Carib Scope

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  • PM: Government looks forward to cooperation, engagement with THA

    PM: Government looks forward to cooperation, engagement with THA

    In a landmark political development, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has extended congratulations to the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) for achieving an unprecedented electoral victory, securing all 15 seats in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. The Prime Minister expressed optimism about establishing a productive collaborative framework between the national government and Tobago’s leadership.

    The comprehensive triumph of the TPP, led by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, represents an extraordinary political mandate that Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar characterized as demonstrating profound confidence in the party’s vision for Tobago’s future. In her official statement issued January 13, she emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering “continued cooperation and constructive engagement” with the THA to advance Tobago’s social, economic, and institutional development.

    Despite the absence of a formal coalition agreement, the TPP’s two Members of Parliament currently occupy seating alongside government backbenchers from the United National Congress (UNC) in the House of Representatives—a traditionally symbolic arrangement indicating cooperation.

    The Prime Minister’s statement notably highlighted the peaceful conclusion of the electoral process and the clear mandate delivered by Tobagonian voters. This development follows Persad-Bissessar’s November address to the THA in Scarborough, where she extensively discussed Tobago’s status as an equal partner with Trinidad and acknowledged the island’s longstanding pursuit of greater autonomy and resource allocation.

    However, the relationship has experienced moments of divergence, particularly regarding national security matters. Last November revealed tensions concerning the installation of a advanced US military radar system at the ANR Robinson International Airport without prior consultation with Tobago’s leadership. The G/ATOR system, manufactured by Northrop Grumman, represents sophisticated surveillance technology designed to detect various aerial threats including drones, cruise missiles, and artillery.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar clarified that Chief Secretary Augustine’s exclusion from National Security Council membership resulted in the communication gap regarding the temporary radar installation. She emphasized the defensive nature of the equipment, stating it would enhance surveillance capabilities against narco-trafficking operations in regional waters. The US military presence forms part of broader regional security deployments in the southern Caribbean that have received the Prime Minister’s full endorsement.

  • PNM requests two recounts

    PNM requests two recounts

    In the wake of a stunning electoral defeat, the People’s National Movement (PNM) has formally requested vote recounts in two Tobago electoral districts following the Tobago People’s Party’s (TPP) unprecedented 15-0 sweep in the January 12 Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections.

    The Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) confirmed on January 13 that the PNM submitted official requests for recounts in both Darrel Spring/Whim and Scarborough/Mt Grace districts, with both recounts scheduled to commence at 3 pm on the announcement date.

    Preliminary results revealed a decisive victory for the TPP, which secured 16,240 votes compared to the PNM’s 10,456. Minor parties received negligible support, with the IDA gathering 181 votes and the UTP merely eight votes. The election recorded 26,885 valid votes with 104 ballots rejected.

    Kelvon Morris, PNM candidate for Darrel Spring/Whim and former THA minority leader, indicated via Facebook that he would pursue a recount due to the narrow margin of victory in his district. This district held particular significance as it was the only constituency the PNM had won in the previous December 21 THA election, which resulted in a 14-1 victory for the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).

    The political landscape in Tobago has undergone significant transformation since the 2021 elections. THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, originally elected under the PDP banner, severed ties with the party in 2022 following political disagreements with leader Watson Duke. In August 2023, thirteen THA members who had been elected under the PDP resigned en masse to establish the TPP. Notably, Duke recently expressed the PDP’s endorsement of the TPP during the January 12 election campaign.

  • JCF announces leadership changes

    JCF announces leadership changes

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant organizational restructuring, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) high command has executed comprehensive reassignments affecting numerous senior officers across multiple divisions and specialized units. The strategic realignment involves several Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Superintendents, marking one of the most substantial command changes in recent times.

    Under the new deployment structure, ACP Christopher Phillips, previously Commander of the Area Five Division, has been transferred to lead the Area Three Division. His former position will be filled by ACP Howard Chambers, who relinquishes his role overseeing specialized operations. Simultaneously, ACP Calvin Allen, the outgoing Area Three Division commander, assumes responsibility for specialized operations.

