On Saturday afternoon, a powerful gust of wind swept through the municipality of Mao in Valverde province, Dominican Republic, causing significant damage to homes and uprooting numerous trees. Meteorological analyst Jean Suriel attributed the phenomenon to a trough that had been affecting various regions of the country since early morning, bringing with it rain, lightning, and intense wind gusts. Suriel noted that the wind was so forceful that it tore roofs off several houses and even led to the formation of a funnel cloud, resembling a tornado, during the event. Meanwhile, the Emergency Operations Center (COE) has issued a green alert for the provinces of Samaná, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Monseñor Nouel, warning of potential flooding in rivers, streams, and ravines, as well as flash floods. The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) predicts a mostly sunny morning for Sunday, with scattered clouds and no significant rainfall. However, conditions are expected to worsen in the afternoon, with increased cloud cover, downpours, thunderstorms, and strong wind gusts forecasted for several provinces, including La Altagracia, El Seibo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, San José de Ocoa, Santiago, Espaillat, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Barahona, Independencia, Elías Piña, Pedernales, San Cristóbal, and the northern part of Greater Santo Domingo. These adverse weather conditions may persist into the early evening.
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Four provinces remain on alert The weather will take a turn this Sunday: stable morning and turbulent afternoon
Sunday’s weather forecast indicates a shift from calm morning conditions to severe afternoon storms across various regions of the country. The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) reported a decrease in rainfall during the early morning hours, with partly cloudy skies prevailing initially. However, as the day progresses, significant changes are anticipated. By evening, cloud development is expected to bring heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and gusty winds to several areas, including La Altagracia, El Seibo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, San José de Ocoa, Santiago, Espaillat, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Barahona, Independencia, Elías Piña, Pedernales, San Cristóbal, and the northern part of Greater Santo Domingo. These adverse weather conditions are projected to persist into the early night hours. Indomet attributes this weather pattern to the influence of a surface trough and the remnants of a frontal system lingering near the country. In response, Indomet and the Emergency Operations Center (COE) have issued a weather alert, warning of potential urban flooding in Samaná, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Monseñor Nouel. Residents in affected areas are advised to take precautionary measures.
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Geen uitweg meer: vermogen publieke personen voortaan onder toezicht
Starting November 17, public officials, including politicians, ministers, and members of parliament, will no longer be exempt from declaring their assets and income. This mandate comes as Justice and Police Minister Harish Monorath issued a directive to implement the 2023 State Decree, which required only a final date for the availability of the declaration form on the Anti-Corruption Commission’s website. The process of asset declaration can now commence immediately, with a three-month window for compliance. The government has spent nearly two years since 2023 preparing the form for publication. The finalized form marks the starting point for recording the income and assets of public officials. The 2023 State Decree already outlined the rules for completing the form, which underwent revisions after the initial draft was deemed too intrusive for politicians. With acceptable adjustments, the form now allows for the declaration of assets and income. The decree also specifies how updates can be made after the initial registration. Notably, the Anti-Corruption Commission has been renamed the Corruption Prevention Commission (CPC), reflecting its updated mandate and powers. The CPC will not be responsible for protecting whistleblowers who report on public officials’ assets to the Attorney General. A new verification process for declared assets has been introduced, along with an independent investigation for significant increases in wealth. Additionally, a publication requirement has been established. The 2023 State Decree stipulates that asset declarations must be made before a notary, who will keep the completed form sealed. The form can only be transferred to the Attorney General, and after the official’s term ends, the declaration remains with the notary for one year. This measure is part of the 2017 Anti-Corruption Law, which is based on the Inter-American Convention against Corruption by the Organization of American States (OAS).
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Aandacht voor de gezondheid van de man tijdens Movember**
Men’s health is often overshadowed by societal expectations of strength and resilience, but the reality is stark: men are equally susceptible to illness and often delay seeking medical help. Globally and in Suriname, male health remains an under-discussed issue. To address this, November is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental well-being, through the international campaign known as Movember or No Shave November.
