THE VINCENTIAN PDF-23-05-2025

BELMONT SHAKEN

BY TRIPLE MURDER

Stories by: KENVILLE HORNE

See story on Page 3.

Trevor “Buju” Bailey, Assistant Commissioner of Police, pictured speaking at last Saturday’ press conference, said he was encouraged by the immediate response from the public in reaching out to the police with related information to the Belmont tragedy.

BELMONT CARNAGE SHOCKS POLICE

THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Police Force said it is shocked, just like most citizens, by the manner in which three people were killed in Belmont on Friday, 16th May, 2025.

The shooting started around 8:30 p.m. and when the smoke cleared, business woman Lesline Davis and two of her customers, Joel Browne and Demeon Cumberbatch, were found dead inside of her shop.

Reports are that two masked gunmen committed the crime and made good their escape.

One day later, Assistant Commissioner of Police with responsibility for crime fighting, Trevor “Buju” Bailey, while speaking at a press conference, described the killings as “shocking, not only to us as law enforcement, but to the entire country of St. Vincent and Grenadines. where masked men entered the shop and, indiscriminately ... fired upon all of the occupants who were in the shop, resulted in three deaths, two injuries.”

Lesline Davis operated the Belmont shop and was a wellknown trafficker.

Joel Browne, a vehicle enthusiast, was easily identified as part of the community.

Demeon Cumberbatch was a regular at Ms. Davis’ shop.

Yohance Gibson (standing hand under chin) son of Ms. Davis, was understandably perplexed as was Carly John (front left).

V News 3

Belmont shaken by triple murder

IN WHAT MANY

RESIDENTS and the nation as a whole claimed was the worst and most brutal crime to have ever happened in the community of Belmont, three people were brutally gunned down inside a shop in the East St. George community, while two others were shot and taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

The three killed included an elderly businesswoman and two of her male customers. The shooting took place sometime around 8:30 p.m. on Friday 16th, May.

The business woman, Lesline Davis, was shot dead while standing behind the Lotto machine at her business place, which is located below the Belmont Government School. Joel Browne and Demeon Cumberbatch, both residents of Belmont, were the other two fatalities.

Among the injured were a 7-yearold nephew of Ms. Davis and an adult male. Up to press time, the child remained in the hospital. The adult male was treated and discharged and reports were that he was taken back to the scene of the crime by the police, to assist in their investigations.

Many residents looked on curiously from behind the police caution tape, dumbfounded by the tragedy that took place in the relatively peaceful community, puzzled by the manner in which the three were killed, and speculated about the motive.

Some speculated that the assailants might have come intending to commit a robbery but unconfirmed reports indicated that nothing was removed from the shop… no cash nor items.

The deceased

“Miss Davis is a good woman, who been running her business for years. Besides the shop she runs she does also traffic ground provision. Many of the farmers going feel it now, even

them guys in Green Hill, she does buy them ginger.

“I know they robbed her couple times before, but to kill her in such wicked manner is just sad. I never imagine this country will come like this, where they killing old people and shooting children. It could have easily been five people dead dey,” said an elderly female from the neighboring community of Fairbaine Pasture who requested anonymity.

Other people on the scene who knew the two deceased men also expressed shock at their death, particularly for Joel Browne, who was described as “cool” and a vehicle enthusiast. The relatives of Demeon Cumberbatch were also at the location, including his brother who was overcome with shock.

Member of Parliament for the area Camillo Gonsalves, and Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar visited the scene of the shooting, as well as Carly John, the husband of opposition senator Shevern John. He was said to be a close associate of Ms. Davis.

Possible connections

Police at a press conference the following day hinted that robbery might not be the motive for the shooting. “While we are not ruling out

the possibility of anything, on the face of it, it doesn’t look like it,” said the Deputy Commissioners of Police Frankie Joseph when asked at the press conference on Saturday, if robbery was a motive in the killings.

The death of Davis was the second shooting death of a businessperson in the country. On Tuesday, May 16, businessman Stephen King of Green Hill was shot dead while sitting in his verandah.

Police said they identified similarities in both shootings. “We looked at the killing in Green Hill. We looked at the killing last night in Belmont, and preliminarily, we have seen some similarities,” said Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor “Buju” Bailey.

He continued, “We are seeing things that are of interest to us, and as I said, we will pursue them to the very end. But we’re seeing some similarities. We have been able to connect some dots.”

Two days before the Belmont triple murder on Wednesday 14, Ronaldo Haynes, 21, of Glen, died in the hospital after being chopped multiple times during an altercation, allegedly over plumrose.

The homicide count now stands at 15, seven months before 2025 comes to an end.

Belmont carnage shocks police

Continued from Frontpage.

He urged the public to continue to cooperate to ensure the killings do not go unsolved and that the police was encouraged by the fact that up to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, police had received about 60 phone calls in relation to the Belmont incident.

“Let us investigate this matter together in a partnership … Every victim of this crime deserves justice, and the justice should be swift and uncompromising, aided and abetted by the entire country of St. Vincent in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” said the senior cop.

“The police force will dispense its resources to the full extent to provide the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines the security that as far as we can give and we will go even the extra mile, we’ll put in the extra hours to ensure citizens’ security,” promised Bailey.

“We have a serious issue with regards to firearm offences in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and while the police have made some dents through arrest and seizure, there are still too many firearms in the wrong hands,” the senior cop declared.

“I appeal to the general consciousness of St. Vincent and the Grenadines that it is before all of us eyes what these illegal firearms are doing to our society, to our communities,” Bailey pleaded.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioners of Police Frankie Joseph said the police understand the “shock and the fear” that the killings have caused in the country. We want to assure the public that this matter is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness.

Despite the police assurances the public is still frustrated by their efforts. Many people took to social media to express their opinions, noting that they have seen the cycle over and over again. “We always here they are investigating but if you check the record, the majority of murders remain unsolved,” said one Facebook user at the time of the police press conference.

Citizens are also calling on the Ministry of National Security to speak on the recent spike in murders here and the situation as it relates to crime generally.

Some residents of the community gathered after the police had left to try to come to grips with what had happened.

‘Too Cool’ apologises to court

Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS

POPULARradio talk show

host and DJ Christopher

‘Too Cool Chris’ Jones has apologized to the Court and Prosecution for his absence from court on a trial date, because of a travel issue.

But Jones’ lawyer Grant Connell maintains that the bench which was issued for his client was unwarranted in the circumstances, and should not have even been applied for by the Prosecutor.

Jones is on trial at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on a charge of wounding Kevin Patterson, a 32-year-old fisherman of Lodge Village, by reportedly shooting him in his left hip, left hand, and right leg in the vicinity of the Financial Complex, Kingstown, around 8:30 p.m., July 4, 2024.

The matter started earlier this year before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie, and continued on May 5 when the lead investigator Police

Constable 927 Ozias Patrick testified, and was being crossexamined by Connell.

The matter was adjourned to Monday, May 19, when Connell was expected to continue his cross examination of P.C. Patrick.

However, when the matter was called on Monday, Jones was not present. Connell told the Court that his client had left the state and was originally scheduled to return on Sunday, May 18, but that flight was cancelled, due to an unexpected change in schedule which was no fault of Jones.

As a result, Jones could not be here until Tuesday, May 20.

But Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre made an application for a bench warrant, and the Magistrate granted his application. She also issued a surety summons for Luke Boyea, the owner of the radio station Hot FM, and a co-host of the morning programme, AM Mayhem, of which Jones

is the anchor. Boyea is also Jones’ bail surety in the wounding matter.

However, Connell presented Jones to the Court on Tuesday before the bench warrant could be executed.

The lawyer told the Court that a letter was sent to the Court on Monday explaining the reasons for Jones’ absence, but McKenzie insisted that she wanted to see documentation to prove that Jones’ flight was cancelled.

But Connell said that he had no correspondence from the airline to prove it, as it was difficult to get this given the short notice for a request.

He repeated the view that the bench warrant was unnecessary and should not have been issued in the first place.

“That request for a bench warrant was harsh and unconscionable”, he lamented.

When Jones took the stand, he told the Court that he left the state on May 16 for Tortola and was supposed to return

on May 18. On checking in for his return flight he was told that the flight had left earlier, and there were no flights to get to Antigua en route to St. Vincent and the Grenadines that would get him here before Tuesday. As a result, his travel arrangement had to be rescheduled, resulting in him getting here on Tuesday.

Jones then apologised to the Court and the Prosecution for his absence on Monday.

“I do not have a need to skip this, because to me this is very interesting”, Jones said, referring to his matter.

Connell then asked the Court to discharge the bench warrant.

The Magistrate explained that the warrant issued for Jones’ arrest was not exceptional as it is a custom of the court to issue bench warrants for an accused person who fails to show up for Court, as scheduled.

Connell responded, “I hope that this Chris Jones thing will apply to everyone”.

The Magistrate said she blamed Jones’ counsel for whatever

The parties involved in the case get together after last Tuesday proceedings (from left) Grant Connell, Christopher Jones and Shamrock Pierre.

happened because Connell had told the Court nothing about Jones having to travel. She acknowledged, however, that there have been reports of the unreliability of InterCaribbean Airlines and their flight cancellations.

“While the Prosecutor is acting within the ambit of the law to apply for a bench warrant, one has to use their discretion”.

McKenzie discharged the bench warrant and adjourned the matter to July 18 as she would not be available from June 10 to the end of June.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN later, Prosecutor Pierre said, “The Court was not notified that Jones was leaving the state. There was no proof that he had left the state or that his flight was cancelled, and procedurally, a bench warrant was issued for him, as well as a summons for his surety, but Pierre noted that the surety summons was for May 27.

But Connell told THE VINCENTIAN that,

He noted that, “There were several adjournments in this matter because the state was not ready, and Jones has attended on every occasion. He (Jones) also travelled extensively during that period and returned on each occasion. The delay on this occasion was no fault of his”.

Connell referred to other Courts where prosecutors did not apply for bench warrants in circumstances where the absence of the defendant may be justified, and his action shown not to be show blatant disregard for the Court.

“Sometimes you don’t have to crush ripe grapes to show your strength. It rebuts commonsense”, he said.

Farmer jailed for gun intended for amnesty

MICHAEL JACKSONmay have received a much harsher prison term if the Court was not told on Monday that arrangements had been made for him to hand over to the authorities one of two firearms, before being found in possession of it.

The 41-year-old farmer of Lowmans Windward was sentenced to 36 months in prison for possession of a 12 guage shotgun, without a license, and one year for possession of seven rounds of 12 guage ammunition.

Jackson was also sentenced to 34 months in prison for possession of a Glock 19, 9mm pistol, without license, and one year behind bars for possession of 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The 57 days Jackson spent on remand was deducted from his prison term.

Chief Magistrate Colin John, sitting at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, granted Jackson’s lawyer Grant Connell request for the sentences to run concurrently. It means that Jackson will serve only 36 months in prison.

Connell told the Court earlier that it was Jackson’s intention to hand over the shotgun to the police, but there was a breakdown in communication, resulting in Jackson being arrested. Prosecutor Renrick Cato confirmed this to the Court.

The facts showed that around 3:50 a.m on March 25, 2025 a search warrant was executed at Jackson’s home at Lowmans Windward for

Michael Jackson is lucky to have had his sentenced reduced to 36 months.

illegal firearms and ammunition, and during a search of his bedroom, he told the police, “Officer the only thing you might find is some 12 guage rounds”.

Jackson was immediately cautioned, and he said, “I have some 12 guage shotgun rounds outside my house. I was looking for a shotgun but my cousin helping me to get it. I don’t know if my cousin done bring it. Me and my lawyer Grant Connell discussing something ‘cause I have a gun case in Court. I ain’t want to get in trouble. It dey inside my living room”.

The search continued, and the police found a transparent plastic bag with seven rounds of 12 guage ammunition in a transparent plastic bag among some flowers in a pot on a space saver in the living room. He was cautioned, and said, “Officer dem is de shots dem, me cousin bring it to hand over to my lawyer.

The police continued to search the living room, and found a black shotgun with green tape and a black and yellow bandana wrap around it behind a curtain, Jackson said, “I ain’t know my cousin done rest it there”.

Continued on Page 7.

MP Leacock issues strong warning

OPPOSITIONNew Democratic Party (NDP) Member of Parliament for Central Kingstown – Major St, Clair Leacock, has issued an early warning to the population.

His warning, “It’s likely to get worse before it gets better,” came as he addressed, among other issues, the crime situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, during a radio appearance on Boom 106.9 FM yesterday morning.

Leacock, the NDP Shadow Minister for National Security, a portfolio assigned Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, admitted that like all Vincentians he was shocked, horrified, and dismayed by the recent uptick in murders, and by the general crime situation in SVG.

