THE VINCENTIAN PDF-13-02-26

TAX FREE $1.9B BUDGET

THERE ARE NO NEW TAXES included in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2026 Budget of Revenue and Expenditure amounting to EC$1.9 billion, nearly EC$200 million (2%) increase over last year’s budget.

Dr. Friday assured that the increased budget will be financed through improved revenue collection, concessional loans and grants, alongside the re-establishment of a Fiscal Responsibility Framework aimed at reducing deficits and gradually lowering public debt to the Eastern Caribbean benchmark of 60 percent of GDP by 2035.

The Budget includes recurrent expenditure, including amortisation and sinking fund contributions of EC$1,308,319,855.

Financing for the 2026 budget, according to the Prime Minister, is expected to come from current revenue of $906,875,230 and from capital receipts totalling $978,734,735.

The 2026 recurrent estimates, not including amortisation and sinking fund contributions, amount to EC$1.01 billion.

The capital expenditure is EC$577,209,110.

Measures to enhance and stabilize

As far as measures to enhance revenue, stabilize and grow the economy, Dr. Friday spoke of improving administrative efficiency, and towards this end the government is set to:

*tackle high national debt while emphasizing climate resilience and infrastructure, including specific investments in water security.

*reduce total import concessions by 20 percent which is expected to generate an additional $30.4 million in revenue without abolishing concessions entirely; this entails reducing concession granted by the Cabinet, which

amounted to EC$624.1 million between 2022 and 2025;

*launch a nationwide property registration and revaluation exercise to update the valuation list (unchanged since 2013) and broaden the tax base, “without increasing rates”;

*assess options to reduce the Value Added Tax (VAT), including a potential reduction in the general rate and the removal of VAT from essential goods (such as fresh food and medicine) and domestic electricity, with a target implementation date of October 2026;

*launch a Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI) by the middle of 2026, to mobilise capital without increasing debt;

*strengthen the effectiveness of the Inland Revenue Department and the Customs and Excise Department, to wit,

Continued on Page 3.

AIRPORT WOES TO BE ADDRESSED

by DAYLE DASILVA

IT IS COMMON KNOWLEDGEthat the runway of the Argyle International Airport’s (AIA) is proving to be a recurring problem.

And the New Democratic party government is committed to undertake an exacting solution to the problem.

As per the Budget Address of Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Godwin Friday, delivered in Parliament on Mon. 09, 2026, the AIA

Continued on Page 3.

Below: The recurring problems of holes appearing in the runway of Argyle International Airport have caused the cancellation of flights.

GovÊt announces disarmament strategy

IN WHAT IS A STARK CONTRAST to what obtained previously, St. Clair Leacock, Minister for National Security, moved quickly following another shooting death on the weekend, to bring the High Command of the St. Vincent Police Force (RSVGPF), and key tactical leads from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard Service together, in a three-hour emergency meeting.

According to a release following the

meeting, the core objective was to confront the “grave concern” of violence, and to bridge the widening gap between high-level policy and boots-on-the-ground execution.

The fatal incidents that occasioned Sunday’s emergency meeting were two shooting deaths in a 24-hour window: Mr. Kevin Richards (25), of Montaque, Mesopotamia who was fatally shot on Friday, February 6, 2026; and Mr.

Lenford Peters (43) of Richland Park, who was fatally shot on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

To regain the initiative, Minister Leacock announced an unprecedented state-mandated disarmament and an overhaul of the licensing landscape.

St. Clair Leacock, Minister of Security, has shown clear demonstration of his intention to have the police adjust its mindset in addressing the ongoing crime and violent crime in SVG.

This radical shift moves the nation away from legacy protocols and toward a model of extreme scrutiny, acknowledging that the previous proliferation of high-power weaponry among civilians is no longer tenable under current security conditions.

Minister Leacock detailed an aggressive three-pronged legislative crackdown:

• Audit and Review: An immediate, comprehensive audit of the entire legal framework and historical process governing firearm licenses and permits.

• Rigorous Vetting: The implementation of stringent background checks designed to identify and eliminate risk factors before a permit is even considered.

• Unprecedented Recall: The immediate and mandatory revocation of all civilian licenses for “highpowered rifles,” marking a significant move to strip lethal military-grade capacity from the private sector.

During the emergency meeting, Commissioner Enville Williams was candid regarding the Force’s tactical deficits, identifying critical operational gaps that have hindered the RSVGPF’s effectiveness.

The Commissioner and Minister identified several “make-or-break” requirements:

• Personnel Dynamics: Addressing manpower shortages and high attrition rates that have strained the front lines.

• Officer Welfare: Improvements to working conditions and emoluments (salaries/benefits) to bolster morale and retention.

• Technical Capacity: Enhancing

traffic management systems and acquiring modern operational assets to combat mobile criminal units.

Leacock assured the High Command of “full support,” noting that the 2026 National Budget contains specific initiatives designed to bolster these efforts. This financial mobilization is the prerequisite for a new, aggressive operational phase–one that begins with a final, public ultimatum to those fueling the crisis. The ultimate differentiator in modern crime detection is the strength of “Public-Police Partnerships.” In an era where illegal weapons move through clandestine Diaspora links and local networks, the RSVGPF is banking on citizen cooperation to break the silence that shields criminal elements. The state has made it clear that “turning a blind eye” is no longer a neutral act; it is a direct threat to national safety.

The Force remains resolute in its mandate to investigate, arrest, and prosecute offenders in the interest of public safety and national security. (Source: Ministry of Security)

GovÊt to replace Cuban DMOs

THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, has asked the government to state whether its decision to phase out Cuban District Medical Officers, was done in adherence to the United Sates’ Monroe Doctrine – a U.S. foreign policy dating back to the 19th Century that asserted that country’s supremacy over the Western Hemisphere.

In his 2026 Budget presentation, Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday announced that government had made the decision to hire four local Medical Officers to replace Cuban District Medical Officers.

According to Dr. Friday, this was to address issues related to language barriers and to reduce foreign staffing costs.

The prime minister did say, however, that such individuals would be redeployed elsewhere

Relations between Cuba and SVG are characterised by a common vision and a formidable friendship and made manifest, for example, by the Cuban Medical Brigades that have served and continue to serve in the health system here.

within the medical sector.

But in addressing the issue briefly in his response to the Budget presentation on February 10, the Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, asked the government to state whether its decision to phase out Cuban District Medical Officers, was done in adherence to the United Sates’ Monroe Doctrine — a U.S. foreign policy dating back to the 19th Century that asserted that country’s supremacy over the Western Hemisphere.

“There’s something in here (Budget presentation), it may

Tax Free $1.9b Budget

the full digitisation of tax administration is underway through the implementation of a modern Tax Information Management System (TIMS) under the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project to integrate all major tax types into a single digital platform, to develop the Vincy Single Window for Trade Facilitation (VSWiFT)which will integrate 16 trade related government agencies into a single digital interface.

The 2026 Estimates project current revenue at EC$906.9 million, while the capital programme is set to rise to EC$577.3 million. The increased allocations are expected to support infrastructure development, housing recovery and climate-resilient projects. By comparison, current revenue in 2025 stood at EC$855.6 million and the capital programme was EC$510 m.

Some major sectoral allocations included Education (EC$658.4M), Security (EC$464.9M), and Health (EC$133.4M).

Response to Budget

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in his contribution to the debate on Tuesday, dubbed Budget 2026 a failure for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

He said that the estimates were not carefully planned, and expressed the view that the budget sets the country backward, added that, “The budget, both in its recurrent and capital developmental dimensions, is unimaginative in its strategic thrust.”

He noted that the Budget contained “a worthy continuity” of numerous ULP government’s capital projects.

The EC$1.9 billion fiscal package, Dr. Gonsalves said, contains “a few NDP bits and pieces, but some terrible policy pronouncements, including wanting to go ahead with the selling of passports and citizenship with traffics under the rubric of citizenship by investment”.

He noted that some projects are unclear, particularly in terms of how they will be executed, and called for explanations.

not be ominous, but I have to raise it,” Gonsalves said before proceeding to question the decision to phase out Cuban District Medical Officers.

“Is this a locally driven policy, or driven on the basis of the Monroe Doctrine, the US mandate, we need to know,” the Opposition Leader continued.

