Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • 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.’

  • Dossier houtexport 6: OM en LVV oneens over aangifte houtzaak: alleen tegen Jeva geregistreerd

    Dossier houtexport 6: OM en LVV oneens over aangifte houtzaak: alleen tegen Jeva geregistreerd

    A significant discrepancy has emerged between Suriname’s Public Prosecution Service (OM) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) regarding the handling of criminal complaints related to fraudulent phytosanitary certificates in the timber export sector.

    The OM issued a statement confirming it had instructed police to accept a complaint filed by LVV employees on January 9th regarding irregularities in export documentation. According to prosecutors, one formal complaint was registered against timber exporter Jeva Trading NV, accused of deliberately misrepresenting wood species in export applications, resulting in false information appearing on official phytosanitary documents.

    However, LVV officials contend that a more critical complaint targeting ministry personnel allegedly involved in knowingly signing fraudulent international documents was effectively rejected. Attorney Diepak Jairam, representing LVV, revealed that while Jeva Trading faced criminal proceedings, no action was taken against government officials who allegedly certified shipments despite being aware of discrepancies between actual cargo contents and declared wood species.

    The ministry reports receiving only one official acknowledgment of their complaint, despite attempting to file two separate reports. LVV’s legal counsel emphasized that had both complaints been properly registered, the ministry should have received two distinct acknowledgment receipts.

    This case forms part of a broader criminal investigation into timber exports labeled as ‘Mora roundlogs’ that allegedly contained other wood species—some prohibited for import by India. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between judicial authorities and government ministries in addressing corruption allegations within Suriname’s export certification processes.

    LVV has announced plans to formally approach the Attorney General seeking clarification on why the complaint against internal officials wasn’t processed and whether their actions will eventually face criminal investigation.

  • India and Cuba mark 66 years of respect and collaboration

    India and Cuba mark 66 years of respect and collaboration

    Cuban diplomatic officials have highlighted the significant advancements in bilateral relations with India throughout 2025, marking a period of substantial progress in economic and commercial cooperation between the two nations. The assessment came during the United Diplomatic Council (UDC) meeting in New Delhi, where representatives reflected on the momentum achieved as the countries approached the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.

    The year’s most notable development occurred in July during the BRICS Summit in Brazil, where Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a landmark meeting. This high-level engagement established a crucial foundation for strengthening diplomatic relations and exploring new collaborative opportunities.

    A cornerstone of the bilateral engagement was the India-Cuba Business Conference, which brought together prominent business leaders, government officials, and diplomats to identify partnership potential across multiple sectors. The conference specifically targeted biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, education, and trade as key areas for mutual development and investment.

    Further reinforcing these ties, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, undertook an official visit to Cuba in November. During his stay, Margherita engaged in comprehensive discussions with Cuban President Diaz-Canel, Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martinez, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Oscar Perez-Oliva, and Acting Foreign Minister Gerardo Penalver. These meetings facilitated substantive exchanges on current cooperation frameworks and identified new avenues for collaborative ventures.

    Adding a cultural dimension to the bilateral relationship, the countries celebrated the Indian Film Festival in Cuba, fostering people-to-people connections and cultural appreciation between the two nations.

  • Cuban President Diaz-Canel responds to recent statements by Trump, affirming right to defend homeland

    Cuban President Diaz-Canel responds to recent statements by Trump, affirming right to defend homeland

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has issued a forceful condemnation of what he characterizes as \”immoral statements\” from the United States government, reaffirming Cuba’s readiness to defend its sovereignty. The remarks came in response to recent social media posts by U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to halt all oil and financial resources to Cuba.\n\nThe diplomatic confrontation escalated following the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces, which disrupted Venezuela’s status as Cuba’s primary oil supplier. On January 11, 2026, President Trump declared via social media: \”THERE WILL BE NO MORE OIL OR MONEY GOING TO CUBA – ZERO! I strongly suggest they make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.\”\n\nIn his response, President Díaz-Canel questioned the moral authority of U.S. leadership, stating that those who \”turn everything into a business, even human lives\” lack standing to criticize Cuba. He attributed current economic challenges to six decades of U.S. economic sanctions rather than Cuba’s political system, suggesting critics should \”feel ashamed and choose silence instead.\”\n\nThe Cuban leader framed the tension as an issue of national sovereignty, emphasizing that Cuba \”does not attack; it has been attacked by the US for 66 years.\” He declared the nation’s preparedness to \”defend the Homeland to the last drop of blood\” under the hashtag #CubaIsCourage.\n\nCuban state media extensively covered Díaz-Canel’s statements, positioning them within broader concerns about U.S. actions in Venezuela and perceived escalating threats from the White House toward multiple nations.

  • China underscores support for Cuba after new US threats

    China underscores support for Cuba after new US threats

    In a firm diplomatic stance, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning has articulated Beijing’s position against external intervention in Caribbean and Latin American affairs. The statements emerged during a press briefing where Mao responded to inquiries from Prensa Latina regarding regional geopolitical tensions.

    Mao Ning explicitly called upon the United States to terminate its long-standing economic embargo and comprehensive sanctions against Cuba, emphasizing that such measures detrimentally affect regional peace and stability. ‘We once again urge the United States to end the blockade, sanctions, and all forms of coercive measures against Cuba,’ the spokesperson declared, framing the issue as a matter of international justice and regional harmony.

    The diplomatic exchange further addressed concerns about U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s economic matters following military posturing toward Caracas. Mao underscored the fundamental principle of national sovereignty, asserting that Latin American nations possess the unequivocal right to independently select their international partners and determine their political trajectories without external pressure.

    Reaffirming China’s commitment to the region, Mao Ning stated, ‘Regardless of how the situation develops, China will continue to deepen practical cooperation with Latin American countries, including Venezuela, to promote mutual benefit.’ This pledge highlights Beijing’s strategic intention to strengthen ties with Latin American partners through collaborative economic and diplomatic engagement.

    The Chinese Foreign Ministry has consistently advocated for the removal of Cuba from the U.S. State Sponsors of Terrorism list, considering the designation an unjust impediment to the island nation’s development. This diplomatic position coincides with the 65th anniversary of Sino-Cuban relations, commemorated in 2025, which symbolizes the enduring partnership between Beijing and Havana amidst evolving global dynamics.