Carib Scope

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  • Holness touts economic resilience and crime reduction, defends JPS loan

    Holness touts economic resilience and crime reduction, defends JPS loan

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared Jamaica’s robust entry into 2026, highlighting exceptional economic resilience, historic crime reduction, and accelerated post-hurricane recovery efforts. The announcement came during a ceremonial equipment handover at the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Hunts Bay Station in Kingston on Friday, where recovery crews were dispatched to western regions as part of a strategic national restoration initiative.

    Holness emphasized that Jamaica’s disaster response has outperformed many nations facing comparable hurricane impacts, with approximately 90% of national electricity restored and nearly 70% recovery achieved in the most severely affected parishes. The government’s recovery philosophy centers on ‘building forward’ rather than merely restoring damaged infrastructure, with plans deploying hurricane-rated poles, microgrids, underground lines, and resilient corridors to protect critical infrastructure including airports and medical facilities.

    A pivotal US$150 billion financing facility enabled JPS to deploy unprecedented resources—270 trucks and approximately 470 additional workers—bringing total manpower to nearly 900 line workers. Holness clarified this financing was deliberately separated from ongoing license negotiations to prevent delays in restoration, noting that JPS’s public service mission justifies government support despite its private ownership structure.

    Beyond infrastructure achievements, Holness pointed to two transformative national successes: economic vitality and public safety. The Planning Institute of Jamaica reported over 5% growth in Q3 2025, demonstrating remarkable economic rebound capacity following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in 2024. This resilience, attributed to deliberate government policies, enabled recovery within the same year of impact—a historically unprecedented achievement.

    Simultaneously, Jamaica recorded its lowest murder rate in 31 years with 673 homicides, representing a 40% decline and third consecutive year of reductions. This breakthrough places Jamaica on trajectory toward the regional average of 15 murders per 100,000 people, signaling a profound shift in public safety outcomes.

  • Dwight Smith takes over as head coach of Spanish Town Police FC

    Dwight Smith takes over as head coach of Spanish Town Police FC

    In a strategic move to revitalize their faltering campaign, Spanish Town Police FC has announced the appointment of Dwight Smith as their new head coach for the remainder of the Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League season. The 39-year-old tactician, who currently manages Old Harbour United—the recent acquirer of Spanish Town Police—steps into the role following the departure of Brian Spencer.

    Smith brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success. He rose to prominence as the assistant coach to Vassell Reynolds during Kingston College’s triumphant 2024 season, where the team secured both the prestigious Manning Cup and the all-island Olivier Shield titles. His coaching credentials are further bolstered by his possession of CONCACAF B and C licenses, and he is nearing completion of his UEFA C License, demonstrating a commitment to professional development.

    The challenge ahead is significant. Smith takes command of a squad entrenched at the bottom of the 14-team league table. Spanish Town Police has managed a mere eight points from 14 matches, a record marred by 10 defeats and only two victories. Smith’s extensive background, which includes roles as assistant coach at Vere United (Jamalco), head coach of the Vere Women’s team, head coach of Clarendon Under-15, and a lengthy tenure as head coach at Kemps Hill High School from 2012 to 2023, will be crucial in orchestrating a turnaround for the beleaguered club. The appointment is effective immediately as the team seeks to climb from its current position.

  • TPP blueprint to modernise Tobago, enhance tourism

    TPP blueprint to modernise Tobago, enhance tourism

    The Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has launched a comprehensive strategic roadmap for the island’s development, presenting both a four-year action plan and a visionary 20-year framework extending to 2045. Party leader Farley Augustine unveiled the blueprint during a January 1st event at Uptown Fascinators Pan Theatre in Scarborough, characterizing it as a people-centered approach to governance.

    The plan outlines ambitious digital transformation goals, targeting 70% efficiency for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) by 2035 and 95% by 2045 through comprehensive digitization of government systems. Augustine emphasized the critical need to reduce transaction times and shift Tobago’s business landscape toward digital operations, noting that cash-only businesses are limiting their growth potential.

