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  • STATEMENT: Arrival of CARICOM Election Observation Mission – General elections of Barbados

    STATEMENT: Arrival of CARICOM Election Observation Mission – General elections of Barbados

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has formally established a specialized Election Observation Mission to monitor Barbados’ upcoming General Election scheduled for February 11, 2026. This multinational delegation arrived following an official invitation from the Barbadian government dated January 27, 2026, and will maintain presence in the country from February 5 through February 13 to ensure comprehensive electoral oversight.

    The mission leadership comprises distinguished electoral experts from three CARICOM member nations: Mr. Ian S. Hughes, Supervisor of Elections from Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, serves as Chief of Mission. He is supported by Deputy Chief of Mission Ms. Josephine Tamai, Chief Elections Officer of Belize, and Mr. Andrew Smith, Regional Manager from Jamaica’s Electoral Commission. Administrative support is provided by three CARICOM Secretariat staff members specializing in community and foreign relations.

    Since their arrival on February 5, the observation team has initiated critical dialogues with key stakeholders including Barbados’ Commissioner of Police, senior law enforcement officials, the Barbados Christian Council, and media representatives. The mission’s agenda includes forthcoming high-level meetings with Prime Minister Mia Amor Motley (Barbados Labour Party), Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne (Democratic Labour Party), Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chair Ramon Alleyne, and Chief Electoral Officer Sherland Turton, alongside engagements with civil society organizations and additional political parties.

    The observation protocol encompasses comprehensive monitoring throughout election day, including polling station operations from opening to closing procedures, vote casting mechanisms, ballot counting processes, and results declaration. The mission will also evaluate post-election developments before issuing a Preliminary Statement containing initial assessments prior to their departure.

    A comprehensive Final Report detailing the mission’s findings and recommendations will be submitted to CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett for subsequent public dissemination. The observation mission acknowledges the cooperative reception from Barbadian authorities and expresses commitment to supporting democratic integrity during this electoral process.

  • Theresa holds on to headline SJC track

    Theresa holds on to headline SJC track

    In a nail-biting finish at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, St Theresa Secondary School successfully defended their title at the 2025 St Joseph’s Convent athletics championships, narrowly overcoming a formidable challenge from Blessed Anne. The final standings saw St Theresa accumulate 650 points, with Blessed Anne finishing a close second at 631 points. St Anne secured third place with 540 points, while Maria Goretti completed the competition with 504 points.

    The championship unfolded as a dramatic two-day battle between the top contenders. St Theresa established a significant advantage during the opening day’s road race, fun sports, and field events, building a 45-point cushion with 311 total points. However, Blessed Anne mounted a spectacular comeback on the track finals day, dominating with 367 points compared to St Theresa’s 339 in track events.

    Individual performances highlighted the exceptional talent across all divisions. St Theresa’s victory was propelled by Imara-Marie Fadlien-Fevriere, who dominated Division 3 with victories in the 100m (13.6 seconds) and 200m (28.5 seconds), while also leading her teams to relay triumphs. Breyanie James contributed crucial points with her 400m win in 1:19.5.

    Blessed Anne’s campaign featured outstanding performances from Destinee Cenac, who demonstrated remarkable versatility in Division 1. The CARIFTA silver medalist set a high jump record during field events before claiming triple gold in the 100m (12.7), 200m (27.7), and 400m (1:15.0), culminating in a 4x100m relay victory.

    The competition showcased emerging talent across all age groups. First-former Skai Sammy made waves for Maria Goretti with Division 5 wins in the 80m (10.7) and 150m (20.0), adding to her earlier shot put record. Kimaura Francois of Blessed Anne set school records in the Division 4 100m (13.3) and 200m (27.3), while St Theresa’s Miracle Isaac claimed the 400m in 1:10.8.

    Physical education teacher Michael Annius revealed the strategic preparation behind St Theresa’s success, noting that training had commenced since September with the objective of securing a third consecutive Island Champs trophy. “We stress preparation from the beginning of the year, not just months before the event,” Annius explained to St Lucia Times. “Everyone is coming for us, we know that. And it’s all about coming out big, coming out strong to retain our championship.”

