Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Prime Minister Drew engages University of Ghana leadership to advance education and research cooperation

    Prime Minister Drew engages University of Ghana leadership to advance education and research cooperation

    ACCRA, GHANA – March 4, 2026 marked a significant advancement in cross-continental educational collaboration as Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew convened with University of Ghana leadership during his official state visit. The high-level discussion, attended by Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo and Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Honourable Abla Dzifa Gomashie, focused on implementing a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the Caribbean nation and the prestigious West African institution.

    Prime Minister Drew articulated education’s pivotal role in national development, emphasizing that “our greatest resource has always been our people—their intellect, creativity, and determination to build a better future.” The dialogue explored multifaceted cooperation in climate resilience, public health, agricultural innovation, digital transformation, and creative economy sectors. Notably, the partnership will facilitate academic exchanges, joint research initiatives, and cultural studies programs that acknowledge the profound historical connections between African and Caribbean civilizations.

    Professor Amfo characterized the University of Ghana as a vital conduit between Africa and its diaspora communities, committing to transform the agreement into actionable programs benefiting students and researchers from both regions. The establishment of a joint committee was proposed to oversee the transition from conceptual frameworks to practical implementation.

    The Prime Minister further highlighted ongoing regional negotiations to establish direct air connectivity between West Africa and the Caribbean, which would substantially enhance people-to-people exchanges, commercial activities, and cultural interflow. This educational partnership forms part of broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties between Saint Kitts and Nevis and the African continent, recognizing shared heritage while building forward-looking collaborations.

  • Jones: Strafrecht geen middel om critici het zwijgen op te leggen

    Jones: Strafrecht geen middel om critici het zwijgen op te leggen

    A renewed debate over freedom of expression has emerged in Suriname following the recent arrests of Rishano Santokhi, son of former President Chan Santokhi, and citizen Stefanus Gerson. The detentions have drawn sharp criticism from National Assembly member Ebu Jones of the opposition NDP party, who argues that criminal law is being misused to suppress dissent.

    The arrests stem from provisions in Suriname’s Penal Code—commonly referred to as ‘gag laws’—that criminalize defamation, libel, and insult. Santokhi was detained following a November 2024 complaint by the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding statements allegedly directed at Attorney General Garcia Paragsingh. Gerson faced similar charges for comments made on Facebook criticizing police authorities.

    Assemblyman Jones contends that the most troubling aspect of these arrests is the procedural pattern: citizens are frequently detained for their expressions, with substantive judicial review occurring days after incarceration or not at all. ‘Individuals are first arrested and sometimes held for several days before being released. Judicial review only comes afterward,’ Jones stated, emphasizing that independent assessment should precede any deprivation of liberty.

    Jones maintains that criminal law should serve as ‘ultimum remedium’—a last resort—rather than the primary instrument for addressing reputation-related conflicts. He advocates for civil litigation as the appropriate avenue for reputation disputes, allowing courts to determine whether unlawful expression occurred and whether damages are warranted.

    The opposition lawmaker warns that criminal provisions risk being weaponized as tools of intimidation. ‘Criminal law must not be used to silence people,’ he emphasized, noting that freedom of expression constitutes a fundamental pillar of constitutional democracy.

    Within the National Assembly, legislative proposals are underway to eliminate or revise the controversial gag laws. Jones, among the initiative’s sponsors, aims to strike a better balance between reputation protection and free speech rights. He simultaneously acknowledges that emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence and manipulated media—require new legal safeguards. ‘Mechanisms will need to be developed for these challenges,’ he conceded.

    The recent arrests have underscored the urgent need for clear boundaries regarding criminal law’s application to public discourse. As Jones concluded: ‘Freedom of expression is a foundation of the rule of law. Criminal law should not be the first instrument for words, but the last.’

  • News : Zapping…

    News : Zapping…

    Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has formally presented its operational budget to the national government, featuring a significant technological enhancement for the forthcoming electoral process. The Council plans to interconnect a minimum of ten departmental tabulation centers, establishing a robust network designed to deliver verified election outcomes within 72 hours after polling stations conclude voting.

    Concurrently, international aviation restrictions persist as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) extended its flight prohibition for specific Haitian airspace sectors. Issued on March 2, 2026, NOTAM KICZ A0024/26 maintains restrictions for U.S. airlines, certified pilots, and registered aircraft operating below 10,000 feet around Port-au-Prince until September 3rd, 2026, reflecting ongoing security concerns.

