Carib Scope

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  • Thorne challenges timing of election, questions EBC process

    Thorne challenges timing of election, questions EBC process

    Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne has launched a formal challenge against the timing of Barbados’ February 11 general election, alleging procedural violations by the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC). Speaking at a party rally on Saturday, Thorne revealed that official correspondence indicates the EBC’s statutory deadline for delivering an updated voter registry extends to January 31—three weeks after the election announcement.

    Thorne characterized the premature election call as having ‘thrown the whole electoral process into disarray,’ noting the commission has failed to convene since the election declaration. A scheduled meeting was subsequently canceled, raising questions about administrative preparedness for an election that wasn’t constitutionally mandated until 2027.

    The opposition leader detailed significant irregularities within the current voter list, including the DLP’s formal protest against 8,291 problematic registrations. Notably, one of the party’s own candidates appeared incorrectly on the list, while numerous citizens reportedly found themselves excluded entirely. Thorne disclosed that even close relatives of former Prime Minister David Thompson (deceased) have been mysteriously removed from voter rolls despite being resident in Barbados.

    Further anomalies include family members appearing in separate constituencies and insufficient rectification timelines. Thorne condemned the one-day window for resolving discrepancies as fundamentally inadequate, though he encouraged supporters to visit DLP offices for assistance with registration issues.

    Thorne raised serious concerns about the commission’s independence, suggesting external manipulation may be influencing its operations. ‘The commission is not being allowed to be,’ he stated, implying deliberate interference with electoral preparations.

    Despite these challenges, Thorne affirmed the DLP’s commitment to full participation in the electoral process, confirming all 30 party candidates are actively campaigning within their respective constituencies.

  • Animal cruelty: Woman burns a dog taking shelter from the rain with her puppies

    Animal cruelty: Woman burns a dog taking shelter from the rain with her puppies

    A shocking case of animal cruelty has emerged from the Villa Juana sector of the National District, where Mildred Margarita Victoriano stands accused of deliberately scalding a protective mother dog with boiling water. The incident occurred on April 11, 2025, when the canine was shielding her puppies from rainfall near the defendant’s residence.

    Judicial proceedings advanced this Thursday as Judge Patricia Padilla of the Second Court of Instruction imposed coercive measures against Victoriano, requiring periodic court appearances and an 8,000 peso economic guarantee. The court has reserved its ruling on whether the case will proceed to full trial, with a decision scheduled for February 5.

    According to animal welfare advocates, this represents an escalation of violence against the defenseless animal. Lourdes Rodríguez of the National Animal Protection Foundation and Rodríguez Canine Shelter revealed that Victoriano had previously attacked the same dog with battery acid just one day before the scalding incident. Even more disturbingly, rescuers claim the woman had previously kicked the dog while pregnant, resulting in the death of her puppies.

    The victimized animal sustained catastrophic injuries, with rescuer William Betances reporting burns covering approximately 80% of its body. The dog currently resides in a foster home undergoing extensive recovery, while her puppies fortunately remained unharmed during the attacks.

    Animal protection organizations faced significant barriers during the legal process. Betances, Rodríguez, Guillermina Selman of Ecoportal Dominicana Foundation, and other advocates were prohibited from attending the preliminary hearing after the judge determined they lacked formal ownership of the animal. This exclusion highlights systemic challenges in pursuing animal cruelty cases within the Dominican justice system.

    The case unfolds under Law 284-12, which establishes penalties of up to one year imprisonment and fines equivalent to fifty times the minimum wage for animal cruelty convictions, with doubled penalties for repeat offenders.

  • Qatar 2026 World Cup Qualifiers : Our U-17 Grenadiers in the final stretch

    Qatar 2026 World Cup Qualifiers : Our U-17 Grenadiers in the final stretch

    Haiti’s Under-17 men’s national soccer team has entered its crucial final preparation phase ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Under the guidance of head coach Kovsky Saintvil, the squad has relocated to Ouanaminthe in Haiti’s Northeast Department, where they will train at the facilities of local club Vapor.

    The team commenced initial training sessions in Port-au-Prince earlier this month with an expanded roster of over 35 players. Following rigorous technical assessments, the selection has been refined to a focused group of 20 athletes, including three goalkeepers, who traveled to the training camp on January 24.

    The squad anticipates reinforcement from approximately four overseas-based players in the coming days, while physical trainer Gabriel Garcia Xatrat is scheduled to join the coaching staff to complete the technical team.

