Carib Scope

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  • VAT to be axed on all groceries

    VAT to be axed on all groceries

    In a significant policy shift aimed at alleviating economic pressures on citizens, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis declared the complete removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on all food products sold in grocery stores during a national address on Monday evening. The sweeping tax exemption, effective April 1, will apply to fresh produce, infant nutrition products, frozen goods, and packaged food items, though prepared hot meals remain subject to taxation.

    This landmark decision represents the culmination of a series of VAT reductions implemented by the Davis administration since assuming power in 2021. The government initially reversed a 2018 tax hike by lowering the standard VAT rate from 12% to 10%, followed by a reduction of food-specific VAT from 10% to 5% last year before this complete elimination.

    Prime Davis framed the tax relief within broader affordability initiatives, citing persistently high costs of living including food prices, electricity expenses, and housing burdens. The VAT elimination forms part of a comprehensive strategy that includes energy sector reforms, expansion of domestic agricultural production, and revised trade agreements designed to lower import expenses.

    Concurrently, the government announced expanded property tax concessions, extending residential exemptions to owner-occupied duplex and triplex properties. Additional measures include enhanced concessions for first-time homebuyers, representing the administration’s concerted effort to reduce housing costs and promote asset ownership among citizens.

    Reflecting on economic challenges, Davis criticized the 2018 VAT increase as ill-timed ahead of Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic, which collectively constrained consumer spending. His administration’s approach has emphasized targeted fiscal relief while maintaining financial stability, evidenced by improved credit ratings, removal from international financial blacklists, and over $10 billion in private sector investments since 2021.

    The address also highlighted previous cost-of-living measures including reduced customs duties on select food imports and the School Breakfast Programme, which has provided more than 1.4 million meals to students.

  • Families of murdered taxi driver and mechanic believe both men were lured to their deaths

    Families of murdered taxi driver and mechanic believe both men were lured to their deaths

    The Bahamas has been shaken by its first two homicides of the new year, resulting in the tragic deaths of two fathers during the holiday weekend. The victims, identified as 51-year-old taxi driver Rockling Boodle and 35-year-old mechanic Ricardo Jean, were killed in separate incidents that their grieving families believe were deliberate ambushes.

    Mr. Boodle, originally from Abaco, was discovered fatally stabbed at a motel off East Street South on Friday. His family had reported him missing after he failed to return home Thursday evening, contrary to his usual patterns. Meanwhile, Mr. Jean was shot and killed outside his Adelaide residence on Sunday under circumstances suggesting a planned attack. Preliminary investigations indicate both victims may have known their assailants.

    The personal tragedies extend beyond the immediate violence, as both men were anticipating significant life milestones. Jean had been planning a spring wedding following the recent birth of his son, while Boodle was preparing to celebrate his 30th wedding anniversary and an upcoming trip to Cuba with his son.

    Tashana Jean, the sister of Ricardo Jean, provided disturbing details suggesting premeditation. Security footage reportedly shows three individuals outside the family home, with one allegedly luring Jean outside while another lay concealed in nearby vegetation. The family suspects jealousy as a potential motive, noting that one of the alleged perpetrators had previous acquaintance with the victim.

    The emotional impact has been devastating for both families. Jean’s family, still recovering from multiple previous losses to violence, described him as a reformed individual who had overcome past challenges. Boodle’s family, who relocated to New Providence after Hurricane Dorian, expressed frustration with initial police response and are demanding justice for their father, remembered as a peaceful man who brought joy to others.

    Local authorities have not disclosed any arrests or suspects in custody regarding either investigation, leaving families awaiting answers while confronting unimaginable loss.

  • United States withdrawal from WHO makes US, world ‘unsafe’—WHO chief

    United States withdrawal from WHO makes US, world ‘unsafe’—WHO chief

    GENEVA—The Director-General of the World Health Organization issued a grave warning on Tuesday regarding the imminent U.S. departure from the UN health agency, characterizing the move as detrimental to both American and global health security. The caution came as the one-year withdrawal process, initiated by former President Donald Trump’s executive order on January 20, 2025, approaches its finalization.

    WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed profound regret during a press briefing from the agency’s Geneva headquarters, stating that the withdrawal represents a significant loss for international public health cooperation. ‘This decision compromises safety not only within the United States but across the globe,’ Tedros emphasized. ‘It ultimately represents an ill-advised course of action.’

    The WHO leader highlighted the critical benefits that the United States derives from its participation in the organization, particularly regarding health security initiatives. ‘There are numerous WHO-coordinated activities that substantially benefit the U.S., especially in the realm of health security preparedness,’ Tedros noted. ‘This is precisely why I maintain that American safety cannot be guaranteed without collaborative engagement with WHO.’

    Legal complexities surrounding the withdrawal process emerged during the briefing. WHO Chief Legal Officer Steve Solomon clarified that while the organization’s constitution lacks explicit withdrawal provisions, the United States had established specific conditions for departure in 1948. These conditions include providing one year’s advance notice and fulfilling all financial obligations for the current fiscal year.

    Solomon revealed that the United States currently maintains outstanding payments for both 2024 and 2025, though specific figures were not disclosed. This financial delinquency raises questions about whether the technical conditions for withdrawal have been satisfactorily met, a determination that ultimately rests with WHO member states.

    The timing of the American exit proves particularly challenging as international health aid budgets face substantial reductions worldwide. Tedros acknowledged that ‘adequate funding remains crucial for our organization’s operational capacity,’ but stressed that the appeal for U.S. reconsideration ‘transcends financial considerations.’

    The Director-General concluded with a powerful message about global health solidarity: ‘What truly matters is our collective cooperation and worldwide preparedness against common threats such as viral pathogens. In facing adversaries like COVID-19, our strongest defense remains unity. The most effective immunity is indeed solidarity.’

  • Solar technician electrocuted in Santa Cruz

    Solar technician electrocuted in Santa Cruz

    A tragic workplace incident in Santa Cruz has claimed the life of a seasoned solar technician, casting a shadow over Jamaica’s growing renewable energy sector. Steve White, a 54-year-old electrician from Old Porus in Manchester, was fatally electrocuted on Monday evening while installing solar panels atop a commercial plaza located on Main Street.

    According to preliminary investigative reports compiled by local law enforcement, the accident occurred at approximately 7:00 PM. White was actively engaged in the installation process when a sudden electrical discharge occurred. Colleagues present at the scene reported witnessing a bright flash of light followed by White’s cry indicating he had received a severe shock.

    Despite initially assuring his coworkers that he was uninjured and walking away from the immediate site, White collapsed mere moments later. Emergency services were promptly alerted and transported the technician to Mandeville Regional Hospital. Medical personnel pronounced him dead upon arrival, despite attempts to administer life-saving treatment.

    The Jamaica Constabulary Force has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal electrocution. Industry experts note that such incidents highlight the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in the rapidly expanding solar installation field, particularly when working with high-voltage systems. This event marks another sobering reminder of the occupational hazards faced by technicians in the renewable energy sector.

  • Epstein probe summons Clintons as US Congress warns of contempt

    Epstein probe summons Clintons as US Congress warns of contempt

    WASHINGTON—The U.S. Congressional investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein scandal enters a critical phase this week as former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton face court-ordered depositions before the House Oversight Committee. The high-profile testimonies, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday respectively, mark a significant escalation in the Republican-led probe examining connections between powerful figures and the convicted sex offender.

    The committee’s chairman, Representative James Comer, has issued stern warnings about potential contempt charges should the Clintons fail to comply with the subpoenas. In an official statement, Comer emphasized that ‘the former president and former secretary of state have delayed, obstructed and largely ignored the committee staff’s efforts to schedule their testimony’ over the past four months.

