A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Sunday evening in the village of Kajapatie, where three-year-old Morjello Vaniel tragically drowned. The Atjoni police station received a report of the incident around 10:05 PM. Initial investigations revealed that the young boy had been bathing in a river near the village earlier that evening, around 6:00 PM, under the supervision of his aunt. At some point, Morjello went missing from sight. Despite immediate search efforts, only his underwear was initially found. The search resumed on Monday morning, leading to the recovery of the toddler’s lifeless body. Following consultation with the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the remains were handed over to the grieving family.
作者： admin
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OPINION: A possible change of direction
Cricket West Indies (CWI) is currently navigating its most severe financial crisis, even as the West Indies cricket team demonstrates resilience during their tour of India. The situation has sparked widespread concern among Caribbean cricket enthusiasts, particularly regarding the immense pressure placed on former West Indies player and current coach, Daren Sammy. Sammy has been tasked with coaching across all three formats of the game—Test, One Day International (ODI), and T20—despite limited resources and support. This has led to questions about the fairness and feasibility of such a demanding role. Comparisons have been drawn to Brendon McCullum, who holds a similar position with the England Test and County Board. However, McCullum benefits from substantial financial backing, robust infrastructure, and access to a wealth of former England players, advantages that Sammy lacks. To alleviate the burden on Sammy, it has been suggested that CWI narrow his focus to white-ball cricket and reinstate Andre Coley, a former West Indies Test coach, for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Coley’s previous successes in Pakistan and Australia, coupled with his ability to assemble a dedicated coaching team, make him a strong candidate for this role. Additionally, the inclusion of former West Indies players like Gus Logie as batting coach and the potential appointment of Brian Lara as chairperson of the CWI Cricket Committee could further strengthen the team’s leadership. The reinstatement of Test Selectors, with input from both Sammy and Coley, is also being considered to streamline decision-making. Amid these strategic adjustments, the financial strain on CWI remains a critical issue. Appeals have been made to prominent Caribbean leaders and corporate entities, such as Republic Bank Ltd and ExxonMobil, to sponsor the CWI Cricket Academy Squad and support the development of young players. These efforts aim to secure the future of West Indies cricket by nurturing talent and ensuring the team’s competitiveness on the global stage.
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Lorenzo poses no threat to Antigua and the Caribbean
Tropical Storm Lorenzo remains disorganized as it moves northwestward across the central tropical Atlantic, according to the National Hurricane Center’s latest update on Monday evening. As of 5 p.m. AST, the storm’s center was positioned near latitude 15.2 N, longitude 41.7 W, approximately 1,180 miles (1,895 kilometers) west of the Cabo Verde Islands. Lorenzo is currently generating maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h), with higher gusts, and is advancing northwest at a speed of 12 mph (19 km/h).
Forecasters predict that Lorenzo will maintain its northwest trajectory through Tuesday, followed by a northward turn on Tuesday night and a northeastward shift by Wednesday. While no significant change in strength is anticipated in the immediate future, gradual intensification could occur later in the week. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 160 miles (260 kilometers) from the center, with a minimum central pressure of 1002 millibars (29.59 inches).
At present, there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect, and the storm poses no immediate threat to land. Meteorologists continue to monitor Lorenzo’s development closely, providing updates as the situation evolves.
