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  • New Diaspora battle heading for US court over GJDC elections

    New Diaspora battle heading for US court over GJDC elections

    A significant legal challenge has emerged within the Jamaican diaspora community in the United States following recent elections for the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC). Attorney Wilfred Rattigan, a retired FBI special agent and former candidate for the Northeast US representative position, has filed a defamation lawsuit in Queens Supreme Court, New York, alleging wrongful disqualification from the electoral process.

    The lawsuit targets both the GJDC electoral committee and The Gleaner newspaper, claiming they disseminated false information implying Rattigan had criminal convictions and questionable character. According to court documents, Rattigan asserts these allegations caused substantial reputational damage, professional harm to his legal practice, and economic injury.

    The controversy stems from the February 20, 2026 elections that selected new leadership for both the GJDC and Global Jamaica Diaspora Youth Council across six international regions. The Jamaican foreign ministry described the process as “the most competitive and participatory contest in the councils’ history,” with 52 candidates and approximately 1,700 voters participating globally.

    Committee chairman Donovan Wilson defended the disqualification decisions, explaining that two candidates were excluded—one for late filing and another under section 5.2 of election rules, which prohibits individuals with criminal convictions or bankruptcy filings from representing the diaspora. Wilson emphasized the committee deliberately avoided specifying which subsection applied to Rattigan to prevent further controversy.

    This legal action represents the latest in a series of challenges facing the GJDC and its predecessor organization. Earlier this year, former Jamaica Advisory Board member Patrick Beckford called for an election boycott advocating for greater council autonomy, a position echoed by outgoing Southern US representative Peter Gracey following the elections.

    Despite the controversy, newly elected representatives including Janice McIntosh (Southern US), Dr. Binzie R. Davidson (West-Midwest US), and returning Northeast US representative Michelle Tulloch-Neil are now preparing for the 11th GJDC Biennial Conference scheduled for June 14-18 in Montego Bay, St. James.

  • Remembering Michael Manley and the legacy of the NHT

    Remembering Michael Manley and the legacy of the NHT

    The Jamaican political landscape paused to commemorate the enduring legacy of former Prime Minister Michael Manley on the anniversary of his passing, March 6, 2026. The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) spearheaded reflections highlighting one of Manley’s most transformative achievements—the National Housing Trust (NHT)—which simultaneously celebrates its golden jubilee this year.

    Hailed as one of Jamaica’s most visionary statesmen, Manley’s governance philosophy centered on elevating ordinary citizens through progressive social policies. The PNP, in an official statement, characterized the NHT as a revolutionary institution founded on the radical principle that adequate housing constitutes a fundamental right rather than a privileged commodity. “Conceived as a bold and people-centered intervention,” the party noted, “the NHT operationalized Manley’s conviction that national development must be measured by tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.

    Opposition housing spokesperson Professor Senator Floyd Morris and Michael Manley Foundation Chairperson Senator Donna Scott Mottley jointly celebrated Manley’s multifaceted contributions to Jamaican society. They documented his administration’s sweeping reforms initiated upon taking office in 1972, including groundbreaking labor legislation, the creation of the National Youth Service, the Jamaica Movement for Advancement of Literacy, the abolition of the ‘Bastardy Act,’ and the implementation of universal free education.

    The senators emphasized that the NHT transcends its physical infrastructure achievements, catalyzing profound social mobility, strengthening family stability, and fostering inclusive economic participation. By enabling generational wealth transfer through homeownership, the institution has systematically reduced inequality and fortified the nation’s social fabric. “Entire towns and housing schemes across Jamaica stand as living testaments to this initiative,” they observed.

    Morris and Scott Mottley articulated Manley’s governing philosophy that true independence necessitates economic empowerment, with the state bearing responsibility for innovative public interventions. The NHT embodies this ideology through its practical, sustainable, and human-centered approach to national development.

    As Jamaica celebrates both Manley’s legacy and the NHT’s five decades of service, the senators urged the current government to officially recognize the institution’s anniversary and honor its visionary founder. They concluded with a powerful testament: “Brilliant ideas will last for a while but legendary actions last for generations.”

