Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Trump Labels U.S. “Unstoppable” if It Seized Greenland

    Trump Labels U.S. “Unstoppable” if It Seized Greenland

    Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on January 21, 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump renewed his controversial campaign to acquire Greenland while delivering sharp criticisms of European allies. During an extensive hour-long address, Trump asserted that the United States stands as the only nation capable of properly securing the strategically vital Arctic territory, though he explicitly stated he “won’t use force” to achieve this goal.

    The former president intensified his rhetoric against Denmark, labeling the country “ungrateful” for previously rejecting his proposal and suggesting the nation owed the United States for its defense during World War II. Trump made the striking claim that while America would be “frankly unstoppable” if he decided to employ “excessive strength,” he would refrain from such measures.

    European officials attending the forum expressed concern that the Greenland dispute could significantly strain NATO unity, with many preparing to address these tensions during the gathering. Adding economic pressure to the geopolitical confrontation, Trump revealed plans to impose a 10% tariff on goods from eight European countries that have opposed his territorial ambitions regarding the Danish autonomous territory.

    The renewed push for Greenland acquisition, coupled with threatened trade measures against European allies, marks a significant escalation in Trump’s approach to international relations and territorial expansion, potentially creating fresh diplomatic challenges for Western alliances.

  • APNU scolds House Speaker for attacking US, Canadian envoys over appointing Opposition Leader

    APNU scolds House Speaker for attacking US, Canadian envoys over appointing Opposition Leader

    A significant constitutional crisis has erupted in Guyana’s National Assembly, with the opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) delivering a stern rebuke to House Speaker Manzoor Nadir for his unprecedented criticism of American and Canadian diplomats. The controversy centers on the prolonged vacancy of the Opposition Leader position, a constitutional office that remains unfilled despite mounting international concern.

    APNU parliamentarian Dr. Dexter Todd, a legal professional, issued a formal statement condemning the Speaker’s remarks against US Ambassador Nicole Theriot and Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin. The diplomats had previously advocated for the timely election of an Opposition Leader to safeguard democratic processes—a position Dr. Todd characterized as supporting constitutional integrity rather than foreign interference.

    “When the international community calls for this vacancy to be filled, they are not taking sides. They are standing on the side of the Supremacy of the Constitution,” Dr. Todd asserted, emphasizing that the diplomats were fulfilling their fundamental duty to advocate for democratic principles.

    The confrontation escalated when Speaker Nadir questioned the democratic credentials of both nations during his remarks. He challenged Ambassador Theriot regarding the existence of an Opposition Leader in the US system and reminded High Commissioner Sigouin of Canada’s six-month budget delay and its history of unelected prime ministers.

    Dr. Todd countered that the Speaker’s personal views must remain subordinate to constitutional obligations when acting in an official capacity. “The Speaker is a human being entitled to his personal views,” he acknowledged, “but the moment he speaks in his official capacity, his personal feelings must be subservient to the Rule of Law.”

    The political drama intersects with complex legal matters involving Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the 16-seat We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party and the most likely candidate for Opposition Leader. Mr. Mohamed and his father face serious international legal challenges, including US sanctions for alleged gold smuggling involving over 10,000 kilograms worth approximately $50 million, plus federal indictments for wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Extradition proceedings are currently underway, with committal hearings scheduled for February 5.

    This situation echoes previous tensions in 2020 when the then-APNU+Alliance For Change administration accused international observers of manipulating election outcomes, though a CARICOM-brokered recount ultimately confirmed the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s victory.

    Dr. Todd concluded with a call for constitutional respect above political agendas, stating: “Our international partners expect it, but more importantly, the Guyanese people deserve it.”

  • PPP opposes Azruddin Mohamed becoming Opposition Leader- Nandlall

    PPP opposes Azruddin Mohamed becoming Opposition Leader- Nandlall

    A significant political confrontation is unfolding in Guyana’s National Assembly regarding the potential appointment of a sanctioned individual to the nation’s second-highest constitutional position. Attorney General Anil Nandlall, a prominent executive member of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has publicly declared opposition to Azruddin Mohamed’s anticipated election as Opposition Leader. Nandlall’s position aligns with that of National Assembly Speaker Manzoor Nadir, who has reluctantly scheduled a meeting of opposition parliamentarians for Monday to formalize the appointment. The controversy stems from United States sanctions against Mohamed and his father for alleged gold smuggling operations involving over 10,000 kilograms of gold valued at approximately US$50 million, resulting in significant tax evasion from the Guyanese government. Additionally, a U.S. Federal Grand Jury has unsealed an 11-count indictment charging the Mohameds with wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering, with extradition proceedings currently underway in Guyanese courts. Nandlall characterized the Opposition Leader role as the “alternative president” and warned that those supporting Mohamed’s elevation would face historical judgment for their decision. The political standoff has drawn international attention, with Western nations joining domestic voices in expressing concern about the potential appointment of an internationally sanctioned figure to this crucial governmental position.

