Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez visited the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas last Saturday as part of a nationwide tour to assess the recovery of the National Electric System (SEN). The plant, a cornerstone of Cuba’s energy infrastructure, is currently operating below its maximum capacity of 250 MW due to a failure in its high-temperature reheater. This issue has forced a reduction in its operating load, highlighting the urgency of the upcoming capital maintenance scheduled for December. The President emphasized the need for meticulous preparation to ensure high-quality implementation of the maintenance, which is the first in 15 years despite technical standards recommending it every seven to eight years. Rubén Campos Olmo, the plant’s General Director, outlined two maintenance strategies: one focused on basic equipment repairs and another, more extensive, involving a 180-day shutdown. The project includes chimney repairs, condenser tube replacements, and maintenance of regenerative air heaters. Despite operational challenges exacerbated by the U.S. economic blockade, the plant’s workforce of over 400 remains resilient. Campos Olmo highlighted the difficulties in sourcing parts and equipment due to the blockade, including delayed deliveries and retained shipments. The President praised the workers’ commitment, expressing confidence in their ability to stabilize the SEN. The visit underscored the plant’s critical role in Cuba’s energy sector and the broader challenges facing the nation’s infrastructure.
分类： politics
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Dominican Republic and Spain sign agreement to promote spanish in diplomacy
In a significant move to bolster the influence of the Spanish language in international diplomacy, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) has inked a memorandum of understanding with Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation. The agreement, formalized by Vice Minister Rubén Silié and Spain’s Secretary of State Susana Sumelzo Jordán, seeks to amplify the presence of Spanish in global legal frameworks, arbitration processes, and multilateral organizations. Key initiatives outlined in the memorandum include the translation of official documents into Spanish, the commemoration of Spanish Language Day, the backing of ‘Groups of Friends of Spanish,’ the promotion of Spanish in diplomatic academies, and the encouragement of its use as a criterion for staff selection in international bodies. The signing ceremony, hosted at MIREX headquarters, saw the participation of high-ranking officials from both nations, including deputy ministers, ambassadors, and representatives from INFOTEP and the Ministry of Science and Technology. This collaboration highlights a concerted effort to safeguard and elevate the status of the Spanish language on the world stage.
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Prime Minister Gaston Browne Wins Defamation appeal against Vere Bird III
In a significant legal development, the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal in a high-profile defamation case involving Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Vere Bird III. The decision, delivered on September 17, 2025, upheld the earlier ruling by Justice Nicola Byer, which found that Prime Minister Browne’s statements regarding Mr. Bird’s alleged benefit from an illegitimate cabinet decision were true, justified, and fair comment. The case dates back to April 27, 2023, when the High Court ruled in favor of the Prime Minister, stating that Mr. Bird had indeed benefited from a cabinet decision to sell him Crown lands at a preferential rate reserved for parliamentarians. Mr. Bird, dissatisfied with the initial ruling, appealed on sixteen grounds, all of which were unanimously dismissed by the Court of Appeal. The court also awarded costs to Prime Minister Browne, with the exact amounts currently under assessment. This ruling reinforces the legal standing of the Prime Minister’s comments and underscores the judiciary’s role in adjudicating complex political disputes.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, Statement In response recent incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belize
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, has issued a strong statement condemning recent incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belizean territory. The incidents, which included the hoisting of the Guatemalan flag on Belizean soil, attempts to intercept a Belizean military vessel, and obstruction of Belizeans using the Sarstoon River, have raised significant concerns about regional stability. Botchwey described these actions as “unacceptable” and emphasized their potential to undermine the growing ties between the two neighboring nations. She commended the Belizean military for their professional and restrained response, which helped prevent further escalation. Botchwey urged both countries to exercise restraint, respect international law, and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the territorial dispute. She also called for continued efforts to seek a resolution through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the establishment of a cooperation mechanism for the Sarstoon River and maritime areas, supported by the Organization of American States. The Commonwealth reaffirmed its support for Belize’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security, emphasizing the importance of adherence to confidence-building measures and international agreements. Botchwey’s statement underscores the global attention on the situation and the Commonwealth’s commitment to fostering lasting peace in the region.
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NNP voices concern over nomination of Barbados’ next president
The nomination of retired military officer and former Health Minister, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic, as Barbados’ second President has ignited significant controversy, with Kemar Stuart, leader of the New National Party (NNP), raising concerns about potential political bias and threats to the independence of the presidency. In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, Stuart criticized the nomination process, describing it as a “backroom decision” orchestrated by Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, both members of the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP). Stuart argued that Bostic’s overt affiliation with the BLP introduces a conflict of interest, undermining the impartiality expected of the presidential office. He emphasized that the selection of a partisan figure for this constitutionally influential role could erode public trust in Barbados’ parliamentary democracy. Stuart highlighted the President’s authority to appoint seven independent Senators, warning that partisan appointments could consolidate power within a single party, effectively dismantling democratic checks and balances. To address these concerns, Stuart proposed that, upon confirmation, Bostic should invite minority parties, including the NNP, United Progressive Party (UPP), Friends of Democracy, and the CBLP, to nominate individuals for Senate appointments. According to Stuart, this approach would restore balance, reignite voter engagement, and prevent the emergence of a one-party state. Parliament is set to vote on Bostic’s nomination in October, with his potential inauguration scheduled for November 30, following the conclusion of President Dame Sandra Mason’s term.
