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  • Respected former principal of Carron Hall High in St Mary has died

    Respected former principal of Carron Hall High in St Mary has died

    The Jamaican educational community is mourning the passing of distinguished educator Dottlyn Norma Dawes, whose remarkable 36-year career left an indelible mark on Carron Hall High School in St. Mary. The former principal, who dedicated her professional life to the institution from 1977 until her retirement in 2013, passed away on January 3, 2026, following an extended period of illness.

    Current principal Carlinton Johnson announced the loss through an emotional tribute on the school’s official Facebook platform, commemorating Dawes’ extraordinary contributions to educational development in western St. Mary. During her transformative eighteen-year leadership tenure from 1995 to 2013, Dawes engineered the institution’s evolution from the formerly designated Carron Hall Vocational School—an all-girls establishment—into a progressive co-educational facility that expanded opportunities for countless students.

    Beyond her administrative accomplishments, Dawes received national recognition as a 2002 finalist for the prestigious Lasco/Jamaica Teachers’ Association Teacher of the Year Award, highlighting her exceptional pedagogical approach and dedication to student development. Her community engagement extended into the judicial sphere through her service as a St. Mary justice of the peace, demonstrating her multifaceted commitment to social advancement.

    The digital memorial space has become flooded with heartfelt remembrances from former students and colleagues, painting a portrait of an educator who possessed extraordinary belief in her pupils’ potential. Testimonials consistently highlight her unique ability to recognize and nurture talent in young learners, with many attributing their subsequent professional and personal achievements to her inspirational guidance and unwavering support. The overwhelming response underscores the profound personal connections she fostered throughout her decades of educational service, establishing a legacy that continues to resonate across generations of Jamaican students.

  • Yanique Taylor Wellington given nod as Indecom deputy commissioner

    Yanique Taylor Wellington given nod as Indecom deputy commissioner

    Jamaica’s Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) has announced the appointment of Yanique Taylor Wellington as its new deputy commissioner, filling the vacancy created by the departure of Assistant Commissioner Hamish Campbell who held the operational leadership role from 2013 through December 2025.

    Taylor Wellington assumes comprehensive operational responsibilities previously managed by Campbell, bringing substantial institutional expertise to the position. Her distinguished tenure at Indecom includes serving as Director of Complaints since January 2022 and previously as Senior Legal Officer. The legally-trained professional represented the commission during the critical West Kingston Commission of Enquiry in 2015 and notably argued before the UK Privy Council in the landmark Dane Lewin vs Albert Diah case, which resulted in a pivotal ruling affirming Indecom’s authority and reinforcing police accountability mechanisms. Prior to joining Indecom, she served as a senior prosecutor at Jamaica’s Integrity Commission.

    In her initial statements as deputy commissioner, Taylor Wellington highlighted alarming trends in police-related fatalities, revealing a 65% year-over-year increase in fatal security force shootings during 2025, with 311 individuals killed compared to the previous year. Particularly disturbing is the 300% surge in fatalities recorded in the first five days of 2026, with 12 persons shot dead by security forces compared to three during the same period in 2025.

    Taylor Wellington emphasized Indecom’s commitment to “independently, impartially, and promptly investigate all incidents involving security force shootings.” She assured citizens that recent fatal encounters would undergo thorough and objective examination, with appropriate actions taken should legal violations be identified.

    Notably, Indecom’s investigations into these incidents revealed concerning procedural gaps. While eight firearms were recovered across six recent shooting incidents, no body-worn cameras were activated by involved officers during any of these encounters. One Jamaica Constabulary Force member reportedly possessed equipment but claimed inability to activate it due to missing mounting accessories.

    All officers involved have been formally served with Section 21 Notices under the Independent Commission of Investigations Act (2010), requiring them to submit detailed statements and attend investigatory interviews.

  • Charles Jr commends senior citizens embracing digital skills through GetConnected Programme

    Charles Jr commends senior citizens embracing digital skills through GetConnected Programme

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant push toward digital inclusion, Jamaica’s Labour and Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jr has publicly praised elderly citizens engaging with the government’s GetConnected Digital Literacy Programme. During an impromptu visit to the National Council for Senior Citizens on West Kings House Road, the minister witnessed Cohort 3 of the initiative in progress, where 33 seniors are currently mastering essential digital competencies.

