KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Integrity Commission of Jamaica has taken a significant step forward in its mission to uphold integrity and transparency within the public sector. On Wednesday, a formal swearing-in ceremony at King’s House marked the official appointment of three distinguished directors to the commission’s leadership team. Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presided over the event, endorsing the selection of Craig Beresford as executive director, Roneiph Lawrence as director of corruption prosecution, and Joeth Jones as director of information and complaints. The commission emphasized that these appointments reflect a strategic move to enhance its operational capacity and reinforce its commitment to combating corruption. In a statement released on the same day, the commission highlighted the new directors’ extensive experience and unwavering dedication to their roles. Their leadership is anticipated to bolster the commission’s efforts in safeguarding public interests, addressing unethical practices, and fostering accountability in public life. The commission reiterated its guiding principle: ‘Integrity is the quiet force that compels us to do what is right — even when it is inconvenient, unpopular, or unseen.’ This development underscores Jamaica’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and promote ethical standards across its institutions.
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Works halted at Diego Martin Sporting Complex pending review
The Diego Martin Sporting Complex project has been temporarily halted as it undergoes a comprehensive review, according to Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts. Speaking during the Standing Finance Committee in Parliament on October 21, Watts revealed that no funding has been allocated for the complex in the 2025/2026 fiscal year, which has earmarked $290,652,400 for the ministry. The decision to pause funding was driven by the need for expert assessment to determine the next steps for the facility. When questioned by Diego Martin West MP Hans De Vignes about the previously allocated $5 million for refurbishment, Watts clarified that the project, like others such as Chatham, is under review, and no timeline for completion has been set. Meanwhile, the ministry continues to focus on other infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the Sevilla tennis courts and Dubisson Park in Ste Madeleine. At Sevilla, improvements include refurbishment of the tennis courts and upgrades to the air-conditioning system. In Ste Madeleine, ongoing work on the outfield and pavilion is part of broader plans for a clubhouse, tennis courts, swimming pool, car park, access road, and perimeter fencing. However, progress at Dubisson Park has been slower than expected, with the contractor exceeding the scheduled completion time. Watts emphasized that the ministry is working to resolve these delays. In Port of Spain, the Basilon Street Youth Facility remains closed due to security issues and incomplete work by the contractor, including the theft of computers. Watts stated that the ministry will not take possession of the facility until these issues are resolved. Additionally, Watts confirmed that there are no active projects planned for Tunapuna and Tacarigua, and completion works at the Eddie Hart Grounds are not on the agenda. On a positive note, Watts addressed the delayed payments to TT’s standout athletes from the 2025 World Athletics Championships, javelin gold medallist Keshorn Walcott and 400m silver medallist Jereem Richards, assuring that the process to disburse their rewards is underway.
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Mohit: UNC working for the people
In a recent address to the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives on October 21, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services Vandana Mohit emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the nation’s most vulnerable populations. Mohit underscored that every policy, program, and financial allocation is meticulously designed to empower and transform lives, particularly those of the poor, elderly, disabled, women, children, and families in crisis. Despite facing significant fiscal constraints, the ministry has remained steadfast in its focus on impactful expenditure rather than mere cost-cutting. In the previous fiscal year, the government invested over $4.5 billion in senior citizens’ grants, $267 million in public assistance, $79 million in disability grants, and $10 million in relief through the National Social Development Programme. Mohit highlighted that these efforts ensure no citizen is overlooked or unsupported. Looking ahead, the government plans to strengthen the social protection ecosystem by reviewing the standard means test to promote fairness and inclusion, modernizing delivery systems for greater efficiency, and enhancing collaboration with agencies like the Children’s Authority. The committee subsequently approved a budgetary allocation of $6,012,215,208 for the ministry. During the session, Mohit faced scrutiny from PNM MPs regarding the continuation of certain projects initiated under the previous administration. She assured that the government is actively considering these issues, while also addressing concerns about funding discrepancies for NGOs and the allocation of resources for women and children.
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US says two dead in strike on alleged drug-smuggling boat in Pacific
In a significant escalation of its anti-drug operations, the United States conducted a military strike on an alleged drug-smuggling vessel in the eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the operation on Wednesday, marking the first such attack on a boat in the Pacific Ocean. The strike, which was carried out in international waters, brings the total number of similar operations to at least eight, with a death toll of at least 34. Hegseth described the targets as ‘narco-terrorists’ and emphasized that no US forces were harmed during the mission. The Trump administration has framed these actions as part of an ‘armed conflict’ with Latin American drug cartels, which it has designated as terrorist organizations. However, critics argue that the US has not provided concrete evidence to substantiate its claims, and legal experts contend that such summary killings are unlawful. The campaign has heightened tensions with regional allies, particularly Venezuela and Colombia, where US military presence has raised concerns about broader geopolitical motives. Colombia recently recalled its ambassador to the US following a public feud between President Gustavo Petro and Donald Trump over the latter’s aggressive anti-drug strategies. Despite these tensions, both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to combating drug trafficking.
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JPS activates emergency operations ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Tropical Storm Melissa looms over Jamaica, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has initiated its emergency operations plan to ensure a rapid and coordinated response to potential damage to the island’s power infrastructure. The company is emphasizing the importance of safety and urging residents to take necessary precautions before, during, and after the storm.
