In a bold response to escalating tensions with the United States, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has announced the deployment of over 5,000 Russian-made Igla-S anti-aircraft missiles across the nation. Maduro emphasized that these short-range weapons, capable of targeting drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft, have been strategically positioned in “every mountain, town, and city” to fortify Venezuela’s air defenses. This move comes amid heightened U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, where approximately 4,500 Marines and sailors have been stationed to combat alleged drug-trafficking networks. U.S. President Donald Trump has acknowledged authorizing covert CIA operations in Venezuela and hinted at potential land-based military actions. Despite the growing friction, Trump has denied pursuing a regime change in Venezuela. The situation underscores the deepening geopolitical rift between the two nations, with Maduro framing the missile deployment as a necessary shield against external aggression.
分类： politics
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Political expression not ‘a weapon to harm or intimidate others’ — COP
In a recent statement, Commissioner of Police Enville Williams addressed growing public concerns over rising tensions during the election season in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While acknowledging the right to political expression as a fundamental democratic principle, Williams emphasized that such freedoms must not be weaponized to harm or intimidate others. He firmly stated, ‘No election, no political contest, and no difference in opinion should ever lead us to raise a hand, a stone, or a voice in anger against our fellow Vincentian.’
The statement, titled ‘Commissioner of Police Addresses Political Violence,’ did not cite specific incidents of violence but highlighted the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force’s (RSVGPF) commitment to monitoring and addressing any disorderly behavior with fairness and professionalism. Williams assured the public that the RSVGPF remains impartial, dedicated to upholding the Constitution and protecting all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.
Reflecting on past instances of political violence, Williams urged citizens to avoid repeating ‘the dark moments of our history.’ He called for unity, restraint, and mutual respect among supporters of all political parties, emphasizing that symbols of democratic choice should unite rather than divide. ‘Let love, not anger, guide your steps,’ he implored, encouraging Vincentians to uphold peace as a collective responsibility.
Williams concluded by reaffirming the police force’s readiness to safeguard the rights, safety, and peace of all residents, while reminding the public that maintaining harmony is a shared duty. ‘Together, let us prove once again that we are one people, under one flag, guided by the spirit of love and unity,’ he said.
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Esav vraagt president om directe ingreep in strafzaak Pikin Saron
The Indigenous Platform Unity Solidarity Alliance and Progress (Esav) has submitted a petition to President Jennifer Simons, demanding the immediate release or pardon of five Indigenous men involved in the Pikin Saron legal case. Esav also called for a fully independent and transparent investigation into the deaths of Martinus Wolfjager and Ivanildo Dijksteel, urging accountability for those responsible. Additionally, the platform advocated for the establishment of a Ministry of Indigenous Affairs. The petition highlights the escalating tensions over land rights in Pikin Saron, which reached a boiling point on May 2, 2023, when residents took drastic measures after repeated protests, negotiations, and petitions failed to yield results. This led to the hostage-taking of officials and the burning of vehicles and buildings. During the police intervention, two Indigenous men lost their lives. The five suspects initially received an eight-year prison sentence, with their appeal still pending. A separate case against seven police officers suspected of involvement in the deaths of Wolfjager and Dijksteel is also ongoing. Esav further demanded a thorough police investigation into the disappearance of a third Indigenous man during the incident, a review of the proposed 5-kilometer zone around Indigenous villages, formal recognition of demarcation maps for each Indigenous village through VIDS, full acknowledgment of self-determination rights and cultural heritage, and an immediate investigation into environmental pollution in Maripaston and tensions surrounding Grassalco in Pikin Saron and Bigi Poika. The petition was received at the President’s Cabinet by Chief of Staff Sergio Akiemboto, who emphasized that no land rights issue worldwide has been fully resolved within a single term. However, he suggested the necessity of a temporary law to immediately halt or strictly regulate land distribution in Indigenous and Maroon residential areas to prevent a recurrence of Pikin Saron. Esav also presented the same petition to National Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin.
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Chancellor Yonette Cummings resumes duty, Chief Justice George yet to occupy High Court Chambers
In a significant development within Guyana’s judiciary, Acting Chancellor Yonette Cummings has officially resumed her duties following a period of vacation leave. This move has facilitated the return of Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire to her role as Acting Chief Justice. During Chancellor Cummings’ absence, Justice George-Wiltshire had temporarily assumed the responsibilities of the Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Navindra Singh was elevated to the position of Acting Chief Justice. However, as of Thursday, October 23, 2025, Chief Justice George-Wiltshire has not yet reoccupied the Chief Justice’s Chambers, located at the north-western end of the High Court complex. Sources indicate that she has chosen to utilize the High Court’s conference room on the south-eastern end instead. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, and Attorney General Anil Nandlall has not responded to inquiries regarding the matter. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the judiciary’s leadership, raising questions about the operational dynamics within the High Court.
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Lovell Calls PM’s Reforms hasty and diversionary
Harold Lovell, the United Progressive Party (UPP) caretaker for All Saints West, has launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister Gaston Browne, accusing him of orchestrating a cover-up in the ongoing ‘chain gang’ vehicle scandal. Lovell’s statement, issued on Thursday, contends that Browne’s recent announcements—ranging from new vehicle policies to public auctions, a $10 million repayment agreement, and the establishment of a ‘People’s Restitution Fund’—are not genuine reforms but rather ‘acts of desperation.’
