Carib Scope

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  • Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    Council commends clean THA election campaign so far

    The Council for Responsible Political Behaviour has issued commendations to political parties participating in Tobago’s January 12 elections for their commitment to maintaining campaign integrity. In a December 28 media release following its first weekly monitoring session, the Council acknowledged the parties’ declared intentions to conduct a clean electoral process.

    Despite the positive assessment, the Council revealed that only two of the four invited political parties attended the live televised signing ceremony of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct held in Tobago on December 23. The organization has maintained an open invitation for all parties to endorse the code regardless of their initial participation.

    The Council identified emerging concerns regarding social media conduct that potentially violates ethical standards. While acknowledging its limited capacity to monitor digital platforms, the watchdog has encouraged public vigilance and reporting of potential code violations through designated channels including WhatsApp (793-4505) and email (info@politicalethicstt.org).

    The established code mandates that parties and supporters adhere to fundamental ethical principles including: prohibition of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, class, or religion; avoidance of false or defamatory allegations against parties or candidates; refraining from character assassination attempts; and respecting the private lives of candidates and their families unrelated to public activities. Comprehensive information regarding the code and potential violations is accessible through the Council’s official website at www.politicalethicstt.org.

  • Santa Cruz councillor commends Likkle Miss Foundation for container home donation

    Santa Cruz councillor commends Likkle Miss Foundation for container home donation

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, substantial humanitarian aid has reached vulnerable residents in Burnt Savannah, St Elizabeth. The Likkle Miss Foundation, under the leadership of Miss Alexander, has executed a comprehensive relief initiative targeting senior citizens whose homes suffered catastrophic damage during the Category 5 storm.

    Local Councillor Christopher Williams publicly commended the foundation’s efforts through his official Facebook channel. The philanthropic organization delivered a fully equipped container home to Hopie Luton, an elderly resident whose property was completely destroyed by the hurricane’s impact. In a parallel assistance measure, another senior citizen identified as Miss Brown received complete building materials for constructing a new concrete residence including bathroom facilities.

    The foundation’s relief operations extended beyond primary housing solutions. Additional senior households received critical roofing materials to repair storm-damaged homes, alongside practical support including mattress provisions, food supplies, drinking water, and solar-powered lighting systems. Councillor Williams acknowledged the coordinated efforts of multiple donor organizations that have mobilized recovery resources throughout the affected region, highlighting the community’s collaborative spirit in post-disaster rehabilitation.

    This intervention represents a significant step in addressing the long-term housing challenges exacerbated by extreme weather events, particularly for Jamaica’s most vulnerable demographic groups. The strategic allocation of both temporary and permanent housing solutions demonstrates a nuanced approach to disaster recovery that balances immediate needs with sustainable rebuilding efforts.

  • Haiti’s PM reiterates no negotiations with criminal gangs

    Haiti’s PM reiterates no negotiations with criminal gangs

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has issued a firm declaration that the provisional government will not engage in negotiations with criminal gangs attempting to overthrow the state. The uncompromising stance came during his Sunday visit to the Haitian National Police (PNH) headquarters in Clercine, a metropolitan area near the airport known for significant gang activity.

    Accompanied by Justice Minister Patrick Pélissier, Secretary of State for Public Security Mario Andrésol, and senior police officials, Fils-Aimé emphasized that “the Government’s fight is against gangs. The Government’s fight is to secure the country. The state will not compromise. The state will not negotiate with criminals.”

    The visit formed part of a broader mobilization of state security forces, including the PNH, Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H), and the specialized Gang Suppression Force (FRG), all engaged in a coordinated offensive against armed criminal groups threatening national security.

    During the inspection, Fils-Aimé expressed official gratitude to the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) for donating 25 armored personnel carriers. This strategic equipment is expected to enhance operational capabilities, protect deployed units, and strengthen law enforcement intervention power against criminal elements.

    The Prime Minister asserted that this reinforcement would enable security forces to gradually reclaim territories occupied by armed groups and ensure long-term population security. He emphasized that restoring security constitutes a prerequisite for returning to constitutional order, with 2026 targeted for organizing general elections and renewing political institutions.

    Haiti continues to grapple with a multidimensional crisis characterized by rampant gang violence, political instability, and humanitarian disaster. Criminal groups have utilized sexual violence as a terror tactic, disrupted food supplies causing widespread hunger, displaced over 362,000 people, and overwhelmed international aid efforts.

    United Nations officials maintain that while security measures are necessary, they alone cannot resolve Haiti’s crisis. They emphasize that political solutions, credible elections, and sustained economic support remain crucial for achieving lasting stability.

