Azaad Mohammed-Khan, a revered educator and football administrator, remains in stable condition as he continues to fight a severe neuromuscular respiratory illness. Hospitalized since August, Mohammed-Khan, known for his extensive contributions to Malick Secondary School, the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL), the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA), and San Juan Jabloteh Football Club, fell ill on 31 August. Initially appearing as a mild cold, his condition rapidly deteriorated, necessitating emergency medical intervention. His daughter, Jamila Mohammed-Khan, expressed shock at the sudden diagnosis, stating, ‘It was overwhelming because it came out of nowhere. He is a very active person.’ Following emergency tests, doctors identified a severe neuromuscular respiratory condition, requiring ventilator support and a prolonged stay in the High Dependency and Intensive Care Units at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex. Recently transferred to Arima Hospital ICU, Mohammed-Khan has shown signs of improvement, with a device on his tracheostomy tube enabling faint speech. ‘He can’t speak normally. We can hear him but he could not speak at all for two and a half months,’ Jamila noted. Despite being bedridden and limited in movement, his family remains hopeful, focusing on securing support for his extensive rehabilitation needs, including 24-hour nursing care, respiratory and physiotherapy, specialized nutrition, and critical home equipment. The family has received assistance from friends, former colleagues, and the football community, including the TTFA and Malick Secondary School. Jamila emphasized the urgency of support, stating, ‘He has spent his life giving to others, and now he needs our help.’ The family aims to secure urgent financial assistance by 5 December to cover immediate medical expenses. Contributions can be made to Jamila Mohammed-Khan’s Republic Bank Limited account (Savings Account Number: 560008986431).
作者： admin
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MP told in Parliament: ‘Go an take yuh lil man’
A recent parliamentary session in Trinidad and Tobago was marred by a hot-mic incident that has sparked widespread controversy. During the debate on the Virtual Assets and Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill, 2025, proceedings were temporarily halted as House Speaker Jagdeo Singh addressed a standing order objection raised by the opposition. However, microphones remained active, capturing a voice from the government benches uttering what appeared to be a derogatory remark: ‘Hush yuh mouth, boy. Go and take yuh lil man.’ The rest of the comment was inaudible, and all microphones were muted shortly thereafter. Newsday attempted to contact the government minister believed to be responsible for the comment but received no response by the time of publication. This incident echoes a similar controversy in October 2024, when then-energy minister Stuart Young was heard on an open microphone making homophobic remarks. Young avoided being referred to the Privileges Committee by issuing a public apology. House Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George had condemned Young’s comments as ‘reprehensible’ and ‘despicable,’ urging MPs to refrain from making ‘misogynistic, homophobic, and disparaging’ remarks. The recurrence of such incidents raises concerns about the conduct of parliamentarians and the need for greater accountability in public discourse.
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Government passes crypto-currency bill after ‘pappy-show’ debate
The Trinidad and Tobago Parliament witnessed a tumultuous session on November 21, 2025, as the debate over the Virtual Assets and Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill descended into procedural chaos. The bill, aimed at regulating the cryptocurrency industry, became a focal point of contention when over 200 proposed amendments were handed to the opposition mere minutes before the debate commenced. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, who introduced the bill in September, had previously engaged with stakeholders, including Attorney General John Jeremie, Central Bank Governor Larry Howai, and crypto industry representatives, to refine the legislation. However, the late disclosure of amendments sparked outrage among opposition members. Diego Martin East MP Colm Imbert led the charge, accusing the government of undermining parliamentary principles by failing to provide adequate time for review. Imbert described the amendments as a ‘contempt of Parliament,’ arguing that they fundamentally altered the bill’s structure and intent. The procedural impasse left both sides unable to meaningfully debate the proposed changes, leading to what Imbert termed a ‘pappy-show.’ Despite the controversy, the bill was eventually passed with a vote of 25-11 after amendments were discussed in the committee stage. The legislation is critical for Trinidad and Tobago’s compliance with Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (C-FATF) recommendations ahead of a March 2026 on-site assessment. While the opposition supports cryptocurrency regulation, they criticized the bill as draconian and anti-innovation, warning it could stifle entrepreneurship and drive away innovators. Jeremie defended the government’s approach, emphasizing the need for stakeholder consultation and timely compliance with international standards.
