The Time Tribune

11/04/2025

11/04/2025

Soraya Martinez Ferrada Wins Montreal Mayoral Race in 2025 Municipal Elections

The Time Tribune | Montreal, November 3, 2025 –

Montreal voters went to the polls this weekend in the 2025 municipal elections, choosing mayors, borough leaders, and city councillors across the city and surrounding municipalities. Soraya Martinez Ferrada of Ensemble Montréal has been elected as the new mayor of Montreal, defeating incumbent Valérie Plante of Projet Montréal.

“This victory is a mandate for positive change and collaboration across all boroughs,” Martinez Ferrada said after the results were announced. “Our goal is to ensure that every resident feels represented, whether in the heart of downtown or in suburban neighborhoods.”

Borough-Level Shifts

The elections also brought notable changes at the borough level. In Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Maude Théroux-Séguin of Ensemble Montréal unseated incumbent Émilie Thuillier of Projet Montréal. Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce shifted from Projet Montréal to Ensemble Montréal with Stephanie Valenzuela emerging victorious. Lachine followed a similar pattern, with Julie-Pascale Provost defeating Maja Vodanovic of Projet Montréal.

Meanwhile, boroughs such as Anjou and Le Plateau-Mont-Royal retained their incumbents, with Luis Miranda and Cathy Wong keeping their respective positions. Ville-Marie, Montreal’s central borough, saw Soraya Martinez Ferrada assume leadership directly after defeating Valérie Plante.

Overall, Ensemble Montréal captured several key positions in central and western boroughs, while Projet Montréal maintained strongholds in areas such as Plateau-Mont-Royal and Rosemont–La-Petite-Patrie.

Voter Turnout and Analysis

Preliminary reports indicate that voter turnout was around 43%, slightly lower than in the previous municipal election. Analysts suggest that Ensemble Montréal’s success reflects a citizen desire for new leadership, particularly in urban planning, public transit, and community services.

“Residents are looking for leadership that bridges the city and boroughs effectively,” said a political analyst familiar with Montreal elections. “The results highlight both continuity in some areas and a push for change in others.”

What’s Next for Montreal

Under Martinez Ferrada’s leadership, the city is expected to prioritize public transit improvements, neighborhood revitalization, and enhanced civic programs. Borough councils will play a critical role in translating citywide policies into local action, ensuring that residents’ needs are met across all neighborhoods.

As the new administration takes office, Montrealers can expect a series of policy announcements and community initiatives in the coming months, aiming to balance growth, sustainability, and inclusion.

“Our administration will focus on collaboration, innovation, and service to every Montrealer,” Martinez Ferrada said.

The 2025 municipal elections mark a significant political shift in Montreal, with Ensemble Montréal gaining control of several central boroughs and positioning itself to shape the city’s direction for the coming years.

11/02/2025

Just one hour to go before the clocks turn back in Canada!

It’s now 1:00 a.m. — when the clock strikes 2:00 a.m., set it back one hour to 1:00 a.m. as Daylight Saving Time ends and Standard Time begins.

From tomorrow, mornings will feel a bit brighter 🌅 — but evenings will arrive earlier 🌃.

📱 While most smartphones update automatically, don’t forget to adjust your wall clocks, watches, and car clocks manually!

📰 The Time Tribune | Canada.

10/31/2025

Following the announcement of a planned strike in November, the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) has shared its official schedule outlining when bus and metro services will be available to users.

Here’s the official schedule released by the STM:

Metro:

Throughout the week, the metro will open at 6:30 a.m. and operate only during the following hours:

6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
2:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
11:00 p.m. until closing time
On Saturdays, the metro will only be open from 11:00 p.m. until closing time.

Buses:

Bus service will follow a similar schedule, with regular service from:

6:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
11:15 p.m. to 1:15 a.m.
Paratransit:

Paratransit service will operate normally from November 1 to 28.

The STM has yet to confirm how the strike by bus drivers and metro operators will affect service on November 1, 15, and 16.

