On the occasion of World Post Day 2025, the Government of Barbados proudly commemorates the enduring legacy of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), established in 1874. For over 150 years, the UPU has been a cornerstone of global connectivity, fostering the exchange of ideas, commerce, and personal connections across borders. This year, Barbados celebrates not only the UPU’s vision but also the unwavering dedication of postal workers worldwide, who ensure the seamless flow of letters and parcels, maintaining vital links between communities and nations. In Barbados, the postal network is more than infrastructure—it is a lifeline of connection and possibility. The Barbados Postal Service (BPS) is at the forefront of this transformation, adapting to the challenges of technology, globalization, and evolving consumer needs. Over the past year, the BPS has achieved significant milestones, including the UPU Rising Star Award 2024 for outstanding progress in postal development. Barbados ranked 15th globally on the UPU’s Integrated Index for Postal Development in 2023, excelling in reliability, reach, relevance, and resilience. Additionally, Barbados was elected to two of the UPU’s governing councils—the Council of Administration and the Postal Operations Council—further solidifying its role in shaping global postal standards. Looking ahead, the BPS aims to expand e-commerce opportunities, enhance financial inclusivity, and strengthen border security. Sustainability remains a key focus, with initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner technologies. As Barbados celebrates World Post Day, it reaffirms its commitment to modernizing postal services while preserving their timeless role in connecting hearts, communities, and nations.
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Abinader welcomes Israel-Hamas peace agreement and commends Trump’s leadership
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic has hailed the recent peace agreement between Israel and Hamas as a pivotal development in the pursuit of Middle Eastern stability. Speaking on the significance of the accord, Abinader described it as a ‘crucial step toward coexistence in the region.’ He extended his congratulations to U.S. President Donald Trump for his instrumental role in mediating the talks, while also acknowledging the contributions of Qatar and Egypt in facilitating the negotiations.
The agreement, referred to as Phase One of the Peace Plan, outlines a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of remaining hostages. The ceasefire, brokered by the United States, is set to commence 24 hours after Israel formally signs the accord. Israeli officials have confirmed that troops will retreat to the designated ‘yellow line,’ reducing their control of Gaza from over 80% to 53% of the territory. This move has been met with widespread approval from the international community.
President Abinader emphasized that the deal represents a historic milestone, particularly as it coincides with the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack. He underscored that the agreement offers renewed hope to millions of people who have endured years of violence and instability in the region. The Dominican leader’s remarks reflect a broader optimism about the potential for lasting peace and cooperation in the Middle East.
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Nieuw STS-II gebouw symbool van geloof in jong Surinaams talent
In a celebratory event on Thursday, the fully renovated Surinamese Technical School (STS-II), formerly known as the Lower Technical School, was officially inaugurated. This significant upgrade, part of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Upgrade Initiative, was made possible through a joint investment of USD 330,000 by Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. and its offshore partners, Chevron Suriname Exploration Limited and Qatar Energy. Located adjacent to the recently revamped NATIN complex, the STS-II building has been transformed into a modern, safe, and appealing learning environment, accommodating over 700 students training in various technical fields. The renovation project, executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture and STS, included upgrades to the roof, windows, doors, blackboards, and restrooms, as well as the installation of a new hydrofor system and raised walkways to prevent flooding during heavy rains. Annand Jagesar, General Director of Staatsolie, emphasized the importance of this initiative during the ceremony, stating, ‘Students, Suriname is immensely proud to offer you this platform on an international level. Study and shine—for yourselves, your families, and our beloved country.’ The STS-II renovation is a key component of the broader TVET Upgrade Initiative, launched in 2021 to address the growing demand for skilled technical personnel in Suriname’s oil and gas sector. This program not only focuses on improving school infrastructure but also on enhancing technical education through updated curricula and modern teaching materials. By investing in local development, Staatsolie and its partners aim to equip young Surinamese with the skills needed to seize opportunities in the country’s rapidly expanding energy industry.
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Ombudsman’s Office to Issue Decision Soon on FOIA Review Request
Nearly a month after public interest advocate Jeremy Enriquez petitioned the Ombudsman to review the Attorney General’s denial of his Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, the Ombudsman’s Office has signaled that a formal decision will be announced early next week. Enriquez confirmed to The Reporter that he was personally contacted by the Ombudsman on Thursday, informing him of the impending determination. His September 10 letter, submitted on September 11, 2025, sought a review under Sections 35, 37, and 39 of the FOIA after the Attorney General’s Ministry refused to disclose legal fees paid to attorneys representing the State in redistricting-related litigation. The Ministry’s September 2 refusal cited Section 28(1) of the Act, arguing that disclosure could adversely affect the Government’s interests in ongoing or potential legal proceedings. Enriquez contested this, asserting that the exemption was misapplied and that transparency in public expenditure is crucial for accountability. His request seeks detailed information on payments made to attorneys or law firms retained by the State since January 1, 2025, in connection with his constitutional challenge to electoral boundaries. Enriquez maintains that such disclosures do not reveal privileged legal strategies and have precedent in prior government releases. The Ombudsman’s decision could order the Ministry to release the information or justify the exemption. If the refusal is upheld, Enriquez has indicated he may pursue judicial review. This ruling will set a significant precedent for access-to-information disputes in Belize, particularly regarding government legal expenditure and constitutional litigation.