  • Leroy Major hints at possible run as indpendent – ‘Nothing is off the table’

    Leroy Major hints at possible run as indpendent – ‘Nothing is off the table’

    Member of Parliament for Southern Shores Leroy Major has publicly suggested the possibility of running as an independent candidate in Bahamas’ upcoming general election, creating uncertainty about his future with the ruling Progressive Liberal Party. When pressed about rumors regarding an independent bid, Major remained deliberately ambiguous, stating only that “nothing is off the table” and that “time will tell,” while repeatedly urging observers to “watch the road.”

    The political speculation intensified following Major’s conspicuous absence from recent PLP candidate interviews for Southern Shores aspirants at the party headquarters. When questioned about whether he had been advised to step aside, the MP again declined to provide clear answers, maintaining his cryptic “watch the road” response.

    Major first garnered national attention last year after publicly criticizing what he characterized as unequal resource distribution and expressing frustration with the treatment of backbenchers in an interview with The Tribune. Although he subsequently attempted to retract these statements in the House of Assembly, claiming his comments had been misrepresented, the newspaper maintained the accuracy of its reporting.

    As the PLP moves closer to selecting its candidate for Southern Shores, interest in the constituency has significantly intensified. Deputy chairman Obie Roberts and ZNS General Manager Clint Watson have both expressed interest in the nomination and were recently interviewed by the party’s Candidates Committee.

    When asked about his preferred candidate for the nomination, Major avoided direct engagement, instead questioning whether he had ever made formal public statements regarding Southern Shores. Regarding growing tensions between supporters of Roberts and Watson, Major dismissed the issue as being “beyond my pay grade,” emphasizing that his focus remains on serving his constituents.

    The MP concluded by stating his intention to meet with constituents to inform them “what time it is,” adding a challenge to any potential candidate: “Whoever they put in Southern Shores, tell them go bring their boss.”

  • ‘How much will Bahamians save from VAT cut on food?’

    ‘How much will Bahamians save from VAT cut on food?’

    The House of Assembly witnessed escalating tensions as opposition lawmakers confronted the Davis administration regarding its recently implemented VAT reduction policy. Shanendon Cartwright, deputy leader of the FREE National Movement, spearheaded the challenge by demanding precise clarification on the actual financial benefits Bahamian households should anticipate from the value-added tax removal on unprepared food items.

    During heated parliamentary debates, Cartwright emphasized the government’s apparent failure to communicate concrete details about the policy’s practical implications for citizens experiencing economic pressures. The discourse centered on whether the measure would generate substantial relief for families grappling with persistent financial constraints.

    Cartwright referenced a Nassau Guardian analysis projecting approximate monthly savings of $11 per household, translating to roughly $127 annually. This calculation derived from distributing the government’s estimated $15 million revenue shortfall across the national household count—a methodology subsequently disputed by the Office of the Prime Minister.

    The St. Barnabas representative characterized these projected savings as ‘shameful,’ particularly questioning the significance of such an amount for a typical four-person family unit.

    Government MP Zane Lightbourne countered these assertions, arguing that quantifying savings with a universal figure fundamentally misrepresents the VAT relief mechanism. Lightbourne stressed that individual savings would inherently vary based on income disparities and distinct consumption patterns, making standardized estimates impractical.

    Prime Minister Philip Davis defended the policy’s timing, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and asserting that international financial institutions had previously advised against premature tax reductions. Davis indicated that current economic conditions finally permitted the implementation of this relief measure.

    Opposition members, including East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson, maintained that the policy lacked transparency, thorough analysis, and accountability. Thompson noted that despite growing dependence on non-profit assistance organizations, the government’s approach seemed more focused on headline-driven announcements than evidence-based policy-making.

  • Venezuela moves to liberalize oil sector, in boost for Trump

    Venezuela moves to liberalize oil sector, in boost for Trump

    Venezuela’s National Assembly has initiated legislative proceedings to dismantle the state’s monopoly on its oil industry, marking a dramatic reversal from two decades of socialist energy policy. The proposed legislation would permit privately-owned companies registered in Venezuela to conduct independent oil exploration and extraction operations without mandatory partnerships with state-owned PDVSA.