For more details on the schedule, visit the STM’s official website here.

According to the union representing STM maintenance workers, employees plan to strike every day throughout November, including municipal election day on November 2. During that day, service will only run during peak hours.
Source: Collected.

10/31/2025

Bangladesh’s Ongoing Crisis Created by Interim Government: Fakhrul

The Time Tribune | Dhaka, Bangladesh – November 1, 2025

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has blamed the country’s current political and administrative crisis on the interim government, saying that the challenges facing the nation stem from the way it has managed the reform process.

Speaking at a discussion marking the founding anniversary of the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) at the National Press Club on Friday, Fakhrul said the interim authorities had formed a commission that spent eight to nine months holding talks on possible reforms. “The crisis we are witnessing today was created by the current interim government,” he said.

He added that while the Consensus Commission had discussed several key reform issues, full agreement could not be reached on some of them. “We will contest the upcoming elections, and these issues will be reflected in our election manifesto,” Fakhrul said. “If the people vote for us and we form the next government, we will reintroduce those proposals in Parliament and bring about real change.”

The BNP leader alleged that the July Charter, signed earlier this year, was not implemented as promised. “There is a major difference between what was signed in the July Charter and how it has been implemented,” he said. “By excluding notes of dissent, the government has deceived the people.”

Fakhrul also accused certain quarters of attempting to disrupt the national election, adding that there is no scope for a referendum before the polls. He urged all political groups not to oppose the election process, saying, “Those who misled the people by opposing the spirit of the Liberation War should not stand against the election.”

The event was also attended by Mahmudur Rahman Manna, convener of Nagorik Oikya, and Nurul Haque Nur, president of the Gono Odhikar Parishad, among others.

10/31/2025

Death Toll from Hurricane Melissa Rises to 44 Across the Caribbean

The Time Tribune | Kingston, Jamaica – October 31, 2025

At least 44 people have been killed across the Caribbean as Hurricane Melissa continues to wreak havoc across the region, officials said Thursday.

According to government reports, Jamaica has confirmed 19 deaths, while Haiti, Cuba, and the Bahamas have also reported casualties and extensive damage. The storm, packing winds of 185 miles per hour (295 kilometers per hour), struck Jamaica on Tuesday — the strongest hurricane to hit the island since 1851.

Large parts of southwestern Jamaica remain underwater, with power lines and communication towers destroyed. The capital Kingston was largely spared, but authorities say rescue operations in rural areas have been severely hampered.

“The scale of destruction is beyond description,” said Transport Minister Daryl Vaz, adding that emergency teams are struggling to reach isolated communities. Information Minister Dana Morris Dixon warned that the death toll is likely to rise as search operations continue.

In St. Elizabeth Parish, where the storm made landfall, heavy flooding and landslides swept through villages, destroying homes and crops. Aerial footage shows vast areas submerged under water.

In Haiti, rising river levels triggered catastrophic floods that killed at least 25 people, including 10 children. “This is a time of profound grief for our nation,” said Laurent Saint-Cyr, head of the country’s Transitional Presidential Council.

Cuban officials said about 735,000 residents were evacuated before the storm hit the island’s eastern provinces. No deaths have been reported so far, though assessments of the damage are ongoing. In the Bahamas, authorities confirmed that 1,500 people were relocated to safer areas.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center reported that Hurricane Melissa has now weakened to a Category 2 storm, with sustained winds of 105 mph (165 km/h) as it moves toward Bermuda.

Meteorologists say that early warnings and mass evacuations helped prevent a higher death toll, though economic losses are expected to reach several billion dollars across the region.

10/31/2025

India, U.S. Sign 10-Year Defense Pact to Strengthen Strategic Partnership

The Time Tribune, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:
India and the United States have signed a 10-year defense cooperation agreement, aimed at expanding coordination, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration between the two nations. The deal was confirmed by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, following a bilateral meeting with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in Kuala Lumpur, according to a report by the BBC.

