KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent (CMC) – The newly installed government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has declared it is vigilantly observing the escalating political and military crisis in Venezuela after United States forces reportedly captured the nation’s President, Nicolas Maduro, and his spouse. Foreign Affairs Minister Fitz Bramble characterized the situation as one of ‘grave concern’ for both the small island developing state and the wider Caribbean region. Minister Bramble, a former diplomat, emphasized that the nation’s allegiance lies with the collective diplomatic stance of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which has consistently advocated for peaceful dialogue and the strict adherence to international law. He confirmed that Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday’s administration, barely a month into its term, is assessing the potential far-reaching economic and political ramifications for its own nation. The SVG government remains in constant communication with its embassy in Caracas, where Ambassador Gareth Bynoe has reported that all diplomatic personnel are safe and no Vincentian nationals in Venezuela have yet sought consular assistance. While acknowledging friendships with both Venezuela and the United States, the government has pledged to keep its citizens informed as the volatile situation continues to develop.
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Assaulted Vincentian grandmother agrees with jail sentence for grandson
KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — A 38-year-old man has received an 11-month prison sentence for physically assaulting his 80-year-old grandmother in a disturbing case that highlights elder abuse and family violence. The sentencing proceeded despite the prosecution’s recommendation for a suspended sentence, after the elderly victim expressed resignation to the court’s decision while characterizing her grandson as “rough and rude.”
The incident occurred on December 26, 2025, when Jamel Douglas arrived at his grandmother’s residence while she was conversing with a friend on her porch. Despite Jacobs’ request for privacy, Douglas became aggressive, jumping on a table and ultimately physically assaulting his grandmother. During the altercation, he seized her cellular phone, squeezing her finger painfully and smashing the device valued at EC$270.
In court, Douglas pleaded guilty to both assault causing actual bodily harm and property damage charges. Prosecutor Shamrack Pierre initially advocated for a suspended sentence, but Chief Magistrate Colin John sought the victim’s perspective before sentencing.
The elderly victim, Kerhen Jacobs, expressed pragmatic acceptance of whatever sentence the court deemed appropriate, noting her grandson’s unpredictable behavior and history of aggression toward her. “Whatever the court decides, I can’t go against it, and I won’t go against it,” Jacobs stated during the proceedings.
Douglas attempted to mitigate his sentence by citing a history of mental illness, though he acknowledged his last episode occurred over five years prior. He also claimed unfair treatment from family members. The magistrate noted Douglas’s missed opportunity to offer a genuine apology during proceedings, though he eventually apologized while still making excuses for his actions.
Chief Magistrate John emphasized the sanctity of home and an elderly person’s right to peace and security: “Your grandmother should be allowed to enjoy her home in comfort without disturbance by you. You are a big man; you are 38 years old, and you should not be going there to harass your grandmother.”
In addition to the prison term, Douglas was ordered to compensate his grandmother EC$270 for the destroyed phone within two months of his release, facing an additional six-month imprisonment if he fails to make restitution.
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Delcy to US: Let’s co-operate based on international law
In the wake of former President Nicolás Maduro’s extraordinary rendition to the United States, Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has issued a profound appeal for international peace and sovereign respect. The dramatic capture of Maduro and his wife Cília Flores by U.S. forces from a Caracas compound on January 3rd has triggered a diplomatic crisis with far-reaching implications.
Through an official Facebook communiqué delivered on January 4th, Rodríguez articulated Venezuela’s vision for peaceful coexistence amidst escalating tensions. ‘Our nation aspires to exist free from external threats within a framework of mutual respect and international cooperation,’ she declared, emphasizing that global stability originates from securing peace within individual nations.
The acting president outlined Venezuela’s diplomatic priorities, stressing the necessity for ‘balanced and respectful international relations between the United States and Venezuela, founded upon principles of sovereign equality and non-interference.’ This statement represents both a diplomatic overture and a subtle condemnation of the military operation that extracted the South American leader.
