The Antigua and Barbuda diaspora in New York gathered at the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx this past Sunday to celebrate the nation’s 44th anniversary of political independence. The event, marked by heartfelt worship and patriotic fervor, brought together community members to reflect on their homeland’s progress and challenges. Rev. Dr. Lennox Pigott, an Antiguan and Barbudan minister and psychologist, delivered a powerful sermon addressing the social issues hindering the nation’s development. He urged the congregation to actively engage in nation-building, particularly in supporting the youth. Ambassador Walton Webson, Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the theme of this year’s celebrations, ‘Solid, Stable, Soaring.’ He highlighted the nation’s achievements and called on the diaspora to contribute their skills and resources to accelerate ongoing transformation. The service also featured musical performances by the Antigua and Barbuda International Chorale and the City South Steel Orchestra, adding a vibrant touch to the celebration. The independence festivities will continue with community events across the Northeast, culminating in an annual gala on November 15th, honoring the iconic Burning Flames.
分类： society
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Renewing the Covenant 2025 unites over 90 couples in a collective wedding at Grand Bavaro Princess
Punta Cana witnessed the grand conclusion of the fourth edition of the international congress, *Renewing the Covenant 2025*, organized by the Marriage of Life Ministry of the Breath of Life Christian Center (CCSV). Over the weekend, more than 90 couples from the Dominican Republic and eight other nations—including Colombia, Mexico, Switzerland, Spain, Puerto Rico, and the United States—gathered for a poignant collective wedding and vow renewal ceremony by the sea at the Grand Bavaro Princess. The event, led by pastors Abraham Velasquez and Bethliza Cintrón, and blessed by Yesenia Then and Joan Bonilla, symbolized healing, restoration, and unity, marking a deeply spiritual and emotional finale to the congress. Over the course of three days, participants engaged in conferences, workshops, and experiential sessions aimed at fortifying marriages through faith-based guidance and biblical principles. *Renewing the Covenant* has established itself as a global platform for couples striving to enhance communication, reaffirm commitment, and foster families rooted in Christian values.
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Dirk Heave benoemd tot directeur Operationele Aangelegenheden bij het SZF
Dirk Heave has been officially appointed as the Director of Operational Affairs at the State Health Fund (SZF) in Suriname. The announcement was made on Tuesday during an introduction to the staff. With over four decades of experience as both an executive and entrepreneur, Heave brings a wealth of knowledge from both the public and private sectors. His extensive background in organizational development, communication, and business operations makes him a valuable addition to the SZF. Heave has previously held leadership and supervisory roles in various organizations, including the Suriname Housing Foundation, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Suriname Telecommunication Authority, and the Suriname Standards Bureau. His work has primarily focused on policy development, governance, and institutional strengthening. Additionally, Heave has represented Suriname in regional organizations such as the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies, where he actively contributed to international cooperation, quality assurance, and sustainable policies aimed at strengthening businesses and attracting investors. Recently, Heave was part of the QuickScan team at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries but has now stepped down from that role due to his new appointment at the SZF. The SZF, which is the largest healthcare purchaser in Suriname, covering over 70% of the population, is entering a period of renewal focused on efficiency, transparency, and customer-centricity.
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Government launches support plan for farmers affected by Storm Melissa
In the wake of Tropical Storm Melissa, Dominican Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz has disclosed significant damage to approximately 650 kilometers of rural roads, particularly in the highland regions renowned for premium coffee cultivation. The destruction of these inter-parcel roads has severely disrupted the transportation of essential supplies and harvested crops, prompting the government to prioritize the restoration of rural logistics.
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News : Zapping…
Haiti is currently navigating a series of significant events and initiatives that highlight both challenges and opportunities. The National Civil Aviation Office (OFNAC), led by Director General Réginald Guignard, is actively promoting aviation career awareness among young Haitians. OFNAC recently conducted its first school presentation to inspire students to explore the diverse opportunities within the aviation sector. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of professionals in this vital industry. Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Education has announced the temporary closure of schools in five departments—West, Nippes, Southeast, South, and Grand’Anse—due to a red alert. This precautionary measure, effective from October 29, 2025, is intended to ensure public safety until the alert is lifted. Additionally, Hurricane Melissa has prompted the Presidential Transitional Council to declare October 29 as a non-working day for schools and businesses, allowing the population to prepare for and mitigate the hurricane’s potential impacts. On the economic front, the General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) reported collecting 70 billion gourdes, aligning with fiscal year 2024-2025 projections. However, DGI Director General Romuald Petit expressed concern over the relocation or closure of 21 tax collection points due to security issues. In a positive development, France has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Haitian women and girls through its feminist diplomacy. At the 4th Ministerial Conference on Feminist Diplomacy in Paris, France pledged continued support for over 50 Haitian organizations via the PISCCA program, funded by the Team France 2025 Fund. Furthermore, French Ambassador Antoine Michon recently convened a meeting with representatives of French NGOs operating in Haiti to address challenges in education, health, humanitarian aid, sustainable development, and security.
