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.
分类： politics
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Prime Minister Skerrit meets with Cambodian leader on 15th anniversary of alliance
In a landmark diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica met with Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia during a working visit to Phnom Penh last week. The discussions, held in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, focused on enhancing bilateral relations across key sectors such as trade, economic development, agriculture, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The meeting coincided with the 15th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, marking a significant milestone in their partnership.
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SLP newcomer to challenge UWP stronghold in Micoud South
The Micoud South constituency, traditionally a bastion of the United Workers Party (UWP), is set to witness a fiercely contested general election as the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) unveils its latest candidate, Dr. Shanda Harracksingh. A medical professional and native of Micoud, Harracksingh was officially introduced on October 5, 2025, at the Micoud Playing Field. The event reportedly drew one of the largest crowds in the SLP’s recent history, signaling a potential shift in voter sentiment. Harracksingh faces a formidable opponent in Allen Chastanet, the UWP’s political leader and current Member of Parliament for the constituency. Since 1997, Micoud South has remained under UWP control, largely due to the enduring legacy of the late Sir John Compton. In her inaugural address, Harracksingh acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the need for change. She criticized Chastanet for his prolonged absence from the constituency, declaring, “We have given him several chances. It is time to turn the page. No more excuses. It is time for change.” Harracksingh outlined her vision for the constituency, focusing on elderly care, agricultural development, and infrastructure improvements. She pledged to establish an elderly care center, enhance road access for farmers, and promote agro-processing initiatives. “I am a daughter of the soil,” she asserted, “and I will deliver for this community.” As the election season heats up, Micoud South emerges as a critical battleground, testing whether voters will remain loyal to the UWP or embrace the SLP’s message of renewal.
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Harold Lovell: The Man Who Turned His Back on the People of All Saints West
Anthony Smith Jr., a dedicated representative of All Saints West, has broken his silence to address the political maneuvers of Harold Lovell, a former Minister of Finance, Tourism, and Aviation. Smith Jr. accuses Lovell of neglecting the constituency during his tenure, despite holding significant governmental power. Lovell, who is now campaigning in All Saints West, is portrayed as an outsider with a history of failing to support the community. Smith Jr. highlights the dismissal of Chandlah Coddington, a fellow UPP member, as a prime example of Lovell’s disregard for local needs. Coddington, who had twice won unanimous victories at the polls, was ignored when he pleaded for basic infrastructure improvements. Smith Jr. emphasizes that he has been working tirelessly for the community, even using personal resources to build roads, long before Lovell’s recent interest in the area. He calls for accountability and prioritization of All Saints West, asserting that the people deserve better than Lovell’s empty promises. Smith Jr. concludes by reaffirming his commitment to the community and urging voters to recognize the true face of Lovell’s leadership.
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Retired Justice Stanley John Returns to Antigua Bench
Retired High Court Judge Stanley John is set to return to Antigua and Barbuda, where he will serve as an acting judge on the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. The Judicial and Legal Services Commission announced that Justice John will be stationed in Antigua from October 4 to December 22, 2025. This marks his second stint in the country, having previously served from 2019 to 2022. Most recently, he acted as a High Court judge in the Virgin Islands. His return follows the departure of Justice Tunde Bakre, who served on the Antigua bench for less than two years. Bakre, a Nigerian-born jurist, was sworn in on September 29, 2023, and presided over several high-profile cases, including Antigua and Barbuda’s first judge-alone murder trial. Bakre has since been appointed to the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos Islands, where he was sworn in on October 3, 2025. Justice John’s reappointment underscores the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court’s commitment to maintaining experienced judicial leadership in the region.
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Chinese envoy voices concern over U.S. actions in Caribbean
In a strongly worded statement at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Friday, China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, expressed grave concerns over escalating tensions in the Caribbean, attributing the instability to recent U.S. military operations near Venezuela. Fu criticized the U.S. for deploying forces in Caribbean waters under the guise of combating drug trafficking, which he argued has led to a series of provocative actions, including the sinking of Venezuelan vessels, the shooting of sailors, and the seizure of fishing boats. These actions, Fu asserted, infringe on the right to life, basic human rights, and the freedom of navigation, while also undermining the sovereignty and security of other nations. He emphasized that such unilateral enforcement operations in international waters violate international law and pose a significant threat to regional peace and stability. Fu called on the U.S. to immediately cease its unlawful activities and urged Washington to pursue international cooperation in combating transnational crimes through established legal frameworks. He reiterated China’s opposition to the use or threat of force in international relations and any external interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs, stressing the need to uphold the principles of the UN Charter.
