The Bahamas has witnessed a remarkable improvement in its electronic monitoring system for individuals on bail, with only two successful attempts at tampering reported under the Migrafill-managed system. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe highlighted this as a significant advancement in tightening bail supervision. This progress follows the government’s contentious decision in 2023 to terminate its contract with the previous provider and reinstate Migrafill Electronic Security, which had previously managed the program. The decision has coincided with a notable decline in murders involving individuals on bail, contributing to a broader reduction in the national murder rate. Minister Munroe emphasized the robustness of Migrafill’s technology, which provides immediate alerts to law enforcement when tampering is detected. He noted that the system also offers advanced features such as curfew reminders and the ability for individuals to report emergencies, ensuring a swift police response. The government’s decision to switch to Migrafill in March 2024 has proven effective, with murders involving individuals on bail dropping to 11 percent of total killings by the end of the year, a sharp decrease from 42 percent in November 2023. Munroe attributed this success to Migrafill’s advanced equipment and real-time communication capabilities, which have significantly enhanced the monitoring process.
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Judicial complaints procedure ‘regrettably’ not yet finalised, says Chief Justice
Chief Justice Ian Winder has acknowledged the failure to finalize the long-promised judicial complaints procedure in The Bahamas, nearly a year after committing to its completion. Speaking to The Tribune, Justice Winder admitted that progress has been hindered by the challenge of identifying committee members and other pressing judicial priorities. Despite the delay, he pledged to intensify efforts to collaborate with Bahamas Bar Association President Khalil Parker to establish the framework. He emphasized that complaints against judicial officers are currently handled by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, which regularly receives and investigates such grievances. However, the lack of a formalized procedure has drawn criticism from attorney Tavarrie Smith, who warned that the delay undermines public confidence in the judiciary. In a letter titled ‘The Urgent Need for a Judicial Complaints Procedure in The Bahamas,’ Smith highlighted the absence of updates or a published procedure since the December 2024 pledge to finalize the framework before the 2025 legal year. He argued that the delay raises serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and the administration of justice, particularly in light of high-profile controversies involving judges last year. Smith stressed that the proposed mechanism would enhance judicial independence by ensuring fair and transparent review of allegations. He described most judges as ‘unsung heroes’ but cautioned that a lack of accountability could erode public trust. The issue gained traction in late 2024 when Justice Winder and Parker announced plans to finalize a unified framework. Attorney General Ryan Pinder has also supported the initiative, emphasizing the need for clear conduct standards for judges. Critics argue that the current process lacks transparency and public redress mechanisms, with some viewing the Judicial and Legal Services Commission as a political body. Smith urged swift action, asserting that judicial accountability is essential to maintaining public trust and upholding the integrity of the legal system.
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Miss Bahamas joins in walk-out from a Miss Universe ceremony
The Miss Universe 2025 pre-pageant ceremony in Thailand took an unexpected turn this week when Maliqué Maranda Bowe, Miss Universe Bahamas, and several other contestants walked out in protest. The dramatic exit followed an incident where Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil, the national director of Miss Universe Thailand, publicly insulted Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, during a live broadcast. Itsaragrisil reportedly called Bosch a ‘dumbhead’ after accusing her of insufficiently promoting Thailand on social media and missing a sponsor photoshoot. The confrontation escalated when Bosch defended herself, emphasizing the need for respect, only to be interrupted and escorted out by security. The incident sparked outrage among contestants, leading to a collective walkout despite warnings of potential disqualification. Anthony Smith, national director of the Miss Universe Bahamas Organisation, praised Bowe for her courage and grace, stating she remains focused on the upcoming finals. In response to the backlash, the Miss Universe Organisation imposed sanctions on Itsaragrisil, who later issued a public apology, citing personal pressure. The incident has since gone viral, with many applauding the contestants’ unity and condemning the perceived bullying behavior.
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US based-foundation to offer counseling to Jamaican educators on hurricane trauma
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the Pamella’s Sunrise Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information’s guidance counseling unit and the Jamaica Poets Nomadic College and School Tour, has redirected its efforts to provide psychotherapeutic and trauma-informed interventions for educators. Originally scheduled for December, the foundation’s ‘Make the Children Laugh’ event, aimed at alleviating emotional pain in children, has been postponed to prioritize hurricane recovery and restoration efforts.
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UCC begins roll out of relief supplies to students and staff impacted by Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) has initiated its post-hurricane relief operations, commencing with the distribution of essential supplies to its Montego Bay campus in St. James. This effort, spearheaded by the UCC Foundation (UCCF), aims to support students and staff affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Professor Colin Gyles, President of UCC, emphasized the institution’s solidarity with those impacted by the disaster. ‘Our priority is to ensure the well-being of our students and staff as we work together to rebuild and recover,’ he stated. The relief packages, which include bottled water, non-perishable food, toiletries, sanitary products, and clothing, are part of a broader strategy to sustain student engagement and repair damaged infrastructure.
