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标签： Jamaica

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  • Trash crisis deepens

    Trash crisis deepens

    The picturesque Jamaican resort town of Negril is confronting a severe sanitation emergency as chronic failures in garbage collection threaten both public health and its vital tourism economy. Local business leaders from the Negril Chamber of Commerce are urgently seeking high-level meetings with Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie and National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) director Audley Gordon to address what they describe as a complete breakdown of waste management services.

    Chamber President Damian Salmon expressed profound concern about overflowing skip containers and accumulating roadside waste throughout the town’s tourist districts. ‘We’ve done everything including writing letters and contacting people, but the situation needs escalation,’ Salmon stated, highlighting the absence of communication from waste management authorities regarding equipment failures or staffing issues.

    The visual evidence along Norman Manley Boulevard and the West End reveals both public and private garbage containers spilling waste onto streets and sidewalks. Hotelier Dalton ‘Penny’ Hill of Lighthouse Inn II warned that the situation presents both aesthetic and hygienic dangers that could damage Negril’s international reputation. ‘We don’t want to lose our tourist industry,’ Hill emphasized, describing how overnight scavenging by animals creates horrific morning scenes that disturb both residents and visitors.

    Regional operations manager Dramaine Jones acknowledged systemic challenges, citing equipment problems and unexpectedly high waste volumes from tourism activities. While noting that private contractors share responsibility for collection delays, Jones revealed that plans for a local transfer station—which would eliminate the inefficient daily haul to Montego Bay’s landfill—are now ‘far advanced’ with preliminary work underway.

    The proposed transfer station solution, long advocated by local businesses, would allow collection trucks to remain in the Negril area throughout the day rather than wasting hours traveling to distant disposal sites. Jones indicated that executive director Gordon would announce details shortly, while simultaneously encouraging greater public adoption of recycling practices to reduce waste volume.

  • Guyanese Opposition Leader and father want suspension of extradition committal proceedings

    Guyanese Opposition Leader and father want suspension of extradition committal proceedings

    Attorneys representing Guyanese Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father, prominent billionaire businessman Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed, have petitioned the Court of Appeal to suspend ongoing extradition proceedings in the magistrate’s court. The Mohameds face fraud and related charges in the United States and seek a stay pending their substantive appeal of a High Court ruling that validated the Authority to Proceed (ATP) with their extradition.

    The legal team, comprising Roysdale Forde, Siand Dhurjon, and Damien Da Silva, contends that without an immediate suspension, the magistrate court proceedings could conclude within a month—potentially rendering their appeal moot and resulting in their clients’ detention. They argue that Chief Justice Navindra Singh’s dismissal of their initial challenge contained multiple legal and factual errors that compromised justice.

    Central to their appeal is the allegation of governmental persecution and bias within the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic-led administration. The lawyers assert that Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond and Attorney General Anil Nandlall operated with ‘presumed and apparent bias,’ violating natural justice principles by acting as judges in their own cause. They maintain that the ATP—which empowers Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman to conduct committal hearings—is fundamentally flawed and should be quashed.

    The Mohameds, sanctioned by the US Treasury for alleged gold smuggling and tax evasion, face an 11-count indictment including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. Their legal team argues that the extradition process jeopardizes their fundamental rights and that the Minister’s impartiality is indispensable for a fair hearing. They claim their appeal demonstrates a strong prima facie case and that neither the US nor Guyanese authorities would suffer prejudice from a stay.

  • Cut red tape when lives on the line

    Cut red tape when lives on the line

    Jamaica’s Energy and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz has ignited a crucial debate about emergency governance by advocating for significant amendments to the nation’s procurement legislation. This push for reform comes in response to controversies surrounding the government’s acquisition of Starlink satellite devices during the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.

    Minister Vaz, speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing, defended his decision to bypass standard procurement protocols during the national crisis. He asserted that existing frameworks fail to distinguish between routine government purchases and urgent disaster response requirements. “Extreme times require extreme actions,” Vaz stated, emphasizing that people suffering and awaiting rescue “can’t wait on a procurement process that takes weeks.”

    The hurricane, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, caused catastrophic damage to telecommunications infrastructure, leaving numerous communities completely isolated. The government’s deployment of Starlink technology successfully restored internet connectivity for emergency agencies, healthcare facilities, and relief centers, potentially saving countless lives.

    Despite the practical success of the intervention, Jamaica’s auditor general subsequently reported that the procurement violated established legal procedures. This finding triggered extensive political debate regarding the balance between regulatory compliance and emergency responsiveness.

    Vaz clarified that his advocacy for legislative reform isn’t about expanding ministerial power but about creating practical mechanisms for crisis management. “You cannot have the same guidelines in normal times that you have in extreme times,” he argued, noting that the current system makes no provision for emergency scenarios where immediate action is required.