Rodríguez directly addressed the Trump administration’s allegations of narco-terrorism against Maduro’s government—charges consistently denied by Venezuelan officials—while proposing an alternative path forward. She called for bilateral collaboration ‘within the framework of international law to strengthen lasting community coexistence,’ explicitly urging President Trump to choose dialogue over confrontation.
In a poignant tribute, Rodríguez alongside Foreign Minister Yván Eduardo Gil Pinto honored 32 Cuban combatants reportedly killed during the extraction operation. Through Telegram channels, she memorialized these ‘martyred brothers’ as embodiments of courage and dignity, their sacrifice now ‘planted in the sacred land of Simón Bolívar.’
The acting president’s message transcends mere diplomatic rhetoric, representing a strategic positioning of Venezuela as a nation committed to peaceful resolution despite experiencing what it characterizes as ‘criminal U.S. military aggression.’ Her statements reflect both the immediate crisis response and a broader vision for Venezuela’s future regional role.
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Reggae Girlz’s Jamieson signed to FC Berlin
In a significant move for women’s arena soccer, FC Berlin has secured the talents of Jamaican international goalkeeper Yazmeen Jamieson for the upcoming Major Arena Soccer League Women’s Division (MASLW) winter season. The German club officially announced the acquisition through their Instagram platform, featuring the standout shot-stopper adorned in the team’s distinctive green goalkeeping attire.
Jamieson brings considerable experience to her new European venture, having previously demonstrated her skills with Canadian club Guelph United FC while simultaneously maintaining her position as a key player for Jamaica’s national team, the Reggae Girlz. Her transition to the indoor soccer format marks an intriguing development in her professional career trajectory.
The MASLW itself represents a landmark evolution in women’s soccer, having launched in 2024 as a rebranded and reorganized iteration of the former Premier Arena Soccer League’s women’s competition. This North American-based indoor soccer league’s expansion to include international talent like Jamieson signals its growing prominence in the global soccer landscape. The signing underscores both FC Berlin’s ambitious recruitment strategy and the increasing globalization of arena soccer, particularly in the women’s game.
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Bob Marley most frequently mentioned historical figure in song lyrics — study
A groundbreaking analysis conducted by the history-themed metal band Sabaton has uncovered surprising patterns in musical homage, identifying Jamaican reggae legend Bob Marley as the most frequently referenced historical figure in song lyrics worldwide.
The research initiative originated from the band’s curiosity about historical influences on music prior to creating their latest album. Utilizing AZLyrics’ extensive database, the study meticulously tracked how often historical figures’ full names appeared across distinct musical compositions.
The comprehensive ranking showcases an eclectic mix of cultural icons spanning various domains: influential creators who shaped popular culture, transformative leaders and revolutionaries, alongside philosophical, mythological, and notorious personalities.
Bob Marley emerged as the undisputed champion with 927 lyrical mentions—significantly surpassing all other figures. The Jamaican musician, celebrated for his messages of unity and resistance through music, has become an enduring global symbol of freedom and Rastafarian culture. Notable songs referencing Marley include Jay-Z’s ‘Empire State of Mind’ and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ ‘Give It Away.’
Securing second position is ancient Greek philosopher Plato, referenced in 737 songs. His foundational contributions to ethics, politics, and epistemology continue to influence Western thought and modern society. Musical nods to Plato appear in Van Morrison’s ‘I Forgot That Love Existed’ and The Clash’s ‘The Magnificent Seven.’
The infamous Depression-era outlaw couple Bonnie and Clyde claimed third place with 712 mentions. Their criminal exploits and tragic demise have immortalized them as symbols of doomed romance in tracks like Taylor Swift’s ‘Getaway Car’ and another Red Hot Chili Peppers’ composition ‘If You Have To Ask.’
In a contemporary twist, current U.S. President Donald Trump unexpectedly ranked fourth with 656 lyrical references. The polarizing leader has significantly impacted American and global political discourse, appearing in songs such as Frank Ocean’s ‘Lights’ and Mac Miller’s ‘Donald Trump.’