  • Mother-daughter duo shines with natural hair products

    Mother-daughter duo shines with natural hair products

    THREE HILLS, ST MARY — A resilient entrepreneurial team comprising 44-year-old Simone Davis and her daughter Kezia Barnes is achieving remarkable success with their homegrown enterprise, NKB Collections, specializing in natural hair care solutions. Originating from the eastern parish of St. Mary, their business narrative exemplifies innovation and tenacity.

    The venture commenced in 2021 when Davis, a professionally certified tour guide, initially operated as a sales representative for another company’s products. Her personal experimentation with natural herbal formulations sparked the inspiration to develop a proprietary product line. She subsequently entrusted her daughter with comprehensive research and development responsibilities to create their unique offerings.

    Their entrepreneurial path encountered significant obstacles, including the economic disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Demonstrating exceptional adaptability, the母女搭档 pivoted their business strategy by expanding into complementary products including hair bonnets and natural juices to maintain operational continuity. They strategically leveraged every opportunity to promote NKB Collections through medical outreach programs, local fairs, and regional expos, establishing direct customer relationships and enhancing brand visibility.

    “Our unwavering faith has ultimately yielded dividends,” Davis affirmed regarding their perseverance.

    The enterprise has successfully cultivated both domestic and international clientele through strategic social media engagement on their Instagram platform. Davis expressed profound appreciation for her daughter’s multifaceted contributions to their business success, acknowledging her roles as research specialist, strategic planner, organizational manager, and emotional pillar during challenging periods when operational stagnation and financial pressures seemed overwhelming.

    With demonstrated resilience against pandemic and natural disaster challenges, the entrepreneurs maintain confident optimism about their future prospects. “We possess absolute certainty in our capacity to overcome any forthcoming obstacles,” the younger Barnes asserted. Davis added with conviction: “Our product line ensures a radiant future, and I am confident in our continuous progression from achievement to greater accomplishment.”

  • Dance it out of your system!

    Dance it out of your system!

    MONTEAGO BAY, Jamaica – In an innovative approach to community mental health recovery, this western Jamaican city has embraced salsa dancing as therapeutic intervention for residents grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation.

    British expatriate Jermaine Allison-Sheriff, a qualified dance coach and mental health promotion specialist, has launched ‘Salsa North Jamaica’ – a three-week program offering structured dance sessions every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre. The initiative specifically addresses the psychological trauma inflicted by last October’s Category 5 hurricane, which claimed 45 lives and caused billions in damage across Jamaica’s hardest-hit parishes.

    “The physical remnants of destruction—damaged roofs and roadside debris—serve as constant traumatic reminders five months post-disaster,” Allison-Sheriff explained. “While structural repairs require time, we can immediately build psychological resilience through communal activity and joyful movement.”

    Neuroscientific research underpins the methodology: physical exertion coupled with emotional expression stimulates endorphin production—including dopamine and serotonin—that effectively manages stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. Multiple international studies suggest dance therapy may surpass antidepressant efficacy in treating trauma.

    The program accommodates diverse demographics: Tuesday sessions target young adults after school hours; Wednesday mornings feature slower-paced classes for seniors over 50; Thursday evenings welcome all enthusiasts aged 16+. Each two-hour session costs JMD$1,000 (approximately USD$6.50).

    Beyond psychological benefits, participants develop improved flexibility, posture, and balance—particularly valuable for older adults avoiding conventional gym routines. The partner-based format also rejuvenates relationships through shared experiential learning while fostering social connectivity among isolated community members.

    Allison-Sheriff, despite retirement, contributes her specialized expertise in health-related physical activity to cultivate a sustainable dancing community. Her vision includes developing local musical accompaniment for regular live-music events, ultimately creating a self-sustaining ecosystem supporting ongoing mental wellness.

  • Government to tackle Sabina Park debt burden

    Government to tackle Sabina Park debt burden

    The Jamaican government has declared its intention to pursue negotiated settlements with key stakeholders to address the substantial financial debt of Kingston’s iconic Sabina Park cricket ground, rather than seizing control of the national asset. Sport Minister Olivia Grange articulated this position during a parliamentary session of the Standing Finance Committee, which convened to review the 2026-27 Expenditure Estimates.

    The discussion emerged in response to inquiries from Opposition MP Dennis Gordon, who highlighted the deteriorating condition of the facility and ongoing ownership disputes between Kingston Cricket Club and Sabina Park Holdings regarding the venue’s corporate boxes. Gordon pressed the minister on plans to normalize operations and ensure financial returns on government investments.

