Carib Scope

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  • President of Mexico receives Governor-General of Canada

    President of Mexico receives Governor-General of Canada

    Mary Simon, Canada’s inaugural Indigenous Governor General, arrived at Felipe Angeles International Airport in central Mexico yesterday alongside her husband, Whit Fraser. The distinguished visitor was formally received by Mexican Foreign Secretary Juan Ramon de la Fuente, marking a significant moment in bilateral relations between the two North American nations.

    According to an official statement released by Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the primary objective of this diplomatic mission is to reinforce the strategic partnership between Mexico and Canada. This visit builds upon the foundation established during Prime Minister Mark Carney’s official trip to Mexico City last September, with particular emphasis on enhancing dialogue regarding policies benefiting indigenous communities in both countries.

    Appointed in 2021, Governor General Simon has championed an ambitious agenda focused on social reconciliation—especially with indigenous populations—alongside mental health initiatives, welfare programs, diversity promotion, inclusion efforts, and environmental conservation. Her appointment represents a historic milestone in Canada’s political landscape.

    Canada operates as a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy framework, maintaining membership in the Commonwealth of Nations. Within this structure, King Charles III serves as the formal monarch, while Governor General Simon acts as his official representative both domestically and in international affairs.

    The Mexican Ministry detailed the extensive responsibilities of Canada’s Governor General, which include advising the Prime Minister and cabinet members, overseeing the installation and dissolution of Parliament, and serving as commander-in-chief of the Canadian Armed Forces throughout North America.

    The previous September meeting between Prime Minister Carney and Mexican leadership resulted in the elevation of bilateral cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership, establishing a new framework for enhanced collaboration across multiple sectors between the two nations.

  • Speaker refuses to meet Azruddin Mohamed; WIN Leader warns of street protest

    Speaker refuses to meet Azruddin Mohamed; WIN Leader warns of street protest

    A political confrontation escalated in Guyana on Tuesday as National Assembly Speaker Manzoor Nadir refused to meet with Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the main opposition We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, sparking threats of mass street protests. Mohamed had arrived at the Parliament Building in Brickdam seeking clarity on when opposition parliamentarians would convene to formally elect him as Opposition Leader—a position that remains vacant despite his party securing 16 of the 65 parliamentary seats in last year’s general elections. The meeting refusal occurred just days before the scheduled January 26 presentation of the 2026 National Budget. Mohamed initially intended to meet with Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs but encountered Speaker Nadir, who retreated to his office and declined engagement despite Mohamed’s attempts to knock on his door. Parliamentary staff subsequently informed Mohamed and his delegation that the Speaker would not receive them. The WIN leader warned that his party would not tolerate the situation lightly, stating that peaceful protests would be organized if necessary. He referenced international pressure from the United States, Britain, Canada, and the European Union, all of which have emphasized the critical importance of appointing an Opposition Leader for functional democracy. Mohamed highlighted several practical implications of the vacancy, including the inability to restructure the seven-member Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) during ongoing claims and objections processes, and the lack of a physical office for public grievances. While President Irfaan Ali has stated that the election of an Opposition Leader is a matter for opposition lawmakers, Attorney General Anil Nandlall has previously expressed that Mohamed’s potential appointment would be a ‘stain’ on Guyana. This political standoff occurs against the backdrop of legal challenges facing Mohamed and his father, Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed, who are contesting extradition to the United States to face charges of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Their committal hearing continues on February 5, 2026.

  • Uruguayan exporters conclude Mercosur-EU agreement

    Uruguayan exporters conclude Mercosur-EU agreement

    A comprehensive monthly analysis from an economic guild has shed new light on the significant implications of the EU-Mercosur association agreement, formally signed in Montevideo on January 17th. The report underscores the European Union’s pivotal role as a cornerstone for South American export growth and foreign investment.

    According to the study, which draws on official projections, the implementation of the treaty is anticipated to catalyze a substantial upswing in Mercosur nations’ exports, with an estimated increase nearing 4%. Furthermore, the accord is forecast to generate a 0.5% rise in employment, providing a tangible economic stimulus.

    Beyond these macroeconomic gains, exporters are anticipating a robust bilateral enhancement in the trade of both goods and services, coupled with a reciprocal surge in cross-continental investments. The agreement is also projected to fortify the competitiveness and security of international supply chains, addressing a key vulnerability exposed in recent years. A parallel strategic benefit involves the increased competitiveness and critical diversification of energy sources and essential raw materials, reducing dependency on single suppliers.