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The R Organization (of which the Venezuelan gas station bomber is a member)
In a significant development, the Guyana Police Force’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has confirmed that the Venezuelan man responsible for the recent bombing of a Mobil gas station in Georgetown is a member of the infamous R Organization (Organización R – OR). The suspect, Mr. Ramirez Peodomo, faces multiple charges, including terrorism, murder, attempted murder, arson, and malicious damage to property. The R Organization, led by Eduardo Jose Natera, is one of Venezuela’s most powerful illegal mining gangs, known for its violent expansion and community influence tactics. The group, often referred to as a ‘sindicato,’ has grown rapidly in Bolívar state, leveraging both armed strength and social outreach programs to secure local support. The R Organization’s history dates back to 2008, when it began as a gang involved in robberies and murders before transitioning into illegal gold mining. Over the years, it has established control over key mining areas, often clashing with rival gangs and even challenging Venezuelan security forces. The group’s charitable arm, the 3Rs Foundation, has played a crucial role in gaining community trust by providing food, healthcare, and public services. Despite its criminal activities, the R Organization has managed to maintain a complex network of alliances and political connections, though recent military operations have threatened its dominance in the region.
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Highway murder accused remanded
A 21-year-old man, Jabari Rashawn Waterman, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance at the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. Waterman, a resident of St Barnabas Road, St Michael, faces charges for the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Shaquon Chandler-Wray, which occurred a week prior on Monday. Additionally, he is accused of using a firearm during the commission of the crime. Represented by attorney Damien Sands, Waterman was unable to enter a plea for the indictable charges before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes. His remand has been extended until November 25. The tragic incident took place on the ABC Highway at the St Barnabas pedestrian crossing, where Chandler-Wray sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
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Dominican Republic climbs 11 places in World Justice Project Rule of Law Index
The Dominican Republic has demonstrated exceptional progress in fortifying the rule of law, ascending 11 positions to secure the 76th spot out of 143 countries in the 2025 World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index. This achievement represents the most significant global improvement, with a notable increase of 2.1%. The nation’s overall score advanced from 0.49 to 0.50, underscoring advancements in critical domains such as constraints on governmental authority, civil justice, and criminal justice. The WJP, an autonomous international initiative, assesses the extent to which nations adhere to the principles of the rule of law in everyday life, evaluating factors like corruption absence, justice accessibility, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights. Luis Henry Molina, President of the Supreme Court, attributed this progress to the relentless efforts of judges and court personnel in fostering a justice system characterized by transparency, efficiency, and a human-centric approach. Criminal justice reforms have been pivotal, with marked enhancements in due process, non-discrimination, procedural efficiency, and corruption mitigation, largely due to the national criminal case management system and collaborative efforts through the Inter-institutional Criminal Justice Roundtable. Additionally, the expansion of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including mediation and settlements, has significantly alleviated court backlogs and bolstered public confidence. The report ranks the Dominican Republic among the top 16 nations in Latin America and the Caribbean, showcasing a consistent trajectory of institutional reinforcement since 2019. The Justice of the Future 2034 vision aims to further cultivate a justice system that is agile, accessible, transparent, and trusted by the populace.
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Camilo is time itself
The story of Camilo, a revolutionary figure whose life and legacy continue to inspire generations, is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. Born into humble beginnings, Camilo grew up in a modest household, where he developed a strong sense of empathy and a desire to protect the vulnerable. Despite financial hardships that forced him to leave the San Alejandro Academy, he balanced his education with tailoring work, demonstrating his determination to persevere against all odds.
At the age of 21, Camilo joined protests against a corrupt regime, an act that marked the beginning of his revolutionary journey. Targeted by repressive forces, he was forced into exile, but his spirit remained unbroken. He returned to his homeland, only to be exiled again, eventually joining a revolutionary group that would change the course of history. In a daring and arduous journey, he returned to Cuba aboard a yacht designed for tourists, which carried 82 expedition members, including himself.
Camilo’s pivotal moment came when he landed with Fidel Castro, joining his guerrilla column and remaining by his side throughout the revolutionary struggle. His leadership and bravery earned him the title ‘Lord of the Vanguard,’ and he played a crucial role in the eventual triumph of the revolution. Camilo’s life was cut short, but his legacy lives on, immortalized in the hearts of the Cuban people.
Every year, the nation mourns his physical absence by flooding rivers, coastlines, and reservoirs with flowers, a tradition that symbolizes his enduring presence. Camilo’s story transcends time, as he has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unyielding fight for justice. His legacy is a testament to the power of conviction and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge oppression.
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Illegal foreigners will have to be registered in coming weeks or forced to leave Guyana – Home Affairs minister
In response to a recent security breach involving a Venezuelan national who bombed a gas station, Guyana’s Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, has announced a stringent new policy requiring all illegal foreigners in the country to register or face deportation. The announcement was made during a press conference on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.