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  • Bugle and Maxi Priest team up for ‘Love Again’ collaboration

    Bugle and Maxi Priest team up for ‘Love Again’ collaboration

    Jamaican reggae artist Bugle has unveiled a significant musical collaboration with British reggae legend Maxi Priest in the newly released single “Love Again.” The track, produced by Boogie Down Records, represents a milestone achievement for Bugle, who describes working with Priest as “definitely an accomplishment in my book.”

    The romantic reggae composition emerged during Bugle’s recording sessions for his 2024 album “Apex” when producers presented him with an instrumental track that immediately inspired visions of a love song. Bugle conceptualized the entire piece before proposing the collaboration with Priest, facilitated by the existing relationship between producers Taz and the British reggae icon.

    The recording process required strategic coordination as Priest was touring in the United States during initial production phases. Demonstrating professional dedication, Priest recorded his vocals immediately upon returning to London, even while managing vocal fatigue—a commitment that earned profound respect from Bugle.

    Accompanying the musical release, an officially released music video directed by Caribbean Gold Group premiered on March 1, 2026. The visual production showcases Jamaica’s natural beauty through breathtaking cinematography featuring aquamarine seas, dramatic coastlines, and cliffs along Montego Bay’s shoreline. This visual narrative intentionally highlights water sports, golf courses, and Jamaica’s picturesque landscapes to complement the song’s romantic themes.

    The collaboration has generated substantial audience engagement, with the video accumulating thousands of views since its release and returning both artists to chart prominence. Bugle expresses confidence that the conscious messaging embedded within the track—encouraging listeners to transcend negativity and maintain purposeful grounding—will resonate deeply with reggae audiences worldwide.

    Reflecting on the production experience, Bugle praised Boogie Down Records’ hands-on approach and strategic vision, noting this initial collaboration has established a foundation for future creative partnerships. The artist remains focused on his productive trajectory, having commenced new projects even before the new year’s arrival.

  • Why oil prices are soaring despite record reserve release

    Why oil prices are soaring despite record reserve release

    LONDON, United States (AFP) — In an unprecedented move, major global economies have coordinated the largest strategic petroleum reserve release in history, yet the action has proven insufficient to stabilize turbulent oil markets. Despite the International Energy Agency’s announcement of a 400-million-barrel drawdown on Wednesday, crude prices surged past $100 per barrel on Thursday as fresh Iranian attacks on energy infrastructure and fears of prolonged conflict continued to roil markets.

    The coordinated effort, designed to mitigate the impact of Middle East hostilities on energy supplies, sees the United States contributing 172 million barrels—approximately 40% of its current reserves—to be released gradually over three months. However, analysts immediately questioned the adequacy of this response given the scale of production disruptions emanating from the Persian Gulf region.

    According to ING bank commodities strategists, the reserve release falls ‘far short of the supply losses we are seeing from the Persian Gulf.’ Current estimates indicate global crude production has declined by at least 8 million barrels daily, with an additional 2 million barrels of petroleum products offline.

    The situation has been exacerbated by a new wave of Iranian retaliatory strikes targeting critical energy infrastructure across the Gulf region. Bahrain reported attacks on fuel tanks in Muharraq, while drones struck storage facilities at Oman’s Salalah port. Saudi Arabia confirmed intercepting drones targeting its Shaybah oil field. These attacks have effectively halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical passageway that normally facilitates approximately one-fifth of global crude shipments.

    Market anxiety is further compounded by the prospect of an extended conflict. While U.S. officials have suggested a potential near-term resolution, Iran has warned of a protracted engagement that could ‘destroy’ the world economy. The IEA has characterized the situation as ‘creating the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market,’ with no clear timeline for de-escalation or restoration of normal shipping operations.

  • Holness accuses Bunting of bias as PAAC mandate squabble continues

    Holness accuses Bunting of bias as PAAC mandate squabble continues

    Jamaica’s parliamentary proceedings descended into renewed acrimony on Wednesday as tensions within the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC) reached boiling point. Juliet Holness, Member of Parliament for St Andrew East Rural and Speaker of the House, launched a direct challenge against Committee Chairman Peter Bunting’s leadership, accusing him of systemic bias in managing committee proceedings.

    The confrontation emerged during deliberations about the fundamental scope and authority of the PAAC, with Holness contending the committee has progressively exceeded its mandated jurisdiction. She specifically criticized Bunting’s management approach, asserting his recognition of speakers demonstrated partiality rather than neutral procedural oversight. “I observed, for my first two meetings, I remember asking a question and being rushed while other members were allowed to extend their questioning indefinitely,” Holness stated.

