Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • LISTEN: Treasury Department Instructed to Begin clearing all small cheque payments

    LISTEN: Treasury Department Instructed to Begin clearing all small cheque payments

    In a significant move to address long-standing payment delays, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has mandated the national Treasury to expedite clearance of smaller outstanding payments. The directive specifically targets amounts under EC$20,000 as part of a comprehensive strategy to resolve backlog issues affecting retroactive payments and pension disbursements.

    During his weekly radio address on Pointe FM’s ‘Browne and Browne Show,’ the Prime Minister acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from individuals, particularly former public service employees, who have experienced prolonged delays in receiving owed payments. Some cases reportedly date back to 2018, creating financial hardship for affected citizens.

    ‘The Treasury has been instructed to prioritize settling these smaller claims immediately rather than focusing exclusively on larger sums,’ Browne emphasized. ‘We’re implementing a systematic approach to ensure everyone receives what they’re owed.’

    The government has established an ambitious timeline aiming to resolve most outstanding payments by the end of the current or next month. To facilitate this process, additional staff are being deployed to enhance processing capacity, while a dedicated hotline will be established for citizens to obtain direct updates on their payment status.

    Cabinet members have already convened with senior Treasury officials, including the Accountant General and Financial Secretary, to emphasize the urgency of accelerated fund disbursement. ‘Our message was clear: pay the people their money,’ Browne stated unequivocally.

    This initiative forms part of broader administrative reforms designed to increase transparency and fairness within the government’s payment systems. The Prime Minister noted that recent structural changes have already improved payment consistency for government contractors, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to financial accountability.

  • LISTEN: CADRES Poll shows major swing away from the UPP since the last general election

    LISTEN: CADRES Poll shows major swing away from the UPP since the last general election

    Antigua and Barbuda’s political landscape appears to be tilting decisively in favor of the incumbent administration according to recent polling data cited by Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) leader revealed striking numbers during a weekend radio appearance on Pointe FM, indicating his party commands 49% voter support compared to 26% for the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP).

    The statistical breakdown presented by Browne shows a substantial 23-point advantage for the ruling party, with the Prime Minister’s personal approval rating reaching 59% versus a mere 15% for Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle. Browne characterized these figures as evidence of growing public confidence in his government’s stewardship and increasing skepticism about the opposition’s governance capabilities.

    Highlighting what he termed a ‘remarkable swing,’ Browne noted the ABLP had gained 13 percentage points while the UPP had declined by 9 points—a net 22-point shift that could potentially place all UPP-held constituencies within the ruling party’s electoral reach. The Prime Minister emphasized that parallel surveys conducted by respected regional pollsters Peter Wickham and Don Anderson had yielded consistent results, lending credibility to the findings.

    Browne further intensified his critique of the opposition, questioning Pringle’s leadership qualifications and suggesting internal discontent within UPP ranks that might precipitate a challenge for the party’s leadership. The opposition party has yet to issue any formal response to these polling claims or the Prime Minister’s characterizations.

  • Partnerships key to preserving stability in RSS member states

    Partnerships key to preserving stability in RSS member states

    CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA – In a definitive address underscoring the critical importance of international collaboration, the Executive Director of the Regional Security System (RSS), Rear Admiral Errington Shurland, declared that public-private partnerships and multilateral cooperation are indispensable for preserving stability and safeguarding shared values among member states. The remarks were delivered at the RSS Council of Ministers Meeting, convened on Friday, March 27, 2026, at The Harbor Club.

    Facing an era defined by shifting global dynamics and heightened geopolitical uncertainty, Rear Admiral Shurland asserted that strong and enduring alliances are the fundamental prerequisite for nations to overcome increasingly complex and emerging security challenges. He articulated that the existing cooperative frameworks are not merely operational conduits but function as essential ‘pillars of trust,’ enabling a unified front against transnational threats.

    The RSS head cataloged a portfolio of successful collaborations with a diverse coalition of international governments and regional institutions. These pivotal partners include the governments of Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside financial and policy bodies such as the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the various organs of CARICOM.

    Emphasizing the transnational nature of modern criminality, Shurland stated, ‘In an international system characterized by shared security concerns and the interconnectedness of criminal organizations across several jurisdictions, international cooperation remains an essential pillar in successfully managing crime and security.’