    The minister maintained respect for oversight institutions while defending his actions. “I accept fully what was said by the auditor general in relation to me getting involved in the procurement,” Vaz acknowledged, while simultaneously justifying his position based on the extraordinary circumstances.

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness has previously indicated support for reviewing procurement legislation, suggesting potential government backing for such reforms. Vaz expressed confidence that changes would be implemented, describing the need for distinction between normal and emergency procedures as “an absolute no-brainer.”

    The controversy highlights the ongoing challenge governments face in balancing accountability with operational flexibility during national emergencies. As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, Jamaica’s experience may serve as a case study for other nations grappling with similar regulatory dilemmas.

  • International crew set to dock at space station Saturday

    International crew set to dock at space station Saturday

    CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida — A new era of international space collaboration commenced as SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket successfully delivered the multinational Crew-12 astronauts to the International Space Station on Saturday. The meticulously orchestrated docking procedure concluded at approximately 3:15 PM Eastern Time (2015 GMT), marking the beginning of an extensive eight-month scientific expedition orbiting 250 miles above Earth.

    The diverse crew comprises NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, French Space Agency representative Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. Their arrival reinstates the station’s full operational capacity after several months of reduced staffing. Commander Meir, during the ascent phase, reflected on the profound perspective space travel affords: ‘Viewing our planet from this vantage point makes our interconnectedness undeniably clear—we are one humankind.’

    This mission represents a significant recovery operation for NASA, replacing the previous Crew-11 team that executed an unprecedented medical evacuation from the orbital laboratory in January. While agency officials maintained strict confidentiality regarding the specific health concerns that prompted the early return, the successful deployment of Crew-12 demonstrates remarkable operational flexibility in human spaceflight contingencies.

    The scientific agenda for this expedition includes groundbreaking research on physiological adaptations to microgravity, with particular emphasis on developing advanced medical diagnostic capabilities for extended space missions. Astronaut Adenot, who has made history as France’s second female space traveler, will spearhead innovative trials involving artificial intelligence-enhanced ultrasound technology that enables self-administered medical imaging.

    Notably, this mission occurs against a complex geopolitical backdrop where the ISS remains a bastion of international cooperation despite terrestrial tensions. The crew composition itself reflects diplomatic nuances, with cosmonaut Fedyaev joining after the unexpected reassignment of originally scheduled Russian crew member Oleg Artemyev. As the ISS approaches its planned decommissioning in 2030, each successive mission contributes valuable data toward future deep space exploration initiatives.

  • Clocking out for politics

    Clocking out for politics

    Amidst the ceremonial opening of Jamaica’s Parliament on Thursday, a revealing social phenomenon unfolded as dedicated Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) supporters openly admitted to skipping workplace obligations to attend the political event. Many attendees concealed their identities with party-colored coverings and makeshift disguises, attempting to avoid photographic recognition while expressing unwavering loyalty to their political representatives.

    Longtime JLP adherents, clad in the party’s signature green, revealed they have consistently attended the annual parliamentary ceremony for years, considering it a priority above professional responsibilities. While some exhibited caution when approached by media, others spoke with defiant pride about their attendance decisions.

    One prominently dressed supporter articulated her justification for absenteeism, stating Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s performance warranted her presence. ‘He is the biggest man in the country right now, away from God,’ she declared, employing the leader’s ‘Brogad’ campaign moniker. She explained to her employer that she required time off to ‘uplift my country’ and expressed no intention to conceal her participation.

    Another attendee awaited the arrival of Finance Minister Fayval Williams, her local parliamentary representative, asserting she had openly informed her supervisor of her political allegiance. ‘I tell my boss say him know me a Labourite…him can’t stop me,’ she stated confidently.

    In a particularly bold declaration, a Jamaica Urban Transit Company employee claimed ultimate accountability to Minister Daryl Vaz, whose portfolio oversees her state-owned employer. ‘My Government give me my work so me have to come to Parliament,’ she reasoned, expressing confidence that ministerial approval superseded immediate supervisory concerns.

    Contrasting these vocal supporters, numerous attendees actively avoided media documentation, with some physically retreating from camera ranges and others obscuring facial features with ski masks. ‘Wait, is it a picture you a go tek? Mek me move, because mi nuh want my boss si mi,’ one individual exclaimed while exiting photographic frame.

    Groups of supporters privately exchanged anecdotes about fabricated excuses and coordinated attendance strategies, though these conversations diminished when journalists approached. One participant defended her right to take personal time, noting: ‘If you take a half day it’s out of your pay…As long you are a good worker, him a guh give you the time.’

