As Antigua and Barbuda commemorates 44 years of political independence under the theme “Solid – Stable – Soaring,” the nation reflects on the resilience and sacrifices that shaped its history. Central to this narrative is the story of King Court, a symbol of courage and resistance against colonial oppression. Known as Prince Klaas by his enslavers, King Court led a bold uprising in 1735 to overthrow colonial rule and abolish slavery in Antigua. His execution in 1736 marked a tragic chapter in the island’s history, but his legacy endures as a beacon of freedom and justice.
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Venezuela Accuses T&T of U.S.-Backed Military Provocation
Tensions in the Caribbean have reached a boiling point as Venezuela has accused Trinidad and Tobago of orchestrating a U.S.-backed military provocation. The allegations come in the wake of the USS Gravely, a U.S. Navy destroyer, docking in Port of Spain for joint training exercises with Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force. The exercises, scheduled from October 27 to October 30, are part of Washington’s broader campaign against drug trafficking and organized crime in the region. Venezuela has condemned these activities as a ‘hostile provocation,’ alleging that Trinidad and Tobago is collaborating with the CIA to instigate a conflict in the Caribbean. Venezuelan officials claim to have captured mercenaries and suggest that a false-flag operation is being staged to justify military action against Venezuela. In response, Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs has vehemently denied the accusations, emphasizing that the USS Gravely’s visit aims to bolster efforts against transnational crime and enhance humanitarian partnerships. The government reiterated its commitment to regional peace and its positive relationship with the Venezuelan people. The situation escalated further when the Pentagon deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to the region. The U.S. has also authorized CIA operations targeting Venezuela and imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of being ‘narcoterrorists,’ though no concrete evidence has been publicly disclosed. Reports indicate that U.S. forces have destroyed at least 10 suspected drug boats, resulting in 43 fatalities, including two Trinidadian men who were killed in a strike on a vessel that departed Venezuela in mid-October. Families of the victims have denied any involvement in drug trafficking. Venezuela asserts that the U.S. is using the pretext of an ‘armed conflict’ with narco-terrorists as a cover for regime change, aiming to oust President Nicolás Maduro and install a U.S.-backed leader.
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IOM formulating early response for Jamaica awaiting Hurricane Melissa
As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has swiftly initiated early response measures to bolster the nation’s preparedness and safeguard vulnerable populations. The IOM is collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure the delivery of essential relief and protection services to communities most at risk. Meteorological forecasts predict severe weather conditions, prompting urgent action to mitigate potential devastation. The organization’s proactive strategy emphasizes disaster risk reduction, emergency shelter provision, and the protection of displaced individuals. This coordinated effort underscores the IOM’s commitment to supporting Jamaica in navigating the challenges posed by the impending hurricane, while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.
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‘Tigers’ downs ‘Naps’ 3-2 as St Benedict’s take SSFL lead
The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division witnessed a thrilling twist on October 28, as Naparima College, the southern powerhouse, suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat against St Anthony’s College in Westmoorings. This loss marked Naparima’s second defeat in three games, significantly altering the league standings. Despite entering the match with a narrow one-point lead over St Benedict’s College, Naparima’s inability to maintain a two-goal second-half advantage cost them dearly. St Anthony’s captain Mordecai Ford emerged as the hero, delivering a sensational hat-trick to secure the victory. Meanwhile, St Benedict’s capitalized on Naparima’s stumble, ascending to the top of the league with a 3-1 win over Malick, amassing 30 points from 12 games. Defending champions Fatima College also made strides, moving to second place after an emphatic 11-0 victory over Carapichaima East Secondary, fueled by Jonathan Mason’s hat-trick. Presentation College San Fernando, now in fourth place, kept their title hopes alive with an 8-0 thrashing of St Augustine Secondary, thanks to Isaiah Jacob’s hat-trick, which took his goal tally to 17. With three games remaining for St Benedict’s and Naparima, and two for Fatima and Presentation, the league is poised for a nail-biting finish. The upcoming clash between Naparima and St Benedict’s on November 3 promises to be a pivotal encounter in the title race. In Westmoorings, Naparima initially dominated, leading 1-0 at halftime after Riquelme Phillips capitalized on a defensive error. However, St Anthony’s goalkeeper Necose Moore’s heroics and Naparima’s missed opportunities kept the game alive. Ford’s second-half brilliance, including a stunning free-kick and a match-winning set-piece, sealed the dramatic comeback. St Anthony’s jubilant celebrations at the final whistle reflected the magnitude of their victory. Elsewhere in the league, St Mary’s College and Trinity College Moka secured crucial wins, while Signal Hill Secondary triumphed in the Tobago derby. The SSFL premier division standings now set the stage for an intense conclusion to the season.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Miami Heat donate US$1 million to Melissa recovery efforts
In a significant humanitarian effort, the Miami Heat NBA team, in collaboration with the Micky & Madeleine Arison Family Foundation and Carnival Corporation & plc, has contributed $1 million to support recovery initiatives in Jamaica following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. This donation, channeled through Direct Relief, a renowned humanitarian aid organization, aims to provide essential medical and emergency supplies to those affected by the devastating storm.
