Carib Scope

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  • Sri Lanka: Zware overstromingen eisen bijna 200 levens

    Sri Lanka: Zware overstromingen eisen bijna 200 levens

    Sri Lanka faces a mounting humanitarian catastrophe as Cyclone Ditwah continues to unleash devastating floods and landslides across the island nation. Official reports confirm nearly 200 fatalities with dozens more missing, marking one of the most severe weather events in recent history.

    The capital Colombo experienced extensive flooding throughout Monday as the powerful cyclone triggered torrential rains and massive mudslides. The central highlands, particularly tea-growing regions, suffered the most severe impacts with entire communities cut off from rescue operations. Authorities reported that approximately 44,000 residents have been displaced and are currently sheltering in temporary relief centers.

    Emergency response teams are working relentlessly to clear roadways blocked by fallen trees, mudflows, and debris. The government has taken extraordinary measures including closing schools and offices, postponing examinations, and suspending passenger train services nationwide. Most reservoirs and rivers have overflowed their banks, creating additional hazards across affected regions.

    From Friday, floodwaters from the worst-hit areas began moving downstream toward Colombo, despite the capital receiving relatively less rainfall. Meteorological experts predict Cyclone Ditwah, which developed in the seas east of Sri Lanka, will reach India’s southern coast by Sunday.

    In a significant international response, neighboring India has deployed 80 specialized rescue personnel to Colombo to assist in search and recovery operations. The collaboration comes as weather forecasts indicate continued rainfall across Sri Lanka with the storm expected to track over northern regions.

    The catastrophe extends beyond Sri Lanka’s borders. Across Southeast Asia, the death toll from catastrophic flooding and landslides has exceeded 350. Rescue teams are racing against time to reach isolated communities in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia where relentless monsoon rains have created unprecedented flooding conditions.

    In Indonesia’s Aceh province, dozens have perished with survivors engaged in the grim task of removing mud from their homes. The annual monsoon season, typically occurring between June and September, has been intensified by climate change factors leading to altered storm patterns, increased rainfall intensity, and stronger wind gusts. Many residents remain stranded on rooftops awaiting rescue as floodwaters continue to rise.

  • Leaked UDP Messages Show a Party in Meltdown

    Leaked UDP Messages Show a Party in Meltdown

    A major political crisis has engulfed the United Democratic Party (UDP) as it convenes for its national convention, with leaked internal communications exposing severe internal divisions and bitter infighting among delegates. Confidential WhatsApp messages obtained by News 5 reveal a party leadership structure in complete disarray, with delegates openly trading accusations of betrayal, power hunger, and sabotage of party unity.

    The explosive leaked correspondence captures intense confrontations within a delegates’ group chat, where members launched personal attacks against each other regarding their preferred candidates for the crucial party chairman vote scheduled for today’s convention. Multiple participants expressed grave concerns that the public airing of internal disputes was severely damaging the party’s public image and undermining its long-promised objective of achieving organizational cohesion.

    One particularly revealing message from a delegate stated: ‘The backstabbing and greed for power have been nauseating. Dog eat wi suppa if soh ah deh win,’ employing local vernacular to emphasize the cutthroat nature of the internal competition.

    The conflict escalated dramatically after Mesopotamia area representative Lee Mark Chang publicly declared his support for Roosevelt Blades in the chairman race. This endorsement triggered immediate backlash within the group chat, with several delegates accusing Chang of exacerbating existing divisions within the party structure.

    While the convention will historically endorse the party’s first female leader, the chairman position has emerged as the primary battleground, with Roosevelt Blades, Sheena Pitts, and John Saldivar all vigorously competing for the influential role. The leaked communications demonstrate profoundly fractured support bases for each candidate, raising serious questions about post-convention reconciliation.

    Another delegate’s message poignantly captured the prevailing anxiety: ‘At this rate how do we come out of tomorrow united?’

    Chang defended his position in the heated exchange, stating: ‘Sad is I am not entitled to my opinion and get attacked for it. Sad da only pro Tracy can voice their opinion and the others need to keep quiet or get ridiculed and attacked.’

    The chairman race has exposed the UDP’s most significant internal fault line, presenting the party with yet another public relations challenge as it battles perceptions of organizational collapse and internal dysfunction at a critical juncture in its political trajectory.

  • STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    STI cases rise, highest rates among young adults

    Jamaica is confronting a significant public health challenge as official data reveals a persistent upward trajectory in sexually transmitted infection (STI) cases over the past four years. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has documented 35,713 STI cases within the public health system for 2024, marking a concerning increase from 34,278 in 2023 and 31,572 in 2022.