    Further changes see ACP Gary McKenzie transitioning from his leadership role at the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) to take charge of the strategic operations portfolio. Superintendent Micheal Campbell, formerly Commanding Officer for the St Thomas Division, will now head the PSTEB.

    The reshuffle extends to divisional leadership with Superintendent Rohan Ritchie, previously in command of the Kingston Central Division, taking over the St Thomas Division. Superintendent Mishka Forbes moves from strategic operations to assume control of the Kingston Central Division.

    Additionally, the reorganization affects sixteen Deputy Superintendents and one Assistant Superintendent, who have been transferred to various sections and formations within the force. These strategic reassignments are scheduled to take effect on January 21, representing a comprehensive repositioning of leadership assets within Jamaica’s law enforcement infrastructure.

  • JC impress with dominant display at season’s first track meet

    JC impress with dominant display at season’s first track meet

    Jamaica College’s track and field squad has emphatically opened their season with a commanding performance at the Purewater/R. Danny Williams/JC Meet, delivering a strong statement about their championship aspirations. Competing at Ashenheim Stadium in St. Andrew over the weekend, the Dark Blues showcased exceptional depth and talent across multiple events, signaling their determination to reclaim the boys’ athletics title in April.

    Head coach Duane Johnson expressed considerable satisfaction with his team’s balanced and powerful showing, describing the performances as ‘fantastic all around.’ The team demonstrated remarkable improvement from last year’s third-place finish, with standout achievements including record-breaking throws and jumps. Michael-Andre Edwards emerged as a double winner in Class One long jump (7.20m) and triple jump (15.58m), while Joseph Salmon set a new discus record with a throw of 66.32m.

    The squad’s enhanced coaching staff, now featuring former Calabar sprint specialist Corey Bennett and ex-world 400m champion Bertland Cameron from St. Jago High, appears to be making an immediate impact. The team displayed particular strength in middle distance events, with Samuel Creary winning the Class One 800m (1:52.56) and Rickardo Lee delivering an upset victory over Kingston College’s Julius Itubo in the Class Three 800m (2:02.94).

    Additional event victories came from Nasir D’Aguilar (Class Two discus), Isaac Reid (pole vault), Tariq Creary (Class Three 400m), Kai Kelly (Class Two 100m), and Jaidi James (high jump). Despite the impressive start, Johnson maintains a measured perspective, noting that with two months remaining until the championship meet, the team will continue refining their performance to peak at the right moment.

  • Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Costa Rica says plot to assassinate president uncovered

    Authorities in Costa Rica have announced the disruption of a serious threat against President Rodrigo Chaves just prior to the nation’s upcoming electoral process. Intelligence officials revealed on Tuesday that a credible assassination scheme was in development, allegedly involving a paid contract killer targeting the head of state.

    The security breach emerges during a highly sensitive period, with presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled within a fortnight. President Chaves, constitutionally prohibited from consecutive reelection, has endorsed former cabinet member Laura Fernandez as his preferred successor.

    This security alert coincides with diplomatic controversy surrounding President Chaves’s invitation to El Salvador’s leader Nayib Bukele. The Salvadoran president is expected in Costa Rica to participate in the inauguration of a new maximum-security prison facility inspired by his country’s controversial CECOT complex.

    Opposition factions have expressed apprehension regarding potential external influence in the electoral process, particularly criticizing Bukele’s involvement. The Salvadoran leader’s crackdown on gang violence has resulted in the detention of thousands without formal charges, drawing international scrutiny over human rights considerations.

  • Penny: PNM has work to do

    Penny: PNM has work to do

    In the wake of a decisive electoral outcome, Tobago’s political landscape has undergone a significant transformation. The Tobago House of Assembly elections held on January 12 resulted in an unprecedented 15-0 victory for the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), leaving the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) without representation.

    Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles issued a comprehensive statement on January 13 acknowledging the electoral outcome while outlining the party’s path forward. Beckles extended formal congratulations to TPP leader Farley Augustine, who will continue serving as THA Chief Secretary following his party’s clean sweep of all electoral districts.

    The political leader highlighted several critical factors influencing the election results, particularly noting the notably low voter turnout which she interpreted as indicative of public contentment with the status quo. This observation suggests a population generally satisfied with current governance rather than disengaged from the political process.

    Beckles emphasized the PNM’s commitment to thorough introspection and organizational rebuilding. ‘The PNM understands the necessity of reflection as we work toward rebuilding our party and regaining the trust and confidence of the people,’ she stated, acknowledging the need for substantive changes within the party structure.

    The opposition leader expressed gratitude to all fifteen PNM candidates who contested the election, including PNM Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis who has indicated his intention to resign from leadership following the defeat. Beckles specifically commended Dennis for his ‘service, leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to the people of Tobago and the PNM.’

    Looking toward the future, Beckles extended best wishes to the incoming THA members, recognizing that their success would directly impact Tobago’s developmental progress. She reaffirmed the PNM’s ongoing dedication to ‘constructive engagement, national unity, and the pursuit of a stronger and more united Trinidad and Tobago,’ while promising the party would ‘regroup and return stronger and better ready to serve the people.’

  • Former Refugee Camp rapper John Forté dies at 50

    Former Refugee Camp rapper John Forté dies at 50

    The music industry mourns the unexpected passing of acclaimed rapper and producer John Forté, who died at his Martha’s Vineyard residence on Monday at age 50. The Grammy-nominated artist, recognized for his pivotal role in the Refugee Camp All-Stars collective and his production contributions to the Fugees’ landmark album “The Score,” leaves behind a complex legacy spanning musical innovation and personal redemption.

    Forté’s career trajectory embodied both extraordinary artistic achievement and profound personal challenges. His production work on the Fugees’ multi-platinum 1996 album earned him a Grammy nomination and established his reputation as a formidable creative force within the hip-hop community. The album, celebrated for blending soulful melodies with socially conscious lyrics, remains a touchstone of 1990s musical innovation.

    The artist’s journey took a dramatic turn in the early 2000s when he faced federal narcotics charges resulting in a 14-year prison sentence. After serving eight years, Forté received executive clemency from President George W. Bush in 2008, an act that highlighted the intersection of art, justice, and political intervention within the entertainment industry.

    Tributes from contemporaries have poured in since news of his passing. Wyclef Jean, founding member of the Fugees, memorialized Forté on social media, writing: ‘This one hurts my brother John Forté has joined the Angels. Legends never Die… R I P my Refugee brother.’ These sentiments reflect the deep connections Forté forged within the music community and the enduring impact of his artistic contributions despite his personal struggles.

  • 10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    10 shelters still open in St Elizabeth

    Nearly three months after Hurricane Melissa devastated the region, St Elizabeth Parish continues to grapple with a significant humanitarian situation as ten emergency shelters remain operational, housing approximately 72 displaced residents. The update came from Acting Parish Disaster Coordinator Rasha Lloyd during the January 12 meeting of the Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation & Safety Committee in Santa Cruz.

    Among the active shelters, two educational institutions—Maggotty High School and Ginger Hill Primary School—continue to serve as temporary housing facilities. Remarkably, Maggotty High School has successfully maintained dual operations since November, functioning simultaneously as both a shelter and an active educational institution without disrupting academic activities.

    The situation differs at Ginger Hill Primary School, where severe storm damage has prevented the reopening of classes. Officials project the institution will resume normal operations during the final week of January following necessary repairs.

    Lloyd detailed the government’s multi-faceted approach to resolving the shelter crisis, emphasizing collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development. “We’re exploring alternative housing solutions, including family reunification and rental assistance programs where the Government would subsidize accommodation costs,” Lloyd explained. “Additionally, we’re working to provide building materials for reconstruction, as many displaced residents previously occupied board dwellings that were completely destroyed by the hurricane.”

