A heated debate has emerged in Trinidad and Tobago regarding a rent-to-own housing unit acquired by Soleil Gonsalves, the daughter of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph E. Gonsalves. The new UNC government alleges that she received preferential treatment under the former PNM administration, while the Gonsalves family maintains that the property was secured through the open market. However, a closer examination of the rent-to-own system reveals why such claims are untenable. Rent-to-own is not a standard commercial real estate transaction. It is a government-supported initiative designed to assist low- to middle-income individuals who are unable to qualify for traditional mortgages due to insufficient income, lack of down payments, or unstable employment. These schemes are inherently selective, offering reduced monthly payments and state subsidies to help beneficiaries gradually build equity. In this case, the unit in question reportedly costs TT$2,750 per month, a stark contrast to its market rental value of TT$10,000. This 70% reduction underscores the program’s nature as a subsidy, not a market-rate purchase. The assertion that the unit was available on an open market is further undermined by the fact that over 214,000 Trinidadians are on the HDC waiting list for affordable housing, some for decades. If the unit were genuinely accessible to anyone, it is implausible that it would bypass thousands of long-suffering citizens. This raises critical questions about transparency and fairness in the allocation process. The controversy highlights the need for public clarity on the purpose of rent-to-own schemes: to provide a lifeline for those excluded from traditional homeownership pathways. The truth of this case suggests that the unit was not obtained through an open, first-come-first-served process, but rather through a system that appears to favor select individuals.
分类： politics
-
Gonsalves asks US to grant Vincies visa-free entry
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has formally requested the United States to grant visa-free entry to Vincentian passport holders. In a three-page letter addressed to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on April 22, Gonsalves highlighted the unique circumstances of his nation in the evolving global migration and geopolitical landscape. He emphasized that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the only English-speaking Caribbean country without diplomatic ties to China or a citizenship-by-investment program, maintaining relations with Taiwan instead. Gonsalves argued that Vincentians already enjoy visa-free access to numerous countries, including the UK, EU Schengen states, and the UAE, and have consistently upheld the integrity of their travel privileges. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that granting this request would benefit both nations amid shifting global dynamics. While the US State Department has referred the matter to the Department of Homeland Security, a scheduled meeting in September was postponed due to an emergency. Gonsalves assured that discussions are ongoing, though a resolution is unlikely before the upcoming general election on November 27. He also criticized the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) for policies that could complicate travel to the US, Canada, and Europe. This initiative underscores Gonsalves’ efforts to strengthen international ties and improve opportunities for Vincentians abroad.
-
Geen uitweg meer: vermogen publieke personen voortaan onder toezicht
Starting November 17, public officials, including politicians, ministers, and members of parliament, will no longer be exempt from declaring their assets and income. This mandate comes as Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath issued a directive to implement the 2023 State Decree, which required only a final date for the availability of the declaration form on the Anti-Corruption Commission’s website. The process of asset declaration can now commence immediately, with a three-month window for compliance. The government has spent nearly two years since 2023 preparing the form for publication. The finalized form marks the starting point for recording the income and assets of public officials. The 2023 State Decree already outlined the rules for completing the form, which underwent revisions after the initial draft was deemed too intrusive for politicians. With acceptable adjustments, the form now allows for the declaration of assets and income. The decree also specifies how updates can be made after the initial registration. Notably, the Anti-Corruption Commission has been renamed the Corruption Prevention Commission (CPC), reflecting its updated mandate and powers. The CPC will not be responsible for protecting whistleblowers who report on public officials’ assets to the Attorney General. A new verification process for declared assets has been introduced, along with an independent investigation for significant increases in wealth. Additionally, a publication requirement has been established. The 2023 State Decree stipulates that asset declarations must be made before a notary, who will keep the completed form sealed. The form can only be transferred to the Attorney General, and after the official’s term ends, the declaration remains with the notary for one year. This measure is part of the 2017 Anti-Corruption Law, which is based on the Inter-American Convention against Corruption by the Organization of American States (OAS).
-
From Compton to Pierre: Saint Lucia’s election story
Saint Lucia is gearing up for a pivotal general election on December 1, 2025, following Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s announcement on November 9. This election marks a critical juncture in the nation’s democratic journey, characterized by its electoral system, voting patterns, and the enduring rivalry between the two dominant political parties. The phrase ‘ring the bell,’ which signifies the commencement of the electoral process, has its roots in the British Parliament, where bells were historically used to summon members to vote. In the United States, the Justice Bell in Philadelphia famously celebrated women’s suffrage in 1920. Today, division bells are commonly used in legislative bodies to signal voting periods. The announcement of the election date also triggers the dissolution of Parliament, a process outlined in the Constitution. According to Section 55(1), the Governor-General may dissolve Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister, except in specific constitutional circumstances. Parliament automatically dissolves five years after its first sitting if not dissolved sooner. Upon dissolution, the House of Assembly and Senate cease to meet, no new laws can be passed, and all Members of Parliament vacate their seats. Parliamentary work is paused until a new Parliament is elected, rendering the institution non-functional during this period. The election timeline includes a 21-day campaign period, with Nomination Day set for November 21. Candidates must meet stringent eligibility criteria, including citizenship, age, residency, and proficiency in English. Saint Lucia’s political history since gaining independence from Britain on February 22, 1979, has been marked by the alternating dominance of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the United Workers Party (UWP). The upcoming election could have been delayed until November 2026, but the decision to hold it in December aligns with historical precedents. Notably, every election won by the SLP has occurred in an odd-numbered year. As the nation prepares to exercise its democratic right, the election promises to be a significant event in Saint Lucia’s political landscape.
