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  • Wickham not surprised by NDP’s election victory

    Wickham not surprised by NDP’s election victory

    In a seismic political shift that has redrawn the Caribbean nation’s political landscape, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has decisively ended Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves’ nearly quarter-century rule. The November 27 general elections resulted in a stunning 14-1 parliamentary victory for the opposition, marking one of the most dramatic political transitions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ recent history.

    Prominent Barbadian pollster Peter Wickham, who served as an analyst for the defeated Unity Labour Party (ULP), revealed the outcome aligned perfectly with his electoral projections. “The results are certainly consistent with my science,” Wickham commented during a state-sponsored broadcast analysis. “While it could easily have not happened this way, the science suggested this was entirely possible.”

    The electoral devastation saw the ULP retain just one seat—Prime Minister Gonsalves’ own North Central Windward constituency, which he has held since 1994. Among the notable casualties were Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar and Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves, both considered potential successors to the longtime leader. Caesar failed to secure a fourth consecutive term, while the younger Gonsalves lost his bid for a third term.

    Wickham, whose career as a political analyst coincided exactly with Gonsalves’ time in power, described the moment as historically significant. “I’ve watched the evolution of this career with great interest,” he reflected. “St. Vincent has always been very close to me, and I’m now anxious to see how Dr. Friday is able to take over.”

    The victorious NDP, led by Dr. Godwin Friday, achieved a remarkable electoral performance, garnering 37,002 popular votes—nearly 10,000 more than the ULP. This represents the most decisive victory by any political party in terms of seat count since 1989, when the NDP won all 15 parliamentary seats. Friday, who has represented Northern Grenadines since 2001, succeeded on his second attempt at leadership after failing to unseat the ULP in 2020.

    The political transition marks the end of an era that began in 2001 when Gonsalves’ ULP ended 17 years of NDP governance. Wickham noted the philosophical acceptance of political change, stating: “Politics is about change, and I understand there will be an ebb and flow. The NDP could not stay out of office forever.”

  • Cuba rejects US naval blockade of Venezuela

    Cuba rejects US naval blockade of Venezuela

    Cuban leadership has issued a forceful condemnation of the United States’ announced naval blockade against Venezuela, characterizing the move as a severe violation of international law and an escalation of hostilities against the Bolivarian government.

    President Miguel Diaz-Canel utilized social media platform X to deliver Cuba’s official position, stating unequivocally, “We strongly reject the naval blockade of Venezuela by the US government.” The Cuban head of state further emphasized Havana’s “firm support for President Nicolas Maduro, the Bolivarian and Chavista Revolution, and its Popular-Military Union.”

    The diplomatic offensive continued with Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla echoing the president’s sentiments on the same platform. Rodriguez expressed Cuba’s “full support for the statement published by the Venezuelan government,” which formally challenges and denounces the US measure. The foreign minister provided legal context to Cuba’s opposition, labeling the blockade “a grave violation of international law and an escalation of aggression against the Bolivarian government.”

    Rodriguez concluded with a reaffirmation of Cuba’s diplomatic stance, proclaiming “our full and unwavering support for the constitutional President Nicolas Maduro, the Bolivarian and Chavista Revolution, and its Popular-Military Union.” The coordinated messaging from both Cuba’s executive and diplomatic branches signals a unified front in opposition to US policy toward Venezuela and represents the latest development in ongoing tensions between Washington and the Caracas-Havana alliance.

  • Antigua in discussions with US on new immigration measure

    Antigua in discussions with US on new immigration measure

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated urgent diplomatic discussions with United States authorities following President Donald Trump’s executive order imposing visa restrictions on nationals from several CARICOM countries. The Caribbean nation finds itself included in the travel limitations due to concerns regarding its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

    Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders confirmed ongoing negotiations with the U.S. State Department, seeking clarification on visa statuses for citizens who obtained documentation prior to December 2025. The diplomatic efforts aim to address the specific concern raised by the Trump administration regarding historical absence of residency requirements within Antigua and Barbuda’s investment migration program.