    Looking forward, the RSS is poised to act as a catalyst for deepened multilateralism. Ambitious initiatives on the horizon include expanded work with Global Affairs Canada, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the European Union through the Neighbourhood Development International Cooperation Instrument and the EL PACCTO 2.0 programme. These efforts represent a renewed commitment to global engagement over fragmentation.

    Additional co-sponsored initiatives will focus on enhancing legislative frameworks to combat cyber-enabled crimes, strengthening comprehensive data collection and sharing systems among criminal justice agencies, and developing a new Strategic Plan with a sustainable funding model. These projects will be advanced with support from the European Union and the CDB, respectively.

    Rear Admiral Shurland also highlighted the ongoing value of the RSS’s partnerships with the United Kingdom’s One Caribbean Fund and the United States’ Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, citing them as further evidence that robust partnerships are the cornerstone of ensuring the region’s collective security and resilience.

  • Electoral Commission Publishes Full List of Registration Sites and Opening Hours

    Electoral Commission Publishes Full List of Registration Sites and Opening Hours

    The Antigua & Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has launched a nationwide voter registration initiative, establishing a comprehensive network of registration units across all constituencies to facilitate democratic participation. This strategic deployment ensures accessibility for citizens throughout the twin-island nation.

    In St. John’s urban areas, registration services are centralized at key locations: Villa Primary School serves St. John’s City West, while the Central Registration Unit on Factory Road accommodates both St. John’s City East and City South constituencies. Rural constituencies surrounding the capital benefit from diverse venues including the Multipurpose Cultural & Exhibition Centre (Rural West), Noel Nyah Roberts Sports Complex (Rural South), Chaia’s Building opposite the Lions Den (Rural East), and Yorks Community Centre (Rural North).

    Beyond the capital region, registration facilities span the entire country: St. Mary’s North utilizes the Former Christian Faith Academy on Valley Road, while St. Mary’s South operates from Turner’s Apartments in Bolans. All Saints East & St. Luke constituents can register at the Roman Catholic Church Hall on Roman Hill, with All Saints West utilizing the Former Community Access Centre.

    Additional constituencies feature strategically chosen locations: St. George at Potters Village, St. Peter at Precision Centre in Paynters, St. Philip North at Glanvilles Community Centre, and St. Philip South at the St. Philip Post Office. St. Paul residents will register at the Former Real Local Art Gallery on Horsford Hill, while Barbudans are served at the Low School on the sister island.

    The Commission has established extended operating hours to maximize accessibility, maintaining weekday operations from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM and weekend hours from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM until further notice. This schedule accommodates both traditional and non-traditional work hours, ensuring broad demographic access.

    The ABEC, headquartered on Queen Elizabeth Highway in St. John’s, encourages all eligible citizens to complete their registration promptly. Further information is available through their official communication channels and website at www.abec.gov.ag.

  • Trevor Walker says he expects increased margin of votes in the next general election

    Trevor Walker says he expects increased margin of votes in the next general election

    In a striking display of political confidence, candidate Trevor Walker has publicly projected a significantly expanded victory margin for himself in the approaching general election. This bold forecast suggests a substantial shift in voter sentiment compared to previous electoral outcomes. Political analysts are now examining whether this prediction reflects internal polling data, changing demographic patterns, or response to recent policy initiatives. The statement comes at a critical juncture in the election cycle, potentially aiming to influence both undecided voters and campaign donors. Walker’s declaration may represent a strategic attempt to project an aura of inevitability around his candidacy, though opponents have been quick to dismiss it as premature overconfidence. The actual voting margin will ultimately depend on numerous factors including campaign performance, public debates, and evolving voter priorities in the remaining campaign period.

  • WATCH: PM Tells Opposition “Get Your Act Together” Ahead of Election Date

    WATCH: PM Tells Opposition “Get Your Act Together” Ahead of Election Date

    In a striking pre-election confrontation, the Prime Minister has issued a blunt directive to opposition parties, urging them to ‘get your act together’ as the nation approaches a pivotal electoral contest. The commanding statement, captured on video and rapidly circulating across media platforms, signals an intensification of political hostilities during this critical campaign period.