    Minister Charles Jr emphasized that the program dismantles the notion that senior citizens are merely observers of technological progress. “Every time I see this programme in action, it sends a powerful message — our senior citizens are not on the sidelines of development; they are active participants in Jamaica’s future,” he stated.

    The comprehensive curriculum is designed to foster active and healthy aging by equipping participants with practical skills. These include operating computers and mobile devices, maintaining social connections through digital platforms, accessing online services, and implementing crucial safety measures in cyber environments. The minister highlighted that beyond reducing social isolation, these skills enhance personal independence and can potentially lead to new economic opportunities.

    Adding international credibility to the initiative, the program utilizes globally recognized training materials and offers participants the chance to obtain certification from City & Guilds. This aspect reinforces that age presents no barrier to achieving technological proficiency.

    With Safer Internet Day approaching in February, Minister Charles Jr also stressed the inseparable link between digital access and cybersecurity awareness, particularly for vulnerable demographics. “Digital empowerment must go hand in hand with digital protection. Confidence, safety, and responsible online engagement are just as important as access,” he remarked.

    The minister extended an invitation to all eligible senior citizens across Jamaica to enroll in future sessions by contacting the National Council for Senior Citizens, reaffirming the government’s dedication to creating inclusive opportunities throughout all stages of life.

  • Consistent Tapit Good secures 4th career win

    Consistent Tapit Good secures 4th career win

    In a display of racing excellence, the seven-year-old chestnut gelding Tapit Good captured his fourth career victory on Thursday, January 1, 2026, demonstrating that perseverance yields rewards. Competing in the sixth race at the track, the David Powell-conditioned horse ended a streak of three consecutive runner-up finishes with a commanding performance.

    Tapit Good dominated Division II of the three-year-old and upward Optional Claiming event ($500,000-$400,000), specifically for six-year-olds and upward non-winners of four races and native-bred five-year-olds non-winners of three. Under jockey Shaheem Gordon, the veteran competitor covered the five-furlong straight course with authority, ultimately crossing the finish line four lengths clear of his nearest rival.

    The race began with an evenly matched break, seeing Tapit Good initially contend with challengers including Golden Syrup (ridden by Richie Shakes), Princess Ifiyah (Shavon Townsend), Radam (Tyrese Anderson), Jaguar (Christopher Mamdeen), and Magical Mood (Emelio McLean). However, as the field passed the dummy rails, Tapit Good asserted his superiority, seizing control of the pace and steadily increasing his lead. The gelding maintained his advantage effortlessly, cruising to a comfortable victory without pressure in the final stages.

    Papa Gray, piloted by Phillip Parchment, secured second position, while First Offense, with Dane Dawkins aboard, completed the top three. This win marks a significant milestone for Tapit Good, who now boasts four wins from 45 lifetime starts, highlighting his consistency and competitive spirit in high-level claiming events.

  • Mexican president urges US to give Maduro ‘fair trial’

    Mexican president urges US to give Maduro ‘fair trial’

    MEXICO CITY — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has formally appealed to United States authorities to ensure judicial fairness for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, who faces serious criminal charges in New York. The diplomatic intervention came during a press briefing in Mexico’s capital on Tuesday, shortly after Maduro’s courtroom appearance.

    The detained Venezuelan president pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including narcotrafficking allegations on Monday, following his dramatic capture by U.S. forces in Caracas over the weekend. The operation marked a significant escalation in Washington’s longstanding pressure campaign against Maduro’s administration.

    President Sheinbaum, representing Mexico’s traditionally neutral stance in international disputes, emphasized the importance of due process regardless of the allegations. ‘Now that President Maduro is in detention, what we request is a fair trial,’ she stated, reflecting Mexico’s commitment to judicial integrity in politically sensitive cases.

    The case has drawn international attention to the complex relationship between North and South American nations, particularly regarding sovereignty and legal jurisdiction. Maduro’s detention represents one of the most high-profile apprehensions of a sitting head of state by foreign authorities in recent decades.

