Carib Scope

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  • Footballer jailed for 19 years for wounding former coach

    Footballer jailed for 19 years for wounding former coach

    In a landmark ruling at the High Court in Kingstown, 27-year-old footballer Aaron Miller has been sentenced to 19 years imprisonment for a brutal assault that left his former coach with permanent injuries. Justice Rickie Burnett delivered the stern verdict on Friday, emphasizing the necessity of prolonged incarceration for repeat offenders who demonstrate persistent criminal behavior.

    The case stemmed from a violent incident on January 4, 2023, in Layou, where Miller attacked Wade Jackson, his former football coach and longtime acquaintance, with a glass bottle. The assault rendered Jackson unconscious and caused significant head trauma. Medical reports confirmed lasting neurological damage, including recurrent headaches, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances.

    Court proceedings revealed the attack was precipitated by an earlier altercation on January 1, 2023, when Miller allegedly assaulted Jackson’s son at a public event. Three days later, Jackson confronted Miller about threats made against his children, escalating into physical violence. Witnesses testified that Miller pursued Jackson and his children, hurling stones and bottles before ultimately striking Jackson multiple times in the head while he lay defenseless on the ground.

    Justice Burnett referenced former Chief Justice Byron’s sentencing philosophy, noting that some offenders only respond to extended removal from society. The court established a 15-year starting point (50% of the maximum 30-year sentence) before adding four years for aggravating factors, including Miller’s previous convictions for assault occasioning bodily harm (2021), escaping lawful custody, and property damage.

    Despite Miller’s self-representation and offers to sell his cattle (valued at EC$19,000) for compensation, the court found no mitigating circumstances. The judge emphasized the attack’s premeditated nature, its occurrence before minor children, and the severe lasting impact on the victim’s health and psychological wellbeing.

    Miller will serve 18 years, 9 months and 11 days after accounting for time already spent in remand. Crown representative Devon Bute prosecuted the case, which resulted from an 8-1 guilty verdict by a nine-member jury in November 2023.

  • More good vibes from MNR this year

    More good vibes from MNR this year

    Emerging soca sensation Melanie Nicole Richard, professionally known as MNR, is navigating a unique dual path as both a psychology student in Oklahoma and an ascending Caribbean music artist. The St. Lucian performer recently reflected on her musical journey and future aspirations in an exclusive interview with St. Lucia Times.

    Richard’s entry into the competitive soca scene occurred merely four years ago, inspired by fellow female artist Kisha K who served as her initial mentor. “Working with Kisha K marked the starting point,” MNR revealed. “While I’ve always adored soca since childhood television viewings of Soca Monarch competitions, Kisha truly helped me gain footing in the industry.

    Her career milestones include a collaborative debut track “We Jumping” with Kisha K, followed by significant competition achievements. MNR reached the semi-finals of the 2024 Soca Monarch with “Take Over” and advanced to the finals last year with her popular single “No Sweeter.”

    The artist’s trajectory continued upward when she claimed victory at December’s Youth Star competition during MusicFest Sent Lisi, delivering an unreleased soca composition. Interestingly, Richard had initially sought only a guest performer slot at the event. “I wasn’t interested in competing,” she explained. “After reaching out to organizers, they encouraged me to submit my song for competition consideration instead.” Her submission “Pride for Life,” though not yet officially released, earned her a finals placement.

    Richard expressed particular admiration for the dedication shown by fellow MusicFest participants. “I was impressed by all performers who came fully prepared with props and complete presentations,” she noted. “I simply executed my rehearsed performance and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

    The artist extended gratitude to event organizers and sponsors for providing developmental platforms for young Lucian musical talents. Looking toward 2026, MNR plans increased musical output alongside another Soca Monarch competition entry. “Last year I released only one song, but I’ve commenced my soca journey much earlier this year,” Richard stated. “I hope to release multiple tracks that audiences will genuinely enjoy.

    While acknowledging her background in gospel music cultivated through church involvement, Richard affirmed her current dedication to soca. “I adore soca’s vibrant energy and audience response,” she said. “Although I may explore other genres eventually, soca remains my present focus where I can create lasting impressions while doing what I love.”

  • ABWU and KFC Antigua Sign New Collective Bargaining Agreement Securing Increases in Wages

    ABWU and KFC Antigua Sign New Collective Bargaining Agreement Securing Increases in Wages

    In a significant development for labor relations in the Caribbean nation, the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has finalized a comprehensive three-year Collective Bargaining Agreement with KFC Antigua. The landmark agreement, covering the period from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028, delivers substantial economic benefits for employees at the popular fast-food chain.

