Carib Scope

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  • High Court dismisses activist’s challenge over denied request to burn police flag

    High Court dismisses activist’s challenge over denied request to burn police flag

    In a significant ruling addressing the balance between protest rights and public safety, High Court Justice Kevin Ramcharan has dismissed activist Umar Abdullah’s legal challenge against former Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher’s decision to prohibit the burning of a replica police flag during a 2023 protest.

    The court determined that the Commissioner’s restriction constituted a lawful and proportionate measure under the Summary Offences Act, specifically designed to prevent potential breaches of peace and public disorder. While approving Abdullah’s planned march through Port of Spain to protest alleged police extrajudicial killings, the prohibition against igniting any objects—including the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) flag replica—was upheld as constitutionally valid.

    Justice Ramcharan’s comprehensive judgment emphasized several critical factors supporting this decision: the emotionally charged nature of the protest targeting an institution allegedly responsible for civilian deaths, the inherent risks of igniting fires in densely urban environments, and documented historical instances where protests involving burning objects escalated into violence.

    “The apprehension that flag burning might instigate serious public disorder fell squarely within the Commissioner’s discretionary authority,” Ramcharan stated. He further noted that the protest’s context—occurring near police headquarters with likely attendance by affected families—created substantial risk of escalation into infrastructure damage and physical injury to participants and bystanders.

    The judgment clarified that while constitutional rights to free expression and assembly remain fundamental, the Summary Offences Act expressly permits reasonable limitations when proportionate to public safety concerns. The court found the restriction narrowly tailored since Abdullah retained full rights to conduct his march and voice criticisms through alternative means of symbolic speech.

    Abdullah, leader of the First Wave Movement NGO, had argued that flag burning constituted protected symbolic expression and that the Commissioner acted without evidential basis. These claims were rejected after judicial review found the decision rationally connected to legitimate public order considerations, with Abdullah having been interviewed by police prior to the determination.

    The activist was ordered to pay court costs, with amounts to be assessed by registrar if undisputed. Legal representation included Kiel Taklalsingh, Keron Ramkhalwhan, Rhea Khan and Shalini Sankar for Abdullah, while Tinuke Gibbons-Glenn and Kadine Matthew appeared for the state.

  • SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    SLS: Motto’s love song to riddim

    St. Lucian musician Lashley ‘Motto’ Winter is positioning groovy soca as the Caribbean’s most viable export for achieving sustained international recognition. For the upcoming 2026 Carnival season, the established singer, songwriter, and producer has crafted the ‘SLS (Soca Love Story)’ riddim, a production deeply inspired by the musical traditions of Laventille’s rhythmic sections and Trinidad’s tassa culture.

    Winter’s artistic perspective is shaped by his St. Lucian heritage, French Antillean influences, and extensive experience within Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival scene. He argues that while the region produces multiple soca subgenres—from St. Lucia’s Dennery Segment to Dominica’s bouyon—the melodic and accessible nature of groovy soca holds the greatest potential for worldwide appeal. He notes its rhythmic similarities to already-globalized genres like Afrobeats and reggaeton, suggesting this familiarity could ease its acceptance by international audiences.

    The artist points to the successful crossover attempts of icons like Machel Montano and recent collaborations, such as Yung Bredda’s work with Chloe Bailey, as critical steps toward mainstream acceptance. Motto’s own strategy involves strategic partnerships with American artists; his recent single ‘Ego’ featuring Sean Kingston exemplifies this targeted approach to gaining exposure in the lucrative U.S. and European markets.

    However, Winter emphasizes that authenticity is paramount. His goal is not to abandon soca for pop but to intelligently introduce the genre’s core sound to new listeners through established international platforms. Based in Miami, he is actively working to position himself within the American music industry while staying true to his Caribbean roots.

    Looking ahead to Carnival 2026, Motto expressed hope for a successful season and urged a swift resolution to the ongoing impasse between the government and promoters’ association, noting that such stability is crucial for the international perception and commercial viability of the event.

  • Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Small conventional bands semis: Pan showdown on December 20

    Victoria Square in Port of Spain transforms into a vibrant battleground on December 20 as 31 elite small conventional steel orchestras compete for advancement in Trinidad and Tobago’s National Panorama competition. This preliminary showdown will determine which bands proceed to the grand finals scheduled for January 10, 2026, at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    The musical festivities commence at 4 PM with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra, culminating with Nu Stars Steel Orchestra’s closing performance. Pan Trinbago president Beverly Ramsey-Moore characterized the 2026 Panorama opening as an electrifying demonstration of vibrancy and precision, describing small conventional bands as “the true engine of the steelpan movement.”

    Following rigorous regional adjudication between December 5-13, Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D’South Band) emerged as the preliminary frontrunner with 272 points. Their arrangement of the late Merchant’s 1982 calypso “Let Us Build A Nation Together,” orchestrated by Duvone Stewart, secured a three-point advantage over joint second-place finishers Fascinators Pan Symphony and Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra.

    The defending 2025 co-champions face heightened competition this season. T&TEC New East Side Dimension tied for fourth position with Fusion Steel Orchestra and Defence Force Steel Orchestra at 269 points, while Golden Hands Steel Orchestra shared seventh place with Tunapuna Tipica and Arima Golden Symphony at 265 points.

    Despite these preliminary results, both champion arrangers have issued determined warnings to competitors. Tobago’s Kersh Ramsey of T&TEC New East Side Dimension declared: “We’re looking for a clear path to victory. Having won back-to-back in 2024 and 2025, we are going for the hat-trick in 2026.” His San Fernando counterpart, Vanessa Headley-Brewster of Golden Hands, remains equally resolved to retain their title despite time penalty setbacks.

    The competition unfolds against broader cultural significance, with Ramsey-Moore highlighting that Panorama has already engaged over 3,000 steelpan musicians across 94 bands, affirming Trinidad and Tobago’s status as the undisputed Mecca of the steelpan.

  • Angostura signs Imran “GI” Beharry as new brand ambassador

    Angostura signs Imran “GI” Beharry as new brand ambassador

    In a significant cultural partnership, Trinidad and Tobago’s celebrated chutney soca artist Imran “GI” Beharry has been appointed as the official brand ambassador for the House of Angostura. The three-time Chutney Soca Monarch, who recently joined the National Carnival Commission, formalized this collaboration through a signing ceremony on December 16 at the company’s Laventille headquarters.

    The House of Angostura announced the partnership on December 17, characterizing the union as bringing together “two powerful symbols of TT’s creative and cultural identity.” The company highlighted GI’s dynamic stage presence, authentic storytelling capabilities, and profound connection to Caribbean culture as qualities aligning perfectly with their brand values.

    Acting CEO Ian Forbes emphasized the strategic alignment, stating: “Our brands are deeply rooted in culture, heritage and authenticity. GI represents the modern expression of Caribbean creativity – bold, confident and grounded in who we are as a people.” This collaboration forms part of Angostura’s broader initiative to engage cultural leaders who authentically embody the brand’s spirit while promoting premium rum culture through contemporary channels.

    Beharry, known for his hit “My One Only,” expressed enthusiasm about representing the historic brand: “The House of Angostura represents legacy, pride and TT excellence on a global stage. This partnership feels natural because it reflects who we are and how far our culture can travel.”

    The artist will represent Angostura across selected brand engagements, consumer experiences, and cultural events, serving as a bridge between the company’s premium spirits and the vibrant Caribbean music scene. This partnership underscores Angostura’s ongoing commitment to supporting local talent and cultural expression while elevating brand experiences at the intersection of music, culture, and premium spirits.

  • David Muhammad leads new Nalis board

    David Muhammad leads new Nalis board

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has appointed David Muhammad, identified as the Trinidad and Eastern Caribbean representative for Louis Farrakhan’s Nation of Islam (NOI), as chairman of the National Library and Information System Authority (Nalis) board. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar formally presented the instruments of appointment to the newly-constituted board during an official ceremony this week.

