标签: Jamaica

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  • Can a married parent add a child to their title?

    Can a married parent add a child to their title?

    Legal expert Margarette Macaulay has provided authoritative guidance on property ownership rights for married women in Jamaica, addressing a common inquiry about transferring property to children without spousal consent. The clarification comes in response to a reader’s question regarding whether a married woman can add her child’s name to a property deed where the husband holds no financial interest.

    According to Macaulay, a married woman who is the sole legal proprietor of a property—having purchased it independently with personal funds—retains the legal right to execute a transfer to herself and her child as joint proprietors. This transfer can be structured either as joint tenancy or tenancy-in-common, provided the property does not qualify as the ‘family home’ under Jamaica’s Property Rights of Spouses Act.

    The critical distinction lies in the property’s classification. The Act defines ‘family home’ as property wholly or partially owned by either spouse and habitually used as the principal family residence. Properties acquired before marriage, inherited assets, gifts intended for sole benefit, or properties obtained during short-term marriages typically fall outside this definition. If the property qualifies as the family home, the spouse’s agreement would be mandatory for any title changes.

    Macaulay recommends joint tenancy arrangements for parent-to-child transfers, explaining that this structure automatically passes full ownership to the surviving joint tenant upon death without probate complications. Alternatively, tenancy-in-common allows separate ownership interests but requires precise percentage definitions and involves more complex estate administration processes.

    The legal expert strongly advises consulting with an attorney-at-law before proceeding with any property transfer. Professional legal consultation ensures full disclosure of relevant facts and prevents potential future litigation from spouses claiming violations under the Property Rights of Spouses Act. This precautionary measure can save significant time, financial resources, and emotional distress in the long term.

    Margarette Macaulay, the responding expert, is a qualified attorney-at-law, Supreme Court mediator, notary public, and prominent advocate for women’s and children’s rights in Jamaica. Her response was published through the All Woman advisory column of the Jamaica Observer newspaper.

  • Supreme Court rejects Buchanan’s request for judicial review in St Andrew WC election dispute

    Supreme Court rejects Buchanan’s request for judicial review in St Andrew WC election dispute

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Supreme Court has delivered a significant ruling by rejecting a judicial review application from Paul Buchanan, the People’s National Party (PNP) candidate for St Andrew West Central. Buchanan had contested the September 3 general election results, alleging procedural irregularities in his constituency.

    The court’s decision hinged primarily on the expiration of the statutory period for challenging election outcomes, rendering Buchanan’s application legally untenable. Judicial authorities emphasized that while the Constituted Authority remains subject to judicial scrutiny, Buchanan failed to present substantiated grounds for his case.

    The ruling highlighted that election disputes are governed by strict timelines under Jamaican law. Although Buchanan filed within the three-month maximum period permitted by civil procedure rules, the court found his nine-day delay between the Authority’s September 30 determination and his October 8 application demonstrated insufficient urgency. The judgment noted that his constituency-specific complaints did not raise broader constitutional questions that might have justified exceptional consideration.

    This decision reinforces the judicial system’s commitment to procedural discipline in electoral matters and establishes important precedent regarding the timely resolution of election disputes.

  • Truck driver charged with murder of St Andrew businessman

    Truck driver charged with murder of St Andrew businessman

    In a disturbing case of workplace violence, Jamaican authorities have formally charged 35-year-old truck driver Roddayne Allison with the murder of his employer, prominent St Andrew businessman Khalil Martin. The charges follow an intensive investigation by local law enforcement that uncovered a trail of digital evidence leading to the suspect.

    Allison, residing at Spring Crescent in Portmore, faces multiple criminal counts including murder, unauthorized possession of a firearm, illegal ammunition possession, and using a firearm to commit a scheduled offense. The charges were formally presented by Detective Sergeant Melonie Williams while the suspect remained in custody.

    The victim, Martin, was a senior information technology consultant at Island Products Manufacturing Company Limited and operated several businesses including haulage, farming, and wrecking operations. His body was discovered on November 5 along Marl Road in Portmore, St Catherine, with a single gunshot wound to the face.

    According to police evidence, Martin had departed his Olivier Court residence on November 4 to meet Allison at Salt Pond Road in Dunbenholden. When the businessman failed to return home, family members initiated a missing person report that ultimately led to the grim discovery.

    The breakthrough came on November 30 when Allison was apprehended during a covert police operation in the Clarendon division. Following his arrest, the suspect provided a caution statement to investigators in the presence of his legal counsel. After a comprehensive question and answer session with detectives, formal charges were filed against the accused truck driver.

