Carib Scope

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  • Every over important for West Indies in Super 8, says Reds

    Every over important for West Indies in Super 8, says Reds

    The West Indies cricket team enters the Super 8 phase of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as the only squad with a perfect record, having secured victories in all four preliminary matches. Their reward: a formidable lineup against the tournament’s other undefeated teams—defending champions India, 2025 finalists South Africa, and the surprising contender Zimbabwe. The Caribbean squad begins this critical stage against Zimbabwe today at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium.

    Veteran commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira anticipates strategic lineup changes from head coach Daren Sammy. Perreira advocates for including Matthew Forde, who boasts the squad’s most economical bowling rate at 4.40 runs per over, while suggesting the omission of out-of-form former captain Rovman Powell. Powell has managed merely 47 runs across three innings, with a highest score of 24. Perreira also predicts the return of allrounder Romario Shepherd from injury, fresh from his impressive 5-20 performance against Scotland.

    “My selection for the final XI would be based strictly on current form,” Perreira stated. “Matthew Forde deserves inclusion for his exceptional economy and all-around excellence. Conversely, Powell hasn’t delivered an outstanding World Cup performance thus far. With Shepherd expected to return, that would be my sole change to the lineup.”

    The historical record favors West Indies, who have won three of their four T20 International encounters with Zimbabwe. The Caribbean team holds additional advantage through greater familiarity with the Mumbai venue, having played two matches there, while Zimbabwe contested all preliminary games in Sri Lanka.

    Perreira emphasized that the Super 8 opener will establish the tournament’s competitive tone, warning that captain Shai Hope’s squad must approach the game with seriousness and respect. “While the Zimbabwe match is crucial, Super 8 cricket elevates intensity by several notches,” Perreira cautioned. “Both teams are building self-belief, making every ball, run, and over critically important. The power play doesn’t require domination within three overs—smart, fundamental cricket across six overs can achieve the same objective.”

    The commentator outlined specific strategic requirements: “The middle order must exercise judicious shot selection. Openers King and Hope need to build substantial partnerships. Hetmyer, enjoying magnificent form, must recognize his responsibility at number three and avoid aggressive premature shots. With support from Chase, Rutherford, Holder, and Forde, our batting lineup possesses excellent balance.”

    Regarding bowling tactics, Perreira advised: “Joseph should focus on yorkers, while Holder must exploit movement-friendly lengths. Forde will likely maintain his economical consistency while contributing to middle-order batting. The spin duo of Motie and Hossein offer complementary strengths.”

    Perreira concluded with key expectations: “King is due for a significant innings. Most importantly, West Indies must respect both their opponents and the game itself, delivering mature performance without succumbing to situational excitement.”

    The match commences at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Caribbean time, marking the beginning of the tournament’s most competitive phase.

  • Saint Lucia’s Chevening Scholars sweep UK degrees with distinctions

    Saint Lucia’s Chevening Scholars sweep UK degrees with distinctions

    Three exceptional scholars from Saint Lucia have returned home with top academic honors after completing transformative Master’s degrees in the United Kingdom through the renowned Chevening Scholarship program. Nyus Alfred, Amanie Mathurin, and Patrish Lionel, all originating from the island’s southern region, successfully adapted to Britain’s challenging academic environment and climate while achieving remarkable scholarly distinction.

    Nyus Alfred emerged as the top-performing student in his cohort at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), earning Overall Distinction with perfect distinctions across all seven courses in the Media and Communications program. He received the award for Best Overall MSc Academic Performance in his department, a significant accomplishment for someone who initially questioned his ability to compete with students from elite global institutions.

    Amanie Mathurin likewise achieved Overall Distinction at LSE in Media, Communication and Development, earning top marks in five of six courses including her dissertation. Her research focused specifically on Saint Lucian culture, examining calypso music as a form of political discourse in a thesis titled ‘Singing For Di Maléwé’ – Resistance, Knowledge, and Political Discourse in Saint Lucia’s Calypso.’

    Patrish Lionel completed her Master of Arts in Strategic People Management and Practice at Liverpool John Moores University with Distinction, overcoming both academic challenges and personal tragedies during her studies. Despite receiving news of her father being injured by a stray bullet and her grandmother’s passing during her dissertation period, she persevered to achieve academic excellence.

    The three scholars formed a strong support system during their time abroad, describing themselves as ‘a small but mighty group’ that maintained accountability to each other while recognizing their role in paving the way for future Saint Lucian scholars. Their achievements demonstrate that despite coming from a small nation, Saint Lucians can compete and excel at the highest levels of global academia.

