Carib Scope

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  • Guyanese agronomist to begin tenure as IICA director general

    Guyanese agronomist to begin tenure as IICA director general

    SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica — Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim, an accomplished Guyanese agronomist, will officially assume the role of Director General at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) on Thursday, January 15. His inauguration marks a significant leadership transition for the specialized agency dedicated to agricultural development and rural well-being across the Americas.

    Elected through a democratic process in November by agriculture ministers representing 32 member nations, Ibrahim will succeed Argentina’s Manuel Otero during a formal swearing-in ceremony at IICA’s headquarters in Costa Rica. Otero completed two consecutive terms characterized by substantial institutional transformation since his initial appointment in January 2018.

    During Otero’s tenure, IICA underwent comprehensive restructuring that positioned science and technology as central pillars of its technical cooperation initiatives. These revitalized programs have directly impacted approximately 10 million farmers and rural stakeholders throughout the region, enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

    The institute solidified its role as the Americas’ premier technical authority on agricultural and rural development, facilitating unprecedented regional collaboration. This coordinated approach enabled member governments and producer organizations to present unified positions in critical international forums, effectively advocating for agricultural interests and positioning farming as essential to addressing global challenges.

    Ibrahim, who holds a doctorate in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences from Wageningen University, has outlined an ambitious vision for his 2026-2030 term. He pledges to harness cutting-edge research and emerging technologies to strengthen agricultural systems across all American nations. Central to his strategy is expanding IICA’s initiatives to drive investment toward transforming agrifood systems and improving economic viability for agricultural enterprises, with particular emphasis on supporting small-scale farmers.

  • TPP snatches 60% of votes in THA elections

    TPP snatches 60% of votes in THA elections

    In a stunning electoral triumph, the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) under the leadership of Farley Augustine has secured a comprehensive victory in the Tobago House of Assembly elections held on January 12. The party captured all 15 available seats, demonstrating overwhelming voter support with 60.8% of the total valid votes cast across the island.

    The TPP’s decisive win included a narrow but significant victory in the Darrel Spring/Whim constituency, where they unseated the sole PNM representative Kelvon Morris by a mere 17-vote margin. According to official figures released by the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC), the TPP accumulated 16,240 votes compared to the PNM’s 10,456 votes.

    This electoral performance marks a substantial improvement from the party’s 55% showing in the 2025 general election and even surpasses the 58% achieved by the Progressive Democratic Patriots in the December 2021 THA elections. Augustine, who previously served as THA chief secretary under the PDP government, formed the TPP after departing from the PDP.

    Despite the overwhelming victory, the EBC report revealed concerning voter participation trends. The voter turnout reached a concerning low of 50.69% from an electorate of 53,239 registered voters—the poorest participation rate since 2017 and significantly below the record 56.97% turnout recorded in the December 2021 elections.

    Minor parties including the Innovative Democratic Alliance led by Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus garnered 181 votes, while the Unity of the People party, which fielded only leader Nickocy Phillips as a candidate, received just eight votes.

    The PNM has formally requested recounts in two constituencies—Darrel Spring/Whim and Scarborough/Mt Grace—with the EBC scheduling these recounts to commence at 3 pm on January 13. The commission emphasized that all results remain preliminary pending the completion of these recounts.

  • Tight race for Couva Calypso Monarch titles

    Tight race for Couva Calypso Monarch titles

    The Couva Carnival Committee (CCC) anticipates fiercely competitive finals in both senior and junior divisions of its upcoming 2026 Calypso Monarch competitions. This projection comes after successful auditions held at Balmain Community Centre on January 11th, where calypsonians demonstrated exceptional early-season form.

    Ezekiel Clarke, CCC Public Relations Officer and competition coordinator, expressed confidence in the quality of performers. ‘The committee expects a truly high-octane final in both categories based on the outstanding offerings from our calypsonians during auditions,’ Clarke stated. He further assured patrons that ‘every artist performed at their peak capacity, promising an thrilling experience at the grand finals.’

