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  • France’s ex-minister Retailleau to run for president

    France’s ex-minister Retailleau to run for president

    PARIS — Bruno Retailleau, the prominent leader of France’s conservative Republicans party and former interior minister, formally declared his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election on Thursday. The announcement was conveyed through an internal party communication obtained by AFP.

    The 65-year-old political veteran described his decision as thoroughly considered, stating: “The moment has arrived for my political family to present the French people with an alternative vision centered on order, economic prosperity, and national pride.”

    Retailleau’s entry marks a significant development in the upcoming electoral landscape, where incumbent President Emmanuel Macron will be constitutionally barred from seeking a third term. Emphasizing the collective nature of his campaign, the Republicans leader asserted: “While I am prepared to spearhead this initiative, this endeavor must fundamentally represent a unified movement. I require the active support and personal commitment of all party members and sympathizers.”

    Following his resignation as interior minister last October, Retailleau is scheduled to formally unveil his campaign via social media platforms before making a televised appearance on TF1 later Thursday.

    Recent polling data indicates Retailleau currently enjoys the highest popularity among potential right-wing candidates within his political bloc. The presidential field continues to take shape with centrist former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, 55, having previously declared his candidacy.

    Meanwhile, the far-right contingent awaits a critical July appeals court ruling regarding Marine Le Pen’s eligibility following fraud allegations. Should the three-time presidential candidate face office exclusion, her designated successor, 30-year-old Jordan Bardella, would assume her candidacy. A November survey surprisingly projected Bardella potentially securing victory in the second-round runoff regardless of his opponent.

  • US shutters its Dominican anti-drug office over corruption claims

    US shutters its Dominican anti-drug office over corruption claims

    The United States has abruptly shuttered its Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) office in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, following unspecified corruption allegations. US Ambassador to the Caribbean nation Leah Campos announced the immediate closure via social media platform X, declaring zero tolerance for even the perception of corrupt activities within her embassy’s operations.

    “I will not tolerate even the perception of corruption anywhere in the Embassy I lead,” stated Ambassador Campos. “To that end, today I am announcing the closure of the DEA office in Santo Domingo until further notice.”

    The decision represents a significant development in bilateral relations between the two nations, particularly regarding their collaborative anti-narcotics efforts. The Dominican Republic has actively positioned itself as a key US partner in combating drug trafficking throughout the Caribbean region.

    This development follows recent enhanced cooperation between the two countries. Last November, during a visit by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Dominican authorities agreed to permit American forces to utilize a local air base and airport for counter-narcotics operations. Those operations resulted in dozens of fatalities during strikes on vessels allegedly transporting drugs, though Washington provided no concrete evidence of narcotics trafficking.

    Earlier that same month, a joint US-Dominican operation successfully intercepted a boat carrying approximately 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds) of cocaine, demonstrating previously effective collaboration.

    Ambassador Campos emphasized the seriousness with which the US government treats corruption allegations, stating: “Corruption holds no place in the U.S. government or any other government. It is a disgusting and disgraceful violation of public trust to use one’s official capacity for personal gain.”

    The closure comes as the Dominican Republic continues to manage complex regional dynamics, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, which faces profound political and security challenges.

  • Local JPS crews step up as overseas linemen set to depart

    Local JPS crews step up as overseas linemen set to depart

    Jamaica’s electricity restoration efforts have reached a critical transition point as international line workers from North America prepare to depart the island this weekend. With power restoration achieving 97.5% completion, Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) CEO Hugh Grant announced the strategic redeployment of local crews from eastern and central parishes to tackle the remaining complex work in western regions.

    The shift in strategy marks a significant milestone in the prolonged recovery operation following Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on western Jamaica’s electrical infrastructure last October. The Category 5 storm necessitated the emergency deployment of specialized international crews equipped with heavy machinery and extensive disaster response experience during the initial phase of reconstruction.

