Dominica is in mourning following the passing of Julius Timothy, a distinguished politician and businessman, who died on Sunday after a prolonged battle with heart disease. Timothy, a prominent figure in Dominica’s public life, held key ministerial roles, including Finance Minister and Minister of Health, and served as the Non-Resident Ambassador to Mexico. His career was marked by a pragmatic approach to governance and a steadfast commitment to national progress. Before his political journey, Timothy made significant contributions to the private sector as president of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce. A founding member of the United Workers’ Party, he later aligned with the Dominica Labour Party after a political realignment in 2005. Tributes from across the political spectrum have highlighted his unifying presence, calm demeanor, and sharp business acumen. Timothy’s legacy is remembered as one of bridging divides and fostering development in Dominica.
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Tropical Wave Brings Heavy Rain and Gusty Winds Across the Islands
A rapidly advancing tropical wave near the Windward Islands has triggered widespread showers and thunderstorms, prompting meteorologists to issue warnings of heavy rainfall and gusty winds across the Windward and Leeward Islands until Monday morning. The system, moving westward across the eastern Caribbean at a speed of 20–25 miles per hour, poses a significant risk of flash flooding in low-lying or poorly drained areas. Although the disturbance has not yet developed into a tropical cyclone, it is capable of producing brief but intense wind gusts and rough seas, particularly around thunderstorms. Regional authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and stay updated with local weather advisories as the tropical wave progresses further into the Caribbean. The public is advised to monitor official updates and prepare for potential disruptions caused by the adverse weather conditions.
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Warm en licht wisselvallig weer
On October 19, Suriname experienced predominantly warm and slightly variable weather conditions across much of the country. The morning began dry in many areas, with sunny intervals particularly noted in Paramaribo, Wanica, and Commewijne. However, as the day progressed, cloud cover increased, bringing the likelihood of localized rain showers and thunderstorms, especially along the coastal strip and parts of Saramacca, Para, and Commewijne. These showers, though brief, could be intense, accompanied by potential wind gusts. Inland regions, particularly towards Brokopondo and Sipaliwini, faced a higher chance of afternoon showers, which could persist longer. Daytime temperatures ranged between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, with high humidity levels contributing to a muggy and uncomfortable feel throughout the day.
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Maternal deaths drop 10% in the Dominican Republic: significant progress, challenges remain
The Dominican Republic has reported a significant reduction in maternal mortality, with 126 deaths recorded through early October, marking a 10% decrease compared to the same period last year. According to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (Sinave), this represents 14 fewer deaths than in 2024, when 140 cases were reported. Despite this positive trend, two maternal deaths occurred in epidemiological week 40 (September 28 to October 4), underscoring persistent challenges in equitable access to maternal health services, particularly in rural and vulnerable areas. The recent data also shows improvements in weekly performance, with 14 deaths reported in SE-37–40 of 2025 compared to 18 in 2024. Key factors contributing to this decline include enhanced prenatal care coverage, strengthened obstetric emergency services, ongoing health personnel training, and increased availability of essential medical supplies. These measures aim to improve care quality during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods. Analysis by nationality reveals a reduction in deaths among both Dominican and Haitian women, though migrant populations continue to face barriers in accessing timely care. While urban areas like Santo Domingo and San Cristobal show lower death rates, provinces such as La Vega and La Altagracia have seen increases, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Maternal mortality, defined by the WHO as deaths during pregnancy or within 42 days postpartum, remains a critical public health indicator. Globally, maternal mortality has decreased by 40% since 2000, with a 19% reduction in the Americas between 2020 and 2023. While the Dominican Republic’s progress is encouraging, sustained efforts are essential to further reduce maternal deaths and ensure equitable access to healthcare.
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News : Zapping…
In a series of significant developments, Haiti has taken decisive steps to address internal and external challenges. On October 18, 2025, the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) and the Prime Minister convened with a U.S. delegation led by Chargé d’Affaires Henry T. Wooster. The meeting focused on the strategic planning and operational timeline for the Gang Repression Force (FRG), aimed at curbing gang violence that has plagued the nation.
In a parallel move, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2794, extending the sanctions regime targeting entities and individuals threatening Haiti’s peace and security until 2026. These sanctions include an arms embargo, asset freezes, and travel bans, reinforcing international efforts to stabilize the country.
On the diplomatic front, Haiti inaugurated a new consulate in Tijuana, Mexico, to better serve and protect Haitian migrants in the border region with the United States. This initiative underscores Haiti’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Latin America.
In sports, Haiti’s national football team experienced a mixed outcome in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, securing a 3-0 victory against Nicaragua but suffering a 0-3 defeat to Honduras. Consequently, Haiti dropped one place to 88th in the FIFA rankings. Meanwhile, the Haitian Taekwondo Federation announced the participation of 11 practitioners in the World Championships in Wuxi, China, though security concerns may limit the team’s composition to diaspora members.
In local sports, the Inter-university Peace Competition saw UNASMOH and IWU draw 1-1, keeping both teams in contention for qualification. These events collectively highlight Haiti’s multifaceted efforts to address security, diplomacy, and sports amidst ongoing challenges.
