Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Trini couple return home to focus on stigma of obesity

    Trini couple return home to focus on stigma of obesity

    A distinguished medical couple of Trinidadian origin has returned to their homeland to establish Stellar Medical, a specialized healthcare practice dedicated to addressing obesity and metabolic disorders through comprehensive, evidence-based approaches. Dr. Robert Jupiter and Dr. Karen Moses, both US board-certified physicians, have launched their innovative practice following extensive medical careers in the United States.

    Dr. Jupiter brings dual certification from the American Board of Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine, complemented by his registration as an obesity medical specialist with the Medical Board of Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Moses contributes her expertise as a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, creating a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

    The doctors expressed profound enthusiasm about their homecoming, emphasizing their commitment to delivering science-driven, stigma-free healthcare. “Our return marks a significant milestone in addressing the complex biological, hormonal, and environmental factors contributing to weight gain and metabolic diseases within our community,” Dr. Jupiter stated during the practice’s inauguration on January 14.

    Stellar Medical employs advanced therapeutic protocols including GLP-1/GIP medications such as Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro. These contemporary pharmaceuticals demonstrate superior efficacy compared to traditional weight-loss treatments, enabling patients to achieve substantial weight reduction of 16-23% total body weight versus the 5-10% typical of earlier interventions.

    Despite their proficiency with pharmaceutical interventions, the practice prioritizes holistic assessment methodologies. Initial treatment strategies focus on fundamental health pillars including nutritional optimization, physical activity, hydration management, sleep quality, and mental wellbeing before considering medication options.

    “Obesity represents a chronic metabolic condition requiring sustained medical management rather than temporary solutions,” Dr. Jupiter emphasized. “The misconception that weight management revolves solely around willpower perpetuates harmful stigma that prevents individuals from seeking proper medical care.”

    The practice has implemented a compassionate care model that collaborates with mental health professionals to address psychological aspects of weight management, creating a supportive environment free from judgment for patients navigating their healthcare journeys.

  • Tobago rejects Beckles and PNM

    Tobago rejects Beckles and PNM

    In a seismic political shift, Tobago’s electorate has delivered an unprecedented verdict against the People’s National Movement (PNM), stripping the party of all fifteen seats in the Tobago House of Assembly elections. This historic 15-0 defeat represents not merely an electoral loss but a comprehensive rejection of the party’s decade-long governance approach.

    Political leader Pennelope Beckles’ post-election declaration that the PNM would “put Tobago first again” has been met with widespread skepticism. Critics point to the party’s ten uninterrupted years in national office, during which Tobago experienced persistent neglect despite numerous promises. The island suffered from undelivered timelines, substance-deficient speeches, and perpetually incomplete projects.

    The PNM’s governance record reveals a pattern of systematic neglect across both Tobago and Trinidad. Economic diversification remained theoretical while infrastructure development languished, driving young Tobagonians to seek opportunities elsewhere. Concurrently, Trinidad witnessed collapsing public confidence, weakened institutions, spiraling crime rates, and increasingly reactive governance.

    Political analysts view this electoral outcome as voters seeing through recycled slogans and empty rhetoric. The complete sweep demonstrates the electorate’s ability to distinguish between political posturing and tangible outcomes. Beckles’ leadership has been fundamentally undermined by her inability to secure even a single seat, inspire confidence, or defend her party’s governing record.

    This political demolition serves as a stark reminder that leadership is measured by outcomes rather than post-defeat press statements. The Tobago electorate has rendered its verdict with unmistakable clarity, leaving the PNM’s future relevance in question and demonstrating that populations ultimately reject leaders lacking moral authority and proven results.

  • Health Division kicks off drug awareness, prevention activities

    Health Division kicks off drug awareness, prevention activities

    The Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection (DHWSP) in Tobago has announced an extensive drug prevention campaign through its Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Programme (ADAPP), scheduled to run from January through June 2026. The initiative will deliver targeted educational interventions across multiple demographics in six Tobago districts.

    The comprehensive program will specifically engage Standard Three primary school students with age-appropriate drug education, refusal skills training, and healthy alternative strategies. Parallel sessions will be conducted for Parent-Teacher Associations, equipping parents with skills to identify warning signs, establish supportive home environments, and facilitate constructive drug-related conversations with their children.

    Health center outreach components will incorporate drug screening services, necessary interventions, and referral systems to ensure at-risk individuals receive timely support alongside drug awareness presentations.

    A highlight of the 2026 calendar includes Drug Awareness Week from February 9-12, focusing on the connection between substance use and stress. The week will feature interactive sessions with Standard Four students utilizing Trinity SMART videos, Fatal Vision Goggles, and Smoker’s Lung and Mouth Specimens for enhanced learning. February 11 is designated as Drug Awareness Media Day, featuring live interviews across traditional and social media platforms to broaden audience engagement.

