Carib Scope

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  • PRESS RELEASE: Caribbean excellence shines at ICC T20 World Cup – Holder honoured to be named to team of the tournament

    PRESS RELEASE: Caribbean excellence shines at ICC T20 World Cup – Holder honoured to be named to team of the tournament

    Cricket West Indies has extended heartfelt congratulations to premier all-rounder Jason Holder for his prestigious selection to the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Team of the Tournament. The 34-year-old cricketing stalwart, who previously contributed to West Indies’ 2016 championship victory, secured his position among the tournament’s elite performers through exceptional displays throughout the month-long global competition.

    The selection process was conducted by an expert panel comprising distinguished former players and seasoned commentators who closely observed the world-class event. Holder’s comprehensive campaign for the Men in Maroon showcased his dual prowess, capturing 10 crucial wickets while amassing 141 dynamic runs at an impressive strike rate of 174.07 and a solid average of 35.25.

    Among his most memorable contributions was a blistering 33 runs from just 17 deliveries against England, fundamentally shifting the match momentum and enabling West Indies to post a competitive 196 for 6. This performance proved instrumental as the Caribbean squad successfully defended their total, securing a decisive 30-run victory.

    The former West Indies captain further cemented his legacy by participating in a world-record 8th-wicket partnership of 89 runs with Romario Shepherd during the Super Eights clash against South Africa in Ahmedabad. His resilient 49 from 31 balls orchestrated a remarkable recovery after the team had stumbled to 83 for 7.

    Holder demonstrated his clutch capabilities against eventual champions India, delivering a vital 37 from 22 balls to elevate West Indies to 195 for 4 in what amounted to a virtual knockout match. His bowling performances equally commanded attention, particularly his devastating 4 for 27 spell against Nepal at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium that paved the way for a commanding nine-wicket triumph.

    Reflecting on this honor, Holder expressed profound pride in the recognition: “This represents a proud milestone in what surprisingly constitutes my first complete T20 World Cup appearance. I maintained simplicity in approach, remained present in each moment, and consistently contributed when the team required intervention.”

    Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, applauded Holder’s tournament impact and professional demeanor: “Jason’s influence on team performance was unmistakable. This selection acknowledges the quality, experience, and composure he continually brings to West Indies cricket. His game-changing abilities with both bat and ball, especially during critical phases, underscore his immense value and leadership qualities.”

    Holder’s individual achievement reflected the collective spirit of the West Indies team throughout the competition. Explosive left-handed batsman Shimron Hetmyer recorded 248 runs across seven innings—the highest by any West Indian in a single T20 World Cup—at an average of 41.33 and spectacular strike rate of 186.46, including two half-centuries. Sherfane Rutherford electrified audiences with a career-best 76 not out from 42 balls against England, contributing to the team’s tournament total of 76 spectacular sixes.

    Holder emphasized team unity as the driving force behind their campaign: “Universal dedication toward shared success enabled us to deliver pride and joy to Caribbean supporters.” Cricket West Indies additionally commended the entire Senior Men’s squad and support staff for their dedication and passionate performances that reignited excitement across the Caribbean region.

  • Somohardjo: Parlement krijgt geen kans om te spreken over rechtsstaat

    Somohardjo: Parlement krijgt geen kans om te spreken over rechtsstaat

    A critical parliamentary session addressing judicial reform legislation in Suriname has been unexpectedly postponed, triggering concerns about democratic transparency and legislative accountability. The scheduled open meeting of De Nationale Assemblée concerning judiciary laws was delayed before deliberations could commence, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders.

    PL faction leader Bronto Somohardjo characterized the postponement as a worrying development that undermines public confidence in the rule of law. “Parliament could have spoken Monday about a subject that directly affects the people’s trust in our judicial system,” Somohardjo stated in an interview with Starnieuws. “That debate did not take place.”

    Emphasizing that the issue transcends political differences, Somohardjo framed it as a matter of institutional responsibility. “Precisely on subjects that carry such weight, parliament must do its work. Not later, but at the moment when it matters,” he asserted. The opposition leader clarified that his concern wasn’t about achieving political victory but about maintaining democratic processes: “I’m not asking to be proven right. I’m asking for the debate to be held. Parliament must be able to speak its mind.”

    Somohardjo warned that delays in crucial decision-making create room for public doubt, directly contradicting citizen expectations. “The people expect clarity. They expect choices. And they expect us to speak here when necessary. When parliament does not speak at the moment it is needed, space emerges for doubt, and that is precisely what the people do not want.”

