The tragic murder of 36-year-old Byron James has left his family in shock, as they believe he was the victim of mistaken identity. The incident occurred late Friday night when two masked gunmen entered the yard of his Castle Street home and fatally shot him. Byron’s sister-in-law, Leah James, recounted the harrowing moments, stating that the attack happened just seconds after he stepped outside for a cigarette. She described rushing to the scene and being the first to see his lifeless body on the ground. Leah also revealed that her seven-year-old daughter witnessed the gunfire, adding to the family’s trauma. Byron’s brother, Nikolai James, spoke of Byron’s efforts to turn his life around, emphasizing his role as a loving uncle and his desire to leave his troubled past behind. Byron had recently been released from Belize Central Prison after a prolonged legal battle related to a 2012 murder conviction. The case had been stalled due to procedural delays, leading to his eventual release. Police have detained one man for questioning and recovered two nine-millimetre pistols, which will undergo ballistic testing. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith confirmed that no motive has been established yet. The family is now grappling with the loss of a man they say was striving for redemption.
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Universal Church has no right to exclusive parking – City Mayor
Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore has firmly stated that the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) does not possess exclusive parking rights on Charlotte and Wellington streets. This declaration followed a heated confrontation between a church representative and a member of the public over parking space outside the church. The dispute escalated when the church representative claimed the area was a ‘private zone,’ a statement vehemently denied by the individual involved. The altercation, captured on video, saw the church representative act aggressively, even brandishing a cutlass, which was quickly removed by another church associate. Mayor Mentore expressed his disappointment with the pastor’s behavior, emphasizing that the city council had never granted the church any reserved parking privileges. City workers were dispatched to remove any ‘No Parking’ signs and ensure public access to the parking area. The incident, monitored by government CCTV, underscores the tension between public rights and perceived private claims in urban spaces.
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CONFIRMED: Jose Abelardo Mai Resigns from Cabinet
In a significant political development, Jose Abelardo Mai has officially resigned from his position as Minister of Agriculture. The resignation was confirmed on November 17, 2025, with reports indicating that Mai submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister John Briceño earlier in the afternoon. Sources suggest that Mai’s departure was influenced by mounting pressure from the Prime Minister, who is reportedly under scrutiny from the United States government. The exact reasons behind Mai’s resignation remain unclear, but it follows a highly publicized controversy in October. During that time, Mai vehemently denied allegations linking him to criminal activity, which had surfaced in a viral social media post. He labeled the accusations as “highly defamatory” and dismissed them as entirely fabricated. Mai also accused certain media outlets and political agents of the UDP (United Democratic Party) of conspiring to tarnish his reputation. Despite attempts by News 5 to seek his comments, Mai has remained silent on the matter. This resignation marks a pivotal moment in Belizean politics, raising questions about the dynamics within the current administration and its relationship with external stakeholders.
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Hoe Meituan de stadsstraten tot leven brengt
In the bustling streets of China, Meituan has transformed urban logistics with its innovative use of drones and e-scooters. The company, which began as a group discount platform, has evolved into a comprehensive service provider, catering to millions of users. Over the past year, Meituan reported 770 million users and 14.5 million active merchants, with an average of 3.36 million delivery personnel active monthly. On July 12, 2025, the company achieved a record-breaking 150 million daily orders for online shopping, and the average monthly income of frequent delivery personnel increased by 12% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the end of 2024, reaching 7,230-10,100 RMB (US$ 1,018-1,422).
Meituan’s growth is closely tied to China’s economic development and technological advancements. The company integrates technology into daily life, aiming to ‘help people eat better and live better.’ Beyond food delivery, Meituan offers services such as hotel and flight bookings, tourist trips, fresh produce delivery, and daily necessities. Users can also arrange cleaning services, bike and car rentals, movie tickets, and more through the platform.
While Meituan dominates the Chinese market, it is also expanding internationally. In May 2023, it launched the meal delivery brand Keeta in Hong Kong as a test site for global expansion. By August 2024, Meituan decided to continue its food delivery operations under the Keeta brand, which is now active in markets like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil, officially starting in Santos and São Vicente in October 2025.
Drone deliveries have become a staple of Meituan’s logistics operations. High above the city, small drones swiftly and silently navigate to their destinations, sometimes bypassing heavy traffic and narrow streets. This adds a futuristic element to the already dynamic urban landscape, highlighting the fusion of technology and city life.
Despite its success, Meituan faces challenges, including concerns over delivery personnel’s working conditions and increasing regulations in China to better govern the sector. For many in China, Meituan’s yellow color has become a familiar and recognizable symbol, deeply intertwined with daily life.
