Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Smooth start for 2nd school term

    Smooth start for 2nd school term

    The second academic term in Trinidad and Tobago commenced on January 5 with remarkably smooth operations across educational institutions, despite the temporary closure of the Ministry of Education’s headquarters. Both government authorities and the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) confirmed an essentially incident-free reopening day for ECCE, primary, and secondary schools nationwide.

    The Ministry of Education’s Towers A and B in Port of Spain remained closed on the first day due to ongoing air-conditioning system repairs, with operations scheduled to resume on January 6. Nevertheless, the ministry issued an afternoon media release highlighting the successful start to Term II, emphasizing that teaching activities resumed without significant disruption across the country’s educational landscape.

    Substantial infrastructure improvements preceded the term opening, with 82 approved projects completed between December 2025 and January 2026. The comprehensive enhancement initiative included 35 projects executed under the Vacation Repairs Programme and 47 emergency works addressing critical needs. These improvements encompassed roof and ceiling repairs, sewer and drainage system upgrades, washroom facility enhancements, air-conditioning unit maintenance, water line replacements, and electrical infrastructure modernization.

    The National Schools Dietary Services Ltd (NSDSL) successfully resumed operations, delivering approximately 62,000 breakfasts and 75,000 lunches to students nationwide. Education Minister Michael Dowlath attributed the seamless reopening to coordinated planning among stakeholders, stating: ‘Education is a shared national responsibility, and this smooth reopening demonstrates what is possible when all stakeholders work together to keep our children learning, safe, and supported.’

    TTUTA president Crystal Ashe reported that officers monitored all districts, including Tobago, with Richmond Street Boys’ Anglican School being the only institution remaining closed due to rat infestation concerns. Health and Education Ministry collaboration efforts are expected to facilitate the school’s reopening by January 7. While Barataria Boys’ RC Primary School faced sewer issues, it operated normally. Teacher attendance was notably high, though some student absences were observed—a customary first-day occurrence that Ashe emphasized should be addressed by parents recognizing the importance of every school day.

    On security matters, Deputy Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin confirmed that monitoring programs reported no incidents, with Tranquillity Government Secondary School newly added to the list of institutions receiving police monitoring. The TTPS plans future meetings with the ministry to evaluate security measures and implement new initiatives as necessary.

  • Browne: No one knows what US will do

    Browne: No one knows what US will do

    The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US military forces from a fortified Caracas compound on January 3rd has triggered extensive geopolitical analysis. Former finance minister Mariano Browne questions what leverage mechanisms the United States will employ to advance its agenda in Venezuela following this unprecedented intervention.

    President Donald Trump’s January 5th declaration that the US intends to temporarily govern Venezuela underscores Washington’s determined stance. During media interactions, Trump asserted that American oil corporations would enter Venezuela to repair its ‘broken infrastructure’ and generate revenue, though he provided limited operational details.

    Browne, responding via WhatsApp, emphasized the inseparable relationship between politics and economics in global affairs. He characterized the operation as fundamentally concerning regime change rather than narcotics trafficking, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s significant trade relationship with the US makes these developments particularly consequential.

    The former minister analyzed that America’s approach demonstrates resource constraints preventing conventional warfare, instead favoring asymmetric strategies involving limited engagements for maximum leverage. Despite Maduro’s capture, his administrative structure remains intact with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming interim leadership while maintaining Maduro’s legitimate presidency.

    Browne raised critical questions about whether Venezuela’s existing state institutions would align with Washington’s directives. This follows Trump’s dismissal of Rodríguez’s long-term political viability, despite her subsequent diplomatic overture seeking ‘balanced and respectful’ bilateral relations.

    Trump simultaneously expressed skepticism about exiled opposition figure María Corina Machado’s capacity to lead, citing her insufficient domestic support. The administration is currently designating alternative leadership candidates for Venezuela.

    Browne highlighted that Trump’s order intercepting ‘sanctioned oil tankers’ reveals broader objectives beyond regime change, identifying China as the primary target. Venezuela’s discounted oil exports constitute a crucial component of China’s energy import strategy, elevating the confrontation to global financial markets where the US holds advantageous position.

