The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mr. Winston Gomes, a former Commissioner who served the organization with unwavering dedication and integrity from 2002 to 2009. Mr. Gomes was one of the first five members appointed to the Commission during a transformative era in the nation’s electoral history. His tenure was characterized by professionalism, astute judgment, and a profound commitment to public service. Mr. Gomes played a pivotal role in upholding the credibility and impartiality of the electoral process, earning widespread respect and admiration from colleagues, stakeholders, and the broader community. Chairman Ambassador Arthur G.B. Thomas, on behalf of the Commission, the Supervisor of Elections, and the entire staff, extended heartfelt condolences to Mr. Gomes’ family and loved ones. His legacy of service and dedication to democratic principles will continue to inspire future generations.
分类: society
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FEATURED PHOTO: Vista from Penville
Penville, a small yet profoundly significant locale in Dominica, holds a complex tapestry of emotions for its inhabitants and visitors alike. For many Dominicans, it is a place steeped in memories, some of which are tinged with sorrow and loss. Yet, despite its association with tragedy, Penville remains a testament to the resilience and enduring beauty of the region. Nestled amidst lush landscapes and serene vistas, Penville offers a poignant reminder of the past while continuing to captivate with its natural charm. Its dual identity as a site of remembrance and a beacon of beauty makes it a unique and cherished part of Dominica’s cultural and geographical heritage.
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Scores of people seeking ‘vouchers’ shake Financial Complex
An unexpected evacuation occurred at the Financial Complex in Kingstown on Monday, triggered by what employees described as ‘tremors.’ However, investigations suggest that the unusual vibrations might have been caused by an unusually large crowd gathering inside the building. Witnesses reported that a significant number of people were on the upper floors seeking vouchers for household appliances such as fridges and stoves, part of an ongoing giveaway event. ‘The traffic up there was extremely heavy,’ a public servant told iWitness News. ‘The area was packed with people collecting vouchers for appliances.’ The five-storey building, which houses the Office of the Prime Minister on the top floor and the ministries of finance and foreign affairs on other levels, was evacuated around noon after employees reported feeling tremors. Despite the incident, no seismic activity was recorded in or near St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Monday. The government has yet to issue an official statement, and normal operations resumed by Tuesday morning. The Financial Complex, commissioned in the early 1990s, stands on land reclaimed over 50 years ago.
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JUTC confirms driver found unresponsive in ditch has died
ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday when a Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) bus driver lost his life after his vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a ditch. The accident occurred in the Dunbeholden area of St Catherine, marking a somber day for the transportation company and the local community. According to initial reports, a police officer discovered the bus off the Salt Pond roadway, with the driver unresponsive. Immediate assistance was provided, and the driver was rushed to Spanish Town Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed to Observer Online that the 39-year-old driver succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Notably, the bus was empty at the time of the accident, averting further casualties. The JUTC has extended heartfelt condolences to the driver’s family and announced plans to offer grief counseling to his colleagues during this difficult time.
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Taxi operator charged in connection with vendor’s murder
In a tragic incident that has shaken the community of Kingston, Jamaica, a 44-year-old taxi operator, Damion Taylor, also known as “Fiyah,” has been formally charged in connection with the fatal shooting of 46-year-old vendor Walata Brown. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 28, at Brown’s residence on Oxford Street. Taylor faces multiple charges, including murder, conspiracy to murder, possession of a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of ammunition, and using a firearm to commit a felony. According to reports from the Denham Town police, the events unfolded around 4:25 pm when Taylor allegedly drove a white Toyota Probox to Brown’s gate. An armed individual exited the vehicle, approached Brown, and opened fire before fleeing in the waiting car. Brown sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the head and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The investigation gained momentum after detectives reviewed footage from JamaicaEye, the island’s CCTV network, leading them to St Thomas on October 7. The vehicle believed to have been used in the attack was seized, and Taylor was apprehended. Following a caution statement and a question-and-answer session conducted in the presence of his attorney, Taylor was formally charged later that day. A court date is currently being finalized as the community awaits justice for the senseless act of violence.
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Vaz mourns passing of JUTC bus driver
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The nation is in mourning following the untimely death of Dwayne Mullings, a dedicated bus driver for the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC). Mullings tragically lost his life after the bus he was operating veered off the road and crashed into a ditch on Wednesday. The incident has sent shockwaves through the transport sector and the wider community. Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Daryl Vaz, expressed profound grief over the loss, extending heartfelt condolences to Mullings’ family, friends, and colleagues. Minister Vaz highlighted Mullings’ unwavering professionalism and pride in serving the commuting public, noting that public transport operators like him are indispensable to the daily functioning of Jamaica. “The JUTC family and the entire transport sector are deeply affected by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mullings’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Vaz stated. The minister also reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering support for the JUTC, emphasizing solidarity as they navigate this period of sorrow.
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KSAMC pledges support to Trafalgar Park flood victims
In response to severe flooding in Trafalgar Park, St Andrew, caused by heavy rainfall in September, the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has committed to assisting affected residents. During a recent visit to the area, Terry Forrester, the parish disaster coordinator at KSAMC, assured residents that the corporation, in collaboration with partner agencies, would provide essential comfort items to those impacted. Forrester emphasized the role of the welfare health committee in coordinating these efforts.