    The guild’s analysis extends into environmental governance, heralding the pact as a catalyst for transformative changes in the collective fight against climate change. The framework is noted for incorporating stringent measures aimed at curbing deforestation and actively promoting sustainable development practices across the member economies.

  • High Court Finds Hubert Elrington Breached Fiduciary Duties

    High Court Finds Hubert Elrington Breached Fiduciary Duties

    In a landmark ruling that underscores the legal profession’s accountability standards, Belize’s High Court has delivered a scathing judgment against prominent attorney Hubert E. Elrington for severe breaches of fiduciary responsibilities. Justice M. Javed Mansoor presided over the case involving the estate of the late James Lightburn, where Elrington served as executor.

    The court determined that Elrington committed grave violations in managing the estate’s affairs, particularly concerning a 562.7-acre property at Ben Lemond Cornhouse, Creek Works Area. This property was sold on June 13, 2017, for US$450,000, with the estate entitled to half of this amount (US$225,000 or BZ$450,000). Evidence presented revealed that these substantial proceeds were never properly accounted for nor deposited into the designated Scotia Bank account as explicitly required by the deceased’s will.

    The litigation was initiated by Jasmin Lightburn, the primary beneficiary designated to receive three-quarters of the estate, with the remaining quarter allocated to her late brother’s children. Despite reaching the age of majority in November 2023, Jasmin received no distribution from the estate, prompting legal action.

    Justice Mansoor’s judgment highlighted multiple failures: non-compliance with the will’s provisions, complete absence of distributions to rightful beneficiaries, and failure to file mandatory estate accounts as required by the Administration of Estates Act. The court characterized these breaches as particularly serious given Elrington’s professional standing as an attorney.

    In consequential rulings, the court ordered Elrington to: distribute all estate funds within 30 days; pay 5% annual interest on the withheld amounts dating back to June 13, 2017; submit full and accurate accounting for all relevant years; and pay $10,000 in legal costs. Significantly, the Registrar was instructed to forward the judgment to both the General Legal Council and the Bar Association for potential disciplinary proceedings.

    This case follows Elrington’s recent six-month suspension by the General Legal Council in November 2025 for grave professional misconduct in an unrelated matter, where he failed to file a client’s claim and maintain proper communication, resulting in a $6,000 restitution order.

  • UN denounces attack on Palestinian Refugees Agency

    UN denounces attack on Palestinian Refugees Agency

    Israeli military forces surrounded and subsequently demolished a United Nations facility in East Jerusalem on Tuesday, an act the head of the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency has condemned as an unprecedented violation of international law. According to reports from the Palestinian news agency Wafa, the operation began with troops cordoning off the area before bulldozers moved in to dismantle the structure.

    Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), stated via social media platform X that Israeli soldiers raised their national flag within the UN compound during the operation. He characterized the demolition as a deliberate breach of international obligations that protect UN facilities from such actions.

    Lazzarini emphasized that Israel, like all UN member states, is legally bound to respect the inviolability of UN operations and property. This incident represents the latest escalation in measures taken against UNRWA, following recent Israeli decisions to shutter a health center operated by the agency and cut essential utilities including water and electricity to its facilities.

    The UN official contextualized these actions within what he described as a broader campaign of attacks and disinformation against UNRWA. He noted these measures directly contradict the International Court of Justice’s October ruling, which affirmed Israel’s obligation under international law to facilitate rather than obstruct the agency’s humanitarian operations. The court specifically reiterated that Israel holds no jurisdictional authority over East Jerusalem.

    Lazzarini issued a stark warning that today’s targeting of UNRWA establishes a dangerous precedent that could tomorrow affect any international organization or diplomatic mission, whether in occupied Palestinian territories or elsewhere globally. He called the demolition a wake-up call for the international community regarding the protection of multilateral institutions.

  • CHOOSE WISELY!

    CHOOSE WISELY!

    With just nine weeks remaining until their decisive World Cup qualification bid, Jamaica’s national football team faces a monumental challenge in the inter-confederation playoffs. Captain Andre Blake maintains cautious optimism while emphasizing that strategic personnel selection will prove critical to their success.

    The Reggae Boyz, having fallen short of automatic qualification after finishing second to Curacao in CONCACAF’s Group B, now face a challenging playoff pathway. Their journey begins with a semi-final clash against Oceania’s New Caledonia on March 26th. A victory would propel them into a final confrontation against Africa’s DR Congo, with the ultimate prize being placement in World Cup Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

    Reflecting on their qualification struggle, Blake acknowledged the team’s self-inflicted predicament: “We still have a chance. Obviously, it’s not going to be easy, but we kind of put ourselves in this position, and we’re going to have to go out there and fight for our lives.”