There is no doubt that the (medical) partnership between Cuban and SVG has expanded uynder the Dr. Gonslaves led administration.

Recently, however, the US government overtly increased pressure on countries within the region to stop using Cuban medical personnel, citing such programmes as forced labour and human trafficking.

The State Department had gone as far as imposing US Visa restrictions on officials in nations deemed as exploiting Cuban medical workers whose salaries, the US claimed, are

seized by the Cuban Government.

But while some countries have defended their position on the use of Cuban Medical staff, countries like Guatemala and Guyana have announced their intention to terminate their (medical) partnerships with Cuba. (DD)

Airport woes to be addressed

Continued from Frontpage.

is among a number of local airports that is expected to receive upgrades and operational improvements.

Dr. Friday announced that the government intended to spend EC$62 million to address issues at the main AIA, Canouan, JF Mitchell (Bequia) and the Union Island airports.

A sum of EC$14 million is allocated to attend to issues affecting the runway at the AIA.

“It is distressing to note that the runway at AIA has been experiencing surface challenges in some areas for a long time now, and that over the years this problem has required frequent interventions to patch up the damaged sections,” Friday said.

He continued that the issue resulted in flight disruptions and the work required to fix it was delayed and not done under the previous government.

“Given the critical importance of the airport to our economy and personal mobility, it is unfathomable why this was so,” he said.

Towards rectifying the problem and not just applying a ‘band-aid’ to a recurring problem, the government has commissioned consultants who are expected to conduct a technical study of the underlying problems at the runway.

Other Airports

The sum of EC$40 million has

been allocated to do work at the Canouan Airport which, according to Dr. Friday, was not properly maintained over the years and now needed urgent attention.

“Further, it is vital to the further development of tourism, particular in the Southern Grenadines and the many jobs that come from it.”

Work to be undertaken here includes the resurfacing of the runway, the installation of energyefficient lighting and the construction of sea defences.

Work is also scheduled to be done on the facility in Bequia and Union Island amounting to EC$2.4 million.

Friday said that the JF Mitchell Airport in Bequia needed urgent attention, detailing that over the years its terminal building (roof included), parking area, control tower, fire station and runway had fallen into disrepair.

While the apron was resurfaced, the runway was not dealt with and continued to pose a danger to airplanes, resulting in the airport being closed for 14 days to allow for the re-sealing of the runway.

The Union Island Airport was severely damaged during the passage of Hurricane Beryl and while he recognized that some work was done, Dr. Friday said that there was still much more

Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday made an inspection of problem areas of the AIA runway very early on taking office.

to be done.

“The rehabilitative works to restore the Union Island airport to full operational capacity will be completed this year,” Friday said.

According to Dr. Friday, a $130 million loan was secured from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) by the previous government, and it was the intent of the present administration to proceed with the designated use of these funds.

‘Remove Lovelace from death row’

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

KAY BACCHUS-BAPTISTE, lawyer representing convicted murderer Patrick Lovelace, is calling for his removal from death row. She made the call while speaking to THE VINCENTAN on Wednesday.

Lovelace, a former long distance runner from Belmont, now 55, has been on death row for 21 years, two months. To date, he is the only inmate on death row, and up to press time (Thursday), his lawyers were still seeking a resolution to the case.

Two trials = same verdict

Lovelace was first convicted on December 20, 2004, and sentenced to death for the murder of 12-year-old pannist Lokiesha Nanton of Sion Hill, who was found hanging from a mango tree in the area of London Road, Sion Hill, on July 1, 2002. Lovelace was convicted again in 2009, and sentenced to death in 2010, following a retrial ordered by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. He unsuccessfully appealed his murder conviction in 2012, but his lawyer then, Shiraz Aziz, from the Law Firm Fredericks Attorneys, did not appeal the death sentence, resulting in that sentence still standing to date.

Application for extension

On January 24, 2014, attorney Kay BacchusBaptiste, who was subsequently retained in conjunction with the British Law Firm, Simons Muirhead Burton, filed an application before the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, for an extension of time to appeal Lovelace’s sentence. The application was denied on the basis that it

(Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal) r did not have jurisdiction to grant an extension in cases of death penalty.

Lovelace’s lawyers appealed that order to the Privy Council, and in 2017, the Council found that the law denying death row inmates the right to be granted an extension of time to have their cases reviewed by a higher court, to be unconstitutional.

The matter was then remitted to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal to make the determination on the issue.

Delays since extension received

Bacchus-Baptiste told THE VINCENTIAN that the extension was granted, but there have been several adjournments of the matter, primarily due to the failure of the Crown to produce the psychiatric report.

The matter is expected to come up again for hearing at the sitting of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, on May 4, 2026.

“This is the longest appeal I have ever known, and we are still seeking a resolution,”

Bacchus-Baptiste said, and described the situation as a “travesty of justice.

“He (Lovelace) should no longer be on death row, and if he is, I am calling for his removal,” the lawyer added.

“Clearly, his sentence of death cannot be carried out because he has been on death row for over five years, which is the benchmark set in law, in the case of Pratt and Morgan,” she pointed out, adding that “His lawyers have been fighting for him tooth and nail, or he would have been executed already.”

12 years for killing ex-lover

ELDON CHARLES, the man who stabbed his former lover, Altavea ‘Tavea’ Billingy, to death in Kingstown, in the presence of Billingy’s sixyear-old son, three years ago, has received his sentence for the offence.

The 40-year-old Cedars man was recently sentenced to 12 years in prison for manslaughter, in connection with the incident, but the two years, 11 months and 17 days he spent on remand, were taken into consideration.

Justice Rickie Burnett handed down the penalty

at the High Court Criminal Assizes.

Charles, who is the father of a 16-year-old daughter, was originally indicted for murder, but on October 30, 2025, he entered a guilty plea to manslaughter, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

A case of stalking

The facts showed that Charles and Billingy were previously in a relationship, but had separated prior to the incident, which had occurred on February 4, 2023, and the police were called to accompany Billingy to peacefully remove her belongings from Charles’ home.

On February 4, 2023, Billingy was at the Canash/Blue Lagoon beach with her friends, including Tamisha Allen and Syven Richards.

Charles was also at the beach drinking Fireball and Guinness. He interacted with Allen and Billingy and later joined them.

He told Allen, in Billingy’s presence, that he missed Billingy and wanted the relationship to resume, but Billingy made it clear that she did not wish to reconcile with Charles.

Later that day, Billingy, her friend Syven Richards and her six-year-old son Joshua, travelled back to Kingstown by bus. Charles also entered the same bus.

On disembarking at

Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, lawyer for Lovelace, contends that her client should be removed for death row since he will never be executed.

Continued on Page 23.

the Windward Bus Terminal, Kingstown, the group proceeded to Yankee’s Establishment on Higginson Street. As they passed Coreas Car Park on Bay Street, they noticed Charles standing under the covered sidewalk provided by Veejay’s Restaurant. Richards expressed concern to Billingy, stating that she did not want anyone following them.

The group stopped at Yankee’s to purchase food. While there, Richards again observed Charles in the area, walking along the sidewalk outside the Platinum Divas boutique. Joshua remained outside Yankee’s while Richards went inside.

The deadly struggle

Charles crossed the road; Billingy followed, confronted Charles and cuffed him. An argument and physical struggle ensued, during which Charles pulled a knife.

Billingy held on to the knife as they struggled, during which she sustained a stab wound to her abdomen. This led to her death. Joshua witnessed the incident.

Charles was transported to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital by Police, and was pronounced dead at about 11:30 p.m. on February 4, 2023.

An autopsy identified a 1.5cm stab wound, caused by a sharp instrument inflicted with

Eldon Charles will serve, in effect, 9 years and 14 days of a 12year sentence for manslaughter.

moderate force that penetrated internal organs, and caused fatal internal hemorrhage, which surgical pathologist, Dr. Ronald Child certified as the cause of death. In an electronic caution interview, Charles admitted ownership of a switchblade knife and confirmed that it was the knife used during the incident.

The Court used a starting point of 18 years, with a range of 10-24 years. However, weighing the aggravating and mitigating factors, and doing the calculations, in addition to granting the one third discount for the guilty plea, that sentence was reduced to 12 years. The Court also deducted the two years, 11 months and 17 days Charles spent on remand, resulting in him having to serve nine years and 14 days from the date of sentencing. Crown Counsel Renee Simmons appeared for the Crown while attorney Grant Connell represented the accused.

