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  • MP Williams threatens to sue Councillor Hamilton over ‘defamatory’ comments

    MP Williams threatens to sue Councillor Hamilton over ‘defamatory’ comments

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant political dispute has erupted within Jamaica’s ruling party as government minister Donovan Williams initiated legal proceedings against fellow Jamaica Labour Party representative Rosalie Hamilton over allegedly defamatory social media content. Williams’ legal representatives from Richardson Law Chambers dispatched a formal cease-and-desist notice on March 24, 2026, demanding immediate retraction of what they characterize as “false, malicious and highly defamatory statements” circulated through digital platforms including WhatsApp and TikTok.

    The legal correspondence asserts that Councillor Hamilton’s online publications have generated substantial reputational damage and public embarrassment for Williams, who serves as Member of Parliament for Kingston Central and holds ministerial responsibilities. The attorneys maintain these allegations are “wholly untrue” and designed to diminish Williams’ standing within Jamaican society while undermining his credibility as a public official.

    Legal counsel emphasized the apparent failure to verify claims before publication, describing the behavior as demonstrating “reckless disregard for the truth” that violates Jamaica’s Defamation Act of 2013. The formal demand requires complete removal of the contentious material from all digital platforms alongside publication of a comprehensive apology. Non-compliance threatens Supreme Court litigation seeking injunctive relief and additional legal remedies.

    The confrontation carries political significance as both figures represent overlapping constituencies within the Jamaica Labour Party framework. Hamilton’s Rae Town division operates within Williams’ Kingston Central constituency, intensifying the jurisdictional complexities. At time of reporting, Councillor Hamilton had not issued any public response to the legal demands.

  • #Champs2026: Clarendon College’s Lampart seeks redemption in shot put

    #Champs2026: Clarendon College’s Lampart seeks redemption in shot put

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican high school track and field sensation Marla-Kay Lampart has positioned herself as the athlete to beat in the Class 1 girls’ shot put competition at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. During Wednesday’s qualifying rounds at the National Stadium, the Clarendon College standout delivered a commanding performance with a top throw of 13.66 meters, securing her place in the final with the leading mark.

    This year’s championship holds particular significance for Lampart, who endured a disappointing fifth-place finish at last year’s event despite entering as a medal favorite. The young athlete demonstrated remarkable resilience following that setback, achieving redemption just weeks later by shattering the national junior record with an extraordinary 17.44-meter throw at the Carifta Games.

    Lampart’s road to qualification required two attempts to surpass the automatic qualifying threshold, despite having recorded a season’s best of 14.52 meters earlier this year at the Central Championships. Her performance establishes her as the frontrunner in a competitive field that includes several talented contenders.

    Wolmer’s Girls’ Bethany Thomas emerged as the closest competitor, registering an impressive 13.65 meters, just one centimeter behind Lampart’s leading mark. Edwin Allen High’s Dionjah Shaw also showcased her consistency, qualifying for her third final of the championships with a throw of 13.45 meters.

    The final round will feature additional qualifiers including Vere Technical’s Gabriel Merchant, Immaculate Conception’s Jada Francis, Merl Grove’s Abigail Bennett, and St Jago’s Rehanna Biggs, setting the stage for an intensely competitive conclusion to the shot put event.

  • #Champs2026: Ryan Achau learns lesson, lands 1500m gold

    #Champs2026: Ryan Achau learns lesson, lands 1500m gold

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a spectacular display of strategic middle-distance running, Ryan Achau of St Jago High secured a decisive victory in the Boys Class 1 1500m final during Wednesday’s proceedings at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. Clocking an impressive 3:50.70 seconds at the national stadium, Achau demonstrated significant growth from his disappointing fourth-place finish in the previous year’s event.

    The Kenyan athlete, who had faltered in last year’s race after an overly ambitious start, executed a perfectly paced performance this time. While maintaining a strong initial tempo, Achau conserved sufficient energy to dominate the final stretch, crossing the finish line with a substantial margin. Kingston College’s Nahashorn Ruto, another East African competitor, claimed silver with a time of 3:55.91 seconds, while Joel Morgan of Edwin Allen High earned bronze in 3:58.20 seconds.

