In an unexpected turn of events, Minister Henry Charles Usher has declined Prime Minister John Briceño’s offer to lead the Ministry of Home Affairs and Enterprise, a position renowned for its complexity and controversy. This rare refusal has forced the Prime Minister to reconsider his Cabinet reshuffle, ultimately appointing Oscar Mira, former Minister of National Defense and Border Security, to the role. Mira’s appointment comes with significant expectations, as he steps into one of the most demanding positions in the Belizean government. The decision marks a pivotal moment in Briceño’s administration, highlighting the challenges of balancing ministerial assignments with individual preferences. The Prime Minister’s recent reshuffle, initially aimed at refreshing his Cabinet, has now been overshadowed by Usher’s rejection, raising questions about the dynamics of political appointments. Usher’s decision to retain his role at the Ministry of Public Service, coupled with the return of Florencio Marin to the Ministry of National Defense, underscores the ongoing adjustments within the government. As Mira assumes his new responsibilities, all eyes are on his ability to navigate the complexities of Home Affairs and restore public trust in the Belize Police Department.
分类： politics
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UDP Leadership Race Heats Up Ahead of Convention
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is in the midst of a heated leadership race as the party’s highly anticipated convention on November 30, 2025, draws near. The contest comes in the wake of a significant internal rift earlier this year between Party Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow and Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton. With the deadline for executive post applications looming, Taegar-Panton remains optimistic about the party’s ability to unite and rebuild. She described the upcoming convention as a “grand reset” for the UDP, emphasizing its importance in electing a new leadership executive to guide the party through the 2027 municipal elections and the 2030 general elections. Despite the challenges, Taegar-Panton expressed confidence in the support from party delegates, who she believes are committed to fostering unity. She also highlighted the need for a strong opposition to address what she described as “unacceptable” decisions by the current administration, stressing the importance of defending democracy and sovereignty. As the convention approaches, the UDP faces the critical task of reconciling internal divisions and presenting a united front.
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Abinader says Dominican border under control amid Haiti protest call
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic addressed escalating tensions along the Haitian border during his weekly press conference on Monday. In response to a protest call issued by Haitian gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, alias ‘Barbecue,’ Abinader affirmed that the nation possesses a ‘sufficient level of intelligence’ and maintains robust control over its border. He underscored the government’s vigilance in monitoring the situation, given the potential repercussions of heightened unrest in Haiti. Abinader revealed that the Dominican government is in continuous coordination with international forces operating in Haiti and domestic security agencies. This collaboration, he explained, enables authorities to anticipate and mitigate any threats to border stability. A special alert was activated on Monday as a precautionary measure. The President emphasized that border security remains a top priority, with daily monitoring and enhanced surveillance efforts. Defense Minister Carlos Luciano Díaz has been provided with detailed intelligence on activities within Haiti to prevent any spillover of violence into Dominican territory.
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222nd of Vertières : Reflections of former interim President Jocelerme Privert
On November 18, 2025, Haiti commemorated the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières, a pivotal moment in its history that led to the nation’s independence. Former interim President Jocelerme Privert delivered a poignant address, reflecting on Haiti’s enduring struggles and the urgent need for renewal. He emphasized the significance of this date as a cornerstone of national identity, symbolizing the country’s relentless pursuit of freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. However, Privert also highlighted the dire challenges facing Haiti today, including rampant gang violence, economic collapse, and social instability. Port-au-Prince, the capital, has been under siege by armed groups, forcing government institutions to flee and leaving the Toussaint Louverture International Airport abandoned. The economy has been in decline for six years, with negative growth rates and dwindling investments. Social conditions are equally alarming, with over 60% of the population living in extreme poverty and food insecurity. Nearly 1.4 million people have been displaced due to violence, and millions of children are deprived of education. Privert called for the restoration of constitutional order, credible elections, and a collective effort to reject corruption and violence. He urged Haitians to draw inspiration from their history and work together to build a stable, prosperous, and united nation. Privert’s message was a rallying cry for civic responsibility, courage, and unity, reminding Haitians that their destiny lies in their hands.
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CONFIRMED: Jose Abelardo Mai Resigns from Cabinet
In a significant political development, Jose Abelardo Mai has officially resigned from his position as Minister of Agriculture. The resignation was confirmed on November 17, 2025, with reports indicating that Mai submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister John Briceño earlier in the afternoon. Sources suggest that Mai’s departure was influenced by mounting pressure from the Prime Minister, who is reportedly under scrutiny from the United States government. The exact reasons behind Mai’s resignation remain unclear, but it follows a highly publicized controversy in October. During that time, Mai vehemently denied allegations linking him to criminal activity, which had surfaced in a viral social media post. He labeled the accusations as “highly defamatory” and dismissed them as entirely fabricated. Mai also accused certain media outlets and political agents of the UDP (United Democratic Party) of conspiring to tarnish his reputation. Despite attempts by News 5 to seek his comments, Mai has remained silent on the matter. This resignation marks a pivotal moment in Belizean politics, raising questions about the dynamics within the current administration and its relationship with external stakeholders.