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José Daniel Ferrer García leaves the country at the request of the U.S. government
On October 13, 2025, Cuban citizen José Daniel Ferrer García, accompanied by his family, departed from Cuba to the United States. This move followed a formal request from the U.S. government and Ferrer García’s explicit consent, in accordance with the legal protocols established between the two nations. The decision was underpinned by a comprehensive evaluation by the Cuban Prosecutor’s Office, which considered Ferrer García’s legal status, adherence to due process, and the unique circumstances of his case. Earlier in January 2025, Ferrer García had been granted early release from a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence. However, this privilege was revoked in April 2025 due to repeated violations of court-mandated obligations as per the Criminal Enforcement Law and its Regulations. Subsequently, Ferrer García was placed under provisional detention by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, pending charges for a new crime. Upon completing the investigation, the Prosecutor’s Office modified the precautionary measure. The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the nation’s steadfast commitment to the rule of law, the protection of individual rights, the defense of sovereignty against defamation, and the maintenance of peace and constitutional order.
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Column: Borrelpraat no. 893
In a multifaceted geopolitical landscape, the anticipated release of hostages by Hamas on Monday has sparked intense discussions about the broader implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation is further complicated by the role of international actors, including the United Nations, and the internal political dynamics within Israel and Palestine. Critics argue that the two-state solution is increasingly untenable, with Israeli settlements on the West Bank and aggressive military actions in Gaza exacerbating tensions. The UN’s perceived ineffectiveness, particularly due to the veto power in the Security Council, has been a point of contention, with calls for reform to address global conflicts more effectively. Domestically, Israel faces scrutiny over its handling of illegal immigrants and internal dissent, with some labeling the country as a de facto dictatorship. Meanwhile, the potential displacement of millions of Palestinians from Gaza raises concerns about humanitarian crises and the capacity of other nations to absorb refugees. The discussion also touches on historical and ongoing internal conflicts within other nations, such as the struggles for land rights and autonomy among indigenous and Maroon communities in Suriname. The broader narrative underscores the complexities of achieving peace and stability in a world fraught with competing interests and unresolved historical grievances.
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Leah Francis Campos sworn in as new U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic
Washington, D.C. — Leah Francis Campos has officially taken the oath as the new U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, commencing her diplomatic duties in Santo Domingo. Appointed by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 7, 2025, following her nomination in December 2024, Campos expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity. In a heartfelt social media post, she acknowledged the unwavering support of her family, friends, and political allies, emphasizing the honor of representing the United States in a nation that serves as a pivotal partner in the Caribbean region.
Her appointment marks the end of a transitional period during which the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic was overseen by a Chargé d’Affaires, signaling a reinvigorated U.S. commitment to fostering robust bilateral ties. A seasoned career diplomat and former CIA analyst, Campos brings a conservative perspective and extensive foreign service experience to her new role. She is anticipated to arrive in the Dominican Republic shortly to formally present her credentials to President Luis Abinader.
During her Senate confirmation hearing, Ambassador Campos articulated her key priorities, which include advancing trade and investment opportunities, enhancing security collaboration to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, addressing irregular migration challenges, and countering China’s expanding influence in the region. Her tenure is expected to focus on deepening the strategic alliance between Washington and Santo Domingo, emphasizing mutual cooperation, security, and shared prosperity.
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR: 28 years of governance — the record speaks for itself
Over the past 28 years, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) has held power for 18 years, yet the nation’s progress remains stunted. Critical sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and national security have languished under SLP’s governance. The southern region, in particular, has been systematically neglected, perpetuating poverty and dependency. SLP’s reliance on short-term handouts, exemplified by the failed Youth Economy initiative, has left the youth disillusioned and without sustainable opportunities. In contrast, the United Workers Party (UWP) governed for only ten years, a period marked by unprecedented challenges. From Hurricane Dean in 2007 to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, UWP navigated multiple crises while maintaining economic stability, paying salaries, and ensuring the continuity of essential services. Under UWP’s leadership, significant infrastructure projects, including the development of road networks, were realized, fostering commerce and tourism. UWP’s 20/20 Vision Plan emphasized systemic empowerment across agriculture, education, and infrastructure, contrasting sharply with SLP’s focus on temporary fixes. The record is clear: SLP’s prolonged governance has yielded minimal progress and growing insecurity, while UWP’s tenure, despite adversity, delivered tangible development and hope for Saint Lucia’s future.