In a recent letter to the editor published in Newsday, Kevin Baldeosingh critiques arts activist Dara E Healy’s column, ‘Time to meddle in fowl party,’ which praised writers and activists who supported Maurice Bishop’s New Jewel Movement (NJM) in Grenada. Healy highlighted figures like Merle Hodge, George Lamming, Nancy Morejon, Earl Lovelace, and Eintou Springer for their advocacy of Bishop’s vision of a people-centred ideology. However, Baldeosingh counters this narrative by pointing out the NJM’s authoritarian practices post the 1979 coup, including the suspension of Grenada’s constitution, suppression of media, and imprisonment without trial—actions he argues were never condemned by the intellectuals Healy lauded. Baldeosingh also scrutinizes Healy’s reference to calypsonian Atilla’s protest song ‘No Nationality,’ which criticized land leasing agreements between the British and Americans during World War Two. Notably, Healy omitted Atilla’s full sobriquet, ‘Atilla the Hun,’ a historical figure known for his invasions and destabilization of Roman frontiers. Baldeosingh’s critique underscores the need for a more critical evaluation of intellectual arguments regarding US influence in the Caribbean, questioning the validity of their historical and political perspectives.
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One Family declares support for govt led parade as rejecting JCNP’s independently planned rival event
A deepening divide in the governance of Junkanoo, a vibrant cultural festival in The Bahamas, has taken center stage as One Family, a prominent Junkanoo group, publicly declared its support for the government’s National Junkanoo Committee (NJC). This move comes in direct opposition to the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence’s (JCNP) proposal to host independent parades this holiday season. The JCNP had announced plans to organize two separate community Junkanoo events on Bay Street in December and January, timed to avoid clashing with the official government-sponsored parades. One Family, initially listed as a participant in the JCNP’s events, has now distanced itself from the plan. Vernon Rolle, chairman of One Family, emphasized that the group’s decision was unanimous during a recent meeting. He stated, ‘We are mandated to participate in the parade that the government is a part of,’ citing the government’s financial support as a key factor. Rolle also criticized the JCNP’s approach, suggesting that the rivalry between the two entities is detrimental to Junkanoo and the Bahamian people. Meanwhile, the NJC has dismissed claims of major groups withdrawing from its parades, asserting that preparations are progressing smoothly. The JCNP, however, remains hopeful for a resolution, with plans to meet with the Prime Minister. John Williams, the JCNP’s public relations officer, expressed optimism, stating, ‘We just want to make sure that everybody is satisfied and we have participation for Christmas and the New Year.’
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US detainee abuse officers charged
Two police officers in the Bahamas are facing serious charges and potential dismissal following a disturbing incident involving the inhumane treatment of a detained American woman. Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles confirmed the charges to The Tribune, though specific details were not disclosed. The incident, which occurred in July, was captured in a graphic video that circulated widely on social media, sparking widespread public outrage. The footage shows a half-naked Caucasian woman pleading to use a bathroom while officers appear to mock her. Racial slurs were exchanged during the ordeal. The woman was ultimately forced to defecate on the police station floor, with officers audibly reacting to the smell. The video, believed to have been recorded on a personal device rather than a police body camera, has raised concerns about the conduct and professionalism of the officers involved. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe emphasized that the recording violated Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) policy and underscored the importance of treating detainees with dignity. Attorney Christina Galanos, a detainee rights advocate, condemned the incident as a severe violation of the woman’s rights and warned of the lasting harm the viral footage could inflict on her life and reputation. She also criticized the officers’ failure to de-escalate the situation, calling it a reflection of a troubling lack of professionalism. The US Embassy has called for accountability, urging the RBPF to ensure such incidents do not recur. The case has drawn international attention, with concerns about its impact on the Bahamas’ reputation and tourism industry.
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At least 9 dead after cargo plane crashes near Louisville airport
A tragic UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky, has resulted in at least nine fatalities, with fears of more casualties as search and rescue operations persist. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11, en route to Hawaii, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport at approximately 5:15 pm on Tuesday. The aircraft burst into flames upon impact, devastating nearby businesses. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear described the incident as ‘heartbreaking’ and ‘unimaginable,’ expressing concern for the affected families. UPS confirmed three crew members were aboard but has not yet disclosed casualty details. This marks the deadliest crash in UPS’s history. The airport has since resumed operations, while investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are underway. The crash has reignited concerns about the U.S. air traffic control system, already strained by staffing shortages and outdated equipment.
