The Aula Magna of the University of Havana recently hosted a significant event commemorating the 20th anniversary of Fidel Castro’s historic speech. On November 17, 2005, Castro delivered a powerful message, warning of the greatest dangers facing the Revolution while expressing unwavering confidence in the youth. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, President of the National Defense Council; Manuel Marrero Cruz, Prime Minister; and Roberto Morales Ojeda, Secretary of Organization of the Central Committee of the Party, alongside José Ramón Machado Ventura, Commander of the Rebel Army. Litza Elena González Desdín, National President of the Federation of University Students (FEU), highlighted the enduring impact of Castro’s legacy on her generation. She emphasized that studying Castro’s history, work, and thought has instilled a sense of responsibility in young Cubans to tackle contemporary challenges. González Desdín also urged students to engage in the ‘One University, One Task’ program, which aims to connect university students with projects contributing to the country’s socioeconomic development, particularly in the centennial year of Castro’s birth.
博客
-
Christmas harvest in jeopardy after flash floods ruin crops
Farmers in St Lucy, Barbados, are grappling with severe crop losses following relentless heavy rains and flash floods that inundated farmlands from Sunday night into Monday. The timing of this disaster is particularly devastating, as it occurred just weeks before the crucial Christmas harvest season. Hamilton Corbin, president of the St Lucy Farmers’ Association, reported visiting five farms submerged in water, with crops at high risk of rotting. He emphasized the significant setback for farmers who had been anticipating a prosperous yield during the festive period. Corbin detailed the extent of the damage, noting that crops such as cucumbers, sweet peppers, melons, and onions were either destroyed or severely compromised. Even crops not entirely lost may not survive due to prolonged submersion, which exposes them to harmful fungi and bacteria. Farmers are also deeply concerned about their holiday income, as the loss of crops threatens not only their livelihoods but also the earnings of their employees. Corbin expressed hope for government assistance, describing it as “much-deserved help.” In response, the Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected farmers. Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Michael James urged farmers to report their losses promptly to expedite damage assessment and aid distribution. The government aims to act swiftly to mitigate the impact of this agricultural crisis.
-
Abinader: new Summit of the Americas date depends on consensus with U.S. and allies
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader announced on Monday that a new date for the postponed Summit of the Americas has yet to be finalized. The decision, he stated, will be made in collaboration with the United States and other participating nations. Speaking during ‘LA Semanal con la Prensa,’ Abinader revealed that prior to the postponement, approximately ten to eleven countries had confirmed their attendance, with several others still undecided. The Dominican government is currently evaluating the most opportune timing for the summit, particularly as many nations in the region are engaged in ongoing electoral processes. Abinader highlighted that scheduling the event after these elections would enable newly elected or re-elected presidents to participate with fresh mandates and greater availability. He further stressed that the final decision will be coordinated with key regional partners, including the United States and Brazil.
-
Agriculture Minister Mai Resigns Amid Scandal and U.S. Pressure
Belize’s political landscape faced a significant upheaval on November 17, 2025, as Agriculture Minister Jose Abelardo Mai resigned amidst a storm of controversy and international pressure. Mai’s resignation was confirmed by News Five, following his submission of a resignation letter to Prime Minister John Briceño. Reports suggest that the U.S. Embassy in Belize played a role in exerting pressure leading to his departure. The resignation comes in the wake of allegations from a Mexican news outlet, which accused Mai of involvement in criminal activities—claims he vehemently denies, labeling them as “defamatory” and politically motivated. Mai has even threatened legal action against what he calls “fake news” and opposition operatives. Adding to the controversy, the Agriculture Ministry recently faced scrutiny over a $7,000 invoice for two bulletproof vests. While some speculated the purchase was linked to cartel threats against Mai, officials clarified it was related to an armed robbery investigation. Mai’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for the Briceño administration, with Opposition Leader Tracy Panton demanding transparency from the Prime Minister. Panton expressed concerns over what she described as the “unravelling of a corrupt regime,” emphasizing the need for the government to address issues of national security and sovereignty. She called for a public explanation from the Prime Minister regarding the circumstances behind Mai’s resignation, highlighting the lack of clarity from the administration.
-
Justice : 2026 Roadmap of the Haitian National Committee for Restitution and Reparation
The Haitian National Committee for Restitution and Reparations (CNHRR) has unveiled an ambitious 2026 Roadmap aimed at addressing the historical and moral debt owed by France for the ‘double ransom’ imposed on Haiti in the 19th century. This initiative seeks to transform the struggle for justice into a comprehensive societal project involving education, research, diplomacy, and public mobilization.
Historical Context:
In 1825, France demanded Haiti pay 150 million gold francs (later reduced to 90 million) as compensation for the loss of its colony and colonists’ properties. This sum, borrowed at exorbitant rates, crippled Haiti’s economic and social development for over a century, earning the term ‘double ransom.’CNHRR’s Formation and Mission:
Established on August 8, 2025, the CNHRR comprises representatives from Haiti’s Presidency, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Economy and Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, civil society, and academic experts. Its mandate is to advocate for restitution and reparations from France and the international community.2026 Roadmap Highlights:
1. **Action Plan and Structures**: The CNHRR has finalized its annual action plan and established working subgroups to address various aspects of restitution and reparations.
2. **Educational Reforms**: Collaboration with the Ministry of Education to revise history curricula and textbooks, ensuring the ‘double ransom’ is accurately represented.
3. **Public Awareness**: Nationwide conferences, webinars, and a national survey to gather public opinion on restitution.
4. **Academic Research**: Scholarships for Haitian students to conduct master’s and doctoral research on the topic.
5. **Scientific Conferences**: Two major conferences planned for 2026 on slavery, reparations, and public health.
6. **White Paper Publication**: A comprehensive document outlining arguments for restitution will be published and made accessible to all Haitians.