    The negotiated compensation package features structured wage enhancements that will substantially boost worker earnings. Employees will receive an immediate weekly wage increase of $30 during the first year of implementation, followed by additional $15 weekly raises in both the subsequent second and third years. Beyond base pay improvements, the agreement acknowledges the particular challenges faced by shift workers by elevating their shift allowance from $35 to $40 per shift.

    Hugh Joseph, the Senior Industrial Relations Officer who represented the union during negotiations, characterized the bargaining process as fundamentally constructive and productive. In post-negotiation comments, Joseph emphasized the critical role of worker engagement in achieving favorable outcomes. “The collective participation of workers stands as one of the most crucial elements in securing desirable results during negotiation processes,” Joseph stated, while simultaneously praising the dedication demonstrated by both rank-and-file workers and shop stewards throughout the extended discussions.

    The successfully ratified agreement reinforces ABWU’s ongoing institutional commitment to advancing member welfare through strategic collective bargaining. The union maintains that such negotiated benefits directly translate to improved living standards for workers and their families, reflecting its core mission of protecting worker interests and well-being through structured advocacy and representation.

  • More Countries Move to Ban Social Media for Under-15s

    More Countries Move to Ban Social Media for Under-15s

    A growing international movement to protect youth from digital platforms is gaining significant traction, with France emerging as the latest nation to pursue stringent social media restrictions for minors. President Emmanuel Macron has announced his administration’s intention to implement a comprehensive nationwide ban for users under 15 years of age, targeting implementation before the commencement of the upcoming academic year in September.

    In a strongly worded statement disseminated through BFMTV, Macron articulated the philosophical foundation behind these protective measures: “The cognitive development and emotional well-being of our youth cannot be commodified. Their psychological states must remain free from manipulation by foreign technological influences, regardless of whether they originate from American corporate platforms or Chinese algorithmic systems.”

    The proposed legislative framework would extend beyond social media platforms to include prohibitions on mobile phone usage within French secondary educational institutions. Macron characterized these initiatives as establishing “unequivocal guidelines” for all stakeholders within the educational ecosystem, including families, educators, and students themselves.

    Enforcement mechanisms would leverage the European Union’s Digital Services Act to implement rigorous age verification protocols. French legislator Laure Miller emphasized the critical necessity of these measures, noting that existing protective systems have proven fundamentally inadequate. “The current landscape offers virtually no meaningful age verification,” Miller stated. “Minors can simply input arbitrary birthdates to gain unrestricted platform access.”

    This European initiative mirrors similar regulatory actions across the globe. Australia established precedent last year by instituting social media prohibitions for users under 16, while United Kingdom authorities are presently evaluating comparable protective restrictions for their youth population.

  • Pichelin resident disputes official claim of “no threat” after landslide

    Pichelin resident disputes official claim of “no threat” after landslide

    A significant discrepancy has emerged between official government assessments and ground-level observations regarding the massive landslide that struck Pichelin, Dominica, last week. While Public Works Minister Rayburn Blackmore asserts there is “no immediate threat to life and property,” local resident Mervin Bellot, who witnessed the catastrophic event firsthand, presents a starkly different perspective.

    Bellot, whose residence neighbors the slide zone, described awakening to seismic tremors before observing an enormous portion of mountainside collapse into the riverbed. The resulting debris formed a natural dam approximately 60 feet high, currently restraining a substantial volume of water. Bellot expressed grave concerns about the structure’s stability, particularly with ongoing rainfall conditions. “The soil composition remains unstable, water levels continue rising, and persistent precipitation could trigger complete structural failure,” he stated.

    The local resident reported immediately alerting community members and facilitating evacuations following the incident. While some households have voluntarily relocated, Bellot emphasizes the necessity for more comprehensive protective measures. He further criticized governmental authorities for permitting contractors to deposit materials into the river, alleging this practice has exacerbated the situation by constricting natural water flow pathways.

    Contrary to official monitoring reports indicating controlled conditions, Bellot maintains the situation demands urgent intervention. He advocates for immediate engineering solutions to establish controlled water release mechanisms and cessation of all river dumping activities. “Government representatives must exercise extreme caution in their risk evaluations,” Bellot cautioned. “Catastrophic dam failure would impact not only Pichelin village but also transportation infrastructure and coastal communities throughout the southern region.

