Carib Scope

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  • No Motive Yet for Murder of Marty Thorne

    No Motive Yet for Murder of Marty Thorne

    In a shocking turn of events, 25-year-old Gian Eldred Waight, a construction worker from Bullet Tree Falls Village in Belize’s Cayo District, has been formally arrested and charged with the murder of Marty Ann Thorne, the owner of Rawspa. The brutal stabbing occurred on November 10th, sending shockwaves through the local community.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Waight was identified as a person of interest early in the investigation but fled the country. Through collaboration with Interpol counterparts in Guatemala, Waight was apprehended while attempting to board a flight from Guatemala City to El Salvador. He was subsequently handed over to Belizean authorities and charged with the crime.

    Despite Waight’s familiarity with the victim, police have yet to establish a clear motive for the murder. The case has drawn significant attention, with many awaiting further developments as the investigation continues. Authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident.

  • Constitutional crises not a fallacy

    Constitutional crises not a fallacy

    A constitutional crisis is brewing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) over the interpretation of sections 25 and 26 of the nation’s Constitution, which govern the eligibility of Commonwealth citizens to contest elections. Section 25 outlines the basic qualifications for election candidates, including being at least 21 years old, residing in SVG for 12 months before nomination, and demonstrating proficiency in English. However, Section 26 introduces a critical litmus test: candidates must not, by their own act, acknowledge allegiance, adherence, or obedience to a foreign power or state. The crux of the debate is whether a Commonwealth member state qualifies as a ‘foreign power or state’ under Section 26. Dr. A Linton Lewis, PhD, argues that Commonwealth countries, including Canada, are indeed foreign states relative to SVG, a position that contradicts Dr. Jason Haynes’ interpretation. Dr. Haynes contends that Section 25 explicitly permits Commonwealth citizens to contest elections, making it contradictory to disqualify them under Section 26. Dr. Lewis counters that the Constitution’s drafters clearly distinguished between SVG citizens and Commonwealth citizens, emphasizing that the latter must reside in SVG for seven years to apply for citizenship, underscoring their foreign status. He further asserts that the purpose of Section 26 is to prevent split loyalties, ensuring that elected representatives are fully committed to SVG. The looming crisis stems from the potential disqualification of Commonwealth citizens who may hold allegiance to their home countries, raising questions about the Constitution’s intent and the practical implications for SVG’s political landscape. As the debate intensifies, the issue remains unresolved, with the possibility of a constitutional challenge on the horizon.

  • Man Charged With Teen’s Attempted Murder

    Man Charged With Teen’s Attempted Murder

    A shocking stabbing incident in Dangriga Town has led to the arrest of two men, with one now facing charges of attempted murder. The victim, 18-year-old Gevin Armstrong, was attacked at the Island Breeze Bar and Grill on Wednesday night. According to reports, an unidentified individual approached Armstrong and inflicted a severe injury. Police were alerted to the scene but discovered that Armstrong had already been rushed to the Southern Regional Hospital. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith confirmed that one suspect has been formally charged with attempted murder and is set to appear before the Dangriga Magistrate Court. Authorities have reported that Armstrong is currently in stable condition, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the grim circumstances. The incident has sparked concern in the community, with many calling for increased safety measures in public spaces.

  • Trump Pushes “Near” Ukraine Peace Deal

    Trump Pushes “Near” Ukraine Peace Deal

    In a significant development in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the possibility of a peace agreement following high-level talks in Switzerland. Trump described the discussions as productive and indicated that a framework for ending the war is closer than ever. His remarks come amidst contrasting reactions from Ukraine and Russia regarding the U.S.-backed proposals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly thanked international partners for their support, countering Trump’s earlier claim that Ukraine had shown ‘zero gratitude’ for U.S. efforts. Zelensky’s statement underscores Ukraine’s continued engagement in the diplomatic process. On the other hand, the Kremlin responded cautiously but positively, with Russian officials noting that certain elements of the U.S. proposal ‘could form the basis’ of a future peace agreement. Russian President Vladimir Putin added that the proposed deal aligns with previous discussions held with U.S. representatives. The United States remains committed to a negotiated settlement, while Ukraine insists on terms that safeguard its territorial integrity, and Russia seeks conditions that favor its strategic interests. The divergent perspectives highlight the complexities of achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.

