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标签： Jamaica

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  • Peru’s new president under fire for child sex comments

    Peru’s new president under fire for child sex comments

    LIMA, Peru — The appointment of 83-year-old José María Balcazar as Peru’s interim president has triggered widespread condemnation from human rights and women’s organizations, casting a shadow over the nation’s political stability. Balcazar assumed the presidency on Wednesday following the impeachment of his predecessor José Jeri on corruption charges, becoming Peru’s eighth head of state in a turbulent decade.

    The controversy stems from Balcazar’s 2023 statement during a congressional debate on banning child marriage, where he asserted that ‘early sexual relations aid a woman’s psychological future.’ This remark came precisely when Peru was implementing legal reforms to prohibit marriage for individuals under 18, eliminating previous provisions that allowed teenage marriages with parental consent.

    The National Human Rights Coalition (CNDDHH) expressed profound concern regarding the installation of ‘an authority figure with a controversial public record and statements that justify sexual violence against girls.’ Meanwhile, the Flora Tristan Peruvian Women’s Center characterized the appointment as symptomatic of a ‘profound ethical and democratic crisis’ gripping the nation. Government statistics reveal that over half of Peruvian women have reported experiencing psychological, physical, or sexual abuse from partners.

    ‘Any individual who minimizes violence against women and girls is not merely expressing an isolated opinion but demonstrating a complacent attitude toward abuse,’ the center emphasized in an official statement.

    Balcazar has defended himself against the mounting criticism, claiming his comments have been distorted and taken out of context. The interim president also faces separate investigations for alleged misappropriation of public funds and corruption-related offenses, further complicating his brief five-month tenure until scheduled elections.

  • NCB Foundation invests $10 million in FTC high school robotics championship

    NCB Foundation invests $10 million in FTC high school robotics championship

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s premier robotics competition, the First Tech Challenge (FTC) Championship, has officially commenced its 2026 season with a significant launch event at the AC Marriott Hotel on Tuesday. Supported by a substantial $10 million investment from the NCB Foundation, this year’s event emphasizes innovation and recovery under the theme ‘Decoding the Future’.

    The launch brought together organizers, educational partners, and student teams who demonstrated remarkable design creativity and technical ambition. NCB Foundation CEO Perrin Gayle expressed enthusiasm for the competition’s alignment with the foundation’s educational goals, noting: ‘This competition extends beyond robotics to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The diverse design approaches already visible indicate exceptional potential for this year’s challenges.’

    Participants from grades 7–12 will design, build, and program robots to compete in alliance-based matches that test engineering proficiency and collaborative STEM capabilities. Notably, several teams from western Jamaica—including Manning’s High School, Munro College, St Elizabeth Technical High School, and Maggotty High School—will participate despite significant infrastructural challenges caused by Hurricane Melissa.

    Gavin Samuels, Affiliate Partner Representative and National Championship Tournament Director, confirmed special support measures for affected schools: ‘We are implementing additional resources to ensure these resilient teams can compete effectively and showcase their determination.’

    The two-day championship event is scheduled for February 19–20 at the Jamaica College Auditorium, marking the eighth consecutive year of NCB Foundation’s sponsorship of this STEM initiative.

  • PNP slams Holness for continued drawdown of NHT funds

    PNP slams Holness for continued drawdown of NHT funds

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s political landscape has been ignited by a fierce controversy surrounding the government’s proposed extraction of billions from the National Housing Trust (NHT). The People’s National Party (PNP) has launched scathing criticism against the Holness administration’s plan to withdraw an additional $57 billion over the next five years from the housing institution, characterizing the move as “vulgar” and hypocritical.

    Senator Floyd Morris, the PNP’s housing spokesperson, issued a forceful statement condemning recent remarks from Jamaica Labour Party representative Abka Fitz Henley, who had accused Opposition Leader Mark Golding of engaging in vulgar politicking for criticizing the continued drawdowns. The PNP countered that the true vulgarity lies in what they describe as the government’s “sustained assault” on the institution established to provide affordable housing solutions.

