Carib Scope

标签： Barbados

巴巴多斯

  • PM touts government’s efforts to reduce cost of living

    PM touts government’s efforts to reduce cost of living

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has revealed that her administration will unveil a suite of groundbreaking national policies within the coming fortnight, designed to fortify the Caribbean nation’s socioeconomic foundations against growing global instabilities. The announcement came during a public address following a religious service at Jackson’s Church of God in St. Michael on Sunday.

    Mottley emphasized that these forthcoming measures would transcend political affiliations, targeting holistic societal support from infancy through senior citizenship. “I have some exciting new policies that we will announce over the course of the next two weeks that I hope will allow us as a people, not the [Barbados] Labour Party family, not the Dems, but us as a people to continue to provide the resilience we need,” stated the Prime Minister, who also represents St. Michael North East constituency.

    Defending her government’s track record, Mottley acknowledged the challenges of national recovery while highlighting consistent progress. She cited critical infrastructure stabilization through acquisitions of garbage trucks and buses, though admitting services weren’t yet perfect. “This is a journey and on a journey you see progress, but you’re not yet at your final destination,” she remarked.

    The administration’s economic strategy has centered on alleviating cost-of-living pressures through innovative fiscal reforms. Since 2019, tax system restructuring has effectively eliminated income taxes for citizens earning under $35,000 annually. From April, homeowners with properties valued below $400,000 will be exempt from land taxation.

    Additional consumer protection measures include VAT and import duty removals on essential goods, with recent expansions to cover stewed beef and Horlicks. Electricity VAT has been capped at 10%, while the Ask Dealia price comparison application empowers consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

    Social protection frameworks have been significantly enhanced through pioneering disability grants and supporting legislation. Economic resilience efforts include bolstering food security via the International Food Centre at Newton and a new St. Philip tissue culture laboratory to improve agricultural material access.

    Mottley conceded administrative imperfections, citing ongoing roadwork challenges, but framed Barbados’ development within broader global context of conflict-induced weariness and economic uncertainty. She urged national perseverance, referencing the Mission 2030 agenda as a long-term developmental framework rather than expecting immediate transformations.

    “This is a journey. This is not a single event,” Mottley concluded, expressing confidence that sustained effort and national resilience would propel Barbados toward significant achievements despite global headwinds.

  • Missing: Kyle Antonio Callender

    Missing: Kyle Antonio Callender

    Authorities in Barbados have launched a public search operation for 24-year-old Kyle Antonio Callender, who has been missing since January 15, 2026. The young man, who also goes by the alias ‘Dadas’, is a resident of Robinson Land in the parish of St. Philip.

    According to the official police description, Callender stands approximately six feet tall with a slender build and dark complexion. His distinguishing physical characteristics include an oval-shaped head with closely cropped hair, a pointed chin, and small pierced ears. Additional identifying features comprise a small nose, thick lips, and a distinctive tattoo on his left forearm bearing the name ‘Maureen’.

    When last seen, Callender was dressed in a white t-shirt paired with black shorts and black sneakers. Police investigators note that the missing individual has historical patterns of extended absences from home and is known to frequent the Nelson Street area in Bridgetown, St. Michael.

    The Royal Barbados Police Force has urged anyone with information regarding Callender’s whereabouts to immediately contact District ‘C’ Police Station at 416-8200 or 416-8204. Alternative reporting channels include the Police Emergency hotline at 211, the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or any local police station.

  • Man fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to drug charges

    Man fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to drug charges

    A St. James resident has been convicted on multiple narcotics charges following a court appearance at the District ‘A’ Traffic Court this past Saturday. Chad Roosevelt Elija Chase, 30, of West Terrace, St. James, entered a guilty plea before Magistrate Alison Burke for six distinct drug offenses.

    The charges encompassed possession, trafficking, and intent to supply both cannabis and cocaine. The court imposed a financial penalty of $2,000, mandating payment within a sixty-day period. Failure to comply will result in a three-month custodial sentence at the Barbados Prison Service facility in Dodds.

    According to official reports, the Barbados Police Service Narcotics Unit apprehended and formally charged Chase in relation to illicit activities dated January 23. Law enforcement authorities confirmed the seizure of suspected cannabis with an approximate weight of 21 grammes, carrying an estimated street value of $105. Additionally, officers confiscated roughly 1.7 grammes of suspected cocaine valued at approximately $85.