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SRK pleit voor VN-verdrag ter bescherming bij rampen
On the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, October 13, the Surinamese Red Cross (SRK) has issued a compelling call for a robust global legal framework to better protect individuals during disasters. This appeal aligns with the United Nations’ resolution to develop the first international treaty aimed at safeguarding people in disaster scenarios, which is slated for completion by 2027. According to the SRK, this treaty represents a historic opportunity to enhance international cooperation, accelerate the efficiency of humanitarian aid, and encourage nations to invest more in disaster prevention. Melvin Tjon Sie Fat, Chairman of the SRK, emphasized, ‘When disaster strikes, every second counts. People have the right to protection, dignity, and swift assistance. This treaty can save lives by organizing aid more effectively and removing obstacles.’ The urgency for such a treaty is underscored by the fact that in 2024 alone, over 146 million people globally were affected by disasters—an 11% increase compared to the five-year average—with economic damages amounting to $310 billion. Suriname, too, is increasingly feeling the impact of disasters, with floods, storms, and climate change effects threatening communities, particularly vulnerable groups. The proposed UN treaty emphasizes the importance of preparation and prevention, advocating for investments in risk reduction measures such as sustainable infrastructure, early warning systems, and strong local networks. The SRK has been collaborating with national and international partners to bolster the resilience of Surinamese communities through disaster preparedness training, strengthening local volunteer networks, and raising awareness about climate risks. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) supports over 95 governments worldwide in improving disaster legislation, with national associations like the SRK playing a pivotal role. ‘Our volunteers are on the front lines when aid is most needed. A solid legal framework ensures they can act swiftly, are better protected, and can deliver aid more effectively,’ Tjon Sie Fat added. The SRK is urging the Surinamese government to actively support the UN process and work with other nations to create a strong and equitable treaty. ‘Disasters don’t wait—and neither should our actions. This treaty is a chance to translate international solidarity into concrete protection of human lives,’ Tjon Sie Fat concluded. Additionally, the SRK is calling on schools, youth organizations, and community institutions to actively involve young people in disaster preparedness, ensuring that everyone, young and old, can contribute to a more resilient Suriname.
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Mother Heartbroken After Early-Morning Car Break-In Outside Little Canton Supermarket
A young mother is grappling with emotional and financial distress after her car was broken into early Monday morning outside the Little Canton Supermarket. The incident, which occurred around 3:30 a.m., left her vehicle ransacked and several valuable items stolen. Among the missing belongings were a red purse containing cash, identification cards, a driver’s license, social security and medical cards, and a Jamaican bank card. Additionally, thieves took irreplaceable keepsakes, including IDs belonging to her late grandfather, which she described as ‘deeply sentimental.’ The victim is now faced with the daunting task of replacing her vital documents while coping with the emotional toll of losing cherished mementos. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the theft, but the incident has left the community on edge. The young mother’s ordeal highlights the broader issue of vehicle break-ins and the profound impact such crimes can have on individuals and families.
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CXC® promotes the ethical and responsible application of AI in educational evaluation
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC®) recently concluded a series of regional engagement sessions in Guyana, focusing on the responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational assessments. Held from October 8 to 11, the event attracted over 300 participants, including educators, students, employers, and other key stakeholders. The sessions aimed to introduce CXC®’s standards and guidelines for AI integration, fostering a collaborative approach to modernizing education across the Caribbean. Dr. Wayne Wesley, CXC®’s Registrar and CEO, emphasized the organization’s commitment to aligning its initiatives with the educational goals of member states. During a meeting with Guyana’s newly appointed Minister of Education, Hon. Sonia Parag, Dr. Wesley highlighted ongoing projects such as the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), which targets out-of-school youth and adult learners through modular learning. Minister Parag praised CXC®’s efforts, noting their alignment with the Ministry’s digital school initiative aimed at enhancing student performance. The engagement sessions, which began in Barbados in mid-September and continued across Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the OECS, will culminate in an online webinar on October 17. Dr. Nicole Manning, CXC®’s Director of Operations, expressed satisfaction with the regional response, particularly the consensus reached in Guyana to allow AI tools for idea generation in student assessments, while prohibiting direct AI content in submissions. Looking ahead, CXC® will host a Regional Education Conference in Jamaica from October 28 to 30, themed “Navigating the Digital Age: Rethinking Teaching, Learning, and Assessment,” to further advance the region’s educational transformation.