    The team’s disappointing 0-0 draw against World Cup-bound Curacao in November at Kingston’s National Stadium precipitated immediate changes, including the departure of Head Coach Steve McClaren. Blake described the atmosphere during that fateful match as electric, noting “The only thing missing from that game was us scoring a goal or two to win the game.”

    Subsequent restructuring saw the Jamaica Football Federation appoint Rudolph Speid as interim head coach with Miguel Coley as assistant. The technical staff has been further strengthened with the addition of Arsenal youth coach Michael Donaldson as assistant coach and former national goalkeeper Aaron Lawrence specializing in goalkeeper development.

    Despite naming a 52-man provisional squad, Speid faces logistical challenges with most European and American-based players unavailable until March due to club commitments outside FIFA international windows. This constraint was evident as a predominantly local squad secured a 1-0 friendly victory against Grenada on Sunday.

    Blake emphasized that tactical coherence outweighs individual talent: “We have the pieces for sure, we just haven’t been able to bring it together. For me, the most important thing is we don’t need the best players, we need the right players.”

    The 35-year-old goalkeeper, who has earned 92 international caps, envisions qualification as transformative for Jamaican football: “It would be a dream come true for me. It would bring so much joy to the people of Jamaica, so much inspiration for the younger generation.” Having last appeared in the 1998 France World Cup, the Reggae Boyz now stand on the precipice of returning to football’s global stage.

  • Forensic firepower

    Forensic firepower

    Jamaica’s premier financial crime investigation agencies have achieved unprecedented success in dismantling sophisticated money laundering schemes through revolutionary forensic capabilities. The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and Financial Investigations Division (FID) report uncovering hundreds of millions of dollars in criminal assets that have significantly boosted state coffers.

    According to Colonel Desmond Edwards, Director General of MOCA, criminal organizations have responded to enhanced investigative capabilities by developing increasingly complex methods to conceal illicit gains. ‘Criminals are very much aware, which is why they come up with all kinds of seemingly ingenious ways of hiding their assets—even using unwitting relatives,’ Edwards revealed during a Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange session.

    The agencies have undergone a transformative evolution over the past decade, particularly in developing cyber forensic capabilities and financial investigation expertise. MOCA now leads criminal investigations while FID specializes in asset recovery using the same evidence, creating a comprehensive division of labor that has proven remarkably effective.

    Dennis Chung, FID’s Chief Technical Director, confirmed that their forensic investigators are ‘top of the line,’ regularly discovering assets that criminals believed were safely hidden. The success rate has generated such concern within criminal circles that lawyers frequently approach the agencies attempting to negotiate settlements—offers that are consistently rejected.

    Nigel Parke, Senior Director of Legal and Prosecutorial Services at MOCA, explained that the most common concealment method—registering assets under third-party names—has been effectively neutralized through amended legislation and enhanced investigative techniques. The amended Companies Act now allows investigators to trace beneficial ownership by examining acquisition means and following paper trails.

    The results speak for themselves: 2025 saw confiscations of $164.1 million in cash plus court-ordered confiscations exceeding $33 million and US$35,000 in assets. MOCA conducted 33 significant operations resulting in 35 arrests, 30 charges, and 11 convictions. The agencies maintain strict protocols regarding public disclosure, respecting citizens’ rights and preserving the integrity of ongoing court proceedings involving hundreds of millions of dollars.

  • ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    ‘My expertise is not in tending flowers’

    Marlene Street Forrest, the recently retired Managing Director of the Jamaica Stock Exchange (JSE), has made a swift return to the financial sector by establishing her own consultancy firm. Having concluded her 26-year tenure at the JSE in September 2025—a period the exchange hailed as exceptionally transformational—Street Forrest announced the launch of Street Forrest Business Consultancy Ltd in January 2026.

    The venture represents a strategic redirection of her expertise rather than a conventional retirement. In interviews with Jamaican media, Street Forrest clarified that her motivation stems from identified gaps in corporate governance structures across businesses of all sizes. “I’ve seen where there are many things in business where small, medium, and even large companies need help,” she explained, specifically highlighting deficiencies in governance frameworks and unwritten operating procedures.