    Outgoing CARICOM Chairman and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness noted in his year-end message that the 15-member regional bloc has sustained advocacy for increased international support for Haiti. These efforts have kept the crisis on the global agenda and contributed to the UN Security Council resolution establishing the Gang Suppression Force, partially funded by United Nations resources.

    “CARICOM is now a key partner in the tripartite coordination of the Organisation of American States’ Roadmap toward Stability and Peace in Haiti, and we look forward with optimism to the preparations for free and fair elections in 2026,” Holness stated.

  • Mechanical issues halt TT Spirit sailings

    Mechanical issues halt TT Spirit sailings

    Trinidad and Tobago’s inter-island ferry service is facing significant operational disruptions following the abrupt withdrawal of the TT Spirit vessel from service. The Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Transportation Company Ltd (TTIT) announced on December 29 that all scheduled sailings aboard the TT Spirit have been canceled indefinitely due to pressing mechanical complications requiring urgent repairs.

    The transportation company confirmed that this development compounds existing service challenges, as the APT James vessel remains concurrently out of operation. To mitigate the impact on inter-island connectivity, TTIT has implemented contingency measures utilizing its remaining operational vessels.

    The Buccoo Reef and Galleons Passage ferries will maintain transportation services between Trinidad and Tobago with revised sailing schedules effective December 29 and 30. These adjustments aim to sustain essential passenger and vehicular movement amid the reduced fleet capacity.

    TTIT officials have urged the traveling public to monitor official channels for schedule updates, arrive at terminals ahead of intended departure times, and adhere strictly to instructions from port and vessel staff. The company has extended apologies for inconveniences caused and expressed gratitude for passengers’ continued patience and cooperation during this service interruption.

    Travelers seeking additional information may contact customer service at Port of Spain: 467-5072 or Scarborough: 467-5330/467-5117 for assistance.

  • Dr Ronald Henry’s Moses Revealed: When science meets scripture

    Dr Ronald Henry’s Moses Revealed: When science meets scripture

    Dr. Ronald Henry, a 71-year-old distinguished cardiologist and Chaconia Medal (Silver) recipient, has unveiled his interdisciplinary work ‘Moses Revealed’ that synthesizes biblical narratives with archaeological evidence and historical research. The book launch event at Hilton on October 29 featured Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath as keynote speaker, celebrating this unique contribution to religious scholarship.

    Henry’s publication offers a comprehensive re-examination of Moses’ life journey—from his royal Egyptian upbringing to his pivotal role in Abrahamic traditions. Unlike conventional religious interpretations, the 89-page volume employs Egyptological research and hieroglyphic translations to contextualize the biblical account within ancient Egyptian culture and belief systems.

    The cardiologist’s two-decade intellectual journey began during a visit to Egypt where he observed striking parallels between ancient Egyptian concepts of resurrection and Christian doctrines. This realization prompted extensive research into German Egyptologist Jan Assmann’s works, particularly ‘The Search for God in Ancient Egypt,’ which fundamentally reshaped Henry’s understanding of religious evolution.

    A critical COVID-19 infection in December 2023 provided unexpected impetus for completion. During hospitalization, Henry discovered his manuscript’s resonance when a male nurse responded enthusiastically to aloud readings. This experience convinced him to reframe the narrative through Moses’ perspective as ‘an icon of modern man’s dilemma between faith and knowledge.’

    Education Minister Dowlath praised the work as exemplifying lifelong learning, noting its diagnostic precision and human-centered storytelling. Henry characterizes his Moses as ‘more Spiderman than Superman’—a complex figure navigating between Egyptian scientific education and divine calling, mirroring contemporary professionals balancing reason with spiritual seeking.

    The book is available at Paper Based Bookshop (St. Clair), Unique Book Stores nationwide, and Amazon. Henry has already committed to two subsequent publications, maintaining that ‘education should humble us to recognize how much we don’t know.’

  • British boxer Anthony Joshua injured in Nigeria car crash — reports

    British boxer Anthony Joshua injured in Nigeria car crash — reports

    LAGOS, Nigeria — Boxing superstar Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped tragedy Monday when his vehicle was involved in a catastrophic highway collision that claimed two lives on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway.

    According to multiple sources including the boxer’s promoter and Nigerian police officials, the former heavyweight world champion was traveling in a two-vehicle convoy when his car collided with a truck. The impact resulted in the immediate fatalities of two individuals seated near Joshua, though the British-Nigerian athlete emerged without life-threatening injuries.

    Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed to Daily Mail Sport that the boxer had been on a family vacation in Nigeria at the time of the incident. “We awoke to the news of this incident and are currently attempting to establish direct contact with Anthony,” Hearn stated. “While we refrain from speculation regarding his condition, visual evidence suggests he has emerged relatively unscathed from this terrible accident.”