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Editorial

SVG’s 2026 National Budget: Some thoughts

THE 2026 ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES NATIONAL BUDGET,as presented by Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Godwin Friday in the House of Assembly, Monday 9th February, was framed in keeping with the theme ‘From Rescue to Resilience – Building One Nation Together’.

Dr. Friday, as the theme suggests, spent much of his presentation referencing the situation inherited from the previous administration, using that as the basis for responding with a rescue mission to describe his government’s plans, even as his government looks to prioritise the needs and well-being of the population in current fiscal policies.

At the same time, he could be heard, albeit subtly, to emphasise the importance of formulating a budget that considers the interests and prosperity of future generations.

It appears that his presentation, his perspective, highlights the need to balance immediate social and economic needs with long-term fiscal responsibility and sustainability, even , as he reminds us, that his government is sorting through the challenges of working in a situation of an uncomfortable national debt, which bears down on the capacity of the economy to respond without default while ensuring that economic and social programmes reach the people in meaningful ways.

And while he seems to describe, not in telling real terms, about his government’s proposals to stimulate job creation and foster new opportunities in an economy already biased to a serviceoriented one, he did, however, recognize that all sectors of the economy, including a depleting agriculture sector, remain critical to St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ ongoing development and prosperity. Of worthy mention is the commitment to provide resources “to ensure our small farmers received the support needed to meet international export standards”.

The focus, all taken, should be on constructing new urban and feeder roads, investing in the alternate energy sector, improving essential public services such as childcare and healthcare, and significantly increasing the allocation of resources to public education at all levels and to the development of workers’ skills.

Is this the case as described in the 2026 Budget?

Now is the moment to initiate substantial medium- and long-term public investments to stimulate investments in public services and

Loyalty should not equate to dependency

energy efficiency. This is not a time to labour on the past.

These investments have the potential to create more jobs than increased consumer spending, while also supporting the country’s environmental goals (not clear), community development, and social justice objectives.

This strategy not only addresses immediate employment needs but also aligns with the broader aim of fostering inclusive and sustainable development.

Is this the case as described in the 2026 Budget?

A period of growth driven by public investment is required to revitalise the entire economy. Public infrastructure and services play a crucial role in enhancing the productivity and increasing the confidence of the private sector; public-sector investment, as the government and the Budget recognise, enables and facilitates further privatesector investment. This symbiotic relationship is vital for sustained economic progress and expansion of the economy (small business.)

Adopting a growth strategy centred on public investment may offer the most advantageous pathway for establishing St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ modern economy.

Given current constraints on global demand, this approach is likely to provide a stronger foundation for sustained growth than traditional export-orientated strategies, though this must not be downplayed.

Adopting a growth strategy centred on public investment also offers a more effective way to create opportunities for the majority of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the short to medium term, helping to address employment challenges and promote economic inclusion.

And on the question of leadership: Embarking on a journey toward transformational leadership can profoundly impact the nation’s life. This leadership is distinguished by its focus not only on conventional economic growth metrics but also on the deeper values and aspirations at the heart of Vincentian society.

At the core of this focus/vision lies morality — recognizing what is right and wrong.

By embracing moral leadership and purposeful action, St. Vincent and the Grenadines can build a future that is both prosperous and principled. The Budget must lead in this regard. Does it?

JUST AS A FREE MEALexcites our taste buds, in politics, benefits funded by others, or those that appear to cost the individual nothing, can seem more appealing or “taste better” to voters, before the overall economic impact is considered.

In SVG, the question of “who you know” still takes precedence over “what you build.” The public arena is bursting with passionate political supporters who cheer for their party, much like football fans roar for their team. We avoid honest policy discussions and instead show unconditional loyalty. We don’t chase results; we crave recognition. We don’t measure progress; we measure proximity to power.

Like any free meal, it can feel satisfying in the moment. If your rent is covered, your job is secured, your contract is renewed, your cousin is placed in a good position, and our friend is rehired. It stands to reason that the food tastes better. The exchange isn’t just about money; it’s also about security, belonging, and survival. However, over time, the price is paid in a different form – loss of self-respect.

The most dangerous aspect of dependency is that it does not arrive as a storm; instead, it presents itself as a convenience. It resembles “help,” which sounds like “care,” and eventually becomes a tradition, an expectation. A culture emerges in which many citizens view the state more as a benefactor than as a service provider.

When your livelihood is tied to a political outcome, politics shifts from civic participation to personal warfare. Criticism is labeled as “hate,” accountability is seen as “betrayal,” and corruption is dismissed with comments like, “they all do it.” Any attempt at reform is perceived as an attack on someone’s livelihood. Any request for transparency is met with a reminder that we did not hold the other party to the same standard. And while that may be true in most cases, not everyone falls into that category, and no one should be silenced out of fear.

Here is an uncomfortable truth: we cannot build a modern, productive SVG with a population that has been trained to wait for permission, placement, or payouts.

If we have learnt nothing over the last twenty-five years, no, forty-six years, we should understand that complacency breeds dependency. When the system rewards loyalty over excellence, people adapt to this environment, leading to a decline in

self-esteem.

I remember when my dad was fired after twenty-something years at one establishment, I was devastated. He decided to open his own bakery. I was scared. So, you see, I lived entrepreneurship before it was a buzzword. It meant hard work, long hours, and, on some days, not playing my favorite game after school. Today, some view entrepreneurship as secondary, productivity as optional, and innovation as the exception. Being your own boss does not mean taking breaks whenever you want; it means taking responsibility for your customers.

We live in a society where the public service is a benefits program rather than a performance contract, and politics is theater rather than governance. These are just a few of the things that cause us, as a nation, to drift off course, not because we, the people, lack the skills necessary for national development, but because the incentives are misaligned. It involves implementing performance management in public service to ensure accountability rather than offering permanent comfort. Education must focus on skills, trades, and entrepreneurship, not just on obtaining credentials. We need financing systems that support people in production, tools for small businesses, apprenticeships, export readiness, and modern digital work, rather than only providing relief.

The next era for SVG will not be built by those who cheer the loudest at rallies but by individuals who can ship, fix, code, weld, design, manage, farm, audit, lead, and execute consistently, regardless of which party is in power. Everything tastes better when someone else is paying the bill. However, no nation can achieve greatness through handouts and favoritism. If we desire an SVG marked by productivity and progress, we must embrace a fundamental principle: pay your own bills, create your own opportunities, and stop equating political favors with actual national development.

Remember, there is no better feeling than a feeling of satisfaction knowing that you did it for yourself, even if someone helped you. Knowing that you can do it again is a great feeling.

Horatio.

Combating combative politics

GENERAL ELECTIONS are more combative than they are competitive. And while I accept that this is so wherever elections are held, I believe it is “worst” in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

In 1998, unfortunately, a certain ‘guy’ entered our parliament and brought tribalism into our politics. This is now deep-rooted.

I wonder if the following were implemented, if it would reduce the combative attitude of the leaders and their supporters:

* There shall be a state-owned building that houses the office of the Opposition Leader. The office should have a staff of at least three, paid by the Treasury.

* The Opposition

Leader shall live in a state-owned house and accorded security and a vehicle to take him/her to parliament, his/her office and state functions.

* Salaries, meals, etc., at the residence will be of the responsibility of the Opposition Leader. Maintenance of the house will be the responsibility of the state.

* Party colours shall be eliminated. Radio talk shows hosted by political parties shall cease.

If the suggestions are given a “chance” they will narrow the gap between the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader and by extension, the division among the people.

Observer

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* ARE THE MINISTRY OF HEALTHand the Labour Department aware that there are cashiers in business places (in Kingstown especially) who stand for their entire shifts?

* And while they are at it, could the Ministry of Health and the Labour Department investigate the report that the females employed at a financial institution here are mandated to wear only high heel shoes to work?

* Could somebody say what negative effect(s) the ‘dung’ from chemical-fed animals has on plants fertilized by it?

* Does the Opposition leader believe that he will be Prime Minister down the road?

* When will the authorities do something to either terminate or reduce the $25.00 bank charge on deposits?

* Is there a law that can be used to prosecute civil servants who leak information to the opposition?