    Defending champions will return to defend their titles without requiring qualification. Reigning Senior Monarch Joanne Gibson, performing as Queen Voice, and Junior Monarch Katelin Sultan automatically secure their positions in the February 13th championship event.

    The senior competition features sixteen accomplished qualifiers including Nicholas Lucas (‘The Tree Does Never Forget’), Kerine Williams Figaro (‘You Never Know’), Judith Edwards (‘Plus Size Woman’), and Omarie Asson (‘A Spituation’). Other notable entrants include Shinnelle Cottoy Davis (‘Omirnira’), the duo Ruhanie Ramdass & Marcus Seepersad (‘Calypso Chutney Love’), and Anastasia Richardson (‘Power In De Blood’).

    The junior division showcases eight promising young talents such as Janaya Clarke (‘Role Models’), Nyla Hamilton (‘What Ah Waiting For’), and Alexia Adams Alexis (‘Doh Go Down Dey’). Rehearsal schedules will be announced imminently as the community prepares for this celebrated cultural event that highlights Trinidad’s rich musical heritage.

  • CWI’s Bascombe: We’ve reached out to Pooran for T20 W/Cup

    CWI’s Bascombe: We’ve reached out to Pooran for T20 W/Cup

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) faces significant challenges in assembling their optimal squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after failed attempts to persuade Nicholas Pooran to reverse his international retirement decision. According to Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, the organization has exhausted all diplomatic channels to recruit the 29-year-old batting sensation without success.

    Pooran, who stunned the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement in June, has remained committed to his decision despite CWI’s persistent overtures. The left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman has been actively participating in various global T20 franchises since stepping away from international cricket.

    Bascombe confirmed that communication attempts were made with full awareness that Pooran understood the World Cup implications when he initially retired. ‘We probed and we saw that he mentioned not too long ago that he was quite happy to stick to his decision,’ Bascombe stated during his WESN TV appearance on Saturday.

    The recruitment difficulties extend beyond player personnel. CWI has also approached legendary West Indies cricketers Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, and Andre Russell regarding potential roles within the team’s management structure for the tournament. However, scheduling conflicts with the Indian Premier League (IPL) have emerged as a major obstacle, as the World Cup directly transitions into the lucrative franchise tournament.

    Bascombe explained the logistical challenges: ‘Anyone who would come on board as part of our team management would pretty much have to sacrifice a lot of time away. The feedback we’ve received indicates they would need to spend extended periods away from home, covering both the World Cup and subsequent IPL commitments.’

    The West Indies selectors are now compelled to finalize their World Cup squad following the conclusion of their three-match T20I series against Afghanistan later this month, potentially without one of their most dynamic T20 talents.

  • Uncapped Quentin Sampson in WI squad for Afghan T20s

    Uncapped Quentin Sampson in WI squad for Afghan T20s

    In a strategic move ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, Cricket West Indies has announced a 16-member squad for their upcoming three-match series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates from January 19-22. While seven established players including regular captain Shai Hope and former captains Jason Holder and Rovman Powell will be absent due to franchise commitments and rest protocols, the selection introduces exciting new talent alongside returning veterans.

    The squad will be led by opening batsman Brandon King, marking a significant leadership opportunity for the Jamaican right-hander. Most notably, 25-year-old Guyanese powerhouse Quentin Sampson earns his maiden call-up following a spectacular Caribbean Premier League campaign where he amassed 241 runs at an average of 34.42, including two half-centuries for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

    Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the series’ importance for World Cup preparations, stating: ‘Competitive matches in subcontinental conditions provide ideal preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This series offers a valuable platform to assess players who missed significant playing time late in 2025 while integrating those stepping into crucial roles before final tournament selection.’

    The selection also marks the return of explosive opener Evin Lewis and fast bowler Shamar Joseph, both recovering from extended injury layoffs. The squad features a blend of experience and emerging talent, including left-handed batsmen Alick Athanaze and Shimron Hetmyer, top-order batsman Keacy Carty, left-arm spinner Khary Pierre, and pace bowlers Matthew Forde and Jayden Seales.

