THE VINCENTIAN PDF-02-01-26

FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026

VOLUME 120, No. 01

VAT-FREE Day Pages 2

www.thevincentian.com

Freedom for Christmas Pages 4

9 Mornings winners Pages 11-13

EC$1.50

Vincy Sailor, MBE Pages 15

The members of the government side who were sworn in at the official opening of the 12th Parliament – Dec. 23, 2025. a

The seats allocated for the Opposition members were unoccupied. ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES opened its first session of the Twelfth Parliament on December 23, 2025, following the general elections on November 27th, 2025, marking the official start of the new legislative term. The Parliament met at the temporary Parliament Building in Calliaqua.

Activities for the day Among the activities for the day was

the appointment of the Speaker of the House, a Deputy Speaker, and the swearing-in of fourteen elected members and four senators of the New Democratic Party, all on the government side. Attorney-at-law Ronnia DurhamBalcombe was elected speaker and Jemalie John, Deputy Speaker. John, an attorney-at-law, was also sworn in as one of the government senators. Continued on Page 3.

SVG-Taiwan intact Pages ...

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2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026.THE VINCENTIAN

Business

VAT-Free day was overwhelming

By WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY fulfilled an election promise of a Vat-free Day. That came Friday December 19, 2025. THE VINCENTIAN newspaper checked some business houses on how the day unfolded. Here are some responses.

Corea’s Pharmacies

Jean Johnny-Findlay, Manager Corea’s Pharmacies, assessed the Vat-free Day was “effective.” “Things went well, sales wise. It was smooth for us. We prepared beforehand,” the Manager outlined. Johnny/Findlay pointed out that some consumers were not cognizant of the various categories, and that “some things that they thought were Vat-

free, were already zerorated.” Johnny/Findlay reported that there were “good sales all day.” We had extended hours at all (four) locations: Diamond, Arnos Vale, Down Town and Central Kingstown. She admits that it was “tiring” for the staff, but: “we took care of them.” Workers had options of time off for shopping convenience, but she notes “most of them chose to

stay.” Comptroller of Inland Revenue Kelvin Pompey “came to check our bill,” Johnny/Findlay recalls. He returned and made spots checks.

Singer/C.D. Veira Ltd. Karen Veira, Manager at Singers, admitted that “a lot of people took advantage.” She admits that an additional 15 percent discount offered at

Consumers flocked the business places in Kingstown with many of those operations having to control the number of ‘buyers’ in the store at any one time. her establishment added to the savings customers enjoyed. She pointed to fridges, freezers, and micro waves, as those snapped up by buyers. Those items were bought cash, because the Vat-free Day did not include higher purchases. “We’re in the process of restocking, Veira disclosed. “We hardly have any items currently.” She is anticipating a repeat of the Vat-free Day scheduled tentatively for August 2026 which is intended to cater for the new school year. Comptroller of Inland Revenue Pompey also visited Singer. Prime Minister Dr Godwin Friday made a purchase at Singer.

Massy Stores – Arnos Vale Maurica Woods is Store Manager at the Arnos Vale Branch of Massy

Stores. For Woods, the December 19 Vat-free extravaganza outstripped the typically buoyant Christmas Eve Day shopping tradition. She summed up the day as “fruitful …... productive,” indicating that frozen hams, salted hams, alcohol, dairy products, peas, lemons, oranges, were among the preferred items. Sales were overwhelming and the Arnos Vale section closed at 11pm. Woods noted that “persons were lining up before we opened.” “Ah don’t know way they get the money from?” Woods mused and pointed to the engagement of “additional” staff for that day. “We weren’t short,” she stated. With “all our lanes open,” there were “no long lines.”

Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday made good use of his government’s Vat-free Day when he made a purchase at Singer.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 3.

News 3 No new parliament building

PARLIAMENT WILL CONVENE at its current temporary location at Calliaqua for the foreseeable future. This indication was given by Prime Minister Dr Godwin Friday while speaking on radio, December 23. Given the fiscal situation of the country, the construction of a new parliament building was not a priority for his government Dr. Friday declared. A loan amounting to US$20 million for the construction of a new Parliament building and High Court was approved by Parliament in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Friday then Leader of the Opposition, did not support the project saying that any plan to construct a new facility (parliament) ought to be suspended. “People were suffering and you were talking about building a Parliament building?”

Friday said in his radio broadcast. “I said give me a comfortable chair and let us continue doing the business from where we were until we have a little more fiscal space,” he continued. The temporary Parliament facility was officially opened in July 2023 and was constructed at a cost of EC$5.5 million. “I see we were there for a little while and it is not something that I see as a priority for me to build a new Parliament building,” Friday asserted. According to the Prime Minister, he was interested in completing the Acute Care Hospital that is currently under construction at Arnos Vale, citing the need for access to modern health care as a priority. And with the new facility coming on stream, Friday advanced the view that a National Health Insurance Plan

Parliament will continue to meet in its “temporary building’ (pictured) in Calliaqua, since the NDP government will not pursue the construction of a new one as proposed by the former administration. (NHIP) was much more of a priority than another Parliament building. He disclosed that he had already had discussions with officials at the National Insurance Services (NIS) during which the issue of

a NHIP was a major discussion item. It was not just a matter of whether setting up one will get done, but when, Dr. Friday pronounced. “Because the notion that you can’t afford a national health

insurance scheme, or a programme is like saying if somebody gets sick, they you on your own and you die, because whether or not you have that, people get sick,” Friday continued. “For me, it is not rocket science. Other

countries that have done it have done so on a broad basis, where the young help those who are more vulnerable and all over the world, it has been done like that,” he said. (DD)

12th Parliament formally opened Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and two Opposition senators — Carlos James and Keisal Peters. The other government While Dr. Gonsalves explained his senators sworn in were absence as predicated om security attorney-at law Chelsea concerns he had, there were no Alexander, PRO of the reason(s) given for the non-attendance NDP Lavern King and of the senators. Chieftain Neptune, unsuccessful NDP Call for unity candidate in the North Central Windward Prime Minister Godwin Friday, constituency, general speaking at the inaugural session of elections of November the 12th Parliament, formally 27, 2025. congratulated the newly appointed King will serve as a Speaker of the House, the Deputy Minister of State in the Speaker, and recognized the Clerk of Ministry of Education the House for willingly answering the and Neptune in a similar call to ‘come out of retirement’. capacity in the Office of He also welcomed returning as well the Prime Minister. as debutant members of the Retired Clerk of the Parliament and in the same voice, House Ms. Nicole expressed “disappointment” with the Herbert was called out to decision by the opposition members to serve as Clerk for the absent themselves from the session. opening of the new That said, Dr. Friday’ committed to parliament. It was not conduct the affairs of state and the clear whether she would business of the nation generally in serve on an ongoing accordance with constitutional tenets, basis. and in keeping with the best practices Notable absentees of the democracy which the country from the first session of embraces with pride. the Twelfth Parliament And even as observers would want on December 23, 2025, to say that the parliament got off to a were Opposition Leader “bad start” with the former Prime Continued from Frontpage.

Dr. Godwin Friday, delivering his debut speech as Prime Minister to the opening of 12th Parliament, during which he called for national unity.

Mrs. Ronnia Durham-Balcombe – the new Speaker of the House, understandably, received the full backing of the members present. Minister choosing to be absent from the opening, Dr. Friday, in his first speech as Prime Minister to the parliament, called for national unity and made a solemn promise not to be sidetracked by personal gain at the expense of attending to the needs of the people. The country, meanwhile, awaits the presentation of the 2026 Budget.

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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Free for Christmas Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

RENSON SHEPHARD, a young man of Campden Park, had every reason to celebrate and enjoy the festive season. Shephard walked free from the High Court just prior to the Christmas weekend, after a ninemember jury found him not guilty of manslaughter. Shephard was originally charged with the murder of his neighbor Gamar Robinson, but the charge was subsequently reduced to manslaughter. The accused was 15 at the time of the incident, which occurred at Campden Park on March 24, 2020, between 7:00 pm and 8:30 pm. The Prosecution’s case was bordered on an electronic interview, taken from the accused after the initial caution statement was taken, from investigator

Sergeant 209 Philbert Chambers, now deceased. In the electronic interview, Shephard stated that he and Robinson came upon each other in a shortcut next to Robinson’s house, and an argument and struggle ensued, after which Robinson made threats to sexually assault Shephard, and act which Shepard said Robinson had attempted on him when he (Shephard) was seven years old. During the struggle, Shephard said he pulled a knife from Robinson’s waistline and stabbed Robinson in his chest with it, in order to be released, and managed to run. He said he ran to the Questelles beach, disposed of the knife, and burnt his clothes. Shephard also said in the electronic interview that after he ran, Robinson hurled stones at him. The file was handed

over to Sergeant Winston Maloney to continue the investigations after Chambers’ death. The Crown’s case was that Shephard attacked and stabbed Robinson, but the jury rejected that version and accepted self-defence. The accused had opted not to give evidence from the stand. The Crown’s case was led by Crown Counsel Rene Simmonds, while Attorney Grant Connell, as a friend of the Court, appeared on Shephard’s behalf. When THE VINCENTIAN spoke to Connell following Shephard’s acquittal, the lawyer said, “The accused was right in law to take a pre-emptive strike to defend himself against the attacker, as it would be, if a man had tried to rape a woman. She would resist in her defence and rightfully so. “The accused did not have to wait to see what

the tool of sodomy was before he acted in self defence. If he waited, it could have been to his detriment.’ Connell added that, “The deceased having a knife on him, an inference could have been drawn, and it could not be that he was going to peel oranges at that time of the night. Many seem to ignore what trauma is caused when a young child is abused. Fortunately for this young man, he escaped and has started to rebuild his life after the five year saga. “The facts were clear as day. A decision should have been made with that case instead of engaging the machinery of the Court.” Reflecting on the trial, the lawyer further told THE VINCENTIAN that the evidence of most witnesses were taken formally, and some

Renson Shephard being hugged by his mother while his lawyer Grant Connell smiles in the background, following a successful defence at a manslaughter trial. evidence was read without the witness having to come to Court, but the Crown’s case relied mainly on the statement which was taken from the accused in the electronic

interview. The lawyer further stated that after Sergeant Chambers died, the file was handed over to Sergeant Maloney, but there was no further investigations.a

Bail granted in deception charge A SPRING VILLAGE MAN was granted $15,000 bail with one surety when he appeared in Court on Monday on a deception charge. Devon Williams has been charged with dishonestly obtaining EC$105,313.86 from Sandford Lampkin of Campden Park/New York, with the intention of permanently depriving him of it. The offence was reportedly committed in Kingstown between September 18 and December 2, 2025. Williams was not required to plead when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. He was unrepresented.

Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre did not object to bail but requested surety and conditions to reflect the seriousness of the charge. The prosecutor noted that Pierre had to be brought back from Barbados, with the assistance of the police authorities in that state, in order for him to be charged with this offence. The Chief Magistrate granted bail on condition that Williams surrender his passport and identification card (ID), and report to the Spring Village Police Station every Wednesday. Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he was ordered not to contact the virtual complainant. The matter has been adjourned to January 26, 2026.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 5.

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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Director: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Going into the new year Thanks and Appreciation GIVEN THAT THIS is our first newspaper edition for the New Year, 2026, we want to start this column off by thanking our readers, some of whom have been ardent readers long before any of the current group joined the staff. We especially want to thank you for your feedback and letters to the editor. We thank our advertisers and the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the support so generously rendered, making it possible to keep this publication available to the Vincentian public. And to those who subscribe to our online version, many of you in the diaspora, we thank you for having chosen us as your source of accurate and honest reporting. We look forward to continuing our service to Vincentians home and abroad and commit to upholding the values of accuracy, honesty and openness. Don’t silence the critics And as we enter the New year, our 120th Volume, we are mindful of one of the recent ‘controversies’ spewed by allegations involving the family of the Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the most recent former St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister. Given that the allegations were broadcast by a Minister of Government in a Caricom partner country — Trinidad and Tobago, the issue, barring the allegations made, becomes a deeper issue that sidesteps political personalities and brings into focus the responsibility of government. As we said in a recent editorial, Governments are instituted to serve the people. Governments are elected — at least in our democracies — to ensure justice, stability, economic progress, and the overall well-being of all their citizens. It would serve the new government well to take cognizance of this. It might not be among what the majority of analysts would advance as reason(s) for the dismantling of the Unity Labour Party government, but there were signs that that government was losing, if it did not lose sight of this purpose. The new government must learn from this and avoid shifting its focus from attending to national development issues, to a focus that zeroes in on personal attacks or distractions of one sort or the other, like falling prey to cronyism. As history shows us, to shift in this

direction is to create the conditions that give rise to the erosion of public trust in government and in the long run, erodes the foundation of our already fragile democracy.

The New Government We would continue to argue in favour of smaller government but it appears that this will continue to fall on the proverbial deaf ears. The Unity Labour Party expanded government to serve what it discerned as the requisites for development; the New Democratic Party has indicated that it sees even greater expansion of government if it is to fulfil its promises and advance the development of this country. As we have said before, larger government, rather than putting checks and balances that will make corruption less likely, will in fact breed greater chances of it becoming an underlying contributing factor to our stagnation. The new government must bear this in mind and reel in any sidestepping of what is right and proper which is usually not glamourous and/or financially rewarding.

Major Reforms It is folly not to admit that many of our ministers of government have hit the road running. We note, in particular, that Major St. Clair Leacock, Minister of National Security, has taken to heart his responsibility for the Royal SVG Police Force. Very early ‘in the movie’ he has already made onsite visits to many out stations and hopefully will get round to ‘inspecting’ the central headquarters (Kingstown). He has seen firsthand the conditions under which our law enforcement officers live and operate, and has given indication that he is prepared to facilitate improvement in these conditions. We expect, given all that we know and have heard about the operations, the modus operandi of the Police, that the new National Security Minister will facilitate a process of consultation that will address reforms in the Police Force. We would encourage Minister Leacock if he so facilitates this process of consultation, to involve still active, agile retired police officers many of high rank and unquestionable experience in the varied needs of any p0lice force. We long for the day when civilians and police unite as one.

Just say no. NO, MR. SHALLOW. No, Dr. Shallow. No, Hon. Dr. Shallow. The answer is no. The question is whether you should take a second job as Minister of Tourism and Maritime Affairs. If you do not consider this position your primary job, please do us a favor and leave it alone. If you do not think this position deserves your undivided attention, then keep your current job; the region needs you to manage cricket. I would personally like to see you dedicate the next five years exclusively to the development of North Leeward and, by extension SVG, or vice versa. It’s okay to be a parliamentary representative without ministerial responsibilities. When your tenure as President of Cricket West Indies Inc. ends, you can take your secondary position in government. It’s okay; we have enough elected officials in cabinet to handle the people’s business. I would not speculate as to why you are choosing to serve out the rest of your term as President of CWI, but I am willing to give you the space to finish that job. Follow your passion. But don’t insult us by telling us that you can do two full-time, top level, demanding jobs simultaneously. When your current term as President is over, there will be time for you to focus on North Leeward… I hope. After all, we waited 46 years; what’s another two? A few months ago, we, the people, voted for a change–a change in the way we do business. Many are asking for a review of how the previous administration operated while in public office. Sometimes the best way to understand the hidden architecture of a political organization’s culture is to skip the mission statements, value posters, and manifestos. Listen instead to everyday conversations: the language its leaders use and what people talk about or tiptoe around. These observations reveal what’s not noticeable to the naked eye… the hidden structures that quietly shape its culture. So, is it too early to wonder what the mindset of our new soft-spoken leaders is? What is the mentality of these newly elected officials that makes this decision acceptable? Your nonchalant announcement, made without regard for those who elected you, is truly disappointing. The thing is, I have heard some

people openly supporting this decision, stating that the compensation package is just too much to walk away from and that no one in the ULP would have resigned for such a position. The thing about corruption is that it is often thought of as an illegal activity, but sometimes it is simply the betrayal of public trust. In my view, this “soft-skill” mindset leads one to think that communication is optional and that conversations about performance or ethical lapses are handled at the dreaded once-every-five-year review. To be clear, this mindset drains talent, productivity, and credibility. It is time to flip the script: candid conversations and open communication are not options; they are the most potent and tangible tools people have at their disposal to drive performance levels. As long as we continue to treat these conversations as optional, we will avoid addressing behavior or expectations, and the key demographic will remain underserved. It is important to remember that the leader’s narrative shapes the conversations that, in turn, shape the organization’s culture. For example, when a leader chooses to avoid a difficult discussion because it could “blow up,” or when the folks in the office before us did the same thing, they are creating a narrative of avoidance and denial. If we want to know what the next five years will be like, listen to our leaders. Spend some time listening to the leader’s language. When a leader’s language is filled with blame, absent of responsibility, and fixated on past mistakes or flawed leaders, that leader is fueling a toxic culture devoid of accountability and growth. We love discussing leaders with extraordinary courage, but the truth is that a true leader must be willing to risk upsetting key team members and causing some discomfort by saying no. Courage means daring to take tough actions that propel both the individual and the organization forward. Hon. Dr. Shallow, in my opinion, you still have time to do the right thing; the people of North Leeward need you. Horatio.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 7.

Letters

Undermining the new government Dear Editor,

within critical areas of the state apparatus. THE RECENT PRESS Such measures are not statement by the Former about victimisation, but Prime Minister has raised about safeguarding the troubling questions about integrity of governance. the flow of information After nearly twentywithin our government five years in power, the machinery. It is evident Former Prime Minister that certain individuals inevitably has loyalists continue to act as deeply entrenched in the collaborators, directing system. These sensitive details to him. individuals, bound by This is not only long-standing ties, may unfortunate but also it find it difficult to refuse undermines the his requests for authority and stability of information. The danger the current here is clear, without administration. When a decisive action, the new government changes, it is administration risks both natural and being undermined from necessary that within. adjustments be made Transfers and

PEOPLE ARE ASKING: * DOES THE FORMER Prime Minister want to eat his cake and still have it? * How come he is talking about advising the government but insulted that government, the people of this country and His Majesty by not turning up to the ceremonial opening of a new parliament? * Could the former Prime Minister tell the people what ‘security concerns’ he has about his safety? * When is the Commissioner of Police going to show some concern for the residents of Arnos Vale, Bay Hill, Cane Garden and other areas by not giving permission for those fetes at the old airport to go on into 3-4 in the morning and even sunrise? * After Phillip Jackson entertained Dr. Gonsalves at the site of the Questelles Government School, is it correct to say that the NDP government is putting into practice the ULP slogan ‘Together Now!”? * Who benefitted more from VAT Free Friday, the businesses or the consumers? * Will the NDP government revisit the renaming of Victoria Park?

reassignments are, therefore, essential tools to protect both the government and the individuals themselves. By placing them in roles where their loyalties cannot compromise national interests, we save them from themselves and preserve

the credibility of our institutions. The public deserves confidence that the machinery of government serves the people and not the interest of former leaders. It is almost a month since this administration has been in place and it is time for

them to act firmly and wisely before regret becomes inevitable. The longer they wait it becomes more difficult to do so. Yours faithfully, Reuben Thomas.

