分类： society

In a significant legal development, Andrew Sutton, a Malabar resident accused of the 2021 murder of Arouca businessman Nicholas Mohith, has been acquitted by the High Court. Justice Nalini Singh delivered the verdict following a judge-only trial at the Hall of Justice in Port of Spain. Sutton had been charged with the fatal shooting of Mohith, who was killed at his business premises on March 11, 2021. The incident occurred when an unidentified gunman entered the establishment and shot Mohith before fleeing the scene. Another individual, Renaldo Thomas, was also charged in connection with the murder but was discharged earlier this year due to the prosecution’s failure to present sufficient evidence. Thomas’s case faced repeated delays due to the State’s non-compliance with disclosure requirements, leading to multiple adjournments. Ultimately, Master Sarah De Silva ruled that no further extensions would be granted, and with no evidence presented, Thomas was discharged under Section 24 of the Administration of Justice (Preliminary Inquiries) Act. Sutton was represented by attorneys Delicia Helwig-Robertson and Sara Julien, while the prosecution was led by Shervon Noriega and Cassie Bisram.

Lt Commander Claudio Luces Smith, a 45-year-old Coast Guard officer and welfare officer for Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force, has dedicated over two decades to serving his nation and mentoring its youth. Known in the music industry as Naldinyo, Smith combines his passion for music with mentorship through his Never Give Up project, aiming to inspire young people to overcome challenges and make meaningful life choices. Growing up in Boyce Trace and Kernaham Trace, Chin Chin Cunupia, Smith’s early life was shaped by the values of hard work and discipline instilled by his parents. His journey from Madras Government Primary School to becoming head prefect at Presentation College, Chaguanas, laid the foundation for his unwavering determination. Smith’s career in the TT Defence Force began at 22, driven by a desire to serve his country. A pivotal moment came when he coordinated a life-saving medical evacuation, reinforcing his commitment to service. Beyond his military duties, Smith founded the Futuro Stars Football Academy and Youth Club in 2009, focusing on youth development. Recognizing the power of music, he launched the Never Give Up project, releasing five songs that blend mentorship with positive messaging. Smith’s work addresses critical issues faced by young men, including drug misuse, bullying, and mental health struggles. He emphasizes the importance of positive male role models in guiding youth toward better choices. As a father of four, Smith credits his family’s support and effective time management for balancing his responsibilities. On International Men’s Day, he encouraged young men to embrace determination and persistence, urging them to rise above setbacks and shape their destinies. Smith’s vision is to expand his initiative into schools and community programs, fostering self-belief and purpose among the youth. He also calls on society to celebrate and uplift positive male figures, whose stories can inspire the next generation.

Jack Warner, the 82-year-old former FIFA vice president, has added another milestone to his diverse career by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Entrepreneurship and Commercial Studies. The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) conferred the degree on November 18 during its 2025 graduation ceremony held at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain. Warner’s doctoral thesis, titled ‘Corporate Entrepreneurship and Disruptive Business Model Innovation for Adoption in the Local Print Media,’ explored the challenges faced by the print media industry in adapting to digital transformation. Drawing from his experience as the publisher of the weekly Sunshine newspaper, Warner proposed innovative strategies to help traditional media remain competitive in a digital-first era. His research emphasized the importance of diversifying revenue streams and maintaining credibility in an evolving media landscape. Warner’s academic journey was supervised by Professor Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, and Professor Pooran Bridgemohan. Accompanied by his supervisors, Warner received a warm reception from President Christine Kangaloo and acting UTT president Rean Maharaj. He was among seven PhD graduates during the morning session and made history as UTT’s oldest doctoral recipient. Warner, who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Diploma in International Relations from the University of the West Indies, expressed his elation, stating that his achievement proves ‘education does not have a shelf life.’ He credited his professors, family, and colleagues for their unwavering support during challenging moments. Warner also shared his hope that his accomplishment would inspire young people in Trinidad and Tobago to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Currently studying law, Warner continues his educational journey, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning. His son, Daryll, expressed pride in his father’s determination and success, vowing to follow in his footsteps. Warner’s academic triumph comes after a decade-long extradition case related to corruption charges during his FIFA tenure collapsed in the High Court on September 23. Justice Karen Reid ruled that the extradition process was ‘flawed,’ marking a significant legal victory for Warner. Reflecting on his journey, Warner emphasized his mission to rebuild his life and reputation.

