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  • Supreme Court rejects Buchanan’s request for judicial review in St Andrew WC election dispute

    Supreme Court rejects Buchanan’s request for judicial review in St Andrew WC election dispute

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Supreme Court has delivered a significant ruling by rejecting a judicial review application from Paul Buchanan, the People’s National Party (PNP) candidate for St Andrew West Central. Buchanan had contested the September 3 general election results, alleging procedural irregularities in his constituency.

    The court’s decision hinged primarily on the expiration of the statutory period for challenging election outcomes, rendering Buchanan’s application legally untenable. Judicial authorities emphasized that while the Constituted Authority remains subject to judicial scrutiny, Buchanan failed to present substantiated grounds for his case.

    The ruling highlighted that election disputes are governed by strict timelines under Jamaican law. Although Buchanan filed within the three-month maximum period permitted by civil procedure rules, the court found his nine-day delay between the Authority’s September 30 determination and his October 8 application demonstrated insufficient urgency. The judgment noted that his constituency-specific complaints did not raise broader constitutional questions that might have justified exceptional consideration.

    This decision reinforces the judicial system’s commitment to procedural discipline in electoral matters and establishes important precedent regarding the timely resolution of election disputes.

  • We’re rocking with Burgerman to these Christmas carols this year

    We’re rocking with Burgerman to these Christmas carols this year

    As the holiday season approaches, music becomes an essential ingredient for creating the perfect festive atmosphere. Edge 105 FM’s renowned Burgerman has curated an exclusive selection of Christmas tracks designed to evoke nostalgia, spread joy, and amplify Christmas spirit across households.

    The playlist opens with Chronixx’s poignant ‘Santa Claus (Do You Ever Come to the Ghetto?)’, a modern reinterpretation of Carlene Davis and Trinity’s cultural classic that delivers soulful reflection during the holidays. Chris Brown’s smooth R&B rendition of ‘This Christmas’ provides instant ambiance enhancement for tree decorating ceremonies or Christmas morning activities.

    Stevie Wonder’s timeless ‘Christmas Time’ radiates pure joy with its uplifting melodies, while Jackson 5’s ‘Give Love On Christmas Day’ features young Michael Jackson’s vocals reminding listeners of the season’s core message about love and generosity. No contemporary Christmas compilation would be complete without Mariah Carey’s iconic anthem ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’, which has become synonymous with holiday season commencement.

    The selection also includes socially conscious contributions from the 2016 Crime Free Christmas Project. Tarrus Riley’s ‘Crime Free Christmas’ promotes peace and unity through smooth vocal delivery, while Busy Signal injects dancehall energy into the traditional ’12 Days of Christmas’ with distinctive Jamaican flair.

    Rounding out the playlist are Carla Thomas’s soulful throwback ‘Gee Whiz, It’s Christmas’ for cozy evenings and Boney M’s ‘When A Child Is Born’, a Caribbean household staple that signals the true beginning of seasonal celebrations.

  • Herbert Morrison win four straight in ISSA under-16 basketball

    Herbert Morrison win four straight in ISSA under-16 basketball

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Herbert Morrison Technical’s under-16 basketball team has solidified its dominant position in the ISSA/Rural Zone B tournament, securing two decisive victories on Saturday and extending their flawless record to four consecutive wins. The team delivered an overwhelming performance against Holland High with an 86-15 triumph, followed by an 86-7 win against Muschett High in matches hosted at the Holland High compound.

    The squad’s remarkable defensive prowess was on full display as they limited Holland High to single-digit scoring across all four quarters. Key players Tyler Linton and Michael Johnson led the charge in the first game, with Linton achieving a double-double of 16 points and 11 assists, while Johnson contributed 15 points and 9 rebounds.

    In their second contest against Muschett High, Shemar Russell and Rafael Stephenson each recorded double-doubles, with Russell posting 13 points and 10 rebounds and Stephenson adding 12 points and 10 rebounds. Trey Turner emerged as the game’s top scorer with 24 points.

    The under-19 team from Herbert Morrison continued the institution’s winning tradition, defeating York Castle High 96-22. Kyle Palmer dominated with a game-high 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 steals, while Ryan Jurdine delivered an impressive all-around performance with 20 points, 10 rebounds, 7 steals, and 6 assists.