    While public deliberations have been suspended, lawmakers will continue refining the legal amendments behind closed doors, a approach that has raised questions about governmental transparency and legislative urgency in addressing judicial reforms.

  • Soufrière reign again in District 8

    Soufrière reign again in District 8

    Soufrière Combined Schools have successfully defended their title as champions of District 8’s primary school track and field competition, cementing their dominance in the region’s sporting landscape. The annual meet, held on March 13 at Soufrière Stadium, showcased exceptional young talent from the district’s five competing schools, two of which participate as a combined entity.

    Demonstrating remarkable athletic prowess, Soufrière Combined accumulated an impressive 773 points to secure top honors. The battle for second place proved intensely competitive, with Bouton and Canaries (BouCan) narrowly edging out Les Etangs by just five points (599 to 594). Fond St Jacques Primary completed the standings with 491 points.

    Individual excellence shone through across various age categories. In the Under-13 girls’ division, Hadassah Jules—recently named Saint Lucia Athletics Association Juvenile Athlete of the Year—and her teammate Kayla Gills delivered outstanding performances, each securing two gold medals and one silver. Chance Isaac dominated the boys’ division with a perfect trio of gold medals.

    The Under-11 category witnessed BouCan’s Neveah Hippolyte capturing two golds and a silver in girls’ events, while Soufrière’s Jayden Jn Baptiste claimed the boys’ title with three gold medals. Younger athletes also impressed, with Sherval Gonzague (Soufrière) taking two golds in Under-9 girls’ events, and BouCan’s Kallam Toussaint sharing honors with Les Etangs’ Etahj Alexander in the boys’ division.

    The Under-7 competition featured Lily George of Les Etangs sweeping both gold medals in girls’ events, while Lawrenzo Sylvester (Soufrière) and Mavrick Daniel (Fond St Jacques) each earned a gold and silver among the boys.

    With internal competitions concluded, District 8 now turns its attention to the upcoming national championship on April 1 at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. The district’s athletes, many of whom maintain regular training and club competition schedules, enter as confident defenders of their regional title, poised to represent their communities beneath the iconic Pitons.

  • Trump Criticises NATO Allies for Declining to Help

    Trump Criticises NATO Allies for Declining to Help

    In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized NATO member nations for their refusal to participate in military operations against Iran. Through an extensive post on his Truth Social platform on March 17, 2026, Trump characterized the allied nations’ decision as a grave strategic error.

    The former president asserted that despite direct appeals for military collaboration, the majority of NATO members declined involvement in U.S.-led operations in the Middle East. Trump further minimized the potential contributions of key Pacific allies including Japan, Australia, and South Korea, maintaining that American military capabilities alone were sufficient for the mission.

    ‘Our unprecedented military achievements have rendered assistance from NATO countries unnecessary—indeed, such support was never required from the outset,’ Trump declared in his characteristically emphatic tone. ‘The United States operates independently without requiring supplementary support from any nation.’

    These remarks preceded Trump’s Oval Office statements regarding allied participation in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor essential to global energy transportation. While acknowledging NATO’s previous support for strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Trump confirmed allied nations had withdrawn from committing forces to the proposed task force.

    The position received explicit validation from French President Emmanuel Macron, who confirmed France would abstain from Hormuz security operations until cessation of active hostilities. When questioned about Macron’s stance, Trump dismissed the significance of the French position by referencing Macron’s impending departure from office and emphasized that Iranian reconstruction would require a decade if U.S. forces withdrew immediately.

  • Owner of fire-destroyed Kaikoconut floating bar to rebuild

    Owner of fire-destroyed Kaikoconut floating bar to rebuild

    In a devastating blow to Antigua’s tourism sector, the acclaimed Kaikoconut floating bar was completely destroyed by a fire on Sunday evening. Owner Glen Hector has made an unwavering commitment to rebuild the luxurious party catamaran, despite facing estimated losses exceeding EC$2 million.

    The two-level vessel, equipped with restaurant facilities, waterslides, and trampolines, had capacity for 175 guests and had rapidly become a must-visit destination since its January 2024 launch. Hector described watching his three-year construction project burn in under 30 minutes as utterly heartbreaking. The entrepreneur was at home with his infant son when alerted to the blaze near Valley Church Beach.

    The cause remains mysterious, with Hector confirming standard closing procedures were followed and no one was aboard when the fire ignited. The inferno presented explosion risks due to EC$35,000 worth of alcohol onboard.