In a world where traditional notions of masculinity often discourage emotional expression, mental health practitioner Amanda Ackbarali is championing a more compassionate approach to men’s mental health. As International Men’s Day (November 19) and Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month are observed, Ackbarali highlights the urgent need for culturally grounded support systems to help men navigate their emotional struggles. With over a decade of experience in psychology and mediation, Ackbarali founded The Opening Lotus in 2018, a mental health practice dedicated to providing accessible care for marginalized populations, including men facing depression, anxiety, burnout, and unresolved grief. She emphasizes that men often seek therapy not because they are ‘mentally ill,’ but because life has become overwhelming, and they are ready to find new ways to cope. Ackbarali points out that societal expectations in Trinidad and Tobago often pressure men to suppress their emotions, leading them to cope through humor, alcohol, or religion rather than addressing their pain. She advocates for healing spaces that feel natural and culturally familiar, such as river limes, hikes, or football matches, where men can open up without judgment. Ackbarali also notes a generational shift, with younger men increasingly embracing therapy and older men showing greater emotional openness. She calls for a strengths-based approach to men’s mental health, celebrating their resilience and capacity for leadership and care. By teaching emotional literacy early and using creative methods like music, storytelling, and sports, Ackbarali believes we can raise emotionally intelligent boys who grow into compassionate men. She urges parents, teachers, and communities to listen without ridicule and encourages men to start their healing journey, knowing that one man’s progress can inspire another.

The timely delivery of justice remains a cornerstone of any progressive society, yet it is an issue that continues to plague judicial systems across the Caribbean. This concern was recently brought to the forefront by Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh during his address at the Law Association’s annual dinner on November 14. His remarks underscored the fundamental right of citizens to expect fair and timely resolutions to their legal matters. However, the reality often falls short of this ideal, with cases languishing for years before reaching a conclusion. This delay not only undermines the effectiveness of the judicial system but also erodes public trust in the rule of law. The situation in Barbados serves as a stark example. Faced with chronic delays, the Barbados Parliament took drastic measures in 2019, amending its Constitution to allow for the removal of judges who fail to deliver judgments within six months. While such extreme measures may not be necessary elsewhere, they highlight the severity of the issue and the need for systemic reform. The legal community must engage in meaningful dialogue to establish clear guidelines for the timely delivery of judgments. Attorneys, who are already bound by court-imposed deadlines, could play a pivotal role in shaping these policies. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that justice is not only served but served promptly, as delays often render legal remedies ineffective. This discussion is not a critique of the dedication or integrity of judges but a call to action to strengthen the judicial system for the benefit of all citizens.

In a heartfelt celebration of World Kindness Day, President Christine Kangaloo and her husband, Kerwyn Garcia, SC, visited the JC Mac Donald Home for the Aged on November 14, bringing warmth and compassion to its residents. The visit, marked by meaningful interactions and shared moments of joy, underscored the importance of kindness in fostering community connections. Established in 1931, the JC Mac Donald Home has a storied history of serving the elderly, currently housing 20 residents under the care of a dedicated team of 12 staff members. The President’s Office also organized a special lunch for the residents, enhancing the day’s festivities. A highlight of the visit was the debut performance of the Office of the President’s Choir, whose uplifting melodies brought music and delight to the home. President Kangaloo expressed her gratitude to the home’s management and staff for their unwavering commitment to caring for the elderly, reaffirming the significance of such acts of kindness in society.

The TT Promoters Association (TTPA) is set to engage in critical discussions with the Ministry of Culture and Community Development on November 21, addressing the recent prohibition of three major venues traditionally used for Carnival fetes and concerts. This meeting follows Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s announcement on November 18, which expanded the ban to include the Hasely Crawford Stadium and Jean Pierre Complex, alongside the previously restricted Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. The ban, aimed at mitigating noise pollution, restricts event timings to between 12 noon and 10 pm, with exceptions only during the nine-day Carnival week. Carnival 2026 is scheduled for February 16 and 17. TTPA President Robert Thompson revealed that a membership meeting would precede the ministerial discussion on November 20, to consolidate the promoters’ perspectives. A public media release is anticipated post-meeting, with further updates to be provided by Newsday as the situation evolves.