    Muhammad, 55, born in England, assumes leadership of the nation’s premier library and information authority amidst both interest and scrutiny regarding his affiliation with the religious organization. The Nation of Islam, established in the United States in 1930 by Wallace Fard Muhammad, has historically featured prominent figures including Elijah Muhammad and civil rights activist Malcolm X.

    During the appointment proceedings, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar delivered a comprehensive address emphasizing the fundamental principles of integrity, accountability, and service to national interests. She explicitly reminded board members of their fiduciary responsibility to manage public resources with prudence and transparency while safeguarding taxpayer interests.

    The Prime Minister further challenged the new board to advance Nalis’s mandate through innovative approaches, specifically highlighting the strategic implementation of modern technology to enhance service delivery, expand public outreach, and improve operational efficiency. She reinforced the critical function of Nalis in preserving the nation’s intellectual and cultural heritage while simultaneously working to expand information accessibility for all citizens.

    The newly appointed board comprises chairman David Muhammad, deputy chairman Karran Nancoo, alongside members Jonathan Macoon, Tiffany Campbell-Joseph, Anthony Ramharack, Anjanee Seenath, Marin Gonzales, Dr. Lorraine Nero, and ex-officio member Paula Elizabeth Greene.

  • Defence Force aim to go third in Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League

    Defence Force aim to go third in Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League

    The Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) continues its intense December schedule with defending champions Defence Force aiming to maintain their winning momentum against bottom-placed Terminix La Horquetta Rangers. The highly anticipated clash will serve as the evening fixture of a December 19 double-header at La Horquetta Recreation Grounds, commencing at 8 pm.

    Defence Force enters the match following a crucial 2-1 victory over third-ranked Prisons in their previous outing. The army unit demonstrated tactical precision with goals from playmaker Adriel George and defender Sheldon Bateau securing three valuable points. This result elevated Defence Force to 14 points from six matches, positioning them within striking distance of league leaders.

    A triumph against Rangers would propel Defence Force to 17 points, narrowing the gap to just two points behind frontrunners Miscellaneous Police FC. The championship race remains exceptionally tight, with Police, Club Sando, and Prisons all scheduled to play their subsequent matches on December 20.

    Meanwhile, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers confront the encounter from a precarious position, languishing in 11th place with merely four points from seven fixtures. Their recent 2-1 defeat to San Juan Jabloteh extended their disappointing run, making this match critical for reversing their fortunes.

    The evening’s opening match at 6 pm will feature San Juan Jabloteh against Central FC, setting the stage for the weekend’s football action. The competition intensifies further on December 20 when the top two teams, Police and Club Sando, clash at St James Police Barracks in what promises to be a championship-defining encounter.

    Additional fixtures include Prisons Service versus AC Port of Spain at the barracks, while December 21 will see action shift to Mahaica Sporting Complex where FC Phoenix face Eagles FC and Caledonia AIA challenge Point Fortin Civic.

    The current league standings reveal Police FC maintaining top position with 19 points, closely pursued by Club Sando with 18 points. The relegation battle sees Eagles FC anchored at the bottom with a single point from seven matches, highlighting the league’s competitive dichotomy.

  • More chances to shine: US-based coaches praise SSFL Cobmine

    More chances to shine: US-based coaches praise SSFL Cobmine

    Trinidad’s emerging football stars showcased their skills to international college coaches during the three-day 2025 Football Combine and Showcase held at TTDF Reserve Grounds in Macqueripe from December 12-14. The collaborative event, organized by the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL), Next Level Performance TT (NLP), and youth development program Pro Series, drew praise from American college scouts who witnessed exceptional talent among both male and female participants.