Get out of the way, Sammy SOMETIME BACK, can’t remember exactly when but it was not too long ago, that Darren Sammy, Head Coach of the West Indies Cricket teams, said that, “People who don’t know an iota of cricket are criticising us,” or something to that extent. I had meant to take the Coach up on this insulting remark earlier but I found myself doing other things, including taking a trip overseas compliments of my dear sister. But back to Sammy. This St. Lucian must have forgotten who built and supported West Indies cricket through the ages dating well into the early fifties, long before Sammy was born. I am talking about support from the educated to the least educated, from the literate to the illiterate, from the farmer to the sanitation worker, from teacher to student. These are the people whose voices and diehard support helped to give us the Legends. Don[‘t tell me, Mr. Sammy, that a little farmer who has been listening and watching cricket since

he was five or six, didn’t learn something about the game, and could advise the players maybe even better than some of those coaches that have come and gone. And by the way, where were those coaches when we were ruling the cricket world? I don’t remember those famous teams led by Clive Lloyd and Vivian Richards ever having coaches? Did these players need to have somebody to tell them how to bat, bowl or filed? Seems to me that our cricket began to go down the drain when we began making cricket matches into fetes and nice times? In my humble opinion, we will get back a group of world class cricketers when we teach the young ones to take their time. That every match is not a T20 match, what my friend the late Earl Winston Robinson use to call ‘Comedy cricket’. Come one Sammy. Please get out of the way of progress. Charles, Edinboro

That housing repair/rebuilding programme

completing their tasks in not more than three months. THANKS TO the last which were either No interest was shown government, some people destroyed or damaged by to reconstruct in quick in the Southern the hurricane in July time. The aim was to Grenadines (and 2024. drag out the process elsewhere) are having During reconstruction, close to the election, another Christmas the then Prime Minister hoping to gain a political without their homes, said there was a advantage. shortage of local The National Home tradesmen, hence the Repair Programme reason for the slow pace implemented by the of rebuilding. I think he previous government was was the only person who held up. There are many believed that. He had a unfinished houses. political agenda! Many people are waiting When I heard the utterances, I gave advice to the authorities through letters to the press. I advised then that we should request one or two regional governments to avail their army engineering corps to assist with the rebuilding process. Engineering corps of military forces specialize in disaster rescue, recovery, construction of buildings, bridges, etc. They are capable of

to return to their homes, after having to leave their homes some nine months ago, to make way for repairs, which they were told would take three weeks. I hope the new Minister will continue both programmes — repairs and rebuilding so that the persons affected could return to a state of normal living. Concerned Citizen.

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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. THE VINCENTIAN

Court (cont’d)

Alleged kidnappers in custody

VINCENTIAN understands an electronic interview was expected to be conducted Stories by involved, located with McMaster on HAYDN HUGGINS along the Belair public Wednesday. road. THE VINCENTIAN CHARGES MAY BE LAID by When the police was also reliable today (Friday) in approached the vehicle, informed that attorney connection with two the occupants fired shots Grant Connell took a recent separate reports of in the direction of the girl, Carissa Shemika kidnapping here. officers. One individual Neverson of South THE VINCENTIAN then exited the vehicle Rivers, into custody on has been reliably holding what appeared Tuesday in connection informed that Jamal to be a rifle, and fled. with a separate report of McMaster of Belair was Three other persons kidnapping, and for taken into custody on exited the vehicles and whom a wanted bulletin Wednesday, by his one individual was was also issued. lawyer Ronald Marks. apprehended. Investigations were A wanted bulletin had Investigations were also ongoing into that been issued for ongoing up to press time, report up to press time, McMaster after police Wednesday, and THE Wednesday. received a report of kidnapping involving two victims. Police reports were that about 1:30 am on December 29, 2025, two masked men allegedly took a 31-year-old female and a 17-year-old female TWO TEENAGERS will make their next court from Edinboro and Arnos appearance at the Family Court on January 5, 2026 in connection with a recent burglary at Vale to Belair without their consent, or without Chateaubelair. The boys ages 15 and 16 have been charged with the consent of any lawful entering the liquor and provision shop of Roseann authority. Ashton of Fitz Hughes, between December 26 and It was also reported that the 17-year-old was 29 and stealing a quantity of cash and drinks amounting to a total value of EC$516, the property wounded during the of Roseann Ashton. incident. The boys pleaded not guilty and were each Police reported that granted $1,000 bail with one surety and the matter they had identified and was adjourned to January 5, 2026 and transferred approached a motor to the Family Court for facts and sentencing. vehicle, suspected to be

Teens charged with stealing liquor, cash

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 9.

Views

The Future of our Nation

The Dangers of Groupthink A Plain Talk reprint from January 2021

(First published in the 18th October, 2019 issue of The Vincentian newspaper.) “The future of our nation is in our children’s school bags.” — Dr. Eric Eustace Williams (1911–1981), Caribbean historian and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1962 to 1981. THE INTERNET GIVES US ready access to a wealth of information. It is now possible to conduct quick searches on a variety of topics. Information on medicine, science, astronomy, economics, and history (to mention a few) is now at our fingertips. For example, we can do a YouTube search for Dr. Eric Williams and be ushered into the audience as he delivered his 1962 Independence speech. He advocated equality among the various races—a cry that continues to ricochet throughout and beyond Caribbean nations as we seek equity among the various segments of our societies. The successful blending of our diverse races and religions will continue to influence the future of our nations. Access to education contributes significantly to our advancement as a people. It plays a major role in determining how well and how quickly our nations develop. However, the “education” referred to here is not mere “book knowledge.” As societies prepare their citizens–young and old–for life and living, education administrators and curriculum planners are challenged to design and implement programmes that encourage principles such as honesty, decency, integrity, environmental preservation, gender equality, healthy lifestyles, and respect for the elderly. Such programmes and approaches contribute to the overall health of a nation. Based on this understanding, we can appreciate that education is one of the most important investments a nation can make in its people and its future. Dr. Eric Williams was right when he noted that the future of our nation is in our children’s school bags. Investments in education–both on an individual basis and through communal efforts (such as schools, libraries, and learning centres)–must remain a focal point for committed and visionary parents, guardians, governments, and philanthropists. This is especially true in emerging economies, where citizens strive to create and sustain better lives for their nations by raising public consciousness and elevating standards of living. Education provides us with knowledge of the world around us. It also helps us to better appreciate the talents and abilities that reside within us. Through education, we develop a clearer perspective of who we are and the possibilities that lie within and beyond us. It gives us hope and empowers us to design and pursue pathways that improve our lives and the lives of others. Education moves us beyond the mere acquisition of knowledge to the effective use of that knowledge. It strengthens our capabilities and capacity to interpret information and, having done so, to be proactive in implementing positive

changes that propel individuals and nations toward enhanced performance and achievement. The future of our nation is largely determined by the quality of education we provide. Education, therefore, must never be taken for granted–especially in this fast-changing and ever-evolving technological world. Nelson Mandela (1918—2013) captured this reality when he stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He was not alone in expressing such wisdom. Malcolm X (1925—1965), the articulate and charismatic American human rights activist, observed that “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” Benjamin Franklin (1706—1790), one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America, similarly noted that “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” This distinguished writer, political philosopher, scientist, inventor, civil activist, and statesman, writing in the eighteenth century, provided insights that continue to guide and inspire parents, teachers, politicians, and concerned citizens today. When we invest in education, we invest in the future of our nation. We make sacrifices now to create and sustain a better tomorrow. There is wisdom in such an approach. Our discourse on education and the future of our nation can be traced even further back in time–beyond Benjamin Franklin, Malcolm X, Nelson Mandela, and Dr. Eric Williams. Aristotle (c. 384—322 B.C.), the renowned Ancient Greek philosopher and scientist, reminded us of the persistence and commitment required in the pursuit of education when he noted that “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” As individuals and nations, we discipline ourselves to make sacrifices today for the rewards of tomorrow. As we plan and design programmes aimed at creating and sustaining better lives for our children and our nation, we can also draw inspiration from Christine Gregoire (born 1947), who stated that “Education is the foundation upon which we build our future.” As the 22nd Governor of Washington State (2005—2013), she sought to influence decision-makers in business, government, and society to prioritize nation-building through education. The future of our nation will be secure when we invest in education that goes beyond the mere transfer and absorption of facts. We must also create pathways to life-enhancing principles and values–principles and values that keep societies strong. Therein lies the future of our nation. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

‘THE THING I FEAR most is to be walking down the street and hear someone whisper, ‘There goes Walter Rodney. He used to be a revolutionary’,’ Dr Walter Rodney. ‘In fact, the only sin we will never forgive in each other is a difference in opinion.’ ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ‘Anti-intellectualism, camouflaged with civility and politeness, has blocked the means to engage in critical debate. Contempt for the life of the mind and an obsession with comfort have made public discourse virtually impossible. And, with the avoidance of critical dialogue, we end up hiding the truth of our understanding from ourselves and each other, which may prove to be the greatest tragedy of all.’ ~ Ejike Obineme, Too Terrified to Enter the Arena of Ideas. In times past, you entered a discussion at your own risk. Woe be unto you if you made a statement and could not back it up. Those were the days when all of SVG was teeming with ideas, conversations, discussions and arguments; when everyone held fast to their beliefs but was willing to put them to the test through investigation and inquiry. Debate was everywhere, and it was not a test of debating skills. It was a test of ideas about what was wrong with society and what should be done to take the country forward. Some of us were so thirsty for knowledge that we risked our liberty to get information. We eagerly awaited the arrival of illegal and banned Granma, the Cuban newspaper that highlighted the battles and successes of the Cuban Revolution; Soviet Weekly, the English language Russian paper that offered a glimpse into the socialist world; Thunder and Mirror from Guyana and Cheddi Jagan People’s Progressive Party that damned the blight of Burnham’s Cooperative socialism yet offered critical support for its progressive foreign policy; Ralph Gonsalves’ biting columns in the Barbados Nation Newspaper; as well as the bold and brave radicalism of Renwick Rose as carried in the organs of YOULIMO and the United People’s Movement — Freedom and Justice newspapers —that made the ruling elite quake with fear of exposure. In those days, there was a serious battle for people’s minds. And then everything crashed. The Grenada Revolution imploded with negative fallout. The Soviet Union and the socialist countries disintegrated swiftly. The world had truly changed. The progressive movement was torn asunder. Many who claimed to be revolutionaries became ghosts of their former selves. They became careerists, pragmatists, accommodationists and apologists. Most settled for the honeycomb of power and merely genuflected to the pressing problems plaguing the people. Many gleefully embraced the getrich-quick, my-time-now, no-morepersonal-sacrifice mantra. Nothing except family was worth fighting for. Commitment to anything meaningful was opportunistically timed to coincide with an electoral clock. The community dismantled and suffered, and among the youth, there developed a strong nihilistic belief made popular in song by the artist 50 Cent, ‘Get rich quick or die young trying.’ In politics and across all social, economic and religious institutions, a radical form of control emerged. Confirm or be bent into shape, remain non-conforming and be ostracised. A warning stalked the land: rock the boat at your personal and professional peril.

