Carib Scope

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  • ‘Pres’ beat ‘Naps’ in South battle

    ‘Pres’ beat ‘Naps’ in South battle

    In an impressive display of cricketing prowess, Presentation College San Fernando commenced their PowerGen Secondary Schools Cricket League premier I division campaign with a decisive 38-run triumph over Naparima College on January 20. The southern derby, contested at Naparima’s home ground in San Fernando, showcased exceptional performances from both teams despite the clear margin of victory.

    Presentation established a formidable foundation by posting 271 all out in 47.5 overs. The innings was anchored by captain Brendan Boodoo, who demonstrated why he was selected as a reserve for the ongoing West Indies Under-19 World Cup squad. Boodoo’s commanding 80 runs from 82 deliveries featured six boundaries and one maximum, providing crucial momentum to his team’s total.

    The opening partnership proved equally instrumental as Riyaad Mohammed (73 from 75 balls) and Levi Ghanny (60 from 46 deliveries) constructed a substantial 118-run stand. Their aggressive approach set the tempo for Presentation’s innings, though Naparima’s bowling duo of Amrit Pittiman (5/47) and Arnaldo Premchand (4/41) eventually curtailed the scoring through disciplined bowling spells.

    Boodoo’s contributions extended beyond his batting excellence as the skipper returned with ball in hand to claim 3/31 from his ten overs of spin. Supported by Aaden Owen’s 3/48, Presentation effectively restricted Naparima to 233/9 despite resilient batting from captain Aadi Ramsaran (62 from 73 balls), Jordan Julien (43), and Veer Arjoon (36).

    In other opening round fixtures, Shiva Boys’ Hindu College dominated Queen’s Royal College by 70 runs at QRC’s home ground, while Vishnu Boys’ Hindu College launched their season with a seven-wicket victory against Hillview College. Defending champions Presentation College Chaguanas began their title defense strongly with a 73-run win over St Mary’s College.

    The competition continues with round two matches scheduled for January 27.

  • Will the increase in the daily stipend make Jamaicans professional jurors?

    Will the increase in the daily stipend make Jamaicans professional jurors?

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s House of Representatives engaged in substantive debate on Tuesday regarding the Jury (Amendment) Act 2026, which proposes a significant increase in juror compensation from $2,000 to $6,000 daily. The legislative amendments, spearheaded by Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, have sparked discussions about the nature of jury service and its financial implications within the justice system.

    The proposed legislation extends beyond empaneled jurors, offering $2,000 per day to individuals summoned for duty but not ultimately selected. This comprehensive approach to compensation marks the first stipend increase in over a decade, previously adjusted from $400 to $2,000 daily during Opposition Leader Mark Golding’s tenure as justice minister.

    MP Marlene Malahoo Forte, representing St James West Central and a former attorney general, emphasized cross-party support for the increase while cautioning against misinterpretation of jury service fundamentals. “We should make it abundantly clear that we’re not paying citizens to serve as jurors,” she stated, explaining that the adjustment primarily addresses inflationary pressures and expense reimbursement rather than creating professional opportunities.

    However, Opposition Leader Golding presented a contrasting interpretation, noting the compensation structure encompasses both time commitment and travel expenses. He highlighted that weekly earnings of $30,000 for five-day service would substantially exceed Jamaica’s minimum wage of $16,000 weekly, creating what he termed “a compendious payment” that inherently compensates for service time.

    The debate revealed nuanced perspectives on civic responsibility versus financial practicality, with lawmakers acknowledging the necessity of adequate compensation while maintaining the fundamental voluntary nature of jury duty within Jamaica’s judicial framework.

  • TTPS promotes 9 senior officers

    TTPS promotes 9 senior officers

    In a significant organizational development, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has elevated nine officers to higher leadership positions through a formal promotion ceremony held on January 19 at the Solomon McLeod Theatre in Port of Spain. The event marked the advancement of five officers to superintendent and four to senior superintendent ranks, signaling a strategic strengthening of the police service’s command structure.

    The ceremony witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander—a former senior superintendent himself—Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, several Deputy Commissioners, and Ishmael Pitt, president of the TTPS Social Welfare Association. Minister Alexander personally presented the letters of appointment to the promoted officers during the proceedings.