    Minister Blackmore confirmed during a Monday radio interview that clearance operations are scheduled to commence imminently, utilizing anticipated favorable weather conditions through Tuesday. Government priorities reportedly focus on maintaining river channel integrity and implementing comprehensive mitigation protocols to ensure downstream community safety.

  • PRESS RELEASE :Cricket West Indies announces squad to fight for 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

    PRESS RELEASE :Cricket West Indies announces squad to fight for 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has formally announced its 15-player roster for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place across India and Sri Lanka from February 6 to March 9, 2026. The selection culminates an extensive evaluation process designed to build a competitive unit capable of thriving in subcontinental conditions.

    Under the guidance of Head Coach Daren Sammy—a two-time World Cup-winning captain—the squad blends seasoned veterans with emerging talent. Sammy emphasized the strategic balance of the selection, noting the combination of experience, unpredictability, and match-winning capability. “We’ve assembled a group that possesses both firepower and finesse,” he stated. “This team is built to adapt and excel in Asian conditions.”

    Notable inclusions feature Gudakesh Motie, whose recent development stint in South Africa has bolstered his confidence, and Johnson Charles, who offers backup wicketkeeping support and powerplay prowess. Quentin Sampson joins as a middle-order batting option.

    A slight concern surrounds fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who remains in rehabilitation following an injury and has not yet been medically cleared for high-intensity matches. He will continue working with CWI’s medical team.

    Captain Shai Hope expressed enthusiasm about leading the side, highlighting the team’s readiness and experience in subcontinental environments. “We’re no strangers to these conditions,” Hope remarked. “This squad has the skill and mindset to compete against the best.”

    The team will finalize preparations during a three-match T20 series against South Africa from January 27–31 before departing for the World Cup.

    Full Squad: Shai Hope (c), Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.

    Support Staff: Rawl Lewis (Manager), Daren Sammy (Head Coach), Floyd Reifer (Batting Coach), Ravi Rampaul (Bowling Coach), Rayon Griffith (Fielding Coach), along with medical and performance personnel.

  • Thorne calls on Barbadians to end BLP’s colonial-style governance

    Thorne calls on Barbadians to end BLP’s colonial-style governance

    In a significant show of political force, Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne addressed a crowd of over 400 supporters at Independence Square during the party’s inaugural national rally on Sunday evening. The event, marked by enthusiastic displays of party allegiance with yellow and blue colors, reached a crescendo as Thorne made his entrance accompanied by the gospel anthem ‘Walk On’ at approximately 11 p.m., triggering an outpouring of support from attendees.

    Thorne’s address wove together spiritual themes with the political legacy of national hero Errol Barrow, articulating a vision of social democracy centered on robust government intervention. The opposition leader presented a comprehensive platform addressing healthcare, education, pension systems, public transportation, and housing infrastructure, framing these services as fundamental rights funded through citizen taxation.

    The DLP leader launched a sharp critique against the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP), accusing them of implementing regressive taxation policies that disproportionately burden poor and middle-class families. Thorne specifically called for a overhaul of the current fiscal system, advocating for progressive taxation models, small business relief measures, reduction of Value Added Tax from 17.5 percent, and enhanced pension protections.

    ‘Current fiscal policies are creating impossible choices for families—between utilities and nourishment—while children attend school without adequate nutrition,’ Thorne asserted. ‘This administration’s approach constitutes an economic oppression that must be confronted.’

    Thorne further advanced his ‘Barbados First’ doctrine, emphasizing the prioritization of local professionals in key institutions including Queen Elizabeth Hospital and academic institutions over foreign appointments. He framed the upcoming February 11 election as a historic opportunity to reject what he characterized as a regression to colonial-era governance structures under the BLP administration.

    Throughout his speech, Thorne connected his personal narrative of ascent from humble beginnings to party leadership with the broader historical struggle against colonial oppression, positioning the electoral process as a means to ‘recapture and retrieve the nation’s sovereign identity.’

  • Venezuela’s Acting Leader Tired of U.S. Interference

    Venezuela’s Acting Leader Tired of U.S. Interference

    Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodríguez delivered a forceful rebuke of United States interference in her nation’s domestic politics during a public address on Sunday. Speaking to oil industry workers in Puerto La Cruz, Rodríguez declared that Venezuela has reached its limit with Washington’s directives regarding internal governance.

    “We have endured sufficient imposition of Washington’s commands upon Venezuelan politicians,” Rodríguez stated in televised remarks. “Venezuelan politics must be permitted to resolve our own differences and internal conflicts without external pressure.”