The veteran MP was even more forthcoming, one caller to the editor of this publication said “frightening,” when he disclosed, “I have correspondence on my phone, very recent correspondence within the last 48 hours, of scenes in St Vincent where criminal activity is taking place,” and that, “that matter has been brought to the attention of the Prime Minister’s office and to law enforcement.”

He went further to say that there has been two schools of thought with respect to how to deal with this mater, one being, ‘Let’s leave it so we can have a sting operation’, and the other ‘Let us bring that to an end’.

What was even more discomforting was Leacock’s claim that there was no need to inform the police since they were already aware of the situation.

In his words, “They’re in the loop and the officers are in the loop. If that is so, we are in a bad place. So I’m saying we have to address this matter.”

Turning to the recent killings — five in the space of a week — the MP suggested that this was not something with which the public can deal with easily.

“We can’t afford to lose our business people this way. We can’t afford to have innocent bystanders lose their lives in this way, and we can’t turn our backs on those who have taken leave of their senses and have no regard for life and limb and senselessly visit people at their home, their workplace, and their business places and just shoot without due regard and don’t care about the outcomes.”

This bore witness to the call for law enforcement to be equipped with the appropriate resources to address the situation effectively, Leacock said.

Further to the recent killings, the MP told his listening audience, “I heard the police high command said there seems to be a pattern between what happened in Green Hill, where (Stephen) King lost his life, and Belmont, where Lesline (Davis) lost her life.”

He suggested that we can prove that to be one way or the other by doing forensics — ballistics and other

Farmer jailed for gun intended for amnesty

From Page 4.

When asked what is the name of his cousin, Jackson replied, “Officer I wish not to mention my cousin’s name”.

In relation to the other offense, the facts showed that Jackson was found in possession of the Glock 19, 9 mm pistol and the 9 mm in a one-strap bag he had around his neck, during a police search of his person and the bag, while patrolling Lowmans windward around 5 p.m. on September 18, 2024.

In mitigation, Connell told the Court that the authorities were made aware of the existence of the shotgun the police found at Jackson’s home on March 23, and arrangements were being made to hand it over to the authorities but a breakdown in communication, and misunderstanding by a police patrol, who knew nothing of the arrangement, resulted in them raiding Jackson’s house, and having him arrested and charged.

“You may say he (Jackson) is a

criminal, but you have to give him credit. He would have saved lives by getting that gun off the street”, Connell said.

He noted that the shotgun was a more superior weapon to the other firearm, with which he was previously found.

“Firearm amnesties should never end. If a man wants to hand over a firearm, why should there be complications? The objective is to get the firearms off the streets”, Connell added.

Before handing down the penalties, the Chief Magistrate told Jackson, who had previous convictions for firearms possession, “You are 41, you are getting old, and I hope that you change your ways”.

Jackson had pleaded not guilty to the charges when he initially appeared in Court but changed his pleas to guilty on Monday.

He had created headlines earlier this year when concerns were raised in certain media circles that he was granted bail on firearm and ammunition charges while on bail on charges of a similar nature.

things.

Towards tackling the crime situation, Leacock expressed his support for a model in which the approach to law and order and national security is closely integrated with the Ministry of Homeland Security and the Ministry of Homeland Affairs, portfolios that could well be part of the NDP ministerial set up should they assume office after the next general election.

He cautioned, though, that ’if economic, social circumstances in St Vincent are not right, and that’s the home affairs situation, then it provides feeders to the crime situation.”

The opposition NDP has repeatedly called on the government to embrace a non-partisan approach to tacking the crime situation that has worsened in recent years.

To date, the government has refused to entertain any overture by the opposition in this regard.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, is being called upon to make a statement of intent about the recent spike in murders here.

Major St. Clair Leacock as he spoke on Boom 106.9 Fm during which he raised a number of telling points about the crime situation in SVG.

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Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Addressing the crime situation

ADDRESSING THE OPENING,May 12, of th39th Annual Conference of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP) in Georgetown Guyana, Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, is reported to have sounded an alarm that must have set off the alarm clocks of the other Heads of Government in the region.

President Ali asserted, “When crime thrives, progress dies.”

If this wasn’t enough to awaken our leaders to what is a profound encapsulation of the circumstances that prevail in the region, then they will be confined forever to their slumber.

Admittedly, we have yet to put even an estimate of cost of crime here in SVG, not to mention for each of our CARICOM nations all of which are locked in a wave of spiraling crime.

Yes, hemispheric organisations have lumped the Caribbean with Latin America and in so doing, have estimated the immediate economic cost of crime in Latin America and the Caribbean, at 3.44 per cent of GDP in 2022. In other words, the cost in this broad area is well into billions of dollars that we watch as they are pilfered away from essential services and development initiatives.

The haemorrhage of resources is one that cannot be supported by developing nations already operating on tight budgets, but we would want to admit that even in the small fledging economies, our leaders have found their only respond to their crime problems is to increase spending on national security services — police, coast guards, etc.

When we fail to address crime in a holistic manner, and we sit idly by and watch the youth of our nation wallow in self-pity and hopelessness, the plaster-like measures we employ to combat crime that results, are nothing short of hard-earned revenue being stolen from education, healthcare and social protection services that are essential to real development issues, like engaging the youth.

And for those economies now squarely founded on the premise that tourism is best, that it is a ‘reliable’ source of crucial funds for so many Caribbean nations, we must not lose sight of the fact that

We owe it to our children

this ‘money earner’ is most specifically threatened by even the shadow of crime.

Let us not jump on the slender backs of the print media for headlining the cases of violent crime in our societies. In case we forget, the news of the latest murder in our midst goes viral in minutes of it being committed. The print media might make the news archival and there for retrieval, but it is not the specific cause for tourist choosing other islands in fear of safety.

The impact of crime has the unquestionable potential to run through the economics involving, as far as the tourism industry is concerned, from hotel workers to small shop owners, from tour operators to taxi drivers.

And while we might want to deny that it is not anywhere near a reality in our case, we cannot ignore the likelihood of politicisation of crime. The politicisation of crime, or using fear of crime for political purposes, or employing crime as a vehicle of access to govern must be called out for what it is - a crime against the people - with the loudest voice and fought with as much vigor as we can muster.

President Ali told the ACCP Conference, “Crime and criminality is not an opportunity to get into government.” He could not have made it plainer and clearer.

The growing involvement of youth in crime is arguably the most tragic of our crises. Already the unemployment that plagues that demographic makes them easy prey for criminal operands, and those who would want to use the criminal network to feather their every ambition, like taking government by any means.

And God forbid! But if/when our schools become war zones and our neighbourhoods crime nurseries, we are not simply witnessing the theft of a generation but the birth of something sinister that could unravel societal norms that have served us well in the past.

Educational investment is the type of forward-looking planning necessary to provide alternatives to criminal avenues. It fails when it encourages a sense of indebtedness and cultivates illegitimate expectations. It can bear fruit only if it is sown in fertile soil.

WITH ALL THIS TALK about Citizenship by Investment (CBI), who knows best for our nation, who is smarter than who, and who cares more about us?

With all this election talk in the air, it is easy for us to forget everything else going on in our nation, so please allow me to bring us back to a sense of reality and ask a fundamental question: Do we care about our children?

The most recent shooting incident resulted in the injury of a child. This should be a wake-up call. We’re at a crossroads where the welfare of our children is on the line. This article is not about another senseless shooting. It is about a recent conversation on a local morning radio talk show that surprised me.

The host asked whether we should stop broadcasting missing children’s announcements on public airwaves. While I was thrilled to hear that most people believed we should keep this crucial communication going, discovering that some didn’t feel the same urgency was disheartening. By the way, I was grateful to the hostess for bringing this conversation to the frontline.

My comments today are more than just a plea; it’s an emotional call to action. Our children are suffering in silence– silenced by fear, shame, and a culture that often punishes victims instead of standing by them. Every day, children endure unimaginable trauma, often right under our noses, while we, the adults, remain blissfully unaware or unprepared. An unfortunate fact is that while some of us are reporting our missing children, we know precisely where they are and who they are with. It is a sign of frustration by the parents wanting the police to do what we failed to do as parents. It is not uncommon to hear a public announcement by the police and a few days later see a Facebook post by the child saying I am not missing, in as much as to say, ‘I don’t want to be found by those looking for me.’

Let’s make one thing crystal clearthis situation is unacceptable. We must embrace open, age-appropriate conversations with our kids about body safety, personal boundaries, and recognizing violations. Creating safe spaces at home is essential. We want our children to feel seen and heard so they can speak freely without fear of blame or punishment. Remember, silence is not safety, it’s a predator’s

best friend. Too many adults responsible for caring for our children fail to recognize the subtle changes in a child’s behavior or emotional state–simply because they don’t know for what to look. We cannot let cultural stigma or fear hold us back any longer. The tools and resources to educate ourselves about child sexual abuse prevention are more available than ever.

I am not a certified Child Counselor or psychologist, but I know we can find the right person to help our children. It’s not enough to assume someone else is protecting our kids– schools or government. Let’s be straight with each other: whenever someone brings up a challenge facing our society, some of us are quick to point fingers at the government, our schools, or even our churches. I am here today to say this one is yours. No institution can replace the unique role of a parent!

This sacred duty falls squarely on the shoulders of mothers and fathers. Being a protector isn’t optional, it’s the essence of parenthood. Yet, this duty often goes unfulfilled across our communities, leaving our children alone to navigate emotional, mental, and even physical challenges. I am challenging you to step up! Know who you’re entrusting your children to and with whom they spend their time. Ask questions! Build trust! Teach consent! Empower them with knowledge–it’s the first line of defense.

In a world full of child hypersexualization and deceit - both online and offline - accessible more than ever, we have an opportunity to galvanize our people to make meaningful changes in the way we raise our children. This isn’t just another task on your checklist but a call to action. Let’s smash the cycle of silence, shame, and trauma and ignite a generation of empowered children who are confident in their worth, aware of their rights, and aware of their safety. It all begins with YOU, the parents and guardians. Let’s spark a transformative change in attitude and create a brighter, safer future for our kids.

Horatio.

That Spiritual Baptist Holiday

WHAT IS THEreason behind the Spiritual Baptist public holiday in May?

There is absolutely nothing significant happening in May pertaining to Spiritual Baptist. The Christian Pilgrim Faith was registered on 22nd May 1951 under Section 2 of the Marriage Ordinance, Cap 151 of the Revised Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

McDonald Williams, who was the first marriage officer for the Faith, gave the Faith (not Baptists) a portion of land in Sion Hill along the road to Cane Garden, where the Christian Pilgrim Faith Headquarters would be located.

Spiritual Baptists came out of Trinidad and Tobago. After the 1917 Shouterism Prohibition Ordinance led to their freedom to worship on March 30, 1951, they registered in Trinidad as Spiritual Baptists.

Our Converts (Converted) were outlawed in SVG under the 1912 Shakerism Prohibition Ordinance but

gained freedom to worship in May 1951 and registered as the Christian Pilgrim Faith.

The first Spiritual Baptists registered in SVG was the Spiritual Baptist organization under Act No. 16 of 1978, assented by R.E. Baynes, Ag. Governor. The leader of this group was the late Japheth Stapleton of Rose Hall. The second Baptists registered group was done by the late Duff Walker James, who was at a time the General Secretary of the Christian Pilgrim Faith under the leadership of the late Conrod Sutherland. They had their differences.

Another group was registered under Act No. 10 of 1983 and assented by the late Sydney D. Gun-Munro, Governor General, 22nd April 1983.

The name of this group is the Archbishop+Primate (Spiritual Baptists) known as the Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese. The first Archbishop, Cosmore Pompey of North

Windward, was a Superintendent Minister in the Christian Pilgrim Faith and was elevated by Duff James to Archbishop of the Spiritual Baptists Archdiocese, a position that his son Melford Pompey currently holds. Johnny Jones was booted from the Christian Pilgrim Faith and formed his own Baptist group.

The holiday, May 21, was granted on the basis of the late Milton Cato representing the Spiritual Baptists in a court case on that date. Both Medford Pompey and Johnny Jones encouraged their members to support his celebration on the Christian Pilgrim Faith anniversary.

The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has fallen short. The Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs should have called together all the units for a consultation before the ‘holiday’ was announced.

Now, our country has been sold out; the government has sold out our religious, cultural day to Johnny

Jones and other foreign Baptists who are a mixture of Shango and some lawless Baptists.

This government sold out our food basket (the Marketing Board) and now they are not selling passports but selling religion. So, the Rastafarians could call for a national holiday too.

The truth is the Spiritual Baptists have been trying to take away everything belonging to the Christian Pilgrim Faith. The Central Church in Sion Hill on the Cane Garden Road is the property of the Christian Pilgrim Faith, to which the Spiritual Baptists lay false claim.