    Commissioner Guevarro addressed attendees, emphasizing the critical importance of leadership in the TTPS’s ongoing transformational journey. He revealed that 2025 had become a pivotal year for the service, with documented substantial reductions in major crime categories—including a remarkable 42% decrease in homicides alongside significant declines in shootings, larcenies, and burglaries. The commissioner attributed these improvements to the dedication and sacrifices of officers who have committed extensive time to public safety, often at the expense of personal commitments.

    Pitt acknowledged the commissioner’s efforts in creating enhanced advancement opportunities within the organization, characterizing the developments as ‘changing the gear’ of the TTPS. He further encouraged the newly promoted officers to maintain attentiveness to colleague welfare as they assume greater leadership responsibilities.

    The newly promoted senior superintendents are Alva Gordon, Geoffrey Hospedales, Karen Lancaster-Ellis, and Sean Dhillpaul. Those elevated to superintendent include Mulchan Nanan, Heeraman Singh, Edgar Baird, Mark Joseph, and Mario Robain.

    The TTPS maintains a structured ranking system comprising ten positions, ranging from police constable to commissioner, with promoted officers now occupying critical middle-management roles that bridge strategic planning and operational execution.

  • Pregnant woman shot dead

    Pregnant woman shot dead

    In a tragic incident that unfolded on January 21st in Arouca, a pregnant woman believed to be a Venezuelan national was fatally shot when an unidentified gunman opened fire on a group of individuals gathered beneath a shed. The victim, reportedly in her third trimester of pregnancy, succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transported to Arima Hospital.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate the shooting occurred approximately at 1:00 PM along Garden Road. The deceased was seated with her partner and several others when the assailant initiated gunfire. While the pregnant woman was struck, the remainder of the group managed to flee the scene unharmed. Law enforcement officials have preliminarily indicated that the victim was likely not the intended target of the attack, though the precise motive remains undetermined.

    Personnel from the Homicide Bureau of Investigations (Region Two) have launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Forensic teams were documented collecting evidence at the crime scene as part of ongoing efforts to identify the perpetrator. This incident highlights continuing concerns regarding public safety and gun violence in the region.

  • Full electricity restoration by early February

    Full electricity restoration by early February

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s energy infrastructure is rapidly recovering from Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, with officials projecting complete power restoration for eligible customers by early February. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz provided a comprehensive update during a post-Cabinet briefing at Jamaica House, revealing significant progress in the national recovery efforts.

    The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) has successfully restored electricity to 93% of affected customers, leaving approximately 51,000 households and businesses without power. Minister Vaz outlined a clear timeline for reconnection, indicating that 30,000 of these customers should have service restored by the end of January or early February.

    A critical distinction emerged regarding the remaining 21,000 customers who cannot currently receive power due to infrastructure limitations beyond JPS’s control. “These households are not ready to receive electricity, and the JPS cannot be held accountable,” Vaz explained, noting that these cases require additional structural assessments and repairs before power can be safely restored.

    The government has initiated a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) to identify and address barriers preventing these final connections. This targeted approach aims to facilitate eventual power restoration to all Jamaican residents.

    Westmoreland Parish has demonstrated remarkable recovery progress, jumping from 18% restoration in December to 51% currently. Of the parish’s 34,603 customers, 17,096 remain without electricity. Minister Vaz confirmed that the eastern section of Westmoreland should see service restoration between now and January’s end.

    The accelerated recovery follows the government’s strategic intervention last November, providing JPS with a US$150-million loan that enabled the utility company to procure additional equipment and hire more linesmen, significantly enhancing restoration capabilities.

  • Libra-Don to release Unstoppable EP on January 23

    Libra-Don to release Unstoppable EP on January 23

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Emerging dancehall performer Libra-Don, currently based in the United States, is poised to launch his inaugural musical project following a successful promotional tour across Jamaica. The artist’s debut extended play recording, branded ‘Unstoppable,’ represents a strategic expansion from his recently popularized inspirational singles that have garnered substantial radio airplay.

    The Jamaican-native musician has developed this seven-track compilation capitalizing on the burgeoning success of his motivational anthems ‘Don’t Lose Faith’ and ‘Reach Yuh,’ both of which have achieved significant traction within domestic and international dancehall circuits. Produced entirely by MaddMoni Empire, the EP incorporates additional compositions including ‘Victory,’ ‘Juicy,’ ‘Fighter,’ and the titular title track.

