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  • Antigua & Barbuda Honours Top Industry Performers at 2025 Tourism Awards

    Antigua & Barbuda Honours Top Industry Performers at 2025 Tourism Awards

    The Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality & Tourism Association (ABHTA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), orchestrated a magnificent celebration of industry excellence on November 29th, 2025. The event, formally titled the ‘Mirror Ball Gala: A Time to Reflect and Shine,’ served as the prestigious platform for the annual Tourism Awards, recognizing the nation’s most outstanding contributors to its vital tourism sector.

    The gala evening was a profound occasion to both reflect on past achievements and shine a spotlight on the individuals driving the industry forward. A diverse array of awards were presented across multiple categories, highlighting excellence from frontline service to executive leadership.

    Recipients of the coveted ABHTA Awards included Albev Wade from Blue Waters Resort & Spa, named Employee of the Year, and Sophia Welch of Mill Reef Club, who earned Supervisor of the Year. The Rising Star of the Year accolade was awarded to Shemaiah Gordon of Royalton Antigua, while Leon Norville from Sandals Grande Antigua was celebrated as Young Hotelier of the Year. Culinary expertise was prominently featured, with Kahendi Jackson of Hermitage Bay named Young Chef of the Year and Jean-Pierre Tuitt of Jumby Bay Island honored as Chef of the Year.

    The Ministry of Tourism bestowed its own set of distinctions. Sandy Ramsaran (Sandals Grande Antigua) received the Customer Service Excellence Award, Jahlyn Turner (Antigua & Barbuda Department of Immigration) was named Port Frontline Employee of the Year, Philbert John Baptiste (South Coast Horizons) won Tour Guide of the Year, and Ian Richards (United Taxi Company Antigua Ltd) earned the Transportation Service Provider of the Year title.

    Special recognition was given to women shaping the tourism landscape. Annette Michael was honored for an incredible 33-year legacy of exemplary service and leadership. Cleo Henry, EMBA, CHE, CGSP, was celebrated for her outstanding contributions to workforce development, training, and tourism leadership.

    In a poignant moment, a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to honor the enduring legacy of Mr. Alexandre de Brito e Cunha, remembered as a visionary leader and long-standing pillar of the ABHTA.

    The association extended its deepest gratitude to all event partners and sponsors whose support was instrumental in creating an unforgettable night of reflection, celebration, and immense national pride.

  • De koning komt

    De koning komt

    Surinamese parliament member Michael S. Marengo has expressed profound concerns regarding the Dutch king’s upcoming state visit to Suriname, questioning the official itinerary’s failure to acknowledge regions most impacted by colonial exploitation and slavery.

    The visit, scheduled to commemorate 50 years of Surinamese independence (Srefidensi) and the unique historical ties between the Netherlands and its former colony, arrives at a moment of heightened sensitivity surrounding colonial reckoning. Marengo contends that while symbolically significant, the planned program demonstrates a troubling lack of recognition for the nation’s painful past.

    Central to the criticism is the omission of the district of Para from the royal itinerary. Marengo emphasizes that Para represents far more than just a geographic region; it serves as the cultural heartland for a substantial portion of Suriname’s Indigenous communities—the original inhabitants of the land. Furthermore, it remains home to the highest concentration of descendants of enslaved Africans and contains the majority of surviving plantations from the colonial era.

    The lawmaker finds it “extremely inappropriate and disappointing” that these historically burdened places, emblematic of both immense suffering and remarkable resilience, are excluded from the king’s agenda. This oversight, he argues, signals a deficiency in acknowledging those communities most devastated by historical systems, particularly the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

    Adding to the consternation, the king’s schedule includes stops at former plantations currently operated by, among others, foreign Dutch nationals. Marengo suggests this choice prioritizes the perspective of those who continue to benefit from historical structures of power, rather than centering the voices of descendants who bear the lasting scars and burdens of that era.

    Marengo asserts that a visit to Para would constitute a powerful gesture of respect and moral responsibility. Engaging directly with Indigenous villages and communities of Maroon descendants would demonstrate the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ willingness to confront the painful chapters of shared history, moving beyond superficial ceremony.

    The parliamentarian calls for genuine appreciation and visible recognition for all groups central to Suriname’s history and identity, urging that the royal visit transcend a mere half-hour symbolic meeting. He frames this as a historical responsibility born from centuries of domination, injustice, and economic exploitation, concluding that Suriname—and particularly the groups still experiencing the legacy of 500 years of oppression—deserves nothing less than dignified, sincere, and tangible recognition.

