Carib Scope

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  • Dwyane Vaz threatens legal action against Julian Chang over sexual harassment claims

    Dwyane Vaz threatens legal action against Julian Chang over sexual harassment claims

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant political dispute has erupted in Westmoreland Central following sexual harassment allegations between two prominent figures. Member of Parliament Dwayne Vaz has formally threatened legal proceedings against Councillor Julian Chang of the People’s National Party (PNP), representing the Savanna-la-Mar Division, over what Vaz claims are entirely fabricated accusations.

    Through his legal representatives at Knight, Junior, and Samuels, Vaz issued a formal demand letter to Chang on Tuesday. The attorneys categorically refuted allegations made by Chang during a recent radio interview, characterizing them as both ‘defamatory’ and ‘factually incorrect.’ The legal notice demands a full public retraction and formal apology from Chang by January 30.

    The contested statements include Chang’s claim that Vaz made unwanted sexual advances and threatened his political career when these advances were rejected. Additionally, Chang alleged that Vaz accused him of preferentially maintaining roads in Labour Party areas and subsequently orchestrated his removal as chairman of the Savanna-la-Mar division.

    Vaz’s legal team presented a counter-narrative, emphasizing that Chang participated in a division election but failed to secure nomination or election to any leadership position through the democratic process. The attorneys argue these allegations have inflicted substantial and ongoing damage to Vaz’s professional reputation and public standing.

    The political context adds complexity to the confrontation: Vaz recently reclaimed the Westmoreland Central constituency in the 2025 General Election, defeating Jamaica Labour Party’s George Wright by a margin exceeding 1,500 votes. This victory marked a reversal of the 2020 election outcome where Wright previously defeated Vaz with 53.76% of the vote.

  • Jumpers Foreman, Cunningham win weekly award

    Jumpers Foreman, Cunningham win weekly award

    Two Jamaican collegiate athletes have earned prestigious conference honors following record-shattering performances in horizontal jumping events last weekend. Shantae Foreman of Clemson University and Lansford Cunningham of Tusculum University were both recognized as the top field event athletes in their respective conferences.

    Competing at the Orange and Purple Invitational hosted by Clemson University, Shantae Foreman delivered a spectacular performance in the women’s triple jump. The former St. Jago athlete soared to a world-leading distance of 14.17 meters on her sole attempt of the competition. This remarkable achievement established a new Clemson University program record, surpassing the previous benchmark of 13.85 meters set by Portugal’s Patricia Mamona in 2010. Foreman’s jump also broke her personal best of 13.84 meters set last season.

    Foreman’s performance has significant implications in both collegiate and international athletics. Her mark eclipsed the previous world lead of 13.87 meters set by France’s Clemence Rougier in Limoges on January 17. Additionally, it now ranks as the second-best indoor triple jump performance by a Jamaican woman in history, trailing only Suzette Lee’s 14.25 meters recorded in Indianapolis back in March 1997.

    Meanwhile, Lansford Cunningham, a former Cornwall College athlete competing for NCAA Division II Tusculum University, achieved his first weekly conference recognition. At the Hokie Invite held at Virginia Tech on Saturday, Cunningham leaped to a personal best of 7.42 meters in the men’s long jump, earning him second place in the competition. This performance extended his own Tusculum University program record, improving upon his previous mark of 7.32 meters set just two weeks earlier.

    These accomplishments highlight the continued excellence of Jamaican athletes in track and field, particularly in jumping events, while demonstrating their competitive prowess within the American collegiate system.

  • Jamrock Jerk prioritises hiring seasonal workers from areas hard hit by Melissa

    Jamrock Jerk prioritises hiring seasonal workers from areas hard hit by Melissa

    NEW YORK – Jamrock Jerk, a prominent mobile food service operator renowned for bringing authentic Jamaican jerk cuisine to New York City’s streets, has announced a targeted humanitarian hiring initiative. In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the company will exclusively prioritize applicants from Jamaica’s most severely impacted parishes for its 2026 seasonal workforce through the U.S. H-2B Visa Program.

    Led by founder Magnus McKellar, the organization operates over 20 street carts across the city and has a long-standing tradition of recruiting seasonal workers from Jamaica. The 2026 operational season, which runs from April through November, will see recruitment efforts specifically directed toward the parishes of St. Elizabeth, Trelawny, Manchester, St James, Westmoreland, and Hanover.

