Sri Lanka’s political landscape has been rocked by the assassination of Lasantha Wickramasekara, a 38-year-old opposition politician, who was shot dead inside his office in Weligama on Wednesday. This incident marks the first political killing in a recent surge of violent shootings across the nation. According to the Associated Press, an unidentified gunman entered Wickramasekara’s office, opened fire, and fled the scene. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Wickramasekara succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have suggested that the attack may be connected to gang rivalries, with Sri Lanka’s public security minister alleging that the victim had ties to narcotics and faced multiple court cases. However, opposition leaders have dismissed these claims as politically motivated, accusing the government of failing to protect its political rivals. Lawmaker Ranjith Madduma Bandara condemned the killing, stating, ‘The government must take responsibility for this. This is a political killing.’ Sri Lanka has witnessed a significant increase in violent crime this year, with 100 shootings reported, resulting in 51 deaths and 56 injuries. Police have arrested dozens of suspected gang leaders, some of whom were extradited from countries including the UAE, Indonesia, India, and Nepal.
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Interview with Severin McKenzie, Director of 50th anniversary re-staging of STREAK
In the digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools for content dissemination and user engagement. The simple acts of sharing, tweeting, and pinning content have transformed how information spreads globally. These actions not only amplify the reach of content but also foster community interaction and brand visibility. Platforms like Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook have integrated these features seamlessly, enabling users to share their interests, opinions, and discoveries with just a click. This phenomenon underscores the importance of social media in modern communication, where virality can be achieved through collective participation. As users continue to leverage these tools, the dynamics of online engagement evolve, shaping trends and influencing public discourse.
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Three Female Finalists Announced in CHOGM 2026 Logo Design Contest
In a remarkable display of talent and innovation, three female designers have emerged as finalists in the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 logo design competition. Selected from an impressive pool of 141 submissions, these finalists embody the creative spirit and national pride of Antigua and Barbuda. The rigorous selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and branding experts. The winning logo, set to be unveiled on November 4 at Sandals Grande Antigua, will be revealed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland. This event underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to fostering youth innovation and artistic expression as the nation prepares to host CHOGM 2026, a pivotal diplomatic gathering of 56 Commonwealth nations. The logo will symbolize unity, sustainability, and resilience, key themes of the summit, which aims to address global cooperation, climate action, and development. This marks the first time Antigua and Barbuda will host CHOGM, highlighting the country’s growing influence in international diplomacy and its commitment to advancing Commonwealth values.
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Tropical Storm Melissa Poised to Become Major Category 4 Hurricane
Tropical Storm Melissa, currently traversing the Caribbean Sea, is projected to intensify into a major Category 4 hurricane by Monday, October 27, 2025. As of Wednesday, October 23, the storm was positioned 300 miles southeast of Kingston, Jamaica, with sustained winds of 50 mph and a sluggish movement speed of just 2 mph. The storm’s slow progression is already causing heavy rainfall, with up to a foot expected in southern Haiti and the Dominican Republic, raising concerns of catastrophic flash floods and landslides in the region’s mountainous areas. Meteorologists attribute Melissa’s rapid intensification to unusually warm ocean waters, predicting it will reach hurricane strength by Saturday. If it does, Melissa will mark the fifth hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season and the first to originate within the Caribbean. Two potential trajectories are being monitored: one where the storm strengthens south of Jamaica and another where it veers north toward Haiti or Jamaica. Both scenarios pose significant risks, including severe flooding, destructive winds, and widespread power outages. Currently, a hurricane watch is in effect for parts of Haiti, while Jamaica remains under a tropical storm watch. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to prepare for potentially life-threatening conditions.
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False prophet
The shocking events surrounding Kevin Ontoneil Smith, a self-proclaimed prophet and alleged cult leader, have left Jamaica in a state of disbelief. On October 17, 2021, Smith’s Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Albion, St James, became the site of a horrifying human sacrifice ritual. Two congregants, Taneka Gardner and Michael Brown, were brutally killed during the ceremony, marking a dark turn in Smith’s spiritual empire. The incident culminated in a deadly police raid, resulting in the death of another congregant, Kevaughn Palmer, and the arrest of 42 church members, including Smith. Just eight days later, on October 25, Smith’s life came to a tragic end when the car transporting him and three police officers crashed on the Linstead Bypass in St Catherine. Smith and Constable Orlando Irons died on impact, while the other officers survived. Autopsies later revealed that Smith had caused the crash, effectively committing suicide. Smith’s rise to prominence began at the age of 17 when he was ordained as a minister. By 2011, he had returned to Jamaica with the title “Dr” and established himself as a spiritual leader. His church, which he referred to as the “ark,” became a hub for his increasingly extreme practices. In March 2021, Smith charged congregants $100,000 each to enter the ark, where they endured harsh living conditions. The October 17 incident was preceded by a cryptic Facebook post from Smith, urging his followers to board the ark for a three-day convention. Instead, they were met with violence and death. Smith’s manipulative tactics and rigid financial rules had long raised red flags among those who knew him. Merlene Lewin, a resident near the church, recalled how Smith fined congregants for late attendance and improper attire. Despite his charm and intelligence, Smith’s actions revealed a darker side. His death and the subsequent charges of murder, wounding with intent, and illegal possession of a firearm have left a lasting impact on Jamaica’s religious community. Reverend Merrick “Al” Miller, who knew Smith in his early years, expressed his devastation at the turn of events, emphasizing the need for vigilance in spiritual leadership. The Jamaica Observer’s documentary, ‘Cult Pastor Kevin Smith: Dead or Alive?’, delves deeper into this chilling saga, with Part 2 set for release on October 26, 2025.
