Carib Scope

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  • Trump fires homeland security chief Kristi Noem

    Trump fires homeland security chief Kristi Noem

    WASHINGTON—In a significant cabinet reshuffle, President Donald Trump terminated Kristi Noem’s tenure as Secretary of Homeland Security on Thursday. The dismissal follows contentious Senate hearings where Noem faced bipartisan criticism over the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

    The immediate catalyst for Noem’s removal appears to be her testimony regarding a $220 million departmental advertising campaign featuring herself prominently, which she stated had presidential approval. Trump announced via Truth Social that Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma would assume leadership of the powerful department effective March 31, pending Senate confirmation.

    Trump simultaneously appointed the 54-year-old Noem as special envoy for a new Western Hemisphere security initiative dubbed ‘The Shield of the Americas.’ The president praised her ‘spectacular results’ in border security while characterizing Mullin as a ‘MAGA Warrior’ who would prioritize border security, combat migrant crime, and end illegal drug trafficking.

    The leadership change occurs during a partial DHS shutdown, with Democrats withholding funding until operational changes are implemented at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These include curtailed patrols, prohibitions on face masks for agents, and requiring judicial warrants before entering private properties.

    During Tuesday’s Senate hearings, Noem faced severe criticism from both parties. Democratic Senator Dick Durbin accused DHS of being ‘devoid of any moral compass,’ while Republican Senator Thom Tillis described her leadership as ‘a disaster’ citing wrongful detentions of American citizens. The hearing also addressed controversial expenditures on self-deportation advertisements and the characterization of protest victims as ‘domestic terrorists.’

  • Jamaican defectors to make US$300k after allegiance switch to Turkey

    Jamaican defectors to make US$300k after allegiance switch to Turkey

    ISTANBUL, Turkey — In a bold strategic move to transform its Olympic fortunes, Turkey has initiated a comprehensive, long-term program to recruit elite Jamaican and Kenyan track and field athletes. This initiative, offering substantial financial incentives, is a direct response to the nation’s failure to secure a single gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where it won a total of eight medals across all sports.\n\nThe program provides recruited athletes with a monthly salary ranging from $3,000 to $7,000, complemented by generous performance bonuses. For an Olympic gold medal, an athlete would be rewarded with 1,000 Turkish Republic gold pieces (Cumhuriyet Altini), a prize equivalent to over one million US dollars.\n\nOnder Ozbilen, the coordinator for Turkey’s Olympic athletics team, emphasized to AFP that this endeavor is far more nuanced than simply purchasing talent. Dismissing reports of $500,000 upfront payments, Ozbilen clarified that some athletes would receive up to $300,000 distributed over a 30-month period. This sum is designed to compensate for the mandatory three-year period of international competition inactivity during the nationality switch process, a time when athletes typically lose out on win bonuses and endorsement opportunities.\n\n\”This is not a Turkish guy going to some countries with a bag of money in his hands,\” Ozbilen stated. \”This is the most long-term plan and humanistic naturalisation project in the world till now.\”\n\nThe recruitment drive has already secured commitments from a prestigious cohort of athletes. From Jamaica, the group includes 2024 Olympic discus champion Roje Stona, long jump silver medalist Wayne Pinnock, shot put bronze medalist Rajindra Campbell, and highly-rated 21-year-old triple jumper Jaydon Hibbert. From Kenya, the quintet features former women’s marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei. Russian heptathlete Sofia Yakushina and Nigerian sprinter Favour Ofili, a 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, have also signed contracts extending through October 2032.\n\nAthletes and their representatives have been candid about the financial motivations behind the switch. Wayne Pinnock explained, \”I gotta do it. I mean… I do love my country, but loyalty doesn’t pay bills.\” Roje Stona’s manager, Paul Doyle, stated that without Turkish support, his athlete \”would have had a very difficult time continuing to dedicate himself to the sport.\”\n\nHowever, Ozbilen refutes the characterization of these as \”mercenary transfers,\\” arguing that several athletes had been \”forgotten by their federations\” and that Turkey offers a supportive environment. He also revealed rejecting approaches from 30 other athletes, including Americans, whose interest he deemed solely financial.\n\nThe strategy is not without precedent; nations like Qatar have historically recruited East African running talent. Furthermore, the initiative has sparked domestic debate within Turkey, receiving a mixed reception from local athletes and coaches.\n\nThe final approval for these nationality switches rests with World Athletics, the sport’s global governing body, which mandates that athletes demonstrate \”a genuine connection with the country represented.\” Ozbilen expressed confidence, noting all recruits have been provided accommodation in Turkey and that they are \”waiting respectfully\” for the governing body’s decision. This sentiment was echoed cautiously by agents like Robert Wagner, who represents Canadian hammer throw champion Ethan Katzberg—a athlete who declined Turkey’s offer. Wagner hopes the federation will scrutinize each case \”very carefully,\” quipping that eligibility \”can’t just be that you’re just never there and just have an apartment where somebody just waters your flowers.\”\n\nBeyond medal acquisition, Ozbilen envisions this project as a catalyst for domestic athletic growth, believing the imported stars will \”act as role models that will attract local talents\” and elevate track and field’s profile across Turkey.