    Medical experts identify young adults aged 20-24 as the demographic bearing the highest infection burden, followed closely by the 15-19 and 25-29 age groups. Women continue to be disproportionately affected, comprising 28,220 of the total cases compared to 7,493 men in 2024.

    Dr. Nicola Skyers, Senior Medical Officer at the National HIV/STI Programme, clarified that genital discharge syndromes—encompassing conditions like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis—account for over 99% of presentations. Meanwhile, genital ulcer diseases, including herpes and syphilis, constitute approximately 1% of cases. Syphilis infections specifically surged to 1,216 cases in 2024 after dipping to 865 the previous year.

    Healthcare professionals attribute this epidemiological trend primarily to insufficient condom usage and engagement in multiple partner relationships. Dr. Annisha Skinner of St. Ann Medical’s AHF Wellness Centre reported observing steady testing numbers throughout the year, with syphilis positivity peaking at 5.7% in July.

    Despite the rising STI prevalence, Jamaica is witnessing parallel developments in its HIV landscape. UNAIDS statistics indicate approximately 28,000 Jamaicans were living with HIV in 2024, though new infections declined to 1,100 from 1,200 in 2023. The national HIV prevalence rate stabilized at 1.1%, showing improvement from previous years.

    The Ministry of Health is currently conducting enhanced surveillance through a comprehensive survey to gather detailed STI-specific data, with results anticipated in 2026. Medical authorities emphasize that while testing accessibility has improved, it should not replace consistent safe sex practices including condom use, transparent partner communication, and avoidance of high-risk behaviors.

  • PHOTOS: Removal of Derelict Properties in St John’s Rural South Commences

    PHOTOS: Removal of Derelict Properties in St John’s Rural South Commences

    A comprehensive community enhancement project has been initiated in the St John’s Rural South constituency, spearheaded by local representative Daryll Matthew. The multifaceted program, which officially commenced operations this week, focuses primarily on the systematic removal of abandoned and dilapidated structures throughout the neighborhood.

    In his official communiqué released Sunday, Matthew detailed the project’s core objectives, emphasizing that eliminating derelict properties represents just one component of a broader strategy to foster safer, more aesthetically pleasing residential environments. The parliamentarian explicitly called upon community members to actively participate in maintaining their neighborhoods, advocating for collective responsibility in creating family-oriented living spaces.

    Characterizing the initiative as embodying positive ‘Sunday morning vibes,’ Matthew promoted a philosophy of civic pride with his exhortation for residents to ‘love where you live.’ He further elaborated on the psychological and social benefits of clean, well-maintained public spaces, noting their significant contribution to overall community wellbeing and quality of life.

    This targeted cleanup effort forms an integral part of a larger, constituency-wide campaign aimed at elevating both the visual appeal and environmental health standards across the Ottos region and broader Rural South district. The program represents a coordinated approach to urban revitalization that addresses both immediate safety concerns through structural removal and long-term community development through sustained citizen engagement.

  • The outlook for sports after Saint Lucia Election 2025

    The outlook for sports after Saint Lucia Election 2025

    As Saint Lucia approaches a pivotal electoral period, the nation’s two dominant political forces—the United Workers Party (UWP) and Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP)—have unveiled comprehensive manifestos detailing contrasting approaches to sports development and infrastructure modernization.

    The detailed analysis reveals significant disparities in scope and emphasis between the parties’ proposals. The UWP’s platform demonstrates substantially greater elaboration on athletic development strategies, though both share certain fundamental objectives regarding national sports advancement.

    Infrastructure commitments emerge as a central battleground, with both parties addressing long-standing frustrations over unfulfilled promises. The George Odlum Stadium, repurposed as emergency medical facilities after the 2009 fire, receives renewed attention in the SLP manifesto with pledged refurbishment using reportedly secured funding. Conversely, the UWP focuses on Soufriere Stadium enhancements including modular seating, grandstand improvements, and aquatic facilities.

    The aquatic infrastructure competition intensifies with the National Aquatic Centre already underway in Gros Islet. The UWP commits to establishing four pools nationwide, while the SLP emphasizes implementing a national Learn to Swim program—addressing decades of discussion about community aquatic facilities.

    Both parties revisit previously unrealized pledges regarding indoor sports complexes. The UWP renews its 2016 commitment to transform the Vigie Multipurpose Sports Complex into an indoor facility while proposing another southern complex. The SLP references partial progress on their 2021 promise to modernize Marchand and Mindoo Phillip Grounds, now targeted by the UWP for transformation into an integrated sporting complex.