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Lee: 48 HDC maintenance contractors cut
In a recent address to the House of Representatives on November 21, Housing Minister David Lee disclosed that the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has decided not to renew the contracts of 48 maintenance workers whose terms had expired. This announcement came in response to inquiries from Arima MP Pennelope Beckles regarding the current employment status within the HDC. Lee clarified that the HDC currently employs 765 individuals, and the 48 affected workers have been compensated with a 20% gratuity. Beckles also sought information on the status of monthly-paid maintenance contractors. Lee acknowledged that the HDC is still evaluating the full scope of these contracts, which collectively exceed $10 million. He highlighted that the HDC board has identified significant issues and irregularities in the procurement process over recent years, necessitating thorough investigations and audits. This decision aligns with broader cost-cutting measures as the HDC grapples with financial pressures, including substantial losses and increasing liabilities. The board is scrutinizing both staff and contractor arrangements to address these challenges effectively.
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Babwah: Trinidad and Tobago could be ‘dumping ground’ for used vehicles
Visham Babwah, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Automotive Dealers Association (TTADA), has voiced significant concerns regarding the government’s recent decision to extend the permissible age for importing foreign-used private vehicles. The new policy, announced by Minister of Transport and Public Aviation Eli Zakour on November 20, allows the importation of vehicles up to eight years old, a notable increase from the previous three-year limit. Additionally, the permissible age for light commercial vehicles, pickups, and panel vans with diesel engines has been raised from seven to ten years.
Babwah, who also serves as CEO of P&V Marketing Co Ltd, criticized the move, warning that it could position Trinidad and Tobago as a ‘dumping ground’ for older, less reliable vehicles. He emphasized the potential environmental and safety risks associated with importing vehicles that may have already exceeded 50% of their lifespan. ‘In 2010, we successfully lobbied for a six-year limit because vehicles older than that are often unreliable and harmful to the environment,’ Babwah stated.
While acknowledging that cheaper vehicles might appeal to some consumers, Babwah cautioned that older cars could pose significant financial and safety challenges. He highlighted potential issues with financing and insurance, noting that banks and insurance companies are often reluctant to support vehicles nearing the end of their lifespan. ‘People would have to conduct extensive checks on these vehicles, and they might face difficulties securing loans or comprehensive insurance,’ he explained.
The decision has sparked debate over its potential impact on the local automotive market and the broader implications for road safety and environmental sustainability. Babwah questioned the rationale behind the policy shift, stating, ‘It was announced in the budget that the permissible age would move from three to six years. I am not sure who advised the Minister to increase it to eight.’
Minister Zakour also mentioned that Trinidad and Tobago currently lacks a legal framework for the recognition, registration, and regulated use of classic, antique, and vintage vehicles, further complicating the issue.
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ASJA calls for peaceful dialogue amid tension in the region
The Caribbean region is witnessing escalating tensions as the USS Gerald R Ford, the world’s largest military aircraft carrier, has entered the southern Caribbean Sea. This development coincides with growing concerns over the crisis between Venezuela and the increasing presence of US military forces in the area. In response, religious organizations have issued urgent calls for peace and dialogue. On November 21, the Anjuman Sunnat-ul-Jamaat Association Inc (ASJA), one of the oldest and largest Muslim organizations in Trinidad and Tobago, released a statement expressing deep concern over the situation. ASJA emphasized the Caribbean’s historical role as a zone of peace and urged leaders to prioritize diplomacy and mutual respect over aggression. The statement highlighted the devastating consequences of war, citing examples from Iraq, Syria, Palestine, and Afghanistan, and stressed the sanctity of life in Islamic teachings. ASJA called for moral responsibility and caution in addressing conflicts. Earlier, on November 17, the Catholic Commission for Social Justice (CCSJ) also voiced solidarity with other religious bodies, expressing concern over the humanitarian crisis and condemning extrajudicial killings in international waters. The CCSJ emphasized the need for dialogue, compassion, and adherence to international law.
