Carib Scope

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  • Sturge tells PNM to stop playing the race card in ‘zones’ debate: Proud black men, women in National Security Council

    Sturge tells PNM to stop playing the race card in ‘zones’ debate: Proud black men, women in National Security Council

    In a contentious parliamentary session, Trinidad and Tobago’s Defense Minister Wayne Sturge has vehemently denied opposition claims that the newly passed Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) Bill 2026 would enable racial targeting. The legislation, approved 27-11 in the House of Representatives on January 18, establishes special security zones while simultaneously announcing the termination of the current state of emergency effective January 31.

    Minister Sturge accused the Opposition PNM party of fabricating a ‘false narrative’ that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar could unilaterally declare zones in PNM-controlled areas to target specific racial groups. He emphasized that any declaration of Zones of Special Operations (ZOSOs) requires consultation with both the Commissioner of Police and the Defense Force Chief of Staff, with a maximum duration of 180 days.

    To counter racial bias allegations, Sturge detailed the composition of the National Security Council, highlighting that key members including Attorney General John Jeremie, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, and Works Minister Jearlean John are all ‘proud black’ officials. He further noted that Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro and senior defense force commanders are predominantly of African descent.

    ‘The composition of the NSC should put to rest the divisive narrative that continues to be peddled,’ Sturge asserted during a news conference at UNC headquarters in Chaguanas. ‘Black and brown people are the majority in this country. This is not West Virginia, Kentucky, Mississippi.’

    Opposition MP Keith Scotland argued the bill would infringe constitutional rights including freedom of movement, property enjoyment, and due process, warning against ‘replacing one extraordinary security measure with another.’

    The legislation establishes social development components including a strategy committee to provide resources for vulnerable communities, aiming to create ‘equality of opportunity and social justice.’ Sturge defended the government’s elimination of make-work programs like the Unemployment Relief Programme, alleging they had funded criminal gangs.

    The bill now moves to the Senate where it requires 19 votes for passage. The government holds 15 senate seats, with Sturge expressing confidence that at least four independent senators would support the measure.

  • UNC PRO: Government policy formed at UNC headquarters

    UNC PRO: Government policy formed at UNC headquarters

    In a politically charged statement during a United National Congress (UNC) media briefing on January 18, party PRO Dr. Kirk Meighoo asserted that the Trinidad and Tobago government’s policy formulation occurs at the opposition party’s headquarters in Chaguanas. The controversial remarks have ignited debate about the separation between party operations and governmental functions in the Caribbean nation.

    Addressing journalists and online viewers at the UNC’s Mulchan Seuchan Road facility, Meighoo declared, “We are here at the UNC headquarters, which is where the policy of the government of TT has been formulated.” He characterized the UNC as “a national party open to all” with members “dedicated to making sure that everybody wins.”

    When questioned about non-governmental UNC members participating in policy development, Meighoo affirmed this practice occurs through party committees and manifesto formation processes. He defended the arrangement as normal democratic practice, stating, “The UNC forms the government, we were voted in by the majority and this is how democracy works.”

    The location and branding of government briefings have drawn public scrutiny, with observers noting the consistent use of UNC facilities and party banners rather than traditional government venues like the Red House or Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s. This departure from previous administrative practices has raised questions about the transparency and separation of party versus state activities in the current political landscape.

    Meighoo further positioned the UNC as “the largest organisation in TT and perhaps the English-speaking Caribbean,” asserting the party’s continued central role in the nation’s democratic processes despite its official opposition status.

  • West Indies bowl off T20 series against Afghanistan

    West Indies bowl off T20 series against Afghanistan

    DUBAI – The West Indies cricket team embarks on their final preparatory campaign before the ICC T20 World Cup with a high-stakes three-match series against Afghanistan, commencing January 19 in Dubai. This encounter serves as a critical testing ground for squad combinations and strategic refinements ahead of the global tournament.

    Stand-in captain Brandon King underscored the significance of these fixtures during his pre-match media briefing. “With the World Cup approaching, strong performances and cohesive team play become paramount,” King stated. “Our primary objective is to maintain the standards we’ve established internally and carry that momentum into the World Cup.”

    The Caribbean side welcomes back explosive opener Evin Lewis and pace sensation Shamar Joseph, significantly strengthening their lineup despite several absences due to franchise commitments and scheduled rest periods. King expressed particular enthusiasm about rookie Guyanese batsman Quentin Sampson, noting his “exciting performances in our domestic T20 league this season.”