    Economic objectives include establishing a minimum wage of $5,500 by 2027 and implementing minimum five-year contracts for “10 days” workers. The TPP aims to achieve a GDP per capita of US$10,000 by 2035 and US$20,000 by 2045, primarily through public-private partnerships.

    Tourism represents a cornerstone of the development strategy, with targets of 6% economic contribution by 2030 and 8% by 2035. Augustine called for a 25% increase in long-stay visitors by 2030 and 60% growth in short-stay visitors by 2035, highlighting the need for at least 1,500 four-star or five-star hotel rooms on the island. The party is currently engaging with luxury hotel chains including Marriott and Hilton while emphasizing community tourism, eco-tourism, and sports tourism—all while maintaining environmental protections and opposing beach privatization.

    Food security initiatives include $100,000 grant funding for farmers aged 35 and younger, while infrastructure development will receive $600 million in annual investment for road improvements, including specific projects at Darrel Spring boardwalk, Turpin Bend, and a new transit hub in Scarborough.

    Augustine contrasted the TPP’s detailed blueprint with the PNM’s “Big Bold Red Deal,” asserting that his party provides concrete implementation strategies rather than mere objectives. The plan specifically addresses job creation with targeted sectors identified for generating over 8,000 employment opportunities.

    The blueprint framework encompasses five strategic areas: overall development philosophy, social contract, strategic policy agenda, grand vision and priorities, and implementation logic. Augustine described the document as essential reading for all stakeholders—from engineers to construction workers—emphasizing that everyone must work from the same plan to build “a brighter Tobago where every child has the opportunity to self-actualize.”

  • Bowleg says era of 12-hour Junkanoo parade must end

    Bowleg says era of 12-hour Junkanoo parade must end

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg has declared an end to the era of 12-hour Junkanoo parades following widespread public frustration over extensive delays during this season’s celebrations. The minister’s statements come in response to mounting complaints from spectators who endured overnight waits for major performances during the traditional Boxing Day and New Year’s Day events.

    The cultural minister emphasized that Junkanoo exists primarily for Bahamian citizens, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in creating parades that respect audience time and expectations. ‘It has to be a collaboration effort to come together and understand,’ Minister Bowleg stated. ‘We must improve how we smoothly transit and execute these parades so that the Bahamian people can see what they want to see in a timely manner.’

    Addressing the historical duration of the celebrations, Bowleg asserted: ‘I think gone are the days where these parades should take 12 to 13 hours to finish. I believe it can be done in a shorter time, where it can be most impactful and effective.’

    The current parade management falls under the National Junkanoo Committee, which took over organizational responsibilities following the government’s public dispute with the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence. This season marked the committee’s inaugural management of both major parades, with the Boxing Day event particularly drawing criticism for extended intermissions between group performances.

    Minister Bowleg revealed that the proposed National Junkanoo Authority of The Bahamas – a statutory body the government plans to establish – would enable a more coordinated approach to nationwide Junkanoo management. This authority would facilitate strategic partnerships and closer collaboration between the new governing body, the existing National Junkanoo Committee, and participating performance groups.

    Despite the initial challenges, the New Year’s Day parade demonstrated noticeable improvements with reduced gaps between performances. The strategic deployment of B groups to maintain entertainment continuity while major groups prepared for their appearances helped sustain momentum along Bay Street. While acknowledging that further refinements will require time, Bowleg expressed satisfaction with the progress made and emphasized that systematic improvements are essential to preserving Junkanoo’s status as the nation’s premier cultural celebration.

  • Kevin Downswell shares his wish for Jamaica in 2026

    Kevin Downswell shares his wish for Jamaica in 2026

    Renowned Jamaican gospel artist and ordained minister Kevin Downswell has articulated a profound vision for his nation’s future, advocating for a collective spiritual refocus among citizens. The acclaimed musician, best known for his inspirational anthem ‘You Make Me Stronger,’ shared his aspirations during a recent public appearance at the Funfest event held at Hope Gardens.

