Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Venezuela Frees Prisoners After U.S. Capture of Maduro

    Venezuela Frees Prisoners After U.S. Capture of Maduro

    In a significant development following the unprecedented capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. authorities, the Venezuelan government has announced the release of 116 prisoners. The Penitentiary Services Ministry confirmed these releases occurred “in the past few hours” on Thursday, though the exact timing relative to Maduro’s court appearance in New York on drug trafficking charges remains unclear.

    The announcement comes amid intense scrutiny from human rights organizations, with Foro Penal—a group monitoring political detentions in Venezuela—directly contradicting the government’s figures. The organization maintains only 41 individuals have actually been freed, highlighting the ongoing information war surrounding Venezuela’s political crisis.

    U.S. President Donald Trump immediately claimed credit for the prisoner releases through social media, characterizing them as a direct consequence of American intervention. “Venezuela has started the process, in a big WAY, of releasing their political prisoners. Thank you!” Trump posted, adding a veiled warning that former prisoners should remember their liberation resulted from U.S. actions.

    The releases follow intensified pressure from Nobel Peace Prize winner and opposition leader María Corina Machado, alongside various human rights organizations. These groups contend that many detainees were imprisoned not for criminal activities but for expressing dissent, participating in protests, or sharing political opinions contrary to the government’s stance.

    Despite these releases, human rights advocates estimate between 800 and 1,200 political prisoners remain incarcerated in Venezuela, indicating this initial gesture addresses only a fraction of the ongoing human rights concerns within the country.

  • Nicholas attends renewable energy talks in Abu Dhabi

    Nicholas attends renewable energy talks in Abu Dhabi

    ABU DHABI, UAE – January 10, 2026 – The Honorable Melford Nicholas, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Energy, is spearheading the nation’s delegation at the pivotal 16th Session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly. The high-level gathering, convening global leaders from January 10th to 12th, is focused on accelerating the worldwide shift to sustainable energy sources.

    Minister Nicholas’s delegation comprises key national figures, including Climate Change Ambassador H.E. Ruleta Camacho-Thomas, Ambassador H.E. Theon Ali, Senior Advisor H.E. Brian Challenger, and Ms. Karen Burton, Director of Operations & Energy. In his capacity as a member of the IRENA Assembly Bureau, the Minister held a strategic meeting with IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera. Their discussions centered on establishing actionable strategies to fast-track renewable energy implementation across Small Island Developing States (SIDS), with a specific emphasis on mobilizing critical investments and forging robust delivery partnerships.

    The Minister’s agenda on the opening day featured participation in two cornerstone events: a roundtable of the Global Coalition for Energy Planning (GCEP) and a dedicated SIDS Ministerial dialogue. These forums are designed to address the unique challenges island nations face, exploring innovative investment pathways, regional cooperation models, and collaborative frameworks to expedite their energy transition.

    In a demonstration of the nation’s growing influence in global energy governance, Minister Nicholas is scheduled to chair a ministerial-level session on January 11th. This leadership role underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedicated commitment to developing finance-ready project pipelines that yield resilient and affordable renewable energy solutions for vulnerable nations.

  • Saint Lucia announces Non-Binding US Deportee Agreement

    Saint Lucia announces Non-Binding US Deportee Agreement

    Saint Lucia’s government has initiated preliminary discussions with the United States regarding the potential acceptance of third-country nationals deported under U.S. immigration policies. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre confirmed the development during his national address on January 11th, revealing the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a framework for future dialogue.

    The agreement, as detailed in an official government fact sheet, explicitly creates no legal obligations or automatic commitments. Rather, it serves as a diplomatic instrument to facilitate conversations about potential cooperation. This approach mirrors similar positions adopted by fellow CARICOM member states, demonstrating regional coordination on migration matters.

