In a powerful address at the opening of the 122nd Synod of the Diocese of The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands, Anglican Bishop Laish Boyd emphasized the urgent need for transparent campaign finance reform as the general election season intensifies. ‘It is wrong for money to control the outcome of an election or the future of a country,’ he declared, urging politicians and voters alike to ensure fair and ethical elections free from corruption and vote-buying. Bishop Boyd’s remarks come amid longstanding allegations of vote-buying, with some party insiders privately acknowledging its prevalence. He stressed the necessity of moving away from such practices to advance the nation. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, who attended the service alongside Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, has stated that campaign finance reform will not be implemented before the next general election, despite his party’s pre-election manifesto promise. Bishop Boyd also addressed critical issues such as immigration, healthcare, and mental health. He called for the humane treatment of immigrants and the regularization of individuals born to non-Bahamian parents. On healthcare, he described conditions at the Princess Margaret Hospital and clinics as ‘deplorable,’ urging the government to expand the National Health Insurance scheme to provide more comprehensive care. Additionally, he highlighted the rising rates of suicide and attempted suicide, advocating for enhanced mental health support and increased investment in social development. Bishop Boyd’s address underscored the importance of integrity, empathy, and accountability in leadership, urging officials to prioritize national development over personal ambition.
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GraceKennedy Foundation awards over $31 million in tertiary scholarships
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to education by awarding over $31 million in scholarships to 91 exceptional university students. The recipients, hailing from prestigious institutions such as the University of the West Indies, Mona (UWI), the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech), the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts (EMC), and the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), were honored during a special ceremony held on October 9, 2025, at UTech. The event brought together students, parents, educators, and GraceKennedy executives to celebrate the scholars’ remarkable achievements.
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NEPA probes fish kill along Palisadoes strip
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican environmental authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation following reports of a mass fish kill along sections of the Palisadoes strip on Monday. The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) are leading the probe, with their respective CEOs, Leonard Francis and Dr. Gavin Bellamy, visiting the site early Monday to assess the situation. The investigation involves collaboration with multiple entities, including the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard and the Jamaica Constabulary Force Marine Police.
Initial findings, derived from on-site observations, interviews, technical assessments, and water and fish samples, suggest that the incident was localized and likely triggered by an external factor or eutrophication—a condition caused by excessive nutrient levels in water bodies. NEPA has emphasized its determination to address the issue and is exploring preventive measures, such as implementing real-time monitoring systems, deploying surveillance cameras, and fostering partnerships with law enforcement, local businesses, fishermen, and community members.
As a precautionary measure, the public has been advised to avoid fishing, collecting, or consuming marine life from the affected area until further notice. NEPA and the NFA have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Jamaica’s coastal and marine ecosystems, pledging to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as new information emerges.
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Nigerian court orders TikTokers to marry after viral smooches
In a surprising turn of events, a magistrate court in Kano, Nigeria, has mandated the marriage of two TikTok influencers following their posting of a video depicting them passionately kissing. The court, located in the socially conservative northern region of Nigeria, directed the Hisbah, the local sharia police, to officiate the union within 60 days. The decision was made in response to what was deemed ‘indecent’ content by the court, reflecting the deep-seated cultural and religious norms of the area. The influencers, Idris Mai Wushirya and Basira Yar Guda, faced public backlash and legal consequences after their video went viral. Mai Wushirya was detained prior to the court’s ruling, while Yar Guda went into hiding. The Hisbah has begun preparations for the wedding, with both families being approached for consent. Additionally, the Kano state government has pledged to provide a house for the couple, fulfilling a condition set by the bride. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between modern social media practices and traditional values in northern Nigeria, where sharia law coexists with common law.
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OCHA warns of resurgence of cholera in Haiti
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued a stark warning regarding the resurgence of cholera in Haiti’s Quest Department, exacerbated by the ongoing gang violence plaguing the Caribbean nation. Over the past month, health authorities have reported new cases in Pétion-Ville, marking a concerning end to an 11-week period without any reported infections. Between October 5 and 11 alone, 139 suspected cases were recorded, including over 20 laboratory-confirmed instances, with five fatalities reported. Pétion-Ville and parts of Port-au-Prince, including Cité-Soleil, remain on high alert due to fears of cholera spreading among internally displaced populations. In response, Haiti’s Ministry of Health, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and humanitarian partners, has intensified disinfection campaigns, community awareness initiatives, and the distribution of chlorine, safe water, and hygiene kits in the most affected areas. OCHA also highlighted the broader impact of conflicts in countries like Sudan, Kyrgyzstan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which are severely straining their respective health sectors.
