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  • St Vinncent Opposition wins general elections, ousting Gonsalves after 24 years

    St Vinncent Opposition wins general elections, ousting Gonsalves after 24 years

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — St Vincent and the Grenadines has witnessed a monumental political transformation with the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) securing a decisive victory in the 2025 general elections. This electoral outcome terminates the unprecedented 25-year governance of former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labour Party.

    Official results reported by St Vincent Times confirm the NDP’s commanding parliamentary majority, capturing 11 legislative seats during preliminary vote counting. This sweeping win positions Dr. Godwin Friday, the NDP leader, to assume the role of the nation’s seventh prime minister since gaining independence from Britain in 1979.

    The political transition follows an intensely contested electoral battle between Dr. Friday’s progressive platform and the established administration of Gonsalves, one of the Caribbean’s longest-serving political figures. The outcome reflects a palpable public demand for governmental change and new policy directions.

    As the nation anticipates its leadership transition, attention now shifts to Prime Minister-elect Friday’s administration formation and his policy blueprint for addressing critical national challenges. The incoming government faces mounting expectations to implement economic revitalization strategies and address pressing social development priorities across the multi-island nation.

    This historic power shift represents not merely a change in governing parties but potentially a fundamental realignment of Vincentian political dynamics, with implications for both domestic governance and the country’s international partnerships within the Caribbean Community and broader global arena.

  • DBJ offers $10-b lifeline for Melissa-hit businesses

    DBJ offers $10-b lifeline for Melissa-hit businesses

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaican businesses, the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) has stepped in with a substantial $10 billion recovery package. This initiative aims to assist affected enterprises in regaining their operational footing. Eligible businesses can access between $20 million and $50 million through approved financial institutions (AFIs) and microfinance institutions (MFIs).

    DBJ Managing Director David Lowe unveiled the M5 Business Recovery Programme during a media briefing at Jamaica House. The programme is structured into three phases: an immediate $1 billion allocation to AFIs and MFIs for onlending, a subsequent $3 billion for additional support, and a $7 billion fund earmarked for sectoral and supply chain rebuilding.

    Lowe emphasized that the DBJ has engaged in extensive consultations with stakeholders, including local banks, microfinance institutions, and business associations, to understand the challenges faced by businesses. The bank identified critical gaps in financial access and tailored its support to address both direct and indirect impacts of the hurricane.

    The recovery framework includes three product windows: refinancing for indirectly affected businesses, a reboot window for short-term needs and infrastructure repair, and a rebuilding window for long-term recovery of severely disrupted enterprises. Lowe highlighted the focus on key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, and tourism, with targeted support for small and micro businesses.

    In addition to the recovery programme, DBJ will introduce a grant initiative to foster innovation and a collateral cash support scheme offering up to 80% coverage for damaged or destroyed loan-secured properties. Lowe stressed the importance of resilience and recovery in the face of future catastrophes, underscoring the DBJ’s commitment to sustainable business support.

  • 14 leptospirosis-related deaths, 6 confirmed — Dr Webster-Kerr

    14 leptospirosis-related deaths, 6 confirmed — Dr Webster-Kerr

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Health authorities in Jamaica have reported a significant outbreak of leptospirosis following Hurricane Melissa, with 14 fatalities recorded to date. According to Dr. Karen Webster-Kerr, Principal Medical Officer and National Epidemiologist at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, six of these deaths have been laboratory-confirmed as leptospirosis, while others remain under investigation.

    The epidemiological data reveals a sharp increase in cases after the hurricane, with 10 deaths occurring post-Melissa compared to four beforehand. Overall, Jamaica has documented 90 suspected cases—51 pre-hurricane and 39 post-hurricane—with 21 cases confirmed through testing.

    Demographic analysis shows the most vulnerable groups are males aged 20–29 and adults over 60 years old. Geographically, St. James Parish has reported the highest infection rates, followed by St. Ann and St. Elizabeth.