    Minister Grange confirmed that her administration would engage the Jamaica Cricket Association and Kingston Cricket Club in substantive dialogues to resolve the complex ownership structure. While acknowledging the government’s legal authority to assume control, she emphasized a preference for collaborative resolution. “Government could just go and take it over but we don’t want to do that. We’re going to sit with all stakeholders,” Grange stated.

    Despite the financial complications, the government has initiated rehabilitation efforts at the heritage site, including installing new electronic scoreboards and upgraded lighting systems. Grange affirmed continued infrastructure improvements while stressing the necessity of regularizing ownership arrangements as public investment continues.

    The debt crisis traces back to the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup, when reconstruction costs reportedly reached $1.2 billion before escalating dramatically, eventually requiring arbitration between the government and contractors.

    In related developments, Minister Grange revealed plans to divest the underutilized Trelawny Multipurpose Stadium, another World Cup venue constructed with a $30 million Chinese loan. An enterprise team is being formed to evaluate privatization options and transform the facility into a sports tourism hub, responding to concerns about its current state of disrepair raised by former cricketer MP Wavell Hinds.

  • Dr Fullerton’s back!

    Dr Fullerton’s back!

    In a landmark ruling with profound implications for educational governance and workers’ rights, Jamaica’s Supreme Court has mandated the reinstatement of Dr. Marjorie Fullerton as principal of Merle Grove High School, delivering a stinging rebuke to the school’s administration and the Ministry of Education. The verdict, handed down last Friday, culminates a four-year legal battle that unfolded as Dr. Fullerton concurrently fought a personal health crisis—a breast cancer diagnosis that required immediate chemotherapy treatment in the United States.

    The court’s decision represents a comprehensive vindication for Dr. Fullerton, who was abruptly terminated in 2022 by the school board of the century-old, church-operated institution. The dismissal occurred during a protracted dispute with staff members who had expressed opposition to her leadership methodology. Despite this internal friction, Dr. Fullerton enjoyed overwhelming support from students, parents, and alumni who credited her transformative leadership with elevating Merle Grove’s academic standing and behavioral reputation among Jamaica’s premier all-girls secondary institutions.

    The legal proceedings revealed substantial procedural irregularities in the termination process. Initial representation by attorney Neco Pagon highlighted that the dismissal mechanism was ‘tainted with bias’ and legally flawed, prompting an immediate appeal to the Teachers Appeal Tribunal. The case eventually advanced to judicial review at the Supreme Court, where Justice David Batts found the school board—chaired by David Hall and supported by then-Education Minister Fayval Williams—had violated principles of natural justice and procedural fairness.

    International alumni networks, led by Canada-based Simone Thomas of the Merle Grove Past Students Association, condemned the administration’s handling of the matter as ‘a profound injustice’ against an exemplary educator. The association alleged the personnel committee and board management committed ‘blatant breaches’ of protocol by allowing Dr. Fullerton’s accusers to also serve as adjudicators in her dismissal proceedings.

    While legally victorious, Dr. Fullerton has not yet confirmed whether she will resume the principalship or seek financial compensation. Close associates indicate she is undergoing a period of reflection following what she described as a ‘grueling journey’ through institutional opposition, legal complexity, and personal illness. The school board has temporarily installed Vice-Principal Loretta Ricketts—a central figure in the original dispute—as acting principal pending final resolution.

    The ruling establishes significant precedent regarding administrative due process in Jamaica’s educational system while highlighting the vulnerability of professionals facing simultaneous personal and professional crises.

  • St. Kitts welcomes 7,000 Cruise passengers despite rough weather – WIC News

    St. Kitts welcomes 7,000 Cruise passengers despite rough weather – WIC News

    In a remarkable demonstration of maritime expertise, St. Kitts successfully welcomed nearly 7,000 cruise passengers on March 7, 2026, overcoming challenging early morning weather conditions that threatened to disrupt tourism operations. Three major vessels—Queen Victoria, Costa Fascinosa, and Norwegian Sky—were expertly guided into Port Zante in Basseterre by highly skilled harbor pilots working under the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA).

    The successful docking operation occurred despite strong winds that tested the capabilities of the maritime professionals. SCASPA officially confirmed the achievement through their social media channels, highlighting the precision and skill demonstrated by their harbor pilots in ensuring safe passage for all vessels.