    Meanwhile, in the Class 3 division, Kingston College’s Julius Itubo delivered an extraordinary solo performance, shattering his own previous record set just one year prior. Itubo completed the race in 4:00.76 seconds, significantly improving upon his 2023 mark of 4:05.15 seconds. Jamaica College athletes Rikardo Lee (4:18.42 seconds) and Ajovi Williams (4:25.11 seconds) finished second and third respectively.

    Additional middle-distance excellence was showcased in the Class 2 event, where St Jago High’s Phillip Palmer captured gold with a time of 4:09.91 seconds. Palmer executed a strategic overtaking maneuver against early leader Jevaughn Tomlin, who finished closely behind at 4:10.95 seconds. Dejaun Gray of STETHS secured the bronze medal position with 4:11.04 seconds.

  • IDB opens first office in US outside of Washington

    IDB opens first office in US outside of Washington

    MIAMI, United States – In a strategic move to amplify private-sector development, the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) has inaugurated its first United States office outside of Washington D.C. This new Miami-based headquarters is designed to function as a critical nexus, linking international investors with burgeoning opportunities throughout Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

    IDB Group President Ilan Goldfajn emphasized the city’s pivotal role in global finance, stating, ‘Miami stands as a central arena for investors, a place where pivotal decisions are formulated and where major deals are architecturally structured. Our physical presence here enables us to channel vital investments into Latin America and the Caribbean while simultaneously presenting the region’s vast potential to a global audience of investors. This dual function is essential for scaling development initiatives driven by the private sector.’

    The selection of Miami is highly strategic. The IDB Group highlights the city’s status as a premier corporate and financial epicenter, hosting over 1,600 multinational corporations and more than 60 international banking institutions. Its rapidly expanding venture capital landscape and robust technology ecosystem make it an ideal location for fostering these crucial financial connections.

    This expansion coincides with a significant period of institutional growth for the IDB Group. The organization has successfully concluded a substantial US$3.5 billion subscription process aimed at the recapitalization of IDB Invest. This capital infusion supports its innovative ‘originate-to-share’ operational model. Concurrently, IDB Lab has been replenished, adopting a more scalable and sustainable framework under new leadership.

    The new Miami office is tasked with a multifaceted mission: to deepen collaborative engagements with investors and strategic partners, enhance co-financing and capital mobilization efforts, and provide expert support for project structuring across critical industrial sectors. It will specifically bolster the business development endeavors of both IDB Invest and IDB Lab, ensuring a greater flow of investment into projects across the LAC region.

  • Telroy Morgan steps down as Petrojam general manager

    Telroy Morgan steps down as Petrojam general manager

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Petrojam Limited, Jamaica’s national oil refinery, has confirmed the forthcoming departure of its General Manager Telroy Morgan, effective March 25, 2026. The state-owned enterprise made the announcement through an official statement released on Wednesday.

    The company has initiated a formal executive search process to identify a permanent successor. In the interim, Tamara Robinson will continue to serve as Acting General Manager, a role she has held since January 19, 2026. Ms. Robinson concurrently maintains her primary responsibilities as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for the organization.

    The Board of Directors formally acknowledged Mr. Morgan’s service and contributions to the company. In their statement, they extended gratitude for his efforts and expressed well-wishes for his future professional endeavors. This leadership transition marks a significant moment for Jamaica’s pivotal energy sector entity as it navigates its strategic direction.

  • NBC’s Today show takes on Jamaica

    NBC’s Today show takes on Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—NBC’s iconic morning program, the TODAY Show, has launched an extensive multi-day feature series from Jamaica’s picturesque coastline, featuring co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones. This comprehensive coverage offers viewers an unparalleled immersion into the island’s vibrant cultural tapestry, culinary excellence, and distinctive hospitality.

    The production, collaboratively sponsored by the Jamaica Tourist Board and Sandals Resorts, represents a significant endorsement of Jamaica’s tourism sector. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett expressed profound pride in the international showcase, noting that the presence of such a prestigious network reinforces global confidence in Jamaica’s unique destination offerings and authentic experiences.

    Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, characterized the island as possessing an infectious energy unmatched elsewhere in the world. “There’s an undeniable vibrancy in our people, our culinary traditions, and our musical heritage that captivates visitors,” White emphasized.

    Since its inaugural broadcast in January 1952, the TODAY Show has maintained its status as America’s premier morning news program, consistently drawing over three million viewers. The current special segments feature the popular hosts engaging with local chefs and street food vendors, sampling legendary jerk chicken and other indigenous cuisine, while experiencing premier accommodations at Sandals Dunn’s River resort.

    This cultural expedition allows audiences to virtually experience Jamaica’s rhythmic music scene and connect with the island’s charismatic residents, further solidifying Jamaica’s position as one of the world’s most cherished travel destinations.

  • NCB urges Jamaican firms to rethink tax payments to ease cash flow strain

    NCB urges Jamaican firms to rethink tax payments to ease cash flow strain

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Financial experts are advocating for Jamaican businesses to implement systematic tax planning strategies to avoid operational disruptions caused by lump-sum tax payments. National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCB) has highlighted the widespread practice among enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, of depleting cash reserves to meet tax obligations, thereby constraining their operational capabilities and growth potential.

    During a recently held educational seminar titled ‘Master Tax Season and Get Rewarded,’ banking executives emphasized the critical need for strategic financial planning. Perrin Gayle, NCB’s Executive Vice-President of Retail Banking, articulated the institution’s objective: ‘We aim to assist businesses in fulfilling their tax responsibilities while simultaneously preserving working capital and fostering sustainable expansion.’

    The event garnered substantial participation with over 100 physical attendees and 400 virtual participants, focusing on three key areas: optimized tax management, enhanced financial record-keeping practices, and increased adoption of digital banking solutions. Business proprietors reported gaining valuable insights into payment alternatives that minimize immediate cash flow impact.

    Noman Walker, Chairman of Portmore Mall, expressed enthusiasm about the discovered flexibility: ‘The repayment options presented are genuinely compelling. I can now utilize banking products to settle taxes without compromising my operational liquidity.’

    Despite progress in digital banking adoption, NCB officials revealed significant disparities between corporate clients and SMEs. While over 90% of corporate entities actively use digital platforms, only approximately 50% of small and medium enterprises have embraced these tools. Danielle Cameron Duncan, Acting Senior Vice-President of Payments and Enterprise Operations, emphasized the advantages of digital adoption: ‘Businesses achieving financial visibility through digital tools gain superior command over their cash flow management.’

    Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) representatives contributed to the discourse, noting that tax compliance ultimately supports business growth while identifying recurring challenges among smaller operators. These include inadequate financial documentation, improper expense categorization, and commingling of personal and business finances. Recommendations included maintaining separate financial accounts for business and personal use, implementing digital payment infrastructure, and utilizing online banking monitoring systems.

    The seminar culminated in a panel discussion featuring experts from NCB, Mastercard, and TAJ, addressing nuanced topics including filing requirements for inactive businesses and eligibility criteria for tax credit programs. NCB has made the complete seminar recording available through its official YouTube channel for continued access.

  • Xodus Carnival and Chas E Ramson celebrate 5 years of partnership

    Xodus Carnival and Chas E Ramson celebrate 5 years of partnership

    A conventional five-year sponsorship arrangement between Xodus Carnival and consumer goods distributor Chas E Ramson has evolved into a sophisticated strategic alliance built upon mutual dedication to excellence, innovation, and consumer experience enhancement. This partnership represents a paradigm shift in how brands engage with consumers through immersive experiences rather than traditional advertising channels.

    Chas E Ramson celebrates its fifth consecutive year as both sponsor and strategic partner to Xodus Carnival, demonstrating the company’s sustained commitment to premium experiential marketing and authentic consumer connectivity. The collaboration has proven particularly valuable for reaching consumers in dynamic, high-energy environments where they are most receptive to brand interactions.

    Kathryn Silvera, Director of Sales and Marketing at Chas E Ramson Limited, emphasized the strategic value: “This partnership positions us precisely where our consumers congregate—active, social settings where they seek convenient, nutritious options. Through Xodus Wet, our workout series, and Road March events, we achieve direct engagement with our target demographic in authentic environments.”

