Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    In a deeply moving ceremony at Irwin Park, Siparia on Thursday, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar delivered an emotional eulogy at the funeral of murdered United National Congress councillor Romona Victor, describing the deceased as “a daughter of my heart.” The Prime Minister struggled to maintain composure during her address, pausing to wipe away tears and placing her hand over her heart as she remembered the 36-year-old public servant.

    The tragic circumstances of Victor’s death on November 23 cast a somber shadow over the proceedings. According to police reports, she was fatally beaten by her common-law husband, 45-year-old Rodney Ramsumair, who subsequently ingested poison. Their bodies were discovered in the bedroom of their Coora Branch Road residence in Siparia.

    Persad-Bissessar praised the bravery of Victor’s parents, Francis and Laura, for speaking openly about their daughter’s tragic passing while emphasizing that her life should not be defined by its final chapter. “Behind this councillor was a woman who faced private struggles while still showing up for others with smiles, hope, and love,” the Prime Minister stated.

    The funeral, held within walking distance of the Siparia Borough Corporation where Victor represented the interests of Siparia East/San Francique constituents, became a platform for addressing broader societal issues. The Prime Minister used the occasion to highlight the importance of support systems for those experiencing domestic violence, reaffirming her government’s commitment to strengthening crisis intervention mechanisms.

    Persad-Bissessar also reflected on Victor’s professional accomplishments, noting her recent appointment to the Heritage Petroleum board and her rise from modest beginnings in Syne Village, Penal. She recalled encouraging Victor to enter public life due to her sincerity and strong community connections. Victor is survived by her parents, siblings, and son Sheldon Zion, whom she frequently described as her greatest motivation. Following the service, she was laid to rest at the Siparia public cemetery.

  • Latapy Charity Golf in Trincity to help underprivileged youths

    Latapy Charity Golf in Trincity to help underprivileged youths

    Football icon Russell Latapy is channeling his passion for golf into philanthropic endeavors as his Education and Sport Foundation prepares to host its inaugural charity golf tournament on November 29. The event will unfold at Millennium Lakes Golf Course in Trincity, featuring a two-man scramble format with a shotgun start at 10 am.

  • PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    Tobago’s political landscape has been rattled by escalating concerns over unexplained United States military activities at the ANR Robinson International Airport, prompting demands for full governmental transparency. The controversy emerged on November 26 when residents reported being awakened by the thunderous departure of a US military aircraft at approximately 5:53 AM, with the unexpected event also disturbing local wildlife.

    The situation intensified when Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Tobago Chief Secretary Farley Augustine provided conflicting accounts regarding the military presence. While the Prime Minister characterized the operations as mere ‘roadworks’ associated with the new airport development, Augustine initially claimed awareness only of a refueling stop by a US Air Force craft, expressing no knowledge of troop deployments.

    Further complicating matters, eyewitnesses reported spotting equipment resembling advanced radar systems typically utilized by the US Marine Corps, fueling additional speculation about the nature of the military activities. This discovery has raised particular concern given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the region.

    The PNM Tobago Council, led by Minority Leader Kelvon Morris, has taken a firm stance against what they describe as secretive operations conducted without proper consultation or transparency. During a press conference held adjacent to the new airport terminal, Morris revealed he had been inundated with calls from concerned citizens demanding answers about potential military installations.

    Former Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis amplified these concerns, accusing both central government and Tobago House of Assembly leadership of engaging in clandestine activities that bypass proper democratic processes. Dennis emphasized the need for Tobagonians to unite in expressing their discomfort with the situation and demand greater accountability from their representatives.

    The emerging controversy occurs against the backdrop of upcoming THA elections, with the PNM Tobago Council preparing to challenge Augustine’s Tobago Peoples Party, adding political dimensions to the escalating transparency dispute.

  • Kamla, Beckles congratulate Godwin Friday, St Vincent’s new prime minister

    Kamla, Beckles congratulate Godwin Friday, St Vincent’s new prime minister

    The Caribbean political landscape has witnessed a seismic shift as Dr. Godwin Friday secured a decisive victory in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ general election, ending the 24-year administration of Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. The November 27th polls resulted in an extraordinary 14-1 parliamentary majority for Friday’s New Democratic Party (NDP), signaling a profound transformation in the nation’s governance.

