PEOPLE detained under preventive detention orders (PDOs) who cannot afford private attorneys are facing difficulties securing legal representation to challenge their continued detention, according to a lawyer representing one of those in custody.In a pre-action protocol letter dated August 14…

Senior Reporter jensen.lavende@guardian.co.tt A 20-year-old man detained under a Preventive Detention Order (PDO) is threatening judicial review and constitutional proceedings against the State of Emergency (SoE) Review Tribunal and the Attorney General, claiming he has been denied access to legal representation despite provisions in the Emergency Powers Regulations (EPR). In a pre-action protocol letter dated August 14, attorney Keron Ramkhalwhan, acting for detainee Jamaalee “Maly” Wilson, argued that the review tribunal unlawfully failed to consider exercising its power to appoint legal counsel for detainees and instead directed Wilson’s family to seek assistance from the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority. Continue reading Detainee challenges SoE tribunal over access to legal counsel at CNC3.

KINGSTON – One of Jamaica’s greatest-ever athletic coaches, Stephen “Franno” Francis, was laid to rest on Saturday (August 15) in an emotional service at the National Indoor Sports Centre. Francis, founder of the renowned MVP Track Club, passed away on July 4, one day after celebrating his 64th birthday. During the service that was attended by family members, friends, colleagues, athletes and political figures, Francis was remembered as a man who made an outstanding contribution to athletics not only in Jamaica, but internationally. Continue reading Francis laid to rest in moving ceremony at CNC3.

A partnership between Trident Insurance and the Ministry of Transport and Works is targeting pedestrian crossings around several schools and potholes ahead of the start of the new school term. In… The post Road safety upgrade underway ahead of new term school term appeared first on Barbados Today.

Mayaro MP Pays Tribute To Former Councillor Mayaro MP Pays Tribute To Former Councillor TTT News August 16, 2026 CommunityMayaro MP and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Nicholas Morris, is paying tribute to former councillor and alderman, Ramkissoon Nagassar, who has died. Minister Morris described Mr.… The post Mayaro MP Pays Tribute To Former Councillor first appeared on TTT News.

The Ministry of Energy, Business Development and Consumer Affairs has officially launched consultations to establish a national policy for the non-financial cooperative sector. Speaking at the opening of a national… The post Government moves to modernise Barbados’ non-financial cooperative sector appeared first on Barbados Today.

A BEAUTIFUL space is one thing. A space that changes the way people live is something else. For Toni Crockett SuratSingh, that is the real power of interior design. “I believe good design has the power to improve the way…

KINGSTON – Kirk McKenzie’s scintillating half-century, coupled with some impressive power hitting by Rovman Powell and Andre Russell, guided the Jamaica Kingsmen to their maiden victory in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, a five-wicket win over the Trinbago Knight Riders in Jamaica on Saturday. McKenzie, who was named Player-of-the-Match, slammed a boundary-studded 69 off just 25 balls to set the tone for the Kingsmen in their run chase, as they easily overhauled the Knight Riders’ total of 182 for six, finishing on 183 for five in 18.4 overs, to grab their first win in front of a supportive home crowd at Sabina Park. Continue reading Kingsmen end losing streak with win over Knight Riders at CNC3.

Police are investigating a report that a woman was detained inside a taxi and subjected to an indecent act by the driver while travelling from San Fernando to Debe.

Tyrese Leroy Farrell, who was the subject of an “Escaped Prisoner” bulletin, issued on Saturday, is back in police custody. Lawmen say he came into police custody on Sunday and… The post Escaped prisoner back in police custody appeared first on Barbados Today.

The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) is calling on the government to proceed carefully with any proposal to relocate the Suarez Brothers Circus to the Garrison Savannah, insisting that public health,… The post DLP urges caution on proposal to relocate circus to Garrison Savannah appeared first on Barbados Today.

TTPS Mounted Branch Celebrates 175 years Of Service TTPS Mounted Branch Celebrates 175 years Of Service TTT News August 16, 2026 Homeland SecurityThe Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Mounted Branch marked a major milestone on Saturday, celebrating 175 years of service with a commemorative ride through Woodbrook and St Clair. The special… The post TTPS Mounted Branch Celebrates 175 years Of Service first appeared on TTT News.

They got runs and wickets, but the three returning stars for the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) could not prevent the desperate Jamaica Kingsmen from recording their first win of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2026, last night at…

POLICE are investigating the sudden death of an 18-year-old student who became ill at a Gasparillo home on Friday night.

Workers of the Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd (TSTT) have been warned that industrial action is against the law.TSTT on Friday fired back at the Communications Workers’ Union’s (CWU) threat to shut down the company over a disputed…

PEOPLE detained under preventive detention orders (PDOs) who cannot afford private attorneys are facing difficulties securing legal representation to challenge their continued detention, according to a lawyer representing one of those in custody.In a pre-action protocol letter dated August 14…

Punters across the country were hoping to strike it rich yesterday as the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) Lotto Plus jackpot climbed to an estimated $20.2 million.The multimillion-dollar prize was up for grabs after another rollover in Wednesday night’s draw…

THE National Trust has taken issue with Parliament over damage caused to a historic over-two-centuries-old fountain at the Cabildo Building, Port of Spain.In a four-page letter to Clerk of the House Brian Caesar dated August 3, 2026, National Trust Council…

Hundreds of people dressed in white and carrying candles took to the streets on Friday night, sending a united message against the gun violence that has claimed five lives in the community in recent weeks.About 300 residents and supporters from…

Retired Appeal Court judge and former Senate pre­sident Timothy Hamel-Smith has backed a judicial enquiry into the processes of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), saying such an exercise would be critical to maintaining public confidence in the regional court.Speaking…

The Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) is demanding to know the whereabouts of Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro and whether an acting commissioner has been appointed during his absence.PNM chairman Marvin Gonzales raised that issue, amongst others, yesterday at a news…

Franno’s last lap

KFC eats into jerk sales

Vision. Mission. Spirit. Impact

Fears flow in St Thomas

‘WE GO ABOVE GOLD’

Suzanne McFayden

Small ‘p’ politics

Pack Plays

Fernandez booed by Chelsea fans in friendly win over Sociedad

Man Utd beaten by former boss Amorim’s AC Milan

Sunday, August 16, 2026

  In Brief T&T Energy Boost: The National Gas Company (NGC) secured a 20% stake in the Manakin-Cocuina gas field, while BP and ExxonMobil advance major offshore projects, promising a medium-term lift to domestic gas supply. Global Markets Mixed: US and European equities experienced choppy trading as investors balanced strong corporate earnings and AI optimism... The post T&T Energy Revival Takes Centre Stage as Global Markets Consolidate appeared first on AZP News.

  In Brief The Proposal: An AI data centre has been proposed for Debe, offering potential opportunities for investment, skilled employment, and economic diversification in Trinidad and Tobago. Transparency Concerns: There are apparent inconsistencies from officials regarding the initial clearing of the lands and its ultimate intended use, highlighting a need for greater government candour.... The post The Debe AI Data Centre: Economic Promise Must Not Eclipse Environmental Scrutiny appeared first on AZP News.

  In Brief The Legal Mandate: Since April 2023, public procurement is governed by strict statutory requirements under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act, 2015, rather than mere administrative policy. Severe Consequences: Failing to follow proper procurement procedures can render contracts ‘void and illegal.’ This applies broadly to ministries, state-controlled enterprises, and... The post Public Funds, Public Trust: Understanding the OPR, Procurement Law appeared first on AZP News.

  In Brief The Tradition: Rakhi (Raksha Bandhan) is traditionally an Indian festival where a sister ties a sacred thread on her brother’s wrist, symbolising love and a promise of protection. The Spiritual View: The Brahma Kumaris interpret Rakhi beyond biological ties, viewing it as a spiritual bond of purity, universal brotherhood, and a connection... The post Raksha Bandhan: From Village Traditions to Universal Protection appeared first on AZP News.

Raymond Ramnarine and Dil-E-Nadan have created history once again on Sunday, August 9, drawing a sold-out crowd of more than 8,000 fans to the Chutney Fusion Festival at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, South Africa.The concert, produced by Fusion Life…

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago—Pan Trinbago Inc TC has announced the establishment of the Trinidad and Tobago Steelpan Geographical Indication (GI) Board, which will guide the next steps in protecting, certifying and promoting authentic T&T steelpans.The Trinidad and Tobago…

“Mich, why don’t you do soca?”Michelle Abraham gets asked that question quite often.In a soca-dominated music ecosystem, she understands why. She does not feel pressured by it, she insists. In fact, Abraham has recorded several soca songs that have never…

Trinidad and Tobago — Trinidad and Tobago will host the Fourth Annual Caribbean Music Awards on September 19, 2026, at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) in Port of Spain.Presented by Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL), with support from…

Trinidad and Tobago lost one of its quiet architects on August 7 when Willi Chen passed away at the milestone age of 94. He leaves two of his four children, a crowd of brothers, and a family of artists that…

The reopening of the Pt Lisas steel plant could position Trinidad and Tobago as a strategic nearshoring base for the United States while moving the country into higher-value production, economist Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon says.The plant is being reopened by Pinnacle…

In a detailed statement published in yesterday’s Express, the president of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Winston Anderson, responded to criticisms made by his judicial colleagues in e-mails reported exclusively in last Sunday’s edition of this newspaper.Those criticisms…

“Justice is not a cloistered virtue; she must be allowed to suffer the scrutiny and respectful, even though outspoken, comments of ordinary men.”—Lord Akin, Privy Council judgment, Ambard vs Attorney General for Trinidad and Tobago, 1936.The judges of the Caribbean…