    This development coincides with mounting pressure on the Trump administration regarding transparency in the Epstein case. The Justice Department recently faced criticism for releasing merely one percent of relevant case documents nearly a month past the legal deadline, angering many supporters of former President Trump who believe Epstein was murdered to conceal involvement of powerful elites.

    The bipartisan investigation, unanimously approved last year, seeks testimony from current and former officials regarding Epstein’s network and how information about his crimes was handled. While the Clintons were initially scheduled to testify in October, dates were postponed during negotiations with their legal representatives.

    Bill Clinton’s spokesman contends that proposed terms mirror those accepted for other witnesses, accusing Comer of unexplained targeting. Hillary Clinton’s office questions the relevance of her testimony, noting the committee has yet to establish why her deposition is necessary.

    Epstein, who associated with numerous high-profile figures including Trump before his conviction for sex crimes and subsequent death in custody, has become the subject of extensive conspiracy theories. His jailhouse death—officially ruled suicide—has fueled suspicions among Trump supporters about an international pedophile ring and alleged cover-up.

    Notably, no evidence has emerged implicating either Clinton in criminal conduct related to Epstein. The former president maintains he was unaware of Epstein’s crimes and severed ties over a decade before his arrest. Clinton’s office has advocated for full disclosure of all remaining case files.

    The potential consequences for defying Congressional subpoenas have gained renewed significance following recent prosecutions. Two allies of former President Trump received jail sentences for refusing subpoenas in the January 6 Capitol attack investigation, demonstrating that Congressional defiance can carry substantial legal repercussions. Criminal contempt of Congress constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year imprisonment and $100,000 fines, though prosecutions depend on Justice Department cooperation.

  • WHO says sugary drinks, alcohol getting cheaper, should be taxed more

    WHO says sugary drinks, alcohol getting cheaper, should be taxed more

    GENEVA, Switzerland — The World Health Organization issued a compelling call to action on Tuesday, urging nations worldwide to implement significant tax increases on sugary beverages and alcoholic products. This strategic move aims to curb consumption patterns linked to escalating global health crises while generating crucial funding for overburdened healthcare systems.

    The UN health agency presented comprehensive data revealing that persistently low taxation structures have inadvertently made these harmful products increasingly affordable relative to other goods. This pricing dynamic, according to WHO experts, actively contributes to the rising prevalence of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and various cancers across populations.

    WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the transformative potential of health-focused taxation, stating, “Fiscal policies represent among the most powerful instruments available to governments for promoting population health and preventing disease. By strategically increasing levies on tobacco, sugar-sweetened beverages, and alcohol, nations can simultaneously reduce harmful consumption and secure essential resources for critical health services.”

    The organization released parallel global reports examining current taxation frameworks for both alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages. The findings revealed that while 116 countries currently impose some form of tax on sugary drinks, numerous high-sugar products—including fruit juices, sweetened milk beverages, and ready-to-drink coffee and tea—frequently escape taxation entirely.

    Regarding alcoholic beverages, the analysis demonstrated concerning trends: beer became more affordable in 56 countries between 2022 and 2024, while wine received excise tax exemptions in at least 25 nations, predominantly within European markets.

    Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care, drew parallels with successful tobacco taxation models: “The evidence regarding tobacco taxation’s effectiveness in reducing consumption is unequivocal. We must apply the same principled approach to sugary beverages—using fiscal policy as a behavioral intervention while strengthening prevention capabilities, particularly in nations grappling with the rapid rise of non-communicable diseases.”

    The WHO initiative forms part of its broader “3 by 35” campaign, which seeks to substantially increase prices for tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by 2035 through strategic taxation redesign. The agency acknowledges implementation challenges, noting that such measures often face strong opposition from well-funded industry groups with significant financial interests at stake.