  • Garvey Maceo and Cornwall College advance in ISSA rural junior football

    Garvey Maceo and Cornwall College advance in ISSA rural junior football

    In a dramatic display of youth football prowess, Garvey Maceo High and Cornwall College emerged victorious in their respective age categories during Wednesday’s ISSA Rural Area semi-final matches at St Elizabeth Technical High School. The intense showdowns determined the first finalists for both the Burger King Under-14 and Mighty Malt Under-16 championships.

    The Under-14 encounter evolved into a nail-biting spectacle as Garvey Maceo staged a remarkable comeback against Cornwall College. After Kerick Clarke’s 35th-minute opener for Garvey Maceo was immediately neutralized by Shani Stephens’ equalizer in added time, the teams entered halftime deadlocked at 1-1. Cornwall College appeared to have secured victory when Jayden Smith converted a swift counterattack in the 65th minute, but Tijuan Peters’ last-gasp equalizer in the 70th minute forced penalty kicks. The subsequent shootout culminated in a 7-6 sudden-death triumph for Garvey Maceo after Cornwall missed their seventh attempt.

    Conversely, Cornwall College’s Under-16 squad delivered a commanding performance against Rusea’s High, securing a decisive 4-1 victory. The team established early dominance with Jared Sargeant finding the net merely three minutes into play. Although Xavier Bourne managed to equalize for Rusea’s in the 36th minute, Kemoy Brown immediately restored Cornwall’s advantage just before halftime. Mekhi Foster then sealed the comprehensive win with a second-half brace, scoring in the 56th and 80th minutes.

    The remaining finalists will be determined Thursday at Glenmuir High, where William Knibb Memorial faces Belair High in the Under-14 category while Clarendon College meets Glenmuir High in the Under-16 semi-final. All championship matches are scheduled for March 12th at the STETHS sports complex.

  • India beat England by seven runs in T20 World Cup semi-final

    India beat England by seven runs in T20 World Cup semi-final

    MUMBAI, India — In a breathtaking display of cricketing prowess, India secured a nail-biting seven-run victory over England in the T20 World Cup semi-final clash on Thursday. The match, held at a packed stadium in Mumbai, will be remembered as one of the most electrifying encounters in recent tournament history.

    The foundation of India’s triumph was laid by Sanju Samson’s magnificent 89-run innings, which propelled the team to a formidable total of 253-7. Samson’s explosive batting featured a spectacular array of boundaries and sixes, setting what seemed like an insurmountable target for the English side.

    England responded with extraordinary resilience, mounting what nearly became the highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history. The effort was spearheaded by Jacob Bethell’s spectacular century, with the young batsman scoring a breathtaking 105 runs under immense pressure. Despite Bethell’s heroic performance and England’s valiant effort, the team ultimately fell short at 246-7, concluding one of the most closely contested matches of the tournament.

    The victory propels India into the championship final where they will face New Zealand, setting the stage for what promises to be an epic conclusion to the international cricket tournament. The semi-final match has been widely praised by analysts as a showcase of exceptional talent and sportsmanship from both teams.

  • Caribbean Climate & Sustainable Energy Youth Workshop 2026 ongoing in Jamaica

    Caribbean Climate & Sustainable Energy Youth Workshop 2026 ongoing in Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Caribbean youth are positioning themselves at the forefront of the region’s sustainable energy transformation as the Caribbean Youth Climate Council (CYCC) hosts its second major climate conference. The Caribbean Climate & Sustainable Energy Youth Workshop 2026, convened from March 4-6 at the Jamaica Conference Centre, represents a strategic effort to empower young leaders in shaping climate-resilient futures for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

    Under the theme “SUSEnergy: Equity and Inclusion in a Changing Climate,” the gathering brings together youth delegates, policy experts, energy specialists, and community advocates from across the Caribbean Community (Caricom). This collaborative initiative, supported by Youth Action Co: Lab and Youth4Energy, addresses the dual challenges of climate vulnerability and energy security that disproportionately affect island nations.

    The workshop’s programming, developed with backing from the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE), features expert-led sessions examining renewable energy deployment strategies, inclusive energy policy frameworks, and youth engagement in climate governance. Through interactive dialogues and solution-oriented workshops, participants are developing practical approaches to advance equitable energy transitions.