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Probe into Netherlands-bound cocaine at CJIA widens
The investigation into the seizure of nearly 70 kilograms of cocaine at Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has expanded internationally, with authorities collaborating with KLM Dutch Airlines and questioning multiple individuals. CANU Director James Singh disclosed on Thursday that the probe now involves overseas partners to trace the origins and intended recipients of the illicit substance. The cocaine, discovered on September 20, 2025, was found unattended, prompting a joint effort with the Guyana Police Force, CJIA authorities, and other stakeholders to uncover the method of concealment. Singh confirmed that eight individuals, including a baggage handler employed at the airport, have been interrogated, though no charges have been filed yet. While surveillance footage has provided some leads, Singh refrained from divulging specifics due to security concerns. The focus remains on gathering admissible evidence for potential legal proceedings both locally and abroad.
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Credit Reporting System Launched to Expand Access to Finance
The Central Bank of Belize has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative with the establishment of a national Credit Reporting System (CRS), a significant leap forward in the nation’s financial infrastructure. This system aims to enhance access to credit for Belizeans, particularly benefiting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and households. CRIF Information Services Limited, the licensed credit bureau, will spearhead the collection and dissemination of borrowers’ credit data from banks, credit unions, and other lending institutions. This move is poised to address longstanding information gaps, enabling lenders to make more informed decisions on creditworthiness. Governor Kareem Michael hailed the CRS as a transformative measure toward financial inclusion and stability, emphasizing its role in fostering fairness and transparency in lending practices. By allowing individuals to build verifiable credit histories, the system will serve as ‘reputational collateral,’ unlocking financial opportunities previously inaccessible. Over time, the CRS is expected to lower borrowing costs by enabling financial institutions to better assess risk and reward responsible borrowers. Additionally, it will standardize information sharing among lenders, fostering competition and enhancing the efficiency of the credit market. In compliance with the Credit Reporting Act, CRIF is mandated to ensure stringent privacy and accuracy safeguards for all stored credit information. The system is slated to become operational in early 2026, following thorough data integration and security compliance testing.
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LIVE: Rosie Douglas Memorial Lecture
In today’s hyper-connected digital landscape, the act of sharing content has become a cornerstone of online interaction. Platforms like Twitter and Pinterest have transformed the way users engage with information, enabling them to share, tweet, and pin content with just a few clicks. This behavior not only amplifies the reach of digital content but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among users. The ease of sharing has revolutionized how information spreads, making it a powerful tool for both individuals and organizations. As social media continues to evolve, understanding the dynamics of sharing is crucial for navigating the digital world effectively.
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VC Bird International Airport and the Barbuda International Airport Closed Due to TS Jerry
In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Jerry, the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced the temporary closure of both VC Bird International Airport and Barbuda International Airport. The shutdown took effect at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 9th, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and infrastructure. The decision was made following advisories from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, which highlighted the potential risks associated with the storm. The ABAA has assured the public that updates regarding the reopening of the airports and the resumption of flight operations will be provided as soon as conditions improve. Authorities are urging residents and travelers to adhere to safety guidelines issued by the National Office of Disaster Services and to take all necessary precautions during this period. Further announcements will be made as the situation evolves. For those seeking to stay informed, the ABAA encourages monitoring official channels for the latest updates.
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Stewartville man charged with murder of stepson
A 49-year-old Stewartville resident, Balram ‘Navin’ Bessessar, has been formally charged with the murder of his 15-year-old stepson, Sudesh ‘Joel’ Singh. The incident, which occurred on October 3, 2025, at Lot 71 Last Street, Stewartville, has sent shockwaves through the community. According to the Guyana Police Force, the tragic event unfolded following a heated argument over a bicycle chain slipping while the boy was riding. Bessessar allegedly retrieved a cutlass from his kitchen and attacked Singh, inflicting fatal injuries to his neck. The suspect subsequently reported the incident to the Leonora Police Station, where he was promptly arrested. Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh presided over the arraignment, and Bessessar was remanded to prison without the opportunity to plead. The victim resided with his 35-year-old unemployed mother, Roshanini Surujballi, and the accused in a modest two-storey structure. The case continues to unfold as authorities delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
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3 Brazilianen veroordeeld voor beroving op goudconcessie; 2 vrijgesproken
In a significant legal ruling, three suspects—Del Aviz Costa, Antonio Carlos, and Ricardo de Lima Felippe—were acquitted by Judge Duncan Nanhoe on October 9, 2025, due to insufficient and unconvincing evidence. Represented by attorneys Arti Radja and Arjan Ramlakhan, the trio was cleared of all charges related to a high-profile gold heist in October 2024. Meanwhile, four other defendants—Dos Santos Alves, José, Dos Santos Pinto, and Santana Anapao—were each sentenced to five years in prison, assisted by lawyers Benito Pick, Pamela Karg, and Chandra Algoe/Guno Castelen. The robbery occurred at a gold concession in Jo Passie, Brokopondo district, where masked assailants armed with heavy firearms looted hundreds of grams of gold from slush boxes before escaping by boat. The suspects were apprehended days later. Defense attorney Arjan Ramlakhan argued that his client, De Lima Felippe, acted under duress, fearing for his life if he refused to assist the perpetrators. The prosecution, however, sought a five-year sentence for complicity, but the judge ruled in favor of acquittal due to lack of evidence. For the other defendants, the prosecution demanded eight-year sentences, but the court ultimately imposed five-year terms.