-
Minister Soeropawiro: Alleen onrechtmatige gronduitgiften worden nietig verklaard
Stanley Soeropawiro, Suriname’s Minister of Land Policy and Forest Management (GBB), has addressed the recent uproar surrounding the nullification of land allocations over the past five years. The minister clarified that only cases where legal procedures were not followed are being annulled. He emphasized that neither the president nor he personally decides which allocations are invalid, stating, “It is the law that dictates this.” Soeropawiro referenced the 2023 Audit Chamber report, which identified unlawful land allocations during the period in question. He assured that legitimate landowners need not worry, as the process aims to protect bona fide stakeholders. However, nullifications may occur if legal deadlines were not adhered to. The minister noted that irregularities date back to 2018, with no improvement observed since his appointment on July 16. He has since collaborated with the Audit Chamber to implement recommendations and prevent future irregularities. Soeropawiro also highlighted cases where land status remains unclear, prohibiting allocations until resolved. Additionally, he stressed the legal requirements for land applications, including Surinamese nationality, majority age, and compliance with inspection and district commissioner advice. The minister reiterated that strict adherence to legal procedures is paramount to ensure transparency and fairness in land allocation processes.
-
FLASH : Official Calendar of Upcoming Elections
The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) of Haiti has formally presented the Executive branch with a detailed electoral calendar and draft electoral decree, marking a significant step toward the nation’s upcoming elections. The calendar, submitted on November 14, 2025, outlines a meticulous timeline of activities leading to the election of a new president by early 2027. For the process to proceed smoothly, the CEP has emphasized the necessity of three critical prerequisites: the timely publication of the electoral decree in the official journal ‘Le Moniteur,’ the establishment of adequate security conditions, and the availability of sufficient financial resources. The calendar spans over two years, encompassing key phases such as voter registration, candidate accreditation, electoral campaigns, and the deployment of temporary staff. The first round of legislative and presidential elections is slated for August 30, 2026, with the second round scheduled for December 6, 2026. Final results for the presidential and legislative elections are expected to be published by January 7, 2027, while local government results will be announced by January 20, 2027. The CEP has also highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns and the recruitment of personnel to ensure the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process. The full calendar is available for download in PDF format, providing transparency and accessibility to the public.
-
Lisa vs Guy: Candidates outline their plans to revitalise Castries South East
As Saint Lucia’s general election approaches, Castries South East has become a focal point of political attention, with two candidates presenting starkly different visions for the constituency’s future. Lisa C. Jawahir, the Saint Lucia Labour Party’s (SLP) newly launched candidate, is championing sustainability and eco-tourism, while Guy Joseph of the United Workers Party (UWP) is emphasizing practical, community-driven projects.
Lisa Jawahir, officially introduced as the SLP candidate on September 21, aims to succeed outgoing MP Joachim Henry. Her campaign centers on unlocking the constituency’s potential through initiatives like upgrading sporting facilities, promoting agribusiness, and positioning Castries South East as a hub for eco-tourism. Jawahir, a native of Forestière, has already gained national and regional recognition, including her recent election as vice president of ParlAmericas Caribbean’s Gender Equality Network. She has pledged to prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and climate-conscious development.
In contrast, Guy Joseph, a three-term former MP, is focusing on immediate, tangible benefits for the community. His campaign highlights projects such as creating a dirt bike track near Bexon playing fields and organizing events like a fresh meat festival in Marc to stimulate local businesses. Joseph, a seasoned entrepreneur with deep roots in the area, has a track record of spearheading infrastructure projects, including affordable housing developments and road improvements during his parliamentary tenure.
Castries South East, one of the largest constituencies in the Castries District, is home to 16,140 residents across rural and semi-urban communities. Despite its potential, the area faces persistent challenges, including poor road conditions, flooding, and limited youth opportunities. While recent projects like drainage improvements and slope stabilization have been completed, residents argue that more needs to be done to address these issues and realize the constituency’s full potential.
As the election draws near, voters in Castries South East must choose between Joseph’s focus on practical, community-based economic initiatives and Jawahir’s vision of sustainable development and eco-tourism. The outcome will shape the future of this diverse and dynamic constituency.