This holiday was designed to destroy the Christian Pilgrim Faith better known as the Converted. Conrod Sutherland and Bishop Hamil Roban have brought the Christian Pilgrim Faith from 1951 to 2025 to take it to the classless society into the kingdom of the Almighty.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves

I WISHto ventilate my concerns regarding the leadership of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves who, in my view, has been overrated in his role as the head of government in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. His long tenure, spanning five general elections, has been marked by tactics that have seemingly misled the citizens, allowing him to retain power without

significantly advancing the political discourse in our country. It is evident that many regional leaders quietly wish to see the back of Gonsalves, though they refrain from openly expressing their sentiments. His demeanor often suggests that he possesses unparalleled knowledge, yet instances such as his visit to Ghana, where he attempted to lecture a Tribal King about King

Jaja of Opobo, demonstrate otherwise.

The swift rebuke from the King, reminding him that he himself is a student of history, underscores the misplaced confidence that Gonsalves frequently exhibits.

Furthermore, his behaviour regarding the opposition raises serious concerns. His outright refusal to engage with His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, headed by

Dr. Godwin Friday, is not only undemocratic but also suggestive of a child sulking over a lost toy. Leadership demands dialogue, engagement, and respect for differing perspectives, qualities that have been lacking in his governance.

After twenty-four years in power, one would expect a leader to elevate political conversation and foster national unity. Instead, we have witnessed

Communities need to do more

ONCE IT WAS safe to say that the majority of homicides in SVG was confined to young men

killing one another over drugs or something to that effect. And as far as dealing with the

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* When will the men from Venezuela be brought back for trial of the ‘soap powder’? Is it when Mr. White gets back his life?

* If the Holiday Inn is sold will government move expeditiously to repay the NIS for the loan it disbursed to construct the hotel?

* And how is it the NIS can make this loan and that loan, buy this building and that building but pensions can’t even get a penny increase?

* How can commuters know whether or not the public service vehicles they are travelling in are insured and the drivers are licensed?

* If the authorities are aware of the daily conflicts between passengers and drivers/conductors, pertaining to excessively loud noise in public transportation?

* What are we waiting on? For some of these conflicts to result in some serious crime before we take action to regulate minivans operations?

* Why is it that two and three traffic officers crowd around the vehicles involved in an accident and not one of them sees the need to direct the traffic especially when the vehicles involved in the accident end up interfering with the smooth flow of traffic?

increasing shooting deaths was concerned, it was almost a case of a ‘let them kill one another’ attitude by both the police and the society as a whole.

Now, recently, we are seeing a different picture, so to speak, with the homicides here. First we saw the murder of a senior businessman as he sat relaxing in his verandah. Then, there was the chopping death of a young man over some frivolous argument. And to crown it all, in walks some gunmen into a popular shop in Belmont. They shot the proprietor and two others dead, and wounded two others, including a 7-year-old boy said to be the nephew of the proprietor.

The homicides seem to be moving away from what we used to call the hot spots and now have no regard for place or

time. This is frightening since if this trend continues, no community would be safe.

We can’t expect the police to be in every community 24/7 so we as community members have to join together and encourage activities that will keep our youngsters out of trouble, and set up services that will encourage adults to settle their difference like how we did long ago … we argue for a while then shake hands and have a drink together… all disagreement is put behind you.

I don’t know if this is all wishful thinking, but I know if communities don’t do something to discourage aggressive behavior by their members, then it will boil over to much more serious things.

Kenny D.

stagnation and an unwillingness to embrace meaningful discourse.

It is more than time for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to critically assess the direction in which our country is headed and demand leadership that prioritises progress over personal dominance.

Eric Samuel

Look for expiry date

IN 2001, a new product, Unique Local Porridge (ULPL), appeared on grocery shelves after vigorous marketing.

The containers/packages warned: Do not use after 2006, or there will be serious consequences.

Some examples of those consequences were: failure to be an independent thinker; blind follower of those you believe in; closing the inner voices of conscience; failing to see evil and wrongdoings.

Consumers did not take the warnings seriously. The expiry date was ignored. Some have died, and many are suffering the side effects from consuming an expired product.

A group of National Dedicated Persons (NDP) is doing all that’s possible to get consumers to cease using an expired product.

It is my hope that the consumers will give the group the opportunity to relieve them.

Concerned citizen

Christian Democrat

We will never sell our citizenship

TWO ISSUES

(This abridged extract from a longer article (2,284 words – approx. one and a half pages) confines itself to one of the two issues – ‘selling passports] - raised in the original article)

AS SVG GEARSup for general elections later this year or early next year, two issues have been gaining prominence: First, the refusal of the ULP government to sell our treasured citizenship and passport; and secondly, maintenance of our steadfast diplomatic relations with our reliable ally, the Republic of China (Taiwan). The opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) wants to change all this: It has as its main planks the selling of our citizenship and passport and the breaking of relations with Taiwan in favour of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) or mainland China.

THE CASE AGAINST SELLING CITIZENSHIP AND PASSPORTS

The ULP government has repeatedly affirmed that it will never sell its citizenship and passports. Our position is based on five grounds: Principle; Practicality; Unsustainability; the Recklessness involved in selling; and it Undermines Democracy.

(1) PRINCIPLE: The ULP holds as a matter of high principle that the highest office in the land is that of citizen; higher than Governor General or Prime Minister. Citizenship is the elemental, existential bond that links individuals together in a political society called a NATION-STATE. It is not a commodity for sale. And the passport is the outward sign of the inward grace of citizenship; that, too, is not for sale to any buyer as if it were an ordinary commodity

(2) PRACTICALITY: The central objective of any country that sells its citizenship and passport is to provide a major source of money for government’s recurrent and capital spending. Thus, at its core, it must sell lots of passports. The more passports a country sells, the more money it receives; selling more invariably means cutting corners with due diligence. It is well-nigh impossible to conduct high quality due diligence on applicants galore in these circumstances in these small countries. Everyone knows this to be case.

(3) UNSUSTAINABLE: As a major plank in a country’s strategy to finance development, the selling of citizenship and passports is unsustainable. The would-be purchasers of other countries’ citizenship/passports are from counties which cannot secure entry at all, or easily, to the USA, Canada, Britain, or the 27 member-states of the European Union; these would-be purchasers want to enter easily these western counties. It is unsustainable to continue selling citizenship/passports because after some time the governments of the USA, Canada, Britain, and the European Union will clamp down.

(4) RECKLESSNESS: It is pure economic and political recklessness to base your “financing for development” strategy on selling citizenship and passports. It is akin to a junkie on cocaine addiction. Countries in the Eastern Caribbean that sell citizenship and passports rely on this as a source of their revenue for between 15 percent to 55 percent of their recurrent expenditure. When the passport money dries up, as it is drying up and will dryup further, the addicted government will suffer severe “withdrawal symptoms”,

metaphorically; the government and people of that country will crash economically and politically. All hell will break loose.

(5) UNDERMINING OF DEMOCRACY: The companies, professionals, and agents involved in the business of selling a country’s citizenship/passports routinely undermine the country’s democracy and good governance. In countries which sell citizenship/passports, the rival companies, professionals, agents pick which political party favoured them: there is an in-crowd and out-crowd of these companies and personages; they finance the competing political parties. Money becomes the oxygen of elections and popular democracy.

POLITICAL TANGLE, MONEY JINGLE

In SVG, the companies, professionals, wannabe agents who traffic in the selling of citizenship/passports are fully in support financially, propaganda-wise, and more of the opposition NDP. They are conjoined with those who will profit from the establishment of relations with mainland China. The NDP has been directed by these conjoined forces to abandon their former campaign operators (SCL) and offshoots of Cambridge Analytica); others have now been chosen for the NDP; the paymasters are calling the tune. This campaign is now directed out of a unit within the Embassy of a foreign country resident in a neighboring Caribbean country. (Incidentally, that Embassy is not American, Canadian, Australian, Japanese, Korean, or Russian).

Incidentally, too, there are persons high-up in the NDP who are already working or linked with companies selling citizenship/passports from other Eastern Caribbean countries. We in the ULP know who they are. We also know their link to a Jamaican financier who was hired recently in a senior executive position in a regional sporting entity; that is among the principal reasons for the hiring.

A few years ago, in the clash with Allen Stanford of Caribbean Star airline, Comrade Ralph told him: “If money were everything, the Americans would not have lost the war in Vietnam.” That telling is still relevant.

Moreover, the maturing sons and daughters of parents who purchased citizenship/passports for the entire families are now playing vital roles in subverting democracies in some countries in our Caribbean. The ULP will NEVER allow that to happen here in SVG! NEVER, NEVER!

Ask yourself this question: Why are all these foreigners financing, and waging, political war in SVG against the ULP and Ralph? They do not care if a civil war is ignited in our beautiful SVG. Be assured that Ralph and the ULP will NEVER permit, allow, condone or engage in, the selling of our citizenship or passports. Let everyone be clear on this.

In the programmes of selling citizenship and passports, corruption is at its core, including corrupting our democracy. The wannabe-sellers of our passports are determined to sell as many as they can as fast as they can. Their local collaborators want to sell and thief as much as they can, as fast as they can; speed is essential for them.

Violent crimes escalating in SVG

VIOLENT CRIME in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been escalating at an alarming rate under the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government. Despite the pressing need for decisive action, the Minister of National Security has failed to implement effective measures to curb this surge in crime.

For the week ending Saturday 17th May 2025, a total of five homicides were recorded in that week. Three individuals were fatally shot on the night of Friday, 16th May 2025, bringing the total number of homicides for the year to fifteen. This year continues to reflect a concerning trend, following a record-breaking 55 homicides in 2023 and 54 reported homicides in 2024.

It would appear that the government has not fully recognized the severity of the ongoing crime crisis. While it is commendable that the police leadership held a press conference on Saturday 17th May2025, to inform the public about the situation, more needs to be done to effectively combat crime. The nation also awaits a clear and comprehensive statement from the Minister of National Security, as he must demonstrate a sense of urgency and accountability in tackling this crisis.

Vincentians are growing increasingly concerned about the government’s commitment in addressing the causes of crime in the country. Research has shown that high levels of unemployment and poverty significantly contribute to criminal activities, yet these issues remain inadequately addressed. Also, a senior police officer has revealed the presence of gangs within our communities, which highlights the severity of the problem. Despite this troubling situation, the ULP government has failed to implement comprehensive strategies to tackle the root causes.

Vincentians deserve a government that genuinely cares about their safety and well-being. Unfortunately, the ULP has failed in this regard. It has failed to implement effective measures or demonstrate the necessary commitment to reduce crime and improve the wellbeing of Vincentians.

The Way Forward

The NDP has a plan to address the crime situation in the country. We will:

* Establish a national forensics lab

* Improve training for police

* Collaborate with international criminal enforcement agencies

* Introduce community policing

* Strengthen the police service and justice system and rebuild trust in them

* Equip the police service with modern tools and procedures to defeat criminals

* Protect women and girls from sexual violence and domestic abuse with dedicated services

* Have streamlined procedures and specialised units to respond to tourismrelated crimes, especially yacht breakins, and praedial larceny.

Fighting crime is not only about punishing offenders. It must also involve rehabilitation. Offenders should be provided with programs that would help to keep them from reoffending and becoming a perpetual menace to society. In this regard, we will establish a Young Persons Rehabilitation Centre for non-violent young offenders.

Further, the NDP is committed to fostering economic development to generate meaningful employment

opportunities. We believe that a strong and vibrant economy is essential for addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty and unemployment.

Tribute to Leslyn

Senator Israel Bruce paid tribute on the New Times program to Leslyn Davis, a trafficker, who was gunned down. He said: “For persons who didn’t know Leslyn, she made a significant contribution in making sure that she assisted farmers in finding ready markets for their produce.

You hear us cry and lament consistently and continuously that one of the shortcomings of the current administration is, its absolute failure to assist the farmers of this country in finding sustainable market for their agricultural produce. Leslyn, contributed to assisting farmers in finding that market.

I had the opportunity to interface with some of Leslyn’s family. I was in Belmont. You hear sometimes people accuse some traffickers of certain things, whether justifiably or unjustifiably so. But Lesley was one of, she was not the only one, probably one of those traffickers, who showed up at the buying spots, or farmers will take their produce to the point of sale in Belmont and they were guaranteed that they would leave with the cash for their produce in their hands.

So, she guaranteed them sales, but she also guaranteed them immediate payment. By that, she was taking the risk of going to her sell-off points. And if items spoiled, it was on her. If she didn’t get them sell-off on time, it was on her. She was taking the risk involved. She was making sure that she was providing an opportunity for farmers to sell their produce and to put food on their tables for themselves and their families.

In fact, I am aware that there are some traffickers who have even gone as far as to take credit from some farmers, and when they realized that their credit worthiness status was so damaged that they turned to Leslyn and had Leslyn bought excess materials for them to sell and to keep their side of the trade going.