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ULP manifesto — the difference between ‘plans and a postcard,’ says Camillo
Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves has unveiled the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) 2025 election manifesto, emphasizing its focus on substantive policies over superficial gimmicks. Speaking at a rally in Colonarie, Gonsalves outlined the ULP’s plans to reduce income tax to 22% and raise the tax-free threshold to EC$30,000, measures he described as impactful for working-class citizens in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He contrasted these policies with the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) proposal to cut VAT from 16% to 13%, arguing that the ULP’s approach would yield greater financial benefits for individuals, such as an extra EC$1,500 annually for constables and over EC$2,000 for teachers and nurses. Gonsalves also highlighted the ULP’s commitment to job creation, citing the addition of 6,500 jobs over the past five years despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the La Soufriere volcanic eruption, and Hurricane Beryl. He pledged to create 6,000 more jobs if re-elected, aiming to reduce unemployment below 5% for the first time in the nation’s history. Additionally, the ULP plans to open a Beaches resort, attract EC$2.5 billion in foreign investment, and boost GDP from EC$3 billion to EC$4 billion within five years. Gonsalves concluded by asserting the ULP’s vision to transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a first-world nation within 15 years, grounded in principled policies and a commitment to the people.
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Dominican team to bring Creole cuisine to 2025 St. Martin Gastronomie Festival
Dominica is poised to make a grand impression at the 2025 St. Martin Gastronomie Festival, as the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) prepares to participate in the event’s grand finale on November 22. The festival, running from November 11 to 22, is one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious culinary gatherings, attracting chefs, food enthusiasts, and tourism professionals from across the region. Dominica’s participation aims to highlight the island’s burgeoning food tourism sector and its rich Creole culinary heritage. Leading the Dominican delegation is Chef Nyanda, who will conduct live cooking demonstrations, while Ms. Makerah George, the Marketing Executive for the Caribbean, will engage with festival partners to promote Dominica’s culinary offerings and its growing reputation for authentic gastronomic experiences. Chef Nyanda will showcase two signature dishes: Codfish Sancoche with Smoked Chicken, and Calalloo Rosemary Vinaigrette paired with Dasheen Croquettes and Spicy Mango Chutney. These dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, embody the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean while emphasizing Dominica’s creativity, sustainability, and deep connection to its natural environment. Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager at the DDA, emphasized the festival’s significance, stating, ‘This event provides an excellent opportunity for Dominica to showcase its unique food culture and reinforce our position as a destination where nature, culture, and cuisine seamlessly blend.’ In addition to the culinary demonstrations, Dominica’s booth will feature local sweets, rums, and tourism brochures, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s traditions and diverse travel experiences. The DDA’s involvement underscores its commitment to advancing culinary tourism as a key component of its destination marketing strategy. The festival also serves as a platform to foster new collaborations, enhance visibility, and position Dominica as a premier culinary destination in the Caribbean.
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Mira Says Police Have Lost Public Trust
In a candid admission, Belize’s newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs and Enterprise, Oscar Mira, has publicly stated that the Belize Police Department has lost the trust of the Belizean people. Delivering his remarks in a pre-recorded video statement on November 17, 2025, Mira emphasized that restoring public confidence in law enforcement would be a cornerstone of his tenure. ‘There are many things we can do to regain the trust of the Belizean people,’ he asserted, acknowledging the gravity of his new role.
Mira’s appointment follows a recent Cabinet reshuffle by the Prime Minister, a move he initially resisted. Despite his initial reluctance, Mira has now embraced the challenge, describing his role as ‘a way of service to our people here in Belize.’ He acknowledged the complexities of the ministry, stating, ‘I know that this ministry is a challenging one. I never believed it would be an easy road.’
Among his immediate priorities, Mira outlined plans to bolster the forensic department, enhance police infrastructure, and construct new police stations nationwide. He highlighted the relocation of the National Forensic Laboratory to Auan as a key step in improving investigative capabilities. ‘There is a lot of work to do, but we are excited about the various projects we have in store,’ he remarked.
Mira’s appointment and his forthright acknowledgment of the police department’s challenges mark a pivotal moment in Belize’s efforts to reform its law enforcement system and rebuild public trust.