  • Start ATC-opleiding voor versterking luchtvaart

    Start ATC-opleiding voor versterking luchtvaart

    Suriname’s Ministry of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT) has inaugurated a specialized Air Traffic Controller (ATC) training program under the Basic Air Traffic Services (BATS) framework, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s aviation infrastructure. The initiative, launched on Friday, represents a strategic investment in enhancing safety protocols, operational continuity, and professional excellence within both domestic and international air transport systems.

    Thirteen candidates with prior practical experience in aviation operations have been selected for this comprehensive training curriculum. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority Suriname (CASAS) will oversee the entire program and conduct final assessments to certify participants’ mastery of essential knowledge and technical competencies. Successful graduates will qualify as Tower Controllers, with clear pathways for career progression to full Air Traffic Controller roles.

    Transport Minister Raymond Landveld emphasized during the opening ceremony that human capital development is fundamental to building a resilient and secure aviation industry. He noted that effective air traffic management is critical for supporting key economic sectors—including tourism, oil and gas, medical evacuations, and international connectivity—while also strengthening global confidence in Suriname’s airspace integrity.

    Concurrently, the ministry is advancing training for Aeronautical Information Services personnel, aligning with stringent International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These efforts collectively aim to bolster the international reputation and operational credibility of Suriname’s aviation sector, reinforcing its commitment to world-class safety and efficiency.

  • 98% of BTL Severance Paid, But What About Claims Older Than 6 Years?

    98% of BTL Severance Paid, But What About Claims Older Than 6 Years?

    Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has announced the near-completion of its severance payment obligations to former employees, fulfilling a mandate from last November’s Caribbean Court of Justice ruling. The telecommunications company reports successfully disbursing 98% of eligible claims that fall within the six-year limitation period established by national law.

    According to an official statement, BTL initiated payments promptly following the judicial decision, though three former employees have yet to collect their entitled compensation. The company attributes this remaining balance to the individuals’ failure to complete necessary disbursement procedures at BTL offices.

    This adherence to the statutory limitation period has ignited significant public debate regarding corporate responsibility versus legal technicalities. Critics argue that severance pay constitutes earned compensation that should transcend temporal legal boundaries, representing a fundamental matter of social justice rather than merely a contractual obligation.

    Prime Minister John Briceño recently weighed in on the controversy, expressing his view that severance claims should not be subject to statute limitations. His comments came following parliamentary proceedings where he emphasized the moral imperative to compensate all former employees regardless of temporal constraints.

    The Belize Communication Workers for Justice (BCWJ) has mobilized public demonstrations, conducting a three-day protest outside BTL’s Belize City headquarters. The labor advocacy group demands comprehensive payment for all affected workers, including those whose employment terminated beyond the six-year threshold.

    In response to mounting pressure, BTL’s Board of Directors has initiated review procedures for claims predating the limitation period. A conclusive determination regarding these historically excluded cases is anticipated during the board’s forthcoming meeting.

  • Trilla-G’s latest single ‘Congratulations’ embodies transforming trials into triumph

    Trilla-G’s latest single ‘Congratulations’ embodies transforming trials into triumph

    Dominican Bouyon sensation Trilla-G (born Gael Jno Baptiste) has transformed personal adversity into artistic triumph with his powerful new single “Congratulations,” released following his successful battle against cancer. The Billboard-recognized artist received his diagnosis in July 2025, embarking on an intensive treatment regimen that fundamentally reshaped his perspective on life and creativity.

    Despite the physical challenges of cancer therapy, Trilla-G maintained an extraordinary performance schedule throughout 2025, appearing at Virginia and Miami carnivals, the UberSoca Cruise, and Aruba events. His perseverance culminated in a memorable performance at Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival, followed immediately by his return to medical treatment. During this period, he also released his debut album “Take Me as I Am: The Album” just days before his festival appearance.

    In an emotional reflection, the artist shared: “Cancer was not a word I ever imagined hearing connected to my name. There were moments of fear, exhaustion, and unbearable weight. But I held on to my faith and decided that as long as I had life, I had a chance to fight.” This mindset fueled his creative process, leading to the composition of “Congratulations” during his recovery.

    The track represents more than musical expression—it serves as a testament to human resilience. Blending Trilla-G’s signature Bouyon energy with profound emotional depth, the song centers on themes of gratitude for life, faith, and supportive relationships. As of February 5, the artist proudly announces he is officially cancer-free.