All too many meekly obeyed, citing the primary obligation of food, clothing, shelter, the mortgage to pay and the children to educate. Groupthink, a tendency to seek consensus rather than foster dissent, has unfortunately gripped the land. According to the Yale psychologist, Irving Janis, ‘Groupthink is the enemy of originality because people feel pressured to conform to the dominant, default views instead of championing a diversity of thought. Groupthink occurs when people are deeply involved in a cohesive in-group, and their striving for unanimity overrides their motivation to appraise alternative courses of action realistically.’ Bill Moyers, a communications expert for President John Kennedy, recalled that many in the leadership circle ‘tended to conduct the affairs of state as if they were a gentlemen’s club. If you are close, you are less inclined, in a debating sense, to drive your opponent to the wall and very often permit a viewpoint to be expressed and to go unchallenged.’ There is a fine line between people sharing the same values and norms in such an atmosphere, belief in them intensely and operating like a cult. Clearly, unity is paramount. Unity must be cultivated and cherished, but a dogmatic approach to vital issues is deadly, especially if you think you have developed a Teflon-like ability to swim past difficulties successfully, misfortunes and blunders that might have taken down the less fortunate or savvy. Plain Talk harbours no doubt that to solve problems, make wise decisions, and remain successful, groups need to encourage original ideas and dissenting views. Groupthink should be discouraged because it is a form of mind control that stifles inquiry. We approve Einstein’s wise words: ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.’ But too many of us remain too terrified to enter the arena of ideas to sort out differences and push each other to think deeper about our words and work’s implications. Significant disputes, we are told must be done in private. Ojike Obineme correctly points out that ‘any attempt toward public discussion involving a direct, ideological confrontation is quickly reinterpreted as disruptive and an attempt to self-righteously and selfishly reassert oneself in the public sphere. And yet it is certain ideas going unchallenged that has led to misunderstanding and mass confusion so prevalent among our people.’ Plain Talk will be forever convinced that the moral and intellectual growth of a country has to be measured by its ability or failure to bring into public consciousness the plight of the silenced, oppressed and unremembered. Any serious change agent must take it as her solemn responsibility as Edward Said points out in Representations of the Intellectual to “publicly represent all those people and issues that are routinely forgotten and swept under the rug.” SVG has become an intellectual wasteland. The time has come for us to fertilise our minds again. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026 . THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute / Opinion

Saying Goodbye to Dean Nichols

The church which is generally regarded as being commissioned to the role of guiding the society towards the path of submission to the will of Jehovah the Creator, should not miss the opportunities that these occasions offer. Our constitution boldly declares that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a nation founded on the belief in the supremacy of God the Creator and the The Very Rev’d O. Samuel Nichols freedom and dignity of man. (1971 – 2025) Therefore, those who have declared themselves to be the representatives of I HAVE MADE IT to this podium today, though perhaps with wobbly steps, in this Jehovah on the Earth should assert themselves to influence those around historic building, the St. George’s them, to use their energies and talents Cathedral in Kingstown our capital, to to assist in the task of repairing our join in saying farewell to a precious brother – Very Rev’d Otis Samuel Nichols, Vincentian society. It is obvious that our quality of life Dean and Rector of this Cathedral - who has been deteriorating over the last served the Anglican community well. several decades, and that the When a person of such societal elemental traditional moral fibres stature dies, whose life had been have lost their strength and distinctly so positively directed, his funeral service could be used to target functionality. So much so, that the former Prime Minister- Dr. Ralph recalcitrant elements in the society Gonsalves - himself remarked that too with the hope of effecting the desired many of our citizens were walking repairs.

around carrying the agony of their circumstances printed on their faces, and he implored all Vincentians to what he named the SEASON OF RESPAIR that he was then launching. That observation and his declaration was made about a year ago. The historians will no doubt document the impact of that SEASON OF RESPAIR on the society. I am impelled on this sacred occasion as we say farewell to Brother Nichols, who has over these years been a prominent player in our society, to appeal to the entire Christian Community of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to get involved in the arresting of the retrogression of our society. I am also impelled to offer the suggestion that the Anglican community of SVG is numerically strong enough to succeed in the completion of the task of repairing the valuable St. George Cathedral. I have had a long sentimental attachment to this property which I believe is the most valuable in our capital.

ULP Petitions filed under the NDP: Camouflage or Convenience? ACCORDING TO MEDIA HOUSES the St. Vincent Times and 1Witness News, ULP candidates Carlos Williams of the Northern Grenadines and Luke Browne of East Kingstown, both lodged in the High Court, election petitions respectively against Godwin Friday of the Northern Grenadines and Fitzgerald Bramble of East Kingstown, as a result of the November 27, General Elections. The petitions were filed on Thursday, 18 December, 2025, twentyone days after the election was held. The petitions quite obviously are a follow-up on objections laid against Godwin Friday and Fitzgerald Bramble on nomination day, November 10th, 2025. The objections are that both candidates, Friday and Bramble, by virtue of their own act swear allegiance to a foreign power or state. Their objection, however, is based on sec. (26)(1)(a) of the Constitution which states: 26 (1) No person shall be qualified to be elected or appointed as a Representative or Senator (hereinafter in this section referred to as a member) if he(a)is by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power state. Both Friday and Bramble are, however, basing their defense on sec. sec.(25)(1)(a)of the Constitution which states: 25-(1) Subject to the provisions of section 26 of this Constitution, a person shall be qualified to be elected as a Representative if, and shall not be so qualified unless, hea. Is a Commonwealth citizen of the age of twenty-one years or upwards. The objections, however, were rejected on Nomination Day and both candidates were nominated to contest the elections. This being a Constitutional matter, one would have thought that

the matter would have gone to the High Court, via the Attorney General, prior to election day. This apparently did not happen and apparently the Supervisor of Elections had the final say and both Friday and Bramble were allowed to contest the elections.

For many decades it was the city’s “main timepiece”, with a face of its magnificent clock being visible from any point, East, West, North and South. Those of us who travelled from the leeward side by launch were able to see the time when the launch got to the harbour. The referees and umpires who managed the football and cricket matches which took place on the historic VICTORIA PARK took their time from that clock. It is expected that the cost of the necessary repair work would be substantial, but I believe that the Anglican community patriots, the Vincentian diaspora and our global friends can meet and overcome that challenge. We should not accept defeat on this issue. The pride and maturity of a nation is reflected in the quality of the maintenance of its precious architectural inheritance and could well be a source of inspiration for the generations yet unborn. May our brother now rest in Peace!

declaration which is false and which I know to be false or do not believe to be true I am liable to a fine and imprisonment. Signed Declared before me this day of 2025 Signed

THE SVG CONSTITUTION

Sec. 29 (3)(c) subject to the provisions of subsection (4) of this section, if any other circumstances arise that, if he were not a member, would cause him to be disqualified to be elected or appointed as such by virtue of subsection (1) of section 26 of this Constitution or of any law enacted in pursuance of subsection (2) or (3) of that section. Sec. 29 (4)(a) If any circumstances such as are referred to in paragraph (c) of subsection (3) of this section arise because any member……… reported guilty of an offence relating to elections and if it is open to the member to appeal against the decision (either with the leave of a court of law or other THE REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT authority or without such leave) he shall forthwith Form 3 Rule 6. cease to perform his functions as a member but subject to the provisions of this, he shall not vacate Statutory Declaration of a Person Nominated for his seat until the expiration of a period of thirty Election as a Member of The House of Assembly days thereafter: Provided that the Speaker may, at the request of FOR CONSTITUENCY the member, from time to time extend that period Qualification of nominated as a candidate for election as a member of the House for further periods of thirty days.......however, that extensions of time exceeding in the aggregate one of Assembly for the constituency hundred and fifty days shall not be without the of approval, signified by resolution of the House. I in of do solemnly and sincerely declare CONCLUSION as follows 4. I am not by virtue of my own act, under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state. And I make this declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and according to the Declaration in Lieu of Oaths Act (Cap)157) and I am aware that if there is any statement in this

If Canada is neither a Foreign power or State to SVG, it means therefore that both Canada and SVG are still colonies of the UK. Matthew Thomas Retired Pharmacist and Political activist Contact Email: mattpharm@hotmail.com, Tel. 784-457-2067

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 11.

Nine Mornings

Town Hill was awash with white and blue lights and similarly coloured decorations. Left: Town Hill’s welcome to its 2025 ‘Winter Wonderland’ – a winning presentation.

Town Hill: 2025 National Lighting Champions TOWN HILL’S PRESENTATION of ‘Winter Wonderland’ proved to be the hottest display of lights, and that community was adjudged winner of the 2025

VINLEC National Lighting Competition. It was Town Hill’s second lien on the competition, their first being in 2011 with their

depiction of ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’. But the 2025 triumph was special. With astute planning and execution, the team stuck to the theme, employing appropriate colours, décor and implements. And the result was: Town Hill beat Rose Hall into second place, with 2024 champions- Richland Park, having to settle for third. Stubbs ended in fourth.