    The judicial outcome highlights ongoing efforts by Barbadian authorities to combat drug-related crimes through both legal prosecution and financial penalties.

  • PM Mottley rejects Thorne’s claims election was called too soon

    PM Mottley rejects Thorne’s claims election was called too soon

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has issued a firm rebuttal to claims by Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne that the scheduling of the upcoming general election was premature and created administrative chaos. Thorne, addressing supporters at a Democratic Labour Party rally, contended that the election announcement precipitated ‘disarray’ because the official voters’ list had not been finalized by the statutory deadline of January 31st from the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC).

    Countering these allegations during her campaign stop at the R&B Bar in St. John, Prime Minister Mottley challenged Thorne to thoroughly review the nation’s election laws. She specifically referenced Section 13(1) of the Representation of the People Act, which mandates that the EBC ‘shall cause to be prepared and shall publish not later than the 31st of January in every year’ the official register. Mottley clarified that the commission had in fact published the 2026 register on January 15th, preceding her election announcement, thereby making it the legally recognized document for the forthcoming vote.

    Furthermore, Mottley emphasized that a standard procedure exists for addressing registration issues, noting that a 48-hour window remained for citizens to verify their registration status or update their residential information on the preliminary lists published after an election is called. She categorically dismissed any insinuation that discrepancies appearing on the voters’ list were motivated by partisan interests. The Prime Minister illustrated her point by noting that anomalies, a recurring feature in every election since 1991, had affected the families of prominent politicians across the political spectrum, including those of late PM David Thompson and former BLP MP Gline Clarke. She urged all citizens to proactively check the list to ensure their eligibility.

  • Thorne challenges timing of election, questions EBC process

    Thorne challenges timing of election, questions EBC process

    Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne has launched a formal challenge against the timing of Barbados’ February 11 general election, alleging procedural violations by the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC). Speaking at a party rally on Saturday, Thorne revealed that official correspondence indicates the EBC’s statutory deadline for delivering an updated voter registry extends to January 31—three weeks after the election announcement.

    Thorne characterized the premature election call as having ‘thrown the whole electoral process into disarray,’ noting the commission has failed to convene since the election declaration. A scheduled meeting was subsequently canceled, raising questions about administrative preparedness for an election that wasn’t constitutionally mandated until 2027.

    The opposition leader detailed significant irregularities within the current voter list, including the DLP’s formal protest against 8,291 problematic registrations. Notably, one of the party’s own candidates appeared incorrectly on the list, while numerous citizens reportedly found themselves excluded entirely. Thorne disclosed that even close relatives of former Prime Minister David Thompson (deceased) have been mysteriously removed from voter rolls despite being resident in Barbados.

    Further anomalies include family members appearing in separate constituencies and insufficient rectification timelines. Thorne condemned the one-day window for resolving discrepancies as fundamentally inadequate, though he encouraged supporters to visit DLP offices for assistance with registration issues.

    Thorne raised serious concerns about the commission’s independence, suggesting external manipulation may be influencing its operations. ‘The commission is not being allowed to be,’ he stated, implying deliberate interference with electoral preparations.

    Despite these challenges, Thorne affirmed the DLP’s commitment to full participation in the electoral process, confirming all 30 party candidates are actively campaigning within their respective constituencies.

  • Thorne says DLP will not be distracted

    Thorne says DLP will not be distracted

    Democratic Labour Party (DLP) leader Ralph Thorne has emphatically dismissed the emergence of the Friends of Democracy (FOD) political group, asserting his party’s undivided commitment to confronting the ruling Barbados Labour Party (BLP). Thorne’s remarks came during the DLP’s weekend rally and comprehensive islandwide bus tour, where he addressed media inquiries regarding the new political movement.

    The FOD, led by president Karina Goodridge, recently formalized its political ambitions by submitting election deposits at the National Housing Corporation. Goodridge declared the 12-member group’s intention to establish itself as Barbados’ primary opposition force. Nevertheless, Thorne characterized such developments as peripheral distractions that would not divert the DLP from its central objective.