    The timing proves particularly devastating for the business momentum. Kaikoconut had secured prestigious cruise ship contracts, 50 confirmed events, and a scheduled appearance at Miami’s major cruise industry conference next month. Immediately following the incident, Hector began refunding over EC$120,000 in customer deposits.

    This setback represents the latest challenge for the resilient businessman, who previously built Creole Antigua Tours over two decades ago. The Kaikoconut project already survived pandemic-related construction delays, financial strain, and supply chain disruptions.

    The catastrophe currently leaves eight staff members unemployed, with the wreckage submerged pending insurance assessment and salvage operations. Despite the overwhelming loss, Hector’s determination remains steadfast, envisioning Kaikoconut as a legacy for his children and grandchildren. The company’s social media expressed gratitude for the community’s outpouring of support during this challenging period.

  • Veteran Sportscaster Rubén Morales Dies at 65

    Veteran Sportscaster Rubén Morales Dies at 65

    The Belizean sports community is mourning the loss of iconic sportscaster Rubén Morales Iglesias, who passed away on March 16, 2026, at age 65. The veteran broadcaster died peacefully at 4:30 p.m. after being removed from life support following a severe stroke that had left him in a coma for one week.

    His daughter, Dr. Lesly N. Brodhurst, formally announced the passing through social media channels, noting her father’s transition was both ‘peaceful and painless.’ She expressed profound gratitude for the public’s outpouring of prayers and support during this difficult time, indicating that funeral details would be communicated once finalized.

    Morales leaves behind an indelible legacy in Central American sports journalism that spanned multiple decades. He launched his distinguished broadcasting career with the Broadcasting Corporation of Belize before advancing to prominent roles at LOVE FM and ultimately joining Breaking Belize News (BBN) in March 2021. Throughout his tenure, he provided comprehensive coverage of both domestic and international sporting events.

    Hugh O’Brien, Chairman and CEO of Breaking Belize News, paid heartfelt tribute to Morales, recalling immediate recognition of his sports expertise during BBN’s formative stages. ‘From witnessing his passion during his early football reporting days, I knew Rubén embodied the spirit of sports journalism we wanted to represent,’ O’Brien stated.

    The National Sports Council of Belize issued an official statement honoring Morales as ‘a foundational pillar of sports journalism’ whose distinctive narrative voice became intrinsically linked with Belizean athletics. The Council emphasized how his compelling storytelling ignited inspiration across generations of athletes and significantly contributed to the elevation of sporting culture throughout the nation.

    Born on November 5, 1960, Morales dedicated his professional life to amplifying athletic achievements and connecting communities through the universal language of sports.

  • Vieux Fort star in Island Champs throws

    Vieux Fort star in Island Champs throws

    The Saint Lucia Sports Academy witnessed exceptional athletic performances as the Island Champs tournament resumed on Monday, March 17, with Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) establishing early dominance in throwing events. The school captured four out of six available gold medals during the opening day of field competitions, setting a competitive tone for the championship.

    Fifteen-year-old Eavan Edgar delivered a standout performance in the Under-16 boys’ discus throw, achieving a remarkable personal best of 45.13 meters. This throw not only secured him the gold medal but also exceeded the CARIFTA Games qualifying standard of 44 meters. Teammate Renard Bernard contributed to VFCSS’s success by claiming the silver medal in the same event.

    Barbara-Marie Maximin, already qualified for CARIFTA in her specialty Under-17 long jump, expanded her achievements by winning the Under-18 discus throw with a distance of 25.50 meters. While this represented one of only two discus golds not won by VFCSS, Maximin’s victory ensured representation from southern schools in the winner’s circle.

    Additional discus champions included Neriah Charlery (VFCSS) in Girls U16 with 26.28m, Katelyn Charles (VFCSS) in Girls U20 with 25.51m, and Sean Pilgrim (VFCSS) in Boys U18 with 37.25m. Shawn Hubert from Babonneau secured the Boys U20 title with a throw of 31.80m.

    The competition expanded to jumping events on Tuesday featuring long jump, triple jump, and discus across various divisions. Notable performances included Darvin Forde of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College winning the triple jump open with 14.10m, though falling short of the CARIFTA qualifying mark by half a meter. Forde also claimed victory in the long jump with a leap of 6.39m.