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Living hostages freed in Gaza conflict, sealing conditions of ceasefire
In a landmark development, Israel and Hamas initiated a tentative ceasefire agreement on Monday by exchanging prisoners and hostages, marking a pivotal moment in the two-year conflict that has ravaged Gaza. The U.S.-mediated deal has ignited cautious optimism for a potential resolution to the protracted crisis, according to an AP News report. However, significant challenges persist, including Hamas’s potential disarmament, the governance of Gaza, and the broader issue of Palestinian statehood, underscoring the fragility of the accord. The release of the remaining 20 living hostages brought a sense of relief and closure to many Israelis, though efforts to recover those who perished in Gaza remain ongoing. Meanwhile, celebrations erupted in Beitunia, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and Khan Younis in Gaza, as 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis, alongside 1,700 others detained without charges, were freed. Mahmoud Fayez, a detainee released after being held since last year, expressed gratitude, stating, “Praise be to God, our Lord, who has honored us with this release and this joy.” The release of hostages has alleviated some urgency to end the war, reducing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to expedite subsequent phases of the agreement. As part of the initial ceasefire, four deceased hostages were returned to Israel, with 24 more expected soon. The deal also mandates Israel to facilitate a surge of humanitarian aid—food, medicine, and essentials—into Gaza. Despite the celebrations, Gaza’s residents face a grim reality: the territory remains devastated by Israeli bombardments, with its economy in ruins, essential services disrupted, and countless homes destroyed. Netanyahu, absent from the Egypt meeting due to a Jewish holiday, assured the Israeli parliament of his commitment to the deal, claiming it “ends the war by achieving all our objectives.” U.S. President Donald Trump, visiting the region to celebrate the progress, urged Israeli lawmakers to seize the opportunity for broader Middle East peace. In Egypt, Trump and other global leaders convened to address the agreement’s complexities and lay the groundwork for future negotiations.
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Mecca, Dupes score credits on Mahalia’s new Luvergirl EP
Saint Lucian artists Dupes and Mecca have made their mark as featured writers on Mahalia’s latest EP, ‘Luvergirl.’ Mahalia, a British singer celebrated for her MOBO Award win and Grammy and BRIT nominations, released the seven-track project in August. Dupes is credited as a writer on two tracks, including ‘Pity,’ which was produced by Jamaica’s IzyBeats and features reggae legend Tanya Stephens. The song cleverly samples Stephens’ 2004 classic of the same name. Additionally, Dupes and Mecca contributed to the dancehall-inspired track ‘Instructions,’ which is built around the iconic Jamaican riddim, ‘The Buzz.’
These collaborations emerged from the Trade Partnerships – Masterroom Music Songwriting Camp, held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in February. The initiative aimed to strengthen creative and commercial ties between the Caribbean and the UK music industries. Lorcan O’Brian, Caribbean Regional Trade for Development advisor, emphasized the Caribbean’s immense talent and creativity, stating, ‘We really want to see that grow and ensure those commercial links are made with the UK.’
Arnette Mark, CEO of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, praised the songwriting camp as a platform that not only promotes local talent but also positions the island as a hub for cultural collaboration. ‘Getting that exposure and meeting people from outside of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a great thing for us,’ she said, expressing her anticipation for future collaborations and more writing camps. O’Brian added that the long-term vision is to deepen cross-cultural exchange, highlighting the deep historical ties between the UK and the Caribbean. ‘We want to boost cultural collaboration, keep revenue flowing from the UK, and creativity flowing in both directions,’ he concluded.
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LETTER: When Failure Speaks Loudly: A Response to Anthony Smith Jr.
In a scathing letter to the editor, a concerned resident of All Saints West has called out their parliamentary representative, Anthony Smith Jr., for his perceived failure to address critical issues plaguing the constituency. The letter, written in response to Smith’s recent article criticizing Harold Lovell, accuses the representative of hypocrisy and neglect. The resident highlights several pressing concerns, including the closure of the All Saints Clinic for over 900 days, escalating crime rates, deteriorating infrastructure, and inadequate garbage collection. These issues, they argue, have left the community in a state of despair. The letter also questions Smith’s political integrity, noting his shift from the UPP banner to the government benches without delivering tangible results. The resident concludes by demanding accountability and better leadership, emphasizing that the people of All Saints West deserve a representative who prioritizes their needs over personal ambition.
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Officer, sergeant transferred from Police Academy for “inappropriate conduct”
In a significant development at the Guyana Police Force Academy’s Georgetown campus, an officer and three sergeants have been reassigned following allegations of “inappropriate conduct.” The Guyana Police Force confirmed the transfers, emphasizing that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. The investigation, led by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), has concluded, with statements collected from several Academy staff members and recruits. The case file is set to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution on October 13, 2025, for further legal guidance. The OPR, which reports directly to the Police Commissioner, initiated the probe after the incidents were brought to the Commissioner’s attention. This move underscores the Police Force’s commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability within its ranks. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the institution’s internal governance and public trust.