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  • Politic : Tourism, a major pillar of economic development (video)

    Politic : Tourism, a major pillar of economic development (video)

    In a strategic move to position tourism as the engine of economic recovery, Haiti’s Minister of Tourism John Herrick Dessources unveiled a comprehensive development blueprint during the 36th “Tuesdays of the Nation” forum on February 10, 2026. The presentation detailed twenty concurrent initiatives demonstrating the government’s commitment to transforming the sector into a primary economic driver.

    The physical infrastructure component encompasses ten regional projects spanning multiple departments. Northern development focuses on enhancing visitor facilities at historical sites in Milot and Cap-Haitien alongside modernization efforts at Cap-Haïtien International Airport. Southern regions including Grand’Anse and the West are seeing departmental office refurbishments, strategic tourist zone redevelopment, and strengthened security and training infrastructure.

    Complementing these physical improvements, ten structural modernization projects are underway. These include managerial recruitment expansion, tourist police reinforcement, technological modernization of sector operations, and legal framework reorganization for ministry-linked institutions. Additional measures feature a nationwide hotel inventory audit, training program standardization, and preparation for a national tourism investment forum.

    The multidimensional strategy targets five key strategic areas: service quality improvement in public and private sectors, crime reduction through tourism decentralization, equitable economic opportunity distribution, investment facilitation, and medium-to-long-term development planning. Minister Dessources specifically addressed security concerns, emphasizing geographic diversification of tourism offerings to mitigate crime concentration while spreading economic benefits more broadly.

    Expected outcomes include significant investment attraction, economic activity stimulation, direct and indirect job creation, and enhanced national competitiveness. The government reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing all sector stakeholders and leveraging data analytics to maximize initiative impact and ensure sustainable tourism recovery.

  • All systems ready for disabled voters, says EBC

    All systems ready for disabled voters, says EBC

    Barbados electoral authorities have provided comprehensive assurances that all polling stations across the island are fully prepared to accommodate voters with disabilities during Wednesday’s elections. This confirmation comes following earlier concerns raised by the Barbados Council for the Disabled (BCD) regarding accessibility preparedness and the Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s capacity to serve disabled voters effectively.

    BCD Vice-President Kerry-Ann Ifill confirmed that the EBC has implemented multiple measures to ensure barrier-free voting, referencing official announcements from the Government Information Service. “I believe they’re also putting measures in place to ensure that they have expedited lines for persons with disabilities, as well as checking the physical access of the various polling stations,” Ifill stated, noting that while she hasn’t personally inspected every location, she received confirmation that all stations are wheelchair accessible.

    According to the established protocols, voters who are blind, physically incapacitated, illiterate, or mentally challenged may request assistance from presiding officers at their assigned polling stations. Those with visual or physical impairments must complete both an oral declaration and a written declaration using a special form. Alternatively, these voters may opt for assistance from a companion who must be at least 18 years old and may assist no more than two voters within any single constituency.

    Chief Electoral Officer Sherland Turton elaborated on the accommodations, confirming that ramps have been installed where necessary to ensure wheelchair access. “Provisions have always been made for them to be accompanied by a person of their choice to assist them with voting if need be,” Turton explained. Regarding deaf voters, while no specific measures are in place, they will be permitted to bring a companion to facilitate communication throughout the voting process.

    Turton further clarified that companions would be permitted to make oral declarations on behalf of voters when necessary. Looking beyond the immediate election, Ifill expressed hope for continued dialogue with the EBC to implement additional accessibility improvements for future elections, noting that some enhancements require more time than the current election cycle allowed.

  • American Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Barbados after takeoff incident

    American Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Barbados after takeoff incident

    An American Airlines Boeing 737-823 aircraft executing flight AA1284 to Miami was compelled to initiate an emergency landing procedure at Barbados’ Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) on Tuesday morning after sustaining a critical tire failure during its initial ascent. The incident occurred shortly following a 7:00 am takeoff with 134 passengers aboard, prompting immediate emergency protocols.

    Airport CEO Hadley Bourne confirmed that air traffic control received alerts of the mechanical issue, later identified as a blown tire, which also resulted in debris scatter on the runway. The aircraft entered a holding pattern off the coast of Barbados while emergency crews conducted safety inspections and cleared the runway. The flight subsequently made a safe return and landing at GAIA, with all passengers disembarking without injury and returning to the terminal.

    In accordance with standard aviation safety procedures, the airport activated its full emergency response team, including operational and security personnel, as a precautionary measure. The aircraft remained grounded throughout the afternoon undergoing comprehensive maintenance evaluation and repairs. Initial reports from flight-tracking data indicated the aircraft experienced complications potentially related to its landing gear system, leading to its decision to circle back.