  • Stanislaus becomes first Saint Lucian to earn medical degree in Morocco

    Stanislaus becomes first Saint Lucian to earn medical degree in Morocco

    In a historic academic achievement, Kerrone Courtney Stanislaus has become the first citizen of Saint Lucia to earn a medical degree from Morocco, completing a rigorous seven-year journey that began in 2018. The young graduate received his Doctor of Medicine from the prestigious Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Rabat, marking a significant milestone for both himself and Caribbean educational opportunities.

    Stanislaus described the accomplishment as “both an honor and a profound responsibility” in an exclusive interview with St Lucia Times. He emphasized that his achievement represents more than personal success—it symbolizes regional representation and opens new possibilities for Caribbean students seeking medical education abroad.

    The path to this milestone required extraordinary adaptation. Transitioning from his small Caribbean island to North Africa presented multiple challenges: navigating cultural differences, adjusting to climate variations, and mastering medical studies conducted entirely in French while surrounded by Arabic in daily life. Stanislaus admitted the initial experience was “overwhelming,” but through perseverance and dedication, he gradually gained confidence.

    His motivation remained steadfast through personal tragedy when his mother passed away during his fourth year of studies. “I told her I wanted to be a doctor when I was four years old,” Stanislaus shared, “and she poured her soul into ensuring that I had everything needed to achieve that goal.” This personal drive fueled his academic excellence, culminating in a prize-winning thesis titled “The Impact of Physical Exercise Therapy on Cancer Patients: Clinicians’ Perspective.”

    Stanislaus’s research choice was deeply personal, inspired by the loss of both his mother and uncle to cancer. His work explored the therapeutic potential of exercise in cancer treatment and examined whether clinicians adequately incorporate physical activity into treatment plans. “I truly believe exercise can serve as a safe, cheaper and feasible adjunctive approach in our ongoing global battle against cancer,” he stated.

    This achievement gains additional significance amid shifting geopolitical landscapes affecting traditional medical education pathways. For decades, Cuba has served as a primary training ground for Caribbean medical students, but recent uncertainties have created demand for alternative options. Stanislaus believes Morocco could emerge as a viable alternative, though he cautions prospective students about the challenges.

    “Morocco is far from a bed of roses and truly isn’t for the faint or weak of heart,” he noted frankly. “There is no shortage of challenges. But for those who are hungry enough and cling to a sense of purpose greater than themselves, you can definitely thrive here.”

    For aspiring medical professionals considering international education, Stanislaus emphasizes the necessity of open-mindedness, discipline, and adaptability. He particularly stresses the importance of genuine motivation: “Choose it for the right reasons, not prestige, not pressure, but for the genuine love and commitment to service and lifelong learning.”

  • Franz DeFreitas Endorses Alex Brown for St. Philip’s North Seat

    Franz DeFreitas Endorses Alex Brown for St. Philip’s North Seat

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – In a significant political endorsement, former United Progressive Party candidate Franz DeFreitas has thrown his support behind Alex Brown for the St. Philip’s North constituency, urging voters to back his former running mate in the upcoming election.

    DeFreitas, who partnered with Brown during the 2023 General Election campaign, emphasized their shared commitment to community service and grassroots engagement. He characterized Brown as deeply connected to the constituency, noting his lifelong ties to the area. “Alex is not a stranger to this constituency,” DeFreitas stated. “He is a son of the soil. He grew up here, he works here, he worships here.”

    The former candidate highlighted Brown’s authentic community involvement, explaining that his presence at local events reflects genuine dedication rather than political calculation. “When you see Alex at a community meeting, at a funeral, at a youth football match, or behind a stove cooking for a fundraiser—that’s not politics. That’s who he is,” DeFreitas remarked.

    Brown’s proposed agenda for St. Philip’s North includes comprehensive youth development initiatives featuring skills training and certification programs in trades such as electrical installation, plumbing, carpentry, and auto mechanics. The platform also proposes creating technology hubs, digital literacy centers, sports programs, cultural activities, mentorship initiatives, and youth entrepreneurship grants.

    “Too many of our young people feel left out of opportunity,” DeFreitas commented. “Alex wants to make sure they are not just employed—but empowered.”

    For senior citizens, Brown’s plans include establishing a community day-care and activity center, advocating for improved pension access, conducting financial literacy workshops, and launching a volunteer-driven home maintenance assistance program. “Our seniors built this community,” DeFreitas said. “Alex believes we owe them comfort, security, and appreciation—not neglect.”

