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Portugal elects Socialist as president by landslide, but far right grows

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Portugal elects Socialist as president by landslide, but far right grows

A succession of storms in recent days failed to deter voters, with turnout at about the same level as in the first round on January 18, even though several small municipalities had to postpone voting by a week due to floods

International News via Reuters:

Moderate Socialist Antonio Jose Seguro secured a landslide victory and a five-year term as Portugal’s president in a runoff vote on Sunday, beating his far-right, anti-establishment rival Andre Ventura.

Seguro, who received backing from prominent conservatives after the first round amid concerns over what many see as Ventura’s populist, authoritarian tendencies, becomes the first Socialist head of state in 20 years, succeeding Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, a conservative, after two terms in office.

“The response the Portuguese people gave today, their commitment to freedom, democracy, and the future of our country, leaves me naturally moved and proud of our nation,” Seguro, 63, told reporters.

A succession of storms in recent days failed to deter voters, with turnout at about the same level as in the first round on January 18, even though several small municipalities had to postpone voting by a week due to floods.

With 95% of votes counted, Seguro garnered 66%. Ventura trailed behind at 34%, still set to secure a much stronger result than the 22.8% his anti-immigration Chega party achieved in last year’s general election.

Ballots in large cities such as Lisbon and Porto are counted towards the end. Two exit polls placed Seguro in the 67%-73% range and Ventura at 27%-33%.

Last year, Chega became the second-largest parliamentary force, overtaking the Socialists and landing behind the centre-right ruling alliance, which garnered 31.2%.

VENTURA’S POLITICAL CLOUT  

Despite his loss on Sunday, 43-year-old Ventura, a charismatic former TV sports commentator, can now boast increased support, reflecting the growing influence of the far right in Portugal and much of Europe.

“The entire political system, across both right and left, united against me,” Ventura told reporters as he left a Catholic mass in central Lisbon. “Even so… I believe the leadership of the right has been defined and secured today. I expect to lead that political space from this day forward.”

Portugal’s presidency is a largely ceremonial role but holds some key powers, including the ability to dissolve parliament and block legislation under certain circumstances.

Some analysts suggest the conservative support for Seguro, along with Ventura’s high rejection rate of roughly two-thirds of the electorate, could indicate that even if Chega eventually came out on top in the next general election, a potential centrist alliance would preclude it from governing.

SEGURO’S WARNING

Seguro has cast himself as the candidate of a “modern and moderate” left who can actively mediate to avert political crises and defend democratic values.

Still, he had warned that if elected he would not enact the minority government’s proposed labour reform legislation unless unions, which see it as favouring employers at the expense of workers’ rights, agree to it first.

The government argues the overhaul of the labour code is essential to boost productivity and economic growth.

Reporting by Michael Gore, Sergio Goncalves and Miguel Pereira; Writing by Andrei Khalip; Editing by Diane Craft

US plans initial payment towards billions owed to UN, envoy Waltz says

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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US plans initial payment towards billions owed to UN, envoy Waltz says

U.N. officials say more than 95 percent of what is owed to the regular U.N. budget is owed by the United States

International News via Reuters:

The United States will make an initial payment towards the billions of dollars it owes to the United Nations in a matter of weeks, the U.S. ambassador to the world body told Reuters on Friday, while stressing the need for the U.N. to continue reforms.

Mike Waltz made the comments in a telephone interview after U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sounded the alarm on U.N. finances in a January 28 letter to member states and warned that the 193-country organization is at risk of “imminent financial collapse” due to unpaid fees, the majority of which are owed by Washington.

“You’ll certainly see an initial tranche of money very shortly,” Waltz said. “It’ll be a significant … down payment on our annual dues … I don’t believe that the ultimate figure is decided, but it’ll be in a matter of weeks.”

U.N. officials say more than 95 percent of what is owed to the regular U.N. budget is owed by the United States – $2.19 billion by the start of February. The U.S. also owes another $2.4 billion for current and past peace-keeping missions and $43.6 million for U.N. tribunals.