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Red Cross hopes Jamaica hurricane toll stays ‘low’, says disaster planning saved lives
GENEVA, Switzerland — The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has attributed the relatively low death toll from Hurricane Melissa to comprehensive disaster preparedness measures implemented by Jamaica. Despite being one of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded, the storm resulted in 32 fatalities on the island, with a total of 76 deaths across the Caribbean.
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‘I can also make it’: Pride in Uganda over Mamdani win in New York mayor race
KAMPALA, Uganda — The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s first Muslim mayor has sparked a mix of pride, inspiration, and introspection among Ugandans. Mamdani, a 34-year-old leftist politician of Ugandan-Indian descent, made history on Tuesday by becoming the youngest mayor of the United States’ largest city in over a century. Born in Uganda and raised in the U.S. since the age of seven, his victory has resonated deeply in his birth country, particularly at Makerere University in Kampala, where his father once served as a senior academic.
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Private sector groups urge swift, coordinated action from Gov’t in hurricane recovery effort
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prominent private sector organizations in Jamaica have jointly addressed Prime Minister Andrew Holness, voicing their concerns over the sluggish pace of recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. In a letter dated November 2, the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action to address the escalating humanitarian crisis. While commending the efforts of government agencies, first responders, and volunteers, the groups stressed that the current response is insufficient to meet the growing needs of affected citizens. They highlighted the critical importance of time, stating that lives depend on swift and efficient intervention. The organizations called for a streamlined national response with transparent roles, centralized coordination, and robust accountability mechanisms. To address the crisis, they proposed several key recommendations: 1. Immediate Humanitarian Intervention: Establishing centralized safe zones across the island to provide shelter, food, water, medical care, and sanitation for displaced individuals, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly, women, and children. 2. Coordinated National Relief Command: Creating a National Relief and Reconstruction Command, led by a designated individual with the authority to mobilize resources, direct agencies, and engage international disaster-relief experts. 3. State of Public Emergency (SOE): Declaring an SOE in the most severely impacted areas to enable emergency powers for road clearance, search and rescue, and supply distribution. 4. Oversight and Transparency: Forming an Oversight and Recovery Committee within seven days, comprising representatives from the government, opposition, private sector, and civil society to ensure transparency and collective leadership. The PSOJ, JMEA, and JCC reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with the government and national stakeholders to rebuild a stronger, safer, and more resilient Jamaica.
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Prince Harry says proud to be British despite new life in US
LONDON, United Kingdom—Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has issued a heartfelt plea for the public to remember and honor military veterans, emphasizing the enduring sacrifices they have made. Speaking ahead of Britain’s annual Remembrance Day commemorations, the 41-year-old royal, who served two tours in Afghanistan, expressed his unwavering pride in his British heritage despite now residing in California.
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NCU to resume classes on November 10 after Hurricane Melissa
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Northern Caribbean University (NCU) has announced that classes will recommence on Monday, November 10, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The university, in a statement released on Tuesday, acknowledged the profound challenges faced by students grappling with the devastation wrought by the hurricane. To address these difficulties, NCU has implemented a series of supportive measures tailored to assist students who may be unable to return to campus due to disrupted access to essential services such as transportation and internet connectivity. Students encountering such obstacles are encouraged to promptly contact their respective faculty chairs, deans, or regional campus coordinators to explore alternative learning arrangements, including adaptable assessment options for the current semester. For those unable to engage with the university within this academic period, NCU has pledged to facilitate their reintegration in January 2026, ensuring they receive the necessary support to navigate their recovery journey. Additionally, course materials and content will be made available on the Moodle platform, allowing students to progress at their own pace. The university has also committed to flexibility in assignment submissions and other academic activities, underscoring its dedication to student welfare during this challenging time.
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Excelerate Energy mobilises over US$1 million to support Jamaica’s hurricane relief effort
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Excelerate Energy, in collaboration with Food For The Poor Jamaica, Project C.U.R.E., World Central Kitchen, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW), has mobilized over US$1 million in critical aid to support recovery efforts in Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. This coordinated initiative aims to restore essential services, rebuild infrastructure, and provide immediate assistance to the most affected communities.