Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • New border security plan to get ‘bad guys’

    New border security plan to get ‘bad guys’

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to intensifying crime reduction efforts through enhanced border security measures and legislative action. Speaking during Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations at the Markaz Al-Asja Jamaat in Charlieville, the Prime Minister defended the implementation of a second State of Emergency while announcing the imminent introduction of the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS).

    The new APIS legislation, scheduled for implementation by Friday, will establish sophisticated passenger screening capabilities at airports through digital entry forms. “We are collaborating with United States authorities to implement systems that will enable immediate identification of potentially dangerous individuals upon arrival,” Persad-Bissessar stated. “This integrated approach will provide clear differentiation between legitimate travelers and those posing security risks.”

    Addressing questions about the necessity of another State of Emergency despite a 42% reduction in murders, the Prime Minister emphasized that further progress remains essential. “Current statistics indicate we must achieve an additional 58% reduction in criminal activity. Public safety and national security remain paramount priorities for this administration,” she asserted.

    Regarding the recent withdrawal of US radar surveillance from Tobago, Persad-Bissessar acknowledged the system’s significant contribution to previous security operations while expressing understanding of American strategic requirements. “We maintain ongoing dialogue with US counterparts concerning radar capabilities. While we appreciated the temporary deployment, we recognize their operational needs in other regions,” she commented.

    During the Eid celebration, the Prime Minister also highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s multicultural harmony, praising the Muslim community’s integral role in national development and social cohesion. She contrasted Trinidad and Tobago’s peaceful coexistence with challenges faced by Muslim communities elsewhere, stating, “Our nation remains blessed to celebrate religious festivals in unity while other global communities face difficulties observing their traditions.”

  • Bramble wrongly denies NDP promised VAT reduction in 60 days

    Bramble wrongly denies NDP promised VAT reduction in 60 days

    In a striking political development, East Kingstown MP Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble has publicly contradicted his party’s campaign promises regarding Value-Added Tax (VAT) reduction. Despite the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) explicit pre-election commitment to lower VAT from 16% to 13% within 60 days of assuming power, Minister Bramble now asserts this timeline was never part of their official agenda.

    During a contentious radio interview on Hot 97.1, the Foreign Affairs Minister and economist acknowledged the VAT reduction was indeed an election platform promise but vehemently denied it was ever designated for implementation within the first 60 days of governance. This position directly conflicts with documented campaign materials and public statements made by NDP leadership prior to November’s general election.

    Bramble instead identified three specific 60-day commitments: payment of salary bonuses, implementation of a VAT-free day, and doubling of Public Assistance benefits. When confronted with digital evidence contradicting his claims, the second-term MP dismissed the findings as artificial intelligence errors, stating, “AI is wrong with that one.

    The controversy deepens with Prime Minister Friday’s recent budget address indicating VAT reduction would now occur by October 2026, following comprehensive assessments by the Ministry of Finance and Inland Revenue Department. The government cites fiscal responsibility and sustainable implementation as reasons for the delayed timeline, emphasizing the need for evidence-based policy rather than impulsive action.

    This policy reversal occurs against the backdrop of St. Vincent’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis, with the Friday administration promising targeted relief measures while maintaining fiscal stability. The VAT system, initially introduced at 15% in 2007 by the previous Gonsalves administration, was increased to 16% in 2017 to fund natural disaster recovery efforts.

  • Leacock’s comments in Taiwan suggest end of foreign policy controversy

    Leacock’s comments in Taiwan suggest end of foreign policy controversy

    In a significant diplomatic development, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Deputy Prime Minister St. Clair Leacock has declared that his nation’s relationship with Taiwan should transcend friendship to become “family,” signaling a major foreign policy shift by the ruling New Democratic Party (NDP).

    The remarks came during Leacock’s arrival in Taipei as head of a four-member delegation on a six-day official visit—the first since the NDP assumed power in November 2023. This statement effectively abandons the party’s previously announced 2016 policy of seeking diplomatic relations with China, which Leacock himself characterized as a misstep that “hurt us” in April 2024.

    Addressing Taiwanese officials, Leacock expressed profound appreciation for the “tremendous assistance and brotherly relationships” developed over 45 years of diplomatic relations between the nations. He emphasized the NDP administration’s commitment to “build on the strong bridges of friendship” with “open minds and hearts,” noting that both sides have “hit the ground running” since the NDP’s electoral victory.

    The Deputy Prime Minister specifically referenced the legacy of former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell, who established relations with Taiwan in 1981, stating the current government aims to build on “those bridges” to advance St. Vincent’s development toward first-world status.

    This position contrasts with pre-election concerns raised by the opposition Unity Labour Party (ULP), which had warned that an NDP victory might jeopardize Vincentian students’ scholarships in Taiwan. Prime Minister Godwin Friday had previously assured continuity in foreign relations, stating diplomatic ties would remain unchanged for the “foreseeable future.

