Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Kanhai: Nog geen reactie op gratieverzoek 8 december veroordeelden

    Kanhai: Nog geen reactie op gratieverzoek 8 december veroordeelden

    Irvin Kanhai, the prominent lawyer who has long represented Desi Bouterse in the December 8 trial, has confirmed that he submitted a pardon request for four individuals convicted in the case. However, he has yet to receive any response from the government. Kanhai asserts that the convictions were unjust. The individuals in question are Ernst Gefferie, Stephanus Dendoe, Benny Brondenstein—all currently serving their sentences in Santo Boma—and Iwan Dijksteel, who remains at large. Each was sentenced to 15 years in prison in December 2023.

    Kanhai made these remarks during a National Democratic Party (NDP) commemoration event honoring what would have been Desi Bouterse’s 80th birthday. ‘Some time ago, I submitted a pardon request for these four individuals, whom I believe were wrongfully convicted and are our comrades,’ Kanhai stated. ‘We have heard nothing so far, but we remain determined.’

    In his speech, Kanhai also addressed the strained relationship between Suriname and the Netherlands, advocating for transparency regarding historical events from the 1980s. ‘We also want a good relationship with the Netherlands. But when two friends have a dispute, and one cannot say, ‘Sorry, I hurt you,’ that friendship can never be restored. We hope the Netherlands will take that step.’

    Ramon Abrahams, NDP’s deputy chairman and a former comrade of Bouterse, echoed Kanhai’s sentiments, reiterating that the party has always viewed the December 8 trial as politically motivated. He emphasized that the 2025 elections were intended to ‘free our comrades’ and reaffirmed the NDP’s unwavering stance on the matter.

    Kanhai concluded his address with a personal message to Bouterse’s widow, Ingrid Bouterse-Waldring, and her family: ‘For me, I wish to close this chapter and, together with you, bring an end to the grieving process.’

  • News : Zapping…

    News : Zapping…

    In a significant move to bolster national security, Haiti’s Defense Minister Jean Michel Moïse announced the acquisition of new heavy armored vehicles, including armored combat vehicles, to enhance the operational capabilities of the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H). Additionally, the Air Force is set to receive new aircraft, marking a strategic diversification of military assets. This development underscores Haiti’s commitment to addressing internal security challenges. Meanwhile, in Mirebalais, the Haitian National Police (PNH) dealt a severe blow to the ‘Viv Ansanm’ terrorist coalition during a clash on October 12, 2025. The specialized units of the PNH successfully repelled an attack on police checkpoints, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing the group to retreat. In another critical development, the Port-au-Prince Court of Appeal appointed Magistrate Denis Cyprien as the new investigating judge in the high-profile case of President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination. The court also ordered the continued detention of 51 individuals and sought international legal assistance from the United States and Canada. On the electoral front, the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC) conducted a training session for members of the Departmental and Municipal Electoral Bureaus to ensure probity in the upcoming elections. In sports, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé and Transition Advisor Leslie Voltaire expressed their support for the Haitian national football team, the Grenadiers, following their defeat in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Both leaders emphasized resilience and unity, reflecting the nation’s enduring spirit. Lastly, the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) saw a leadership change, with Jacques Desrosiers appointed as President, signaling a new chapter in Haiti’s electoral governance.

  • Abrahams kijkt uit naar voorstel gratie veroordeelden 8 december 1982

    Abrahams kijkt uit naar voorstel gratie veroordeelden 8 december 1982

    During a commemorative gathering of the National Democratic Party (NDP) on Monday evening, marking what would have been the 80th birthday of the late Desi Bouterse, Ramon Abrahams, the party’s vice-chairman and a former comrade of Bouterse, reflected on his legacy and the ongoing controversy surrounding the December 8 murders. Abrahams reiterated the NDP’s long-standing stance that the December 8 trial was politically motivated. ‘We, the NDP, have always maintained that the December 8 trial was and remains a political process. Remember that,’ Abrahams declared, echoing previous statements by the deceased party leader. He emphasized the party’s commitment to winning the 2025 elections to secure pardons for those convicted in the case. ‘I have personally stated on stage and in the media that we must win the 2025 elections to free our comrades,’ he added. Abrahams also posed a poignant question to the audience: ‘What if he were still alive? Would he still be in the jungle? Personally, I believe he would be standing beside Inke on July 16,’ referring to Bouterse’s widow. The NDP vice-chairman expressed concern for the current situation of the convicts serving their sentences in Santo Boma prison. ‘What is happening to our comrades in Boma and Mr. Dijksteel? Attorney Kanhai has submitted a request for clemency. All I can say is that he is doing his best,’ Abrahams noted. The event was attended by party chairwoman and President Jennifer Simons, party members, supporters, and guests who gathered to honor the legacy of the late former president.

