The Indian Creek Village Council has escalated its concerns over a deepening rift with the village’s Alcalde, calling for an urgent meeting with Maya leaders to address the growing tensions. In a series of formal letters addressed to the Maya Leaders Alliance, the Toledo Alcalde Association (TAA), and DAVCO, Council Chairman Domingo Choc accused the Alcalde of acting unilaterally, undermining council decisions, and disseminating false information. Choc emphasized that the council could no longer tolerate such behavior, stating, ‘We can no longer operate with an Alcalde who is acting contrary to the decisions of the Village Council and who has presented false information against us as a governing body.’ The council also demanded a public apology following allegations made by the Alcalde during a recent public meeting, where he claimed the council was selling land to foreigners—a claim the council vehemently denies. The council described the accusations as ‘false and defamatory,’ noting that they have severely damaged the village’s reputation and eroded public trust. In its letter, the council warned that failure to address these issues promptly could result in legal action. To resolve the conflict, the Village Council has invited leaders from DAVCO, TAA, and the Maya Leaders Alliance to a community meeting scheduled for November 21 at the Indian Creek Community Centre.
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Police week 2025 continues with ‘Gospel Night’ tonight
The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) is set to host ‘Gospel Night 2025’ this evening, marking a highlight of the ongoing ‘Police Week 2025’ festivities. The event will commence at 7:00 P.M. at the Police Headquarters, promising an evening of spiritual enrichment and communal unity. Organizers describe the night as an opportunity for attendees to experience a soul-lifting, atmosphere-shifting gathering filled with praise, worship, testimonies, and deliverance. The CDPF has extended an open invitation to the public, urging citizens to come together as one nation to glorify God. The event will feature performances by renowned gospel ministers, including Jerry Lloyd, the Hill Top Singers, and the Campbell Pentecostal Church (CPC), among others. Police Week 2025, themed ‘Serving with Pride, Protecting with Purpose,’ began on November 16 with a church service in Laplaine, followed by a Guard of Honour, an official opening ceremony, and an exhibition launch on November 17. The week-long celebration includes school visits, radio programs, exhibitions, and special events from November 18 to 21, culminating in a fitness festival, talent night on November 22, and an awards ceremony on November 23. According to the CDPF, these activities underscore their commitment to dedicated service and fostering stronger connections with the communities they serve.
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Crime, Corruption and Contraband at Corozal Free Zone
Opposition Leader Tracy Panton has issued a stark warning about escalating corruption, criminal influence, and fear within Belize’s Corozal Free Zone, urging immediate national attention. Panton emphasized that the situation poses a significant threat to Belizeans, particularly those in northern border communities who rely on the Zone for their livelihoods. She revealed that Mexican criminal elements, allegedly shielded by politically connected individuals, are now controlling operations within the Zone. These groups reportedly dictate cargo clearance processes, impose arbitrary fees, and create an atmosphere of fear among business owners and employees, who remain silent out of concern for their safety. Panton highlighted the prolonged delays in cargo processing, with containers left idle for weeks, driving up business costs. She criticized the lack of response from key government ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Commerce, and Border Security, despite the growing crisis. Additionally, Panton raised alarms about the illegal movement of counterfeit cigarettes and illicit drugs, such as fentanyl, within the Zone and nearby border areas, warning of severe implications for Belize’s national security, financial integrity, and international reputation. She also noted that neighboring countries are closely monitoring the situation, potentially pressuring Belize’s Prime Minister and his allies to act.
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Newly Appointed Police Minister Opts to Stay Out of Budna Case
In a significant development, Oscar Mira, the newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs, has announced his decision to refrain from intervening in the ongoing Joseph Budna investigation. Mira emphasized that he will leave all decisions to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, respecting the independence of the legal process. Speaking to Plus TV, Mira stated, ‘I will not interfere with the investigation or the DPP’s guidance. This matter is in her hands, and I trust her judgment.’