    Marking the NHT’s 50th anniversary, the opposition party highlighted the absence of any commemorative statement from Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who holds the housing portfolio. Instead of reaffirming the Trust’s founding purpose, the administration has proposed yet another amendment to the NHT Act to facilitate further extractions from the fund.

    Morris articulated the core of the opposition’s argument: “What is truly vulgar is depriving working Jamaicans of their chance to own a home while billions are siphoned from the very institution created to help them.” The senator referenced Holness’s 2013 position as opposition leader, when he supported taking the then-government to court over similar NHT withdrawals, arguing they violated contributors’ property rights. At that time, Holness publicly committed to ring-fencing these funds exclusively for housing purposes.

    Since assuming power, however, the Holness administration has amended the legislation twice to extend annual withdrawals of $11.4 billion, resulting in approximately $114 billion being extracted over the past decade. With proposals now on the table to remove an additional $57 billion over the next five years, Morris accused the government of blatant hypocrisy.

    The PNP emphasized that the NHT fundamentally belongs to its contributors, asserting that any government that raids the fund while failing to deliver affordable housing lacks the moral authority to lecture on principles or decency. The opposition party concluded that Jamaica has endured a deepening housing crisis under the current administration, which they claim has delivered the lowest level of affordable housing of any recent government.

  • UPDATE: UK police say ex-prince Andrew ‘released under investigation’

    UPDATE: UK police say ex-prince Andrew ‘released under investigation’

    LONDON — Thames Valley Police confirmed late Thursday that His Royal Highness The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, has been released from custody while remaining under active investigation. The former trade envoy was detained for several hours for questioning regarding allegations of professional misconduct during his tenure as the United Kingdom’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment.

    Law enforcement officials indicated that coordinated searches at the Duke’s residence within the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk have been completed. The Norfolk property, part of King Charles III’s private estate, was subject to thorough examination by investigators seeking evidence related to the misconduct claims.

    Concurrently, search operations continue at the Duke’s former Windsor residence, Royal Lodge, located on the Crown Estate west of London. The ongoing investigation suggests authorities are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry regarding the allegations against the former prince.

    The Metropolitan Police Service has not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of the misconduct allegations, though they are believed to stem from Andrew’s official duties between 2001 and 2011 rather than previous personal conduct allegations. The development represents another significant chapter in the ongoing scrutiny of the royal family member, who previously settled a civil sexual assault case in the United States out of court in 2022.

    Buckingham Palace has not issued an official statement regarding the arrest, maintaining its position that Andrew’s affairs are now personal matters following his withdrawal from public duties. The investigation continues as authorities examine documents and electronic evidence seized during the property searches.

  • Navasky Anderson breaks men’s 800m indoor national record

    Navasky Anderson breaks men’s 800m indoor national record

    Jamaican athletes delivered a series of remarkable performances at the Meeting Lievin Hauts-de-France Pas-de-Calais indoor track meet in France on Thursday, headlined by Navasky Anderson’s new national record in the men’s 800 meters.

    Anderson achieved a historic milestone by clocking 1:46.10 seconds in the men’s B race, edging out the previous Jamaican indoor record by one-hundredth of a second. This performance surpassed Tyrice Taylor’s mark of 1:46.11 seconds set in Arkansas just over a year ago. Anderson’s achievement continues his record-breaking streak, having previously established a new national standard in the men’s 1000m event on January 31st.

    The meet witnessed additional outstanding accomplishments from Jamaican competitors. Megan Simmonds demonstrated exceptional form in the women’s hurdles, twice surpassing her personal best during the event. She initially clocked 7.93 seconds in the first round, improving upon her previous record of 7.98 seconds, before further lowering her time to 7.88 seconds in the final. This performance now stands as the eighth fastest time ever recorded by a Jamaican woman in the event.

    Further strengthening Jamaica’s presence at the international meet, national champion Nickisha Pryce secured second place in the women’s 400m B race with a time of 52.43 seconds. Meanwhile, World Indoor Championships finalist Jordan Scott achieved a notable result in the men’s triple jump, registering a distance of 17.11 meters. This mark currently ranks as the second best performance globally this season, trailing only Algeria’s Yasser Mohammed Triki, who leads with a jump of 17.35 meters.