For a woman who essentially got up roughly three o’clock in the morning to see that her business was getting ‘cracking’ and probably went back to bed three o’clock the next morning having put everything together, getting up early and going to bed late, working honestly, steadfastly for her daily bread, it must be scorned with profound loudness that what had happened in the case of Leslyn.

I’m not diminishing the death of the others. I don’t know of their circumstances and I don’t know the individuals so closely either. But it is the fact that Leslie’s death is going to have an effect on the market possibilities and opportunities for farmers, the ease at which they did their business as part of their trade. It was on Friday, a farmer from South Central Windward took quite a lot of plantings to Leslyn, sold his plantings and got his money. She also used what she had to help families that were poor, destitute and underprivileged. It is a simple person that we’ve lost, but we’ve lost a giant of a personality.”

The Pursuit of Excellence: Elevating Potential to Mastery

“The best prescription for tomorrow is doing your best today.” – Horace Jackson Brown (1940-2021) American author of several inspirational books.

ARISTOTLE (384 BC – 322 BC), the renowned Greek philosopher, is known to have commented that, “Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” The pursuit of excellence is an ongoing journey that is freight by various detours, distractions, and disappointments. It is a dynamic process that calls for courage to persist even after temporary defeats.

Advocates of lifelong learning remind us that, regardless of our extensive experience and/or academic credentials, we do not know everything about everything and should be prepared to learn. Sometimes that learning originates from individuals younger, less experienced, and/or less educated that ourselves. This is becoming increasingly evident as we observe the ease with which individuals access knowledge from the Internet. Such valuable insights gleaned from others can propel us to perform great feats and encourage us to better our best efforts even as we pursue skills, attitudes, and behaviours that encourage us to elevate our potential to mastery.

The pursuit of excellence is an ongoing journey. It is a vibrant process that involves the continuous refining of our skills, mental acuity, and character. Dr. Stephen Covey (19322012), in his book titled, “The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness”, reminds us of the value of being proactive in expanding the boundaries of our knowledge and skills. He noted that excellence is not merely about reaching the top but to incremental progress made toward mastery; as good as we are, we can be better. Such an approach to life and living requires a commitment to constant self-improvement and a mental focus that commits to dedication and discipline. The American singer Usher (born 1978) reminds us that, “Success is about dedication. You may not be where you want to be or do what you want to do when you’re on the journey. But you’ve got to be willing to have vision and foresight that leads you to an incredible end.” That vision and foresight enables individuals to exert their best efforts knowing that they are encouraging a concept that surpasses individual ambition and touches upon the broader goals of human fulfillment and societal influence.

Dr. Rick Rigsby the American bestselling author and motivational speaker, encourages individuals to avoid the temptation to settle for average performance and, instead, to pursue excellence. He challenges us to strive for excellence as he notes, “Don’t be average. Good enough isn’t good enough if it can be better. And better isn’t good enough if it can be best.” He advocates that such an approach is critical if we are to excel at the various tasks that we perform. As good as we are we can be better.

An objective analysis of our skills may readily reveal that there are abilities that are untapped or

underutilized. We may have talents and abilities that we have neglected to cultivate and, as a result, allowed them to remain dormant. Recognizing and harnessing these abilities can often propel us to greater heights of success.

Many individuals of varying ages have latent capabilities that need to be ignited or resurrected. The accomplished accountant may also have musical talents and abilities that were laid aside for various reasons but now beckon to be revived. The business person whose green fingers were neglected as they engaged in critical business initiatives now itch to return to the backyard gardening that once provided valuable emotional release and a sense of accomplishment as they grew what they ate and ate what they grew. In their own special ways these “distractions” aided in lightening their load as they pursued excellence in their respective fields. A return to those nostalgic moments can provide a source of encouragement and inspiration to many onlookers.

The path to excellence demands a proactive approach. It requires our not limiting ourselves to merely seeing potential and possibilities but taking the necessary steps to take calculated risks to make elusive dreams real. It is that drive that often makes the difference between average and excellent outcomes. This requires a mindset that is prepared to move from merely viewing possibilities to planning and preparation for positive outcomes. Such an approach appears to ignite a determination that enables the individual to push beyond various obstacles, setbacks, detours, disappointments, and failures. Winners are aware that such situations generate the resilience needed to achieve and retain the pinnacle of success. They press on with renewed courage noting Sir Winston Churchill’s words of wisdom when he stated that, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” Such individuals renew their sense of purpose and commit, or recommit, to elevating potential to mastery.

We should all aspire to be the best that we can be at the various tasks required. However, we are reminded that excellence is reserved for those who understand and appreciate that its pursuit is not to be limited to one’s personal achievement but is most rewarding when affixed to a larger vision; one that is aligned to something or some cause beyond our personal achievement. This is especially so because those who achieve the pinnacle of success would have had to rely on others such as teachers, parents, and other well-wishers; it is never a solo accomplishment. Others would have contributed to the development and maintenance of the resilience, discipline, and growth mindset that enabled us to advance from our potential to mastery.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

Why the left failed

Guest column by Jose ‘Pepe’ Mujica

MY GENERATIONmade a naive error. We believed that social change was only a matter of challenging modes of production and distribution in society. We did not understand the immense role of culture. Capitalism is a culture, and we must respond to and resist capitalism with a different culture. Another way to put this: we are in a struggle between a culture of solidarity and a culture of selfishness.

I am not thinking of culture that is sold, like professional music or dance. All that is important, of course, but when I speak of culture, I refer to human relations, the set of ideas that govern our relationships without us realising it. It is a set of unspoken values that determine the way in which millions of anonymous people around the world relate to each other.

Consumerism is part of that culture. It is an ethic needed for capitalism in its struggle for infinite accumulation. The worst problem for capitalism would be for us to stop buying or to buy very little, which has generated the consumerist culture that envelops us. But a capitalist social system is not only property relations; it is also a set of unspoken values common to society. These values are stronger than any army, and they are the main force maintaining capitalism today.

My generation believed it was going to change the world by trying to nationalise the media and distribution, but we failed to understand that at the centre of this battle must be the construction of a different culture. You cannot build a socialist building with bricklayers who are capitalists. Why? Because they are going to steal the rebar, they are going to steal the cement, because they are only looking to solve their own problems, because that is how we are formed. My generation, rationalist with a programmatic vision of history, did not understand that humans often decide with their guts and then their conscience constructs arguments to justify their decisions. We choose with our hearts, and here culture becomes a vital issue because it tempers our irrationality.

For example, what happened to our left leaders? Left leaders are sick and immersed in that same culture, and that is why their way of life is not a message coherent with their struggle. Look, they said I was poor when I was president, but they didn’t understand a thing! I am not poor. Poor is the one who needs a lot. My goal is to be a stoic. And the fact is that if the world does not learn to live with a certain sobriety, not to squander, not to waste, if it does not learn this soon, our world will not survive.

The lust for money incites us to keep on buying new things, but sustaining the life of the planet means that we must learn to live with what is necessary and not to squander our resources. Now, as you can see, this struggle is a cultural epic. We, the Left, must construct a line of thought that is different from the one we have.

This means throwing out our connection to capitalism. We ran out of creativity in terms of ideas. We wanted to do the same as capitalism, but with more equality. And in the end, this all has to do with what we

consider to be the good life, the values that we can cherish in life, the things that we can aspire to. It means having a sense of limits. Nothing too much, as the Greeks used to say.

The Left must be faithful to another set of values, and that is why I insist on the problem of culture, on the problem of commitment and on the problem of valuing certain areas of life that capitalism does not value. There is much sadness in our societies, even though they are full of wealth. We are an overfed people with societies choked by the amount of garbage we create. We infest everything, buy things we don’t need, and then live in despair, paying bills. We must propose another way of living! For me, the Left has to be more revolutionary than ever. It means to live as you think. Otherwise, we end up thinking as we live. The struggle is for a selfmanaging society, to learn to be our own bosses and to lead our common projects. A new left will have to discuss these things. I believe in the permanent existence of the Left, but it will not be the Left as it was. What it was is gone, has passed! The Left will have to be different because time changes. The only permanent thing is change.

I’m not going to suggest obstacles to the creation of new revolutionary programs. On the contrary! But I don’t have a magic formula. It seems to me that creativity must be encouraged, because we are in a world with an old left that lives too much on nostalgia, a left that finds it hard to realise why it failed and has great difficulty in imagining new ways forward. I believe that this is a time of much rehearsal, a lot of experimentation and creativity. And for that, there are some parameters we can follow, because, as I said, my generation did not place enough emphasis on culture. I am referring to the culture inherent in the common and ordinary relationships that people have, which, under capitalism, now uses the events of daily life only to ensure further accumulation.

The culture in which we are embedded, in which we are surrounded, is functional only for the multiplication of individual profit. And that culture is much stronger than armies, military power, and everything else because it determines the permanent relationships of millions of ordinary people all over the world.

And that is much stronger than the atomic bomb! So, to change a system without facing the problem of a change in culture is useless. We must build a new system and, in parallel, a new culture, a new ethic, because, if not, what we saw with the Soviet Union will happen again, where a revolutionary movement made a perfect 360-degree turn to be in the same place, but much worse! We have to learn from that defeat, right?

NB: Jose ‘Pepe’ Mujica died on May 13 at age 89. He was the former president of Uruguay and was described as the poorest president in the world.

Chevonne Stewart opposed by ULP Activist!

“I ACTUALLYwant to vote and I’m not voting for Chevonne. … I’m telling you, I support people who support me,” says Abdon Whyte, a Union Island ULP activist, who himself wanted to be his party’s candidate for the Southern Grenadines but was rejected by the ULP Head Hunter. If Abdon Whyte will not vote for Chevonne Stewart who was shoved upon the party’s supporters, why should Southern Grenadines people vote for her, when her very own ULP members not voting for her? Not only will Chevonne Stewart not get the votes of Whyte and his family, but she is not likely to get the votes of Whyte’s fellow ULP activists - Lesroy Noel, Derek Charles, Edwin Snagg, and their families. Where is the “UNITY” in Gonsalves’ Unity Labour Party? No wonder SVG has been so politically divided under his autocratic misrule for the last 25 years!

Whyte described Chevonne as classist with no deep connection to the Southern

Grenadines. He has in fact echoed the exact sentiments which I have expressed in an earlier article about Chevonne’s disconnection to Union Island and the Southern Grenadines. She introduces herself to the residents, as the daughter of Hugh Stewart, who lives in Marriaqua and whom she has never visited or spoken to in more than ten years, the man whose surname she now boasts of in order to garner support for her unqualified and weak candidacy and to link her remote connection to the people and the Island.

She goes from being the Chief Radiographer at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital to now the Lumber Galvanise & Cement Distribution Officer (LUMGACEDO) for Union Island, under the Ministry of Housing. Sadly, the LUMGACEDO’s training, as Chief Radiographer is now sacrificed at the altar of political expediency with utter disdain for proper health care in SVG. Gonsalves couldn’t care less about

The crime scene

by ANTHONY G. STEWART, PhD

LAWLESSNESShas become commonplace such that the whole country is a crime scene. Everyone plays a role as victim, perpetrator, witness, accomplice, deterrent or example in doing the right thing. Some by their silence are consenting to the wrong

being done around them. And as it is, the security forces are overwhelmed and are not equipped and supported to deal with the frequency of the flow of complaints. The security forces have their own issues to deal with. Training, equipment, accommodation and promotion must be merited.

Too many laws are

made in favor of the criminal and not the victim. No law should be dependent upon the discretion of any one individual. British jurisprudence from which our laws derived is steeped in common law. The engine of the law is the civil servant, and politicians should confine themselves to their role of policy and lawmaking.

health services in SVG because he can fly with a medical team to Barbados for him to receive dressing for simple “head scratches”. No wonder the health care in the country is in such a mess!

This LUMGACEDO now gets to decide who will receive and who will not receive material assistance for our taxpayers’ funded materials. Almost every house on Union Island has been destroyed by Beryl and as a consequence, every homeowner needs rebuilding assistance. Why must she be allowed the privilege to decide who gets from those who do not get material assistance and in what order? According to Whyte, who gave a damning indictment of the failure and incompetence of Gonsalves’ regime, “I think they need proper guidance. I think they’re kind of all over the place and they need to refocus properly.” With that level of incompetence and chaos under the ULP regime, why should the country now run the risk of putting

Deviation from this noble standard is perhaps the root of much unchecked corruption. Our institutions run with goodwill and our laws are superseded by moral authority. Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done, and must occur in a timely manner.

The two school rulesbe respectful and be responsible - can equally apply to the whole country. They represent

them back in office for a sixth term?

