KINGSTON, Jamaica – The high-profile fraud trial involving former Education Minister Ruel Reid and his co-accused took a dramatic turn on its first official day as the defence team moved to have the charges dismissed. The legal representatives argued that the prosecution’s evidence was obtained in violation of the Financial Investigations Division Act (FIDA), rendering it inadmissible in court.
分类： politics
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Government May Vacate High-Rent Buildings, PM Browne Says
In a strategic move to curb public expenditure and enhance financial efficiency, Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced plans to vacate high-cost privately leased buildings and relocate government ministries to state-owned facilities. The decision, unveiled during an episode of the ‘Browne and Browne Show’ on Pointe FM, is part of a broader cost-saving initiative aimed at reducing recurrent expenses and optimizing the use of public resources. Browne emphasized that the government will no longer tolerate enriching landlords at the expense of the state. A review of existing leases revealed that several departments occupy expensive office spaces, which could be replaced by underutilized government-owned properties. The relocation process will be implemented in phases, ensuring a smooth transition for ministries and departments. Browne highlighted that this measure is one of several fiscal strategies being adopted to maintain essential public services while containing costs. The move is expected to not only save significant funds but also consolidate operations, fostering greater efficiency across government functions.
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Yet another clear case of political victimisation
In a striking revelation, Kenrick Quashie has brought to light what he describes as a glaring case of political victimization within the St. Vincent and the Grenadines police force under the current ULP administration. His brother, Desrick Quashie, a seasoned police officer with 19 years of distinguished service, has been repeatedly overlooked for promotion, allegedly due to Kenrick’s political affiliations.
Desrick Quashie, who holds a Master’s Degree in security and intelligence, has an exemplary service record, including commendations from numerous high-level dignitaries for his close protection services. Despite his qualifications and dedication, he has remained at the rank of corporal for over seven years since returning from studies in the UK.
Kenrick Quashie asserts that senior police officers, including commissioners, have the authority to promote up to the rank of sergeant but have failed to act, fearing political repercussions. This inaction, he argues, is a clear indication of the politicization of the promotion process within the police force.
The situation raises serious concerns about the integrity of the promotion system and the broader implications for democracy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Kenrick Quashie calls for an end to such victimization, emphasizing that it has no place in a democratic society.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of iWitness News.
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Skerrit presses Electoral Commission to meet October 15 voter confirmation deadline
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has expressed confidence in the Electoral Commission’s readiness to launch the national voter confirmation campaign by the revised deadline of October 15, 2025. The campaign, initially slated for September 2025, faced delays due to regulatory finalization issues, prompting Parliament to amend the Registration of Electors Act on August 30, 2025, granting a one-month extension. This adjustment was described as a technical necessity to ensure the Commission’s operational preparedness. However, the delay has drawn criticism from opponents who allege that the process is being manipulated to favor overseas-based voters. During a recent press briefing, PM Skerrit emphasized that the government has provided the Electoral Commission with all necessary legislative and financial resources to execute the campaign. He clarified that while the government does not interfere in the Commission’s daily operations, it remains available to offer support, such as legal advice from the Attorney General. Skerrit further asserted that the Commission has no grounds to miss the October 15 deadline, as Parliament was explicit in granting the additional time. He anticipates an official announcement regarding the campaign’s readiness soon.
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PM Browne: Roads Now Cost $2M Per Mile, Down From $10M Under UPP
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a significant reduction in the cost of road construction under his administration. Speaking on the *Browne and Browne Show* on Pointe FM, Browne revealed that the current cost per mile for roadworks has been slashed to approximately EC $2 million, a stark contrast to the EC $10 million per mile incurred during the previous United Progressive Party (UPP) government. Browne attributed this dramatic cost reduction to enhanced efficiency, rigorous oversight, and improved value for taxpayers. He emphasized that the quality of work has not been compromised, stating, ‘We are doing it for about two million dollars a mile — and with better quality work.’ The Prime Minister credited the Ministry of Works, engineers, and local contractors for achieving these savings while maintaining high construction standards. He highlighted the ongoing national road rehabilitation programme, which includes upgrades to All Saints Road, Valley Road North, Anchorage Road, and the Sir Sydney Walling Highway, as evidence of the government’s cost-effective approach. Browne also announced an upcoming $100 million road improvement project, beginning with a $10 million allocation for All Saints Road, which will continue to apply the same principles of fiscal responsibility. ‘Our goal is to deliver better roads for less,’ Browne declared. ‘That’s what good management looks like.’
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Thompson questions government’s fiscal revisions, says Bahamians still facing hardship
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Kwasi Thompson, Member of Parliament for East Grand Bahama, has leveled serious allegations against the Davis Administration, accusing it of distorting year-end fiscal data to project a misleading image of financial stability. Thompson contends that the government’s recent fiscal report includes a questionable $30 million reduction in reported expenditures, a move he believes was orchestrated to align with budget targets and mask the true economic hardships faced by Bahamians.
