KINGSTON, Jamaica — The youth affiliate of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Generation 2000 (G2K), has launched a scathing critique of Opposition Leader and People’s National Party (PNP) President Mark Golding, accusing him of adopting an ‘arrogant, entitled, and immature’ approach to Jamaica’s constitutional reform process. In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday, G2K highlighted Golding’s refusal to engage with Constitutional Affairs Minister Delroy Chuck unless Prime Minister Andrew Holness is present. This stance, according to G2K, undermines national unity and obstructs Jamaica’s transition to a republic, a move that would sever ties with the United Kingdom’s monarchy. The group further criticized Golding for his alleged inconsistency, noting that while he initially supported bipartisan efforts on constitutional reform, he later reversed his position as the government’s plans gained traction. G2K also accused Golding of repeatedly disrespecting Prime Minister Holness and the Office of the Prime Minister, citing instances such as his refusal to stand during Holness’s arrival at the recent swearing-in ceremony at King’s House. The group labeled Golding’s insistence on direct talks with the prime minister as ‘ironic,’ given his reluctance to engage with Minister Chuck, who oversees the constitutional affairs portfolio. G2K urged Golding to abandon what it termed his ‘entitled, immature, and classist’ behavior and to adopt a more cooperative stance to expedite Jamaica’s transition to a republic.
标签: Jamaica
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Ethan Mbappe returns to haunt PSG as Lille force draw with Ligue 1 leaders
In a dramatic Ligue 1 showdown on Sunday, Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe, emerged as the hero for Lille by scoring a late equalizer against his former club Paris Saint-Germain. The 1-1 draw at Stade Pierre-Mauroy allowed injury-plagued PSG to maintain a one-point lead at the top of the league, but the spotlight was firmly on the 18-year-old substitute. PSG had taken the lead through a stunning free-kick by Nuno Mendes in the second half, but Ethan Mbappe’s composed finish in the 85th minute ensured the spoils were shared. PSG coach Luis Enrique admitted fatigue played a role, saying, ‘We prioritized the players’ health after a tough week.’ Meanwhile, Lyon suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat at home to Toulouse, with new signing Emersonn scoring a brace, including a dramatic 96th-minute winner. The result saw Lyon drop to fourth in the table. Elsewhere, Monaco and Nice played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, while Strasbourg climbed to third with a dominant 5-0 victory over Angers.
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Two Caribbean nationals among convicted child sex predators nabbed by ICE
In a significant enforcement operation, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency has apprehended four undocumented immigrants, including two Caribbean nationals, in San Diego, California. The individuals, hailing from The Bahamas, Cuba, Mexico, and Vietnam, were arrested following convictions for severe crimes against children, such as sexual assault, molestation, and rape. Among those detained was Devin Richardson, a Bahamian national, who was convicted of sexually assaulting minors and failing to register as a sex offender in California. Another individual, Walter Ramirez from Cuba, was found guilty of rape, drug-induced sexual assault of a minor, and domestic violence. All four are currently in ICE custody, awaiting deportation proceedings to their respective countries. Patrick Divver, the field office director for ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in San Diego, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘These predators targeted the most vulnerable members of our community — children.’ He further highlighted the proximity of one offender to an in-home daycare and an elementary school, underscoring the immediate threat to public safety. Divver concluded, ‘By taking them into custody, ICE has removed a clear danger and sent a strong message that child predators who are illegal aliens have no place in our country.’
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Twenty wounded in Sydney shooting
A 60-year-old man is now in police custody following a shocking mass shooting in Sydney’s Inner West suburb, which left 20 people injured. The incident occurred on Sunday evening when the suspect allegedly fired between 50 to 100 bullets indiscriminately at passing vehicles, including police cars, according to authorities. New South Wales Police Acting Superintendent Stephen Parry described the scene as chaotic, with the gunman’s actions posing a significant threat to public safety. After a two-hour standoff, police successfully apprehended the suspect in a unit above a local business. The man sustained injuries during his arrest and was subsequently hospitalized. Among the victims, one man is in serious condition after being shot, while 19 others suffered injuries from shrapnel or shattered glass. Witnesses described the scene as surreal, with one individual comparing it to a movie due to the loud gunshots, flashes, and smoke. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident. Mass shootings remain rare in Australia, a country that implemented strict gun control measures following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, which claimed 35 lives.