    In other tournament action, York Castle’s under-16 team secured a 49-15 victory against Muschett High, with Richard Brock nearly achieving a triple-double (12 points, 10 rebounds, 9 blocks) and Marcodean Frater adding 12 points and 7 steals.

  • Walters and Palmer win as NCAA indoors season gets underway

    Walters and Palmer win as NCAA indoors season gets underway

    The opening weekend of the NCAA Indoor track and field season witnessed exceptional performances from Jamaican athletes competing for various universities across the United States. Multiple meets from Birmingham to Boston served as the competitive debut for the indoor campaign, with several former Jamaican high school stars making their mark in collegiate athletics.

    At the Birmingham Indoor Icebreaker, Royan Walters, a William Carey University jumper and Petersfield High alumnus, captured the men’s long jump title with an impressive leap of 7.31 meters. Meanwhile, unattached competitor Chloe Palmer, formerly of St. Elizabeth Technical, dominated the women’s triple jump with a 12.24-meter effort while also securing third place in the long jump (5.85m).

    The Clemson Opener in South Carolina saw strong showings from Clemson University’s Danielle Noble, who finished runner-up in the women’s high jump (1.71m), and teammate Shantae Foreman, who took second in the long jump (6.05m). The meet also featured Shanque Williams’ third-place finish in the 300m (37.67 seconds) and Brianna Campbell’s dual achievement of third in the 60m hurdles (8.31 seconds) and ninth in the 300m.

    Elsewhere, the Boston University Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener featured Zachary Cox, a Cornwall College graduate, earning third in the men’s 300m with a time of 34.23 seconds. At the Penn Opener, KeSean-Jordan Rhooms of Morgan State University, another Cornwall College alumnus, demonstrated his versatility with third place in the high jump (1.96m) and fifth in the triple jump (14.29m).

    The weekend competitions highlighted the successful transition of Jamaican track and field talent to the American collegiate system, with athletes achieving podium placements across multiple jumping, throwing, and running events.

  • ‘Blue’ Johnson to run as independent candidate for Freetown

    ‘Blue’ Johnson to run as independent candidate for Freetown

    In a significant political development, Andrew ‘Blue’ Johnson has officially declared his independent candidacy for the Freetown constituency in the upcoming general election. This decision comes months after the Free National Movement (FNM) opted not to nominate him as their representative.

    Mr. Johnson’s campaign launch on Saturday revealed intriguing cross-party dynamics, with former Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis making an unexpected appearance and Progressive Liberal Party MP Leroy Major opening the event with a prayer. This unusual show of support from figures across the political spectrum highlights the unpredictable nature of the upcoming election.

    The independent candidate has invested approximately $400,000 of personal funds to establish his constituency office in a barbershop formerly owned by his late father. Johnson has already demonstrated his commitment to the community through substantial grassroots initiatives, including repairing over 50 roofs, clearing properties, removing abandoned vehicles, providing school uniforms, and distributing food vouchers to residents.

    When questioned about his political affiliations, Johnson emphasized his primary loyalty lies with Freetown’s constituents rather than any political organization. ‘I am a, most of all, supporter of Free Town and its people,’ he stated, adding that he holds no opposition toward FNM, PLP, or COI parties but remains focused on serving his community’s needs.

    Political analysts suggest Johnson’s independent bid could significantly influence the electoral outcome in Freetown, potentially drawing votes from both major parties and altering the traditional political landscape in the constituency.

  • UNICEF drives education recovery in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa

    UNICEF drives education recovery in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact, UNICEF has intensified its multifaceted humanitarian response to address the educational and psychological needs of Jamaican children. The organization’s coordinated efforts with the Jamaican government and local partners focus on reestablishing educational continuity while prioritizing mental health support for storm-affected youth.

    Current assessments reveal substantial disruption across Jamaica’s education sector, with more than 650 schools serving approximately 150,000 students experiencing significant operational challenges. UNICEF Education Specialist Rebecca Tortello emphasized the dual nature of the recovery mission: “Our objective extends beyond physical reconstruction to encompass the rebuilding of confidence and hope among Jamaica’s children.”

