The Steelpan and Powder Parade (Eastern Region) unfolded in a burst of color and rhythm on November 15, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Tunapuna. The event commenced at El Dorado Road, Eastern Main Road, and culminated at the Republic Bank Exodus panyard, drawing crowds of enthusiastic spectators and talented performers alike. Among the standout bands were the Tunapuna Tipica Steel Orchestra, Simple Song Steel Orchestra, Bp Renegades Steel Orchestra, Massy Trinidad All Stars, Curepe Scherzando Steelband, Pamberi Steel Orchestra, and First Citizens Supernovas, each delivering electrifying performances that captivated the audience. Newsday photographer Faith Ayoung immortalized the festivities, capturing moments of joy, creativity, and cultural pride. From young pan enthusiasts reveling in the music to a moko jumbie tossing powder into the air, the parade was a testament to the enduring legacy of steelpan music in Trinidad and Tobago. Josiah Austin, chairman of the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating this unique art form. The event not only entertained but also fostered a sense of community and cultural identity, leaving attendees with lasting memories of a day filled with music, dance, and tradition.
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Reid, Pinnock and co-accused to return to court in February
The high-profile corruption trial involving former Jamaican Education Minister Ruel Reid, ex-Caribbean Maritime University President Fritz Pinnock, and three co-accused is set to continue in February 2026, with additional witness testimonies expected to shed light on the alleged $25 million fraud scheme. The trial, which began on October 7th after an initial delay due to the absence of Judge Vaughn Facey, has seen Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell presiding over the proceedings.
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Antigua’s PM says Jamaica can bounce back bigger and better
ST JAMES, Jamaica—Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, has expressed unwavering solidarity with Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, drawing parallels to his nation’s recovery from Hurricane Irma in 2017. During a visit to affected areas in Westmoreland on November 17, Browne emphasized the Caribbean’s collective resilience and the potential for stronger rebuilding efforts.
Reflecting on Antigua and Barbuda’s experience, Browne highlighted how Barbuda, despite being devastated by Hurricane Irma, emerged stronger through unified efforts. ‘We rebuilt bigger and better, and Jamaica can do the same,’ he stated. He underscored the importance of regional cooperation, noting that Antigua and Barbuda has already deployed linesmen and soldiers to assist Jamaica’s recovery. Additionally, the country has pledged financial support for relief and reconstruction programs.
Browne called on international financial institutions to provide concessional financing for resilient rebuilding, warning that the cost of inaction would be measured in lives and livelihoods. He urged Jamaicans to remain steadfast, emphasizing the Caribbean’s shared history of overcoming adversity. ‘We, as Caribbean people, have always faced trials together, and this too shall pass,’ he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated his nation’s commitment to supporting Jamaica and advocating for resilient infrastructure across the Caribbean. ‘We are a small country, but our solidarity is mighty. We will do whatever we can to assist Jamaica and its people,’ he affirmed. Browne’s message underscores the importance of unity and innovation in the face of natural disasters, offering a blueprint for recovery and growth.
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Teen charged following alleged carjacking
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A 17-year-old boy has been formally charged in connection with a violent carjacking that occurred on Slipe Road in Kingston 5 on the evening of Sunday, October 12. The teenager faces multiple charges, including robbery with aggravation, possession of a prohibited weapon, and using a firearm to commit a felony. According to reports from the Half-Way-Tree police, the incident unfolded between 11:00 pm and midnight when the boy and his accomplices, posing as passengers, hailed a ride from a popular ride-sharing service. Shortly after entering the vehicle, one of the suspects allegedly held a knife to the driver’s neck while another brandished a firearm. The teen is accused of forcibly removing the driver from the car before fleeing with the vehicle, which contained a bag holding $50,000 in cash and electronic devices valued at $60,000. The driver promptly reported the incident to the authorities, prompting an immediate investigation. The suspect was later apprehended during a targeted police operation and formally charged after a questioning session conducted in the presence of his attorney and guardian. His court appearance is currently being scheduled.
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Traz Di Jennik releases latest single
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the festive season approaches, Jamaican artist Traz Di Jennik is setting the stage for holiday revelry with his latest track, ‘Party Hot Girlz.’ Released in early November, the song was co-produced by the singer alongside Trevor ‘Skatta Lopa’ Bonnick and Lydia Campbell. Despite its timing, the track was not crafted with Christmas in mind. Instead, Traz Di Jennik drew inspiration from the image of girls partying all night, which sparked the song’s intro and punchline. He shared this creative process in an interview with Observer Online.
