标签： Antigua and Barbuda

In a strongly worded statement at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Friday, China’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, expressed grave concerns over escalating tensions in the Caribbean, attributing the instability to recent U.S. military operations near Venezuela. Fu criticized the U.S. for deploying forces in Caribbean waters under the guise of combating drug trafficking, which he argued has led to a series of provocative actions, including the sinking of Venezuelan vessels, the shooting of sailors, and the seizure of fishing boats. These actions, Fu asserted, infringe on the right to life, basic human rights, and the freedom of navigation, while also undermining the sovereignty and security of other nations. He emphasized that such unilateral enforcement operations in international waters violate international law and pose a significant threat to regional peace and stability. Fu called on the U.S. to immediately cease its unlawful activities and urged Washington to pursue international cooperation in combating transnational crimes through established legal frameworks. He reiterated China’s opposition to the use or threat of force in international relations and any external interference in Venezuela’s internal affairs, stressing the need to uphold the principles of the UN Charter.

In a strategic move to enhance governance and broaden leadership experience, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced the reassignment of two prominent senators to new ministerial roles. Effective Monday, 12 October, Senator Shenella Govia, previously serving as Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Sport and Creative Industries, will now take on the role of Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing and Works. Concurrently, Senator Clement Antonio, who formerly held the position in the Ministry of Housing and Works, has been reassigned as Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Sport and Creative Industries, with additional responsibilities overseeing the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission. Prime Minister Gaston Browne emphasized that these reassignments are part of the government’s rotation policy, designed to provide young leaders with diverse experiences and strengthen the overall governance framework. The appointments were made under Section 69 (4) of the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda, which grants the Prime Minister the authority to assign ministerial offices, with the Governor-General formalizing the appointments. Both senators are among the youngest in the current administration, reflecting the government’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and ensuring dynamic leadership.

Cameroonians headed to the polls on Sunday in a pivotal election that could see 92-year-old Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state, extend his 43-year reign. The election, marked by a mix of calm and unexpected enthusiasm, unfolded across the central African nation, where half the population is under 20 years old. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, faced 11 challengers, including former employment minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 79, who garnered significant attention despite the incumbent’s dominance. Over eight million eligible voters participated in the one-round election, many of whom have only known Biya as their leader. AFP journalists observed voters crowding polling stations in the capital Yaounde, which closed in the early evening. Jean-Alain Andzongo, an official from the national electoral authority, described the voting process as “calm.” Despite the apparent tranquility, political scientist Stephane Akoa cautioned against naivety, noting the ruling system’s ability to influence outcomes. However, he acknowledged that the campaign had been unusually lively, suggesting the possibility of surprises. Biya, after casting his ballot in the Bastos neighborhood near the presidential palace, remained cautious, stating, “Nothing is certain. Let’s wait until we know the name of the elected official.” The election results will determine whether Cameroon continues under Biya’s long-standing rule or embarks on a new political chapter.