    Legal experts suggest the trial could set important precedents for international law regarding heads of state immunity and cross-border law enforcement operations. The Mexican government’s statement adds to growing international calls for transparent judicial proceedings amid concerns about the political implications of the case.

  • Zelensky hails ‘substantive’ declaration on Ukraine security guarantees

    Zelensky hails ‘substantive’ declaration on Ukraine security guarantees

    PARIS — In a significant diplomatic development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has formally endorsed a multinational security agreement designed to provide substantial military support to Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russian forces. The landmark declaration, signed during a high-profile ceremony in the French capital, establishes a framework for European military deployment and financial backing for Ukraine’s defense infrastructure.

    President Zelensky characterized the agreement as a substantive commitment rather than mere rhetorical support, emphasizing its detailed operational provisions. “The coalition has produced substantive documents with concrete content,” Zelensky stated alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “We have defined management structures, command hierarchies, and monitoring procedures for international forces.”

    The trilateral agreement between Ukraine, France, and Britain—supplemented by a broader multinational declaration—outlines mechanisms for troop deployment, military financing, and ongoing support for Ukraine’s armed forces. According to the framework, European nations would station military personnel in Ukraine post-ceasefire to bolster security arrangements.

    Despite the advanced planning, Zelensky identified unresolved territorial disputes as the most pressing diplomatic challenge. The reference to ongoing negotiations surrounding the status of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region highlights the complex geopolitical dimensions still requiring resolution among stakeholders.

    The Ukrainian leader simultaneously emphasized immediate defense needs, noting that continued Russian aerial assaults necessitate enhanced air defense capabilities. Zelensky stressed the urgency of protecting urban centers and critical infrastructure from bombardment regardless of diplomatic developments.

  • Speed of Amorim’s exit from Man Utd stuns Neville

    Speed of Amorim’s exit from Man Utd stuns Neville

    LONDON, England — Manchester United has terminated the contract of manager Ruben Amorim in a sudden Monday dismissal that has sent shockwaves through English football. The Portuguese coach’s departure comes after a mere 14 months at the helm, with the club languishing in sixth position in the Premier League standings.

    The decisive action followed a series of disappointing results, including a recent draw against Leeds United and a particularly damning 1-1 stalemate with last-place Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford. Statistical analysis reveals Amorim exits with the poorest win record (31.9%) among all seven managers who have attempted to fill the void since legendary Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.

    The dismissal culminates escalating tensions between Amorim and club management, particularly Director of Football Jason Wilcox. The situation reached a boiling point during a remarkable post-match press conference after the Leeds game, where Amorim pointedly differentiated himself as “the manager” rather than “just the coach,” and publicly challenged the scouting department and Wilcox to “do their job.”

    Prominent football pundit and former United defender Gary Neville expressed astonishment at the timing of the decision, stating: “I am surprised it’s happened this morning. I didn’t realise it would happen so quickly. The Wolves game seems to me to be the killer game—it was a bad one.” Neville characterized managerial dismissals as “a poor reflection on everybody” that ultimately leaves all parties worse off.

    Echoing this sentiment, former England striker Gary Lineker described Manchester United as a “basket case” organization on his podcast, suggesting Amorim was fundamentally mismatched to the role. “It didn’t seem to be the right fit and he was a bit stubborn about the way he wanted to play,” Lineker analyzed, adding that club leadership failed to provide adequate support in player recruitment.

    Despite the contentious departure, United defender Harry Maguire struck a conciliatory tone on Instagram, posting a photograph with the former manager alongside the message: “Thank you for everything boss. I wish you all the best in the future.”

  • 55 Cuban, Venezuelan troops killed during US capture of Maduro: official tolls

    55 Cuban, Venezuelan troops killed during US capture of Maduro: official tolls

    CARACAS, Venezuela — A military operation conducted by United States forces on January 3rd resulted in the deaths of 55 military personnel from Cuba and Venezuela, according to official statements released Tuesday by both nations. The raid, which targeted the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, represents a significant escalation in hemispheric tensions.

    Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López characterized the operation as a brutal assault, stating that Maduro’s presidential guard was largely eliminated ‘in cold blood’ by US troops who initiated bombardment in the capital before extracting the leader from his residence. The incident underscores the volatile security situation that has persisted throughout Maduro’s 12-year administration.

    Cuba’s government published the identities of 32 deceased military members, including three high-ranking officers from the interior ministry, who perished during the nighttime assault in Caracas. Simultaneously, Venezuelan authorities released an online memorial honoring 23 fallen personnel from their armed forces, a list that notably included five admirals.

    This tragic event occurs amid ongoing pressure from Washington against the leftist governments in Havana and Caracas, who maintain robust military cooperation alongside collaborations in health and education sectors. The longstanding practice of employing specialized Cuban soldiers for presidential protection—initiated by Maduro’s predecessor Hugo Chávez—has now culminated in one of the most severe bilateral military casualties in recent Latin American history.

  • Venezuela interim leader says no foreign power running country

    Venezuela interim leader says no foreign power running country

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a firm televised national address on Tuesday, Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez delivered a sharp rebuttal to recent U.S. statements, asserting her nation’s complete sovereignty and denying any foreign influence over its governance. The declaration came as a direct response to comments from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting Washington would oversee Venezuelan affairs during its political transition following the ousting of former leader Nicolás Maduro.

    Rodríguez, addressing the nation from the presidential palace, emphasized that ‘The legitimate government of Venezuela exercises sole authority within our sovereign territory. No external actor holds governance power here.’ Her speech represented the most forceful diplomatic counter yet from Caracas amid escalating tensions with Western powers.

    This exchange marks the latest development in the ongoing political crisis that has divided international alliances, with numerous nations recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate president while Maduro’s administration maintains control with support from key military and international partners. The situation continues to evolve as diplomatic maneuvers intensify between global powers supporting opposing factions in the protracted leadership struggle.

  • Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Partygoers toast new year at Sunrise

    Jamaica’s premier New Year’s Day celebration, Sunnation’s Sunrise breakfast party, successfully launched 2026 with an extraordinary fusion of luxury entertainment and authentic Caribbean atmosphere at its new Campion College venue. The exclusive all-inclusive event delivered premium experiences as revelers raised champagne glasses skyward in celebratory toasts to the promising year ahead.

    New York transplant Ronique Goodhall revealed to media that the Sunrise event has become her essential annual tradition since 2019. ‘The plane ticket is always worth it because there’s no party like a party at home,’ Goodhall expressed, highlighting the event’s exceptional value through gourmet dining experiences and performances by A-list DJs. ‘Sunrise always provides the perfect backdrop for spectacular photos and a food village that satisfies every craving.’

    Local attendee Antoine Livingston described the gathering as their designated annual reunion space, emphasizing how the January 1st timing creates ideal conditions for celebrating friendships, new beginnings, and previous accomplishments. ‘We consistently depart with the most incredible euphoria after sharing laughter, dance, and memory-making moments,’ Livingston noted.

    The musical atmosphere reached peak intensity through masterful sets by renowned selectors including Bloodline Franco, DJ Tyler, DJ Mac, Ricky Platinum, and DJ Quan. Their curated playlists generated such energetic response that female attendees strategically exchanged heels for comfortable sandals, preparing for extended morning dancing sessions.

    Dancehall anthems from icons Vybz Kartel, Lady Saw, and special guest Aidonia prompted spontaneous partner dancing throughout the venue. Particularly, Popcaan’s ‘Pretty Crew’ ignited enthusiastic reactions as women captured celebratory selfie videos celebrating friendship and beauty.

    Between musical engagements, patrons explored the extensive food court featuring succulent ribs, creamy pasta selections, and signature desserts from Devon House Ice Cream. Service staff remained consistently engaged throughout the afternoon as attendees fully utilized the unlimited dining offerings.

    The 2026 edition ultimately established Sunnation’s Sunrise Breakfast Party as Jamaica’s definitive New Year’s Day experience, combining gourmet catering, elite musical programming, and authentic cultural celebration in one prestigious package.