    The West Indies team departed the Caribbean on January 14 and will arrive in the UAE on January 16 for intensive preparation ahead of the series. The final World Cup squad will be announced preceding the Men in Maroon’s subsequent T20 series against South Africa beginning January 27.

  • Army reclaim TTPFL lead with another win over Jabloteh

    Army reclaim TTPFL lead with another win over Jabloteh

    In a decisive display of championship form, Defence Force FC reclaimed top position in the TT Premier Football League with a commanding 3-1 victory over San Juan Jabloteh during a January 11 double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium. The defending champions demonstrated strategic superiority with second-half goals from Sheldon Bateau, Tyrese Bailey, and captain Kevin Molino, solidifying their dominance with 29 points and a game in hand over closest rivals.

    The match unfolded as a tactical chess match in the first half before exploding into offensive action after halftime. Central defender Bateau broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with his second seasonal goal, followed by Bailey’s clinical finish eight minutes later. Former Defence Force standout Isaiah ‘Bongo’ Leacock temporarily revived Jabloteh’s hopes with a 58th-minute response, but Molino sealed the victory with a 77th-minute strike that demonstrated the Army/Coast Guard combination’s relentless pressure.

    This victory marks Defence Force’s second consecutive 3-1 triumph against Jabloteh this month, highlighting their consistent performance against lower-table opposition. The result sees Jabloteh remain in eighth position with 12 points, while Club Sando ascends to second place (27 points) following their 6-0 demolition of bottom-placed 1976 FC Phoenix. Miscellaneous Police FC slipped to third (26 points) after an entertaining 2-2 draw with Terminix La Horquetta Rangers.

    In parallel developments, AC Port of Spain climbed to fifth position with a 3-1 victory over MIC Central FC, while Prison FC maintained fourth place through Kyron Williams’ brace against Point Fortin Civic. The league witnessed administrative drama as Eagles FC forfeited their match against Caledonia AIA due to kit violation regulations, resulting in a default 3-0 victory for Caledonia.

    The TTPFL action continues January 16 with a La Horquetta double-header featuring Eagles versus Jabloteh and Police facing Prisons, setting the stage for further shifts in the competitive landscape of Trinidad and Tobago’s premier football competition.

  • 10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    Nearly three months after Hurricane Melissa devastated the region, St Elizabeth Parish continues to grapple with a significant humanitarian situation as ten emergency shelters remain operational, housing approximately 72 displaced residents. The update came from Acting Parish Disaster Coordinator Rasha Lloyd during the January 12 meeting of the Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation & Safety Committee in Santa Cruz.

    Among the active shelters, two educational institutions—Maggotty High School and Ginger Hill Primary School—continue to serve as temporary housing facilities. Remarkably, Maggotty High School has successfully maintained dual operations since November, functioning simultaneously as both a shelter and an active educational institution without disrupting academic activities.

    The situation differs at Ginger Hill Primary School, where severe storm damage has prevented the reopening of classes. Officials project the institution will resume normal operations during the final week of January following necessary repairs.

    Lloyd detailed the government’s multi-faceted approach to resolving the shelter crisis, emphasizing collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development. “We’re exploring alternative housing solutions, including family reunification and rental assistance programs where the Government would subsidize accommodation costs,” Lloyd explained. “Additionally, we’re working to provide building materials for reconstruction, as many displaced residents previously occupied board dwellings that were completely destroyed by the hurricane.”

    The ongoing shelter reinspection process, initiated in December, has been temporarily suspended throughout January to accommodate Earthquake Awareness Month activities. Coordination with the Jamaica Fire Brigade is currently underway to implement educational programs in schools throughout the month. Official shelter reassessments are scheduled to resume in February.