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Sanctioned Guyanese politician and father indicted in the United States
A grand jury in the Southern District of Florida has indicted Azruddin Mohamed, a prominent Guyanese politician and businessman, and his father, Nazar Mohamed, on charges of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. The duo, already under U.S. sanctions, allegedly conspired to defraud both the United States and the government of Guyana for personal enrichment. The indictment, comprising 11 counts, was unsealed this week, revealing their involvement in fraudulent activities, including the illegal shipment of gold through Miami. Prosecutors claim the Mohameds reused customs declarations and official seals to evade taxes and circumvent Guyanese export laws. Earlier this year, U.S. authorities seized a multimillion-dollar shipment of untaxed gold linked to the Mohameds. Azruddin Mohamed, who founded the WIN Party and secured significant opposition seats in Guyana’s September general elections, has garnered substantial support among the country’s impoverished population. The case highlights ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to combat international financial crimes.
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US government shutdown after lack of funding plan
The United States government entered a shutdown on Wednesday, October 1, following a failure by Senate Democrats and Republicans to reach an agreement on a short-term funding plan. The shutdown commenced at 4:01 GMT, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year, as the previous year’s funding expired. Despite Republican control of both chambers of Congress, they were unable to secure consensus to pass a bill that would fund government operations until November 21. Democrats withheld their support, demanding that Republicans reverse recent Medicaid cuts enacted under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill in July. While Democrats proposed alternative solutions, these were rejected, leaving Congress in a stalemate.
As a result of the shutdown, federal agencies are required to furlough non-essential employees, who will not receive pay during the shutdown. However, most furloughed workers are expected to receive back pay once the government resumes operations, thanks to a 2019 law. Contract workers, such as cleaning staff, are not covered by this law and will only be paid if their contracting firms have allocated funds for such scenarios. Each agency has already submitted staffing plans in anticipation of the shutdown.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that approximately 750,000 federal employees could be furloughed daily, resulting in a daily wage loss of around $400 million. Unlike previous shutdowns, the White House has instructed agencies to prepare for large-scale layoffs, as indicated in a September 24 memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This unprecedented move raises concerns about the long-term impact on federal employment and government operations.
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US Supreme Court declines to hear Ghislaine Maxwell appeal
The US Supreme Court has declined to entertain an appeal by Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted accomplice of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, effectively upholding her 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking. The court’s decision, issued without explanation, marks a significant legal setback for Maxwell, who was found guilty in 2022 of recruiting underage girls for Epstein’s exploitation network. Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial, was officially ruled a suicide, though his death has sparked widespread conspiracy theories, particularly among supporters of former President Donald Trump. Many Trump loyalists have long alleged that Epstein’s associates, including Maxwell, were shielded by a so-called ‘deep state’ involving Democratic Party elites and Hollywood figures. Trump, who once maintained a close friendship with Epstein, has dismissed the case as a ‘Democrat hoax’ and sought to distance himself from the controversy. Maxwell’s legal team argued that her prosecution violated a 2007 immunity agreement tied to Epstein’s earlier case, but the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the appeal has left her with limited legal recourse. Her attorney, David Oscar Markus, expressed disappointment but vowed to continue pursuing justice. With the appeal rejected, Maxwell’s only potential path to freedom now lies in a pardon or clemency from Trump, who has remained noncommittal on the matter. Recently, Maxwell was moved from a Florida prison to a minimum-security facility in Texas following an interview with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, Trump’s former personal lawyer.
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Venezuela says foiled ‘false flag’ plot targeting US embassy
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on Monday that his government thwarted a false flag operation allegedly orchestrated by local terrorists to plant explosives at the US embassy in Caracas. The alleged plot aimed to escalate tensions between Venezuela and the United States, already strained over drug trafficking disputes. Maduro revealed this during his weekly television program, citing unnamed sources who confirmed the terrorist group’s intentions. Jorge Rodriguez, Venezuela’s chief negotiator in talks with the US, stated that Caracas had alerted Washington about the ‘serious threat’ posed by extremists attempting to place lethal explosives at the embassy. Rodriguez emphasized that security measures at the diplomatic mission had been reinforced. The US embassy in Caracas has been largely vacant since diplomatic ties were severed in 2019, with only a few local staff remaining. Maduro noted that despite ongoing disputes, the embassy remains protected. The US has intensified its anti-drug trafficking efforts in Venezuela, deploying warships and aircraft to the Caribbean and targeting vessels allegedly carrying drugs. President Donald Trump has claimed these actions are significantly reducing drug flows. Maduro, however, accuses the US of seeking regime change. In response to perceived threats, Venezuela has mobilized thousands of troops and civilian militias along its borders. The US has not recognized Maduro’s 2024 re-election, which was widely criticized as illegitimate. During his first term, Trump attempted to oust Maduro by recognizing an opposition leader as interim president and imposing sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector. Despite these pressures, Maduro has maintained power with military backing.