    Beyond procedural concerns, Holness expressed profound frustration with what she characterized as widespread disrespect and inadequate preparation among committee members. She notably suggested some legislators rely on artificial intelligence tools rather than substantive understanding, remarking that “some fast learners continue to be stupid and use chatGPT for their questions.”

    The central constitutional question revolved around whether the PAAC should maintain narrow focus on expenditure review or expand into broader administrative efficiency examinations. Holness maintained the committee should concentrate exclusively on monitoring how approved public funds are utilized, particularly during budget cycles.

    Chairman Bunting vigorously defended his interpretation of the committee’s mandate under Standing Order 73A, arguing for a more expansive view of its responsibilities. He contended that jurisdictional overlap is inevitable when examining large-scale government programs that cross multiple sectors. Using hurricane recovery efforts as an example, Bunting explained such initiatives naturally encompass infrastructure, education, and other domains, making narrow jurisdictional boundaries impractical.

    In response to accusations of partiality, Bunting asserted his leadership maintains careful neutrality. “The fact that from time to time members on both sides may be upset with me suggests to me that I am achieving impartiality,” he countered, drawing parallels to Holness’s own responsibilities as House Speaker.

    The dispute represents an institutional crisis concerning parliamentary oversight mechanisms and the appropriate boundaries between specialized committees in Jamaica’s governance structure.

  • CDT continues Tony Wilson’s legacy with 2026 season of dance

    CDT continues Tony Wilson’s legacy with 2026 season of dance

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Company Dance Theatre (CDT) made a spectacular return to the stage with a performance that blended artistic excellence with thematic depth, marking a significant cultural moment in Jamaica’s dance landscape. The production, presented at Kingston’s Little Theatre, demonstrated the company’s unwavering dedication to innovative choreography while challenging conventional perceptions of dance artistry.

    Staged in collaboration with the Women in Law Foundation and the Scotiabank Women Initiative, the event served as a benefit performance honoring International Women’s Day 2026. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” was powerfully interpreted through movement, merging dance’s expressive power with messages of female empowerment and social progress.

    The season’s second night commenced with principal dancer Andrew Bailey leading the ensemble in “Streams,” a piece originally choreographed by CDT’s late founder Tony Wilson. The performance established an atmospheric journey through aquatic-inspired blue lighting and costumes, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.

    Guest choreographer Khalia Campbell, formerly of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, presented the world premiere of “The Return” featuring the athletically exceptional Joshua Craigie. The work left audiences captivated by its technical demands and emotional resonance.

    Artistic Director Dr. Sade Bully-Bell reaffirmed her status as an avant-garde choreographer with “Gamma Gamma,” showcasing her distinctive artistic voice and exacting standards. Associate Artistic Director Renée McDonald’s “One80” emerged as another standout work, particularly in its reconceptualization from solo to trio format. This adaptation featured Jevon Ferrill joining Andrew Bailey and Joshua Craigie, earning enthusiastic applause for its physical and conceptual boundary-pushing.

    The program’s diversity shone through Steven Cornwall’s “Baddie Language,” where Shamitha Chindepalli led the company through explosive dancehall choreography. Shavaughn Byndloss’ “Mapping” provided emotional depth as dancers moved to the iconic music of Jimmy Cliff.

    Notable performances included Matthew Johnson’s technically precise execution and young dancer Naomi Campbell’s commanding presence. Female leads Naima Scott, Zhane Padmore, and Shauna Cummings demonstrated remarkable expressiveness and dynamic artistry throughout the production.

    The company will continue its artistic journey with an international performance scheduled for March 14, 2026, in Miramar, Florida, with tickets available through their official website.

  • Budget Debate: We don’t support the $18 billion tax package, says Robinson

    Budget Debate: We don’t support the $18 billion tax package, says Robinson

    In a forceful address to Jamaica’s Parliament during the 2026-2027 Budget Debate, Opposition Finance Spokesman Julian Robinson launched a severe critique against the government’s newly announced $18 billion tax package. Robinson characterized the imposition of fresh taxes following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa as fundamentally unconscionable, arguing it places unjustifiable pressure on citizens already grappling with recovery.

    Robinson detailed the direct impact on Jamaican households, noting that consumers will face immediately higher grocery expenses due to the administration’s fiscal decisions. The comprehensive tax measures, which target sweetened beverages, tobacco products, pure alcohol, and tourism-related activities, collectively approach $30 billion in new revenue generation.