7. **Financial Calculations**: Collaboration with experts to determine actuarial and discounted amounts for negotiations.
8. **Student Engagement**: Study days and literary competitions to foster awareness among Haitian youth.
9. **Research Chair**: Establishment of a Research Chair at the State University of Haiti to host academic conferences and lectures.
10. **Social Mobilization**: A communication plan to involve civil society and grassroots organizations in the restitution process.
11. **International Collaboration**: Strengthening ties with CARICOM, African, American, and European organizations to build a united front for restitution.This roadmap represents a significant step in Haiti’s quest for historical justice, aiming to rectify centuries of economic and social injustice inflicted by colonial exploitation.
-
TCT start landelijke operatie om bussector te ordenen en registers te actualiseren
The Ministry of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT) in Suriname has initiated a comprehensive re-registration process for private bus operators, effective from November 17, 2025, to March 6, 2026. This initiative aims to create a complete and up-to-date registry of all buses operating on the country’s sixty-plus official routes. Public bus transportation is a vital component of daily mobility for thousands of citizens, and with the sector largely managed by private operators, the ministry emphasizes the need for accurate and reliable data. The re-registration process will be conducted by the Public Transport Service under the Directorate of Transport, located at the Ministry of Public Works and Spatial Planning (OWRO) on Mr. Jagernath Lachmon Street. According to the ministry, the primary goal of this initiative is administrative and organizational, ensuring clarity and efficiency in a sector critical to society. The ministry has clarified that the process is not intended to burden or penalize bus operators but to foster better policy-making and collaboration between the government and the bus sector. Additionally, operators unable to meet the registration deadline will be granted a special post-registration phase, with strict measures in place to ensure passenger services remain uninterrupted during peak hours. The TCT anticipates that this re-registration will lead to a more transparent system, improved communication among stakeholders, and a noticeable enhancement in public transportation services. The updated database is expected to help identify and resolve bottlenecks more effectively, ultimately benefiting commuters.
-
Can a Minister Say No to Prime Minister Briceno?
In an unexpected turn of events, Minister Henry Charles Usher has declined Prime Minister John Briceño’s offer to lead the Ministry of Home Affairs and Enterprise, a position renowned for its complexity and controversy. This rare refusal has forced the Prime Minister to reconsider his Cabinet reshuffle, ultimately appointing Oscar Mira, former Minister of National Defense and Border Security, to the role. Mira’s appointment comes with significant expectations, as he steps into one of the most demanding positions in the Belizean government. The decision marks a pivotal moment in Briceño’s administration, highlighting the challenges of balancing ministerial assignments with individual preferences. The Prime Minister’s recent reshuffle, initially aimed at refreshing his Cabinet, has now been overshadowed by Usher’s rejection, raising questions about the dynamics of political appointments. Usher’s decision to retain his role at the Ministry of Public Service, coupled with the return of Florencio Marin to the Ministry of National Defense, underscores the ongoing adjustments within the government. As Mira assumes his new responsibilities, all eyes are on his ability to navigate the complexities of Home Affairs and restore public trust in the Belize Police Department.
-
UDP Leadership Race Heats Up Ahead of Convention
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is in the midst of a heated leadership race as the party’s highly anticipated convention on November 30, 2025, draws near. The contest comes in the wake of a significant internal rift earlier this year between Party Leader Moses “Shyne” Barrow and Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar-Panton. With the deadline for executive post applications looming, Taegar-Panton remains optimistic about the party’s ability to unite and rebuild. She described the upcoming convention as a “grand reset” for the UDP, emphasizing its importance in electing a new leadership executive to guide the party through the 2027 municipal elections and the 2030 general elections. Despite the challenges, Taegar-Panton expressed confidence in the support from party delegates, who she believes are committed to fostering unity. She also highlighted the need for a strong opposition to address what she described as “unacceptable” decisions by the current administration, stressing the importance of defending democracy and sovereignty. As the convention approaches, the UDP faces the critical task of reconciling internal divisions and presenting a united front.
-
Byron James Killed: Street Justice or Mistaken Identity?
In a chilling turn of events, Byron James, a man previously convicted of murder, was gunned down outside his Belize City home on the night of November 14, 2025. James, who had been released on bail after appealing his 2017 conviction for the 2012 murder of Frank Vasquez, was sitting in his yard when two armed men entered the property and fatally shot him. Police are investigating whether this was an act of street justice or a case of mistaken identity. James’s family, however, firmly believes he was wrongly targeted, as they had only recently moved into the apartment complex. The incident has left the community in shock and the family demanding justice. Police have detained one suspect and recovered two firearms, which are undergoing ballistic testing. While James’s past criminal record is under scrutiny, his family remembers him as a loving brother, talented tattoo artist, and a man who had turned his life around.
-
Masked Gunman Kills Dangriga Fisherman at Home
A chilling act of violence has shaken the community of Dangriga in the Stann Creek District. On the evening of November 17, 2025, a masked assailant entered the home of 27-year-old fisherman Oscar Williams Jr., unleashing a barrage of gunfire that claimed Williams’ life. The incident occurred around 9:00 PM on Rear Pine Street, where Williams was seated with his young son in the lower flat of a two-story cement residence. The gunman, clad in dark clothing, approached the open doorway and fired multiple shots, fatally wounding Williams before fleeing on foot. Despite being rushed to the Southern Regional Hospital, Williams was pronounced dead upon arrival. Scenes of Crime technicians recovered fourteen expended nine-millimeter shell casings from various brands, providing critical ballistic evidence. Authorities have detained one individual for questioning as the investigation progresses. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith emphasized the ongoing nature of the probe, urging anyone with information to come forward. The tragedy has left Williams’ family devastated and the community grappling with fear and uncertainty.