On December 30, the U.N. General Assembly approved $3.45 billion for the regular U.N. budget for 2026, following weeks of negotiations. This covers costs of running U.N. offices around the world, including the headquarters in New York, staff salaries, meetings and development and human rights work.

The U.N. funding crisis comes at a time when the United States under President Donald Trump has been retreating from multilateralism on numerous fronts. U.S. arrears to the United Nations have grown substantially during his presidency, even though America’s history of falling behind on its U.N. payments stretches back decades.

U.N. officials say the U.S. did not pay into the regular budget last year and owes $827 million for that, as well as $767 million for 2026.

CONGRESSIONAL SPENDING BILL

On Tuesday, Trump signed into law a spending bill that includes $3.1 billion for U.S. dues to the U.N. and other international organizations.

Asked if the money he spoke of would go towards last year’s dues or those for 2026, or both, Waltz said: “just in general, towards the arrears, and also in recognition of some of the reforms that we’ve seen.”

Under Trump, as well as refusing to make mandatory payments to the U.N.’s regular and peacekeeping budgets, the U.S. has slashed voluntary funding to U.N. agencies with their own budgets, and moved to exit U.N. organizations including the World Health Organization.

Waltz said the United States was very supportive of Guterres’ UN80 reform effort and called it an important first step that needed to be continued. 

“It doesn’t go far enough, but it’s an important step. I wish the secretary-general had made it in year one or two of his tenure, not year nine,” he said.

“We’re very focused … on getting back to basics, on peace and security. And … the president is rightly asking, how can we get the UN back to realizing its full potential?  

“All of those conversations are currently being had and are in play, and we expect to see more reforms coming,” Waltz said.

‘TOUGH LOVE’ 

“This is some tough love. The current model is unsustainable for a lot of countries, and we’re trying to get the UN back, fit for purpose and focused, and stop trying to do everything for everyone.”

Waltz said reducing duplication was a key aim, saying that for example, there were seven UN agencies with climate change as their primary mission. 

“Now, regardless of the climate change debate, we don’t need seven,” he said, adding that the U.S. also supported consolidation of logistics and back offices at humanitarian agencies.

“The UN bureaucracy has grown too large, and needs to be much more efficient and effective,” he said.

Guterres launched his UN80 reforms last year, seeking to cut costs and improve efficiency. The approved 2026 regular budget is roughly $200 million higher than he proposed, but about 7 per cent lower than the approved 2025 budget.

He warned last month that the U.N. could run out of cash by July and cited a “Kafkaesque” requirement for it to credit back hundreds of millions of dollars in unspent dues to states each year even if it never received the money. 

Waltz said member states should change this rule.

He said U.S. peacekeeping arrears were in part due to a “statutory disconnect” between what the U.N. assesses and U.S. law allows to be paid and added: “That’ll be addressed the next time we negotiate our assessments, which I believe is next year.”

Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Editing by Diane Craft

Calling all young artists

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Calling all young artists

Poster competition to promote healthy smiles

Overseas file image

The Oral Health Section of the Department of Health is inviting children and young people aged 4 to 16 to participate in the Oral Health Month Poster Competition. This year’s theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” encourages young artists to highlight the importance of good oral hygiene and its impact on overall wellbeing. Entries must be submitted by 20 February.

The Hon. Kim Wilson, Minister of Health, JP, MP, said, “Oral Health Month is your chance to inspire healthy habits, and I want our children to be part of that message. Good oral health supports overall health, confidence, and wellbeing, and simple daily routines started early can make a lifelong difference. This poster competition is a positive way for children to learn, reflect, and encourage their families and friends to protect their smiles.”

The competition is open in three age categories: ages 4 to 6, ages 7 to 11, and ages 12 to 16. Posters must be submitted in person to the Oral Health Section at the Hamilton Clinic, 67 Victoria Street. Each entry must include the child’s first and last name, age, school, and a contact number on the back. Emailed submissions will not be accepted.