Challenges abound Giving a background to the 2025 triumph were Chair of the Town Hill Lighting Committee- Noel Jackson and TreasurerCecile Cambridge who were especially gleeful with Corea’s City Store with a dominant pink heart, took the 2025 Jackson saying, “We Best Lit Commercial Building award. started late because of the General Elections. It took us two weeks to put the presentation together”. But it was not all easy sailing, according to Jackson. “On the very day (December 23) that the judges were to judge, two trucks on either side, passed and pulled down two sections of our displays. In addition, we suffered some vandalism but Hill Top’s 2025 presentation, located in the Hull Residence in Villa, was thanks to the Mrs. Patsy Ash-Comas, once again too good for the competition in the Best Garden category.

who in her own nonchalant way, encouraged us not to worry, (and) just fix what can fix”, Jackson said, adding that Comas’ comments fueled a fire in them, as it served as a motivator to be ready for the judges. He noted that it was AshComas who, over the years, had been a driving force behind the Planning/Execution Committee, and 2025 was no different. Ash-Comas is the sister of the late Kenneth Ash, who was the pioneer of Private Home lighting here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Planning and Execution According to Jackson, “The theme was conceptualised in December 2024 by Mrs. Comas. We were tinkering with another theme, but she decided that we should go with the ‘Winter Wonderland’. Hence, our dominant colours were blue, white, silver and we put in some red, that was to give us some semblances of warmth and fireplace, amidst the cold”, Jackson admitted. “As early as January 2025 lights were being ordered. Mrs. Comas was always looking for new stuff on the computer and would call in the wee hours of the morning to share her ideas and findings with me. This is the nature of Mrs. Comas”, Jackson disclosed. And on that note, he admitted that winning was extra special because of the presence of members of the Ash family, who had come in for the Christmas and helped in the decorations.

Always confident Meanwhile, Cambridge said that she was always confident of them winning the title. “Halfway through our lighting, we had turned on the lights to test what we had put up and while the lights were on, we saw visitors coming, vehicles parking, and everyone was telling us we were looking good… by the time we were finished doing what we were doing we got more praises and that lifted our spirits”, Cambridge stated with satisfaction. Cambridge said that there was “no better feeling” to see their work finding favour with the judges, after all the years of defeats. Both Jackson and Cambridge acknowledged that winning the title meant that, come 2026 they will have to defend it, but are prepared to do so with gusto. Jackson advanced that the lighting of the various communities inclusive of Town Hill, will act as a fillip for greater community engagement and social cohesion.

Repeat winners Those who held on to titles won in 2024 included Hill Top located at the Hull’s Residence at Villa Top, who was again adjudged the Best Garden. Second to Hill Top was Allana Mulraine and Alister Mc Kenzie of Du Bois, with Fitz Hughes School Groundthird and Bequia Pentecostal Church Ground fourth. Also extending their hold on their victory in 2024 was Corea’s City Store, adjudged the 2025 Best Lit Commercial Building. Olivia Da Silva of Cane End copped the Best Nativity Scene, followed by Moteko Stanley- Chauncey, Barrouallie Square and Wendy Bynoe- Dauphine, in that order.

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12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026 . THE VINCENTIAN

Nine Mornings

Stanley wins Best Lit Private Home title

admitted taking the judges’ criticism to heart and making the necessary adjustments in 2025. He also noted that the community encouragement was a fillip for him, after his disappointments of 2024. “At one point I was not going to do anything, but they said to me, then just viewing the lights, Stanley do it for the children, because hosts them in treasure hunts in 2024 we had over 100 and other activities, as they children coming through and provide him with immense they were all happy, so I felt inspiration. that at least I must do He also revealed to the something for them at least”, What’s on show Vincentian that he was also the new Best Lit Private spurred on by his mother — As for the theme ‘Christmas House winner affirmed. Rhonda, who took the 2025 around the world’ amidst Best Flower Garden elaborate artwork, Stanley Finding inspiration Competition. informed the VINCENTIAN, “I am a very competitive. “We have Christmas ‘Down A beaming Stanley believed My mother won the Under’, here we have an Asian that he has come of age, as Independence Flower Garden Christmas, we have African whilst he loves winning, Competition, so I said I have Christmas. We also have the putting a smile on others’ to win something too, so I Winter Wonderland, which faces is pivotal to his decided to go hard”, Stanley will represent the USA and perseverance. stated. Canada”. “The reactions of people Now armed with greater Not to be left out, the coming through the gate and knowledge and expertise and Stanley’s residence also had saying “Wow!’, makes me feel buoyed by sound, moral Christmas celebration of good. It is not about winning a support, Stanley is not Europe, and a special segment prize. It is really a labour of relenting and is, in fact, for a Vincy Christmas. love”, Stanley proffered. already planning to defend his “We wanted to have a feel, a Apart from the children crown in 2026. bit of Christmas from every corner of the world. To complement that we have over 200 flags of countries around the world also on display. We have every different colour in the crayon book. The Vincy Christmas is special, where we have Nine Mornings in Heritage Square; the boiling of the ham, most things that are synonymous with Christmas here in St. Vincent and the And after several attempts, Grenadines”, Stanley Stanley’s Chauncey Residence commented. Going into some of the eventually copped its maiden title, when it was adjudged the intricacies of the lighting process and execution, Stanley Best Lit Private Home in the revealed he was very 2025 Competition. meticulous. Utilising every centimetre “Having done a lot of research on colours, we used for example Asian Christmas celebrations put in lights. the blue lights to simulate coldness”, Stanley said. of available space, Stanley applied the themes: ‘Joy to the World’ - for the dwelling house; and ‘Christmas around the world’, for the surroundings. His presentation, comprising thousands of lights and appropriate decorations and furnishings, got the judges’ nod, ahead of second place Zachery Audain- Green Hill. Third was Athony JardineChili Village, Georgetown and fourth was 2024 winnerOlivia Da Silva of Cane End.

Vincy Christmas in full effect. REMEMBER the name Moketo Stanley!! As far as the annual VINLEC National Lighting Competition is concerned, he plans to be around for some time.

Moketo Stanley stands next to one of his productions.

Moving on from the ‘snubs’

Another stunning combination of lights and figurines that captivated young and old who visited the Stanley’s residence for Christmas.

For him, the win in 2025 was long in coming. He admitted to feeling snubbed in previous years, and used that as motivation; he pulled out all the stops in his latest production. Placing second in 2024 with Santa’s Workshop, Stanley

Even the gate could not spoil the scene that greeted patrons at the entrance to the transformed Stanley’s residence.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 13.

Nine Mornings

Richland Park on the double

RICHLAND PARK is this year’s Best Nine Mornings Community and the Best Christmas Community. These were announced at the final Nine Mornings activities in Kingstown, December 24, 2025, by Deputy Chair of the National Nine Mornings Committee- Lennox Bowman. In the process, Richland Park retained their titles and repeated a feat they first achieved in 2020.

Tire rolling is a staple feature of the Nine Morning activities in Richland Park. This year was no exception.

community as their Christmas Community involvement and support are segment. Determined to repeat critical to keeping our group And Spring Village placed relevant”, Ballantyne advised. fourth in the Best Nine Delighted on retaining their And as they savour the Mornings section, and Top 2024 titles, Chair of the 2025 achievements, the group Vermont was third in the Best Richland Park Lighting and is already planning for 2026. Christmas Community Nine Morning Committee“Like we always do, we category. Danroy Ballantyne, said it start our planning very was one of the aims of this early. We start group. brainstorming for new “It was a surprise to us to ideas; look back at Washing with ‘blue soap’ – just one of the hear those two awards being what we have done in announced that early, because traditional practices that characterizes previous years and see it’s normally done at the Prize Vincentian life that was highlighted at the how we can do better”, 2025 Richland Park Nine Mornings. Giving Ceremony, but we Ballantyne shared. always believed we would win He acknowledged want to be too repetitive, so because of our continued the strength of the Community. we introduced activities such efforts to be on top in “We were unable to hold on competitors and as catch the cock, catch the whatever we do”. to the lighting title, but we are assured that the plan greasy pig, as well as ring Ballantyne believed that proud of our efforts at placing was to ward them off. games that we played many conviction helped them in Over the years, third overall. We are one of years ago, but are not done retaining the accolades. Richland Park has the few communities that do with any regularity today”, “Every year we try to be been dueling with Lighting and Nine Mornings, Ballantyne related. different. For example, this Stubbs for the Best but we have already made it year 2025, we did not have the Christmas and Nine clear as a group we want to Involving the community funeral because we did not Mornings Community stay at least in the top three titles. for the Lighting Competition. Stubbs placed second Lighting is a very expensive in both categories in venture and for 2025 alone, the latest competitions. our expenses were over $10 Barrouallie finished 000”, the long-serving chair The Nine Mornings Committee gives third in the Best Nine stated. back to members of the community. Mornings Community And as for the team, Here an elderly resident receives a Ballantyne commented, “Apart and fourth in the Best ‘goodie bag’. from our group of creative and committed members who make up our committee, we have been able to get some youngsters who are very interested in the activities and we welcome them, as we see them as taking over from us, and this is a good sign for continuity for us here in Richland Park”. Noting that his committee plans to keep the community as integrally involved in their operations as possible, Ballantyne said they also use the Nine Mornings activities to show appreciation. “We will continue to Children are never excluded from the Nine Mornings An early morning exercise routine helps to get the cardiovascular find ways to involve the Programme in Richland Park. system going that serves well for the rest of the day. In 2024, Richland accomplished a rare feat of being crowned triple champions — Best National Lighting winners as well as Best Nine Mornings Community and Best Christmas

V Steel Expressions maintain high standards 14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026 . THE VINCENTIAN

Entertainment

THE 2025 EDITION of RS Productions’ Steel Expressions was again one of high standards. Dubbed the ‘Garden of Star’, and held at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, on Saturday, December 27, the stage, and its periphery was the scene of luscious green plants, and other trappings. The three and a half hours show kept the audience in rapt attention, as featured act Rodney Small on pan, took them Left: Rodney Small on pan with Darron Andrews on violin. Below: Youthful -Kyrah Ferdinand on violin.

through the ages, from Motown to the 1990s, bellowing out songs that held pride of place during those eras. In reciprocity, those present responded with applause and even sang along. Apart from Small, there was a gospel segment, along with performances by Darron Andrews, Bongo Prime, Lexi, Adrian Sasco, Zina, Kyrah Ferdinand, Matthew John as well as Chilli Billi, Kevin Lyttle and Skinny Fabulous. A short video was also shown of the late great, Jimmy Cliff. Reflecting on the fourteenth edition of Steel Expressions, Rodney Small, producer of the event, believed that the show again lived up to its high billing. “I am humbled by the overwhelming support from our patrons, sponsors, musicians, technical teams, volunteers and every creative who poured their heart into this experience”, Small said in his assessment. He informed that the idea of the garden was philosophical. “The garden setting symbolized growth, life, and continuity, while the design choices reinforced the idea that steelpan belongs in refined, world class performance spaces. It was a celebration of time, artistry, and enduring power of steelpan music”, Small proffered. And, already Small is ahead of time, as the 2026 production has already been conceptualised and titled. “The official theme and title will be Steel Expressions ‘Tim’. This is a concept that reflects our growth, evolution, resilience, and the moments that have shaped this production over the past fifteen years. I will honour where we started, celebrate where we are and boldly imagine where we are going”, Small promised.