Chevonne and the Head Hunter have now gone to the Southern Grenadines far more frequently in the last two months than they have ever gone before, harbouring the unlikely hope of winning that constituency. The almost-eightyyear Head-Hunter, who promised the Vincentian people in 2001 that he would not spend more than two terms, is now aggressively desperate to stay in power by any means necessary. He is hoping that the LUMGACEDO’s candidacy would magically create a political upset in an environment where all indications show that the ULP would be booted out of office. The intelligent and politically mature people of the Southern Grenadines whom they have mistreated and taken for granted will never allow them this privilege of winning the Southern Grenadines, ever!

A True Union Island Resident

another version of Grandma’s dictate that manners and respect take you throughout the world. Her third reinforcing pillar was Satan finds work for idle hands to do. Her fourth pillar, taken from the Bible is the love of money is the root of all evil.

Traditionally, parents trained their children in the family business, and they were well prepared to run them when the parents retired. The heir of law ensured that the family property remained in good hands and are maintained. Sometimes companies are set up to ensure the continuity of the family business, but their success still depend on the goodwill of the shareholders.

The prevalence of abandoned homes and closed family businesses are indications of failed succession plans. Our country is apparently following along that path. Our leader turns 80 next year, and there is no indication of any preparation for retirement. Already there is evidence of abandonment. These include ruined wharfs, hotel projects, roads, police stations, school buildings and government properties.

Essential learning usually included teaching children to do what we do better. But more and more students are removed from the apprenticeship learning on the family farm, shop, fishing boat, construction projects, mechanic shop or other family business. Many

students leave school without any essential skill, and deficient in Reading, English and Math.

Free monies in various forms are given out to teach our people dependency and the Art of Begging. The same money could have been channeled to the same recipients through an employment agency, to beautify our buildings, beaches and roadways, produce agricultural and other (e.g. craft) products.

The goodwill and morals intended by parents and churches are beaten out of students by commuters and as they travel on the minivans some of which play vulgar loud music with impunity.

Rampant human trafficking with underage children occurs in broad daylight. Every school should have a truancy officer to ensure that our children attend school. Too many children are being lost even in the primary schools. The main issue is the curriculum. Sufficient technical and practical skills should be taught to capture their interest. Success for all students should be facilitated and guaranteed.

Citizens should not be prevented from planting a garden to feed themselves because animals are allowed to roam freely. The wanton burning of plastics and synthetic materials poisoning the atmosphere should not be allowed.

Our country’s Crime Scene needs a new crime minister.

Senior Calypso judging begins in NY

THE NEW YORK CITY-BASEDDynamites Cultural Organisation will open the 2025 preliminary judging of the Calypso Monarch Competition.

They will do so on June 01, at Nazareth Regional High School.

Those listed to be judged are: Persona, Ulric Hamlet, Dennis Bowman, Errol D’ Man Age’ Rose, Ramon ‘Jose Juan’ Diaz, Oscar James, Carlos ‘Rejector’ Providence, Gregory Olive, Boney Man, Abby, Nubian Empress, and Lenny C. have been announced.

Music will be by the band Matadors. Upstage: up for everything

With defending calypso monarch Reon ‘Maddzart’ Primus, and former title holders Zamphir ‘Man Zangie’ Adams, Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd and Michael ‘Lord Have Mercy’ Ollivierre in the fray, the UpStage Experience fields 19 members this season. In addition to the four names,

Divyne ‘Skye’

Hackshaw – reigning Primary School

Calypso Monarch is ready to defend her title.

Junior calypsonians take on Divyne

SIX CALYPSONIANS

will try to take down 2024 Primary School

Calypso Monarch Divyne ‘Skye’ Hackshaw, of the Sandy Bay Government School, at Victoria Park Tuesday July 1. The list includes:

Aniek Stapleton from Evesham Methodist School; Valisha Johnson - Tourama Government School; Kataleya NeroBarrouallie Anglican School; Akira Browne from Evesham Methodist; Lylanie Bascombe from Greiggs Primary School; Hailey

the cast includes: 2024 Junior Calypso Primary School monarch Divyne ‘Skye’ Hackshaw. Kristian ‘Kris‘ Christopher, Sheena Collis, ‘Broom’, Lola, Janiel, Gosnel Cupid, Ilford Hurst, Bernard ‘IReality’ White, Denise ‘Lady D Stephens, Jace, Parry, Iceman, Ronald ‘Ron B’ Browne, and ‘Ranking Bash’.

Musical accompaniment will be provided by the band Blazing Fire.

Upstage will be at Russell’s Auditorium May 28, June 4 and 11, and will make stops in Sandy Bay at Miller’s Shop, June 1, and Wafulasun Sports Bar at Cumberland, June 6.

19 Graduates

The Graduates Calypso Tent has been altered by the addition of Robert ‘Patches’ Knights and Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance. They are in a cast which appears at the Russell’s Auditorium, May 27, June 3 and 10, and includes Tent leader Kingsley ‘Hero’ Roberts, Glenroy ’Homey’ Delpleche, Johnny

Rebel Hall, Maxwell ‘Tajoe’ Francis, ‘Busta Ski’, Sunny Banks, Armstrong, Shaka, Iwa, ‘Ligszandah’, Judith Jackson, Kenny Williams, Laini, ‘The Mighty Melone’, Abuza, Mitch, and Chewalle Johnson.

New leader for On Tour

Elvis ‘Abijah’ Abbey, leads the On Tour Calypso Tent in its 2025 sojourn.

In addition to ‘Abbijah’, the others who will appear at the Russell’s Auditorium May 29, June 5, and 12, are: Former monarch Kenneth ‘Vibrating Sakes’ Alleyne, Alvin ‘Zion I’ Dennie, John Dougan, Earl ‘Exposer Isles, Derek ‘Man Sick’ Alexander, Glenford ‘Azara’

The crown sat comfoprtably on the head of Maddzart for 2024. Will it stay there for another year?

Charles, Winston ‘Papa Iston’ Lewis, Junior ‘Marshie’ Marshall, Kirk ‘Ninja’ Knights, Hilton Duncan, the mother and daughter duo of Kyra ‘Dymon Johnson, and Kherie McCaul, Cleopatra Hendrickson, and Marvo Morgan.

Junior calypso/soca set for July 01

Omani Cupid will defend his Secondary School Calypso Monarch title.

Small - South Rivers Methodist School.

Blessing Compton from Calder Government School is the reserve.

Omani looking for the hat trick

Omani Cupid, will be looking to defend the Secondary School version of the Junior Calypso competition July 1 at Victoria Park. Omani took his second Junior Calypso crown last year with ‘Are we raising Kings?’

This year he faces seven rivals. Princess Alexia Deshong, Sandy Bay Secondary; Zion Lewis and Ameerah Glasgow — St. Joseph Convent Kingstown; Kerieka McCaul — St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua; Casinique Williams — Georgetown

Secondary; Jolicia Byron — Sandy Bay Secondary; and Jaiden Bulze — St. Vincent Grammar School. Ariana May — Sandy Bay Secondary — is the reserve.

Junior Soca showdown

Eliza Cruickshank of

the South Rivers Methodist School brought “Jshot Her” to the Junior Soca title. In defence of her title she faces eight rivals: Princess Alexia Deshong, Malique John, Kyron Adams and Colin Jr. Small — all from the Sandy Bay Secondary;

Lylanie Bascombe and Shakira Johnson — Greiggs Primary; and Joel Mason and Jaelani Sandy of Dr. J.P. Eustace Memorial. The Duo of Amina Lucas and Tyler of the Dorsetshire Hill Primary is the reserve.

There is also room for: Elvis ‘Roots Gordon, Lance ‘Da Vincy’ Chapman, Tumpi’, Wayne ‘Mi Amor’ McAllister and Robert ‘Soharo’ Hackshaw, returnee Cordel ‘Papa Niceness’ Roberts, newcomers Andrew ‘Ranking’ Nichols, and Bertie ‘Banton’ Nanton. The band Nex Level will provide the backstopping. (Stories by WKA)

Spiritual Baptists worship the old time way

THE WEEK OF ACTIVITIESleading up to Spiritual Baptist Day, May 21, got underway on May 18 with a caravan and service at the Kingstown market.

Spiritual Baptists journeyed from the Leeward and Windward ends of the country to be part of a celebration to showcase the way their ancestors worshipped.

Bishop Winston Daniel of the local Spiritual Baptist movement told THE VINCENTIAN that the caravans also served to create an awareness among members of the public about the week of activities to commemorate the struggles of the Spiritual Baptists.

“So, the service in the market was really a part to showcase the way that our parents, and grandparents, how they used to worship in those days,” Bishop Daniel explained.

For example, the hymns that were sung during the service were sung in the church for decades.

“In almost every Baptist Church you go, whether they are having prayers or a service, you will hear those songs sung,” he said.

But although it is well known among those who attended church through the years, it was not only recently that the words to these hymns were recorded in a book.

During the days when members of the church were being persecuted by the English colonialists, members of the Spiritual Baptist church did not use a hymn book, Daniel explained.

“But before we could have seen the words, we just adapted it from our parents, our grandparents and we just keep singing it and our children come and the same thing,” Bishop Daniel told THE VINCENTIAN.

Even the way the hymns were sung today, Bishop Daniel said, that is

how it was done back in the old days.

“That’s what we were we were portraying at the market,” he said.

The road to freedom for the Spiritual Baptist movement started some 74 years ago, and according to Bishop Daniel, this was highlighted during the service.

He mentioned the famous case in the court in Mesopotamia some 74 years ago involving some Spiritual

Baptists.

“And we understand that Spiritual Baptists walked with their bibles, their bell candles and stuff like that and when the case was presented, we understand that the magistrate listened to the Spiritual Baptists and at the end said that they were free to worship the way they chose,” Bishop Daniel related.

The other activities surrounding

Baptist day celebrated on May 21 included a procession around Kingstown and service on the day.

According to Bishop Daniel, a large overseas contingent was expected to arrive for the event which was to be followed by a social on May 22.

They are expected back at the market today, May 23 for an open-air service, with the week of activities concluding with a trip to Bequia. (DD)

Spiritual

Archbishop Melford Pompey welcomes his church members and offers opening prayers.

Members make haste to get to the central area where the worship was held.

Some members broke out in spontaneous renditions of songs/hymns/ sankeys as sung by their ancestors.

Left: The banner that adorned the lead vehicles in the caravans.

The drum remains central and sacred to the worship of the Spiritual Baptists and may have been more prevalent in the past.

Females outnumber males as far as the membership of the Spiritual Baptists is concerned, and are often the leaders during worship.

Spiritual Baptists rejoice

HUNDREDS OF SPIRITUAL BAPTISTS converged in Kingstown last Wednesday 21st May, 2025, for a Thanksgiving Service in commemoration of the inaugural Spiritual Baptist (Freedom) Day, a public holiday in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Under the Theme: “Weeping may endure for the night; JOY cometh in the morning!” Spiritual Baptists, decked in their traditional head ties and long gown, mainly white, decorated the streets of Kingstown, singing and dancing with support from the police band.

The pilgrims made their way to Victoria Park for the Freedom Celebration Service. Among those in attendance were Spiritual Baptists from Trinidad, Barbados, Grenada, USA and Canada.

Inside the venue, the worshipers celebrated their very own day with unadulterated joy. They chanted, danced and sang without fear or favour.

There was also a sermon from

Canon Brian Turtin in which he emphasized the importance of the traditional man-woman relationships.

“If you are a dog and you have to bring in a dog. You can’t be as a male dog having as a companion, another male dog .... I have to have something in me to deposit into a woman.

“I have children with my wife... when I planted in my wife. She had to give me what I don’t have and before I know it, she was carrying something that I was carrying in a different form. But, in order for it to be transformed into the form that God wants, she had to collect it from me. Another man can’t collect it from me,” said Turtin, to the ringing of a bell and loud cheers from an attentive gathering at Victoria Park.

His Eminence Most Rev’d Melford Pompey, Archbishop, in his address, told the gathering that hours leading up to the event he was feeling very weak, but because of his prayers and trust in God he overcame his pain.

Pompey said that the Spiritual Baptists were looked down on in the

past. “But today, we are attracting doctors and lawyers. We are attracting politicians, we are attracting nurses, we are attracting civil servants, we are attracting everyone. What is left for us to do is to keep our heads up high,” the Archbishop urged.

A number of government officials also addressed the celebration service,

A procession of Spiritual Baptists, the majority adorned in various designs of white ankle length garments, began at Peace Memorial Hall and culminated at Victoria Park.

including Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Tourism and Culture Minister Carlos James, and Minister of National Reconciliation Curtis King. Member of Parliament for Central Kingstown St. Clair Leacock spoke on behalf of the Opposition Leader. Dr. Godwin Friday.

Prime Minister Gonsalves said the persecution suffered by Spiritual Baptists for more than fifty years under the colonial government warranted the righting of a historic wrong and a celebration of the Spiritual Baptist Faith.