    Jamaica’s Carnival continues to demonstrate substantial economic significance, with projections indicating a J$165 billion economic impact for 2025. For Chas E Ramson, participation transcends conventional brand visibility, offering unprecedented opportunities for meaningful consumer connection within a single, vibrant marketplace.

    Pierre Goubault, CEO of Xodus Carnival, expressed satisfaction with the enduring partnership: “Chas E Ramson’s collaboration has genuinely elevated the Xodus experience throughout our years together. Their capacity to seamlessly integrate quality products into our events enhances the overall journey for participants, adding both convenience and enjoyment at every stage.”

    The partnership has generated remarkable results through experiential marketing strategies that prioritize direct consumer interaction over traditional advertising. This approach has fostered significant brand loyalty and created lasting consumer impressions through hands-on product experiences.

    The company’s product portfolio demonstrates natural synergy with carnival experiences, emphasizing premium quality and exceptional service. This year’s participants will encounter diverse brands including Foska oats, Elle & Vire yogurts, Hungry Jack pancake and waffle mixes, and Kisko Freezies—all strategically integrated to enhance the Carnival journey through energizing breakfast options, convenient snacks, and refreshing treats that maintain participant engagement throughout events.

  • UK teenagers to trial social media bans, digital curfews

    UK teenagers to trial social media bans, digital curfews

    LONDON, United Kingdom — The British government has initiated a groundbreaking pilot program involving hundreds of adolescents to examine the effects of social media restrictions on youth wellbeing. Announced Wednesday by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the study will monitor 300 participants aged 13-17 over a six-week period to assess how varying levels of digital limitation impact educational performance, sleep quality, and family dynamics.

    The experimental design divides participants into four distinct cohorts: one group will undergo complete social media application blackouts; another will face overnight access prohibitions; a third will be subject to stringent one-hour daily caps on major platforms including Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat. These experimental groups will be contrasted against a control population maintaining unrestricted access throughout the trial duration.

    This research initiative coincides with ongoing governmental consultations regarding potential Australia-style blanket bans for users under 16. Technology Minister Liz Kendall emphasized the administration’s commitment to “giving young people the childhood they deserve,” noting that evidence gathered from these trials will inform future policy decisions based on tangible family experiences.

    Australia pioneered under-16 social media prohibitions in December 2023, with France advancing similar legislation for under-15s in January. The UK consultation period remains open until May 26, having recently seen parliamentary rejection of House of Lords proposals for immediate under-16 bans pending review outcomes.

    The debate has drawn support from public figures like actor Hugh Grant, who advocates for governmental intervention against platform harms exceeding parental control capacities. Conversely, technology experts caution that outright bans may prove technologically circumventable, advocating instead for enhanced platform safety measures. Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintains an open stance regarding potential future restrictions.

  • Churches to receive hurricane grants in April

    Churches to receive hurricane grants in April

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican government has unveiled a substantial financial assistance program for religious institutions devastated by Hurricane Melissa last October. Minister of Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie confirmed that 419 churches will receive restoration grants in April through the government’s Community Church Clean-Up and Restoration Initiative.

    The announcement came during McKenzie’s keynote address at the Kingston and St Andrew Governance Conference, held Wednesday at the Jamaica Conference Centre. The minister revealed that approximately 6,000 churches across Jamaica suffered damage during the hurricane’s passage, prompting extensive damage assessments through the Social Development Commission (SDC).

    The $75 million initiative forms a critical component of the broader post-Hurricane Melissa National Clean-Up Programme. Assessment teams evaluated religious institutions across the most severely affected parishes with support from municipal corporations and community organizations. The SDC received applications from churches in St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, St James, Trelawny, and Hanover, with the highest concentration from St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and St James.

    Minister McKenzie specified that the formal handover of checks will occur in St Elizabeth, which contains the largest number of impacted churches. The grants target institutions that completed the official assessment, evaluation, and authorization process following the October disaster.

    The governance conference, themed ‘Civil Society Organisations (CSO) on a Mission: Reset the Vibe…Build Our Future…Reignite the Fire’, provided the platform for this significant recovery announcement, highlighting the government’s commitment to community infrastructure restoration.