Kevin Lyttle (left), Chilli Billi (centre) and Skinny Fabulous (right).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 15.

People

St. Vincent sailor earns himself an MBE

Sub. Lt. Ashta ‘Ash’ McMillan, MBE

Sub. Lt. Ashta McMilliam during his relief work in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

in A SAILOR who used his the Caribbean. naval expertise to help his In Ash’s case, thanks to native Caribbean island when hit by one of the most his personal energy, commitment, leadership powerful storms of recent years has been made a MBE and determination, he helped to coordinate the for his selfless efforts. relief effort by a Ashta ‘Ash’ McMillan significant number of was on leave visiting organisations, from the family and friends in St. island’s government to Vincent and the international agencies. Grenadines in July 2024 when Hurricane Beryl swept through the region. Inspiring others Classed as a Category 5 In the words of his storm with winds reaching citation to be named a 165mph, Beryl left eight people dead and caused an Member of the Military estimated £170m damage Division of the Most Excellent Order of the across the small island British Empire (thankfully chain — home to 100,000 shortened to MBE), “his souls. swift actions saved lives, Thousands of people were displaced and needed providing comfort and aid evacuation, while on some to devastated communities. His bravery islands which bore the brunt of Beryl’s wrath, nine in ten homes were destroyed. Ash, a logistician with 20 years’ experience in the Royal Navy under his belt, immediately drew upon that — all Royal Navy personnel go through regular disaster relief training, Wrecked boats, the means of which has income earning for many frequently Grenadines residents, meant that been put into they needed not just relief practice assistance but much comforting, particularly which Ashta was able to extend.

The former aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious, one of the many naval ships on which Ashta McMillan was deployed.

and courage in the face of particular adversity, reflects the highest standards that underpin the Royal Navy’s core values.” For the 44-year-old, who recently earned his commission as a sub lieutenant and is completing his training as a logistics officer at the Defence School of Logistics and Administration at Worthy Down, near Winchester, he hopes his MBE can inspire others, demonstrating that whatever your background and start in life, it should never limit what you can achieve. “Receiving this award was an unexpected and deeply humbling honour,” he said. “In the Royal Navy we’re trained to step forward in times of need without looking for recognition, and supporting my fellow Vincentians in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl was simply the right thing to do. “Being able to help my country at such a critical moment, and to raise awareness of what people were facing back home, meant a great deal to me.” Through 22 years of service Originally from Mesopotamia on the island of St Vincent, Ash initially worked in a call centre before deciding he wanted a more challenging and varied career and joined the Royal Navy as a stores accountant (logistician) back in 2003. In the 22 years of service, he has deployed with former aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious, frigate Iron Duke, and destroyer HMS Dauntless. He took part in the 2006 evacuation of British citizens from Lebanon, has completed multiple Mediterranean patrols and one of the South Atlantic and helped prepare UK flagship HMS Prince of Wales for her sea trials. He’s served at every major naval base supporting both surface ships and submarines, and spent a lot of time with the Royal Navy’s longstanding mission in the Middle East,

Operation Kipion, from ensuring HMS Lancaster was ready for patrols to planning the decommissioning of

minehunters operating in the Gulf, efforts for which he was commended. Ash lives in Scotland and enjoys spending time

with his daughter Aleisha and his partner Emily, as well as hiking the Scottish Munros and swimming. (Source: Royal Navy)

Ashta McMIllan helped to coordinate the relief effort especially in the Southern Grenadines which was a scene of collapsed buildings, including homes and business places, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.

16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026 . THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A plan backfired

Dear George,

TO TEST MY WIFE’S LOYALTY, a friend agreed to pretend he wanted to hit on her. The plan was for him to ask her out and then try to persuade her to go with him to his house. She agreed to go out with him and he was shocked when she agreed to go to his home. He had given me all the info, and I followed them and waited outside his home. George, after waiting for four hours, I decided to enter the house. I heard mourns and cries coming from a nearby room. I knew what was taking place. I exited the house, drove home and pretended to be ignorant of what went down. When I saw my friend next he told me she went with him to his house but that was only to get something he told her he had for me. He told me he tried to get her in his bed but she reprimanded him, and assured me that I had a good and faithful wife. My wife meanwhile never mentioned any part of the encounter between her and my friend. Was it a good thing to do this test? Was I wrong to set her up like this to fail me? Can I ever trust her again? What about my friend, did he abuse the situation? After all, the plan was for him to test her not to go all the way with her.

Very Disappointed. Dear Very Disappointed, You cannot love if you do not trust and it is because of your distrust that you now find yourself in this predicament. It was not a good idea to involve anyone else the way you did. Your socalled friend took advantage of a situation and you have yourself to blame for that. At least now you know the caliber of the friend you have or thought you had. Come clean with your wife. Let her know the idea was all yours and you regret doing it. It would be useful to know the reason behind her keeping what happened from you. You should engage the services of a counselor at this stage. Let everything come out in the wash and maybe you might get the opportunity to start afresh. This can be an opportunity for a new beginning for you both.

George.

I want a ‘big’ wedding!!! marrying the man who your wedding day but if loves you and wants the that happiness only best for you, and not the exists because of the MY BOYFRIEND and I promise and execution of plan to be married in six man who is satisfied a lavish wedding day months’ time. Given his with throwing a big wedding just to see you then you need to have a financial situation, he happy. rethink. You need to be wants a courthouse The emphasis ought to sure about the real wedding but I prefer a be placed on ensuring reason why you want to much grander event. there is a good and get married, then take it He has suggested that from there. we postpone the wedding satisfying life after the wedding day. You do until we can afford the deserve to be happy on George. funding I want. I insist that he finds a way to give me the wedding that I want and he took offense to that. Now there is this look elsewhere for her other guy, his rival, who Dear George, sexual satisfaction. Can very much wants to marry me and definitely RECENTLY, I overheard you blame me for feeling insecure right now? can afford the wedding I my wife on the phone with another man whom want. My boyfriend Blown Away. she said was a friend knows that. The only from High School. reason I chose to be with Dear Blown Away, The part of the my boyfriend over him An honest conversation I overheard was because I met him conversation with your was she saying, “Yes, I first. know he may not be able wife should put your Would it be awful for fears to rest. Get to find to satisfy me sexually, me to marry this other out exactly what would but at least he is a good guy and get exactly what father and a very loving make her sexually I want? I think I satisfied and work from and honest man.” deserve to be happy no George, I am not sure there accordingly. It may matter what. help if you both consult how to handle this. On with a sex therapist or the one hand she is Going After My Dreams. marriage/relationship dissing me while on the counselor. other hand she is Dear Going After My Whatever her praising me. Dreams, dissatisfaction, she is not How can she be willing to give up on you admitting to another It would help because of how high you man that I do not satisfy tremendously if you her sexually? She never score in the areas, e.g. could just widen your being a parent. told me this! I always lens and see the bigger That other area can thought we were good picture. Do not allow always be worked on and where that was the grandeur of an conquered over time. concerned. I am extravagant wedding to concerned that she might prevent you from

Dear George,

Living a lie

George.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Include friends and family members in your redecorating plans. Expressing yourself in novel ways should lead you down new avenues. Don't let your emotions interfere with moneymaking deals. Try to understand their point of view. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Develop some of your good ideas. Romance will be on your mind, and chances for ideal connections are in the works. Your attitude is changing rapidly and your plate is overloaded. You are best to be discreet. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You may find it difficult to communicate. Dealing with in-laws or relatives will not be in your best interest. Make plans to mix business with pleasure. Dinner with clients or business associates should be successful. It's time to re-evaluate your motives. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Family trips or projects should be on your mind. Wait and get all the information before consulting your boss. You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. Do not invest in ventures that only appear to be lucrative. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that will change the conditions you've been living under. Update and review your personal investments. It is time to clear your decks. You are best to stick to yourself this week. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Realize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Don't overlook that fact that someone you care about may be hiding something. You will feel compelled to do some traveling. You can make a big difference to children if you are understanding of the difficulties they are experiencing.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You can make personal changes that will enhance your reputation and give you greater self-confidence. You're not your usual self this week. Take work home but be sure to spend some time with your mate. You should check out prestigious clubs or groups that have a cause you believe in. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Keep important information to yourself. Do not jump to conclusions concerning your romantic partner. You may be fortunate while traveling. Get together with friends and catch up on reading and letter writing. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your intuition will be right on. Follow your feelings in matters pertaining to financial investments. Love relationships will flourish. Hidden matters are likely to surface. Changes in your home are apparent, and you must be willing to bend if you don't want to find yourself alone. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Keep on your toes when dealing with others. You will be full of energy and you need to find something constructive to do. You can gain valuable cultural knowledge through dealing with foreigners. You need to get down to basics with regard to yourself. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Don't be too confident that co-workers are on your side. Good friends will give you honest answers. You may have the day off but your thoughts will be on your work and your cash situation. You'll be angry if those you live with aren't pulling their weight. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't make excuses. Groups and organizations that indulge in social events to raise money will be conducive to meeting new and exciting lovers. Compromise if you have to, to avoid verbal battles. Direct your energy wisely.