    McKellar explained the decision emerged from December discussions on meaningful assistance strategies. ‘This initiative forms a crucial part of the broader recovery efforts,’ he stated. ‘By focusing our recruitment there, we aim to provide not just employment but direct economic support to communities rebuilding from the hurricane’s impact.’

    The company seeks candidates who demonstrate exceptional customer service aptitude, proven food-service skills, and strong critical-thinking abilities. Additional preference will be given to applicants with practical technical skills—including commercial driving, kitchen equipment maintenance, and mechanical servicing—which are valuable for mobile food operations.

    Approximately 60 successful applicants will be selected for the program, gaining access to significant earning potential that will directly support their families and contribute to local economic recovery in Jamaica. The initiative builds on the company’s substantial economic contribution; during the 2025 season alone, Jamrock Jerk distributed nearly $1 million in wages to its seasonal Jamaican workforce.

    This targeted approach represents a private-sector model for post-disaster recovery, leveraging legal migration pathways to create immediate and tangible economic benefits for affected regions.

  • How taxes impact air connectivity in the Caribbean

    How taxes impact air connectivity in the Caribbean

    The Caribbean aviation sector faces mounting pressure as airlines and industry leaders decry exorbitant taxation rates that threaten regional connectivity. Windward Islands Airways International NV (Winair) has launched cautious twice-weekly service between Trinidad and Sint Maarten, with CEO Hans van de Velde acknowledging the challenging economic landscape. ‘Operating an airline in this region is inherently expensive,’ van de Velde stated, revealing that approximately 50% of their introductory $200 one-way fare consists of government taxes.

    This taxation crisis isn’t new. Since at least 2018, when CaribSKY alliance members first raised concerns, regional carriers have struggled with escalating fees. LIAT 1974 documented a startling 56% increase in taxes between 2009-2016 while base fares rose merely 3%. The consequences are stark: annual passenger numbers plummeted from one million to 750,000, with taxes identified as the primary deterrent.

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has issued stern warnings, noting Caribbean destinations risk pricing themselves out of the global market. While global taxes average 15% of ticket prices, Caribbean routes endure 30-50% taxation—significantly higher than competing destinations like Cancun (23%). IATA’s Peter Cerdá emphasized that modern travelers prioritize total cost, making the Caribbean increasingly uncompetitive.

    At the recent State of the Tourism Industry Conference in Barbados, the tax dilemma dominated discussions. Barbados Tourism Minister Lisa Cummins defended the fees as necessary for infrastructure funding, acknowledging the challenge of reducing taxes without compromising service quality. Meanwhile, LIAT Air CEO Hafsah Abdulsalam stressed the urgent need for efficiency improvements and tax reform to enable regional expansion plans, including future routes to South America and Africa.

    A Caribbean Development Bank working paper from 2018 remains critically relevant, recommending reductions in both aviation taxes and airport charges to stimulate connectivity. The report highlighted that high costs particularly distort intra-regional travel markets, where demand proves highly price-sensitive. Without intervention, the Caribbean’s aviation ecosystem risks further contraction, potentially isolating islands and undermining tourism recovery efforts.

  • Undercover cooler fete full of vibes, energy

    Undercover cooler fete full of vibes, energy

    Farmhouse Events’ ‘Undercover’ cooler experience at Drew Manor in Santa Cruz transformed into an electrifying celebration of Caribbean music and culture last Saturday, with Grenadian artists delivering particularly memorable performances that captivated attendees.

    The meticulously curated event featured an impressive lineup of musical talents including DJs Wayne Small, Team Joy, Adam, Gonzo, and Kenez who maintained infectious energy throughout the night. Local favorites Freetown brought their signature wholesome aesthetic, while Viking Ding Dong entertained with comedic interludes. The dynamic duo Full Blown revived their 2025 hit ‘Big Links riddim,’ adding R&B romance to the diverse musical offerings.

    However, the evening’s most explosive moments came from Grenadian sensations Alex ‘Muddy’ Cuffie and Keron ‘Lil Kerry’ Noel, whose authentic jab energy and cultural connection ignited the massive crowd. Their charismatic stage presence and undeniable talent earned enthusiastic encores as the audience embraced their northern neighbors’ distinctive sound and style.

    Beyond the music, the event offered a visually stunning experience with Instagram-ready photo backgrounds, vibrant decorations, and twinkling overhead lights that created a backyard bashment atmosphere. Attendees elevated the glamour quotient with sophisticated outfits and hairstyles, while Next Level Devils, moko jumbies, and the One Band One Sound rhythm section provided traditional Carnival elements that enhanced the cultural authenticity.