    The organization’s strategic response includes both immediate and long-term interventions. Material support comprises the distribution of over 1,000 protective tarpaulins, 105 classroom tents, and hundreds of curriculum-aligned learning kits to create temporary learning environments. Additionally, infrastructure rehabilitation grants will benefit at least ten educational institutions, ultimately serving nearly 10,000 students alongside their educators and parents.

    Recognizing the profound psychological impact of natural disasters, UNICEF has implemented a robust mental health support framework. This includes specialized training for 600 teachers in the Return to Happiness methodology, enabling them to provide enhanced psychosocial guidance to approximately 18,000 students. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security will train an additional 450 counselors and volunteers to deliver targeted support to the most severely affected 5,500 students and families.

    Complementing these efforts, UNICEF has developed age-appropriate Psychosocial First Aid activity booklets for students across all educational levels, forming part of comprehensive mental health interventions projected to reach over 100,000 students and family members.

    The response also addresses critical public health concerns through the restoration of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in educational institutions and emergency shelters. Collaborative initiatives with Water Mission International have already supplied more than 980,000 liters of treated water to affected communities and healthcare facilities in Westmoreland, serving approximately 50,000 residents.

    UNICEF’s participation in high-level CARICOM education meetings has facilitated the exchange of best practices for emergency education management, ensuring Jamaica’s recovery efforts incorporate regional expertise and innovative approaches to crisis-responsive education.

  • Paramount counters Netflix with cash bid for Warner Bros Discovery

    Paramount counters Netflix with cash bid for Warner Bros Discovery

    In a dramatic escalation of entertainment industry consolidation, Paramount Global has initiated an unsolicited all-cash acquisition bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, offering $30 per share in a move that directly challenges Netflix’s previously announced agreement with WBD.

    The tender offer, announced Monday from Paramount’s Washington headquarters, values the entertainment conglomerate at approximately $108.4 billion. This represents a substantial 139% premium over Warner Bros. Discovery’s September stock price of $12.54, signaling Paramount’s aggressive pursuit of the acquisition.

    Paramount leadership explicitly characterized Netflix’s competing proposal as “inferior and uncertain” in their official statement. David Ellison, Chairman and CEO of Paramount, emphasized shareholder interests, stating: “WBD shareholders deserve an opportunity to consider our superior all-cash offer that provides immediate value and certainty.”

    The proposed merger would create one of the largest media entities globally, combining Paramount’s extensive film library and streaming platform with Warner Bros. Discovery’s vast content portfolio including HBO, Warner Bros. studios, and Discovery networks. This consolidation would significantly alter the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry, potentially creating a content powerhouse capable of challenging established streaming giants.

    Industry analysts note the bid comes at a time of unprecedented transformation in media, as traditional entertainment companies seek scale to compete in the increasingly crowded streaming marketplace. The all-cash nature of Paramount’s offer provides shareholders with immediate liquidity, contrasting with stock-based alternatives that carry market volatility risks.

    The tender offer initiates what could become a protracted bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery, with market observers anticipating potential counteroffers from Netflix or other interested parties in the evolving media landscape.

  • Duke backs TPP: When Farley wins, we win

    Duke backs TPP: When Farley wins, we win

    In a dramatic political reversal, Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP) leader Watson Duke has publicly endorsed the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections scheduled for January 12. The announcement came during a December 8 media conference in Scarborough where Duke declared, “If Farley wins, we win. We are one.”

    This endorsement marks a significant reconciliation between formerly bitter political rivals. The PDP had achieved a landslide victory in the previous THA elections, securing 14 out of 15 seats. However, a substantial rupture occurred within the party just one year later when Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and twelve other assembly members defected from the PDP to establish the TPP following a very public dispute with Duke.

    The PDP subsequently experienced a disappointing performance in the April 28 general election, with Duke himself failing to secure victory as the Tobago East candidate. Following this electoral setback, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar disclosed that Duke had approached her seeking employment opportunities.