    From an economic policy perspective, the opposition spokesman articulated a sophisticated critique, labeling the tax increases as a ‘procyclical response’ to economic contraction. Robinson explained that rather than countering economic slowdown, the government’s approach exacerbates existing challenges by applying pressure in the same direction as the economic decline. He emphasized that Jamaica’s tax base has been substantially weakened by a decade of limited growth under the current administration, further compromised by Hurricane Melissa’s impact.

    Robinson proposed an alternative economic strategy centered on countercyclical measures that would stimulate economic activity and create organic conditions for tax base recovery. He asserted that sustainable revenue generation emerges from economic growth rather than taxation of financially stressed populations.

    The opposition spokesman further highlighted the disproportionate burden falling on lower-income Jamaicans and elderly citizens, who continue to struggle with post-hurricane recovery. Robinson concluded with a cricket metaphor, stating that if his People’s National Party were governing, ‘this is not the shot we would have played,’ signaling fundamental disagreement with the government’s fiscal approach.

  • Defence questions cops’ video recording of Klans accused

    Defence questions cops’ video recording of Klans accused

    A significant judicial inquiry has been initiated within Jamaica’s Supreme Court regarding allegations that law enforcement personnel improperly photographed and recorded defendants currently on trial. The controversy emerged during proceedings against 25 alleged members of the Tesha Miller faction of the Klansman Gang, who face 16 criminal charges spanning from August 2017 to November 2022.

    Defense attorney Tamika Harris brought the matter to Justice Dale Palmer’s attention, reporting she witnessed multiple uniformed officers capturing images of the accused as they were transported from court facilities in a prison vehicle. Harris asserted she immediately challenged the officers’ actions, to which they reportedly responded that all defendants’ photographs already existed within police databases.

    The prosecution team, led by an acting deputy director of public prosecutions, stated they had no prior knowledge of these activities. When questioned, a deputy superintendent of police responsible for court security offered a contradictory account, explaining that the Constabulary Communication Unit had been documenting the work of Specialized Operations personnel rather than specifically recording defendants.

    Justice Palmer expressed grave concerns about potential procedural violations, emphasizing that capturing defendants’ images during an ongoing trial without proper authorization constitutes highly improper conduct. The judge issued explicit directives that any footage containing defendant imagery must not be reproduced, shared, or published, and should instead be immediately deleted if discovered.

    Defense representatives maintained that their clients’ right to fair identification procedures may have been compromised, requesting thorough examination of all captured material. Despite judicial skepticism about practical implications for the trial’s identification phases, Justice Palmer ordered all relevant footage be submitted for his review before the next hearing date.

    The court has scheduled the next proceedings for March 16, allowing time for proper investigation of these allegations and examination of the contested visual materials.

  • Mexico seizes 14 millions fentanyl doses

    Mexico seizes 14 millions fentanyl doses

    MEXICO CITY — In a significant counter-narcotics operation, Mexican authorities announced the confiscation of approximately 14 million doses of fentanyl on Thursday. The seizure represents the latest development in the ongoing battle against synthetic opioid trafficking toward the United States.

    The Mexican Public Security Ministry reported that the illicit substances were discovered during coordinated raids on a covert drug laboratory and a storage facility located in Villa de Alvarez, a municipality within the violence-plagued western state of Colima. Law enforcement officials uncovered roughly 270 kilograms of a substance matching the properties of fentanyl, presented in both powdered and pill formulations.

    Six individuals were apprehended in connection with the operation, though specific details regarding the timing of the raids and the estimated market value of the confiscated drugs were not disclosed. While substantial, officials clarified that this seizure does not set a national record, referencing a larger operation earlier in 2024 that yielded an additional metric ton of the substance.

    This enforcement action occurs against a backdrop of heightened diplomatic friction. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified his rhetoric criticizing Mexico’s efforts to combat drug cartels, recently asserting that criminal organizations are ‘running Mexico’ and announcing the formation of a 17-nation Americas Counter Cartel Coalition to eradicate them. In a notable escalation last December, Trump formally classified fentanyl as a ‘weapon of mass destruction,’ placing it in the same category as nuclear and chemical weapons due to its role in tens of thousands of annual American overdose deaths.

    In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has countered that the flow of firearms from the United States into Mexico significantly empowers cartel operations. She has called upon Washington to strengthen measures preventing weapons from crossing the southern border, highlighting the complex, bilateral nature of the security challenge.