    Produced by Andel “Fr3EzE” Horsford and Dernel Green, with writing contributions from Shane Maloone and Christon Jno Baptiste, the single features longtime collaborator Th3rd from the US Virgin Islands. The accompanying music video, released just two days after Trilla-G’s final treatment session, was shot by 365MMP with creative direction from Tridel Edwin, Anthony Nibbs, and the artist himself. This visual component symbolizes both closure to a challenging chapter and the beginning of a renewed artistic journey.

    Currently available across all major streaming platforms, “Congratulations” extends beyond typical entertainment to deliver an inspirational message encouraging listeners to appreciate life’s blessings without awaiting crisis. Trilla-G now prepares for Carnival Season with renewed purpose, celebrating Dominica’s Real Mas with profound personal significance.

  • Health minister announces latest finalization of senior healthcare positions as part of bolstering sector

    Health minister announces latest finalization of senior healthcare positions as part of bolstering sector

    The Dominican government is undertaking a significant restructuring of its healthcare leadership, with Health Minister Cassanni Laville announcing the finalization of critical senior management positions within the nursing department. This strategic move represents a continuation of the administration’s multi-year effort to enhance the nation’s medical governance and ultimately improve patient care outcomes.

    Minister Laville revealed that these appointments are part of a broader initiative to strengthen the healthcare system’s administrative framework. “We are in the process of finalizing some critical senior management positions, particularly in nursing as well as various other management positions,” he stated during a recent announcement.

    The minister emphasized that this organizational overhaul reflects the government’s sustained commitment to healthcare improvement, noting that over the past two years, the administration has consistently prioritized both healthcare outcomes and staff welfare. This focus has included substantial investments in human resources and strategic resource allocation across hospital networks.

    Detailing the comprehensive nature of these reforms, Laville highlighted several key achievements: “We have seen increases in salaries, appointed over 100 nurses in our system, created 26 permanent positions for medical doctors and various specialists, and established 34 full-time community health aid positions.” Additionally, the government is currently creating temporary positions for nine environmental health officers while continuing to review positions throughout both primary and secondary healthcare systems.

    This systematic approach to healthcare workforce development demonstrates the government’s recognition that robust administrative leadership—particularly in nursing—is essential for delivering quality medical services to the Dominican public.

  • “I Just Saw Him Yesterday”: Family Grieves “Sparrow” After Dangriga Shooting

    “I Just Saw Him Yesterday”: Family Grieves “Sparrow” After Dangriga Shooting

    The coastal community of Dangriga is grappling with the tragic loss of a cherished resident following a fatal shooting incident on Friday evening. Bernaldo Gorosica, affectionately known throughout the town as ‘Sparrow,’ was killed in the Riverside area, sending shockwaves through this tight-knit Belizean community.

    Gorosica, remembered as a perpetually cheerful fisherman from the Salty Dog neighborhood, was described by those who knew him as a beacon of positivity. His cousin, who spoke with local media through tears, painted a portrait of a man whose infectious smile and vibrant personality touched everyone he encountered. ‘He was a cool person, always happy, full of vibes, always had a big smile on his face,’ she recounted emotionally.

    The victim’s sudden and violent death has left his family, including his two sons, devastated. The emotional impact is particularly profound given that many relatives had interacted with Gorosica mere hours before the tragedy. His cousin revealed the heartbreaking detail that she had exchanged greetings with him just one day prior to the shooting, making the loss even more difficult to process.

    Local law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While police continue to pursue leads and evidence, the community focuses on mourning a man whose presence defined the character of his neighborhood. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the area, though official details regarding potential suspects or motives remain undisclosed as the investigation progresses.

  • Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    The Director of the Dominica Social Security (DSS), Janice Jean-Jacques Thomas, has issued a compelling appeal to the nation’s self-employed workforce, urging immediate registration with the national social security system to secure future welfare benefits. Emphasizing the critical need for personal financial planning, Thomas highlighted a concerning trend where individuals neglect to make provisions for their later years yet expect support upon reaching retirement age or becoming unable to work.

    Thomas articulated the core principle of the social security system as a mechanism for ensuring personal independence through compulsory savings. “By making the modest sacrifice of regular contributions during your productive years, you guarantee financial compensation from DSS when your earning capacity diminishes,” she stated, framing the system as a foundational pillar for retirement security rather than an optional expense.

