Carib Scope

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  • Paris Coutain shows off his versatility in new releases

    Paris Coutain shows off his versatility in new releases

    At just 22 years old, Trinidadian artist Paris Coutain is demonstrating extraordinary artistic range through his latest musical releases and compelling stage presence. His newest soca single “Brush” represents a deeply personal project, produced by Richard Gosine with mixing and mastering handled by Nikholai Greene. Coutain co-wrote the track alongside Emmanuel Rudder and Yohann Niles, describing it as “a smooth, sweet melodic vibe that invites someone to hold and dance with.”

    Simultaneously, Coutain showcases his versatility with the chutney soca track “Magic in the Air” on the Soca Love Story Riddim, which he composed with production by Motto. This dual-genre approach reflects his fundamental artistic philosophy: “I could never envision myself confined to a single genre. My passion spans across multiple genres, so versatility is my goal as an artist.”

    Hailing from Arouca, Coutain credits his mother’s protective upbringing and musical influence as foundational to his development. “My mother is a huge Michael Jackson fan,” he shared, “so from the moment I learned about him at the age of five, I decided that I wanted to be an artiste and performer.”

    This early inspiration was formally cultivated through his education, culminating in a bachelor’s degree in performing arts from the University of Trinidad and Tobago in 2024. His academic training taught him “to fully commit to my performances and to be adequately prepared for shows.”

    Coutain’s competitive achievements include winning both Mr NGC Sanfest in 2019 and the Junior Chutney Soca Monarch in 2020, followed by placements in the Intellectual Chutney Monarch (5th in 2024) and Ultimate Soca Champion (4th in 2025). He views these competitions as strategic platforms for exposure and growth rather than mere contests.

    Beyond music, Coutain has built a substantial digital presence with over 164,000 TikTok followers through comedy skits and musical content. “It all began when I was quite young; I aspired to be an artiste, so I started creating skits and building a fanbase,” he explained, noting that making others laugh brings him “immense joy.”

    Looking toward Carnival 2026, Coutain plans to audition for the Chutney Soca Monarch while preparing additional releases, including a collaborative track with another artist. His long-term vision extends beyond Trinidad’s shores: “Becoming an international artist is my aspiration,” he stated, aiming to break into global markets with pop, R&B, and hip-hop while remaining true to his Caribbean roots.

  • Penny: Tell government you have had enough

    Penny: Tell government you have had enough

    In a vehement public address delivered at a PNM rally in Sangre Grande on January 7, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles launched a comprehensive critique against the current UNC administration’s performance since assuming office in April. The political gathering, attended by prominent PNM figures including Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert and Lopinot/Bon Air MP Marvin Gonzales, served as a platform for Beckles to articulate growing discontent with public service delivery.

    Beckles highlighted severe water supply disruptions affecting multiple constituencies including Arima, Malabar, D’Abadie/O’Meara, and St Ann’s East, particularly during the Christmas period. She emphasized the irony of these shortages occurring despite previous substantial investments in water infrastructure, characterizing the situation as “wicked and oppressive” governance.

    The Opposition Leader detailed widespread job losses resulting from the government’s termination of several youth employment and training initiatives. Beckles specifically referenced the closure of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Youth Agricultural Homestead Programme (YAHP), Military-led Academic Training Programme (MILAT), and the Military-led Youth Programme of Apprenticeship and Reorientation Training (MYPART). She further noted significant employment reductions in the Cepep, URP, and Reforestation Programme, particularly impacting the agriculturally significant Sangre Grande region.

    Beckles accused the UNC of making extravagant campaign promises including distribution of “ham, lamb and jam” that remained unfulfilled, while simultaneously distancing themselves from constituents who had supported their election. She encouraged citizens to directly contact government officials regarding service deficiencies rather than relying on opposition figures.

    The address concluded with Beckles urging supporters to maintain political awareness despite potential offers of material incentives from the governing party, emphasizing the need for the PNM to reclaim control of the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation. She framed the current administration’s policies as detrimental to both cultural preservation and small business sustainability across communities.

  • PSG beat Marseille on penalties to win French Champions Trophy

    PSG beat Marseille on penalties to win French Champions Trophy

    In a dramatic conclusion to the French Champions Trophy held in Kuwait City, Paris Saint-Germain emerged victorious against arch-rivals Marseille following a tense penalty shootout on Thursday. The match culminated in a 4-1 penalty decision after an electrifying 90 minutes concluded with a 2-2 deadlock.

    PSG’s goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier emerged as the definitive hero of the encounter, delivering two critical saves during the penalty phase against Matt O’Riley and Hamed Traore. The decisive moment arrived when Desire Doue confidently converted the final spot-kick, securing PSG’s record-extending 14th title in this competition.