Movember, a global movement originating in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003, encourages men to grow moustaches throughout November to highlight health issues disproportionately affecting men. The campaign focuses on increasing awareness of prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, suicide prevention, and fundraising for research and improved healthcare for men.
Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men globally and in Suriname, is a central theme of Movember. The prostate, a small organ below the bladder, plays a vital role in reproduction by producing seminal fluid. In Suriname, approximately 80 new cases are diagnosed annually, primarily in men over 65, though younger men are also at risk, especially those with a family history of the disease.
Early detection is critical, as prostate cancer often presents no symptoms initially. Screening methods include a rectal exam and a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. If abnormalities are detected, further investigations such as MRI scans and biopsies are conducted. Treatment options vary based on the cancer’s stage, ranging from radiation and hormone therapy to chemotherapy.
While advanced surgical procedures like robot-assisted prostate removal are unavailable in Suriname, the country offers comprehensive care, including specialized urologists, modern diagnostic tools, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Men over 50 are advised to discuss screening with their doctors, and those with a family history should consider testing from age 45.
Movember serves as a vital reminder to prioritize men’s health, break taboos, and encourage timely medical intervention. By fostering awareness and proactive healthcare, we can improve the health and quality of life for men in Suriname and beyond.
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Croix-des-Bouquets : The Haitian National Police (PNH) deals a decisive blow against the «400 Mawozo» gang
In a landmark operation on November 14, 2025, the Haitian National Police (PNH), in collaboration with the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAd’H), launched a meticulously planned assault against the infamous ‘400 Mawozo’ gang. This criminal organization had entrenched itself along National Road 3 (RN3), fortifying key sections and disrupting public safety. The coordinated strike, driven by precise intelligence, resulted in the seizure of a vast arsenal of weapons and ammunition, significantly weakening the gang’s operational capabilities. Among the confiscated items was an armored bulldozer, a tool the gang used to erect barricades and destroy state infrastructure. Notably, the PNH recovered a .50 caliber American Barrett rifle, a high-precision sniper weapon capable of penetrating steel plates from considerable distances. This weapon had been a centerpiece of the gang’s propaganda. The operation neutralized critical gang resources, marking a turning point in the fight against organized crime in Haiti. Several gang members were killed or wounded, while security forces emerged unscathed. This decisive action underscores the PNH’s growing capacity to dismantle criminal networks and restore order in gang-controlled areas.
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Insecurity : U.S. Marines exchanged fire with gang members
U.S. Marines stationed in Haiti to safeguard the American Embassy were involved in a firefight with suspected gang members earlier this week, according to military officials. The incident, which took place on Thursday evening in Port-au-Prince, saw Marines returning fire after being attacked. Captain Steven Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesperson, confirmed that no Marines were injured during the exchange. Keenan emphasized the Marines’ dedication to protecting U.S. embassies globally, stating they respond to threats with precision and professionalism. The U.S. State Department, Embassy in Haiti, and U.S. Southern Command have yet to comment on the incident. This clash follows heightened security measures implemented at the Embassy last year in response to escalating gang violence. In August, the Embassy announced the arrival of additional Marines to bolster security and support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including collaboration with Haitian police and a multinational security mission. Despite the volatile environment, the Embassy remains operational for emergency services, though it has reported nearby gunfire incidents earlier this year. The State Department had previously evacuated non-essential personnel in March 2024 and issued a travel advisory in July, declaring Haiti in a state of emergency.
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Medisch symposium focust op aanpak chronische nierschade
The 2025 Nephrology Medical Conference, held in Paramaribo, Suriname, convened local and international experts to discuss the latest advancements in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Sponsored by Kersten Distribution and Nipro, the two-day symposium began on Friday, focusing on the alarming rise of CKD in Suriname, primarily driven by diabetes and hypertension. The event highlighted the profound impact of kidney failure on patients, their families, and the healthcare system, emphasizing the high costs of dialysis and the loss of workforce productivity. Attendees explored early detection methods, innovative treatment approaches to reduce the risk of kidney failure and cardiovascular diseases, and revised national guidelines for healthcare professionals. Training sessions on the safe and responsible use of dialysis equipment were also a key focus. Organizers stressed the importance of knowledge sharing and preventive measures to enhance care for kidney patients and improve life expectancy in Suriname.
