As the nation prepares for upcoming general elections, scrutiny intensifies over the government’s 2025 budget allocations. A critical question emerges: where is the funding coming from? This analysis delves into specific expenditures, raising concerns about the sources of increased budgetary allocations across various sectors.
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Caribbean movements unite against U.S. intervention on “Day of Collective Action”
The Assembly of the Peoples of the Caribbean (APC) has designated October 16 as a ‘Day of Collective Action,’ rallying Caribbean governments to stand united against U.S. military deployments and interventionist threats in Venezuela. The organization also opposes the proposed exclusion of Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua from the upcoming Summit of the Americas. Through its Regional Executive Committee, the APC has called upon citizens, social movements, and progressive leaders to defend the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace’ and resist foreign interference. This stance aligns with the positions of CARICOM, CELAC, and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), all of which emphasize sovereignty and regional integration. In a strongly worded statement, the APC criticized U.S. policies in Latin America, labeling them as extensions of imperialist agendas aimed at controlling regional resources, particularly Venezuela’s oil reserves. The organization also condemned the U.S. blockade against Cuba, a policy widely rejected by the United Nations, and criticized the Dominican Republic’s decision to exclude Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua from the December 2025 Summit of the Americas. The APC urged Caribbean leaders, especially those in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and the Dominican Republic, to distance themselves from what it termed ‘U.S. aggression’ in the region. The declaration concluded with a call for unity, solidarity, and mobilization to protect Caribbean sovereignty, peace, and self-determination.
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Forecasters monitoring two new areas for tropical cyclone formation
A tropical wave currently situated over the central tropical Atlantic has sparked concerns about potential cyclone formation. As of 8:00 PM EDT on Thursday, October 16, 2025, the system is accompanied by a large area of showers and thunderstorms. Meteorologists predict that gradual development of this disturbance is possible over the next several days as it moves westward at speeds of 15 to 20 mph. The system is expected to traverse the Windward Islands late this weekend, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds, before entering the Caribbean Sea by early to mid-next week. While the likelihood of cyclone formation within the next 48 hours remains low at 10%, the probability increases to 30% over a seven-day period. Residents in the affected regions are advised to monitor updates and prepare for potential adverse weather conditions. For those interested in advertising opportunities, the most visited news site in Antigua offers customizable digital marketing packages. Contact [email protected] for more information.
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Opposition Calls for Increase in Constituency Allowance, EC$ 2000 too low, they say
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle and All Saints East and St. Luke MP Richard Lewis have urged the government to increase the constituency allowance, arguing that the current allocation of $2,000 is inadequate to address the needs of their constituents. During a recent parliamentary session, Lewis emphasized that Members of Parliament require sufficient resources to fulfill their duties effectively. He proposed raising the allowance to $5,000, a figure he deemed more realistic for covering community-related expenses. Lewis highlighted the unique challenges faced by Antigua, stating, ‘We don’t have the kind of resources to do what other islands do, but we can do something, and it will benefit all of us.’ He stressed that the issue transcends political affiliations, advocating for fairness and equity for future MPs. Pringle echoed this sentiment, calling for a more equitable distribution of state resources if the allowance is not increased. Both MPs pointed out that the current allowance hampers their ability to assist constituents with minor repairs, community projects, and social support. Prime Minister Gaston Browne acknowledged the concerns and indicated that the request could be reviewed, though he cautioned that any adjustments must align with the country’s fiscal constraints.
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Panton on Anti-Shyne Ads: ‘It wasn’t me.’
Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has publicly distanced herself from a series of political advertisements targeting UDP Leader Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow. In a formal statement released on October 16, 2025, Panton emphasized that she had no role in the creation, funding, or dissemination of these ads, which have been critical of Barrow’s leadership. She further clarified that she neither authorized nor endorsed any paid political content attacking fellow UDP members, stating that such actions do not align with her leadership style or values. Panton called for unity and constructive dialogue as the UDP prepares for its National Convention on November 30, where a new leadership team will be elected. The controversial ads have accused Barrow of fostering a ‘hostile, angry, accusatory, punitive, and isolated’ leadership environment. Earlier in September, Barrow hinted that his recent State of the Nation address might be his last as UDP leader, pledging to collaborate with his successor and the Belizean people to hold the government accountable and work toward a better future. The upcoming convention will determine key positions, including Party Leader and Deputy Leaders.