    This event signals potential implications for other Western Hemisphere nations, particularly those previously criticized by Trump including Colombia and Cuba. Colombia’s deployment of border troops following the operation, coupled with Trump’s provocative comments about Colombian leadership, suggests regional instability may intensify.

  • KFC starts the party for Carnival

    KFC starts the party for Carnival

    In a strategic brand integration move, KFC has officially launched its ambitious ‘KRUNCHNIVAL’ campaign for Carnival 2026, positioning itself as the definitive culinary and cultural partner for Trinidad and Tobago’s premier national festival. The fast-food giant unveiled this multi-platform initiative on January 5th at Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain, opposite its flagship store location.

    The campaign’s centerpiece features an unprecedented musical collaboration between soca sensations Yung Bredda (Akhenaton Lewis) and Destra Garcia, who have reimagined the classic Carnival anthem ‘It’s Carnival’ with contemporary energy. This revitalized track serves as the sonic foundation for KRUNCHNIVAL, blending generations of musical heritage with modern production values.

    Roger Rambharose, Vice President of KFC and Pizza Hut Trinidad and Tobago, characterized the campaign as a deliberate market disruption strategy. ‘Our approach to Carnival season has always been distinctive and impactful,’ Rambharose stated. ‘KRUNCHNIVAL embodies our commitment to delivering exceptional energy, authentic flavor profiles, and tangible customer value while celebrating Carnival through bold, culturally relevant expressions.’

    Marketing lead Stacey Ryan elaborated on the campaign’s philosophical underpinnings: ‘KRUNCHNIVAL emerged from recognizing that Carnival transcends calendar dates—it represents a cultural consciousness that permeates movement, culinary experiences, celebrations, and social connections. We’re not merely participating in Carnival; we’re redefining how brands can authentically integrate with cultural phenomena.’

    The comprehensive campaign will feature limited-edition menu innovations, exclusive Carnival-themed packaging, in-store experiential activations, and strategic digital engagement across social platforms. Consumers can anticipate seasonal promotions and special offerings throughout the Carnival period, with the KFC Trinidad and Tobago mobile application serving as the primary access point for updates and exclusive content.

    This brand initiative represents KFC’s most substantial investment in Carnival integration to date, combining musical partnerships, influencer collaborations, and visual branding transformations across physical and digital landscapes.

  • Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    The Arima Tennis Club hosted a solemn memorial service on January 5th honoring fire officer Bruce Lezama, whose life was tragically cut short in a brutal murder that has shaken both his community and colleagues. The 47-year-old paramedic and ambulance driver, last seen on Christmas Day, was discovered dead near his Arima residence on December 30th after family members grew concerned about his unusual silence during the holiday season.

    Dozens gathered to commemorate Lezama’s nearly 18 years of exemplary service with the TT Fire Service, describing him as a pillar of his community whose dedication extended far beyond his professional responsibilities. Colleagues and relatives remembered him as a disciplined professional who frequently volunteered his off-duty time and utilized his paramedic expertise to train community members in life-saving CPR techniques.

    His brother Perry Bengoche shared poignant memories of Lezama’s character: “He was the kind of person who actively supported the community and helped young people. If you asked Bruce for work, he would inquire about your skills and provide the necessary tools—whether purchasing masonry equipment for builders or grass cutters for landscapers.”

    The investigation into Lezama’s death revealed disturbing details. Family members initially became alarmed when they couldn’t reach him post-Christmas. A visit to his property showed his gate open, television operational, and vehicle missing—highly uncharacteristic behavior for the conscientious fire officer.

    Despite the trauma, family members expressed surprising appreciation for law enforcement’s handling of the case. Bengoche noted, “I previously had my issues with police, but these officers treated us with exceptional respect, care, and emotional sensitivity across all departments—local police, forensics, anti-kidnapping, and homicide.”