* How many vehicles are registered/licensed as “G” vehicles? And how many vehicles entered duty free during the election campaign?

„Entitleitis‰

THIS DISEASE should fall within the mental health spectrum. It is one that has reached epidemic proportions in our country. It is often manifested in high officials and can also be observed in faithful followers and children. Entitleitis is an unfounded inherent belief that one deserves special treatment,  favors and privileges. It is contagious and may affect the attitude of people who associate with those who suffer from the disease.

Some patients may claim that they are not subject to rules, regulations, and laws that govern everyone else. With such an attitude, they may commit crimes and expect to be exonerated. Their desire is to evade and avoid making their fair contribution. They thrive on spying and reporting on others in the hopes of gaining special favors. They say that to get ahead, it is not what you know but who you know. Nepotism, cronyism, and favoritism are their hallmarks. When they make trouble, their release is only a phone

New Slave Master

Isn’t it rather STRANGE that the NATIONS that are trying to RECOLONIZE us via ECONOMIC WARFARE, are the ONES we LOVE and TRUST.”

We BIG them up! We have been SOOO ACULTURATED AND BRAINWASHED and MIS-EDUCATED that we love the slave master with his NEW clothes and tools. Those tools used for RECOLONISING US are: the IMF, WORLD BANK, UN, USAID, OAS, and a HOST OF OTHERS. Sadly, our MISEDUCATION only allows us to see these as HELP TOOLS..

Paddy

call away. The police are impeded from doing their work as people higher up the ladder give the instruction to “lay off.” They frustrate the professionals and show respect for neither God nor man as they break every code to satisfy their immoral cravings.

The good news about this condition is that it can be self-diagnosed. While professionals have their roles and chronic cases may command their attention, for the most part, ordinary citizens can assess themselves.

Is the prime minister entitled to 2 homes, a fleet of cars, out riders, security, 1st class travel, pension, social security, and gratuity?

Is the leader of the King’s loyal opposition entitled to controlling the narrative and direction of the parliament and government?

Are lawyers,

doctors, fishermen, farme rs and businesspeople en titled to exemption from income tax?

Are runaway girls exempted from responsibility for their deviant behavior?

Are children exempted from chores at home, school, and community?

Are van conductors and drivers entitled to play loud, obnoxious, vulgar, demonizing music that aggravate passengers?

Are workers entitled to arrive late and leave early?

Are refugees of volcanoes and hurricanes entitled to indefinite free housing and food?

Are students in outlying areas entitled to quality education that allows them success in English A, Math, Biology,Chemistry, Physica and a skill?

Are consumers entitled to have a choice of sugar-free drinks, food, and bread?

Are farmers entitled to planting their crops confident that they would not be ravished by cows, pigs, sheep, goats, dogs, and thieves?

Often the question is asked, “What am I entitled to?” but should instead be asking, “What can I contribute?” Do we have the cure for “entitleitis” within us?

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

Purpose and Direction: Navigating Life with Clarity and Intention

“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” – John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) – 35th President of the United States of America.

THE MOST ACCOMPLISHEDamong us are individuals who set goals and pursued them with passion. Outstanding athletes, students, business professionals, and politicians can testify to this truth. While it is commendable to generate a lot of activity in seeking to meet goals and objectives, these may seem illusive and futile if not accompanied by purpose and direction.

In an increasingly fast-paced and complex world, the notions of purpose and direction stand as anchors that ignite the passion needed for individuals to accomplish great feats and meaningful living. While purpose and direction are often used interchangeably, these two interconnected concepts are quite distinct. Purpose is the “why” - the deeper reason behind our thoughts, actions, and choices. Direction, on the other hand, is the “how” - the path that we choose in pursuit of the purpose.

Simon Sinek (born 1973), the motivational speaker and leadership coach, reminds us that in pursuing our goals it is of paramount importance to know why we are chasing something. He sees this as more important than knowing what we are doing or how we plan to pursue the task. He concludes that the why is our purpose or belief — the deeper reason that motivates us. He further notes that, “When goals are rooted in a strong why, you’re more motivated, more resilient when things get hard, and more likely to inspire others. Without a clear why, goals tend to feel hollow, and it’s easier to lose direction or to give up.”

The student who desires to secure outstanding grades must identify the purpose (the “Why”) for doing so. For example, the student may be in a household that is led and maintained by a single mother whose sacrifices ignite the student’s desire to make her mother proud and position her (the student) to secure a lucrative job on graduation with the intention of contributing to the home. Such scenarios provide a strong ‘why’ to excel.

Purpose is the driving force that gives our lives meaning. It is the intrinsic motivation that fuels passion, perseverance, and resilience. Many athletes can testify to the mental toughness that such an approach provides that would enable them to perform at their best even when challenged by sickness or strained muscles. Vincentian George Phillips (1928-1996) readily comes to mind. This outstanding athlete, scholar, community leader, and social activist was known to compete in a sports event as a student in Ontario, Canada, while nursing a broken bone. “Black Magic”, as he was fondly called, pursued excellence even at the neglect of his personal well-being. He was driven by purpose. However, purpose is not limited to academic or athletic pursuits; it does not have to be grand or world changing. It can be as simple as caring for a loved one, committed to a noble cause, pursuing a course of study, and so on. What matters is that it resonates personally and offers a sense of gratification. Such feelings are priceless. Having a clear sense of purpose provides

valuable psychological and emotional benefits; we feel good about ourselves when we achieve our noble dreams. Research has shown that people with a defined purpose experience a greater sense of well-being, better health outcomes, and even longer lifespans.

The accomplished author, motivational speaker, and pastor, Rick Warren (born 1954), identifies the benefits of such a disciplined approach to pursuing dreams in his best-selling book, “The Purpose Driven Life”. He notes that life’s purpose is found in God, not in self. At its core, the book teaches that understanding why we were created gives direction to how we should live. Direction, on the other hand, refers to the course of action we take in pursuit of our purpose. Direction involves planning, preparation, discipline, and adaptability; the roadmap that we use in order to get to the destination of our goals. While purpose is more abstract and internal, direction is concrete and external. The combination of purpose and direction, however, is critical if we are to achieve the success that we desire. Having direction without a clear purpose can lead to burnout or a feeling of emptiness despite perceived outward success. The alignment of our purpose and direction must therefore be viewed with paramount importance.

The feeling of true fulfillment will be evident when there is coalition of purpose and direction. Rick Warren reminds us that knowing our purpose will aid in the prioritization of decisions and the avoidance of distractions. This coincides with the views shared by Dr. John DeMartini (born 1954), founder of the DeMartini Institute, who advocates that the alignment of values, purpose, and action provides the key to fulfillment. He notes that this requires self-awareness, reflection, and sometimes recalibration noting that life circumstances change, and there may be a need to readjust plans.

Discovering one’s purpose is often a journey, not a single moment of disclosure. It is influenced by the articles and books we read, the videos we watch, the people we interact with and so on. Such interactions assist in sharpening our focus and the intensification of our sense of discernment. In the same vein, direction may shift multiple times throughout our lives as circumstances redirect our focus. Rooted in core values, we can maintain a meaningful course as we understand and appreciate this fluidity.

Purpose and direction are critical pillars of a life well-lived. They energize individuals to live intentionally, make thoughtful decisions, and contribute meaningfully to their environs. Whether in relationships, career, or personal growth, aligning purpose with direction can create and maintain a focus on excellence. Challenged by a variety of distractions and detours, a focus on purpose and direction provides momentum along the path to success.

comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

Ungratefulness if worse than Witchcraft

THE WORLD OWES CUBAa massive debt of gratitude. However, it is failing the Cuban people big time. No other country and its people in the last 100 years have done more for humanity than that proud Caribbean jewel, which sits 90 miles south of the cruellest empire in world history.

The Cuban people are being starved to death and subjected to submission by the United States and Europe, and the entire world cowers in fear as Washington blocks all fuel from entering the country. It is an American strategy that began with plots and assassination attempts against Fidel Castro and other Cuban leaders, the failed Bay of Pigs invasion of 1961 and the strangulation, embargo and blockage of essential goods, food and medicine that continues nonstop for 65 years.