All submitted posters will be available for public viewing at City Hall from 25 to 26 February, with the display opening at 10.00 am. The winner will be announced on 27 February.

Parents, guardians, and schools are encouraged to support children in creating posters that promote healthy mouths and healthy lives, and to submit entries ahead of the 20 February deadline.

For more information, please contact the Oral Health Section at the Department of Health, email: oralhealth.gov.bm, and telephone contacts: (441)-444-1715 or (441) 332-8932.

City unveils its events line-up for 2026

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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City unveils its events line-up for 2026

Hamilton – February 5th, 2026

The City of Hamilton is pleased to announce its 2026 schedule of signature events, offering a year of thoughtfully curated experiences designed to bring people together, animate City spaces, and support local businesses. These events play a key role in driving foot traffic into Hamilton, boosting restaurant and retail activity, and contributing to the broader economic health of Bermuda’s capital. From family-friendly favourites to marquee cultural celebrations, the calendar reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to community, creativity, and economic vitality in the heart of Hamilton.

The season begins on April 4 with Fresh Air Films: Drive-In Edition at the City Hall Car Park. This much-loved movie night returns with a double feature enjoyed from the comfort of attendees’ vehicles, complemented by on-site food and beverage vendors. The Fresh Air Films series continues on June 20 with Sunset Cinema at Point Pleasant Park (Albouy’s Point), inviting audiences to unwind with an open-air screening set against the evening sky.

Victoria Park will once again be the setting for Summer Sunday: City Funday on July 12. This all-ages celebration fills the park with live entertainment, interactive games, a dedicated Kids Zone, food vendors, and light-hearted competitions, creating a vibrant day out for families and friends.

In October, the City hosts one of the most anticipated events on the annual calendar: Taste of Bermuda, taking place from October 8–11. This signature culinary experience highlights the island’s diverse food culture through chef and beverage centric showcases and Bermuda’s largest food festival.

The festive season officially begins in Hamilton on November 27 with Rockin’ Around the City Tree. The annual tree lighting event brings families together for seasonal music, warm treats, and a visit from Santa, as the City ushers in the Christmas season.

Closing out the year, the City Christmas Boat Parade returns on December 12. The parade features a flotilla of creatively decorated vessels competing for top honours, alongside festive entertainment and activities at the Viewing Village, making it a highlight of the holiday calendar.

Jessica Astwood, Director of Marketing and Communications for the City of Hamilton, said:

“Our focus with these events is to offer programming that adds energy to the City across the seasons and gives people reasons to engage with Hamilton beyond their day-to-day routines. The 2026 calendar reflects that approach, with a thoughtful mix of familiar traditions and fresh experiences that invite people to enjoy Hamilton in new ways.

“These events also deliver measurable value to Hamilton’s economy, driving foot traffic into the City and supporting the restaurants, retailers, and small businesses that power Hamilton’s commercial life. Together, they have a tangible economic impact, helping sustain year-round activity throughout the City.”

The City of Hamilton invites the public to take part in these events throughout the year and experience the energy, culture, and community spirit that define Bermuda’s capital.

For event updates and announcements, residents are encouraged to subscribe to the City’s e-newsletter, The CityZen, at www.cityofhamilton.bm, and follow the City on social media: Instagram & X (Twitter): @citylifebda Facebook: CityofHamiltonBda

Storm Update: Over 2,000 without power island wide

Jasmine Patterson
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Storm Update: Over 2,000 without power island wide

High winds knocked out BELCO customers’ power island wide on Saturday and Sunday

Gale force winds and high seas batter the shoreline at Shelly Bay Beach, North Shore Road in Hamilton Parish

BELCO has reported more than 2,700 customers are without power as of noon on Sunday following a winter storm at the weekend.

A majority of customers are without power in St. George’s parish – 1116, 539 customers in Hamilton Parish and 479 in Warwick parish caussed by gale-force winds lashing the Northern part of the island.

