The National Assembly of Suriname commenced its annual General Political Reflections (APB) today, marking a pivotal moment for political discourse and evaluation. This tradition precedes the budget discussions and offers a platform for political parties to share their perspectives on the nation’s socio-economic, governance, and foreign relations landscape. The APB serves as a critical forum for dialogue between party leaders and the President, setting the stage for policy formulation and national priorities.
分类： politics
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St. Lucians to head to the polls on December 1
St. Lucia is gearing up for a pivotal moment in its democratic process as Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre announced that the nation will hold its General Elections on December 1, 2025. The decision was revealed during a national address on November 9, where Prime Minister Pierre confirmed that he had advised the Governor General to dissolve Parliament on November 10, 2025, and issue the Writs of Election, formally initiating the electoral process. Nomination Day is scheduled for November 21, 2025, marking the final steps before the vote. The political landscape is heating up as the ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP), led by Prime Minister Pierre, and the opposition United Workers Party (UWP), headed by Allen Chastanet, ramp up their campaigns. This election will see a rematch between the two leaders, both vying for the country’s highest political office. With the campaign season entering its final phase, St. Lucians are preparing to make their voices heard in what promises to be a closely contested election.
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Proposal revives discussion on allowing military and police to vote
The Dominican Republic is once again embroiled in a contentious debate over whether to lift the long-standing ban on voting for military and police personnel. This discussion has been reignited by a proposal from Constitutional Court Judge Sonia Díaz, bringing the issue to the forefront of national discourse. The country remains one of the few in Latin America—alongside Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, and Paraguay—that continues to prohibit armed forces members from exercising their right to vote.
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Police vehicle damaged as NDP whistle stop pelted with stones
A campaign event for the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) in Rillan Hill turned violent on Sunday when unidentified individuals hurled stones at vehicles, damaging the windshield of a police pick-up truck. The incident occurred as NDP supporters were en route to a party event in Penniston. According to reliable sources, two men from the village have been detained by police in connection with the attack. NDP Public Relations Officer Lavern King condemned the act in a social media video, emphasizing that the event, organized by Nigel “Nature” Stephenson, a candidate seeking a fourth term as MP for South Leeward, was intended to be peaceful. King expressed concern over the potential for serious harm, stating, “Lives could have been taken.” She also criticized the escalating political tensions, urging for a campaign free from violence. This incident follows a similar episode during the 2020 general election campaign in the same area, where gunshots were reported. The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) had recently reiterated calls for calm and responsible behavior during the election season, warning that acts of violence or property damage could constitute criminal offenses. The RSVGPF emphasized its commitment to impartiality and maintaining order, urging citizens to uphold democratic values and respect opposing views.
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Column:Borrelpraat no. 897
In a decisive move, Suriname’s President has intervened to halt ongoing discussions regarding the export of bauxite from West Suriname, emphasizing that no agreements or negotiations have been conducted on behalf of the government. This development comes amidst a backdrop of historical controversies surrounding bauxite deals, including past attempts by former ministers to renegotiate terms with foreign entities at the eleventh hour. The President’s firm stance has been echoed by the Vice President, who assured that all potential investors are being kept informed and that any processing of bauxite must occur domestically, with due consideration for indigenous interests. However, the President’s recent public statements have caused confusion among some, particularly following the visit of a Chinese mining company’s CEO to Suriname. The President also addressed broader issues of land allocation, declaring that all land grants since 2018 are illegal and that a thorough review will be conducted to legitimize rightful allocations. This process is expected to be a monumental task, potentially involving hundreds of legal cases and significant financial implications for the state. The President’s proactive measures aim to rectify past irregularities and ensure that Suriname’s natural resources are managed in the best interest of its citizens.
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St. Lucians vote for a new government on Dec. 1
St. Lucia is set to hold a general election on December 1, 2025, nearly a year ahead of the constitutionally mandated date in November 2026. Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre announced the decision during a national broadcast on Sunday, revealing that he had advised Governor General Errol Charles to dissolve Parliament on November 10. Nomination Day is scheduled for November 21. Pierre emphasized that the decision was driven by confidence in his administration’s achievements and the need to continue governing effectively. The last election was held on July 26, 2021, with Parliament convening in August of that year. Under the St. Lucia Constitution, the election is constitutionally due within three months of the first parliamentary sitting, which occurred on August 12, 2021. Pierre highlighted significant economic improvements under his leadership, including a reduction in the debt-to-GDP ratio from 81.5% in 2021 to 73.5% in 2024, and a 700% decrease in outstanding payables to local suppliers. He also noted the successful conclusion of negotiations with public servants and the provision of a Christmas bonus. The main opposition, the United Workers Party (UWP), led by Allen Chastanet, welcomed the announcement, expressing readiness to contest the election. Chastanet aims to reverse the UWP’s 13-4 defeat in the 2021 election, where two former UWP members won as independents and later supported the ruling St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP). Both parties held rallies on Sunday, with the SLP in Castries and the UWP in Anse La Raye, signaling the start of an intense campaign period.