  • Popcaan crowned sub-chief in Ghana, honoured with title ‘Nana Okofo Akro Kese’

    Popcaan crowned sub-chief in Ghana, honoured with title ‘Nana Okofo Akro Kese’

    Internationally acclaimed dancehall artist Popcaan has been formally inducted into traditional Ghanaian leadership, receiving the prestigious title of “Nana Okofo Akro Kese” during a ceremonial event in the West African nation. The honor, which translates to “great/mighty warrior chief,” was bestowed upon the Jamaican performer during his recent visit to Ghana.

    The musician documented the significant occasion through social media, sharing photographs and video footage from the installation ceremony with his global fanbase. His Instagram post carried the caption: “Nana is Grateful!!! Love and respect to my people. Together we push #KESE,” indicating his appreciation for the cultural recognition.

    This visit represents the latest chapter in Popcaan’s ongoing engagement with Ghana, which began in earnest during the country’s 2019 “Year of the Return” initiative. That landmark program invited members of the African diaspora to reconnect with their ancestral heritage. During that emotionally charged 2019 journey, the artist paid solemn respects at Cape Coast Castle—a historic site intimately connected to the transatlantic slave trade—where he laid a commemorative wreath honoring enslaved ancestors transported to Jamaica and other destinations.

    The chieftaincy title coincides with the artist’s recent musical developments, including the 2025 release of his fifth studio album Nothing Without God. This 14-track project explores themes of faith, perseverance, and spiritual development, completed shortly before Hurricane Melissa affected western Jamaica.

  • Newly minted PSOJ president focused on achieving economic growth

    Newly minted PSOJ president focused on achieving economic growth

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development for Jamaica’s economic landscape, the newly appointed president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), Patrick Hylton, has identified accelerated economic growth as the central priority for his administration. This strategic focus aims to propel the nation toward unprecedented levels of economic prosperity.

    During a recent high-level meeting with Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Hylton emphasized the critical importance of collaborative partnerships spanning government agencies, opposition parties, and civil society organizations to realize this ambitious objective. “A fundamental priority from my standpoint is inspiring Jamaicans to elevate their aspirations and redefine our national achievement targets,” stated the PSOJ president.

    Hylton outlined a visionary strategy centered on enabling domestic companies to scale beyond local markets and achieve regional dominance. His plan specifically targets expansion across the Caribbean’s English and Spanish-speaking territories, with subsequent growth into North American markets. “We must empower our businesses to transcend geographical limitations, exporting goods and services across diverse industries throughout the region and beyond,” he elaborated.

    Prime Minister Holness endorsed this growth-oriented vision, recognizing the private sector as the embodiment of Jamaica’s entrepreneurial dynamism. “The private sector represents the consolidated innovative energy of our nation. They serve as the primary implementers of government policies through strategic investments and development of new products and opportunities,” Holness affirmed, acknowledging their indispensable role in the Enterprise Jamaica initiative.

    The meeting also addressed fiscal policy concerns, particularly regarding asset tax reforms. Prime Minister Holness acknowledged these concerns while explaining current limitations: “Given Jamaica’s present economic circumstances, compounded by recovering from the third most powerful hurricane in recorded history to strike our island, implementing such changes remains fiscally unfeasible at this juncture.”

    Despite tax policy constraints, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening public-private collaboration to advance national economic objectives, signaling a new chapter of coordinated economic development strategy.

  • Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane has died

    Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane has died

    The entertainment industry mourns the loss of acclaimed actor Eric Dane, who passed away at age 53 after a valiant struggle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The tragic news was confirmed through an official family statement obtained by People magazine, revealing his passing occurred Thursday afternoon.

    Dane, celebrated for his compelling portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan in the long-running medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ demonstrated remarkable fortitude throughout his health challenges. His family emphasized that his final moments were spent enveloped by cherished companions, his steadfast wife Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, whom they described as ‘the center of his world.’

    The actor had publicly disclosed his ALS diagnosis the previous year, bringing awareness to this devastating neurodegenerative condition. ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, progressively destroys motor neurons, leading to severe muscle deterioration, paralysis, and ultimately proving fatal as it impedes basic physiological functions.

