Antigua and Barbuda has achieved a historic milestone by securing the top position in the Caribbean on the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI). Prime Minister Gaston Browne, during his Independence Day address, lauded this accomplishment as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to economic growth, educational advancement, and healthcare investments. Browne emphasized that this achievement underscores the potential of small island states to serve as global exemplars of progress. “Size does not define significance,” he remarked. “We may be modest in geography, but our influence is profound.” The Prime Minister attributed this success to years of consistent development and strategic social investments. Employment rates have surged to a record 47,000, while per-capita income has surpassed EC $60,000, marking the highest in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and among the leaders in CARICOM. Significant strides in healthcare include the near-completion of a state-of-the-art Renal Centre for dialysis and kidney transplants, alongside the transformation of the former Jehovah’s Witness headquarters into a $12 million mental health facility. Education has also seen transformative investments, with a $200 million expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and the establishment of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), unifying post-secondary institutions. Browne affirmed that these initiatives are not only saving lives but also shaping futures, ensuring every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. He concluded by stating that Antigua and Barbuda’s HDI ranking and sectoral achievements reflect the nation’s dedication to good governance, equality, and people-centered development, earning global respect and recognition.
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PM Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption
In a resolute Independence Day address, Prime Minister Gaston Browne reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach. Browne declared that neither he nor any member of his household is permitted to engage in government contracts, ensuring the Office of the Prime Minister remains beyond reproach. He highlighted that all irregular transactions will be met with restitution or criminal prosecution, underscoring the administration’s dedication to integrity and transparency. Browne cited a recent case of unauthorized government vehicle transactions, where immediate corrective actions were taken, including a Ministry of Finance review and restitution to the Treasury. He stressed that no favoritism or cover-ups were tolerated. To further prevent abuse, oversight mechanisms across customs and procurement systems are being strengthened, with repeat offenses to be pursued criminally. Browne asserted that his government will never defend wrongdoing but will correct it, imposing heavy penalties and directing proceeds as monetary restitution to the Treasury. He concluded by stating that good governance is not merely a slogan but the standard by which a nation protects its integrity and earns public confidence.
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News : Zapping…
Haiti has been thrust into the spotlight following a series of significant events that underscore the nation’s ongoing struggles and resilience. In a devastating act of violence, Université Soleil d’Haïti (USH), founded by former senator Jean Renel Sénatus, was reduced to ashes in an arson attack. This institution, a beacon of education, now lies in ruins, symbolizing the fragility of Haiti’s social infrastructure. Simultaneously, the home of Elysée Blaise, interim executive agent at Montrouis City Hall, and his mother’s residence were torched by members of the notorious ‘Taliban’ gang, further highlighting the pervasive insecurity plaguing the region. Amidst these challenges, Haiti finds hope in Melissa Queenie Sapini, a Haitian-American journalist and social activist, who will represent the nation at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand. Sapini, co-founder of The Two Queens Foundation, continues to champion education and literacy in Haiti. On the diplomatic front, Laurent Saint-Cyr, President pro tempore of Haiti’s Transition Council, arrived in Doha, Qatar, to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, signaling Haiti’s commitment to global collaboration. Meanwhile, Port-au-Prince undergoes critical road rehabilitation on Faustin 1er Road, with temporary closures aimed at ensuring safety and efficiency. In a gesture of solidarity, the United States has extended aid to Haitians affected by Hurricane Melissa, distributing essential supplies through the International Organization for Migration (IOM). These events collectively paint a picture of a nation grappling with adversity while striving for progress and international engagement.
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How is the abandoned Dajabón baby recovering?