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LETTER: U.S. Family Traumatized by Buckleys Road Conditions
A recent letter to the editor from Julia Moltovia, a tourist from the United States, has shed light on the dire state of road infrastructure in Buckleys Village, Antigua. Moltovia, who was visiting the Caribbean island with her family, described her experience as one of the worst of her life, prompting her to consider cutting her two-week vacation short to just three days. The family’s ordeal began while driving from Buckleys to All Saints, where they encountered a road that appeared to have been intentionally dug up. Their front-wheel-drive rental car began sliding in the dirt, nearly colliding with a lamppost. The incident left her children screaming and crying, and the family traumatized. A passerby in a pickup truck eventually helped them onto a paved road, but their troubles were far from over. Shortly after, their car got stuck in a deep trench near a white apartment on an incline. They had to wait an hour for a tow truck to arrive due to heavy rain. The family faced further challenges when they encountered flooded roads on Buckleys Main Road, making it impossible to continue safely. Moltovia criticized the authorities responsible for the road network, stating that the poor conditions are a terrible look for tourism. Despite the ordeal, she expressed gratitude to the rental car company for their professionalism and to the locals who assisted them. Her letter serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in Buckleys Village.
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Opposition Questions Government’s Transparency in BEL and Hydro Plant Deal
The Briceño Administration is facing intense scrutiny from the Opposition over its decision to acquire Fortis Inc.’s 33.3% stake in Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and its three hydropower plants on the Macal River. The deal, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, includes the Mollejon, Chalillo, and Vaca hydropower facilities, which collectively supply over one-third of Belize’s electricity. Opposition Leader Tracy Taegar Panton has criticized the government for rushing the transaction without adequate public disclosure, raising concerns about its financial implications for Belizeans. Panton questioned the absence of an independent valuation or regulatory review to justify the acquisition, emphasizing that the lack of transparency could lead to increased national debt and higher electricity costs. The Briceño Administration, however, maintains that the purchase aligns with sound economic policy and plans to introduce a Bill in the House of Representatives to authorize the transaction. Panton has called for the immediate release of all financial documents and asset valuations related to the deal, warning that the government’s plan for a “special budgetary appropriation” could result in more borrowing and a heavier burden on citizens.
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America’s top military man in the region announces retirement
In a surprising turn of events, Vice Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has announced his retirement, effective December 12, 2025. This decision comes just one year into his tenure as commander, raising questions about the timing and underlying reasons for his departure. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the news in a social media post on X, praising Holsey for his 37 years of dedicated service to the US Navy. Holsey, who assumed command in November 2024, previously served as the deputy commander of SOUTHCOM. His retirement follows a series of high-profile military actions in the Caribbean, including multiple strikes against alleged drug cartels and recent operations off the coast of Venezuela. These actions, authorized by President Donald Trump, have drawn scrutiny for their legal ambiguity and strategic implications. Holsey’s departure also coincides with broader leadership changes within the US military, as Hegseth has replaced several senior officers since taking office. In a statement on X, Holsey expressed gratitude for his role, emphasizing the SOUTHCOM team’s contributions to national defense. The US Navy and SOUTHCOM have yet to comment on the circumstances surrounding his retirement.
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Dr. Eck Shares Update on Cancer Battle and Return to Paediatrics
Dr. Cecilio Eck, a cherished paediatrician, has provided an inspiring update on his ongoing battle with stage four cancer. Over a year into his diagnosis, Dr. Eck describes the journey as profoundly humbling, marked by both financial and emotional challenges. Despite the high costs of treatment—approximately $25,000 every three weeks—he remains deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from his community, friends, colleagues, and even his young patients.
Dr. Eck has undergone a rigorous treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, spending countless hours in hospitals. He shared touching anecdotes, such as a young patient who sold avocados to contribute to his treatment fund, highlighting the unexpected kindness he has encountered.
His faith and the unwavering support of his community have been pivotal in sustaining his strength. Dr. Eck emphasized the importance of living each day to the fullest, acknowledging the uncertainty of life. Recent scans have shown promising results, and he remains hopeful for remission.
While he still has another year of treatment ahead, Dr. Eck has returned to his practice, caring for his ‘little patients’ with the same dedication and compassion that has defined his career. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the resilience of the human spirit.
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Speaker Valerie Woods Rings Bell After Cancer Treatment Milestone
In a heartwarming moment of triumph, House Speaker Valerie Woods marked a significant milestone in her cancer treatment journey by participating in the traditional bell-ringing ceremony at her treatment center. This symbolic act, often shared with loved ones and fellow patients, signifies the completion of intensive treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The ceremony is a cherished tradition in the cancer community, representing hope, resilience, and the strength to overcome adversity. Speaker Woods’ achievement coincides with Global Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day, observed this week, which sheds light on a lesser-known yet serious form of breast cancer. While Woods remains abroad for her recovery, the House of Representatives continues its regular session, with updates on both legislative proceedings and her health anticipated in the coming days.