Completing the top five is American gangster Al Capone, mentioned in 550 lyrics including Queen’s ‘Stone Cold Crazy,’ Madonna’s ‘Superstar,’ and Michael Jackson’s ‘Al Capone.’ The top ten also features music icon John Lennon, rapper Biggie Smalls, and boxing legend Muhammad Ali, demonstrating the diverse nature of musical inspiration across generations and genres.
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Dominica to accept refugees deported from US
ROSEAU, Dominica — In a significant diplomatic development, the Commonwealth of Dominica has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the United States to accept third-country refugees who cannot be repatriated to their nations of origin. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit confirmed the arrangement during a press briefing on Monday, emphasizing the careful consideration given to national security concerns throughout negotiations with the U.S. State Department.
The agreement establishes a framework for refugee resettlement that prioritizes Dominica’s security requirements while strengthening bilateral relations. Skerrit articulated that the partnership reflects “key points of agreement and compromise between our countries” and demonstrates Dominica’s commitment to being “a willing and reliable partner of the United States in the region.”
While specifics regarding the national origins of potential refugees remain confidential, Skerrit assured that all operational details had been thoroughly addressed in the memorandum. He noted Washington’s receptiveness to Dominican concerns, stating that U.S. officials had been “very respectful and reasonable and understanding of our concerns” during negotiations.
Concurrently, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne addressed contrasting allegations regarding his nation’s involvement with U.S. refugee initiatives. He vehemently denied claims by the opposition United Progressive Party that his administration had secretly agreed to accept 100,000 criminal deportees from the United States, labeling the accusations as “a dastardly political spin, mired in lies and disinformation.”
Browne clarified that Antigua and Barbuda had consented to consider accepting a maximum of ten non-criminal refugees possessing skills in local demand, with full discretionary authority over each case. He emphasized that the U.S. would provide biometric data and criminal background information for all potential candidates, noting that over 100 countries had been invited to participate in similar burden-sharing arrangements.
The developments highlight the complex dynamics of Caribbean-U.S. relations regarding migration management and regional cooperation on humanitarian matters.
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Children’s education will not be jeopardised by challenges beyond their control — ministry
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As educational institutions resume operations for the Easter Term, Jamaican authorities have implemented comprehensive contingency measures to ensure academic continuity despite widespread infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.
The Category 5 hurricane significantly damaged over 600 educational facilities, prompting the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information to develop a multi-faceted recovery strategy. Portfolio Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon outlined the approach, explaining that temporary arrangements will include shared campus spaces, blended learning methodologies, and innovative host school partnerships.
Minister Morris Dixon emphasized that the reconstruction effort extends beyond mere physical repairs. “We’re not simply restoring damaged infrastructure,” she stated. “This disaster presents an opportunity to reimagine and reconstruct an education system that embodies enhanced safety, technological integration, and climate resilience.”
The minister acknowledged the profound challenges facing families and educators, particularly in western Jamaica where the hurricane inflicted severe damage. She praised the collaborative efforts of ministry teams, community partners, and school personnel who worked extensively to facilitate the return to safe learning environments.
Morris Dixon specifically recognized school administrators, teaching staff, and support personnel for their exceptional leadership and creativity during the recovery period. Their dedicated efforts have enabled numerous schools across the nation to resume operations despite the unprecedented challenges posed by one of Jamaica’s most destructive natural disasters in recent history.
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Phoenix wonderkid Sean Leighton recalled to Genk
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Emerging football talent Sean Leighton from Phoenix Academy has secured a prestigious opportunity with European clubs. The 17-year-old striker has been formally recalled by Belgian Pro League side KRC Genk FC and is also scheduled for a training stint with English Premier League giants Chelsea later this month.
Leighton’s exceptional performances have consistently drawn international attention. His most recent showcase came this past Sunday, where he delivered a match-winning goal for Phoenix Chapelton Maroons in their 2-1 victory over Harbour View. This display further solidified his reputation as a top prospect.