The Bermuda Police Service said this morning, the roadway between the Crawl Hill Esso Service Station and the MarketPlace supermarket on North Shore Road in Hamilton Parish had temporarily been blocked due to a fallen utility pole.

Traffic was being diverted along Radnor Road however, the roadway was cleared by late Sunday morning.

The Department of Public Transportation advised that bus service resumed at 9 am and remind the public that weather conditions are still unsettled.

Service was suspended at 8.45pm Saturday in the interest of safety to public transport staff and passengers.

They urged motorists, riders and pedestrians to continue to exercise caution on the roads.

According to the Bermuda Weather Service, a gale warning remains in effect today with blustery showers and sustained gale force winds frequently gusting storm force expected.

Forecasters said, “Hazardous seas prevail as gusty gales persist, while temperatures remain exceptionally cool, even for early February.”

Today’s forecasts predicts winds traveling west-northwesterly with gale force gusts to storm force and possible gusts up to storm force in elevated or exposed areas, easing strong to gale force towards evening. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 13°C/55°F.

The Ministry of National Security has encouraged residents to follow official Government of Bermuda channels for the latest advisories and updates. For weather updates, visit www.weather.bm.

BTA shares what Spa Month has to offer

Kendal Trott
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BTA shares what Spa Month has to offer

February Spa Month in Bermuda, a celebration of wellness, relaxation, and self-care taking place across the island. 

Throughout the month, spas are offering special treatments and curated experiences designed to help residents and visitors unwind and recharge. 

We spoke to Jasmine Furbert, Director of Visitor Experience at the Bermuda Tourism Authority, about how people can take advantage of special, Spa Month deals.

Entrepreneurs and small firms to be honoured

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Entrepreneurs and small firms to be honoured

BEDC to host awards ceremony in March

Hamilton, Bermuda 06 February 2026 – The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is set to host the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm at Grotto Bay Beach Resort.

This annual awards ceremony celebrates the achievements, growth, and resilience of Bermuda’s micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, and includes special recognition for entrepreneurs operating within the Economic Empowerment Zones.

The evening will bring together business owners, industry leaders, government representatives, and community partners to recognise excellence across Bermuda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with a welcome reception, dinner, an awards presentation, and a celebration with a DJ.

Tahkeesha Welch, Loan Portfolio Management Officer at BEDC and lead organiser of the event, said: “The BEDC Business Awards are about more than recognition. They are about celebrating Bermudian-owned businesses that serve our community, create jobs, and keep our economy moving. Each nomination represents a story of commitment, problem-solving, and growth, and we are proud to spotlight the entrepreneurs who continue to show what is possible through hard work and consistency.”

Maryem Biadillah, Acting Director of the Economic Development Department, said: “The Economic Development Department is proud to continue to sponsor the Innovation and Tech Award. Every year, we look forward to celebrating entrepreneurs who are using technology to solve problems and drive progress. We remain committed to supporting eentrepreneurship as a pathway to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable economic growth and look forward to meeting the nominees and winners of the 2026 Business Awards.”

The 2026 awards will recognise businesses and individuals across a range of categories. These include Business of the Year, Start-up of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Vendor of the Year. Additional categories include Customer Service Award, People’s Choice Award, Most Enterprising Young Entrepreneur, Family Business of the Year, Economic Empowerment Zone Business of the Year, BEDC Client of the Year, and the Innovation and Tech Award.

Dr. Carika Weldon, Founder & CEO of CariGenetics, had this to say about winning the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award: “Being honored with the 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award was a huge shock to me and the CariGenetics team. This is not because we did not think we deserved it but because sometimes it’s easier to see how far you have to go rather than how far you have already come. Winning the award reminded us just how much our work had paid off and allowed us to enjoy the accomplishment that comes with having a new= idea and bringing it to fruition. Basking in a moment of celebration is just as important as tackling the problems that come with starting a business.”

