A recent TikTok video has ignited controversy by linking Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles’ participation in an indigenous ritual to a heated parliamentary clash. The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, alleges that the invocation of spirits during the ceremony on October 10 outside the Red House in Port of Spain was responsible for the subsequent political tensions. This claim has been vehemently denied by Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez, chief of the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community, who labeled the video as disrespectful and offensive. Bharath-Hernandez emphasized that the ceremony, part of the community’s annual tradition to honor their ancestors, had no political agenda and should not be misrepresented. He pointed out that similar ceremonies have been attended by MPs and officials over the years without incident. The controversy arises as the community celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Day of Recognition of the First Peoples of Trinidad and Tobago, with week-long festivities culminating in a gathering at the Hyarima Statue in Arima on October 14. Bharath-Hernandez questioned why the indigenous community, which is still fighting for restitution, is being targeted in such a manner, highlighting the marginalization they face. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities in preserving their cultural heritage amidst modern political dynamics.
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Tancoo announces $1 cut in super gas price
In a significant move aimed at easing the financial burden on citizens, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, Davendranath Tancoo, has announced an immediate $1 reduction in the price of super high-octane gasoline. This decision, unveiled during the 2026 national budget presentation on October 13, marks the first measure of the new fiscal plan designed to benefit all citizens of the nation. Tancoo emphasized that the reduction was a direct initiative of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, reflecting the government’s commitment to restoring affordability and fostering economic fairness. ‘This is the first announcement by this caring government in this budget that would benefit every single citizen of TT,’ Tancoo stated. The price cut took effect immediately, offering broad-based relief to the public. The move aligns with the United National Congress (UNC) administration’s campaign promises to review energy pricing and ensure citizens are not unfairly overcharged. It also reverses part of the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) administration’s phased removal of fuel subsidies, which had led to consistent increases in pump prices over the past decade. The announcement underscores the current government’s focus on addressing economic disparities and providing tangible benefits to the populace.
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Lee promises major housing push in 2026 budget
In a significant announcement ahead of the 2026 national budget, Minister of Housing and Caroni Central MP David Lee revealed plans for a substantial expansion in public housing construction across the country. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain on October 13, Lee emphasized that the upcoming budget will kickstart the government’s long-awaited housing initiatives, addressing what he termed a decade of stagnation in the sector.
Lee, who has been collaborating closely with the ministries of finance and planning, highlighted that the government is poised to deliver on its campaign promises under the leadership of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. “A lot of dynamic things will be happening in housing this year,” he stated, expressing confidence in the administration’s ability to meet public demand.
The minister disclosed that efforts have been underway for the past four to five months to secure loan facilities to fund the ambitious housing projects. “We are there, and that will be known shortly,” he assured. Additionally, Lee noted that the new developments will prioritize single-family units, reflecting public preferences. “Although we’re trying to create more of a village-type community, we’ve noticed that many people prefer single-family units over apartment-style living,” he explained. To accommodate this demand, the government is considering reducing land sizes from 5,000 to 3,500 square feet, enabling the construction of more units.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the government’s housing strategy, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the nation’s housing needs over the next four years.
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Lee defends position after fraud arrest, says ‘God is great’
Housing Minister David Lee has reaffirmed his commitment to remain in office despite facing fraud charges, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support from his colleagues and the Prime Minister. Speaking outside Parliament on October 13, Lee emphasized his determination to continue fulfilling his governmental duties, stating, ‘God is great. I would like to thank the Prime Minister and my parliamentary colleagues for standing strong with me, so that we will get through this.’ Lee dismissed comparisons to former Housing Minister Marlene McDonald, who was removed from the PNM cabinet in 2019 following charges of misusing public funds. McDonald, who passed away in 2023, faced allegations related to corruption and money laundering through the Calabar Foundation. Lee clarified that his case is distinct, asserting, ‘My matter has nothing to do with being in government or utilizing state resources.’ When questioned about whether his decision to stay in office contradicts former Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s stance that ministers facing corruption allegations should step down, Lee maintained, ‘I was exonerated, and that’s why I keep asking the media to follow the paper trail very closely. You might find the answer.’
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Woman, 22, killed in Couva crash
A fatal two-vehicle collision occurred in the early hours of October 12 in Mc Bean Village, Couva, resulting in the death of a 22-year-old woman. Adana Alexander, a resident of Calcutta Road in Mc Bean Village, was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident took place around 4:40 a.m. on the Southern Main Road near Deonarine Junction. Alexander was a backseat passenger in a silver Toyota Fielder, driven by a 21-year-old woman from Calcutta Road #2, Freeport, who was heading north. Reports indicate that the driver attempted to turn right into Calcutta Road #3 when a silver Nissan Cefiro, traveling south, collided with the Toyota. The Nissan was driven by a 44-year-old man from Santa Flora. The crash caused extensive damage to both vehicles and injuries to all occupants. Officers from the Couva police station, including PC Acres and McMillan, along with FSSO Ali and other personnel from the Couva Fire Station, responded to the scene. Dr. Sant, the District Medical Officer, ordered the removal of Alexander’s body to the San Fernando General Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination. Cpl Boodlal is leading the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident.
