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.”

  • 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.

  • TPP snatches 60% of votes in THA elections

    TPP snatches 60% of votes in THA elections

    In a stunning electoral triumph, the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) under the leadership of Farley Augustine has secured a comprehensive victory in the Tobago House of Assembly elections held on January 12. The party captured all 15 available seats, demonstrating overwhelming voter support with 60.8% of the total valid votes cast across the island.

    The TPP’s decisive win included a narrow but significant victory in the Darrel Spring/Whim constituency, where they unseated the sole PNM representative Kelvon Morris by a mere 17-vote margin. According to official figures released by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC), the TPP accumulated 16,240 votes compared to the PNM’s 10,456 votes.

    This electoral performance marks a substantial improvement from the party’s 55% showing in the 2025 general election and even surpasses the 58% achieved by the Progressive Democratic Patriots in the December 2021 THA elections. Augustine, who previously served as THA chief secretary under the PDP government, formed the TPP after departing from the PDP.

    Despite the overwhelming victory, the EBC report revealed concerning voter participation trends. The voter turnout reached a concerning low of 50.69% from an electorate of 53,239 registered voters—the poorest participation rate since 2017 and significantly below the record 56.97% turnout recorded in the December 2021 elections.

    Minor parties including the Innovative Democratic Alliance led by Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus garnered 181 votes, while the Unity of the People party, which fielded only leader Nickocy Phillips as a candidate, received just eight votes.

    The PNM has formally requested recounts in two constituencies—Darrel Spring/Whim and Scarborough/Mt Grace—with the EBC scheduling these recounts to commence at 3 pm on January 13. The commission emphasized that all results remain preliminary pending the completion of these recounts.

  • Trump vows ‘very strong action’ if Iran hangs protesters

    Trump vows ‘very strong action’ if Iran hangs protesters

    WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Tuesday that the United States would enact severe measures should Iranian authorities proceed with executions of individuals detained during widespread anti-government demonstrations. Speaking with CBS News during a visit to a manufacturing facility in Michigan, Trump emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We will take very strong action if they do such a thing.

    The President’s comments came in response to growing international concerns that Tehran might initiate hangings as early as Wednesday. “When they start killing thousands of people — and now you’re telling me about hanging. We’ll see how that’s going to work out for them,” Trump added in a video excerpt from the interview.

    During his economic address in Michigan, Trump reiterated his social media message that “help is on the way” for Iranian protesters, though he acknowledged uncertainty regarding the actual casualty figures. “I hear numbers — look, one death is too much — but I hear much lower numbers, and then I hear much higher numbers,” he remarked.

    Upon returning to Washington, Trump told reporters he would soon receive a comprehensive briefing on the Iranian situation. “The killing looks like it’s significant, but we don’t know yet for certain. I’ll know within 20 minutes — and we’ll act accordingly,” the President stated.

    The warning follows previous administration vows to intervene if protesters faced lethal violence—a threshold reportedly crossed days earlier. According to Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR), at least 734 fatalities have been confirmed, though actual numbers are believed to be substantially higher.

    International human rights organizations have expressed alarm over Tehran’s potential use of capital punishment to suppress dissent. Iranian prosecutors have indicated they will pursue charges of “moharebeh” (waging war against God)—a capital offense—against some detainees. Amnesty International warned that “concerns are mounting that authorities will once again resort to swift trials and arbitrary executions to crush and deter dissent.”

    IHR specifically cited the case of 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, arrested last week in Karaj and reportedly sentenced to death with execution potentially imminent.

  • Epstein probe summons Clintons as US Congress warns of contempt

    Epstein probe summons Clintons as US Congress warns of contempt

    WASHINGTON—The U.S. Congressional investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein scandal enters a critical phase this week as former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton face court-ordered depositions before the House Oversight Committee. The high-profile testimonies, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday respectively, mark a significant escalation in the Republican-led probe examining connections between powerful figures and the convicted sex offender.

    The committee’s chairman, Representative James Comer, has issued stern warnings about potential contempt charges should the Clintons fail to comply with the subpoenas. In an official statement, Comer emphasized that ‘the former president and former secretary of state have delayed, obstructed and largely ignored the committee staff’s efforts to schedule their testimony’ over the past four months.