    Passenger distribution revealed Costa Fascinosa arrived from Guadeloupe carrying 2,095 visitors, Norwegian Sky journeyed from Saint Lucia with 2,172 passengers, and Queen Victoria transported 1,901 travelers from St. Maarten, culminating in a total of 6,978 visitors disembarking on the island within a single day.

    The substantial influx of tourists generated significant economic activity throughout St. Kitts. Local businesses including taxi services, craft stores, tour operators, retail establishments, and restaurants experienced notable increases in customer traffic. Visitors explored Port Zante’s shopping facilities, purchasing locally crafted souvenirs, jewelry, and perfumes while others embarked on organized island tours via the St. Kitts Scenic Railway.

    Tourist attractions witnessed substantial visitation, particularly the UNESCO-designated Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Romney Manor with its batik demonstrations, and the dramatic volcanic formations at Black Rocks. Beach enthusiasts sought relaxation at coastal areas, enjoying swimming and sunbathing activities. Cultural landmarks including the Berkeley Memorial, St. George’s Anglican Church, and Independence Square also attracted significant attention.

    Adventure-seeking visitors participated in nature trails, snorkeling expeditions, golfing activities, and casino entertainment. Tourism authorities emphasized the critical importance of cruise ship arrivals in stimulating economic development across the island, noting how such events directly benefit multiple sectors of the local economy through visitor expenditure and employment opportunities.

  • High-Level engagement sets clear roadmap for Mental Health Reform in Antigua and Barbuda

    High-Level engagement sets clear roadmap for Mental Health Reform in Antigua and Barbuda

    In a landmark development for Caribbean healthcare, Antigua and Barbuda has embarked on an ambitious mental health system overhaul through strategic collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph convened with PAHO representatives to solidify next-phase implementation plans, demonstrating unprecedented political commitment to mental health modernization.

    The comprehensive reform program centers on legislative advancement with the new Mental Health Bill currently undergoing stakeholder consultations. This rights-based legislation, scheduled for parliamentary presentation by April and official gazetting by May, will fundamentally reshape service delivery frameworks while protecting patient rights. The legislation facilitates a historic transition from institutionalized care to community-integrated models.

    Infrastructure development is already underway with Cabinet approval for a specialized mental health center within the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre complex. This deliberately designed integration into general healthcare infrastructure aims to dismantle traditional stigma and establish parity between mental and physical health services. The facility will extend beyond clinical care to incorporate psychosocial rehabilitation, creative arts spaces, daycare services, and professional training resources.

    A particularly innovative aspect involves economic integration through rehabilitation programs. Government plans include acquiring retail marketplace space to showcase and sell products created by participants in therapeutic programs. This initiative bridges mental health recovery with economic participation while leveraging connections to the nation’s vital tourism and creative sectors.

    The reform establishes a multi-tiered service network encompassing primary care mental health services, specialized outpatient care, hospital-based acute treatment, and community-based psychosocial rehabilitation. A meticulous assessment will determine appropriate transition pathways for current Clarevue Mental Health Facility residents, ensuring phased deinstitutionalization with continuous care provisions.

    Prime Minister Browne emphasized cross-sectoral integration, linking mental health to education, housing, employment, and agriculture initiatives. Crucially, mental health services will be incorporated into the National Health Insurance scheme by third quarter 2024, enhancing financial protection and accessibility.

    With 2026 designated as a transformational year, leadership has mandated a 30-day framework delivery for service restructuring. The target implementation date of November 1, 2026—coinciding with Independence celebrations—symbolizes national commitment to this healthcare renaissance. The reform agenda prioritizes lived-experience inclusion in public education campaigns and service design.

    The Health Ministry has established a dedicated implementation team to operationalize PAHO recommendations, focusing on workforce development, infrastructure modernization, service redesign, and intersectoral coordination. With sustained technical cooperation from PAHO and strategic investment, Antigua and Barbuda is positioned to establish a regional benchmark in community-focused mental healthcare.

  • We zijn er nog niet; maar we zetten door

    We zijn er nog niet; maar we zetten door

    On March 8th, 2026, Suriname joins the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day—a moment dedicated to recognition, reflection, and renewed determination. While progress has been achieved, the journey toward full gender equality remains ongoing and demands persistent effort.