    Fire officer Wallen Amdros, representing over 200 colleagues from Lezama’s batch, emphasized the victim’s impeccable character: “I cannot say anything negative about him. He never drank or frequented social gatherings, which makes his tragic passing even more perplexing.”

    The family continues grappling with unanswered questions about the motive behind the killing, with cousin Keva Reyes noting, “He lived simply without flashy possessions or expensive vehicles. This might stem from jealousy or envy, but we truly don’t understand.”

    With support from community networks and Fire Service officials, Lezama’s relatives are navigating their grief while advocating for justice, determined to honor his legacy of service and compassion.

  • UN rep: Trinidad and Tobago ‘equally committed’ to US, Venezuela

    UN rep: Trinidad and Tobago ‘equally committed’ to US, Venezuela

    In a pivotal address to the United Nations Security Council on January 5, Dr. Neil Parsan, Trinidad and Tobago’s Permanent Representative to the UN, articulated his nation’s balanced diplomatic stance toward both the United States and Venezuela during an emergency session. The meeting was convened following the dramatic January 3rd military operation where US forces apprehended Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores in Caracas, extraditing them to New York to face narcotics trafficking allegations, to which they entered pleas of not guilty.

    Speaking as a representative of a Caribbean neighbor and a historical proponent of peaceful coexistence, Dr. Parsan acknowledged the gravity of recent developments. He expressed gratitude to the Security Council for its swift response while outlining Trinidad and Tobago’s nuanced position. The ambassador confirmed his government’s awareness of the US military intervention and reiterated commitment to US-led cooperative initiatives aimed at dismantling transnational criminal networks that plague regional security and stability.

    However, Ambassador Parsan emphasized that Port of Spain’s cooperation with Washington does not diminish its equally vital relationship with Caracas. He explicitly stated Trinidad and Tobago’s dedication to maintaining a ‘constructive and respectful relationship with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,’ underscoring continued peaceful relations with the Venezuelan people. This diplomatic balancing act reflects the nation’s aspiration to collaborate with all partners toward a safer and more prosperous hemisphere.

    The emergency session also featured a statement from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who expressed profound concern that the US military action disregarded established principles of international law. Guterres warned that this ‘grave’ action could establish a dangerous precedent for future inter-state relations, highlighting the broader implications of the event that triggered the council’s meeting.

  • Garvin Guerra to go before SoE tribunal

    Garvin Guerra to go before SoE tribunal

    In a significant legal development, Garvin Guerra, son of recently-released businessman Danny Guerra, is scheduled to appear before Trinidad and Tobago’s State of Emergency Review Tribunal on January 6th. The younger Guerra has retained the services of British King’s Counsel Richard John Thomas KC, the same attorney who successfully represented his father, to challenge his preventive detention order (PDO).

    Garvin Guerra was initially arrested alongside his father on November 20th under allegations of gang membership, illegal arms trafficking, money laundering, and unauthorized quarry operations. His detention order specifically accused him of maintaining access to high-powered firearms with alleged intentions to assassinate a government minister and escalate attacks against rival gangs in public areas.

    The legal proceedings gained momentum following the dramatic release of Danny Guerra on January 2nd, when Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander revoked his detention order. This development occurred mere hours after the Guerra legal team escalated their challenge by issuing a pre-action protocol letter to Minister Alexander, threatening immediate High Court proceedings unless the detention was revoked or comprehensive disclosure provided by the January 2nd deadline.

    The Guerra case has drawn attention to the functioning of the SoE Review Tribunal, which defense attorneys have criticized for failing to act with sufficient urgency to protect constitutional rights during the state of emergency. Attorney Thomas KC received official authorization from Attorney General John Jeremie through Legal Notice No. 1 of 2026, gazetted on January 5th and signed January 2nd, to practice in Trinidad and Tobago specifically for this case.