    Prime Minister Pierre emphasized Saint Lucia’s foreign policy principles, stating: “We believe stability is best secured through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for established international norms. We’ll continue working with regional partners to maintain the Caribbean as a zone of peace.” He further reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to international law protections that safeguard all countries regardless of size.

    The Prime Minister acknowledged significant challenges ahead, citing global uncertainty, climate threats, and economic pressures. He specifically referenced recent developments in Venezuela that have disrupted regional air travel, affected trade and tourism, and created concerns for small open economies throughout the Caribbean.

    Regarding visa accessibility, Pierre confirmed no official communication has been received indicating changes to U.S. visa policies for Saint Lucian citizens. However, he urged responsible behavior and cautious social media usage to maintain favorable travel conditions. “Our future prosperity cannot be secured by the government alone,” he noted, “but the shocking behavior of a critical mass can bring harm to all of us.”

    The Prime Minister concluded by underscoring his administration’s primary responsibility: “I’ll always put you first and act in the best interest of the people of our beloved country, no matter how difficult the decisions may be.”

  • PM: Government looks forward to cooperation, engagement with THA

    PM: Government looks forward to cooperation, engagement with THA

    In a landmark political development, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has extended congratulations to the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) for achieving an unprecedented electoral victory, securing all 15 seats in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. The Prime Minister expressed optimism about establishing a productive collaborative framework between the national government and Tobago’s leadership.

    The comprehensive triumph of the TPP, led by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, represents an extraordinary political mandate that Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar characterized as demonstrating profound confidence in the party’s vision for Tobago’s future. In her official statement issued January 13, she emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering “continued cooperation and constructive engagement” with the THA to advance Tobago’s social, economic, and institutional development.

    Despite the absence of a formal coalition agreement, the TPP’s two Members of Parliament currently occupy seating alongside government backbenchers from the United National Congress (UNC) in the House of Representatives—a traditionally symbolic arrangement indicating cooperation.

    The Prime Minister’s statement notably highlighted the peaceful conclusion of the electoral process and the clear mandate delivered by Tobagonian voters. This development follows Persad-Bissessar’s November address to the THA in Scarborough, where she extensively discussed Tobago’s status as an equal partner with Trinidad and acknowledged the island’s longstanding pursuit of greater autonomy and resource allocation.

    However, the relationship has experienced moments of divergence, particularly regarding national security matters. Last November revealed tensions concerning the installation of a advanced US military radar system at the ANR Robinson International Airport without prior consultation with Tobago’s leadership. The G/ATOR system, manufactured by Northrop Grumman, represents sophisticated surveillance technology designed to detect various aerial threats including drones, cruise missiles, and artillery.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar clarified that Chief Secretary Augustine’s exclusion from National Security Council membership resulted in the communication gap regarding the temporary radar installation. She emphasized the defensive nature of the equipment, stating it would enhance surveillance capabilities against narco-trafficking operations in regional waters. The US military presence forms part of broader regional security deployments in the southern Caribbean that have received the Prime Minister’s full endorsement.

  • PNM requests two recounts

    PNM requests two recounts

    In the wake of a stunning electoral defeat, the People’s National Movement (PNM) has formally requested vote recounts in two Tobago electoral districts following the Tobago People’s Party’s (TPP) unprecedented 15-0 sweep in the January 12 Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections.

    The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) confirmed on January 13 that the PNM submitted official requests for recounts in both Darrel Spring/Whim and Scarborough/Mt Grace districts, with both recounts scheduled to commence at 3 pm on the announcement date.

    Preliminary results revealed a decisive victory for the TPP, which secured 16,240 votes compared to the PNM’s 10,456. Minor parties received negligible support, with the IDA gathering 181 votes and the UTP merely eight votes. The election recorded 26,885 valid votes with 104 ballots rejected.

    Kelvon Morris, PNM candidate for Darrel Spring/Whim and former THA minority leader, indicated via Facebook that he would pursue a recount due to the narrow margin of victory in his district. This district held particular significance as it was the only constituency the PNM had won in the previous December 21 THA election, which resulted in a 14-1 victory for the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).