The colonial government on October 1, 1912, outlawed the Spiritual Baptist religion through the Shakerism Prohibition Ordinance. This made it illegal for members to practice their faith, and they suffered years of persecution.

The law was repealed on March 22, 1965 by the E. T. Joshua-led Legislative Council, which passed Ordinance Number 7 of 1965 to remove the 1912 legal ban.

May 21, 1951, has always been observed by members of the Spiritual Baptist Faith as their Liberation Day, following the victory in a court case in which they were represented by former Premier/Prime Minister Hon. Robert Milton Cato.

In August 2024, the St Vincent’s Parliament passed legislation to recognise May 21 as a public holiday, designating it Spiritual Baptist Day. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the second country in the world to commemorate this holiday in honour of the Spiritual Baptists, the other being Trinidad and Tobago. (KH)

The gathering at Victoria Park sang lustily both spontaneously and when called upon to do so.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was very much at home among the Spiritual Baptists, to the point of him indulging in some drumming.

Right: The official platform was a colourful collection of leading local clerics, visiting clerics and invited dignitaries.

Water rules in Rose Place

ACCORDING TO INFORMATION from the Met Office here, stations across the mainland recorded close to an inch of rainfall between Sunday night and early Monday morning.

Some residents in certain areas though, swore that the amount of rain on Sunday alone seemed like so much more than an inch.

And while there were reports of landslides, damage to roads and retaining walls across mainland St. Vincent, one area that suffered severely from an inundation of flood waters was the lower portion of the capital, more particularly in Rose Place, familiarly known as ‘Bottom Town.

Here are a few photos that

captured the situation in Rose Place as a result of the rains.

(Photo Credit: José Clarke)

The erection that encloses the New Kingstown Port Project helped to create a pool along its length.

Below: The erection caused the water to rush into and remain for some time in the homes (left) of residents along its path.

The New Kingstown Port Project did not escape the fury off the rains. It too experienced some unexpected flooding.

Cyber Security Forum held in SVG

Mr. Jiunn-Shiow Lin, Director General of the Administration for Digital Industries, R.O.C. (Taiwan, delivered the forum’s feature address.

ON MAY 6, 2025, Taiwan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines co-hosted the Developments in Digital Cities & Challenges in Cyber Security in the Caribbean Forum, bringing together regional and international experts to explore critical issues at the intersection of urban digital transformation and cybersecurity.

Opening remarks were delivered by Ambassador H.E. Fiona Huei-Chun Fan, R.O.C. (Taiwan); Hon. Frederick Stephenson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Consumer Affairs (SVG), and Christopher Benjamin, Assistant Commissioner of the RSVGPF. The ceremony also featured Benarva Browne, Minister of Urban Development, and senior representatives from SVG’s Ministry of National Security and Education. Over a hundred participants attended.

Ambassador H.E. Fiona Huei-Chun Fan highlighted that this fiorum was part of the broader Enhancing Public Safety with Intelligent Video Analytics Project.

The forum featured a keynote address by Mr. Jiunn-Shiow Lin, Director General of the Administration for Digital Industries, R.O.C. (Taiwan). He shared Taiwan’s PPP (PublicPrivate-People) Model for the development strategies and cases of smart cities in Taiwan, including fields of food, healthcare, living, and transportation. The central government builds a positive environment for industries to deliver solutions for local governments to address local needs, encouraging the formation of smart city industry in Taiwan.

Ambassador Fan highlighted the strategic importance of digital city development. Taiwan’s government is steadfastly committed to strengthening five key industrial sectors: semiconductors, artificial intelligence, nextgeneration communications, security, and defense. These sectors are integral to digital transformation, and our national policies support comprehensive strategies– ranging from cloud infrastructure and 5G communications technology to cutting-edge AI applications. Yet, with rapid technological advancement comes increased security risk and ethical challenges, which is why Taiwan places a strong emphasis on robust information security alongside innovation. This is the core of today’s discussion.

Ambassador Fan described this forum as part of the broader Enhancing Public Safety with Intelligent Video Analytics Project. Over recent years, Taiwan has established a robust CCTV network and the Surveillance system, with nearly 300 outdoor cameras installed across the country. License plate recognition and video analysis systems that enable real-time vehicle tracking were also

implemented. Crucially, Taiwan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines established a Police Security Operations Center, which has become an essential hub for maintaining public safety, responding to incidents, and supporting investigations. (Source: Embassy of Taiwan)

Cross-section of the participants in the Developments in Digital Cities & Challenges in Cyber Security in the Caribbean Forum.

Vincy centenarian dies at 104

by NELSON A. KING

US CORRESPONDENT

naking@verizon.net

VINCENTIAN CENTENARIAN Emmeline Nash Barbour, affectionately known as ‘Aunty Lyn’, ‘Lyn’, ‘Mamalyn’ and ‘Taarlyn’, who lived in Jamaica, Queens, New York with close relatives, went to The Great Beyond on Mar. 31, 2025. Her daughter, Jana Williams, told THE VINCENTIAN that her mother died “peacefully” at home surrounded by family and friends. She was 104 years, 10 months old, dying exactly two months before what would have been her 105th birthday.

Williams said her mother was not ailing before her demise.

A funeral service was held on Friday, April 25, at Seaton Funeral

and Cremation, 2200 Clarendon Road in Brooklyn, New York.

Williams said another funeral service will be held on Jun.1 at the Eden Memorial Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Spring Village, North Leeward, where Nash Barbour was born. Her body will be interred at the Spring Village Cemetery, Williams said.

She said Nash Barbour, who migrated to New York in 1988, first lived in Uniondale, Long Island with her son, Alaska Edwards, and his family, and attended Vision Pentecostal Church (VPC) in Brooklyn.

While attending VPC, Williams said her mother dedicated her life to Christ and was baptized in the summer of 1990.

“This decision transformed her into

profound ways,” said Williams, stating that Nash Barbour’s “faith journey inspired others around her and uplifted others.

“Often, you would hear her praising and worshipping God, filled with the Holy Ghost, singing songs, such as ‘Hark the Sound of Holy Voices’, ‘It Is Well with My Soul’, and ‘I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say Come unto Me and Rest;” she added.

Williams, who was her mother’s caretaker “until up to her death,” said her mother moved to Brooklyn in 1999 to live with her daughter, Rita, and family, then two years later to Jamaica, Queens to live with her (Jana Williams) and her family.

Committed to Spring Village

Though not formally educated, Barbour “never gave up on learning”, Williams said, adding that her mother used television shows, such as ‘Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy’, to “familiarize herself with words and numbers.

Belle Isle and Richmond Vale Estates in North Leeward.

“‘Let’s Make a Deal’ was how she learnt the pricing of items and cost estimations,…. and Steve Harvey’s ‘Family Feud’ — one of her favorite TV shows — taught her history about famous people.”

Barbour enjoyed good cooking and never ate a late meal. “She must have her three meals per day on or before 6:00 p.m.,” Williams said.

She said her mother was also “a giver” and that her spirit of giving extended “far beyond her family.”

“She was a pillar in the Spring Village community… known for her generosity and kindness.

“With a loving heart and an unwavering commitment to help others, she believed that the giving of food, or other gifts, had the power to connect people and help uplift their spirits. Through her kindness, she taught her families the importance of giving back and the joy that comes from sharing.”

Barbour carefully narrated her wishes prior to her departure, sternly advising her family to provide a repast and properly feed the resident community of her beloved Spring Village.

In her words, “This will be the last time that I am able to share my love with them.”

Labouring in the field

The daughter of Enoch Morris and Delcina Nash, Nash Barbour was born in Spring Village on May 31, 1920.

She did not have the opportunity for formal education, as she was required to work to assist her family from a tender age.”

For over 50 years, Nash Barbour worked in agricultural labour at the

While working on the estates, she met “the love of her life,” - Thomas Ezekial Barbour, a native of the town of Barrouallie in Central Leeward, who became her husband. He predeceased her.

As matriarch of her family, Williams said her mother provided “unwavering guidance, love, and nurturing to everyone around her.

“Her unmatched wisdom and strength created a foundation for her family, and her warm presence and loving nature provided cohesion for us,” she said, adding that her mother also “taught us important values, such as ‘always share’, ‘serve others’, and ‘treat others with love the way you would like to be treated.’”

In addition, Williams said her mother was “an illustrious storyteller, with an amazing memory.”

Right up to her passing, Nash Barbour was “cognitively alert and never missed a beat.

“During family gatherings, her grandchildren eagerly gathered around her, excited to embark on imaginative journeys to various places and time periods,” said Williams, pointing out that her mother would “artfully describe stories of her childhood adventures, the challenges she faced in life, and the lessons she learned in life.”

Nash Barbour gave birth to 11 children, three of whom predeceased her.

Her surviving children are Alaska Edwards, Alton Morris, Alrick Morris, Doreen “Mother” Morris, Jana Williams, Joseph Morris, Owen Morris and Rita Nash-Franklyn. Nash Barbour is also survived by several relatives and friends, including her granddaughter Curlina EdwardsHills, Alaska’s daughter, a Vincentianborn lawyer, residing in Queens.

Vincentian centenarian Emmeline Nash Barbour. (Photo Credit: Valcia Thomas)

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

Trinidad and Tobago: Woman stabbed in head

A 66-YEAR-OLD WOMANis warded in a serious condition after she was stabbed in her head in Port of Spain.

The incident took place at about 7pm on Friday along Charlotte Street.

The victim told police that upon reaching the vicinity of Queen Street, a man mashed her foot. She informed the man that he had injured her and sought an apology.

The man got agitated and allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the woman in her head.

The suspect then fled the scene on foot.

Persons in the area notified the police and paramedics and the injured woman was conveyed to the Port of Spain General Hospital. (Source: T&T Newsday)

Antigua: Woman returns home after three decades ‘missing’

A REMARKABLE STORY of perseverance and hope unfolded Tuesday morning at VC Bird International Airport as 56-year-old Denise Odelia Charles stepped onto Antiguan soil for the first time in over three decades.

Charles, who had been missing since late 1992, arrived on a private jet chartered by the Venezuelan government shortly after 10 am, ending a 32-year, 5-month absence that had left her family in a state of painful uncertainty.

Among those welcoming her were her brother Terrence Charles and nephew Tishorn Watson, who had travelled to Venezuela to accompany her on the final leg of her journey home.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne was personally present for the historic homecoming having assisted the family in getting their loved one home.

Details surrounding Charles’ three-decade stay in Venezuela remain limited. Sources close to the family indicate she is expected to share her extraordinary story in the coming weeks once she has had time to readjust and reconnect with loved ones. (Source: LOOP News)

Jamaica: Nurse assaulted in road rage incident

JAMAICANS ARE OUTRAGED over a disturbing video that captured a shocking incident of a reported road rage, during which a businessman brandished a handgun and physically assaulted a female nurse, including stepping on her head while she screamed helplessly on the ground.

The heinous attack, which occurred on Tuesday, May 13, has sparked widespread condemnation, with many persons calling for severe punishment for the attacker who, although in police custody, has so far not been charged in relation to the incident.

The man, businessman Robert Bell, age listed as

65 years, was charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, assault at common law, possessing a firearm with intent to commit a first schedule offence, and possession of a firearm with intent to cause injuries.

He was denied bail when he made his first appearance in the Gun Court on May 18.

In light of the development, some social media users have called for there to be even harsher penalties for individuals who carry out attacks against essential service workers, including nurses, doctors, fire service personnel and members of the security forces. (Source: LOOP News, Jamaica Gleaner)

Denise Charles reunites with family and receives a warm welcome from Prime Minister Gaston Browne after being missing for over 30 years. (Photo: ABS)

Pregnant at 16

Dear George,

IAM 16 years old and pregnant.  The person responsible for the pregnancy is denying it.  I cannot tell my parents –they are Catholics and would have nothing to do with me.

Having an abortion has crossed my mind but besides not having the money for it I do not know if I really want to do it. I am afraid to go for counseling because I cannot trust anyone to keep this confidential. However, I believe I can talk to my Aunt but I am hesitant. This is why I am writing to you. Do you think having an abortion in my case is the best way to go? I feel so alone and abandoned that I sometimes think of ending my life. I need your help please.

Scared.

Dear Scared,

I understand why you would not

want to reach out to anyone but I must insist that you do. This is not something you can solve by yourself.

As for an abortion, I instead ask you to think this through. Having an abortion can have psychological effects now and down the road. What you need is support and reaching out to your Aunt could be a good way to begin. She can be that go-between for you and your parents. She also can accompany you to a counselor (at the Marion House).

Taking your own life is not the answer to your problems and as you get the support from friends and family, you will realize it gets easier with the help of others. Give your parents a chance to continue to be an integral part of your life

Visits by my best friend

Dear George,

MY WIFEthinks it’s ok to be entertaining my best friend at our house in my absence. She tells me she cannot dictate to him when and when not to drop by.