    The evolution of the NDP’s position reveals the complex calculations in Caribbean diplomacy. Sir James Mitchell, the party’s elder statesman, had previously emphasized that both Taiwan and St. Vincent must act in their best interests, noting the NDP’s historical popularity was “very much historically dependent on the help we got from Taiwan.” He had advocated for obtaining “bankable assurances” from Taiwan while maintaining relations.

    Leacock’s familial characterization of the relationship and commitment to enhanced cooperation suggests a consolidation of the Taiwan-St. Vincent partnership, with the Deputy Prime Minister expressing optimism that Taiwan’s generosity “will grow even faster, and bear fruits that will be long-lasting for the life and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

  • Grading the NDP

    Grading the NDP

    A wave of voter disillusionment is sweeping through the constituency as the newly elected New Democratic Party (NDP) administration faces mounting criticism for its perceived inability to deliver on campaign promises. Many citizens who had eagerly anticipated a change in government now find themselves resonating with Bob Marley’s “Waiting in Vain,” reflecting widespread sentiment that the administration lacks the decisive leadership necessary for meaningful transformation.

    Prime Minister Friday has received a mediocre grade of C from constituents. While acknowledging positive measures such as VAT-free shopping initiatives, vaccine mandate relief, increased poor relief allocations, Bequia airport resurfacing, and bonus distributions, voters criticize his persistent indecisiveness and delayed responses to urgent matters. Reports indicate that despite multiple audiences with the Prime Minister seeking redress for issues ignored by other ministers, constituents remain without resolution.

    Several cabinet members are facing particularly harsh evaluations. Minister Bramble earns a D- grade due to controversial appointment decisions that have alienated his core supporters. Voters strongly oppose the reappointment of individuals associated with the previous administration’s 25-year tenure, accusing Bramble of political misdirection.

    Terrance Ollivierre similarly receives a D- rating for his inadequate attention to the community college portfolio. Allegations of ongoing corruption, maintained ULP-established board control, and disproportionate salary increases for favored staff members have prompted college employees to escalate concerns to higher government officials. The apparent absence of the Accreditation Board further compounds these issues.

    Minister Phillip Jackson earns a D grade for his failure to maintain communication and address ministerial friction that has created a challenging work environment. His perceived inability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously has disappointed those who expected innovative leadership.

    Other ministers including Conroy Huggins (Grade C), Kishore Shallow (Grade C-), and Shevern John (Grade C) are criticized for similar patterns of unreturned communications and indecisiveness, suggesting a broader administrative disconnect from public needs.

    The administration faces additional scrutiny over the apparent continuation of ULP-era figures in decision-making positions and the emergence of an elitist clique. Questions regarding campaign donation influences on board appointments further erode public trust. Political analysts suggest that were it not for the ULP’s current weakness, the NDP would already face significant reelection challenges.

  • Democratic People’s Movement to hold its first congress

    Democratic People’s Movement to hold its first congress

    The Democratic People’s Movement (DPM) is poised to mark a significant milestone in Grenada’s political landscape with its inaugural congress scheduled for Sunday, 22 March at the Grenada Trade Centre. This foundational gathering will assemble delegates from all 15 constituencies to establish the party’s national executive leadership, formally ratify its constitution, and introduce its initial cohort of electoral candidates.

    The timing of DPM’s organizational launch occurs amidst increasing political competition, with the opposition New National Party (NNP) having already declared a complete slate of 15 candidates. The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) is similarly expected to contest all constituencies. Further complicating the political field, the newly established People’s National Party (PNP) under former senator and minister Jonathan La Crette has entered the arena, though it has not yet revealed its candidate roster.

    Interim Chairman Alister Bain confirmed that while the party will not immediately disclose its full candidate lineup, the DPM intends to compete comprehensively across all constituencies. “We are prepared to contest every constituency and to assume national governance,” Bain stated, emphasizing the party’s commitment to inclusive leadership that prominently features youth and women in decision-making roles.

    The movement has developed its policy platform through extensive community consultations, employing what it describes as a “bottom-up process” to identify candidates and prioritize practical outcomes. Core policy focuses include sustainable employment opportunities, food security initiatives, and accessible healthcare systems.

    With the next general election constitutionally mandated by 2027 but subject to earlier calling, Grenada’s political environment continues to intensify as multiple parties position themselves for electoral contention.

  • APNU calls for “warranty” of new roads, govt says there is “design life”

    APNU calls for “warranty” of new roads, govt says there is “design life”

    A significant political dispute has emerged in Guyana regarding the quality and longevity of major road infrastructure projects, pitting the opposition against the governing administration. The controversy centers on the ongoing US$161 million reconstruction of the crucial Soesdyke-Linden Highway, a vital transportation artery connecting key regions of the country.