    Other jumping event winners included Kanil Nelson (St Mary’s College) taking Under-18 long jump gold with 6.25m, Randall Monroe (SLSA) capturing Under-16 long jump with 6.16m, and Christiano Nestor (Choiseul Secondary) dominating the Under-14 division with 5.27m.

    The championship now moves to the track semifinals at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on Wednesday, building toward Sunday’s finals where athletes will compete for top honors in this prestigious interscholastic competition.

  • Belize Delegation Attends UK Governance Seminar

    Belize Delegation Attends UK Governance Seminar

    A high-level Belizean delegation has concluded a significant international engagement in London, participating in the 74th Westminster Seminar on Effective Parliaments. The event, orchestrated by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, convened legislators from across the Commonwealth to deliberate on enhancing governmental transparency and operational efficiency.

    The Belizean contingent was comprised of Minister of State for Foreign Trade Marconi Leal Jr., UDP Senator Sheena Pitts, and Parliamentary Officer Manuel Grant. Their participation emphasized practical governance improvements with direct implications for citizens, particularly in mechanisms for scrutinizing government decisions and optimizing the management of public finances.

    The seminar’s agenda extended beyond theoretical discourse, addressing contemporary challenges such as the integration of artificial intelligence into parliamentary procedures to streamline operations and improve data-driven policymaking.

    Complementing the formal sessions, the delegation conducted field visits to Liverpool communities. These engagements provided firsthand insight into local governance structures through meetings with municipal officials and civic organizations, offering comparative perspectives on public administration.

    Notably, the Belizean government confirmed that the mission incurred no public expenditure, with all travel and accommodation expenses fully covered by the UK branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, ensuring fiscal responsibility toward Belizean taxpayers.

  • Community Emergency Response Teams Showcase Disaster Preparedness Skills at St. Johnston’s Village

    Community Emergency Response Teams Showcase Disaster Preparedness Skills at St. Johnston’s Village

    Antigua and Barbuda took significant strides in community preparedness as the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) hosted its inaugural Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) Exhibition on Sunday. The event, staged at St. Johnston’s Village Playing Field, featured District Disaster Coordinators and volunteer teams demonstrating critical life-saving techniques to enhance public emergency readiness.

    The exhibition created an interactive platform where emergency responders engaged directly with community members through practical demonstrations focused on disaster management protocols. The program emphasized building operational capabilities at the grassroots level, with experts showcasing response techniques designed to bolster community resilience during crises.

    Financial backing for this initiative was provided through the National Disaster Facility under the 11th European Development Fund, with additional support from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). This international cooperation highlights the regional commitment to strengthening disaster response mechanisms across the Caribbean.

    Organizers extended recognition to multiple local agencies that contributed to the event’s success, including the Central Board of Health, Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, Red Cross, Emergency Medical Services, Police Force, Fire Department, Ministry of Works and Housing, APUA, and various public and private sector partners. Their collaborative efforts demonstrated a unified approach to emergency preparedness, showcasing how coordinated action between government entities and civil society can create more resilient communities.

  • Trump says US could ‘take Cuba’ as island faces power crisis

    Trump says US could ‘take Cuba’ as island faces power crisis

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared his anticipation for what he termed “the honour of taking Cuba,” during remarks made as the Caribbean nation struggled with a catastrophic nationwide power outage. Speaking to press corps at the White House on Monday, Trump suggested the United States could play a definitive role in shaping Cuba’s political trajectory.

    “Throughout my lifetime, the subject of U.S. relations with Cuba has persisted. The question always arises—when will America act?” Trump stated to journalists. He further asserted, “I am confident that I will have the privilege of assuming control over Cuba. Whether that means liberating it or acquiring it—I possess the capability to execute any course of action. In reality, they currently function as a severely weakened state.”

    These statements coincided with another massive electrical failure across Cuba, following the collapse of the national power grid earlier that day. This incident represents the most recent in an escalating series of blackouts, exacerbated by antiquated infrastructure, persistent fuel scarcities, and restrictions on petroleum imports.

    A university student from Saint Lucia presently studying in Cuba confirmed to St. Lucia Times that although a complete blackout occurred, power was reinstated by approximately 9:00 p.m. the same evening. The student noted that prolonged daily outages lasting six to seven hours have become commonplace.

    Regional authorities have recognized the deteriorating humanitarian situation. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), following its February 27 summit in St. Kitts and Nevis, committed to formulating a coordinated humanitarian assistance strategy for Cuba. While CARICOM indicated that a comprehensive plan would be finalized imminently, no subsequent public updates have been provided regarding these initiatives.