George, this guy is retired, my wife is a housewife and he is at our house more than four times a week. Sometimes I get home to find empty wine glasses and evidence of food having been cooked but none put aside for me. She is always eager to be in his presence, like the last two (boat)

excursions when I had to work. When I raise this concern, she says I’m nitpicking.

I’m beginning to hear whispers that my wife is with my best friend and while I try to ignore them, I am concerned. I want my wife to once again behave like a married woman.

Very Annoyed.

Dear Very Annoyed,

Expressing the concerns you have is not nitpicking. It is certainly not a good look for your wife to be encouraging your

friend to hang out at the house in your absence. Perception is always seen as greater than truth.

On the other hand, your friend should not take the liberty to visit your house in your absence. While the excursions are not a big deal, your concern is a legitimate one and your wife should understand where you are coming from.

Opposition from your wife should raise a few red flags. It would not hurt to have a talk with your friend.

George.

Not satisfied sexually

Dear George,

WHENI met my wife, she knew I was a sex maniac. As a matter of fact, she said she was looking for such a person to settle with.

It is now one year into our marriage and she is telling me that sex twice weekly is inconsiderate. We fight frequently over this. I would have to satisfy my sexual pleasure elsewhere if she does not get her act together.

Fed Up.

Dear Fed Up,

I do not advocate stepping outside of the relationship to get your sexual satisfaction. There are tons of issues associated with such actions. If sexual incompatibility is a deal breaker for you, then it’s best you part ways rather than remaining together and becoming increasingly unhappy. I, nonetheless, suggest both of you see a marriage counselor/sex therapist before making any rash decisions.

George.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

You will find that uncertain individuals will want to draw you into joint ventures. This is a great day for a trip. Don't let friends or relatives rule your life. You will have to watch out for minor health problems related to stress.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Jealousy may be a contributing factor to your emotional ups and downs. Valuable information can be yours if you listen to those with experience. You can make major gains professionally by completing projects on time. Love and romance are evident.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Don't gamble unless you can afford to lose. Peers may not be on your side. Your tendency to vacillate will drive everyone crazy. You may want to make changes that will not be to their liking.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Some relatives will be extremely perplexing. Romantic opportunities will be plentiful if you go out with friends. Joining organizations will provide you with stimulating romantic contacts. Don't get involved in other people's problems.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Bring work home if it will help you get caught up. Do a little investigating if there is someone at work you don't trust. Favors will be offered readily. Children could cost you more than you can afford.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Stand up and propose your ideas, and you'll be surprised how many people will follow you. Finish those changes you've been talking about making to your residence. Do not force your opinions on others the connections will be short lived. Not everyone will be pleased with your plans.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

You can make money through your creative efforts. You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. Romantic opportunities will develop through friends or relatives. Don't hesitate to sign up for lectures or seminars that will enlighten you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Your mate needs extra attention and is feeling rather insecure when you're not in sight. Your support and concern will help. Put your thoughts on paper. Be aware that you might be at fault as well. Overindulgence may be a problem.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Be careful not to get involved in other people's personal affairs. Be careful not to consume too many spicy foods, or minor health problems could put you out of commission for the day. Elders may need your help. Try not to get upset or angry without having all the facts.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Don't be too hard on yourself. You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with. Changes at home will be necessary. Overindulgence could cause problems for you with your loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Get busy putting your place in order. Be honest if you wish to solve the problem. Proceed with caution if operating equipment or vehicles. You need more space for the whole family.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Minor health problems may lower your vitality. Hobbies will be good for your emotional well-being. Empty promises are evident. You will have the getup and go to con tribute a great deal to groups of interest.

ACROSS

1.Surprise attack

5. Dorothy’s aunt et al.

8. Electrical unit

12. Ferber or Best

13. Kanga’s baby

14. Sailing on the briny

15. Gymnastics move

17. Article 18. Bullfight bellow

19. Reconstruct 21. Magna __ 24. Tortoise’s rival

25. Skirt’s fold

26. Put initials on silverware

30. __ carte (2 wds.)

31. AFL-__

32. Legal rule

33. Alike

36. The things here

38. Beatty and others

39. Desert caravan stops

40. TV’s “__ Camera”

43. Onassis’s nickname

44. Woodwind

45. Uneducated

50. Popular houseplant

51. Rescue worker (abbr.)

52. Conked out

53. Allow usage 54. Physics, e.g. (abbr.)

55. Dedicative verses

DOWN

1.Yank’s opponent 2. Dental gp. 3. Co. abbr. 4. South __ (The Coyote State)

5. Mystery writer Gardner 6. Me (Fr.)

7. Opera voice 8. Act of giving up a claim

9. Four-legged star of the ‘30s

10. Swarm

11. Force down 16. Not quite

on key 20. Unit of energy

21.Accountants (abbr.)

22. “__ Wanna

Do” (2 wds.)

23. Paper unit

24. Inheritors

27. Malt drinks

28. Flower holder

29. Woolly moms

31. Golfers’ assistants

34. In reality

35. Neckwear in Hawaii

36. Bull, in

Mexico

37. Coiffure

40. Hod contents

41. Skilled

42. Morning’s end

43. One against

46. One of Detroit’s Big Three 47. First-__ kit

48. Born as 49. Football coups (abbr.)

All for a good cause From St. Vincent to Mustique:

FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD

SAILOR Kai Marks Dasent has successfully completed a challenging 18-mile solo sail from St. Vincent to Mustique, kicking off a fundraising effort to support students and young athletes across the Grenadines.

Kai Marks Dasent nears

Mustique the final stop in his 18-mile fundraising (ad)venture.

The crossing took 3 hours and 10 minutes, powered by 16-knot trade winds and Kai’s determination to make a difference.

“The best part was surfing the big waves–it felt amazing,” said Kai after reaching Mustique. “The hardest part was dealing with seaweed constantly getting stuck in my rudder and centerboard. I had to keep stopping to clear it, but I didn’t give up.”

This voyage is part of a larger personal challenge as Kai trains for his next–and much longer–solo crossing: a 42-mile sail to Union Island, scheduled for next weekend, weather permitting.

Kai is using his sailing skills to raise funds for two critical causes:

Union Island Secondary School — to help students affected by Hurricane Beryl pay towards their CSEC exam fees (Class of 2025/2026). Many families on Union Island are still recovering from the storm, and the cost of exams can be a major barrier to students completing their education.

Vincy Sailing Club — to support sending a youth team to represent St. Vincent & the Grenadines at the Caribbean Dinghy Championships, sees this as an important opportunity for local sailors to compete and gain regional experience.

“This is about giving back,” Kai

said. “Sailing has taught me so much, and I want to use what I’ve learned to support other young people’.

With every mile, Kai is proving that determination, skill, and community spirit can make waves– both on the water and beyond.

Kai’s journey has already begun to attract attention from local supporters and regional sailing enthusiasts. See poster below on how to make donations to this campaign or email vincysailing@gmail.com. (Article submitted by SVG SAILING)

Sports graduates commit to serve

SIX VINCENTIANS who were part of the first cohort of graduates of the Global Campus Academy of Sports (GCAS) , have committed to put their new found knowledge into practice for the betterment of sports and human development here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Making the commitment were Samantha Lynch, Kelisha Ashton- Yorke, Godfrey Harry, Shanique De Shong, Tesseca Cupid and Travis Forbes.

Lynch and Harry graduated with BSc Sports Coaching; Ashton Yorke and De Shong- BSc Sport Leadership and Management; and Cupid and Forbes, BSc Sport Kinetics.

special awards.

The six were duly recognized on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the University of the West Indies Global Campus facility, Richmond Hill.

St Vincent and the Grenadines was in the spotlight, as the country received four of the seven

Lynch received the award of Female Sports Personality, Ashton -Yorke- the Best Advocate, with Harry copping the Best Male Sports Administrator and De Shong, the Best Female Sports Administrators.

Ashton- Yorke, who serves as the National Coordinator of the Kids’ Athletics Programme for St

Vincent and the Grenadines, agreed that the journey was worth the time, sacrifice and commitment.

“As a group, we are all committed to leave that extra imprint on sports here. We have been doing so already, but with our investment in knowledge, we are better equipped now to do so,” Ashton — Yorke commented.

Invitation to sponsors and well-wishers to support Kai’s next venture – a solo sail to Union Island.

Charles resets National Under20 record

Tyhra Charles began her outing in the USA by setting a national track and field record.

TYHRA CHARLES reset the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Under-20 Female 200m record, when she ran 23.46s last Saturday, May 17, 2025,

in her first Conference USA Championships.

In the process, Charles won her heat in her record time but finished third in the final on Sunday, clocking 23.61s, running for her Louisiana Tech University.

The weekend’s championships were held at the Dean A. Hayes Track & Soccer Stadium in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and were hosted by Middle Tennessee State University.

Charles, who placed fourth in the 400m for Under-20 Girls at the 2024 Carifta Games in Grenada, had a previous best 23.49s in the 200m, achieved in 2023 at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago.

One of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ brightest female prospects, Charles, who turns 18 in June, represented the country at the 2023 Carifta Games, as well as the World Under-20 Championships in Lima, Peru, last year. It was on the basis of her consistent performances at regional meets and in her academics, that she was able to link the scholarship to the Louisiana Tech University.

She is an alumna of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Girls’ High School and the Verchilds Secondary School in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Graduates of the Global Campus Academy of Sports (GCAS) (from left): Kelisha Ashton- Yorke, Travis Forbes, Shanique De Shong, Samantha Lynch, Godfrey Harry and Tesseca Cupid.

Squash players get second places

THE VINCENTIAN

DUOof Andre

John and Othniel

Bailey had to settle for the second places in the 2025 BCQS Barbados Squash Masters Tournament, played May 1318, at the

Barbados Squash Club.

Competing in the Men’s 55- 64 age group, John, who got a bye to the second round, first outdid Neil Saunderson of England, 11-6, 11-3, 11-5.

On his way to the semi-finals and after a challenging encounter, John prevailed over Barbadian - Jason Small, 11-9, 11-8, 11-7.

In the semi-finals, John saw off Trinidadian — Colin Mowser, 11-8, 113, 11-6, to set up a final versus Barbadian — Mark

Sealey.

It was there that John’s march to glory ended, as Sealey ran out an 11-8, 11-3, 11-2 winner.

Meanwhile, Bailey also secured the runnerup spot in the Men’s 3544 age group.

Bailey, like John, entered the Tournament as the second seed, but emerged from the group stage as tops.

Lodged in Box 2, Bailey won over Canadian -Ross Kircher, 11-7, 11-7, 11-2 and

overcame Patrick Downie of Barbados, 11-4, 11-4, 11-2.

Advancing to the semifinals, Bailey got the better of BarbadianSteven Miller, also in straight sets, 11-1, 11-7, 11-6.

However, he faltered in the title match, beaten 8-11, 9-11, 11-9, 8-11, by Barbadian- Rhett Cumberbatch.

Bailey repeated his placing last year, when he lost in the final, to Barbados’ Shawn Simpson.

Sion Hill, SV United relegated F15 Softball Tournament Heats Up

AIA Reload, Dr. Thomas Injectors held winning hands, when the F15 Softball Cricket Tournament continued with the final group stage matches on weekend, played at the Richmond Hill playing field.

AIA Reload finished the group stage on a high with a whopping 132-run win over Automax Richmond Hill United.

AIA Reload won the toss, took the first strike and posted 191 for 6 in their 15 overs, to record the highest team total for the Tournament to date.

Zeron Harry top scored with 78 runs and Ian Gonsalves made 38 runs.

Richmond Hill United’s Courtney Joyette took 2 wickets for 27 runs.

Zeron Harry’s 78 was the weekend’s highest Individual score.

Richmond Hill United, already deflated by the thumbing by the AIA Reloaded batters, feared even worse when they were bowled out for 59 in 10.3 overs. Sylvano Greene, Jerando Jardine and Ian Gonsalves each took 2 wickets for 12, 13 and 16 runs respectively.

Dr. Thomas Injectors and Fairbain United, the two unbeaten teams in group B, came up against each other and put on a thrilling display, in a match reduced to 12 overs per inning.

Dr. Thomas Injectors emerged victorious. Fairban United won the toss and sent in their opponents. They closed on 95 runs for 6 wickets in 12 overs, Travis Cumberbatch top scoring with 28 runs.

Fairban United, in a spirited chase, fell short by 12 runs, as they were reduced to 83 runs for 8 wickets in their 12 overs. Javan Nero took 2 for 13, and Travis Cumberbatch 2 for 15.

At the end of the group stage, Kombat Warriors on 12 points leads Group A, while Dr. Thomas Injectors on 15 points heads Group B.

