KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant step toward reinforcing ethical governance, members of Jamaica’s Opposition Shadow Cabinet formally signed the leadership code of conduct on Monday. The document, crafted by the Integrity Commission, was endorsed by all opposition spokespersons during a Shadow Cabinet meeting. It enshrines seven core principles of public life, serving as a comprehensive guide for ethical behavior in public office.
分类： politics
-
Tancoo’s ‘give & take’ budget
The United National Congress (UNC) government, led by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, presented its inaugural national budget for 2025-2026, striking a balance between relief measures and revenue-generating policies. The budget, delivered in the House of Representatives on October 13, 2025, was framed as a ‘give and take’ fiscal package aimed at fulfilling election promises while addressing economic challenges. Key highlights include a $1 per litre reduction in super gasoline prices, a 10% wage increase for public servants, and the removal of VAT on essential food items—measures designed to ease the financial burden on citizens. However, the government also introduced new levies, such as increased customs duties on alcohol and tobacco, a 3% hike in National Insurance System (NIS) contributions, and a landlord surcharge, targeting big businesses and commercial entities. Tancoo emphasized that the budget reflects the UNC’s commitment to ‘putting the people of Trinidad and Tobago first,’ with a projected expenditure of $59.232 billion and revenue of $55.367 billion, resulting in a $3.865 billion deficit. The budget also allocated significant funds to Tobago ($3.724 billion) and prioritized sectors like education ($8.766 billion), health ($8.214 billion), and national security ($6.366 billion). Additionally, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will oversee a newly established Financial Oversight & Appropriations Committee (FOAC) to ensure transparent management of state resources. The budget debate is set to begin on October 17, with Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles expected to respond.
-
PM on UNC government’s first budget – ‘All about fairness and equality’
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized fairness and equality as the cornerstone of her UNC government’s 2025-2026 budget during a press briefing at the Red House rotunda on October 13. The fiscal package, presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, introduced several measures aimed at rebalancing economic disparities and ensuring accountability. Among the key announcements was a 0.25% levy on the assets of banks and insurance companies, alongside a landlord business surcharge targeting undeclared rental properties. Persad-Bissessar clarified that the surcharge was not a property tax but a mechanism to protect both landlords and tenants while boosting public revenue. She also highlighted a reduction in the price of super gasoline by $1 per liter, which she estimated would save consumers $500,000 annually. Additionally, the removal of VAT on agricultural inputs was framed as a move to empower farmers. The Prime Minister contrasted her government’s $3 billion budget deficit with the former PNM administration’s $16-$18 billion deficits over a decade, attributing the improvement to diligent management. Other measures included a 3% increase in National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions, expected to raise the National Insurance Board’s annual collections by 23%. Persad-Bissessar also addressed the dire state of the NIS, warning that without immediate action, funds for pensions and benefits would soon be depleted. She praised Tancoo’s allocation of $2.96 billion for the Tobago House of Assembly’s development plan, which represents 5% of the national budget, and an additional $763 million through various ministries, bringing Tobago’s total allocation to $3.7 billion. In response to a reporter’s question, the PM identified 8,000 public sector vacancies, promising better job opportunities.
-
PSA ready to talk to CPO after 10% wage hike promise
In a significant development following the October 13 budget presentation, the Public Services Association (PSA) has expressed readiness to commence immediate negotiations with the government. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo announced a revised ten per cent wage offer aimed at resolving long-standing public sector wage disputes, which have persisted for nearly a decade. PSA President Felisha Thomas emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that the union has already proposed dates for talks as early as October 16. ‘Our membership has waited long enough,’ Thomas remarked, underscoring the need for swift action. This marks Thomas’s first budget as PSA president, having been elected in March 2025. Tancoo described the government’s move as a ‘bold and historic step’ to address years of stagnation and restore dignity to public sector workers. He also revealed plans to ratify collective agreements with various public sector bodies, including the Teaching Service and the Defence Force, at an estimated annual cost of $214 million, with arrears totaling $730 million by December 2025. Additionally, Tancoo announced reforms to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), including a gradual increase in the retirement age from 60 to 65 by 2036 and phased contribution hikes starting in January 2026. While Thomas acknowledged mixed reactions to the NIS changes, she reiterated the PSA’s commitment to prioritizing wage negotiations. ‘Now is the time to get the job done,’ she concluded.
-
Rick Fox hints at possible political future
Rick Fox, a former NBA player and Bahamian actor, has ignited widespread speculation about a potential foray into politics following a series of introspective social media posts shared over the holiday weekend. On Sunday, Fox revealed that he had been approached by numerous individuals inquiring whether he would consider running in the upcoming general election. “I’ve been hearing from a lot of you lately asking if I’m thinking about politics… if I’d consider running in the next general election,” he wrote. “Truth is, I didn’t expect so many people to care. But I’ve been having real conversations with women, youth, business owners, everyday Bahamians, and I keep hearing the same thing: ‘We’re ready for something different.’”
While Fox emphasized that he was not making any formal announcements, he expressed that he was “listening, reflecting, and exploring what the next chapter could look like.” He added his belief that The Bahamas’ best days lie ahead “if we come together with vision and purpose.”
The following day, on National Heroes Day, Fox shared another post honoring the individuals who have shaped his life and the nation’s history. Among those he celebrated were his father, grandparents, and prominent national figures such as Sir Lynden Pindling, the Women’s Suffrage Movement, Sir Sidney Poitier, Mychal Thompson, and Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis. Fox revealed that Davis had encouraged him four years ago to return to The Bahamas and bring his innovative ideas “to the front lines of climate change” to help establish “a global industry from The Bahamas.”