Hegseth wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that the agreement will “enhance coordination, information exchange, and technological cooperation, while strengthening regional stability and deterrence.”

The signing comes at a time when both countries are working to finalize a bilateral trade deal, as Washington and New Delhi attempt to ease tensions following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on Indian goods and an additional 25% penalty over India’s purchases of oil and weapons from Russia.

Officials said the new defense framework will guide the overall direction of military cooperation between the two countries. Rajnath Singh described the pact as “a symbol of our strategic unity and the beginning of a new decade of partnership.” He added that defense remains “a key pillar” of bilateral ties and that the partnership is essential to maintaining a “free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.”

Analyst Pramit Pal Chaudhuri of the Eurasia Group said the agreement was initially expected to be completed by mid-2025 but was delayed after India expressed displeasure over Trump’s controversial remarks about mediating the India-Pakistan conflict. He added that the framework builds on a series of recent defense agreements designed to improve interoperability between the two militaries, enable India to access advanced U.S. defense technology, and facilitate cooperation between the defense industries of both nations.

In recent years, India and the U.S. have steadily strengthened defense cooperation. During his visit to Washington in February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump placed particular emphasis on expanding defense ties. Trump announced plans to increase multi-billion-dollar arms sales to India, paving the way for potential F-35 stealth fighter deliveries.

However, India’s continued reliance on cheap Russian oil and its longstanding defense relationship with Moscow have remained points of tension for Washington. Although Russia is still India’s largest arms supplier, its share of India’s defense imports has been gradually declining as New Delhi seeks to diversify its purchases and boost domestic defense production.

Both sides are also engaged in high-level trade talks aimed at concluding a long-awaited trade agreement by November.

10/31/2025

Trump Sets Lowest-Ever U.S. Refugee Cap for 2026, Prioritizes White South Africans

The Time Tribune, Washington, D.C. :
President Donald Trump has set the annual ceiling for refugee admissions to the United States at 7,500 for the 2026 fiscal year, marking the lowest limit in the nation’s history. According to a White House document released on Thursday and cited by Reuters, the administration plans to prioritize white South Africans under the new policy.

The presidential determination states that the United States will focus on individuals who face “unlawful or unjust discrimination” in their home countries. Trump claimed that white Afrikaners in South Africa are victims of racial persecution by the Black-majority government, a charge that South African authorities have firmly denied.

After taking office in January, Trump temporarily suspended all refugee admissions, saying the U.S. would grant asylum only when it served the nation’s “best interests.” Weeks later, his administration introduced a special category for white South Africans — a move that drew widespread criticism from human rights groups and lawmakers.

As of early September, only 138 South Africans had been approved for entry under this provision. Internal government documents also suggest that certain Europeans could be given priority if they face persecution for holding anti-immigration or populist political views, although the official declaration did not mention them specifically.

Under U.S. law, the president must consult Congress before setting the annual refugee ceiling. However, Democratic lawmakers said no such consultation took place before the September 30 deadline. Representative Jamie Raskin and Senator Dick Durbin, among others, condemned the decision as “morally indefensible” and “legally invalid.”

A senior administration official attributed the delay in refugee admissions to the ongoing government shutdown, saying no new arrivals would be processed until the shutdown ends.

10/31/2025

Bangladesh’s Transformation: Challenges and Prospects in the Journey from Developing to Developed Nation

Editorial
By- S.K Hossain

The world today stands in an era of intense global competition. Technology, innovation, information flow, and a knowledge-based economy have become the driving forces of progress. In this context, the transition from a developing to a developed nation is not merely about economic growth; it is a multidimensional transformation. Bangladesh, now a lower-middle-income country, has made remarkable progress in recent decades. In areas such as human development, poverty reduction, and infrastructure expansion, the country has emerged as one of South Asia’s most promising economies. Yet, to reach the ranks of developed nations, Bangladesh must undergo deeper reforms and adopt strategic policy shifts.