    “The fundamental struggle for Barbados citizens remains against the Barbados Labour Party,” Thorne stated unequivocally. “We stand united with the people in this confrontation. External political entities will not fragment our concentration.” The opposition leader further emphasized the DLP’s organizational cohesion and strategic focus, suggesting any attempts to fracture or diminish the party would prove unsuccessful.

    Thorne outlined the party’s ground strategy, revealing that all 30 DLP candidates are actively campaigning within their respective constituencies. The political movement included extensive motorcades and community walk-throughs, facilitating direct voter engagement, distribution of campaign materials, and candidate support. Thorne reiterated that the party’s paramount priority remains presenting their platform to the electorate ahead of the impending polling day through persistent constituency-level mobilization.

  • Winifred Holder joins her mother in the century club

    Winifred Holder joins her mother in the century club

    The Vauxhall Methodist Church in Barbados became the setting for a landmark celebration this past Saturday as community members gathered to honor Winifred Holder on her 100th birthday. The event recognized not only her personal milestone but also her profound legacy of service, echoing the longevity of her mother who also reached centenarian status.

    Described as a community matriarch, mentor, and devoted church member, Holder’s life was celebrated by a diverse assembly of friends, neighbors, relatives, and political figures. Church representative Joseph Hope delivered a heartfelt tribute, highlighting her lifelong dedication. “Ms. Holder is a woman who loves the Lord, enjoys reading her Bible, and gives much to the church here. She served as the church sexton and was instrumental in all fundraising activities,” Hope remarked. He also noted her role in community childcare, recalling, “She kept many children back in the day when parents had to run errands.”

    The celebration attracted notable political attention, including Chad Blackman, a Barbados Labour Party candidate for St James North, who reflected on being cared for by Holder during his childhood. Blackman advocated for the preservation of her life story, particularly her early education alongside Shirley Chisholm, who later became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress. Incumbent representatives Adrian Forde and Ryan Straughan were also present to pay their respects.

    In a significant honor, President Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic attended the ceremony, officially designating Holder as a “national treasure.” The President concurred on the urgency of documenting oral histories from the island’s centenarians and hinted at special plans to recognize this demographic in November.

    When asked about the secret to her longevity, Holder attributed it to a quadrumvirate of principles: unwavering faith in God, consumption of good food, maintenance of a positive mindset, and consistent respect for others. Holder, who has one son and two grandchildren, continues to be revered as a living testament to a life of service and faith.

  • DLP launches campaign with islandwide motorcade, constituency stops

    DLP launches campaign with islandwide motorcade, constituency stops

    The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) initiated its official general election campaign on Saturday with a comprehensive islandwide motorcade designed to traverse all 30 electoral constituencies across Barbados. The campaign launch commenced from the party’s George Street headquarters in Bridgetown, signaling the formal beginning of their electoral mobilization efforts.

    According to party media representative Sue Harris, the meticulously planned tour incorporates strategic constituency stops, brief candidate addresses, and scheduled breaks throughout the journey. The motorcade features musical elements and public engagement opportunities designed to generate campaign momentum.

    “Our motorcade will originate from the George Street Auditorium and comprehensively cover all 30 constituencies nationwide,” Harris stated. “We have arranged music speakers, and our candidates will deliver introductory remarks in each constituency, outlining their specific commitments and proposed contributions to their respective electoral districts.”

    The predetermined route included designated rest stops at Folkestone and Farley Hill, with an additional planned pause at King George V Memorial Park before the convoy’s return to George Street headquarters later in the evening.

    Following the departure from party headquarters, the motorcade proceeded through central Bridgetown, making a significant stop in the City area where constituents engaged directly with party leader Ralph Thorne, City candidate Dale Rowe, and other senior party officials. Numerous bystanders paused to observe, wave, and record video content as the campaign convoy moved through the urban landscape.

    Harris noted the remarkable energy surge among party members since the election announcement, characterizing George Street headquarters as a “hive of activity” in recent days. She additionally referenced Friday’s successful walk-through along Swan Street following candidate deposit payments, indicating the public response had been overwhelmingly encouraging for party prospects.

  • St Michael man remanded on $65 000 blackmail charge

    St Michael man remanded on $65 000 blackmail charge

    A resident of St Michael, Barbados, is now in custody at Dodds Prison following serious allegations of extortion totaling $65,000. Robert Dacosta Walker, whose residence is listed as McCleans Gap in Brittons Hill, faces formal charges brought by the Criminal Investigations Department (South) of the Barbados Police Service.

