In a scathing critique, Barry Padarath, the Leader of Government Business, has lambasted the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) for what he describes as a dereliction of their parliamentary responsibilities. The accusation came in a Facebook post following an unexpected halt to the budget debate on October 17, triggered by the absence of contributions from five PNM MPs. Padarath, who also serves as the Minister of Public Utilities and MP for Couva South, highlighted that after the seventh government speaker, Hansen Narinesingh, concluded his remarks, no PNM member stepped forward to continue the debate, despite having five members yet to speak. He pointed out that confusion reigned on the PNM bench, exacerbated by the absence of the Leader of the Opposition during this critical juncture. Padarath further criticized senior PNM members, including Colm Imbert, Marvin Gonzales, Simon De Nobriga, and Stuart Young, for their inaction when called upon to participate. He asserted that this incident underscores the PNM’s inability to effectively analyze and respond to the national budget, signaling a collapse under pressure. The government now anticipates the commencement of the Standing Finance Committee on October 21. Meanwhile, the PNM is scheduled to hold a news conference at Balisier House in Port of Spain on October 18 to address the controversy.
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US Embassy raises alert level over Divali weekend
The US Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, has issued a security alert for US nationals, urging them to avoid all US government facilities in the country during the holiday weekend. The advisory, posted on the embassy’s Facebook page on October 18, cited a heightened state of alert as the reason for the warning. The embassy emphasized the importance of vigilance, advising US citizens to remain aware of their surroundings and monitor reputable news outlets for updates. Additionally, the embassy reminded travelers to ensure they possess a valid US passport for any planned trips to the United States. US nationals were also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities and to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts and updates. This precautionary measure underscores the embassy’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of US citizens abroad.
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Wade Mark appointed as acting president
In a significant political development, Senate President Wade Mark has been appointed as the acting head of State for the Republic, stepping in for President Christine Kangaloo during her absence abroad. The confirmation of this appointment was officially communicated via a text message from President’s House on October 18. The message stated, ‘Yes. He was sworn in and will serve as acting President while Her Excellency is out of the country.’ However, the duration of his acting presidency remains unspecified. Mark, who was previously sworn in as Senate President on May 23, now takes on this crucial interim role, ensuring the continuity of governance in the absence of the President.
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Protesters turn out for anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ rallies
WASHINGTON, United States — This Saturday, the United States witnessed an unprecedented wave of protests as millions of Americans took to the streets from New York to San Francisco to voice their dissent against President Donald Trump’s controversial policies. Dubbed the ‘No Kings’ rallies, these demonstrations have been criticized by Republicans as ‘Hate America’ events, yet organizers argue they are a patriotic call to action against what they perceive as authoritarian governance.
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Streetlights in Rocky Point damaged by widespread electricity theft — JPS
CLARENDON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has raised alarms over rampant electricity theft in the Rocky Point community, which is severely damaging streetlights and plunging the area into darkness. According to JPS, illegal connections account for more than 70% of the electricity consumed in the community, leading to frequent breakdowns of streetlamps and heightened concerns over public safety and security.
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US Embassy issues security alert for Americans in T&T
The US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago has issued a critical security alert, urging American citizens to exercise heightened caution during the Divali holiday weekend. In a statement released on Saturday, the embassy advised US nationals to avoid visiting all US government facilities in the twin-island republic due to an elevated state of alert. The embassy emphasized the importance of vigilance, encouraging Americans to remain aware of their surroundings, stay updated through reliable news sources, and promptly report any suspicious activities to local authorities. This advisory comes as the region prepares for the vibrant Divali celebrations, a significant Hindu festival of lights. While the specific nature of the threat remains undisclosed, the embassy’s warning underscores the need for precautionary measures to ensure the safety of US citizens during this period.
