US Navy Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), is set to embark on a pivotal two-day visit to Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada on October 14–15. This marks his inaugural trip to both nations since taking the helm of SOUTHCOM in November last year. The visit aims to bolster security cooperation with these key Caribbean partners, reflecting the United States’ enduring commitment to regional stability. During his stay, Adm. Holsey will engage in high-level discussions with Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne and Prime Minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell. Additionally, he will meet with Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, and the Acting Commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF), Randy Connaught. The agenda will focus on reinforcing longstanding security partnerships and addressing shared challenges such as transnational organized crime, illicit trafficking, and border security. Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada play a crucial role in collective efforts to enhance security in the Eastern Caribbean. Adm. Holsey’s visit underscores the United States’ dedication to fostering collaboration with regional allies to ensure a safer and more stable Caribbean. The US Embassy in Barbados highlighted the significance of this visit in advancing mutual security objectives.
分类： politics
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Gaza hostages, prisoners freed after ceasefire deal signed
In a historic moment for the Middle East, US President Donald Trump announced the ‘dawn of a new Middle East’ as he presided over the signing of a landmark ceasefire agreement on October 13. The agreement, formalized in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, brought an end to a two-year-long devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. The signing ceremony saw Trump joined by leaders and mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, symbolizing a united effort towards peace. Earlier, addressing the Israeli parliament, Trump lauded the deal as a triumph of persistent diplomacy. The agreement’s implementation triggered emotional responses across the region. In Israel, 20 freed hostages were transported to hospitals for reunions with their families after over two years in captivity, while the remains of deceased hostages were handed over to the Red Cross. Simultaneously, celebrations erupted in the West Bank and Gaza as 250 Palestinian prisoners and over 1,700 administrative detainees were released from Israeli custody. Buses carrying the freed individuals were greeted by jubilant crowds, with families embracing relatives they had not seen for years. Dr. Daniel Trotzky, medical deputy director of Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, emphasized the long road to recovery for the freed hostages, noting their stable condition and the multidisciplinary support they are receiving. In Washington, the Trump administration received widespread, though not unanimous, praise from former top US officials, including Hillary Clinton, Condoleezza Rice, and Kamala Harris, for its role in brokering the deal. As the region begins to heal from the scars of conflict, a sense of profound relief and cautious optimism prevails.
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Top United States Military Official To Visit Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada
Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), is set to embark on a pivotal two-day visit to Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada on October 14-15. This marks his first official trip to both nations since assuming command of SOUTHCOM in November last year. The visit underscores the United States’ commitment to bolstering security cooperation with key Caribbean partners. During his stay, Admiral Holsey will engage in high-level discussions with Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada. Additionally, he will meet with Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, and the Acting Commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, Randy Connaught. The agenda focuses on addressing shared regional challenges, including transnational organized crime, illicit trafficking, and border security. Both Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada play crucial roles in enhancing security in the Eastern Caribbean, and the U.S. remains dedicated to fostering long-standing partnerships with these nations. Admiral Holsey’s visit highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to promote regional stability and security.
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Lovell Criticizes Governance Failures, Calls for Transparency in Social Security Management
Harold Lovell, former finance minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has launched a scathing critique of the nation’s governance, highlighting significant lapses in transparency and accountability. During an interview on Observer A.M. with Dr. Jacqui Quinn, Lovell accused current officials of disregarding the principles of laws designed to promote openness and integrity. He emphasized that the country’s leadership operates with a “small-island mentality,” which he argued perpetuates mediocrity and political favoritism, leaving the majority of citizens struggling while a privileged few thrive. Lovell, who also serves as a visiting professor at the University of Toronto, pointed to legislation introduced during his tenure with the United Progressive Party (UPP) in 2004, including the Freedom of Information Act, Integrity in Public Life Act, and Prevention of Corruption Act. He lamented that these laws, intended to foster transparency, have been undermined by poor implementation. Lovell also raised concerns about the handling of the Social Security Fund, questioning why financial and actuarial reports remain inaccessible to the public. He described the situation as a violation of the Social Security Act of 1972, which aimed to involve civil society in fund management. The interview concluded with Dr. Quinn commending Lovell’s insightful analysis, blending his political experience with academic expertise.
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PM to file motion to honour late leaders Douglas and Charles with nation’s highest award
In a historic move, Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit announced plans to introduce a parliamentary motion on October 14, seeking approval to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country’s most prestigious accolade, upon the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion aims to recognize the exceptional contributions of both leaders, whose visionary leadership and dedication to social justice, education, and community development left an indelible mark on Dominica’s progress. Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the enduring legacy of Douglas and Charles, stating, “Their unwavering commitment to our nation continues to inspire resilience and unity among our people.” The awards will be presented posthumously during the formal commemoration of Dominica’s 47th Independence Anniversary on November 3. Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas served as Prime Minister from February 2000 until his untimely death on October 1 of the same year. Pierre Charles succeeded him, holding office from October 3, 2000, until his passing on January 6, 2004. The Government of Dominica has called upon all citizens to join in celebrating the legacy of these two leaders, whose efforts remain a cornerstone of the nation’s identity and aspirations.