  • Symmonds casts moves to deepen CARICOM integration as historic milestone

    Symmonds casts moves to deepen CARICOM integration as historic milestone

    Barbados has embarked on a transformative journey towards enhancing regional integration and mobility within the Caribbean. The nation’s Foreign Minister, Kerrie Symmonds, announced groundbreaking legislation that grants Barbadians the right to live and work in several CARICOM member states without the need for permits. This historic move, encapsulated in the Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Nationals) Bill, is being hailed as a monumental step for both current and future generations of Barbadians. Symmonds likened the initiative to the freedoms enjoyed by citizens of the United States, emphasizing its potential to unlock new opportunities for personal and professional growth. The legislation extends long-established rights within Barbados—such as the freedom to choose where to live and work—to countries including Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Belize. Under this new framework, Barbadians will no longer require work permits to practice their professions in these territories. Symmonds underscored the bill’s significance by referencing the visionary aspirations of past Caribbean leaders, including Eric Williams, Forbes Burnham, Michael Manley, and Sir Grantley Adams, who championed regional integration and the dream of a unified Caribbean federation. While acknowledging the progress made, Symmonds also reflected on the delays in achieving full regional mobility, stating, ‘The shame is not that we have come this far. The shame is that we have not got further.’ This legislation marks a pivotal moment in the Caribbean’s ongoing quest for deeper unity and collaboration.

  • Abrahams dismisses fears of migrant influx under free movement deal

    Abrahams dismisses fears of migrant influx under free movement deal

    Barbados’ Minister of Home Affairs, Wilfred Abrahams, has addressed concerns regarding potential mass migration under the newly enacted free movement agreement among four CARICOM member states. Speaking during the introduction of the Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Nationals) Bill in the House of Assembly, Abrahams emphasized that the anticipated surge in migrants has not materialized. He clarified that the legislation aims to formalize and refine existing arrangements, addressing legal and procedural gaps to ensure seamless movement between Barbados, Belize, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dominica. Abrahams underscored the long-standing reality of regional mobility, citing examples such as the University of the West Indies, the Caribbean Court of Justice, and West Indies cricket as testaments to regional integration. He also praised the contributions of past and present leaders, including Grantley Adams, Errol Barrow, and Prime Minister Mia Mottley, in advancing regionalism. However, Abrahams criticized a former Democratic Labour Party administration for its 2008 policy of deporting non-nationals, which he claimed negatively impacted Bridgetown’s vibrancy. Addressing Barbados’ demographic challenges, the minister highlighted a “population crisis” marked by declining birth rates and an ageing population, which poses significant social and economic planning challenges. He dismissed fears that free movement would displace Barbadians from jobs, noting that the predicted influx of migrants has not occurred.

  • JCE guarantees transparency and security in issuance of new ID

    JCE guarantees transparency and security in issuance of new ID

    The Central Electoral Board (JCE) of the Dominican Republic has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the personal, biometric, and demographic data of its citizens during the upcoming issuance of new identity and voter cards. In a public statement, JCE President Román Andrés Jáquez Liranzo underscored the transparency, legality, and security of the entire process, from bidding to implementation. The EMDOC Consortium, awarded the contract on October 3, includes five companies—one Dominican, two Panamanian, and two German, with Bundesdruckerei GmbH being partially owned by the German Federal Government. The JCE clarified that none of the companies involved have Haitian origins or capital, countering earlier media reports. Jáquez Liranzo emphasized that the JCE remains the sole custodian of all data, with no external entities granted access. All ID renewal procedures will be handled exclusively by trained and certified JCE personnel, ensuring the integrity of the process and the protection of democratic principles. The tender process, initiated in April 2024, was widely publicized in four national newspapers, the New York Post, and El País, and has garnered support from various political parties.

  • From Cuba, the voices of the left

    From Cuba, the voices of the left

    This week, Havana is set to host two significant international events: the Third International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Left-Wing Parties and Movements and the First Granma Rebelde Festival. Both events are dedicated to commemorating the centenary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz. The first event will take place from October 15 to 17 at the Ñico López Party University, while the festival will run from the afternoon of October 17 until October 19 at Línea and 18 in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood. These closely linked events will bring together over 100 participants from more than 30 countries, focusing on collective strategies, critical issues, and promoting equality, solidarity, and participatory democracy. The Publications Meeting, convened by Cuba Socialista and co-sponsored by the Network of Intellectuals and Artists in Defense of Humanity and Casa de las Américas, will feature prominent intellectuals, activists, and political scientists, including Ignacio Ramonet, who will deliver the keynote address on the challenges posed to the left by quantum artificial intelligence. Other notable attendees include Mexican artist and philosopher Fernando Buen Abad, Cuban scholar Isabel Monal, José Luis Centella of the Communist Party of Spain, and Miguel Ángel Pérez Pirela, director of La Iguana TV. High-level delegations from China and Vietnam will also be present. The event will include simultaneous workshops and panels on topics such as new types of fascism, political communication, and youth for a better future. Additionally, there will be a presentation of books on the thinking of various leaders and the launch of the 2024-2025 issue of Cuba Socialista, summarizing the previous edition of the Meeting. The Granma Rebelde Festival, dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the Granma and Juventud Rebelde newspapers, as well as the centenaries of the first Communist Party and Fidel Castro Ruz, will feature media experiences from across the island and abroad. Prestigious artists and musicians will enliven the event, with activities open to the public on weekends from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. These activities will include several panels, such as one on the figure of Fidel Castro, where journalists who knew him will exchange views.