    MC Ancil ‘Blaze’ Isaac skillfully coordinated the evening’s presentations, ensuring seamless transitions between performances. The overall production demonstrated Farmhouse Events’ commitment to creating immersive entertainment experiences that celebrate Caribbean musical heritage while fostering cross-cultural connections within the region.

  • High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    A legal confrontation between former Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) marketing director Peter Miller and the association’s trustee will reach a pivotal moment on February 26 when Justice Frank Seepersad delivers his ruling. Miller claims substantial unpaid compensation for services rendered during the association’s financial restructuring phase.

    The crux of the dispute centers on whether Miller continued fulfilling his contractual obligations beyond March 2020, when FIFA installed a normalization committee to oversee TTFA operations. Miller maintains he persistently worked through the association’s financial crisis, while trustee Maria Daniel has disallowed portions of his claim based on advice that he ceased services during that period.

    Miller’s employment commenced January 1, 2020, under a two-year contract stipulating a monthly salary of US$25,000, plus an additional US$30,410.95 for services predating his formal contract. During virtual testimony, Miller faced rigorous cross-examination from Senior Counsel Kerwyn Garcia, who challenged the evidentiary support for Miller’s assertions of continued work.

    The judicial proceedings revealed complexities in documenting marketing achievements. Miller acknowledged completing several initiatives outlined in a February 2020 brief from then-TTFA president William Wallace, including securing kit deals, launching a new association website, and identifying broadcast rights partners. However, he conceded that his court submissions lacked documentary evidence for alleged sponsorship agreements with international companies and arranged friendlies with UK and Brazilian clubs.

    Trustee Maria Daniel, appointed in November 2021 to manage TTFA’s debt proposal process, testified that her mandate focused exclusively on financial rehabilitation assessment. While acknowledging email correspondence suggesting Miller maintained sponsor communications after March 2020, she maintained insufficient context existed to validate these exchanges as substantive work.

    Robert Hadad, chairman of FIFA’s normalization committee, corroborated the verification challenges, stating his position required confirming active employees before approving payments.

    The TTFA’s debt proposal, ultimately approved by creditors in May 2022, provided legal protection while the association pursued financial recovery. An Ernst and Young report estimated outstanding liabilities at approximately TT$98.5 million, with the enhanced proposal increasing committed funds to US$3.5 million.

    Justice Seepersad’s impending decision will hinge principally on whether evidence substantiates Miller’s claim of continued contractual performance after March 2020.

  • Dr Olsheath Bowen earns MBA in Healthcare Management

    Dr Olsheath Bowen earns MBA in Healthcare Management

    The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) is celebrating a significant professional milestone achieved by one of its senior medical staff members. Dr. Olsheath Bowen, a seasoned Emergency Medicine Consultant at the institution, has successfully earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Healthcare Management.

    Dr. Bowen completed his advanced degree program at the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business, which forms part of West Texas A&M University in the United States. This academic achievement represents a strategic fusion of clinical expertise and sophisticated business administration training, equipping him with enhanced capabilities in healthcare leadership.

    In an official communiqué, the medical center administration lauded Dr. Bowen’s accomplishment as “truly an amazing achievement,” emphasizing that the MBA provides “an excellent foundation for healthcare leadership.” The statement further highlighted that this educational pursuit demonstrates Dr. Bowen’s dedication to his professional development and his commitment to advancing healthcare delivery standards.

    This individual achievement occurs within the broader context of SLBMC’s institutional emphasis on continuous staff development. The hospital administration identifies professional advancement programs as crucial components in strengthening patient care services and enhancing health system management capabilities throughout Antigua and Barbuda. The medical center expressed collective pride in Dr. Bowen’s accomplishment, noting that it reinforces the institution’s commitment to healthcare excellence.

  • ‘Niemand is veilig’: China’s Xi richt zich op zijn nauwe bondgenoot in zuivering

    ‘Niemand is veilig’: China’s Xi richt zich op zijn nauwe bondgenoot in zuivering

    Chinese President Xi Jinping’s sweeping anti-corruption campaign has penetrated his innermost circle with the announced investigation of General Zhang Youxia, his longtime ally and senior vice-chairman of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC). This unprecedented move demonstrates that even the closest personal connections offer no protection when party loyalty is questioned, fundamentally reshaping China’s political landscape.