    The series’ central narrative revolves around the captivating duel between West Indies’ formidable batting power and Afghanistan’s world-class spin attack, spearheaded by Rashid Khan – who needs just nine wickets to reach the historic 700-wicket milestone in T20 cricket – and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.

    King acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Afghanistan’s spin arsenal while maintaining a confident stance. “They rank among the world’s elite T20 spinners, presenting a substantial challenge that I personally relish,” he remarked. “While giving due respect to their quality, T20 cricket demands bravery and self-belief to prevail in such confrontations.”

    This Dubai showdown offers both teams invaluable insights into their World Cup readiness, pitting Caribbean flair against Afghan spin mastery in what promises to be a compelling contest of contrasting cricketing philosophies.

  • West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    In a stunning display of cricketing prowess, Afghanistan’s Under-19 team delivered a comprehensive 138-run victory over the West Indies in their ICC Under-19 World Cup encounter on January 18th in Windhoek, Namibia. The emphatic win secured Afghanistan’s advancement to the Super-Six stage of the tournament while leaving the Caribbean side facing significant challenges.

    Afghanistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved strategically sound as their batting lineup demonstrated remarkable resilience and partnership building. Openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Osman Sadat established a solid foundation with an 86-run stand, effectively neutralizing the early threat posed by West Indian seamers Jakeem Pollard and Shaquan Belle.

    The West Indies briefly found hope through spinner Vitel Lawes, who broke the opening partnership and claimed two quick wickets to reduce Afghanistan to 110-3 in the 26th over. Lawes’ breakthroughs included dismissing Ahmadzai for 34 and clean bowling Faisal Shinodza for 4, followed by removing Uzaiullah Niazai for 12.

    However, Afghanistan’s recovery was orchestrated by captain Mehboob Khan and the composed Sadat, who constructed a decisive 77-run partnership. Both batsmen reached well-deserved half-centuries, with Sadat anchoring the innings with a top score of 88 while Khan contributed a crucial 86 runs. Their partnership propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total of 262-6 from their allotted 50 overs.

    Afghanistan’s bowling response was immediate and devastating. Their combined pace and spin attack dismantled the West Indies top order within the first five overs, reducing them to a precarious position with three quick wickets. Off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran was particularly destructive, claiming the wickets of opener Tanez Francis (9), Zachary Carter (3), and captain Joshua Dorne for a duck.

    West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew mounted a lone resistance with a classy 57 from 70 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and three sixes. Despite Andrew’s valiant effort, the disciplined Afghan bowling attack maintained constant pressure, with Nooristani Omarzai leading the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul. Supported by Khatir Stanikzai (3-20) and Zadran (3-36), Afghanistan bundled out the West Indies for a meager 124 in the 32nd over.

    The victory marks Afghanistan’s confident progression to the Super Six stage, where they will next face Tanzania on January 21st. The West Indies, meanwhile, must regroup quickly for their crucial encounter against South Africa on January 22nd as they seek to keep their tournament hopes alive.

  • Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has initiated substantial financial support for regional Carnival celebrations, with Culture and Community Development Minister Michelle Benjamin announcing imminent disbursements totaling $35 million. Pan Trinbago is slated to receive $20 million while the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) will obtain $15 million in structured tranches throughout the Carnival period.

    Minister Benjamin, speaking at a UNC media briefing in Chaguanas on January 18, emphasized the government’s commitment to timely funding distribution and accountability standards. She directly addressed criticisms about insufficient support for cultural organizations, stating: “There are a lot of claims that this government does not like pan, does not fund pan, and I would like that to stop.” She confirmed that prize monies would not see reductions despite economic pressures.

    The ministry has pioneered new cultural initiatives including Flava Village, John Cupid Carnival Village, and the traveling Welcome to the Gayelle program that has visited Moruga, Debe, Tunapuna, and will soon reach Mayaro. These developments respond to public demand for expanded cultural spaces beyond Port of Spain. Benjamin highlighted the remarkable public response, noting that the John Cupid Village nearly reached capacity closures due to overwhelming attendance.

    NCC chairman Peter Kanhai provided infrastructure updates, revealing that the North Stand is 85% complete with handover expected by January 25. Construction efficiency has significantly improved with current pricing for major structures running 40-45% lower than 2025 figures. The Downtown stand and Skinner Park stage for Calypso Fiesta are progressing according to schedule.