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Luxe expeditieschip doet Suriname aan: kans voor duurzame groei cruisetoerisme
The five-star expedition cruise ship SH Vega made a brief stop in Suriname on Friday, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism sector. Over a hundred passengers explored the historic inner city of Paramaribo and the Peperpot plantation in Commewijne during the short visit. Although the ship stayed for only a few hours, it is expected to return next year for a longer stay of at least two days, according to the organizers. Dinesh Ramlal, Director of Travel The Guianas, hailed this as a breakthrough for Suriname’s potential as a cruise destination. He emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, including a dedicated cruise terminal at the Waterkant, which he believes is ideal for accommodating larger vessels. During the visit, a traditional maritime ceremony took place aboard the SH Vega, involving the exchange of plaques between Ramlal, a representative of the Port Authority, and Captain Oleksii Varyvoda. The ship, en route to Antarctica via Guyana and Brazil, entered the Suriname River at 4:00 AM and departed at 2:00 PM. Ramlal described the ship’s arrival as the culmination of years of effort to position Suriname on the radar of international cruise companies. He highlighted the growing interest among travelers but stressed the need for better presentation of the country’s unique offerings. “Suriname’s inner city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Peperpot offers an authentic nature experience—these are invaluable assets,” he said. However, Ramlal acknowledged that Suriname’s tourism sector is still in its infancy, requiring improved marketing, branding, and a clear strategy. He also called for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector, citing Guyana’s example of welcoming passengers with cultural performances—a practice hindered in Suriname last year due to port restrictions. Ramlal proposed the area near the Waaggebouw at the Waterkant as the most logical location for a dedicated cruise pier, citing its deeper waters and proximity to the city center.
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COE issues alert due to deteriorating maritime conditions along the country’s coasts
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) in the Dominican Republic has raised an alert following a significant deterioration in maritime conditions across the country’s Atlantic and Caribbean coasts. The warning, issued based on the latest meteorological bulletin from the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET), highlights the presence of abnormal winds and waves that pose serious risks to vessels and coastal communities.
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Operation Leopard launched against drug trafficking; 643 packages of suspected cocaine seized
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated Operation Leopardo, resulting in the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of 643 packages of a substance believed to be cocaine. The operation, conducted in La Altagracia province, was a collaborative effort involving the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD), the Special Prosecutor’s Office for Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing, and the La Altagracia Prosecutor’s Office, with international support from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Among those apprehended are Daniela Amancio Olavarría, Rafael Torres Díaz, Wilson Rafael Inirio, and Néstor Julio Rodríguez, all accused of involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering. They are set to face coercive measures at the Judicial Office of Permanent Services in La Altagracia. Additionally, Moisés Severino Inirio, José Ignacio de Jesús Mota, and Pedro Luis Cordero Espinal remain at large and are linked to the case.
The contraband was discovered on El Carmen Street at the corner of Libertad Avenue in San Rafael del Yuma. The operation saw the participation of 27 prosecutors and 194 DNCD agents, with 17 raids conducted across multiple locations, including the National District, Santo Domingo Este, Guerra, Boca Chica, Barahona, Santiago, Higüey, Cap Cana, and Romana.
Deputy Attorney General Wilson Camacho emphasized that Operation Leopardo reflects Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso’s steadfast commitment to combating drug trafficking and organized crime. DNCD President Vice Admiral José Manuel Cabrera Ulloa echoed this sentiment, stating that the seizure deals a significant blow to transnational criminal networks and underscores the Dominican Republic’s strengthened security efforts.
Authorities confiscated five properties, a recreational boat, firearms, motorcycles, vehicles, and substantial sums of cash totaling RD$1,769,400 and US$159,698. This operation is connected to a previous seizure of 993 kilograms of cocaine in April, linked to a transnational criminal organization led by Serbian nationals Nikola Boros and Antun Mrdeza, who are wanted by Interpol for cocaine trafficking across the United States, Puerto Rico, Spain, and Italy.
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Hoefdraad zal ‘onrechtmatige vervolging’ internationaal aanvechten
Former Surinamese Minister of Finance and Planning, Gillmore Hoefdraad, continues to challenge his prosecution, even after the Court of Justice declared his case inadmissible. The court ruled on Friday that his prosecution was lawful, following his indictment by the National Assembly in August 2020. Hoefdraad, who fled the country, was sentenced in absentia to 12 years in prison and a fine of SRD 500,000 for his involvement in a high-profile corruption scandal at the Central Bank of Suriname. The Public Prosecutor’s Office also sought a criminal investigation to determine if Hoefdraad unlawfully benefited from his actions, though no progress has been made since his conviction. Hoefdraad’s legal advisor, Murwin Dubois, argues that international jurisprudence, particularly the principle of Ne Bis in Idem—which prohibits double jeopardy—could favor Hoefdraad. Dubois cites cases where the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of defendants under similar circumstances. The case has drawn international attention, especially after Interpol refused to assist in Hoefdraad’s extradition, citing political motivations behind the prosecution. Interpol’s decision highlighted procedural flaws and the lack of original legislation justifying the extradition request. Hoefdraad’s legal team now seeks international avenues to address the legality of his prosecution, as domestic courts have dismissed his appeals.
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VIDEO: PM Browne Tells Comrade Washie to “Realign Your Behaviour” After On Air Exchange
PM Browne Tells Comrade Washie to “Realign Your Behaviour” After On Air Exchange