The West Indies cricket team is facing a deepening crisis, with growing concerns over the leadership of head coach Daren Sammy and the overall management of the squad. Critics argue that the root of the problem lies not with the players but with the coaching staff and Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Dr. Kishore Shallow, who has been accused of deflecting blame rather than addressing systemic issues. Sammy’s decision to recall 37-year-old Kemar Roach, citing the need for experience, has been met with skepticism. Critics question why younger players are not being given opportunities to develop, especially in a sport where stamina and fitness are crucial. Roach’s recent injury and slow recovery further highlight the challenges of relying on aging players in international cricket. The team’s batting lineup has also been inconsistent, with players like Brandon King, Sherfane Rutherford, and Keacy Carty failing to deliver. While captain Shai Hope has shown consistency, the burden of carrying the team has limited his ability to inspire others. Despite Sammy’s praise for assistant batting coach Floyd Reifer and his emphasis on preparation, the team’s performance continues to decline. Sammy’s unwavering confidence in his staff and methods has drawn criticism, with many questioning his ability to lead the team out of its current slump. The lack of accountability and failure to address fundamental issues suggest that the West Indies cricket team may continue to struggle unless significant changes are made.
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Judge in T&TEC’s ‘misrepresentation’ claim: Sort it out
In a significant legal development, Justice Frank Seepersad of the High Court has refrained from ruling on allegations of misleading the court in a contentious case involving the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) and a local doctor, Dr. Fayard Mohammed. The dispute centers on T&TEC’s policy for installing high-tension power lines on private property. Instead of issuing a verdict, Justice Seepersad corrected the official court record and called on T&TEC to conduct a thorough investigation into conflicting instructions reportedly given by its in-house legal officer to former external counsel. The judge emphasized the need for robust checks to prevent such discrepancies in the future. The issue arose after T&TEC’s legal officer, Candace Price, filed an affidavit claiming that former external counsel had misrepresented the commission’s position on policy documents. This followed a court order for T&TEC to produce the policy governing the installation of high-tension lines over private land. Price asserted that T&TEC had no intention to mislead the court. Earlier, in October, Justice Seepersad ruled that T&TEC had breached its statutory obligation under the Freedom of Information Act by failing to respond to Dr. Mohammed’s request for the policy. The judge noted that the court could not determine whether the conflicting accounts resulted from deliberate misrepresentation, confusion, or inadvertence, as Price’s affidavit contradicted previous statements by former counsel Keisha Kydd-Hannibal. Justice Seepersad formally amended the court record to reflect that T&TEC operates without a single policy document but relies on a combination of legislation, guidelines, and international standards. He directed T&TEC to investigate the matter internally to restore public trust and ensure transparency. The case continues to unfold, with Dr. Mohammed pursuing a separate lawsuit against T&TEC over the installation of high-tension wires on his property.
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Lawyer questions whether Donna-Lee left on illegal vessel
During a high-profile murder trial at the Home Circuit Court in downtown Kingston, a director from the Passport, Immigration, and Citizenship Agency (PICA) testified on Monday that she could not confirm whether Donna-Lee Donaldson, a 24-year-old social media influencer, might have left Jamaica through an illegal port of entry. The director emphasized that PICA’s records only document legal entries and exits, leaving gaps in tracking unauthorized departures. The testimony came during cross-examination by Chadwick Berry, an attorney representing Constable Noel Maitland, who faces charges of murder and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse in connection with Donaldson’s disappearance on July 12, 2022. Donaldson was last seen at Maitland’s apartment in the Chelsea Manor complex in St Andrew, where forensic evidence, including blood matching her DNA, was discovered. Berry questioned the witness about the possibility of Donaldson leaving Jamaica via unconventional means, such as a banana boat or an unregistered aircraft using illegal ports. The director confirmed that such departures would not be reflected in PICA’s computerized border management system, which logs only authorized travel. She also disclosed that Donaldson’s last recorded travel date was March 12, 2021, and provided details about her passport and an alternate name, Donna-Lee Sophia White, which was linked to a child’s passport last used in 2013. The trial continues today.