    In contrast to the leptospirosis outbreak, Jamaica maintains low levels of other infectious diseases. All 39 dengue tests processed between November 8–18 returned negative results, indicating minimal transmission activity. The country also remains below epidemic thresholds for respiratory illnesses and gastroenteritis across all age groups and parishes.

    However, officials noted concerning injury trends in Westmoreland and Kingston-St. Andrew, where accident rates have reached epidemic levels post-hurricane. This has resulted in two tetanus cases from nail injuries, including one fatal incident involving a 71-year-old Westmoreland man. Health authorities are urging proper wound care and tetanus vaccination for those injured during cleanup operations.

  • JLP congratulates Dr Godwin Friday and NDP on election victory in St Vincent

    JLP congratulates Dr Godwin Friday and NDP on election victory in St Vincent

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has formally congratulated opposition leader Dr. Godwin Friday and his New Democratic Party (NDP) for securing victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ recent general elections.

    In an official communiqué released Thursday, the JLP characterized the electoral outcome as a definitive expression of the democratic will of Vincentian voters. The statement emphasized that this peaceful transfer of power underscores the robustness of democratic institutions throughout the Caribbean region.

    The Jamaican party further articulated its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with its Caribbean neighbor. This diplomatic overture specifically highlighted several key areas for enhanced collaboration, including advancing CARICOM integration initiatives, developing climate adaptation strategies, and creating expanded economic opportunities for citizens across both nations.

    “We extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Friday and the NDP while wishing them productive governance during their upcoming term in service to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” the JLP’s statement concluded, signaling a spirit of regional solidarity despite political differences.

  • OUT OF BOUNDS

    OUT OF BOUNDS

    Despite losing home advantage for their opening game in the FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers, Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) President Paulton Gordon remains optimistic about the team’s chances against Puerto Rico. The Group B match is scheduled for Friday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, with a rematch set for Monday at the same venue. Originally, Jamaica was to host the opener, but a failed inspection of the Montego Bay Convention Centre and the National Indoor Sports Centre by FIBA in September forced JABA to relinquish hosting rights. While the court at the National Indoor Sports Centre was approved, the $3.5 million installation of a new scoreboard proved too costly to complete in time. Gordon explained that FIBA’s late requirements left insufficient time for necessary upgrades. Despite these challenges, Jamaica is preparing for upcoming home games against The Bahamas on February 26 and Canada on March 1. FIBA has mandated additional improvements, including new hoops, enhanced lighting, and expanded facilities for teams and media. Gordon expressed gratitude to the Puerto Rican Basketball Association for covering accommodation, meals, and transportation costs, easing the financial burden. Jamaica, ranked 19th in the region, faces a tough challenge against fifth-ranked Puerto Rico, but Gordon remains confident in the team’s ability to compete. The squad will miss Miami Heat star Norman Powell due to NBA restrictions but will rely on former NBA draft prospect Kofi Cockburn, who has excelled in the Korean Basketball League. Gordon emphasized the importance of starting the qualifiers on a positive note and delivering a top-class performance. Meanwhile, The Bahamas will host Canada in Nassau on Friday, with a rematch in Toronto on Monday.

  • Vincentians vote as Gonsalves vies for 6th stint in gov’t

    Vincentians vote as Gonsalves vies for 6th stint in gov’t

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent — A decisive general election unfolds today in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with over 103,000 eligible voters heading to 250 polling stations. This electoral contest is widely viewed as a potential watershed moment that might conclude the extensive political tenure of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) longest-serving head of government.

    The 79-year-old leader is steering his ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) into the fray, aiming for an unprecedented sixth consecutive term in office. However, the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), led by 66-year-old attorney Dr. Godwin Friday, is mounting a formidable challenge to dismantle the ULP’s quarter-century dominance and bring the party out of its prolonged political exile.