    The initiative will culminate in a public Expo on February 12 at Lowlands Mall, with participation from multiple stakeholders including the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA).

  • Niherst, Shell launch pilot season of First Tech Challenge

    Niherst, Shell launch pilot season of First Tech Challenge

    Trinidad and Tobago has embarked on an ambitious educational initiative with the official launch of the First Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics program, marking a significant advancement in STEM education for the nation’s youth. The National Institute of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (Niherst), in partnership with Shell Trinidad and Tobago Ltd, unveiled the pilot season under the 2025-2026 global theme ‘Decode’ during a ceremony that brought together government officials, educators, and industry leaders.

    The FTC program represents an international robotics competition designed specifically for students aged 12-18, challenging participants to design, build, and program robots capable of completing themed missions. This initiative builds upon Niherst’s successful implementation of the First Lego League, offering students a natural progression into more advanced robotics, Java programming, and sophisticated engineering design principles.

    Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath emphasized the program’s comprehensive educational value, stating, ‘The First Tech Challenge transcends technical education—it fundamentally teaches life skills, teamwork, and the ability to think globally while acting locally to address immediate challenges.’ His sentiment was echoed by Professor Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, who highlighted the critical importance of mathematical foundations in coding and programming.

    The launch event featured compelling keynote addresses from prominent figures including Julie David, Niherst’s acting president, and Ryssa Brathwaite, Shell’s social performance and investment advisor. Brathwaite articulated Shell’s commitment: ‘Our investment in this program demonstrates our dedication to youth development. Together with Niherst, we’re creating an ecosystem where students can experiment courageously, learn from failures, and achieve success beyond their expectations.’

    A live robotics demonstration provided attendees with tangible insights into the practical applications of the program, showcasing the innovative potential that participants will develop. The event attracted widespread participation from schools, educators, and youth organizations across Trinidad and Tobago, all eager to engage with this transformative educational opportunity.

    Looking forward, the FTC pilot season will continue throughout 2026, culminating in a National Robotics Championship where student teams will showcase their technological creations and compete for the opportunity to represent Trinidad and Tobago on the international stage. Minister Dowlath further announced plans to integrate robotics clubs across all educational levels, including primary and early childhood education institutions, ensuring comprehensive STEM exposure from the earliest educational stages.

  • Judge to rule in lawsuit against Dr Avinash Sawh in June

    Judge to rule in lawsuit against Dr Avinash Sawh in June

    A High Court justice will deliver a pivotal ruling on June 24 in the civil lawsuit against suspended physician Dr. Avinash Sawh, marking the culmination of a dramatic legal battle over alleged racial discrimination, workplace abuse, and medical misconduct. Justice Christopher Sieuchand fixed the decision date following two days of intensive virtual proceedings that exposed deeply contentious allegations between the parties.

    The case centers on claims by former employee Chantelle Arielle Figaro, who alleges constructive dismissal, assault, battery, and breach of contract during her employment at Sawh’s Medical Associates from October 2019 to October 2020. Figaro contends the physician and his wife Allison Dass-Sawh created a hostile work environment characterized by verbal abuse, racial slurs, and withheld overtime compensation.

    During cross-examination by Figaro’s attorney Prakash Ramadhar, Dr. Sawh made several startling admissions. He acknowledged breaching COVID-19 quarantine protocols by entering his medical facility around midnight, though he claimed this was solely for sanitization purposes. The doctor also conceded to using racially offensive language, describing his own behavior as ‘abhorrent’ and admitting to uttering phrases including ‘dunce niggers’ and allegations that certain individuals ‘take bribes.’

    ‘In moments of anger I used racial language,’ Sawh testified, though he maintained he couldn’t recall his exact wording. The courtroom heard recorded evidence from October 28, 2020, capturing Sawh’s derogatory remarks directed at Figaro following a clinic visit by her relative, a police officer.

    Sawh further acknowledged that despite initially stating Figaro performed no nursing duties, she indeed undertook such responsibilities. However, he vehemently denied allegations of sexual harassment and assault, including specific claims that he slapped Figaro’s buttocks on July 31, 2020. ‘I never touched her,’ he asserted, adding he never found her attractive.

    The physician also rejected claims of unsafe medical practices, insisting that while he instructed staff to administer drugs, this only occurred under his direct supervision. He dismissed allegations regarding expired medications and equipment malfunctions as ‘fabricated.’

    Allison Dass-Sawh, who handled administrative and payroll matters, admitted to using obscene language in recorded conversations but claimed the evidence had been edited. She denied creating a toxic environment or forcing Figaro’s resignation, though acknowledged timesheets contradicting overtime claims weren’t included in her witness statement.