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Nigerian doctor invites GOJ to partner on future medical missions
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Dr. Cliff Eke, President of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), has urged the Jamaican Government to establish long-term partnerships to improve healthcare services across the island. Leading a team of eight medical professionals on a recent mission to Jamaica, Dr. Eke emphasized ANPA’s commitment to expanding its support but stressed the need for governmental collaboration to achieve sustainable impact.
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Tourism leaders unite to fast-track Jamaica’s post-Melissa recovery
OCHO RIOS, St Ann — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Jamaica is focusing on reviving its tourism sector, a critical pillar of its economy, while expressing profound gratitude for the overwhelming international aid. John Byles, Chairman of the Tourism Recovery Task Force, emphasized the urgency of restoring tourism operations to ensure economic stability and employment for locals. During a recent tour of Ocho Rios led by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, Byles highlighted the sector’s resilience and unity in crisis management. ‘We are deeply thankful for the aid, but our priority is to get the tourism machinery running again so we can welcome guests as we’ve already started in some areas,’ he stated. Byles, also the executive deputy chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, praised the seamless evacuation of tourists during the hurricane and noted that Ocho Rios, largely unaffected by the storm, has reopened as a first step in recovery. Jessica Shannon, head of the Jamaica Tourism Cares Task Force, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unprecedented collaboration across industries and sectors. ‘Hand in hand, we rebuild,’ she said, highlighting the collective effort of private and public entities, both domestic and international. Shannon, also the Chief Experience Officer for Sandals Resorts International, revealed that global partners, including hotel brands, airlines, and cruise operators, have offered extensive relief support, from supplies to housing recovery assistance. ‘The goodwill Jamaica has generated is unparalleled,’ she added, citing donations of clothing, generators, and tarpaulins. The united front displayed by Jamaica’s tourism industry underscores its commitment to recovery and its ability to leverage international partnerships in times of crisis.
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BOJ warns of prolonged inflation spike
The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) has issued a stark warning to households and businesses, urging them to prepare for a significant rise in inflation driven by the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The central bank projects that inflation will exceed its target range of four to six per cent in the near term, with price stability not expected to return until 2027. This comes despite Jamaica enjoying relatively low inflation below six per cent over the past two years, as reported by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin).
Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that struck Jamaica’s south-western coast on October 28, has caused extensive economic disruption, damaging infrastructure and disrupting productive activities. The BOJ anticipates that annual headline inflation will rise sharply from 2.9 per cent in October 2025, with core inflation—excluding volatile food and fuel prices—also breaching the target range by mid-2026. This inflationary pressure is expected to ripple across various sectors, including food, utilities, transport, and personal care services.
Early signs of inflation are already evident in the October Consumer Price Index (CPI), which recorded a 1.5 per cent increase in food prices, driven by significant surges in vegetables, tubers, and pulses. Electricity costs also rose, contributing to a 0.8 per cent increase in housing-related expenses. The government’s decision to temporarily suspend fiscal rules to fund relief and reconstruction efforts is expected to inject more money into the economy, further exacerbating inflationary pressures.
In response, the BOJ has adopted a cautious approach, maintaining its key interest rate at 5.75 per cent while implementing measures to stabilise the foreign exchange market. The central bank has already sold US$210 million to the market since the hurricane and plans to provide foreign currency directly to energy sector entities. These steps aim to prevent a depreciating Jamaican dollar from worsening inflation by increasing the cost of critical imports for reconstruction.
The BOJ remains committed to its inflation target and is prepared to adjust its monetary policy stance if inflationary risks escalate further. The next policy decision announcement is scheduled for December 18, 2025, as the central bank continues to monitor price movements closely.