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High Court rules in ANSA Merchant Bank’s $30m fraud case
In a landmark ruling, the High Court has adjudicated on the $30 million fraud case involving ANSA Merchant Bank (AMB) and its former employees. Justice Frank Seepersad, in a comprehensive 100-plus page judgment, dismissed claims against four former employees but found former business development officer Dwayne Rojas guilty of breaching contractual and fiduciary duties. Rojas was implicated in a fraudulent loan scheme, colluding with roll-on/roll-off car dealers to defraud the bank of $30 million over two and a half years. The scheme involved falsified job letters and fabricated vehicle documents, with non-existent vehicles listed as loan collateral. Justice Seepersad ruled that Rojas knowingly processed fraudulent applications, causing substantial financial loss to AMB. The court also dismissed cases against Zaria Sankar, Reyvaan Rampersad, Kerry Ramsaroop, and Adriana Ramsingh, citing insufficient evidence of wrongdoing. However, summary judgments were granted against five roll-on/roll-off companies, ordering them to repay $24 million. Justice Seepersad criticized AMB for targeting junior staff while neglecting to hold senior officers accountable. He highlighted the bank’s inadequate internal controls and risk management practices, which facilitated the fraud. The judge recommended that the case be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Commissioner of Police for potential criminal charges. Additionally, he urged the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Tourism to review the operating licenses of the implicated dealerships. The ruling underscores the need for stricter financial oversight and accountability in the banking sector.
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Derek Walcott Library added to UNESCO world register
The Derek Walcott Library, located at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in St. Lucia, has been officially added to the UNESCO Memory of the World Regional Register for Latin America and the Caribbean. This prestigious recognition was announced during the program’s annual regional meeting held in Lima and Cusco, Peru. Among 71 nominations from 15 countries, 29 were approved, with the Derek Walcott Library standing out for its cultural and historical significance. The UNESCO Memory of the World Programme aims to protect documentary heritage at risk of being forgotten, damaged, or lost. The inscription highlights the profound value of Sir Derek Alton Walcott’s personal collection, offering a unique glimpse into the life, influences, and creative genius of the Nobel Laureate. The library houses Walcott’s original bookshelves, including works he authored, gifts from peers, and materials reflecting his engagement with Caribbean literature, art, theatre, history, and global cultures. Donated to the college in 2020 by Sigrid Nama, the collection serves as a preserved record of Walcott’s creative legacy and the broader literary conversations that shaped him. The Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO also acknowledged Kathy Birch-McDiarmed, head librarian of the Hunter J Francois Library, for her role as vice president of the Memory of the World Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean. Her efforts continue to support the protection and promotion of documentary heritage across the region. This recognition underscores the importance of preserving the Derek Walcott Library as a vital repository of Caribbean literary memory and cultural heritage.
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EOJ suspends replacement ID card fees following Hurricane Melissa
In response to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) has announced the temporary suspension of fees for replacing Voter ID cards. This decision, effective immediately, aims to alleviate the financial strain on citizens who lost or damaged their identification during the storm.
Glasspole Brown, the Director of Elections, emphasized the critical role of Voter ID cards in daily life and the necessity of facilitating their replacement during this challenging period. ‘We understand the profound impact of the hurricane on individuals and families across the island. The Voter ID card is a vital document for many, and we are committed to ensuring its replacement is accessible and free of charge,’ Brown stated.
The EOJ also reported operational adjustments in several severely affected parishes, including Manchester, St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny. Offices in these areas are currently operating with reduced hours, from 9:00 am to 12 noon, Monday through Friday. Meanwhile, offices in Black River, St Elizabeth, and Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, remain temporarily closed due to infrastructural damage.
Citizens in need of services are encouraged to visit other EOJ constituency offices, with a comprehensive list available on the EOJ’s website or by contacting the head office directly. The EOJ has assured the public that normal operating hours will resume gradually as essential services are restored. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Jamaicans through this recovery phase, ensuring uninterrupted access to electoral services.
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Voters’ list publication delayed to December 20 due to Hurricane Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) has announced a three-week delay in the release of the upcoming voters’ list, shifting the publication date from November 30, 2025, to December 20, 2025. This decision comes in the wake of widespread disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa, which has severely impacted communities, infrastructure, and EOJ facilities across multiple parishes.
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Accused phone thief claims he was trying to fund mother’s eye surgery
In a courtroom drama that unfolded in St James, Jamaica, Romaine Christie found himself at the center of a legal battle over an alleged theft of three mobile phones. Christie, who appeared before Parish Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton on Wednesday, faced charges of simple larceny following an incident in September. According to court records, Christie entered a Montego Bay store, requested to inspect three Samsung phones, and then abruptly fled with the devices. The theft was promptly reported, leading to Christie’s arrest and subsequent charges. During the hearing, Christie’s father pleaded for leniency, vowing to compensate for the stolen items. Christie himself claimed that his actions were driven by a desire to fund his mother’s impending eye surgery. However, Judge Fairclough-Hylton expressed skepticism, noting that despite Christie’s claims, the surgery had not been paid for. Christie countered that the procedure was postponed due to his mother’s elevated blood pressure. The case was referred to mediation, where Christie agreed to reimburse the complainant. The judge granted bail set at $150,000 with up to three sureties and scheduled the next hearing for January 14, 2026.