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Young: Budget unrealistic, expect raid on H&S Fund
Former Energy Minister Stuart Young has sharply criticized the 2025/2026 budget presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, labeling it as a ‘smoke and mirrors’ strategy. Young expressed concerns over the government’s potential raid on the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund to cover revenue shortfalls. The $59.232 billion budget, announced on October 13, is projected to fall short by $3.865 billion in revenue. Key measures include a $1 per litre reduction in super gasoline prices, a revised 10% salary increase for public servants, an electricity surcharge for commercial and industrial customers, a landlord tax, and an asset levy on banks and insurance companies. Young, in a Facebook post on October 14, supported the gasoline price cut but condemned the budget as ‘populist’ and warned of rising inflation and job losses. He questioned the government’s optimistic oil price projection of US$73.25 per barrel, which is 40% higher than global forecasts, and predicted serious revenue shortfalls. Young also criticized the lack of new energy initiatives, the closure of employment programs like URP and CEPEP, and the potential economic impact of new taxes on banks, insurance companies, and landlords, which he argued would lead to higher costs for consumers. Additionally, he raised concerns about the government’s plan to appoint majority directors at Republic Bank, warning against interference in critical financial institutions.
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Chief Sec: A step in the right direction
Tobago has been allocated a substantial $3.72 billion in the 2025-2026 national budget, a development hailed as a “step in the right direction” by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). Speaking after the budget was presented in the House of Representatives on Monday, Augustine emphasized that this allocation signifies that for every $100 spent on national development, $5 will be directed to Tobago. This marks a significant increase from previous budgets, where the highest allocation was $4.37. Augustine noted that the THA had requested 5.9% of the national budget in June, and while the current allocation falls slightly short at 5%, it reflects improved communication and cooperation with the central government. Augustine commended the government for its willingness to engage in dialogue, even in times of disagreement, and for considering Tobago’s needs in national policy. He described the allocation as a tangible demonstration of the central government’s commitment to Tobago’s development. THA Secretary of Finance, Trade, and the Economy, Petal Ann Roberts, expressed excitement about the budget, stating that it provides an opportunity to accelerate Tobago’s progress and transform it into “the greatest little island on the planet.” The allocation of $3.72 billion, close to the $3.71 billion requested in June, is expected to enable significant advancements in Tobago’s development, marking a new momentum for the island.
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Cameroon opposition candidate Tchiroma declares victory in presidential vote
In a dramatic turn of events, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former Cameroonian minister turned opposition leader, declared victory in the recent presidential election, challenging the 43-year reign of incumbent President Paul Biya. The official results, however, are not expected for another two weeks. Biya, 92, the world’s oldest serving head of state, is seeking an unprecedented eighth term in office. Tchiroma, 79, who served as employment minister until June, has unexpectedly galvanized voters, sparking widespread enthusiasm across the central African nation. Both sides are asserting victory based on unofficial tallies circulating on social media, with Tchiroma urging the government to ‘accept the truth of the ballot box’ or risk plunging the country into chaos. He promised to release detailed regional results, despite legal restrictions prohibiting the announcement of overall outcomes before the Constitutional Council’s official declaration. Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji emphasized that premature announcements are a ‘red line that must not be crossed.’ The delay in releasing official results has raised concerns about potential electoral fraud, given Biya’s history of securing landslide victories with over 70% of the vote in past elections. The 2018 election saw opposition leader Maurice Kamto arrested after declaring himself the winner, with his supporters facing violent crackdowns. The current political climate remains tense as Cameroon awaits the final verdict.
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Trump says six killed in new strike on alleged Venezuela drug boat
In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump revealed that a U.S. military operation targeting alleged drug traffickers in international waters has resulted in the deaths of six individuals described as ‘narcoterrorists.’ This latest strike brings the total number of fatalities in such operations to at least 27 since the first attack on September 2. The U.S. administration justifies these actions as necessary to combat the flow of illegal narcotics into the country, particularly from Venezuela. However, the legality of using lethal force in foreign or international waters without prior interception or questioning of suspects has been widely debated among legal experts. Trump emphasized that the targeted vessel was linked to illicit narcoterrorist networks and was traversing a known route used by designated terrorist organizations. The U.S. has also deployed warships and aircraft in the Caribbean near Venezuela, further escalating tensions with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro has responded by announcing military exercises, placing his country on high alert, and accusing the U.S. of attempting to overthrow his government. Trump has defended his anti-drug policy, claiming its effectiveness and suggesting the potential expansion of military operations to land routes. Video footage of the strikes, released by the U.S., depicts speedboats being engulfed in smoke and flames upon impact.
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Tobago gets biggest ever slice of budget pie
In a landmark decision, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has allocated a historic $3.72 billion to Tobago for fiscal year 2026, marking the largest financial injection the island has ever received. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo during the $59 billion budget presentation in the House of Representatives on October 13. This allocation fulfills the Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) request of $3.71 billion, a stark contrast to previous years when the THA’s budgetary demands were consistently unmet under the former administration. In 2024, for instance, the THA requested $3.956 billion but received only $2.599 billion. Tancoo emphasized that the $2.96 billion allocated to the THA represents 5% of the national budget, with an additional $763 million earmarked for various ministries, bringing the total to $3.72 billion, or 6.3% of the national budget. The announcement was met with jubilation from Tobago East MP David Thomas and Tobago West MP Joel Sampson, who joined Government MPs in a spirited show of approval. The Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce expressed gratitude for the allocation, with President Curtis Williams highlighting the importance of transparent and efficient spending. Williams also welcomed plans for direct US-Tobago flights, the opening of the ANR Robinson International Airport’s new terminal, and the development of Marriott-brand hotels and the Elephant Tree project. However, he urged the THA to address existing financial challenges, such as unpaid vendors and contractors. Martin George, Chairman of the Tobago Business Chamber, remained cautiously optimistic, stressing the need for proper fiscal management to ensure Tobago’s economic growth.