  • Cuba cancels cigar festival amid economic crisis

    Cuba cancels cigar festival amid economic crisis

    HAVANA, Cuba — The Cuban government has made the unprecedented decision to postpone its internationally renowned Habanos Cigar Festival, an event critical to the nation’s healthcare funding, as a severe energy crisis intensifies. The festival, originally scheduled for late February, has been indefinitely delayed according to official communications reviewed by international media.

    This cancellation represents a significant economic and cultural blow to the Caribbean nation, where cigar exports stand as both a national symbol and vital economic pillar. The annual gathering typically generates substantial revenue through exclusive auctions, with last year’s event raising approximately $19.5 million exclusively dedicated to supporting Cuba’s public healthcare system.

    The current energy emergency stems from recent geopolitical developments involving the United States. Following the political upheaval in Venezuela—Cuba’s primary oil supplier—the Trump administration successfully pressured the removal of President Nicolás Maduro’s government in January. Subsequently, Washington terminated Venezuelan oil shipments to Cuba and empowered itself to levy tariffs on any nations attempting to sell petroleum products to Havana.

    These measures have triggered a domino effect across Cuban infrastructure and tourism. Multiple international carriers, including Air Canada, have suspended flight operations to the island due to critical fuel shortages. Several governments have issued travel advisories warning citizens about potential stranding risks should the energy situation deteriorate further.

    The festival’s postponement highlights the tangible human impact of international sanctions on ordinary Cuban citizens, whose healthcare system relies heavily on cigar-related revenues. European markets, which constitute the largest consumer base for these luxury tobacco products, will now wait indefinitely for the next opportunity to acquire rare, auction-exclusive cigar editions typically released during the event.

  • Sugary drink tax not a burden

    Sugary drink tax not a burden

    Jamaica’s government has announced a groundbreaking fiscal policy targeting sugar-sweetened beverages as part of a comprehensive strategy to address the nation’s growing public health crisis. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Chris Tufton has defended the new special consumption tax (SCT) of $0.02 per milliliter on non-alcoholic sweetened beverages, asserting it represents a balanced approach to modifying consumption patterns without creating undue economic hardship.

    The controversial measure, revealed by Finance Minister Fayval Williams and scheduled for implementation in the first quarter of the 2026/2027 fiscal year, emerges against a backdrop of alarming health statistics. Recent ministry data positions Jamaica as the tenth highest global consumer of sugary drinks, with 70-86% of children and 77% of adults consuming one or more sweetened beverages daily. This consumption pattern has directly contributed to escalating rates of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases nationwide.

    Minister Tufton emphasized that the policy aims to foster a culture of moderation rather than simply generate revenue. “This initiative seeks to improve health outcomes and reduce disease burden while maintaining constructive dialogue with industry stakeholders,” he stated following meetings with ministry unit heads. The minister recalled earlier efforts dating back to 2018/2019 when the government first restricted certain sugary drinks in schools and public health institutions.

    The health ministry has presented compelling evidence supporting the measure, citing successful implementations in Mexico, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Barbados, and Chile where similar taxes have significantly reduced consumption. Dr. Simone Spence, Director of the Health Promotion and Protection Branch, highlighted that sugar-sweetened beverages represent a major source of free sugars whose affordability and heavy consumption contribute substantially to Jamaica’s non-communicable disease burden.

    Despite government assurances, industry representatives including Wisynco Group Chairman William Mahfood have expressed concerns that the tax might disproportionately affect lower-income households while failing to meaningfully improve public health outcomes. In response, the health ministry has suggested implementing a tiered tax system that would incentivize manufacturers to reduce sugar content through product reformulation.

    The policy development follows World Health Organization recommendations regarding fiscal policies for diet improvement and reflects Jamaica’s urgent need to address health disparities, particularly among socio-economically vulnerable groups. Current data indicates that while 92.5% of Jamaicans with diabetes receive treatment, only 27.5% achieve adequate disease control, underscoring the critical need for preventive population-level interventions.

  • Relatives of Venezuela political prisoners begin hunger strike after 17 freed

    Relatives of Venezuela political prisoners begin hunger strike after 17 freed

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a dramatic display of protest, relatives of Venezuelan political detainees initiated a hunger strike outside a Caracas prison facility this Saturday. This demonstration follows the conditional release of 17 prisoners and occurs against the backdrop of stalled legislative negotiations regarding a promised amnesty law.

    Approximately ten women, wearing protective face masks, positioned themselves in a horizontal formation at the entrance to Zone 7, a national police compound. Several participants were observed sleeping during the daytime hours, with one anonymous protester explaining to AFP that sleep provided temporary relief from hunger sensations.

