The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) has embarked on a transformative journey toward exercising police powers, as the inaugural Law Enforcement Training Course commenced on Monday. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with The Barbados Police Service (TBPS), is a direct result of the recently enacted Police (Amendment) Act 2025. The legislation grants BDF personnel the authority to perform police duties during joint land-based operations with TBPS and under presidential directive. The legal foundation for this expansion of authority is rooted in Section 79A of the amended Police Act Cap 167 and Section 9(2) of the Defence Act Cap 159. However, the move has sparked significant debate, with civil society groups, including the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), voicing concerns over potential abuses of power and the erosion of the police’s exclusive mandate to maintain law and order. Critics have highlighted risks such as arbitrary arrests and the militarization of civil policing. The training program, designed to address these concerns, emphasizes legal literacy, human rights, and coordinated enforcement. Deputy Commissioner of Police Erwin Boyce underscored the importance of ethical enforcement and procedural clarity, while BDF Chief of Staff Brigadier Carlos Lovell hailed the legislative amendment as a historic step in Barbados’ security framework. Assistant Chief of Police Barry Hunte emphasized the necessity of unifying police and military procedures to enhance national sustainability, pointing to shared responsibilities and improved crisis response capabilities. The BDF has framed this initiative as an investment in a more agile and unified security framework, aiming to ensure the peace and security of all Barbadians.
分类： politics
-
UPP Supporter Questions Harold Lovell’s Commitment to All Saints West
In a recent development that has stirred significant debate within the United Progressive Party (UPP), a long-time supporter has openly criticized the party’s leadership decisions, particularly focusing on Harold Lovell, the former leader of the UPP. Lovell, who is currently residing in Canada and working as a professor, is reportedly planning to contest the upcoming election for the constituency of All Saints West. This revelation has sparked frustration and disappointment among some party members and supporters.
The supporter expressed admiration for Hon. Anthony Smith, a former UPP member and current Member of Parliament for All Saints West. “Anthony Smith was always someone I admired in his time at the UPP,” they said. “He was seen as the future leader of the party, and his departure was a significant loss. However, he continues to work diligently in his constituency, earning the love and support of many constituents.”
In contrast, the supporter criticized the UPP’s decision to back Barbara Coates for the constituency seat, suggesting she was not the right candidate. “They asked her to step aside for Harold Lovell, but where is Harold now? He initially came out strongly but then disappeared, only to resurface as a professor in Canada. How can he effectively represent and serve the people of All Saints West from overseas?”
The supporter also highlighted concerns about the party’s consistency, recalling that the UPP had previously criticized Michael Browne for living overseas while serving as a representative. “If they criticized Browne for that, how can they justify Harold’s situation now? It doesn’t make any sense,” they lamented.
This criticism extends beyond Lovell’s absence from the constituency. The supporter expressed deep frustration with what they perceive as ongoing dysfunction within the UPP. “Harold is now trying to challenge Pringle for the party leadership while living abroad and having stepped down from leadership roles three times. It just shows how unstable and disorganized the party has become,” they said.
This dissatisfaction reflects a broader concern among some members and supporters who believe the party’s focus should be on genuine leadership and commitment to the country, rather than political maneuvering or personal ambitions. “I love my country, and I want the best for it. Right now, I don’t see the UPP as the party that can lead us forward. We need real leaders who are present, dedicated, and ready to serve, not just political figures living overseas,” they concluded.
-
Antigua and Barbuda Bids Farewell to Chinese Ambassador
Antigua and Barbuda has officially bid farewell to Her Excellency Zhang Yanling, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, concluding a four-year tenure marked by significant advancements in bilateral relations. The farewell ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was attended by Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Permanent Secretary Dr. Clarence E. Pilgrim, and other dignitaries. Minister Greene lauded Ambassador Zhang for her “remarkable service” and unwavering commitment to fostering cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted her pivotal role in enhancing partnerships across infrastructure, health, education, and investment sectors, as well as her coordination of Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s official visit to China, which he described as a cornerstone of her tenure. Ambassador Zhang expressed her gratitude to the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, describing her time in the country as “a warm and meaningful experience.” She pledged to remain a steadfast advocate for the partnership, stating, “You will always have a steadfast friend in me.” Dr. Pilgrim also acknowledged her contributions, particularly her efforts in advancing the Booby Alley Housing Project, which he termed “a lasting legacy.” Ambassador Zhang’s departure signifies the end of a chapter defined by mutual respect, friendship, and continued collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and China.