    Background investigations reveal that both Guerras faced previous charges on October 11th for unlicensed aggregate processing, for which they secured $50,000 bail each. These charges stemmed from a major police operation on October 9th that targeted an illegal quarry at Manuel Congo, Guanapo, resulting in the seizure of multimillion-dollar processing equipment and the detention of 18 individuals including the Guerras. All defendants have since appeared in court regarding these separate charges.

  • FRENCHMEN CLIMAX Red Alert

    FRENCHMEN CLIMAX Red Alert

    As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, fashion-forward celebrants at Frenchmen Climax demonstrated that style traditions remain powerfully alive in contemporary culture. The longstanding custom of wearing red for good fortune—symbolizing luck, love, and prosperity in the coming year—was prominently displayed throughout the festivities, though many attendees confessed their choices were equally influenced by aesthetic appeal.

    Tuesday Style Fashion captured the sartorial elegance of the evening, documenting not only the predominant crimson hues but also the emerging trend of soft, off-white tones. The latter choice aligned remarkably with Pantone’s recently announced 2026 Color of the Year: 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, described as a gentle, airy neutral that embodies serenity and new beginnings.

    Among the standout appearances, entrepreneur Adrianna Bryan presented a floral interpretation of the red tradition, while Tashi Nailz World owner Tsahai Douglas incorporated bold red accents into her bejeweled ensemble. The white trend manifested elegantly through Live and Direc Production Director Cheryl Peart, who selected an ivory lace suit, and Select Brands Category Manager Kedish Suckram alongside Kloset Klutch principal Naketa Hosang, who both opted for sophisticated all-white outfits.

    Partygoer Kadian Samuels embraced the festive spirit in a red mini dress from Monokini Collection, while Scotia Wealth Marketing Manager Simone Hull made a striking impression in vibrant crimson. Artiste Tosh Alexander channeled confidence in a body-hugging Babyboo creation, and National Commercial Bank Investor Relations Manager Belinda Williams consciously chose white to symbolize her clean slate approach to the new year.

  • Gordon looking to arrest Spanish Town Police’s JPL safety

    Gordon looking to arrest Spanish Town Police’s JPL safety

    Jamaican football strategist MERRON Gordon has formally assumed the role of Technical Director at Spanish Town Police FC, leveraging his extensive national team experience to guide the club through its precarious position in the Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL). The appointment, confirmed this past weekend, marks a strategic shift for Gordon following his four-year tenure as assistant coach for the Reggae Boyz and previous consultancy work with Old Harbour United.

    The transition occurred following Old Harbour’s acquisition of the JPL club, with owner Jabarie Baker persuading Gordon to join the restructured organization. Despite concurrent commitments as a full-time educator and new business owner, Gordon found alignment with the club’s developmental philosophy. “The vision aligns with my philosophy,” Gordon explained to the Jamaica Observer, emphasizing objectives to “develop a youthful team, sell players to international opportunities, and build a competitive local core.”

    Gordon brings a decade of multifaceted coaching experience, including work with the Reggae Girlz, national U-17 and U-23 teams, alongside club engagements with Humble Lion, Sporting Central Academy, and Garvey Maceo in schoolboy football. His immediate focus centers on implementing structural reforms within both the club administration and technical departments. “I’ve learned from top coaches locally and abroad,” Gordon noted, citing mentorship from Vin Blaine and Roy Simpson in both technical and administrative domains.

    Spanish Town Police currently anchors the JPL table with merely eight points from 14 matches, trailing safety by five points. Historical context underscores their challenge: since the league expanded to 14 teams in 2022-23, only Phoenix Chapelton Maroons have avoided relegation as a promoted club. Despite this, Gordon identifies strategic optimism in recent performances, including two victories within the last three games and an unexpected training window created by a waterlogged pitch cancellation.

    The technical director outlined a pragmatic survival strategy: “We’re not trying to win the league but maintain our spot. We’ll concentrate on the bottom six teams while treating any points from top sides as bonuses.” The club faces immediate tests against playoff contenders Tivoli Gardens and title-chasing Portmore United, matches that will critically impact their relegation battle.