    Evelin Quiaro, a 46-year-old immigration official whose son faces terrorism-related charges dating back to November, expressed cautious optimism: ‘The pressure has yielded results; we intend to remain here until every political prisoner gains freedom.’ Quiaro confirmed she had consumed her final meal around 1:00 am prior to commencing the strike.

    The early morning hours preceding the protest saw National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez announcing via social media the liberation of 17 detainees, though no specific identities were disclosed. Rodriguez urged citizens to ‘persist on this pathway toward peaceful democratic coexistence.’

    This developing situation originates from the landmark amnesty initiative spearheaded by Acting President Delcy Rodriguez following the January 3rd capture of former leader Nicolas Maduro by U.S. special forces. The proposed legislation aims to dismantle nearly three decades of state-sponsored repression, potentially exonerating dissidents charged with ‘treason,’ ‘terrorism,’ and hate-speech allegations during the Maduro and Chavez administrations.

    However, the legislative process hit an impasse last Thursday when lawmakers, after approving the bill’s initial reading, suspended final adoption due to contentious debates regarding implementation procedures. A particular point of contention emerged over requirements for amnesty seekers to personally appear in court to petition for clemency.

    Both government-aligned and opposition legislators have agreed to resume deliberations on February 19, leaving hundreds of political prisoners’ fates in limbo and their families maintaining vigil through extreme protest measures.

  • Hanover police to intensify road ops after fatal crash

    Hanover police to intensify road ops after fatal crash

    LUCEA, Hanover — In response to the first traffic fatality recorded this year, the Hanover Police Division has launched an aggressive new road safety initiative. Superintendent Andrew Nish, commanding officer of the division, announced the intensified measures following a tragic collision that claimed the life of a senior citizen.

    The fatal incident occurred early Thursday morning on Watson Taylor Drive in Lucea, involving a commercial Toyota Coaster bus and a pedal cyclist. The victim has been identified as 75-year-old Keith Campbell, a resident of Cousins Cove in the parish.

    Police reports indicate that the accident transpired approximately at 7:00 am when the bus, traveling from Negril toward Lucea, collided with Campbell who was cycling ahead in the same direction. The impact occurred near the Hanover Parish Library section of the road, resulting in the cyclist being thrown from his bicycle.

    Campbell sustained catastrophic injuries including a fractured skull, broken arm, and severe head lacerations. Despite being transported to medical facilities, he succumbed to his injuries. The bicycle was completely crushed in the accident.

    Superintendent Nish emphasized the police’s renewed commitment to implementing more rigorous traffic enforcement strategies. “We have determined to tackle the streets robustly to prevent these accidents that ultimately lead to fatalities,” Nish stated during his announcement.

    While acknowledging that any loss of life remains significant, the superintendent noted comparative improvement in road safety statistics. The parish has recorded only one fatality this year, contrasting sharply with four fatalities during the same period last year.

    Despite this relative improvement, Nish reiterated the division’s unwavering commitment to enhancing road safety through increased police visibility and strict enforcement of traffic regulations to further reduce accident risks.

  • Valiant’s Valentine’s Day essentials

    Valiant’s Valentine’s Day essentials

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Valiant, the chart-topping artist behind viral hits like ‘Passenger Princess’ and ‘Girls Dem Bubble Gum,’ has expanded his portfolio by entering into a strategic partnership with premium liquor brand Campari. The newly appointed brand ambassador fronts the company’s ‘Red Passion’ campaign while simultaneously headlining his Passenger Princess Deluxe Tour across North America.

    In an exclusive interview, Valiant disclosed his meticulously crafted approach to creating the perfect Valentine’s Day experience. Contrary to conventional practices, the artist rejects the formalities of asking someone to be Valentine, considering it ‘cringe,’ and instead emphasizes consistent romantic effort throughout the relationship.

    The deejay’s comprehensive romantic blueprint begins with atmospheric preparation: scented candles and a luxurious robe to establish a sensual ambiance. This is followed by the strategic deployment of floral arrangements, with Valiant recommending the artistic scattering of petal showers throughout the room.

    Gift selection forms a crucial component of his strategy. Valiant advocates for high-value presents such as Van Cleef jewelry, complemented by practical yet intimate additions like GoPro cameras to digitally preserve special moments. The artist further enhances the experience through therapeutic massage techniques using cocoa butter lotion, specifically avoiding oils, to create mental tranquility for his partner.

    Musical accompaniment serves as the final layer in his romantic architecture. Valiant stresses the importance of curating playlists that match the partner’s intimate preferences, with a humorous admission about his preference for maintaining control during these carefully orchestrated moments.

    Regarding the challenges of romantic sustainability within his demanding career, Valiant emphasized the necessity of finding partners who comprehend the unique pressures of artistic professions. He rejected notions that romance is obsolete, asserting that its survival depends entirely on conscious effort and mutual understanding between partners.