The UCCF has also announced plans to expand its relief missions to other regional campuses across Jamaica in the coming days. Gyles reiterated the university’s commitment to providing meaningful support during this challenging time, extending thoughts and prayers to all those affected.
Initial reports reveal that numerous staff and students have suffered significant losses, including damage to homes and personal belongings. The UCC’s relief efforts underscore its dedication to fostering resilience and recovery in the wake of the hurricane.
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Melissa triggers 100% payout of US$150 million World Bank catastrophe bond for Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Following the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is poised to receive a full payout of US$150 million under its catastrophe insurance coverage, facilitated by a World Bank-backed catastrophe bond issued in 2024. This financial support underscores the effectiveness of Jamaica’s disaster risk management strategy and the critical role of catastrophe bonds in mitigating the economic impact of natural disasters.
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ODPEM head pledges modern, efficient disaster-relief system
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Commander Alvin Gayle, the newly appointed Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to bolster Jamaica’s disaster response capabilities. The initiative centers on the implementation of a cutting-edge logistics system designed to streamline the tracking, management, and distribution of relief supplies across the island, particularly as the nation continues its recovery from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
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Digicel service disrupted in St Mary, St Ann and Trelawny due to electrical fire on utility lines
Residents and businesses in St Mary, St Ann, and Trelawny, Jamaica, are currently grappling with significant telecommunications disruptions following an electrical fire that severely damaged utility lines. Digicel, a leading telecommunications provider in the region, confirmed the outage in a statement released early Friday morning. The company attributed the service interruption to the extensive damage caused by the fire, which has compromised its infrastructure.
Digicel assured customers that its technical teams are on high alert and prepared to commence repairs immediately. However, they emphasized that safety protocols must be strictly followed, and clearance from relevant authorities is required before any restoration work can begin. The company is collaborating closely with the utility provider to expedite the resolution process and minimize the impact on affected users.
In its statement, Digicel expressed sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused and extended gratitude to its customers for their understanding and patience during this challenging period. The company remains committed to restoring full service as swiftly as possible while prioritizing the safety of its personnel and the public.
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Carnival in the City launches on November 7
The National Carnival Commission (NCC) is set to kick off Carnival 2026 with a vibrant launch event at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain on November 7. Titled ‘Yuh Go Love Dis,’ the event aims to foster greater inclusivity and accessibility, bringing the festivities directly to the people. NCC CEO Keiba Jacob Mottley emphasized the commission’s commitment to making Carnival a shared experience for all, stating, ‘The mandate of the NCC is to ensure everyone has access to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival because it belongs to all of us.’ The day-long event, running from 9 am to 6 pm, will feature live performances, traditional Carnival characters, and addresses by Minister of Culture Michelle Benjamin and NCC Chairman Peter Kanhai. Highlights include a lunchtime performance by reigning Panorama Champions Republic Bank Exodus and a children’s zone with cultural exhibitions and activities. The NCC has also partnered with the Port of Spain City Corporation and local police to ensure safety and smooth operations. Additionally, the event will support local commerce by hosting craft vendors throughout the day. This initiative is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate Carnival and measure its economic impact, with the government collaborating with the Inter-American Development Bank on a study to assess its contribution to GDP. Stakeholders, including TUCO president Ainsley King, have praised the launch as a step in the right direction, emphasizing its potential to engage new audiences and celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage.
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US travel woes mount as govt shutdown prompts flight cuts
The United States is grappling with significant disruptions in air travel as a directive to reduce flights at 40 major airports took effect on Friday. This measure, aimed at addressing air traffic safety concerns, comes amid a prolonged government shutdown that has left tens of thousands of air traffic controllers and airport security staff without pay. The Trump administration has mandated a four percent reduction in flights, which is expected to escalate to 10 percent by next week. Major hubs such as Atlanta, Newark, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles are among those affected. Over 800 flights were canceled on Friday alone, with American Airlines reporting 220 daily cancellations, Delta Airlines cutting 170 flights, and Southwest Airlines canceling approximately 100 flights. Travelers are experiencing extensive delays, with some airports reporting average wait times exceeding two hours. Authorities emphasize that the reductions are a proactive measure to prevent potential safety hazards. ‘We’re not going to wait for a safety problem to truly manifest itself,’ stated FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, highlighting the urgency of the situation.