There is a certain kind of political confidence that confuses movement with progress, the belief that anything old must be outdated and anything new must be better simply because it is new. In a country as historically layered as ours,…

Over the past week, Trinidad and Tobago has witnessed a welcome flurry of announcements pointing towards renewed investment, industrial activity and economic opportunity.The proposed revival of the former steel plant at Point Lisas, with investment eventually reaching US$750 million and…

I sense there is a calm before a storm, an uneven time when the population sets out to look for someone who would lead them out of the marshland through which we have navigated the last 40 to 60 years.Joseph…

On World Steelpan Day, Trinidad and Tobago has every reason to celebrate. There are not many countries that can say they gave the world an entirely new musical instrument. We can.Born from ingenuity, resistance, experimentation and extraordinary creativity, the steelpan…

The police post at Eddie Hart Grounds occupies a relatively small portion of the real estate, sits in an accessible and practical location and, from what I observed, does not interfere with the exercise facilities, commercial activity or general use…

Amid the ongoing discussions surrounding the location of this year’s Independence Day parade at the Queen’s Park Savannah, there is an ideal opportunity for the Government to give the national community a truly meaningful gift—one focused on civic pride, cleanliness,…

The recent expression of “grave concern” by the heads of judiciary across the Caribbean over an apparent breach of confidentiality at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) deserves careful consideration beyond the immediate controversy.The regional judicial leaders have appropriately declined…

After months of discussion surrounding the Chapman Challenge, it has been announced that the initiative of President Jeffrey Bostic will be officially launched on September 23. In a media release… The post Chapman Challenge to launch next month appeared first on Barbados Today.

When in 2024 I was invited by Cedric Foussard, coordinator of the Fifth World Congress on Justice with Children, to join the Scientific Committee for the congress, scheduled for Madrid in 2025, I readily acceded to his request. It was…

Trinidad and Tobago stands at a crossroads. Our anthem promises that “Every creed and race find an equal place”. That promise is not a lyric to be sung once a year—it is the foundation of our nation.Natasha Wilson’s 1989 “Sweet…

Trinidad and Tobago are the newly crowned champions of the CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Women’s Championship after defeating defending champions Barbados by six wickets in the final in Antigua yesterday.

The St Lucia Kings clinched their second victory of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League season in dramatic fashion, overcoming both the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and treacherous weather conditions to win by three wickets with just two balls to…

Track Heatwave edged 59mph class vessel Justified to be the first boat to reach Tobago in the 2026 Great Race yesterday, completing the 90-mile Trinidad-to-Tobago run in one hour, 36 minutes, 15 seconds to lead the fleet into Store Bay…

You can only beat the opponents placed before you, and national netball coach Liselle Johnson contends that Trinidad and Tobago beat a good Jamaican team to capture the 2026 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games netball title in the Dominican…

North Coast Gems and Horizon were among the big winners when the Laventille Netball League continued on Wednesday.

Organisational or institutional memory refers to how organisations store, retain and reuse data, knowledge and experiences over time. This memory is codified in the rules and regulations, or in the systems and processes that guide everyday actions. Sometimes circumstances change, requiring procedures to be rewritten to accommodate new learning or technological changes. Introducing the changes requires consultation with persons affected by those changes. A review of recent failed public sector initiatives will show that many new, useful initiatives failed because the consultation process was ineffective or non-existent. Continue reading Consultation must be key element of major national projects at CNC3.

Treacherous sea conditions amid a yellow-level alert eliminated a number of top contenders, but could not cool Heatwave in the annual Great Race on Saturday (August 15) morning. Hours before 30 powerboats left Chaguaramas around 7 am, the race was still up in the air with the Trinidad and Tobago Powerboat Association (TTPBA) contemplating postponing the race due to the conditions. However, TTPBA president Steffan Lewis said around 5 am, meteorological experts gave the all-clear as most of the bad weather had shifted closer to Barbados. Continue reading Yellow alert can’t cool Heatwave from repeating as class winners at CNC3.

Orin Gordon Before wading into the fallout from the leaks of private, internal correspondence within the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), it’s important to understand what the CCJ is. It’s the final court of appeal (supreme or apex court) in civil and criminal matters for only five Caricom countries—Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Guyana and St Lucia. That is its Appellate Jurisdiction, one of two. The other is its Original Jurisdiction, which, in its words, “applies rules of international law in respect of the interpretation and application of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.” Decisions of the CCJ in both jurisdictions are final. Continue reading The CCJ leaks damage everyone at the court at CNC3.

Senior Investigative Reporter shaliza.hassanali@guardian.co.tt In less than 14 months, 67 individuals on State boards or in public offices have either left their positions, been fired or been placed on administrative leave. The 67 people include those who resigned, were terminated, sent on leave, forced into pre-retirement, had their appointments revoked, departed due to health issues or entered into mutual separation agreements under the United National Congress (UNC) administration. Continue reading 67 gone from State boards, public offices in 14 months…f at CNC3.

Senior Reporter jensen.lavende@guardian.co.tt A 20-year-old man detained under a Preventive Detention Order (PDO) is threatening judicial review and constitutional proceedings against the State of Emergency (SoE) Review Tribunal and the Attorney General, claiming he has been denied access to legal representation despite provisions in the Emergency Powers Regulations (EPR). In a pre-action protocol letter dated August 14, attorney Keron Ramkhalwhan, acting for detainee Jamaalee “Maly” Wilson, argued that the review tribunal unlawfully failed to consider exercising its power to appoint legal counsel for detainees and instead directed Wilson’s family to seek assistance from the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority. Continue reading Detainee challenges SoE tribunal over access to legal counsel at CNC3.

Lead Editor–Newsgathering kejan.haynes@guardian.co.tt Since August 1, she’s been immortalised through AI-generated memes, demonised by some Government supporters using the same technology, and even had AI-generated earrings, pendants, bags and T-shirts posted in her image. But who is she? Olabisi Olaguke describes herself as an ordinary country girl from Sangre Grande who later migrated to New York for school, earning an associate degree in under two years. Continue reading Woman behind viral Emancipation Day moment speaks out: 'Th at CNC3.

There was a time when preparing a national team meant getting the players together, making sure the uniforms were packed, sorting out the travel, and then focusing almost entirely on what was going to happen once the whistle blew. That was understandable. Sport was simpler in many ways then. But that world has changed. This week provides two very different examples for Trinidad and Tobago. Our National Under-14 Boys headed off to Punta Cana for the CFU Challenge Series, while our national eFootball representatives are preparing to travel to Mexico for the FIFA eContinental Championship for Concacaf. Continue reading Preparing players for more than the game at CNC3.

Senior Reporter elizabeth.gonzales@guardian.co.tt The Office of Procurement Regulation (OPR) has found problems in how the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) selected and checked companies for its cancelled $3.4 billion housing project. The findings are the latest in a series of OPR interventions involving HDC procurement, including complaints and challenges over other major housing projects. The one-page statement was published on the OPR website on July 29, six weeks after HDC cancelled the process. Continue reading OPR at CNC3.

Nanan Calls For Greater Enforcement To Protect Scarlet Ibis Nanan Calls For Greater Enforcement To Protect Scarlet Ibis TTT News August 15, 2026 AgricultureCEO of Nanan’s Caroni Bird Sanctuary Tours, Allister Nanan is calling for greater enforcement of the laws in place to protect the Scarlet Ibis. In an interview with TTT News… The post Nanan Calls For Greater Enforcement To Protect Scarlet Ibis first appeared on TTT News.

T&T Targets Increased Gas And Oil Production By 2027 T&T Targets Increased Gas And Oil Production By 2027 Terry-Ann Browne-Campbell August 15, 2026 EnergyTrinidad and Tobago will begin to experience an up tick in the generation of its gas supply by 2027. Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Dr. Roodal Moonilal shared the… The post T&T Targets Increased Gas And Oil Production By 2027 first appeared on TTT News.

Track Heatwave Claims Fastest Boat Title At 58th Great Race Track Heatwave Claims Fastest Boat Title At 58th Great Race Adrian Lazar August 15, 2026 NewsDespite an adverse yellow level weather alert, the 58th edition of the Great Race, one of the world’s longest powerboat competitions, got underway on Saturday morning. The event saw a… The post Track Heatwave Claims Fastest Boat Title At 58th Great Race first appeared on TTT News.

St Lucia Kings Climb To CPL Summit After Rain-Affected Thriller St Lucia Kings Climb To CPL Summit After Rain-Affected Thriller Adrian Lazar August 15, 2026 CricketThe St Lucia Kings pulled off a dramatic three wicket victory over the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons under the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method in a rain-affected Caribbean Premier League clash, climbing to… The post St Lucia Kings Climb To CPL Summit After Rain-Affected Thriller first appeared on TTT News.

Major Moves As European Football Transfer Window Heats Up Major Moves As European Football Transfer Window Heats Up Adrian Lazar August 15, 2026 FootballWith football leagues across European having begun and some soon to begin, we take a look at some the latest transfer activity as teams look to bolster their ranks for… The post Major Moves As European Football Transfer Window Heats Up first appeared on TTT News.

AI Symposium Explores The Future Of Work In Tobago AI Symposium Explores The Future Of Work In Tobago Kandace Jackson August 15, 2026 NewsArtificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the job market and transforming how industries operate. For many, keeping pace with these changes can be challenging. With that in mind, Tobago Information Technology… The post AI Symposium Explores The Future Of Work In Tobago first appeared on TTT News.