    The match narrative unfolded with early dominance from PSG as Ballon d’Or recipient Ousmane Dembele exhibited exquisite technique to chip the ball over Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Both custodians demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the match, with Rulli preventing Nuno Mendes from extending PSG’s advantage and Chevalier making remarkable saves against Emerson’s powerful strike and Igor Paixao’s header.

    The momentum shifted dramatically in the closing stages when Chevalier’s challenge resulted in a penalty award after VAR intervention, which Mason Greenwood calmly converted. Marseille appeared destined for their first trophy since 2012 when William Pacho’s errant clearance confused his own goalkeeper, creating an unexpected opportunity.

    However, PSG demonstrated characteristic resilience with Goncalo Ramos delivering a crucial equalizer during injury time by deftly redirecting Bradley Barcola’s cross, ultimately forcing the match into penalties.

    The event was notably overshadowed by significant fan discontent regarding the overseas location, with Marseille supporters previously displaying a banner questioning the choice of Kuwait as host venue. The French Football Federation has historically moved the Super Cup internationally to promote Ligue 1 globally, with prior editions hosted across four continents.

    Both teams now return to domestic commitments with PSG pursuing leadership positions in both Ligue 1 and their Champions League group, while Marseille seek to improve their standing in both competitions.

  • Jamaica Coffee Exporters welcomes $120m allocation to resuscitate industry

    Jamaica Coffee Exporters welcomes $120m allocation to resuscitate industry

    Jamaica’s prestigious coffee sector is mounting a major recovery effort following devastating climate disasters, with industry leaders applauding government support while calling for sustained rebuilding initiatives. Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association (JCEA), has endorsed the government’s intervention package including a J$120 million allocation for recovery, with J$35 million already distributed to affected stakeholders.

    The endorsement comes as Jamaica prepares to observe Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Day on January 9, 2026, under the theme ‘Rebuilding a Climate Resilient Coffee Industry.’ This celebration occurs against a backdrop of unprecedented challenges that have plagued the sector over four consecutive years of extreme weather disruptions.

    According to industry assessments, Hurricane Melissa’s Category 5 impact proved particularly catastrophic during the 2025/2026 crop year, destroying approximately 100,000 boxes of coffee and causing farm-gate losses estimated at J$1 billion. Preliminary evaluations indicate 40% of mature crops ready for harvest were lost, accompanied by extensive damage to coffee trees, farm infrastructure, and critical access roads.

    Cumulative losses over the past four years have reached an estimated J$2.5 billion due to climate-related disruptions that have severely reduced production yields. Despite these setbacks, Jamaica’s coffee industry maintains its significant economic contribution and prestigious global market position, continuing to export millions of dollars worth of premium coffee annually.

    Dr. Grant specifically acknowledged Agriculture Minister Floyd Green for his responsive approach to addressing the plight of coffee farmers, their families, and affiliated businesses. The chairman emphasized that beyond physical damage, the industry requires mental health and psychosocial support for farmers dealing with hurricane-related trauma.

    ‘Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee remains a national treasure, a source of rural employment, and a symbol of Jamaica’s excellence on the world stage,’ stated Dr. Grant. He noted that resilience alone proves insufficient without coordinated, sustained support mechanisms.

    The JCEA continues advocating for urgent recovery measures including implementation of the Coffee Crop Resuscitation and Establishment Programme (CREP), enhanced farm road rehabilitation, and targeted assistance to help farmers resume production operations. Industry stakeholders emphasize that rebuilding a climate-resilient coffee industry requires comprehensive planning and continued investment to safeguard Jamaica’s iconic agricultural export.

  • Protesters, US law enforcement clash after immigration officer kills woman

    Protesters, US law enforcement clash after immigration officer kills woman

    MINNEAPOLIS — The White House has declared U.S. law enforcement to be under “organized attack” following violent clashes between protesters and federal officers in Minneapolis, triggered by the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old woman by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent.

    The incident occurred Wednesday when ICE agents approached a vehicle they claimed was blocking their path. Footage of the encounter shows a masked agent attempting to open the car door before another agent, positioned near the front bumper, fired three shots into the Honda SUV. The vehicle, driven by Renee Nicole Good, accelerated out of control and crashed into stationary cars. Good, shot in the head, was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a wife and a six-year-old child.

    Vice President JD Vance swiftly characterized the shooting as an act of “self-defense,” alleging without evidence that Good was part of a “broader left-wing network” intent on disrupting ICE operations. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt echoed this sentiment, labeling the event a result of a “sinister left-wing movement.”

    In contrast, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey dismissed claims from President Donald Trump and senior officials that Good attempted to kill the agents. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara clarified that Good was not the target of immigration enforcement and was merely suspected of obstructing traffic.