    Economic indicators show robust Carnival engagement with hotels at full capacity and incoming flights fully booked. Vendors at Flava Village report exceptional earnings, surpassing their entire 2025 revenue within the first week of operation. The NCC is considering maintaining the village year-round to accommodate tourist demand and cruise ship visitors.

    The cultural calendar remains packed with events including a free Patrice Roberts concert, chutnight night, and rhythm and steel performances, demonstrating the expanded footprint of Carnival celebrations across Trinidad and Tobago.

  • Nickalia Fuller’s maiden goal wins it for Reggae Boyz in Grenada

    Nickalia Fuller’s maiden goal wins it for Reggae Boyz in Grenada

    In a tightly contested international friendly at Kirani James Stadium, Jamaica’s national football team secured a 1-0 victory against Grenada through Nickalia Fuller’s decisive 75th-minute strike. The match served as crucial preparation for the Reggae Boyz’s upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against New Caledonia scheduled for March.

    Interim head coach Rudolph Speid enjoyed a successful debut on the sidelines as Fuller, representing Tivoli Gardens FC, scored his inaugural international goal for Jamaica. The victory extends Jamaica’s dominant record against Grenada, marking their tenth win in thirteen encounters between the Caribbean nations.

    Coach Speid expressed satisfaction with his team’s implementation of training strategies, noting: ‘Our primary objective was to assess whether players would execute our training concepts in match conditions. Generally, we achieved this through effective ball movement and composed possession play.’

    The technical staff plans comprehensive video analysis to evaluate tactical execution, with Speid emphasizing the challenge of observing all details during live gameplay. The match also featured international debuts for four players: Nickyle Ellis (Racing United), Tafari Chambers (Mount Pleasant), Dwight Merrick (Dunbeholden FC), and Nico Brown (Lexington SC).

    Speid utilized 21 players total, including 16 from Jamaica’s Premier League, ensuring widespread participation. Additional preparatory matches are anticipated as Jamaica finalizes its squad selection for the critical World Cup qualifiers on March 26th and 31st.

    Despite Jamaica’s FIFA ranking of 70th compared to Grenada’s 164th, Speid acknowledged Grenada’s competitive performance under coach Anthony Modeste, former Portmore United standout and JPL champion. Speid noted the psychological dimension of regional competition, stating: ‘Our Caribbean dominance has been challenged recently, making this hard-fought victory particularly valuable for our qualifying campaign.’

  • Chapelton Maroons into top four; Montego Bay and Portmore stalemate

    Chapelton Maroons into top four; Montego Bay and Portmore stalemate

    In a significant shift within the Jamaica Premier League standings, Chapelton Maroons have catapulted into the coveted top four following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over bottom-placed Spanish Town Police FC this Sunday. The match’s solitary goal, netted by Damoi Whitfield in the 31st minute, proved decisive, marking the team’s fourth triumph in their last five fixtures.

    This crucial win elevates Chapelton’s season tally to 25 points from 17 games, representing a remarkable ascent from their previous eighth-place position and effectively distancing them from relegation concerns. They now sit just above Mount Pleasant FA, though the latter retains a significant advantage with four fewer games played.

    Meanwhile, at Jarrett Park, league leaders Montego Bay United maintained their top spot despite being held to a goalless draw by third-ranked Portmore United. This result extends Montego Bay’s lead to three points over second-place Racing United, who themselves staged a comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against Dunbeholden FC.

    The match between Racing and Dunbeholden saw early drama with Odane Samuels putting Dunbeholden ahead within just five minutes. However, Tajay Grant demonstrated his reliability by netting the equalizer in the 75th minute, preserving Racing’s impressive undefeated streak which now stretches across ten consecutive games. For Dunbeholden, this result marks another frustrating occasion where they surrendered a lead to settle for a single point.

    Sunday’s complete results:
    Spanish Town Police FC 0, Chapelton Maroons 1
    Montego Bay United 0, Portmore United 0
    Racing United 1, Dunbeholden FC 1

  • Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Trinidad-based promoter sues Vybz Kartel over performance cancellation – report

    Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel (legal name Adidja Palmer) faces significant legal and financial repercussions as Trinidad and Tobago-based Jacho Entertainment Limited files a high-profile lawsuit against the artist. The civil action, lodged in the High Court of Justice, centers on Kartel’s abrupt cancellation of his scheduled headline performance at the One Caribbean Music Festival on May 31, 2025.