Gita Mahotsav Celebrations Highlight Faith, Culture And Tradition Gita Mahotsav Celebrations Highlight Faith, Culture And Tradition Kevion John August 15, 2026 CommunityGita Mahotsav celebrations took place in Charliville on Friday In a first, Ramleela and Krishna Leela were presented on the same day. We have more in this story. The opening… The post Gita Mahotsav Celebrations Highlight Faith, Culture And Tradition first appeared on TTT News.

Gonzales Community Comes Together For Praise On The Corner Gonzales Community Comes Together For Praise On The Corner Kevion John August 15, 2026 CommunityThe talent in Gonzales was on display as members of the community, worshipped together at its’ event Praise On The Corner on Friday evening. The event saw young people come… The post Gonzales Community Comes Together For Praise On The Corner first appeared on TTT News.

After more than five years on the run, Nicholas Andre McIntosh has turned himself in to police. McIntosh was the subject of a “Wanted Man” bulletin issued on April 16,… The post Man wanted since 2021 now in police custody appeared first on Barbados Today.

  In Brief The Controversy: Private emails between Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) judges were leaked, revealing internal disagreements over the Court President’s management style and administrative conduct. LATT’s Position: The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) condemned ‘opportunistic’ attempts to use these leaked disagreements as ammunition against the CCJ replacing the Privy Council.... The post LATT: Leaked Emails Should Not be Used to Undermine the CCJ appeared first on AZP News.

Caption: Kamla Persad-Bissessar In Brief The Agreement: Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) and Venezuela have reached a historic cross-border energy agreement to develop the shared Loran-Manatee gas field. The Numbers: Approximately 7 trillion cubic feet of natural gas from the Venezuelan side (Loran) will be sent to T&T for processing in its established liquefied natural gas... The post Loran-Manatee Breakthrough: Venezuela to Send Massive Gas Reserves to Trinidad appeared first on AZP News.

The Barbados Police Service (TBPS) is seeking the assistance of the public in locating escaped prisoner Tyrese Leroy Farrell, alias “Twin,” of Ealing Park, South, Christ Church. The 24-year-old escaped… The post Search on for escaped prisoner appeared first on Barbados Today.

Caption: Dr Roodal Moonilal In Brief The Project: Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal confirmed that lands off the M2 Ring Road near Golconda and Picton have been earmarked for a new data centre. Economic Revival: The facility is expected to spark industrial development, create jobs, and generate spin-off businesses in an area economically impacted by... The post Moonilal: Land Allocated for New Data Centre to Revive South Trinidad’s Economy appeared first on AZP News.

  In Brief The Legal Challenge: Lloyd Sealey sought judicial review to overturn his Preventive Detention Order (PDO) and challenge the Minister of Homeland Security’s decision to keep him detained despite a Review Tribunal’s recommendation for his release. The Background: Sealey’s detention followed a major police raid on a property known as ‘The Mansion’ on... The post High Court Upholds PDO for Suspect Linked to ‘The Mansion’ appeared first on AZP News.

The suggestion to possibly relocate the Suarez Brothers Circus to the Garrison Savannah has been met with harsh criticism from horse racing fans and members of the rugby community. After… The post Concern over alleged circus move to Garrison appeared first on Barbados Today.

  In Brief The Alert: A Yellow Level Adverse Weather Alert remains in effect until 5:00 PM today, August 15. The Cause: The axis of a tropical wave has passed west of Trinidad and Tobago. While most severe weather stayed offshore, lingering moisture and instability remain. The Threat: Isolated thunderstorms could trigger localised flooding and... The post Yellow Alert Maintained: Northern Trinidad Braces for Lingering Storms, Landslips appeared first on AZP News.

Families preparing children for the new school year are receiving additional help with the cost of school supplies, with the FMH Sandy Lane Charitable Trust making donations to both Abed’s… The post Faith Marshall-Harris expands back-to-school assistance to Woolworths and Abed’s appeared first on Barbados Today.

Mental health has emerged as a major concern among adolescents who have lost their fathers, with the founder-director of the FMH Sandy Lane Charitable Trust, Faith Marshall-Harris, saying the charity… The post Mental health concerns grow among children grieving loss of fathers appeared first on Barbados Today.

An 18-year-old student died at the San Fernando General Hospital late Friday night after she reportedly developed sudden chest pains and difficulty breathing while at her boyfriend’s home in Gasparillo.

FOR over half an hour on Tuesday evening, an 80-year-old pensioner was terrorised by two masked bandits at his Gran Couva home as his bedridden wife looked on.

An acting sergeant and two women police officers are among the seven officers detained in connection with this week’s disappearance of three Glock pistols, three magazines and 45 rounds of 9mm ammunition from the Central Police Station in Port of…

A NEW magistrate and new attorneys were yesterday a part of the court case where Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) charges have been laid against officials at Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd and Land and Marine Construction Services (LMCS).

AN EX-EMPLOYEE of a security consulting firm was granted $300,000 bail after appearing in court last month on one charge of larceny ser­vant, one charge of money laundering, plus 61 charges of falsification of accounts.

Three of the 30 planned joint army and police posts are 95% completed, says Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander.

THE pan fraternity yesterday bid farewell to one of its greatest exponents, virtuoso pannist and Desperadoes musical director Robert Greenidge, whose music, humility and commitment to the instrument were celebrated at his funeral.

Energy Minister and Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal says constituents have been approaching him about jobs at the proposed artificial intelligence (AI) data centre in Debe.

Covering eight English- and Chinese-language AI platforms, the library examines differences in source selection, crawler access and performance measurement across the two search ecosystems.

With 67% of NYC seniors facing home fall risks, Touching Hearts at Home NYC proves that safety and dignity go hand in hand

The VAT-free period runs from 12:01 am on Friday, 28 August 2026, to 11:59 pm on Saturday, 29 August 2026, to allow consumers to purchase eligible items without the addition of VAT View the full post Government advances Cost of Living Relief on NOW Grenada.

Apply to info@ecpcgc.org by Friday, 12 September 2026, quoting the position “Credit Analyst” in the subject line View the full post Eastern Caribbean Partial Credit Guarantee Corporation vacancy: Credit Analyst on NOW Grenada.

Founder Nikki Fairclough-Dunn Joins Leigh Steinberg, Sir Earl Toon, Sean Reyes, Bill Walsh, and Courtney Epps at Premier Business Event.

NOT TRUE!

‘Dream Supreme’

S Hotel celebrates Jamaica’s resilience with new sculpture

Page 2 Saturday August 15, 2026

“To criticise the judge is one thing. To accompany that criticism with threats is unacceptable” View the full post Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Bar Association statement on NOW Grenada.

Lil Kerry performed “Mayhem” — a song produced by Colis Beats — on Friday, 7 August 2026, placing 3rd at this year’s Power Soca competition View the full post Soca villain ‘Lil Kerry’ creates Mayhem for Spicemas 2026 on NOW Grenada.

The Boxing Association of Grenada has been recognised as an Endorsed Member of World Boxing, the international federation governing Olympic-style boxing View the full post Boxing Association of Grenada is an Endorsed Member of World Boxing on NOW Grenada.

  In Brief New Facility Proposed: The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is seeking a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to establish a large-scale poultry breeding and hatchery facility in Trinidad and Tobago. Boosting Food Security: The initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported inputs, conserve foreign exchange, and ensure a reliable supply of eggs and day-old... The post Ministry Seeks Public-Private Partnership for Large-Scale Poultry Hatchery appeared first on AZP News.

“The review examined 11 active capital and technical assistance projects financed through the CDB, covering areas including coastal protection, water supply, health, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and monitoring and evaluation” View the full post World Bank agrees on actions to accelerate Grenada development projects on NOW Grenada.

Chess Summer Camps will be held at Bishops College on 20 August, St Andrew’s Anglican Secondary School on 21 August, and from 17–21 August at Grenada Boys Secondary School View the full post Annual Chess Summer Camp extends to Carriacou and Grenville  on NOW Grenada.

Douglas hard on self despite three-medal haul

London Spirit

The newly crowned Groovy Monarch now sets her sights on further growth within the art form, drawing on the lessons and experience gained from her first competition. View the full post From “just on a whim” to Queen on NOW Grenada.

“One hundred years after his birth, Fidel Castro continues to be a reference for Cuba and Grenada, as well as for hundreds of thousands of people around the world” View the full post Fidel Castro in the memory of the people on NOW Grenada.

The official first day of classes will be Monday, 31 August 2026, to begin the Michaelmas Term, with full instructional schedules beginning promptly View the full post Commencement of the 2026–2027 academic year on NOW Grenada.