SION HILL AND SV United have been relegated from the Premier Division of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation National Club Championships.

This, after Sion Hill finished ninth and SV United tenth in the 2024-2025

Tournament that saw the division’s final two matches played last Saturday, May 17, at the Brighton Playing Field.

In the first of the double header, Avenues defeated the 2022-2023 First Division winners- SV United, 3-1. Avenues’ goals came from Garret Legerwood who had a brace and Ashroy Patterson. Scoring for SV United was Terris Joseph.

Avenues ended on 21 points to occupy eighth place, while SV United ended their campaign with 13 points.

In Saturday’s second match, Camdonia-Chelsea drove more nails into the Sion Hills coffin when they defeated the East Kingstown team 4-1. Imani Miller scored two and there was a goal apiece for Jaymor Williams and Okeedo Cottle. Seaqueam Millington netted Sion Hill’s consolation item.

The win for Camdonia-Chelsea saw them edging out Je Belle on goal differential for the fourth place, as both tallied 25 points, while Sion Hill mustered 15 points.

Before Saturday’s matches, the first, second and third places were decided, with North Leeward Predators, Hope International and Layou, taking the respective positions.

Also, after Saturday’s matches, BESCO-Pastures — 23 points finished sixth and Awesome- 22 points, was seventh.

All ten clubs will receive prize monies, ranging from $30,000 for first place, downwards to $1,500 for the tenth place.

Tier Two or First Division, along with the Women’s Division and the Male Under-15 and Under-17, are ongoing.

The two top clubs emerging from Tier Two will be

promoted to the Premiership of the next National Club Championships.

Andre John was a finalist in the 55-64 age group.

Othneil Bailey repeated his 2024 perfromance.

Brighton Playing Field was the venue for quite a number of matches in this year’s National Football Club Championship.

Vincy Heat prepares for qualifiers

COACH EZRA HENDRICKSONexpressed satisfaction with the way his players adopted in their Friendly match against St. Kitts last Tuesday.

Hendrickson, a former national defender, described the team’s performance as a “valuable benchmark.”

The pleasure comes by the fact that the squad comprised of locally based players. Azinho Solomon sent the team ahead in the 8th minute, and go ahead goals from Kirtney Franklyn, and Malcolm Stewart. Gvuane Amory drew level for the home team before the interval.

Vincentians football fans can see their team in action in another friendly Sunday May 25 at the Chile Playing field in the North Central Windward constituency from 3 pm.

That will provide Hendrickson more time to assess his resources for the World Cup qualifiers which begins with the match against Anguilla June 4 at the Arnos Vale Playing Field starting 7 pm.

Prices have been set at $40 for the PH Veira, Frankie Thomas and Mike Findlay pavilions, while those at the Double Decker will pay $30. There is a $20 fee for children.

Hendrickson will assess his team after Sunday’s Chile game so as to provide him with options when the overseas based are available.

The next qualifier will be against Puerto Rico June 10 at 9 pm.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines have El Salvador and Surinam to contend with in their World Cup sojourn. Hendrickson has attracted attention by the way he is transforming the Vincy Heat squad.

The team failed to advance in the Gold Cup venture having been beaten 3: 0 in the return leg against Jamaica. That result, harsh as it is, drew creditable acclaim from critics and pundits. The Vincentians squandered an opportunity to beat Jamaica in the home leg at Arnos Vale in the March 21 encounter.

That game ended one all with Jamaica scoring a penalty with almost the last kick of the match. That followed an Oalex Anderson strike in the 67th minute.

The Jamaica clashes gave the squad some selfbelief, according to Hendrickson. He is projecting on the squad to become more assured as the campaign progresses.

The FIFA World Cup comes off in this hemisphere with games set for Mexico, United of America and Canada. Interest in that showpiece intensifies daily as the qualification process intensifies.

With another potential spot available for the Concacaf zone, teams are eager to fill the additional avenue.

That is perhaps the opening that Hendrickson is thinking about. How can he marshal his forces to acquire that spot will depend of a variety of factors?

There are the huge expectations of his players delivering the goods on the field. That will depend on what transpire off the pitch as well. The task is huge, and entails a national response. Let it not be towards the final stages that the support surfaces.

Everyone knows there will be additional requirements as afar as the players and their personal involvement is concerned. Let the nation rally in around the Vincy Heat squad and give Hendrickson their unstinting solidarity.

Chase is new WI Test captain

BARBADIANall-rounder Roston Chase, 33 years old, is the new captain of the W.I. Test team. He will have fellow Barbadian 32-year-old left arm spinner Jomel Warrican as his vice-captain.

The duo will lead the W.I in the upcoming (June—July) three-test home series against Australia.

The appointments were unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors during its meeting held on May 16, 2025, at Kensington Oval, Barbados.

In a statement, the CWI Board said the announcement “follows the completion of a groundbreaking, robust and structured process to evaluate and recommend the next captain and vicecaptain of the West Indies Test team.”

The Board said that in recognizing the critical role of leadership in shaping team culture, driving performance, and ensuring long-term success, CWI adopted a data-informed, multi-dimensional framework to guide the selection.

“This marks a significant evolution in how leadership appointments are made, aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency, and alignment with modern cricketing standards.,” the statement added.

For his part, President of CWI Inc. Dr. Kishore Shallow commented, “This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken.

“I am deeply impressed by the professionalism, objectivity, and strategic thinking that shaped the final decision. It sets a new benchmark for leadership appointments in West Indies cricket.”

Jomel Warrican made his test debut in 2015 but remerged with outstanding performances on his recall to test cricket in 2025.

The process began with a shortlist of candidates

Roston Chase – the new captain of the W.I. Test team – has not played a Test since March 2023.

selected based on factors including Test experience, leadership qualities, and captaincy credentials. The shortlisted players included: John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, and Jomel Warrican.

Shai Hope, the current ODI and T20I captain, respectfully declined consideration to focus on his existing leadership roles.

The interview panel consisted of Head Coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Chairman of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, Enoch Lewis.

Chase’s appoinyment came after former captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s surprising resignation earlier this year. Chase, a middle-order batsman and off-spinner has played 49 Test matches since making his debut against India in 2016. He has scored 2265 runs at an average of 26.33 and taken 85 wickets at an economy rate of 3.45.

Meanwhile, his deputy, left-arm spinner Warrican, has played 19 Test matches and taken 73 wickets at an economy rate of 3.05.

(Source: westindiescricket.com)

Shai Hope, captain of the W.I. ODI and T20 squads, declined consideration for the post of captain of the Test team.

Archer to miss W.I. ODI series

A

RIGHT THUMB INJURYhas ruled out 30-year-old England quick Jofra Archer from the OneDay International (ODI) series against West Indies starting this month.

This means Archer will sit out the three ODIs between May 29 and June 3, and has been replaced in the squad by

Lancashire left-armer Luke Wood, who was already included in the T20 party.

The paceman has not played a first-class match in four years and made the most recent of his 13 Test appearances in India in February 2021, with England easing him back into the international game through white-ball cricket after a horror run with injuries.

matches across all formats and picked up 137 wickets. He has struggled with injuries throughout his career, including elbow injuries and back issues that sidelined him for long periods.

To date, the Barbados-born Archer has played in 78 international

The W.I. will be spared the pace of Joffre Archer in their ODI series against England.

However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (SCB) is keen for him to form part of the battery of pace bowlers they take to Australia this winter, as they look to win the Ashes overseas for the first time since 2010/11.

“(Archer) will be reassessed by the England medical team over the next fortnight to determine when he may return to action,” the ECB said in a statement.

England’s three-match ODI series against the West Indies is set to begin on May 29th at Edgbaston. (Partial source: Sky Sports)

Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN

Holiday Inn up for sale Opposition to dredging in Canouan

From Backpage

telling the diaspora event that the government “is not really involved in hotel business, but we need to get the room rate up. We need to increase the number of hotel rooms available. And for those who don’t know the history, that’s exactly how Barbados got their number of rooms up.”

He further rationalized the government’s investment saying, “The government had to get involved because you have to show your potential investors that you have confidence in the product, and that’s what we are doing.”

As enticement for his Vincentian audience, Beache sited the locally owned Myah’s Hotel at Diamond which he said was doing so well that the investor planned to expand and go up two more floors. (KH)

From Backpage

The reasons given for choosing Godhal Bay to off-load the 100,000 tons of sand, is that the 15,000 truckloads required to move this large volume of sand, which would otherwise have to be offloaded at the main harbor, will cause too much disruption to daily life in Canouan, and cause air pollution which is not necessarily a problem in that Southern Grenadines island.

Questions abound among the local population, including: If we are to use the same argument, wouldn’t the high paying guests on the resort where they are proposing to off-load the sand, suffer the same discomfort occasioned by the dredging? Are these billionaires and some misguided locals losing it, or is there a

hidden agenda?

The concern expressed on the island resulted in a Town Hall Meeting being convened by Canouan residents on Monday, May 19, 2025.

The sentiments expressed at the meeting was a clear indication that as small as the local/indigenous population of Canouan may be, they were concerned about the development and not merely development at the whim and fancy of some foreign developer.

“Canouan belongs to the people and government of St. Vincent & the Grenadines and not a billionaire”, was the consensus of the meeting — a strong position that flew in the face of an internet story that purported that the island ‘belonged’ to two billionaires.

The people demanded that this erroneous post be pulled down

immediately, unless our political leaders agree with the post. The tourism authorities were also called upon to see that the unfortunate impression of the island was removed.

The Canouan residents were also dissatisfied with the manner in which an Environmental Study and Impact Assessment (ESIA) was conducted, and the fact that the consultant had ‘promised’ to return to discuss the matter with a wider audience, but never did.

Opinion

The risks of dredging the sand from the coastal waters around Canouan are enormous and irreversible. Like Ms. Sandy, I am of the informed opinion that this project should reach no further than the current application stage, and must be

rejected totally despite the fact that an environmental impact assessment was done. No sane consultant can reasonably justify the removal of coastal sand for the passage of a barge to bring sand for a golf course, when our fragile ecosystem is at constant risk from natural hazards.

All power to conscious Vincentians who oppose and reject the study submitted to the Planning Division for approval. We hope the government collected their fair taxes from the study done. We like to talk about transparency, but the only thing transparent in this matter is the uprising of dissatisfaction by Vincentians who have a genuine love for their country and will guard its development and preservation with utmost care.

AI REAL ESTATE

OPPOSITION TO DREDGING

IN CANOUAN

by DONALD DE RIGGS

MANY CONSCIOUSVincentians at home and abroad have joined the road march like chorus “no dredging of sand, for a ‘golf course’, in Canouan”.”

Mrs. Ingrid FoyleSamuel coordinated the Town Hall Meeting.

The chorus, a clear indication of the sentiment of residents and nonresidents alike, was prompted by a public notice in the local newspapers, advertising the intention of a company in Canouan to dredge sand to make a passage in the Godhal Bay, to facilitate a barge to land 100,000 tons of sand for the golf course.

One of the first persons to reject the

Over 80 signatures were affixed to a petition at the Town Hall, objecting to the dredging.

Glen Beache, CEO/SVG Tourism Authority, made a sale pitch on behalf of the hotel, to a Vincentian gathering in Toronto.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESSand Suite at Diamond, St. Vincent and the Grendines is up for sale. Opened in November 2024 and

idea of dredging was Ms. Hazell Anne Sandy, from Canouan, whose letter to the Planning Division was carried on local online news media. The letter outlined in detail reasons why the fragile marine ecosystem, now trying to recover from the damage done by ‘Beryl’ less than a year ago, should NOT be tampered with, and why absolutely NO DREDGING must be undertaken in Canouan for the benefit of the rich and famous.

Continued on Page 27.

HOLIDAY INN UP FOR SALE

owned by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the 92room hotel is said to be running close to 95-98%occupncy and is reported to be fully booked for Vincymas 2025, June 27 to July 08.

Notwithstanding its ‘popularity’, Glen Beache, CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority, confirmed that the hotel, a ten-minute drive from the Argyle International Hotel, was up for sale when he addressed a gathering of Vincentians in Toronto, earlier this month.

“I should say that hotel is also for sale for any of you who are interested,” he told his audience, adding, “I see a lot of money in this room. So I’m happy about it. But that’s for sale. And that’s a hotel that was built by the government.”

In June, 2022, government

The Public Notice that aroused the residents of Canouan to action.

Desmond (left), the Irish billionaire, and developer Andres Pignataro are two of Canaouan most discussed personalities ann some travel writers have purported that they own the island.

The Holiday Inn Express and Suite located in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and which opened in November 2024, is up for sale.

embarked on the construction of the hotel, with input from the National Insurance Services (NIS), with Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves saying when the contract for EC$52

million was signed, that “the state has no interest in becoming a hotelier.” Beache reiterated this position,

Continued on Page 27.

Dermot