Reform UK Proposes a Halt On New Visas For Countries Who Requested Reparations
Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has proposed denying visas to nationals of countries seeking slavery reparations from Britain, placing the long-running issue of reparatory justice at the centre of a growing political and diplomatic dispute.The party said a future Reform government would halt the issuance of all new visas including work, study, and visitor visas to citizens of countries that formally pursue reparations claims against the United Kingdom.
Reform’s home affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf defended the proposal, arguing that calls for reparations overlook Britain’s role in abolishing slavery in the early 19th century. The policy would affect several Caribbean and African nations, including Jamaica, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, and Ghana, among others identified as advancing reparations discussions.
The move comes shortly after the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring the transatlantic slave trade the “gravest crime against humanity” and supporting reparatory justice. The resolution passed with 123 votes in favour, while the UK abstained.
The Caribbean Community and its CARICOM Reparations Commission strongly condemned the proposal. Chairman Hilary Beckles described it as part of a “legacy of toxic racism,” arguing that it effectively punishes nations seeking justice for historical wrongs.
CARICOM has long advocated for reparatory justice through its 10-point plan, which includes calls for a formal apology, debt cancellation, and investment in education and public health to address the enduring impacts of slavery.
The proposal has also faced criticism within the UK, with opposition figures warning it could damage diplomatic relations and economic ties. The issue remains a contentious one globally, as momentum builds among former colonies seeking acknowledgment and redress for the lasting impacts of slavery and colonialism.
Tensions rise in CARICOM over Secretary-Generals Reappointment
A major dispute has emerged within the Caribbean Community, as Trinidad and Tobago takes a firm stance against CARICOM over the reappointment of Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett.
The government of Trinidad and Tobago has refused to participate in regional discussions on the matter and has stated that it will not recognise Barnett’s reappointment beyond the end of her current term in August 2026.
In a letter dated April 9, 2026, addressed to CARICOM Chairman and St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, officials outlined serious concerns about the process used to reappoint Barnett, describing it as “surreptitious, corrupted and flawed.”
The correspondence, signed by Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Sean Sobers on behalf of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, also made clear that Trinidad and Tobago would not attend any emergency meetings until full documentation is provided.
That position was reflected on April 10, 2026, when CARICOM leaders convened a 25th Special Emergency Meeting to address the issue without Trinidad and Tobago in attendance.
According to CARICOM, all member states were properly informed of the February 24–27 summit in Basseterre, where the reappointment was discussed during a leaders-only retreat. Officials say the decision was made in keeping with Article 24 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, which allows the Conference of Heads of Government to appoint and reappoint the Secretary-General.
However, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar has strongly challenged that account.
She maintains that Trinidad and Tobago was not properly included in the process, arguing that the reappointment was not listed as an agenda item and was handled outside formal procedures. She has pointed to what she describes as documentary evidence, including communications that focused on logistical matters such as attire for the retreat while making no mention of the Secretary-General’s reappointment.
Persad-Bissessar also cited a WhatsApp message sent on February 26, indicating that the retreat was for Heads of Government only, which she argues contradicts CARICOM’s claim that her country could have been represented in her absence.
She has repeatedly called for transparency, demanding key documents including meeting minutes, performance appraisals, and records of the 2021 appointment process.
In response, Prime Minister Drew said efforts were made to contact Persad-Bissessar following the retreat and that her Foreign Minister had been given the option to attend but did not.
The disagreement has since escalated into the public domain, with Trinidad and Tobago warning that the issue could have serious implications for its role and financial commitment within the regional bloc.
Despite the standoff, Trinidad and Tobago says it remains committed to CARICOM, but insists that the matter must be resolved transparently.
