分类: society

  • Police investigate stabbing incident

    Police investigate stabbing incident

    Authorities in Nassau, Bahamas, are currently investigating a violent altercation that unfolded on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, resulting in a man being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident began shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Seventh Terrace, near Mount Royal Avenue, when a collision occurred between two vehicles. According to initial reports, one of the drivers involved fled the scene but was pursued and intercepted by the other driver. A heated argument erupted between the two individuals, escalating into physical violence. During the confrontation, one of the men was stabbed with an unidentified object. The injured party was rushed to the hospital in a private vehicle and remains in critical condition. Police have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the altercation and to identify those responsible.

  • Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025 Announced

    Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025 Announced

    The Department of Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans for the highly anticipated Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025. This annual event aims to capture the festive spirit through creative and dazzling lighting displays, encouraging both homeowners and businesses to participate. Registration is now open and will close on December 17, 2025. Forms can be collected at the Department of Creative Industries Headquarters on Old Parham Road, the INET office upstairs, or the National Festivals Office on Redcliffe Street and Corn Alley, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-judging will take place on December 20 and 21, 2025, with final judging scheduled for December 28, 2025. Winners will be announced on January 5, 2026, during the Good Morning Antigua and Barbuda broadcast. Home entries will be categorized into East, West, North, and South zones, with participants receiving a 100% waiver on electricity services from December 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026, along with duty-free concessions on Christmas lights and decorations. Cash prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 XCD will be awarded to the top three winners in each zone. Business participants will enjoy a 50% electricity waiver for December 2025, similar duty-free concessions, and cash prizes matching those for home entries. The competition promises to bring joy and splendor to the holiday season, fostering community spirit and creativity. For advertising opportunities, contact [email protected].

  • Antigua’s Junior Tourism Minister Kiara Kwenga to Compete at Youth Congress in Barbados Today

    Antigua’s Junior Tourism Minister Kiara Kwenga to Compete at Youth Congress in Barbados Today

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Tourism Minister, 16-year-old Kiara Kwenga, is poised to represent her nation at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Regional Youth Congress on October 2, 2025. The event, a highlight of the State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, will bring together young leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss the future of tourism in the region. Kiara, a fifth-form student at Christ The King High School, will showcase her innovative ideas on sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and cultural preservation. The Youth Congress, known for its lively debate-style format, challenges participants to address real-world issues facing Caribbean tourism, from enhancing visitor experiences to fostering community development. Kiara’s participation underscores the creativity and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s youth, as she competes for the title of CTO Youth Ambassador. The winner will take on the prestigious role of promoting Caribbean tourism globally and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. The event is a testament to the CTO’s commitment to empowering young voices in shaping the future of tourism.

  • Blake Sentenced to Four Years for House Breaking and Larceny

    Blake Sentenced to Four Years for House Breaking and Larceny

    In a significant legal development, Gibson Blake from Conaree, St. Kitts, has been sentenced to four years in His Majesty’s Prison for charges of House Breaking and Larceny. The incident, which took place in January 2025, culminated in Blake’s appearance before Justice Iain Morley KC at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 26, 2025, where the verdict was pronounced. Blake, who had been in custody since his arrest, will have the time already served—one year, eight months, and 21 days—deducted from his total sentence after remission is applied. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing property crimes and ensuring justice for affected parties.

  • Adames Sentenced to Prison for Indecent Assault

    Adames Sentenced to Prison for Indecent Assault

    In a significant legal development, Rafael Adames has been sentenced to five years in prison for the crime of indecent assault. The ruling was issued by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley, KC, at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 25, 2025. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, led to Adames pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on July 8, 2025. His sentencing was postponed until September 2025. Notably, the court has deducted the 10 months and 27 days Adames spent on remand from his total sentence. Under current legal provisions, Adames is required to serve two-thirds of his sentence, contingent upon good behaviour. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing serious offences and ensuring justice for victims.

  • Sosúa Council orders removal of underwater Atabey Statue

    Sosúa Council orders removal of underwater Atabey Statue

    The Sosúa City Council in Puerto Plata has unanimously decided to dismantle the Atabey statue, a 16-foot underwater sculpture installed in March 2023. The statue, created by the Maguá Foundation and Global Coralition, was intended to serve as both a tourist attraction and a project to restore coral reefs. It represented Atabey, the Taíno mother of water deity, and aimed to promote art, culture, and environmental conservation. However, the decision to remove it was made during a session led by Council President Fausto Santos, following a proposal by Catholic priest Johnny Espinal Castillo and pastor Sebero Cordero Capellán, head of the Federation of Pastors. Since its installation in Sosúa Bay, the sculpture has been a source of controversy. Supporters praised its cultural and ecological significance, while critics, particularly religious groups, labeled it as promoting idolatry. The municipal ordinance has reignited debates on social media, with opinions divided between viewing the statue as a valuable cultural and environmental initiative or as an unwelcome foreign element.