That revolutionary Cuba has survived this veritable war on its independence and sovereignty is a tribute to the strength of purpose, dignity, unity, nationalism, and political and ideological consciousness of its people. But American imperialism is unforgiving and unrelenting. How dare the Cuban leadership defy the mighty America?

With the unlawful kidnapping of President Maduro of Venezuela and the dictates to leaders in Caracas, Mexico, Jamaica and other states that they can’t sell gas and fuel to Havana, the American regime is betting that this time around, Cuba will not only be on the ropes. The hope is that the economy will grind to a halt, factories, hospitals, and other essential institutions that sustain modern civilised society will collapse, and the Cuban revolution will finally be subdued and defeated.

Over the last 50 years, whenever the world called, Cuba answered. In 1975, when racist South African soldiers, supported by Europe and the United States invaded Angola to thwart its move to national independence, the indomitable Fidel Castro, responding to the request of the fledgling government in Angola, sent tens of thousands of Cuban soldiers to defend, protect and beat back the apartheid butchers. The legendary Nelson Mandela credited the heroic Cuban effort, sealed in blood, with paving the way for the end of apartheid, his release from prison and the attendant freedom and democracy enjoyed by Black South Africans.

Between 2014 and 2016, when the deadly Ebola disease outbreak in West Africa spread fear and death across the landscape, Cuban doctors, whom the regime in Washington slanderously claims are humans trafficked by the Cuban government, bravely went to Africa to treat, assist and save lives.

During the Covid plandemic from 2020 to 2023, when the world was shut down in a massive experiment of thought control and human behaviour, little Cuba developed 3 vaccines which it shared with people in the Global South, sent hundreds of doctors to industrialised Italy and other distressed corners of the earth to soothe hearts and save lives.

For us in the Caribbean, Cuban assistance has been crucial in creating an all-important professional class. Thousands of people from Jamaica in the north to Guyana and Suriname in the south owe their training and professional careers to the selfless assistance of Cuba’s revolutionary government. Many of our doctors, engineers, economists, architects, and dentists owe their training and education to Cuba. Across Africa, Asia and Latin America, the story is the same.

No other country in modern history has been so generous in offering from its modest resources to the rest of the world. Yet the world stands askance as

the Trump regime escalates its murderous regime change policies against Cuba. Where is the conscience of the world? How could this inhumanity, aggression and assault against international law, the United Nations charter and universally recognised civilised norms be allowed to continue in the third decade of the 21st century?

Why are we so shamelessly abandoning our sovereignty? How is it possible that we can agree to the dictates of the hegemon to the north to take refugees from its shores, but specify that under no conditions would we take our kit and kin from Haiti?

How does St Lucia benefit when PM Philip Pierre stands before professionals in Castries and declares that geo-political dictates demand that St Lucia’s young people can no longer study in Cuba?

It is sadly nauseating to witness a Cuban vessel leaving a Jamaican port empty because the Jamaican authorities refused to facilitate the sale of liquified petroleum gas (LPG). PM Holness needs his head examined. Cuba has offered so much to its Jamaican neighbour, less than 150 miles across the sea.

And as if all of this bad news is not depressing enough, PM Dr Godwin Friday announced during his budget address on Monday plans to phase out the use of Cuban medical specialists in 3 years.

Dr Friday cited two primary reasons for the policy shift: a language barrier, which he says is often faced by patients and staff, and the need to reduce foreign staffing costs associated with maintaining international medical teams. The government said its initiative was part of a wider health strategy focused on moving from dependence to capability and ensuring that local professionals staff the health system.

One day after Dr Friday’s announcement, Guyana disclosed that it had ended its bilateral medical cooperation agreement with Cuba, saying the agreement was no longer necessary because Cuban doctors are now coming to Guyana independently to seek employment.

Both countries offered contrasting reasons, but the decisions reek of American pressures and the regional governments’ abandonment of their sovereign rights.

While the language barrier is a real problem, developing countries such as ours must avoid cutting off our noses to spite our faces. As of February 10, 2026, Cuban specialists fill the void in orthopaedics, anesthesiology, endocrinology, internal medicine, pathology, oncology, Cardiology, biomedical engineering, nutrition, and engineering.

Three years is an exceedingly short time within which to train and find replacements for these Cuban medical professionals. It takes 4 to 5 years to earn a BA in any of these areas. Moreover, most locals in the medical field choose to remain general practitioners rather than pursue further specialised training. Our government’s policy pronouncement seems overly optimistic and driven by alien pressures and concerns that could seriously damage our medical infrastructure. For starters, who is going to run the diagnostic centre at Georgetown?

The world has changed and is changing for the worse. We risk the chance of becoming vassals to a president who derisively labelled us ‘shit hole countries.’

Who is really advising the Minister of the Public Service

I HAVE NEVER FELT AS EMBARRASSED and disappointed as I have just been reading the IWNs article (19th January, 2026) which quoted the Minister of the Public Service, the Hon. St. Clair Leacock as saying, “Most Public Servants trying to frustrate the Government will fall in line”. Since I could not make sense of what I read, I just shook my head and wondered aloud: Who is really advising Minister Leacock on the operations and administration of the Public Service - the most important public agency in this country, particularly when there has been a change in government?

Is he aware of the scope of the deterioration that was inflicted upon the SVG Public Service, during the twenty-five years of mayhem and lawlessness under Gonsalves’ ULP Government and, the implication that would have erroneously led Leacock to conclude that “most public servants trying to frustrate the NDP Government will fall in line”?

In my opinion, Leacock’s utterances are on target in that he himself has analysed

correctly the natural resistance by the ULP Public Servants to a change in government after twenty-five years of one-party rule. However, his conclusions and follow up actions are way off the chart, and demonstrate a fundamental lack of understanding of the role of politics among public servants in a politically charged red versus yellow environment.

So, let’s examine the implications of some of the key statements made by Minister Leacock. The title of the IWNs Article states:

* “Most Public Servants trying to frustrate the Government will fall in line”.

Let us be very clear on this, those public servants (and there are hundreds of them) who Leacock claims are trying to frustrate the new NDP Government are not NDP Public Servants, but rather they are ULP diehards and fanatics. Why would any NDP public servant supporters frustrate their own government having waited for twenty-five years for this change? It makes absolutely no sense. So, Minister Leacock, please understand something: Every Permanent Secretary, Head of Department and other senior officials you have met when you came into office was and still is a ULP supporter and that’s not going to change overnight.

* “When an administration has been in office for as long as twenty-five years, one of the things that happens is that the culture of the country changes; …. it takes time to change the culture.”

So, what is the new government to do in the meantime, i.e. while waiting for those ULP public servants in the various Ministries and Departments to fall in line even as the government’s new policy agenda is frustrated and lies in limbo? Don’t they realise that in all of the Ministries and Departments there are many equally qualified NDP supporters who have been overlooked by the ULP government. These NDP public servants are anxiously waiting for the opportunity to provide additional information and supporting data, and a balanced assessment of the operations of those ministries/departments, so that you can make informed policy decision.

These NDP Public Servants may not carry any title of senior officials but would never set out to frustrate the agenda of their party in government, and therefore, there won’t be the need for any of them to fall in line.

Leacock’s analysis seems to suggest that he is more interested in soothing the bruised egos of those ULP public servants however long that takes, rather than equally trying to correct the many wrongs committed by the former ULP Administration against the NDP public servants.

* He has expressed confidence that those same ULP public servants in senior positions and who have not yet gotten over the general election whopper will somehow act rationally and perform their duties as professionals. Humans are considered rational beings only to the extent of what they possess - cognitive ability and capacity to engage in critical thinking, together with the ability to set goals and meet targets as appropriately trained professionals in their own fields. Do these ULP public servants have the relevant academic training, expertise, work experience and the relevant mix of hard and soft skills to operate as professionals? Why would someone who calls himself or herself a professional try to frustrate the new government - its policies, ministers and officialssimply because it is not their party in office? If they do, then it means that they were never professionals in the first place, because they lacked the competence and capacity to carry out any functions as such.

This opinion piece continues next week God’s willing, in which I shall address the implications of politics among public servants. The difference between the two administrations is that Ralph Gonsalves came into office with a plan, having done his homework to make sure that all positions in the public service remain in ULP hands after twenty-five years of ULP rule.

PS: Is the NDP still carrying out the forensic audit as was pronounced before the last general election?