    A highlight of the event includes an educational field visit to the International Centre for Environmental and Nuclear Sciences (ICENS) and the EV Lab at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus. This hands-on component provides delegates with direct exposure to cutting-edge research in environmental science, renewable technology, and electric mobility solutions being developed within the region.

    The conference represents a significant evolution from previous youth climate initiatives by focusing specifically on actionable outcomes and measurable impact. By facilitating cross-sector collaboration between emerging leaders and established institutions, the workshop aims to translate dialogue into concrete pathways for youth-led climate action and sustainable energy investment across the Caribbean.

  • Bahamas Aviation Authority probing two American Airlines near-miss incidents

    Bahamas Aviation Authority probing two American Airlines near-miss incidents

    NASSAU, The Bahamas – The Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority has initiated comprehensive investigations into two alarming near-miss incidents involving American Airlines aircraft at Family Island airports, signaling potential systemic safety concerns at uncontrolled aerodromes. The probe follows formal advisories from US regulators warning of possible catastrophic outcomes.

    The first emergency occurred on February 12 near Exuma International Airport when an approaching American Airlines flight executed abrupt evasive maneuvers to avoid a departing aircraft. The violent maneuver resulted in injuries to two flight attendants who required medical treatment at a local clinic and were subsequently placed on leave.

    A second incident unfolded on February 24 at North Eleuthera Airport where an American Airlines jet awaiting takeoff clearance encountered another aircraft passing overhead while still positioned on the active runway.

    The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority issued a Serious Safety Concern notice indicating preliminary evidence suggests both incidents involved failures in proper radio communication protocols. At uncontrolled airports like these, pilots are required to continuously self-announce their positions on designated frequencies—a critical safety procedure that preliminary findings indicate may not have been followed.

    Political response emerged as Debra Moxey Rolle, Free National Movement candidate for Exuma, highlighted broader infrastructure concerns referencing a recent incident where a medical evacuation flight couldn’t land due to runway lighting failure, resulting in a patient’s death. ‘When it comes to matters of safety and life, silence is not an option,’ Rolle stated, emphasizing the community’s dependence on reliable air access for medical emergencies and commerce.

    The aviation authority maintains strict confidentiality regarding ongoing investigations, noting that premature disclosure could compromise investigative integrity. Officials confirmed that any identified safety breaches will trigger immediate corrective measures aligned with international aviation standards and regulatory mandates.

  • Ocho Rios High victim and alleged attacker were recent transfers to institution — principal

    Ocho Rios High victim and alleged attacker were recent transfers to institution — principal

    A devastating incident at Ocho Rios High School in St Ann, Jamaica has resulted in the death of 16-year-old Devonie Shearer, following a violent confrontation on school premises Wednesday. The tragic event unfolded when another student allegedly struck Shearer in the back of the head with a metal chair, causing fatal injuries.

    School Principal Marvin Clowson disclosed during a Thursday briefing that both students involved in the altercation were relatively new transfers to the institution. The accused student had joined the school just last month, while the deceased victim had transferred in September of the previous year. Both teenagers were enrolled in grade 10 at the time of the incident.

    The tragedy prompted an immediate response from education authorities and government representatives. Education Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon, alongside St Ann North Eastern MP Matthew Samuda and other governmental officials, visited the grieving school community Thursday. Minister Dixon personally assured Principal Clowson and staff members of comprehensive support, stating, ‘Whatever you need in the coming weeks, we are here to provide it for you.’ She emphasized the importance of self-care for school leadership during the difficult period.

    Law enforcement authorities have taken the alleged perpetrator into custody as investigations continue into the circumstances that precipitated the violent confrontation. The incident has raised serious concerns about student integration processes and conflict resolution mechanisms within educational institutions.

    The school community remains in mourning as they process the loss of young Devonie Shearer of Buckfield Road, St Ann, while education officials pledge to implement additional support systems and review safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.

  • Johnson Smith says no concerns over strength of Jamaica-US relationship

    Johnson Smith says no concerns over strength of Jamaica-US relationship

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith has reaffirmed confidence in the nation’s strategic partnership with the United States despite criticism from a US Congressman regarding Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s supportive stance on Cuba. The diplomatic reassurances came during Tuesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing at Jamaica House, where Johnson Smith characterized the Prime Minister’s recent comments on Cuba as “balanced, visionary, and realistic.”

    The minister referenced her recent cordial meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio as evidence of continued strong bilateral relations, suggesting that individual congressional opinions don’t reflect official US government positioning. This response followed criticism from Cuban-born Congressman Carlos Giménez, who warned Jamaica would face “consequences” for what he termed as covering up for Cuba’s “moribund dictatorship.”

    The controversy stems from Prime Minister Holness’s February 24 address to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders in Basseterre, where he urged regional nations to address Cuba’s humanitarian crisis “with clarity and courage.” His speech highlighted the complex geopolitical circumstances surrounding US-Cuba relations while acknowledging Jamaica’s fundamental commitment to democratic principles and open markets.