The post Auction Sale appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

The post Daily News Limited – Newsday – Notice to Creditors 2026 appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Or click on this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScojw08_mGFg0lueRuO3LojpQbpVAzs3j91JVX4EnIEwqq3vw/viewform to view the form. The post Asset Sale Forms Now Open! appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

The post Important Notice appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

The post Notice of Appointment of Liquidator Order 2026 appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

A High Court judge has sentenced Shervon Darvick “Batman” Grant for the 2014 killing of Damien Alexander, leaving him with a little over four years left to serve after credit for time already spent in custody. Grant, 42, of Upper La Puerta, Diego Martin, appeared before Justice Devan Rampersad earlier this week after pleading guilty to manslaughter (unlawful act) arising out of a fatal altercation outside a St James bar nearly 12 years ago. According to the agreed facts, the incident occurred around 4.10 am on June 7, 2014, at the corner of Brunton Road and the Western Main Road. Police were called to the scene outside the Dusk Till Dawn Casino, where Alexander was found bleeding from a severe wound to his neck. He was taken to the St James Hospital and later transferred to the Port of Spain General Hospital, where he died. A witness told police he had been “liming” nearby when he saw Alexander involved in an argument with Grant outside the Universal Bar. During the confrontation, Grant broke a Carib bottle and approached Alexander. Moments later, Alexander was seen bleeding heavily from his neck before running a short distance and collapsing. Grant was later arrested at Freddie’s Bakery on Church Street, St James, and taken to the St James police station. A post-mortem conducted by Dr Hugh Des Vignes found that Alexander died from a stab or incised wound to the neck. Investigators recovered a broken bottle, blood samples and a blood-soaked bandana from the scene. During a cautioned interview on June 9, 2014, Grant admitted that he was in the vicinity at the time and acknowledged stabbing Alexander during the altercation after being shown CCTV footage of the incident. Grant was charged with murder on June 13, 2014. The preliminary inquiry began in 2015, with committal proceedings completed in 2017. He was indicted in 2021. After plea discussions with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Grant agreed in November 2025 to plead guilty to manslaughter. In mitigation, defence attorneys Tristle Khan-Leu and Tracy Wiltshire told the court that the offence was not premeditated and involved a single, impulsive act during a heated encounter. They pointed to Grant’s intoxication at the time, his immediate admission, and his lengthy pre-sentence incarceration of approximately 11 years and seven months. The defence also highlighted Grant’s efforts at rehabilitation while in custody, including academic studies, participation in prison programmes, and his role as an assistant pastor with The Way of Holiness ministry at the Port of Spain prison. A written statement of remorse from Grant was also placed before the court, in which he apologised to Alexander’s family and expressed regret for the pain caused to both families. Justice Rampersad considered the principles of sentencing, including punishment, deterrence, prevention and rehabilitation. After applying the agreed framework, discounts for the guilty plea, and credit for time already served, the court imposed a sentence that leaves Grant with just over four years remaining. In a letter of remorse, Grant said he was “truly sorry” for taking Alexander’s life. “I know that what I did was wrong, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I apologise horrible and terrible mistake I made in taking his life. “I know that being ‘out of it’ is no excuse. A person's life is precious, and I had no right to take his. There is no good reason for what I did. “I feel it most for the family of Damion Alexander. I am very sorry for the pain, suffering. trauma and loss I have caused all of you. I know that I cannot give back the time you lost with Damion and I think about the hurt I caused every day, and I beg for mercy and your forgiveness.” Grant also apologised to his son, mother and family. “I am sorry for the pain and shame I have put you through. “In my time here, I have turned to God. I ask for God the Father and Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour for forgiveness and for a new path. I pray every day to be a better man and to get back into society to show what God has done in my life and to help others and preach the gospel of Christ to do what is right and to fulfil God's purpose for me.” The post ‘Batman’ pleads guilty to manslaughter, apologies to victim's family appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

A High Court judge has ruled that the Coast Guard acted unlawfully by failing for more than a year to decide on a senior officer’s complaint about his non-promotion, and has ordered that a decision be made within seven days. In a judgment delivered on January 28, Justice Margaret Mohammed granted declarations in favour of former Coast Guard member O’Brian Lightbourne, who sought judicial review over the failure to determine his grievance before he left the service. Lightbourne served in the TTCG from 1996 until January 26, 2024, his compulsory run-out date. At the time of his retirement, he was the most senior officer in the Intelligence Operations Department of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Intelligence Unit (DFIU). He complained that despite his seniority and experience, he was not promoted to the rank of Fleet Chief Petty Officer (FCPO) after a vacancy arose in October 2022 following the retirement of another officer. Lightbourne contended that a Cabinet Minute provided for two FCPO positions within the DFIU and that he had a legitimate expectation of promotion based on his seniority and competence. According to the evidence, Lightbourne lodged a formal request in December 2022 seeking redress for his non-promotion. Over the following months, the matter was discussed within the chain of command, seniority reports were prepared, and meetings were held with senior officers. However, no decision was ever communicated to him before he demitted office. Lightbourne argued that the failure to decide his complaint breached section 195 of the Defence Act and resulted in him retiring at a lower rank, affecting his terminal benefits and denying him the prestige of reaching the highest enlisted rank within his unit. The defendants — the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard and the Chief of Defence Staff — accepted that multiple requests were made but maintained that promotion was discretionary, not automatic, and dependent on available billets. They also argued that there was no statutory timeframe within which a decision had to be made. Justice Mohammed rejected those submissions. She found that once Lightbourne invoked the redress procedure under section 195 of the Defence Act, the Commanding Officer had a statutory duty to investigate the complaint and provide a decision. The judge held that the explanation advanced for the delay, including claims that necessary documents had not been provided, was misleading, noting that the relevant Cabinet Minute was already known within the Defence Force. She further ruled that a delay of approximately 13 months, particularly when Lightbourne was approaching his compulsory retirement date, was unreasonable. The issue to be decided, she said, was not complex and could have been resolved once the seniority report and Cabinet Minute were available by November 2023. In granting relief, the court declared that Lightbourne was entitled to a decision on his complaint, that the delay was unreasonable, and that the continuing failure to decide was unlawful and ultra vires. The Commanding Officer was ordered to make a decision on the complaint within seven days, and the defendants were ordered to pay Lightbourne’s costs. Lightbourne was represented by Arden Williams, instructed by attorneys Mariah Ramrattan and Don-Marie Adolphe. The defendants were represented by Rachel Theophilius and Raquel Le Blanc, instructed by attorneys Abigail Bristo and Justay Guerra. The post High Court orders Coast Guard to decide on promotion complaint appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