  • UDP Chairmanship Race Heats Up

    UDP Chairmanship Race Heats Up

    The United Democratic Party’s national convention has evolved into a contentious battleground as three prominent figures vie for the influential position of party chairman. This high-stakes leadership contest has exposed significant internal divisions within the political organization, challenging its fundamental promise of unity.

    John Saldivar, making a political comeback following years of controversy, positions himself as the experienced candidate capable of revitalizing the party. “The organization requires my expertise, capabilities, and the strategic knowledge I possess regarding political organization and grassroots mobilization,” Saldivar asserted. He emphasized his comprehensive understanding of both electoral victories and defeats, presenting himself as the ideal candidate to restore the party’s street-level presence.

    Sheena Pitts enters the race with the endorsement of incoming leader Tracy Panton, countering narratives of internal discord. “I have not observed the turmoil being referenced,” Pitts stated to News 5 correspondents covering the event. She positioned herself as the unifying figure committed to reconciliation within party ranks.

    The political landscape intensified with Roosevelt Blades receiving public support from Mesopotamia representative and key party financier Lee Mark Chang. This endorsement triggered a series of contentious WhatsApp exchanges among delegates, revealing allegations of greed, betrayal, and political maneuvering centered around the chairmanship role.

    Blades dismissed the emerging controversy, stating, “I possess the winning strategy having managed numerous successful convention campaigns and elections within the UDP.” He emphasized the critical need to reengage youth voters and modernize party operations if elected.

    With Tracy Panton’s endorsement as party leader secured without opposition and other senior positions uncontested, the chairmanship vote has become the primary focus of political observers. The convention’s outcome will determine whether the party emerges strengthened or further divided by internal conflicts.

  • Colombian president says oil is ‘at the heart of’ US pressure campaign on Venezuela

    Colombian president says oil is ‘at the heart of’ US pressure campaign on Venezuela

    Colombian President Gustavo Petro has launched a scathing critique of the Trump administration’s Venezuela policy, asserting that Washington’s true motivation centers on accessing Venezuela’s vast oil reserves rather than combating drug trafficking or promoting democracy.

    In an exclusive CNN interview, Petro characterized oil as “at the heart of the matter,” noting Venezuela possesses the world’s largest proven petroleum reserves. “That’s a negotiation about oil. I believe that is Trump’s logic. He’s not thinking about the democratization of Venezuela, let alone the narco-trafficking,” Petro stated, challenging the official U.S. justification for increased military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific.

    The Colombian leader dismissed Venezuela’s significance in global drug trafficking, citing United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime data showing the country produces no cocaine and handles only a minor portion of international drug flows. Instead, Petro emphasized Colombia’s dominant role in both production and interdiction, claiming his government has seized more cocaine than any administration in history.

    The relationship between Petro and Trump has deteriorated significantly since the Colombian leader returned to the White House. Tensions escalated when the U.S. State Department revoked Petro’s visa following his UN General Assembly speech where he urged American soldiers to disobey Trump and “not to point their rifles at humanity.”

    Further complications emerged in October when the U.S. Treasury sanctioned Petro, alleging his involvement in the global drug trade—accusations the Colombian president vehemently denies. The sanctions followed Trump’s threat to halt all U.S. payments and subsidies to Colombia, claiming Petro “does nothing to stop” drug production.

    Petro attributed the administration’s stance to personal animosity, suggesting Trump views him as “a subversive thug, a terrorist” due to his past membership in the M-19 guerrilla movement during the 1970s and 1980s.

    Despite these high-level tensions, U.S. officials maintain that bilateral relations with Colombia remain strong. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that administration issues are specifically with Petro rather than Colombian institutions, noting the enduring partnership between the two nations will outlast the current leadership.

  • Motorcycle death in Antigua reported on social media to be Dominican

    Motorcycle death in Antigua reported on social media to be Dominican

    Antiguan authorities have launched a formal investigation into a tragic motorcycle accident that resulted in the death of a 23-year-old man on Popeshead Street in the early hours of November 30th. The victim has been officially identified as Joshua Alexander, a resident of Light Foot, Antigua.

    According to preliminary police reports, the incident occurred when Alexander was traveling at excessively high speeds along Popeshead Street. Authorities state he lost control of his vehicle, leading to a violent collision with a wall and sidewalk on the eastern side of the roadway.

