Christopher Condappa, a devoted member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle accident on November 10. The 34-year-old constable, who had fulfilled his childhood dream of joining the police force in 2012, was fatally injured while riding his service motorcycle on Anglican Street in Moneague, St Ann. Reports indicate that a Suzuki Swift collided with his motorcycle, leading to his untimely death. Condappa, assigned to the Moneague Traffic Department, was pronounced dead at the hospital after sustaining multiple injuries. Known for his selfless nature and unwavering commitment to helping others, Condappa was described by his sister, Abey-Gale Condappa-Malcolm, as ‘Mr Save the World.’ His family, including his mother Dorothy Condappa and his wife Camoya, are grappling with the profound loss of a man who was not only a dedicated officer but also a loving father, husband, and brother. Condappa leaves behind four daughters and a legacy of service and compassion that touched countless lives. The family is now preparing for his funeral, a task they never imagined having to undertake.
作者： admin
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Final river crossed
The world of music mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the legendary Jamaican singer, songwriter, and actor, who passed away at the age of 81. Known for his crystal-clear voice and profound lyrics, Cliff played a pivotal role in elevating Jamaican culture to global prominence. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from Jamaica and beyond, celebrating a life dedicated to artistry and cultural impact. Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on reggae music and beyond. His breakout role in the 1972 cult classic film *The Harder They Come* catapulted him to international fame, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. Cliff’s contributions to music earned him numerous accolades, including Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003 and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. His timeless hits such as *Many Rivers to Cross*, *The Harder They Come*, and *Wonderful World, Beautiful People* continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness hailed Cliff as a “true cultural giant,” while former Prime Minister PJ Patterson described him as a “cultural architect” who bridged Jamaica’s soul with the world. VP Records, where Cliff began his musical journey, praised his unwavering commitment to Jamaican music. His legacy lives on through his music, which remains a source of inspiration and pride for Jamaica and the global community.
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Tariff relief for Trinidad and Tobago
In a recent letter to the editor, Dr. Errol N. Benjamin reflects on the strategic implications of Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) alliance with the United States, particularly in the context of the ongoing Venezuelan crisis. Dr. Benjamin, who has been vocal about this issue for some time, underscores the benefits of this partnership, citing the recent tariff relief on fertilizers and other products as a tangible outcome. He argues that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s decision to align with the US demonstrates astute leadership, given the economic and security advantages it brings to TT.
Dr. Benjamin acknowledges the prevailing anti-Trump sentiment in the region, fueled by concerns over US hegemonic intentions and the desire for regime change in Venezuela, ostensibly for its oil and gas resources. He also notes the Caribbean’s aspiration to be a ‘zone of peace’ and the importance of sovereignty. However, he contends that these concerns, while valid, should not overshadow the pragmatic benefits of aligning with a global powerhouse like the US, especially when TT relies on the US for markets, financing, and security.
Addressing fears of becoming a military target, Dr. Benjamin questions the likelihood of such an outcome under Trump’s administration. He also highlights the strategic necessity of this alliance, particularly with Venezuela’s aggressive posturing in the region, including accusations of TT’s complicity in guerrilla warfare. Dr. Benjamin leaves the final judgment to the readers, urging them to critically evaluate the merits of this alliance in the broader geopolitical context.
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Will Trump invade Venezuela?
The possibility of U.S. military intervention in Venezuela has become a topic of intense speculation, particularly among citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. Many Guyanese view Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a threat, given his territorial claims over two-thirds of Guyana and his veiled threats. The question of whether U.S. President Donald Trump will authorize strikes or an invasion to remove Maduro has been repeatedly posed to the President by reporters. While Trump has not directly addressed these queries, he has hinted at potential land strikes targeting drug-manufacturing facilities and camps labeled as terrorist organizations, which are allegedly responsible for shipping drugs to the U.S., causing thousands of deaths annually. Maduro, who has been accused of leading a terrorist organization, has denied these allegations and expressed a willingness to engage in discussions with the Trump administration. Trump has indicated openness to meeting with Venezuelan leadership and may send emissaries to negotiate Maduro’s departure from office. However, any talks would likely delay immediate military action. Strikes could be avoided if Maduro agrees to concessions, such as compensating Exxon and other oil companies nationalized by Venezuela, dismantling drug labs, and cracking down on criminal gangs. Venezuela’s role in drug production is relatively minor compared to Colombia and Bolivia, but its jungle airstrips are used to transport drugs to Central America, Mexico, and beyond. Reports from Guyana have uncovered secret airstrips and small aircraft linked to drug trafficking, implicating local police and military personnel. American intelligence has identified Guyana as a transshipment point for drugs destined for developed countries. Despite these issues, it is unlikely that Maduro will make sweeping concessions, leaving the door open for further U.S. strikes. Trump’s cabinet members have labeled Maduro an illegitimate ruler due to alleged election rigging, increasing the likelihood of targeted military action. However, Trump has previously expressed a desire to reduce U.S. foreign involvement, citing the country’s poor track record with regime changes in nations like Guyana, Haiti, and Iraq. A full-scale invasion of Venezuela carries significant risks, reminiscent of costly quagmires in Afghanistan and Iraq. While the U.S. military is prepared for such an operation, immediate large-scale intervention seems improbable. Air-powered strikes, however, remain a likely scenario, and the fall of the Maduro regime would likely be met with indifference or relief by Guyanese citizens.