    The Prime Minister’s admonition reflects mounting governmental frustration with what it characterizes as disorganized opposition strategies. This public chastisement represents an unusual departure from conventional political discourse, suggesting a calculated attempt to frame opponents as unprepared for national leadership responsibilities.

    Political analysts interpret this development as a strategic maneuver to dominate the pre-election narrative by questioning opposition competence rather than engaging in policy debates. The timing appears deliberately chosen to maximize media impact during a period when undecided voters begin evaluating their electoral options.

    The unusually direct language potentially establishes a confrontational tone for the remaining campaign cycle, possibly indicating the governing party’s confidence in its electoral position. This approach risks galvanizing opposition support while simultaneously appealing to voters seeking decisive leadership.

    Historical context reveals that such direct confrontations typically occur when governing parties perceive advantage in highlighting comparative stability against what they portray as opposition disarray. The statement’s delivery style suggests careful orchestration for maximum rhetorical impact and media amplification.

    This political theater unfolds as election authorities finalize logistical preparations for the forthcoming national vote, with all parties accelerating their campaign activities across the country. The Prime Minister’s challenge will likely trigger counter-responses that could define the campaign’s final phase dynamics.

  • DNA to sit out snap general election

    DNA to sit out snap general election

    In a significant political development, the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) has announced it will not participate in the impending snap general election anticipated to be called within the next three months. The party’s management committee reached a unanimous decision to abstain from the electoral contest, marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s political landscape.

    Established in April 2017 amid factional disputes within the United Progressive Party (UPP) following their 2014 electoral setback, the DNA has consistently confronted allegations of being engineered to fragment opposition voting blocs. This perception was bolstered by its founding membership, which comprised numerous former UPP officials. The party’s electoral track record has failed to dispel these criticisms, suffering a particularly devastating performance in the 2023 general election that precipitated the resignation of a majority of its candidates.

    Under the leadership of former Member of Parliament and Senator Joanne Massiah, the DNA issued a concise official statement urging all electoral participants to operate within legal boundaries while advocating for elections that are ‘free and fair, and free from fear.’ Despite its withdrawal, the party reaffirmed its dedication to contributing to Antigua and Barbuda’s sustained national development and expressed gratitude to its members and supporters for their ‘unwavering support’ throughout its challenging history.

  • Brown wants increased stipend paid to senators

    Brown wants increased stipend paid to senators

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Senator Lambert Brown has reignited a contentious debate by demanding the implementation of a shelved 2023 proposal that would dramatically increase stipends for non-executive senators. The proposed adjustment would elevate their per-sitting compensation from the current $53,000 to $148,000—a substantial 179% increase.

    Ironically, this very proposal was previously rescinded by former Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke following objections from Opposition senators themselves. The reversal occurred in September 2023 amid widespread public backlash against substantial salary hikes for politicians.

    During deliberations on the Appropriations Bill, Senator Brown, a noted trade unionist, framed his appeal as a matter of fairness. He emphasized that non-executive senators remain the only parliamentary group excluded from recent compensation reviews, alongside certain University of the West Indies employees.

    “This transcends partisan politics,” Brown asserted in his address to the finance minister. “I am advocating for the 16 non-executive senators who represent the sole segment within Parliament yet to benefit from the reclassification exercise.”

    Jamaica’s Senate comprises 21 members—13 government-appointed and 8 opposition-appointed—with only 5 holding executive positions as cabinet ministers or parliamentary secretaries.

    Brown justified the demand by highlighting practical challenges faced by senators, noting that colleagues like Charles Sinclair and Allan Bernard undertake extensive travel from Montego Bay to Kingston for each session. He further contextualized the request against Jamaica’s rising cost of living, citing recent electricity rate increases and transportation costs.

    In a parallel economic argument, Brown challenged the government’s forthcoming tax changes on motor vehicle duty concessions for public sector workers. Set to take effect May 1, these adjustments are projected to generate $1.4 billion in revenue through reinstated General Consumption Tax payments while maintaining import duty and special consumption tax exemptions.