  • Public trust fund proposed to tackle energy losses

    Public trust fund proposed to tackle energy losses

    The Energy Institute at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) has unveiled a groundbreaking proposal to address the persistent issue of energy losses plaguing the Dominican Republic’s distribution company, Edeeste. The initiative, introduced during the panel discussion ‘Energy Loss Management in the Dominican Republic’ hosted by the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, advocates for the establishment of a public trust fund. This fund aims to mitigate the financial strain caused by electricity fraud and non-payment, which have led to a structural deficit currently subsidized by the state. Dean Omar Segura Alcántara emphasized that reducing these losses is crucial for developing a sustainable, competitive, and socially equitable electricity system. The proposed trust fund would ensure transparency, continuity across political transitions, and access to international financing. Additionally, it would introduce pay-for-results contracts to drive efficiency improvements. The initial implementation is planned for the Eastern region, excluding Edenorte and Edesur. José Luis Moreno San Juan, another representative from the UASD Energy Institute, highlighted that a significant portion of revenues—73%—is allocated to generators, leaving distributors with limited resources to manage operations effectively.

  • BARP at 30: ‘See ageing population as opportunity, not burden’

    BARP at 30: ‘See ageing population as opportunity, not burden’

    The Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) has called on Barbadians to shift their perspective on the country’s ageing population, viewing it not as a crisis but as a unique opportunity to leverage the strengths of older citizens. Speaking at a church service at Hawthorn Methodist Church in Christ Church to commemorate BARP’s 30th anniversary and the International Day of Older Persons, BARP President Marilyn Rice-Bowen highlighted a significant demographic shift. By 2050, half of Barbados’ population is projected to be 65 years or older. ‘Some might see this as a challenge or a burden, but BARP sees it as an extraordinary opportunity,’ she stated. ‘An opportunity to harness the wisdom, experience, and perspective of a mature population.’ Rice-Bowen emphasized the need to redefine ageing in the 21st century and integrate older citizens into national development, social transformation, and digital progress. ‘We must build a society where older people are central to our national development, cultural preservation, and social progress,’ she added. Her remarks come amid a broader national dialogue on preparing for an ageing society, with officials urging proactive measures to address this demographic shift. BARP, which boasts over 23,000 members, including 16,569 aged 60 and above, is dedicated to empowering seniors to thrive in the digital age. The association provides programmes to enhance digital literacy, foster social connections, and safeguard against cyber threats. ‘We are equipping our members to navigate the digital world with confidence, reduce isolation through online connections, and protect their personal information,’ Rice-Bowen explained. This year’s International Day of Older Persons, themed ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights,’ aligns with BARP’s mission of advocacy and inclusion. Rice-Bowen praised BARP’s founders for their foresight in establishing the organisation 30 years ago, when the needs of older people were often overlooked. She pledged to continue their legacy by ensuring older Barbadians are not only seen and heard but empowered to lead. ‘BARP will remain the champion of these aspirations, the guardian of this well-being, and the defender of these rights,’ she concluded.

  • Church Explains Massive Statue on All Saints Road

    Church Explains Massive Statue on All Saints Road

    A monumental statue erected by Glorious Hope Ministries on All Saints Road has swiftly become one of the nation’s most talked-about landmarks. The towering figure, installed last week, features a human-like form adorned with a helmet-like headpiece, crossed arms, and a skirt-like garment. According to church leaders, the statue is deeply rooted in biblical prophecy, drawing inspiration from the book of Daniel. It symbolizes the imminent second coming of Christ and serves as a powerful reminder of the message of salvation. While not designed to convert individuals instantly, the statue aims to foster spiritual reflection and leave a lasting impression on the community. Crafted by a local artist, the structure has already garnered significant attention from passersby and travelers, sparking widespread discussion and curiosity. The church emphasizes that the statue is a call to introspection and a testament to their faith. As it stands prominently along All Saints Road, it has become a focal point for both locals and visitors, blending artistry with spiritual symbolism.

  • Over two hundred homes under construction all paid for by CBI, says Poponne-Skerrit

    Over two hundred homes under construction all paid for by CBI, says Poponne-Skerrit

    Dominica’s Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, has announced significant progress in the Government’s Housing Recovery Project, with 240 homes currently under construction across the island. The initiative, funded by the Citizenship By Investment (CBI) Programme, aims to provide sustainable housing solutions for communities affected by natural disasters and economic challenges.

    During a key-handover ceremony in Scotts Head on Monday, Poponne-Skerrit presented 21 families with new homes, emphasizing the widespread impact of the project. “These homes are a testament to the transformative power of the CBI Programme,” she stated. “We are not only addressing immediate housing needs but also fostering long-term community development.”

    Last week, 16 families in Eggleston received homes under the same initiative, marking another milestone in the government’s efforts. Poponne-Skerrit assured that the project is far from complete, with additional communities set to benefit soon. “Your turn is coming very soon, before the end of the year,” she declared.

    The Housing Recovery Project spans multiple regions, including Woodford Hill, Canefield, Penville, Paix Bouche, Vieille Case, Trafalgar, Pointe Michel, Dubique, and Grand Bay. In Pointe Michel alone, 18 new homes are nearing completion, with an additional seven ready for handover. Island-wide, a total of 91 homes are prepared for distribution, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving living conditions for Dominicans.

    Poponne-Skerrit’s announcement highlights the project’s role in rebuilding communities and enhancing resilience, particularly in areas vulnerable to climate-related challenges. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to leverage CBI funds for national development, ensuring that every citizen has access to safe and affordable housing.