    Defense witness Annalisa Ralph Sammy testified she witnessed no inappropriate behavior during the alleged assault incident, though security footage reportedly reviewed wasn’t presented in court.

    Figaro seeks damages for psychological harm including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, plus loss of future earnings and reputational damage. This civil case follows Sawh’s 2023 one-week suspension by Trinidad and Tobago’s Medical Board for ‘infamous and disgraceful conduct’ related to the same incident, which sparked widespread social media outrage and calls for license revocation.

  • Marubeni funding helps Caribbean Kids and Families Therapy Organisation

    Marubeni funding helps Caribbean Kids and Families Therapy Organisation

    A vibrant new therapeutic facility on Ramsaran Street in Chaguanas represents a significant advancement in specialized care for children with disabilities across Central and South Trinidad. The Caribbean Kids and Families Therapy Organisation (CKFTO) has inaugurated its second satellite clinic, strategically positioned to eliminate extensive travel burdens for families previously commuting weekly from distant regions like Mayaro and Moruga to access services in St James.

    This meticulously designed clinical environment features brightly colored therapy rooms equipped with soft mats, organized play materials, and specialized pediatric rehabilitation equipment. Beyond its cheerful appearance lies a professionally configured therapeutic space where children pursue developmental milestones through occupational, speech, and physiotherapy interventions, complemented by art therapy and psychoeducational assessments.

    The clinic’s operational capacity received substantial enhancement through a $10,000 USD contribution from Marubeni Power International Inc, presented during a December 2025 facility walkthrough. Mo Majeed, COO and Managing Director of Caribbean Operations at Marubeni, emphasized the company’s commitment to equitable healthcare access: “Our support reflects Marubeni’s dedication to meaningful, long-term community partnerships that create tangible impact for families. We’re helping ensure children across Trinidad receive international-standard therapeutic care.”

    CKFTO General Manager Krista Hamel-Smith detailed how the funding enabled procurement of specialized Cuevas Medek Exercises equipment, traditional physiotherapy tools, and sensory-friendly resources. “Our team maximizes each child’s progress within an enjoyable, evidence-based environment,” Hamel-Smith explained. “We simultaneously support the broader network through family support groups and training sessions for parents, caregivers, and educators.”

    The organization’s holistic approach extends beyond clinical walls through community outreach initiatives serving migrant children and abandoned children with disabilities at Mt Hope hospital. Additional support from Price Club director Shamshad Ali and the Digicel Foundation of TT facilitated the clinic’s establishment, with CKFTO actively seeking ongoing public and corporate partnerships to sustain its mission of delivering essential care closer to patients’ homes.

  • $3,000 fine for interfering with road penalty warning

    $3,000 fine for interfering with road penalty warning

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has introduced stringent measures against traffic violations through the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill 2026, which will be presented for parliamentary debate on January 16. Attorney General John Jeremie will table the legislation that establishes severe penalties for interfering with official vehicle defect notices.

    The groundbreaking legislation specifically targets 18 distinct traffic offenses, including operating vehicles without proper identification lights during nighttime hours, failing to display passenger capacity designations in taxis, and maintaining excessively smoky or noisy vehicles. When law enforcement identifies such violations, officers will attach a fixed penalty warning to the vehicle in a clearly visible location, providing offenders with either three or seven working days to rectify the defects depending on the nature of the offense.

    The bill contains a crucial provision that imposes a substantial $3,000 fine on any individual who removes or interferes with the officially affixed warning notice without proper authorization. Only the driver, persons acting under the driver’s direct authority, or those legally responsible for the traffic violation may legally remove the notice after demonstrating compliance with repair requirements to police authorities.

    According to the legislation’s explanatory notes, the fixed penalty warning must remain publicly displayed until all identified defects have been satisfactorily addressed. The warning document must comprehensively detail the date, time, and location of issuance; the specific legal violation; compliance deadlines; and appropriate reporting procedures for demonstrating remediation.

    Failure to comply within the designated grace period automatically converts the warning into a formal fixed penalty notice, triggering financial penalties, demerit points, and potential legal consequences. The Licensing Authority receives duplicate documentation of all proceedings, ensuring comprehensive tracking of violations and compliance records.

  • Ramsamooj: Farley gets ‘strongest hand’ to push autonomy

    Ramsamooj: Farley gets ‘strongest hand’ to push autonomy

    Political analyst Derek Ramsamooj asserts that the Tobago People’s Party’s (TPP) unprecedented 15-0 sweep in the January 12 Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election has positioned party leader Farley Augustine with unprecedented leverage to pursue enhanced autonomy for the island. The landslide victory, which marks a historic political shift, grants Chief Secretary Augustine a compelling mandate to advance Tobago’s agenda in negotiations with Trinidad’s central government.