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Australia’s seven-wicket hero Starc ready to go again
PERTH, Australia — Mitchell Starc showcased his unwavering confidence and skill on the opening day of the first Ashes Test, delivering a stellar performance that kept Australia in contention. The 35-year-old fast bowler wreaked havoc at Perth Stadium, claiming 7 wickets for 58 runs and dismantling England’s batting lineup for a modest total of 172. Despite England’s strong response with their own pace attack, reducing Australia to 123-9 by stumps, the match remains delicately balanced. Starc’s dominance began in the very first over, dismissing Zak Crawley and setting the tone for his unplayable spell. Reflecting on his ability to strike early, Starc remarked, “It’s always the plan, but it doesn’t always happen that way. I’ve been fortunate to do it a few times.” Known for his aggressive approach, Starc emphasized his focus on taking wickets rather than worrying about economy rates. With key bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood sidelined due to injuries, Starc has shouldered additional responsibility but remains composed. “I’ve been quite calm all week,” he said, highlighting the depth of experience in Australia’s bowling attack. As Australia trails by 49 runs heading into day two, Starc is prepared to deliver another impactful performance to keep his team in the hunt. He dismissed concerns about the pitch, attributing the 19 wickets fallen in a day to the quality of both bowling attacks. “It’s just one of those days where two attacks are on the money,” he noted, emphasizing the long road ahead in the series. Starc’s brilliance has set the stage for an enthralling contest as the Ashes unfolds.
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Gabriel faces ‘weeks’ out of action in major blow for Arsenal
Arsenal’s defensive stalwart Gabriel Magalhaes is set to miss several weeks of action after sustaining a thigh injury during international duty, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday. The Brazilian centre-back, who has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense this season, suffered the setback during Brazil’s 2-0 friendly victory over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend. Arteta expressed his disappointment, stating, ‘Gabi unfortunately picked up an injury with the Brazilian national team, and he’s going to be out for weeks. We’ll have a clearer timeline after another scan next Wednesday.’
Gabriel’s absence is a significant blow to Arsenal, as he has been instrumental in their Premier League campaign, forming a formidable partnership with William Saliba and contributing to a defense that has conceded just five goals in 11 games. Arteta acknowledged the challenge, saying, ‘It’s clearly a blow because he’s our leader in our backline. The good thing is that we have very good options, and people have to step up now.’
Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera are among the contenders to fill Gabriel’s shoes in the upcoming North London derby against Tottenham on Sunday. However, Arteta emphasized that Gabriel’s leadership and defensive prowess are irreplaceable. ‘Every player brings specific qualities, and Gabi’s is his leadership, his presence, and that love he has to defend,’ he added.
Arsenal’s injury woes extend beyond Gabriel, with left-back Riccardo Calafiori also sidelined due to lingering issues. Arteta revealed, ‘He’s been carrying a few things and hasn’t trained yet. We’ll assess his condition in tomorrow’s training session.’ Additionally, long-term absentees Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres remain unavailable.
Despite these setbacks, Arsenal remains at the top of the Premier League, four points clear of Manchester City. Their upcoming clash with Tottenham promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Spurs boasting the best away record in the league this season. Arsenal, however, have a strong historical advantage, having lost just once at home to their rivals since 1993.
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Gov’t weighs new school models to prevent learning loss
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica’s south-western coast on October 28, the Government is rolling out innovative strategies to mitigate significant learning loss among students. Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon unveiled the ‘Host School Model,’ a temporary solution enabling students from non-operational schools to continue their education in functioning institutions while remaining officially enrolled in their original schools. This initiative aims to preserve educational continuity without formal transfers, addressing the cultural and logistical challenges of transitioning between schools.
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Precaution, not panic
Jamaica is grappling with a leptospirosis outbreak following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa last month. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the outbreak on Friday, attributing it to the flooding and unsanitary conditions left by the Category 5 hurricane, which struck the island on October 28. The bacterial disease, transmitted through contaminated water, soil, or food, has already claimed six lives, with 87 suspected, probable, and confirmed cases reported since 2024. Of these, 37 cases emerged post-Melissa, with 10 confirmed and six deaths linked to the hurricane. St. James Parish, particularly Montego Bay, has been the hardest hit, recording 17 cases and four deaths. Other affected areas include St. Ann, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, and Westmoreland. National epidemiologist Dr. Karen Webster Kerr emphasized that leptospirosis, caused by the Leptospira bacteria, thrives in floodwaters contaminated by animal urine, particularly from rats, livestock, and pets. The disease, which mimics symptoms of influenza, meningitis, and dengue, is treatable but can lead to severe complications affecting the liver, kidneys, lungs, and brain. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie urged the public to take preventive measures, including wearing protective gear during cleanup activities and seeking medical attention for severe symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, or respiratory distress. Health officials are also encouraging blood donations to support critically ill patients. While the outbreak poses a significant public health risk, authorities are calling for calm and proactive measures to curb its spread.