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Courts islandwide close early due to Tropical Storm Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In anticipation of Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaican courts shut down early at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, October 22. The Court Administration Division (CAD) announced the decision in a public statement, emphasizing the need for staff to prepare both personally and professionally for the impending weather event. The CAD also confirmed that all court matters scheduled for Thursday, October 23, would be postponed and rescheduled, with parties notified accordingly. Similarly, cases set for Friday, October 24, will be reassigned to new dates, and stakeholders will be informed promptly. The CAD plans to issue an update at 7:00 pm on Wednesday to provide further guidance as the situation develops.
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Grande Riviere centre now solar powered
The Grande Riviere Visitor Centre, a cornerstone of the eco-tourism village in Trinidad and Tobago, has achieved a significant milestone in sustainability. Known for its chocolate factory, guided tours, and turtle hatchery, the centre has transitioned into a self-sustaining hub powered by renewable energy. This transformation was made possible through the Extraordinary Projects Impacting Communities (EPIC) grant programme, which provided $150,000 in funding for the installation of a Mango Power solar system. Completed in July, the system has drastically reduced the centre’s electricity costs, which previously averaged $4,000 per bill. Len Peters, president of the Grande Riviere Tourism Development Organisation (GRTDO), highlighted the initiative’s transformative impact on the remote north coast village. ‘We can now better withstand power outages and reduce the costs and disruptions that come with blackouts,’ Peters stated. ‘The future of our community-driven sustainable projects has been given a boost with the installation of the Mango Power solar system.’ The project, titled ‘Solar Solutions for Tomorrow,’ was one of ten EPIC initiatives funded in 2024 by the Digicel Foundation and Shell TT, reflecting their joint commitment to clean energy and community resilience. Cindyann Currency, head of operations at Digicel Foundation, praised the initiative for its forward-thinking approach. ‘This ‘up-river project’ tackles key challenges in a sustainable, climate-friendly way, empowering residents to continue shaping their community into the change they want to see,’ she said. Since its launch in 2016, the EPIC programme has funded 160 projects nationwide, totaling an $8.8 million investment in community empowerment. Shell TT, which became a co-funding partner in 2023, recently extended its support for another three years with a $1.9 million investment, reaffirming its dedication to environmental sustainability across Trinidad and Tobago.
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Principle says Grammys should do more for Jamaican music
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Grammy Awards’ best reggae album category has long been a topic of heated debate on social media, with fans and artists alike voicing their opinions on nominations and winners. Recording artist Principle has now joined the conversation, advocating for the inclusion of additional categories that specifically highlight Jamaican music.
In an interview with Observer Online, Principle emphasized the need for fairness and recognition in the nomination process. ‘There’s always controversy about who should win or shouldn’t have won. I hope that one day, principle will prevail, and the most deserving projects will be acknowledged,’ he stated.
Principle also proposed expanding the reggae music categories to include awards such as ‘Best New Reggae Artiste’ and a separate ‘Best Dancehall Album’ category. ‘Some people have been calling for a distinction between dancehall and reggae. It’s time to recognize the diversity within our music,’ he added.
The artist, whose real name is Germaine Bernard, recently released his latest single, ‘Jamaica Nice,’ on October 13. Produced by Bertram Burgher of King Shiloh Sound and written by Nicholas Sylvester, the song aims to showcase Jamaica’s cultural richness to the world. ‘We’re working hard to promote this track, and a music video is currently in production,’ Principle shared.
Earlier this year, Principle gained significant attention with his song ‘Visa,’ which he considers his breakthrough. ‘That song opened many doors for me, including media interviews and performance opportunities,’ he reflected. Originally known as Chucky Wonder, Principle hails from Constitution Hill in Red Hills and continues to make strides in the reggae and dancehall scenes.
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Uplift mourns death of sister
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Recording artist Uplift is grappling with profound grief following the unexpected death of his sister, Judy Austin, last month. Judy, who had been a pillar of support and inspiration in his musical career, passed away after falling ill at work. Her sudden demise has left Uplift and his family in shock, as she was believed to be in excellent health.
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Assembly of Southern Lawyers president’s office firebombed – again
In a disturbing escalation of violence, the law office of Saira Lakhan, President of the Assembly of Southern Lawyers (ASL), was firebombed for the second time in less than a month. The latest attack occurred in the early hours of October 22 at the Magnus Law Office on Lewis Street, San Fernando. The perpetrator breached the perimeter fence, placing Molotov cocktails at the front door and near an external electrical panel. Although the flames extinguished on their own, the incident left parts of the antique door and wooden flooring damaged. Lakhan, a seasoned attorney with 15 years of practice, expressed deep concern for her safety and that of her staff, all of whom are women. She revealed that she feels constantly watched and fears a potential daytime attack if the situation remains unchecked. Despite the trauma, Lakhan remains resolute, vowing to continue her legal work and rely on the justice system for protection. Fellow attorneys Prakash Ramadhar and Gobin Harrypersad, who were present at the scene, condemned the attacks as a grave threat to the rule of law. Ramadhar emphasized the severity of arson under Trinidad and Tobago law, which carries a potential life sentence, and called for swift justice to deter future crimes. Harrypersad warned that those orchestrating the attacks would not escape accountability, even if they employed others to carry out their plans. San Fernando police are actively investigating the incidents, but no arrests have been made yet.