    In parallel, the DSS Director issued a crucial advisory to all salaried employees, encouraging them to proactively verify their contribution status. Thomas clarified that observing a social security deduction on one’s payslip does not automatically confirm the remittance of those funds to the DSS. She strongly recommended that employees periodically visit DSS offices to conduct official checks, ensuring their employers are fully compliant with contribution payments on their behalf.

    This dual-focus outreach underscores a broader governmental effort to strengthen the social safety net by expanding coverage and enforcing compliance, thereby safeguarding citizens against financial insecurity in old age or incapacity.

  • Intriguing matchups as second round of urban U14/U16 heats up

    Intriguing matchups as second round of urban U14/U16 heats up

    Kingston College (KC) delivered a historic performance in the ISSA/Mighty Malt Urban Under-16 football competition, demolishing Waterford High with an unprecedented 13-0 victory during Friday’s Round-of-16 fixtures. This record-setting triumph highlighted a day of decisive matches across both age categories in the schoolboy football championships.

    In the Burger King-sponsored Under-14 division, St Catherine High secured the most significant win with a commanding 6-1 defeat of Jose Marti High. The victories position both KC and St Catherine favorably as the tournament progresses into critical Monday matchups that will determine quarter-final qualification.

    KC’s offensive onslaught against Waterford marked a continuation of their dominant form from the preliminary rounds, where they netted 32 goals. St George’s College, under coach Marcel Gayle, also showcased championship credentials with a formidable 6-1 victory over Hillel Academy.

    Defending champions St Andrew Technical began their title defense with a solid 2-0 win against St Catherine, while Excelsior High overcame Haile Selassie 3-1. Other notable results included Jamaica College’s 3-0 win over Eltham, Calabar’s narrow 3-2 road victory against Jose Marti, Mona’s 3-2 defeat of Greater Portmore, and Wolmer’s Boys’ 4-0 shutout of St Jago.

    In the Under-14 category, Campion College emerged with a critical 4-0 win against Camperdown, giving them goal difference advantage over Jamaica College in Group 3. Hillel Academy dominated Vauxhall 4-0 in Group 2, while defending champions KC opened with a confident 3-0 victory against Calabar.

    Holy Trinity has emerged as an unexpected contender following their 4-0 win over Greater Portmore, creating intriguing dynamics in Group 1 after Wolmer’s was held to a surprising 1-1 draw by Eltham.

    The tournament continues Monday with pivotal fixtures that will determine quarter-final placements. Teams securing consecutive victories will likely advance, though outcomes in respective zones could create complex qualification scenarios.

  • Portmore United defeat Harbour View to return to third in JPL

    Portmore United defeat Harbour View to return to third in JPL

    A dramatic Sunday in the Jamaica Premier League witnessed significant shifts in the standings as Portmore United secured a crucial 2-1 away victory against Harbour View FC. This result propelled them into third position with 39 points, capitalizing on Mount Pleasant FA’s surprising 0-0 stalemate with relegation-threatened Treasure Beach FC at STETHS Sports Complex.

    The league landscape intensified as Portmore now shares identical points with second-placed Racing United, who mounted a resilient comeback to draw 1-1 with Montego Bay United in a top-tier confrontation at Ferdie Neita Park. Meanwhile, Waterhouse FC demonstrated remarkable form by achieving their fourth consecutive win, overcoming Dunbeholden FC 2-1 through decisive goals from second-half substitutes.

    Arnett Gardens continued their impressive resurgence with a commanding 2-0 triumph over Tivoli Gardens at Stadium East, courtesy of Fitzroy Reid’s clinical brace. This victory marks their second consecutive win, elevating them to sixth position in the competitive table.

    The Portmore-Harbour View encounter maintained its predictable pattern with the visitors extending their dominance to six straight victories. Javier Brown initiated the scoring in the 29th minute, followed by Trayvone Reid’s equalizer in the 59th minute, before Peter McGregor sealed the decisive goal in the 68th minute.

    In other matches, the league witnessed both drama and disappointment. Montego Bay United’s Dwight Merrick delivered a spectacular 24-yard strike against Racing United, only to see their advantage vanish immediately through a converted penalty. The most surprising result emerged from Santa Cruz where Treasure Beach earned their first-ever point against former champions Mount Pleasant FA, severely denting the latter’s title aspirations.

    The round concluded with Chapelton Maroons demonstrating defensive resilience to secure a 0-0 draw against Molynes United despite playing with ten men after Carlton Brown’s late dismissal.