    Despite political hurdles, the WHO points to successful implementations in the Philippines, Britain, and Lithuania as evidence that well-designed health taxes can achieve both public health improvements and sustainable healthcare financing when implemented effectively.

  • Police probe officer over alleged bribe solicitation

    Police probe officer over alleged bribe solicitation

    The Royal Bahamas Police Force has initiated a formal investigation following the emergence of a viral TikTok video that allegedly depicts a police officer attempting to solicit a bribe from a tourist during a traffic stop. The three-minute footage, which surfaced on Sunday and rapidly gained widespread attention, shows officers conducting a roadside checkpoint near St Matthew’s Anglican Church on Shirley Street.

    In the controversial clip, an officer identified by badge number 4438 is seen interacting with a tourist from Miami who was riding a rented scooter. The officer claims the vehicle was damaged and suggests providing a ‘break’ from receiving a formal ticket. The footage captures the officer proposing an alternative arrangement, explicitly stating, ‘It can’t be obvious. Too much people around,’ while directing the tourist to move out of view of other personnel.

    The video’s poster, who recorded the entire encounter, captioned the footage with a warning to other tourists about potential misconduct. The individual later confirmed on TikTok that no money was ultimately exchanged, writing: ‘Officer didn’t get one penny outta me. I’ll play stupid and run circles around you.’

    Public reaction has been overwhelmingly critical, with many Bahamians expressing outrage at what they perceive as brazen corruption within the police force. In an official response, the Royal Bahamas Police Force stated that any alleged conduct captured in the video does not reflect their standards of professionalism. The investigation remains ongoing, with no confirmation yet regarding potential suspensions of involved officers.

  • ‘We choose Denmark,’ says Greenland ahead of White House talks

    ‘We choose Denmark,’ says Greenland ahead of White House talks

    COPENHAGEN, Denmark – Greenland’s leadership has unequivocally rejected potential US acquisition or annexation of the autonomous territory, declaring its preference to maintain its current relationship with Denmark. The statement from Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen comes ahead of critical White House discussions regarding the strategic Arctic island’s future.

    “We are currently navigating a geopolitical crisis,” Nielsen stated during a joint press conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. “If compelled to choose between the United States and Denmark at this moment, we unequivocally choose Denmark. Greenland has no desire to be owned, governed, or incorporated by the United States.”

    The diplomatic tension follows years of expressed interest from former President Donald Trump regarding US acquisition of Greenland, with recent comments suggesting the territory might be taken “one way or the other.” Danish leader Frederiksen characterized the American pressure as “completely unacceptable,” particularly coming from one of Denmark’s closest allies.

    High-level negotiations are scheduled for Wednesday between Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, US Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The meeting, hosted at the White House at Vance’s invitation, aims to address what both Nordic governments describe as “misunderstandings” regarding Greenland’s status and Arctic security.

    The tensions were exacerbated by Vance’s uninvited visit to Greenland in March, during which he criticized Denmark’s commitment to Arctic security and labeled the country a “bad ally” – comments that provoked outrage in Copenhagen given Denmark’s longstanding trans-Atlantic partnership and military cooperation.

    Geopolitical analysts note that Greenland’s strategic significance stems from its position along the shortest missile trajectory between Russia and the United States, making it crucial to US missile defense systems. Washington has expressed concerns about growing Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic, though experts suggest Beijing’s presence remains limited.

    Denmark has countered US criticisms by highlighting its substantial investment of nearly 90 billion kroner ($14 billion) to strengthen military capabilities in the Arctic region. Prime Minister Frederiksen has called for enhanced cooperation with both the US and NATO to improve regional security, including potential NATO protection for Greenland.

    The ongoing discussions about Greenland’s future relationship with Denmark have sometimes been misinterpreted, according to Greenland specialist Mikaela Engell. “To uninformed American listeners, independence talks might be construed as imminent secession,” Engell noted, emphasizing that these discussions have been ongoing for years without indicating immediate separation.

