On Thursday, supporters of the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) assembled outside the Ministry of Works building, urging an independent forensic investigation into what they describe as issues requiring enhanced government transparency. The demonstration, spearheaded by political activist and UPP member George Wehner, was marked by spirited chants and songs, with participants demanding accountability. Wehner led the crowd in a powerful rendition of the civil rights anthem ‘We Shall Overcome,’ symbolizing their unwavering resolve. Through a loudspeaker, Wehner proclaimed, ‘We want justice. Not for Justin Brown to tell us that he knows what went wrong and he alone can fix it. That is not good enough. That is not democracy.’ The chant ‘Justice!’ reverberated repeatedly as protesters lined the street in front of the ministry. The group is pressing for an independent inquiry into alleged irregularities linked to the Ministry of Works. As of now, government officials have not provided a formal response to the protest.
博客
-
Parlement eert nalatenschap overleden president Venetiaan
The National Assembly of Suriname has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Ronald Venetiaan, the former President of the Republic of Suriname, who died on November 5, 2025. Venetiaan, born on June 18, 1936, was a towering figure in Surinamese politics, having been elected president three times—in 1991, 2000, and 2005—making him the only three-term president in the nation’s history. His leadership was marked by a commitment to stability and service, leaving an indelible mark on the country. In addition to his presidential tenure, Venetiaan served twice as a member of the National Assembly, representing the National Party of Suriname (NPS). His first term began in 1996, and he returned in 2010 as part of the opposition. He formally resigned from parliament on October 27, 2013, and was succeeded by Hesdy Pigot on November 22, 2013. Michael Adhin, the Speaker of the National Assembly, extended heartfelt condolences to Venetiaan’s family, praising his legacy of wisdom and dedication. ‘May his legacy of composure and service continue to guide future generations,’ Adhin remarked, honoring the late president’s contributions to Suriname.
-
Trump admin tells Congress it currently lacks legal justification to strike Venezuela
Senior Trump administration officials informed lawmakers on Wednesday that the United States has no current plans to launch military strikes within Venezuela and lacks the legal basis to justify such actions against land targets. This revelation came during a classified briefing led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and a representative from the White House’s Office of Legal Counsel, according to sources familiar with the session. The briefing emphasized that the Justice Department’s legal opinion, which previously justified strikes against suspected drug boats, does not extend to operations within Venezuelan territory or other land-based targets. The officials also clarified that the “execute order” initiating the US military campaign against drug trafficking in September does not authorize land strikes. While the administration has not ruled out future actions, it is reportedly seeking a separate legal opinion from the Justice Department to justify potential land-based operations without congressional approval. The buildup of US military assets in the Caribbean, including the Ford Carrier Strike Group, has sparked speculation about possible strikes in Venezuela. However, officials stated that these assets are solely intended to support counternarcotic efforts and intelligence gathering. The administration has avoided involving Congress in its military operations in Latin America, asserting that it can conduct lethal strikes against alleged drug traffickers without legislative approval. Since September, the US military has carried out 16 strikes against boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in at least 67 deaths. Lawmakers have raised concerns about the legality and transparency of these operations, with some questioning the necessity of lethal force over interdiction methods. Despite assurances from officials like Rubio that strikes are meticulously tracked and justified, critics argue that the evidence linking targeted vessels to drug trafficking remains insufficient.
-
Numbers are in: 25th World Creole Music Festival surpasses expectations
The 25th edition of Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) has set new benchmarks in cultural celebration and economic impact, according to the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). The festival, held over three nights, attracted over 42,000 attendees, a remarkable increase from the 30,217 visitors in 2024. This surge in attendance underscores the event’s growing appeal and its role as a cornerstone of Creole culture on the Nature Island.
-
KHMH Union: “The People Have a Right to Know”
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union (KHMHAWU) has joined the chorus of voices calling for greater government transparency in Belize. The union is supporting activist Jeremy Enriquez’s Freedom of Information (FOIA) appeal, which seeks to uncover the names of attorneys and the amounts paid from public funds in redistricting and election-related cases. The Attorney General’s Ministry had previously denied the request, citing exemptions under the FOI Act, a decision that KHMHAWU described as ‘a position that raises serious concern about the continued erosion of public access to information.’