[dflip id="1205215"][/dflip] The post Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Saturday January 31st 2026 appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Newsday editorial employees share their thoughts on their careers at the People's Paper. Stephon Nicholas, sport editor: Media must not die I want to say a profound thank you to the people that made my 18-year journey at Newsday a truly memorable experience. I'm eternally grateful to have learned under the tutelage of so many sports and news titans, some now deceased. Their work lives on through myself and so many others. Media cannot die. [caption id="attachment_1205197" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Newsday sports editor Stephon Nicholas interviews Clayanne Knott at the Buggy Haynes Ground, Tacarigua on August 13, 2025. - Photo by  Ayanna Kinsale[/caption] From covering sports to protests to elections to a volcano eruption in St Vincent, the Newsday experience has been amazing, despite the ups and downs. The challenge of proving yourself daily is not for the faint of heart. However, the duty to inform, educate and stimulate the public is one that cannot be shirked. We've all had to make tremendous sacrifices, but the dullest ink is better than the sharpest memory. The truth must always be documented. Sean Douglas, specialist writer: More than releases, influencers If "a sorrow shared is a sorrow halved", one can't help but be moved by the kindness of the many tributes to Newsday and personal well-wishes each of us has received. For me, I leave after almost 30 years of service and I feel a great sense of having carried out "my mission" to serve. Whether helping highlight the flooded-out residents of the Beetham Estate or scrambling to grab government and opposition MPs in the Red House Rotunda at Parliament openings, it has been a job of informing the public. I remember taking an experimental vaccine and then soldiering on through all the fear to get to work to join press conferences via Zoom to inform the house-bound public. In the newsroom and on social media we would jokingly try to guess what PM Dr Rowley would be wearing to his covid briefing and see whether the formality of his attire did in fact reflect the seriousness of his day's announcement, "as of midnight tonight." Sadly, despite Newsday's excellent service down the years, the revenues and expenditures did not balance out, amid huge changes in how the public consumes its news. The general public perhaps needs to be informed of what goes into making a newspaper, including checking and double checking for factual correctness. Amid the shift to online content from a printed paper, I hope the public would in fact be willing to pay $5 daily for verified news say via subscription. This is merely the price of a "doubles" or a short drop in a maxi taxi. While we now appreciate all the sympathy, we hope it's not going to be a case of society having to "cry for itself" if left unserved by a healthy media but just at the whims of press releases and influencers. Thanks again for all the support and let's see where we go from here. Paula Lindo, reporter: A part of the team I came to Newsday six years ago, two years after sending in an application, at a time that turned out to be fortuitous, as it was almost literally one month before the covid19 pandemic began. On my first day, February 10, 2020, I was greeted warmly by editor-in-chief Judy Raymond and editors Camille Moreno, Keino Swamber, Eeili Hackshaw, Ken Chee Hing, Debra Greaves, Carol Quash, Jada Loutoo and Melanie Waithe. My newsroom colleagues, including Julien Neaves, Kalifa Clyne, Carla Bridglal, Sean Douglas, Narissa Fraser, Rhianna McKenzie, Shane Superville, Jensen La Vende, Elizabeth Olive Gonzales, Ryan Hamilton-Davis, Andrew Gioannetti, Janelle De Souza, Veela Mungal, Rachael Espinet, Melissa Doughty and others, integrated me smoothly into the newsroom, answering any questions I had and making me feel part of the team. [caption id="attachment_1205199" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Paula Lindo follows the 2024 budget presentation online at the Newsday office, Pembroke Street, Port of Spain. - Photo by Faith Ayoung[/caption] I tell people I was hired as a features writer, but I quickly became a daily news writer, contributing to almost every section of the newspaper, including one sports story! I also can't forget the office and administrative workers like Vitra, Joanne, Kafi, Ayanna and Sasha Hosein, who kept the office running smoothly. I enjoyed the rush of the covid19 media conferences, trying to elicit information from the authorities about what this thing was, to educate the public, and finding ways to tell people's stories of how they were surviving the pandemic. As time passed and TT reopened, I also enjoyed going back out and telling the people's stories. I think this has always been my motivation in being a journalist, to help people tell their stories and tell them those of others, and Newsday gave me a platform to do so. The editors were usually open to angles I proposed and gave me a level of freedom to run with something, within legal boundaries of course. Some of the stories I most enjoyed working on were those that helped people get the help they needed, followed by highlighting people who were doing something positive, no matter how small. I also enjoyed highlighting what people were doing to fight systemic issues such as discrimination, racism, sexism, homophobia and xenophobia, opening up conversations that are sorely needed. [caption id="attachment_1205198" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Norman Mungroo, right, speaks to Newsday reporter Jelani Beckles about his 20-year journey in hosting windball cricket tournaments. - Photo by Zainab Kamara[/caption] As time went by, I enjoyed working with and helping to train new reporters and interns who came into the newsroom, like Mya Quamie, Cherisse Berkeley, Enrique Rupert, Tyrell Gittens, Tia-Marie Lander and others. There were new colleagues, like Joey Bartlett, Gregory McBurnie, Rishard Khan and new editors like Darren Bahaw, Sharlene Rampersad, Shweta Sharma and Kathy Ramdeen. The digital team, Zainab Kamara, Shanice Hercules, Sydney Joseph, and Elexzine Bissoo took our (not always good) video and the complaining about writing captions like champs and built our digital and social media presence to where it is now. The photographers hold a special place in my heart, as they tell half the story. People like Jeff Mayers, Ayanna Kinsale, Angelo Marcelle, Faith Ayoung, Lincoln Holder, Innis Francis, Roger Jacob and the late Sureash Cholai (bless him) made assignments fun and helped me see stories from angles I might not have considered. The sports department, Stephon Nicholas, Yohance Simmonette, Jelani Beckles and Roneil Walcott always kept the newsroom lively and were always willing to take suggestions and provide help when needed. I also want to thank the people I spoke to, who allowed me to tell your stories, and who reached out to me to say I did well. I want to thank the readers for engaging with and sharing my stories. I'm always pleasantly surprised when people say, “Oh yes, I know your name.” Newsday family, if I left anyone out, forgive me. I know we will all be successful in our future efforts and we will keep in touch. While I'm sad and angry that things have ended, especially the way they did, I want to thank Newsday for the lessons it has taught me, personally and professionally. For helping me build my craft to giving me a safe harbour during the covid19 pandemic to providing me with a second family, thank you, thank you, thank you! Sasha Gulston, administrative assistant: 28 years of growth, gratitude, and family I began my journey as a permanent employee at Newsday on December 1, 1997. Recently, I proudly celebrated 28 years with the company — an achievement that fills my heart with gratitude, reflection, and joy. I started my tenure as a receptionist and PBX operator, a role that introduced me to the fast-paced world of media and the many personalities that passed through Newsday’s doors. Over time, I transitioned into administrative duties, growing professionally as the company itself continued to evolve. Newsday was not just a workplace for me — it was a place of learning, development, and opportunity. In many ways, I grew up at Newsday. During my years here, I became a woman, a wife, and a mother. I gained more than professional experience; I gained lifelong friendships and a sense of family that only a truly special workplace can provide. The bonds formed within these walls go far beyond job titles and departments. I had the privilege of interacting with some of the greatest minds and personalities in media, including Therese Mills, John Babb, Horace Monsegue, and many others who helped shape Newsday’s legacy. I also witnessed firsthand how many well-known media professionals received their first opportunities at Newsday before moving on to other media houses. Knowing that Newsday played such a pivotal role in shaping careers makes me incredibly proud to be part of its story. To my colleagues —past and present— I say take a bow. Each of you played a role in building something meaningful, and you did it well. We worked hard, supported each other, and still found time to share laughter and memorable moments. Those times when we came together will always be among my fondest memories. Twenty-eight years later, I remain grateful for the journey, the people, and the experiences that Newsday has given me. It has truly been more than a job — it has been a home.   The post Reflections on life at Newsday appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

The TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce (TT Chamber) has called for a phased approach to any increase in natural gas prices to the business community, forewarning the risks could not only lead to increase in consumer prices but impact companies' abilities to operate and the competitiveness of exports. The chamber's appeal to government comes as the National Gas Company has imposed a 77 per cent increase on gas prices for commercial and industrial customers. Already, a leading stakeholder in the construction sector, Trinidad Cement Ltd has warned of looming increases in cement prices. In a release on January 29, the TT Chamber said it is assessing how the gas price hike will impact the business costs of its members and possible "fallout effects." The TT Chamber said it knows manufacturers have benefitted from natural gas pricing arrangements to facilitate economic diversification. In anticipation of adjustments on other pricing arrangements, the TT Chamber said electricity and water subsidies remain "critical" to competitiveness in the local, regional and international landscape. It advised that the subsidy arrangements is also critical to the government's revitalisation plan for economic growth and further diversification "which calls on public-private partnership as part of the stimulus to make it a reality." "The country is confronting a broader and unavoidable structural adjustment challenge in a historically subsidised economy, which should be managed carefully," the chamber advised. It said while reform is necessary "any recalibration of energy and utility pricing should be approached holistically, transparently, and through national dialogue, with the clear objective of ensuring that economic returns ultimately rebound to the benefit of all citizens, while safeguarding competitiveness, employment, and export-led growth." The chamber said it was understood that the manufacturing sector used 1.5 per cent of the total of gas production by NGC. It said more than 100 manufacturers employed thousands of people. "We understand the government’s need to increase its revenue base but it must be taken into consideration the impact that a natural gas price increase will have on the end consumer in terms of increased pricing and the competitiveness of our products for export." The TT Chamber also it expected increased state revenues from measures such as the natural gas price increase would result in improved productivity and efficiency of local government and state enterprises. It called for "a coordinated framework to policy options such as tiered pricing for natural gas based on consumption levels and industry classification, progressive metering for electricity and water that protects vulnerable households while discouraging excessive use, and a phased, rules-based approach to subsidy adjustment informed by market conditions, including fluctuations in global energy prices." Such policies would allow business to consider its future investment decisions. The TT Chamber said it remained open to "continuous dialogue with all key stakeholders and is committed to working towards finding a measurable solution that will result in the least economic strain on the national economy and business community. "We acknowledge that change is necessary, and we remain committed to ensuring that any measure adopted safeguards the best interests of our members, who are mainly SMEs and the wider national community. Measurable solutions that will result in the least economic strain on the population are what we hope can be achieved. In a media statement on January 26, TCL general manager Gonzalo Rueda Castillo said natural gas is a critical input in cement manufacturing. He added that the company is awaiting the final determination of the NGC's proposed gas hike expected on January 31. "If the proposed gas price increase is confirmed, TCL will be required to adjust its cement price increase shortly after to account for this significant effect to ensure the continuity and sustainability of our business," the statement said. "Maintaining operational viability is essential to sustaining these contributions and ensuring uninterrupted supply to the market." The statement said over recent months, TCL experienced significant increases in manufacturing costs, including raw materials, packaging, and general inflationary pressures. It added that these cost escalations have materially impacted the company's production costs. "TCL does not support the gas price increase and continues to actively engage with relevant stakeholders in pursuit of a more balanced outcome," the statement said. "However, based on the official information communicated to date, the expected increase represents a material and unavoidable cost impact that requires a corresponding revision to our pricing." The post TT Chamber calls for phased approach to gas price hike appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Playwrights Workshop Trinbago (PWT) continues its 2026 season with the Monthly Readers Theatre Series (MRTS) on February 4, featuring a new script by actress and budding playwright Sashta Jebodh titled A Work of Art. The MRTS, which takes place on the first Wednesday of every month at 7 pm, at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW) remains a vital platform for local dramatists to share their developing work and engage in constructive dialogue with a live audience, said a media release. In A Work of Art, two workers in a museum clash over a piece of art. The script is about perspective and the meaning attached to things. There is no "right" or "wrong" to how we see things. Or is there? It is a thought-provoking exploration of perspective and the subjective nature of meaning. The play delves into how we attach value and significance to the objects, people and experiences around us, questioning whether there is a definitive "right" or "wrong" way to perceive the world. Through its narrative, Jebodh challenges the audience to consider if reality is a fixed canvas or a fluid interpretation shaped by the eye of the beholder. Jebodh is an actress and budding playwright. She has acquired a bachelor's in theatre arts and literatures in English from the UWI. Jebodh focuses her creativity by being a part of Playwrights Workshop Trinbago, Torch Theatre Company and is one half of a podcast duo called Waiz Dat? Members of the public, students and theatre enthusiasts are invited to attend the reading and participate in the feedback session to assist in the further development of the script. The script is also being considered for staging in the dramatic readings, the release added. The event takes place at Trinidad Theatre Workshop, 6 Newbold Street, St Clair, Port of Spain from 7 pm. Admission is free. For more information about Playwrights Workshop Trinbago, to submit a script for reading in the MRTS, or to learn about upcoming events e-mail: playwrightsworkshoptt@gmail.com, call /Text/WhatsApp 351-6293 or visit Facebook & Instagram: @playwrightsworkshoptt The post Playwrights Workshop Trinbago explores perspective with Sashta Jebodh appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