    The political landscape in Tobago has undergone significant transformation since the 2021 elections. THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, originally elected under the PDP banner, severed ties with the party in 2022 following political disagreements with leader Watson Duke. In August 2023, thirteen THA members who had been elected under the PDP resigned en masse to establish the TPP. Notably, Duke recently expressed the PDP’s endorsement of the TPP during the January 12 election campaign.

  • UN demands independent probe into woman’s killing by US immigration officer

    UN demands independent probe into woman’s killing by US immigration officer

    GENEVA—The United Nations human rights office has called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the fatal shooting of a protester by a federal immigration officer in Minneapolis, expressing profound concern over the incident that occurred last Wednesday. UN spokesperson Jeremy Laurence emphasized during a Geneva briefing that international human rights standards permit the intentional use of lethal force solely as a last resort when an individual poses an imminent threat to life. The remarks followed the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, who was shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent while in her vehicle. While acknowledging the ongoing FBI-led investigation, Laurence stressed the necessity for independence and promptness in the procedural review. He further urged authorities to implement measures aimed at deescalating rising tensions and avoiding rhetoric that could incite violence. The shooting has ignited national outrage and protests, with critics condemning the Trump administration’s characterization of Good as a ‘domestic terrorist’ and challenging the official narrative of self-defense. Local officials contend that video evidence contradicts claims that Good posed a threat, showing her vehicle turning away from the agent. The case has also drawn political criticism, particularly from Democratic officials, over the exclusion of local authorities from the investigation process.

  • Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Authorities in Costa Rica have announced the disruption of a serious threat against President Rodrigo Chaves just prior to the nation’s upcoming electoral process. Intelligence officials revealed on Tuesday that a credible assassination scheme was in development, allegedly involving a paid contract killer targeting the head of state.

    The security breach emerges during a highly sensitive period, with presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled within a fortnight. President Chaves, constitutionally prohibited from consecutive reelection, has endorsed former cabinet member Laura Fernandez as his preferred successor.

    This security alert coincides with diplomatic controversy surrounding President Chaves’s invitation to El Salvador’s leader Nayib Bukele. The Salvadoran president is expected in Costa Rica to participate in the inauguration of a new maximum-security prison facility inspired by his country’s controversial CECOT complex.

    Opposition factions have expressed apprehension regarding potential external influence in the electoral process, particularly criticizing Bukele’s involvement. The Salvadoran leader’s crackdown on gang violence has resulted in the detention of thousands without formal charges, drawing international scrutiny over human rights considerations.

  • VAT to be axed on all groceries

    VAT to be axed on all groceries

    In a significant policy shift aimed at alleviating economic pressures on citizens, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis declared the complete removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on all food products sold in grocery stores during a national address on Monday evening. The sweeping tax exemption, effective April 1, will apply to fresh produce, infant nutrition products, frozen goods, and packaged food items, though prepared hot meals remain subject to taxation.

    This landmark decision represents the culmination of a series of VAT reductions implemented by the Davis administration since assuming power in 2021. The government initially reversed a 2018 tax hike by lowering the standard VAT rate from 12% to 10%, followed by a reduction of food-specific VAT from 10% to 5% last year before this complete elimination.

    Prime Davis framed the tax relief within broader affordability initiatives, citing persistently high costs of living including food prices, electricity expenses, and housing burdens. The VAT elimination forms part of a comprehensive strategy that includes energy sector reforms, expansion of domestic agricultural production, and revised trade agreements designed to lower import expenses.

    Concurrently, the government announced expanded property tax concessions, extending residential exemptions to owner-occupied duplex and triplex properties. Additional measures include enhanced concessions for first-time homebuyers, representing the administration’s concerted effort to reduce housing costs and promote asset ownership among citizens.