“These leaders and icons of mine remind me daily what it means to serve, inspire, and build a better life for my family, my community, and our nation,” Fox wrote.
In addition to his potential political aspirations, Fox serves as The Bahamas’ Sports Ambassador and is the founder and CEO of Partanna, a climate technology company specializing in carbon-negative building materials. In 2022, Fox signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bahamian government to develop a carbon-negative concrete manufacturing facility. The initiative aimed to construct the first 30 affordable homes using the sustainable material in Abaco the following year.
-
Grange receives CPA Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Commonwealth Parliamentary Equality and Diversity Award. This accolade recognizes her exceptional contributions to advancing gender equality, social justice, and inclusion both in Jamaica and on the international stage. Grange is the first Jamaican parliamentarian to receive this honor from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), which celebrates leaders who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion within their legislatures and communities. The award highlights Grange’s decades-long dedication to creating a more equitable society through impactful legislation, policies, and programs. Among her notable achievements is the implementation of the Sexual Harassment (Protection and Prevention) Act of 2021, which strengthens protections for women and vulnerable groups. Additionally, Grange has spearheaded public education campaigns to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote positive gender representations. Through the Bureau of Gender Affairs, she has advanced the National Policy for Gender Equality and the National Strategic Action Plan to Eliminate Gender-Based Violence, establishing state-run shelters and helplines for survivors. In her 33-year political career, Grange has consistently championed women’s leadership, youth engagement, and disability inclusion. Upon receiving the award, she expressed humility and gratitude, stating, ‘An equitable society can only exist when its members are afforded the opportunity to maximize their potential without fear or restrictions. That has been my life’s purpose.’ The award was presented at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados, solidifying Grange’s reputation as a regional leader in equality and inclusion. It was accepted on her behalf by Juliet Holness, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
-
Prime Minister Skerrit meets with Cambodian leader on 15th anniversary of alliance
In a landmark diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica met with Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia during a working visit to Phnom Penh last week. The discussions, held in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, focused on enhancing bilateral relations across key sectors such as trade, economic development, agriculture, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The meeting coincided with the 15th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, marking a significant milestone in their partnership.
-
SLP newcomer to challenge UWP stronghold in Micoud South
The Micoud South constituency, traditionally a bastion of the United Workers Party (UWP), is set to witness a fiercely contested general election as the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) unveils its latest candidate, Dr. Shanda Harracksingh. A medical professional and native of Micoud, Harracksingh was officially introduced on October 5, 2025, at the Micoud Playing Field. The event reportedly drew one of the largest crowds in the SLP’s recent history, signaling a potential shift in voter sentiment. Harracksingh faces a formidable opponent in Allen Chastanet, the UWP’s political leader and current Member of Parliament for the constituency. Since 1997, Micoud South has remained under UWP control, largely due to the enduring legacy of the late Sir John Compton. In her inaugural address, Harracksingh acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the need for change. She criticized Chastanet for his prolonged absence from the constituency, declaring, “We have given him several chances. It is time to turn the page. No more excuses. It is time for change.” Harracksingh outlined her vision for the constituency, focusing on elderly care, agricultural development, and infrastructure improvements. She pledged to establish an elderly care center, enhance road access for farmers, and promote agro-processing initiatives. “I am a daughter of the soil,” she asserted, “and I will deliver for this community.” As the election season heats up, Micoud South emerges as a critical battleground, testing whether voters will remain loyal to the UWP or embrace the SLP’s message of renewal.
-
Harold Lovell: The Man Who Turned His Back on the People of All Saints West
Anthony Smith Jr., a dedicated representative of All Saints West, has broken his silence to address the political maneuvers of Harold Lovell, a former Minister of Finance, Tourism, and Aviation. Smith Jr. accuses Lovell of neglecting the constituency during his tenure, despite holding significant governmental power. Lovell, who is now campaigning in All Saints West, is portrayed as an outsider with a history of failing to support the community. Smith Jr. highlights the dismissal of Chandlah Coddington, a fellow UPP member, as a prime example of Lovell’s disregard for local needs. Coddington, who had twice won unanimous victories at the polls, was ignored when he pleaded for basic infrastructure improvements. Smith Jr. emphasizes that he has been working tirelessly for the community, even using personal resources to build roads, long before Lovell’s recent interest in the area. He calls for accountability and prioritization of All Saints West, asserting that the people deserve better than Lovell’s empty promises. Smith Jr. concludes by reaffirming his commitment to the community and urging voters to recognize the true face of Lovell’s leadership.
-
Retired Justice Stanley John Returns to Antigua Bench
Retired High Court Judge Stanley John is set to return to Antigua and Barbuda, where he will serve as an acting judge on the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. The Judicial and Legal Services Commission announced that Justice John will be stationed in Antigua from October 4 to December 22, 2025. This marks his second stint in the country, having previously served from 2019 to 2022. Most recently, he acted as a High Court judge in the Virgin Islands. His return follows the departure of Justice Tunde Bakre, who served on the Antigua bench for less than two years. Bakre, a Nigerian-born jurist, was sworn in on September 29, 2023, and presided over several high-profile cases, including Antigua and Barbuda’s first judge-alone murder trial. Bakre has since been appointed to the Supreme Court of the Turks and Caicos Islands, where he was sworn in on October 3, 2025. Justice John’s reappointment underscores the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court’s commitment to maintaining experienced judicial leadership in the region.