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ULP manifesto — the difference between ‘plans and a postcard,’ says Camillo
Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves has unveiled the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) 2025 election manifesto, emphasizing its focus on substantive policies over superficial gimmicks. Speaking at a rally in Colonarie, Gonsalves outlined the ULP’s plans to reduce income tax to 22% and raise the tax-free threshold to EC$30,000, measures he described as impactful for working-class citizens in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He contrasted these policies with the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) proposal to cut VAT from 16% to 13%, arguing that the ULP’s approach would yield greater financial benefits for individuals, such as an extra EC$1,500 annually for constables and over EC$2,000 for teachers and nurses. Gonsalves also highlighted the ULP’s commitment to job creation, citing the addition of 6,500 jobs over the past five years despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the La Soufriere volcanic eruption, and Hurricane Beryl. He pledged to create 6,000 more jobs if re-elected, aiming to reduce unemployment below 5% for the first time in the nation’s history. Additionally, the ULP plans to open a Beaches resort, attract EC$2.5 billion in foreign investment, and boost GDP from EC$3 billion to EC$4 billion within five years. Gonsalves concluded by asserting the ULP’s vision to transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a first-world nation within 15 years, grounded in principled policies and a commitment to the people.
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Mira Says Police Have Lost Public Trust
In a candid admission, Belize’s newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs and Enterprise, Oscar Mira, has publicly stated that the Belize Police Department has lost the trust of the Belizean people. Delivering his remarks in a pre-recorded video statement on November 17, 2025, Mira emphasized that restoring public confidence in law enforcement would be a cornerstone of his tenure. ‘There are many things we can do to regain the trust of the Belizean people,’ he asserted, acknowledging the gravity of his new role.
Mira’s appointment follows a recent Cabinet reshuffle by the Prime Minister, a move he initially resisted. Despite his initial reluctance, Mira has now embraced the challenge, describing his role as ‘a way of service to our people here in Belize.’ He acknowledged the complexities of the ministry, stating, ‘I know that this ministry is a challenging one. I never believed it would be an easy road.’
Among his immediate priorities, Mira outlined plans to bolster the forensic department, enhance police infrastructure, and construct new police stations nationwide. He highlighted the relocation of the National Forensic Laboratory to Auan as a key step in improving investigative capabilities. ‘There is a lot of work to do, but we are excited about the various projects we have in store,’ he remarked.
Mira’s appointment and his forthright acknowledgment of the police department’s challenges mark a pivotal moment in Belize’s efforts to reform its law enforcement system and rebuild public trust.
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Benjamin Recommends Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel for Chief Magistrate Post
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin has formally proposed Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel as the next Chief Magistrate of Antigua and Barbuda. Her nomination has been submitted to the Judicial and Legal Service Commission for approval, following the conclusion of Acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason’s interim tenure. Benjamin emphasized that the recommendation was made after “serious considerations,” expressing confidence that Emanuel will be appointed to the role. He praised her as a “professional lady” who has demonstrated exceptional judgment and court administration, describing her as “a great asset to the judiciary.” Benjamin also highlighted her legal expertise, capacity, and distinguished court management. Emanuel, who joined the bench in 2013 and was promoted to Senior Magistrate in March 2024, holds an LLB (Hons) from UWI Cave Hill, a Legal Education Certificate from Hugh Wooding Law School, and an LLM with Merit from the University of East London. Her extensive legal career spans Dominica and Trinidad and Tobago, including six years at Chancery Chambers with Douglas Mendes SC. Since 2017, she has chaired the Child Justice Board. The Chief Magistrate position became vacant in July 2023 after the suspension and subsequent resignation of Joanne Walsh, who faced disciplinary charges. Wason has served as Acting Chief Magistrate since her departure.
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ULP will continue to modernise SVG’s healthcare services — Grace
Grace Walters, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Windward, has outlined an ambitious healthcare agenda aimed at modernizing and expanding services across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Speaking at the launch of the party’s manifesto for the upcoming November 27 general election, Walters emphasized the ULP’s commitment to ensuring healthcare remains a fundamental right for all citizens. She highlighted plans to construct modern clinics in key areas such as Belair, Byera, and Central Kingstown, alongside the establishment of wellness centers and a geriatric facility. Walters also pledged to enhance mental health services, increase dental clinics, and assign ambulances to every polyclinic. Addressing the issue of medical tourism, she announced plans to formalize agreements with countries like Cuba and Venezuela to provide specialized care for Vincentians. Walters criticized the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) for advocating privatization, which she argued would limit access to healthcare. She also vowed to regulate consultant doctors to prevent exploitation of patients in public hospitals. Additionally, the ULP plans to digitize health records, implement the Pharmacy Act, and improve licensing for private healthcare facilities. Walters underscored the party’s focus on youth, promising to establish health units to address issues like drug abuse and mental health. She also highlighted ongoing projects, including the construction of a modern hospital in Arnos Vale, which she said would create job opportunities and advance healthcare careers. Walters concluded by reaffirming the ULP’s dedication to transforming the healthcare sector, ensuring it remains accessible and equitable for all Vincentians.
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Pierre Rallies SLP for Final Push, Warns of ‘Nastiest Politics’ Ahead
In a vibrant display of political fervor and spiritual unity, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) hosted its National Gospel Concert last night at the Vieux Fort Recreation Park. With the general election just two weeks away, the event served as both a rallying cry for supporters and a platform to celebrate recent achievements, including the handover of the St Jude Hospital. SLP candidates shared the stage with local gospel artists, delivering impassioned speeches that praised party leader Philip J. Pierre and warned of intensified political rhetoric in the coming days. Lisa Jawahir, the SLP candidate for Castries South-East, emphasized the significance of the hospital handover, stating, ‘This occasion is bigger than politics,’ while expressing her inspiration drawn from Pierre’s leadership and the resilience of the nation. Pierre himself cautioned supporters about the ‘nastiest politics’ expected from the opposition United Workers Party (UWP), which was simultaneously holding its own rally. He urged SLP candidates to intensify their campaign efforts and highlighted key policies, such as the ‘one university graduate per household’ initiative and free preschool education. The SLP is set to unveil its full manifesto on November 25, ahead of the December 1 election.