    Tracey Forde-Bailey, Director-General of Barbados’ Civil Aviation Authority, stated that while preliminary reports confirm the safe return, authorities are awaiting detailed technical assessments from American Airlines’ maintenance teams to determine the exact cause of the tire failure. The incident remains under investigation by both airline engineers and aviation regulators.

  • Fire contained at Gutter, one home lost

    Fire contained at Gutter, one home lost

    A residential fire erupted in the Gutter community earlier today, culminating in the complete destruction of one single-family home. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene following multiple distress calls from local residents.

    The local fire department executed a rapid and coordinated response, successfully containing the intense blaze and preventing its spread to adjacent properties. Their strategic deployment of resources and effective firefighting techniques proved crucial in mitigating what could have escalated into a larger neighborhood catastrophe.

    Authorities have confirmed that despite the substantial property damage sustained, no civilian or firefighter injuries resulted from this incident. Preliminary investigations into the fire’s origin are underway, though officials have indicated the initial assessment points toward an accidental cause rather than deliberate wrongdoing.

    Community support networks have mobilized to assist the displaced homeowner, providing temporary shelter and essential supplies while insurance assessments are conducted. The incident has prompted local safety advocates to reiterate the importance of functional smoke detectors and residential fire preparedness plans.

  • Police Charge Seine Bight Barber in Double Homicide

    Police Charge Seine Bight Barber in Double Homicide

    Punta Gorda Police Department has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of Saturday night’s double homicide, culminating in the formal charging of a primary suspect. Keron George Augustine, a 25-year-old barber residing in Seine Bight Village, now faces two counts of murder for the fatal shooting of Luis Barillas and Derrick Arnold.

    The tragic incident occurred inside Barillas’ residence on Queen Street, where both victims were socializing before being fatally shot. Law enforcement officials had previously confirmed the detention of three individuals in connection with the case on Monday. The investigation took a decisive turn this morning with the announcement of Augustine’s formal indictment.

    While authorities have refrained from disclosing a potential motive for the brutal killings, police representatives emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. The case continues to develop as detectives work to uncover additional evidence and circumstances surrounding the violent crime that has shaken the local community. Further details are expected to emerge as judicial proceedings advance through the court system.

  • No‑Case Submission Crumbles; Nah Claims Wrong Man Is on Trial

    No‑Case Submission Crumbles; Nah Claims Wrong Man Is on Trial

    In a significant courtroom development in Belize City, murder suspect Elmer Nah has been ordered to stand trial after his legal team’s no-case submission was decisively rejected by Justice Nigel Pilgrim. The judicial ruling came with remarkable speed—taking a mere twenty seconds for the court to dismiss the defense’s application—compelling Nah to face three separate murder charges.

    Following the procedural setback, Nah addressed the court for twenty-seven minutes from the dock, vehemently maintaining his innocence. ‘It wasn’t me,’ he stated, acknowledging the phrase as an ‘old cliché’ while insisting authorities had apprehended the wrong individual. The defendant claimed enhanced video evidence would ultimately identify the true perpetrator and urged investigators to stop ‘feeding the family with lies.’ He concluded his emotional statement with the declaration: ‘I am here to speak the truth… so help me God.’

    Notably absent from the defense strategy were alibi witnesses, despite previous reliance on testimony from Nah’s cousin during earlier voir dire proceedings. The prosecution’s evidence package includes critical components: the statement of primary witness Vivian Ramnarace, boots allegedly discovered in Nah’s pickup truck, and a headlamp purportedly worn during the commission of the murders.

    Dr. Lynden Jones, Nah’s legal representative, provided commentary following the day’s proceedings, noting that the court would issue written details justifying the rejection of their no-case submission at a later date. Jones explained his client’s decision to deliver a dock statement rather than remain silent or testify, referencing previously incorporated evidence from the voir dire. Nah’s statement specifically addressed evidentiary concerns regarding boot coloration, the disappearance of the original video footage chip containing shooting evidence, and the timing of a tattoo that prosecution suggested was recently applied.

    The case now advances to closing submissions as both sides prepare their final arguments in this high-profile murder trial.

  • Nah’s Case Heads to March 13th Submissions

    Nah’s Case Heads to March 13th Submissions

    In a significant procedural development, the criminal trial of Elmer Nah will advance to its final argument phase on March 13th, following a judicial determination that the prosecution has established a sufficient evidentiary foundation to proceed. Special Prosecutor Terrence Williams formally confirmed the timeline after the presiding judge ruled that the defendant indeed has a case to answer. The proceedings will now transition to the submission stage, where both the prosecution and defense will present comprehensive written arguments, supplemented by concise oral presentations. Williams declined to comment specifically on the content of Nah’s recent unsworn dock statement, indicating he would reserve substantive remarks for the court. This case has captured significant public attention, with the March hearing expected to represent a pivotal moment before the court deliberates on a final verdict. The legal community now anticipates how both legal teams will frame their closing arguments in what has become a closely watched judicial matter.