    Her consultancy model will leverage the extensive network and knowledge she accumulated leading the Caribbean’s premier securities exchange. Services will encompass policymaking guidance, regulatory assistance, and hands-on mentorship programs for corporate clients. Beyond immediate structural improvements, Street Forrest envisions contributing to regional capital market development, potentially assisting other Caribbean nations in establishing or strengthening their stock exchange operations.

    The consultancy will operate through a collaborative model, engaging external experts and credible industry providers to deliver comprehensive services. Street Forrest also expressed particular interest in supporting social sector organizations through pro bono or reduced-rate arrangements.

    She measures success not by visibility but by systemic impact: creating robust governance systems that continue functioning long after her engagement concludes. This approach, she believes, will ultimately foster stronger enterprises, better-governed institutions, and more confident investment environments throughout the region.

  • Nigy Boy Singer lands two hot releases in January

    Nigy Boy Singer lands two hot releases in January

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Nigy Boy is strategically positioning himself for international breakthrough following his explosive 2024 breakthrough year. With two recently released singles already generating significant buzz, the artist is demonstrating his evolution from emerging talent to visionary musical force.

    The entertainer, who gained prominence with 2024 hits including ‘Continent’ and ‘Judgement,’ has maintained deliberate silence since last summer’s ‘Options’ release. This calculated pause preceded his January comeback with tracks ‘Hush’ and ‘Risk It All’ – both already achieving remarkable digital traction within their first two weeks of release.

    ‘Risk It All’ has garnered nearly 900,000 YouTube views since its debut, while ‘Hush’ has accumulated 386,000 views since its release just one week ago. This immediate audience response signals strong potential for his 2026 campaign.

    In an exclusive statement to the Jamaica Observer, Nigy Boy revealed his strategic approach: ‘My plan centers on consistently delivering quality music that meets fan expectations. Since the audience ultimately determines what becomes successful, I’m committed to providing music that maintains momentum without disappointment.’

    The artist distinguishes between his objectives for 2024 versus 2026: where previous efforts focused on establishing visibility and proving his artistic legitimacy, the current year will emphasize international expansion and musical diversification. This includes an extensive touring schedule across North America and Bermuda, with confirmed performances in Atlanta, North Carolina, Connecticut, and Edmonton, Canada.

    While remaining deliberately vague about specific upcoming projects, Nigy Boy teased additional surprises in development, stating: ‘I prefer not to reveal too much prematurely. listeners should keep their ears open and eyes peeled for what’s coming next.’ His confident demeanor suggests the forthcoming releases will equal the impact of his debut material.

    Industry response to his new material has been overwhelmingly positive, with early feedback indicating potential hit status for both recent releases. This reception reinforces Nigy Boy’s confidence in his artistic direction and commercial prospects for the year ahead.

  • JMMB upgrades May Pen branch as Clarendon activity gathers pace

    JMMB upgrades May Pen branch as Clarendon activity gathers pace

    JMMB Group is significantly enhancing its operational footprint in Clarendon through the strategic relocation of its May Pen branch to a comprehensive Financial Goals Centre at Millennium Mall, Mineral Heights. This expansion, scheduled for inauguration on January 19, represents a substantial evolution from the institution’s previous investment-focused model to a full-service financial hub integrating banking, investment, and insurance services under one roof.

    The relocation decision stems from both the sustained 22-year presence in the parish and the rapidly evolving economic landscape of Clarendon. Historically dominated by sugar production, livestock, and large estates, the region is now experiencing transformative development across multiple sectors. JMMB’s investment specifically addresses the growing demand for integrated financial solutions from diverse client segments including agricultural enterprises, manufacturing operations, and expanding small-to-medium businesses.

    This strategic move occurs against a backdrop of significant infrastructure and development initiatives throughout Clarendon. Government-led residential projects in Longville Park anticipate delivering thousands of new housing solutions over the coming decade, while concurrent agricultural infrastructure advancements—including modern irrigation systems and agro parks—are enhancing productivity in traditional rural sectors.

    Urban planning authorities are simultaneously responding to development pressures through comprehensive updates to Clarendon’s development order, ensuring coordinated expansion around commercial hubs like May Pen. JMMB’s expansion incorporates hybrid service delivery combining digital innovation with personalized advisory services, recognizing that complex financial decisions in communities like Clarendon continue to benefit from face-to-face consultation.

    The new facility will feature teller services, advanced ATM technology, and digital queue management systems designed to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. This physical expansion demonstrates JMMB’s confidence in Clarendon’s economic trajectory while addressing identified gaps in financial access across central and southern regions of the parish.