    This diplomatic confrontation emerges approximately one month after US forces conducted a military operation that resulted in the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. Following this intervention, the US administration has intensified pressure on Caracas to restart oil production operations and sever international alliances with China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba.

    Initial US positioning suggested Washington would oversee Venezuela’s political transition, with President Donald Trump previously stating the United States would “run” the country. However, diplomatic dynamics appear to have shifted following a telephone conversation between Trump and Rodríguez earlier this month, during which the American president described his Venezuelan counterpart as a “terrific person” and noted they were “developing positive relations.”

  • Central Castries spin to victory in Sandals/SLNCA U19 opener

    Central Castries spin to victory in Sandals/SLNCA U19 opener

    The highly anticipated Sandals/Saint Lucia National Cricket Association Under-19 Tournament commenced with spectacular energy at Mindoo Philip Park on January 25th. This competitive event brings together eight district squads across four designated venues, promising weeks of exceptional 50-over cricket displays that highlight emerging talent and regional pride.

    The inaugural match featured a compelling day/night confrontation between South Castries and Central Castries—the latter sharing honors as 2025 tournament champions—following an elaborate opening ceremony that established the championship’s elevated standards.

    Adverse weather conditions necessitated a match reduction to 35 overs per side. South Castries, upon winning the toss, strategically elected to field first. Despite initial challenges with excessive extras, their bowling unit effectively contained Central Castries’ batting lineup, triggering a dramatic collapse.

    Tyler Venner emerged as the sole batsman demonstrating resilience for Central Castries, delivering an impressive 49-run performance featuring five boundaries and one six, narrowly missing a deserved half-century. The team ultimately posted 118 all out, with 25 runs attributed to extras. Nathaniel Joseph spearheaded South’s bowling attack with an exceptional four-wicket haul at the cost of 29 runs.

    Facing a modest target, Central Castries mounted an extraordinary bowling response that dismantled South Castries for a mere 65 runs. The victory was engineered through masterful spin bowling, with last season’s MVP Theo Edward redeeming his batting performance by capturing four wickets for 16 runs. He partnered effectively with leg-spinner Aiden Scholar, who achieved a stunning economy rate of three wickets for six runs across seven overs. Notably, 32 of South’s runs came from extras, highlighting their batting difficulties.

    This emphatic victory immediately positions Central Castries at the tournament’s summit as the competition progresses through its preliminary stages.

  • High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    A legal confrontation between former Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) marketing director Peter Miller and the association’s trustee will reach a pivotal moment on February 26 when Justice Frank Seepersad delivers his ruling. Miller claims substantial unpaid compensation for services rendered during the association’s financial restructuring phase.

    The crux of the dispute centers on whether Miller continued fulfilling his contractual obligations beyond March 2020, when FIFA installed a normalization committee to oversee TTFA operations. Miller maintains he persistently worked through the association’s financial crisis, while trustee Maria Daniel has disallowed portions of his claim based on advice that he ceased services during that period.

    Miller’s employment commenced January 1, 2020, under a two-year contract stipulating a monthly salary of US$25,000, plus an additional US$30,410.95 for services predating his formal contract. During virtual testimony, Miller faced rigorous cross-examination from Senior Counsel Kerwyn Garcia, who challenged the evidentiary support for Miller’s assertions of continued work.

    The judicial proceedings revealed complexities in documenting marketing achievements. Miller acknowledged completing several initiatives outlined in a February 2020 brief from then-TTFA president William Wallace, including securing kit deals, launching a new association website, and identifying broadcast rights partners. However, he conceded that his court submissions lacked documentary evidence for alleged sponsorship agreements with international companies and arranged friendlies with UK and Brazilian clubs.

    Trustee Maria Daniel, appointed in November 2021 to manage TTFA’s debt proposal process, testified that her mandate focused exclusively on financial rehabilitation assessment. While acknowledging email correspondence suggesting Miller maintained sponsor communications after March 2020, she maintained insufficient context existed to validate these exchanges as substantive work.

    Robert Hadad, chairman of FIFA’s normalization committee, corroborated the verification challenges, stating his position required confirming active employees before approving payments.

    The TTFA’s debt proposal, ultimately approved by creditors in May 2022, provided legal protection while the association pursued financial recovery. An Ernst and Young report estimated outstanding liabilities at approximately TT$98.5 million, with the enhanced proposal increasing committed funds to US$3.5 million.

    Justice Seepersad’s impending decision will hinge principally on whether evidence substantiates Miller’s claim of continued contractual performance after March 2020.