Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has vehemently dismissed allegations made by Trinidad and Tobago’s junior housing minister, Anil Roberts, labeling them as a “political rant.” Roberts claimed that Gonsalves’ wife and two children received preferential treatment in obtaining government-subsidized housing in Trinidad, a charge Gonsalves refuted during his weekly radio program. He accused Roberts of spreading falsehoods and innuendos aimed at damaging his family’s reputation. Gonsalves emphasized that his family’s housing transactions were legal, ethical, and devoid of any undue influence. He also clarified that his disagreement with Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar over the Caribbean being declared a zone of peace was not a personal attack but a policy critique. Gonsalves suggested that Roberts’ accusations might be politically motivated, aimed at aiding the opposition in St. Vincent’s upcoming general election. He expressed confidence that his Unity Labour Party would secure a decisive victory, citing public disapproval of Roberts’ conduct. The controversy has sparked a broader debate about regional politics, housing policies, and diplomatic relations in the Caribbean.
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EU Approves Five-Year Schengen Visas for Belizeans
In a landmark decision, the European Union has approved five-year multiple-entry Schengen visas for Belizean nationals, effective immediately. This new visa cascade applies to Belizeans holding regular, official, or diplomatic biometric passports, marking a significant enhancement in travel relations between Belize and the EU. Applications can be processed at Schengen embassies in Guatemala or Mexico, offering Belizeans unprecedented ease of access to the Schengen Area. The move represents the most generous application of EU Visa Code rules for a third country, eliminating the need for repeated visa applications as long as the traveler’s biometric passport remains valid. EU officials anticipate that this initiative will foster increased tourism, business opportunities, educational exchanges, and family visits, thereby strengthening cultural and economic ties between Belize and the EU. Belize has warmly welcomed this development, highlighting its potential to deepen people-to-people connections across the regions.
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BIS bereidt zich voor op promotie tijdens carrièrebeurs in Amsterdam
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Cooperation (BIS) of Suriname recently hosted an information session to prepare for the country’s participation in the ‘Working in the Caribbean’ career fair, scheduled for April 24–25, 2026, at the Amsterdam RAI. Organized in collaboration with Memory Events B.V. from the Netherlands, the session aimed to inform government bodies, businesses, and institutions about the event and foster coordinated representation of Suriname. Director Henna Soerdjoesing emphasized that the fair presents a unique opportunity to position Suriname as an attractive destination for international professionals. A dedicated Suriname pavilion will be set up at the event, showcasing local businesses, educational institutions, and organizations to a broad audience. The session featured presentations by Geert Nab (CEO) and Myléne van Puffelen (COO) of Memory Events B.V., who detailed the fair’s concept and practical preparations. Attendees actively engaged in discussions, demonstrating keen interest and registering for further participation. BIS aims to lead a strong Surinamese delegation to the fair, which seeks to attract professionals from the Netherlands and the Caribbean to explore career opportunities in the region.
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Electoral Department sees rise in independent candidates
As Saint Lucia gears up for its December 1 general election, the Electoral Department has reported a significant increase in the number of independent candidates vying for parliamentary seats. Chief Elections Officer Herman St. Helen highlighted this trend in an interview with St. Lucia Times, noting that Micoud North has emerged as the constituency with the highest interest, attracting approximately five independent candidates. Other constituencies, including Vieux Fort South, Castries North, and Anse La Raye/Canaries, have also seen notable activity, with at least two independent candidates each. However, the official list of candidates will only be confirmed on Nomination Day, November 21. St. Helen emphasized that the Electoral Department is nearly fully prepared for the upcoming polls. Key preparations include training returning officers to manage the election process across all 17 electoral districts. In a move to enhance accessibility, all polling stations will be situated on ground floors to accommodate voters with disabilities, and voting instructions will be displayed in both English and Creole. Additionally, the department is finalizing the electoral list and prioritizing voter identification card verification, urging citizens to verify their ID cards to ensure a smooth voting process.
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PM promises lawsuit over opposition candidates’ Canadian citizenship
KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — As the November 27 general election approaches, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has vowed to challenge the eligibility of opposition candidates with dual citizenship in court. Addressing supporters of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) on Tuesday night, Gonsalves, who is seeking a historic sixth consecutive term, confirmed attempts to block the nomination of New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Godwin Friday and East Kingstown candidate Fitz Bramble due to their Canadian citizenship. Both Friday and Bramble, born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, obtained Canadian citizenship as adults. Gonsalves cited Section 26 of the Constitution, which disqualifies individuals who voluntarily acknowledge allegiance to a foreign power, and referenced a 2020 Court of Appeal ruling that clarified the legal stance on such matters. Despite objections, the Returning Officer allowed their nominations, leaving the final decision to the courts. Friday, a lawyer, dismissed the challenge as a ‘dirty trick’ and expressed confidence in his re-election. Gonsalves urged voters not to ‘waste their vote’ on candidates with dual citizenship, emphasizing the legal and constitutional implications. The controversy has sparked heated debates, with both parties gearing up for a contentious election.
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Design Phase Complete for UWI Five Islands Expansion as Saudi Development Team Visits Antigua
The ambitious expansion of The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus has reached a pivotal milestone, with the design phase now officially concluded. Education Minister Daryl Matthew convened a crucial meeting on Tuesday with representatives from the Saudi Fund for Development, the government’s key development partner, to assess progress and outline the next steps. The meeting marked the beginning of a series of sessions involving the development team, project management team, government officials, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and momentum.
Detailed renderings for the dormitory buildings and sports complex have been finalized, and construction drawings are expected to be completed within weeks. Upon finalization, the project will be opened for international tender, paving the way for construction to commence. Notably, the relocation of the Five Islands Primary School, which must be moved to accommodate the campus expansion, is already underway.