    Regional leaders have unanimously extended congratulations to the prime minister-elect while acknowledging Gonsalves’ enduring legacy. Trinidad and Tobago’s political leadership demonstrated cross-party unity in their responses. Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar heralded the outcome as a triumph of democratic principles, stating on social media that citizens had ‘upheld the highest ideals of democracy.’ Government counterpart Pennelope Beckles similarly recognized the election as reflecting the people’s will and affirming regional democratic vitality.

    The transition marks a significant moment in Caribbean politics, particularly given Gonsalves’ prominent role in regional affairs. The outgoing leader had been a vocal opponent of US military deployment in the Southern Caribbean—a position that found support from Persad-Bissessar despite her general endorsement of anti-narcoterrorism operations.

    Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Gonsalves’ ‘long and dedicated service,’ noting his advocacy for deeper regional cooperation and integrated Caribbean community development. ‘His passion for regionalism and unwavering belief in collective action have shaped important conversations across our community,’ Holness remarked.

    St. Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip Pierre and Grenada’s Dickon Mitchell government both emphasized the historical significance of the democratic transition. Mitchell’s administration expressed anticipation for strengthened bilateral relations, characterizing the victory as opening ‘a new era of progress and development’ for the Vincentian people.

    Friday, who entered parliament in 2001 representing Northern Grenadines and assumed opposition leadership in 2016, now faces the task of steering the nation toward renewed prosperity while navigating complex regional dynamics and international relationships.

  • Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Emerging Barbadian fast bowler Johann Layne delivered an impressive performance on the final day of West Indies’ two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University. The 22-year-old paceman claimed three wickets for 33 runs, helping restrict the hosts to 264 all out in response to the visitors’ declaration at 346 for five.

    The practice encounter concluded in a predictable draw on November 27, but Layne’s post-tea bowling spell particularly stood out, likely earning approval from head coach Daren Sammy and bowling coach Ravi Rampaul. The New Zealand XI faced early trouble at 4-2 after just four overs, losing openers Scott Janett (1) and Jesse Frew (3) to experienced campaigners Kemar Roach (1-55) and Anderson Phillip (1-27).

    Layne broke a developing partnership when he dismissed Sam Cassidy for a brisk 28 off 26 deliveries with the score at 45-3. The home team recovered through a substantial 126-run stand between Muhammad Abbas (61) and Cam Paul (91), reaching 144-3 at the tea interval. Following the break, Layne’s double strike in quick succession removed both Abbas and wicketkeeper-batsman Marco Alpe (0), with both caught behind by Tevin Imlach.

    The middle-order collapse continued as Paul’s excellent knock ended at 91 when he offered a simple return catch to off-spinner Roston Chase (1-40). Left-arm spinners Kavem Hodge (2-32) and vice-captain Jomel Warrican (2-45) then combined to claim the final four wickets, bowling the New Zealand XI out 82 runs short of the Caribbean side’s total.

    Despite the encouraging performance, concerns emerged regarding allrounder Justin Greaves, who required assistance leaving the field after pulling up injured during his fourth over. The West Indies will begin their three-match Test series against New Zealand on November 1 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

  • Prisons go for 6th TTPFL win vs ‘Couva Sharks’

    Prisons go for 6th TTPFL win vs ‘Couva Sharks’

    The TT Premier Football League’s surprising early leaders Prisons FC face their most significant challenge yet as they prepare to clash with last season’s runners-up MIC Central FC Reboot at Arima Velodrome on November 29. The match represents a classic confrontation between the league’s established hierarchy and this season’s unexpected frontrunners.

    Prisons FC enters the match with a perfect record of five consecutive victories, accumulating 15 points and establishing an impressive defensive record with only two goals conceded. Their remarkable campaign includes notable triumphs over Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, second-placed Club Sando, and bottom-ranked FC Eagles. The team’s resurgence is particularly noteworthy given their recent consideration of withdrawing from the league before reversing that decision earlier this month under coach Dexter Cyrus.

    Their opponents, MIC Central FC, currently sit sixth in the standings with six points from four matches. Central FC seeks redemption following a devastating 6-1 defeat against a dominant Club Sando in their previous outing. The team has struggled with consistency, losing two of their four matches, including a 2-1 defeat to Miscellaneous Police FC last month that saw them reduced to ten men.