    Ramsamooj highlights the emerging political dynamics between Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Augustine, noting the results have significantly weakened the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) national standing. The TPP now commands complete control of the assembly along with both Tobago West and Tobago East parliamentary seats.

    The analyst projects substantial opportunities for political cooperation between Persad-Bissessar’s United National Congress-led administration and Augustine’s THA government. This collaboration may potentially involve negotiations for increased budgetary allocations to Tobago, possibly seeking an additional percentage point or two from the national budget over the coming four-year term.

    Ramsamooj characterizes the PNM’s defeat as indicative of a party in decline, having lost its sole Darrel Spring/Whim seat that it secured in the December 2021 election. He emphasizes that the PNM has deteriorated into a minority political entity, suffering from diminished national appeal and leadership effectiveness under current leader Pennelope Beckles. The analyst urges urgent strategic reassessment and leadership style reevaluation for the party to reclaim political relevance.

  • Mottley a sane,consistent voice

    Mottley a sane,consistent voice

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has established herself as a principled advocate for social justice throughout the Caribbean region, distinguishing herself from previous regional leaders through her unwavering stance against foreign intervention and democratic backsliding.

    Prime Minister Mottley has recently condemned two significant regional developments: the controversial kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US military forces and the delayed election results declaration following Guyana’s March 2020 general election. This assertive diplomatic posture marks a dramatic departure from the historical approach of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders, who frequently remained silent during decades of democratic erosion throughout the region.

    The editorial commentary highlights how previous generations of Caribbean leaders remained passive observers while the United States implemented aggressive foreign policies that undermined elected governments. Guyana specifically suffered devastating consequences from such interventions, with US actions based on unsubstantiated fears of communist takeover leading to widespread violence that particularly targeted Indo-Guyanese communities.

    The analysis draws historical parallels between contemporary US foreign policy under President Donald Trump and ancient expansionist models dating back to Alexander the Great and the Roman Empire. This continuity of Western imperialistic mentality, the argument suggests, manifests today through America’s ruthless removal of foreign regimes that resist resource exploitation demands.

    The commentary calls for more regional leaders and citizens to emulate Mottley’s courage in confronting social injustice. While elected officials should naturally lead this charge, ordinary citizens also bear moral responsibility to voice opposition to oppression. Unfortunately, many Caribbean residents remain enamored with US military power, with some even embracing Trump-like behavior patterns.

    Mottley demonstrates that moral authority doesn’t require military or economic supremacy, offering an alternative model of leadership based on principle rather than power. Had such leadership emerged earlier in Caribbean history, the editorial contends, authoritarian figures like Dési Bouterse, François Duvalier, Eric Gairy, Forbes Burnham, and Rafael Trujillo might never have risen to power, potentially creating a more prosperous and stable region that retained rather than lost its population to migration.

  • AG: US boat strikes consistent with international law

    AG: US boat strikes consistent with international law

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Attorney General John Jeremie has publicly affirmed that recent US Navy operations targeting suspected drug trafficking vessels from Venezuela align with international legal standards. This conclusion was reached following consultation with an independent international legal expert outside his office.

    During a January 14 press briefing at the United National Congress headquarters in Chaguanas, Jeremie revealed he had sought external legal counsel before forming his official position. “My initial assessment, supported by expert advice, indicates these military actions were consistent with international law,” Jeremie stated. “This determination was based on guidance from a qualified international legal authority.”

    The Attorney General maintained confidentiality regarding the identity of the legal expert and declined to discuss specific details of the advice received, explaining that such disclosure would require revealing privileged information.

    When questioned about potential Trinidadian casualties resulting from the operations, Jeremie responded that he possessed no substantiated information confirming any citizens of Trinidad and Tobago were killed in the strikes. “As of now, I have no evidence suggesting any TT national perished in these military actions,” he emphasized.

    Regarding whether the operations adhered to international due process standards, Jeremie refrained from detailed commentary, citing the confidential nature of the legal guidance he received. “My responsibility has been fulfilled by ensuring the republic operates in accordance with established legal frameworks,” he noted.

    Jeremie confirmed he had communicated his assessment to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar but offered no additional details regarding these communications.

    The press conference also addressed questions concerning potential US military operations originating from Trinidadian territory, including possible involvement in the reported January 3 capture attempt of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. Jeremie provided no commentary on these matters.

    While acknowledging the presence of US military personnel in Trinidad, Jeremie clarified their activities were unrelated to the naval operations. “We hosted marine personnel engaged in school visits and joint training exercises with our Defence Force,” he explained, characterizing these as “intense training exercises” that were publicly acknowledged.

    Jeremie referenced official statements from both the Ministry of Homeland Security and Ministry of Defence issued on the day of the strikes, which explicitly denied Trinidad and Tobago’s involvement in the US military operations.