-
Balancing law, vision in ‘free movement’ goal
The recent launch of full free movement among Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines marks a significant milestone in Caribbean regional integration. This initiative, which allows citizens of these nations to live, work, and study without bureaucratic obstacles such as skills certificates or work permits, has been hailed as a transformative step towards unity. However, it has also ignited a contentious debate over its legal and constitutional foundations. At the core of this debate lies a tension between policy-making and the rule of law. Attorney General Dale Marshall defends the initiative, asserting that it aligns with the existing Immigration Act and the CARICOM Protocol on Enhanced Cooperation. He emphasizes the discretionary authority granted to the immigration minister to determine the duration of stay for non-citizens. Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s decision to implement the policy ahead of parliamentary approval is framed as a pragmatic move to prevent potential disadvantages for citizens of the participating countries. The government has pledged to introduce legislation soon to solidify the arrangement’s legal standing. On the opposing side, the Barbados Bar Association (BBA) and the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) raise concerns about the constitutionality of the initiative. The BBA argues that executive discretion cannot override the legislature’s role in fundamental policy changes, particularly when altering individual rights and obligations. They stress that the Caribbean Community (Movement of Skilled Nationals) Act remains the primary domestic law governing free movement and that bypassing parliamentary approval undermines legal clarity. The DLP adds that policies, no matter how visionary, must adhere to legal frameworks to avoid setting unfavourable precedents. While the initiative is a bold step towards regional unity, its success hinges on balancing vision with legality. The government’s commitment to introducing legislation and engaging in public dialogue will be crucial in ensuring the policy’s legitimacy and long-term sustainability.
-
Azruddin Mohamed to enter Parliament as Opposition Leader, despite US Grand Jury indictment for financial crimes
Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party, has declared his intention to assume the role of Opposition Leader in Guyana’s Parliament despite facing a US Grand Jury indictment for financial crimes. The indictment, unsealed on Monday, accuses Mohamed and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, of fraud and money laundering linked to gold smuggling and the purchase of a luxury car. Mohamed, whose party holds 16 seats in Parliament, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and vowed to defend himself vigorously. He emphasized that the charges have no bearing on his parliamentary duties, stating, ‘I will go in there and represent the people. I won’t shy away from that.’ The US indictment alleges that the Mohameds reused official seals to evade taxes on gold shipments and paid bribes to Guyanese customs officials. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison, fines, and asset forfeiture. Mohamed denied ownership of the implicated business, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and claimed he had no involvement in gold exports. He also criticized the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) for allegedly orchestrating the legal actions against him, citing his growing political influence as a threat. The PPPC and the Guyanese government have denied any involvement in the US legal proceedings. Mohamed’s legal battles include additional charges for tax evasion and false declarations related to a Lamborghini purchase. Despite these challenges, he remains resolute in his political ambitions, framing the indictment as a personal attack by his political adversaries.
-
Abinader assures Summit of the Americas will be a great event
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader has revealed that the forthcoming Summit of the Americas, set for December 3 and 4 in Punta Cana, will be a landmark event uniting thousands of business leaders and heads of state from across the continent. During his address at *La Semanal con la Prensa* held at the National Palace, Abinader underscored the summit’s role as a strategic platform to highlight the Dominican Republic’s investment potential and tourism appeal. He emphasized that the event will transcend traditional political forums, incorporating multiple ‘mini-summits’ involving diverse regional sectors, including civil society. ‘This summit presents a tremendous opportunity to showcase our nation. I am confident that the Dominican Republic stands as the premier destination for investment in Latin America,’ Abinader declared. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently clarified that Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela were not invited to the summit, a decision aimed at fostering broader participation and ensuring the event’s success. This gathering marks a significant diplomatic endeavor for the Dominican government, positioning the country as a key player in regional dialogue and collaboration.