    Junior Galvan, assistant coach of Butler Community College’s women’s program, and Grace Houchin, assistant coach for both men’s and women’s programs at Murray State College, were among the international observers assessing approximately 80 young athletes. They were joined by former Trinidad and Tobago national team player Leslie “Tiger” Fitzpatrick, now head of Pro Player Pathway at New York Red Bulls Academy, who provided professional evaluation of the prospects.

    The combine revealed several standout performers across gender divisions. Among female participants, defender Kaitlyn Darwent and attacking midfielder Orielle captured attention on the opening day, with Ty’Kaiya Dennis, Zyesha Potts, and St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain duo Scarlett Cole and Daneelyah Salandy maintaining strong performances throughout the event. The male contingent featured impressive displays from Fatima College’s Seth Hadeed and Phillip Nelson, St Anthony’s College representatives Jaeden Bobb and Adriel Faure, Joshua Miguel from St Mary’s College, Queen’s Royal College’s Jalano Straker, and St Benedict’s College playmaker Josiah Ochoa.

    NLP celebrated the third edition of the combine as a resounding success, noting representation from athletes across all zones of Trinidad and Tobago, including members of current under-20 and under-17 national teams. Visiting coaches expressed particular admiration for both the technical quality and cultural environment, with many indicating eagerness to return for future recruitment opportunities.

    Coach Galvan emphasized the significance of cultural background in player development, stating, “The culture plays a massive role in the kid’s talent, but also the person. I met amazing kids with great people skills willing to be coachable and that’s a testament to their families.” Coach Houchin added, “The NLP Combine was an amazing opportunity for not only myself as a coach to experience first-hand the amazing young talent of TT, but also for the players to showcase themselves.”

    The organization clarified that the combine represents merely the beginning of recruitment possibilities, as their digital platform continues to provide exposure for all participants. Through the Next Level Performance TT App, athletes maintain connectivity with coaches from National Junior College Athletic Association, National College Athletic Association, and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics programs, ensuring ongoing scouting opportunities beyond the live event.

  • Makeda Bain claims three RBC Junior tennis titles

    Makeda Bain claims three RBC Junior tennis titles

    The 2025 RBC Junior Tennis Tournament concluded in spectacular fashion at Trinidad’s National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua on December 18, with emerging stars Makeda Bain and Christopher Khan delivering exceptional performances across multiple age categories.

    Christopher Khan demonstrated remarkable mental fortitude in the boys’ Under-16 singles final against top-seeded Josiah Hills. After dropping the first set 3-6, Khan mounted a impressive comeback to claim the second set 6-4, forcing a decisive third set. The thrilling contest reached its climax with Khan securing an 11-9 victory in the final set tiebreak. Khan’s triumph extended to the Under-18 category where he received a walkover victory as Hills was unable to compete in the scheduled final.

    Makeda Bain mirrored Khan’s success with her own double championship achievement. In the girls’ Under-16 final, Bain overcame a determined challenge from Cyra Ramcharan, prevailing with identical 6-4 set scores. Her Under-18 final appearance against Madison Khan showcased Bain’s competitive resilience as she recovered from a first-set deficit (5-7) to dominate the subsequent sets 6-2, 6-1.

    Bain completed her tournament supremacy by capturing the senior girls’ doubles title alongside Madison Khan, defeating the sister pairing of Cyra and Suri Ramcharan with a commanding 6-0, 6-2 victory.

    The tournament featured numerous other notable performances across various age divisions. Augustus Wiley claimed the division two senior boys’ singles title against Nathan Agarwal (5-3, 4-2), while Zayden Sagramsingh emerged victorious in a tightly contested boys’ 10-and-Under final against Ryan Chin (2-4, 4-2, 10-5).

    In girls’ competition, Samiyah Mohammed captured the 14-and-Under singles championship after a three-set battle with Suri Ramcharan (6-4, 1-6, 10-8), while Soraya Ali triumphed in division two senior girls’ singles against Daniella Sambrano (5-4, 4-2).