In a heartening turn of events, a newborn baby discovered in distressing circumstances in Dajabón, Dominican Republic, is now in stable condition. The infant, estimated to be around 25 days old, was found wet and covered in ants near a cherry tree. Prompt action by local authorities led to the baby being swiftly transported to the Ramón Matías Mella Hospital for immediate medical attention. According to officials from the National Council for Children and Adolescents (CONANI), the baby is being cared for in a warm environment, utilizing heated cribs to maintain a stable body temperature. This protocol is standard for such cases to ensure the infant’s well-being. The discovery was made on Saturday morning near a food business in the main municipality of Dajabón. Border authorities reported that patrol officers were alerted by a concerned citizen who had approached the local police station to report the situation. The National Police acted swiftly, ensuring the baby received the necessary care and attention.
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Hakrinbank schenkt SRD 2 miljoen aan Srefidensi-commissie
In a significant gesture of national pride and support, Hakrinbank NV has contributed SRD 2 million (approximately USD 50,000) to the Commission for the 50th Anniversary of Suriname’s Independence. The symbolic cheque was presented on Friday by Claire Wydh, the bank’s Deputy Director of Commerce, to Commission Chairman Klebert Drenthe. This donation underscores the bank’s commitment to Suriname’s development and its confidence in the nation’s future. Wydh emphasized that the contribution is not only a financial boost but also a symbolic nod to the country’s golden jubilee, with the amount reflecting the 50-year milestone. Hakrinbank, which will celebrate its 90th anniversary in June 2026, views this donation as a meaningful way to align its legacy with Suriname’s journey of growth and self-reliance. The bank highlighted that Suriname’s independence represents values of resilience, prosperity, and faith in local potential—principles that Hakrinbank itself champions. Wydh further noted that with nine decades of experience in the financial sector, the bank remains dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and community engagement. Drenthe expressed gratitude to Hakrinbank and other corporate contributors supporting the Srefidensi celebrations. The funds will be allocated to various cultural and educational initiatives, including the production of the Srefidensi song and video. A total of 50 events are planned throughout November to commemorate Suriname’s independence, with a national budget of SRD 65 million allocated for the festivities.
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Former FSRC Chief Leroy King Dies While Serving U.S. Prison Sentence
Leroy King, the former head of Antigua and Barbuda’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC), has passed away at the age of 80 while serving a U.S. prison sentence. The exact circumstances of his death—whether it occurred in prison or at a hospital—remain unclear, but authorities have confirmed that it took place during his incarceration. King, who held dual citizenship in Antigua and the United States, was extradited to the U.S. in 2019 after nearly a decade of legal battles to avoid extradition. He later pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice for his role in concealing information from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) during its investigation into financier Allen Stanford’s $7 billion investment fraud. As the FSRC chief from 2002, King oversaw the operations of Stanford International Bank in Antigua. Prosecutors revealed that he accepted over $520,000 in bribes, gifts, and trips in exchange for shielding Stanford’s fraudulent activities. Stanford himself was convicted in 2012 and sentenced to 110 years in prison for orchestrating a massive Ponzi scheme, while several of his associates received prison terms ranging from three to 20 years.
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Lopesan Costa Bávaro goes full Gaga: Halloween show honors pop icon with massive new opening
Punta Cana, DR – The Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino has once again redefined Halloween entertainment in the Caribbean with its tenth annual theatrical extravaganza, ‘Luna de Sangre’ (Moon of Blood). This year, the resort introduced a bold new opening act titled ‘Abracadabra,’ a genre-defying tribute to the iconic Lady Gaga, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of performance art. The ‘Abracadabra’ segment delves into themes of internal conflict, doubt, and ethereal glamour, blending opera and theater styles in a provocative homage to Gaga’s avant-garde artistry. Roxanna Román Báez, the show’s General Producer and Artistic Director, emphasized Gaga’s influence, noting her groundbreaking reinvention and unwavering support for the Drag Queen community, who are the stars of the production. The opening act featured 40 dancers, a massive cast-iron cage as a centerpiece, and a meticulously designed light show, setting the tone for the 60-minute spectacle. The full ‘Luna de Sangre’ show transported audiences through a series of elaborate scenes, including ‘Monarca del Infierno’ and ‘Encadenada en el Infierno,’ with dancers adorned in intricate period costumes and fantasy attire. The night concluded with the grand finale, ‘Somos Nosotros,’ a triumphant celebration of the production’s creative vision, led by Román Báez and supported by choreographer Jhoanna Román Báez and costume designers Cristian Adolfo de los Santos and Freddy Fernando Gutiérrez.