  • Former Refugee Camp rapper John Forté dies at 50

    Former Refugee Camp rapper John Forté dies at 50

    The music industry mourns the unexpected passing of acclaimed rapper and producer John Forté, who died at his Martha’s Vineyard residence on Monday at age 50. The Grammy-nominated artist, recognized for his pivotal role in the Refugee Camp All-Stars collective and his production contributions to the Fugees’ landmark album “The Score,” leaves behind a complex legacy spanning musical innovation and personal redemption.

    Forté’s career trajectory embodied both extraordinary artistic achievement and profound personal challenges. His production work on the Fugees’ multi-platinum 1996 album earned him a Grammy nomination and established his reputation as a formidable creative force within the hip-hop community. The album, celebrated for blending soulful melodies with socially conscious lyrics, remains a touchstone of 1990s musical innovation.

    The artist’s journey took a dramatic turn in the early 2000s when he faced federal narcotics charges resulting in a 14-year prison sentence. After serving eight years, Forté received executive clemency from President George W. Bush in 2008, an act that highlighted the intersection of art, justice, and political intervention within the entertainment industry.

    Tributes from contemporaries have poured in since news of his passing. Wyclef Jean, founding member of the Fugees, memorialized Forté on social media, writing: ‘This one hurts my brother John Forté has joined the Angels. Legends never Die… R I P my Refugee brother.’ These sentiments reflect the deep connections Forté forged within the music community and the enduring impact of his artistic contributions despite his personal struggles.

  • Penny: PNM has work to do

    Penny: PNM has work to do

    In the wake of a decisive electoral outcome, Tobago’s political landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The Tobago House of Assembly elections held on January 12 resulted in an unprecedented 15-0 victory for the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), leaving the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) without representation.

    Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles issued a comprehensive statement on January 13 acknowledging the electoral outcome while outlining the party’s path forward. Beckles extended formal congratulations to TPP leader Farley Augustine, who will continue serving as THA Chief Secretary following his party’s clean sweep of all electoral districts.

    The political leader highlighted several critical factors influencing the election results, particularly noting the notably low voter turnout which she interpreted as indicative of public contentment with the status quo. This observation suggests a population generally satisfied with current governance rather than disengaged from the political process.

    Beckles emphasized the PNM’s commitment to thorough introspection and organizational rebuilding. ‘The PNM understands the necessity of reflection as we work toward rebuilding our party and regaining the trust and confidence of the people,’ she stated, acknowledging the need for substantive changes within the party structure.

    The opposition leader expressed gratitude to all fifteen PNM candidates who contested the election, including PNM Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis who has indicated his intention to resign from leadership following the defeat. Beckles specifically commended Dennis for his ‘service, leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to the people of Tobago and the PNM.’

    Looking toward the future, Beckles extended best wishes to the incoming THA members, recognizing that their success would directly impact Tobago’s developmental progress. She reaffirmed the PNM’s ongoing dedication to ‘constructive engagement, national unity, and the pursuit of a stronger and more united Trinidad and Tobago,’ while promising the party would ‘regroup and return stronger and better ready to serve the people.’

  • Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Authorities in Costa Rica have announced the disruption of a serious threat against President Rodrigo Chaves just prior to the nation’s upcoming electoral process. Intelligence officials revealed on Tuesday that a credible assassination scheme was in development, allegedly involving a paid contract killer targeting the head of state.

    The security breach emerges during a highly sensitive period, with presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled within a fortnight. President Chaves, constitutionally prohibited from consecutive reelection, has endorsed former cabinet member Laura Fernandez as his preferred successor.

    This security alert coincides with diplomatic controversy surrounding President Chaves’s invitation to El Salvador’s leader Nayib Bukele. The Salvadoran president is expected in Costa Rica to participate in the inauguration of a new maximum-security prison facility inspired by his country’s controversial CECOT complex.

    Opposition factions have expressed apprehension regarding potential external influence in the electoral process, particularly criticizing Bukele’s involvement. The Salvadoran leader’s crackdown on gang violence has resulted in the detention of thousands without formal charges, drawing international scrutiny over human rights considerations.