The United Progressive Party (UPP) has unequivocally endorsed the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) declaration designating the region as a Zone of Peace. In a formal statement released on Tuesday, the party emphasized its unwavering support for maintaining regional stability through peace and mutual respect. The UPP underscored its opposition to any actions that could jeopardize this vision, reaffirming its dedication to fostering harmony within the Caribbean and beyond. The statement highlighted the longstanding diplomatic ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States, as well as the cordial relations with Venezuela. The UPP also recalled the collaborative initiatives established during its previous administration, showcasing its commitment to international cooperation. The release concluded with a resounding call for peace, signed by key party leaders including Political Leader Hon. Jamale Pringle, Chairman Dame D. Gisele Isaac, General Secretary Sen. Shawn Nicholas, and Treasurer Leon George.
分类： politics
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McIntyre to public: Take advantage of voter confirmation today
Dominica has embarked on a landmark voter confirmation process, a pivotal step in the nation’s electoral reform agenda. The initiative, which commenced on October 15, 2025, aims to transition eligible voters from the existing electoral register to a new one under the Electors Act of 2025. Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre has called on Dominicans, both at home and abroad, to actively participate in this historic process, emphasizing its significance in modernizing the voting system and enhancing democratic participation. The confirmation process, conducted across 48 centers in Dominica, is exclusively for individuals listed on the May 2025 voters’ register. Overseas confirmation is not permitted. Applicants must present original identification documents, such as a valid Dominican passport, driver’s license, or social security card, along with a witness registered in the same polling district. The process involves multiple steps, including document verification, data entry, and issuance of a confirmation receipt. Enrollment officers, appointed by the Chief Registering Officer, oversee the process, with a hotline available to address discrepancies. The initiative, which has been years in the making, reflects Dominica’s commitment to electoral integrity. Despite delays and public scrutiny, the government has prioritized meeting the October 15 deadline, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic journey.
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PM Browne: Antigua and Barbuda Will Not Host Foreign Military Assets
In a definitive statement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that the twin-island nation has no intention of hosting foreign military installations or engaging in any form of military action. This announcement came ahead of a scheduled visit by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey, who is set to meet with regional leaders to discuss security cooperation. Browne emphasized that Antigua and Barbuda is committed to maintaining its current stance of not hosting military bases, a position he described as aligned with the nation’s interests and values. The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown highlighted that Holsey’s visit underscores Washington’s dedication to enhancing regional security and stability in collaboration with Eastern Caribbean partners. Meanwhile, Grenada has confirmed it is reviewing a U.S. request to establish a radar system at the Maurice Bishop International Airport, signaling a nuanced approach to military cooperation in the region. Browne’s remarks reflect a broader Caribbean perspective on balancing sovereignty with international partnerships.
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30-Day Residency, Mandatory Interviews and Biometrics Among Features of New CIP Bill
In a significant move to enhance the integrity of its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), Antigua and Barbuda has introduced sweeping reforms. The changes, reviewed by a parliamentary select committee on Tuesday, include stricter residency requirements, mandatory biometric data collection, and enhanced due diligence measures. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who chaired the session, emphasized that these reforms aim to align the nation’s CIP with global standards set by major jurisdictions such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.
One of the most notable updates is the extension of the residency requirement for new citizens from five days to 30 days over a five-year period. While some critics argue for even longer stays, Browne acknowledged the challenges faced by busy businesspeople who may not have the flexibility for extended stays. Additionally, all new applicants will now be required to submit biometric data, necessitating the establishment of biometric centers across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Existing CIP citizens will also need to provide biometric details during passport renewals.
Further measures include mandatory applicant interviews and strengthened background checks through the Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC). Browne also urged member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to harmonize their CIP implementation timelines to prevent arbitrage opportunities. He proposed a unified deadline of November 1 for all participating countries—Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Grenada—to pass and enforce the new legislation.
The bill, already endorsed by regional heads of government, is expected to undergo its second and third readings in Parliament later this week, with Senate consideration to follow. These reforms reflect Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to bolstering international confidence in its CIP while ensuring transparency and compliance with global best practices.
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U.S. SOUTHCOM Commander Meets Antigua’s Prime Minister and Defence Chief
In a significant move to enhance regional security, Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), held high-level discussions this week with Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Telbert Benjamin. The meetings, held in Antigua, focused on deepening bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and the Caribbean nation. Key areas of discussion included combating transnational organized crime, curbing illicit trafficking, and bolstering border security across the region. Admiral Holsey underscored the importance of the partnership, describing it as vital to maintaining stability and security in the Caribbean. SOUTHCOM reiterated its commitment to collaborating with Caribbean nations to disrupt criminal networks that pose threats to both regional and U.S. interests. This visit is part of SOUTHCOM’s broader strategy to strengthen defense alliances in the Caribbean through initiatives such as joint training, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance programs, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown. The discussions mark a continued effort to address shared security challenges and foster long-term cooperation in the region.