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed profound disappointment with the proclamation, asserting that the characterization of Antigua and Barbuda’s CBI program fails to reflect current legislative realities. Browne emphasized that over the past year, his administration has collaborated extensively with multiple U.S. government agencies to implement robust safeguards within the citizenship program.

    Substantial reforms have been enacted through comprehensive new legislation strengthening due diligence protocols, transparency measures, information-sharing mechanisms, and enforcement procedures. Most significantly, the updated laws now mandate a 30-day physical residency requirement as a strict condition for citizenship qualification—directly contradicting the U.S. administration’s stated rationale for the restrictions.

    Notably, U.S. State Department officials reportedly expressed surprise regarding the proclamation’s issuance, indicating possible internal coordination gaps within the American government. Prime Browne has committed to pursuing both diplomatic channels and direct correspondence with President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to resolve the situation.

    The Trump administration’s executive order cites security concerns regarding CBI programs, arguing they could potentially enable individuals from restricted nations to circumvent travel limitations through citizenship acquisition. Historical susceptibility to identity concealment and financial evasion risks were additionally cited as justification for the policy implementation.

    Antigua and Barbuda values its longstanding relationship with the United States, which represents its most significant trading partner. The government has pledged to employ all available diplomatic means to preserve bilateral relations founded on mutual respect and accurate understanding of recently implemented immigration safeguards.

  • Wet Openbaarheid van Bestuur kent lange voorgeschiedenis

    Wet Openbaarheid van Bestuur kent lange voorgeschiedenis

    A significant political discourse has emerged in Suriname regarding the long-pending Wet Openbaarheid van Bestuur (WOB) or Law on Government Transparency, revealing a complex legislative history that predates current political claims. Contrary to recent assertions by VHP faction leader Asis Gajadien, historical records indicate the transparency legislation concept originated from Soewarto Moestadja during his tenure as Acting Minister of Home Affairs in the first Bouterse cabinet.

    The initial draft, developed in 2014, was formally submitted to Parliament in 2016. Moestadja, now an NDP member and former parliamentarian, disclosed that he had already prepared a preliminary version during the 2010-2015 governing period under then-Vice President Robert Ameerali. This early proposal underwent two deliberations in the Council of Ministers before its parliamentary submission.

    Political obstacles, particularly from the then-VHP opposition, prevented substantive discussion of the legislation until after the 2020 government transition. Following the political shift, the VHP—now part of the governing coalition—developed an alternative WOB concept. Moestadja emphasized that two distinct legislative proposals existed simultaneously, challenging Gajadien’s characterization of the initiative as solely his own.

    The VHP’s version also faced implementation challenges during the previous governing period. While parliamentary committees under Gajadien’s leadership attempted to advance the process through interactive sessions with civil society groups, progress stalled due to absenteeism among opposition members, particularly from the NDP.

    Expert assessment revealed substantial criticisms from consulted specialists and organizations including the Citizen Initiative, Surinamese Association of Journalists (SVJ), public administration expert August Boldewijn, and former Vice President Ameerali. The consensus indicated the proposal required comprehensive redesign. An evaluation by the regional Centre for Law and Democracy further confirmed deficiencies, noting insufficient scores on legal and democratic criteria.

    In January 2025, four months before the May 2025 elections, Gajadien submitted an amended version renamed the Wet Openbaarheid van Bestuursinformatie (Law on Transparency of Government Information). Moestadja contextualized this development within Suriname’s broader legislative challenges, noting that three labor laws he proposed as Labor Minister similarly remained unaddressed—even during NDP-led governments.

