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  • PNM, IDA candidates file papers

    PNM, IDA candidates file papers

    Political factions in Tobago have formally initiated their campaigns for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The nomination process unfolded smoothly across multiple venues on Friday, setting the stage for a highly contested political battle.

    Ancil Dennis, Political Leader of the PNM Tobago Council and candidate for Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, expressed unwavering confidence in his party’s prospects. Following the submission of his nomination papers at the Buccoo Multipurpose Centre, Dennis declared that the Progressive National Movement (PNM) anticipates reclaiming governance. He launched a sharp critique against the incumbent Tobago People’s Party (TPP), alleging significant regression across all developmental sectors during their four-year tenure. “Every sector in Tobago has gone backwards significantly – tourism, agriculture, construction – you name it. I believe the people of Tobago would make the right decision, which is a change,” Dennis asserted.

    The PNM’s campaign received bolstering support from party stalwart Pennelope Beckles, who emphasized the party’s positive energy and expectation of victory. Beckles highlighted the strength of the PNM’s candidate roster, which includes Dexter Miller (Bagatelle/Bacolet), Carl McEwen (Belle Garden/Glamorgan), and Karyn Forbes (Plymouth/Black Rock) among others.

    Simultaneously, at the Calder Hall Multipurpose Facility, the Innovative Democratic Alliance (IDA) completed its nomination process with equal optimism. Political Leader Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus praised the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC) for their professional handling of the application procedure, awarding them perfect marks for efficiency. The IDA is contesting with eleven candidates across various electoral districts, including Tsoiafatt-Angus herself in Scarborough/Mt Grace, Stacy Herbert in Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, and Mauricia Douglas in Signal Hill/Patience Hill.

    The convergence of these political activities signals Tobago’s readiness for a transformative electoral process that will determine the island’s administrative direction for the coming term.

  • Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    Nomination Day over – Fight for Tobago truly underway

    The political contest for control of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) officially commenced on Friday as candidates from the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) successfully submitted their nomination documents at the Glamorgan Multipurpose Facility.

    Chief Secretary and TPP political leader Farley Augustine expressed satisfaction with the efficient nomination process, describing it as thoroughly organized. ‘All prospective candidates underwent a preparatory session with the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC) last week,’ Augustine revealed. ‘This preliminary review ensured all documentation was properly certified and helped alleviate any pre-filing apprehensions.’

    Augustine, who filed his nomination for the Parlatuvier/L’Anse Fourmi/Speyside electoral district, conveyed strong confidence in his party’s electoral prospects. The TPP has implemented strategic measures by pairing candidates with experienced campaign managers and election agents to optimize their electoral performance.

    Addressing voter participation expectations, Augustine projected significantly higher turnout rates compared to April’s general elections. ‘Tobagonians demonstrate greater engagement in THA elections because the assembly directly impacts their daily lives—from road maintenance and healthcare to educational services and social support systems,’ he explained.

    When questioned about governance challenges during his administration’s tenure, Augustine acknowledged difficulties but emphasized his team’s resilience. ‘We faced numerous tests of our capabilities, but our consistent stability throughout these challenges demonstrates the strength of Tobago’s leadership,’ he stated.

    The TPP’s complete candidate roster includes fifteen contenders across various electoral districts, with the critical assembly election scheduled for January 12, which will determine Tobago’s governance for the forthcoming four-year term.

  • 3×3 GENESIS basketball tournament begins in Arima

    3×3 GENESIS basketball tournament begins in Arima

    The Princess Royal Basketball Court in Arima is set to host the third annual GENESIS 3X3 Under-18 Men’s Basketball Series commencing December 20, featuring over 30 young athletes competing in the dynamic format of 3×3 basketball. Organized by the New Chapter Global Sport Academy (NCA), the tournament represents a strategic initiative to develop Trinidad and Tobago’s future basketball talent.

    Following the established format of previous editions, the competition features eight teams internally drafted from NCA’s Under-18 talent pool during a selection process held on December 18. The teams, including The Ark Builders, The Chosen Few, and The Gideon Warriors among others, underwent intensive 3×3 match preparation on December 19 ahead of the competitive tip-off.