    The agricultural and fishing sectors feature prominently in the proposals, with consultations already conducted with local farmers and fisherfolk. Initiatives include developing an agro-processing facility, establishing cold storage and docking facilities, providing micro-financing and equipment grants, and expanding farm-to-school and farm-to-hotel programs.

    “We import too much of what we can grow and catch ourselves,” DeFreitas noted. “Alex wants to put money back into the hands of our producers.”

    Infrastructure renewal forms another key component of Brown’s platform, prioritizing local contractors, skills upgrading workshops, and collaboration with unions. Proposed projects encompass road rehabilitation, improved drainage systems, a multi-purpose community complex, beautification and lighting projects, and support for affordable housing using local labor and materials.

    “Every dollar spent on infrastructure should circulate within the constituency,” DeFreitas emphasized. “That’s how you build individual wealth and strengthen the community at the same time.”

    Concluding his endorsement, DeFreitas urged voters to support Brown at the polls, citing his demonstrated capabilities under pressure. “I have seen Alex negotiate, organize, comfort families, and mobilize volunteers. He is steady. He is loyal. And he genuinely cares,” DeFreitas affirmed. “Give Alex Brown the opportunity to serve you in Parliament. He is ready. He is capable. And most importantly—he is one of you.”

  • Noted Guyanese politician Rupert Roopnaraine dies

    Noted Guyanese politician Rupert Roopnaraine dies

    The Guyanese political landscape is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, a revered politician and intellectual, who died at Georgetown Hospital on Monday morning after a prolonged illness. He was 83 years old.

    Dr. Roopnaraine’s legacy is profoundly marked by his pivotal role in bridging deep political divides. As a co-leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), he was instrumental in healing decades of animosity with the People’s National Congress (PNC). His efforts were central to the formation of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition in 2011, a strategic alliance forged alongside WPA’s Dr. Clive Thomas and PNC-Reform’s Robert Corbin. Following the coalition’s electoral victory in 2015, Dr. Roopnaraine served as Minister of Education.

    Colleagues and political adversaries alike celebrated his unique capacity for reconciliation. WPA co-leader Dr. David Hinds highlighted Dr. Roopnaraine’s relentless pursuit of peace, describing APNU as ‘Rupert’s baby’ and crediting him as the leading force behind the WPA’s decision to reconcile with its historical rivals for the national interest. This was a significant move, given the WPA had long blamed the PNC for the 1980 assassination of its leader, Walter Rodney.

    APNU Chairman Aubrey Norton praised Dr. Roopnaraine’s application of the WPA’s principle of co-leadership in cross-party relations, noting his exceptional ability to accommodate diverse viewpoints. Norton stated that the society had lost ‘one of the best patriots we have ever had,’ a sentiment that underscores the profound respect he commanded across the political spectrum.

    Beyond his political acumen, Dr. Roopnaraine was hailed as one of Guyana’s most brilliant orators. He notably transcended the country’s ethnic divisions; an Indo-Guyanese who connected deeply with Afro-Guyanese communities. Long-serving PPP executive Clement Rohee remembered him and Dr. Rodney for ushering in a new political era, attracting massive crowds with erudite speeches that blended literary brilliance with sharp political analysis. His parliamentary contributions were similarly impactful, captivating colleagues with his intellectually rich discourse.

    Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine’s multifaceted life also encompassed achievements as a filmmaker, author, and cricketer, cementing his status as a true Renaissance man of Guyanese public life.

  • SJDC Marks 40th Anniversary With Week of Activities

    SJDC Marks 40th Anniversary With Week of Activities

    The St. John’s Development Corporation (SJDC) launches a commemorative week celebrating its 40th anniversary, embracing the thematic vision ’40 Years: Honoring our Past: Shaping our Future.’ The milestone celebrations commenced on Friday, February 20th, with an early morning feature on the popular local program ‘Good Morning Antigua and Barbuda.’

    The schedule continues with a spiritual observance on Sunday, February 22nd, hosting a congregational service at Spring Gardens Moravian Church at 8 a.m., followed by a communal breakfast at Heritage Hotel at 10:30 a.m.

    Highlighting its civic responsibilities, the corporation has designated Monday, February 23rd, for a dedicated media day. This initiative will concentrate on public education regarding litter awareness, prevention, and control strategies, beginning at 7:45 a.m.

    Midweek, on Thursday, February 26th, the corporation will express its gratitude during Customer Appreciation Day at 10:30 a.m. The following day, Friday, February 27th, is reserved for internal staff recognition. Employees will participate in a designated ‘Staff Dress Day’ and attend an inspirational talk by a motivational speaker at 1 p.m. at the Heritage Hotel.