    Defense Ministry officials confirmed on Saturday that General Zhang—second only to Xi in military command hierarchy—faces scrutiny over “suspected serious violations of discipline and law.” The investigation marks a significant escalation in Xi’s decade-long corruption purge that previously targeted the Rocket Force leadership overseeing nuclear weapons and removed two defense ministers.

    Analysts from Washington-based think tanks describe the development as “astonishing,” noting that Xi has effectively dismantled the PLA’s leadership structure to an unprecedented degree. The seven-member CMC now functionally operates with just two members following simultaneous investigations into Liu Zhenli, chief of joint staff.

    The PLA Daily’s front-page editorial framed the investigations as a major achievement, accusing both generals of “seriously undermining and violating the Chairman Responsibility System”—the institutional mechanism granting Xi ultimate military decision-making authority. This suggests Zhang may have exercised power beyond prescribed boundaries, though no evidence of power struggle has been presented.

    Notably, both Xi and Zhang belong to the “princeling” class—children of revolutionary veterans—with their relationship dating back decades. The 75-year-old general had been expected to retire in 2022 but was retained by Xi for an unusual third term, highlighting their historically close ties.

    The leadership vacuum raises operational questions for the world’s largest military, with analysts suggesting joint exercises and major initiatives may slow until Xi rebuilds the command structure. Some expect comprehensive appointments during next year’s Communist Party Congress after thorough vetting of candidates.

    Regional security implications are significant: the purge suggests diminished likelihood of immediate military action against Taiwan as Xi prioritizes internal consolidation. However, analysts warn this restructuring aims to create more capable and loyal military leadership that could pose greater future threats to regional stability.

    As Xi continues his mission to ensure absolute political loyalty within party and military ranks, the investigation demonstrates his unwavering commitment to power consolidation—even at the cost of longstanding alliances.

  • St Clements House in Belfast reportedly burglarized

    St Clements House in Belfast reportedly burglarized

    Authorities in Belfast are conducting a thorough investigation following a significant burglary at St Clements House, the historic residence of the Redemptorist Catholic missionary order. The incident, which police are treating as an aggravated burglary, occurred overnight and resulted in the theft of substantial cash amounts and a vehicle.

    Initial reports confirm that perpetrators successfully made off with EC$2,500, US$600 in cash, and a Mitsubishi Pickup truck bearing registration number PP634. The burglary targeted the long-standing religious institution that has maintained a presence in Dominica since 1902.

    In a developing turn of events, law enforcement officials have successfully located the stolen vehicle in the Zabrico area. The recovery represents a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation, though authorities continue to pursue leads regarding the suspects and the stolen currency.

    St Clements House serves as the operational base for the Redemptorist order, which currently maintains between 4,500–5,500 members across more than 80 countries worldwide. The religious organization has deep roots in the local community, having established its mission work in Dominica over a century ago.

    Local news outlet DNO has committed to providing continuous coverage as additional details emerge from the police investigation. The community awaits further updates regarding security measures and the status of the investigation into this violation of the religious institution’s premises.

  • Senior officers complete two-week leadership refresher course

    Senior officers complete two-week leadership refresher course

    In a significant initiative to bolster military leadership and operational capabilities, Senior Non-Commissioned Officers have successfully concluded an intensive two-week professional development program. The specialized refresher course, conducted from January 12 to 24, 2026, was specifically designed to enhance leadership competencies, reinforce disciplinary standards, and strengthen overall mission readiness.

    The comprehensive curriculum placed particular emphasis on the multifaceted responsibilities and elevated professional standards required of senior enlisted leaders within modern military structures. Participants engaged in rigorous drill training exercises meticulously crafted to improve unit cohesion and disciplinary precision, while simultaneously reviewing fundamental operational tasks critical to daily military functions.

    A cornerstone of the program focused on the strategic role of Senior Non-Commissioned Officers as both operational leaders and professional mentors. The training highlighted their crucial function as the essential connective tissue between command leadership and junior personnel, emphasizing their unique position in maintaining organizational effectiveness and communication channels.

    Program organizers confirmed the initiative successfully reinforced contemporary leadership methodologies while substantially improving the unit’s overall preparedness. The exercise underscored the indispensable value of experienced non-commissioned officers in preserving operational effectiveness and maintaining robust military structures capable of responding to diverse challenges.