    The evening’s action begins with a 6 pm encounter between 2023/24 champions AC Port of Spain and tenth-placed 1976 FC Phoenix. AC Port of Spain, positioned fifth with eight points, aims to build momentum from their recent 2-1 victory over Point Fortin Civic, while Phoenix hopes to recover from a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to title-holders Defence Force that included a stoppage-time concession.

    Additional weekend fixtures feature seventh-placed San Juan Jabloteh against Club Sando at Mahaica Sporting Complex, while Police FC confronts Point Fortin Civic in a double-header arrangement. The league schedule has experienced disruptions with the postponement of Caledonia AIA’s match against Defence Force due to deteriorating field conditions caused by persistent rainfall.

    The current standings showcase Prisons FC’s commanding position at the summit, followed closely by Club Sando (12 points) and Police FC (10 points). Defence Force and AC Port of Spain complete the top five with eight points each, while Eagles FC remains at the bottom with just one point from five matches.

  • COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    BELEM, BRAZIL – The recently concluded COP30 United Nations Climate Summit has reignited global concerns about the accelerating pace of environmental degradation, with small island developing states (SIDS) including Trinidad and Tobago expressing particular alarm about climate impacts. Delegates from vulnerable nations highlighted the interconnected crises of ocean system disruption, biodiversity collapse, increasing natural disasters, and food insecurity that collectively threaten human welfare worldwide.

    Despite decades of international environmental conferences dating back to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, global responses remain critically inadequate. Observers consistently identify insufficient funding and lack of political commitment as primary obstacles to implementing meaningful climate action.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation, led by the Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, emphasized the necessity for coordinated action across all levels, with particular focus on climate financing mechanisms. The minister outlined national mitigation efforts including electric vehicle promotion, residential solar water heater installation, transition to green hydrogen energy, and implementation of a National Adaptation Plan.

    A compelling case was made for accelerated forest development as a cost-effective climate strategy. Forests serve as the planet’s primary terrestrial carbon sinks, working in tandem with oceanic systems to maintain atmospheric balance through carbon sequestration. Trinidad and Tobago maintains significant forest coverage spanning approximately 25% of its land area, providing critical ecosystem services including watershed protection, wildlife conservation, ecotourism opportunities, rural employment, and public health benefits.

    However, these vital ecosystems face persistent threats from unauthorized development, illegal squatting, and unregulated quarrying activities that have left thousands of hectares degraded and abandoned without restoration efforts.

    Global reforestation initiatives offer promising models for emulation, including Africa’s Great Green Wall project aiming to restore 100 million hectares across 11 nations, Brazil’s Amazon rainforest restoration efforts, and similar programs in Australia and India. Such investments in preventive conservation rather than costly recovery represent economically prudent pathways, with potential carbon credit revenues providing additional financial incentives for developed nations to support these initiatives.

    Collaboration between governmental forestry agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector stakeholders will prove essential to preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s environmental legacy for future generations.

  • GI leading the charge: A Team Band launches new frontline

    GI leading the charge: A Team Band launches new frontline

    The Caribbean music scene is buzzing with anticipation as the acclaimed A Team Band reveals a completely revitalized frontline lineup for Carnival 2026. The formal introduction occurred during a spectacular launch event at The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge in St Clair, signaling a strategic evolution for the ensemble.

    Heading this transformative musical movement is three-time Chutney Monarch Imran ‘GI’ Beharry, whose distinctive chutney influences are now integrated into the band’s traditionally soca-dominated sound. This artistic fusion represents a significant departure from their conventional repertoire, creating what industry observers are calling a groundbreaking cultural synthesis.

    Complementing Beharry’s expertise is emerging talent Kristina James, a multifaceted performer recognized for her dynamic singing, dancing, and stage presence. Completing the triumvirate is veteran singer-songwriter Joel ‘Zan’ Feveck, whose sophisticated vocal artistry and compositional experience provide depth to the collective.

    Band manager Zarin Morean explained the strategic reasoning behind this artistic reorganization: ‘Recent cultural and economic developments inspired our transformation. GI presented innovative concepts and an engaged fan base that we found irresistible. This alignment echoes soca pioneer Ras Shorty I’s original vision of unifying East Indian and African musical traditions.’