Lovell argued that these measures fail to address the core issues or hold accountable those implicated in the scandal. ‘Every new announcement underscores the severity of the problem, yet none tackle the individuals at the heart of it,’ he stated. He emphasized that the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda deserve transparency and accountability, not what he described as ‘theatrics.’
‘The Prime Minister’s decision to negotiate repayments before a comprehensive investigation is not justice; it’s a smokescreen,’ Lovell added. The UPP is demanding a full forensic investigation, spearheaded by independent bodies such as the Integrity Commission, the Auditor General’s Office, and civil society observers. Lovell believes that only such an inquiry can restore public trust in the government.
‘With every policy announcement, Gaston Browne shuts another door to the truth,’ Lovell remarked. ‘He’s using window dressing to obscure the facts, but the people of Antigua and Barbuda will not remain in the dark.’
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Abos eist ontslag procureur-generaal García Paragsingh
The General Interest Organization of Suriname (Abos) has formally submitted a petition to the National Assembly, demanding the immediate dismissal of Prosecutor General Garcia Paragsingh. The petition, personally received by Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin, accuses Paragsingh of ‘attributable negligence and dereliction of duty’ in the constitutional execution of her office. Martin Atencio, representing Abos, emphasized the need for a criminal investigation into the matter, citing Article 142, Section 2 of the Constitution as the legal basis for her removal. This marks the second time in two months that Abos has filed such a petition, this time with a renewed urgency. The organization has highlighted over fourteen alleged ‘misdeeds’ by Paragsingh, including political persecution, mishandling of high-profile cases, and the controversial liquidation of two unarmed, handcuffed men in Pikin Saron. Abos is also calling for a mandatory response from the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding a previously submitted legal notice, the establishment of a People’s Tribunal, and a substantive dialogue on land rights and domain issues. Political leaders have been urged to ‘no longer look away’ and to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities. Chairman Adhin acknowledged the societal uproar caused by these issues and assured that they are being addressed within both governmental and parliamentary frameworks. The petition has also been forwarded to the President’s Cabinet.
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Routine spot checks of containers begin at customs
In a decisive move to tackle customs fraud and safeguard national revenue, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the initiation of routine spot checks on imported containers. This measure is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance transparency and ensure equitable revenue collection from importers. Browne emphasized that the initiative aligns with his recent commitment to bolster customs oversight and establish a People’s Restitution Fund. This fund will serve as a repository for penalties, interest, and other charges levied against customs violators, with the proceeds earmarked to finance vital social programs. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of these efforts in curbing under-invoicing and other fraudulent practices, which have long undermined the country’s fiscal integrity. By implementing these rigorous inspection protocols, the government aims to foster a fairer and more accountable import-export ecosystem, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economic stability and social welfare initiatives.
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PM: Fines from Customs Violations to Fund Social Programs
In a significant move to address customs violations, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to establish the ‘People’s Restitution Fund.’ This initiative aims to collect penalties, interest, and other charges from importers found guilty of breaching customs regulations. The fund is designed to formalize the management of recovered monies and fines, ensuring they are directed toward public welfare projects. The announcement comes on the heels of Browne’s recent remarks regarding restitution efforts in the ongoing government vehicle probe, where a dealer agreed to repay $10 million. Additionally, the Prime Minister has confirmed that excess or improperly assigned government vehicles will be sold at public auction following a comprehensive fleet audit. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing public resources.
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UPP told to make it clear whether they want car dealers to go to jail
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that his administration is seeking restitution from vehicle dealers involved in the ongoing government fleet controversy. This development follows revelations that millions of dollars were spent on government vehicles outside standard procurement procedures. Browne disclosed that one dealer has already agreed to repay $10 million, while another is currently under audit. The prime minister emphasized that the audit and reassignment process for the vehicles are still underway. Additionally, Browne stated that any unassigned vehicles will be sold at public auction in the near future. The controversy has sparked significant public scrutiny, with the prime minister urging the opposition to clarify its stance on the matter. This situation highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement practices.
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Sri Lankan Opposition Politician Shot Dead
Sri Lanka’s political landscape has been rocked by the assassination of Lasantha Wickramasekara, a 38-year-old opposition politician, who was shot dead inside his office in Weligama on Wednesday. This incident marks the first political killing in a recent surge of violent shootings across the nation. According to the Associated Press, an unidentified gunman entered Wickramasekara’s office, opened fire, and fled the scene. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Wickramasekara succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have suggested that the attack may be connected to gang rivalries, with Sri Lanka’s public security minister alleging that the victim had ties to narcotics and faced multiple court cases. However, opposition leaders have dismissed these claims as politically motivated, accusing the government of failing to protect its political rivals. Lawmaker Ranjith Madduma Bandara condemned the killing, stating, ‘The government must take responsibility for this. This is a political killing.’ Sri Lanka has witnessed a significant increase in violent crime this year, with 100 shootings reported, resulting in 51 deaths and 56 injuries. Police have arrested dozens of suspected gang leaders, some of whom were extradited from countries including the UAE, Indonesia, India, and Nepal.