    Municipal authorities in Pétion-ville have implemented stringent transportation regulations, banning six-wheeled heavy goods vehicles from utilizing Black Mountain Road for material transport. Violations now carry substantial penalties of 250,000 gourdes per incident.

    In educational developments, the Ministry of National Education and Civil Protection Directorate have initiated a comprehensive workshop focused on school risk management. This program coincides with the official reactivation of the Education and Public Awareness Thematic Committee (CTESP), emphasizing student and staff protection through improved coordination and national priority alignment.

    The Ministry of Economy and Finance witnessed the formal installation of Jocelyn Jean as Director General of the Office of Third-Party Vehicle Insurance (OAVCT) on March 4th, 2026. Meanwhile, Haiti’s diplomatic corps extended congratulations to Ms. Raina Forbin upon her appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs, with the Embassy in the Bahamas expressing strong support for her diplomatic mission.

  • FARD deploys first 10 Dominican-assembled TP-75 Dulus planes

    FARD deploys first 10 Dominican-assembled TP-75 Dulus planes

    The Dominican Republic has officially operationalized its inaugural fleet of ten TP-75 Dulus military aircraft, assembled domestically through a strategic collaboration with Italian aerospace company Fly Legend. This achievement represents a significant advancement in the nation’s capabilities in aerial patrol and pilot training, operating from the San Isidro Air Base under the Dominican Air Force (FARD).

    President Luis Abinader, who championed this initiative from its conceptual stage, presided over the ceremonial first flight on December 12, 2023. The program was established under the Public Trust for the Development of the National Aeronautical and Space Industry, demonstrating the government’s commitment to technological sovereignty. Since becoming operational, the aircraft have accumulated 1,769 flight hours in training exercises and surveillance missions, resulting in approximately RD$208.3 million in state savings. With remarkably efficient operating costs of just $60 per flight hour, the program has substantially optimized national expenditures on air defense and territorial monitoring.

    The TP-75 Dulus fleet is currently deployed in critical border security operations along the Haitian frontier and conducts surveillance over protected environmental zones to detect potential ecological threats. Mission coordination is managed through the Southern Command at Barahona Air Base, providing comprehensive coverage across border provinces including Montecristi, Dajabón, Elías Piña, Independencia, and Pedernales.

    This successful domestic aviation project has attracted international attention, with multiple nations including Guyana, Honduras, Guatemala, Paraguay, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Uruguay, and Peru evaluating potential acquisitions of the TP-75 Dulus aircraft for their own defense needs.

  • Overleg Suriname en Cuba over inzet artsen en veiligheid studenten

    Overleg Suriname en Cuba over inzet artsen en veiligheid studenten

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Suriname’s Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor André Misiekaba convened with Cuban Ambassador Roberto Blanco Domínguez to address critical aspects of their bilateral healthcare cooperation. The high-level discussion, held on March 4th, focused on two pressing matters affecting the longstanding medical partnership between the nations.

    The dialogue primarily addressed the status of Cuban healthcare professionals currently residing in Suriname who have yet to be integrated into the local healthcare system. While these medical experts have expressed eagerness to contribute their specialized skills, Minister Misiekaba clarified that mandatory screening procedures and administrative protocols must be completed before their deployment within Suriname’s medical infrastructure.

    A second crucial agenda item involved addressing concerns of Surinamese medical students pursuing education in Cuba. Amid growing international tensions, several students have raised apprehensions regarding their safety and requested temporary repatriation. Ambassador Domínguez assured that Cuban authorities remain vigilant about protecting the welfare of international students, emphasizing the government’s commitment to their security.

    Minister Misiekaba reaffirmed Suriname’s appreciation for Cuba’s sustained collaboration in strengthening healthcare capabilities, highlighting the historical significance of this South-South cooperation model that has benefited both nations’ medical sectors for decades.

  • Politic : Installation of the new Minister of Defense

    Politic : Installation of the new Minister of Defense

    In a significant political development, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé formally inaugurated Mario Andrésol as Haiti’s new Minister of Defense during a ceremony at Villa d’Accueil on March 4th, 2026. The installation marks a strategic continuation of Haiti’s military modernization efforts rather than merely a personnel change, according to governmental statements.

    The Prime Minister commenced the proceedings by acknowledging the substantial contributions of outgoing Defense Minister Jean-Michel Moïse, recognizing his foundational work since late 2024 in establishing critical defense restructuring initiatives. Under Moïse’s leadership, Haiti revitalized its national defense policy through establishing strategic international partnerships for training recruits to the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H). The nation formally expressed gratitude for his service.