-
Wickham: Opposition on backfoot after Pierre’s early election call
In a surprising move, St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has announced a general election for December 1, nearly a year ahead of schedule. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, particularly from political analyst Peter Wickham, who initially predicted Pierre would delay the election until the completion of a major hospital project. Wickham, a prominent regional pollster and director of Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES), described the Prime Minister’s decision as an act of ‘political bravery,’ potentially catching the opposition off guard. The governing Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) are now locked in a heated debate over the hospital’s completion status, with Wickham suggesting Pierre’s timing reflects a strategic assessment of political advantage. UWP leader Allen Chastanet has dismissed claims of unpreparedness, asserting his party’s readiness for the contest. However, Wickham noted that the early election disrupts the opposition’s usual regrouping rhythm, giving the incumbent SLP a potential edge. Historically, early elections in the Caribbean have often signaled government instability, but Wickham emphasized that Pierre’s move appears driven by confidence in his advantageous position. The upcoming election marks a critical test for St. Lucia’s political landscape, as no party has secured consecutive terms in over two decades. Wickham highlighted Pierre’s strong position, citing his decisive 2021 victory and the public’s apparent desire for stability. Meanwhile, the UWP, despite its 2021 defeat, has rebuilt its roster with 12 new candidates, a move Wickham credited to Chastanet’s leadership. Nevertheless, the UWP faces significant challenges, including limited voter familiarity with its new candidates. Wickham refrained from predicting the election outcome, noting the short campaign period and the dynamic nature of the race.
-
Trump’s “Sort of” Made up His Mind on Venezuela Action
President Donald Trump has indicated that he has ‘sort of’ made a decision regarding the U.S. approach to Venezuela, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics. Speaking to CBS News aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed that his administration is actively considering various military options. These include land-based strikes and other operations targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is accused by the U.S. of supporting armed criminal gangs involved in drug trafficking.
Over the past two months, U.S. forces have conducted strikes on at least 21 vessels, resulting in the deaths of over 80 suspected traffickers. Despite these actions, several Western European governments have expressed skepticism, stating they have yet to see concrete evidence directly linking Maduro to cartel operations.
The situation has further intensified with the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the U.S. Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier, to the Caribbean. This move is part of a broader military buildup in the region, which now includes destroyers, warplanes, and special operations units. According to CNN, the U.S. military presence in the area has surpassed 15,000 personnel.
In response to the growing U.S. military footprint, Maduro has ordered a nationwide military mobilization. This escalation underscores the heightened tensions between the two nations and raises concerns about the potential for further conflict.
-
Veteran JP says, JPs in dire need of proper training
Veteran Justice of the Peace (JP) Abrahim Ali has voiced significant concerns over the expanded judicial responsibilities being assigned to JPs without the necessary training, oversight, or modern systems in place. Ali, who also serves as the Public Relations Officer for the Justices of the Peace Association (JOPATT), highlighted these issues in an interview with Newsday on November 15, following the Senate’s passage of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (AJIPA). Once signed into law by the President, AJIPA will grant JPs broader powers, including the authority to issue search warrants and grant station bail for indictable offenses.
Ali emphasized that the JP system has long suffered from structural deficiencies, including a lack of standardized training, record-keeping, and consultation. He noted that JPs, historically appointed through political channels, have never received formal training despite being expected to perform critical judicial functions. While JOPATT has attempted to address these gaps through voluntary training programs, Ali stressed that such efforts cannot replace a mandatory national framework.
The AJIPA amendments aim to restore and expand powers historically held by JPs, which had been muddled by earlier legislation. Justice Carol Gobin clarified that Parliament had never explicitly revoked JPs’ authority to grant station bail. However, the proposed expansion of JP powers, particularly regarding search warrants, has sparked intense debate. Independent Senators Sophia Chote and Dr. Desiree Murray warned that without immediate reforms, JPs could be thrust into roles requiring legal expertise and accountability mechanisms that are currently absent. Chote described the search powers under Section 5 as ‘draconian,’ while Murray cautioned that the lack of qualifications and oversight could ‘dilute judicial oversight and risk the arbitrary exercise of power.’
Attorney General John Jeremie assured the Senate that data-seizure powers remain governed by the Data Protection Act and pledged to delay the implementation of search-warrant provisions until training and further reforms are addressed. He also committed to referring the broader issue of JP standards to the Law Review Committee. Ali supported this decision, noting that the concerns raised have long been recognized within the JP community. He emphasized that warrants must never be issued without proper procedures and guidelines, warning against ‘rubber-stamping’ by JPs.
Acting President of the Police Social and Welfare Association, ASP Ishmael Pitt, welcomed the restoration of JP warrant-issuing powers, particularly from a policing perspective. He highlighted the importance of having access to judicial officers in urgent situations but stressed that the system’s success depends on JP competence matching the gravity of their responsibilities. Ali, a JP for 35 years, reiterated that the JP system still lacks consistent engagement from the judiciary and the Office of the DPP, leaving JPs without adequate guidance as their duties expand.