    In an exclusive dialogue with Observer Online following his spiritually charged performance, Downswell emphasized the transient nature of worldly pursuits. “My heartfelt desire for Jamaicans is to recenter their priorities on divine principles,” the artist stated. “The scriptures remind us to prioritize heavenly matters above all else, promising that other necessities will follow accordingly. Many chase temporary satisfactions that ultimately fade, but maintaining focus on eternal values yields lasting fulfillment.”

    Downswell’s spiritual counsel extends beyond his musical ministry. His 2024 publication, ‘Midnight to Victory: 90 Days of Faith, Hope, Prayer and Breakthrough,’ achieved remarkable success, topping Amazon’s bestseller lists and providing readers with a structured path toward personal transformation through daily devotional practice.

    The artist’s contributions to Jamaican culture and spiritual life received formal recognition in October 2025, when he was honored with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer during the National Honours and Awards ceremony at King’s House. This prestigious decoration acknowledges his significant impact through both artistic expression and spiritual leadership.

  • Former US Ambassador Nick Perry rings in new year in Jamaica

    Former US Ambassador Nick Perry rings in new year in Jamaica

    The prestigious Couples Tower Isle resort hosted an illustrious New Year’s Eve celebration that attracted distinguished guests, including former US Ambassador to Jamaica Noah ‘Nick’ Perry. The December 31, 2025, event featured gourmet dining, vibrant entertainment, and a spectacular midnight fireworks display that captivated attendees.

    Ambassador Perry, who was born in Jamaica and attended Kingston College before immigrating to the United States in 1971, expressed his particular affection for celebrating the holiday season on his home island. “The Jamaican spirit during Christmas and New Year’s is truly exceptional,” Perry remarked. “Starting the new year here holds special significance for me. With my residence located conveniently nearby, I preferred a tranquil beginning to the year that gradually gains momentum.”

    Perry specifically commended the Issa family, owners of Couples Resorts, recognizing them as “exceptional Jamaicans who demonstrate genuine care for their staff and consistently remember those in need.”

    Paul Issa, a director of Couples Resorts, confirmed the event’s success, noting that many guests from Kingston and across the island traditionally choose to celebrate New Year’s Eve at their properties. The gathering included prominent figures such as financier Donovan Lewis alongside Ambassador Perry and numerous returning guests.

    The celebration also served as an occasion to reflect on community support efforts. Issa acknowledged contributions through the Issa Trust Foundation toward rebuilding and repairing homes of employees affected by Hurricane Melissa. All staff reporting damage received assessments and vouchers for building supplies from Hardware & Lumber, with particular recognition given to Diane Pollard, Sean ‘Contractor’ Edwards, Alex Ghisays, and resort guests who supported recovery initiatives.

    Ambassador Perry’s distinguished career includes his service as US Ambassador to Jamaica from 2022 to 2025 and his lengthy tenure in the New York State Assembly representing Brooklyn’s 58th district from 1993 to 2022. The Brooklyn College graduate holds degrees in political science and public policy administration, and is the grandfather of Roc-Nation signed artist Justine Skye.

  • St Kitts and Nevis warns of heighten tension in the Taiwan Strait

    St Kitts and Nevis warns of heighten tension in the Taiwan Strait

    The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has issued a formal statement expressing deep apprehension regarding recent military exercises conducted by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in the Taiwan Strait. The Caribbean nation’s government, led by Prime Minister Terrance Drew, characterized these drills as activities that ‘heighten tensions and risk undermining peace, stability, and prosperity’ in the strategically vital region.

    Emphasizing its commitment to international law and peaceful conflict resolution, the Basseterre administration highlighted the Taiwan Strait’s critical role as a global trade corridor whose stability represents a matter of international concern. The statement specifically called upon all involved parties to uphold their responsibilities under the United Nations Charter while reaffirming the nation’s dedication to collaborating with international partners to safeguard global peace and development.

