The High Commission for Grenada to Canada held its inaugural Diaspora Meet & Greet Engagement in Montreal on November 15, 2025, marking a significant step in fostering connections with the Grenadian community abroad. The event was attended by Honourable Joseph Andall, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development, His Excellency Sylvester Quarless, High Commissioner for Grenada to Canada, and Gerry Hopkin, Consul General for Grenada in Toronto. Minister Andall emphasized the role of Grenadians as ambassadors for their homeland, urging them to take pride in their identity and contribute to Grenada’s development. He praised the diaspora for their resilience and dedication, particularly in the face of Canada’s challenging winters. High Commissioner Quarless called for increased engagement from younger generations of Grenadians, highlighting the High Commission’s commitment to fostering dialogue and creating civic groups to strengthen ties. The event concluded Minister Andall’s Canadian tour, which included meetings with the diaspora in Toronto and the official reopening of the Grenada High Commission in Ottawa. The re-established High Commission is poised to serve as a vital platform for political dialogue between Grenada and Canada, ensuring the interests of Grenadian citizens are well-represented.
分类： politics
-
Government advances fisheries legislation
The Government of Grenada has taken decisive steps to bolster the sustainability and regulatory framework of its fisheries sector through critical legislative reforms. On November 19, 2025, the House of Representatives unanimously passed the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025, which introduces comprehensive measures to enhance marine conservation and regulatory oversight. This legislative move is part of Grenada’s broader strategy to address compliance issues with the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act and avert a potential ban on fish imports to the United States set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The amendment includes updated provisions to align with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) standards, aiming to reverse the U.S. decision announced on August 26, 2025. The bill comprises four key clauses: redefining terms such as ‘observer’ and ‘marine mammal,’ establishing an Observer and Monitoring Programme, empowering the Minister to enact marine mammal protection regulations, and imposing penalties of up to EC$100,000 or 12 months imprisonment for violations. To ensure stakeholder engagement, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Marine Affairs conducted nationwide consultations, including a pivotal meeting on November 14, 2025, at the St George’s Fisheries Complex Conference Room. The discussions focused on export restrictions to the U.S. and the forthcoming Fisheries (Marine Mammals) Regulations, 2025, which aim to prohibit intentional harm to marine mammals, mandate reporting of incidental catches, restrict harmful fishing gear, and implement a Marine Mammals Management Plan. Additionally, Grenada is collaborating with Compete Caribbean Plus and the Inter-American Development Bank on a pilot initiative to introduce digital vessel monitoring and a fisheries data platform. This initiative includes installing 20 Remora Electronic Monitoring/Vessel Monitoring System (EMS/VMS) devices on longline vessels and providing training to stakeholders. Permanent Secretary Javan Williams emphasized the importance of balancing economic opportunities with environmental stewardship, ensuring the sustainability of Grenada’s fisheries for future generations.
-
NOTICE: A VOTE FOR DR. FRIDAY IS A WASTED VOTE
In a heated political debate, Dr. Godwin Friday, the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the Northern Grenadines, faces allegations of ineligibility to serve as a member of Parliament. Critics argue that his Canadian citizenship disqualifies him under Section 26(1) of the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which prohibits individuals from holding office if they acknowledge allegiance to a foreign state. Dr. Friday voluntarily obtained Canadian citizenship and a passport, actions that opponents claim constitute an acknowledgment of allegiance to Canada. An objection to his nomination was filed by electors on November 10, 2025, challenging his qualification. The controversy raises questions about the validity of his candidacy, with opponents urging voters to reconsider their support, labeling a vote for Dr. Friday as ‘wasted.’ The outcome of this legal challenge could significantly impact the political landscape of the Northern Grenadines.
-
NOTICE: A VOTE FOR DWIGHT FITZGERALD BRAMBLE IS A WASTED VOTE
Residents of East Kingstown are being urged to reconsider their support for Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble, the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the upcoming parliamentary elections. A significant legal challenge has been raised against his candidacy, citing constitutional violations that could render his nomination invalid. According to Section 26 (1) of the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, no individual who acknowledges allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power or state is eligible for election as a member of Parliament. Mr. Bramble, a Canadian citizen, voluntarily obtained Canadian citizenship and has been using a Canadian passport, which places him in direct violation of this constitutional provision. On Nomination Day, November 10, 2025, electors from East Kingstown formally objected to his nomination, arguing that his candidacy is legally untenable. The objection underscores that a valid nomination is a prerequisite for a legitimate election, and any vote cast for Mr. Bramble would be rendered ineffective. Constituents are assured that this challenge will be pursued rigorously, ensuring that only qualified candidates remain in the race. The message is clear: a vote for Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble is a wasted vote.
-
ANALYSIS: What are US aims toward Venezuela? The historical parallel is Panama – not Iraq
Brett McGurk, a seasoned CNN global affairs analyst with extensive experience in national security roles across four U.S. presidencies, reflects on the parallels and pitfalls of U.S. military interventions. Drawing from his harrowing arrival in Baghdad in 2004, McGurk emphasizes the importance of prudence in foreign policy, particularly when deploying military power. His insights come amid escalating tensions in Venezuela, where the U.S. has mobilized 15% of its naval forces and conducted ground exercises nearby. While some draw comparisons to the Iraq War, McGurk argues that Venezuela’s situation more closely resembles Panama in 1989, where a successful U.S. operation ousted dictator Manuel Noriega and restored democracy. However, he warns that Venezuela’s complexities—such as its size, internal divisions, and the involvement of global powers like Russia and China—make it a far riskier endeavor. McGurk also highlights the Trump administration’s ambiguous strategy, dubbed Operation Southern Spear, which aims to combat narcoterrorism but leaves room for broader objectives. While the removal of Nicolás Maduro could benefit both Venezuela and the U.S., McGurk cautions against military intervention, advocating instead for leveraging diplomatic and economic pressure to achieve key objectives, such as free elections and the dismantling of drug networks. He stresses the need for congressional debate and regional support before any decisive action is taken, underscoring the lessons learned from decades of protracted military engagements.