  • UDP Accuses PM of Meddling, Presses On with BTL–Speednet Fight

    UDP Accuses PM of Meddling, Presses On with BTL–Speednet Fight

    In a sharply worded press conference at its Belize City headquarters, the United Democratic Party has launched a vigorous offensive against Prime Minister John Briceño’s administration regarding the controversial BTL-Speednet acquisition deal. The UDP leadership has rejected the Prime Minister’s recent call for a temporary halt to negotiations, characterizing it as improper governmental meddling in what should be an independent regulatory process.

    Party leader Tracy Taegar-Panton asserted that the Prime Minister’s intervention demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of proper governance procedures, insisting that the Public Utilities Commission should maintain exclusive jurisdiction over the acquisition without political interference. The UDP simultaneously claimed credit for forcing the administration’s change in approach, citing recent public protests organized by the party as the catalyst for the government’s newfound interest in transparency.

    ‘Remarkably, the nation’s Prime Minister himself now calls for a suspension of this transaction to facilitate public consultation conducted with respect and transparency,’ stated Panton. ‘This sudden emphasis on accountability and parliamentary oversight aligns precisely with what we have demanded from the outset. This continual shifting of position raises serious concerns about the valuation methodology, the financial architecture of this arrangement, and ultimately who stands to benefit from this proposed acquisition of a public institution.’

    The escalating political confrontation highlights growing tensions over the proposed telecommunications merger, with the opposition vowing to maintain pressure on the administration despite the Prime Minister’s attempted intervention in the process.

  • UDP Demands PUC Autonomy Amid PM Pause

    UDP Demands PUC Autonomy Amid PM Pause

    In a significant political development on February 10, 2026, the United Democratic Party (UDP) has launched a direct challenge against perceived executive interference in regulatory affairs. Party Leader Tracy Panton announced the UDP’s intention to bypass traditional government channels and engage directly with Belize’s Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Social Security Board regarding the controversial BTL acquisition matter.

    The UDP’s move comes as a response to what they characterize as inappropriate executive influence over independent regulatory bodies. Panton emphasized that both the PUC and Social Security Board operate under established legal frameworks that should preclude direct instruction from the Prime Minister or government ministers. “There are laws that govern the function of the PUC,” Panton stated, “and no prime minister or Minister of Government should have to instruct the PUC what to do in the public’s interest.”

    Panton further criticized the composition of the PUC, noting that all members were appointed by the current Briceno administration. The UDP leader called for greater accountability, transparency, and professionalism from those serving in regulatory capacities, arguing that appointees should not await instructions from the head of state when clear legal guidelines already exist for handling such matters.

    The party’s parliamentary caucus and leadership team plan to formally meet with both regulatory bodies to present their position on record regarding the BTL acquisition, signaling a strategic shift toward direct engagement with independent institutions rather than working through executive branch channels.

  • UDP Boycotts House Meeting, Cites PM Disrespect

    UDP Boycotts House Meeting, Cites PM Disrespect

    In a dramatic political standoff, Belize’s United Democratic Party (UDP) has formally boycotted a recent House of Representatives sitting, escalating tensions with Prime Minister Johnny Briceño’s administration. The opposition party justified its absence as a protest against what it characterizes as governmental corruption and disrespect toward parliamentary procedures.

    Central to the controversy is the acquisition deal involving telecommunications providers BTL and Smart, which UDP leadership claims lacked transparency and proper oversight. Senator Gabriel Zetina emphasized that the boycott decision was reached collectively by UDP parliamentarians without coercion, characterizing it as a necessary action against perceived governmental misconduct.

    UDP Leader Tracy Panton delivered particularly sharp criticism, accusing the Briceño administration of attempting to use the national assembly as a ‘rubber stamp for corruption.’ She highlighted the Prime Minister’s contradictory position regarding the BTL transaction—initially claiming no knowledge of the deal involving his family’s company, then subsequently directing a pause in proceedings.

    The term ‘kunumunu’ (a Belizean Creole term implying foolishness or lack of intelligence) was invoked by UDP representatives to describe how they believe the government perceives opposition parliamentarians, underscoring the deepening rift between Belize’s leading political factions. This parliamentary boycott represents one of the most significant confrontations between the UDP and the ruling administration in recent legislative sessions.