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Delayed, but just for a while
Montego Bay, St James — As the city continues its recovery from Hurricane Melissa, plans to honor the late music legend Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on Monday, have been temporarily scaled down. However, Mayor Richard Vernon has assured that Cliff will receive the recognition he deserves. “When we are in a better place, we will determine the best way to honor his contributions to St James and Jamaica,” Vernon stated during an interview with the Jamaica Observer. The city has long celebrated Cliff’s legacy, renaming the Hip Strip in his honor in 2019. Now, officials are exploring additional ways to immortalize the globally renowned musician and actor. Vernon extended his condolences to Cliff’s family, particularly his wife Latifa, and acknowledged the profound loss felt by fans worldwide. Born James Chambers, Cliff’s death was attributed to complications from pneumonia. His iconic hits, including ‘Many Rivers to Cross’ and ‘The Harder They Come,’ continue to inspire generations. Jason Russell, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, praised Cliff’s immense impact on the city’s tourism and cultural identity, recalling his performances at events like Reggae Sumfest. “His legacy is not just local but global,” Russell emphasized.
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‘Caring cop’ leaves huge void
Christopher Condappa, a devoted member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle accident on November 10. The 34-year-old constable, who had fulfilled his childhood dream of joining the police force in 2012, was fatally injured while riding his service motorcycle on Anglican Street in Moneague, St Ann. Reports indicate that a Suzuki Swift collided with his motorcycle, leading to his untimely death. Condappa, assigned to the Moneague Traffic Department, was pronounced dead at the hospital after sustaining multiple injuries. Known for his selfless nature and unwavering commitment to helping others, Condappa was described by his sister, Abey-Gale Condappa-Malcolm, as ‘Mr Save the World.’ His family, including his mother Dorothy Condappa and his wife Camoya, are grappling with the profound loss of a man who was not only a dedicated officer but also a loving father, husband, and brother. Condappa leaves behind four daughters and a legacy of service and compassion that touched countless lives. The family is now preparing for his funeral, a task they never imagined having to undertake.
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Final river crossed
The world of music mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the legendary Jamaican singer, songwriter, and actor, who passed away at the age of 81. Known for his crystal-clear voice and profound lyrics, Cliff played a pivotal role in elevating Jamaican culture to global prominence. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from Jamaica and beyond, celebrating a life dedicated to artistry and cultural impact. Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on reggae music and beyond. His breakout role in the 1972 cult classic film *The Harder They Come* catapulted him to international fame, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. Cliff’s contributions to music earned him numerous accolades, including Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003 and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. His timeless hits such as *Many Rivers to Cross*, *The Harder They Come*, and *Wonderful World, Beautiful People* continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness hailed Cliff as a “true cultural giant,” while former Prime Minister PJ Patterson described him as a “cultural architect” who bridged Jamaica’s soul with the world. VP Records, where Cliff began his musical journey, praised his unwavering commitment to Jamaican music. His legacy lives on through his music, which remains a source of inspiration and pride for Jamaica and the global community.
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Tariff relief for Trinidad and Tobago
In a recent letter to the editor, Dr. Errol N. Benjamin reflects on the strategic implications of Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) alliance with the United States, particularly in the context of the ongoing Venezuelan crisis. Dr. Benjamin, who has been vocal about this issue for some time, underscores the benefits of this partnership, citing the recent tariff relief on fertilizers and other products as a tangible outcome. He argues that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s decision to align with the US demonstrates astute leadership, given the economic and security advantages it brings to TT.
Dr. Benjamin acknowledges the prevailing anti-Trump sentiment in the region, fueled by concerns over US hegemonic intentions and the desire for regime change in Venezuela, ostensibly for its oil and gas resources. He also notes the Caribbean’s aspiration to be a ‘zone of peace’ and the importance of sovereignty. However, he contends that these concerns, while valid, should not overshadow the pragmatic benefits of aligning with a global powerhouse like the US, especially when TT relies on the US for markets, financing, and security.
Addressing fears of becoming a military target, Dr. Benjamin questions the likelihood of such an outcome under Trump’s administration. He also highlights the strategic necessity of this alliance, particularly with Venezuela’s aggressive posturing in the region, including accusations of TT’s complicity in guerrilla warfare. Dr. Benjamin leaves the final judgment to the readers, urging them to critically evaluate the merits of this alliance in the broader geopolitical context.