This February, Studio Joli will host the second joint exhibition for Justyna Burkowska and Dominic Telfer. Cool, lush gouache paintings will be juxtaposed with warm, vibrant oils, all focused on the sights and scenes of the season. Back in the 1970s in Oxford, Telfer had abandoned the idea of art as a vocation. This led to a 40-year career in telecommunications. But his artistic leanings were always simmering under the surface. In Telfer's own words, “After 40 years, minding machines and databases, it has been a joy to return to Trinidad and paint the local everyday scenes… which are fast disappearing.” This joy is reflected in the paintings themselves and helps form a strong connection with the viewer,said a media release. [caption id="attachment_1205189" align="alignnone" width="730"] -[/caption] Since then, Telfer has become a familiar sight to those who frequent the Queen's Park Savannah and environs. Many a day, (or night), he can be found painting, striving to capture the moment with his paintbrush. Telfer’s medium of choice is gouache, a water-based paint which is more opaque than watercolour, and thus favoured by illustrators. As a plein air artist, he enjoys its immediacy and versatility. [caption id="attachment_1205188" align="alignnone" width="1024"] -[/caption] In moving to the Caribbean, Polish national Burkowska discovered the beauty of bright, vibrant colour, which she now often uses in her paintings. She used to paint in earthy tones, but now, she says, there is no going back. Although she is a TOEFL English teacher by profession, art has always been important to her. She is a self-taught, mainly studio painter, whose medium is oil on canvas, the release said. [caption id="attachment_1205187" align="alignnone" width="1024"] -[/caption] Burkowska’s inspirations are the fauna and flora of the Caribbean. In her own words, “The most positive aspect of painting for me is the opportunity for endless creativity.” The joint exhibition opens on February 5 from 5 pm-8 pm and runs until February 23 from 10 am-6 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am- pm on Saturdays at the studio, 21 Henry Pierre Street, St James. For further info call 705-7907 or 705-7909, or e-mail studiojoli.tt@gmail.com or visit Facebook and Instagram, or www.studiojoli.net   The post Justyna Burkowska, Dominic Telfer return to Studio Joli in February appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Horizons Art Gallery will present a one-day silent art auction, offering collectors and art enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire select original works from a private collection. [caption id="attachment_1205182" align="alignnone" width="1024"] -[/caption] A media release said, the auction features notable local and regional artists, including Lisa O’Connor, Joanna Aldred, Colin Boothman, Shawn Peters, Ken Crichlow, Glen Roopchand, Sarah Beckett and more. [caption id="attachment_1205183" align="alignnone" width="1024"] -[/caption] Attendees may view and bid on a carefully curated selection of artworks, selected for their quality and individuality. The silent auction format allows for a relaxed and thoughtful viewing experience, encouraging personal connection with each piece, the release said. [caption id="attachment_1205181" align="alignnone" width="701"] -[/caption] This intimate, one-day-only event invites both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers to engage with the artwork in a refined gallery setting and participate at their own pace. Space is limited, and guests are encouraged to arrive early to view the collection and place their bids. The auction will take place at the gallery, 37 Mucurapo Road, Port of Spain February 3 from 5 pm-7 pm. For further info call 628-9769 or 280-3058. The post Horizons Art Gallery set to host silent art auction appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

THE Law Association of TT (LATT) has expressed its concern over the accusations made by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar against the Independent Senators who voted against the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) (Special Security and Community Development Measures) Bill, 2026. The UNC-led government was seeking to introduce zones of special operations to replace the July 18, 2025 state of emergency (SoE) which ends on January 31. The bill was passed in the House of Representatives at 3.30 am on January 17 with a vote of 27 for and 11 against. On January 27, the bill was defeated in the Senate after eight Independent Senators and six Opposition Senators voted against it. Independent Senator Courtney Mc Nish abstained. In a Facebook post on January 28, Persad-Bissessar accused two independent senators of seeking personal favours in exchange for votes. She stated, “I fully expected the President’s Senators to vote against the Law Reform (ZOSO) Bill, 2026. During the debate, two of the President’s Senators approached a senior Government Senator seeking personal favours in exchange for support and for securing the remaining votes needed for passage. Those requests were rejected. From that moment, it was clear the Bill would not pass. “They know who they are. They must live with that shame.” Persad-Bissessar did not stop at the Independent senators laying blame on the Opposition and its supporters. “This is why I warn about the fake ‘eat-a-food’ elite. They do not care about decent, hardworking citizens – only self-interest and privilege. “The PNM and its supporters also fail to grasp a basic fact: It is amazing and amusing that the PNM hierarchy and their supporters still do not yet understand that your UNC government has more powers under an SoE than it would have had under the ZOSO bill. Your UNC government was actually trying to dilute and limit the state’s SoE powers by introducing the ZOSO legislation to use instead of an SoE.” In a news release on January 29, Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath said the government “stands firmly and unapologetically” with Persad-Bissessar. Padarath said the defeat of the bill marks a dark and shameful moment in TT’s history. “Their actions in the Senate have spoken louder than any speech. When faced with a clear choice, to protect law-abiding citizens or to maintain the status quo that benefits criminals, they chose the latter,” he stated. He said the Independent Senators, aided and abetted by the PNM, chose to side with paralysis, political gamesmanship, and criminal comfort, over the lives of safety, and law-abiding citizens. LATT said making grave accusations against parliamentarians without providing sufficient particulars to permit identification, investigation, or response, is inimical to the proper functioning of our democratic institutions. It said that, if true, these accusations would constitute serious misconduct. “Such allegations place all nine Independent Senators under a cloud of suspicion while affording none the opportunity to clear their name. If there is substance to these claims, the appropriate course is to provide the relevant details to the proper authorities so that a fair inquiry may be conducted. If such particulars cannot be provided, the repetition of unverifiable accusations serves only to undermine public confidence in our Parliament.” LATT said if particulars cannot be provided, the repetition of unverifiable accusations serves only to undermine public confidence in our Parliament “and ought to be publicly withdrawn.” It added, “The presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of our legal system. Public condemnation in the absence of proof is inconsistent with the values that ought to guide discourse in a society governed by the rule of law. The release added, “Furthermore, the association notes with concern the tenor of recent public commentary directed at holders of constitutional office, including the Office of the President. Whatever political disagreements may arise, respect for our constitutional institutions and their officeholders is essential to the preservation of democratic governance. The Law Association calls upon all parties to conduct debate on matters of national importance with civility and due regard for the dignity of the offices concerned. The Independent Senators occupy a unique and vital role in our bicameral Parliament.” It reminded TT that these politicians are appointed to bring independent judgment to bear on legislation and to represent the diverse interests of our society. “Attacks upon Independent Senators for voting according to their conscience — particularly in circumstances where they have articulated reasoned objections to legislation and proposed amendments that were not entertained — risk chilling the very independence that their office demands,” it said. The post LATT condemns attacks on Independent Senators appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Faith Ayoung I am the youngest photographer who joined the Newsday family in 2024 – January 3. I joined the week of former prime minister, Basdeo Panday's funeral and as much as I would love to say, it was easy, I would be the biggest liar. I was not a nervous wreck, but I essentially got a baptism of fire in that experience. It was to me the most major event I had in the first six months of what I consider, my first official 'adulting' job. I was guided well by Jeff K Mayers, Chief Photographer for Newsday at the time, and shown how to handle the situation from capturing colour (crowd shots, people's reaction, what was happening around the event) to the event itself and all the elements of a state funeral. Exhausted is not the word I would describe at the end of that day; however, emotionally fried with a brave face might be a better description. Needless to say, I experienced my first newspaper wrap where, all the photos I took were used from front to back. The knowledge gained in this experience, helped me practise, develop and grow into a photographer who can easily hold her own "out in these streets." It's interesting to note, the exhaustion I felt became the norm – coming home after a long day of running, hopping, climbing, brisk walking all around Port of Spain to get "the shot" that would be most compelling and tell a thousand words for multiple daily stories, everyday of the week. It would leave you craving sleep. And this is what I noticed of my many colleagues who helped put together the daily newspaper. And all of us with a common goal capturing some of the most heartfelt, colourful, fun-to-read stories about people's lives, their family members, events and daily historical events for the general public to read and learn about – both positive and negative – that shape Trinidad and Tobago. As I grew, I got more confident to tackle writing – and mean it quite literally – because, it was not a skill that came as easy as recognising a photographic moment. However, thanks to the help of Debra Greaves, Carol Quash,Veela Mungal, Angelo Marcelle, Paula Lindo, and of course Melissa Doughty who helped me edit what I wrote and restructure, I can now say, "I could write a lil something." To my fellow photographers, all the sub-editors, especially Melanie Waithe who I could harass for all my questions – whether simple or complex, she always had an answer through knowledge or "check with Ken for confirmation" about the matter. To reporters past and present (those who stayed to the end), I could list all the names but I might be over-doing it. To all, with whom I shared laughter and tears on some of these assignments covering stories, getting drenched in the rain and beating the pavement in 12'o’clock scorching sun, and management who took a chance on someone who didn't have a camera and just came out of university finding herself and a place for her passion, I say, "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" I can't wait to see where life take us and how much more wonderful things get from here on out. To all my colleagues, you are an amazing group of talented and naturally gifted individuals, who now have more space for your wings to fly and just like we danced at end our time together at Newsday on January, 27, I hope we dance and get to celebrate blessings coming in our next chapter. The post The 'newbie' who 'got the shot' behind the lens appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

