The Commonwealth of Dominica has issued a powerful statement of solidarity with the Republic of Cuba, condemning the decades-long economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed on the island nation. This unilateral measure, described as unjust and outdated, has caused immense hardship for the Cuban people, restricting access to essential resources, stifling national development, and limiting Cuba’s engagement with the global community. Despite these challenges, Cuba has emerged as a symbol of humanitarianism, providing critical medical, educational, and technical assistance to countries worldwide, including its Caribbean neighbors. Dominica emphasized that the blockade violates international law, human rights, and the principles of the United Nations Charter, calling it a relic of a bygone era that undermines peace and mutual respect. The statement, issued on October 29, 2025, in Roseau, joins the global chorus demanding the immediate and unconditional lifting of the blockade. Dominica also expressed profound gratitude for Cuba’s enduring friendship and contributions to the region’s social and economic development, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. The message concluded with a call for justice, humanity, and solidarity to prevail.
分类： politics
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Grace queries Shevern’s grading of her hospital performance
In a heated exchange during the North Windward election campaign, political candidates Shevern John and Grace Walters sparred over the state of healthcare services under Walters’ administration. John, the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate, criticized the deteriorating conditions at local hospitals during the NDP’s Warm-Up Rally in London, a village in North Windward. She highlighted issues such as collapsing roofs, mould-infested walls, and inadequate facilities, accusing Walters of neglect despite her dual role as hospital administrator and Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate. John emphasized that leadership, not titles, is essential for improving healthcare and vowed to prioritize health services if elected. Walters, in her response, defended her record, stating that no one raised concerns during her leave from the hospital and that her focus has always been on community service and youth empowerment. She acknowledged the need for healthcare improvements but argued that the ULP has already initiated significant reforms, including the Strengthening Health System Resilience Project and the construction of the Acute Referral Hospital at Arnos Vale. Walters urged voters to reject the NDP, claiming their policies would reverse progress and make healthcare inaccessible. The election, set for November 27, will determine the future of North Windward’s healthcare system and political leadership.
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UWP Dennery North hopeful supports pension plan for farmers
Bradley Marcelle Fulgence, the United Workers Party (UWP) candidate for the Dennery North constituency, has publicly supported Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet’s proposal to implement a pension plan for farmers should the UWP secure victory in the upcoming general elections. Speaking at a UWP press conference on October 28, Fulgence emphasized the critical role played by Saint Lucia’s banana farmers, who have long been the backbone of the nation’s agricultural sector. He highlighted their relentless efforts, often under harsh conditions, to sustain both their families and the country’s economy. Fulgence lamented that many of these farmers have been neglected, lacking access to pensions, financial security, and proper recognition. He revealed that some have even passed away without receiving the compensation they rightfully deserved. To address this, the UWP has introduced the ‘Save our Saint Lucia’ initiative, a comprehensive policy framework designed to restore dignity to farmers. Under this plan, banana farmers who dedicated years to the industry but were unable to contribute to the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) will receive monthly government payments. Additionally, families of farmers who have passed away in the last five years will be granted a one-time payment as a gesture of gratitude. Fulgence stressed that this initiative is not an act of charity but a long-overdue act of justice for those who have fed the nation and sustained rural communities. The proposed plan will be administered through the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the NIC and local farmers’ cooperatives. Fulgence concluded by affirming the UWP’s commitment to fairness, dignity, and respect, promising that the ‘Save our Saint Lucia’ policy will ensure that the contributions of farmers are never forgotten.