    Reflecting on economic challenges, Davis criticized the 2018 VAT increase as ill-timed ahead of Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic, which collectively constrained consumer spending. His administration’s approach has emphasized targeted fiscal relief while maintaining financial stability, evidenced by improved credit ratings, removal from international financial blacklists, and over $10 billion in private sector investments since 2021.

    The address also highlighted previous cost-of-living measures including reduced customs duties on select food imports and the School Breakfast Programme, which has provided more than 1.4 million meals to students.

  • Penny: PNM has work to do

    Penny: PNM has work to do

    In the wake of a decisive electoral outcome, Tobago’s political landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The Tobago House of Assembly elections held on January 12 resulted in an unprecedented 15-0 victory for the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), leaving the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) without representation.

    Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles issued a comprehensive statement on January 13 acknowledging the electoral outcome while outlining the party’s path forward. Beckles extended formal congratulations to TPP leader Farley Augustine, who will continue serving as THA Chief Secretary following his party’s clean sweep of all electoral districts.

    The political leader highlighted several critical factors influencing the election results, particularly noting the notably low voter turnout which she interpreted as indicative of public contentment with the status quo. This observation suggests a population generally satisfied with current governance rather than disengaged from the political process.

    Beckles emphasized the PNM’s commitment to thorough introspection and organizational rebuilding. ‘The PNM understands the necessity of reflection as we work toward rebuilding our party and regaining the trust and confidence of the people,’ she stated, acknowledging the need for substantive changes within the party structure.

    The opposition leader expressed gratitude to all fifteen PNM candidates who contested the election, including PNM Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis who has indicated his intention to resign from leadership following the defeat. Beckles specifically commended Dennis for his ‘service, leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to the people of Tobago and the PNM.’

    Looking toward the future, Beckles extended best wishes to the incoming THA members, recognizing that their success would directly impact Tobago’s developmental progress. She reaffirmed the PNM’s ongoing dedication to ‘constructive engagement, national unity, and the pursuit of a stronger and more united Trinidad and Tobago,’ while promising the party would ‘regroup and return stronger and better ready to serve the people.’

  • Campbell Rochester appointed PS in the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications

    Campbell Rochester appointed PS in the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaican government has announced the strategic appointment of Kedesha Campbell Rochester as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Energy, Telecommunications and Transport. This decision places a seasoned governance expert at the helm of a critical ministry overseeing key national infrastructure sectors.

    Campbell Rochester ascends to this pivotal role equipped with an extensive 15-year track record in progressive leadership, institutional reform, and policy implementation. The ministry’s official announcement highlighted her exceptional qualifications to steer the agency’s strategic directives, emphasizing her reputation as a transformational leader. She is particularly acclaimed for her proven capabilities in modernizing operational systems, reinforcing accountability frameworks, and achieving tangible, measurable outcomes that contribute directly to national development goals.

    Her professional portfolio includes an eight-year tenure as director of a major national development program. In this capacity, she was credited with demonstrating significant vision and innovation by pioneering the integration of advanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. She successfully embedded results-based management methodologies throughout the organization, fundamentally establishing a corporate culture dedicated to performance excellence.

    Further underscoring her appointment, the ministry cited her demonstrated proficiency in navigating complex organizational hierarchies, orchestrating multi-stakeholder initiatives, and ensuring that all operational activities are precisely aligned with overarching strategic objectives. Her expertise encompasses comprehensive program oversight, rigorous fiscal management, institutional capacity building, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration.

    Academically, Campbell Rochester is fortified by a Master of Science in Project Management from the University of Salford in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from The University of the West Indies, Mona. Her formal education is further enhanced by specialized advanced training in Corporate Governance and General Management.

    Beyond her executive roles, she has contributed to national policy shaping through service on the boards of several prominent public bodies, including the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), and the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF). In recognition of her distinguished service to the nation, she has been conferred with the honor of Officer of the Order of Distinction. Campbell Rochester also serves her community as a justice of the peace.