    Grant emphasized that the nature of the remaining restoration work requires a different approach. The final 17,000 customers without electricity are primarily located in rural western districts where challenging terrain and limited accessibility demand manual pole-by-pole repairs rather than large-scale equipment operations. The company is now mobilizing Jamaican technical teams who possess intimate knowledge of local topography and community infrastructure.

    “We are now at a stage where 12 of 14 parishes are substantially restored, and we have entered the next phase of our recovery,” Grant stated during a recent post-Cabinet briefing. “This phase includes demobilization of overseas workers and redirection of our local and regional teams to complete restoration in the western region.”

    The utility company has implemented a comprehensive community engagement strategy alongside technical repairs. JPS has established temporary charging stations, ice distribution points, and relocated incident command centers to the western region. The company plans to expand community fairs and public forums to address resident concerns and provide clearer restoration timelines.

    While projecting reconnection of 7,000 additional customers by February’s end, JPS acknowledged that approximately 40% of remaining premises require private electrical repairs before service restoration can occur. The company estimates full restoration may extend through March to April 2026, depending on the resolution of these customer-side infrastructure issues.

    Grant concluded with a commitment to affected communities: “We see you, we hear you, we care about you, and we want to assure you—the work will not stop until every light is back on.”

  • Star-studded line-up for 100’s anniversary concert; BOGO ticket sale this weekend

    Star-studded line-up for 100’s anniversary concert; BOGO ticket sale this weekend

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In celebration of its tenth anniversary, the renowned 100 Restaurant & Gaming Lounge is extending a special Valentine’s gesture to patrons with a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) ticket promotion available from February 13-14. The commemorative concert is scheduled for February 28 at the Kingston venue, featuring an impressive lineup of Jamaican musical talent including Christopher Martin, Gyptian, Agent Sasco, and the legendary Beenie Man.

    Marketing Manager Tassia Bernard emphasized the establishment’s customer appreciation ethos, stating: “Valentine’s weekend presents the perfect opportunity to demonstrate our gratitude to loyal patrons. Whether celebrating with a partner or not, everyone can consider 100 their steadfast companion.”

    The event logistics indicate gates opening at 6:00 PM with performances commencing at 7:00 PM. Ticket pricing is structured at $10,000 for general admission and $25,000 for VIP access. The BOGO promotion extends across multiple retail outlets including Megamart locations, Ribbiz Ultra Lounge, Chandon Open House, Rubis Gas Station on Washington Boulevard, Genus Pharmacy Portmore, and through online platform aitix.com.

    General ticket holders will receive complimentary beverage samples and access to convenience parking with shuttle service, while VIP patrons gain exclusive benefits including premium parking, private shuttle transportation, armed security escort, dedicated entrance, unlimited gourmet food and premium beverages, and privileged seating arrangements.

    Bernard further elaborated on the VIP experience: “The premium package offers an immersive journey through our decade of excellence, showcasing not merely a performance but a comprehensive representation of our culinary and entertainment evolution. Guests will experience live cocktail preparation and curated menu selections that embody our operational philosophy.”

    The anniversary celebration enjoys sponsorship support from prominent beverage brands including Johnnie Walker, Red Stripe, Gordon’s London Dry Gin, and J Wray & Nephew, the latter providing an interactive games zone enhancement for the evening’s festivities.

  • Throne Speech: Gov’t to ensure peace dividends are felt across the society – GG

    Throne Speech: Gov’t to ensure peace dividends are felt across the society – GG

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has announced sweeping legislative reforms targeting national security infrastructure, following unprecedented success in reducing violent crime. Governor General Sir Patrick Allen revealed during the 2026 Throne Speech at Gordon House that the Ministry of National Security and Peace will pursue amendments to critical statutes including the Aliens Act, Immigration Restriction Act, and Firearms Act during the 2026/27 legislative period.

    The comprehensive security strategy, operating under the ‘Plan Secure Jamaica’ initiative, has yielded remarkable results: January 2026 witnessed a 55% reduction in murders compared to the same period in 2025. This continues a sustained downward trend in homicides that began in 2023 and has accelerated through early 2026.

