Asis Gajadien, leader of the VHP parliamentary faction, has launched a scathing critique of Suriname’s government over its handling of the recent sale of 7.95% Cash/PIK Notes maturing in 2033. Gajadien asserts that the transaction was executed without adhering to the legal requirements governing the issuance, modification, or repayment of state debt. He emphasizes that all debt operations, whether issuing new bonds or repaying existing ones, must be pre-approved in the National Debt Plan and authorized by a government decree. Gajadien further argues that if repayment is facilitated through new borrowing, such financing must also be included in the Debt Plan beforehand. He deems it unacceptable that these decisions were not discussed with the National Assembly in advance, stressing that transactions impacting public debt should not occur behind closed doors. While acknowledging that the operation could potentially reduce debt if Suriname secures cheaper financing, Gajadien warns of the risks of costlier loans or opaque fees, which could exacerbate the debt burden. The total outstanding amount exceeds USD 693 million, with the tender process in New York concluding today and settlements scheduled for November 4. Gajadien recalls proposals made earlier this year for transparent and structured exploration of such opportunities, which were never acted upon. He criticizes the government’s lack of transparency, which fuels speculation and undermines public trust, and calls for immediate disclosure of transaction details, including amounts, interest rates, and fees. Gajadien warns of requesting an urgent Assembly meeting if the government fails to provide the necessary information, underscoring the importance of transparency in maintaining confidence in Suriname’s debt management.
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Dominican Embassy strengthens ties with diaspora in southern Chile
The Embassy of the Dominican Republic recently embarked on a significant outreach initiative across southern Chile, visiting key locations such as Puerto Montt, Valdivia, and Chiloé. Led by Ambassador Juan Cohen, the delegation aimed to strengthen connections with the Dominican diaspora and reinforce the nation’s presence in the region. The tour adopted a dynamic ‘diplomacy in motion’ approach, engaging directly with the community to address their concerns, aspirations, and proposals. A central focus of the visit was the expansion of mobile consular services, designed to provide government support to Dominicans residing in remote areas. The mission also included a series of cultural and diplomatic activities, such as participation in the IV International Meeting ‘The Rivers to the World’ in Valdivia and the VI Meeting of Cultures in Puerto Montt, which showcased the Dominican Republic’s vibrant Caribbean identity. Additionally, the delegation held strategic meetings with local institutions, including the Presidential Delegation, Fosis, Sernac, and the Social Security Institute, to enhance inter-institutional cooperation and develop initiatives benefiting the Dominican community. The outreach was widely praised by attendees, with residents like Ursula Ramirez expressing gratitude for the unprecedented level of engagement and support from their diplomatic representation.
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Opposition Leader welcomes Nov. 27 election date
The political landscape in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has intensified with the announcement of the general election date, set for Thursday, November 27. Opposition Leader Godwin Friday, head of the New Democratic Party (NDP), welcomed the news with a play on words, noting that the following day, Friday, holds significance both as his surname and as a potential turning point for the nation. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves during a rally for his ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) in Kingstown, where he also declared the immediate dissolution of Parliament and set November 10 as nomination day. Friday, addressing his supporters in Calliaqua, emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, framing it as a critical choice for the country’s future. He criticized the current government as ‘tired and out-of-touch,’ advocating for a shift toward economic development centered on tourism, agriculture, the blue economy, and innovation. The election comes shortly after the nation celebrated its 46th anniversary of independence, adding a layer of historical significance to the political contest. Both leaders are gearing up for a fierce campaign, with Gonsalves aiming for an unprecedented sixth term and Friday seeking to unseat him after a failed attempt in 2020.
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Agribusiness : Haitian cocoa at the World Chocolate Fair in Paris
From October 29 to November 2, 2025, Haitian cocoa will be prominently featured at the 30th edition of the World Chocolate Fair (Salon Mondial du Chocolat) in Paris. This prestigious event, held at the Porte de Versailles, will showcase the unique flavors and rich heritage of Haitian cocoa, supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the Project for Strengthening Agricultural Opportunities through Training and Technological Investment (P.R.O.F.I.T.), funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Key stakeholders from Haiti’s southern cocoa sector, including Ayitika, Kaleos S.A., Kaûna, Ralph Leroy, the Ddaga Departmental Directorate of Agriculture, and Geonova, will participate to exhibit and sell cocoa products and derivatives, highlighting the economic potential of this crop. Companies like Kaleos, Kaûna, and Leroy Chocolat will present a range of cocoa-based products, including chocolate bars, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, hot chocolate, and the world premiere of the gluten-free ‘Choucoune’ biscuit made with breadfruit flour and cocoa. Haitian cocoa, primarily the Criollo and Trinitario varieties, is celebrated for its exceptional quality and historical significance. Criollo, known for its sweet flavor and aromatic richness, boasts a purity exceeding 90%. These varieties, introduced to Haiti by the Taíno people during the pre-Columbian era, are highly prized by European chocolatiers and fine pastry chefs. In 2023, cocoa ranked as Haiti’s second-largest primary export, with annual production of 5,000 tons generating approximately $8 million in revenue. However, less than 10% of Haiti’s total cocoa production is exported as fermented cocoa, underscoring the untapped potential of this industry.