    The reshaped ensemble, now operating as ‘GI and The A Team Band featuring Kristina and Zan,’ aims to demonstrate their enhanced capabilities at the second annual VIP’s Only Carnival Cooler Experience on January 25 at The Cipriani College, Valsayn. Additionally, the band maintains their digital presence through weekly Friday night streaming showcases accessible via their social media platforms and official website.

  • Reggae Brunch 2 promises culture, cuisine and conscious vibes

    Reggae Brunch 2 promises culture, cuisine and conscious vibes

    The Anchorage in Chaguaramas prepares to host an immersive cultural experience as Reggae Brunch returns for its second edition on November 30th. Building upon the success of its inaugural event, this day-long celebration from 10 am to 4 pm promises an enhanced fusion of authentic Caribbean cuisine and conscious musical vibrations that highlight the deep cultural connections between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

    The event evolves with an expanded culinary offering that takes attendees on a gastronomic journey across the islands. The menu features Jamaican classics including sizzling jerk chicken, pork, and festival alongside Trinidadian favorites such as curry goat. Vegetarian and vegan options ensure inclusive dining, while traditional desserts like coconut drops, gizzada, cassava pone, and homemade rum cake showcase the region’s sweet culinary heritage.

    Musical curation stands as a cornerstone of the experience, with the Reggae On the Radio Team leading an ensemble of conscious selectors. Nine Miles International, Solid Rock, Lion Paw Movements, Royal Order, and ReggaeMatic Sound will deliver carefully selected reggae and conscious dancehall tracks. Special appearances by New Chapter, DJ Legacy, and radio personalities Sunny Bling, Caleb, S Carter, and Gilligan promise a dynamic blend of roots reggae, lovers rock, and contemporary sounds.

    The event’s dress code shifts from last year’s all-white theme to denim and white attire, reflecting the evolving nature of this cultural gathering. Organizers emphasize that Reggae Brunch transcends mere entertainment, serving as a celebration of Caribbean identity through shared culinary traditions and musical heritage. The event consciously leverages food and music as universal languages that bridge cultural divides and strengthen regional unity.

    Ticket information remains available through Reggae Brunch’s social media platforms, inviting patrons to participate in this demonstration of Caribbean cultural solidarity and joyful celebration.

  • Terror Fabulous headlines Reggae in the Tropics on November 30

    Terror Fabulous headlines Reggae in the Tropics on November 30

    South Trinidad prepares to immerse itself in Caribbean musical heritage as the premiere Reggae in the Tropics festival launches on November 30 at La Tropical Nightclub in La Romaine. This groundbreaking event marks a new chapter for reggae celebrations in the region, featuring legendary Jamaican dancehall artist Terror Fabulous as the headline performer.

    The 50-year-old music pioneer, renowned for shaping the definitive sound of 1990s dancehall, brings his iconic repertoire to the stage. Fabulous gained international recognition through his collaborations with producer Dave Kelly on the influential Madhouse Records label. His musical legacy includes timeless hits such as the globally celebrated duet ‘Action’ with Nadine Sutherland—a Billboard-charted dancehall classic—alongside seminal tracks like ‘Gangster’s Anthem,’ ‘Position,’ and ‘Yaga Yaga.’ Despite stepping back from mainstream prominence, his authentic lyricism and distinctive vocal style continue to inspire contemporary dancehall artists.

    The festival’s inaugural edition promises a comprehensive cultural experience with supporting performances from legendary selector Scorpion International, Carver P, DJ Zuggy, and Brothers in Sounds. The musical journey will span traditional reggae, classic dancehall, and modern Caribbean rhythms, creating an immersive auditory experience.

    Beyond musical celebration, the event carries significant humanitarian purpose. A portion of ticket sales will directly support relief efforts in Jamaica following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Event organizer Aneil Balkaran emphasized the Caribbean community’s solidarity: ‘Our Jamaican brothers and sisters face tremendous hardship. As a Caribbean family, we could not stand by idly. This event allows us to celebrate our cherished musical traditions while providing tangible support to those in need. Every ticket contributes to Jamaica’s reconstruction.’

    Reggae in the Tropics is presented by Reggae Nation Alliance, in collaboration with the original Reggae on the Park organizers and Colour Zone Creation. The evening’s festivities will be hosted by Boy Boy, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere throughout the cultural gathering.