ACROSS

print precede 38. Flight height (abbr.) 39. Informal attire 44. Andrews, for one (abbr.) 47. Navigation aid 48. Lies in wait 49. Korean auto name 50. Green-lights 51. Red, e.g. 52. Chicken product

1.Shade tree 4. Certain boxing wins (abbr.) 7. Advanced business degree (abbr.) 10. “__ Clown” (2 wds.) 11. Colin of “A Single Man” 13. Doter’s treatment (abbr.) 14. Salad __ 15. Complex 17. “NCIS” network DOWN 19. Gentle __ lamb (2 wds.) 1.Recede 16. Mouse’s foe 20. Like sleepers’ 2. Grassy field 18. Broker’s eyes 3. Mad as a __ advice 21. Water __ (2 wds.) 20. Clean by 24. Like sore 4. Family hard muscles reunion rubbing 25. Strop guests 21. Puerto Rican 26. Fishing aid 5. Supper city 28. Singer’s morsel a Like 22. syllable 6. Made apple crooked cop 29. Wined and __ sauce (3 wds.) 30. Couple count 7. NYC transit 23. Author C.S. 31. Spain’s cont. org. __ 32. Start of a tot’s 8. Lunch counter 24. Snacked song letters 33. Leg part 9. Air hero 25. Hawaii’s 34. Kopell of “The 11. Clenched yellow Love Boat” hand state flower 36. Removes 12. Expressed 27. Won __ soup weeds disapproval 29. Lion’s den 37. Behave or audibly

visitor 33. Scale note 35. Abbr. in a real estate listing 36. Headwear 39. Insurance’s PPO alternative

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 19.

40. Light furniture wood 41. Good times 42. Miner’s find 43. Alias initials 45. Holiday pudding fruit 46. Pack groceries

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20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. THE VINCENTIAN

More Chess success for Shetty Vedant Shetty takes the top spot on the podium for top finishers in the Blitz, Under-10 Absolute Category.

VEDANT SHETTY continues to be the pride and joy of the Chess fraternity here. His most recent feat came when he copped gold and silver medals at the 20th Central American and Caribbean Youth Chess Festival held in Dorado, Puerto Rico, which concluded on 20th December 2025. The Central American and Caribbean Youth Chess Festival is a premier event that brings together the region’s brightest young minds, fostering competition, camaraderie, and excellence in chess. Vedant’s gold came in the Blitz, Under-10 Absolute Category and his silver in the Classical, Under-10 Absolute Category, testimony to his remarkable skill and composure across multiple formats, according to the SVG

Vedant Shetty – turning ten in December is also turning the heads of chess enthusiasts here and abroad.

Chess Federation. The Federation in a release said further, “Vedant’s performance is a testament to his continued hard work, discipline, and passion for the game. The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Chess Federation is immensely proud of his accomplishments and looks forward to supporting his continued success on the global stage.” Vedant’s success at the Central American and Caribbean Youth Chess Festival follows on his bronze medal won at the 35th Pan American Youth Chess Rapid Championship in Peru, July/August 2025. He was the only player from the Caribbean region to earn a trophy.

Winners crowned in Junior Christmas Tennis THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Tennis Association concluded its 2025 Junior Christmas Tournament on Sunday, December 21, at the National Tennis Centre Villa. Competition was held in four age groups for both Boys and Girls, and in both singles and doubles categories. Amina Lucas took the Girls Under-10 and Under-12 singles titles ahead of Elania Grant and Zhara Hypolite respectively. Likewise, Keyondre Gaymes bossed the Boys Under-10 and Under-12 segments. Runner up to Gaymes in the Under-10 was Nathaniel Sheen and Zion Byfield- Grant in the Under12. Another double winner came in the Boys Under-14 and Under-18, as Ethan Kent won both; Keython Gaymes finishing as runner-up on both occasions. Meanwhile, Loukyha Premraj took the Girls Under14 with Danelle Kennedy, the runner-up. Premraj though had to play second fiddle to Afe Lucas, who took the Girls Under-18 title.

Ethan Kent – Double winner - Under-14 and Under-18

The Arnos Vale Playing Field will feature prominently in the January-long female cricket tournaments.

SVG to host major cricket tourneys

Amina Lucas – Double winner - Under-10 and Under-12 In the double category, the pair of Keyondre Gaymes and Judah Abbott won the Boys Under-14, leaving Tarell Nichols and Rio MarksDasent in second place. Keythron Gaymes and Ethan Kent took the Under18 Boys ahead of Jason Fraser and Khaled Hope. And the combination of Afe Lucas and Loukyha Premraj won the Girls Under-18, with Sky Cato and Mya Gun Munro, the runners- up. Tayan Harry and Sky Cato were adjudged the players who displayed the best

Vedant’s second spot, Under-10 Absolute Category, is no small feat.

Keyondre Gaymes – Double winner - Under-10 and Under -12 sportsmanship. The tournament ran from December 17 to 21.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will host a subregional and two major regional female cricket tournaments in January 2026. First to bowl off will be the Windward Islands Senior Female Tournament that will begin on January 04 and end on January 09. Next come the 2026 Cricket West Indies (CWI) senior women’s domestic tournaments, i.e. the CG United Women’s Regional Super50 (50 overs) and the T20 Blaze (T20 format), expected to commence around January 13 and run successively until January 30. The Arnos Vale Playing Field One will serve as the primary venue for the CWI tournaments. Other fields to be employed during the month of competition will be the Sion Hill and Park Hill playing fields. I.B.A. ALLEN

V Arnos Vale takes basketball title

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 21.

Sports

ARNOS VALE HEAT SEEKERS held off a spirited last quarter effort by Bequia United to claim their first lien on the National Senior Men’s Basketball Championship tile. They did so with a nailbiting 84-82 victory when the final match and closing ceremony for the 2025 National Basketball Championship were held at the New Montrose Hard Court facility, Sunday, December 21. According to available records, this was the first completed national Arnos Vale Heat Seekers – 2025 National Senior Men’s Basketball Champions.

Jermaine John, Bequia United, MVP of the Championship.

Elroy Joseph, Arnos Vale Heat Seekers, MVP of the finals.

Championship since 2015 when Calliaqua United finished as title holders. As far as individual awards were concerned for the 2025 Championship, Jermaine John of Bequia United was by far the standout performer, copping awards as the MVP of the Championship, the Best Attacking Player (154 points), and the Best Defender (including 52 rebounds and 17 steals). Other individual

awardees were: Elroy Joseph of Arnos Vale Heat Seekers - MVP of the Finals; Zane Walsh of Players Leo Lions — Most Improved Player; Zwayne Fisher of Playerz Youth Academy — Most Promising Player. Sion Hill Pacers took the award for the Most Disciplined Team. Playerz Youth Academy finished third in the Championship. I.B.A. ALLEN

VTTF holds TT camps Call for greater collaboration in Tennis which was hit by late withdrawals, prompted Griffith and Cyrus to avoid a repeat. Griffith in her remarks philosophised: “This tournament reinforced a simple truth: Tennis cannot grow in silos. Preye Griffith Collaboration between the association and academies is not optional, it is essential”. Highlighting the need to build the sport, Griffith added, “Clear communication, shared responsibility and respect are how we respect our players and strengthen the sport. Disagreements will happen, challenges will arise, but leadership Sebastian Cyrus requires that we work through them PRESIDENT of the St. constructively, not at the Vincent and the expense of those we Grenadines Tennis serve, the athletes”. Association — Preye Griffith suggested Griffith and Vicethat those in positions of President — Sebastian influence, must Cyrus, are calling for acknowledge their greater collaboration overall impact of the among the local Tennis players under their fraternity. tutelage. The two made that “To our coaches and plea at the Closing and academies, your Presentation Ceremony of the Association’s 2025 influence extends far beyond technique, you Junior Tennis shape how players Tournament, at the National Tennis Centre, respond to pressure, disappointment and Villa, December 21. adversity; that influence The tournament,

must always be exercised in the players’ best interest at the center”, Griffith reiterated. Meanwhile, Cyrus in joining with Griffith, reiterated the ethical roles of the academies. “Not because we play with different academies, that does not mean we cannot help others grow”, Cyrus commented. He underscored the need for an all-hands-on deck approach to the development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Tennis. “We can always use support, financially, also human resources, manpower, volunteers. We look forward to more collaboration amongst all stakeholders and do our part in making sure that you guys feel involved and feel comfortable enough to come forward and support the Tennis movement”, Cyrus urged. The 2025 Junior Christmas Tennis Tournament took place at the National Tennis Centre, Villa, December 17 to 21. The tournament saw participation of thirtytwo players.

WITH INPUT from the UK Friends of the Mustique Charitable Trust (UKFMCT), two Table Tennis training camps were staged simultaneously over a four-day period, Dec. 16 — 20, 2025. The camps were conducted as part of Table Tennis Grassroots Programme of the Vincuy Table Tennis Foundation (VTTF). One camp was held in Fancy, primarily for youngsters from that northern mainland community, and the other in Kingstown (St. Vincent Grammar School) that incorporated participants from the Clare Valley and Troumaca Grassroot Programmes. This was the case for the first 3 days of the camps. However, on the last day of the camp, the kids met at the St. Vincent Grammar School to have one “big” camp fun and competition day. Overall, 39 young people, 10 girls, 29 boys, participated in the camps. Romano Spencer, Head Coach of the VTTF, said the participants showed tremendous improvements across the board. “Programmes like these have a great impact on the communities and create positive changes throughout. These events were just another series of many that happened during the course of this programme. We also

had a number of after-school and weekend activities and several other mini training camps were carried out during the programme period.” He further Romana Spencer, said, “December Head Coach/VTTV, 2025 will mark is pleased with the end of the latest round of another training camps successful round hosted by the of programming Foundation. funded by the UK Friends of the Mustique Charitable Trust (UKFMCT) through the Vincy Table Tennis Foundation. “The Vincy Table Tennis Foundation is grateful to the UKFMCT for its invaluable support to the children and coaches. We look forward to working with you, the UKFMCT, again in the near future.” An official closing ceremony for the 2025 programme year will be held on a date to be announced. I.B.A. ALLEN

Participants and coaches gathered on the final day for open competition and fun.