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Highway murder accused remanded
A 21-year-old man, Jabari Rashawn Waterman, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance at the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. Waterman, a resident of St Barnabas Road, St Michael, faces charges for the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Shaquon Chandler-Wray, which occurred a week prior on Monday. Additionally, he is accused of using a firearm during the commission of the crime. Represented by attorney Damien Sands, Waterman was unable to enter a plea for the indictable charges before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes. His remand has been extended until November 25. The tragic incident took place on the ABC Highway at the St Barnabas pedestrian crossing, where Chandler-Wray sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
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Dominican Republic climbs 11 places in World Justice Project Rule of Law Index
The Dominican Republic has demonstrated exceptional progress in fortifying the rule of law, ascending 11 positions to secure the 76th spot out of 143 countries in the 2025 World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index. This achievement represents the most significant global improvement, with a notable increase of 2.1%. The nation’s overall score advanced from 0.49 to 0.50, underscoring advancements in critical domains such as constraints on governmental authority, civil justice, and criminal justice. The WJP, an autonomous international initiative, assesses the extent to which nations adhere to the principles of the rule of law in everyday life, evaluating factors like corruption absence, justice accessibility, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights. Luis Henry Molina, President of the Supreme Court, attributed this progress to the relentless efforts of judges and court personnel in fostering a justice system characterized by transparency, efficiency, and a human-centric approach. Criminal justice reforms have been pivotal, with marked enhancements in due process, non-discrimination, procedural efficiency, and corruption mitigation, largely due to the national criminal case management system and collaborative efforts through the Inter-institutional Criminal Justice Roundtable. Additionally, the expansion of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including mediation and settlements, has significantly alleviated court backlogs and bolstered public confidence. The report ranks the Dominican Republic among the top 16 nations in Latin America and the Caribbean, showcasing a consistent trajectory of institutional reinforcement since 2019. The Justice of the Future 2034 vision aims to further cultivate a justice system that is agile, accessible, transparent, and trusted by the populace.
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“We will also emerge victorious from this new challenge”
In a significant address this Tuesday, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, a pivotal figure in the Cuban Revolution, conveyed a message to the National Defense Council. Castro highlighted his ongoing oversight of the measures implemented to counteract the impacts of Hurricane Melissa. He expressed his approval of the Council’s diligent efforts and the high level of preparedness achieved. Castro stressed the importance of sustained vigilance and strict discipline during both the hurricane and the subsequent recovery period. Furthermore, he voiced his unwavering belief in the nation’s ability to triumph over this latest challenge, reinforcing his confidence in the resilience and unity of the Cuban people.
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Camilo is time itself
The story of Camilo, a revolutionary figure whose life and legacy continue to inspire generations, is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. Born into humble beginnings, Camilo grew up in a modest household, where he developed a strong sense of empathy and a desire to protect the vulnerable. Despite financial hardships that forced him to leave the San Alejandro Academy, he balanced his education with tailoring work, demonstrating his determination to persevere against all odds.
At the age of 21, Camilo joined protests against a corrupt regime, an act that marked the beginning of his revolutionary journey. Targeted by repressive forces, he was forced into exile, but his spirit remained unbroken. He returned to his homeland, only to be exiled again, eventually joining a revolutionary group that would change the course of history. In a daring and arduous journey, he returned to Cuba aboard a yacht designed for tourists, which carried 82 expedition members, including himself.
Camilo’s pivotal moment came when he landed with Fidel Castro, joining his guerrilla column and remaining by his side throughout the revolutionary struggle. His leadership and bravery earned him the title ‘Lord of the Vanguard,’ and he played a crucial role in the eventual triumph of the revolution. Camilo’s life was cut short, but his legacy lives on, immortalized in the hearts of the Cuban people.
Every year, the nation mourns his physical absence by flooding rivers, coastlines, and reservoirs with flowers, a tradition that symbolizes his enduring presence. Camilo’s story transcends time, as he has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unyielding fight for justice. His legacy is a testament to the power of conviction and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge oppression.
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Politic : The Government mobilized in response to Hurricane Melissa
In a proactive response to the impending threat of Hurricane Melissa, the Haitian government has launched a comprehensive emergency plan to safeguard its citizens. On October 28, 2025, the National Emergency Operations Center (COUN) convened a press conference during the 27th annual ‘Tuesdays of the Nation’ event to disseminate critical safety guidelines, particularly targeting residents in the vulnerable Southern Peninsula region. Hurricane Melissa, classified as a Category 5 storm, is advancing at 15 km/h, with wind gusts peaking at 295 km/h and projected rainfall exceeding 42 cm. These severe conditions pose significant risks of flooding, landslides, and river overflow. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, the National Committee for Risk and Disaster Management (CNGRD) has implemented urgent measures to mitigate the storm’s impact. The government has activated the Emergency Relief Fund (ERF) in affected areas, established operational reception centers, pre-positioned hygiene and food supplies, and initiated cash transfers via mobile money accounts to assist vulnerable families. A coordinated effort involving multiple ministries—Public Works, Transport and Communications, Economy and Finance, Social Affairs and Labor, Environment, Agriculture, and Public Health—is underway to minimize casualties and property damage.
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Su Aid wil SRD 10 miljoen ophalen voor hematologische zorg SVZ
Stichting Su Aid has unveiled its 11th fundraising initiative, aiming to raise SRD 10 million to support the Hematology Department at Sint Vincentius Hospital (SVZ). The department, which treats patients with conditions such as anemia, blood cancer, and sickle cell disease, is in urgent need of renovation, expansion, and modernization. A significant portion of the funds will be allocated to acquiring state-of-the-art medical equipment to enhance the quality of care. The campaign was officially launched during a press conference at SVZ on Tuesday, where Su Aid and the hospital signed a collaboration agreement. The fundraising drive will run from November 3 to December 21, with donations easily made by sending an SMS to 1919, contributing SRD 25 per message. Hematologist Nicole Oldenstam highlighted that the department has already conducted 3,327 treatments this year, compared to 2,538 in 2024. Annually, approximately 150 sickle cell disease patients are admitted, while blood cancer treatments have surged from 75 in 2023 to 265 in 2024 (as of September). To create a safe and dignified care environment, over €200,000 is required. The plans also include constructing specialized rooms for blood cancer patients, allowing them to spend their final days close to their families if necessary.