    The extensive anniversary program will culminate on Saturday, February 28th, with an evening of leisure and community bonding. A barbecue social accompanied by games night is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Multipurpose Center.

    Established four decades ago, the SJDC emphasized that this series of events embodies its dual dedication: paying homage to its rich historical legacy while actively forging a progressive path for future development initiatives in St. John’s.

  • Countries Issue Travel Advisories As Cartel henchmen unleash violence after top drug lord killed in Mexico

    Countries Issue Travel Advisories As Cartel henchmen unleash violence after top drug lord killed in Mexico

    A catastrophic wave of retaliatory violence has engulfed at least 20 Mexican states following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias ‘El Mencho’, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The notorious kingpin, Mexico’s most wanted man, died in military custody on Sunday after sustaining severe injuries during a fierce firefight between his personal security detail and Mexican special forces during his capture in Tapalpa, Jalisco.

    The cartel’s response was immediate and brutal. CJNG operatives orchestrated a coordinated campaign of terror, erecting over 250 burning blockades by commandeering and incinerating buses and vehicles. Dozens of banks, pharmacies, and local businesses were set ablaze, casting plumes of black smoke over cities including the major tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta and the World Cup host city, Guadalajara. At Guadalajara’s airport, panicked travelers were sent scrambling for cover amid reports of nearby gunfire.

    The chaos evoked memories of the 2019 Sinaloa cartel uprising following the capture of Ovidio Guzmán López. In response, authorities enacted drastic measures: Jalisco’s governor declared a ‘Code Red,’ suspending all public transport, mass gatherings, and in-person classes. The U.S. State Department issued shelter-in-place advisories for its citizens across multiple states, while the UK Foreign Office urged extreme caution. Approximately 300 tourists were evacuated from Puerto Vallarta’s airport under heavy police escort after flight cancellations.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised the security forces’ operation while urging public calm, asserting that most of the country continued normal operations. The operation, supported by U.S.-provided intelligence, marked a significant victory; the U.S. had offered a $15 million reward for El Mencho, whom U.S. officials identified as a top fentanyl trafficker. While security forces have since lifted 90% of the blockades and made 25 arrests, tensions remain critically high in the cartel’s stronghold.

  • Rotary Clubs Unite in Worship and Reflection to Mark World Peace and Understanding Da

    Rotary Clubs Unite in Worship and Reflection to Mark World Peace and Understanding Da

    On February 22nd, the Cashew Hill Moravian Church hosted a significant gathering of Rotarians from across Antigua, marking the annual observance of World Peace and Understanding Day. This date holds profound historical importance for the global Rotary community, commemorating the inaugural meeting of the first Rotary Club in Chicago on February 23, 1905, when Paul Harris and three visionaries laid the foundation for what would become a worldwide service organization.

    The joint service brought together members from the Rotary Club of Antigua, Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown, and Rotaract in a powerful demonstration of unity and shared purpose. The event served as both a reflective worship service and a reaffirmation of Rotary’s enduring commitment to fostering international goodwill and cross-cultural understanding.

    Vice President Athlyn Davis of the Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown and President Elisa Graham of the Rotary Club of Antigua delivered scripture readings, symbolizing the collaborative spirit that defines the Rotary family in Antigua and Barbuda. Their participation highlighted the organization’s core values of partnership and service.

    Assistant Governor and Past President Jonah Ormond delivered a keynote address reframing the concept of peace through Rotary International’s perspective. He articulated that true peace extends beyond the absence of conflict to encompass the active presence of justice, opportunity, and service to others. Ormond detailed how Rotary’s diverse programs—from community development initiatives to youth leadership programs and international exchanges—all contribute to building sustainable peace through dialogue and cooperation.

    In a compelling call to action, Ormond challenged Rotarians to integrate peacebuilding intentionally into all service projects, regardless of their primary focus on health, youth, or vulnerable families. He urged members to embody Rotary’s values in their daily interactions, promoting tolerance and friendship within their homes, workplaces, and communities. Furthermore, he emphasized the critical importance of engaging community partners—including schools, churches, and youth groups—in honest conversations about conflict resolution and social harmony.

    The observance stands as a testament to Rotary’s foundational principles and its ongoing mission to build bridges across communities and cultures. As Rotarians worldwide continue their work, they remain guided by the organizing principle of Service Above Self and the commitment to standing United for Good in pursuit of a more peaceful, connected, and compassionate world.