CBI programme by mid-year

AS PROMISED,the New Democratic Party government will launch a Citizenship by Investment Programme by the middle of this year.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr. Godwin Friday said during the 2026 Budget presentation that the economic vulnerabilities, particularly the high and recurring costs of climate resilience, coupled with the fiscal risks of relying solely on traditional debt, demanded a strategic and non-traditional approach to capital mobilisation.

“It is in this context that I announce Government’s firm intention to launch a Citizenship by Investment Programme,” Dr. Friday told Parliament.

“Let me be clear from the outset: this will not be a revenue-at-all-costs programme. It will be a sovereign capital mobilisation strategy, designed to strengthen national resilience, reduce debt dependence and finance long-term development, and it will be built on a foundation of uncompromising integrity,” the Prime Minister emphasised.

No to CBI

But Leader of the Opposition Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, as he has done all along, expressed strong opposition to the implementation of such a

programme, saying that he objected to it because of its security considerations, it’s unsustainability, recklessness and its threat in undermining democracy.

“My arguments on those are well known, but in every single CBI country, as far as I know, foreign currency coming in from CBI is being reduced, the external account is getting weaker,” Gonsalves said.

He cited the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrence Drew as saying that the receipts from that country’s CBI programme had fallen by 43 percent between 2020 and 2025.

The CBI programme is sold as an investment in alternative citizenship options which provides immediate benefits and long-term value, offering greater flexibility, asset diversification, and reduced exposure to economic volatility. (Photo of English Harbour,

He referenced the inherent risk for source countries of Europe, North America, the United Kingdom.

Further he said the consequence for the Currency Union was if the money fell, the extent of the external account will also get worse.

“What are you going to withdraw some EC dollars from circulation so you can keep the one to one with the limited foreign exchange you got or with the limited foreign exchange?”

The only thing for the CBI according to Gonsalves was for the

countries already selling passports to get together and acknowledge that the end is nigh.

As it stands, OECS countries which operate CBI programmes are Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. (DD)

Individuals getting government money

MINISTER OF TRANSPORT, Infrastructure, and Physical Planning Nigel Stephenson wants answers to questions that are worrying him.

He thinks that the former Unity Labour Party government deliberately allowed government buildings to rot so that contracts could be given out and in the process, private individuals attached to the then ULP were paid by the contractors.

Stephenson made the remark during his presentation to the 2026 Budget debate.

The Minister, parliamentary representative for South Leeward, accused the ULP of “inverting the Robin Hood principle in that they “stole from the poor and handed to the rich.”

And while he characterized the ULP approach as an act of “madness,” he noted that there was a method to the madness. That he claimed was “a way of getting back some of the resources of the country.”

The Minister, stressed that the State must find money to repair the buildings.

“The government neglected the buildings and perhaps there was a way to get a return,” Stephenson mused.

Stephenson alluded to a remark by Health Minister Daniel Cummings as to run down toilet facilitates in his (Cummings) office.

For Stephenson, the deterioration of the buildings and infrastructure was a reflection of an administration “that really didn’t care,” which the people recognized and at the polls said that they “were fed up of the ULP and

Nigel Stephenson, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure, and Physical Planning will not tolerate unnecessary delays in the delivery of real need projects.

their neglect.”

The Minister announced $115.5 m for infrastructural development.

Stephenson pointed to action in the North Windward constituency towards the completion of the Sandy Bay Sea Defense Project.

That venture overseen by the National Disaster Management will be complete by April. He disclosed that he had spoken to contractors and that the facility will be enhanced since that zone is set to become a place of attraction.

In short, Stephenson laid down that he has no tolerance for delay, which he deems as “an expense.” (WKA)

Additions to International Garifuna Conference, 2026

THE PROGRAMMEof the 13th International Garifuna Conference 2026 will include two new activities.

To this end, when the Conference gets going on March 11 there will be a dramatized reenactment of the exile of the Garínagu (Garifuna) from St. Vincent and the Grenadines (Youremien) to Balliceaux and eventually to Roatan, Honduras; and as well as a Bush Tea Festival.

The two new activities will run concurrently with the Festival, March

11 to 13, 2026.

Team Leader of the 1797 Reenactment of Expulsion, Marlon Joseph, at the Media Launch of The Garifuna Heritage Foundation Conference, last Tuesday, February 10, at the University of the West Indies Global Campus Conference Room, detailed and outlined the thinking behind the reenactment.

The reenactment

Set to take place at the UWI Global Campus, Joseph announced: “We are going to have a dramatic memorization of the 1797 exile. We are going to have a reenactment of the Garifuna’s initial exile from St. Vincent to Balliceaux and then ultimately the 1797 exile to Roatan, Honduras. It is going to be a prelude to the opening of the thirteenth Garifuna International Conference”.

In forcefully reiterating that it is a story that must be told, Joseph noted that it holds significant facts.

“It is also about education, building public awareness, bringing attention, ensuring that there is no erosion to this critical episode in our Vincentian history. It is about reckoning with history, reckoning with one of the most painful episodes of Vincentian history; when we talk about history, we are talking about telling uncomfortable truths, we are talking about confronting and facing historical wrongs, historical injustices”, Joseph disclosed.

He said that the reenactment is twinned with the history and the exposition of the creative industries here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Exhibition

Meanwhile, Donna Mc Lean, Team Leader of the Bush Tea Exhibition, gave an insight into the event, carded for the grounds of the National Public Library.

“At our exhibition, you will be given an opportunity to sample or taste some of the teas, at specific times. The National Public Library thinks that this is valuable information that you should share, and we are looking forward to the general public to come and partake in this exhibition”, Mc Lean implored.

Other speakers, etc.

Remarks were also given by David Williams, President of the Garifuna Heritage Foundation, Dr Resa Noel Mc Barnett, Head of Site- UWI Global Campus SVG, along with Nashakie Samuel, representing the Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, Innovation, Digital Transformation and Information, as well as Claydonna Peters, Team Leader of the National Schools’ Garifuna Folk Festival.

The list of speakers was completed by Ackley Olton, Team Leader of the Indigenous Film Showcase; Maxwell Charles of the Garifuna Diaspora Visit and Zoila Ellis-Browne, Team Leader

of the International Garifuna Conference.

The media launch was interspersed by cultural items from students of the CW Prescod Primary School and the Fancy Government School.

The annual Garifuna Conference forms an integral part of the observance of National Heritage Month 2026.

Established activities

Also listed on the month’s activities are the Annual Schools’ Garifuna Folk Festival at Independence Park, formerly Victoria Park, March 6; a Cultural Exhibition at the London Playing Field, Sandy Bay, March 7; and a Service of Thanksgiving for International Women’s Day, March 8.

Also held in tandem with the Garifuna Conference is the Indigenous Film Festival, March 11 and 12.

The annual Wreath Laying Ceremony takes place on National Heroes Day, March 14 at the Obelisk, Dorsetshire Hill. On that same day, there will be community festivals at Greiggs and Fancy.

And, there is the usual Pilgrimage to Balliceaux, that takes place on March 15.

Historic hat-trick for Mottley and BLP

BARBADIAN PRIME

MINISTER MIA AMOR

MOTTLEYhas secured a stunning third consecutive term in office, with preliminary results showing her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) sweeping all 30 seats in the nation’s House of Assembly.

State broadcaster CBC Barbados reported early on Thursday morning that the ruling party had once again achieved a clean sweep at the polls, cementing its dominance in Barbadian politics and delivering an unprecedented electoral hat-trick.

And with all constituencies falling to the BLP, the outcome signals not just a win but total parliamentary control for a third straight election cycle.

The victory extends Mottley’s firm grip on leadership of the island republic, reinforcing her position as one of the Caribbean’s most

formidable political figures.

The result mirrors previous commanding performances by the BLP with similar margins of victory in 2018 and again in 2022, underscoring continued voter confidence in the party’s leadership.

Some had hoped that the main opposition Democratic Labour Party (DLP) could present a serious challenge and possibly snatch some of the seats.

This was put to complete rest when, according to the NATION news, “it was after 3 a.m. when Neil Rowe was declared the duly elected member for St Michael North West — after a recount of one of the boxes — ending any hopes of the DLP securing at least one seat. None of the other parties factored.”