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United Nations Overwhelmingly Calls for End to US Embargo on Cuba
In a resounding display of international consensus, the United Nations General Assembly has once again urged the United States to terminate its long-standing economic embargo on Cuba. The resolution, passed on October 29, 2025, garnered support from 165 nations, with only seven opposing and 12 abstaining. This annual vote, a tradition spanning over three decades, underscores the global community’s persistent disapproval of the embargo, which has been in effect since the Cold War era. The embargo restricts most commercial and financial interactions between the U.S. and Cuba, a policy critics argue inflicts collective punishment on the Cuban people. Despite the overwhelming support for the resolution, the U.S., alongside Israel, Argentina, Hungary, North Macedonia, Paraguay, and Ukraine, voted against it. Belize was among the nations advocating for the embargo’s end. Notably, this year’s vote reflects a slight shift from the previous year, when 187 countries supported the resolution and only the U.S. and Israel opposed it. The U.S. attempted to justify its stance by accusing Cuba of deploying troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine—a claim vehemently denied by Cuban officials. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez condemned the embargo as a punitive measure, while U.S. Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Jeff Bartos, defended the policy, emphasizing Washington’s commitment to holding Cuba’s communist regime accountable. While the UN vote carries significant symbolic and political weight, it lacks the authority to lift the embargo, a decision that remains the sole prerogative of the U.S. Congress.
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Venezuela Declares Trinidad PM “Persona Non Grata”
In a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions, Venezuela has officially declared Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, ‘persona non grata.’ The decision, ratified by Venezuela’s National Assembly on October 29, 2025, prohibits Persad-Bissessar from entering Venezuelan territory and brands her as unwelcome. This move comes in response to her outspoken endorsement of U.S. military operations targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean. ‘I have no sympathy for traffickers; the U.S. military should kill them all, violently,’ Persad-Bissessar stated earlier this month, sparking outrage in Venezuela. The Venezuelan government has vehemently criticized these military strikes as unlawful and a direct threat to regional peace and sovereignty. Reports suggest that at least 57 individuals have lost their lives in 13 separate attacks, though no concrete evidence has been presented to link the victims to drug trafficking. In a retaliatory measure, Venezuela has suspended a significant gas agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, accusing the island nation of aligning itself with U.S. military interests. Concurrently, Trinidad and Tobago is reportedly preparing to deport hundreds of undocumented Venezuelan migrants. While the timing of this action has raised eyebrows, government officials assert that the deportation plan has been in the works for two months, independent of the current diplomatic rift.
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Tax Reform Delayed, SARA Now Set for 2027
Belize’s ambitious tax reform initiative has encountered a significant delay, with the launch of the Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority (SARA) now rescheduled for 2027. Originally anticipated to roll out sooner, the government has extended the timeline to allow for a one-year grace period before the transition begins. During this interim phase, the Belize Tax Services Department will continue its operations without disruption. Authorities are currently finalizing critical details, including staff salaries, insurance benefits, and job roles, to ensure a smooth transition to SARA. This reform is a cornerstone of Belize’s broader strategy to modernize its tax collection and management systems, promising enhanced efficiency and user-friendliness through digital platforms like the IRIS Belize Portal. However, the delay has sparked concerns among stakeholders, particularly the Public Service Union (PSU), which represents many affected employees. The PSU has criticized the lack of adequate consultation and raised alarms about potential impacts on workers, operational costs, and national revenue. Tensions escalated recently when the PSU’s letter to the Prime Minister reportedly went unanswered for weeks, fueling speculation of a possible strike. The government’s decision to postpone SARA’s implementation reflects a more cautious approach, though it remains uncertain whether this will alleviate the growing discontent among union members.
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Desperate times call for decisive action
The deployment of US warships in Caribbean waters, including one docked at the Port of Spain, has ignited a heated debate over regional security and the fight against the drug trade. While the US frames its actions as necessary to protect its citizens and the wider region from the scourge of narcotics, local voices have raised concerns about the implications of such military presence. The Antilles Episcopal Conference has issued a strongly worded letter condemning these actions and advocating for peace, questioning the long-term consequences of militarized interventions. In a region historically plagued by gang violence and the devastating effects of the drug trade, the arrival of US forces has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as a decisive step toward curbing the narcotics epidemic, while others fear it undermines the Caribbean’s identity as a ‘zone of peace.’ The USS Gravely’s presence, however, sends a clear message to narco-terrorists that the region is no longer undefended. This development comes amid a broader call for unity and action against the drug trade, which has long ravaged communities and corrupted institutions. The Vatican has consistently condemned drug-related activities, with Pope Francis emphasizing that addiction is an evil that demands unyielding resistance. Yet, the Caribbean’s struggle against the narcotics economy remains fraught with challenges, including complicity and inaction. As the region grapples with these issues, the question remains: Can decisive action, even if led by external forces, bring about the peace and justice that decades of prayer and advocacy have sought?
