标签： Antigua and Barbuda

In a scathing critique of the United Progressive Party (UPP), the author expresses profound disappointment with the party’s current trajectory, accusing it of lacking purpose and engaging in political theatrics. The letter highlights the party’s failure to genuinely empower women in politics, arguing that their approach to gender representation is superficial and tokenistic. Instead of fostering capable and competent female leaders, the UPP has allegedly sidelined intelligent and qualified women, many of whom have found recognition and roles of influence within the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).

The author contrasts the UPP’s approach with that of the ABLP, which has placed women in key administrative positions based on merit, thereby fostering true empowerment. The letter questions the UPP’s commitment to gender equality, pointing out the absence of meaningful efforts to elevate women within their ranks. It also criticizes the party’s focus on Barbara Coates, suggesting that her role is emblematic of the UPP’s tendency to exploit individuals for political convenience.

A significant portion of the letter is dedicated to defending Hon. Maria Browne, who has faced criticism from the opposition for a recent error. The author commends Browne for her accountability and leadership, contrasting her response with the UPP’s alleged hypocrisy. The letter accuses UPP members of deflecting attention from their own controversies, such as Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle’s business dealings and the East Bus Station project, which has been described as a financial burden on the public.

The author concludes by urging the UPP to focus on rebuilding its leadership and addressing national issues with maturity, rather than engaging in shallow theatrics and personal attacks. The letter expresses confidence in Maria Browne’s ability to emerge stronger from her challenges and praises the ABLP for its commitment to empowering women of substance and ability. Ultimately, the author asserts that the UPP is not a viable opposition and lacks the vision, coherence, and competence required to lead the nation.

In a dramatic move, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has declared the immediate suspension of energy agreements with Trinidad and Tobago. This decision came shortly after Vice President Delcy Rodríguez presented a formal proposal to halt the Energy Cooperation Framework Agreement with Port of Spain. During his weekly televised address on Monday night, Maduro accused Trinidad and Tobago of acting as a strategic outpost for the United States, labeling it the ‘aircraft carrier of the US empire.’ He stated that Venezuela had no alternative but to withdraw from treaties established a decade ago. Maduro also claimed that Trinidad and Tobago had exhausted its gas reserves before Venezuela agreed to assist under the deal.

In response, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar dismissed Venezuela’s decision, asserting that her country would continue to advance its energy and economic strategies independently. ‘Our future does not depend on Venezuela and never has. We have our plans and projects to grow our economy both within the energy and non-energy sectors,’ she emphasized.

The two nations initially agreed to collaborate on gas exploration in 2018, but the project has faced significant delays, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions on Venezuela. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently expressed support for Trinidad’s Dragon gas proposal but emphasized measures to prevent substantial benefits from reaching Maduro’s government. The Dragon gasfield, reportedly containing 119 billion cubic meters of gas, remains a focal point of contention.

Tensions in the region have escalated further with increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean. President Donald Trump recently deployed an amphibious squadron, a nuclear-powered attack submarine, reconnaissance aircraft, and several warships to address alleged threats from Latin American drug cartels. The U.S. military has conducted airstrikes in Caribbean waters, targeting what it claims are Venezuelan-backed drug traffickers—a charge vehemently denied by Caracas. Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto condemned the U.S. actions at the United Nations General Assembly, describing them as an ‘illegal and completely immoral military threat.’

Trinidad and Tobago has openly supported the U.S. operations, with Persad-Bissessar advocating for the violent elimination of drug traffickers. This alignment with U.S. interests has further strained relations with Venezuela, highlighting the deepening geopolitical rift in the region.

Former Independent Senator Kiz Johnson has formally entered the political arena, launching her campaign to represent the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) in the St. Philip’s South constituency. Johnson, who stepped down from her Senate role on October 24, unveiled her candidacy with a rallying cry for “bold leadership” and “real change for real people.” Her campaign, titled *The Bold Way Forward*, emphasizes courage, conviction, and purpose as the cornerstones of progress for the region. In her inaugural address, Johnson urged constituents to embrace a forward-thinking mindset, stating, “It’s time to lead with courage, act with conviction, and move with purpose. This isn’t about playing it safe — it’s about creating real change for real people. St. Philip’s South, let’s step into the future.” This move marks a significant transition in her career, following her tenure as an Independent Senator under the appointment of Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams. Johnson’s campaign platform focuses on inclusivity, vitality, and community-driven development, aiming to address the needs and aspirations of the local population.