    This diplomatic position emerges from St. Kitts and Nevis’ unique status as one of the few Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members maintaining formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which China considers a breakaway province subject to its ‘One China’ principle.

    The situation coincides with Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te’s reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to ‘resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence.’ President Lai has proposed a substantial US$40 billion military spending increase, though this initiative currently faces legislative hurdles due to opposition party control in Taiwan’s parliament.

    Concurrently, the United States has urged China to exercise restraint and avoid actions that escalate regional tensions. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott articulated Washington’s position supporting ‘peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait’ while opposing ‘unilateral changes to the status quo, including by force or coercion.’

    China’s recent military operations included missile launches and deployments of aircraft and naval vessels simulating an encirclement of Taiwan. While such drills have become increasingly routine, analysts note that Beijing’s demonstrated willingness to curtail autonomy in regions like Hong Kong has intensified speculation about potential military intervention to compel Taiwan’s compliance with Chinese objectives.

  • Guerra’s attorneys slam SoE tribunal, demand ruling by January 2

    Guerra’s attorneys slam SoE tribunal, demand ruling by January 2

    In a dramatic escalation of legal tensions, attorneys representing businessman Danny Guerra have issued an ultimatum to Trinidad and Tobago’s state of emergency review tribunal, demanding a ruling on his preventive detention by 4 PM on January 2nd. The legal team warned that tribunal members should resign if they fail to comply, threatening immediate emergency relief proceedings in the High Court.

    In a sharply worded January 1st letter addressed to the tribunal and copied to Chief Justice Ivor Archie, lead attorney Nerisa Bala delivered a scathing indictment of the tribunal’s performance. She accused the body of fundamentally failing its constitutional mandate to protect liberty during emergencies and presiding over procedural delays that constitute arbitrary detention.

    The constitutional crisis stems from Guerra’s November 20, 2025 detention under emergency powers. Despite invoking his right to review under Regulation 5 of the Emergency Powers Regulations on November 27th, the process has been marred by multiple procedural failures according to the legal filing.

    Bala detailed a pattern of institutional breakdown: the hearing was scheduled nearly three weeks after filing, violating constitutional due process requirements. When Guerra’s original counsel became unavailable, the tribunal denied rescheduling requests without explanation, forcing last-minute legal representation changes. Most significantly, the Minister of Homeland Security failed to meet the mandatory seven-day deadline for providing detention grounds, with the tribunal taking no enforcement action.

    The procedural irregularities continued during proceedings. Defense submissions weren’t provided to the tribunal chairman beforehand, necessitating adjournment. Despite previous non-compliance, the minister’s counsel received six additional days to respond while Guerra remained detained. As of January 1st, nine days had passed since final submissions without determination.

    Bala emphasized the constitutional stakes: ‘The framers understood emergency powers posed real liberty risks, hence creating an independent tribunal to review detentions. This tribunal has failed that mandate spectacularly.’ She argued the delays ‘undermine public confidence in justice administration during emergency.’

    Guerra faces allegations of leading an organized crime group involved in arms trafficking, money laundering, and illegal quarrying. A detention order signed by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander also references an alleged plot to assassinate a government minister.

    The current state of emergency, declared on July 18th and extended twice, is scheduled to end in January. This case tests the balance between emergency powers and fundamental rights, with the legal team asserting the tribunal’s actions have ’emptied the right to liberty of any content.’

  • R and R Proj steps into soca with ‘Poison’

    R and R Proj steps into soca with ‘Poison’

    Trinidadian-American musical collaborators Ron Metivier and Rhonda Rosales have officially entered the soca music scene with their debut single “Poison,” marking a significant evolution in their artistic partnership under the banner R and R Proj. The US-based performers, who migrated from Trinidad in 2019, have channeled their deep cultural roots into this vibrant musical offering that represents their first dedicated foray into the soca genre despite established careers in parang and calypso.