    Finance Minister Fayval Williams defended the policy shift, stating the original concession no longer aligns with current economic conditions. Brown countered that the revenue gain represents mere “chicken feed” within Jamaica’s $1.4 trillion budget, arguing the government should not squeeze public sector workers for minimal fiscal benefit.

  • ‘Don’t know how I am going to stretch that’

    ‘Don’t know how I am going to stretch that’

    GREEN ISLAND, Hanover — Member of Parliament for Hanover Western, Heatha Miller-Bennett, has publicly addressed the significant challenges of managing competing community needs within her constituency’s limited financial framework. With a fixed annual allocation of $20 million from Jamaica’s Constituency Development Fund (CDF), the first-term MP explicitly acknowledged the impossibility of simultaneously addressing all local demands during a recent consultation meeting at Green Island High School.

    Miller-Bennett candidly described her role as an ‘uphill task,’ directly engaging with residents who highlighted critical issues including deteriorating road conditions, inconsistent water supply, inadequate street lighting, and inefficient garbage collection services. While assuring constituents that their concerns had been formally documented, she emphasized the necessity of strategic prioritization and sought public understanding regarding the phased implementation of projects.

    The parliamentary representative revealed plans to pursue collaborative partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations to maximize the fund’s impact. ‘I will seek partnership to make it stretch in areas where we can,’ Miller-Bennett stated, indicating a proactive approach to resource optimization beyond the CDF’s baseline allocation.

    Orlando Grant, Project Officer for the CDF, provided technical insights into the fund’s operational mechanisms during the same meeting. He clarified that while financial caps exist, the fund regularly coordinates with ‘contributing arms’ like the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) to enhance project funding efficiency. Grant additionally disclosed that central government periodically supplements constituencies through special grants to address budgetary shortfalls, though this practice remains largely unpublicized.

    Established during the 2008/2009 financial year, Jamaica’s CDF system serves as an emergency mechanism for financing small-scale community projects that frequently experience delays within broader governmental bureaucracy. All 63 parliamentary representatives receive identical $20 million annual allocations for local infrastructural and social initiatives, with an additional $2 million specifically designated for vulnerable population support. All funds are administered through official agencies rather than direct MP control.

  • G2K elects first female president

    G2K elects first female president

    In a landmark decision that reshapes Jamaica’s political landscape, Sashana-Lee Edwards achieved a groundbreaking victory on Sunday by securing the presidency of Generation 2000 (G2K), the influential young professional affiliate of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party. Her election marks the first time a woman has ascended to this leadership position in the organization’s history.

    The electoral contest, held during G2K’s annual general meeting at the party headquarters, concluded with Edwards securing a commanding mandate of 40 votes against opponent Newton Harris’s 21 votes. This decisive outcome reflects the membership’s confidence in her visionary leadership capabilities.

    Edwards brings to the role an established reputation for disciplined governance and innovative thinking, having previously served as the organization’s general secretary. Her campaign emphasized service excellence, organizational competence, and people-centered development as core principles for G2K’s future trajectory.

    In her inaugural address, the newly elected president articulated a clear vision for transformative growth: ‘This election fundamentally centered on service excellence, demonstrated competence, and strengthening our collective mission. We must prioritize our people, expand our movement, and ensure G2K’s continued evolution into a more impactful organization.’

    Emphasizing unity as a cornerstone of progress, Edwards extended an inclusive invitation to all members: ‘I stand prepared to serve, lead, and collaborate with every single member. Through collective effort, we will amplify G2K’s influence and ensure our perspectives resonate throughout the nation.’

    Political observers have interpreted this leadership transition as signaling a progressive shift within Jamaican politics, particularly in enhancing gender representation and inclusive governance. Outgoing President Shayne Kerr expressed unequivocal support, stating: ‘I extend warm congratulations to President Edwards on her historic achievement. I maintain full confidence in her ability to distinguishably serve and advance G2K’s mission.’

    The newly formed leadership team includes Vice Presidents Ricardo Robinson (48 votes), Aaliyah Rodgers (42 votes), Kimone Roper (39 votes), and Chad Rattray (37 votes). This administration is expected to prioritize youth engagement strategies, innovative policy development, and national development initiatives as G2K positions itself for expanded societal impact.