    Circulating social media images depicted a shirtless Joshua surrounded by shattered window glass within the vehicle’s interior, though the athlete appeared conscious and alert following the collision. Witness Adeniyi Orojo informed Punch newspaper that Joshua had been seated behind his driver when the crash occurred.

    The timing of this incident comes during a period of career resurgence for the 2012 Olympic champion. Earlier this month, Joshua delivered a spectacular knockout victory against YouTube personality turned boxer Jake Paul during a Netflix-broadcast event in Miami. The British heavyweight is scheduled to face compatriot Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated match next year, following his September 2023 loss to Daniel Dubois.

    Nigerian authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident, though no official statements regarding potential causes have been released.

  • US legislators criticise Trump admin for cancelling Caribbean immigration applications, citizenship ceremonies

    US legislators criticise Trump admin for cancelling Caribbean immigration applications, citizenship ceremonies

    WASHINGTON, United States — A coalition of US legislators has launched a forceful condemnation against the Trump administration’s recent immigration policy shifts, targeting specifically the indefinite suspension of application processing and citizenship ceremonies for immigrants from Caribbean nations and other countries affected by the travel ban.

    Congressional Representative Pramila Jayapal, ranking member of the House Immigration Subcommittee, alongside Texas Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, has spearheaded the criticism following the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announcement halting immigration procedures indefinitely. In an official letter addressed to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, the lawmakers expressed profound concern that “soon-to-be citizens will be left in limbo for perpetuity, and families will remain separated” without clear timeline for resumption.

    The legislators characterized the administration’s actions as fundamentally discriminatory, noting that “no amount of vetting, moral character or commitment to this country is enough to satiate the Trump administration.” They emphasized that green card interviews, naturalization proceedings, and even oath ceremonies are being paused or cancelled solely based on country of origin, despite applicants having completed rigorous vetting processes.

    Separately, Representative Jayapal denounced a newly revealed directive requiring USCIS to supply the Office of Immigration Litigation with 100-200 denaturalization cases monthly. “I am absolutely outraged by the Trump administration’s plan to denaturalize American citizens by the hundreds every month,” stated Jayapal, herself a naturalized citizen who arrived in the US at age 16. She characterized this numerical targeting as evidence that “Trump is using the immigration system to go after anyone from countries he doesn’t like.

    The Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) joined the criticism, executive director Guerline Jozef condemning Trump’s recent characterization of Somali immigrants as “garbage” as part of a “state-sanctioned dehumanization” campaign. Jozef noted the administration’s consistent pattern of xenophobic policymaking, referencing Trump’s previous description of Haiti and African nations with derogatory language.

    Democratic Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, daughter of Jamaican immigrants, additionally criticized what she termed Trump’s “racist attack” on Somalia-born Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and Somali immigrants in Minnesota, highlighting the administration’s targeted discrimination against specific immigrant communities.

  • TTFA says no plan to change programme in 2026: Building with coach Dwight Yorke

    TTFA says no plan to change programme in 2026: Building with coach Dwight Yorke

    Despite failing to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) has affirmed its commitment to maintaining the current developmental trajectory of the national men’s senior team. President Kieron Edwards declared the organization will not dismantle the existing football program, expressing satisfaction with the team’s overall progression under coach Dwight Yorke.

    The squad finished third in their CONCACAF World Cup qualifying group, trailing behind Curacao and Jamaica, thus missing the opportunity to compete in the upcoming tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Nevertheless, Edwards highlighted positive indicators, particularly noting the remarkable resurgence of public engagement throughout 2025. Stadiums witnessed packed crowds, and corporate sponsorship demonstrated growing confidence in the team’s direction.

    In an official interview with TTFA media, Edwards emphasized the significance of rekindled fan support: “The most important achievement was revitalizing fan involvement in football… witnessing stadiums at full capacity, supporting the team that consistently gave their utmost effort to qualify.”

    Regarding future strategy, Edwards confirmed ongoing discussions with coach Dwight Yorke and his technical staff. Yorke, who assumed leadership in November 2024, faces contractual uncertainty with only months remaining on his current deal. The TTFA president outlined immediate competitive plans, revealing Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in the inaugural FIFA Series during the March international window. This initiative provides matches against nations typically outside their regular competitive calendar.

    The national team is scheduled to confront higher-ranked opponents Uzbekistan (hosts), Gabon, and Iceland. Edwards characterized these fixtures as crucial for development: “This tournament represents a vital next step, aiding our strategic push over the next four years to climb the global rankings. All participating nations are ranked above Trinidad and Tobago, offering invaluable experience.”

    Looking ahead to 2026, Edwards projected optimism, citing an emerging generation of talent. He acknowledged the retirement of influential veteran Kevin Molino, extending best wishes for his post-football endeavors while affirming confidence in the squad’s youthful composition and continued progression under the existing framework.