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From Compton to Pierre: Saint Lucia’s election story
Saint Lucia is gearing up for a pivotal general election on December 1, 2025, following Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s announcement on November 9. This election marks a critical juncture in the nation’s democratic journey, characterized by its electoral system, voting patterns, and the enduring rivalry between the two dominant political parties. The phrase ‘ring the bell,’ which signifies the commencement of the electoral process, has its roots in the British Parliament, where bells were historically used to summon members to vote. In the United States, the Justice Bell in Philadelphia famously celebrated women’s suffrage in 1920. Today, division bells are commonly used in legislative bodies to signal voting periods. The announcement of the election date also triggers the dissolution of Parliament, a process outlined in the Constitution. According to Section 55(1), the Governor-General may dissolve Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister, except in specific constitutional circumstances. Parliament automatically dissolves five years after its first sitting if not dissolved sooner. Upon dissolution, the House of Assembly and Senate cease to meet, no new laws can be passed, and all Members of Parliament vacate their seats. Parliamentary work is paused until a new Parliament is elected, rendering the institution non-functional during this period. The election timeline includes a 21-day campaign period, with Nomination Day set for November 21. Candidates must meet stringent eligibility criteria, including citizenship, age, residency, and proficiency in English. Saint Lucia’s political history since gaining independence from Britain on February 22, 1979, has been marked by the alternating dominance of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and the United Workers Party (UWP). The upcoming election could have been delayed until November 2026, but the decision to hold it in December aligns with historical precedents. Notably, every election won by the SLP has occurred in an odd-numbered year. As the nation prepares to exercise its democratic right, the election promises to be a significant event in Saint Lucia’s political landscape.
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Three provinces account for 95% of malaria cases
The Dominican Republic is grappling with a significant public health challenge as the Ministry of Public Health (MSP) reports a sharp rise in malaria and dengue cases. As of this year, 46,218 suspected cases of malaria have been recorded, marking a 20% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Despite this alarming rise, confirmed malaria cases have decreased by over 15%, from 962 to 810, with no fatalities reported. The southwestern provinces, including Azua, San Juan, and Elías Piña, remain the primary transmission hotspots, accounting for 95% of cases. The MSP attributes this concentration to the region’s endemic corridor, exacerbated by poverty, inadequate housing, limited access to clean water, and the presence of Anopheles mosquito breeding sites. On the dengue front, health authorities have identified 1,672 suspected cases, 258 confirmed cases, and 15 severe cases, with no deaths reported. The disease predominantly affects school-age and adolescent males, particularly those aged 10 to 19, due to greater outdoor exposure and limited preventive measures. In response, the MSP has urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, enhance health education, and strengthen community surveillance. Additionally, the country has recorded 144 maternal deaths, with Santo Domingo, Santiago, and La Altagracia reporting the highest numbers. Infant and neonatal deaths have also been noted, with cumulative totals of 1,542 and 1,323, respectively.
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Antigua Cruise Port Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal
Antigua Cruise Port has achieved a significant milestone by being nominated for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. This recognition underscores the port’s exceptional operational standards and commitment to delivering top-tier service. Port authorities have attributed this achievement to the unwavering dedication of their staff, the collaboration of industry partners, and the support of the local community. The nomination highlights the port’s growing influence in regional cruise tourism, as it continues to expand its infrastructure and services. The award, determined by public voting, is open for submissions until November 16, 2025. This nomination aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic goals to enhance homeporting activities and solidify St. John’s as a premier hub for Caribbean cruise itineraries. The public is encouraged to participate in the voting process to support this remarkable achievement.