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Judge orders Norman Scott be fingerprinted in Election Day assault case
In a significant legal development, Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott was compelled to have his fingerprints recorded by law enforcement during his appearance at the St Elizabeth Parish Court in Santa Cruz on Monday. This follows charges of assault causing actual bodily harm and malicious destruction of property stemming from an incident on Election Day, September 3. The altercation involved Julie Francis, an indoor agent for the Jamaica Labour Party, at the BB Coke High School polling station in Junction. According to police reports, Scott overstayed his allotted time at the polling station, leading to a confrontation when an agent attempted to inform him of his time limit. The situation escalated when another agent intervened and was allegedly struck in the face by Scott, prompting his security detail to remove him from the premises. A formal investigation was launched, and summons were served on Scott on September 12. Represented by attorney Charles Ganga-Singh, Scott made his first court appearance before Judge Steve Walters. Julie Francis, the complainant, was represented by a legal team led by King’s Counsel Tom Tavares-Finson, who successfully requested a fiat to prosecute Scott. Scott is scheduled to reappear in court on November 27.
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Lotto jackpot hit for second time this year
In an extraordinary stroke of luck, a resident of St Catherine, Jamaica, has become $57 million wealthier after securing the Lotto jackpot in the Saturday night draw on October 11, 2025. This marks the second time the jackpot has been claimed this year. The winning numbers—1, 11, 16, 18, 25, and 32—were drawn, with the lucky ticket purchased at Edibles Plus Ltd in Spanish Town. To claim the prize, the winner must present the signed winning ticket and a valid national ID at the Supreme Ventures Flagship Store in Twin Gates Plaza, St Andrew, within 90 days of the draw. Earlier this year, in August, a St Andrew woman claimed an even larger jackpot of $229 million, making this the second major Lotto win of 2025.
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Tancoo: ‘We are putting TT first’
In a momentous announcement that drew enthusiastic applause from a crowd gathered outside the Red House, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo revealed that the forthcoming budget aims to significantly enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago (TT). Addressing the media, Tancoo emphasized that this budget marks the initial phase of a comprehensive, five-year strategy designed to transform the nation. ‘We are putting TT first,’ he declared, underscoring the government’s commitment to prioritizing the country’s development. Tancoo also expressed optimism about the administration’s ability to effectively manage the fiscal deficit, stating, ‘I think we have done very well with the circumstances that we have met…good things are happening.’ However, he acknowledged the challenges of fulfilling all campaign promises within the current fiscal year, responding to criticisms with a pragmatic outlook. The Finance Minister is scheduled to present the budget today at 1:30 PM, a moment eagerly anticipated by many.
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Tancoo prays to deliver a budget to improve citizens’ lives
In a moment of reflection and prayer, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo sought divine intervention as he prepared to present the United National Congress (UNC) government’s inaugural National Budget on October 13. Tancoo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Fyzabad, shared a heartfelt message on social media, accompanied by a photo of himself in his office at the Eric Williams Financial Complex in Port of Spain. He expressed his hope that the decisions made during the budget presentation would enhance the lives of all citizens and pave the way for a prosperous future for Trinidad and Tobago. The budget, scheduled for delivery at 1:30 PM in the House of Representatives, marks a significant milestone for the UNC administration under Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s second term. Tancoo has previously indicated that the budget will likely reflect a deficit, a continuation of the fiscal trends established by the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) government over the past nine years. The 2024/2025 budget had projected revenues of $54.224 billion, expenditures of $59.741 billion, and a fiscal deficit of $5.517 billion. As the nation eagerly anticipates the budget’s unveiling, many are hopeful that the government will deliver on the promises that secured their victory in the April 28 general election.
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India close in on series win over Windies despite John Campbell, Shai Hope centuries
West Indies openers John Campbell and Shai Hope delivered remarkable performances on the fourth day of the second Test against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Despite their centuries, the Caribbean team remains on the brink of a 2-0 series defeat. Campbell, resuming his innings at 87 not out, achieved his maiden Test century with a solid 115, while Hope, unbeaten overnight on 66, also reached triple figures with a composed 103. Their efforts propelled West Indies to a second innings total of 390, but India’s dominant first innings lead left them with a modest target of 121 for victory. Campbell’s innings included 12 fours and three sixes, while Hope struck 12 fours and two sixes. However, a middle-order collapse saw West Indies lose five wickets for just 18 runs, with Roston Chase contributing 40. The last-wicket partnership of Justin Greaves (50 not out) and Jayden Seales (32) added 79 runs, delaying India’s pursuit. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (3/44) and Kuldeep Yadav (3/104), kept the pressure on. In response, India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal early but KL Rahul (25 not out) and Sai Sudharsan (30 not out) steadied the ship, leaving India needing just 58 more runs for victory on the final day.