    The opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has raised serious concerns about construction standards and demanded transparency regarding warranty provisions. PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton openly criticized the methodology being employed, stating, ‘When you’re going up, you see the scraping off the top, not doing a proper foundation, and then they put the bitumen over it. When there were problems at the foundation, you don’t have to be an engineer to know that they are doing nonsense.’

    APNU parliamentarian Saiku Andrews highlighted historical context, noting that the original Soesdyke-Linden Highway completed in 1968 under a previous PNC-led government came with a 20-year warranty. He emphasized that ‘efficient infrastructure development must mean the delivery of quality work and not work that must be redone shortly after completion,’ advocating for lifetime warranties to be incorporated into all road construction contracts.

    In response, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill provided technical clarification, explaining that current road construction contracts operate differently. Rather than traditional warranties, infrastructure projects include a one-year defects liability period following completion. Additionally, engineers prepare design life reports estimating roadway longevity based on projected traffic patterns and vehicle weights.

    Technical sources revealed that the Soesdyke-Linden Highway has been designed for a 30-year lifespan, though this projection could diminish with increased heavy-duty vehicle traffic beyond initial forecasts. Engineering experts noted that achieving the designed lifespan requires maintaining vehicular loads within specified parameters over time.

    The minister also addressed concerns about lane configurations, explaining that traffic studies justified maintaining the highway as a two-lane roadway rather than expanding to four lanes. ‘The highway doesn’t have in the short-term or medium term that amount of traffic that require four lanes there,’ Edghill stated, noting that strategic sections have been widened to accommodate emergency parking.

    The debate extends beyond this specific project to encompass the recently constructed Heroes Highway, which has shown significant deterioration in less than five years, prompting government plans to apply bitumen capping to address structural issues.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Consulate in New York leads effort to strengthen ties with next generation

    Antigua and Barbuda Consulate in New York leads effort to strengthen ties with next generation

    NEW YORK, March 21, 2026 – The Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda in New York has unveiled a strategic initiative designed to reinvigorate connections between younger diaspora generations and their Caribbean homeland. This pioneering effort seeks to actively engage first, second, and third-generation Antiguans and Barbudans residing in the United States with their cultural heritage while facilitating their participation in the nation’s socioeconomic advancement.

    Ambassador Walton Webson, Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, emphasized the critical importance of maintaining intergenerational ties despite geographical separation. “We have a fundamental responsibility to ensure that the voices of our diaspora youth are not only heard but actively incorporated into our national discourse,” Ambassador Webson declared. “Preserving and strengthening these connections remains essential for our nation’s future, regardless of how many generations have been raised abroad.”

    The consulate’s inaugural Diaspora Networking Mixer, scheduled for March 25th at Jumeika Grand Restaurant on Lexington Avenue, represents the first concrete step in this outreach campaign. The event will feature notable figures including Chef Claude Lewis, winner of the popular culinary competition ‘Chopped’ and descendant of Antiguans who immigrated to the US in 1980, alongside Dean Fenton, Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for the United States.

    Beyond social networking, the initiative aims to develop a comprehensive database of skilled young professionals whose expertise can be leveraged for diaspora community needs. This strategic approach recognizes that sustained engagement requires both cultural connection and practical involvement in national development projects.

    The consulate, which has managed diaspora relations since the nation’s independence in 1981, is now prioritizing intergenerational continuity. Ambassador Webson characterized the mixer as “an exemplary initial move toward building robust connections, better comprehending youth requirements, and guaranteeing sustained engagement with our homeland.”

    This endeavor ultimately seeks to safeguard national heritage while harnessing diaspora talent for the continued development of the Caribbean nation. Registration for the event remains available through the Consulate’s EventBrite platform.

  • Former UPP Leader Urges ‘No Finger Pointing’ After By-Election Result

    Former UPP Leader Urges ‘No Finger Pointing’ After By-Election Result

    Former United Progressive Party (UPP) leader Harold Lovell has called for a period of introspection rather than internal recrimination in the wake of the party’s disappointing performance in the St. Philip’s North by-election. Speaking after the March 16th poll, Lovell emphasized the need for strategic analysis of the party’s declining voter support over the past three years.

    Lovell identified a significant shift in voter behavior that requires careful examination, stating that the outcome reflects a concerning trend for the opposition party. He specifically warned against counterproductive finger-pointing within party ranks, advocating instead for a measured approach to understanding the electoral setback.

    The former leader also addressed the campaigning tactics of the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), noting an unprecedented surge in constituency development projects during the five months preceding the election. Lovell questioned the timing and quality of these initiatives, suggesting they represented politically motivated efforts rather than sustainable governance.

