Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • 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.

  • Lee to investigate Corinth town house squatters

    Lee to investigate Corinth town house squatters

    A disturbing housing controversy has emerged in Trinidad following revelations that squatters attempted to occupy a government-subsidized home weeks before the legitimate owners were scheduled to receive their keys. The incident occurred at a Housing Development Corporation (HDC) townhouse in Riverside South, Corinth, near San Fernando, where a family with children had already made substantial payments toward the property.

    The concerned couple, who have chosen to remain anonymous, filed an official police report on December 29 after being alerted that unauthorized individuals were inside their designated home and preparing to move in. This development has sparked a significant political confrontation regarding housing policy and property rights under the current administration.

    Housing Minister David Lee initially responded to the situation on December 31, stating he would investigate the matter through HDC channels. However, the incident quickly escalated into a broader political debate when former housing minister Camille Robinson-Regis revealed that following the April 28 general election, the HDC had implemented a policy to ‘regularize squatters currently occupying HDC properties without permission.’

    Robinson-Regis condemned this approach as fundamentally flawed, arguing that it represents governmental laziness and a problematic shortcut to addressing housing shortages. She highlighted the contradiction in government simultaneously condemning lawlessness while officially sanctioning illegal occupation of state properties.

    The former minister connected this policy to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent characterization of Trinidad and Tobago as ‘a lawless dump’ during her defense of increased traffic fines. Robinson-Regis also referenced previous instances of political interference in housing matters, noting that Oropouche East MP Dr. Roodal Moonilal, now Energy Minister, had previously called for HDC to halt evictions by claiming those being removed were political targets of the PNM.

    The controversy raises serious questions about ministerial oversight at HDC and whether current housing policies maintain the necessary standards of fairness, transparency, and respect for the rule of law that should govern public housing distribution.

  • Cop and teen feared drowned in New Year’s tragedy at Portmore beach

    Cop and teen feared drowned in New Year’s tragedy at Portmore beach

    PORTMORE, St. Catherine – A tragic incident unfolded at Hellshire Beach on Thursday when an off-duty police officer and a teenage boy disappeared in perilous waters and are now presumed deceased. The officer has been identified as Constable Shamar Grant, who was officially on sick leave from duty at the time of the incident.

    According to preliminary reports, the sequence of events began when a woman and the adolescent encountered severe difficulties while swimming. Witnessing their distress, Constable Grant, despite his medical leave status, immediately intervened in a courageous attempt to rescue them. During the rescue operation, Grant himself became overwhelmed by the aquatic conditions and also began to struggle.

    Emergency responders managed to successfully extract the woman from the water. She was subsequently transported to Spanish Town Hospital for immediate medical attention. Her current health status remains undisclosed by authorities.

    Tragically, both Constable Grant and the young boy were submerged and could not be located. As of the latest updates, an extensive search-and-recovery operation is actively underway. Personnel from the specialized Marine Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force have been deployed to assist local teams in these efforts, combing the area in the hope of locating the missing individuals.

  • Venus Williams gets Australian Open wildcard aged 45

    Venus Williams gets Australian Open wildcard aged 45

    MELBOURNE, Australia — In a landmark moment for professional tennis, legendary athlete Venus Williams has been granted a wildcard entry to compete in the 2024 Australian Open at age 45. This historic announcement on Friday establishes the American superstar as the most senior female competitor ever to participate in the season’s inaugural Grand Slam tournament.

    The seven-time major singles champion, whose on-court appearances have been selectively limited in recent seasons, will make her first main draw appearance at Melbourne Park since 2021. Williams expressed enthusiasm about her return to Australian courts, stating: ‘I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer. I’ve had so many incredible memories there and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.’

    Williams’ extraordinary resume includes five Wimbledon titles and two US Open championships, complemented by Australian Open singles final appearances in both 2003 and 2017. Her upcoming participation breaks the previous age record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed at 44 during the 2015 tournament.

    The four-time Australian Open doubles champion will commence tournament preparations at next week’s Auckland Classic, following her return to competitive play at last year’s US Open after a 16-month hiatus. Williams will subsequently compete at the Hobart International before the Grand Slam event scheduled from January 18 to February 1.

    Fellow American and two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff praised Williams’ enduring career, remarking: ‘She’s a legend of the sport, so it will be cool to see her back in action. It’s incredible the longevity of her career. She’s one of the people I looked up to, so looking forward to seeing her back on court.’

  • US pledges continued support for Haiti

    US pledges continued support for Haiti

    As Haiti commemorates the 222nd anniversary of its independence from France, international voices have united in addressing the nation’s profound security and governance challenges. The United States, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has reaffirmed its commitment to a long-term partnership with the Caribbean nation. This pledge centers on a multi-faceted approach to strengthen security infrastructures, restore national stability, and lay the groundwork for sustainable economic prosperity.

    A cornerstone of the US strategy involves robust support for the establishment of a specialized Gang Suppression Force (GSF). This unit is designed to operate in concert with Haitian security forces to dismantle the pervasive control of criminal gangs, including groups designated by the US as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Rubio’s statement also acknowledged the incremental progress made by Haiti’s transitional government and its provisional electoral council as they prepare for the country’s first national elections in over a decade, scheduled for 2026. The US has vowed to continue encouraging and assisting these efforts to ensure a secure and democratic electoral process.

    Echoing the call for tranquility from a spiritual perspective, Pope Leo XIV has championed the concept of a ‘disarmed peace’ for Haiti. This doctrine, as welcomed and elucidated by Bishop Gontrand Décoste of Jérémie, demands a complete cessation of hostilities and the absolute absence of firearms. It is framed not merely as a ceasefire but as a profound process of dialogue aimed at persuading those who wield power through violence to voluntarily surrender their arms. The ultimate objective is the restoration of state authority and national security.

    Despite these international endorsements, the ground reality remains dire. Bishop Décoste conceded that Haiti is effectively held hostage by coalitions of armed gangs and terrorists. These entities continue to paralyze the economy, blockade critical transportation routes, and fuel an expansive regional drug trade. The bishop condemned a culture where certain parties profit from the widespread insecurity and the illicit sale of ammunition, a stark contrast to the abject poverty endured by the general populace.

    Nevertheless, a thread of resilient optimism persists. Drawing inspiration from Pope John Paul II’s historic visit 42 years ago and the enduring cry of ‘Haiti will live,’ the Haitian church and its people are engaging in acts of spiritual resistance. Marian pilgrimages in Port-au-Prince have transformed into symbols of defiance against the prevailing darkness, embodying the hopeful embrace of Pope Leo XIV’s assertion: ‘Evil will not prevail.’