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Prisons win 5th straight in TTPFL, edge 10-man Rangers 1-0
Prisons FC extended their flawless run in the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Terminix La Horquetta Rangers at the St James Police Barracks on November 23. Despite a less-than-polished performance, a decisive 70th-minute header by substitute Ricardo John propelled Prisons back to the top of the 12-team league table, displacing Club Sando to second place. The match, part of a double-header at the barracks, began with both teams aggressively seeking an early advantage. However, the game’s momentum shifted in the 31st minute when Rangers defender Abdul Lezama received a second yellow card for a needless handball, reducing his team to ten men. Rangers managed to hold off Prisons’ attacks until halftime, with winger Jeremiah Vidale’s close-range effort saved and his follow-up shot hitting the crossbar. The second half saw Rangers adopt a defensive stance, while Prisons relentlessly pressed forward. Despite several missed opportunities, including a disallowed goal for offside and two squandered chances by John, the breakthrough came in the 70th minute when John headed in a cross from Israel Williams. Rangers’ late substitution, Tyrique Sutherland, nearly equalized in the 89th minute, but his powerful strike narrowly missed the target. Prisons now face a stern test against MIC Central FC Reboot on November 29 at the Arima Velodrome. In the day’s earlier match, 2023/24 champions AC Port of Spain rallied to defeat Point Fortin Civic 2-1, moving up to fifth in the standings. Meanwhile, Defence Force secured a late 2-1 victory over 1976 FC Phoenix, and Police FC surged to a 4-2 win against FC Eagles, solidifying their third-place position.
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Let’s clean up country
In a compelling letter to the editor, Arthur Dash has issued an urgent appeal to the Minister of Environment, urging the immediate launch of a comprehensive nationwide clean-up campaign. Dash highlights the alarming state of the country’s roadways, which are littered with discarded vehicles, tires, barrels, and various forms of waste. This pervasive neglect, he argues, sends a troubling message about the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.
Dash emphasizes that this initiative must be prioritized to demonstrate the country’s dedication to health and well-being, both domestically and internationally. He calls for the ministry to mobilize a broad coalition of stakeholders, including religious, cultural, sporting, and business organizations, to collaborate on this critical effort. The campaign, he suggests, should commence without delay, ideally before the Christmas and Carnival seasons, to maximize its impact and visibility.
Furthermore, Dash underscores the importance of involving local government authorities and professional entities to ensure the campaign’s success. He frames this initiative as a ‘people’s mandate,’ a collective endeavor that reflects the nation’s shared responsibility for its environment. Concluding his letter, Dash asserts that such a clean-up campaign would be the most meaningful gift to the nation, eagerly anticipated by its citizens.
The letter, signed by Paras Ramoutar from Caparo, serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for environmental action and the collective effort required to achieve it.
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Not goingback to thecolonial era
In Trinidad and Tobago (TT), a troubling trend is emerging, one that echoes the oppressive tactics of slavery and colonial rule. Recent restrictions on cultural events, inconsistent treatment of national celebrations, and the tightening of public expression are raising alarms. These measures are not indicative of modern governance but rather a regression to control mechanisms of the past. Carnival, Canboulay, stick-fighting, and pan—cultural traditions born out of resistance to oppression—are now under threat. These practices were created by people who were denied the right to celebrate, participate, and claim joy. When governments begin to limit, zone, or selectively approve cultural expression, they touch the deepest part of our history, where our ancestors fought for the right to exist openly. Alongside these cultural restrictions, harsh economic retrenchments, cuts to youth programs, and a lack of communication from national leadership are exacerbating the situation. Thousands of families are facing economic uncertainty, and young people, already grappling with violence, mental strain, unemployment, and social pressure, are losing the support systems designed to help them. The government’s withdrawal from social development, closure of youth spaces, and restrictions on cultural expression are creating a climate of frustration, hopelessness, and division. A nation cannot claim to be moving forward while dismantling the pillars that hold its people together. Culture, youth development, and fairness are lifelines, and all three are now under threat. These decisions are not ordinary; they carry weight and memory. TT has fought too long and too hard to reclaim its identity, expression, and equal cultural respect for any administration to erode it, intentionally or not. We must resist this regression, not quietly, not blindly, but with determination and resolve.