    This observance, established by the United Nations, transcends symbolism. It represents a continuous call to action for justice, equality, and human dignity worldwide. True advancement requires unwavering commitment, solidarity, and courage.

    Suriname marked a historic milestone on July 16, 2025, with the inauguration of its first female president since gaining independence in 1975, Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons. This breakthrough signifies far more than a political shift; it embodies a transformative step in leadership representation and affirms national confidence in women’s capacity to guide the nation’s future. This achievement sends a powerful message to young girls across the country: their place is at every decision-making table.

    However, significant challenges persist. The UN Secretary-General’s 2026 message highlights that global gender equality faces substantial legal hurdles. Women worldwide possess approximately only 64% of the legal rights available to men, revealing inequality that is not merely social or cultural, but often embedded within judicial frameworks.

    The UN’s theme for 2026, aligned with the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, emphasizes three critical pillars: the abolition of discriminatory legislation, the guarantee of full legal equality, and the transition from symbolic gestures to tangible action. This necessitates robust law enforcement and active combat against gender-based violence.

    Progress must be inclusive, reaching all women including those experiencing poverty, living with disabilities, residing in rural areas, and girls denied educational access. In Suriname, legislative protection alone proves insufficient, as evidenced by recent increases in violence against women. True justice requires enforcement mechanisms, public awareness campaigns, and cultivating a culture of respect. Women are not property but equal partners bearing inherent dignity, strength, and wisdom. Societies that fail to protect women ultimately undermine their own future.

    This day also calls for solidarity with women and children in conflict zones including Gaza, the West Bank, Ukraine, and other Middle Eastern regions. In wartime, they endure the heaviest burdens: loss of family, violence, displacement, and profound uncertainty. During the sacred month of Ramadan—a time for reflection, mercy, and protecting the vulnerable—we are reminded that true strength lies in compassion, not power, and that greatness is measured by protecting innocent lives, not military might. No woman should give birth under bombardment; no child should know sirens as the soundtrack to their childhood.

    The global community must urgently prioritize diplomacy, dialogue, and humanity. Our world suffers not from a lack of weapons, but from a deficit of wisdom and compassion.

    International Women’s Day represents unity rather than division. It concerns not only women but all humanity:
    • Secure women strengthen societies
    • Economies grow with equal opportunities for women
    • Peace flourishes when women are respected

    This day reinforces our conviction that progress is achievable—step by step, law by law, and heart by heart. While the destination remains ahead, the journey continues, together.

    – Rose-Anne Franklin

  • Antigua Sailing Week Unveils New Format as 57th Regatta Adapts to Modern Sailing Trends

    Antigua Sailing Week Unveils New Format as 57th Regatta Adapts to Modern Sailing Trends

    After more than five decades as a Caribbean sailing institution, Antigua Sailing Week is undergoing a strategic transformation for its 2026 edition—marking an evolutionary shift rather than a radical reinvention of the celebrated regatta.

    The changes respond to evolving participant demographics and contemporary sailing preferences, blending competitive racing with a more inclusive cruising rally atmosphere. This recalibration follows extensive consultation with the sailing community, reflecting how modern enthusiasts engage with maritime events.

    Scheduled for April, the revamped format maintains competitive elements while incorporating enhanced shoreside experiences. The 2026 fleet showcases remarkable diversity, ranging from seasoned Caribbean campaigners to international first-timers seeking both tropical sunshine and nautical challenges.

    Complementing the on-water action, the event introduces ‘Riddim & Tides’—a day-long beach celebration fusing soca music, local cuisine, and Caribbean culture on April 25th. Additionally, the 15th edition of Reggae in the Park will feature legendary artist Luciano on April 21st, offering spiritual rhythms and social consciousness themes.

    Spectator engagement options include aerial helicopter tours with CalvinAir Helicopters providing breathtaking fleet perspectives, and Wadadli Cats catamaran excursions enabling sea-level race viewing with musical accompaniment and refreshments.

    The organization has partnered with Virgin Atlantic as Official Transatlantic Partner, offering discounted flights and group rates for European participants traveling via London Heathrow. With entry fees increasing on March 7th, prospective competitors retain ample preparation time for April’s festivities.

    This strategic evolution preserves the event’s cherished traditions while adapting to contemporary maritime lifestyles, ensuring Antigua Sailing Week remains relevant and accessible to new generations of sailing enthusiasts.