  • UPDATE: Second victim succumbs in Manchester crash

    UPDATE: Second victim succumbs in Manchester crash

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The Manchester police have reported a second fatality resulting from a severe traffic accident that occurred on the Pen Hill main road this past Thursday. The deceased has been identified as Livingston McEwan, an employee of the National Water Commission (NWC).

    This development follows the earlier confirmed death of his colleague, Lemar Lewis, who also perished from injuries sustained in the same incident. According to official reports from law enforcement, the collision involved two vehicles: a Suzuki Swift and a Toyota Wish.

    The preliminary investigation indicates that the Suzuki, carrying the two NWC staff members, was traveling downhill. The tragedy unfolded when the Toyota Wish, moving in the opposite direction, allegedly veered out of its lane, failing to maintain its left position, which led to a catastrophic head-on impact.

    Emergency services transported three individuals to a nearby medical facility. Despite efforts to save them, both McEwan and Lewis were pronounced dead upon arrival. The driver of the Toyota Wish sustained life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized in critical condition. Police authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances surrounding the crash.

  • My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    Jamaica’s culinary landscape, a vibrant tapestry woven from Taíno, African, Indian, European, and Asian influences, takes center stage in Chef Andre Fowles’ acclaimed new cookbook, ‘My Jamaican Table: Vibrant Recipes From A Sun-Drenched Island’. The publication, which debuted on March 10, transcends a mere collection of recipes, positioning itself as a profound narrative on culture, community, and resilience through food.

    Fowles, a three-time ‘Chopped’ champion and international consultant, channels his Kingston tenement yard upbringing into over 100 modern and traditional dishes. He articulates a philosophy where cuisine embodies legacy and connection, stating, ‘I learned about chopping, stirring, and tasting from my mother and grandmother, but more importantly, about Jamaica’s warmth, effervescence, and perseverance.’

    The compendium navigates the full spectrum of Jamaican eating, from breakfast staples like Mackerel Rundown to iconic Beef Patties and communal Curry Goat. Fowles masterfully bridges tradition and innovation, presenting classic Jerk Chicken alongside inventive fusions such as Oxtail and Gnocchi and a Rum Cake Tiramisu. Each recipe is crafted with accessible instructions, ensuring the island’s complex, spice-forward flavors can be recreated globally.

    Earning a spot in Bon Appétit Magazine’s ‘The Best New Cookbooks of Winter 2026’, the project has garnered prestigious acclaim. The foreword, penned by Bruce Springsteen, lauds Fowles as an artist whose dishes carry ‘a sense of history, place, and heart,’ comparing their impact to a powerful musical chord.

    Beyond the kitchen, the book serves a philanthropic purpose. A portion of its pre-sales proceeds supports the Savanna-la-Mar Inclusive Academy, aiding relief initiatives for its surrounding community. Through partnerships with cultural organizations, Fowles ensures the project actively reinvests in the Caribbean communities that inspire it.

    The launch was celebrated with events including a signing at BEM Books & More in Brooklyn and a forthcoming collaborative four-course dinner with Chefs Lonie Murdock and Corwin Hemming at Isla Restaurant in Washington, DC, on March 18.

  • St James records 16 murders for first three months of 2026

    St James records 16 murders for first three months of 2026

    Jamaican law enforcement authorities have reported a concerning surge in violent crimes within the St James Police Division during the initial quarter of 2026. Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels presented official statistics revealing 16 homicide cases recorded between January and early March, establishing the region as Jamaica’s most violent police jurisdiction.

    During his address at the monthly assembly of the St James Municipal Corporation, SSP Samuels provided comparative analysis indicating a significant year-over-year increase of four additional murders compared to the same period in 2025. The divisional commander further noted an accelerated pace of violence, with seven new homicides occurring since February alone, substantially elevating the three-month total.

    Law enforcement analysis indicates a notable shift in murder motivations, with domestic altercations and interpersonal conflicts now constituting the primary drivers of violence. SSP Samuels emphasized the changing nature of these incidents, stating: “We have observed a measurable decrease in gang-related homicides. The current violence predominantly stems from personal disputes, frequently involving edged weapons such as knives and machetes.”

    The St James Division currently maintains the unfortunate distinction of highest murder rate among all Jamaican police jurisdictions, followed by St Andrew South which recorded 11 homicides during the same monitoring period. These statistics have prompted renewed discussions about community intervention strategies and conflict resolution mechanisms to address the emerging pattern of personally-motivated violence.