标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In the heart of eastern Uganda, Moses Kutoi, a respected clan leader of the Bagisu people, finds himself at the center of a cultural and familial storm. As paternity disputes surge across the country, Kutoi mediates sensitive family conflicts, often involving men questioning the resemblance of their children. For Kutoi, this issue is deeply taboo, rooted in ancestral wisdom, yet he feels compelled to intervene to prevent marriages from collapsing into violence. “Even I don’t resemble my father,” he recently told a skeptical man seeking his help. The rise of DNA testing, fueled by reports of well-known Ugandans discovering they are not the biological fathers of their children, has intensified these disputes. The Ministry of Internal Affairs reports a dramatic increase in voluntary DNA tests, with over 98% of results revealing non-paternity. Despite appeals from religious leaders like Anglican Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba, who urged tolerance and faith, the demand for DNA testing continues to grow. In Nabumali, where Kutoi serves as mayor, the high cost of testing—over $200—makes it inaccessible for many families. Kutoi, drawing on his own experience, emphasizes the importance of unity and tradition, reminding disputing couples that children are a blessing regardless of biological ties. As paternity disputes increasingly intertwine with property and divorce proceedings, faith leaders like Rev. Robert Wantsala and Pastor Andrew Mutengu are stepping in to counsel families and mediate conflicts. Yet, as DNA testing becomes more prevalent, the challenge remains to balance modern science with traditional values in a rapidly changing society.

The Trinidad and Tobago government has announced alternative venues for Carnival 2026 events following a sweeping ban on fetes at major public sporting facilities. Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin revealed during a House of Representatives session on November 21 that the Queen’s Park Savannah (QPS) and facilities in Chaguaramas have been designated as primary alternatives. This decision comes after Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar extended a ban on Carnival-related events at key venues, including the Hasely Crawford Stadium and the Jean Pierre Complex, sparking concerns from industry stakeholders. The ban, initially imposed on the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, has been criticized by promoters who warn it could devastate the multi-billion-dollar Carnival and entertainment industry, a critical driver of tourism and foreign exchange. Benjamin assured that her ministry, in collaboration with the National Carnival Commission (NCC), is committed to supporting stakeholders and ensuring a successful Carnival. However, tensions flared during the parliamentary session as Diego Martin West MP Hans Des Vignes pressed for clarity on stakeholder consultations, only to be cut off by Speaker Jagdeo Singh for violating procedural rules. Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle also questioned the minister on additional venues, to which Benjamin reiterated the QPS and Chaguaramas as key locations. The TT Promoters Association (TTPA) has urged the government to reconsider the ban, warning it could deliver a ‘death knell’ to the already vulnerable sector. Despite a scheduled meeting between the TTPA and Benjamin on November 21, no confirmation of its occurrence was provided, leaving industry concerns unresolved.

A harrowing video capturing the robbery of passengers and a driver aboard a maxi taxi in Trinidad and Tobago on November 19 has underscored the alarming rise in brazen daytime crimes in the country. The incident, recorded on the driver’s dashboard camera, began as an ordinary journey along the Priority Bus Route in Arouca. However, the scene quickly turned violent when the vehicle stopped, and five masked men boarded, brandishing weapons and demanding cash and valuables. Passengers, visibly terrified, complied as their belongings were snatched. The driver, displaying remarkable composure, handed over his earnings without resistance. The entire ordeal lasted less than a minute, leaving the victims shaken but unharmed. This incident is part of a troubling trend of opportunistic crimes in the region. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander revealed that while robberies on the route decreased from ten last year to one this year, the Transit Police Unit remains critically understaffed, with a shortage of at least 60 officers. Recent weeks have seen a spike in similar crimes, including the armed robbery of a businesswoman at her Signal Hill home and a Trade Ministry official in Cascade. These incidents highlight the urgent need for enhanced police presence and proactive measures to deter criminals. As the holiday season approaches, authorities must prioritize public safety through increased patrols and visible law enforcement to restore public confidence.

In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, the South Western Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) conducted a successful Operation HELIOS over the weekend. The operation, which took place in the Erin district, led to the detention of eleven suspected Venezuelans, including one minor, and the seizure of substantial quantities of contraband. The exercise, carried out between 8 am on November 22 and 8 am the following day, involved collaboration between Task Force officers, the Erin police, the Canine Unit, and the Defence Force. Acting on intelligence, the officers targeted the Erin Beach Facility, where they discovered the group hiding in a bushy area. Subsequent searches along the shoreline uncovered 112 bottles of alcohol and various amounts of sausage and cheese. The Immigration Division has been notified, and investigations are currently underway. The operation was authorized by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Operations Suzette Martin, led by Senior Superintendent Thompson, and coordinated by Assistant Superintendents Corrie and Forbes.

For over three decades, Charlotteville has been a haven for stray dogs, affectionately referred to as ‘pothongs’ or ‘shithongs.’ These dogs, though often collarless, are remarkably gentle and coexist peacefully with villagers and visitors alike. They are fed scraps and bones by locals and tourists, forming temporary bonds during vacations. However, behind this idyllic scene lies a harsher reality, vividly depicted in Elspeth Duncan’s short film, *Charlotteville Tails*. The film, born from a career fair where Duncan discussed the power of filmmaking, was shaped by local children and highlights the struggles of starving, injured, and neglected dogs. It also showcases the community’s efforts to care for these animals, including fundraising and medical treatment. Duncan, inspired by her adopted dog Venus, advocates for kindness to all creatures through her NGO, Venus Doggess of Love. She calls for a veterinary clinic in Charlotteville to address the challenges faced by both dogs and humans. The film, alongside *Venus and Magnet*, a poetic tribute to her dog’s friendship with a chick, has garnered awards and serves as a powerful educational tool, urging viewers to embrace compassion for animals. Both films are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Charlotteville’s dogs, whose diverse breeds reflect Trinidad and Tobago’s multicultural heritage. Duncan’s work aims to foster awareness and empathy, encouraging communities to see dogs not as utilities but as kin deserving of care and respect.