  • 6 qualities a man uses to measure a woman’s market value

    6 qualities a man uses to measure a woman’s market value

    Conventional wisdom often reduces male attraction to mere physical appearance, but a deeper analysis reveals a far more complex evaluation process. When assessing a potential partner, men are subconsciously analyzing a suite of profound qualities that signal long-term compatibility and value, moving well beyond initial looks. This nuanced appraisal focuses on traits that promise a stable, resilient, and fulfilling partnership.

    The foundation of this evaluation is emotional fortitude. Men are instinctively drawn to women who demonstrate grace under pressure and the capacity to navigate life’s inevitable turmoil without excessive reactivity. A history of overcoming adversity—be it divorce, heartbreak, or the challenges of single motherhood—is not a liability but a testament to proven resilience. This ability to carry responsibility and emerge with an intact spirit is perceived as a prime indicator of maturity and a cornerstone for a stable future together.

    Closely linked is the undeniable power of self-worth and authentic confidence. A woman who possesses a clear sense of her own value and refuses to settle communicates a powerful message of self-respect. This is manifested not through arrogance, but through the establishment of healthy boundaries, clear communication of needs, and a purposeful direction in life. Such traits significantly elevate a woman’s perceived value far beyond any transient superficial attribute.

    Furthermore, life experience, often misconstrued as baggage, is reassessed as a badge of honor. The depth of responsibility demonstrated through raising children, managing a household, or building a career while healing from past wounds showcases capability, dependability, and strength. For a man seeking a true life partner, these are prized assets that signal a proven ability to handle real-world challenges.

    At the core of a serious commitment lies the non-negotiable element of character and spiritual alignment. A man with intentionality will meticulously measure a woman’s integrity, values, and inner maturity. He seeks a partner whose life reflects essential virtues like kindness, honesty, and patience—a true equal who can walk beside him in interdependence, not neediness.

    Contrary to the stereotype of stoic independence, men deeply desire emotional connection. They value a woman’s capacity for balanced love, care, and empathy—a nurturing spirit that provides support and encouragement while standing firm during difficult seasons. This is complemented by an appreciation for practical life management skills. A woman’s competence in handling finances, domestic affairs, and interpersonal relationships signals an ability to foster stability and adeptly solve problems, making her an invaluable partner.

    The ultimate conclusion is that while some may be deterred by a complex past, the right man will see beyond historical circumstances. He will measure the strength of character over the existence of scars, and the depth of person over any prior drama. A woman who truly understands her own worth does not seek validation; she embodies it, and in doing so, naturally attracts a partner who will not only recognize but fully invest in her immense value.

  • Former JAS president Lenworth Fulton has died

    Former JAS president Lenworth Fulton has died

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican agricultural community is mourning the loss of revered leader Lenworth Fulton, the former president of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, who passed away recently. Fulton’s death marks the end of an era for the nation’s farming sector, where he had established himself as a pivotal figure in agricultural development and rural community empowerment.

    Floyd Green, Jamaica’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, publicly honored Fulton’s legacy through social media platforms. Having collaborated extensively with the late agriculturalist, Minister Green described him as “a true champion for Jamaican agriculture” whose visionary guidance “strengthened farmers and communities across the island.” The minister’s heartfelt tribute highlighted Fulton’s exceptional dedication to advancing Jamaica’s agricultural interests and improving livelihoods within the farming sector.

    Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific circumstances surrounding Fulton’s passing. The lack of immediate information regarding the cause of death has left many awaiting further details from official sources. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in from agricultural organizations, farming cooperatives, and rural communities that benefited from Fulton’s decades of service and advocacy.

    Fulton’s leadership tenure at the Jamaica Agricultural Society was marked by significant initiatives aimed at modernizing farming practices, enhancing food security, and creating sustainable agricultural policies. His work extended beyond administrative roles, directly impacting thousands of farmers through educational programs, resource allocation improvements, and strategic development projects that transformed Jamaica’s agricultural landscape.

  • Ja-Cirt analysts win top honours at ‘SheSecures’ cybersecurity competition

    Ja-Cirt analysts win top honours at ‘SheSecures’ cybersecurity competition

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A groundbreaking initiative to bridge the gender gap in cybersecurity has yielded exceptional results, with female analysts from Jamaica’s national security apparatus claiming top honors in the inaugural ‘SheSecures’ Cybersecurity Competition. Monique Satchwell and Rheana Hagigal, Tier Two Analysts at the Jamaica Cyber Incident Response Team (Ja-CIRT), secured first place in the overall team category, outperforming numerous contenders from across the nation.

    This pioneering competition, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of National Security and Peace and the Organization of American States (OAS), was specifically designed to offer hands-on technical training and skill enhancement for Jamaican women and girls aged 16 and above. The initiative’s core mission is to empower more women to enter the rapidly expanding cybersecurity field, thereby significantly strengthening Jamaica’s national cyber resilience in an increasingly digital world.