    Athlete support mechanisms reveal further contrasts. The persistent issue of unpaid leave for national representatives remains unresolved despite repeated commitments. Both parties resurrect the elusive sports scholarship system—initially proposed by UWP in 2016, echoed by SLP in 2021, and reintroduced by UWP in their current manifesto.

    The UWP further commits to integrating sports into all government-sponsored Community After School Programs, expanding existing coaching infrastructure across communities. Additional pledges include financial support for community academies, grassroots tournament funding, expansion of the Elite and Emerging Athlete Program, and implementing a Talent Identification Program within school sports.

    Alternative sports receive unprecedented attention, with both parties addressing the longstanding auto racing debate through pledged facilities by 2031—the SLP promising a state-of-the-art southern track while the UWP commits to motocross and drag racing infrastructure.

    The Saint Lucia Sports Academy emerges as another differentiation point. The UWP proposes expanding the institution they established in 2019, enhancing residential and technical capabilities while establishing a southern branch. The SLP counters with plans to repurpose the former Gros Islet Secondary School into the Levern Spencer Institute of Sports Training and Development.

    The SLP highlights delivered commitments from their 2021 manifesto, including expanded programming for alternative sports (surfing, dominoes, chess, darts, pool, and drag racing), widespread field lighting upgrades, and professionalization of football and cricket. The UWP promises continued support for these leagues while considering semi-professional basketball development.

    Looking forward, the UWP proposes summer camps and showcase events to support scholarship ambitions, complemented by a “Sports for All” initiative targeting senior sports participation and broader promotion of active lifestyles across the population.

  • Antiguan Micah McKenzie joins West Indies U19 squad for England series climax

    Antiguan Micah McKenzie joins West Indies U19 squad for England series climax

    In a strategic move ahead of the decisive final matches, Cricket West Indies has reinforced its Under-19 squad with two promising talents as they prepare to face England in Grenada. Eighteen-year-old leg-spinner Micah McKenzie from Antigua has received a late call-up, transitioning directly from the Leeward Islands Hurricanes camp in Trinidad where he was participating in the CWI Super50 tournament.

    McKenzie, who arrived in Grenada earlier this week, brings impressive recent form to the squad. The young spinner dominated the CWI Breakout Lead competition this year, emerging as the leading wicket-taker with 12 dismissals. He further demonstrated his capabilities by claiming 14 wickets for the Leeward Islands in the CWI Under-19 tournament, establishing himself as one of the region’s most promising bowling prospects.

    Joining McKenzie is fellow late addition Shamar Apple from the Guyana Harpy Eagles, providing additional options for the selectors as the series reaches its climax. Both players are immediately available for selection, beginning with today’s encounter at the Grenada National Stadium and extending to the series finale scheduled for December 1st.

    The reinforcements arrive at a critical juncture in the seven-match series, with the West Indies holding a slender 3-2 advantage over their English counterparts. With the final outcome hanging in the balance, these strategic additions could prove instrumental in determining which team emerges victorious from the closely contested youth international series.

  • Traffic arrangements for Presentation of the National Budget

    Traffic arrangements for Presentation of the National Budget

    The Royal Grenada Police Force has announced comprehensive traffic management protocols for the Presentation of the National Budget scheduled for Monday, December 1, 2025. These measures will take effect from 8:30 AM and remain operational until the conclusion of the parliamentary proceedings.

    Significant road restrictions will be implemented around the Parliament Building area to ensure secure and efficient movement for attendees. Lucas Street will experience the most substantial changes, with a complete vehicular ban from its intersection with Woolwich Road near the Government House Roundabout.

    Additionally, Lucas Street will transition to one-way traffic flow from its junction with Observatory Road, permitting movement exclusively toward the Government House Roundabout direction. Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced on the right side of Lucas Street from Observatory Road toward the Government House Roundabout.

    Designated parking areas have been established for different attendee categories: VVIP delegates will utilize specialized parking on the Parliament Building compound side, while VIP participants will access the main parliamentary car park. Members of both legislative houses, administrative staff, and pass clerks will receive parking privileges within the Parliament Building compound grounds.

    Public parking alternatives have been arranged at the Audit Building location at Mount Wheldale, St. George’s, specifically on the left side of the facility. Additional public parking will be available on the left side of Lucas Street from its connection with top Woolwich Road extending to the Sans Souci Public Road junction.

    The police commissioner’s office emphasized that these measures are necessary to maintain order and security during this significant governmental event, urging public cooperation and alternative route planning for Monday’s proceedings.