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Relief is here
In a heartfelt letter to the editor, Barry S. Bissessar from Fyzabad expressed his gratitude for the recent reduction in gasoline prices, a move announced by the Finance Minister during the budget presentation. For the first time in nearly a decade, Bissessar noted a palpable sense of relief as he filled his vehicle with gasoline on October 16. Previously, a $100 investment would yield a mere 16.75 litres of super gasoline, but on this occasion, the same amount provided 20 litres, marking a significant improvement. This reduction of $1 per litre has brought much-needed comfort to daily commuters who have endured years of financial strain. Bissessar extended his thanks to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, expressing confidence that the majority of the nation would join him in appreciating this timely relief.
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Penal man dies days after gas tank explosion
A 28-year-old laborer, Bevaughn Joseph, tragically passed away on October 17 after sustaining severe injuries from a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tank explosion at his home in Penal. The incident occurred on October 13 when a 20-pound gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen of his ground-floor apartment. Joseph was rushed to the San Fernando General Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery before succumbing to his injuries. A relative who heard the explosion found Joseph and his apartment engulfed in flames. Firefighters from the Mon Repos Fire Station responded promptly and extinguished the blaze. Investigations by WPC Benjamin of the Penal Police Station confirmed that the explosion was caused by the gas cylinder. This incident adds to a concerning surge in LPG-related accidents across Trinidad and Tobago this year, which have resulted in multiple injuries and at least three other fatalities. On October 16, Ramco Industries Ltd issued a statement expressing deep concern over the increasing number of such incidents, attributing them primarily to defective regulators and hoses. The company urged consumers to use only approved equipment, replace regulators every five years, and regularly inspect hoses for leaks or damage. Earlier this year, Ria George, 45, of Digity Trace in Penal, died nearly two months after being injured in a similar explosion. The National Petroleum Marketing Company has advised consumers to test new gas tanks for leaks using soapy water and report any defects immediately. Other victims include Raquel Babwah, 44, of Claxton Bay, and Naomi Aliyah Mya De Mille, 19, of Lopinot, who also lost their lives in LPG-related incidents.
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Huge crowds as body of revered Kenya politician Odinga heads home
KISUMU, Kenya — Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in western Kenya on Saturday to pay their final respects to Raila Odinga, a revered political figure whose death has left the nation in profound grief. The massive turnout in Kisumu, Odinga’s political stronghold, marked the climax of a week-long mourning period that has already claimed at least five lives. As his coffin arrived by helicopter at the city stadium, the crowd erupted in emotional chants of “Baba” (father) and “We are orphans,” reflecting the deep connection Odinga had with his supporters. Odinga, 80, passed away on Wednesday in India from a suspected heart attack, sparking nationwide sorrow, particularly among the Luo community, which he championed. Despite the overwhelming crowd, the event in Kisumu was relatively orderly compared to earlier ceremonies in Nairobi, where security forces resorted to lethal measures to control surging crowds. A medical source reported that 74 people were treated for fainting and dehydration at the stadium. Odinga’s legacy as a key architect of Kenya’s multi-party democracy and the 2010 constitution remains undisputed, though his death leaves a leadership vacuum in the opposition. His pragmatic alliances, including a recent deal with President William Ruto, had alienated some young voters. As Kenya prepares for potentially turbulent elections in 2027, the future of Odinga’s political movement remains uncertain.
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US sanctions affiliates of Haitian gang coalition, Viv Ansanm
The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has imposed sanctions on two key figures linked to Haiti’s escalating gang violence. Dimitri Herard, a former Haitian police officer and head of the National Palace’s general security unit, and Kempes Sanon, leader of the Bel Air gang, were targeted for their roles in supporting the Viv Ansanm gang coalition. OFAC accused Viv Ansanm of perpetuating violence, extortion, and terrorism, which have destabilized Haiti. Herard, previously imprisoned for his alleged involvement in the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse, escaped custody in 2024 and has since collaborated with Viv Ansanm, providing training and firearms to gang leaders. Sanon, meanwhile, has been instrumental in consolidating the coalition’s power through civilian killings, extortion, and kidnappings. The sanctions, enacted under Executive Order 13224, freeze all US-based assets of the designated individuals and prohibit transactions involving their property. OFAC also warned that foreign financial institutions engaging with these individuals risk secondary sanctions. The move underscores the US commitment to holding accountable those who endanger Haitian citizens and destabilize the nation.