    Emergency medical personnel responded promptly to the scene but found no signs of life. Alexander was officially pronounced deceased at 3:16 AM despite resuscitation efforts.

    The accident has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, with circulating images and unverified claims that the deceased was of Dominican origin. While these reports remain unconfirmed by official sources, local media outlets have committed to seeking clarification from relevant authorities regarding the victim’s background.

    This incident marks another tragic addition to Antigua’s road traffic statistics, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety and speeding violations. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

  • Negotiations on Destiny SSZ Agreement Near Completion, says Premier Brantley

    Negotiations on Destiny SSZ Agreement Near Completion, says Premier Brantley

    CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS – In a significant development for the Caribbean island, Nevis Premier Mark Brantley has announced that negotiations for the landmark Destiny Special Sustainability Zone (SSZ) are approaching their final stages. During his November 25th press conference, the Premier confirmed that substantial progress has been made in discussions between the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) and project developers.

    Premier Brantley revealed that recent communications indicate both parties have reached unprecedented alignment on the agreement’s terms. ‘I believe that I saw, only this weekend, a response which suggests that the parties are now closer than they were to this,’ Brantley stated, expressing optimism about finalizing the deal before year’s end.

    The negotiation process has demanded extraordinary commitment from the Nevis government, with Cabinet members dedicating extensive time—including weekends—to ensure thorough consideration of all aspects. Brantley emphasized the administration’s determination to conclude deliberations promptly, noting, ‘I am not inclined to continue indefinitely having these discussions. It’s either that we take a decision or we do not.’

    Public consultation has played a pivotal role in shaping the government’s position, with Brantley acknowledging that citizen feedback significantly influenced the negotiation strategy. While core developer commitments remain unchanged, the Premier hinted at additional proposals under discussion that could further benefit the public, though specifics remain confidential pending finalization.

    The Destiny SSZ project represents one of the most extensively debated development initiatives in Nevis’s recent history, generating substantial public discourse about the island’s future direction. Brantley reaffirmed that the administration’s ultimate objective remains securing optimal outcomes for current residents and future generations, ensuring the agreement creates sustainable opportunities for all Nevisians.

  • Venezuela revokes access for six international airlines Link:

    Venezuela revokes access for six international airlines Link:

    In a significant escalation of international aviation tensions, the Venezuelan government has formally revoked flight concessions for six major international carriers. The National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) announced via social media that Iberia, TAP Portugal, avianca, LATAM Colombia, Turkish Airlines, and GOL Airlines have lost their operational rights in Venezuelan airspace. The decision, published in Official Gazette No. 43264, notably excluded local carrier Caribbean Airlines from the sanctions.

    The aviation authority justified its action by alleging these airlines ‘joined the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States government’ when they previously suspended services to Venezuela. This dramatic move follows last week’s ultimatum from Caracas demanding airlines resume operations or face permanent exclusion from the Venezuelan market.

    The revocation leaves Panama-based COPA Airlines among the very few international carriers maintaining connectivity to Venezuela. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has expressed grave concerns, warning this decision will further isolate a nation already suffering from severely limited air connections within the region.

    This development comes shortly after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a safety advisory cautioning pilots about operating within Venezuelan airspace. The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) specifically referenced deteriorating security conditions and increased military activity around Venezuela, prompting numerous airlines to preemptively cancel services citing passenger safety concerns.

  • The CCJ Academy for Law successfully hosts its largest biennial conference

    The CCJ Academy for Law successfully hosts its largest biennial conference

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago – The Caribbean Court of Justice Academy for Law concluded its record-breaking 8th Biennial Conference on November 28, 2025, with the adoption of the groundbreaking Port of Spain Declaration – a comprehensive framework for advancing Caribbean jurisprudence. Held at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad under the theme ‘The CCJ at 20: Reflections on Caribbean Jurisprudence,’ the event attracted over 400 judicial officers, legal experts, academics, and civil society representatives from across the region, marking the largest gathering in the Academy’s history.

    The conference commenced with opening remarks from Honourable Mr Justice Winston Anderson, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice and Chair of the CCJ Academy for Law, who reflected on two decades of judicial evolution. ‘This conference invites us to reflect on the strides made, the progress achieved, and the paradigm shifts inspired by the region’s apex court,’ Justice Anderson stated. He simultaneously honored the legacy of former CCJ Judge Mr Justice Wit, recognizing his profound contributions to shaping modern Caribbean jurisprudence.

