The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Development Fund (CDF) has authorized a $500,000 relief package to assist Jamaica in recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The decision was formally approved by the CDF’s Board of Directors on November 19, 2025, under the Emergency Disaster Assistance Facility (EDAF), as announced by CARICOM Communications. This funding follows an earlier $300,000 grant allocated to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s (CDEMA) Regional Response Mechanism (RRM), which facilitated the deployment of the Rapid Needs Assessment Team (RNAT) to assess the damage. Hurricane Melissa, a powerful late-season storm, caused widespread destruction across Jamaica, including severe flooding, wind damage, and infrastructure collapse. Many parishes reported significant disruptions to transportation, utilities, and community services, exacerbating vulnerabilities and hindering recovery efforts. The newly approved aid will focus on debris removal, reopening critical access routes, and addressing public health and environmental risks. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Multi-Country Office in Jamaica. CDF CEO Rodinald Soomer emphasized the Fund’s commitment to regional solidarity, stating, ‘This relief package reflects our belief in shared responsibility and aims to not only rebuild but also strengthen resilience against future disasters.’
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Belize Considering Temporary Residency for Foreign Investors
The Briceño Administration in Belize is set to launch a temporary residency program aimed at attracting foreign investors, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the nation’s business environment. This initiative, spearheaded by the Prime Minister’s Office, seeks to streamline bureaucratic processes and position Belize as a more competitive destination for investment in the region.
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Crowds March as Babonneau Candidates Declare: ‘We’re Ready’
The Babonneau constituency in Saint Lucia is set to elect a new parliamentary representative on December 1, following the formal nomination filings of John Paul Estephane from the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and Titus Preville from the United Workers Party (UWP) on Friday. The nomination process took place at the Babonneau Secondary School, where both candidates were accompanied by enthusiastic supporters marching from their respective constituency offices. Both Estephane and Preville expressed unwavering confidence in securing victory in the upcoming general election. Estephane, who was confirmed as the SLP candidate in late August, replacing outgoing MP Virginia Albert-Poyotte, emphasized his deep-rooted connection to the community. ‘I have been with the people. I am a community man, a humble person. A lot of people know me,’ he stated, attributing his strong support to the SLP administration’s efforts and the popularity of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. Preville, greeted by jubilant UWP supporters, highlighted his party’s ambitious proposals, including youth-focused mortgage programs, $25,000 business grants, and measures to reduce the cost of food and fuel. He also criticized the current government for its governance failures, particularly the absence of Citizenship by Investment (CIP) reports. Preville promised transformative reforms if the UWP regains power, vowing to address rising living costs and implement universal health insurance. ‘We are on the cusp of a revolutionary change in Saint Lucia,’ he declared.
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CARICOM about to “Implode”? Prime Ministers Clash
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is on the brink of internal conflict as tensions escalate between Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. Persad-Bissessar has issued a stark warning, suggesting that CARICOM’s collapse is imminent. This follows accusations by Gonsalves that financiers linked to Trinidad’s ruling United National Congress (UNC) are supporting his political opponents ahead of St Vincent’s upcoming November 27 election. Gonsalves claimed that UNC-affiliated supporters are already in his country, allegedly driven by economic motives, given Trinidad’s struggling economy compared to St Vincent’s rapid growth. Persad-Bissessar vehemently denied these allegations, countering with questions about how members of Gonsalves’ family acquired three luxury apartments in Trinidad. She labeled his accusations as ironic, given the ongoing investigation into the matter. Persad-Bissessar also challenged Gonsalves to provide evidence or cease misleading his citizens. She further highlighted that some regional leaders have been involved in elections beyond their borders. Despite the turmoil, Persad-Bissessar recently reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to CARICOM, even as her government seeks stronger ties with non-regional nations.
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Chastanet Puts Pierre on Notice: ‘The people are ready for change’
Allen Chastanet, Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) and candidate for Micoud South, has expressed confidence in his party’s readiness for the upcoming general election in Saint Lucia. After finalizing his candidacy on Nomination Day, Chastanet emphasized that the people of Saint Lucia are eager for change, signaling a shift in momentum. He believes the UWP is well-positioned to regain voter trust and steer the nation toward a new direction. Chastanet, one of only two UWP candidates to secure victory in the 2021 elections, asserted that the current administration has failed to deliver on its promises, warning that conditions could deteriorate further. He noted an encouraging surge of support in the lead-up to the December 1 election, with previously silent voters now actively engaging in the campaign. Chastanet also criticized the Labour Party’s governance style, accusing them of deepening societal divisions and blurring the lines between party and state. He claimed that state resources are being weaponized for political gain, citing the politicization of public ceremonies as evidence. Addressing his constituents in Micoud South, Chastanet highlighted his track record as former Prime Minister, pledging to prioritize job creation, infrastructure development, new tourism projects, and the construction of a farmers’ market in Anse Ger. The UWP is set to unveil its election manifesto at a rally in La Caye, Dennery, on November 23. Chastanet concluded with a bold statement, declaring that the people of Saint Lucia have had enough and are ready for a transformative change.