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House warming
The opening of Jamaica’s highly anticipated legislative session on Thursday set the stage for a dynamic and contentious political landscape. The Opposition made it clear that it intends to rigorously hold the Government accountable for the pledges made during the general election campaign. This declaration underscores the heightened scrutiny expected in the coming term.
However, the reappointment of Juliet Holness as Speaker of the House, a decision opposed by the Opposition, sparked immediate criticism. Opposition Leader Mark Golding expressed concerns, suggesting that the Parliament’s commencement was marred by discord and a lack of consensus.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness reaffirmed his administration’s ambitious vision for Jamaica’s future. He emphasized the Government’s commitment to achieving sustained economic growth, reducing crime rates, providing affordable housing, and developing First World infrastructure. Holness stressed that this third term is not about personal legacy but rather about elevating Jamaica to a position of greatness on the global stage.
The contrasting perspectives of the Government and Opposition highlight the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Jamaica’s political and socio-economic development. For more detailed coverage, refer to Pages 4 and 5.
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Holness doubles down on plan to transform Jamaica
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Jamaica into a nation characterized by sustained economic growth, reduced crime rates, affordable housing, and world-class infrastructure. Addressing the newly sworn-in Parliament, Holness emphasized that his focus is not on his personal legacy but on Jamaica’s destiny. This follows his historic third consecutive victory in the September 3 General Election, where his Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) triumphed over the People’s National Party.
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Acting PM meets with British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
On Friday, September 12, Acting Prime Minister of Dominica, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, hosted a significant meeting with His Excellency Simon Mustard, the British High Commissioner to the Commonwealth of Dominica. The discussions took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in Roseau, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. Earlier in the day, Mustard formally presented his Letter of Credence to Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, the President of Dominica, solidifying his official role in the region. The bilateral talks centered on reinforcing mutual commitments to enhance cooperation and explore shared interests across multiple sectors, including trade, climate resilience, and regional security. Simon Mustard, who assumed his position as British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in May 2025, brings over two decades of experience in policy, crisis management, and consular affairs. His previous roles include serving as Special Envoy to Africa’s Great Lakes region and British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone. Currently based in Barbados, Mustard’s appointment underscores the UK’s strategic focus on strengthening ties with Caribbean nations. This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to foster a robust partnership between Dominica and the United Kingdom, with both sides expressing optimism about future collaborations.
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Bostic’s presidential nomination signals rare political consensus – Wickham
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne have jointly nominated Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic as the island’s second president. Political analyst Peter Wickham interprets this consensus as a strong endorsement of Bostic’s credibility and impartiality, transcending political divides. Wickham emphasized that Thorne’s agreement to the nomination reflects confidence in Bostic’s ability to serve without conflict, avoiding a parliamentary vote that would have been a mere formality given the government’s majority. Bostic, a former Member of Parliament and Minister of Health and Wellness, gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wickham dismissed concerns about Bostic’s political background, noting that he has fulfilled the required cooling-off period from politics and is widely respected. However, retired lecturer Dr. George Belle downplayed the significance of the nomination, stating that it adheres to constitutional norms and reflects the reality of selecting politically affiliated individuals for such roles. Belle emphasized that the process, supported by both the prime minister and opposition leader, follows established protocols and will proceed to parliamentary affirmation. While some view the nomination as a positive step toward unity, others see it as a routine constitutional procedure.
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Bostic speaks on nomination
Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Davidson Bostic, the nominated President of Barbados, is set to bring his pandemic-era mantra of “no retreat, no surrender” into a ceremonial role devoid of executive power. While Bostic refrained from elaborating on his nomination until parliamentary ratification, he emphasized that the mantra, which became synonymous with his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis, remains a core part of his identity. “That is within me, that comes from within me, that is something that will remain with me,” Bostic told Barbados TODAY on Wednesday. He expressed elation at the nomination, stating, “I am indeed elated at the nomination to become the second president of Barbados,” but stressed the importance of respecting the parliamentary process. Bostic, who received the Order of Freedom of Barbados in 2022, highlighted his eagerness to serve the nation once more, pending ratification. The retired military officer, who became the public face of Barbados’ pandemic response, is set to succeed Dame Sandra Mason as Head of State on Independence Day. His leadership during the crisis, marked by a military-style focus, earned him national honours and widespread respect. Bostic, a former Cabinet Minister, is expected to receive full approval during a joint parliamentary session on October 7. His nomination was announced in Parliament by Deputy Speaker Neil Rowe, following correspondence from Prime Minister Mia Mottley and Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne. Bostic’s career spans military service, including as director of operations at the Regional Security System, and political representation of The City of Bridgetown.