    Ms Lisa Shoman, SC, General Counsel of the CARICOM Secretariat, emphasized the critical importance of developing a distinct Caribbean legal identity. ‘Political independence compels us to shape our own legal landscape,’ she asserted, ‘forging a jurisprudence that reflects our unique culture, social realities, and supports our regional integration process.’

    International development partners demonstrated strong support for Caribbean judicial institutions. Her Excellency Cécile Tassin, EU Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted Europe’s 15-year partnership with the CCJ, noting that ‘supporting justice institutions is essential for democratic governance, human rights protection, and sustainable development.’ Similar endorsements came from the Inter-American Development Bank and Caribbean Development Bank, with the latter encouraging development of ‘a justice ecosystem that is technologically-enabled and people-centred.’

    The conference featured significant leadership transitions within the Academy, with Honourable Mme Justice Ononaiwu appointed as new Chair and Honourable Mme Justice Mira Dean-Armorer as Deputy Chair. The opening ceremony also showcased the launch of ‘Caribbean Court of Justice: Striving for Excellence – 20 Years of Evolving Justice,’ a commemorative publication analyzing landmark CCJ decisions.

    The Port of Spain Declaration emerged as the conference’s centerpiece achievement, advocating for legislative convergence while respecting regional legal diversity. The declaration calls for enhanced constitutional education, modernization of estate practices, protection of environmental justice, and greater enforcement of CARICOM nationals’ rights under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. It specifically encourages ethical technology integration within judicial systems and recognizes the vital role of legislatures, academia, and media in juridical development.

    The Declaration will be publicly available on the CCJ Academy’s website, with the next conference anticipated for November 2027.

  • St. Lucians vote for a new government on Monday

    St. Lucians vote for a new government on Monday

    Citizens of St. Lucia are heading to the polls on Monday, December 1st, in a crucial general election that will determine the political trajectory of this Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation. The electoral contest presents a direct confrontation between Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre’s incumbent St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the main opposition United Workers Party (UWP), led by former Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.

    Prime Minister Pierre, 71, called the election nearly a year before the constitutional deadline, expressing confidence that the SLP will maintain or even surpass its current majority of 13 seats secured in the July 2021 elections. In his final appeal to voters on social media, Pierre emphasized continued progress under his administration, invoking spiritual guidance with references to Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”

    Opposition leader Chastanet, 65, seeks to reverse his party’s previous electoral defeat, campaigning on a platform of hope and change. Addressing supporters at his party’s final rally in Choiseul, Chastanet positioned the UWP within a broader regional trend, noting recent victories by “yellow” parties across the Caribbean, including in Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    The electoral landscape features 44 nominated candidates alongside eight independents, with political observers noting particularly competitive races in constituencies where government ministers Richard Frederick and Stephenson King are seeking reelection as independents after previously winning as UWP members before aligning with the SLP.

    The St. Lucia Electoral Department reports approximately 180,000 registered voters for this election, with Chief Elections Officer Herman St. Helen noting a significant surge in registrations following the November 9th election announcement, particularly among young voters. The Department maintains full preparedness to ensure a free and fair electoral process, including addressing allegations of corruption through legal channels when necessary.

    International observer missions from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of American States (OAS) will monitor the electoral process, underscoring its regional significance. The outcome will determine whether St. Lucia continues its current development path or embraces a new political direction for the next five years.

  • The next direct flight from Russia to Venezuela is still scheduled

    The next direct flight from Russia to Venezuela is still scheduled

    A scheduled commercial flight from St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport to Caracas operated by Venezuelan carrier Conviasa remains listed without cancellation notices, despite escalating military tensions in the region. This development occurs alongside significant US military movements near Venezuelan territory.

    On Saturday, US President Donald Trump formally announced the closure of airspace over Venezuela, citing counter-narcotics operations as justification. Simultaneously, the US Navy has deployed a substantial strike group to the Caribbean Sea, including the advanced aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, nuclear submarine capabilities, and approximately 16,000 military personnel.

    Recent months have seen intensified military actions in the region, with US Armed Forces reporting the sinking of at least 20 speedboats in Caribbean and Pacific waters since September, resulting in over 80 casualties. Multiple US media outlets have circulated reports suggesting potential imminent attacks against Venezuelan territory.

    The situation escalated significantly on November 27 when President Trump declared Washington’s intention to initiate armed operations within Venezuelan territory, maintaining the official pretext of combating drug trafficking. Many international observers interpret these actions as a transparent justification for attempting to overthrow the current Bolivarian government led by Nicolás Maduro.