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FNM ‘in it to win it’ for by-election
The Free National Movement (FNM) has officially announced its decision to contest the upcoming by-election in Golden Isles, ending weeks of speculation. Party leader Michael Pintard confirmed that Brian Brown, a long-time community advocate, will represent the FNM for the seat vacated by the late Vaughn Miller of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP). The by-election, scheduled for November 24, has intensified political rivalries, with both parties vying for voter support. Pintard expressed confidence in Brown’s candidacy, citing his eight years of dedicated service in the constituency and his understanding of residents’ concerns under the Davis administration. The PLP has nominated Darren Pickstock, who recently resigned from the Senate to focus on the campaign. Pintard criticized the PLP for what he described as last-minute efforts to address local issues, including road paving and home repairs, accusing them of attempting to ‘buy’ votes. Brown, a Golden Isles resident, dismissed criticisms of his community involvement, emphasizing his ongoing efforts and commitment to the area. Political analysts suggest that a loss for the FNM could undermine Pintard’s leadership and weaken the party’s prospects in future general elections. However, Pintard remains optimistic, asserting that the FNM is ‘in it to win it’ and is the best choice for Golden Isles and the nation.
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Browne questions government’s deferral of questions
During the Senate session on October 29, Dr. Amery Browne, Leader of Opposition Business, raised concerns over the government’s lack of clarity regarding the deferral of several questions on the Senate’s order paper. Browne questioned whether a two-week deferral was being sought for inquiries directed at Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, who was absent from the session. He noted that alternative options, such as having another minister respond, were also available. Browne, who previously served as Leader of Government Business, has utilized both approaches in the past. Darrell Allahar, the current Leader of Government Business, acknowledged Browne’s points and requested deferrals for questions to Alexander and Defence Minister Wayne Sturge. The inquiries to Alexander, filed by Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi, pertained to virtual court hearings at police stations, while Sturge’s question focused on safety measures at high-risk beaches. Additionally, Attorney General John Jeremie was unable to provide a timeline for the presentation of the government’s official legislative agenda, citing incomplete preparations. The session also saw PNM deputy leader Sanjiv Boodhu sworn in as a temporary opposition senator, replacing Foster Cummings, who was absent due to illness.
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Residents back plan to split constituency in West GB and Bimini
Residents of Bimini and West Grand Bahama are expressing strong support for the Constituency Commission’s proposal to divide their combined constituency, a move they believe is long overdue. The commission is reportedly recommending the creation of two new constituencies by separating Killarney and West Grand Bahama from Bimini, with the proposal expected to be presented to the Prime Minister shortly. The current West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency, which has over 6,000 registered voters, has faced criticism for merging two islands with distinct challenges and priorities since its formation after the 1997 general election. Many Bimini residents feel their island has been neglected, with resources and political attention disproportionately focused on Grand Bahama. Lorrick Roberts, a Bimini resident, emphasized the need for Bimini to have independent political representation, citing issues such as stalled airport upgrades and a sharp increase in boat fees that have negatively impacted tourism. Oral Ellis, another resident, suggested that pairing Bimini with the Berry Islands would provide a fairer balance. James Vega, a West Grand Bahama resident, echoed the sentiment, stating that one Member of Parliament cannot effectively serve two islands. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, a member of the Boundaries Commission, recently highlighted the commission’s progress in ensuring equity among constituencies. If approved, the move would restore Bimini’s status as a separate constituency, a change many residents argue should have been implemented years ago.