The Guyana government is contemplating a policy that would grant migrant workers residency status without extending them the right to vote in elections. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced this potential measure during a news conference on Thursday, November 6, 2025. He emphasized that such a provision would align with practices observed in other nations and could be integrated into the ongoing constitutional reform process. Currently, Guyana’s Constitution allows citizens of Commonwealth countries residing in Guyana for at least one year to vote. Jagdeo highlighted the importance of preserving the nation’s identity while addressing labor shortages through migrant integration. Additionally, he revealed plans to introduce compulsory electronic identification (e-ID) cards for both migrants and Guyanese citizens. These e-ID cards will be linked to the Smart Country video surveillance system, which includes 4,000 facial recognition cameras, enhancing national security by enabling real-time biometric identification across the country.
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Maduro Launches “Snitch” App Amid U.S. Tensions
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has unveiled a controversial update to the VenApp mobile application, transforming it into a surveillance tool aimed at monitoring potential threats. Originally introduced in 2022 to report utility issues, the app now encourages citizens to flag suspicious individuals or activities, particularly in light of escalating tensions with the United States. The move has sparked widespread concern among human rights organizations, who warn of potential abuses of privacy and civil liberties. Activist group Venezuela Sin Filtro described the initiative as a significant threat to freedom of expression and security, while Amnesty International cautioned that it could lead to unlawful arrests and detentions. Despite being removed from Apple and Google app stores in 2024, VenApp remains accessible through a government-supported browser version. Reports from Caracas indicate that citizens are being urged to report drones or individuals deemed suspicious. This development coincides with heightened U.S. military presence in the southern Caribbean, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking. Maduro, who has faced international scrutiny over contested elections and widespread protests, has framed the app as a necessary security measure.
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Saint Lucia Eye Success in Eastern Caribbean Volleyball
A determined Saint Lucia volleyball team is set to compete in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship, scheduled for November 12–17 at the YMCA in St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda. After clinching the title in 2021 but missing the playoffs in 2023, Saint Lucia is eager to reclaim its position at the top. This year’s tournament will feature six teams, including host nation Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Anguilla, and defending champions St Vincent & the Grenadines. The Saint Lucia squad, comprising 10 players, includes a mix of seasoned athletes and promising talents. Notably, Peter Emmanuel, an 18-year-old middle blocker, and setter Delano Baptiste, both returning from the 2023 campaign, are expected to play pivotal roles. Captain Daniel Mayers-James, who was named MVP in this year’s inter-school competition, will lead the team. The tournament format includes a single round-robin stage followed by playoffs, with Saint Lucia opening against St Vincent & the Grenadines. The champions will not only receive gold medals and a prestigious trophy but also secure a spot in the NORCECA 2026 Pan American Cup. ECVA president Glenn Quinlan emphasized the championship’s role in bridging junior and senior national teams and elevating regional competitiveness. Teams will compete using the elite Mikasa V200W ball, ensuring high-quality play.
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West Indies fall 3 runs short despite fireworks from Powell, Shepherd
In a heart-stopping encounter on Thursday, November 6, New Zealand narrowly defeated the West Indies by just 3 runs in Auckland, leveling the five-match T20 international series at 1-1. The match, filled with dramatic twists, showcased the resilience of both teams but ultimately saw the Black Caps emerge victorious.
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Colombian sanctioned by OFAC for drug trafficking arrested in Guyana
In a significant law enforcement operation, Yeison Andres Sanchez Vallejo, a Colombian national sanctioned by the United States for alleged involvement in drug trafficking, was arrested in Guyana. The arrest occurred on November 4, 2025, during a routine security check at the Kurupukari police checkpoint. Vallejo was traveling on a bus bound for Lethem when authorities discovered he was carrying a passport marked with an “RLL” (Refused Leave to Land) immigration stamp. Further investigations confirmed his inclusion on the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions list for narcotics-related activities. Vallejo is currently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations. This arrest is part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking networks in the region. Notably, the OFAC sanctions also targeted other individuals, including a senior Guyanese police officer, Himnauth Sawh, who was implicated in a 2024 operation that uncovered 4.4 tonnes of cocaine near an illegal airstrip in Mabaruma. Sawh remains on leave pending further inquiries. The arrest underscores the collaborative efforts between international and local law enforcement agencies to combat transnational drug trafficking.
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Landveld in overleg met luchtverkeersleiders over werkdruk en veiligheid
Suriname’s Minister of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT), Raymond Landveld, recently held a constructive meeting with the Suriname Air Traffic Controllers Association (SACTA) to address pressing issues within the air traffic control sector. Key topics included the high workload, staffing shortages, and the urgent need for modernization of equipment and systems. SACTA highlighted that the current workforce consists of only 25 fully qualified air traffic controllers, all of whom are actively engaged in the duty roster. The association raised concerns about the frequent use of Single Person Operations, where one controller manages a shift alone, a practice that deviates from international safety standards. Additionally, SACTA emphasized overdue overtime payments and reiterated its call for a 100% salary increase to prevent staff attrition and attract new talent. Minister Landveld acknowledged these challenges, assuring that overtime payments are a priority and that all requests are processed promptly. He also revealed that $25 million from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) aviation program has been allocated to strengthen the aviation sector, with $5 million earmarked for equipment modernization and system digitization. The selection process for the new Project Execution Unit is already underway. The meeting also addressed the vulnerable communication network of the air traffic control system. TCT’s General Director, Faridy Lila, confirmed that the request for a dedicated network is being seriously considered within existing telecom regulations, with Telesur bundles serving as a temporary solution. Verno Prijor, Acting Director of Transport, announced that funding for the training of assistant air traffic controllers has been approved, allowing the program to proceed. Minister Landveld further committed to examining salary disparities between air traffic controllers and support staff, emphasizing equal treatment within the same service. He stated that the request for salary increases and incentive payments will be included in a broader organizational and financial feasibility study. SACTA is also invited to submit a proposal for an adjusted duty roster for trainees.