    Further high-level meetings are planned, with Greenland’s foreign minister and Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen scheduled to meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on January 19th to discuss increased military presence in Greenland involving both Danish forces and international partners.

  • Antigua security chiefs pledge country will not be a transit corridor for drugs

    Antigua security chiefs pledge country will not be a transit corridor for drugs

    ST JOHN’S, Antigua – In a powerful display of unity, the senior leadership of Antigua and Barbuda’s national security apparatus has issued a joint declaration of their continued resolve to combat narcotics trafficking and prevent the twin-island nation from being used as a transit point for illegal drugs.

    The comprehensive statement, representing the unified voice of the Royal Police Force, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP), and the Immigration Department, contained a stern warning to criminal elements. The agencies emphatically stated, “We will not provide shelter for those who profit from it. We remain vigilant at sea, resolute in investigation, firm in enforcement and committed to cooperation with trusted partners—guided always by the law and the national interest.”

    Beyond reinforcing their operational posture, the security chiefs issued a direct appeal to citizens, urging the population to remain alert and to proactively report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities. This call for public cooperation underscores a strategy that blends robust enforcement with community engagement.

    The leadership further emphasized the nation’s active collaboration with regional and international partners to counter evolving transnational threats. The public was assured that all border control agencies and the defence force remain “fully engaged and vigilant to protect the nation, preserve the integrity of its financial and border systems and contribute responsibly to regional and international security.”

    Reaffirming its strategic commitments, the statement outlined Antigua and Barbuda’s firm dedication to safeguarding national and regional security through sustained action against a spectrum of crimes, including drug trafficking, money laundering, firearms trafficking, and organised crime. The agencies also highlighted their increased focus on emerging threats in the domains of cybercrime and irregular migration.

    The joint communication addressed the wider regional context, acknowledging that recent counter-narcotics initiatives by the United States have triggered media allegations concerning the potential corruption of Caribbean governments and leaders by narco-traffickers. In contrast to these reports, the statement presented the nation’s most recent national threat analysis, which continues to classify Antigua and Barbuda as a “low-risk jurisdiction.” This favorable classification was attributed to the country’s strong legal and regulatory framework, effective financial oversight, a comparatively low crime rate, and its active and meaningful international cooperation.

  • Morris congratulates TPP, requests recount

    Morris congratulates TPP, requests recount

    In an unprecedented political development, the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has achieved a monumental victory by capturing all 15 seats in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election held on January 12. The landslide win represents a dramatic shift in the island’s political dynamics and marks a historic moment in Tobago’s governance history.

    Former THA minority leader Kelvon Morris, who previously secured the Darrel Spring/Whim constituency in the December 2021 election, extended his congratulations to TPP political leader Farley Augustine despite losing his seat in the electoral sweep. Morris specifically acknowledged his successful TPP opponent Ricky Joefield while indicating his intention to request a recount due to the narrow margin of defeat in his electoral district.

    Emphasizing the normalcy of such procedures in closely contested races, Morris stated that this step would ensure clarity and confidence in the electoral process. He simultaneously recognized the unequivocal nature of the preliminary results across Tobago, applauding all 15 TPP candidates for their decisive victory.

    The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) confirmed on January 13 that the Progressive National Movement (PNM) had formally requested recounts in both the Darrel Spring/Whim and Scarborough/Mt Grace districts, with proceedings scheduled to commence at 3 pm that same day.

    In a reflective statement, Morris expressed gratitude toward his campaign team, volunteers, family, and supporters for their dedication throughout the election period. He specifically thanked constituents for the opportunity to serve and emphasized the importance of continued civic engagement in strengthening democratic institutions.

    Looking toward Tobago’s future under TPP leadership, Morris articulated hopes that campaign commitments would be honored and that the new administration would govern with humility and integrity. He stressed the importance of delivering meaningful progress and opportunities for all Tobagonians while affirming his ongoing commitment to public service regardless of electoral outcomes.