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Pope praises ‘significant progress’ towards Gaza peace
In a significant address at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV on Sunday lauded the ‘notable advancements’ in peace negotiations concerning the Gaza conflict. The pontiff reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire in the war-torn Palestinian territory and the liberation of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. His statement aligns with a wave of diplomatic efforts following Hamas’s favorable reaction to a peace proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at ending the protracted Israel-Hamas hostilities. ‘In recent hours, we have witnessed substantial progress in peace talks, which I fervently hope will culminate in the desired outcomes swiftly,’ the Pope declared after concluding a mass. He urged all stakeholders to remain steadfast in pursuing a ‘just and enduring peace,’ emphasizing the necessity of a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Additionally, Pope Leo XIV expressed profound concern over the escalating global tide of antisemitism, citing the recent terrorist assault on a synagogue in Manchester, which resulted in two fatalities and three severe injuries, as a ‘heartrending manifestation’ of this hatred. The Pope also conveyed his deep sorrow for the ‘immense suffering’ endured by the Palestinian populace in Gaza, underscoring the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
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Slot struggles to solve Liverpool problems after third successive loss
Liverpool’s turbulent start to the Premier League season took another hit as they suffered their third straight defeat, falling 2-1 to Chelsea in a dramatic encounter at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Manager Arne Slot acknowledged the team’s ongoing challenges, describing the squad as a “work in progress” following a series of underwhelming performances. The match saw Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo open the scoring with a stunning long-range strike, only for Cody Gakpo to level the score in the second half. However, Estevao Willian sealed the win for Chelsea with a stoppage-time goal, leaving Liverpool reeling. This marks the first time since 2023 that Liverpool have endured three consecutive losses, a streak that began under former manager Jurgen Klopp. Slot, experiencing his first managerial run of three defeats in a row, attributed the team’s struggles to a combination of summer upheaval, including significant player acquisitions and the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota. Despite spending over £400 million on new talent, Liverpool’s marquee signings have yet to make a significant impact. Slot emphasized the need for patience and integration, stating, “We need to bring these players into our style.” The Reds’ next challenge will be a crucial clash against Manchester United after the international break, as they seek to regain their footing in the title race.
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Kudus fires Spurs into second with win at Leeds
In a thrilling Premier League clash at Elland Road, Mohammed Kudus’ decisive goal secured a 2-1 victory for Tottenham Hotspur, ending Leeds United’s impressive 24-game unbeaten home run. The match, played on Saturday, saw both teams deliver a high-octane performance filled with dramatic moments. Mathys Tel opened the scoring for Spurs with a deflected strike, only for Noah Okafor to equalize for Leeds before halftime. Kudus, however, emerged as the hero with a powerful shot that found the net just before the hour mark, sealing the win for Tottenham. The victory propelled Spurs to second place in the league, just one point behind leaders Liverpool. Under the guidance of manager Thomas Frank, Tottenham showcased a newfound defensive resilience, a stark contrast to their struggles last season. Leeds, despite their valiant efforts, were left to rue missed opportunities, including a crucial header by Joe Rodon that struck the post. The defeat leaves Leeds in 12th place, with eight points from their first seven games. Tottenham, on the other hand, continue to build momentum, having avoided dropping points after taking the lead in any match this season.
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Delivery driver charged after police seize 1,500 pounds of ganja in St Thomas
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Jamaican authorities have charged 33-year-old Fabian Watson with six violations of the Dangerous Drugs Act. The charges stem from the seizure of over 1,500 pounds of compressed ganja on Church Street in Morant Bay, St Thomas, on Wednesday night. The illicit haul, with an estimated street value of $4.7 million, was discovered during a joint operation by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) and the St Thomas police. Watson, a delivery driver from Mount Zion, Rock River in Clarendon, was intercepted while driving a truck. A subsequent search revealed more than 150 parcels of compressed ganja and over $180,000 in cash. Watson now faces charges including possession, dealing, and trafficking of ganja, as well as conspiracy and possession of criminal property. Acting Senior Superintendent Patrae Rowe, director of FNID, emphasized the division’s commitment to dismantling drug networks and their financial operations. Rowe also highlighted the dangerous link between ganja trafficking and the influx of illegal firearms, which fuel violent crimes in Jamaica. Authorities are urging the public to report illegal activities through various hotlines, including FNID at 876-923-6184, Crime Stop at 311, and the police emergency number at 119.
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Bailey expected to remain sidelined until after international break – reports
Jamaican winger Leon Bailey, who sustained an injury shortly after joining Serie A club AS Roma in August, is set to remain out of action until after the upcoming international break, as reported by Italian media. This setback means the 28-year-old is likely to miss Jamaica’s pivotal World Cup qualifying matches against Curaçao on October 10 and Bermuda on October 14. Head coach Steve McClaren is expected to announce the squad for these games on Saturday morning. Jamaica currently leads Group B with six points, holding a two-point advantage over second-placed Curaçao. Trinidad and Tobago trail in third with one point, while Bermuda remains at the bottom with no points. Bailey, who joined Roma on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, has yet to make an impact due to his prolonged recovery from an undisclosed injury, leaving fans disappointed.
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‘Let’s check on each other’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has issued a heartfelt appeal to citizens to prioritize mental health by checking in with loved ones and utilizing available mental health resources. Speaking against the backdrop of rising suicide rates and increased calls to the national Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE), Dr. Tufton emphasized the collective responsibility of addressing mental health challenges. ‘Every Jamaican must pause, observe their surroundings, and offer support to those in need. When personal efforts fall short, professional help through public health services, faith-based organizations, or safe spaces should be sought,’ he stated. The helpline recorded 633 calls last month, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Dr. Tufton’s remarks follow his participation in the United Nations General Assembly’s High-level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Promotion. The Ministry of Health and Wellness is actively enhancing mental health services, including training non-psychiatric healthcare workers under the WHO’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme. Additionally, the School Mental Health Literacy Programme will resume in November, aiming to educate students on mental health awareness and coping strategies. Community-level initiatives, such as the Problem Management Plus providers, are also being expanded to support individuals facing emotional distress. With over 150 public mental health clinics islandwide, Jamaica continues to strengthen its mental health infrastructure. Other resources include the U-Matter Chatline for youth and a helpline for substance use-related mental health support.