  • CBI Regulatory Authority, Sperm Whale Reserve on table for next Parliamentary session

    CBI Regulatory Authority, Sperm Whale Reserve on table for next Parliamentary session

    The Parliament of Dominica is set to reconvene on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, with a packed agenda featuring several pivotal legislative proposals. Among the highlights is the introduction of a bill to implement the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) Agreement, which Dominica signed last month. This initiative aims to enhance the credibility, transparency, and sustainability of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs across the Caribbean, as emphasized by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM).

    In a significant step toward environmental conservation, lawmakers will also deliberate on the creation of the Sperm Whale Reserve, a project that builds on the government’s 2023 decision to establish a protected marine zone along Dominica’s western coastline. The proposed legislation will outline detailed management strategies, including navigation protocols and monitoring systems, to promote responsible use and conservation of this globally significant habitat.

    Additionally, Parliament will review amendments to key financial laws, including the Financial Services Unit Act, the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism Act, and the Money Laundering Act. These updates are designed to strengthen Dominica’s financial regulatory framework and enhance anti-money laundering measures.

    In a tribute to national leaders, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit will propose conferring the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.) on the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas and Pierre Charles, recognizing their enduring contributions to the nation’s development.

    The parliamentary session will be broadcast live starting at 10:00 a.m. through the Government Information Service (GIS) and the Dominica Broadcasting Corporation (DBS Radio), enabling the public to engage with these critical discussions in real time.

  • Living hostages freed in Gaza conflict, sealing conditions of ceasefire

    Living hostages freed in Gaza conflict, sealing conditions of ceasefire

    In a landmark development, Israel and Hamas initiated a tentative ceasefire agreement on Monday by exchanging prisoners and hostages, marking a pivotal moment in the two-year conflict that has ravaged Gaza. The U.S.-mediated deal has ignited cautious optimism for a potential resolution to the protracted crisis, according to an AP News report. However, significant challenges persist, including Hamas’s potential disarmament, the governance of Gaza, and the broader issue of Palestinian statehood, underscoring the fragility of the accord. The release of the remaining 20 living hostages brought a sense of relief and closure to many Israelis, though efforts to recover those who perished in Gaza remain ongoing. Meanwhile, celebrations erupted in Beitunia, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and Khan Younis in Gaza, as 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis, alongside 1,700 others detained without charges, were freed. Mahmoud Fayez, a detainee released after being held since last year, expressed gratitude, stating, “Praise be to God, our Lord, who has honored us with this release and this joy.” The release of hostages has alleviated some urgency to end the war, reducing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to expedite subsequent phases of the agreement. As part of the initial ceasefire, four deceased hostages were returned to Israel, with 24 more expected soon. The deal also mandates Israel to facilitate a surge of humanitarian aid—food, medicine, and essentials—into Gaza. Despite the celebrations, Gaza’s residents face a grim reality: the territory remains devastated by Israeli bombardments, with its economy in ruins, essential services disrupted, and countless homes destroyed. Netanyahu, absent from the Egypt meeting due to a Jewish holiday, assured the Israeli parliament of his commitment to the deal, claiming it “ends the war by achieving all our objectives.” U.S. President Donald Trump, visiting the region to celebrate the progress, urged Israeli lawmakers to seize the opportunity for broader Middle East peace. In Egypt, Trump and other global leaders convened to address the agreement’s complexities and lay the groundwork for future negotiations.

  • LETTER: When Failure Speaks Loudly: A Response to Anthony Smith Jr.

    LETTER: When Failure Speaks Loudly: A Response to Anthony Smith Jr.

    In a scathing letter to the editor, a concerned resident of All Saints West has called out their parliamentary representative, Anthony Smith Jr., for his perceived failure to address critical issues plaguing the constituency. The letter, written in response to Smith’s recent article criticizing Harold Lovell, accuses the representative of hypocrisy and neglect. The resident highlights several pressing concerns, including the closure of the All Saints Clinic for over 900 days, escalating crime rates, deteriorating infrastructure, and inadequate garbage collection. These issues, they argue, have left the community in a state of despair. The letter also questions Smith’s political integrity, noting his shift from the UPP banner to the government benches without delivering tangible results. The resident concludes by demanding accountability and better leadership, emphasizing that the people of All Saints West deserve a representative who prioritizes their needs over personal ambition.