    The doubles competitions concluded with Nirav Dougdeen and Josiah Hills claiming the senior boys’ title after a hard-fought match against Oliver Harragin and Christopher Khan (6-7, 6-4, 11-9).

  • Trinidad and Tobago Under-17s eliminated in Jewels tournament

    Trinidad and Tobago Under-17s eliminated in Jewels tournament

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Under-17 women’s football team faced tournament elimination following a 2-1 defeat against Jamaica in the DecembHER Football – Jewels of the Caribbean competition on December 17. The critical match at Sangre Grande Recreational Ground witnessed dramatic developments including a red card and power outage that impacted gameplay dynamics.

    Jamaica established an early advantage in the 22nd minute when Ricquanna Richards capitalized on a rebound after Trinidadian goalkeeper Zofia Richards initially blocked a sharp-angled attempt. The Caribbean rivals maintained intense pressure until Nikita Gosine equalized for Trinidad and Tobago via a powerfully converted penalty kick in the 32nd minute.

    The match’s momentum shifted decisively during first-half stoppage time when Trinidadian defender Gyasi Lewis received a straight red card for a professional foul, reducing the squad to ten players for the entire second period. Despite numerical disadvantage, Trinidad and Tobago demonstrated resilient defensive organization until Beth Miller’s 56th-minute breakthrough secured Jamaica’s victory. Miller exhibited exceptional technical control to navigate a long aerial pass before finishing from close range after her initial shot was parried.

    An unexpected power interruption temporarily suspended play in the 63rd minute, adding another layer of disruption to Trinidad and Tobago’s comeback efforts. The defeat follows Trinidad’s 4-0 opening loss to United States-based club Indy Premier SC, confirming their elimination from final contention.

    In related tournament action, Jamaica’s Under-20 squad drew 2-2 with Indy Premier SC at Hasely Crawford Stadium on December 18, with both teams accumulating four points in group standings. Trinidad and Tobago’s Under-20 team was scheduled to conclude group stage proceedings against a Trinidad Women’s League Football selection following press deadlines.

  • Colin R. Maynard Sworn In as Member of the Industrial Court

    Colin R. Maynard Sworn In as Member of the Industrial Court

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s judicial landscape, Colin R. Maynard has been formally sworn in as a new member of the nation’s Industrial Court. The ceremony, presided over by President Christine Kangaloo at the President’s House in St. Ann’s, marks a pivotal appointment to this crucial legal institution.

    The Industrial Court serves as a specialized judicial body with jurisdiction over trade disputes, unfair labor practice complaints, and matters pertaining to the interpretation of collective agreements. Mr. Maynard’s appointment arrives at a critical time for the nation’s labor relations framework, potentially influencing future rulings on worker rights and employer obligations.

    Prior to this judicial appointment, Maynard established a formidable reputation as a seasoned attorney with extensive expertise in labor and industrial relations law. His legal career is distinguished by a deep understanding of the complex interplay between workforce legislation and economic development. This professional background positions him as a valuable asset to the court’s deliberations on increasingly sophisticated employment matters.

    President Kangaloo, during the swearing-in proceedings, emphasized the profound responsibility inherent in judicial service. She articulated expectations for Maynard’s tenure, highlighting the imperative for fairness, wisdom, and unwavering integrity in discharging his duties. The President’s address underscored the court’s vital role in maintaining social stability through equitable dispute resolution.

    This appointment follows standard constitutional procedures for judicial placements within Trinidad and Tobago’s legal system. The Industrial Court’s composition typically features members with diverse legal and industrial expertise, ensuring balanced perspectives on the disputes brought before it. Maynard’s induction contributes to this diversity of thought and experience on the bench.

    The legal community has responded positively to this development, with several prominent labor attorneys noting Maynard’s reputation for meticulous legal analysis and impartiality. His tenure is anticipated to strengthen the court’s capacity for rendering judgments that balance employee protections with sustainable business practices, ultimately fostering a more harmonious industrial relations environment in Trinidad and Tobago.