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#EyeOnMelissa: ‘St Elizabeth is under water’ — McKenzie
The parish of St Elizabeth has been severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, with extensive infrastructural damage reported across the region. Essential facilities, including hospitals and police stations, have been significantly affected, leaving the community grappling with the aftermath. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government, provided a preliminary assessment during a press briefing with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management on Tuesday evening. He described the situation as dire, with St Elizabeth ‘under water’ and sections of Clarendon also experiencing severe conditions. The Santa Cruz infirmary was flooded, forcing the relocation of 50 residents to another section of the facility. The local fire brigade station in Santa Cruz was also inundated. Rescue operations faced immense challenges, particularly in Black River, where several families were trapped in their homes. McKenzie highlighted the difficulty of reaching those in need due to waist-high floodwaters and flying debris. While no fatalities were confirmed at the time, at least three families were stranded, including a firefighter who had gone to assist others. Black River Hospital suffered roof damage and a power outage, leading to the evacuation of 75 patients. The Black River police station also sustained structural damage. Superintendent Colridge Minto noted that many parish roads were impassable, with several families seeking refuge at the police station. Authorities remain hopeful but are bracing for further challenges as recovery efforts continue.
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#EyeOnMelissa: JN activates ISupportJamaica Fund for Hurricane Melissa
The Jamaica National Group has mobilized its ISupportJamaica Fund to assist in the anticipated recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa, which is projected to be the most severe storm in Jamaica’s history. In a recent press release, the financial institution emphasized that meteorologists predict Melissa’s impact will surpass that of Hurricane Charlie in 1951 and Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, two of the country’s most devastating hurricanes.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Gusty winds and rain still expected as Melissa moves away from Jamaica
As Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category 4 storm, begins to recede from Jamaica, residents are warned to remain vigilant against persistent hazardous conditions. Rohan Brown, a representative from the Meteorological Service, emphasized during a press briefing that damaging hurricane-force winds are expected to persist, particularly in regions such as St James, Trelawny, sections of St Ann, and Hanover. The remainder of the island is forecasted to experience tropical storm-force winds and gusts. Additionally, scattered showers, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall are anticipated in St James, Hanover, St Elizabeth, and parts of St Ann, while other areas may encounter light to moderate showers accompanied by strong gusty winds. Coastal areas are not spared, with rough seas and dangerous waves predicted along the south coast, and a storm surge of two to four feet expected on the North Coast. Although the eye of Hurricane Melissa was projected to move offshore by 5:00 pm, Brown cautioned that the storm’s eyewall and spiral bands would continue to bring heavy winds and scattered showers as the hurricane progresses.
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#EyeOnMelissa: ‘Ackee war’ in Arnett and Trench Town amid Hurricane Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa unleashed torrential rains and fierce winds across Jamaica, most residents sought refuge indoors or in shelters. However, the neighborhoods of Arnett Gardens and Trench Town defied the storm’s fury, continuing a unique local tradition known as the ‘ackee war.’ Despite the hazardous weather, scores of young people gathered outdoors to engage in the spirited game, showcasing resilience and community spirit. ‘The storm can’t stop us. We are water ourselves. We’re out here playing ackee war and enjoying ourselves—no violence,’ one resident proudly declared. ‘Every storm, we’re out here, just love and love alone.’ The friendly competition pitted Arnett Gardens against Trench Town residents, highlighting a tradition that thrives even in the face of adversity. This event underscores the deep-rooted cultural practices and unity within these west Kingston communities, offering a glimpse into how they turn challenges into moments of joy and camaraderie.
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Pickstock resigns from Senate
In a surprising turn of events, Senator Darron A. Pickstock has announced his immediate resignation from the Senate, just days after being confirmed as the Progressive Liberal Party’s candidate for the Golden Isles by-election. The decision, communicated in a letter dated October 28, 2025, to Senate President LaShell Adderley, was described as the result of “much reflection and prayer.” Pickstock emphasized his desire to shift his focus to grassroots service, stating, “I believe my next chapter is to serve closer to the people, to be on the ground working with families, small businesses, and young people who want to see change that they can touch and feel.”
The by-election, scheduled for November 24, was necessitated by the passing of former MP Vaughn Miller. In his resignation letter, Pickstock reflected on his tenure in the Senate as one of the “greatest honors” of his life. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis for his trust and to his Senate colleagues for their unwavering support. Pickstock also lauded Senate President Adderley for her leadership, crediting her faith and humility as sources of inspiration.
Reaffirming his dedication to national progress, Pickstock concluded, “I remain committed to building a Bahamas where hard work opens doors, opportunity is within reach, and faith continues to light our path forward.” His resignation marks a significant shift in his political career, as he prepares to engage more directly with constituents in the upcoming by-election.