In a recent statement, KHMHAWU emphasized that ‘the people of Belize have a right to know how their taxes are used, especially when such funds are spent on matters that directly impact our Constitution, our elections, and our democracy.’ The union’s stance aligns with the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), which earlier this week called for ‘accountability, transparency, and fairness in public administration.’
KHMHAWU has demanded ‘full disclosure, stronger oversight, and respect for the rule of law in all government dealings.’ The union’s statement underscores the growing public concern over the lack of transparency in how public funds are allocated and spent. Earlier this week, Eamon Courtenay, a prominent attorney, defended the Attorney General’s Ministry’s decision, stating that he understood the concerns raised by the Attorney General regarding the Ombudsman’s interpretations.
The issue has sparked widespread debate in Belize, with many citizens and organizations urging the government to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. As the FOIA appeal progresses, the spotlight remains on the government’s handling of public funds and its commitment to democratic principles.
-
The curious case of the Southern Grenadines
In the aftermath of the 2020 elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) claimed victory in the popular vote on the mainland. However, this assertion has sparked significant controversy, as the New Democratic Party (NDP) secured 32,900 votes, marking their first popular vote win since 1998. Gonsalves’ analysis has been criticized for disregarding the votes of Grenadine residents, effectively marginalizing their political voice. This approach raises questions about the inclusivity of the electoral process in SVG, a multi-island nation where all citizens, regardless of their island of residence, should hold equal political weight. Gonsalves’ rhetoric, which emphasizes the mainland’s majority while sidelining the Grenadines, has been likened to absurd hypotheticals, such as the NDP claiming victory by excluding certain constituencies. The Prime Minister’s stance contradicts his earlier campaign messaging, which lauded the citizen as the highest office in the land. This inconsistency has led to concerns about the political representation of Grenadine residents, who have historically supported the NDP. The situation worsened in July 2024, when Hurricane Beryl devastated the Grenadines. Instead of prioritizing relief efforts, the ULP was accused of exploiting the disaster for political gain. Gonsalves’ remarks at the opening of the Union Island Ferry Terminal, where he framed appliance distribution as a means to sway voter allegiance, further highlighted the transactional nature of the relationship between the government and Grenadine residents. Chevonne Stewart’s assertion that proper representation for the Southern Grenadines hinges on a cabinet seat underscores the systemic neglect faced by the region. Historical data reveals that the NDP has consistently won the Grenadine vote since 1979, with the 2020 margin being the largest in ULP’s history. This trend reflects decades of neglect by the ULP, which has failed to secure a single Grenadine seat since its inception in 1994. The upcoming 2025 election cycle presents an opportunity to address these disparities and ensure equitable representation for all Vincentians.
-
Talks Begin on Ladyville and Lord’s Bank Becoming a Town
On Wednesday afternoon, representatives from the Ladyville and Lord’s Bank village councils convened with government officials to discuss the potential transformation of their communities into a township. The preliminary consultation, facilitated by the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Local Government, and Community Development, marked the first step in exploring this significant development. Area Representative Dolores Balderamos-Garcia emphasized that the meeting was exploratory rather than agenda-driven, aiming to gather initial insights and guidance. She expressed satisfaction with the session, which saw approximately 30 participants. Balderamos-Garcia highlighted the rapid population growth in Ladyville, which now spans from Haulover Bridge to Mile 13, encompassing neighborhoods like Vista del Mar, Mitchell Estate, Marage Road, and Los Lagos. This expansion has heightened the need for discussions on governance, infrastructure, and revenue generation to support essential community services. Senior ministry officials Clifford King and Nacio Acosta outlined the potential advantages of township status, including the implementation of modest property taxes to fund local improvements such as street maintenance, drainage systems, parks, and community development projects. Balderamos-Garcia clarified that no decisions have been finalized and stressed the importance of broader community consultations moving forward. She affirmed the commitment to inclusive dialogue, ensuring residents have a voice in shaping the future of their communities.