To my readers, thank you. Thank you for walking this journey with me since 2005. What began as a simple moment of pride seeing my name printed beneath a photograph quickly grew into something far greater. It became a calling. A responsibility. A deep passion to tell the stories of the people and communities that make our country so beautifully diverse. Along the way, you allowed me to step into lives beyond my own. I slept on the streets of Arima as a homeless man, not for spectacle, but to understand the silence, the hunger, the fear, and the resilience that many carry every day. I worked as a sanitation worker, lifting garbage under the hot sun, gaining respect for the unseen hands that keep our streets clean while rarely receiving the dignity they deserve. I bound myself to a wheelchair and navigated broken sidewalks and inaccessible spaces, confronting firsthand how our infrastructure often disables those it is meant to serve. [caption id="attachment_1205142" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photojournalist Angelo Marcelle uses a wheelchair to cross a street in a Arima to show the challenges the disabled face on the roads. -[/caption] These experiences reshaped me. They taught me empathy beyond headlines and statistics. They reminded me that journalism is not just about reporting events, but about honouring human stories, amplifying unheard voices, and challenging the systems that fail our people. [caption id="attachment_1205147" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photojournalist Angelo Marcelle puts in the work as a garbage collector to highlight the people who keep neighbourhoods clean, when many are still asleep. -[/caption] To every reader who paused, reflected, shared, debated, and cared, thank you. Your support gave these stories purpose. Your engagement gave them power and your trust allowed me to keep showing up, camera and pen/phone in hand, determined to tell the truth with compassion. This journey has never been mine alone. It has always been ours.   The post A calling to tell people's stories appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

As the pages turn for the final time, I find myself reflecting on a journey that spanned almost three decades—one defined by stories told, lessons learned, and bonds formed. The criticisms came. I’d like to think I developed a thick skin, but instead, it was my stubbornness (from birth) that made me persevere. We were always told as journalists that if someone praises you, then you aren’t doing something right and that if they don't, then you are doing it right. I’ve had my fair share over the last almost three decades. I thank each and everyone who supported me over the years, who trusted me to tell your stories. I joined the newsroom towards the end of June 1996, just days shy of my birthday; still a teenager, stepping into a world I was only beginning to understand. I had always known I wanted to be a writer. I wrote stories in old copybooks; it was in my blood. My father was a journalist, and although he left the profession before I arrived, journalism never truly left him. I watched him cut and paste headlines, lay out pages for his advertorials, and hammer away at his trusty typewriter, crafting stories with care. I think I knew then, this was the direction I wanted my life to take. Even after I joined the newsroom, my dad remained my unofficial editor, always calling in the early days with advice. I always shied away from the limelight, wanting my name and my work to earn your respect. I became a journalist to make a difference; to educate and inform. I hope I did that. By the time I joined, the tools had changed. Computers replaced typewriters, but the heart of storytelling remained the same. My first boss, Mr Clevon Raphael, then Sunday Editor, became a mentor, as did so many others. The late Mr Lennox Forde gave invaluable guidance, as did Mr Horace Monsegue. And although intimidating at first, the late Therese Mills was incomparable as Editor-in-Chief. She shared her stories not merely to reminisce, but so that we could learn from them. She encouraged, supported, and criticised us when it was warranted. [caption id="attachment_1205112" align="alignnone" width="692"] Jada Loutoo has been a journalist at Newsday for 29 years. -[/caption] We were always a family. We spent more hours together in the newsroom than we did at home. I remember them all—Lara, who became my daughter’s godmother; Veela, Sam, Gyasi, Curtis, Lincoln, Rico, the Keiths, Renée and Erica, and countless others. Those in the pagination department, like Damian, a brother. Sasha who ran the administrative part of the office with precision. I also remember those who have left us—Nalinee, Rattan and Sureash—whose presence and contributions remain etched in history. Among all the memories, one stands out: the birth of my daughter. I worked right up to the day before she was born. We were in the office writing stories off the television because the wire services were down after the September 11 terror attacks in the United States. We pushed through to bring out an evening edition and our usual next-day publication. The next morning, I got up and dressed for work—but I never made it to the newsroom. Instead, I had to detour to the hospital. Ken and the late Mr Babb visited me there, and later at home. Throughout the years, her sacrifice endured; waiting long hours in the office, missing birthdays and other events, even casual weekends and vacations. “Oh God, you always working eh,” she said, more often than not. She remains my rock. Mr Babb, another indomitable spirit, always said, there is always a story to tell. He often illustrated this with an example of a reporter assigned to cover an event, only to encounter a fire. The reporter left and returned to base with the excuse that there was no story, missing it entirely. Mrs Mills, a staunch Roman Catholic, also taught us that perspective mattered. She once told us that, to her, the Bible was the first form of journalism; stories passed down to inform, to teach, and to bear witness. It was that same spirit that carried us through ambitious ideas and long hours. Mrs Mills encouraged us when a group of young twenty-somethings pitched the idea of a magazine for young readers, Rave. We sat together, held strategy meetings, and brought it to life. Newsday even took a stand one year, boycotting the media awards. Over time, the newsroom family grew smaller as some moved on to other media houses, and others pursued careers outside journalism. I, too, left for a short while, returning later as assignments editor—managing daily newsgathering operations by selecting, planning, and assigning stories to reporters and photographers; keeping track as the day progressed. As fate would have it, I was later thrust back into reporting as Court Editor, covering legal matters—an important but often neglected beat. I still “ran the desk” on weekends and public holidays to bring out the paper, working closely with staff across departments. My most recent Editor-in-Chief, Camille—who celebrates her birthday seven days after mine—continued that tradition of leadership. Though the family dynamic changed over the years, the camaraderie never truly disappeared. Newsday was never just a newspaper. It was a family. And as it closes, it leaves behind more than printed pages; it leaves a legacy of people, trust, and stories that mattered. Thank you for trusting me to tell yours.   The post A legacy of people, trust, stories that mattered appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

IN the never ending story that is our lives, the book contains many chapters. Looking back, I would never have contemplated having spent 27 years in one place as I have at Newsday. Nor would I have thought I would have experienced the things that I did. Finishing my Bachelor's of Arts degree at UWI's St Augustine campus, it was September 1998 which found me at the doors of the old Newsday office on Chacon Street, Port of Spain. The place had the aroma of newsprint and then chief news editor John Babb interviewed me for a reporter's job and spelled out all it entailed. One could tell being in Mr Babb's presence, the passion that came with being a journalist. That passion I soon came to see was reflected in everyone else who was there, all committed towards building something special. Newsday's South Bureau, in the Courts Building, High Street, San Fernando was my first office as a new member of the media. Small in size and windowless with no idea whether it was night or day outside. It was here under the guidance of my former colleagues Richard Charan, Azard Ali, Azlan Mohammed, Sascha Wilson and Sunil Ramjitsingh that I learned how to be a reporter and love what I do. Being in the presence of Mrs Therese Mills was both an honour and a privilege. She was forthright and wise. Her praise and her criticism were of equal measure. Mrs Mills never hesitated to praise me for the good work I did or deliver harsh but constructive criticism [caption id="attachment_1205084" align="aligncenter" width="237"] Therese Mills, Newsday's founding editor-in-chief, received an honorary doctorate from UWI in 2012. -[/caption] Anil Goorahoo, one of Newsday's former columnists/ editor/ manager of the South Bureau, helped me craft the story which I would have my first byline on. Keep it straight, simple and stupid, he would say. When I transferred to the head office in Chacon Street, I would often be summoned to Mr Babb's office where he would use a ruler to go through my articles line by line, to point out where the article was lacking. The attention he and others in Newsday paid to intricate detail, I dare say is a skill which many people in the media have lost over the years, arguably becoming too reliant on social media and other technology. You would see that in today's media when reporters rattle questions off their cell phones which they never wrote and did not understand what they were asking. Mrs Mills always insisted that reporters be knowledgeable about their news beat and how everything works. After all, one cannot find answers if one doesn't understand the question. Court and general news were some of my early beats, but it was politics which I eventually gravitated towards. I trace this beginning to an afternoon sitting of the House of Representatives in 1999 where I accompanied my former colleague Aneela Maraj on her stint at covering the House. Watching Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj and Patrick Manning having a friendly chat before the sitting before transforming into mortal political adversaries was priceless. The processes of government, Parliament and politics were both daunting and rewarding to know. I learned parliamentary procedures at sittings of the House and Senate, learning to read mannerisms of MPs and Senators, how to study complex pieces of legislation which would have ordinary people confused. The forum of elections, outside of the decorum of Parliament, was both exciting and challenging. Late nights, distant locations, sun or rain, I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. From 1999 to 2026, I have covered every general, local government, Tobago House of Assembly elections, and by-elections. Leading political figures such as Patrick Manning, Basdeo Panday, Arthur NR Robinson, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Jack Warner, Orville London and so many others, who I once only saw on television or read about, I was able to interact with them up close and personal and engage them on issues which were topical for Trinidad and Tobago. From beginning to end, elections are dramas where the pendulum swings with such uncertainty no one knows what's going to happen. Witnessing the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat and history in the making on some occasions. One of which being Mrs Persad-Bissessar being elected on May 24, 2010 as this country's first female prime minister. A feat she would later repeat 15 years later on April 28, 2025. I'm privileged to have covered several Caricom Heads of Government conferences in Trinidad and in other parts of the region, getting a flavour of regional politics outside of the local confines. Without a doubt in 2009, this country's hosting of the Fifth Summit of the Americas – introducing the regional political debut of the newly minted US President Barack Obama – and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting – with the opportunity to literally be in the presence of royalty, and hear Queen Elizabeth II speak with grace and gravitas, is something I will always treasure. My Newsday colleagues and I literally lived in the International Waterfront Centre for days, going back and forth from news conferences to file stories, and participating in political and business fora ­– a regular feature of these international summits on cruise ships docked in Port of Spain for that purpose. Covering the budget was one of my favourite assignments during the parliamentary cycle. I'm honoured my colleagues trusted me enough to let me lead the charge on the presentations of the budget in the Parliament by different finance ministers such as Winston Dookeran, Larry Howai, Karen Nunez-Tesheira, Colm Imbert and Davendranath Tancoo. My brief stint as editor of Newsday's Business Day magazine was also interesting, especially learning from the magazine's creator, Rory Rostant, who's work ethic was unmatched. [caption id="attachment_1205093" align="alignnone" width="748"] Rattan Jadoo, the late chief photographer at Newsday. -[/caption] Who could forget Chief Photographer Rattan Jadoo's trained eye for seeing the picture that no one else would and his brutal honesty to call things as the saw them. Rattan never belittled anyone or expected them to be like him. Rather he, and many others in Newsday, wanted people to live up to their own individual potential and be the best they could be. There certainly were many people who fit that category who I was proud to serve alongside. Therese Mills, Suzanne Mills, Michele Mills, Vashty Maharaj, Suzanne Sheppard, Horace Monsegue, Nalinee Seelal, Francis Joseph, Ian Gooding, Rory Rostant, Charleen Thomas, Lara Pickford-Gordon, Jada Loutoo, Rattan Jadoo, Azlan Mohammed, Sureash Cholai, Roger Jacob, Sasha Harrinanan, Miranda La Rose, Andre Bagoo, Sean Douglas, Enrico Matthews, Aneela Maraj, Richard Charan, Sascha Wilson, Azard Ali, Anil Rampersad, Richardson Dhalai, Laurel V Williams, Lincoln Holder, Stacy Moore, Karl Cupid, Marissa Williams, Munir Hosein, Corey Connelly, Angelo Marcelle, Anil Goorahoo, Susan Mohammed, Carolyn Kissoon and too many others to mention, will, for me, forever remain some of the brightest stars in Newsday's constellation which will continue to grace the journalistic heavens with their auras, long after Newsday fades into history. History, as I mentioned earlier, was what I studied in UWI before joining Newsday and I completed my degree while I began my journey with what would be my first permanent job and commitment for the last 27 years. History tells us that eras come and go­ – empires rise and fall – and everything runs its natural course, without exception. This week, I bid goodbye to my workspace in Newsday's South Bureau in Carlton Centre and the office itself. The space in which I spent many days and nights, writing stories for the newspaper I dedicated the majority of my adult working life to. It was like many occasions in the past. Being the last person in the office to bid it good night and look forward to returning the next day. But this time, leaving felt bittersweet. Remembering the memories made there and at Newsday while knowing this was the last time I would be in this space. The walk out of the office, down the corridor, further and further away, with one last look at the sign that still hangs over the door – "Newsday...The People's Newspaper"– seemed just a little bit longer. Like Thomas the Train Engine – Newsday was the little paper that could and it did for many years. A journalistic "David" taking on the "Goliaths" of the media landscape and prevailing against the odds. What the future holds? Who knows? I know have stayed the course and was there at the end, to say farewell to a cherished friend and partner. Goodbye Newsday. You will never be forgotten and have earned your rightful place in journalistic immortality. May your legend stand apart from the rest and remind everyone in the ever changing world of the media – trust, integrity and character are timeless values which advances in technology cannot replace. May others keep your core values alive, give a voice to those who others consider voiceless, and continue to keep telling the story as it is.   The post A life in service of The People's Paper appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