Bangladesh’s greatest strength lies in its people. With a population of nearly 170 million, transforming this vast demographic into skilled human capital must be the core of its development strategy. The global economy increasingly depends on knowledge-based workforces, yet Bangladesh’s education system remains largely theoretical and examination-oriented. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or 4IR, skills, technology, analytical capacity, and innovation will determine economic success. Therefore, a fundamental transformation in education is essential. Integrating technical and vocational training into the mainstream, promoting research and innovation at the university level, and creating a technology-driven workforce will be crucial long-term investments.

Economically, Bangladesh remains heavily dependent on the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which contributes nearly 80 percent of its export earnings. This sector has been a pillar of the economy, but reliance on a single industry poses risks in an era of technological change and shifting global demand. Economic diversification is thus imperative. Expanding investment in information technology, pharmaceuticals, agro-processing, electronics, and renewable energy could open new avenues of sustainable growth. Moreover, ensuring easier access to finance and fostering innovation-friendly policies for local entrepreneurs are key to building a resilient economy.

Good governance and administrative efficiency are essential hallmarks of any developed nation. To make progress sustainable, Bangladesh must tackle corruption, policy inconsistency, and bureaucratic inefficiency. A transparent, accountable, and results-oriented administrative system is vital. Expanding digital governance can help deliver public services directly to citizens, strengthening both economic performance and public trust.

In terms of infrastructure, Bangladesh has made visible progress in recent years. The Padma Bridge, Metro Rail, Karnaphuli Tunnel, and energy sector expansion have all boosted connectivity and economic momentum. The next step must be to ensure that these advancements are sustainable—through environmentally responsible urban planning, investment in renewable energy, and effective climate adaptation strategies. True development endures only when economic progress aligns with environmental balance.

On the global stage, Bangladesh must also rethink its trade and diplomatic strategies. Diversifying export markets and deepening regional cooperation are now crucial. As competition intensifies in India, China, and Southeast Asia, forming new economic partnerships is essential. At the same time, enhancing the skills of migrant workers and ensuring safe migration will help maintain the stability of remittance inflows—still a major pillar of Bangladesh’s economy.

Inclusive development and social justice must remain central to the country’s transformation. Women, youth, and marginalized groups must be brought into the mainstream of progress. Gender equality, women’s leadership, and equal opportunities in the workplace are not just moral imperatives—they are economic necessities for sustained growth.

Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. As part of a long-term sustainable development strategy, environmental protection must be prioritized. Expanding the use of solar and wind power, conserving rivers and forests, and reducing carbon emissions through proactive policy measures will be essential steps toward a greener future.

In essence, the journey from a developing to a developed nation is complex and time-intensive. It demands not only economic reform but also social, institutional, and attitudinal transformation. Bangladesh’s recent progress inspires optimism, yet sustaining that momentum will require policy continuity, governance stability, and investment in human capital. If the nation can align education, innovation, good governance, and sustainable growth within a unified vision, the dream of becoming a developed country within the next two decades may very well turn into reality.

S.K Hossain
Journalist and writer

10/29/2025

Le Canada : Terre de paix et de tolérance

Quand on évoque le Canada, on imagine aussitôt un pays paisible, verdoyant et sûr — un endroit où les gens sourient, où les différences culturelles vivent côte à côte dans le respect. Dans un monde souvent déchiré par les conflits, le Canada apparaît comme un véritable refuge de paix.

Le secret de cette harmonie réside dans sa démocratie solide et sa bonne gouvernance. Le système politique y est transparent, la justice indépendante et la corruption rare. Les citoyens ont confiance en leurs institutions et savent que leurs droits sont protégés.

La plus grande richesse du Canada, c’est sa société multiculturelle. Des centaines de langues et de cultures coexistent en harmonie. Personne n’est étranger ici — tout le monde est Canadien. Cette ouverture d’esprit crée un climat de tolérance et de respect mutuel.

Le Canada est aussi reconnu pour sa défense des droits humains et de la justice sociale. L’éducation et les soins de santé sont accessibles à tous, garantissant l’égalité des chances. Cette équité sociale renforce la paix intérieure du pays.