She continued: “I am grateful to be the only person to hold 3 prestigious Bermuda awards in succession: Woman of the Year (2022), Bermudian of the Year (2023) and Entrepreneur of the Year (2024). The impact of this Entrepreneur award reminded me and gave hope to others that one is not limited by the expectations of others and that you can truly chart your own path if you chase your dreams.”

Members of the public are encouraged to submit nominations for businesses they believe demonstrate exceptional service, strong growth, innovation, and overall excellence. All nominees must be Bermudian or Bermudian-owned businesses, and nominations must meet the outlined criteria to be considered. Nominations close on February 15, 2026.

The event is also supported by Pitt & Co., whose sponsorship will help enhance the overall guest experience throughout the evening, including the welcome reception.

Tickets for the 9th Annual BEDC Business Awards are available for purchase. Early bird tickets are priced at $75 until February 28, 2026, after which tickets will be $95. A limited number of table packages are also available.

The BEDC Business Awards continue to serve as a platform to celebrate local success stories, strengthen connections across the business community, and reinforce BEDC’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship at every stage.

For more information, to submit a nomination, or to purchase tickets, please visit https://bedc.bm/events/9th-annual-bedc-business-awards/, email info@bedc.bm, or call 292-5570.

About BEDC
Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is Bermuda’s premier source of free confidential business advice for entrepreneurs. The mission is to serve Bermuda’s local business community with the highest degree of professionalism by providing, authoritative business advice, counsel, economic development and financial support. Bermuda Business Starts Here! For more information, visit www.bedc.bm

Bermudian Footballers Brave the Big Freeze

Julie Matthews-Borchardt
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Bermudian Footballers Brave the Big Freeze
CARDIFF, WALES – DECEMBER 16: Nathan Trott of Cardiff City celebrates after teammate David Turnbull (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Cardiff City and Chelsea at Cardiff City Stadium on December 16, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

While a sweep of frozen pitches across the United Kingdom forced several Bermudian players to the sidelines this weekend, those who did see action delivered a series of clinical performances to secure vital points across the football league pyramid.

Nathan Trott produced another authoritative display between the posts to help Cardiff City defy the odds in a 3–0 away victory over Rotherham United. The Bluebirds appeared to be in significant trouble just 21 minutes into the contest at the AESSEAL New York Stadium when Ryan Wintle was shown a straight red card.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Trott and his teammates remained resolute. The Bermudian stopper commanded his area with composure to record his 11th shutout of the season, providing the foundation for a brilliant counter-attacking performance that silenced the home crowd.

At Kenilworth Road, Nahki Wells proved to be the difference-maker as Luton Town extended their impressive home streak. The veteran forward came off the bench to help secure a 2–1 victory over his former employers, Bradford City.

The result ensures the Hatters remain unbeaten in their last 10 home league fixtures, a run that has cemented their position as promotion contenders. Wells’ movement and experience proved pivotal in the closing stages, ensuring the points stayed in Bedfordshire.

In the Southern League Premier Central, Willie Clemons provided the weekend’s most dramatic moment. Traveling to Barwell FC, Leiston FC appeared to be heading for a share of the spoils until the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Clemons reacted quickest in a crowded penalty area to smash the ball home from close range, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling support and snatching a 3–2 win in the dying seconds.

Further down the pyramid, young Bermudian talent continued to flourish on the road:

  • NPL Midlands Division One: Harry Twite anchored a dominant Loughborough Students side as they eased to a 4–1 win at the Long Eaton United Stadium.
  • Isthmian League South Central: Coleridge Fubler Jr. and Binfield FC secured a disciplined 2–0 victory over Hendon FC at the Robert Parker Stadium.

With several matches postponed due to the weather, many of the island’s contingent will be hoping for a thaw ahead of the mid-week fixtures.

Gov urges caution on the Causeway and Watford Bridge

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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Gov urges caution on the Causeway and Watford Bridge

The Ministry of National Security said increasing winds expected from 11 o’clock tonight will produce hazardous driving environments, especially in exposed areas

Watford Bridge, Sandy’s Photo: File Photo

Full statement from the Ministry of National Security:

The Ministry of National Security is issuing an updated public safety advisory this evening as winter gale conditions continue to intensify across the island.