    Electoral competition spans all 15 constituencies, with both the ULP and NDP contesting every seat. The political landscape also features smaller players, including the National Liberation Movement (NLM). Its leader, Dr. Doris Charles, is vying for the South Leeward constituency. She is joined by independent candidate Kenna Questelles, who is contesting the West St. George seat, adding further diversity to the ballot.

    The outcome remains highly uncertain. The previous general election resulted in a ULP victory, securing nine of the 15 parliamentary seats. Political analysts are closely monitoring whether the electorate will grant Dr. Gonsalves another mandate or usher in a new political chapter under Dr. Friday’s leadership, signaling a profound shift in the nation’s governance.

  • COLEY COMMITS

    COLEY COMMITS

    In a significant move to bolster Jamaica’s national football team, former Reggae Boyz Assistant Coach Miguel Coley has agreed to rejoin the program. This marks the first major step in Interim Head Coach Rudolph Speid’s strategy to assemble a strong technical team ahead of Jamaica’s critical Inter-Confederation World Cup qualifying play-off in March 2026. Sources confirmed that Coley and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) finalized the agreement yesterday, with additional appointments expected in the coming weeks to ensure a complete staff complement well before the team’s final push for World Cup qualification.

    Coley, 43, brings extensive international experience to his return. He was identified as the JFF’s top choice for the assistant head coach position following Speid’s appointment on November 21. After days of negotiations, both sides reached an agreement. Coley, a Pro Licence holder renowned for his tactical acumen, has spent the last four seasons in the Middle East, currently serving as head coach of Umm Salal’s reserve team in the Qatar Stars League.

    Coley first gained prominence during a successful tenure with Jamaica College, leading the school to five Manning Cup titles. His achievements earned him an initial role with the Reggae Boyz as assistant to former Head Coach Winfried Schäfer, with whom he later reunited at Iranian club Esteghlal. His international coaching experience expanded with stints at Baniyas in the United Arab Emirates in 2019 and Al-Khor in Qatar in 2021.

    Coley’s return is expected to be the first of several additions to Speid’s technical staff. The JFF is actively engaging with overseas-based coaches and former national players to enhance the program’s technical expertise. Among the targeted candidates is former Jamaican international Aaron Lawrence, currently head coach of the Turks and Caicos national team, who is being recruited as goalkeeping coach. Ricardo “Bibi” Gardner, a standout from Jamaica’s 1998 World Cup campaign, is also expected to join, alongside former national wing back Tyrone Marshall, now head coach of FC Cincinnati’s reserve team.

    Jamaica’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup involves a crucial play-off against New Caledonia on March 26, 2026, in Mexico. If successful, they will face DR Congo on March 31, with the winner securing World Cup qualification. This play-off became necessary after Jamaica failed to secure automatic qualification in the Concacaf Final Round Qualifiers, following a 0-0 draw with Curacao on November 18. The result led to the resignation of former head coach Steve McClaren, who had been appointed 18 months prior.

  • Wildfire Records releases ‘All Star Album’

    Wildfire Records releases ‘All Star Album’

    Philadelphia-based Wildfire Records, under the stewardship of Jamaican music veteran Earl Messam, has maintained a prolific release schedule over the past two years. The independent label has specialized in compilation albums that strategically bridge generations, featuring both established reggae icons and emerging artists poised for breakthrough success.

    This strategic vision continues with the launch of ‘All Star Album,’ a substantial 22-track compilation. Serving as a sequel to the previously released ‘Champion Album’ and ‘Ready fi di World, Vol 3’ from June, the new project showcases a diverse roster including Anaconda, the legendary Glen Ricks, and Philadelphia-native Shan Bam.

    Messam, who hails from Clarendon, Jamaica, outlines a deliberately straightforward A&R philosophy. His process involves recording seasoned performers like Ricks, Anaconda, and Roland Burrell while simultaneously providing a crucial platform for Philadelphia-bred talents such as Shan Bam to gain international exposure.