    This transformative shift follows the January 3rd ouster of socialist leader Nicolás Maduro, whose government maintained rigid state control over the country’s vast petroleum resources. The legislation is being advanced under the leadership of acting president Delcy Rodríguez, who served as Maduro’s vice president but has rapidly moved to normalize relations with the United States.

    In a significant demonstration of warming diplomatic ties, the United States has appointed Laura F. Dogu, a seasoned diplomat with experience as ambassador to Nicaragua and Honduras, as charge d’affaires to Venezuela. This appointment signals the potential restoration of full diplomatic relations, which were severed following Maduro’s disputed 2019 reelection.

    The Rodríguez administration has already taken concrete economic measures, injecting $300 million from a U.S.-brokered oil sale to stabilize the collapsing bolivar currency. While this initial intervention temporarily strengthened the national currency, economists emphasize that sustained economic recovery will require substantial foreign investment and continuous dollar inflows.

    Concurrently, the new government has begun addressing human rights concerns by releasing dozens of political prisoners, including the son-in-law of opposition leader Edmundo González Urrutia, who was serving a 30-year sentence on terrorism charges. These actions appear designed to garner domestic support and international legitimacy following years of economic collapse and political repression under Maduro.

    The geopolitical implications extend beyond Venezuela, with the Trump administration leveraging the situation to increase pressure on Cuba by threatening to cut off the island nation’s access to subsidized Venezuelan oil that has sustained its economy for years.

  • WATCH: Gov’t will provide the necessary budget for body-worn cameras, says Holness

    WATCH: Gov’t will provide the necessary budget for body-worn cameras, says Holness

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move toward police modernization and accountability, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has pledged complete governmental funding for body-worn cameras across all necessary units of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The announcement was delivered during his keynote address at the passing-out ceremony for batches 161 and 167 at the National Police College of Jamaica in Twickenham Park, St. Catherine.

    Prime Minister Holness confirmed that approximately 1,000 cameras have already been secured, with additional units currently in the procurement pipeline. He unequivocally stated, “The Government will supply the necessary budget to ensure that all formations that require the use of body-worn cameras are so equipped.” This initiative is a cornerstone of the administration’s strategy to foster transparent policing and establish a reliable process for data capture during police operations.

    Emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the government’s investment, Holness highlighted that advancements in technology are being pursued alongside rigorous training and administrative overhauls. “We are investing heavily in technology to make sure that we have a 21st-century policing force,” he asserted. While acknowledging the JCF’s proactive efforts in seeking the best technological platforms, the Prime Minister also noted that the force must navigate standard public procurement regulations.

    Alongside the technological pledge, Holness issued a direct charge to the 287 new constables graduating that day, demanding they treat every citizen with utmost dignity and respect for their rights, regardless of socioeconomic status. This call for reform aligns with mounting pressure from human rights advocacy groups, including Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), which has been vocally demanding the implementation of body cameras amid a troubling rise in fatal shootings by security forces.

  • 250 more ex-Caroni workers get land leases

    250 more ex-Caroni workers get land leases

    The Trinidadian government has significantly intensified its initiative to resolve longstanding land tenure issues for former employees of the defunct Caroni (1975) Ltd., with a recent distribution event in Couva marking a major milestone in this ongoing effort.

    On January 21, Land and Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein presided over the distribution of land leases to 250 beneficiaries at the Dennis P Ramdhan Complex in McBean Village. This event represents the third such distribution ceremony conducted within nine months by the administration led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who assumed office in April of last year.

    Minister Hosein emphasized the administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, noting that nearly 600 leases have been distributed since taking office—a achievement he contrasted with the previous 22 years of inaction. Despite this progress, Hosein acknowledged that substantial work remains, with approximately 3,000 residential leases and 1,751 agricultural plots still awaiting distribution, alongside necessary remedial land works.

    The historical context traces back to 2003 when Caroni (1975) Ltd. was shuttered under a PNM administration. Subsequent legal battles ensued as the state failed to honor voluntary separation packages, culminating in a court ruling that affirmed workers’ entitlement to land leases. The previous administration appealed this decision, but Persad-Bissessar’s government dropped the appeal upon assuming power.

    In a related development, Hosein revealed that the government has agreed to a $130 million compensation package for former private sugarcane farmers as final settlement for transition payments following the sugar industry’s 2007 collapse. The payment structure involves three tranches—$27 million, $75 million, and $28 million—with only the first installment paid during the People’s Partnership administration in July 2015.