    The victory underscores a critical push for diversity in a sector where women remain significantly underrepresented. Both winners shared personal journeys that defied traditional gender expectations in technology. For Hagigal, a profound fascination with technology that began in high school crystallized into a career choice driven by the conviction that cybersecurity is the foundation of our digital future. “I knew that the future was going to be cybersecurity, because everything is now digitalised,” she explained.

    Satchwell’s path was more serendipitous. Initially an actuarial science major immersed in mathematics at the University of the West Indies (UWI), a growing intrigue with computers led her to switch to computer science. It was there she discovered and became captivated by the cybersecurity domain. She emphasizes a crucial perspective often overlooked: “People often focus on technology itself, while overlooking the critical need to secure it.

    The road to victory was paved with dedication and intense preparation. Both analysts recounted weeks of rigorous training, including sessions partnered with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), supplemented by personal practice lasting several hours each night. “It was very rigorous… but it was well done,” Satchwell stated, expressing immense pride in their achievement. Hagigal echoed this sentiment, attributing their success to training, practice, and sheer perseverance.

    The competition also celebrated other high achievers. A second Ja-CIRT team, comprising Zoe Duncan and Daneel Downer, secured second place, while third place was awarded to a team from the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). The event also featured school and individual categories, with top prizes awarded to students from institutions like Immaculate Conception High School, Northern Caribbean University, and the University of Technology, alongside individual winner Kelleshia Fender of MOCA.

    Their triumph serves as a powerful inspiration, challenging the male-dominated status quo of the profession. Satchwell’s advice to other young women is unequivocal: “Take courage; you’re talented… talent knows no gender; don’t be afraid.” This event marks a significant stride toward a more inclusive and robust cybersecurity landscape for Jamaica.

  • Ready for rush

    Ready for rush

    Despite the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, western Jamaica’s freight forwarding sector demonstrates remarkable resilience with sustained shipping volumes and record-breaking Black Friday performance. Major logistics providers and customs authorities report operational stability amid Christmas season demands, signaling economic recovery in the hardest-hit regions.

    ipCourier CEO Gavin Lindsay reveals unprecedented Black Friday shipment numbers from western parishes, indicating a rapid return to pre-hurricane consumer patterns. Meanwhile, AirDrop Shipping maintains shipment volumes comparable to last year despite infrastructure challenges, with minimal delivery delays reported across their St. James and Westmoreland operations.

    The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) confirms operational readiness for seasonal demands, implementing extended working hours and staff reinforcements at western facilities. While acknowledging occasional clearance delays due to external factors like vessel scheduling and documentation errors, JCA emphasizes maintained processing efficiency for properly submitted goods.

    Post-hurricane shipping trends reveal significant shifts in consumer behavior, with substantial increases in generator imports and solar equipment following government tax waivers for recovery items. AirDrop’s customer service supervisor Ramiella Griffiths notes persistent e-commerce activity despite logistical constraints, with Christmas decorations and event-related shipments continuing alongside recovery-focused purchases.

    Logistics companies have adapted operations through data-driven capacity expansion and flexible storage policies, accommodating customers requiring extended collection deadlines due to displacement or communication challenges. The industry’s adaptive measures include temporary authorization protocol adjustments and promoted relief initiatives that have contributed to shipping volume recovery.

    While infrastructure limitations create space constraints for oversized items like generators, companies report innovative solutions through overseas warehouse coordination and prioritized air freight. The sustained online shopping trend reflects both necessity-driven purchasing and returning consumer confidence, with western Jamaican customers increasingly relying on doorstep delivery services where local retail options remain limited.

  • TRANSJAM Highways partners with JCF to strengthen highway safety

    TRANSJAM Highways partners with JCF to strengthen highway safety

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—A significant interagency safety operation targeting vehicle compliance has been executed along Jamaica’s critical highway network. TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH), in a coordinated effort with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Island Traffic Authority (ITA), conducted an intensive vehicular inspection initiative aimed at enhancing safety standards for all motorists.

    The strategic operation, deployed on December 4 between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, established checkpoints at two high-traffic locations: the Vineyards Toll Plaza and Old Harbour Road. The primary objective was to identify and detain vehicles deemed unroadworthy or operating outside legal parameters. The results were substantial: 97 vehicles were subjected to stops, with 62 undergoing thorough searches. Enforcement actions were rigorous, resulting in the removal of 30 registration plates for critical non-compliance with safety regulations. Furthermore, law enforcement officials issued 61 traffic citations, which included three specific violations for improperly secured loads, a known hazard on high-speed corridors.