    The shooting has ignited widespread outrage, with protests escalating after Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called demonstrating for justice a “patriotic duty.” On Thursday, officers deployed pepperball guns and tear gas to disperse crowds near a government facility in Fort Snelling, detaining several protesters. The unrest prompted the closure of Minneapolis schools as a precautionary measure.

    Governor Walz has demanded that state investigators join the federal probe, warning that without their involvement, Department of Homeland Security Chief Kristi Noem would act as “judge, jury, and basically executioner.” Vice President Vance, however, expressed confidence that a federal investigation would exonerate the officer involved.

    The tragedy occurs against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigrant deportation drive, which has faced significant local opposition. A fundraiser for Good’s family has surpassed $600,000, while a growing memorial of flowers and candles at the scene of the shooting attests to the deep community impact.

  • Gov’t to rehabilitate community infrastructure in Accompong

    Gov’t to rehabilitate community infrastructure in Accompong

    The Jamaican government has announced an expansive recovery initiative for the community of Accompong in St. Elizabeth, extending far beyond immediate roof repairs in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the administration’s commitment to restoring essential community infrastructure, including a comprehensive revitalization of the local water system.

    During his address at the annual Accompong Maroon celebrations on Tuesday, Holness outlined the government’s multifaceted approach. “Our intervention will transcend mere roof restoration,” the Prime Minister stated. “We are prioritizing your water situation. Preliminary assessments indicate numerous water sources exist here, alongside a previously functional supply system that has fallen into disuse. We pledge to restore this critical infrastructure.”

    In addition to water system improvements, Holness committed to upgrading the community’s playing field, promising enhanced facilities for future commemorative events. “By the next anniversary celebration, you should have a properly upgraded field. This is a firm commitment from my administration,” he assured attendees.

    Technical teams from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) are already operational in Accompong, executing initial roof repair operations. The current phase of emergency work is projected for completion within weeks. Following this, a comprehensive evaluation will identify additional properties requiring intervention.

    Prime Minister Holness revealed further considerations after consulting with Accompong Chief Richard Currie, noting: “We’ve identified houses that sustained total destruction. These structures will undergo assessment to determine how many can be feasibly rebuilt through government assistance programs.”

  • Real Madrid edge Atletico to set up Clasico Spanish Super Cup final

    Real Madrid edge Atletico to set up Clasico Spanish Super Cup final

    JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia – Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final on Thursday, setting up a highly anticipated El Clásico final against Barcelona. The match, played at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, saw Los Blancos extend their winning streak to five games across all competitions despite a late surge from Diego Simeone’s side.

    The scoring opened dramatically within two minutes as Federico Valverde unleashed a thunderous free-kick that powered through Atlético’s defensive wall and past goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The Uruguayan midfielder’s celebration – emphatically slapping his own head – reflected his relief at scoring his first goal of the campaign after a difficult personal season.

    Brazilian forward Rodrygo doubled Madrid’s advantage in the 55th minute with a clinically taken strike, marking his third goal in five appearances. The young attacker demonstrated exceptional composure after finding space through the heart of Atlético’s defense before sliding the ball past Oblak.

    Atlético responded immediately through Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth, who reduced the deficit just three minutes later with a powerful header from Giuliano Simeone’s cross. The goal set up a tense finale as Los Colchoneros pushed desperately for an equalizer.

    Thibaut Courtois proved instrumental in preserving Madrid’s lead, making crucial saves against Sørloth’s first-half header and a spectacular acrobatic attempt from Antoine Griezmann in the closing stages. The Belgian goalkeeper’s interventions ultimately denied Atlético’s comeback efforts, including a last-gasp attempt from Julián Álvarez that flashed across the goalmouth in stoppage time.

    The victory provides continued momentum for manager Xabi Alonso, whose position had been under scrutiny following inconsistent results in late 2025. Despite some performances lacking complete conviction, his team has now recorded five consecutive victories.

    Sunday’s final will see Madrid face Barcelona, who advanced with a commanding 5-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. The showdown marks Alonso’s second Clásico as manager, having previously guided Madrid to victory over their archrivals in October.

  • Haitian-American legislator condemns ICE shooting of woman as ‘horrific’

    Haitian-American legislator condemns ICE shooting of woman as ‘horrific’

    NEW YORK – Haitian-American New York State Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn has issued a forceful condemnation of Wednesday’s fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother of three, by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis. The assemblywoman characterized the incident as a tragic example of federal overreach and excessive authority.

    Bichotte Hermelyn, who serves as chair of the Brooklyn Democratic Party and represents the 42nd Assembly District, described the shooting as “nothing short of horrific” in statements to Caribbean Media Corporation. “Due to a federal ICE agent’s negligence, a woman is unable to return to her family,” she stated, emphasizing the profound human cost of the incident.