THE EDITOR: The University of the West Indies (The UWI) St Augustine Campus wishes to formally convey its appreciation to the Newsday newspapers for the many years of dedicated, professional and insightful media coverage provided to the university and the wider national community. Throughout its history, Newsday has played an invaluable role in informing the national community about the work, achievements and intellectual contributions of The UWI. Through dedicated columns such as UWI on the Ground, the newspaper has consistently highlighted the breadth of research, scholarship and societal impact emerging from the campus. Newsday has also demonstrated a strong commitment to nurturing student voices by publishing articles from students across multiple faculties. This support continues to the present, most recently evidenced by the publication of the student article, UWl's Institute of Gender and Development Studies – Advocating for women's equality, empowerment in TT, on December 28, 2025. No doubt, Newsday's coverage has contributed meaningfully to public's understanding of The UWI's mission, achievements and regional impact as your newspaper has helped to amplify the national discourse through your reporting, analysis and commentary. The UWI acknowledges the editorial leadership, journalistic integrity and commitment to public service demonstrated by your organization and staff. On behalf of the university, sincere thanks for the partnership, professionalism and support that Newsday has shown over the years and we extend best wishes to you and the staff members as they move forward to future endeavours. WYNELL GREGORIO Director Marketing and Communications The post UWI thankful for Newsday's service appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

Wayne Kublalsingh Many of our TT officials are casting a long eye on Venezuela’s crude. But the Kamla Persad-Bissessar government has a rap sheet of wrongs against the Bolivarian Republic. With this rap sheet, how are we getting Vene crude again? On January 23, 2019, Donald Trump posted the following on social media: “Today, I am officially recognizing the President of the Venezuelan National Assembly, Juan Guaidó, as the interim president of Venezuela.” Two days later, Mrs Persad-Bissessar, the then Leader of the Opposition rose in Parliament to effusively announce, “We’re preparing to join with the Venezuelan people and the free world in recognising Juan Guaidó as the interim president of Venezuela.” No sooner had Trump spoken than the current PM rose to parrot his words. The US instigated an uprising to have the Bolivarian revolution replaced by Guaidó. The uprising failed. This was the first attempt by our PM to hitch herself to the Trump bandwagon for regime change in Venezuela. Like Trump, she invoked the China and Russian threat in Venezuela, and over TT skies. Trump: "I told China and Russia that we don't want to see them in Venezuela." When the US deployed a full-fledged naval force North of Venezuela in August 2025, Persad-Bissessar declared her government’s full support. She referred to the Bolivarian government as “the Maduro regime”, as “narco-terrorists”. She broke ranks with Caricom and CELAC in support of Trump. She categorically denied that the US fleet had any plans for regime change in Venezuela – it was all about narcotics busting. On January 3, the US forces invaded Venezuela, killed one hundred persons, including 32 Cubans, destroyed homes and military infrastructure, and kidnapped President Maduro and his wife, Dr Celia Flores. A decapitation exercise. The PM was plainly wrong. She lied or misled or deceived herself. In September 2025, when US troops began the extrajudicial killing of Venezuelan, Colombian and Trinidad citizens, she declared: “May God bless and protect the members of the US military...The US military should kill them all violently.” No interdiction, no search, no verification, no arrest, no case, no court, no charge or conviction. More than 100 people have since been killed. In December 2025, a Colombian family, assisted by the Colombia president, filed a complaint before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). It named US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth as the perpetrator, claiming that he “was responsible for ordering the bombing of boats like those of Alejandro Carranza Medina and the murder of all those on such boats.” It also claims that Hegseth’s conduct was “ratified” by Trump (CNN). On January 27, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a case in the US on behalf of two Trinidadians. It claims: “On October 14, 2025, the United States government authorized and launched a missile strike that killed Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo…These premeditated and intentional killings — carried out outside of the context of armed conflict and in circumstances where targeted individuals do not pose a concrete, specific, and immediate threat of grave harm — violate domestic law prohibiting murder and international law prohibiting extrajudicial killing, or the arbitrary or unlawful deprivation of the right to life. (Burnley v. US: Demanding Accountability on Caribbean Boat Strikes). What our PM callously impugned, the lives of our citizens, the ACLU has deemed sacred and taken legal responsibility for. The ACLU seems more Trini to de bone than our PM. On October 25, 2025, the National Assembly of Venezuela declared that Persad-Bissessar was no longer welcome in Venezuela, having been declared "persona non grata", condemning her government for its support of the United States. On November 25, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine arrived in Trinidad to meet with the PM. Gradually, we learnt that our PM had afforded the US our maritime, land and air space for its operations in Venezuela. She afforded them Crown Point in Tobago to erect a radar in support of these operations. She permitted the US use of our airports at Crown Point and Piarco for the refuelling and landing of aircraft. We know for sure now that these operations involved the kidnapping of Maduro and his wife, a decapitation exercise. Such kidnapping constitutes an act of war. Extrajudicial “kinetic” and “double tap” strikes, as they are euphemistically called, constitute murder. Today, Trump is seizing Venezuelan oil tankers and confiscating the oil. He has claimed for himself authority for who gets to drill in Venezuela. He has blockaded Venezuela. He is using the Venezuelan example to threaten both Cuba and Iran. Unabashedly, with impunity, he has unleashed his full-fledged imperialist fangs. Our PM has granted tacit support to Trump and his decapitation, forced transfer and imprisonment of the Venezuelan President and First Lady. Whatever her subjective delusions might be, objectively, she has aligned with imperialism. She has put imperialism, Trump, before the interests of TT and Venezuela. She has sold our sovereignty to Trump. She has rendered our Republic a vassal, by choice. And has unbolted latches for the US to force vassalage on our pre-Kamla energy-cooperative neighbour. Twice, in 2019 and 2026, our PM has called the US, like any US imperialist or puppet would, the “leader of the free world”. Why would the Venezuelan government want a hardcore US puppet as a cross-border gas-field partner? Or risk betrayal again? Or risk the chance of proceeds from its own crude being weaponised to undermine its economy and sovereignty? The post Rap sheet of wrongs appeared first on Trinidad and Tobago Newsday.

 

Let's explore the ways for you to continue listening, here is what you will need and how to find us