  • UPP concerned about US visa sanctions, blames government mismanagement of CBI Programme

    UPP concerned about US visa sanctions, blames government mismanagement of CBI Programme

    The United Progressive Party (UPP) has characterized recent US-imposed visa restrictions on Dominican nationals as a catastrophic failure of governance, accusing the administration of jeopardizing national security through inadequate management of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

    In a strongly-worded declaration, the opposition party asserted that President Donald Trump’s suspension of immigrant entry and restrictions on B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visas directly resulted from governmental negligence. The UPP maintains that despite official assurances of rigorous screening protocols, the administration prioritized economic gains over effective due diligence, ultimately compelling American authorities to designate Dominican passports as security liabilities.

    According to the party’s analysis, the repercussions extend far beyond diplomatic spheres, creating tangible hardships for citizens across multiple sectors. Students confront disrupted academic trajectories in American institutions, families experience heightened barriers to reunification, and business professionals face constrained international mobility. The UPP further warned that Dominica’s regional standing within the Caribbean community has been significantly compromised, potentially affecting future cooperation and economic opportunities.

    Characterizing the situation as a generational crisis, the opposition outlined a comprehensive recovery plan demanding full transparency regarding CBI program failures, immediate collaboration with US authorities to address security concerns, and substantial reforms to align vetting procedures with international standards. The party additionally called for establishing a bipartisan commission to investigate the program’s management and ensure accountability for those responsible.

    The UPP concluded that only through fundamentally reformed leadership committed to integrity could Dominica restore its international reputation, emphasizing that the nation’s future depends on urgent governmental accountability.

  • Digital Nomad Summit Santo Domingo 2026 positions Dominican Republic as the “Japan of the Caribbean” for Global Talent, Capital, and Innovation

    Digital Nomad Summit Santo Domingo 2026 positions Dominican Republic as the “Japan of the Caribbean” for Global Talent, Capital, and Innovation

    SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The Caribbean nation is poised to transform its economic landscape through the Digital Nomad Summit (DNS) 2026, scheduled for August 6-7 at Hotel Catalonia Santo Domingo. Organized by Successment, this exclusive gathering will bring together 200-300 global innovators across startup ecosystems, real estate development, mobility solutions, and tourism infrastructure.

    Unlike conventional conferences, DNS 2026 represents a strategic economic convergence point where international founders, investors, policy architects, and Dominican entrepreneurs will collaborate to establish a globally competitive innovation ecosystem. Jonathan Joel Mentor, Founder of Digital Nomad Summit and CEO of Successment, emphasized the summit’s substantive nature: “This is not a lifestyle retreat. DNS represents the convergence of capital, policy, and operational expertise to build scalable enterprises and sustainable economic infrastructure. We’re positioning the Dominican Republic as the ‘Japan of the Caribbean’ – efficient, export-oriented, and globally competitive.”

    The selection of Santo Domingo reflects the city’s emerging status as a hub for distributed work and investment, bolstered by expanding digital infrastructure, strategic geographic positioning, and a growing startup community. The summit aims to accelerate this momentum through structured collaboration between public-sector leadership, private capital, and international operational talent.

    DNS 2026 is organized around three foundational pillars:

    Startup Innovation: Featuring Founder Growth Labs utilizing RevOps Science® methodology, a Global Startup Showcase, and curated investor access programs.

    Real Estate & Mobility: Addressing residency and tax optimization strategies, developer deal rooms, and ecosystem-scale housing solutions.

    Tourism 3.0: Reimagining tourism as economic infrastructure through workforce mobility, innovation pipelines, and public-private alignment.

    A highlight will be the introduction of ZARI Mobility™, a Caribbean-developed mobility-data platform from Successment Venture Labs, with early angel investment opportunities exclusively available to DNS participants.

    The event will feature senior representatives from both U.S. and Dominican governments, alongside digital nomad influencers collectively reaching over 600,000 followers. Dominican Today, the nation’s premier English-language publication, serves as flagship media partner with 1.2 million monthly readers globally.