-
Venezuela’s Maduro Offers Face-to-Face Talks with U.S.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has extended an olive branch to the United States, offering to engage in face-to-face talks with U.S. officials despite escalating tensions between the two nations. In a televised address, Maduro emphasized Venezuela’s commitment to peace, stating, ‘Whoever wants to talk to Venezuela can do it. Face to face… Dialogue. Call? Yes. Peace? Yes. War? No. Never, never war.’ This comes as he ordered the mobilization of nearly 200,000 troops, signaling a heightened state of readiness.
U.S. President Donald Trump has sent mixed signals regarding the situation. While he told CBS News that he does not anticipate war, he has not ruled out the possibility of deploying troops. When asked about a potential direct conversation with Maduro, Trump responded, ‘I probably would,’ adding, ‘I talk to everybody.’
Tensions have been mounting since January, with the U.S. intensifying pressure on Venezuela. Measures include a $50 million bounty for Maduro’s capture and airstrikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, which have resulted in over 80 casualties. The deployment of the USS Gerald Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to the region has further fueled speculation of potential military action.
Maduro has vehemently denied allegations of running a drug trafficking organization, accusing the U.S. of seeking to control Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and provoking conflict. Meanwhile, opposition leader María Corina Machado has reemerged with a ‘freedom manifesto,’ outlining her vision for a post-Maduro Venezuela and calling for accountability for alleged human rights abuses.
-
US court suspends releasing immigration detainees in Illinois
In a significant development in the ongoing immigration enforcement saga, a US appeals court has temporarily halted the release of hundreds of individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Illinois. This decision comes after the Trump administration challenged a federal judge’s ruling that had ordered the release of approximately 450 detainees. The detainees, part of a broader operation known as ‘Midway Blitz,’ were arrested in September as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified crackdown on undocumented immigrants, particularly in Chicago, a Democratic stronghold. Last week, a federal judge in Chicago sided with lawyers representing over 600 detainees, arguing that their arrests lacked reasonable grounds or outstanding warrants. The judge had planned to release the detainees on Friday, contingent on each paying $1,500 in bail and agreeing to surveillance measures like ankle monitors. However, the appeals court has now suspended this release pending a hearing scheduled for December 2. Since taking office, Trump has prioritized stringent immigration policies, frequently framing the issue as an ‘invasion.’ This latest legal battle underscores the contentious nature of immigration enforcement under his administration.
-
Haitian-American congresswoman charged for allegedly stealing millions in emergency funds
MIAMI, United States – Haitian-American Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly embezzling $5 million in disaster relief funds, laundering the money, and diverting a significant portion to finance her 2021 congressional campaign. The indictment, issued by a federal grand jury in Miami, also names her brother Edwin Cherfilus and several associates as co-defendants.
-
Mitchell hints Fox should resign over political comments
In a striking statement, Bahamas Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell appeared to issue a veiled rebuke to Ambassador-at-Large Rick Fox, emphasizing that ambassadors serve the government that appoints them and suggesting resignation as the honorable course of action in cases of disagreement. Mitchell’s remarks came during an audio statement congratulating four newly appointed ambassadors following a ceremony at Government House on November 17. He underscored long-standing diplomatic practices, stating that ambassadors traditionally resign after a general election confirms a new government, regardless of whether the same political party remains in power. Mitchell added that ambassadors represent the government in office and implied that Fox, who has publicly expressed differing views, should consider stepping down if he cannot align with the appointing authority. This follows a recent Facebook post by Fox, a former NBA star, who pushed back against claims that he should refrain from commenting on the Golden Isles by-election due to his diplomatic role. Fox argued that he serves the Bahamian people, not a political party, and rejected the notion that ambassadors must remain silent during elections. He also criticized politicians for only appearing as ‘Action Heroes’ during election seasons and lamented the lack of progress in addressing local issues like road repairs. Fox hinted that he is considering entering frontline politics, further fueling speculation about his future role in Bahamian governance.
-
Search warrants by JPs
In a contentious move, the Senate has passed legislation on November 15, reinstating the power of Justices of the Peace (JPs) to issue search warrants. This decision marks a reversal of a two-year-old policy that had stripped JPs of this authority. Historically, JPs held this power from 1917 until 2023, but its removal was seen as a necessary reform. The recent legislative action has sparked significant debate, with critics labeling it a regressive step in the evolution of the criminal justice system. While the government has been praised for codifying Justice Carol Gobin’s ruling on station bail, the restoration of JP search warrant powers has drawn widespread criticism. Attorney General John Jeremie defended the bill, citing its urgency and the police’s preference for JP assistance. However, concerns remain about the lack of stringent regulations and training for JPs, with one currently facing legal charges. The bill, which still requires House approval, has been criticized for potentially expanding police authority and undermining property and privacy rights. Critics argue that JPs, often rubber-stamping warrants without proper oversight, lack the judicial rigor necessary for such decisions. Instead of reinstating JP powers, the recommendation is to assign more judges to handle emergency applications, ensuring a more robust and accountable judicial process.