    The case centers on accusations that Walker attempted to blackmail an individual identified as Graham Allen during a three-day period between January 15 and January 17, 2026. The specific nature of the alleged threats and the relationship between the accused and the complainant have not been disclosed to the public.

    Walker made his initial court appearance at the District ‘A’ Traffic Court on Saturday, where Magistrate Alison Burke presided over the hearing. As the charge constitutes an indictable offense—a more serious category under Barbadian law—Walker was not required to enter a plea at this preliminary stage.

    The judicial proceedings have now been escalated to a higher court. The case has been formally transferred to District ‘A’ Criminal Court No. 1, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for February 20, 2026. This transfer indicates the gravity with which the Barbadian judicial system is treating the allegations.

    The remand to prison service custody pending trial suggests the court considers Walker a potential flight risk or that the allegations are sufficiently severe to warrant detention until the formal judicial process begins. The case continues to develop as authorities proceed with their investigation.

  • Two new medicinal cannabis centres could open this year, says licensing chief

    Two new medicinal cannabis centres could open this year, says licensing chief

    Barbados’ regulated medicinal cannabis sector is poised for significant expansion in 2026, with two new facilities advancing toward operational status, according to official statements from the island’s regulatory authority. Shanika Roberts-Odle, Acting CEO of the Barbados Medicinal Cannabis Licensing Authority (BMCLA), confirmed the developments during a public open day event at Island Naturals Medical Centre in Sheraton Mall, marking the organization’s fifth anniversary.

    The forthcoming facilities will operate within the pharmacy and therapeutic categories, providing supervised medical access to cannabis products under Barbados’ strict regulatory framework. This expansion follows the successful launch of two businesses in 2025, demonstrating what Roberts-Odle characterized as ‘tangible progress’ in an industry that requires long-term development strategies.

    Currently, the BMCLA has issued approximately 12 licenses spanning the entire value chain, including cultivation, manufacturing, retail, transportation, security, and research—with one license held by The University of the West Indies. While some licensees are already operational, others continue navigating substantial business, financial, and logistical challenges.

    Roberts-Odle identified international banking restrictions as the most significant obstacle facing the industry, directly linking these constraints to the continued federal prohibition of cannabis in the United States. ‘We do not exist in isolation,’ she emphasized. ‘Because the U.S. maintains federal prohibition, our local banks—which all maintain U.S. correspondent relationships—are reluctant to engage with cannabis businesses.’

    Despite these hurdles, the acting CEO urged collaboration and persistence, noting the industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience. She advised prospective entrepreneurs to ‘work together as a group of individuals’ and emphasized the BMCLA’s willingness to facilitate problem-solving dialogues.

    The open day event formed part of a broader public education initiative addressing decades of stigma associated with cannabis use. Roberts-Odle stressed that changing public perceptions requires sustained exposure and open discussion, contrasting regulated medical facilities with illicit market operations.

    At the Sheraton Mall facility, patients can access diverse medicinal products including locally cultivated cannabis flowers, creams, oils, tinctures, and vaporizer products—some imported from international sources. This differs from the Island Therapeutics facility in Worthing, which focuses primarily on Barbados-grown flowers and pharmacist-compounded products.

    Roberts-Odle clarified that the authority does not interfere with doctor-patient relationships or restrict conditions eligible for cannabis treatment, trusting Barbadian medical professionals to make appropriate decisions. Common applications include cancer-related pain and nausea, multiple sclerosis symptoms, arthritis, endometrial pain, and sleep disorders—though she emphasized that ‘cannabis is not snake oil’ but rather ‘another tool in the toolbox’ that may not be suitable for everyone.

    Regarding regulatory compliance, Roberts-Odle explained that legal access requires a prescription from registered medical practitioners, either private doctors or on-site physicians at approved facilities. She specifically addressed misconceptions about membership cards, noting that prescription labels—not cards—provide legal protection. While some patients have been stopped by authorities, she reported that issues were promptly resolved upon presentation of proper documentation.

    The regulatory framework explicitly prohibits smoking medicinal cannabis, permitting only vaping, oils, creams, and tinctures as approved consumption methods.