    The promotion company alleges multiple contractual violations including breach of agreement, unjust enrichment, and defamation. According to court documents, Jacho Entertainment secured Kartel’s performance through a written agreement dated November 22, 2024, which stipulated a performance fee of $1.35 million payable in four installments.

    Financial records indicate the company had disbursed approximately $1.1 million (81% of the total fee) by May 29, 2025, with the remaining $250,000 scheduled for payment upon Kartel’s arrival in Trinidad. The promoter attributes delayed final payment to temporary foreign exchange constraints but maintains sufficient funds were available on the event date.

    The dispute escalated when Kartel allegedly failed to board his scheduled flight to Trinidad while demanding full payment in advance—a requirement not stipulated in their contract. The artist subsequently announced his performance cancellation through social media channels without providing formal written notice as contractually required.

    Jacho Entertainment claims substantial financial losses exceeding TT$7.3 million (approximately $1.08 million USD) from ticket refunds, operational costs, and reputational damage. The company further alleges that Kartel’s public statements accusing them of mismanagement compounded their reputational harm.

    The legal action follows months of failed settlement negotiations between the parties. The promoter seeks recovery of all monies paid, special and general damages, an injunction against further defamatory statements, plus interest and legal costs.

  • Senegal stun hosts Morocco to win Africa Cup of Nations

    Senegal stun hosts Morocco to win Africa Cup of Nations

    RABAT, Morocco — In a dramatic conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal secured a historic 1-0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco on Sunday. The match, however, was overshadowed by significant controversy and disruptive crowd behavior following a highly contentious penalty decision late in normal time.

    The pivotal moment occurred in the 24th minute of added time when Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after a VAR review of a challenge on Brahim Diaz by Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. The decision sparked immediate protests from Senegal’s players and coaching staff, while Moroccan players insisted on additional review of the incident.

    The ensuing delay of approximately twenty minutes created extraordinary tension throughout Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. During this interruption, sections of Senegalese supporters engaged in disruptive behavior, throwing chairs and attempting to access the pitch before being restrained by security personnel.

    When the penalty was finally taken, Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz saw his weakly attempted chip easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The missed opportunity proved costly as Pape Gueye became the match-winner in the fourth minute of extra time. The Villarreal midfielder received a precise pass from Idrissa Gana Gueye, held off Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi, and delivered a superb strike into the top corner past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

    Morocco nearly equalized when Nayef Aguerd’s header struck the crossbar during the second half of extra time, but Senegal maintained their narrow advantage to claim their second AFCON title in three years. The victory marks a significant achievement for Senegal, who had previously failed to score in three prior AFCON final appearances.

    The tournament concluded in bitter disappointment for Morocco, who had aspired to win their first African championship in fifty years before their home supporters. Many fans departed before the final whistle on a rain-soaked evening in Rabat, while questions lingered regarding match organization and security protocols.

  • Black River hospital gets infant, maternity supplies from Digicel Foundation

    Black River hospital gets infant, maternity supplies from Digicel Foundation

    In a significant boost to post-hurricane recovery efforts, the Black River Hospital in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica has received a substantial donation of critical maternal and infant supplies valued at over JMD $1.3 million from the Digicel Foundation. The contribution, delivered on January 15th, comprises 65 cases of diapers, 12 boxes of baby wipes, 15 boxes of sanitary pads, and 25 boxes of bleach to support the facility’s pediatric and maternity wards.

    Hospital CEO Diana Brown Miller described the donation as both timely and deeply appreciated, noting that while the hospital hasn’t yet resumed full operations following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, these supplies will be immediately distributed to mothers in need. The hurricane caused extensive damage throughout the parish and western Jamaica, creating heightened vulnerability among new and expectant mothers.

    “The Digicel Foundation stands among the numerous benefactors who have come to our rescue following this devastating hurricane,” Brown Miller stated. “The assistance and donations have been overwhelming, and we are extremely grateful for every contribution regardless of size. Everything adds up in our recovery efforts.”

    The hospital administration emphasized their commitment to “building back better” with increased resilience, hoping to restore services to pre-hurricane levels in the near future. Pediatrician Dr. Allison Isaacs highlighted the dual impact of the donation, explaining that it will alleviate financial pressure on both patients and healthcare workers who continue to experience the hurricane’s aftermath.

    Digicel Foundation CEO Charmaine Daniels characterized the donation as part of their ongoing relief initiatives focused specifically on vulnerable populations in western Jamaica. Daniels additionally praised hospital staff for their dedication under challenging circumstances, noting that many healthcare workers themselves were affected by the storm yet continued serving their community.