    The assemblywoman directly linked the tragedy to Trump administration policies, asserting that justice must be served “by holding accountable both the ICE agent involved and the Trump administration, whose decision to deploy ICE in Minneapolis led to this tragedy.” She extended her condolences to Good’s family and the Minneapolis community as they grapple with the shooting.

    Bichotte Hermelyn expressed solidarity with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in their efforts to resist federal involvement and push for reforms regarding ICE operations within their jurisdiction.

    The shooting occurred in a residential neighborhood approximately one mile from where George Floyd was killed by police in 2020. According to reports, Good was shot in the head while seated in her SUV in the presence of a family member. ICE agents were present in Minnesota as part of President Donald Trump’s intensified immigration enforcement initiatives.

    U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries separately addressed the incident, noting that the unidentified ICE agent “shot and killed an unarmed woman who was not the target of an immigration enforcement action.” Jeffries called for the American people to reject what he termed “cruelty and extremism” while offering prayers for the victim’s loved ones.

  • 96 per cent of schools in Region Three reopen for new term

    96 per cent of schools in Region Three reopen for new term

    In a remarkable display of resilience, the Jamaican education system has achieved a 96% reopening rate across Region Three schools despite severe infrastructural damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information confirmed the successful commencement of the new academic term through innovative learning arrangements and temporary facilities.

    During an extensive back-to-school tour across St. Ann on Wednesday, State Minister Rhoda Moy Crawford expressed profound satisfaction with recovery progress. Her inspection began at Sturge Town Primary and Infant School, where she witnessed innovative multi-modal learning approaches in action. “I was very impressed with what I see happening there—a perfect example of multiple modalities learning taking place,” Crawford noted. While some students continue learning in undamaged classrooms, others utilize UNICEF-provided temporary tents, with infant classes temporarily relocated to Sturge Town New Testament Church through community partnership.

    The reconstruction progress at Sturge Town Primary currently stands at approximately 40% completion. At Bamboo Primary School, approximately 80% of students have resumed face-to-face instruction despite ongoing repairs. School administrators have implemented comprehensive safety protocols, including secure cordoning of construction zones to ensure student protection.

    Minister Crawford detailed the ministry’s comprehensive response strategy: “From the passage of Hurricane Melissa, our first responders were school principals conducting initial assessments, followed by regional directors and building officers. The National Education Trust performed detailed evaluations to coordinate recovery efforts.” She emphasized the collaborative nature of the recovery, acknowledging vital support from international partners including UNICEF, UNESCO, and local religious organizations.

    Region Three Director Karlene Segre confirmed educational continuity through blended learning approaches combining physical classes, online instruction, and supplemental learning kits distributed by the ministry. All primary and secondary institutions have received both educational materials and revised curricula to maintain academic standards despite hurricane disruptions. “Our teachers in Region Three are committed, dedicated, and competitive in implementing all necessary measures,” Segre affirmed.

    Acting Principal of Bamboo Primary School Trevor McKenzie welcomed the ministerial visit as an opportunity to demonstrate both hurricane damage and recovery progress. He confirmed significant student return rates and emphasized established safety protocols that enable learning to continue simultaneously with reconstruction activities.

  • Venezuela releasing ‘large number’ of prisoners — top lawmaker

    Venezuela releasing ‘large number’ of prisoners — top lawmaker

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a significant development following the ouster of authoritarian leader Nicolas Maduro, Venezuelan authorities have commenced a substantial prisoner release initiative. Parliament Speaker Jorge Rodriguez announced on Thursday that the government is executing the immediate liberation of a “large number” of detainees, comprising both Venezuelan citizens and foreign nationals.

    This action, described by Rodriguez as a “unilateral gesture,” marks the first observable concession from Venezuela’s interim government since U.S. forces removed Maduro from power five days prior. The former leader was apprehended by American forces and transported to New York to stand trial, prompting the Trump administration to declare itself “in charge” of Venezuelan affairs.

    While Rodriguez declined to specify the exact number of prisoners being freed, independent monitoring provides context to the scale of detention. The non-governmental organization Foro Penal documents 806 individuals currently held as political prisoners in Venezuela, including 175 military personnel affected by the nation’s political turmoil.

    The prisoner release coincides with claims from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated on Tuesday that Venezuelan authorities were dismantling a “torture chamber located in central Caracas.” The President provided no additional details regarding this alleged facility, leaving international observers to speculate about its nature and operations.

    This coordinated prisoner release represents a tangible policy shift following the dramatic change in Venezuela’s leadership, suggesting potential moves toward reconciliation and judicial reform in the post-Maduro era.