    Libra-Don characterizes his current creative trajectory as progressively gaining momentum within global dancehall communities. ‘Our persistent efforts are finally yielding measurable outcomes,’ the artist commented regarding his team’s promotional activities. ‘The recent Jamaican media tour demonstrated exceptionally warm receptiveness from broadcast platforms and listeners alike. While building recognition requires sustained dedication, we’re confident our foundational work will culminate in long-term achievement.’

    The artist further elaborated on the philosophical underpinnings of his project, noting that the ‘Unstoppable’ designation embodies his professional mentality amid industry challenges. ‘This title mirrors my perseverance through creative resistance and professional uncertainties without compromising artistic direction. Every composition possesses hit potential—I maintain zero tolerance for filler content that lacks substantive public impact.’

    Post-release strategies include targeted visual content production, selective live performances, and continuous music recording sessions. Libra-Don emphasized his commitment to developing a timeless artistic portfolio while methodically constructing his brand identity within the competitive music landscape.

  • Role of GOJ audit committees in hurricane recovery transparency underscored

    Role of GOJ audit committees in hurricane recovery transparency underscored

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican financial authorities have positioned government auditors as critical pillars in the nation’s hurricane recovery framework, emphasizing their role in maintaining fiscal transparency during reconstruction efforts. Finance Minister Fayval Williams addressed the Government of Jamaica Audit Committees’ Conference Wednesday, framing oversight professionals as essential architects of national rebuilding.

    Speaking at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel under the conference theme ‘Governance in Action: Strengthening Trust, Risk Oversight and Resilience,’ Williams asserted that auditors provide indispensable safeguards for reconstruction funds allocated after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact. The minister characterized audit committees as operational guardians who translate principles of accountability into measurable public outcomes.

    Williams directly linked audit oversight to Jamaica’s Vision 2030 development objectives, noting that while committee members might not be primary reporters on progress metrics, their work fundamentally enables ministries and agencies to execute mandates effectively. She emphasized that understanding institutional roles within Jamaica’s medium-term socioeconomic policy framework represents a professional necessity rather than an option for oversight personnel.

    The address acknowledged Hurricane Melissa’s severe consequences, including compromised infrastructure, displaced families, and battered communities. Williams contrasted this destruction with the demonstrated resilience of Jamaican citizens and their determination to rebuild.

    Cabinet Secretary Audrey Sewell reinforced these sentiments, detailing how auditing practices evolved during the crisis response. She revealed that real-time auditing procedures implemented under the Hurricane Melissa Relief Initiative have strengthened institutional credibility among international partners and diaspora communities. This approach, Sewell noted, has facilitated continued support through grants and concessional financing arrangements.

    Both officials emphasized that Jamaica’s coordinated disaster response stemmed directly from years of foundational audit work, including identified system gaps, raised concerns about controls, and documented lessons from previous assessments. This historical oversight enabled the government to renew outdated systems and develop robust strategies before the hurricane crisis, providing institutional resilience when tested by natural disaster.

  • Cavalier SC, MBU score five goals each in JPL wins

    Cavalier SC, MBU score five goals each in JPL wins

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Wednesday’s Jamaica Premier League fixtures witnessed extraordinary offensive displays as both defending champions Cavalier SC and league frontrunners Montego Bay United secured resounding 5-1 and 5-0 victories respectively.

    Cavalier SC demonstrated remarkable form following their seasonal break, overpowering Dunbeholden FC with a decisive 5-1 triumph at Stadium East. Simultaneously, Montego Bay United maintained their commanding league position with a flawless 5-0 shutout against Spanish Town Police FC at Royal Lakes Complex.

    These performances marked the most substantial victories for both clubs this season, significantly impacting the league standings. Montego Bay United strengthened their championship pursuit by extending their lead to six points, while Cavalier SC ascended to fourth position in the competitive table.

    The scoring commenced for Cavalier SC with Kwayne Thompson’s 35th-minute header breaking the deadlock. Second-half fireworks followed as Dwayne Allen’s spectacular 23-yard strike in the 60th minute doubled the advantage. Substitute Odane Wilberforce contributed a third goal in the 74th minute, followed by an unfortunate own goal from Dunbeholden FC. Despite Stephen Barnett’s consolation penalty conversion in the 85th minute, Jerome McCleary sealed the commanding victory with a stoppage-time finish.