    ‘They executed more infrastructure work in the final five months than in the preceding five decades,’ Lovell observed, while raising concerns about the long-term viability of these projects. He cited examples of incomplete roadworks and poorly planned infrastructure that have left residents in various constituencies with impractical solutions and limited access to their properties.

    Lovell emphasized the necessity of transparent, systematic development planning that extends beyond election cycles. He called for publicly visible road plans and methodical implementation that prioritizes community needs over political expediency.

    Looking forward, the former UPP leader stressed that consistent community engagement remains irreplaceable in rebuilding voter confidence. He advocated for ‘continuous, relentless, steady constituency work’ as the foundation for the party’s future electoral success, emphasizing that sustained presence and dialogue with constituents must form the core of the party’s strategy moving forward.

  • Cuba Rejects US Embassy’s Request for Diesel to Keep Generators Running

    Cuba Rejects US Embassy’s Request for Diesel to Keep Generators Running

    In a significant diplomatic development, Cuba has formally declined a request from the United States Embassy in Havana for diesel fuel to maintain its generator operations. This decision, first reported by The Washington Post, unfolds against the backdrop of sustained U.S. fuel sanctions imposed on the Caribbean nation.

    The refusal arrives as the Trump administration maintains its stringent energy blockade against Cuba, creating a paradoxical situation where American diplomatic operations face potential disruption. U.S. officials have indicated that without adequate fuel reserves, the embassy might be compelled to reduce its staffing levels substantially.

    Cuba’s current energy landscape reveals a nation grappling with severe shortages. The island has been implementing an emergency power strategy utilizing natural gas, solar energy, and limited domestic oil production, though these measures remain insufficient to meet national demand. The energy deficit has prompted Cuba to seek alternative international partnerships, with ABC News reporting an anticipated Russian oil shipment later this month—the first such delivery in three months.

    Concurrently, humanitarian organizations from Mexico and other nations are coordinating emergency aid flights containing essential supplies including food, medicine, and additional solar infrastructure to alleviate the crisis.

    The U.S. Embassy’s current diesel reserves are projected to sustain operations for approximately thirty days. This bilateral energy dispute occurs within the broader context of global fuel market turbulence following recent military actions against Iran by the U.S. and Israel. In retaliation, Iran has implemented substantial restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz—a critical maritime corridor for Middle Eastern oil transportation—propelling global oil prices above $100 per barrel after previously trading below this threshold.

  • US to Remove Iran Oil Sanctions as Prices Surge Amid War

    US to Remove Iran Oil Sanctions as Prices Surge Amid War

    Facing an escalating energy crisis triggered by military conflict with Iran, Trump administration officials are urgently pursuing all available avenues to secure global oil supplies—even considering the controversial step of temporarily lifting sanctions on their adversary. Three weeks into the ongoing conflict, the administration’s conventional policy tools have proven inadequate against skyrocketing oil and gas prices that officials privately believe could persist for months.

    The strategic closure of the Strait of Hormuz and intensifying Middle Eastern hostilities have created what energy experts describe as the most significant oil market disruption imaginable. Former Trump Energy Department official Neelesh Nerurkar noted, ‘The shortfall is so substantial that existing mitigation measures are dwarfed by the volume of oil not reaching global markets.’

    Despite deploying hundreds of millions of barrels from strategic reserves, easing select sanctions on Russian oil, and accelerating domestic crude flows, the administration’s efforts have failed to curb the price surge. Brent crude reached $112 per barrel recently—approaching three-and-a-half-year highs—while U.S. gasoline prices neared a $4 per gallon national average.

    The proposed solution involves temporarily authorizing the purchase of approximately 140 million barrels of Iranian oil currently stationed at sea, primarily targeting allies including India, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent characterized this move as ‘using Iranian barrels against Tehran’ to maintain price stability during Operation Epic Fury.

    This approach creates a paradoxical situation where the U.S. simultaneously militarily engages Iran while enabling its economic benefit. Administration officials rationalize that China would likely purchase these barrels regardless of sanctions, and redirecting them to allies provides temporary market relief while theoretically limiting Iran’s financial access.

    However, energy analysts note the relative insignificance of this volume—equivalent to merely one-and-a-half days of global consumption—suggesting any price impact would be短暂. Eurasia Group analyst Gregory Brew observed that after this offshore oil is depleted, the administration may face pressure to consider broader sanctions relief.

    The White House maintains that all options remain under consideration to address short-term disruptions, with spokeswoman Taylor Rogers predicting that ‘once military objectives are completed, oil and gas prices will drop rapidly again.’ Meanwhile, President Trump has dismissed concerns about prolonged energy price impacts, describing them as ‘short-term pain’ justified by national security objectives, while offering no concrete timeline for resolving the critical Hormuz Strait blockade.