Phoenix Academy founder Craig Butler confirmed the development, stating, “Sean has been recalled to Genk and will also travel to Chelsea. Both clubs have a serious interest in our wonderkid.”
The young Jamaican’s European journey isn’t new. He initially trained with Genk’s Under-9 squad as an eight-year-old and returned for an extended invitation in 2023. Following his return from Belgium, Leighton played a pivotal role in Mona High’s historic Manning Cup championship victory and claimed the Walker Cup in 2024. His remarkable 23-goal tally this season made him the Manning Cup’s leading goalscorer.
Leighton will not travel alone. He will be accompanied by two academy teammates: 20-year-old Robinho Gordon, who was part of Mona High’s 2023 championship team, and 16-year-old Savi-K Morton, a midfielder from St Kitts and Nevis who scored eight goals for Mona High this season. Morton has already received recognition at the international level with a call-up to the St Kitts and Nevis senior national team.
This development continues Phoenix Academy’s established pathway for Caribbean talent. The academy has previously developed notable professionals including Leon Bailey, who progressed from Genk to Bayer Leverkusen and currently plays for Aston Villa (on loan at Roma), and Dujuan Richards, who joined Chelsea in 2024 after rising through the Phoenix system.
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Consumer watchdog recovers $203k for consumers in 2025
NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) has announced the successful recovery of $203,676.51 for Bahamian consumers through its dispute resolution services in 2025. The government agency handled 271 formal complaints throughout the year, achieving a 55 percent financial recovery rate that marks a 2 percentage point improvement over 2024’s performance.
According to the Commission’s annual report, 191 cases were conclusively resolved through direct intervention, while 35 matters remain under active investigation. An additional 19 complaints were referred to specialized agencies for further action, and 26 cases were settled through advisory services and consumer guidance without requiring formal proceedings.
The data reveals a notable shift in complaint patterns, with claim amounts increasing by 20 percent year-over-year while recovery amounts grew by 18 percent. This occurred alongside a significant reduction in total complaint volume, which dropped by 39 percent compared to 2024’s 444 cases.
CPC Executive Chairman Randy Rolle attributed these developments to growing consumer awareness and confidence in the protection system. “These results demonstrate that consumers are becoming more informed, more confident, and more willing to come forward with their concerns,” Mr. Rolle stated. “Our work has not only assisted individual consumers but has strengthened accountability across the broader marketplace, ensuring fairness remains central to our economic framework.”
Despite the lower absolute recovery amount compared to 2024’s $240,426, the Commission highlighted improved operational metrics across multiple dimensions. The agency reported higher case closure rates, reduced pending investigations, and fewer referrals to external organizations, indicating enhanced resolution efficiency.
Looking toward 2026, the CPC announced plans to digitize its complaint submission process through a dedicated mobile application, upgrade data analytics capabilities, expand public education initiatives, and strengthen collaborative enforcement mechanisms with partner agencies.
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Dominica agrees to accept refugees from US
In a significant diplomatic development, the Commonwealth of Dominica has formally agreed to accept non-national refugees from the United States under a carefully negotiated arrangement. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit confirmed the agreement at a press conference, revealing that his administration will accept third-party refugees who meet specific non-violence criteria.
The agreement emerges against a backdrop of recent tensions, coming less than a month after the United States imposed travel restrictions on Dominica effective January 1, 2026. This timing highlights the complex nature of bilateral relations between the two nations.
Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the thorough negotiations with the U.S. State Department, stating, “Our discussions included careful deliberation to ensure we avoid receiving violent individuals or those who might compromise Dominica’s national security. These concerns have been acknowledged and well received by the State Department.”
The decision, according to Skerrit, stems from Dominica’s “responsibility to safeguard the wellbeing of our people, particularly their access to lawful travel, education, employment and family connections, while strengthening cooperation between our governments.”
The refugee agreement has drawn commentary from regional leaders, including Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who previously suggested that visa restrictions on Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda resulted from these nations “badmouthing” the United States. Persad-Bissessar cautioned Trinidad and Tobago citizens to “behave” to avoid similar restrictions.