    Sir Patrick emphasized the government’s holistic approach, stating: ‘We are ensuring peace dividends are felt across wider society through collective action by all ministries, departments, and agencies.’ The administration is simultaneously advancing multiple security enhancements including Corrections Act reform, public-order legislation review, security technology expansion, and JamaicaEye surveillance system upgrades.

    Infrastructure investment remains a cornerstone of the strategy, with over J$17 billion committed to capital projects. Despite setbacks from Hurricane Melissa, 27 restoration projects valued at J$2 billion are currently underway or scheduled for imminent commencement. Technological advancements include the implementation of C5 Business Solutions this fiscal year and expansion of the Ticketing Information Management System (TIMS) to bolster public order management.

    The Governor General concluded with a powerful declaration: ‘The long-held dream of a safer, more peaceful Jamaica is no longer distant—it is steadily becoming a reality that Jamaicans can see and feel in their communities.’

  • Third World to honour Cat Coore in Wickie Wackie tribute

    Third World to honour Cat Coore in Wickie Wackie tribute

    Jamaica’s north coast is set to resonate with profound emotional significance as the Wickie Wackie Music Festival commences this Thursday, February 12. While the three-day event promises a vibrant celebration of reggae music across generations, Saturday’s performance by legendary band Third World will transform into a powerful memorial for their recently departed founding guitarist, Irvin “Cat” Coore.

    Singer Kumar Fyah (born Kumar Bent), who will perform alongside the remaining Third World members, revealed the deep personal meaning behind this appearance. “Cat Coore has been a light, a teacher, and friend to me over the years,” Kumar expressed during a recent interview. “He was instrumental in keeping Wickie Wackie Music Festival alive, so with his passing, myself alongside the Third World band members will be paying our utmost respect to the man who changed our lives.”

    The tribute holds special significance as Coore, affectionately known as Uncle Cat, was not only a foundational member of Third World but also a steadfast advocate for venues that preserve live reggae music and cultural heritage. The beach-front Wickie Wackie Festival, with its strong community ethos, perfectly embodies these values, making the memorial particularly fitting.

    This performance marks Third World’s first Jamaican appearance since Coore’s passing late last month. Audiences can anticipate the band’s characteristic fusion of roots reggae, soul, and pop-inflected harmonies, though the emotional undercurrent is expected to be palpable. Kumar promised “a night with great music filled with honest expressions” that would be “one to remember.”

    Addressing speculation about his relationship with the band, Kumar clarified: “Third World is my family. I am more like an extended member. When I travel with them I open for the band and sometimes join them on stage for a song or two.” Following the dissolution of his former group Raging Fyah, Kumar has pursued solo work while developing his craft through continued association with Third World.

    The tribute forms part of the festival’s Foundation Night, which honors legendary artists who have shaped Jamaican music across generations. The lineup includes JC Lodge, Etana, Turbulence, and The Abyssinians, reinforcing Wickie Wackie’s status as a convergence point between musical legacy and contemporary culture.

    Beyond the performances, Kumar emphasized the festival’s communal spirit: “We are a family-oriented event, providing clean fun, great music around good people.” For many attendees, Saturday’s memorial is poised to become the festival’s defining moment—a rhythmic expression of gratitude, remembrance, and cultural continuity carried on the very sounds that Cat Coore helped create and sustain.

  • Condom purchases fall by 30%; promotion campaigns drop by up to 50%

    Condom purchases fall by 30%; promotion campaigns drop by up to 50%

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A critical shortage in funding and condom accessibility is jeopardizing decades of progress in combating HIV and sexually transmitted infections worldwide, according to alarming new data. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Global AIDS Update 2025 reveals that international condom procurement plummeted by approximately 30% between 2016-2022 compared to the 2010-2016 period.