    Haiti’s Group C qualifying matches will be held at Guatemala’s Estadio Cementos Progreso between February 3-12, 2026. The competition schedule features encounters against Grenada (February 5, 5:00 AM), Antigua and Barbuda (February 7, 6:00 AM), and host nation Guatemala (February 10, 8:00 AM).

    Following their participation in the recent Qatar 2025 U-17 World Cup, which concluded disappointingly for the Caribbean nation, the Grenadiers aim to secure qualification for the tournament’s next edition. A first-place finish in Group C would guarantee advancement to the final phase of the U-17 World Cup, scheduled for Qatar in October-November 2026.

    The Haitian delegation is set to depart for Guatemala on February 2 to commence their competitive campaign.

  • Suriname verkent samenwerking met Ghana voor versterking beroepsonderwijs

    Suriname verkent samenwerking met Ghana voor versterking beroepsonderwijs

    Suriname is embarking on a strategic educational collaboration with Ghana to enhance its vocational training system and better prepare its workforce for upcoming economic developments, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The initiative emerged from high-level discussions between a Ghanaian delegation and Surinamese President Jennifer Simons on Friday.

    According to Assembly Member Tachana Lösche (NDP), who accompanied the delegation, this initiative aligns with the President’s vision to modernize vocational education and make it future-proof. The partnership extends beyond immediate oil and gas sector needs to encompass sustainable long-term economic development strategies.

    The Ghanaian delegation conducted an extensive tour of Suriname’s technical education institutions, including the Polytechnic College Suriname, the Natuurtechnische School, and the Foundation for Labor Mobilization and Development. Officials expressed strong appreciation for the quality and potential of Suriname’s vocational education system, as reported by the Suriname Communication Service.

    A central component of the proposed collaboration involves sending approximately 120 Surinamese students and 20 instructors to Ghana for an 18-month training program. These educational courses will focus on sectors critical to Suriname’s national development objectives, including oil and gas, construction, mining, digital transformation, and agriculture.

    The selection process for participants remains under development and will be conducted within the vocational education sector in coordination with Suriname’s Ministry of Education. Prior to implementation, a Surinamese delegation will visit Ghana to evaluate educational facilities and assess safety protocols. Based on their findings, subsequent steps will be determined and presented to President Simons for final approval.

  • COMMENTARY: Antigua And Barbuda Should Be Friends Of All, But Controlled By None

    COMMENTARY: Antigua And Barbuda Should Be Friends Of All, But Controlled By None

    In a provocative examination of national sovereignty, Antigua and Barbuda confronts fundamental questions about its independence and international relationships. The Caribbean nation, which gained independence from Britain, now grapples with balancing foreign investments against genuine self-determination.

    The discourse draws powerful parallels with Barbados’ historic stance articulated by former Prime Minister Errol Barrow, who famously declared his nation as ‘friends to all, satellites of none’ during his 1967 United Nations address. This philosophy established Barbados as a respected sovereign entity that maintains international friendships without compromising its autonomy.

    Current concerns center on whether Antigua and Barbuda has sacrificed this principle for economic convenience. Critics argue the nation has entered numerous compromising international arrangements that potentially undermine its sovereignty. The analogy of a ‘love triangle’ between China and the United States illustrates the delicate diplomatic balancing act the country must perform.

    The article questions whether the nation’s leadership prioritizes transparency with citizens or maintains excessive confidentiality with foreign entities. Specific concerns include forced acceptance of deportees against national interests and the apparent trade of sovereignty for visa-free travel privileges.

    There is a growing call for leadership that embodies fierce patriotism, prioritizes national interests, and establishes clear boundaries in international negotiations. The current perception of Antigua and Barbuda as economically desperate in international circles raises urgent questions about the nation’s self-respect and long-term strategic direction.

  • Freeland Congratulates Leeward Islands Stormers Women on Historic T20 Blaze Victory

    Freeland Congratulates Leeward Islands Stormers Women on Historic T20 Blaze Victory

    In a landmark moment for Caribbean women’s cricket, the Leeward Islands Stormers have clinched their inaugural Cricket West Indies Women’s T20 Blaze championship. The historic victory was sealed with a tense six-run triumph over Barbados in a weather-disrupted final that required the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method to determine the outcome.

    The championship match saw the Stormers successfully defend a modest total of 111 for six despite challenging conditions. The team’s performance drew immediate recognition from Senator Michael Freeland, who celebrated the achievement as a testament to athletic excellence and regional pride.

    Central to the Stormers’ victory was the extraordinary performance of Hector, who dominated the tournament with exceptional skill. Her remarkable contribution of 58 runs in the final earned her an unprecedented quadruple honor recognition: Player of the Match, Tournament Most Valuable Player, Best All-Rounder, and Best Batter awards.