    Attendance is deliberately limited to maintain high-quality deal flow and policy access, targeting remote founders seeking market entry, LATAM/Caribbean entrepreneurs pursuing international capital, investors targeting early-stage ventures, and public-sector leaders implementing innovation-driven growth models.

    Early-bird registration is currently available for qualified attendees, anchor sponsors, and institutional partners through the official website: https://www.digitalnomadsummit.co/

  • Santiago strengthens tourism with Monument Restoration and City Brand plan

    Santiago strengthens tourism with Monument Restoration and City Brand plan

    Santiago de los Caballeros is undergoing a significant transformation as authorities accelerate a dual-focused initiative combining heritage conservation with strategic city branding. The comprehensive rehabilitation of the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration marks a cornerstone effort to enhance the city’s cultural appeal while establishing Santiago as a premier tourist destination in the Dominican Republic.

    This ambitious project operates under a multi-institutional collaboration framework led by the Ministry of Tourism, with key participation from Compromiso Santiago and the Santiago Tourist Destination Cluster. Technical expertise is provided by the National Directorate of Monumental Heritage and the General Directorate of Museums, ensuring professional oversight of all conservation work.

    The monument’s restoration encompasses multiple critical interventions including structural reinforcement, material conservation, and modernization of electrical and lighting infrastructure. Significant enhancements are underway at the Angel of Peace viewpoint, alongside comprehensive upgrades to security systems and visitor facilities. The modernization extends to museum exhibits and improvements to restroom facilities and institutional stores, collectively designed to elevate both conservation standards and tourist experiences.

    Concurrently, the Santiago City Brand initiative is gaining momentum through targeted promotional campaigns and stakeholder engagement strategies. This branding effort involves collaboration with private sector entities, academic institutions, and local communities to develop a cohesive identity. Implementation includes updated signage at cultural landmarks and strategic tourist locations, complemented by active participation in national and international tourism fairs. International branding expert Andy Stalman provides specialized consultancy to ensure world-class brand development under the Ministry of Tourism’s guidance.

    This integrated approach represents a strategic investment in Santiago’s cultural patrimony and economic development, positioning the city for increased tourism and enhanced global recognition.

  • Haitian merchants block Pedernales border to protest new customs measures

    Haitian merchants block Pedernales border to protest new customs measures

    PEDERNALES, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Cross-border commerce between Haiti and the Dominican Republic ground to a halt on Tuesday as Haitian merchants staged a blockade at the Pedernales frontier crossing. The protest erupted in response to controversial new trade measures implemented by recently appointed customs collector Lancer García.

    Demonstrators strategically positioned a Haitian truck across the border passageway, effectively suspending all movement of goods and people between the two nations. The merchants allege that García has abruptly altered long-established trade protocols, including imposing previously unheard-of taxes that they claim severely undermine cross-border commercial activities.

    The administrative changes have extended beyond trade policies, affecting customs personnel as well. Multiple veteran employees have been replaced with new staff since García’s assignment to the Pedernales border terminal, creating additional institutional instability.

    Security forces from the Specialized Corps for Land Border Security (Cesfront) have maintained a heightened presence in the area, successfully preventing any significant violent outbreaks despite the tense standoff. Authorities continue to closely monitor developments to ensure the situation does not escalate further.

    This appointment represents García’s third border assignment amid ongoing controversies. Previously transferred from Puerto Plata to Dajabón following disputes with employees and political figures, he subsequently clashed with Haitian merchants in Dajabón over a 2.5% tax hike that ultimately prompted his reassignment. His replacement in Dajabón by attorney Julio Alejo this week has already contributed to restored calm at that northern border crossing.

  • PKF St. Kitts and Nevis – Accountants and Business Advisers Launches as Leading Accounting and Business Advisory Firm

    PKF St. Kitts and Nevis – Accountants and Business Advisers Launches as Leading Accounting and Business Advisory Firm

    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – December 15, 2025 – The professional services landscape in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has been significantly enhanced with the formal inauguration of PKF St. Kitts and Nevis – Accountants and Business Advisers. The prestigious launch ceremony took place on November 15, 2025, at the scenic Spice Mill venue on Cockleshell Beach, attracting prominent business executives, corporate allies, and distinguished guests to celebrate this milestone event.