Sur la scène internationale, le Canada préfère la diplomatie à la guerre. Par sa participation aux missions de maintien de la paix de l’ONU, il prouve que le dialogue et la coopération sont les clés d’un monde meilleur.

Au fond, la paix canadienne n’est pas seulement inscrite dans ses lois — elle vit dans le cœur de son peuple. Ici, la justice guide, mais la bienveillance unit. C’est pourquoi le Canada est plus qu’un pays développé : il est un symbole vivant d’humanité et d’harmonie. 🇨🇦

10/29/2025

Canada: The Land of Peace and Tolerance

When the name of Canada appears on the world map, it brings to mind a calm, green, and safe land—where people walk with smiles, and diversity thrives under one sky. In a world torn by conflict and division, Canada stands as a haven of peace.

The secret behind Canada’s harmony lies in its strong democracy and good governance. Its transparent political system and fair judiciary have built deep public trust. Canadians believe their voices matter and their rights are protected.

The greatest strength of this nation is its multicultural society. Hundreds of cultures, languages, and faiths coexist here in mutual respect. No one is an outsider; everyone is Canadian. This inclusiveness nurtures tolerance and prevents the rise of hatred or division.

Canada’s commitment to human rights and social justice is another cornerstone of its peace. Equal opportunity in education and healthcare ensures no citizen is left behind. The rule of law and respect for dignity make Canada not only prosperous but humane.

Beyond its borders, Canada remains a champion of diplomacy and peacekeeping. It chooses dialogue over war, cooperation over conflict. Through the United Nations and humanitarian missions, it continues to uphold peace as a global value.

Ultimately, Canada’s peace is not just written in its laws—it lives in the hearts of its people. Here, justice governs, but kindness binds. That is why Canada is not only a developed country but also a living symbol of harmony and humanity. 🇨🇦

10/28/2025

Visit Cancun: Where Turquoise Waters Meet Ancient Wonders

By: Sk Hossain,
On the eastern edge of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea glimmers in shades of turquoise and the sun paints the horizon gold, lies Cancun — a city that blends beach paradise with the mysteries of ancient civilization.

With its powder-white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, Cancun isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Cancun’s beaches are often called the crown jewels of the Caribbean. From sunrise to sunset, the coastline glows with shimmering blue light.
Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Isla Mujeres each offer their own slice of paradise. Whether you’re diving among coral reefs, jet-skiing across gentle waves, or simply lounging under a palm tree with a drink in hand, the sea seems endless.

Just a few hours from Cancun lies Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. These ancient Mayan ruins, once a thriving ceremonial city, still whisper stories of a civilization that mastered astronomy and architecture centuries ago. Standing before the great pyramid of El Castillo at sunset feels like standing at the edge of time.

As the sun dips below the Caribbean, Cancun transforms. The beachfront comes alive with lights, music, and laughter.
At Coco Bongo or Mandala, nights blur into color — acrobatic shows, Latin beats, and the irresistible rhythm of the Caribbean spirit. Here, every evening feels like a celebration of life.

Beyond the resorts lies another Cancun — one filled with hidden lagoons, lush jungles, and crystal-clear cenotes, natural sinkholes where you can swim in pure groundwater surrounded by limestone caves.

Eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há offer a taste of adventure and sustainability — from snorkeling in underground rivers to experiencing traditional Mexican dance and cuisine.

The best time to visit Cancun is November through March — the dry season. The humidity drops, the sun shines bright, and the Caribbean waters turn their most mesmerizing shades of blue.

Whether you’re escaping the cold or chasing the sun, winter in Cancun feels like summer reborn.

Cancun is more than beaches — it’s history, culture, and natural wonder intertwined. It’s a place where ancient temples meet modern luxury, and where every sunset feels like a new beginning.

So pack your bags, follow the call of the Caribbean, and visit Cancun this winter — where every wave whispers, Bienvenido al paraíso! — Welcome to paradise.