  • Property owners to face fines for overgrown bush

    Property owners to face fines for overgrown bush

    Property owners in Barbados who fail to maintain their lots by clearing overgrown vegetation could soon face significant fines under a new enforcement initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment. The program, which began on November 1, is being enforced through the Health Services Act and aims to address the issue of neglected properties. According to project leader Ronald Chapman, property owners who do not comply with the regulations will receive a 21-day notice to clean their lots. If they fail to do so within this period, they will be charged an administrative fee of $300. Additionally, if the lot remains uncleaned after the fine is issued, the Ministry of Environment will step in to clean the property, and the owner will be billed for the service. The cost of cleaning will vary depending on factors such as the size of the lot, the type of vegetation, and the presence of accumulated refuse. Chapman emphasized that the program is designed to encourage property owners to take responsibility for their land. He also noted that residents who face difficulties in clearing their lots or paying the fees can seek assistance from the relief board at the Ministry of Housing and Lands. The enforcement process has been delayed to allow for the necessary administrative machinery to be put in place, but fines are expected to be issued by the end of the month. The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve public health and environmental standards in the country.

  • IRD to expand digital service for tax compliance

    IRD to expand digital service for tax compliance

    The Inland Revenue Division (IRD) under Grenada’s Ministry of Finance has announced a landmark shift in tax administration. Beginning January 1, 2026, all individuals and businesses will be required to submit and process key tax types and licenses exclusively through the GTAX platform. This mandate covers Personal Income Tax (PIT), Corporate Income Tax (CIT), Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Gaming Tax, Excise Tax, Withholding Tax, Annual Stamp Tax, and all licenses. This move is a pivotal component of Grenada’s broader digital transformation strategy, aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and convenience in tax management. The GTAX platform offers a secure, streamlined, and user-friendly interface, enabling taxpayers to view land and property details, check balances, and make payments via pay.gov.gd. While property tax assessments for 2026 will not be available on the platform, demand notices will be dispatched via post or email for registered users. The IRD urges taxpayers to register early at tax.gov.gd and acquaint themselves with the platform to ensure a seamless transition. The Ministry of Finance reaffirms its commitment to leveraging innovation and digital tools to improve public service delivery, fostering a more accessible and efficient tax environment. For assistance or further details, taxpayers are encouraged to visit ird.gd or contact the IRD directly.

  • Bottle receptacle programme at Christmas at the Point

    Bottle receptacle programme at Christmas at the Point

    In a groundbreaking move to promote environmental sustainability, the Rotary Club of Grenada has joined forces with EcoDive to introduce a unique bottle-shaped wire-frame recycling bin at Quarantine Point Recreational Park. This initiative, part of the upcoming Christmas at the Point 2025 festivities, is spearheaded by Rotarian Christine Finney and implemented through the Grenada Green Group (G3).

    The recycling receptacle, valued at EC$900 and fully sponsored by EcoDive, will be prominently displayed during the 26-night celebration from November 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Its design aims to encourage park visitors to responsibly dispose of plastic waste, highlighting the impact of plastics on Grenada’s marine and coastal ecosystems. This marks the second such installation by EcoDive, following the success of a similar bin near Umbrella’s Beach Bar earlier this year.

    Christine Finney, a long-time Rotarian and the driving force behind the project, emphasized the importance of protecting Grenada’s natural spaces. ‘Our marine and coastal environments are vital to our way of life,’ she said. ‘This initiative not only promotes responsible waste disposal but also raises awareness about the environmental challenges we face.’

    The Christmas at the Point event is already a model of sustainability, featuring 100% biodegradable packaging, energy-efficient LED lighting displays, and low-waste family activities such as s’mores stations and craft corners. Additionally, Six Senses La Sagesse will host educational workshops on soap-making from recycled cooking oil and paper recycling.