    Beyond his iconic television role, Dane’s filmography showcased remarkable versatility across genres. His notable credits include the gritty HBO series ‘Euphoria,’ musical extravaganza ‘Burlesque,’ romantic ensemble ‘Valentine’s Day,’ family favorite ‘Marley & Me,’ and action drama ‘The Last Ship.’ Each performance contributed to his respected standing in Hollywood, demonstrating range from intense drama to lighthearted comedy.

    Dane leaves behind an enduring legacy both on-screen and through his courageous health advocacy. His family’s statement highlighted the profound depth of his character beyond acting, noting his unwavering dedication to family and his graceful confrontation of adversity. The entertainment community remembers him as both a talented performer and an inspiration in facing life’s most difficult challenges with dignity and strength.

  • Jamaican model Althea Laing to headline Chic & Champagne

    Jamaican model Althea Laing to headline Chic & Champagne

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The fashion landscape of Jamaica is poised for transformation as Let Dian Find It (LDFI) Fashions prepares to host its groundbreaking Chic & Champagne event on February 21 on South Avenue. This exclusive gathering promises to redefine fashion discourse by creating an intimate, conversational space for style-conscious women.

    The centerpiece of this innovative fashion experience will be Althea Laing, celebrated as Jamaica’s first internationally successful model. Laing’s participation represents a significant moment for Jamaican fashion heritage, connecting the industry’s pioneering past with its contemporary evolution.

    Event creator Dian Hamilton, CEO of LDFI Fashions, conceived Chic & Champagne as a deliberate departure from traditional fashion presentations. “I envisioned creating a relaxed, intimate environment where women could congregate, socialize, and explore fresh narratives about fashion and personal style,” Hamilton explained. “Althea immediately emerged as the ideal inspiration when conceptualizing this event’s vision.”

    Laing’s remarkable career trajectory—from St. Elizabeth-born schoolteacher to international model and actress—includes the distinguished achievement of gracing the cover of Essence magazine twice. Her scheduled ‘Fireside Chat’ will address the concept of aging gracefully, approached with characteristic authenticity and empowering perspective.

    “As women age, unless genetically blessed with youthful attributes, the visible signs of aging naturally emerge,” Laing stated. “The fundamental principle lies in dressing appropriately for every stage of life while maintaining personal confidence.”

    Beyond modeling, Laing has successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship with her 2025 launch of Icon Beauty by La Laing. The comprehensive product line features specialized formulations including brightening serum, anti-aging retinol serum, foam cleanser, and an inclusive range of lipstick shades.

    Reflecting on her multifaceted career, Laing attributes her success to profound resilience and self-assurance. “My life experiences have fundamentally shaped the strong, confident, and persevering woman I am today,” she shared. “I owe immense gratitude to my mother, the late Carmen Gloria Reynolds, whose love instilled the moral values, wisdom, and courage required to navigate life’s challenges. These qualities remain my guiding principles throughout my ongoing journey.”

  • Denham Town police and inmates clash after ‘faeces, urine thrown at cops’

    Denham Town police and inmates clash after ‘faeces, urine thrown at cops’

    A violent confrontation erupted at the Denham Town Police lock-up in Kingston, Jamaica, on Wednesday morning, resulting in multiple injuries among both law enforcement personnel and detainees. The incident unfolded approximately at 9:30 a.m. when a team of four officers entered a cell to confiscate contraband items. Without warning, they were ambushed by a group of inmates who launched a coordinated assault.

    The attackers utilized improvised and unsanitary weapons, hurling a repulsive mixture of human feces, urine, and water at the officers. Faced with this aggressive and unprovoked attack, the police unit responded by deploying what official reports describe as ‘appropriate less-lethal force’ to subdue the assailants and ensure their own safety.

    The ensuing melee left the four initially targeted officers and an unspecified number of prisoners with injuries requiring immediate medical attention. All injured individuals were promptly transported to the Kingston Public Hospital for emergency treatment. As of the latest reports, the specific nature and severity of the injuries sustained remain undisclosed, with authorities withholding details on the current condition of those hospitalized. An investigation into the precise triggers and the full sequence of events is likely underway.