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  • Chancery Park plea for action as unpaved road dust chokes homes

    Chancery Park plea for action as unpaved road dust chokes homes

    Residents of Chancery Park in Christ Church, Barbados, face an escalating environmental crisis as relentless dust pollution from nearby construction activities infiltrates their homes and damages property. For five consecutive years, this community has endured deteriorating living conditions with minimal response from developers or authorities despite repeated complaints.

    Beverly Arthur-Barrow, a retiree who recently returned to Barbados, exemplifies the struggle. Her property requires repainting every four months despite using industrial-grade paint, and she has replaced her hot tub three times due to motor damage from dust infiltration. The constant cleaning—costing between £700-900 quarterly—has become financially burdensome and physically exhausting. More alarmingly, she reports developing sinus problems and other health issues directly attributed to the dust exposure.

    The situation worsened recently when construction crews attempted temporary remediation by laying gravel and compacting it with machinery, which residents claim amplified the dust problem rather than mitigating it. Structural damage has also emerged, with property fences leaning due to construction vehicle vibrations.

    Neighbor Wendy Critchlow-Harris reports similar issues, describing how fine grit dust permeates curtains and indoor surfaces, creating unavoidable inhalation risks. She emphasizes the community’s frustration with the complete lack of communication from developers or local officials regarding timelines or mitigation plans.

    Christ Church East MP Wilfred Abrahams acknowledges the problem, explaining that road scraping was performed by the Ministry of Transport and Works to address pothole complaints, but this interim measure created additional challenges. He confirms the road is currently in the design phase for proper paving through the Ministry of Public Works, with construction to commence upon design approval. Abrahams has committed to revisiting the community to address these escalating concerns personally.

  • Govt broke cash grant “contract”- WIN Leader

    Govt broke cash grant “contract”- WIN Leader

    In a significant political development, Azruddin Mohamed, Leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, has launched a forceful critique against President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo for allegedly reneging on a key election commitment. The controversy centers on the promised distribution of cash grants to Guyanese citizens during the Christmas season.

    During Wednesday night’s address, Mohamed characterized the government’s pre-election assurances of immediate cash payments as a “broken moral contract” rather than merely unfulfilled policy promises. He emphasized that while both President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo had explicitly signaled the payout would occur, the administration subsequently announced the GY$100,000 grants would only be distributed after the 2026 national budget approval early next year.

    Mohamed, whose party secured 16 seats in the September 1 general and regional elections to become Guyana’s main opposition force, dismissed the planned amount as “meagre” despite the country’s substantial oil revenues. He asserted the cash grant promise functioned primarily as a “campaign tool, not a guaranteed obligation,” directly referencing the President’s August campaign statement in Eccles suggesting payments would be contingent on proper behavior.

    The political confrontation extends beyond the cash grant controversy. Mohamed also criticized President Ali for commencing his address 35 minutes late and for delivering his five-year policy agenda exclusively to diplomats and government officials rather than addressing Parliament and opposition lawmakers.

    Complicating matters further, Mohamed’s potential ascension to Opposition Leader remains pending as National Assembly Speaker Manzoor Nadir has yet to convene opposition parliamentarians for the necessary election. Attorney General Anil Nandlall has publicly opposed Mohamed assuming the role, citing ongoing extradition proceedings initiated by the United States regarding alleged financial crimes connected to Mohamed’s gold trading business and luxury car importation activities.

    The Alliance for National Unity (APNU), holding 12 parliamentary seats, has concurrently demanded a larger GY$150,000 cash grant, citing the Finance Ministry’s mid-year economic report as evidence of sufficient available funds. APNU argues this enhanced amount would better cushion citizens against rising living costs and stimulate business activity during the holiday season.

  • Sir Steadroy voices concern over US travel restrictions on Antiguans

    Sir Steadroy voices concern over US travel restrictions on Antiguans

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has initiated urgent diplomatic maneuvers following Washington’s unexpected imposition of travel constraints targeting its citizens. These restrictions, scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2026, have triggered significant governmental apprehension and public distress throughout the dual-island state.

    Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin characterized the development as both alarming and disruptive, noting the substantial segment of the population that regularly visits the United States for critical healthcare services, educational pursuits, commercial activities, and tourism. The absence of prior consultation reportedly amplified the surprise element for both governmental representatives and citizens residing domestically and internationally.

    In response, Sir Steadroy confirmed plans for high-level diplomatic engagement with American counterparts, emphasizing the necessity of preserving the historically cordial bilateral relationship while seeking expedited resolution. The Attorney General simultaneously addressed potential connections to the nation’s Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), asserting full compliance with all US-recommended security enhancements. He highlighted recent legislative amendments, specifically parliamentary approval extending mandatory residency requirements to a 30-day minimum, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to program integrity.

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has personally committed to leading diplomatic initiatives aimed at safeguarding national interests and protecting the travel rights of Antiguan and Barbudan passport holders. The administration’s strategy combines diplomatic overtures with continued emphasis on regulatory reforms within their economic citizenship framework.

  • WEATHER (6:00AM, Dec 18, 2025): Increased cloudiness, scattered showers during the morning

    WEATHER (6:00AM, Dec 18, 2025): Increased cloudiness, scattered showers during the morning

    Meteorological conditions across the region are set to deliver a day of contrasting weather patterns, prompting official advisories for residents and mariners. The morning hours are forecast to experience low to mid-level atmospheric instability, generating increased cloud cover and scattered showers. Authorities have specifically cautioned communities in flood-prone zones, as well as areas susceptible to landslides and falling rocks, to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution during this period.

    A significant shift is anticipated by the afternoon as a dominant high-pressure system reasserts its influence, creating a drier atmospheric regime. Breezy conditions are expected to persist throughout the day, contributing to the dispersal of a slight haze that may intermittently affect air quality in certain locales. Health officials recommend that individuals with respiratory conditions or heightened sensitivities take appropriate protective measures.

    Maritime forecasts indicate moderate seas over the next 24-hour period, though significant variations exist between coastlines. Wave heights along the western shores are projected to peak near 5 feet with 9-second swells, while eastern coastal waters face more substantial surges nearing 8 feet. In response, a Small Craft Advisory has been officially activated primarily for the eastern coastline. Concurrently, a High Surf Advisory remains in effect for western and northern shores due to a potential increase in powerful ground swells. All small-craft operators and recreational sea bathers are strongly urged to exercise heightened caution and adhere to all safety protocols.

  • APUA says Buckleys power outage to continue after truck hits utility pole

    APUA says Buckleys power outage to continue after truck hits utility pole

    Residents in sections of Buckleys, Antigua, faced a prolonged disruption to essential services on Wednesday following a significant infrastructure incident. A concrete mixer truck collided with a critical utility pole shortly before noon, triggering a cascade of electrical failures throughout the neighborhood.

    The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) confirmed the accident occurred at approximately 11:33 a.m. along Buckleys Line, impacting the corridor from the Buckleys Line Roundabout to the southern precincts of Island Academy. The force of the impact caused the Belmont No. 2 feeder to automatically trip as a safety precaution, instantly cutting power to the surrounding area.

    While APUA’s Electricity Business Unit managed to re-energize the main feeder by 12:43 p.m., a specific segment of Buckleys remained deliberately isolated and without electricity. Authorities cited ongoing safety concerns as the primary reason for the selective outage, noting that the damaged pole remains unstable with the heavy vehicle still entangled.

    Full restoration efforts are currently in a holding pattern, contingent upon the safe extraction of the concrete truck. APUA engineers have outlined a two-phase operation: first, the careful removal of the vehicle to prevent further structural damage, followed by the complete replacement of the compromised utility pole. The authority has publicly apologized for the inconvenience and acknowledged the patience of affected residents, assuring the community that work will commence immediately once the site is deemed safe for crews to proceed.

  • Dorne to lead 15-man West Indies squad at Under-19 World Cup

    Dorne to lead 15-man West Indies squad at Under-19 World Cup

    Cricket West Indies has officially appointed 19-year-old Joshua Dorne to lead the West Indies Under-19 squad in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, scheduled for Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6, 2026. The announcement comes following Dorne’s successful leadership during recent series victories against Sri Lanka (4-3) and England (5-2) earlier this year.

