标签： Jamaica

Kemar Riley, one of four individuals convicted in December 2019 for the brutal 2011 murders of 18-year-old Joeith Lynch and her 40-year-old mother Charmaine Rattray in Lauriston, St. Catherine, has filed an appeal against his conviction and life sentence. Riley, who was 29 at the time of his conviction, has consistently denied involvement in the killings, which involved beheading and extreme violence. He was sentenced to life imprisonment with hard labor, requiring him to serve a minimum of 52 years before parole eligibility. The case, initially scheduled for a hearing during the Michaelmas Term, was adjourned after Riley’s attorney, Obiko Gordon, requested time to consult with his client. Subsequently, the court indicated that a new attorney would be assigned to handle the appeal. The prosecution’s case hinged on the testimony of a star witness who claimed Riley confessed to participating in the murders while in custody. Riley, however, maintains his innocence, stating he had no prior knowledge of the crime or the alleged confession. The murders, described by Justice Vivene Harris as acts of terror, were reportedly ordered by the Klansman Gang, targeting the victims as alleged informers. The case has left a lasting impact on the Lauriston community, with Justice Harris emphasizing the heinous nature of the crimes in her sentencing remarks.

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — The nation of Argentina is reeling in shock and grief after the brutal torture and murder of two young women and a teenage girl, whose deaths were live-streamed on Instagram. The victims, identified as 20-year-old cousins Morena Verdi and Brenda Del Castillo, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were laid to rest on Friday in separate ceremonies attended by mourning relatives and community members. Their bodies were discovered buried in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires, five days after they went missing. The crime, linked to narco activity, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. Investigators revealed that the victims were lured into a van under the pretense of attending a party, only to be subjected to horrific violence as a warning to others. The live-streamed footage, viewed by 45 members of a private Instagram account, depicted the gang leader declaring, “This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me.” Argentine media reported that the victims endured unimaginable torture, including the removal of fingers and nails, beatings, and suffocation. Rights groups have organized nationwide protests under the slogan, “There are no good or bad victims, only femicides,” emphasizing the need to address gender-based violence regardless of the victims’ backgrounds. Maria Eugenia Luduena, director of the NGO Presentes, highlighted the socio-economic vulnerabilities that often push women into dangerous situations, exacerbated by Argentina’s ongoing economic crisis. The suspected gang leader, known as “Little J” or “Julito,” remains at large, while the families of the victims have reportedly received death threats, prompting calls for police protection. The case has drawn condemnation from political, cultural, and social leaders, who are demanding an end to femicide and systemic violence against women.

A month into the new academic year, student leaders at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, and the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) are celebrating the transformative impact of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company’s (JUTC) dedicated bus service. The initiative has significantly reduced travel costs and enhanced safety for students, garnering widespread praise. Roshaun Wynter, UWI Mona Guild president, highlighted the overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, emphasizing the service’s role in providing secure transportation for those attending late-night classes. Launched on July 31, the service connects key locations such as Half-Way-Tree, Portmore, Spanish Town, and Old Harbour. Prime Minister Andrew Holness further bolstered the initiative by announcing free JUTC bus travel for students from September to October, a move Wynter described as a financial lifeline for many. Despite minor concerns about route expansion, the service has been lauded for its punctuality and reliability. Notably, the bus system has enabled some students to move off-campus, easing financial burdens associated with housing. UTech Students’ Union President Percival Johnson echoed these sentiments, noting the service’s popularity among early and late commuters. The initiative has also gained traction on social media, with students sharing their positive experiences on platforms like TikTok. Looking ahead, Wynter expressed hope for fleet and route expansions to further support commuting students, particularly those in rural areas.

A heated debate has emerged in Jamaica as the Unuchi Foundation, a non-profit advocating for Africana spirituality, campaigns to repeal the Obeah Act of 1898. This move has sparked strong opposition from Christian groups, who fear that legalizing the folk practice could unleash demonic forces and exacerbate societal issues. On Wednesday, representatives from various church groups gathered in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, to pray against the potential decriminalization of Obeah. They urged Jamaicans to recognize the dangers of the practice and resist efforts to legitimize it. Bishop Dr. Alvin Bailey, president of the Jamaica Evangelical Alliance, emphasized that while Obeah is currently illegal, it remains prevalent and destructive. He warned that legalizing it would be a disastrous decision, enabling deviant behaviors and spiritual wickedness. The Unuchi Foundation, however, argues that Obeah is an integral part of African heritage and seeks to empower and heal people through its practice. The foundation organized a candlelight vigil and a virtual event to mark the first constitutional hearing on decriminalizing Obeah. Christian leaders, including Bishop Rowan Edwards and Pastor Dalbert Simmonds, have vowed to oppose any such legalization, citing the negative impact of similar practices like Voodoo in Haiti. The Church’s stance reflects deep concerns about the societal and spiritual consequences of legitimizing Obeah, which they believe could further destabilize the nation.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has raised concerns over the repeated failure of Glenmuir High School to fully compensate its teaching staff. This marks the second instance this year where educators at the institution have not received their complete salaries on time. In a strongly worded letter addressed to the school’s board chairman, the JTA expressed deep disappointment and demanded immediate rectification. The association emphasized that the school is in violation of the Education Regulation of 1980, which mandates that teachers employed from the first day of the term must receive their full monthly salary. The JTA warned that the institution is liable for any late charges incurred by staff if the payment is not made within 24 hours. They urged the school to ensure that teachers receive their full salaries promptly to enable them to meet their financial obligations. This issue highlights ongoing challenges in the education sector regarding fair compensation and adherence to regulatory standards.