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Rick Fox ‘would renounce Canadian citizenship’ for local political stage
Former NBA star Rick Fox has expressed his willingness to fully commit to Bahamian politics, even if it means relinquishing his Canadian citizenship. Born in Canada to a Bahamian father and an Italian mother, Fox has recently sparked public curiosity about his political eligibility after hinting at a potential run for office on Facebook. In an interview with The Tribune, Fox clarified his stance, stating that while he does not need to renounce his dual citizenship to vote, he would adhere to Bahamian laws if he entered frontline politics. He emphasized his pride in being a Bahamian, holding only a Bahamian passport. Fox also addressed criticisms about his national identity, asserting that he would never apologize for being born abroad, a result of his parents’ love and marriage. He recounted his family’s journey, from his mother’s Italian-Canadian roots to his father’s early struggles in Massachusetts before returning to The Bahamas to establish a successful business. Fox shared personal memories of growing up in The Bahamas, including his participation in the 1973 Independence celebrations. Since returning to his homeland in 2021, Fox has registered to vote and encourages all Bahamians to view voting as a civic duty. Beyond his basketball fame, Fox has taken on roles as a sports ambassador and CEO of Partanna, a climate technology company, focusing on national development and addressing challenges while identifying opportunities for growth.
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Tribune president interviews for MICAL seat
A wave of enthusiasm swept through the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) headquarters as supporters from the MICAL constituency rallied behind Robert Dupuch-Carron, a prominent figure in Bahamian media and aviation. The founder of Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Networks Ltd (BACSWN) and president of The Tribune Media Group, Dupuch-Carron, was interviewed by the PLP’s candidates committee, sparking fervent chants of “We want Robert!” from his loyal backers. Residents from Mayaguana, Acklins, Inagua, and Crooked Island gathered early, waving placards and donning PLP gold, to express their support for the potential candidate. In an unusual gesture, some supporters were even permitted inside the headquarters during the interviews. The MICAL seat has become a focal point since incumbent MP Basil McIntosh announced he would not seek re-election, creating a vacancy that has ignited significant interest within the governing party. Dupuch-Carron, who described his interview as straightforward, positioned himself as a “change candidate,” emphasizing the importance of free speech, democratic choice, and addressing infrastructure deficiencies in the southern islands. He outlined ambitious plans to enhance airports, transportation, food stores, banks, ATMs, pharmacies, and street lighting, while also advocating for youth opportunities and regional trade. Dupuch-Carron also highlighted his deep family ties to the constituency, with ancestors like Sir Etienne Dupuch playing pivotal roles in the region’s history. He vowed to continue this legacy if selected. Other contenders for the PLP nomination include Angela Michelle Cox-Lockhart and Laverne Bertrum “Dyie” Ingraham, both of whom have presented their visions for the constituency. Cox-Lockhart emphasized her commitment to strong representation, while Ingraham cited political neglect as his motivation for running. The PLP’s Candidates Committee also interviewed several other candidates for various constituencies, signaling a dynamic and competitive nomination process.
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Admiral leading US forces in Caribbean to step down
WASHINGTON, United States — Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US Southern Command, has announced his retirement, effective December 12, 2025, just one year into his tenure. Holsey’s departure comes amid a controversial counter-narcotics campaign in the Caribbean, which has seen US forces conduct strikes against alleged drug-smuggling boats, resulting in 27 fatalities. Critics argue these operations are illegal, while regional powers, particularly Venezuela, fear they may be a precursor to regime change.
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Rights groups demand legal memo on Caribbean boat strikes
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) have jointly filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to uncover the Office of Legal Counsel’s (OLC) guidance and related documents concerning lethal strikes on alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean. This move follows U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s refusal to confirm the existence of such guidance during her testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. However, Charles Young, nominee for U.S. Army General Counsel, acknowledged the guidance’s existence in a separate hearing, revealing it was developed through an interagency lawyers’ working group involving the White House and executive branch agencies. Public reports suggest the OLC’s opinion asserts expansive presidential authority to use military force against individuals linked to drug cartels. Jeffrey Stein of the ACLU’s National Security Project condemned these strikes as ‘murder, pure and simple,’ emphasizing the need for public scrutiny of the administration’s legal justifications. Since early September, President Trump has reportedly ordered five strikes in the Caribbean, resulting in at least 27 deaths. The administration defends these actions by labeling drug cartels as ‘non-state armed groups’ engaged in armed conflict with the U.S. However, critics, including bipartisan lawmakers, legal experts, and international bodies, argue the strikes violate both international and domestic law. Baher Azmy of CCR warned of the administration’s ‘indiscriminate pattern of lawlessness,’ stressing the importance of transparency. Amnesty International’s Daphne Eviatar condemned the strikes as ‘murder—plain and simple,’ urging Congress to halt these actions and hold those responsible accountable.
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North Eleuthera MP seeks re-nomination, leaving some aspirants feeling ‘disrespected’
North Eleuthera Member of Parliament Sylvanus Petty has announced his intention to seek re-nomination for his seat, a decision that has sparked mixed reactions within the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). Petty, who previously declared his departure from frontline politics to focus on family, confirmed his change of heart during a press briefing, stating he has the full backing of Prime Minister Philip Davis. ‘I just spoke to the Prime Minister about 20 minutes ago, so I’m good to go,’ Petty told reporters. However, his decision has left some PLP aspirants feeling ‘disrespected,’ particularly Oscar McPhee, a hopeful candidate who criticized Petty’s performance and accused him of neglecting constituents. McPhee argued that Petty’s return undermines the efforts of other aspirants and fails to address the community’s dissatisfaction. Residents of North Eleuthera have also voiced frustration over ongoing issues such as water, electricity, and internet disruptions, with some expressing reluctance to see Petty return. Despite these concerns, Petty remains confident in his re-election prospects, citing recent government initiatives to improve infrastructure and living conditions. ‘We’re gonna have the same support as we did in the last election,’ he said. ‘So I’m confident that we’re gonna win it.’ Prime Minister Davis is expected to meet with other hopefuls for the constituency soon, as the PLP navigates internal tensions ahead of the upcoming election.