    Recent developments suggest a thaw in previously strained political relationships. Duke was among the attendees at a November 4 reception held at the Prime Minister’s official Blenheim residence in Tobago. The event followed Persad-Bissessar’s presentation of an export licence for the Studley Park project to Augustine. During the gathering, the Prime Minister acknowledged both political symbols, noting, “We have the flambeau (PDP symbol) and we have the anchor (TPP symbol),” while greeting Duke and another TPP official.

  • Laroda: More families need to try to assist as leased shelter rooms hits limit

    Laroda: More families need to try to assist as leased shelter rooms hits limit

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Bahamas’ government-operated shelter network has reached maximum occupancy as authorities grapple with escalating demands for emergency housing, Social Services Minister Myles Laroda revealed today. The ministry currently leases approximately 150 rooms from private entities, all of which are fully occupied, excluding additional capacity at the Poinciana Inn Shelter.

    Minister Laroda confirmed that officials are actively negotiating leases for two additional properties to address the growing crisis. The situation has created a complex balancing act between granting extensions to current residents and accommodating new arrivals seeking emergency shelter.

    “We have provided extensions to individuals whose circumstances haven’t improved sufficiently for independent living,” Laroda stated, emphasizing that each case receives individual assessment. However, these extensions inevitably reduce availability for newcomers to the shelter system.

    The minister clarified the fundamental difference between emergency shelter assistance and government housing programs, noting: “We consistently emphasize that this represents a temporary solution. Our objective involves providing financial and supportive assistance to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency.”

    Demographic analysis reveals varied resident profiles, including mothers escaping dangerous domestic situations, recently unemployed individuals, and Family Island residents seeking economic opportunities in New Providence. Shelter durations range from approximately one month for transitional cases to extended stays for those requiring comprehensive support.

    Laroda stressed the government’s commitment to avoiding assistance denials, even when residents exceed planned shelter durations. Simultaneously, he issued a compelling appeal for increased family involvement in supporting relatives experiencing hardship.

    “While government assistance remains available,” Laroda asserted, “we actively encourage family members to support relatives in need. Strengthening family units ultimately builds more resilient communities and a more robust nation.”

  • Caritas launches emergency appeal for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

    Caritas launches emergency appeal for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the catastrophic damage wrought by Hurricane Melissa, the global Catholic humanitarian network Caritas has initiated an extensive 12-month recovery operation across Jamaica. The organization has activated its international emergency response mechanisms to coordinate long-term support for the most vulnerable populations affected by what officials describe as unprecedented destruction.

    Marcia Haywood, Regional Director for Caritas based in St. Lucia, revealed that coordination with local dioceses in Kingston, Mandeville, and Montego Bay began even before the hurricane made landfall. The organization, representing over 30 Caribbean territories within a global confederation operating in 200 countries, has already distributed essential tarpaulins to more than 600 households in Magaty and Balaclava, with damage assessments ongoing in severely impacted Montego Bay.

    Critical supplies including food kits from Caritas Puerto Rico, solar-powered lanterns, hygiene packages, and children’s activity sets have been shipped from St. Lucia to address immediate needs. The recovery strategy incorporates innovative social protection mechanisms, including a one-time unconditional cash transfer program for the most vulnerable households, developed in partnership with Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

    Haywood emphasized the program’s sophisticated approach: “We’re implementing a multipurpose cash intervention using a specialized social protection calculator tool developed last year. This system factors in existing government benefits to determine appropriate top-up support without creating dependency, ensuring those already receiving assistance get supplemental help while providing adequate support for those outside existing programs.”

    The director expressed particular concern about remote communities that remain inaccessible and persons with disabilities unable to reach distribution points. Having responded to multiple Category 5 hurricanes throughout the Caribbean, Haywood described the devastation in Montego Bay and Mandeville as “unequaled” in her experience.

    Caritas has deployed technical experts from its partner organization Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Empower and plans to hire local staff to ensure sustained recovery efforts throughout the coming year. The organization participates in both the national Cash Working Group and Shelter Working Group to coordinate effectively with government agencies and NGOs, preventing duplication of efforts.

    “We love Jamaica. We are so sorry that this has happened to our brothers and sisters, and we are committed to supporting the Jamaica recovery process,” Haywood stated, underscoring the organization’s dedication to the long-term rebuilding of affected communities.