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Preparation kicks into high gear for regional rugby competition
The Saint Lucia national rugby team, a relatively inexperienced squad, is set to receive a significant boost from two overseas players as they gear up for the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Tournament. Scheduled for November 21–23, 2025, at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago, the team will compete in Tier 2 alongside The Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Curaçao, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. This year’s squad will feature elite youth from the Saint Lucia Rugby Youth Academy (VIPER Rugby), four locally-based senior players, and two Canadian-based players, Melvin Alexis and Claudius Medouze. Melvin Alexis, the 2024 player of the year for Rugby Ontario, has been part of Canada’s national team setup and led his team in ties while playing for Peterborough Pagans in the Marshall Premiership. In April 2025, he was called up to the LIT Olympic Rugby Sevens Camp at the Olympic Training Centre in Chula Vista, California, where he received instruction from Olympians and USA Rugby stars. Claudius Medouze, who moved to Canada in 2004, has played with teams across Canada and the United States, including Brampton Beavers in Ontario. He is the founder of Misfits Rugby Football Club, which was formed in 2022 and has competed in tournaments across the Caribbean, including the Saint Lucia Carnival Rugby Sevens. The diasporic ruggers have been training with their domestic counterparts for the past week, under the leadership of head coach Chantal John, assistant coach Electra Marcelle, and manager Meraius James. Senetta Viger will travel with the team as medical support staff. Among the youth players heading to the tournament are LeMani Lewis, Malyle Cherry, Yantez Jn Baptiste, Cherquain St Croix, Muhammad McLorrain, and Benerrero Wellington. Wellington will be representing Saint Lucia in a third different sport, having previously worn national colours for football and volleyball. The team’s ascension to the senior ranks is part of the strategic four-year plan for Rugby Saint Lucia. The squad also comprises Jesey Francois, Neighman Lascaris, Ethan Phillip, and Dwayne George Nathaniel, all of whom have been capped previously at the senior level. The team will arrive in Trinidad and Tobago for pre-tournament training sessions from November 19 to 20, and they are keen to showcase Saint Lucia Rugby’s talent and spirit on the international stage. ‘This tournament presents a valuable development opportunity for our athletes and a chance to represent Saint Lucia with pride,’ said technical director Wayne Pantor. The annual RAN Sevens tournament will be hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Union for the second year in a row, having been allocated for three years in succession. The winners of the Men’s Tier 1 will qualify for the World Rugby SVNS pathway. The top three Tier 1 teams, excluding defending champions Canada, can also qualify for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, being held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The Tier 2 winners will be promoted to Tier 1 for 2026.
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Friend of Elderly Man Says Police Ran Over Him Too
In a devastating turn of events, 70-year-old Daniel Puerto tragically lost his life on Sunday night after being struck by a minivan while seated on George Price Highway in Roaring Creek Village. The incident took a further grim twist when Puerto was reportedly run over a second time by a police vehicle. Albert Budd, a close friend of Puerto, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the accident. Budd had offered Puerto a ride home, but before he could act, he heard a loud crash. Upon returning, he discovered that his cousin had inadvertently struck Puerto with the minivan. Budd further alleged that the police mobile subsequently ran over Puerto’s head while he lay on the ground, compounding the tragedy. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith addressed the media, providing details of the incident. She stated that the minivan driver, Michael McFadzean, was not suspected of being under the influence at the time of the collision. The minivan has been impounded for further investigation, and a notice of intended prosecution has been issued to McFadzean. Smith also mentioned that Puerto was known to frequently sit on the road, a habit that may have contributed to the accident. A post-mortem examination is underway to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
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Fifteen Dominican students rank in top 10 in Regional Merit List across various subjects
The Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence has proudly announced that 15 Dominican students have secured top 10 rankings across seven subjects in the 2025 Regional Merit List. These exceptional students hail from six different schools, as confirmed by local registrar Magalie Celestine in an official audio statement. Celestine highlighted the achievements of these students, naming them along with their respective schools. Among the standout performers, Gordisha Joseph from North East Comprehensive School ranked seventh in Physical Education and Sports, while Christine Defoe of Pierre Charles Secondary School secured third place in Textile, Clothing, and Fashion. In the CCSLC category, Sari Bruni from Castle Bruce Secondary School achieved sixth place in Digital Literacy. Michael Lawrence, also from Castle Bruce Secondary School, topped the region in English. French saw remarkable dominance by Arthur Waldron SDA Academy, with Shalia Valmo, Laureline Valerie, and Khalid Collier securing the top three positions. Dominica Grammar School also excelled in French, with Gabrielle George placing sixth. In Mathematics, Adejah Schillingford of Dominica Grammar School and Khalid Collier of Arthur Waldron SDA Academy shared the top spot. Other notable achievements include Sari Bruney of Castle Bruce Secondary School ranking second in Social Studies. The registrar extended heartfelt congratulations to all students for their consistent excellence in the CSEC and CCSNC exams, emphasizing the Ministry of Education’s pride in their accomplishments.