Weather forecasts indicate that winds will strengthen further this evening, with the strongest gusts expected between 11.00 p.m. tonight and 6.00 a.m. tomorrow morning.

These conditions will produce hazardous driving environments, especially in exposed areas.

The Ministry confirms and reiterates that the Causeway will not be closed and remains open.

However, worsening winds combined with increased coastal sea levels are expected to generate significant spray across the bridge crossing. This also extends to Watford Bridge in the west end.

Motorists, particularly motorcycle and auxiliary cycle riders, are strongly urged to stay off the roads during this peak weather window. Ideally, travel should be limited to emergencies and essential movement only.

More specifically, residents and motorists are urged to:

  • Avoid the Causeway as well as Watford Bridge after 11.00 p.m. tonight unless travel is absolutely essential.
  • Stay off the roads wherever possible during the peak wind period of 11.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.
  • Continue to use extreme caution if they must travel before conditions worsen. 

The Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, said, “Conditions are expected to worsen significantly later tonight. While the Causeway remains open, we are advising the public to avoid crossing it, or Watford Bridge, after 11.00 p.m. unless absolutely necessary. Our priority is to keep everyone safe, and we urge residents to stay off the roads during the peak gusts.”

The Ministry will continue to monitor the weekend weather system throughout the night and will issue additional updates if conditions change.

The public is encouraged to follow official Government of Bermuda channels for the latest advisories and updates. The Ministry of National Security will continue to closely monitor the system throughout the evening and will provide additional updates if conditions change. For weather updates, visit www.weather.bm.

BELCO crews standby for repair work through evening

Bermuda Broadcasting Newsdesk
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BELCO crews standby for repair work through evening

Managing Director Shelley Leman at BELCO thanked the public for their patience while crews carry out repairs to remaining customers without power

Full statement from BELCO:

Bermuda Electric Light Company (BELCO) Managing Director Shelly Leman today provided an update on BELCO’s readiness to
respond to outages as a result of a winter gale impacting the island.


As of 3:30 PM, there are currently 12 customers without power, primarily single customer outages across the island.


BELCO’s operational teams met at 8 AM this morning to review response plans for the severe weather expected later tonight, including contingencies in the event that the causeway is closed.


Today at approximately 12:15 PM, there was an underground cable fault which resulted in the loss of supply to just over 1,000 customers in St. David’s.

BELCO crews were immediately dispatched, and service was restored to all impacted customers by 1:20 PM.


Standby crews will continue to respond to outages throughout the evening until conditions deteriorate such that it is no longer safe to do so.


Motorists are advised to exercise caution when approaching BELCO crews working on the roadside and to avoid entering any work zones clearly marked with cones or barriers for the safety of all, including our employees.


If customers experience a partial outage, or emergencies such as pole fires, or downed power lines, they should report them to 955.

Ms. Leman said: “We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as our teams work to maintain service and restore power as quickly and safely as possible during this weekend’s adverse weather. Please stay safe and follow official weather advisories.”

Video: Storm batters North Shore​

Jasmine Patterson
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Video: Storm batters North Shore​

Footage: Tony McWilliam

Local entreprenuers brave the weather for business expo

Jasmine Patterson
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Local entreprenuers brave the weather for business expo

The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation held their 4th annual Small Business Expo at the Cedarbridge Academy

Vendors, small business experts and entrepreneurs talked shop at CedarBridge Academy today where the 4th Annual Small Business Expo was held.

The event will feature twenty businesses and organisations offering support services and practical resources to help entrepreneurs and small business owners build and grow their ventures.

The BEDC said, throughout the day, attendees will have multiple opportunities to connect through structured and informal networking moments, including coffee breaks, open networking blocks, and a lunch networking period.

A Vendor’s Village also drew dozens of shoppers featuring a retail marketplace for Bermuda-based apparel, food, home goods, and other speciality brands.

More details to follow.

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