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Crawling threat
Jamaica is bracing for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, which continues its steady advance toward the island. The Government has escalated emergency preparations as meteorologists warn of potential hurricane conditions within the next 48 hours. Rohan Brown, Weather Services Manager at the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, stated during a press conference at Jamaica House that Melissa could intensify into a major hurricane by the weekend, posing significant threats to the region. The storm’s slow but relentless progression has prompted widespread readiness measures. The island’s international airports have activated emergency protocols, public hospitals are on high alert, and utility companies have mobilized resources. The Jamaica Public Service Company has introduced a new incident command structure to ensure faster and safer power restoration. Telecommunications providers Flow and Digicel, along with the National Water Commission, have also declared full preparedness. Residents are urged to stay vigilant as the storm’s trajectory and intensity remain uncertain.
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Is That A Fact set for Bruceontheloose Sprint
Renowned trainer Jason DaCosta has set his sights on the upcoming Bruceontheloose Sprint, scheduled for Mouttet Mile race day in December, with his exceptional five-year-old American-bred bay horse, Is That A Fact. This announcement follows Is That A Fact’s impressive triumph in the $1.25-million Errol “Big Sub” Subratie Memorial Cup on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The race, an Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward over one mile (1,600m), saw Is That A Fact dominate the field, defeating runner-up Run Julie Run, ridden by Dane Dawkins, by a length and three-quarters. The victory was marked by a commanding performance, with Is That A Fact completing the event in 1:39.1 (24.0 x 46.4 x 1:12.0 x 1:25.2). DaCosta praised the jockey, Shaheem Gordon, for executing a flawless ride and adhering to the race strategy. “It was a perfect ride by the jockey, and he followed instructions well,” DaCosta remarked. He also expressed confidence in Is That A Fact’s form, stating, “I think he is peaking at the right time, and he was working exceptionally well coming into this race.” Despite initial concerns about Run Julie Run’s challenge, DaCosta remains focused on the upcoming Sprint on Mouttet Mile race day. Gordon, who held Is That A Fact off in the early stages, timed the surge perfectly, propelling the horse to the front in the deep stretch and fending off Run Julie Run’s challenge to secure the win. “The trainer gave me an instruction, I know it was a winning ride and so I stuck to the plan and we won,” Gordon said. Linguist trailed behind in third place. DaCosta’s strategic planning and Gordon’s expert execution have positioned Is That A Fact as a strong contender for the upcoming Sprint.
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‘Jamaica deserves it!’
Mount Pleasant Football Academy has taken a monumental step towards the Concacaf Caribbean Cup final after a resounding 5-1 victory over Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force FC in the first-leg semi-final. The match, held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, showcased the Jamaican Premier League champions’ dominance, with Raheem Edwards scoring twice and contributions from Warner Brown, Shaqueil Bradford, and Kimoni Bailey. Head Coach Theodore Whitmore emphasized the importance of meticulous preparation in securing the win, stating, ‘We eliminated their game plan and ours worked.’ Despite the commanding performance, Whitmore expressed disappointment at conceding a goal, ending their streak of clean sheets. Mount Pleasant now stands on the brink of becoming only the second Jamaican team to reach the Caribbean Cup final, following in the footsteps of reigning champions Cavalier FC. Whitmore highlighted the significance of this achievement for Jamaican football, urging fans to rally behind the team. A spot in the final would also secure Mount Pleasant’s qualification for the prestigious Concacaf Champions Cup, where they could face elite clubs from the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Central America. The second-leg match is set to take place at the National Stadium in Jamaica, where Mount Pleasant aims to seal their historic progression.
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Masicka plugs UNO Fiesta
Jamaican dancehall sensation Masicka is set to mark a dual milestone with the launch of his inaugural event, UNO Fiesta. Scheduled for December 20 at Bay Beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann, the celebration will coincide with both his birthday and the release of his highly anticipated new album. The event promises to be a vibrant fusion of music, camaraderie, and tropical vibes, offering fans an unforgettable day-to-night experience.
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Supernatural Power shines in the The Viceroy Trophy, eyes Mouttet Mile
Philip Feanny’s exceptional three-year-old American-bred grey filly, Supernatural Power (Cross Traffic – Urquia), has emerged victorious in The Viceroy Trophy on Monday, October 20, 2025, setting her sights on the upcoming Mouttet Mile in December. Ridden by Panamanian jockey Dick Cardenas, the filly showcased her dominance in the Open Allowance race for three-year-olds and upward, securing a comfortable two-length win over one mile (1,600m) with an impressive time of 1:36.2 (23.4 x 46.2 x 1:11.1 x 1:23.3).
Feanny expressed his satisfaction with the win, emphasizing its significance as a preparatory race for the Mouttet Mile. “This was a nice race. It’s a prep towards the major objective, which is the Mouttet Mile,” he remarked. “Unfortunately, the recent Gold Cup prep didn’t go as planned, so we had to find another opportunity. This was her final race before the Mouttet Mile.”
Breaking smoothly from the gates with the addition of a visor, Cardenas strategically held Supernatural Power back, allowing Mamma Mia (Jerome Innis) and Major Danger (Dane Dawkins), a stablemate, to set the early pace. As the race progressed, the filly settled into a steady rhythm, biding her time until the half-mile (800m) turn, where she surged forward effortlessly, overtaking her rivals.
Tiz Tok, ridden by Raddesh Roman, emerged as a strong challenger, briefly taking second place as Supernatural Power seized the lead. However, when Tiz Tok mounted a fierce challenge in the final stretch, Supernatural Power responded with determination, pulling away decisively to claim victory. Tiz Tok finished second, with Major Danger securing third place, 19¾ lengths behind.
The win marks a significant milestone for Supernatural Power as she prepares for the Mouttet Mile, with trainer Philip Feanny and jockey Dick Cardenas reflecting on their successful strategy and the filly’s promising potential.