    Hosein further alleged that European Union funds totaling 8 million euros ($63.55 million), intended for worker compensation during the PNM’s tenure, were diverted from their designated purpose. He characterized these actions as both unlawful and unethical during a press conference at the UNC Headquarters.

    Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath, who also addressed attendees, praised Persad-Bissessar’s leadership and commended Hosein’s determined efforts to resolve what he described as a “legacy matter languishing for years under previous administrations.”

    Among the recipients was 75-year-old Allan Manichand, a former mechanic with 35 years of service who plans to bequeath the land to relatives, and 69-year-old Roshad Ali, who expressed satisfaction at finally receiving his due entitlement after years of waiting.

  • Panday criticises PM for attack on independent senators

    Panday criticises PM for attack on independent senators

    In a striking political confrontation, Mickela Panday, prominent opposition figure, has publicly denounced Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her vehement criticism of independent senators regarding the contentious Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) Bill, 2026. The legislative battle centers on a security bill that would empower the Prime Minister, as National Security Council chair, to designate special security zones for up to 180 days in consultation with police and military leadership.

    The parliamentary mathematics reveals the government’s challenge: the bill requires 19 votes in the Senate for passage, yet the ruling party controls only 15 seats against the opposition’s 6 and independents’ 9. This arithmetic has intensified the political stakes, prompting Persad-Bissessar’s reported characterization of independent senators as ‘shameless,’ ‘bootlickers,’ and individuals who ‘had no courage to contest any election.’

    Panday’s rebuttal presents a constitutional defense of the Senate’s structure, noting that all senators—government, opposition, and independent—hold appointed rather than elected positions. She highlights the constitutional provisions whereby government and opposition senators are appointed by the President on advice of the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader respectively, while nine independents are appointed without consultation with either office.

    The critique extends beyond procedural matters to fundamental democratic principles. Panday warns that attacking oversight institutions and treating constitutional roles as obstacles represents the ‘early stages of a creeping dictatorship.’ She challenges the Prime Minister to pursue formal constitutional reform rather than condemn appointment mechanisms while simultaneously relying on them, noting her late father, former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday, long advocated for constitutional modernization.

    The Senate debate, which began January 20th and continues through January 23rd, has thus evolved from a legislative discussion into a broader examination of democratic governance and the proper role of appointed officials in a parliamentary system.

  • Chuck pauses Jury Act amendment after Golding flags key issues

    Chuck pauses Jury Act amendment after Golding flags key issues

    The Jamaican government has abruptly suspended legislative proceedings on the contentious Jury (Amendment) Bill 2026 following substantive objections raised by Opposition Leader Mark Golding in the House of Representatives. Justice Minister Delroy Chuck announced the unexpected pause after acknowledging the validity of multiple constitutional and procedural concerns regarding the proposed amendments.

    The legislative delay marks a significant development in Jamaica’s judicial reform process. Minister Chuck, who initially tabled the bill on January 13 with intentions to fast-track its approval, conceded that the opposition’s critique necessitated comprehensive reconsideration of several provisions.

    Opposition Leader Golding, drawing upon his experience as former justice minister, identified multiple problematic areas within the proposed legislation. Chief among these was a clause mandating judges to consider specific factors—including disclosure status, witness availability, and party readiness—when confirming trial dates. Golding contended this provision fundamentally misaligned with the Jury Act’s purpose, noting its complete absence of jury-specific references.

    ‘This constitutes an inappropriate insertion into jury legislation,’ Golding asserted. ‘Trial readiness hearings belong within the Criminal Justice Administration Act or Civil Procedure Rules, not within legislation specifically governing jury trials.’

    The opposition leader raised particular alarm regarding payment protocol amendments for civil jury trials. The proposed clause would require the party requesting jury trial to bear financial responsibility for juror compensation. Golding warned this could create perceived conflicts of interest, noting jurors might feel indebted to the financing party—potentially compromising judicial impartiality through what he characterized as a ‘whoever pays the piper calls the tune’ scenario.

    Further objections targeted provisions addressing jury tampering. Golding highlighted an imbalance in the proposed measure that would grant prosecution—but not defense—the right to apply for trial without jury. This departure from existing law, which requires mutual consent for judge-only trials in non-capital cases, raised fundamental fairness concerns.

    Additionally, Golding challenged an overly broad clause permitting judges to terminate trials and order retrials based solely on judicial determination of ‘interest of justice.’ He argued this required clearer parameters to prevent arbitrary application across Jamaica’s judicial system.

    Minister Chuck’s decision to postpone further debate reflects the government’s recognition that the bill requires substantial refinement to address these constitutional, procedural, and ethical concerns before progressing through legislative channels.