    Operating since January 1, 2025, the new entity is spearheaded by Managing Partner Petal Parry and Partner Henry Joseph. This establishment strengthens PKF International’s global network, which maintains over 500 offices across 150 countries worldwide, delivering premium audit, taxation, advisory, and outsourced services to clients.

    Ms. Parry brings twenty years of comprehensive expertise spanning accounting, audit compliance, taxation, banking operations, and financial strategy formulation. She holds dual qualifications including a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Accounting from the University of the West Indies and an MBA in Finance from the University of Edinburgh. Her professional accreditations include Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS).

    Mr. Joseph contributes unparalleled experience with over five decades in the accounting field, having served PKF in various capacities throughout the Caribbean and international markets. He currently holds the position of Managing Partner at PKF Grenada and is similarly recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

    The PKF brand maintains a historical connection with St. Kitts and Nevis dating to the 1970s, when predecessor firms played instrumental roles in shaping the region’s accounting standards and supporting commercial growth during critical developmental phases. The new practice builds upon this legacy with reinforced dedication to operational excellence, ethical integrity, and innovative service delivery.

    During her inaugural address, Ms. Parry articulated the firm’s vision: ‘We are committed to providing practical, impactful solutions that enable businesses to achieve sustainable growth. Our approach integrates deep local market understanding with globally sourced resources to address contemporary challenges faced by modern enterprises.’

    Mr. Joseph elaborated on the firm’s progressive philosophy: ‘Contemporary auditing transcends traditional error correction—it now encompasses strategic problem identification that directly influences business expansion and profitability enhancement. We develop tailored methodologies that refine operational practices and position clients for success in an evolving global marketplace.’

    The firm operates from Units C21 and C35 at Sands Complex in Basseterre, with communications channels including info@pkfkn.com and telephone (869) 466-3600. Additional information is available at www.pkfcaribbean.com.

  • Government reinforces commitment to National Security with strong financial support for the financial year 2026

    Government reinforces commitment to National Security with strong financial support for the financial year 2026

    In a decisive move to strengthen national security capabilities, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced substantial financial backing for security enhancements in its 2026 budget. Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr. Terrance Drew unveiled the allocation during his December 16 budget presentation, emphasizing his administration’s dedication to citizen protection through strategic investments.

    The Ministry of National Security, Citizenship, and Immigration will receive $97.3 million in total funding, with resources directed toward three primary objectives: augmenting law enforcement capabilities, modernizing critical infrastructure, and implementing advanced security technologies. The comprehensive security package includes $84.1 million in recurrent expenditure alongside $3.2 million specifically designated for infrastructure development.

    Key initiatives encompass extensive refurbishment of police facilities, construction and upgrades for fire service operations, and procurement of essential equipment. Technological advancements will feature prominently through enhancements to closed-circuit surveillance networks, traffic management systems, and the National Security Technology Refresh Programme designed to modernize law enforcement infrastructure.

    Significant attention has been given to emergency response capabilities, with plans for demolishing and reconstructing the Basseterre Fire and Rescue facility. Simultaneously, Nevis will benefit from substantial fire service improvements including the acquisition of new firefighting apparatus and establishment of a second fire station to ensure adequate emergency coverage. The government will also implement specialized training programs to enhance the professionalism of Nevis firefighters.

    Prime Minister Drew characterized these measures as fundamental to maintaining public safety and national stability. “The safety and security of our citizens remain a top priority for this government,” he stated. “Through these strategic investments, we are reinforcing our commitment to law and order while ensuring our protective agencies are equipped to address contemporary and future challenges.”

    The administration asserts that these security enhancements will support the nation’s ongoing development while safeguarding community welfare across the federation.