    The 15-member squad features a blend of emerging talent and experienced youth players, including vice-captain Jonathan van Lange and Jewel Andrew, who holds the distinction of being the youngest player to represent the senior West Indies team in both T20Is and ODIs. The selection committee has also included promising newcomers Micah McKenzie and 16-year-old Shamar Apple, recognizing their potential following impressive performances in regional competitions.

    Dwain Gill, CWI’s High Performance Manager, emphasized the strategic approach behind squad selection: “This group represents the culmination of a deliberate and well-structured preparation process. We’ve closely monitored regional Under-17 and Under-19 competitions, prioritizing players with specialized skills and the adaptability required for international cricket. Our development philosophy aligns with the playing style we expect at the senior level, ensuring exposure to high-quality match opportunities while emphasizing leadership development and tactical awareness.”

    The West Indies team has been placed in Group D alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania, with all group stage matches scheduled at the High-Performance Oval in Windhoek, Namibia. Prior to the tournament, the squad will participate in warm-up matches against Ireland and Japan to fine-tune their preparations.

    The tournament structure will see the top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six phase, followed by semi-finals on February 3-4, and the championship final on February 6 at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

    The complete squad includes: Joshua Dorne (captain), Jewel Andrew, Shamar Apple, Shaquan Belle, Zachary Carter, Tanez Francis, R’jai Gittens, Vitel Lawes, Micah McKenzie, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Kunal Tilokani, and Jonathan Van Lange (vice-captain). Supporting reserves and an experienced management unit led by head coach Rohan Nurse will accompany the team throughout the competition.

  • Grabba charged after allegedly rubbing under-aged girls’ thighs

    Grabba charged after allegedly rubbing under-aged girls’ thighs

    Prominent soca performer Keith Charles, professionally known as Grabba Finesse, is scheduled to stand trial on January 13, 2025, following serious allegations of indecent assault involving two adolescent girls. The 35-year-old musician from Barrouallie made his initial appearance at Kingstown Magistrate’s Court this Wednesday to address the criminal charges filed against him.

    According to prosecution documents, Charles stands accused of inappropriate physical contact with a 13-year-old minor by allegedly rubbing her right thigh without consent. A separate but similar charge involves a 15-year-old girl who reportedly experienced identical misconduct. Court records indicate both victims reside in a central leeward community, while the alleged incidents occurred in a South Leeward village between August 29 and November 19, 2025.

    The defendant entered a formal plea of not guilty to both counts and was released after posting composite bail set at EC$5,000 with one surety. The presiding magistrate imposed stringent pre-trial conditions, including the surrender of Charles’ travel documents and a requirement for judicial approval before any international travel. Additional measures include the placement of stop notices at all entry and exit ports, coupled with a mandate for the accused to report twice weekly to Layou police authorities.

    The case has been formally adjourned and transferred to the Family Court system, where proceedings will be conducted in-camera to protect the identities and privacy of the alleged victims.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Features in Record Year for Commonwealth Short Story Prize

    Antigua and Barbuda Features in Record Year for Commonwealth Short Story Prize

    The literary world is witnessing an unprecedented surge of global storytelling, with the 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize achieving a historic milestone. A remarkable 7,806 entries poured in from 54 Commonwealth nations, submitted by writers spanning an extraordinary age range from 18 to 95 years old.

    Twelve member nations, including the Caribbean twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda, set new national participation records. This achievement signals a powerful cultural shift: growing confidence among local writers and the rising prominence of Caribbean literary voices on the international stage.

    A particularly striking trend emerged in the prize’s linguistic diversity. Non-English submissions experienced a dramatic 36% year-on-year increase, underscoring the prize’s role in fostering cross-cultural narrative exchange. This surge demonstrates that compelling storytelling transcends linguistic boundaries and cultural barriers.