    Concurrently, condom promotion initiatives in low and middle-income nations have collapsed by nearly 50% since 2010, severely undermining both availability and educational outreach in vulnerable communities. This disturbing trend emerges as the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) prepares to observe International Condom Day on February 13, with urgent appeals for governments to guarantee widespread condom distribution and for individuals to practice correct usage.

    In Jamaica, where approximately 28,000 citizens live with HIV, condom access remains fundamental to prevention strategies. Despite achieving a 35% reduction in new infections since 2010 and eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis in 2024, the nation confronts persistent challenges including stigma, discrimination, and high adolescent sexual activity rates.

    The Caribbean and Latin American region faces particularly severe consequences, with HIV infections surging by 13% between 2010-2024. Young people aged 15-24 account for over one-quarter of new infections, reflecting the devastating impact of neglected prevention measures. Between 2020-2022 alone, cases among adults aged 15-49 in the Americas region skyrocketed by more than 30%, according to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) data.

    With a third of Latin America and Caribbean residents living below the poverty line—a figure that rises to nearly 50% among youth—the AHF emphasizes the imperative for free, stigma-free condom availability in public health centers and entertainment venues. Health experts stress that sustaining HIV progress doesn’t require new technologies but rather policy decisions ensuring affordable access to those most in need.

    Dr. Patricia Campos, AHF Bureau Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, warned: ‘Rising STI rates, particularly syphilis, demonstrate that prevention systems are failing. Condoms remain effective, accessible protection tools, but unequal access and persistent stigma create dangerous barriers. Governments must treat condoms as public health necessities rather than personal luxuries.’

  • PATH recognised among regional best practices in fight to eliminate child labour

    PATH recognised among regional best practices in fight to eliminate child labour

    JAMAICA’S SOCIAL PROTECTION PROGRAM RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM AT GLOBAL CHILD LABOR SUMMIT

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) has garnered significant international recognition as a Caribbean model for preventing child labor during the ongoing 6th Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour in Marrakesh, Morocco.

    A high-level Jamaican delegation from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) is currently representing the nation at the prestigious gathering from February 11-13, 2026, where global leaders are convening to address the pressing issue affecting approximately 138 million children worldwide.

    The conference has highlighted education and child protection as fundamental pillars in effective strategies to combat child exploitation. During pivotal discussions, Caribbean employer representative Ronald Ramlogan of Trinidad and Tobago formally acknowledged PATH as the regional benchmark for excellence in social protection initiatives.

    Administered by Jamaica’s MLSS, the pioneering program implements conditional cash transfers to economically vulnerable families while supporting nutritional initiatives through school feeding programs. A cornerstone of its effectiveness lies in mandating compulsory school attendance, thereby simultaneously addressing poverty barriers while strengthening educational participation as preventive measures against child labor.

    Jamaica’s participation extends beyond PATH recognition. Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. recently showcased Jamaica’s innovative Child Labour Risk Identification Model (CLRISK) during virtual discussions focused on Caribbean eradication strategies. This evidence-based tool enables targeted community-level interventions, positioning Jamaica as the first Caribbean nation to utilize the International Labour Organization’s risk assessment instrument within its National Action Plan for Combating Child Labour.

    ILO Director General Gilbert Houngbo set a sobering tone during his opening address, revealing that approximately 138 million children remain trapped in labor exploitation worldwide – including 59 million girls and 78 million boys. He characterized this situation as both “a moral failure” and “an economic one” with profound implications for productivity, growth, and social cohesion.

    Houngbo emphasized that 57% of affected children are between ages 5-11, with 51% of child labor occurring in agriculture. He called for improved working conditions for educators, comprehensive rural development, climate action initiatives, and specifically urged greater educational participation for girls to transition them away from unpaid labor.