Mottley, riding on the unprecedented wave of electoral activity in her

country, declared Friday February 13 a national holiday, giving Barbadians a long weekend, even as she admonished them to go to work today (Thursday).

Speaking to the redclad party faithful who thronged the BLP headquarters at Roebuck Street, Mottley thanked those who made the

victory possible and told thousands of supporters that the victory carried responsibility, not entitlement.

“We did not come simply to hold office. We have come to make Barbados better, and to make your lives better,” she said.

She stressed the need to protect democratic institutions despite

repeated overwhelming mandates, even as she rejoiced in the victory of each BLP candidate over the main challenger, the DLP.

“We now know in Barbados more than ever the importance of strong political institutions,” Mottley said. “And let this Labour Party never take it for granted.

“Even though we have

Mia Amor Mottley in obvious celebratory mood as she greeted supporters at the BLP headquarter after word of the party’s overwhelming victory. (Facebook Photo)

received overwhelming mandates from the people of Barbados, we will guard and tender and take care of this democracy as if it was a newborn child, requiring our total attention and care.”

And she invited supporters and all Barbadians to a “big celebration” to be held at the National Botanical Gardens at Waterford on Saturday.

And in closing, she acknowledged, “We will do our rest, celebrate, but come Monday we start the work of the next five years of transforming this nation.” (Sources: Ian Alleyne Facebook, The Nation, Barbados Today)

Abena releases ‘Love Is Not a Game’

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING

US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

SINGER/SONGWRITER ABENA AMORy, the daughter of Vincentian virtuoso soprano Erlene Williams-King, has released a powerful new single, “Love Is Not a Game,” a soulful, emotionally charged record that blends warm island influences with contemporary R&B depth.

According to Terance Williams, manager, Team Abena, “Love Is Not a Game” showcases “Abena’s signature ability to translate vulnerability into melody.

“With heartfelt lyrics, lush harmonies, and a vocal performance that feels both intimate and commanding, the track explores the courage it takes to love with honesty – and the strength required to walk

away from emotional uncertainty,” Williams told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, Feb. 9.

Amory, a Brooklyn, New York resident, whose father was the late Nevis Premier Vance Amory said “’Love Is Not a Game’ came from a real place.

“It’s about choosing yourself, choosing truth, and refusing to settle for love that feels inconsistent or confusing,” she said.

Williams said the single continues Amory’s rise as “one of the most compelling new voices in Caribbean soul music.

“Known for her warm tone, poetic storytelling, and magnetic stage presence, she has steadily built a reputation for crafting songs that resonate deeply with listeners, navigating love, growth, and selfdiscovery,” he said.

Right: Musical artiste Abena Amory adorned with Vincentian, left, and St. Kitts and Nevis flag behind the float of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson during West IndianAmerican Day Carnival Parade on Labor Day Monday 2025 on Brooklyn’s Eastern Parkway.

Williams said “Love Is Not a Game” marks the first release of the year for Amory, “setting the tone for a new chapter of artistry and momentum.

“With more music, visuals, and live performances on the horizon, the single signals a bold step forward in her evolving sound,” he added, stating that Amory blends “reggae warmth, R&B emotion, and contemporary storytelling.

“Her music reflects her roots, her resilience, and her commitment to creating art that feels honest, empowering, and deeply human,” continued Williams, revealing that Amory has performed across New York City and the Caribbean, “captivating audiences with her authenticity and vocal presence.”

“Love Is Not a Game” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

Sex Toy in goodie bag:

‘Out of line’,

says Archbishop Gordon

Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon says the Tribe Carnival’s gestures, and any other similar gesture, must be stopped in the interest of preserving the true spirit of the festival.

A LONG-ESTABLISHED ADAGEis, ‘There is no carnival without bacchanal’.

And the Trinidad and Tobago 2026 Carnival, scheduled to climax over Mon.16th and Tues. 17th February, in keeping with the adage, has thrown up yet another controversy.

Reports coming out of the twin island Republic indicated that Tribe Carnival (Mas Band), one of the bigger masquerade bands in the Republic’s annual carnival, has included an adult sex toy in goodie bags handed out to women masqueraders.

Goodie bags have become a feature of what Mas bands now extend to their supporters.

But the sex toy has not gone unnoticed and at least one leading cleric has taken umbrage with the ‘gesture’.

In an article carried in the Trinidad Express, Roman Catholic Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon is reported as condemning Tribe Carnival for including an adult sex toy in the goodie bags handed out to women masqueraders, calling the move “beyond the line” and a sign that Trinidad Carnival has descended into “hedonism.”

While delivering his homily at last Sunday’s Mass at the Archbishop’s Chapel, Archbishop Gordon said the festival, once a vibrant celebration of community and culture, has now been overtaken by commercial interests.

He warned that if Carnival bands cannot regulate themselves, the government may need to step in, the Express reported.

“Tribe Carnival has gone too far,” Gordon repeated, referring to the

Tribe Carnival CEO Dean Ackin defended the inclusion of the sex toy as a Valentine Day gesture.

inclusion of the palmsized clitoral suction toy, shaped like a flower and called “The Rose,” in the packages distributed during Carnival.

“Our country is not for sale, and our young people are not for sale. We must put guardrails in place for our children.”

The archbishop stressed that recent trends have shifted the focus of carnival from artistry and culture to profit and sensationalism, and in the process denied the true spirit of the festival.

However, Tribe Carnival CEO Dean Ackin defended the decision, saying the initiative was intended as a playful, memorable gesture coinciding with Valentine’s Day.

Ackin said. “Our masqueraders understand that with Tribe, there’s always an element of joy and surprise.”

Archbishop Gordon, however, urged citizens to push back against what he called a moral and cultural slide, saying Trinidad Carnival must return to being a celebration of life, creativity, and community.

“One way or the other, we have to do something different. We’ve been heading down the wrong road here. Now, let’s pull back. Let’s get back to safety for our young people who want to play Carnival. Safety for our young people who want to enjoy this great festivity that we have.”

He added, “This is about protecting our young people and preserving the soul of Carnival,” he said. “If the company won’t dial it back, then citizens must call on the government to regulate it.” (Source: Trinidad Express)

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Refuse to get involved in idle chatter; it will only make you look bad. You can get others to do things for you but be sure not to overpay them or lend them money. You are best to look into investments that will grow in value over an extended period of time. Sudden changes of heart may cause disruptions in your domestic scene.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Your irritability may drive your loved ones crazy. If your lover tries to curtail your freedom, it may lead to conflict. You may have problems with skin, bones, or teeth if you haven't been taking proper care of yourself. Move forward if you want to turn your life around.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Take time to talk things over. Travel for business or pleasure. You can expect your mate to get fed up and make the choices for you or back off completely. Opportunities for new romantic encounters will unfold through the social events you attend. Use your energy wisely.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

You will have problems with co-workers if you are too extreme about doing things perfectly. Your pursuits may end up being fruit less. You will meet potential new mates through friends or relatives. Your ability to help others will win you points.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

You can make financial gains if you are prepared to take a risk. Discord may arise with someone you're close to. Sooner or later your partner will have had enough. Your attitudes are changing rapidly.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Be careful not to overexert yourself. New interests are preoccupying your time. Catch up on your reading and correspondence. Sudden changes concerning coworkers may surprise you.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

They didn't fully understand what was expected. Don't make any rash decisions that may affect friendships. Be sure to get involved with those who can introduce you to unusual forms of entertainment. You will be highly sensitive to comments made by your lover.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

You'll find you're detail oriented this week. It's time you let your true feelings out. Your outgoing nature will surprise others this week. Don't let your emotional upset interfere with your professional objectives.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Do your chores and get on with the things you enjoy doing. Leave your chequebook and credit cards at home. You must not let fellow workers take advantage of your fine talents. It might be time to shake a leg and do a personal makeover.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Your ability to converse with charm will entice someone you may have had an interest in for some time now. You will have problems with co-workers if you are too extreme about doing things perfectly. Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. Stick to your own projects and by the end of the day you'll shine.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Property investments, insurance, taxes, or inheritance should bring you financial gains. Expect to have more people on your domestic scene. Opposition is present and you should be prepared to counteract it as best you can. Partnerships will be favorable and contracts can be signed.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

A female colleague may cause problems for you. You will not be able to trust someone you work with. Your talents might just be discovered. Purchases will be well worth it and they will last a long time.