    Senator Freeland emphasized the broader significance of the team’s accomplishment, noting that their demonstration of grit, discipline, and composure under pressure sets a powerful example for aspiring female athletes throughout Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Leeward Islands region. The Senator predicted that this victory would catalyze increased participation and investment in women’s cricket programs across the Caribbean.

  • Methodist, Morne Du Don kick off school sports for 2026

    Methodist, Morne Du Don kick off school sports for 2026

    In a vibrant display of youthful athleticism, two primary schools from Castries successfully launched their second-term sports activities with a collaborative track and field event at Mindoo Phillip Park on Thursday, January 22. The Gordon and Walcott Memorial Methodist School (GWMMS) partnered with Morne Du Don Government Primary School (MDDGPS) to orchestrate a dynamic competition that highlighted emerging sports talent and celebrated student achievement.

    The event featured intense house competitions at both institutions. At GWMMS, Williams House emerged victorious in a tightly contested battle, amassing 417 points to narrowly defeat George House by a margin of 29 points. Meanwhile, at MDDGPS, Hibiscus House claimed bragging rights with 362 points, followed by Flamboyant (321), Rose (313), and Marguerite (283) in the final standings.

    Exceptional individual performances defined the competition. Kadyn Louis of Williams House dominated the Under-9 category for GWMMS, securing gold in both the 150m (26.0 seconds) and 60m (10.6 seconds) events. The Under-11 division witnessed Kitai Noel from George House achieving a remarkable double victory in the 300m (55.6 seconds) and 600m (2:18.2 minutes). Rohanus Alexander, also representing George House, excelled in the Under-13 boys category with winning times of 52.9 seconds in the 300m and 2:09.7 minutes in the 600m.

    Female athletes delivered equally impressive performances. Kissana Paul of Williams House topped the Under-9 podium with victories in the 60m (10.2 seconds) and 150m (26.4 seconds). Her teammate Laila Clifton achieved an extraordinary triple victory in the Under-11 girls category, winning the 80m (13.0 seconds), 150m (25.3 seconds), and 300m (1:04.9 minutes). Oriana Simon from George House demonstrated her sprinting prowess with wins in the Under-13 80m (12.2 seconds) and 150m (23.5 seconds).

    MDDGPS athletes showcased their talents with several standout achievements. Chad Henry of Flamboyant House swept the Under-9 boys events with victories in the 60m (10.3 seconds) and 150m (26.7 seconds). Travonte St Juste from Hibiscus House claimed the Under-11 crown through wins in the 80m (12.2 seconds) and 150m (23.8 seconds), complemented by a second-place finish in the 600m (2:23.0 minutes). Lyndon Callendar of Flamboyant House delivered an exceptional four-medal performance in the Under-13 category, including gold in the 600m (2:14.5 minutes) and 1200m (4:56.3 minutes).

    The girls’ competitions at MDDGPS featured remarkable achievements from Rose House athletes. Kate Clarke secured the Under-9 title with victories in the 60m (10.6 seconds) and 150m (27.1 seconds). Shian Benjamin earned the Under-11 victrix ludorum honor through wins in the 300m (1:05.0 minutes) and 600m (2:35.9 minutes). Tennisa Polius of Marguerite House demonstrated exceptional endurance with gold medals in the Under-13 600m (2:19.4 minutes) and 1000m (4:16.6 minutes).

    The event held special significance for GWMMS, which had been unable to host a track meet in 2025 due to facility unavailability. Physical education teacher Tori Hippolyte expressed profound satisfaction at seeing students return to competition, noting that last year’s cancellation had been particularly disappointing for students who had trained extensively.

    Hippolyte emphasized the broader social importance of school sports programs: “I think sports is a really good thing for the athletes and the young children nowadays. If we look at society and what’s going on around us, children barely have anything to distract them, to get them engaged in a good activity, a good after-school programme. Having our sports meet here motivates them and gives them something they can be proud about. They can say, ‘I may not get 90 percent in math and 100 percent in English like the others, but I got a gold medal, and I am doing well in sports.’”

    The successful joint meet not only showcased athletic excellence but also reinforced the vital role of sports in holistic education and youth development within the Castries community.

  • At least 20 flights between the United States and the Dominican Republic canceled due to winter storm

    At least 20 flights between the United States and the Dominican Republic canceled due to winter storm

    A powerful winter storm system sweeping across the United States has triggered significant aviation disruptions, resulting in the cancellation of more than twenty flights connecting the Dominican Republic with key American cities. The severe weather conditions have primarily impacted air travel routes throughout the weekend of January 24th-25th, with lingering effects expected to extend into Monday, January 26th.