  • Spicemas welcomes home Grenadian artistes from Trinidad Carnival 2026

    Spicemas welcomes home Grenadian artistes from Trinidad Carnival 2026

    In a significant celebration of cultural achievement, Spicemas Corporation (SMC) hosted a Special Welcome Ceremony on Friday to honor Grenadian musical ambassadors who excelled at Trinidad and Tobago’s prestigious 2026 Carnival. The event, held at the Maurice Bishop International Airport Administration Building, gathered dignitaries including Governor-General Dame Cécile La Grenade, cultural officials, and public supporters.

    The ceremony spotlighted artists who elevated Grenada’s musical presence on one of the Caribbean’s most competitive carnival stages. Among those recognized were reigning 2025 Power Soca Monarch Lil Natty & Thunda; Jarvis “Muddy” Cuffie, whose hit single ‘Payroll’ reached number 85 on Rolling Stone’s 100 Best Songs of 2025 list; and Keron “Lil Kerry” Noel, who secured third place in the 2025 Soca Monarch competition with ‘Bury All.’ Additional acknowledgments went to V’ghn and Terra D Governor for their regionally popular track ‘Jab Decision,’ along with Dred Lion’s ‘Grease It’ and Tallpree and Smokie’s ‘Do For Do.’

    Spicemas Chairman Kurt Ross hailed the occasion as “a moment of cultural pride,” emphasizing that the artists demonstrated exceptional discipline and authentic national representation. “You stepped onto one of the most competitive carnival stages in the Caribbean with confidence, discipline and unmistakable Grenadian identity,” Ross stated. He highlighted that their performances served as cultural diplomacy, promoting Grenada’s Spicemas carnival as a premier event rather than a secondary experience on the Caribbean calendar.

    Ross framed carnival as both a cultural festival and a creative economy, noting that each performance abroad created potential audiences for Spicemas 2026. He urged converting this regional visibility into national and international momentum, calling for strengthened partnerships between artists and the corporation.

    The honored artists expressed profound gratitude for the recognition. Muddy Cuffie described his Trinidad experience as overwhelmingly positive, citing strong Caribbean unity and support from promoters, DJs, and Grenadians abroad. Lil Kerry Noel and Lil Natty & Thunda echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the emotional impact of Trinidadian reception and their commitment to elevating Grenada’s music industry globally. All artists affirmed their dedication to strengthening Grenada’s cultural brand across the region and beyond.

  • Padvinders herdenken Baden-Powell met traditionele cook-out en installatieceremonie

    Padvinders herdenken Baden-Powell met traditionele cook-out en installatieceremonie

    The Pater Anton Donicie Scout Group in Suriname marked the 167th birthday of scouting founder Robert Baden-Powell with a weekend of traditional activities that tested both culinary skills and character development. The centerpiece event featured a cook-out where scouts prepared meals exclusively over wood fires, embracing the movement’s back-to-basics philosophy.

    The most anticipated culinary experiment involved baking chicken pastry in an underground oven—a pit dug into the earth and heated with charcoal. While Sheritsa consulted her mother by phone for cassava preparation advice, Jo-Sara diligently maintained the soup kettle’s wood fire. Other patrols struggled with fundamental tasks: chopping wood proved challenging, and onion preparation brought tears to many young scouts’ eyes.

    Saturday’s installation ceremony at Sunny Point saw formal induction of new cub scouts and explorers, with visibly proud parents participating in the tradition of presenting flowers and placing caps on their children. Bystanders from the neighborhood observed from a distance, seemingly intrigued but hesitant to approach the formal proceedings.

    Group leader Wilgo Koster emphasized the critical role of parental involvement in scouting, noting that ‘it contributes significantly to a child’s development.’ He acknowledged the movement’s ongoing challenges in recruitment despite teaching valuable life skills including self-reliance, cooperation, leadership, nature knowledge, thrift, courage, and perseverance.

    Koster identified discipline as scouting’s foundational pillar, connecting it to broader values: ‘Progress begins with discipline. We teach scouts not just survival skills, but also to avoid materialistic behavior—unfortunately, society seems increasingly focused on acquiring more possessions, which leads to certain problematic behaviors.’

    The Sunday cook-out tested scouts’ patience and ingenuity, requiring them to create fires using only matches and wood, cook soup, and then restore the site to its original condition. Despite initial struggles, the event culminated in impressive culinary achievements that surprised and satisfied casual tasters. The underground-baked chicken pastry received particular praise, though cleaning soot-blackened pots provided an unexpected final challenge that proved more difficult than the cooking itself.