    Julia Lawrence, President of the Rotary Club of Grenada, praised the collaboration with EcoDive and G3. ‘From its inception, Christmas at the Point has aimed to be joyful, inclusive, and environmentally conscious,’ she said. ‘This partnership exemplifies the leadership and commitment to sustainability that Rotary values.’

    For more details, visit @rotarygrenada or @ecodivegrenada on Instagram and Facebook, or check the full schedule of events at https://christmas.gd/.

  • Grenada Hospitals Authority: RFP – Finance Consultant/Specialist

    Grenada Hospitals Authority: RFP – Finance Consultant/Specialist

    The Government of Grenada, through the Hospitals Statutorisation Transition Team (HSTT), has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Finance Consultant or Specialist to undertake a comprehensive review of the financing landscape for hospital services. This initiative is part of a broader effort to transition hospital management from the Ministry of Health to a new statutory health authority, aiming to enhance governance, accountability, and financial sustainability. The selected consultant will be tasked with developing a financing roadmap that includes a detailed financial baseline, a unified accounting framework, and actionable recommendations to improve financial transparency and efficiency. The project, which is expected to span three months from January to April 2026, will involve a thorough assessment of current financial systems, benchmarking against international standards, and the development of an implementation roadmap. Interested consultants must demonstrate relevant qualifications and experience, including a minimum of five years in finance or related fields, and submit their proposals by December 31, 2025. The HSTT emphasizes confidentiality and reserves the right to accept or reject any proposal without justification.

  • Onafhankelijk: 50 schrijvers over 50 jaar Srefidensi gepresenteerd

    Onafhankelijk: 50 schrijvers over 50 jaar Srefidensi gepresenteerd

    Suriname marked a significant milestone in its history with the launch of the commemorative book ‘Onafhankelijk: 50 schrijvers over 50 jaar Srefidensi’ on Saturday at Spice Quest. The event brought together writers, guests, and enthusiasts to celebrate fifty years of Surinamese independence through this literary project. The initiative, conceived in September 2023 by editor Kevin Headley and publisher Menno Hartman (Uitgeverij Van Oorschot), builds on the success of the 2022 anthology ‘Prakseri,’ which exclusively featured Surinamese authors. The positive reception of ‘Prakseri,’ which provided writers with book contracts and visibility in Surinamese and Dutch media, inspired this more ambitious follow-up. ‘Onafhankelijk’ features fifty authors reflecting on five decades of independence through stories, essays, and opinion pieces, each offering a unique perspective. Headley, alongside Sylva Koemar of Schrijversgroep ’77, curated the contributions and oversaw the production process. During the launch, Headley emphasized the importance of amplifying Surinamese voices: ‘Suriname is often talked about, but rarely with Surinamese people. This anthology gives space to our own stories, insights, and visions for the future.’ The evening included presentations by five authors—Jerry Egger, Maggie Schmeitz, Nita Ramcharan, Audry Wajwakana, and Marciano Zalman—and concluded with a poem by Stefanie Parisius. The first copy of the book was presented to Dutch Ambassador Walter Oostelbos. ‘Onafhankelijk’ is a collaborative effort by Stichting Skrifi, Uitgeverij Van Oorschot, the editorial team, the writers, and all contributors, supported by the Dutch Literary Fund and the Dutch Embassy in Suriname. The book is now available in bookstores across the Netherlands and at Atlantis Books and More in Suriname.

  • Belize City Woman Stabbed in Domestic Dispute

    Belize City Woman Stabbed in Domestic Dispute

    A violent domestic dispute in Belize City has left a woman hospitalized with multiple stab wounds. The incident occurred early Monday morning on Gibnot Street, prompting an immediate police response. According to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith, officers were alerted around 5 a.m. about an ongoing altercation at a residence. Upon arrival, a male occupant informed the police that his common-law wife was in a room within the house. Officers discovered the woman suffering from severe knife injuries and in a semi-conscious state. She was promptly transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where she is now reported to be in stable condition. Police have detained a male individual in connection with the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.