    Rosales brings extensive vocal expertise developed through decades of performance, beginning with childhood guidance from her grandmother and uncle Anderson Rosales of G Sharp and Friends. Her distinguished background includes a 20-year tenure with parang group Los Alumnos de San Juan, membership in TUCO, performances at Kaiso House calypso tent, and vocal leadership with Fuego Caribeño. She has performed internationally as a cultural ambassador alongside legendary figures including the late calypsonian Hawthorn “King Wellington” Quashie.

    Metivier contributes multi-instrumental mastery, particularly on cuatro, guitar, and bass, blending traditional Caribbean sounds with contemporary influences. His musical journey began at age 13, leading to his recognition as the youngest cuatro player with renowned band Salsa Picante under maestro Robert Munro. With extensive performance experience across the Caribbean, North America, and Europe, Metivier has directed and arranged for numerous cultural ensembles and co-founded entertainment group Team Regal Entertainment.

    The collaboration emerged naturally from their shared creative vision, with “Poison” representing a deliberate expansion into soca music. “With our roots in the calypso tent and as proud Trinidadians, we wanted to make a strong contribution to the soca kingdom,” Metivier explained. The track embodies Carnival’s passion, rhythm, and collective spirit through a fusion of Metivier’s instrumental versatility and Rosales’ commanding vocal presence.

    Produced, mixed, and mastered by Samuel Jack (Jhaqkmix) at Maddagain Production Studio in New York, owned by Roger “Patch” Joseph, the recording maintains authentic Trinidadian spirit despite its international production. The artists describe Jack’s contribution as transformative, helping realize their vision into a vibrant, fully-formed sound.

    An animated music video is currently available on YouTube, with additional visual content promised soon. The duo confirms this release signals the beginning of ongoing musical exploration, with more original works planned that will continue blending genres, experimenting with rhythms, and celebrating Caribbean cultural richness while honoring musical traditions.

  • BCIC announces leadership appointments

    BCIC announces leadership appointments

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant organizational overhaul set to enhance operational efficiency and market performance, British Caribbean Insurance Company (BCIC) has implemented a comprehensive leadership restructuring effective January 1, 2026. This strategic realignment underscores the company’s dedication to operational excellence, customer experience enhancement, and sustainable expansion within the insurance sector.

    Michelle Anderson ascends to Deputy Managing Director after demonstrating exceptional leadership during her decade-long tenure with BCIC, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer. Her extensive background in insurance solutions and operations has equipped her with profound institutional knowledge and execution capabilities. Anderson will now provide strategic supervision across critical domains including underwriting protocols, operational workflows, revenue optimization, and service delivery mechanisms.

    Concurrently, Lori-Ann Glasgow assumes expanded responsibilities encompassing leadership of BCIC’s Direct Channel operations. Her portfolio now integrates branch operations, call center management, and marketing functions—a synergistic approach designed to fortify customer engagement strategies, communication frameworks, and direct sales initiatives. Glasgow’s previous contributions have already strengthened brand positioning and elevated customer interaction standards throughout the organization.

    The restructuring also promotes Joy Gibson to Regional Human Resources Manager, granting her oversight across amalgamated JNGI and BCIC operations. Gibson will spearhead human resources development, facilities management, and operational support systems while extending her regional accountability to Barbados. This enhanced mandate aims to institutionalize organizational coherence, workforce capabilities, and operational uniformity across the consolidated enterprise.

    Complementing these appointments, Anne McMorris Cover will helm BCIC’s transformation agenda focusing on digital modernization, system upgrades, service innovation, and improvement initiatives. Her role ensures the realization of tangible returns from the company’s ongoing technological investments.

    Managing Director Peter Levy emphasized that these promotions reflect BCIC’s confidence in internal talent and commitment to building a future-ready organization positioned to deliver consistent service quality, disciplined execution, and long-term stakeholder value.