-
Abinader says 80% of his administration’s loans were used to pay off opposition’s debt
Santo Domingo – In a robust defense of his administration’s fiscal policies, President Luis Abinader revealed on Monday that 80% of the debt incurred during his tenure has been allocated to settling or refinancing obligations inherited from previous governments. Speaking at his weekly press briefing, *La Semanal con la Prensa*, Abinader underscored that his government stands out as the only one in recent history to achieve a reduction in the national debt relative to GDP, decreasing it from 49.7% to 46.9%.
-
Report Confirms Social Security Debt Increased $172M Under UPP, PM Says
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reignited political tensions by scrutinizing the financial legacy of the United Progressive Party (UPP) administration. During a recent episode of the ‘Browne and Browne Show’ on Pointe FM, Browne referenced an official report titled ‘Government Indebtedness 2004 to Present,’ prepared by the Director of Social Security and the Financial Secretary. The report revealed that government debt to the Antigua and Barbuda Social Security Board surged by approximately $172 million during the UPP’s tenure, escalating from $366 million in 2003 to $538 million by 2013. Browne emphasized that this increase contradicted former Finance Minister Harold Lovell’s assertion that the UPP never borrowed from the Social Security Board. Browne argued that the failure to make required contributions effectively constituted a form of borrowing, stating, ‘You didn’t borrow, but you did not pay your contribution. It’s a form of borrowing, because what you’re doing is getting funded by the arrears.’ Since assuming office, Browne’s administration has worked to reduce this debt through regular payments and an impending asset swap involving the Jolly Beach property, which is expected to further alleviate the government’s financial obligations. Browne framed the discussion as a contrast between ‘debt creation and debt resolution,’ defending his government’s efforts to stabilize the Social Security scheme. The revelations have sparked renewed debate over fiscal responsibility and political accountability in Antigua and Barbuda.
-
Tufton, Market Me happy with IC report findings
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has publicly acknowledged the findings of the Integrity Commission’s (IC) investigation into Market Me Consulting Limited, expressing relief over the report’s conclusions. The probe, which spanned three years, examined allegations of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest involving contracts worth nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me by the health ministry. The report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, found no evidence of wrongdoing by Dr. Tufton or Lindsay McDonnough, Market Me’s co-managing director. However, the IC criticized both parties for failing to disclose their personal friendship, which the commission suggested could have influenced the contract awards. Dr. Tufton addressed the prolonged public scrutiny, stating, ‘This matter has cast unfair doubt on my integrity and the reputations of others involved. I regret any hurt or reputational damage caused but am pleased the IC found no illegality.’ He emphasized his commitment to advancing Jamaica’s public health agenda and serving with integrity. Market Me, in a brief statement, affirmed that the report validates their professionalism and the value of their work.
-
Health ministry to implement IC recommendations following ‘Market Me’ probe
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Health and Wellness has officially acknowledged the findings of the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding its investigation into procurement irregularities and potential conflicts of interest involving contracts worth nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me Consulting Limited. The report, presented to Parliament on Tuesday, culminated a three-year probe into the matter. While the ministry emphasized that no malfeasance was found among its staff, it recognized the IC’s recommendations to enhance procurement transparency and address concerns outlined in the report. Market Me Consulting Limited secured approximately 15 contracts between 2016 and 2021 for the Jamaica Moves programme, a health initiative aimed at combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through public awareness and preventive measures. The IC’s Director of Investigation, Kevon Stephenson, highlighted that Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton and Market Me’s co-managing director, Lindsay McDonnough, failed to disclose their prior friendship before the contracts were awarded. Additionally, the IC noted instances of contract splintering, a practice where larger contracts are divided into smaller ones to avoid stricter procurement regulations. The ministry defended its actions, explaining that some payments were reimbursements for goods and services already utilized in the Jamaica Moves campaign. It also outlined steps taken to address the issues, including halting advance payments, regularizing outstanding reimbursements, and finalizing a new procurement process to prevent future complications. The ministry reiterated its commitment to the Jamaica Moves programme, calling it a cornerstone of its health promotion strategy, while pledging to review the IC’s recommendations to ensure compliance with laws and policies.