    Andrésol’s appointment signals governmental commitment to advancing military professionalization and organizational development. The Prime Minister highlighted the new minister’s exceptional qualifications, noting his previous tenure as Director General of the Haitian National Police and Secretary of State for Public Security. Andrésol has earned recognition as ‘the architect of profound reforms’ within Haiti’s security apparatus, with firsthand understanding of the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel.

    In his inaugural address, Minister Andrésol committed to accelerating ongoing reforms and enhancing the operational capabilities of Haiti’s military forces. He emphasized the necessity of adapting to evolving regional and international security challenges, including transnational crime, cyber threats, piracy, and illicit trafficking. Andrésol outlined a dual-pillar approach focusing simultaneously on national security and human security concerns.

    The new Defense Minister specifically pledged to strengthen the military’s capacity for territorial defense while expanding its disaster response capabilities, with particular attention to enhancing the FAd’H Engineering Corps Unit for improved emergency response during natural catastrophes. This appointment occurs within the context of a broader governmental reshuffle aimed at addressing Haiti’s complex security landscape.

  • Invoice Controversy Clouds Senator Dennison’s Role

    Invoice Controversy Clouds Senator Dennison’s Role

    BELIZE CITY – Senator Glenfield Dennison’s political career hangs in the balance as he confronts allegations of professional misconduct related to a substantial legal services invoice. The controversy centers on a reported $183,000 billing for legal work performed for the Belize Communication Workers for Justice during their dispute with telecommunications company BTL.

    According to Belize’s Judicial and Legal Services Regulations, Crown Counsels are expressly prohibited from engaging in private legal practice or accepting payments for services that could create conflicts of interest. The regulations mandate that judicial and legal officers must avoid any situation where their professional duties and private interests might intersect.

    Though Senator Dennison serves as a union representative and has publicly acted as legal advisor to the Communication Workers for Justice, the submission of a significant legal invoice suggests potential violation of these strict conduct rules. While his advisory role might initially have been perceived as part of his senatorial responsibilities, the financial transaction fundamentally alters this perception.

    The Judicial and Legal Services Commission holds authority to investigate potential breaches and recommend disciplinary measures. Senior officials including the Attorney General, Solicitor General, or Department Head may initiate proceedings that could result in consequences ranging from formal warnings to termination of Dennison’s Crown Counsel position.

    The central question remains whether the invoiced amount constitutes prohibited private legal practice. Should the Commission determine that regulations were violated, Senator Dennison faces potentially severe professional repercussions that could end his governmental career.

  • Former T&T PM among 5 foreign lawyers in SVG’s election cases

    Former T&T PM among 5 foreign lawyers in SVG’s election cases

    In a significant political development, former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Stuart Richard Young will be among five international attorneys called to the Bar in St. Vincent and the Grenadines this Thursday. The High Court hearing marks the commencement of legal proceedings challenging the eligibility of Prime Minister Godwin Friday and Foreign Minister Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble to hold parliamentary seats due to their Canadian citizenship status.

    Young, who served as Trinidad’s eighth prime minister for a brief period from March to April 2025 before his party’s electoral defeat, will represent members of the opposition Unity Labour Party (ULP). The plaintiffs contend that Friday and Bramble’s dual citizenship violates constitutional requirements for elected officials.

    The legal challenges involve two separate petitions. Agustus Carlos Williams contests Prime Minister Friday’s nomination in the Northern Grenadines constituency, alleging improper handling by returning officer Devon Ollivierre and Supervisor of Elections Dora James. Simultaneously, Luke Browne challenges Foreign Minister Bramble’s eligibility in East Kingstown, citing similar concerns regarding electoral officials’ conduct.

    Representing the government defendants are legal teams comprising both local and international counsel, including England-based Kate Quincy Temple-Mabe and Trinidadian attorneys Anand Ramlogan S.C., Vishal Siewsaran, and Ganesh Saroop. The Attorney General’s office is also named as a respondent in both cases, as standard procedure in constitutional matters.

    The controversy stems from pre-election assertions by the ULP that votes cast for Friday and Bramble would be invalid due to their foreign citizenship status. Both officials maintain their eligibility, arguing that St. Vincent’s Constitution contains distinct provisions permitting parliamentary service while holding Canadian citizenship.