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Chronixx’s Exile debuts at #5 on Billboard Reggae Albums chart
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican reggae artist Chronixx has secured his third appearance on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart with his latest release, ‘Exile,’ which debuted at #5 on October 10. The album, released under the label Forever Living Originals, marks Chronixx’s first full-length project of new material in eight years. ‘Exile’ features a collection of tracks including ‘Survivor,’ ‘Family First,’ ‘Saviour,’ ‘Genesis,’ ‘Pain in Your Heart,’ and ‘Love is On the Mountain.’ The album’s production was helmed by British producer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Dean Josiah Cover, known professionally as ‘Inflo,’ who is also the founder and director of Forever Living Originals. Chronixx previously dominated the Billboard Reggae Albums chart with his #1 debuts of the 2014 EP ‘Dread & Terrible’ and the 2017 Grammy-nominated album ‘Chronology.’ This latest achievement underscores Chronixx’s enduring influence in the reggae genre and his ability to consistently deliver impactful music.
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Portmore rally to beat Harbour View in JPL
Portmore United secured a commanding 4-1 comeback victory against Harbour View in their Jamaica Premier League clash at Waterhouse on Monday, propelling them to sole possession of second place in the league standings. The win elevated Portmore to 18 points, just four points behind league leaders Montego Bay United. Harbour View initially took the lead in the 27th minute through Trayvone Reid’s third goal of the season, but Portmore equalized eight minutes later. Marques Reid’s 62nd-minute strike put Portmore ahead, and late goals from substitutes Ramone Howell (88th minute) and Orlando Russell (90th minute) sealed the emphatic win. In the second game of the doubleheader, Tivoli Gardens, despite being reduced to 10 men, edged Arnett Gardens 2-1 to break into the top six for the first time this season. Denville Watson opened the scoring for Tivoli in first-half stoppage time, but Shai Smith equalized for Arnett in the 53rd minute. After Anthony Nelson’s 71st-minute red card, Kimarley Smith’s stunning long-range effort in second-half stoppage time secured the victory for Tivoli, ending their three-game winless streak and marking their first back-to-back wins of the season.
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Severe weather alert in effect for Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Meteorological Service has activated a severe weather alert, effective until 6:00 am on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, as a tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea evolves into a more organized system. This developing low-pressure area, currently lacking a well-defined center but exhibiting winds nearing 72 km/h (45 m/h), is forecast to intensify into a tropical storm later today. Environmental conditions are becoming increasingly favorable for further development, raising concerns about the potential formation of a tropical cyclone near Jamaica. Satellite, radar, and surface observations confirm the system’s progression, with its slow movement over the central Caribbean Sea expected to bring significant impacts to the island. Tropical storm conditions, including locally heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds, are anticipated to affect eastern and southern parishes from late Wednesday through Thursday, with rainfall potentially extending into the weekend. Marine areas are also at risk, with widespread showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds predicted to impact all zones, particularly inshore and offshore the south coast. Fishermen operating on the cays and banks are urged to finalize preparations and remain vigilant for possible evacuation orders.
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Hermes taps British designer to lead its menswear line
In a significant move for the fashion industry, French luxury powerhouse Hermes has announced the appointment of British designer Grace Wales Bonner as the new creative director for its men’s pret-a-porter collection. This marks a pivotal transition for the brand, as Wales Bonner succeeds Veronique Nichanian, who has held the position for an impressive 37 years. Nichanian will present her final collection in January 2026, paving the way for Wales Bonner’s debut in January 2027.
Wales Bonner, a graduate of Central Saint Martins in London, expressed her excitement in a statement, describing Hermes as ‘a magical house’ and calling the opportunity ‘a dream.’ Known for her innovative approach to menswear, which blends European tailoring with African influences, Wales Bonner has earned numerous accolades for her work. Her designs often explore themes of identity and post-colonial heritage, reflecting her unique perspective as the daughter of an English mother and Jamaican father.
Hermes’s artistic director, Pierre-Alexis Dumas, praised Wales Bonner’s contemporary vision, stating that her understanding of culture and craftsmanship will continue to shape the brand’s men’s collections. This appointment comes at a time when the luxury sector faces global challenges, yet Hermes has remained resilient, with sales growing by over seven percent in the first half of this year, reaching eight billion euros ($9.3 billion).
The change at Hermes is part of a broader trend of artistic shifts within major fashion houses, including Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga, Loewe, and Jean Paul Gaultier. Wales Bonner’s appointment signals a fresh chapter for Hermes, blending tradition with modernity and diversity.
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L’Oreal says interested in Armani stake
PARIS, France — In a bold move to expand its luxury portfolio, French cosmetics giant L’Oreal has expressed interest in acquiring a stake in the Italian fashion house Armani, even as it finalizes a landmark $4.6 billion deal to purchase Kering’s beauty division. The announcement comes just days after L’Oreal and Kering, the parent company of Gucci, revealed the acquisition, which includes exclusive licences for iconic brands such as Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga starting in 2028.