    ‘Every project holds special significance, driven purely by a profound love for music. The considerable time invested in crafting these songs, working directly with handpicked artists and producers, is what elevates the work and makes it truly exceptional,’ Messam explained in a recent statement.

    Anaconda, whose recording career began in 2000, makes a significant contribution with five tracks on the album, including notable cuts like ‘Don’t Come A mi Yard,’ ‘Woman,’ and ‘Caribbean Queen.’

    Shan Bam, an artist of Jamaican descent, appears on five collaborative tracks. Among these is a distinctive cover of Beres Hammond’s classic ‘No Goodbye,’ performed alongside Glen Ricks.

    The album also highlights the enduring career of Glen Ricks, who first emerged from Toronto’s burgeoning reggae scene in the late 1960s. The artist achieved commercial success in 1970 as a member of The Fabulous Flames (alongside Lovindeer) with a massively popular reggae adaptation of Neil Diamond’s ‘Holly Holy.’ Ricks contributes another original piece, ‘When Love is New,’ to this compilation.

    Messam’s extensive industry experience dates back to the 1980s in Jamaica. After relocating to Philadelphia late in that decade, he continued his production work, most recently collaborating with Roland Burrell, the acclaimed artist behind hit songs ‘Stormy Night’ and ‘Johnny Dollar.’

  • Party with a purpose

    Party with a purpose

    The Build Back Jamaica Street Dance, held at Romeich Headquarters on Saturday night, was far from an ordinary dancehall event. At its core, it was a mission-driven gathering aimed at raising funds for hurricane recovery efforts. A massive donation box placed center stage and gospel music interludes throughout the night underscored the event’s philanthropic purpose. Patrons, dressed in their finest streetwear, were reminded of their collective responsibility to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa. Despite the somber undertone, the atmosphere was electric, with music, dance, and camaraderie taking center stage. Romeich Major, the event’s organizer, passionately urged attendees to contribute generously, emphasizing that every donation, no matter how small, would aid in rebuilding Jamaica. The night featured an impressive lineup of DJs and selectors who kept the energy high with a mix of R&B, hip-hop, dancehall, and reggae hits. A poignant moment of silence honored the lives lost to the hurricane, accompanied by gospel favorites that stirred deep emotions among the crowd. Songs like ‘We Are The World’ and ‘Lean On Me’ further reinforced the theme of unity and gratitude. Attendees enthusiastically participated in the donation drive, flocking to the stage to fill the ‘offering plate.’ Supported by corporate sponsors, the event continued well into the early hours, leaving a lasting impact on both the attendees and the cause it championed.

  • Belize gets WTO funds for fisheries project

    Belize gets WTO funds for fisheries project

    BELMOPAN, Belize – In a significant move toward sustainable ocean governance, the Belizean government has been awarded a US$300,000 grant from the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Fish Fund. The funding, announced Thursday, is earmarked for enhancing the nation’s legal and institutional frameworks to responsibly manage emerging fisheries subsidy programs. This strategic initiative aims to balance economic support for local livelihoods with the critical need to prevent subsidies that could inadvertently promote overfishing and other detrimental practices. The approved project, titled ‘Building Legal Understanding and Enforcement Capacity for Fisheries Subsidies Reform in Belize’ (BLUE-CAP), is designed to integrate seamlessly with the country’s existing Blue Economy agenda. This includes a complementary program backed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) focused on expanding artisanal fisheries, as well as the national Blue Economy Development Policy and Strategy. Government officials highlighted that the grant application’s success was a direct result of a cohesive inter-agency collaboration. Key contributors included the Directorate General for Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, the Fisheries Department, and the High Seas Fisheries Unit, working in concert with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM). This partnership underscores a regional commitment to shared marine resource challenges. With the new funding secured, Belize anticipates strengthened collaboration with both national and regional partners. The overarching goal is to implement robust management practices that ensure the long-term health and sustainability of marine ecosystems, safeguarding them for future generations while fostering an economically empowering blue economy.