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Cautions Residents From Circulating Indecent Material Online
The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is strongly cautioning members of the public to desist from putting into circulation, or causing to be circulated, any graphic images or pornographic material, whether via social media or any other medium. Engaging in such activity constitutes an offence under the Sexual Offences Act (Chapter 3:25). The Act states, inter alia: Section 47 (1): It is an offence for a person to disclose a private sexual photograph or film if the disclosure is made: (a) without the consent of an individual who appears in the photograph or film; and (b) with the intention of causing that individual distress. Section 47 (9) further provides that a person guilty of an offence under this section is liable: (a) on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to a fine of $10,000, or to both; or (b) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or to a fine, or both.
The public is further advised that, for the purpose of the law, it is immaterial where the offending material originates. Once an individual shares, forwards, or otherwise disseminates such content, they may be committing an offence. Members of the public are also put on notice that where material is defamatory in nature, any person who shares or republishes it may be liable for defamation. This includes dissemination via WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), email, or any other platform. The RT&CIPF reminds the public that online behaviour is subject to the same laws as offline behaviour. Posting, sharing, or forwarding content that is abusive, indecent, threatening, or intended to incite harassment, violence, or public disorder may constitute a criminal offence
Minister of Energy discusses the US-Iran War impact on TCI
With the recent war between the US and Iran concerns have been raised about how this will affect TCI and its oil and gas prices. We sat down with Minister of Energy Hon. Ejay Saunders to hear his response to the war and its impact on TCI.
While many experts are optimistic and suggest the war will not go on for long others criticize the uncertainty and point to the already increased gas prices and the declaration of energy emergency like in the Philippines.
Two Men Found Guilty For Firearm Related Offences
The RTCIPF has shared that ROODVENS SINAUS and WILDER DIEUVEUIL have been found guilty by a jury following trial proceedings in the Supreme Court, in Grand Turk.
The trial commenced on Monday, 13 April 2026, during which several police officers gave evidence for the prosecution.
On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, the jury returned guilty verdicts against both accused on the following:
• Two (2) counts of Possession of a Firearm,
• Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
• One (1) count of Unlawful Entry.
The matter has been adjourned for sentencing on 12 May 2026. Both accused have been remanded in custody pending sentencing.
Mr. Sinaus, 38, a Haitian national, was originally charged on 11 July 2024 with the following:
• Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm
• Three (3) counts of Possession of Ammunition
• One (1) count of Unlawful Entry
Mr Dieuveuil, also known as “Baligaz”, 26, also a Haitian national, faced the same charges:
On the third count for Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Ammunition, Dieuveuil and Sinaus were found not guilty.
These charges followed consultations between police officers and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Both men were arrested by officers of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) on the morning of 8 July 2024 at a residence in Dock Yard, Providenciales, while executing an Authority to Search for Firearms.
The Police force encourages members of the public to report on any illegal activity. Individuals can contact the nearest police station, call 911, reach the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 to provide information anonymously.
Additionally, members of the public are encouraged to download the CrimeStoppers P3 app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to submit anonymous tips.
TCI'S Leader Of the Opposition Responds to Premiers Budget Presentation
On April 21st the Leader of the Opposition gave an in detail rebuttal to the Premiers budget presentation during parliament. He touched on various issues ranging from revenue diversification, health, crime and more. Here are some of the highlights from his speech.
TCIAA NOTAM System Temporarily Disrupted
The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority is advising the aviation community of a temporary disruption in its ability to issue new Notices to Airmen or NOTAMs.
A NOTAM is an official notice issued by an aviation authority, to alert pilots, air traffic controllers, and dispatchers about real-time changes or hazards in the National Airspace System (NAS) that could impact flight safety. These notices cover abnormal conditions of aerodromes, airspace, navigational aids runways, taxiways, or other facilities and services essential for flight operations.
In a statement, the TCIAA says due to a recent external system transition, it is currently unable to issue new NOTAMs. Despite the issue, the Authority says there is no expected impact on air traffic operations or safety-critical services. Officials note that all essential operational information is still being communicated through established air traffic control channels. Pilots and aviation stakeholders are also being reminded that previously issued NOTAMs remain valid and can be accessed through the Federal Aviation Administration NOTAM search platform.