    According to data from the flight-tracking service FlightAware, the cancellations extensively affect operations at Santo Domingo’s Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) and Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). Major carriers including JetBlue, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines have been forced to ground numerous flights. The most affected routes connect Dominican hubs to Northeastern US airports such as New York’s JFK and Newark terminals, Boston’s Logan International, and Charlotte.

    From Santo Domingo, canceled departures included multiple JetBlue services to JFK (JBU2510, JBU2110, JBU610, JBU1510) and Delta flights (DAL1829, DAL1942) on Sunday. United Airlines canceled its Newark-bound services (UAL1473, UAL2489). Return flights from US cities to Santo Domingo were similarly affected, with JetBlue (JBU1009, JBU509) and Delta (DAL1908) canceling JFK-originating services, and United canceling Newark-originating flights (UAL2404, UAL1984).

    Punta Cana experienced parallel disruptions, with Sunday cancellations affecting JetBlue (JBU1269, JBU1169), Delta (DAL2985, DAL2974, DAL1833), and American Airlines (AAL3043, AAL2967) on JFK routes. United canceled a Newark-bound service (UAL2122), while Boston-bound services on JetBlue (JBU496) and Delta (DAL1971) were also grounded.

    Airport operator Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (Aerodom) confirmed that extreme weather conditions have necessitated extending flight cancellations through Monday. Additional affected flights include Arajet services to Boston (2005) and another route (2363), Delta’s JFK service (DAL1917), multiple JetBlue flights to Boston (1830), JFK (509, 1009), and San Juan (1637).

    The Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata reported three cancellations for Sunday: United Airlines 1837 from Newark, JetBlue 627 from New York, and American Airlines 2242 from Charlotte.

    While Miami-bound flights from the Dominican Republic remained scheduled without cancellations, several delays were reported. Airlines are strongly advising passengers to monitor flight status directly through their carriers, as deteriorating weather conditions may prompt additional cancellations or delays in the coming hours.

  • Thorne says DLP will not be distracted

    Thorne says DLP will not be distracted

    Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne has emphatically dismissed the emergence of the Friends of Democracy (FOD) political group, asserting his party’s undivided commitment to confronting the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP). Thorne’s remarks came during the DLP’s weekend rally and comprehensive islandwide bus tour, where he addressed media inquiries regarding the new political movement.

    The FOD, led by president Karina Goodridge, recently formalized its political ambitions by submitting election deposits at the National Housing Corporation. Goodridge declared the 12-member group’s intention to establish itself as Barbados’ primary opposition force. Nevertheless, Thorne characterized such developments as peripheral distractions that would not divert the DLP from its central objective.

    “The fundamental struggle for Barbados citizens remains against the Barbados Labour Party,” Thorne stated unequivocally. “We stand united with the people in this confrontation. External political entities will not fragment our concentration.” The opposition leader further emphasized the DLP’s organizational cohesion and strategic focus, suggesting any attempts to fracture or diminish the party would prove unsuccessful.

    Thorne outlined the party’s ground strategy, revealing that all 30 DLP candidates are actively campaigning within their respective constituencies. The political movement included extensive motorcades and community walk-throughs, facilitating direct voter engagement, distribution of campaign materials, and candidate support. Thorne reiterated that the party’s paramount priority remains presenting their platform to the electorate ahead of the impending polling day through persistent constituency-level mobilization.

  • Family of Four Left Homeless After Wireless Road Fire

    Family of Four Left Homeless After Wireless Road Fire

    A devastating Saturday morning fire on Wireless Road has resulted in the complete destruction of a family home, leaving four residents without shelter or possessions. The incident occurred shortly before 10 a.m., engulfing the residence in flames that ultimately consumed both the structure and all belongings within.

    First responders from the St. John’s Fire Station arrived promptly at the scene, executing fire suppression protocols that successfully contained the blaze. Despite their efforts, the property sustained total loss, rendering the dwelling uninhabitable and all contents unsalvageable.

    The displaced household includes David James, his fiancée, and their two minor children, who now face the formidable challenge of rebuilding their lives from scratch. While no physical injuries were reported, the family experiences profound material and emotional devastation following the sudden tragedy.

    Authorities from the local fire department have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact origin and cause of the incident. Preliminary assessments suggest the possibility of electrical malfunctions, though official conclusions remain pending until completion of the forensic examination.

    Community organizations and neighborhood support networks have begun mobilizing assistance efforts, providing immediate necessities including temporary accommodation, clothing, and essential supplies for the affected family during this critical period of recovery.