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Jorsling: Army must find a way to Champions Cup
Defence Force’s interim coach, Devorn Jorsling, emphasized the importance of securing a positive result in the first leg of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup third-place playoff against Cibao FC from the Dominican Republic. The match, scheduled for November 25 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, holds significant stakes, as the winner will secure a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. The Caribbean Cup finalists, Mount Pleasant Football Academy and Universidad O&M FC, have already qualified for the Champions Cup and will play their first leg on the same day. The return legs for both the third-place playoff and the final are set for December 2. Defence Force, coming off a 5-1 defeat against Mount Pleasant in the semifinals’ first leg, showed resilience by winning the second leg 1-0. Jorsling acknowledged the need for a strategic shift in their approach, stating, ‘We’re not going to park the bus, but the approach will be different.’ He reiterated the team’s primary goal of qualifying for the Concacaf Champions Cup, a target that remains achievable. Veteran defender Sheldon Bateau, who joined the team in September, highlighted the challenges of adapting to local football after a decade in Europe. He expressed his commitment to mentoring younger players and elevating the team’s performance. The 21-man squad includes notable players like Kevin Molino, Kevon Goddard, and Shaquille Bertrand, who will be crucial in their quest for victory.
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Defence Force pip QPCC to men’s indoor hockey title
In a thrilling conclusion to the TT Hockey Board’s (TTHB) National Indoor tournament, Defence Force emerged victorious in a nail-biting shootout against Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC) in the men’s open division final. The match, held at the Woodbrook Youth Facility on November 22, was a spectacle of skill, determination, and high drama. Defence Force secured the title after a marathon shootout that saw ten shots, with national player Mickel Pierre delivering the decisive goal past goalkeeper Reiza Hosein. The game had ended regulation time tied at 5-5, setting the stage for the intense shootout. Defence Force had initially dominated, racing to a 4-0 lead by the 18th minute, thanks to goals from David Coker, Sheldon De Lisle, Tarrell Singh, and Shaquille Daniel. However, QPCC fought back valiantly, with Jordan Vieira leading the charge. Vieira’s two late goals, including his 29th of the division, tied the game and forced the shootout. Despite Vieira’s heroics, Defence Force’s Zeon Hamilton and Hosein proved formidable in goal, ultimately sealing the win for their team. This victory avenged Defence Force’s loss to QPCC in the men’s knockout final on November 16. In other tournament action, Police claimed third place in the men’s open division with a commanding 10-4 win over Paragon, while QPCC triumphed in the mixed vets final with a 7-5 victory over Police, powered by Shawn Lee Quay’s four-goal performance. Notre Dame dominated the men’s Trinity division final, with Nicholas Whiteman scoring six goals in a 10-4 win over SHAPE, and Magnolia secured the women’s Trinity division title with a 5-1 victory over Police, thanks to Natania Rowe’s brace.
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Police recover Glock 19, ammunition in La Croix Mingot stop and search
In a significant early morning operation on Thursday, November 20, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force successfully recovered an illegal firearm and ammunition during a routine stop and search in La Croix Mingot. The operation, conducted around 1:30 a.m., involved officers from the Special Services Unit in Castries who intercepted a vehicle with two occupants. The search yielded a Black Glock 19 handgun and 11 rounds of ammunition. The two individuals, identified as 34-year-old Melvin Montoute from St. Lawrence Street, Anse La Raye, and 27-year-old Shaquille De Leon from Marigot, were promptly taken into custody. Both men were formally charged with ‘Possession of a Firearm’ and ‘Possession of Ammunition.’ The following day, November 21, the First District Court granted Montoute and De Leon bail. Montoute was required to post $25,000 cash or provide a suitable surety for the firearm charge, while De Leon faced a $10,000 cash or surety requirement for the ammunition charge. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Saint Lucia law enforcement to combat illegal arms possession and enhance public safety.