  • EDITORIAL: Civility and compassion must guide election victors, losers

    EDITORIAL: Civility and compassion must guide election victors, losers

    In one week’s time, Saint Lucia will witness the culmination of an intensely fought parliamentary election cycle. The brief yet fervent three-week campaign period has laid bare the profound divisions inherent within the British-derived winner-takes-all political system that governs this Caribbean nation.

    The electoral process has exposed deep societal fractures, with reported incidents of malice, vandalism, and sporadic violence overshadowing substantive political discourse. Familial and community bonds have been strained as political allegiances turned neighbor against neighbor, relative against relative.

    Most alarmingly, the campaign witnessed the inappropriate involvement of children, who were reportedly ushered onto sidewalks during nomination day events and handed partisan materials without parental consent. This exploitation of the young has sparked national concern about the erosion of ethical political practices.

    The timing of these political tensions presents a particular irony, occurring just as the Christian community enters Advent—a season traditionally marked by peace, goodwill, and spiritual preparation. Instead of reflecting these values, the campaign manifested through vitriolic exchanges and diminished public discourse.

    As the nation looks toward December 13th’s Festival of Lights and Renewal followed by Christmas celebrations, there emerges a collective call for compassion and healing. The need for substantive review of the recently signed code of conduct has become increasingly apparent, with advocates urging documentation of campaign shortcomings and improved frameworks for future elections.

    The path forward requires balancing rightful celebration for victors with genuine consolation for the defeated, all while recentering the national conversation on the shared project of building a better Saint Lucia for future generations.

  • Hurricane Season Closes With an Unusually Quiet November

    Hurricane Season Closes With an Unusually Quiet November

    The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season concluded today with an exceptionally tranquil finale, marking November as completely devoid of named storms for the first time in recent memory. Meteorological data confirms an unusual atmospheric peace settled across the Atlantic basin throughout the month, with the National Hurricane Center’s Tropical Weather Outlook identifying zero tropical disturbances—a rare occurrence particularly noteworthy given recent trends of late-season cyclonic development in Caribbean and western Atlantic waters.

    Climate scientists attribute this unprecedented calm to a convergence of suppressing meteorological factors. Unusually stable atmospheric conditions combined with heightened wind shear patterns created hostile environments for storm formation. Simultaneously, cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in primary development regions removed the essential thermal energy required for tropical cyclogenesis.

    While the season’s earlier months witnessed typical storm activity, the complete absence of November hurricanes provided coastal regions from Florida to New England with an unexpected reprieve. Emergency management agencies utilized this quiet period to conduct damage assessments from earlier storms and enhance preparedness protocols for future seasons.

    The meteorological community emphasizes that this seasonal conclusion shouldn’t diminish the importance of hurricane preparedness, as climate variability continues to make long-term forecasting challenging. The Atlantic hurricane season will officially recommence on June 1, 2026, with monitoring agencies continuing to analyze the unusual patterns observed in this year’s final month.

  • Grenadian Young Adult Financial Foundation Guide for ages 18–25

    Grenadian Young Adult Financial Foundation Guide for ages 18–25

    Financial expert Leron Joseph, BSc Financial Management, has developed a structured financial foundation guide specifically targeting Grenadian young adults aged 18-25. This comprehensive framework emphasizes early financial discipline as the cornerstone of long-term independence rather than pursuing quick wealth solutions.

    The guide outlines a multi-phase approach beginning with professional development fundamentals. Establishing a strong work ethic, developing soft skills, and building credibility form the essential foundation. The strategy recommends initiating banking relationships with Grenada Co-operative Bank, known as ‘The Bank of the People,’ which offers accessible entry with EC$50 startup deposits and extensive CONNEX ATM network coverage nationwide.

    Upon accumulating savings of $500-$550, young adults should transition to credit union membership. Institutions like Ariza Credit Union and Nexa Credit Union provide superior loan rates, profit-sharing dividends, and community-focused financial services while maintaining CONNEX network accessibility.

    The financial blueprint introduces a tiered savings system progressing through three distinct levels:

    – Level 1 (Foundation): 1-10% of net income for habit formation over 4-6 months
    – Level 2 (Growth): 11-20% of gross income for financial discipline development over 6-12 months
    – Level 3 (Golden Range): 21-30% of gross income for long-term investments and major purchases

    Long-term stability requires maintaining consistent income streams, early contributions to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) for retirement security, and establishing a robust 6-9 month emergency fund. The methodology stresses that financial independence emerges from structured preparation, patience, and consistent financial habits rather than speculative wealth-building approaches.

    The guide includes practical resources such as sample budget templates and savings plans, providing tangible tools for implementation. This holistic approach addresses both immediate financial behaviors and long-term wealth-building strategies specifically tailored to Grenada’s financial ecosystem.