The TCIAA says it is actively working with regional and international partners to restore full service as quickly as possible, with normal operations expected to resume within the next ten business days. The Authority is thanking stakeholders for their understanding and says further updates will be provided as they become available.
Jamaican Minister Of Energy Warns Of Rising Fuel Prices
Jamaican Energy Minister Daryl Vaz has warned Jamaicans to brace for rising fuel prices and possible measures to limit movement, as global oil market instability places mounting pressure on the country’s economy.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, Vaz said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to drive up oil prices, with Jamaica already feeling the effects.
Despite the rising prices, Vaz reassured the public that Jamaica’s fuel supply remains secure, supported by Petrojam’s refining capacity and existing supply contracts.
Still, he underscored the seriousness of the situation, calling it a “major crisis” and urging immediate action from all Jamaicans as the country navigates the global energy shock.
Former NYPD officer gets 3 to 9 years in prison for throwing a cooler that caused fatal crash
NEW YORK (AP) — A former New York City police sergeant was sentenced Thursday to three to nine years in prison for tossing a picnic cooler full of drinks at a fleeing suspect, who then crashed his motorized scooter and died.
The ex-officer, Erik Duran, was convicted of manslaughter in the 2023 death of Eric Duprey. The former sergeant said he was trying to protect other officers from the approaching scooter.
“I took this job to save lives. I felt terrible once I saw Eric Duprey crash,” Duran told the court Thursday, saying he “did everything he could” to attend to the man’s injuries.
“I never wanted this to happen,” he added, addressing Duprey’s family directly in Spanish that a court interpreter translated.
Duprey’s mother, Gretchen Soto, wept as the ex-officer spoke . She had told the court a half-hour earlier: “There are no words to express what I feel.”
Judge Guy Mitchell said he did not accept the ex-sergeant’s defense that his actions were justified.
“It is the court’s belief that the defendant, Sgt. Duran, was upset that Mr. Duprey was getting away” and reacted by hurling the cooler, Mitchell said.
Judge Guy Mitchell said he did not accept the ex-sergeant’s defense that his actions were justified.
“It is the court’s belief that the defendant, Sgt. Duran, was upset that Mr. Duprey was getting away” and reacted by hurling the cooler, Mitchell said.
Prosecutors with state Attorney General Letitia James’ office sought a three-to-nine-year prison sentence for Duran, saying he recklessly caused Duprey’s death.
“He did that while on duty,” then attempted to cover up his actions, prosecutor Joseph Bianco told the court.
Duran and his lawyers had not yet had their chance to speak.
Duran was part of a narcotics policing group that conducted a “buy-and-bust” operation in the Bronx on Aug. 23, 2023. Police said Duprey sold drugs to an undercover officer, then tried to flee on a scooter.
Surveillance video showed Duprey driving the motorized scooter on a sidewalk toward a group of people. As he approached, the then-sergeant — who wasn’t in uniform — picked up a bystander’s cooler and threw it.
They argued Duran had enough time to warn others to move but instead hurled the cooler because he was angry.
Duran, however, testified at his trial that he made a split-second decision to keep other officers safe from the scooter speeding toward them.
“He was gonna crash into us,” Duran said then, adding “all I had time for was to try again to stop or to try to get him to change directions.”
Duran opted to have Mitchell, not a jury, decide the case.
Sergeants Benevolent Association President Vincent Vallelong has said the conviction sent “a terrible message to hard-working cops” about the costs of defending themselves and fellow officers.
Duran was an NYPD officer for 13 years before he was suspended after the crash. He was dismissed from the force after his conviction this past February.
Duprey worked as a delivery driver and had three young children. His mother, Gretchen Soto, who said she was on a video call with him right before he died, has disputed the police claims that he sold drugs and fled from officers.
She told the judge Thursday her son “is not just a name, not just one more case.”