    This development coincides with mounting pressure on the Trump administration regarding transparency in the Epstein case. The Justice Department recently faced criticism for releasing merely one percent of relevant case documents nearly a month past the legal deadline, angering many supporters of former President Trump who believe Epstein was murdered to conceal involvement of powerful elites.

    The bipartisan investigation, unanimously approved last year, seeks testimony from current and former officials regarding Epstein’s network and how information about his crimes was handled. While the Clintons were initially scheduled to testify in October, dates were postponed during negotiations with their legal representatives.

    Bill Clinton’s spokesman contends that proposed terms mirror those accepted for other witnesses, accusing Comer of unexplained targeting. Hillary Clinton’s office questions the relevance of her testimony, noting the committee has yet to establish why her deposition is necessary.

    Epstein, who associated with numerous high-profile figures including Trump before his conviction for sex crimes and subsequent death in custody, has become the subject of extensive conspiracy theories. His jailhouse death—officially ruled suicide—has fueled suspicions among Trump supporters about an international pedophile ring and alleged cover-up.

    Notably, no evidence has emerged implicating either Clinton in criminal conduct related to Epstein. The former president maintains he was unaware of Epstein’s crimes and severed ties over a decade before his arrest. Clinton’s office has advocated for full disclosure of all remaining case files.

    The potential consequences for defying Congressional subpoenas have gained renewed significance following recent prosecutions. Two allies of former President Trump received jail sentences for refusing subpoenas in the January 6 Capitol attack investigation, demonstrating that Congressional defiance can carry substantial legal repercussions. Criminal contempt of Congress constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year imprisonment and $100,000 fines, though prosecutions depend on Justice Department cooperation.

  • Clergy hit out at ‘politicisation’ of Majority Rule as unfinished project

    Clergy hit out at ‘politicisation’ of Majority Rule as unfinished project

    In a powerful address during the nation’s 59th Majority Rule anniversary ecumenical service at Bahamas Harvest Church, two prominent religious figures issued stern critiques of The Bahamas’ political landscape, condemning the partisan appropriation of the national holiday and demanding greater youth inclusion in governance.

    Anglican Bishop Laish Boyd delivered a pointed message to parliamentarians and congregants, asserting that both major political parties—the Progressive Liberal Party and Free National Movement—have improperly politicized what should be a unifying national observance. ‘It’s unfortunate that both major political parties have managed to politicise this event,’ Bishop Boyd stated, ‘either by certain behaviours when they are in power or by catching feelings and keeping away when they’re not in power.’

    The religious leader reframed Majority Rule as an ongoing national project rather than a completed achievement, employing grammatical metaphors to illustrate his point: ‘Majority Rule Day is not a full stop. It’s not a pinnacle at which we have arrived. Majority rule day is a comma. It is a semicolon.’

    Bishop Boyd further cautioned against replacing the historical white oligarchy with an equally exclusionary black oligarchy, emphasizing that true freedom carries inherent responsibilities that Bahamians must collectively embrace.

    Pastor Mario Moxey, delivering the sermon, shifted focus to generational leadership disparities, noting the concerning absence of young Bahamians from meaningful political roles. He highlighted the historical contrast that many architects of Majority Rule were under 40 years old, while contemporary Members of Parliament average 50 years of age.

    ‘A nation that delays its youth leaders eventually delays its destiny,’ Pastor Moxey declared, questioning why young citizens are now relegated to campaign logistics and photo opportunities rather than substantive leadership positions.

    The pastor issued specific challenges to political parties, urging them to nominate at least 30 candidates under 30 in the next election cycle and establish robust mentorship programs across generations. He criticized modern political campaigns for emphasizing personal attacks over substantive ideas, interpreting low voter turnout as evidence of disillusionment rather than apathy.

    Pastor Moxey concluded with a warning to political parties approaching election season: ‘The Bahamian electorate has matured over the years. We are thinking voters. We are discerning voters. Bahamians will attend your rallies, accept your gifts, smile politely and still vote based on vision, not favours.’

    PLP chairman Fred Mitchell later responded to these critiques at party headquarters, acknowledging generational transition with the statement: ‘Time runs out on everybody,’ while reaffirming the PLP’s historical connection to the Majority Rule legacy.