-
Van Dijk betwist nieuwe aanklachten in strafzaak SPSB
In a significant development in the criminal case involving Ginmardo Kromosoeto, Gardelito Hew-A-Kee, and Robert Putter, the court has allowed additional time for legal rebuttals. Following a 200-page defense plea by attorney Nailah van Dijk, the presiding judge, Ishwardat Sonai, granted the public prosecutor, Roline Gravenbeek, the opportunity to supplement her response. The judge also extended the chance for two absent attorneys, Murwin Dubois and Benito Pick, to present their arguments. The case is set to resume on November 20. Van Dijk argued that the Public Prosecutor’s Office failed to provide substantial evidence linking her clients to participation in a criminal organization. She also contested the late addition of charges to the case file, stating that some allegations were introduced two years after the initial summons, violating both international treaties and local laws. Among the added charges were money laundering and involvement in a criminal organization. Van Dijk further demanded the exclusion of evidence against Putter, citing that he was interrogated as a witness, not a suspect, in 2021. She emphasized that the interrogation should not be used against him if he were later deemed a suspect. Additionally, Van Dijk disputed the classification of Kromosoeto as a public official and provided a detailed analysis of two companies allegedly linked to the Surinamese Post Savings Bank.
-
“The child could not move on the bed”: Boy battles rare illness after school marathon
A 13-year-old boy, Carlton St. Omer, is fighting for his life at the Owen King European Union (OKEU) Hospital in Saint Lucia after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder that causes paralysis and can impair breathing. His father, Calton St. Omer, described the past few days as a nightmare for the family, as Carlton’s condition rapidly deteriorated following his participation in a school marathon on October 29. Initially, Carlton exhibited a limp and leg pain, but by October 31, he was unable to move and was rushed to the hospital. Despite extensive tests, including CT scans and blood work, doctors were unable to pinpoint the cause of his symptoms. By November 1, Carlton lost the ability to swallow, move his limbs, and breathe independently, requiring a ventilator. Doctors have recommended that he be airlifted to Martinique for specialized care, with the transfer scheduled for November 6. Carlton’s sister, Abbie John, has launched a GoFundMe campaign titled ‘Save Abbie’s Little Brother – Urgent Help Needed’ to raise funds for the air ambulance and medical expenses. The family is holding onto hope, urging the public for prayers and donations. Carlton’s father also recalled a previous medical episode in April, suspecting a possible connection to his current condition. The family remains focused on securing the urgent care Carlton needs to survive and recover.
-
Antigua and Barbuda’s Tax Collection at 19.1%, Lower Than Regional Average
A recent analysis by the OECD and IDB reveals stark disparities in tax collection capacities across Caribbean nations, significantly influencing their ability to fund public services. The study highlights that tax collection rates vary widely, ranging from 30.5% of GDP in Barbados to a mere 10.6% in Guyana. This gap underscores the region’s diverse economic structures and circumstances. Countries such as Jamaica (29.3%), Trinidad and Tobago (23.7%), and Belize (22.1%) exceed the regional average of 21%, while others like the Dominican Republic (13.9%) and Guyana (10.6%) lag behind. Notably, Guyana’s low tax-to-GDP ratio is attributed to its rapidly expanding oil economy, which surged by 62% in 2022. These variations directly impact public investment capabilities. Nations with higher tax revenues can allocate more resources to critical areas like climate resilience, social protection, and infrastructure development. Conversely, lower collection rates may hinder progress in these essential sectors. Another critical factor is the composition of tax revenues, with indirect taxes—primarily consumption-based—accounting for 55% of total collections. This reliance raises equity concerns, as such taxes disproportionately affect lower-income groups, regardless of their ability to pay. The findings emphasize the need for tailored fiscal policies to address these challenges and promote sustainable development across the region.