    Holness emphasized that Cuba’s ongoing economic struggles—exacerbated by extended power cuts and shortages of fuel, medicine, and food—could have regional implications affecting migration patterns, security concerns, and economic stability throughout the Caribbean basin. The Prime Minister noted Cuba’s historical role in supporting Caribbean neighbors through medical and educational assistance while maintaining that Jamaica’s position remains grounded in democratic values and political accountability.

    The current crisis in Cuba has intensified following the Trump administration’s oil blockade, which severed the island nation’s primary petroleum supplies from Venezuela. Cuba has operated under a US trade embargo since 1962, creating prolonged economic challenges that have recently reached critical levels.

  • PM promises no increase to BPL bills despite rising global oil costs

    PM promises no increase to BPL bills despite rising global oil costs

    Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has moved to reassure Bahamian citizens that electricity costs will remain stable in both the immediate and medium-term future, despite escalating global oil prices triggered by Middle Eastern conflicts. The Prime Minister’s declaration came during his mid-year budget address to the House of Assembly, where he addressed growing economic concerns related to the Israel-Iran conflict.

    The recent military engagements between the United States, Israel, and Iran have caused significant disruptions in global energy markets, with several regional suppliers suspending liquefied natural gas production following damage to facilities from missile interception debris. These developments have raised concerns about potential economic repercussions for fuel-importing nations like The Bahamas.

    Prime Minister Davis acknowledged the nation’s vulnerability to international oil price fluctuations but emphasized that protective mechanisms are actively shielding consumers from market volatility. ‘Rest assured, we are fully committed to working on behalf of every Bahamian to reduce the cost of electricity and fuel prices,’ Davis stated during his parliamentary address.

    Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis indicated the administration is adopting a cautious monitoring approach before considering any adjustments to fiscal strategies. While expressing hope for a rapid resolution to regional hostilities, Halkitis warned that sustained disruptions to oil supplies could eventually impact costs throughout The Bahamas’ import-dependent economy.

    Regarding the government’s electricity sector reforms, Davis presented substantial progress indicators. Approximately 78,000 households (82% of BPL customers) are now experiencing reduced bills due to equity rate adjustments, with 44% of these customers seeing reductions exceeding 15%. More than 63,000 households currently receive monthly electricity bills under $125.

    The administration has also addressed service disconnections, reconnecting 2,811 households between November 2024 and January 2025. Davis highlighted the dual focus on affordability and reliability, noting: ‘Lower bills matter. But reliability matters just as much. Because what good is affordable electricity that is not there when you need it?’

    Substantial improvements in service quality were documented, with power outage frequency decreasing by approximately 45% and outage duration reduced by 35% throughout the previous year.

  • Davis defends the doubling of government unpaid invoices

    Davis defends the doubling of government unpaid invoices

    Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has characterized the substantial increase in government arrears and unpaid invoices as evidence of vigorous project implementation rather than fiscal mismanagement. His comments came in response to parliamentary documents revealing that outstanding balances to suppliers and service providers nearly doubled from $122.4 million to $241.9 million between December 2024 and December 2025.

    According to the Prime Minister’s breakdown, $60.5 million represents carryover arrears from previous fiscal years, while $181.4 million constitutes current fiscal year invoices typically settled within a 90-day window. The Ministry of Works emerged as the largest debtor with $68.1 million in combined arrears and unpaid capital expenditure invoices, followed by the Water & Sewerage Corporation at $38.1 million and the Ministry of the Public Service at $24.3 million.

    Davis attributed the increased liabilities to accelerated infrastructure activities encompassing roadworks, drainage management, and building maintenance projects across airports, clinics, and educational facilities. He emphasized that the outstanding balances reflect seasonal cash flow pressures combined with support for essential services and active project execution.

    The administration is implementing enhanced fiscal controls including strengthened commitment mechanisms, improved cash forecasting, and structured arrears reduction strategies within a broader framework of fiscal consolidation. Davis noted that excluding obligations to public corporations would reduce the outstanding balance increase to approximately $29 million.

    Beyond immediate arrears, the government is confronting systemic fiscal vulnerabilities through director training programs for state-owned enterprises and a comprehensive guarantee policy framework. The Prime Minister also identified mounting pension obligations—projected to reach $4.1 billion by 2032—as another critical challenge, with current pension and gratuity payments consuming 6.2% of recurrent expenditure.

    A forthcoming pension reform legislation will establish contributory accounts for both employees and the government, featuring protection against negative investment returns and flexible benefit options. Simultaneously, public sector wages have increased from $738.4 million to $937.9 million under the current administration, with adjustments addressing recruitment challenges and cost-of-living pressures for Bahamian workers.