    The ongoing shelter reinspection process, initiated in December, has been temporarily suspended throughout January to accommodate Earthquake Awareness Month activities. Coordination with the Jamaica Fire Brigade is currently underway to implement educational programs in schools throughout the month. Official shelter reassessments are scheduled to resume in February.

  • Army reclaim TTPFL lead with another win over Jabloteh

    Army reclaim TTPFL lead with another win over Jabloteh

    In a decisive display of championship form, Defence Force FC reclaimed top position in the TT Premier Football League with a commanding 3-1 victory over San Juan Jabloteh during a January 11 double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium. The defending champions demonstrated strategic superiority with second-half goals from Sheldon Bateau, Tyrese Bailey, and captain Kevin Molino, solidifying their dominance with 29 points and a game in hand over closest rivals.

    The match unfolded as a tactical chess match in the first half before exploding into offensive action after halftime. Central defender Bateau broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with his second seasonal goal, followed by Bailey’s clinical finish eight minutes later. Former Defence Force standout Isaiah ‘Bongo’ Leacock temporarily revived Jabloteh’s hopes with a 58th-minute response, but Molino sealed the victory with a 77th-minute strike that demonstrated the Army/Coast Guard combination’s relentless pressure.

    This victory marks Defence Force’s second consecutive 3-1 triumph against Jabloteh this month, highlighting their consistent performance against lower-table opposition. The result sees Jabloteh remain in eighth position with 12 points, while Club Sando ascends to second place (27 points) following their 6-0 demolition of bottom-placed 1976 FC Phoenix. Miscellaneous Police FC slipped to third (26 points) after an entertaining 2-2 draw with Terminix La Horquetta Rangers.

    In parallel developments, AC Port of Spain climbed to fifth position with a 3-1 victory over MIC Central FC, while Prison FC maintained fourth place through Kyron Williams’ brace against Point Fortin Civic. The league witnessed administrative drama as Eagles FC forfeited their match against Caledonia AIA due to kit violation regulations, resulting in a default 3-0 victory for Caledonia.

    The TTPFL action continues January 16 with a La Horquetta double-header featuring Eagles versus Jabloteh and Police facing Prisons, setting the stage for further shifts in the competitive landscape of Trinidad and Tobago’s premier football competition.

  • Uncapped Quentin Sampson in WI squad for Afghan T20s

    Uncapped Quentin Sampson in WI squad for Afghan T20s

    In a strategic move ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup, Cricket West Indies has announced a 16-member squad for their upcoming three-match series against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates from January 19-22. While seven established players including regular captain Shai Hope and former captains Jason Holder and Rovman Powell will be absent due to franchise commitments and rest protocols, the selection introduces exciting new talent alongside returning veterans.

    The squad will be led by opening batsman Brandon King, marking a significant leadership opportunity for the Jamaican right-hander. Most notably, 25-year-old Guyanese powerhouse Quentin Sampson earns his maiden call-up following a spectacular Caribbean Premier League campaign where he amassed 241 runs at an average of 34.42, including two half-centuries for the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

    Head coach Daren Sammy emphasized the series’ importance for World Cup preparations, stating: ‘Competitive matches in subcontinental conditions provide ideal preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This series offers a valuable platform to assess players who missed significant playing time late in 2025 while integrating those stepping into crucial roles before final tournament selection.’

    The selection also marks the return of explosive opener Evin Lewis and fast bowler Shamar Joseph, both recovering from extended injury layoffs. The squad features a blend of experience and emerging talent, including left-handed batsmen Alick Athanaze and Shimron Hetmyer, top-order batsman Keacy Carty, left-arm spinner Khary Pierre, and pace bowlers Matthew Forde and Jayden Seales.

    The West Indies team departed the Caribbean on January 14 and will arrive in the UAE on January 16 for intensive preparation ahead of the series. The final World Cup squad will be announced preceding the Men in Maroon’s subsequent T20 series against South Africa beginning January 27.