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United Nations Development Programme delivers equipment to tackle Dominica’s case backlog
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PACE Justice Project has taken a significant step toward enhancing Dominica’s judicial system by handing over advanced equipment to the government. This initiative aims to reduce the backlog of criminal cases and streamline justice delivery, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s justice reform efforts. The official handover ceremony was held at the Attorney General’s Conference Room on Wednesday, attended by key stakeholders including Limya Eltayeb, Resident Representative of UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Eltayeb emphasized the project’s timely relevance, noting that justice reform and citizen security are currently at the forefront of public discourse. She highlighted the multifaceted approach of the PACE Justice Project, which integrates technology, human resource development, capacity building, and policy reform to create a more efficient and people-centered justice system. The introduction of digital solutions is expected to expedite case management, ensuring seamless coordination between the police, courts, and other judicial entities. Eltayeb also underscored the importance of infrastructure investment to maintain system reliability and prevent disruptions. Additionally, the project includes training programs in AI, digital criminal justice systems, and alternative dispute resolution, further strengthening Dominica’s judicial framework. The interoperability assessment conducted earlier this year revealed Dominica’s unique advantage in adopting a unified digital system, setting the stage for a transformative approach to justice delivery. This initiative not only aims to enhance efficiency but also to rebuild public trust in the judicial system and, by extension, the government.
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US SOUTHCOM’s Commander visiting Guyana
Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), arrived in Guyana on November 6, 2025, to reinforce the security partnership between the two nations. Welcomed by US Ambassador Nicole Theriot at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Admiral Holsey’s visit underscores the deepening defense collaboration aimed at regional stability and capacity building. During his stay in Georgetown, he is scheduled to meet with key officials, including Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who is currently performing presidential duties, and Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan. Discussions will focus on accelerating security cooperation, safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity, and enhancing training, equipment procurement, and capacity-building initiatives. The US Embassy highlighted the long-standing defense partnership, emphasizing joint efforts to counter transnational threats and foster professional development through bilateral training programs. SOUTHCOM’s mission in Latin America and the Caribbean remains pivotal in advancing security, prosperity, and collective responses to complex challenges.
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Banks unveil Independence, We Gatherin’ commemorative beer can
In a move to honor Barbados’ Independence celebrations and the We Gatherin’ initiative, Banks Breweries Ltd. unveiled a limited-edition beer can on Thursday. The specially designed can, launched at the company’s Newton Industrial Estate plant in Christ Church, is described as a patriotic collector’s item aimed at fostering national pride and cultural identity. Janelle Germain, Marketing Manager of SLU Beverages Ltd., revealed the product during a brief ceremony, emphasizing that the project had been in development for six to seven months. “We’re thrilled to finally launch our We Gatherin’ can, which commemorates this significant initiative in a monumental way for an iconic brand like Banks,” she said. The design features symbolic elements of Barbadian culture, including the We Gatherin’ logo, the Broken Trident, and the national colors—blue, gold, and red—prominently displayed. Germain highlighted the importance of incorporating the Barbadian flag’s colors, noting that the blue and gold accents complement Banks’ traditional red branding. The launch also aims to reconnect the diaspora returning home for We Gatherin’, encouraging them to celebrate their heritage and support national events. Germain expressed hope that the can would serve as a symbol of pride and unity for Barbadians abroad. “This can represents true identity, empowerment, and Barbadian culture,” she said. The commemorative beer is expected to hit stores early next week, with pricing details still being finalized to ensure accessibility for all. Germain encouraged Barbadians to embrace the release, emphasizing Banks’ deep connection to national tradition. “Banks is an iconic brand that embodies what Barbados stands for,” she added.
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U.S. Flight Cuts Threaten Belize’s Tourism Flow
Belize’s tourism sector is bracing for significant disruptions as the United States implements a 10% reduction in scheduled flight capacity across 40 high-traffic air zones. This decision, announced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Wednesday, is a direct consequence of the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, which has left air traffic controllers unpaid since October 1. Major airports in cities such as Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, and New York—critical hubs for connecting flights to Belize—are among those affected. Airlines including United, Delta, and American are adjusting schedules and cancelling regional routes, potentially causing delays, cancellations, or unexpected rerouting for travelers heading to Belize. Reynaldo Malik, President of the Belize Hotel Association, highlighted the interconnectedness of the Belizean economy with North America, stating, ‘If North America sneezes, we’re going to catch a cold. Right now, that cold has edged up into a little bit of a serious flu.’ The Associated Press reports that these cuts could impact up to 1,800 flights and 268,000 passengers daily, with no clear resolution in sight. As of Thursday morning, over 1,600 flights within, into, or out of the U.S. had been delayed, and nearly 50 were cancelled, according to FlightAware. This development comes at a particularly challenging time for Belize, which heavily depends on U.S. tourist arrivals during the winter high season. Despite the uncertainty, Malik remains optimistic about the industry’s resilience, emphasizing the need for continuous efforts to attract visitors.