  • Salah seals Egypt win as Osimhen leads Nigeria into Cup of Nations quarters

    Salah seals Egypt win as Osimhen leads Nigeria into Cup of Nations quarters

    In a dramatic night of Africa Cup of Nations knockout football, two continental giants secured their passage to the quarter-finals with vastly different performances. Egypt’s Pharaohs, led by captain Mohamed Salah, endured a nerve-shredding extra-time battle against Benin, while Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding display to eliminate Mozambique.

    The Egyptian squad faced a formidable challenge from underdogs Benin in Agadir. Despite taking the lead through Marwan Attia’s superb 69th-minute strike, Egypt conceded a late equalizer when Jodel Dossou capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 83rd minute. The match extended into extra time, where Yasser Ibrahim’s header restored Egypt’s advantage before Salah sealed the 3-1 victory with a breakaway goal in the 124th minute—his third of the tournament.

    Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan acknowledged the challenge: ‘Before the game, I said there are no easy teams, and Benin were tough opponents. Egypt are a great team and I want to make my people happy.’ The seven-time champions now await the winner between title-holders Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso.

    Meanwhile, Nigeria produced a masterclass in Fes, overwhelming Mozambique 4-0 in a rain-soaked encounter. African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen netted twice, ending his AFCON scoring drought with his first goals in ten tournament appearances. Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman orchestrated the victory with a remarkable performance, contributing to all four goals while earning man-of-the-match honors.

    The scoring opened with Lookman’s 20th-minute finish, followed by Osimhen’s brace—the first from a Lookman cross and the second shortly after halftime. Sevilla forward Akor Adams completed the rout with a powerful strike in the 75th minute, marking Nigeria’s largest knockout-stage victory since 2010.

    Despite elimination, Mozambique celebrated a historic achievement, having reached the knockout phase for the first time in their AFCON history. Nigeria advances to face either Algeria or DR Congo, with potential for redemption against the latter after November’s World Cup qualifying defeat.

  • Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Jamaica’s premier New Year’s Day celebration, Sunnation’s Sunrise breakfast party, successfully launched 2026 with an extraordinary fusion of luxury entertainment and authentic Caribbean atmosphere at its new Campion College venue. The exclusive all-inclusive event delivered premium experiences as revelers raised champagne glasses skyward in celebratory toasts to the promising year ahead.

    New York transplant Ronique Goodhall revealed to media that the Sunrise event has become her essential annual tradition since 2019. ‘The plane ticket is always worth it because there’s no party like a party at home,’ Goodhall expressed, highlighting the event’s exceptional value through gourmet dining experiences and performances by A-list DJs. ‘Sunrise always provides the perfect backdrop for spectacular photos and a food village that satisfies every craving.’

    Local attendee Antoine Livingston described the gathering as their designated annual reunion space, emphasizing how the January 1st timing creates ideal conditions for celebrating friendships, new beginnings, and previous accomplishments. ‘We consistently depart with the most incredible euphoria after sharing laughter, dance, and memory-making moments,’ Livingston noted.

    The musical atmosphere reached peak intensity through masterful sets by renowned selectors including Bloodline Franco, DJ Tyler, DJ Mac, Ricky Platinum, and DJ Quan. Their curated playlists generated such energetic response that female attendees strategically exchanged heels for comfortable sandals, preparing for extended morning dancing sessions.

    Dancehall anthems from icons Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw, and special guest Aidonia prompted spontaneous partner dancing throughout the venue. Particularly, Popcaan’s ‘Pretty Crew’ ignited enthusiastic reactions as women captured celebratory selfie videos celebrating friendship and beauty.

    Between musical engagements, patrons explored the extensive food court featuring succulent ribs, creamy pasta selections, and signature desserts from Devon House Ice Cream. Service staff remained consistently engaged throughout the afternoon as attendees fully utilized the unlimited dining offerings.

    The 2026 edition ultimately established Sunnation’s Sunrise Breakfast Party as Jamaica’s definitive New Year’s Day experience, combining gourmet catering, elite musical programming, and authentic cultural celebration in one prestigious package.