Mira, who previously served as the National Defence Minister, assumed the role of Police Minister after his predecessor, Henry Charles Usher, declined the Home Affairs portfolio. The Budna case, which has been under intense public scrutiny for months, is one of the first major challenges Mira faces in his new position. The investigation was prompted by video footage that allegedly implicated the police department in Budna’s kidnapping.
Despite the gravity of the case, Mira confirmed that he has not reviewed any related materials, including the controversial footage or investigation files. ‘I have not seen any footage or files. My role is to ensure the process remains unbiased and independent,’ he reiterated.
Meanwhile, DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal expressed her dissatisfaction with the police investigation file submitted to her office, describing it as containing ‘less than nothing.’ Vidal told reporters on November 12 that the file lacked sufficient evidence to support arrests, citing limited and uncertain witness accounts. ‘I was expecting nothing, but what I received was even worse,’ she remarked, highlighting the challenges in pursuing charges at this stage.
The Budna case continues to draw public attention, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder. Mira’s decision to distance himself from the investigation underscores his commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal process.
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Social Lounge Denies Police Claim of On-Site Shooting
On the evening of November 18, 2025, police responded to reports of gunfire near the Phillip Goldson Highway, close to the popular nightlife venue, Social Lounge. Woodrow Reyes was arrested on charges of possessing a firearm while under the influence. Shell casings found at the scene were collected for forensic analysis to determine if the weapon in Reyes’ possession was used in the incident. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith detailed the events, stating that officers from Precinct Four conducted a vehicle search leading to Reyes’ arrest. Social Lounge management swiftly addressed media speculation, clarifying that the shooting occurred approximately 150 yards away on the public highway and did not involve their establishment. They emphasized that the venue remained safe and operational throughout the evening, with no disturbance reported on their premises. The incident has sparked discussions about public safety in the area, while authorities continue their investigation.
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Morgen nationale vrije dag bij behalen WK-eindronde
The Surinamese government has expressed unwavering confidence in the National Football Team (Natio) ahead of tonight’s crucial World Cup qualifier. Minister of Home Affairs, Marinus Bee, revealed to Starnieuws that the administration is so assured of victory that preparations for a national holiday are already underway. However, the holiday will only be officially declared if Natio secures a win against Guatemala, thereby securing Suriname’s place in the upcoming FIFA World Cup finals. This move underscores the government’s belief in the team’s potential and its commitment to celebrating this historic achievement. The match is seen as a pivotal moment for Surinamese football, with the nation eagerly awaiting the outcome.
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OP-ED: COP30 – Urgent financing to transform agrifood systems
Climate change has transitioned from a distant threat to an immediate reality, profoundly impacting agrifood systems and jeopardizing global food security. Its effects are multifaceted, influencing agricultural yields, water resources, pest dynamics, disease proliferation, and even the nutritional value of crops due to changes in atmospheric CO₂ levels. In 2024 alone, climate shocks triggered food crises in 18 countries, leaving 72 million people in severe food insecurity. Hurricane Mellisa, which devastated Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba, serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of such events on food systems. Over the past 50 years, climate change has reduced global cereal yields by 2%-5%, with maize yields in Latin America declining by approximately 5%. Since 1961, global agricultural productivity has dropped by 21%, equivalent to losing seven years of progress. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need to transform agrifood systems through accelerated mitigation and adaptation measures. However, achieving this requires addressing a significant financing gap. In 2023, only 4% of climate-related development financing was directed toward agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and forestry, leaving vulnerable nations ill-equipped to adapt and transition to sustainable models. To build resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, climate financing must prioritize agriculture and rural livelihoods. Without adequate resources, international commitments will remain hollow promises. COP30 emerges as a pivotal moment to address these challenges. Initiatives like the Tropical Forests Forever Fund (TFFF), spearheaded by Brazil with World Bank support, aim to mobilize $25 billion from countries and $100 billion from private investors for global forest conservation. This innovative approach highlights the economic potential of sustainability. The early approval of the COP30 agenda reflects political will to advance climate financing, energy transition, and resilience. However, translating commitments into actionable targets with clear deadlines and real resources is essential. The FAO is championing strategies that integrate mitigation and adaptation, such as integrated fire management, supported by 50 countries. COP30 must place agriculture, food security, and the role of Indigenous Peoples and rural communities at the forefront of global discussions. The future of food, sustainability, and global stability hinges on COP30 marking the dawn of a new era in climate action centered on agrifood systems.