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Miss DSC Mas Jamboree back after five-year hiatus, contestants revealed
Dominica State College (DSC) has officially introduced the six young women vying for the coveted Miss DSC Mas Jamboree 2026 title. The announcement was made during a sashing ceremony held on November 20, marking the official commencement of the pageant journey. The event served as a platform for the contestants to present themselves to the college community and select their competition numbers, which will determine their order during the show. The contestants include Kalie Clarke (#1), Nina Browne (#2), Mikkedia Joseph (#3), Nathalia Christmas (#4), Sherkhia Andrew (#5), and Kenisha Demezin (#6). This year’s competition will feature six distinct stages, including a formal interview, allowing participants to demonstrate their personality, cultural pride, talent, confidence, and public speaking abilities. The 2026 edition marks the return of Miss DSC Mas Jamboree to Dominica’s Carnival lineup after a five-year hiatus, underscoring DSC’s commitment to student development, cultural celebration, and youth empowerment. The college is encouraging local businesses, organizations, and individuals to sponsor contestants by contacting the DSC Student Affairs Department. DSC extended its best wishes to all participants as they embark on their journey to claim the prestigious crown.
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Residents urged to Guard Against Cybercrime
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a stern warning to the public regarding a surge in cybercrime incidents, urging heightened vigilance during online transactions. Reports have emerged of individuals being defrauded and having their personal information compromised, prompting an ongoing investigation into these fraudulent activities. Scammers are reportedly posing as government officials, soliciting credit top-ups or requesting sensitive personal and financial details from unsuspecting victims. The Police Administration has emphasized the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any individual or agency before sharing information or making payments. To combat these threats, the police have outlined several safety measures: avoiding the disclosure of personal information to unknown contacts, refraining from sending money to unverified individuals, regularly updating passwords, and monitoring financial accounts for suspicious activity. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious behavior to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) or their nearest police station. The Royal Police Force remains committed to protecting citizens and mitigating the risks posed by cybercriminals.
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Why Belize’s $1M Lottery Winners Remain a Secret
Nearly a year after Belize Government Lotteries Limited awarded a million-dollar jackpot to fourteen winners, their identities remain shrouded in secrecy. This decision has ignited a heated debate about transparency and accountability within the national lottery system. Critics question whether withholding the winners’ names undermines public trust in the process. Narda Garcia, CEO of the Ministry of Investment, defended the policy during a recent press briefing. She emphasized the need for confidentiality to protect winners from potential harm, citing crime as a significant concern in Belize. ‘We cannot, we don’t want to disclose winners for obvious reasons. The last time, fourteen winners were asked to collect their checks privately to avoid any negative repercussions,’ Garcia explained. She also highlighted the ministry’s commitment to financial transparency, noting that audited financial statements are presented annually to the National Assembly and Senate. Despite the controversy, the ministry maintains that the lottery process has been conducted with integrity and fairness.
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Major Legislative Reforms to Strengthen Domestic Violence Protections
In a landmark move to bolster protections for domestic violence survivors, the Government of Belize has unveiled a comprehensive legislative reform package. The initiative, announced on November 21, 2025, introduces two pivotal bills: the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Justices of the Peace (Amendment) Bill, 2025. These reforms aim to address critical gaps in emergency protection, particularly during nights, weekends, and holidays when risks are heightened. Minister of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, Thea Garcia-Ramirez, spearheaded the introduction of these bills in the House of Representatives, aligning with the National Gender-Based Violence Action Plan (2024–2030). A key feature of the amendments empowers Select Senior Justices of the Peace (JPs) to issue ex parte interim protection orders in urgent situations, especially when magistrates are unavailable. These temporary orders, valid for up to 72 hours, provide immediate safeguards for victims and children, with violations punishable by fines or imprisonment. The Justices of the Peace (Amendment) Bill outlines stringent vetting and training requirements for Senior JPs, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications and ethical standards. Additionally, the legislation mandates the creation of private, confidential reporting spaces in police stations nationwide, enhancing accessibility for survivors in rural and remote areas. These reforms are part of a broader national effort, including the establishment of a one-stop support center in Belize City, expanded training for law enforcement, and public awareness campaigns. Minister Garcia-Ramirez emphasized that these measures are not a replacement for the judicial system but a vital bridge to safety for those in immediate danger.
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Pierre Thanks Castries East Backers as He Seeks to Break Election Trend
Philip J. Pierre, leader of the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), shifted the focus of nomination day celebrations to his loyal supporters rather than his own political ambitions. Pierre, who has held the Castries East parliamentary seat since 1997, is determined to defy the trend that has seen every prime minister since 2006 fail to secure consecutive terms. The last leader to achieve this feat was Kenny Anthony in 2001. Pierre, affectionately known as the ‘Six-Star General’ by his party, expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his constituents, emphasizing that their faith in him over the decades has been both humbling and motivating. He recounted how a woman who signed his nomination papers in 1992 remains a steadfast supporter, symbolizing the enduring bond he shares with his community. Pierre also addressed the challenges faced by his supporters, who often face ridicule and questions about their loyalty. He highlighted his ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure in his constituency, including sports venues and a craft market, while stressing that broader national progress under his leadership benefits Castries East as well. Ahead of the SLP’s election manifesto release, Pierre expressed confidence in his administration’s record, citing documented achievements over the past four and a half years as proof of their commitment to delivering on promises.