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Election day announced as December 1, 2025
In a significant national announcement on November 9, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre revealed that the next general election in Saint Lucia will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025. The Prime Minister also designated Monday, November 21, 2025, as Nomination Day, marking the official start of the electoral process. Furthermore, Pierre disclosed that he has advised the Governor General to dissolve Parliament on Monday, November 10, 2025, paving the way for the upcoming elections. The announcement was made during a comprehensive radio and television address to the nation. Prime Minister Pierre, who led the Saint Lucia Labour Party to a decisive 13-4 victory in the July 2021 general election, emphasized the importance of a smooth and transparent electoral process. This announcement sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Saint Lucia’s political landscape, as the nation prepares to choose its next government.
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Politic : Fruitful discussions with the European Union
During the CELAC/European Union Summit, Haitian Foreign Minister Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste engaged in productive talks with Ms. Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. The discussions centered on Haiti’s security challenges and the potential for enhanced international collaboration to bolster national initiatives. Minister Jean-Baptiste highlighted several critical areas, including the necessity to reinforce the Basket Fund for Security, the importance of increased contributions from international partners, and the urgent requirement for essential equipment to expedite on-ground actions. Additionally, the officials explored the revival and strengthening of short- and medium-term humanitarian projects aimed at restoring normalcy in vulnerable communities. Ms. Kallas expressed her solidarity with Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The meeting was marked by a spirit of mutual understanding and a renewed dedication to fostering robust cooperation between Haiti and the European Union.
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Politic : Strengthening the protection of Haitian consumers
In a significant move to bolster consumer protection, James Monazard, Haiti’s Minister of Commerce and Industry (MCI), inaugurated a four-day training workshop last week. The event targeted inspectors from the departmental directorates of the Grand North region, marking a pivotal step in modernizing quality control mechanisms and combating unfair business practices. The training, led by specialists from various technical directorates within the Ministry, aimed to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of field operations, particularly in addressing non-compliant products and abusive business practices. Jean Sony Pierre, Coordinator of the Departmental Directorates Coordination Unit (UCDD), underscored the importance of better-trained and well-equipped inspectors in delivering reliable and transparent services to the public. Inspectors from the North, Northeast, Northwest, Artibonite, and Centre departments participated in technical sessions focused on commercial and quality inspection techniques, legal metrology, and consumer protection laws. The initiative seeks to empower inspectors to meet public expectations regarding product safety and quality. Pierre also praised the trainers’ dedication and the collaborative efforts of the departmental directorates, highlighting the importance of continuing education in leadership. This workshop represents a crucial milestone in Haiti’s ongoing efforts to strengthen consumer protection nationwide.
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Too old for a new style of campaigning?
The recent NDP rally was a vivid display of both hope and discord, as the party successfully galvanized the youth—a long-elusive demographic—while exposing a stark generational divide among its leadership. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, a testament to the growing momentum for change. However, the celebration was abruptly dampened when senior party members, often referred to as the ‘old grumpy men,’ took the stage and attempted to stifle the vibrant energy. Their admonishment of young supporters for expressing their joy with party-provided horns was seen as both embarrassing and insulting. The situation worsened when the Central Kingstown candidate threatened to leave the stage if the crowd did not quiet down, ultimately turning his back and walking off. This act cast a shadow over the event, leaving many questioning his commitment to the movement. Rallies are meant to unify and inspire, not to enforce rigid decorum. True leadership was demonstrated by Dr. Friday, who embraced the supporters’ enthusiasm and encouraged their participation, proving his growth and connection with the people. In contrast, the actions of Mr. Leacock, Mr. Cummings, and Bramble raised concerns about their ability to lead in a new era of politics. The incident has left many wondering if this was a deliberate attempt to undermine the leader’s rapport with the youth. As the 2025 elections approach, the question remains: how will these leaders treat their supporters if they gain power? The youth are watching, and their response will be decisive.