  • Ryan Gomez, Victoria Seenath confirm title defence at Brechin Castle Open

    Ryan Gomez, Victoria Seenath confirm title defence at Brechin Castle Open

    The 2026 Brechin Castle Open Golf Championships, scheduled for January 9-11 at Sevilla Golf Course, will feature defending champions Ryan Gomez and Victoria Seenath returning to protect their hard-earned titles. Both athletes have officially registered for Trinidad and Tobago’s inaugural major golf tournament of the year, signaling their determination to maintain championship status.

    Gomez, who captured the men’s championship in 2024, has already conducted preliminary reconnaissance of the course, playing a practice round last week to familiarize himself with current conditions. Seenath, last year’s women’s champion, similarly prepares to defend her first title at the Sevilla venue.

    Tournament organizers anticipate robust participation across multiple divisions. Avery Sirju, Secretary of Brechin Castle Golf Club, confirmed that the event typically attracts capacity fields, including promising juniors aspiring to represent Trinidad and Tobago in regional competitions. This year’s tournament will showcase several recent graduates from junior ranks, including 2025 Republic Bank Junior Open champion Ross Ramkissoon, who will compete in the first flight division.

    Notable among emerging talents is Ethan Collier, the 2025 Republic Bank Junior Golf Open champion for boys aged 14-15. Despite his junior status, Collier previously won the first flight at the 2025 TT Golf Open at just 14 years old and will make his competitive debut at Brechin Castle.

    The nine-hole Sevilla Golf Course presents unique organizational challenges for tournament committees. To accommodate anticipated participation exceeding 100 golfers, the club implements a dual-wave system with morning and evening shifts ensuring smooth operations throughout the championship.

    Course maintenance remains optimal despite typical January dryness, thanks to recent intermittent showers and strategic water management from the property’s reservoir. Sirju confirmed that irrigation systems have been inspected and are fully operational, with all greens receiving adequate hydration ahead of the tournament.

    The Brechin Castle Golf Club has significantly elevated its profile over the past decade, with organizers committed to maintaining exceptional standards. ‘We aim to sustain this tournament’s growth as potentially Trinidad’s premier golf event,’ Sirju stated, emphasizing the club’s dedication to course quality and competitive excellence.

    Previous division winners include Ben Martin (professional flight), Hollis George (first flight), Ron Aguillar (second flight), and Aba Bally-Roopchand (third flight), though all eyes remain focused on whether Gomez and Seenath can repeat their championship performances.

  • Increased fines a good first step

    Increased fines a good first step

    In a significant policy shift announced on Christmas Day, the Trinidad and Tobago government has enacted Legal Notice No. 471, substantially increasing penalties for traffic violations effective January 1, 2026. The sweeping changes represent the most comprehensive overhaul of traffic fines in recent history, with some penalties increasing tenfold.

    The most dramatic escalation targets uninsured drivers, whose fines jump from TT$1,000 to TT$10,000. The adjustments affect numerous violations outlined in the Ninth Schedule of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, marking a stark departure from previous government positions. Opposition leaders were quick to highlight that Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar had previously criticized high traffic fines while in opposition and promised reductions.

    This punitive approach arrives amid alarming road safety statistics. Traffic fatalities have demonstrated a troubling upward trajectory, climbing from 96 deaths in 2023 to 117 in 2024, and reaching 122 by late 2024. Current figures for 2025 indicate only marginal improvement with 108 road-related deaths recorded to date.

    The government’s latest action contrasts sharply with its earlier decision to weaken the demerit point system in July 2025, raising questions about the consistency of its road safety strategy. The demerit system, initially implemented in March 2020 and subsequently modified in March 2022, had provided a mechanism for tracking repeat offenses while allowing drivers opportunity to correct behavior before license suspension.

    International research suggests that fine increases below 100% prove relatively ineffective in modifying driver behavior, making Trinidad and Tobago’s substantial hikes potentially more impactful. However, critics note the silent implementation without public consultation and characterize the move as revenue generation disguised as public safety measure.

    The administration has demonstrated similar taxation approaches toward alcohol consumption, smoking, and gambling, positioning traffic fines within a broader pattern of behavioral taxation. Enforcement remains a crucial factor, with historical precedents showing systemic challenges. In 2019, authorities reported approximately 120,000 unpaid fixed penalty tickets from 2011-2015, eventually requiring court intervention and subsequent amnesty programs with 50% discounts.

    The government has signaled strengthened enforcement intentions through recent recognition of Police Constable Keron Sankar, who issued 1,427 traffic tickets during the first half of 2025. Experts emphasize that without consistent enforcement and judicial follow-through, even dramatically increased fines may fail to significantly reduce traffic violations and preventable road deaths.