St. Clair Leacock, Member of Parliament for Central Kingstown, has expressed his eagerness to assume the role of Minister of National Security immediately should the New Democratic Party (NDP) secure victory in the upcoming general election. Speaking at the inauguration of the party’s Sion Hill office on Saturday, Leacock emphasized his readiness to tackle national security issues from the outset. He urged NDP Leader Godwin Friday to prioritize his swearing-in, stating, ‘I want to be on the job from the first hour that we win.’ Leacock highlighted the NDP’s commitment to improving the lives of Vincentians, asserting that ‘life gets better the day you vote for the New Democratic Party.’ He criticized the current government for alleged corruption and mismanagement, vowing to restore accountability and economic stability. Leacock also stressed the importance of financial security as a cornerstone of national security, promising to create opportunities for employment and reduce crime. He pledged to make St. Vincent and the Grenadines a ‘country of second chances,’ offering support to those struggling to reintegrate into society. Leacock expressed confidence in the NDP’s electoral success, declaring, ‘We will win it bigly.’
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Cricket West Indies announces immediate reforms to strengthen cricket following emergency meeting
In a decisive move to address the declining performance of West Indies cricket, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a sweeping set of reforms following an emergency meeting of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee. The meeting, held in August, was prompted by a series of disappointing results, including a historic defeat to Australia in July. Key stakeholders, including cricket legends Brian Lara and Sir Clive Lloyd, current captains Shai Hope and Roston Chase, and former players, convened to identify and address the critical challenges facing the sport in the region. The Committee pinpointed ten major issues, ranging from the declining quality of regional tournaments to inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints. In response, CWI has outlined both immediate and long-term actions aimed at revitalizing West Indies cricket. Short-term measures include the recruitment of specialist coaches, the development of a High-Performance Centre at Coolidge Cricket Ground, and the implementation of stricter accountability standards for franchise teams. Long-term initiatives focus on creating a unified National Cricket Development Framework, reforming the franchise system, and establishing standardized academies for young players. CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasized the organization’s commitment to raising standards and providing future generations with the necessary tools and mentorship to succeed. CWI plans to provide regular updates to stakeholders and fans as these reforms are implemented across the regional cricket system.
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Lyford Cay Foundations Award 41 New Scholarships to Bahamian Students
NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Lyford Cay Foundations have unveiled their latest initiative to empower Bahamian talent by awarding 41 scholarships to exceptional students. These scholars will embark on academic journeys at prestigious universities and colleges across the United States, Canada, England, and Europe. This announcement brings the total number of scholarships for 2025 to 94, reinforcing the Foundations’ commitment to higher education and national progress. The 2025 cohort showcases the diversity of Bahamian society, with 51% of recipients being women, 44% representing first-generation college students, and 32% originating from the Family Islands. Additionally, 27% of the awardees are products of the nation’s public school system. The scholars will pursue a wide array of disciplines, including actuarial science, aviation maintenance, mechanical engineering, documentary film, dispute resolution, environmental management, clinical social work, and culinary management. Their academic pursuits span diploma programs, associate degrees, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, Executive Director of the Foundations, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “The determination and achievements of these students underscore the immense talent within The Bahamas.” Basil P. Goulandris, Chairman of Lyford Cay Foundation Inc., emphasized the transformative impact of the scholarships, noting, “By investing over $1.2 million in their education, we are investing in the future of our country.” Mary Filippelli-Hall, Chairman of The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation, praised the resilience and ambition of the scholars, adding, “These students reflect the incredible promise and potential across our islands.” Since the 1980s, the Lyford Cay Foundations have supported Bahamian students through partial scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and vocational studies abroad, focusing on fields that drive national development. The program remains highly competitive, attracting hundreds of applicants annually. The 2025 scholars will join a growing alumni network of Bahamians making significant contributions to industries and communities both locally and globally.
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CARICOM private sector organization free movement promising for economic landscape; a ‘win-win’ echoes Skerrit
A recent study has shed light on the evolving trends in social media engagement, emphasizing the growing importance of visual content and interactive features. The research, conducted by a leading digital analytics firm, analyzed millions of posts across various platforms, including Twitter, Pinterest, and others. The findings reveal that users are increasingly drawn to posts that incorporate images, videos, and interactive elements such as polls and quizzes. This shift underscores the need for content creators to adapt their strategies to meet the changing preferences of their audiences. The study also highlighted the role of algorithms in amplifying certain types of content, suggesting that understanding these mechanisms is crucial for maximizing reach and engagement. As social media continues to evolve, staying ahead of these trends will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the digital landscape.
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CariGenetics and Bayview Laboratory Partner to Launch Genetic Testing in Barbados
Bayview Laboratory has forged a groundbreaking alliance with CariGenetics, a Bermuda-based genetics firm, to enhance access to genetic testing services in Barbados. This partnership heralds a new chapter in personalized healthcare for the island, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and wellness. The collaboration introduces a comprehensive suite of genetic tests, encompassing paternity, familial, and ancestry analysis, alongside insights into nutrition, fitness, skincare, personality traits, medication efficacy, and health risks. Notably, Barbadians will gain access to the region’s inaugural gut microbiome analysis kit, with self-collection kits soon available at Bayview Laboratory and select pharmacies island-wide. Dr. Lyndon Waterman, Lab Director, emphasized the transformative potential of these services, stating, ‘Your DNA holds the key to understanding optimal nutrition, fitness routines, skincare regimens, and even disease predispositions and medication responses.’ Bayview Laboratory’s recent expansion of its testing menu, which now includes cholesterol, HbA1C, and liver and kidney function tests, underscores its commitment to advancing community health. The partnership also aligns with CariGenetics’ mission to address the underrepresentation of Caribbean genetic data in global genomic research. Dr. Carika Weldon, Founder & CEO of CariGenetics, highlighted the broader implications of this disparity, noting, ‘The lack of diverse genomic data, particularly from the Caribbean, results in less effective treatments and inequitable healthcare outcomes. Most medical research is based on European DNA, which represents only 15% of the global population.’ Together, Bayview Laboratory and CariGenetics are not only democratizing access to advanced genetic tests but also establishing a secure, anonymous genomic database to fill critical gaps in global research. This initiative positions Barbados and the wider Caribbean at the forefront of personalized, data-driven healthcare, marking a significant milestone for the region.