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Mohameds’ lawyer provides evidence to rubbish Datadin’s ‘no bail’ for persons awaiting extradition
A heated legal debate has erupted in Guyana over the granting of bail to individuals awaiting extradition, following the case of Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed, who are wanted in the United States for alleged financial crimes. Attorney-at-Law Siand Dhurjon, representing the Mohameds, has challenged the claims made by Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin, who argued that bail should not be granted to fugitives due to constitutional prohibitions. Mr. Dhurjon countered that the High Court, under the Fugitive Offenders Act, has the authority to grant bail, and cited Section 3(1)(b) of the Bail Act, which explicitly allows bail in extradition cases. The Mohameds were each granted GY$150,000 bail by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman on Friday, pending the hearing of the US extradition request. Mr. Datadin referenced Article 139(i) of Guyana’s Constitution, which permits the loss of liberty in extradition proceedings, but Mr. Dhurjon pointed to precedents where bail was granted in similar cases, including Junior Da Silva’s extradition proceedings earlier this year. He also highlighted Section 15(2) of the Fugitive Offenders Act, which grants magistrates the power to remand or admit to bail in extradition cases. Attorney General Anil Nandlall emphasized that the next step is for the State to disclose the US-provided evidence to the defense lawyers, ensuring a fair hearing. The Mohameds, sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in June 2024 for alleged tax evasion on gold exports, are set to return to court on November 10, 2025. Mr. Nandlall dismissed claims of political motivation behind the case, asserting that the government has engaged Jamaican lawyers to ensure impartiality.
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Post-Melissa : 2 tons of medical supplies delivered to the Western Health Directorate
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which brought devastating floods to Haiti, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) has stepped up its efforts to assist the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP). The torrential rains have led to tragic consequences, including 31 fatalities, 20 injuries, and 21 individuals still missing as of October 31. Over 1,000 homes have been inundated, 10 health facilities compromised, and more than 15,000 people displaced, now residing in temporary shelters. PAHO/WHO field teams are actively working alongside the MSPP to ensure uninterrupted access to essential health services and to mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks. These teams are conducting assessments in shelters and health facilities across the affected regions to bolster local response capabilities. At the behest of Dr. Bertrand Sinal, MSPP Minister, nearly 2 tons of medical supplies have been dispatched to the West Health Directorate. This crucial delivery was facilitated by the European Union’s Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and the Islamic Medical Association of North America (IMANA), aiming to enhance healthcare provision in the impacted areas. Additionally, medical supplies and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) equipment are being strategically positioned to swiftly address any potential cholera resurgence. Despite these efforts, significant health needs persist, and ongoing support is imperative to aid the affected populations amidst challenging operational conditions. Communication barriers are impeding the flow of information from health facilities and displacement sites, thereby complicating coordination and rapid response efforts. Moreover, obstructed roadways are hampering the land-based delivery of aid, while financial constraints could delay the execution of critical health interventions.
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Guyana’s President Extends Independence Congratulations to Antigua and Barbuda
In a heartfelt message, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali extended warm congratulations to Antigua and Barbuda on the occasion of their 44th Independence Anniversary. President Ali emphasized the deep-rooted friendship and shared values between the two nations, highlighting their mutual dedication to regional unity and prosperity. He underscored Guyana’s unwavering commitment to fostering a stronger and more integrated Caribbean community, describing the partnership as a cornerstone of their collective vision. President Ali expressed his wishes for Antigua and Barbuda’s continued progress and success, stating, “May Antigua and Barbuda continue to prosper, and may the aspirations of your people continue to be fulfilled.” This message not only celebrated a significant milestone for Antigua and Barbuda but also reinforced the enduring bond between the two nations, reflecting their collaborative efforts toward regional resilience and development.