    Montego Bay United’s offensive masterclass featured Jourdain Fletcher’s double strike, reclaiming his position as the league’s sole scoring leader with 11 goals. The scoring cascade began with Deverow McKenzie’s 19th-minute volley, followed by Fletcher’s long-range precision in the 22nd minute. Jahmari Clarke ended his scoring drought in the 60th minute before Dwight Merrick and Fletcher completed the rout with clinical finishes.

    The comprehensive victories underscore the offensive prowess of Jamaica’s top football clubs while dramatically reshaping the Premier League landscape as the season progresses toward its climax.

  • Sagicor Foundation says 2023 Sigma Run funds used to purchase CT scanner for UHWI

    Sagicor Foundation says 2023 Sigma Run funds used to purchase CT scanner for UHWI

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Sagicor Foundation has issued a detailed clarification regarding the allocation of funds from its 2023 Sigma Corporate Run, following allegations of financial misdirection raised by opposition health officials. The philanthropic organization confirmed that proceeds designated for the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) were exclusively utilized to procure a computed tomography (CT) scanner for the institution’s pediatric department.

    Official records indicate the 2023 charity event generated J$91,852,500 (approximately US$580,000), with designated beneficiaries being both the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts and UHWI’s Pediatric Unit. According to the foundation’s Wednesday statement, a disbursement of US$495,000 (roughly J$79.2 million) was transferred to an authorized Philips medical equipment distributor in 2024 to secure the diagnostic imaging technology.

    The foundation’s response comes after Dr. Alfred Dawes, health spokesman for the opposition People’s National Party, publicly demanded accountability regarding approximately J$75 million raised specifically for pediatric care. Dr. Dawes characterized alleged discrepancies in fund allocation as ‘deeply concerning,’ emphasizing that donations collected for critically ill children must be applied exclusively to their promised purposes.

    Medical procurement timelines reveal the CT scanning equipment was shipped in early December 2025, with anticipated delivery to Jamaica scheduled for February 2026. The Sagicor Foundation emphasized its commitment to operational transparency, stating all financial distributions strictly adhere to its governance framework and are fully accounted for through official channels.

    The developing situation highlights increasing public scrutiny over charitable fund management in Jamaica’s healthcare sector, particularly regarding corporate-sponsored initiatives targeting vulnerable patient populations.

  • ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    ‘Mother Moon’ love song by Fyah George generating major buzz

    Veteran reggae artist Fyah George has captivated audiences with his latest single ‘Mother Moon,’ a soulful exploration of long-distance love through celestial metaphor. Released on January 1, 2026, through the newly launched Trowers Zamar Records, the track has quickly gained momentum across Jamaican radio stations and international streaming platforms.

    The song’s poetic lyrics were crafted by Paulette Trowers, founder of Trowers Zamar Records and noted literacy advocate through her CHEETAH Toys initiative. Trowers revealed the dual inspiration behind the composition: ‘First, it addresses the emotional landscape of separated lovers, where physical connection is replaced by spiritual belief—not just in divine power, but in the moon’s tangible influence on human affairs. If it can move oceans, why not carry messages between hearts?’

    She further elaborated that the symbolism extends beyond romantic relationships to encompass familial bonds and any connection strained by distance. The ‘mother’ archetype represents protection and constancy, a concept born from Trowers’ personal fascination with astronomy and her nightly observations from her New Kingston residence.

    Fyah George, renowned for his conscious reggae anthems like ‘Kingston, Kingston’ and ‘No More War,’ delivers a vocal performance that balances restraint with emotional depth. The artist expressed immediate connection to the material, stating, ‘The song resonated with me profoundly, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give it voice.’

    Technically, the production boasts exceptional pedigree. Two-time Grammy-winning engineer Nigel Burrell handled composition and mixing, while mastering was overseen by Chris Dailey, currently regarded among Jamaica’s premier audio engineers. Recording sessions took place at Kingston’s historic Mixing Lab Recording Studio, adding to the track’s authentic Jamaican soundscape.

    Early indicators suggest strong audience reception, with frequent airplay on Irie FM and designation as January’s ‘Song of the Month’ on GT Reggae Radio, which broadcasts to over 120 countries worldwide. The song’s success marks a significant debut for Trowers Zamar Records while demonstrating the enduring appeal of spiritually conscious reggae music.