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STATEMENT: UWP calls for reinstatement of a birth certificate and photo ID in confirmation process
The United Workers Party – Team Dominica has issued a pressing appeal to the Electoral Commission, urging the immediate withdrawal or reversal of SRO 39. The party advocates for the reinstatement of SRO 27 of 2025, which permits the use of a birth certificate alongside a photo ID for voter confirmation. This call comes in response to the potential disenfranchisement of thousands of Dominicans who either lack the IDs mandated by SRO 39 or face significant challenges in obtaining them. The party warns that the Commission’s oversight could lead to the removal of eligible voters from the electoral list, undermining the integrity of the democratic process. Additionally, the party highlights the logistical hardships faced by voters in remote villages such as Morne Prosper, San Sauveur, and Warner, where confirmation centers are absent. In the Roseau North Constituency, the largest in Dominica, only two centers are available, forcing communities to incur additional costs and inconvenience to confirm their voter status. To address these issues, the party proposes that enrollment officers rotate across constituencies during the confirmation period, ensuring accessibility and minimizing costs for voters. Furthermore, the party calls for the immediate resumption of new voter registration in alignment with Article 17 (1) of the Registration of Electors Act 2025, which mandates continuous registration. The United Workers Party emphasizes that the Commission’s failure to act promptly could severely damage the electoral process, preventing thousands of eligible Dominicans from exercising their right to vote. The party urges swift action to safeguard the nation’s democratic traditions and ensure the fairness of future elections.
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PM’s meeting with Arawak Cay vendors ‘like a photo op’
Arawak Cay vendors affected by a recent fire expressed dissatisfaction with a meeting held with Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, describing the discussions as lacking substance and more of a public relations exercise. Rodney Russell, president of the Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable, and Food Vendors Association, criticized the outcome, stating that no significant commitments were made to support the affected business owners. Russell’s stall, Red Snapper, was among six structures completely destroyed in the blaze, with two others sustaining damage. While the government outlined plans to construct temporary structures within 60 days, Russell emphasized the absence of a concrete long-term strategy. He argued that decisions should be made in partnership with vendors rather than dictated by officials unfamiliar with their needs. Prime Minister Davis, who shared photos of the meeting on social media, pledged his government’s support and commitment to rebuilding the site. However, vendors like Teshell Mackey, owner of On the Edge, expressed concerns about the lack of financial assistance and clarity on long-term plans. Mackey estimated rebuilding costs at $230,000 and highlighted the urgency of support to retain employees and sustain livelihoods. Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper acknowledged that detailed assistance plans are still under discussion, leaving vendors uncertain about their future.
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High-speed chase ends with man killed by police in morning Kemp Road shoot-out
Tensions flared in Kemp Road yesterday morning following a dramatic police chase that culminated in the fatal shooting of a man in his early 30s. The incident, which unfolded in a densely populated neighborhood, sent residents scrambling and drew a heavy police presence. According to authorities, the deceased was the sole suspect struck during the confrontation, while three other occupants of the vehicle managed to flee on foot. The chaotic scene left bystanders bewildered, with some recounting hearing gunfire and others uncertain about the events leading up to the shooting. Children watched from windows as officers cordoned off the area, and one distraught mother likened the turmoil to the trauma of losing her son in a police shooting two years prior. Investigators later examined the suspects’ damaged silver vehicle, which bore shattered windows and a detached front bumper. Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Roberto Goodman revealed that the chase began after officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert reporting gunfire on St James Road. The suspects allegedly opened fire on police, prompting officers to return fire in self-defense. A firearm was reportedly recovered from the vehicle, and the deceased, believed to be the driver, was not previously known to law enforcement. The incident adds to a recent surge of violence in the area, including a shooting last week that left three men injured. ACP Goodman urged residents to exercise caution, particularly during the upcoming holiday season, to ensure their safety.