    Historical context reveals Friday’s extensive parliamentary tenure since 2001, while Bramble is serving his second term after initial election in 2020. Electoral results show decisive victories for both officials despite the citizenship concerns, with Friday securing 2,185 votes against Williams’ 339 in Northern Grenadines, and Bramble defeating Browne by 1,001 votes in East Kingstown.

    The case management hearing will be presided over by Acting High Court Judge Justice Gertel Thom, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark constitutional interpretation case with significant implications for future electoral eligibility standards in the Caribbean region.

  • Haiti unveils new transitional government

    Haiti unveils new transitional government

    Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has established a new transitional administration charged with addressing the nation’s severe security challenges, economic revitalization, and conducting general elections scheduled for August 30. This governmental restructuring emerges amid Haiti’s prolonged political and institutional crisis, occurring approximately one month after Fils-Aimé assumed singular executive authority following the February 7 expiration of the Transitional Presidential Council’s mandate.

    During a nationally televised address, the Prime Minister outlined three fundamental priorities for his administration: security reinforcement, socioeconomic recovery, and the organization of credible democratic elections. Haiti has experienced an electoral vacuum since the 2015-2016 cycle that brought Jovenel Moïse to power in 2017. Moïse’s assassination in 2021 precipitated the nation’s current extended period of instability.

    The reconfigured cabinet composition features eleven newly appointed ministers alongside six retained from the previous government. Notable appointments include Serge Gabriel Collin as Minister of Economy, Sandra Paulémon leading Planning, and Raina Forbin assuming Foreign Affairs responsibilities. Former National Police Director Mario Andrésol now commands the Defense portfolio, while Marcelin Aubourg oversees Agricultural development.

    Continuing ministers comprise Paul Antoine Bien-Aimé (Interior), Patrick Pelissier (Justice), Bertrand Sinal (Health), Pédrica Saint Jean (Women’s Affairs), James Monazard (Commerce), and Kathia Verdier (Haitians Residing Abroad). The administration further appointed Sharina Lochard as Secretary of State for Territorial Collectivities and Jean Willio Patrick Chrispin as Communication Secretary.

    Fils-Aimé demanded rigorous governance standards from his team, emphasizing that “the time for pretty speeches is over” and advocating for implementation of sound management protocols. He highlighted the necessity of developing concrete economic measures through coordinated efforts with private sector stakeholders, financial partners, and agricultural producers. The Prime Minister acknowledged outgoing officials for their service during crisis conditions and expressed conviction that the new government would guide Haiti toward stability and democratic restoration.

  • Cabinet reshuffle : Two key ministries now headed by women

    Cabinet reshuffle : Two key ministries now headed by women

    In a significant governmental restructuring on March 4th, 2026, Haiti’s Prime Minister Fils-Aimé inaugurated a new era of leadership by appointing women to two pivotal ministerial positions. Sandra Paulemon assumed office as Minister of Planning and External Cooperation (MPCE), while Raina Forbin took the helm as Minister of Foreign Affairs, marking a progressive shift in the nation’s political landscape.

    The Prime Minister commenced the ceremony by acknowledging the contributions of outgoing officials. He expressed profound gratitude to Ketleen Florestal, the former Planning Minister, recognizing her rigorous and responsible execution of duties during her tenure. Similarly, the nation’s appreciation was extended to Jean Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, the departing Foreign Minister.

    Emphasizing the critical nature of the MPCE, the Prime Minister delineated its role as the strategic nucleus for Haiti’s socioeconomic development. This ministry is tasked with formulating the nation’s long-term vision, structuring planning frameworks, establishing the Strategic Plan for Haiti’s Development, coordinating public investment programs, and managing external cooperation. The appointment of Paulemon signifies the government’s dedication to consolidating and enhancing these foundational efforts.

    Concurrently, the installation of Raina Forbin as Foreign Minister brings a diplomat whose professionalism, loyalty, and extensive experience are deemed vital for navigating Haiti through complex international relations. Her profound understanding of contemporary strategic issues and unwavering dedication to national interests were highlighted as key assets.

    The government’s reaffirmed foreign policy doctrine prioritizes respect for international law, mutually beneficial cooperation, and the pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development. Forbin’s mandate will focus on strengthening Haiti’s presence in international bodies, consolidating strategic partnerships, and promoting an active diplomacy centered on sovereignty defense, investment attraction, and protection of citizens abroad.

    This cabinet reshuffle underscores a committed approach to ensuring that international partnerships and mobilized resources effectively serve national priorities and tangibly improve population living conditions.