    This initiative serves as a cornerstone of NCA’s long-term strategy to bolster Trinidad and Tobago’s presence on the international 3×3 basketball stage. The academy’s media release emphasized that sustained, age-specific competition is crucial for improving the nation’s future qualification prospects for premier global tournaments. This focus comes in the wake of Trinidad and Tobago’s single qualification for the FIBA 3X3 Under-18 World Cup in Debrecen, Hungary, back in 2022.

    The NCA has reaffirmed its commitment to mounting a significant push for qualification for the marquee youth tournament starting with the 2026 edition. The GENESIS series forms part of the academy’s expanding 3×3 program portfolio, specifically designed to provide young athletes with meaningful competitive exposure, repetitive high-level experience, and a clear developmental pathway toward international competition.

    The complete team rosters for the 2024 GENESIS tournament are: The Ark Builders (Marek Bengochea, Lance Crouch, Zion Roberts, Shemuel Welsh), The Chosen Few (Samuel Edwards, Jervais Edwards-Caracciolo, Matthias Phillips, Kai Sunich), The Gideon Warriors (Raiden Charles, Dillon Harrington, Iseyah Jobe, James Saul), The Lions of Judah (Alexie Alexis, Josiah Drayton, Jayden Forbes, Nhyim Pierre), The Mighty Men (Taalib Daniel, Tishad Gamero, Micah Pemberton, Jaden Russell), The Sent Ones (Josiah John-Andrew, Gabriel Goden, Xavier Jack, Jacob Knutt), The Sons of Isaac (Elijah Bruce, Jurell Charles, Zayden Charles, Nikholai Cunin), and The Watchmen (Kymani Herbert, Ranaan Howard, Edgar Torcatty, Antonio Vasquez).

  • EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    EBC: 42 candidates file for THA elections

    The political landscape in Tobago is poised for a significant electoral contest as 42 candidates officially enter the race for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. According to an official disclosure from the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) on December 19, the nomination process concluded successfully across the island following established electoral protocols.

    Four distinct political parties have thrown their hats into the ring, setting the stage for a multifaceted competition. The People’s National Movement (PNM) and the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) have demonstrated comprehensive electoral ambitions by fielding candidates in all 15 available constituencies. Meanwhile, the Innovative Democratic Alliance has entered the fray with 11 nominated candidates, indicating strategic participation across key districts. The Unity of the People party completes the political spectrum with a single candidate nomination.

    The EBC confirmed that Nomination Day proceedings on Friday unfolded without incident, reflecting the commission’s adherence to transparent and efficient electoral management. This smooth operational execution underscores the commission’s commitment to maintaining electoral integrity throughout the pre-election period.

    This election represents a crucial political event for Tobago’s governance structure, with the outcome determining the assembly’s composition and leadership direction for the coming term. The substantial candidate participation across multiple parties suggests a robust democratic process and potentially competitive outcomes across various electoral districts.

  • PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    PM: Not one cent of State $$ spent on celebrations

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has categorically refuted allegations that government funds were utilized to finance her political party’s holiday festivities. The United National Congress (UNC) leader addressed these claims during the party’s Christmas Supper event held at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s on December 18.

    In her definitive statement to attendees, Persad-Bissessar declared, ‘Not one cent of government money has been expended on this Christmas Supper.’ She further challenged critics who accused her administration of extravagant spending and insensitivity toward ordinary citizens amid ongoing economic challenges.

    The Prime Minister elaborated on the funding mechanism, revealing that proceeds from a previous UNC fundraising dinner in Couva on December 13 directly financed the current event. ‘Every attendee who purchased tickets for that occasion essentially funded tonight’s gathering through their contributions,’ she explained, emphasizing the self-sustaining nature of the party’s celebrations.

    Addressing concerns about perceived neglect since the UNC’s electoral victory on April 28, Persad-Bissessar offered a public apology while defending her government’s intensive workload. ‘The work was intense and the time was so short,’ she acknowledged before assuring citizens, ‘We will never ever forget you.’ The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of government spending and political accountability in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • ISSA’s plate may be crowded, but its capacity to cope is beyond doubt

    ISSA’s plate may be crowded, but its capacity to cope is beyond doubt

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s late October devastation, Jamaica’s educational community has demonstrated remarkable resilience through the timely resumption of interscholastic athletics. The decision by the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) to proceed with championship events has provided both participants and spectators with crucial psychological relief during recovery efforts.