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22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Caribbean women cricketers on display BY TUESDAY JANUARY 9, the Windward Islands Senior Women’s Cricket champion will be determined. What happens after could mark a breakthrough for some Vincentian women, and indeed others from the Windward Islands. Good performances can land one onto the Windwards’ squad, with possibilities of them elevating to the Senior West Indies squad. Those currently at the Senior level can cement their places. A squad has been announced to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines after intense practise sessions. Japhena Joseph leads the party, assisted by vice-captain Janella Glasgow. Isha Williams, Tomesha Deane, Tracy Byron, Kimone Homer, Danella Creese, Regina Jeffery, Aneka Porter, Crystal McMillan, Delita Bentinck, Vanessa Bushay, and Shanell Mckie complete the team. Samantha Lynch is the coach assisted by Manager Nyasha Durrant. Five reserves have been named: They are Giada Small, Daisy-Woods, Kacy Johnson, Luzanne Edwards, and Daisy Woods. The Vincentians take on St. Lucia 10 am January 4, Dominica January 5, and Grenada January 7. These games will be at the Arnos vale Playing Field. That sets the stage for the West Indies T/20 Blades tournament. Windwards play Guyana Tuesday January 13; Trinidad and Tobago Thursday 15, 230 pm; Barbados Saturday 17 again at 2: 30 pm; Jamaica, Tuesday 20, 7:00 pm; and Leeward Islands January 22 also at 7:00 pm. Those matches will be at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. Action continues in the CG United Women’s Super 50 Cup January 27 with Windwards playing Trinidad and Tobago at Sion Hill January 27, Leewards at Cumberland January 29, and Guyana at Park Hill January 31. Winners from the two Groups meet to decide that championship. St Vincent and the Grenadines will be anxious to see if any talent emerges to continue the trail left by players like Geneille Greaves, Juliana Nero, Coder Jack who established some credential at the West Indies level. The Women’s championships come in the throes of Cricket West Indies President Kishore Shallow in his new role as Tourism Minister. Shallow has made it plain that he will see out Reforms by his administration which sees him at the helm until 2028. West Indies ended a test campaign in New Zealand. They drew one of the three test matches conceding the other. Besides the Shallow episode, cricket commentator Ian Bishop is raising questions about Roston Chase’s captaincy. The senior West Indies men’s squad has a date at the ICC World Cup championship. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been finding it hard to rise from the fourth spot at many a Windward Island tournament. The latest revelation was at the Under-15 Male championship which wound up in Grenada last December. SVG placed fourth with two Vincentians grafting their way into the Windwards Under- 15 squad. The Women’s cricket series serves as a platform not only for women, but the entire cricket population. It is perhaps an ideal opportunity for local association to adjust their programme to bring out the potential of the nation’s players.

Hope IntÊl acknowledges excellence and longevity

Cametha John – Service to the Club awardee

Kamara Doyle – Service to the Club awardee

Paul Farrell received the Master’s Award HOPE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL CLUB, to mark its thirtieth anniversary, acknowledged longstanding members and outstanding age group players at an Awards Ceremony and Cocktail staged

Achievement awards. Both have played Football professionally, with Stewart still plying his trade in Indonesia. Vincent John, Kamara Doyle and Cametha John were the giftees for Service to the Club. Vincent John was among the first set of players to have formed the club in 1995, and still represents the club at the Masters’ level. Doyle served as coach of the club, whilst Cametha John is the club’s durable Secretary. Another of the standouts awarded on the night was Paul Juma Jilkes – Long-standing Farrell, who claimed the Masters’ Player award recipients Award. Farrell is the current Head Coach of the club’s first team. Accepting the club’s Longstanding Player Award was Juma Jilkes. whilst Tevin Thompson copped the Senior Men’s top award and Kaylan Browne, the top female. N’Kenna London was named the Most Improved Player among the females. Also recognized were the top players and Most Improved Players in the club’s four age group teams. Kwaanza Phillips was listed as Marlon James – recipient of an the Top Under-10 Performer and Achievement Award Zhyy Husbands, the Most Improved in that age category. Taj Henry was the Top Under12 and Azaniah Webb, the Most Improved. The top Under-15 player award went to Alexander Cummings with Jett Llewellyn, the Most Improved. Completing the awards were Rashad Noel, who was named the top Under-15 player and Kelvin Jessop, the Most Improved. The Awards and Cocktail completed the club’s celebrations of the milestone year. Other events included a Launch and Vincent John – Service to the Round Table Discussion as well as Club awardee an anniversary Church Service. Hope International was Saturday December 20, 2025, at the established in 1995, as a break SVG Community College’s away fraction of the Sion Hill Hospitality and Maritime Institute at Football Club, and has emerged Diamond. as a potent force in the topflight The duo of Marlon James and of the annual National Club Cornelius Stewart received the Championships.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026. 23.

Classifieds

Relations with Taiwan intact Our diplomatic relations with with all countries with which we Taiwan remain, as do our relations have diplomatic ties. We have not changed our position with respect to any country,” the Prime Minister said. He emphasized that all diplomatic ties remain intact and that existing agreements continue to be honored. Taiwan has been a longstanding development partner of St. Vincent and the Grenadines since the two

Continued from Backpage.

countries established diplomatic ties on August 15, 1981. Since then, Taiwan has been a primary benefactor in several national projects through loan and cooperation agreements across multiple sectors in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Dr. Friday also noted that he has been engaging with ambassadors and diplomatic representatives as part of the normal transition process. While time constraints have delayed some in-person meetings, discussions have taken place by phone, with additional meetings scheduled for January. “Our diplomatic relations remain as they were,” he reiterated and assured new administration will manage the country’s foreign policy and international relations to the benefit of the development of the country and all its citizens.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 02, 2026

VOLUME 120, No. 01

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

RELATIONS WITH TAIWAN INTACT

Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday met with H.E. Fiona Fan, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on Friday, December 12.

by KENVILLE HORNE PRIME MINISTER DR. GODWIN FRIDAY, during a recent radio interview on Boom 106.9 FM,

confirmed that his New Democratic Party government has not altered the diplomatic relations this country currently enjoys with its international partners, including the Republic of China – Taiwan. The reference to Taiwan puts to rest, whether temporarily or otherwise, the notion that the New Democratic Party, if it assumed the reins of government, would have severed relations with Taiwan in favour of fostering relations with the People’s Republic of China. The Prime Minister’s confirmation of maintaining ties with Taiwan also allayed fears among Vincentian students studying in Taiwan on scholarships. The Prime Minister reassured that their

Below: The Acute Care Hospital currently under construction at Arnos vale, is being funded by Taiwan. The NDP government committed to see the project to completion.

education and status will not unchanged. be impacted. “I gave the assurance to Friday stated that students those students that their have no reason for concern, position would not be affected. noting that the country’s foreign policy positions remain Continued on Page 23.

FISHERIES MINISTER MAKING EARLY PROGRESS MINISTER OF FISHERIES, Marine and Land Conservation and Climate Resilience, Conroy Huggins, on Monday provided an update on work underway within his Ministry, 20 days after he and the new Cabinet were sworn in following the New Democratic Party’s decisive victory in the November 27, 2025 General Election. The party secured 14 of the 15 constituencies. Speaking on the Ministry’s early progress, Minister Huggins said significant groundwork has already

been completed. He noted that he has held several meetings with senior Ministry officials, who have been providing briefings on ongoing programmes while working to align priorities with the government’s broader development agenda, particularly the expansion of the Blue Economy. Over the past three weeks, the Minister and his team have also visited all fisheries centres across mainland St. Vincent, engaging directly with fishers and assessing conditions on the ground. Huggins said these consultations have helped shape ambitious plans for the fisheries sector, with “great things in store for 2026 and beyond.” The outgoing ULP government had earmarked the Chateaubelair Fisheries Centre for major rehabilitation funded by the World Bank, this after a period if neglect and more recently damage from the At least one consultation with fishers, fisheries volcanic eruption (2021) and hurricane Beryl (2024). department personnel and related parties has Plans involved retrofitting already been hosted by the Minister. the facility with modern

features like cold storage, fuel docks, and better infrastructure to improve safety and productivity for local fishermen, with construction expected to begin soon and finish by late 2026. The NDP has promised to advance this undertaking and more as the government’s on increasing the fisheries sector’s contribution to national GDP, as part of a wider effort to modernise the industry and improve livelihoods Minister of Fisheries Conroy Huggins (right) in for fishers. conversation with Lowmans Bay fishers, during Highlighting the one of his in-person engagements with fishers country’s geographic across mainland St. Vincent, since taking office. reality, Minister Huggins pointed out that St. support provided to fishers affected by Vincent and the Grenadines’ ocean Hurricane Beryl, noting that space far exceeds its land mass, compensation payments which had underscoring the need to better been outstanding for more than a year capitalise on marine resources. He were finally disbursed last Thursday described the Blue Economy as a and Friday. He said the Ministry critical growth area, encompassing acted swiftly to put the necessary fisheries, marine conservation, climate systems in place to ensure affected resilience, and the sustainable use of fishers received their long-overdue ocean resources. assistance. (KH — Source API) The Minister also addressed recent

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Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.