  • PM hails Bovell as man of ‘unquestioned integrity’

    PM hails Bovell as man of ‘unquestioned integrity’

    Jamaica’s political and legal communities gathered on February 10, 2026, to commemorate the extraordinary life and legacy of Christopher Bovell, the former Government Senator and esteemed attorney who passed away at age 87 on January 14. The thanksgiving service, held at The Church of St Margaret in Liguanea, St Andrew, became a powerful testament to a life dedicated to national service and ethical leadership.

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness delivered a heartfelt tribute, characterizing Bovell as a man of “unquestioned integrity” whose existence was fundamentally shaped by his profound commitment to Jamaica’s development. As treasurer of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) from 1983 to 1989, Bovell demonstrated remarkable composure and objectivity that proved invaluable during challenging periods. Holness revealed that even after assuming office, he continued to benefit from Bovell’s wisdom through handwritten notes and later WhatsApp messages containing thoughtful guidance.

    Energy, Transport and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz, who collaborated closely with Bovell as deputy JLP treasurer, emphasized the late senator’s gentle yet impactful leadership style. Vaz noted that Bovell’s approach was “grounded in integrity, discipline, and deep loyalty” rather than loud or boastful demonstrations. His exceptional ability to value every individual, regardless of their position, and deliver correction with grace left staff feeling “not diminished but grateful.”

    Beyond politics, Bovell enjoyed a distinguished legal career that began in 1964 when he was admitted as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of Jamaica. He became a partner at the prestigious firm Dunn, Cox, Orrett & Ashenheim in 1965 and later served as consultant. His corporate excellence extended to board membership at GraceKennedy, one of Jamaica’s foremost commercial institutions.

    The state recognized Bovell’s contributions in 1994 with the Order of Distinction, Commander Class. His professional affiliations included longstanding membership in the Jamaican Bar Association, service as a notary public, participation on the General Legal Council, and appointments to several government boards.

    The service highlighted how Bovell’s mentorship shaped generations of public servants through quiet example rather than instruction. His legacy endures as a blueprint for principled leadership that balances firm conviction with diplomatic grace.

  • Strong winds disrupt flights, injuring dozens in Spain

    Strong winds disrupt flights, injuring dozens in Spain

    BARCELONA, Spain – Catalonia’s northeastern region endured a severe battering from Storm Nils on Thursday, as ferocious winds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour caused significant damage, injured dozens, and triggered major disruptions to transport and public services. This extreme weather event marks the latest in a series of violent storms to strike the Iberian Peninsula in recent weeks, which have resulted in fatalities and mass evacuations across Spain and Portugal.

    According to Catalonia’s civil protection agency, the port of Barcelona recorded particularly devastating gusts reaching 105 km/h. The powerful winds led to toppled trees, collapsed walls, and prompted a surge in emergency response calls across the metropolitan area. Medical services attended to 86 individuals, with 34 requiring hospital admission. Among those hospitalized, two patients were reported in serious condition and one was listed as critical.

    The storm’s impact severely disrupted Spain’s transportation infrastructure. At Barcelona-El Prat Airport, the nation’s second busiest aviation hub, operator Aena cancelled 101 flights and diverted 10 others. Additional disruptions were reported on regional road networks and rail lines, compounding the day’s travel chaos.

    In response to the exceptional meteorological conditions, which officials described as highly unusual for the region, Catalan authorities implemented widespread precautionary measures. Schools were closed, non-essential medical appointments were postponed, and residents of the eight-million-person region were advised to restrict all non-essential travel until winds were forecast to subside by evening. Regional Interior Department head Nuria Parlon noted that public compliance with travel restrictions likely prevented a higher number of casualties.

    The storm system also affected neighboring countries, with Portugal reporting a partially collapsed highway viaduct between Lisbon and Porto after a river overflowed its banks. In southwestern France, the storm proved fatal as a truck driver was killed by a falling tree, while approximately 900,000 households experienced power outages.

    Meteorologists and climate scientists increasingly attribute the rising frequency and intensity of such extreme weather episodes to climate change driven by elevated greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting a concerning trend toward more destructive seasonal storms in Southern Europe.