    Child development specialist Professor Maureen Samms-Vaughn of The University of the West Indies recently emphasized the therapeutic value of recreational activities, noting that “children who play are more resilient to toxic stress and can better cope with adversity.” This psychological principle appears equally applicable to adolescents and adults, with competitive sports serving as both participatory and observational stress-relief mechanisms following traumatic events.

    The organizational achievement of ISSA deserves particular recognition given substantial logistical challenges. Despite Hurricane Melissa’s disruption during peak competition season, the association successfully orchestrated multiple championship matches before term conclusion. Friday’s netball championships featured defending senior champions Holmwood Technical against Gaynstead High, while Wolmer’s Girls’ faced Denbigh High at junior level.

    Football championships reached their climax with St. Elizabeth Technical High School (from hurricane-ravaged St. Elizabeth) confronting Glenmuir High in Saturday’s rural daCosta Cup final. The urban Manning Cup final showcased Jamaica College versus Excelsior High at identical venues. Supplementary competitions included Cornwall College versus Clarendon College for the Ben Francis Cup and St. Catherine High’s victory over Mona High in the Walker Cup.

    The hurricane’s scheduling impact will extend into January 2025, with the prestigious Olivier Shield matchup between Manning and daCosta Cup champions scheduled post-holiday break. The Champions Cup for top rural and urban schools may follow, creating unprecedented scheduling density when combined with traditional early-year track, field and cricket events. ISSA’s demonstrated organizational capability suggests readiness for these compounded challenges.

  • Uplift dreams of international success with Fantasy

    Uplift dreams of international success with Fantasy

    Jamaican-Canadian dancehall performer Uplift is projecting international stardom through his latest collaborative single “Fantasy” featuring Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Pupa Tee. The track, born from transcontinental digital collaboration, represents a strategic fusion of Caribbean and African musical traditions.

    Uplift revealed the organic evolution of the project, explaining how the initial demo composed years earlier found its perfect counterpart in Pupa Tee’s Afrobeat influences. “Our online connection transformed into creative synergy when he embraced the demo version,” Uplift recounted. “The final mix immediately convinced us we had crafted something with genuine global appeal.”

    Released through his independent label Uplift Entertainment, the single arrives accompanied by visually captivating footage shot in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling cultural capital. The production showcases authentic African landscapes while maintaining dancehall’s distinctive rhythmic foundation.

    Current metrics substantiate the artist’s optimism. Strategic promotional campaigns across Jamaica, Canada, African markets, the United States, England, and European territories are generating substantial traction. Spotify streaming data reveals a remarkable surge over the past eight weeks, with parallel growth observed across Uplift’s broader discography. YouTube viewership metrics similarly demonstrate encouraging engagement patterns.

    The St Elizabeth-born, Canada-based artist simultaneously confirmed development of multiple new projects scheduled for 2026 releases. While remaining discreet about specific details, Uplift hinted at potential EP or album releases alongside additional singles, positioning the coming year as potentially transformative for his artistic career.

    Previous notable works include collaborative tracks “Infinite” with reggae vocalist Hezron, “Call Me” featuring Tallis, and the solo effort “Ride With Me,” all contributing to his expanding international footprint.

  • Senator praises Gov’t for ‘largest crime management strategy ever’

    Senator praises Gov’t for ‘largest crime management strategy ever’

    Jamaica’s governing administration has implemented what it describes as one of the most comprehensive crime management initiatives ever witnessed in the Western Hemisphere, resulting in unprecedented reductions in violent crimes. Government Senator Christian Tavares-Finson revealed Friday that strategic investments exceeding $87 billion in national security since 2016 have driven a remarkable 43.3% decrease in murders compared to previous years.

    The transformative security blueprint, developed by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Administration, represents a fundamental restructuring of the nation’s approach to law enforcement. Senator Tavares-Finson emphasized that while political opponents repeatedly demanded public disclosure of crime prevention strategies, the government had been systematically executing a multi-faceted plan focusing on three critical domains: personnel expansion, technological modernization, and infrastructure enhancement.

    Human capital development has been paramount to the strategy’s success. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has grown from under 11,000 officers to more than 14,000, with approximately 6,000 recruits trained even during the COVID-19 pandemic. This substantial workforce increase has significantly improved police visibility, community engagement capabilities, and rapid response effectiveness across all parishes.

