the recent presidential election, challenging the 43-year reign of incumbent President Paul Biya. The official results, however, are not expected for another two weeks. Biya, 92, the world’s oldest serving head of state, is seeking an unprecedented eighth term in office. Tchiroma, 79, who served as employment minister until June, has unexpectedly galvanized voters, sparking widespread enthusiasm across the central African nation. Both sides are asserting victory based on unofficial tallies circulating on social media, with Tchiroma urging the government to ‘accept the truth of the ballot box’ or risk plunging the country into chaos. He promised to release detailed regional results, despite legal restrictions prohibiting the announcement of overall outcomes before the Constitutional Council’s official declaration. Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji emphasized that premature announcements are a ‘red line that must not be crossed.’ The delay in releasing official results has raised concerns about potential electoral fraud, given Biya’s history of securing landslide victories with over 70% of the vote in past elections. The 2018 election saw opposition leader Maurice Kamto arrested after declaring himself the winner, with his supporters facing violent crackdowns. The current political climate remains tense as Cameroon awaits the final verdict.

  • Trump says six killed in new strike on alleged Venezuela drug boat

    Trump says six killed in new strike on alleged Venezuela drug boat

    In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump revealed that a U.S. military operation targeting alleged drug traffickers in international waters has resulted in the deaths of six individuals described as ‘narcoterrorists.’ This latest strike brings the total number of fatalities in such operations to at least 27 since the first attack on September 2. The U.S. administration justifies these actions as necessary to combat the flow of illegal narcotics into the country, particularly from Venezuela. However, the legality of using lethal force in foreign or international waters without prior interception or questioning of suspects has been widely debated among legal experts. Trump emphasized that the targeted vessel was linked to illicit narcoterrorist networks and was traversing a known route used by designated terrorist organizations. The U.S. has also deployed warships and aircraft in the Caribbean near Venezuela, further escalating tensions with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro has responded by announcing military exercises, placing his country on high alert, and accusing the U.S. of attempting to overthrow his government. Trump has defended his anti-drug policy, claiming its effectiveness and suggesting the potential expansion of military operations to land routes. Video footage of the strikes, released by the U.S., depicts speedboats being engulfed in smoke and flames upon impact.

  • Tobago gets biggest ever slice of budget pie

    Tobago gets biggest ever slice of budget pie

    In a landmark decision, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has allocated a historic $3.72 billion to Tobago for fiscal year 2026, marking the largest financial injection the island has ever received. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo during the $59 billion budget presentation in the House of Representatives on October 13. This allocation fulfills the Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) request of $3.71 billion, a stark contrast to previous years when the THA’s budgetary demands were consistently unmet under the former administration. In 2024, for instance, the THA requested $3.956 billion but received only $2.599 billion. Tancoo emphasized that the $2.96 billion allocated to the THA represents 5% of the national budget, with an additional $763 million earmarked for various ministries, bringing the total to $3.72 billion, or 6.3% of the national budget. The announcement was met with jubilation from Tobago East MP David Thomas and Tobago West MP Joel Sampson, who joined Government MPs in a spirited show of approval. The Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce expressed gratitude for the allocation, with President Curtis Williams highlighting the importance of transparent and efficient spending. Williams also welcomed plans for direct US-Tobago flights, the opening of the ANR Robinson International Airport’s new terminal, and the development of Marriott-brand hotels and the Elephant Tree project. However, he urged the THA to address existing financial challenges, such as unpaid vendors and contractors. Martin George, Chairman of the Tobago Business Chamber, remained cautiously optimistic, stressing the need for proper fiscal management to ensure Tobago’s economic growth.