    Prize organizers highlighted the crucial ecosystem supporting this literary expansion. They credited dedicated support networks, panel judges, and previous winners for providing essential guidance that empowered thousands of writers worldwide. This mentorship structure proved particularly impactful for emerging literary communities, including first-time entrants from Antigua and Barbuda who contributed to this year’s record-breaking participation.

  • Luta, NDP hopefuls and Ms Press Secretary

    Luta, NDP hopefuls and Ms Press Secretary

    A provocative commentary has emerged from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, delivering sharp critiques of recent political appointments and diplomatic behavior. The author, identifying as a progressive thinker and product of the country’s Education Revolution, positions themselves as an independent voice unaffiliated with either major political party—the New Democratic Party (NDP) or Unity Labour Party (ULP).

    The piece specifically targets a consul general referred to as ‘Luta,’ acknowledging his party loyalty while condemning his actions as ‘reckless and foolish.’ The commentary raises pointed questions about whether individuals who performed political songs received proper compensation and whether appropriate taxes were deducted through National Insurance Services (NIS) and Inland Revenue systems, applying this scrutiny equally to both major parties.

    Further criticism addresses political ambition within the NDP camp, where an individual reportedly seeks to replace Luta. The author cautions against such appointments, emphasizing that political representatives inevitably reflect upon their parties through their conduct, speech, and even social behaviors.

    The commentary expands to question the potential appointment of a family member to the position of governor general, invoking the principle of separation between church and state. Finally, the author addresses the recent appointment of a press secretary, characterizing it as fundamentally political and stressing that such roles demand vocal, unapologetic representation of party and prime minister.

    Throughout the piece, the author maintains that public figures must withstand rigorous scrutiny, emphasizing that political appointments carry significant consequences and should be made with careful consideration of how they reflect upon the parties and the nation.

  • UWI political expert urges focus on substance, not ‘election’ talk

    UWI political expert urges focus on substance, not ‘election’ talk

    Amid growing speculation about a potential snap election in Barbados, University of the West Indies political scientist Professor Don Marshall has rejected theories that Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s recent policy announcements signal early political maneuvering. Instead, Marshall characterizes the government’s public service reforms as long-overdue measures that should be evaluated on their substantive merits rather than perceived political timing.

    The political expert’s comments followed Prime Minister Mottley’s significant announcements regarding public sector improvements, including the restoration of term vacation leave for teachers potentially as early as next year and permanent appointments for approximately 2,000 public servants. These developments come against a backdrop of widespread conjecture about a possible first-quarter general election.

    Professor Marshall advocated for shifting public discourse away from electoral speculation and toward substantive policy evaluation. He emphasized that the administration’s recent initiatives align with necessary developmental objectives that have required attention for some time. The political scientist described the government’s approach as a welcome departure from conventional austerity measures typically associated with IMF programs.

    “I often wonder why, whenever we’re in an IMF programme, the instinct is always to move towards cutting the public service as opposed to repurposing the public service,” Marshall stated. He expressed strong support for initiatives that would strategically reposition the public service in accordance with the government’s developmental agenda.

    The UWI professor cautioned against excessive cynicism regarding governmental motives, noting that policy announcements often follow natural bureaucratic timelines rather than political calculation. He highlighted that the Christmas timing of these announcements might reflect predetermined scheduling rather than strategic election preparation.

    Marshall identified public service efficiency as the most critical metric for evaluating these appointments, predicting that improved worker satisfaction would naturally enhance productivity and attract more qualified professionals to essential services. He expressed particular optimism about ongoing negotiations with teachers’ unions, hoping for resolution of long-standing grievances regarding leave classification and compensation.

    The professor specifically endorsed improved conditions for essential service providers including teachers, police officers, and nurses, advocating for compassionate governance that addresses their unique professional challenges. Meanwhile, the House of Assembly advanced the Public Service (Appointments) Bill, with Prime Minister Mottley confirming productive discussions with both the Barbados Union of Teachers and the Barbados Secondary Teachers’ Union.

    The comprehensive reform package includes expanded compensation structures and enhanced service conditions for frontline workers, with a complete civil service regrading exercise anticipated to conclude next year. Mottley acknowledged that Barbados’s substantial civil service has faced challenges in timely human resource management under current structural constraints.