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High Court rules again in favour of UWP claimant in ongoing CBI case; next hearing set for January 2026
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication, social media platforms continue to redefine how we share and interact with content. The recent surge in engagement tools such as ‘Share,’ ‘Tweet,’ ‘Pin,’ and others highlights a significant shift in user behavior. These features not only facilitate the dissemination of information but also foster a sense of community among users. The accompanying image, depicting a vibrant digital interface, underscores the dynamic nature of these interactions. As we move forward, the integration of such tools is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of online communication, making it more interactive and user-centric.
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Excessive Heat to Continue in Antigua and Barbuda Until Sunday
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued an excessive heat warning, alerting residents to prepare for extreme temperatures that could feel as high as 43°C (109°F). The warning, effective daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until Sunday, highlights the combination of light winds and high humidity, which will create perilously hot conditions, especially during early afternoons. The heat index, a measure of perceived temperature factoring in humidity and air temperature, is expected to peak at 43°C, surpassing the threshold of 41°C (106°F) that triggers such warnings. This threshold is typically activated when temperatures remain elevated for two or more consecutive days with wind speeds below 18 km/h (11 mph). The elderly, young children, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those engaged in outdoor activities are at the highest risk of heat-related health issues, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially fatal heat stroke. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, or confusion should prompt immediate action, including moving to a cooler environment, staying hydrated, and seeking medical assistance if necessary. Authorities are urging residents to take preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and checking on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors. Additionally, individuals on medication are advised to consult their healthcare providers about potential heat-related risks. The extreme weather conditions underscore the importance of community vigilance and preparedness to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing heatwave.
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Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Turkish new OECS Ambassador
In a significant diplomatic event, Her Excellency Emriye Bağdagül Ormancı, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), formally presented her credentials in Antigua and Barbuda. The ceremony took place on Thursday at Government House, where she was warmly received by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams. The discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and fostering cooperation between Türkiye and the Eastern Caribbean region. Following the credential presentation, Ambassador Ormancı paid courtesy visits to Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Minister of Foreign Affairs E.P. Chet Greene, further solidifying the diplomatic engagement. Ambassador Ormancı, who holds the prestigious rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, will be based in St Lucia and accredited to Antigua and Barbuda, as well as other OECS member states. This appointment marks a pivotal step in strengthening the ties between Türkiye and the Eastern Caribbean, with a focus on mutual development and collaboration.
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Barbuda under high surf warning as dangerous swells approach
A high surf warning has been declared for Barbuda, with the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service forecasting perilous marine conditions extending through the weekend. The alert, effective from Friday night until Monday afternoon, anticipates swells generating waves exceeding 10 feet (3 meters) and seas reaching up to 11 feet (3.4 meters). Neighboring regions, including Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands, are also under similar warnings, with hazardous conditions expected to persist from Friday into Monday. Authorities have escalated the threat level to high, citing life-threatening rip currents, coastal flooding, beach erosion, reef damage, and dangerous navigation in harbors. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to avoid entering the water in affected areas, steer clear of reefs and coastal structures, and only swim at sheltered beaches under lifeguard supervision. The public is encouraged to stay updated via antiguamet.com and the official channels of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service.
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Former president Ian Jackson weighs in as Dominica Calypso Association grapples with leadership controversy
The Dominica Calypso Association (DCA) is embroiled in a significant leadership crisis, with former president Ian Jackson shedding light on the controversies surrounding the organization’s executive leadership. The dispute centers on allegations of constitutional violations, particularly concerning term limits for executive members. According to the DCA’s constitution, executive members are restricted to two consecutive terms, followed by a mandatory one-year hiatus before re-election. However, several outgoing executive members, including President Davidson “Observer” Victor, Treasurer Narin Murphy, and Secretary Daryl Bobb, have reportedly exceeded this limit, prompting a group of petitioners to challenge their legitimacy. Jackson acknowledged the validity of these claims, stating, “The petitioners are right in making that claim, although the practice has not always followed the constitution, but it should stand.” Beyond term limits, the executive has faced criticism over financial management, with some members questioning the appropriateness of stipends averaging $4,000 and the Association’s efforts to promote calypso both locally and internationally. The situation reached a boiling point during a chaotic meeting on September 27, 2025, which lacked a quorum and was chaired by a petitioner, Emmanuel “Haxey” Salamat, rather than a neutral party. This led to the resignation of eight out of nine executive members, with only Curtis Johan Lloyd (Joey Lloyd) remaining as caretaker to oversee fresh elections scheduled for October 11, 2025. However, petitioners have contested Lloyd’s authority, arguing that only a steering committee, not an individual, should manage the election process. Jackson confirmed that discussions are ongoing to resolve the crisis, including a potential review of the constitution by legal counsel and the formation of a steering committee. The outgoing executive emphasized their commitment to accountability and transparency, stating, “This transition represents a moment of renewal for the Association, reinforcing our commitment to service to the calypso community and people of Dominica.” The outcome of these efforts is expected to be clarified at the upcoming meeting on October 11.