The new campus is designed to be a beacon of modernity and sustainability, incorporating cutting-edge features such as solar panels, advanced water treatment systems, comprehensive IT integration, and accessibility enhancements. A standout component of the development is the establishment of the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, which aims to integrate computer science across various academic disciplines.
Minister Matthew expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, ‘This is a very modern campus with a forward-thinking curriculum. It has the potential to transform not only our nation but also the entire region. I am thrilled to witness this transformative development in my lifetime.’ The expansion is poised to significantly enhance educational infrastructure and opportunities in the region, marking a new era for higher education in the Caribbean.
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Gaming and Lotteries Bill Paused for Revisions
Belize’s Senate has temporarily halted the passage of the Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill 2025, citing significant gaps in public accountability and community protection. The proposed legislation, aimed at overhauling the nation’s gambling laws, faced intense scrutiny following an investigative report by News Five on the Caribi Bleu Casino in San Pedro. The report revealed unauthorized operations, including an illegal ATM dispensing U.S. currency and an excessive number of golf cart permits, leading to the casino’s license revocation and the arrest of its owner, Ray, in the U.S. on fraud and illegal gambling charges. Church Senator Louis Wade spearheaded the call for revisions, emphasizing the need for ‘no gambling zones,’ community involvement in licensing decisions, and stricter safeguards against minors’ exposure to gambling. The bill, initially intended to consolidate existing laws, will now undergo further review to address these pressing concerns before returning to the Senate.
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Team SVG Robotics excels at first global challenge in Panama
Team SVG Robotics, representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines, made a remarkable impact at the 2025 FIRST Global Challenge held in Panama City from October 29 to November 1. Comprising Kai Francis, Alexys Liverpool, Amara Adams, Kuba Francis, and Malik Maragh, and guided by mentors Brodlon Daniel and Ozni Daniel, the team secured impressive regional rankings, placing 2nd among OECS countries and 3rd in the Caribbean, trailing only The Bahamas and the British Virgin Islands.
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BBC Bosses Resign Over Trump Speech Edit
The BBC has been thrust into turmoil as its Director-General, Tim Davie, and CEO of BBC News, Deborah Turness, resigned following allegations of deceptive editing in a documentary featuring former U.S. President Donald Trump. The controversy erupted over a documentary aired just before the 2024 U.S. election, which spliced segments of Trump’s speech to imply he incited violence against lawmakers. Specifically, the BBC combined two separate statements: ‘We’re going to walk down to the Capitol, and we’re going to cheer our brave senators and congressmen and women,’ and ‘I’ll be with you. And we fight. Fight like hell.’ The edited version made it appear as though Trump was urging violence. Trump praised the resignations, labeling the executives as ‘very dishonest people’ and accusing the BBC of attempting to influence the election. Despite the upheaval, the BBC maintains its reputation as a trusted news source globally. Both Davie and Turness defended the corporation, with Davie emphasizing its ‘gold standard’ status and Turness rejecting claims of institutional bias as ‘wrong.’
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Shanghai: een bruisende mix van geschiedenis, innovatie en cultuur
Shanghai, China’s largest city, stands as a global powerhouse in economics, trade, and culture. Nestled at the mouth of the Yangtze River, it serves as a vital port and financial hub, attracting international investments and businesses. The city is renowned for its dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, where towering skyscrapers coexist with historic neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. Shanghai plays a pivotal role in China’s rapid economic growth and global integration, making it a city of immense significance.
During a visit by participants of the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, the city’s cultural melting pot and thriving innovation were immediately evident. Shanghai’s substantial investments in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development have positioned it as one of the world’s most progressive cities. Its strategic location, diverse economy, and rich history make it not only an economic powerhouse but also a cultural icon shaping China’s future.
The Bund: A Historical Waterfront
Our first stop was The Bund, an iconic waterfront along the western bank of the Huangpu River. Bustling with activity, The Bund is famed for its row of historic buildings that reflect Shanghai’s colonial and trading history. As the sun sets, the waterfront is bathed in a golden glow, enhancing its charm. Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, The Bund became the financial and commercial heart of Shanghai, influenced by Western powers. Architecturally, it offers an eclectic mix of styles, including neoclassical, art deco, and gothic, with notable structures like the Peace Hotel and the Custom House. Today, The Bund symbolizes Shanghai’s openness and modernization, serving as a popular tourist attraction and cultural emblem.Shanghai Tower: A Modern Marvel
Next, we visited the Shanghai Tower, a hypermodern skyscraper in the Lujiazui financial district. Standing at 632 meters, it is China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world, after Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. The tower’s observation deck offers breathtaking views of the city, reached via a high-speed elevator that ascends at 18 meters per second. Despite the crowds, the experience is worth the 190 yuan (approximately $27) ticket price. The Shanghai Tower is a testament to China’s technological advancement, economic strength, and sustainable architecture, featuring energy-efficient systems and innovative construction techniques.A Magical Boat Ride on the Huangpu River
Our journey concluded with a boat ride on the Huangpu River, offering a unique perspective of The Bund and the Shanghai Tower. Despite the chilly weather, the experience was unforgettable. The illuminated waterfront, with its ever-changing colors, created a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. The boat trip provided a different view of the Shanghai Tower, highlighting its sleek, spiraling design that reduces wind load. The tower, completed in 2015, houses offices, hotels, shopping centers, and observation decks, symbolizing Shanghai’s rapid growth and modernization.The Bund, viewed from the river, resembles an open-air museum of Western architectural styles from the early 20th century. Each building, originally housing foreign banks, trading firms, or consulates, reflects the identity and prestige of its owners. After approximately half an hour, the boat returned to the dock, leaving us with magical memories of a city that seems straight out of a storybook.