    Technological advancement has equally been a cornerstone of the security overhaul. In 2025 alone, the government deployed over $650 million worth of cutting-edge equipment including portable data radios, hand-held devices, and mobile printers to police personnel nationwide. The JamaicaEye CCTV network expansion, vehicle fleet modernization, and digital transformation of station records have revolutionized information sharing and operational coordination.

    The infrastructure revitalization program has seen numerous police stations constructed or refurbished, creating professional environments that enhance officer morale and community trust. These physical improvements complement the technological and personnel investments, forming an integrated ecosystem of crime prevention.

    The results speak unequivocally: Jamaica is projected to record fewer than 700 murders in 2025—the first time this threshold has been breached in three decades. This represents a dramatic decline from the period when annual murders exceeded 1,000. Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, while acknowledging that any murder remains unacceptable, characterized these developments as a monumental step toward establishing lasting public safety.

    Government officials specifically commended Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake, security personnel, and National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang for their pivotal roles in achieving these historic crime reduction milestones through coordinated intelligence-led operations and sustained strategic investment.

  • Retro meets Christmas at Footloose tonight

    Retro meets Christmas at Footloose tonight

    The Mas Camp at Stadium North is set to host a vibrant fusion of retro music and Christmas festivities tonight with the staging of Stone’s Ginger Wine Footloose. Event organizers promise an evening where patrons can dance through the decades, featuring non-stop musical entertainment curated by expert selectors dedicated to keeping the energy high and the dance floor active.

    Tyrone Dixon of Broadway Productions, the organizing body behind the event, described the night as a convergence of retro nostalgia and seasonal celebration. “This is where retro meets Christmas,” Dixon stated. “Patrons can expect the same beloved old-school Footloose energy and music, now amplified by a festive atmosphere. It’s designed as a high-energy Christmas party that celebrates the sheer joy of the season—dancing to iconic hits from the past while enjoying special offers throughout the night.”

    A staple on Jamaica’s entertainment calendar for nearly two decades, Footloose has established itself as a premier retro-themed party. Since its inception in 2006, the event has experienced substantial growth in popularity and scale. It is now held a minimum of three times each year, consistently drawing crowds eager to relive the musical magic of past eras in a dynamic, communal setting.

  • Frisco Kid co-headlines Saturday Night Live

    Frisco Kid co-headlines Saturday Night Live

    While the fashion trends of the 1990s—stonewash jeans and high-top hairstyles—have faded into history, the vibrant dancehall music from that decade continues to resonate with fans. Artist Frisco Kid, a seminal figure from that era, remains a passionate performer of his classic hits, including ‘Little And Cute,’ ‘Bashment Time,’ ‘Big Speech,’ and ‘Rubbers.’

    Reflecting on the 1990s, Frisco Kid describes it as a period defined by ‘joy, love, an’ happiness.’ He was an integral part of producer Dave Kelly’s influential Mad House Records, alongside renowned acts like Wayne Wonder, (Baby) Cham, Bounty Killer, and Mr Easy. According to Frisco Kid, the music created then was driven by genuine emotion and artistic integrity rather than financial motives. ‘Back inna dem time deh, everything come from di heart, it a come wid love. It wasn’t from what yuh can gain or what yuh can achieve [financially],’ he recalled.

    The veteran deejay is set to co-headline the ‘Saturday Night Live’ event at Sky Ultra Lounge in St Andrew on December 27. He will share the stage with Louie Culture, another celebrated artist who dominated the charts during the 1990s. This event marks the second installment of a monthly concert series organized by Global Grove Saturday Night Live, following a successful November showcase featuring reggae icon Marcia Griffiths.

    Hailing from West Kingston, Frisco Kid built his reputation through performances on sound systems in Portmore, St Catherine. His career skyrocketed thirty years ago with a string of hit singles, many produced by Dave Kelly. Now in his mid-50s, Frisco Kid attributes his enduring relevance to the timeless quality of his music. ‘Wi always busy, ‘cause di chune dem weh wi do nuh have nuh limit pon dem. Our song dem, all di next hundred years people still waan hear wi sing dem an’ perform dem,’ he stated.

    Despite his deep connection to his classic repertoire, Frisco Kid emphasizes the importance of creating new music. His latest single, ‘King of The Street,’ is part of an ambitious double EP project that will feature both reggae and dancehall tracks, scheduled for release in 2026.