    Mark Walker, Deputy Operations Manager at the TransJam Group, emphasized the strategic importance of such collaborations. “Our alliance with the JCF and the Island Traffic Authority solidifies our enduring dedication to preserving a secure and efficient highway infrastructure. The triad of public awareness, stringent enforcement, and inter-organizational cooperation is fundamental to our blueprint for diminishing traffic incidents and cultivating conscientious driving behaviors,” Walker stated.

    Reaffirming its commitment to long-term safety outcomes, TJH announced plans to perpetuate its investment in and endorsement of road safety programs. These initiatives are meticulously aligned with the corporation’s core mission: to guarantee a protected and dependable transit experience for every user of the highway system.

    This recent enforcement drive follows a broader public sensitization campaign launched by the company in October. That campaign was designed to reacquaint drivers with essential safe-driving protocols, underscoring the vital importance of obeying speed limits, verifying tire roadworthiness prior to journeys, utilizing turn signals during lane changes, and conducting meticulous visual checks of the roadway to prevent accidents.

  • Liberian sprinter among seven athletes joining Enhanced Games

    Liberian sprinter among seven athletes joining Enhanced Games

    LAS VEGAS – The controversial Enhanced Games, scheduled for launch in May 2026, has significantly expanded its roster with seven additional world-class athletes embracing the unconventional sporting event that permits performance-enhancing substances. The latest recruits include Liberia’s national record holder Emmanuel Matadi, who achieved a remarkable 9.91 seconds in the 100-meter dash in 2024.

    Matadi becomes the third premier sprinter to commit to the games, following previous announcements involving American champion Fred Kerley and French standout Mouhamadou Fall. The Enhanced Games organization, which openly challenges traditional anti-doping protocols, promises substantial financial rewards for record-breaking performances within its enhanced competition framework.

    The new participants represent diverse athletic disciplines and international backgrounds:

    – Natalia Fryckowska (Poland): National finalist and collegiate sprint specialist transitioning to swimming
    – Beatriz Pirón (Weightlifting): Pan American champion and World Championship bronze medalist
    – Felipe Lima (Brazil): World Championship medalist and Pan American gold medalist in swimming
    – Isabella Arcila (Colombia): Olympic competitor and multiple national record holder in swimming
    – Evgenii Somov (Russia): Olympic athlete, World Junior champion, and ACC title holder in swimming
    – Max McCusker (Ireland): Olympic participant and Irish national record holder in swimming

    The games’ philosophy centers on exploring human potential through scientifically monitored performance enhancement while maintaining transparency. With 50 athletes now committed, the inaugural event is set to commence on May 24, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, potentially reshaping conversations about biotechnology’s role in athletic achievement.

  • AFTER THE RAIN

    AFTER THE RAIN

    As the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) prepares to resume operations this Sunday following a six-week suspension due to Hurricane Melissa, Molynes United Football Club exemplifies the broader challenges facing Jamaican football beyond physical infrastructure damage. While the club escaped the catastrophic destruction that devastated western and southern clubs like Montego Bay United and Treasure Beach FC, Head Coach Jermaine Thomas reveals they are confronting severe financial strain and psychological distress among players and staff.

    The hurricane’s passage on October 20 caused widespread devastation across the island, particularly in western and southern parishes, leading the league to suspend matches until December 3. Though urban-based clubs like Molynes United avoided direct stadium damage, the extended hiatus created cascading financial difficulties as teams struggled to meet player salaries without matchday revenues.

    Thomas emphasized the pre-existing financial vulnerabilities within Jamaican football, noting that the hurricane exacerbated an already precarious situation. “Most clubs were having financial difficulties before the hurricane,” Thomas told the Sunday Observer. “With the hurricane come and gone, it would have gotten worse because you’re not playing and still have to find salaries for your players.”

    The coach highlighted the particular challenge of securing financial assistance during national recovery efforts, explaining that resources are primarily directed toward the hardest-hit regions. This has created additional hardship for clubs attempting to maintain operations while the country focuses on rehabilitation priorities.

    Beyond financial concerns, Thomas has been addressing significant psychological impacts on his team. The extended uncertainty about the league’s resumption date created anxiety among players who depend on club salaries as their primary income. The announcement of December 3 as the restart date provided crucial psychological relief and renewed motivation during training sessions.

    Molynes United enters the resumed competition positioned 13th in the league table with five points from eight matches, still seeking their first victory this season. The team will face additional challenges without captain Jason Wright, who transferred to Chapelton Maroons following the expiration of his contract.

    The league’s return represents not just sporting competition but economic stabilization for players and staff who depend on football for their livelihoods, demonstrating sport’s role in national recovery beyond mere entertainment.