ACROSS

1.Overseer of the airwaves (abbr.) 4. __ du Diable (Devil’s Island)

7. Berlin’s land (abbr.)

10. Myrna of “Libeled Lady” 11. Pollen gatherers

13. Comic Johnson

14. Stray 15. Paper factory

16.Contemptuous sounds

17. Hauls along 19. Edith Bunker’s hubby

21. Dancer Miller

22. __ and kin

24. Perform onstage

25. Slacken

27. Stately trees

29. Crayola shade

31. Noah’s eldest son

33. Dons (2 wds.)

36. Had breakfast

37. “__ Helm”

39. Poet’s “before”

40. Sufferer for a

cause

42. Londoners, informally

44. Take __ the chin (2 wds.)

45. Caron film

48. Timetable abbreviation

49. Business wear

50. “Moon __ Miami”

51. Darkroom item (abbr.)

52. Moment, informally

53. Result 54. Grid scores (abbr.)

DOWN

1.Made tracks 2. Livestock pen 3. “__ de Bergerac”

4. Certain PCs

5. Luau necklace

6. Slippery fish

7. Famous evangelist Billy __

8. Morals

9. Bowler’s button

12. Wood strip

13. Alphabet’s start 18. Troll’s cousin 20. Margaret Mitchell hero

22. Beer holder 23. Bungling 26. __ Davis, Jr. 28. Eye surgery beam 30. Filbert or hickory

31. Sculptor’s creation

32. Marked by courage and daring 34. Use a compass 35. Caught

36. Off 38. Singer __ Guthrie

41.

SVG will not host Netball Qualifiers

EXPECTATIONS WERE

HEIGHTENEDwhen in early November 2025, it was announced that this country was going to be host of the 2026 Americas Netball World Cup qualifiers.

News was that this would mean hosting at least 12

teams from the Americas Netball Region along with delegates and other officials.

Responding to this news, President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA), Natasha Baptiste, said then, “This will be a great opportunity for sports tourism and an ideal time for our Vincy Jewels (SVG Senior National Netball team) to compete on home soil.”

All that anticipation and

expectation were deflated with the announcement that the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines had confirmed its decision not to proceed with hosting the Americas World Cup Netball Qualifier, scheduled for 13—23 October 2026.

Accordion to a release dated Feb. o7, 2026, from the Ministry of Sports, the decision was the result of “careful consideration by Cabinet.”

Cabinet’s decision was predicated upon a review of a detailed report outlining the requirements associated with hosting the tournament. The conclusion was that the limited timeframe available would not allow for the satisfactory completion of the infrastructural upgrades required to meet regional and international competition standards.

In essence, the upgrades necessary to bring the identified courts in compliance with required standards could not be met within the existing timeline without compromising quality and safety.

The Government reasoned that “it would be imprudent to host an international sporting event without the assurance that all facilities meet the highest standards expected by

Cricket’s AGM for late Feb.

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association (SVGCA) is likely to be convened in the latter part of February, once the requisite two-week notice can be honoured.

This is the indication from the SVGCA in a release (no date for reference) made available to THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, in which the Association acknowledged that this was “the second consecutive year, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) has not been convened within the constitutionally stipulated

timeframe.”

As per the release, the delay was attributed to the “unavailability of audited financial statements,” and in keeping with the insistence of President of SVGCA Dougal James, “the AGM should not be held without these statements.. .”

Word from the auditiors was that the statements should be ready before the end of February, hence the decision to try for a convening of the AGM in the latter stages of February.

And as the SVGCA prepares for its AGM and the election of a new executive, at least two offices will be filled

by new persons: The office of 1st Vice President, currently occupied by the Minister of Sports, Kaschaka Cupid, who for obvious reasons will not contest; and the office of Treasurer, currently filled by Jerry Ollivierre, who has indicated that he will not be available for election. He has served in that capacity for over a decade.

All other current executive members have indicated that they will contest. These include: Dougal James — President; Parnel Browne2nd Vice President; Samuel Holder — Secretary; Cleton Burnet - Assistant Secretary; Committee

the sport’s governing bodies.”

Even as it announced its decision, the government, through the referenced release, made it clear that “this decision does not reflect any lack of support for netball… ,” and sports in general. It assured that the decision “was a pragmatic one, guided by logistical realities and a commitment to maintaining the country’s reputation as a responsible and credible host of international events.”

The Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries expressed sincere appreciation “to the executive and members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association for their initiative, dedication, and enthusiasm in pursuing this opportunity, and reaffirms its willingness to engage constructively as both parties chart a way forward.”

Handal Roban lands Adidas deal

HANDAL ROBAN has inked a landmark deal with Adidas.

The 23-year-old Vincentian 800m specialist has gained a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) sponsorship with the German sportswear brand. Essentially, such a deal allows student-athletes legal rights to control how their images are used, inclusive of commercial purposes.

Responding to his accomplishment

with Adidas, Roban said: “First and foremost, I want to thank God for blessing me with the health and strength to be in this position. I’m incredibly grateful to my coaches, my mom, my teammates, my family, and my entire team for their constant support. Their belief in me means everything. I’m truly honoured and excited to join the Three Stripes family and can’t wait for what’s ahead.”

Roban, who is currently pursuing Psychology at the Penn State University in the USA, is a multiple St. Vincent and the Grenadines record

VSPL attracts more partnerships

THE VINCY SOCCER PREMIER LEAGUE (VSPL), an undertaking of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), continues to establish partnerships with corporate St. Vincent and the Grenadines. That latest demonstration was formalized with the East Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), who have rolled out a list of prizes and goodies on offer to players and fans alike.

A signing ceremony, staged Friday, February 6, 2026, at East Caribbean Bottlers Inc. Conference Room, Campden Park, cemented and formalized

the arrangements. As such, ECGC products along with other attractive items will be given to Player of the Match for the rest of the matches in the VSPL.

President of the SVGFF- Otashie Spring and Kelvin Franklyn, Regional Category Manager — Beverages ECGC, both expressed optimism for a fruitful and long-lasting relationship between the two entities.

The coming on board of ECGC adds to the motor vehicle to be raffled during the six months of the VSPL, in collaboration with Bargain Auto Rentals.

The VSPL, the premiere club Football

holder in both Indoor and Outdoor events.

The sponsorship cannot come at a better time for Roban, who is reeling off times that has seen him etching his name in Penn State’s history, as well as that of his native St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

America, Central America and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) 800m winner, after a record breaking 1:42.87, last August in the Bahamas.

tournament, featuring ten clubs vying for attractive cash prizes and other incentives, kicked off January 30, 2026, and is set to conclude, June 9, 2026.

The ten clubs will face each other twice, a total of ninety matches, with matches scheduled for the Brighton Technical Centre, Independence Park (formerly Victoria Park), the Diamond Track Facility and the Cumberland Playing Field.

Roban is also the reigning North

Roban and Glasgow on song

TWO OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ top male athletesHandal Roban and Amal Glasgoware in the pink of form in their 2026 Indoor season, in the USA.

Roban, competing for Penn State University, last Saturday, February 7, at the Sykes & Sabock Challenge, broke both the institution as well as the St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ record in the 600m.

His 1:14.89 broke Penn State’s Isaiah Harris’ 2022 effort of 1:14.95.

Additionally, Roban’s time erased his previous best and that of his country, 1:15.53, achieved in 2024, at the SPIRE Indoor Track and Field Facility in Ohio, also in the USA.

Significantly, Roban became the third fastest runner in the all-time National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s 600m ranking.

Slowly etching his name in Penn State University’s Track and Field history, Roban has the second fastest

time in the Indoor 600m (1:14.89) and the 800m (1:46.81), and is number three on the list of fastest times recorded in the Outdoor 800m (1:45.36).

He is also part of the quartet that is third in the 4 x 800m and has the ninth fastest time on the university list in the outdoor 400m (46.71).

Meanwhile, Glasgow, who like Roban attended the Georgetown Secondary and the St. Vincent Grammar School, made his last weekend count.

Glasgow, on Saturday February 7, broke his own St. Vincent and the Grenadines record in the men’s Indoor 400m.

He stopped the clock at 45.60s, eclipsing the National Record he set the previous weekend at the Razorback International, that of 46.70s. Glasgow, who is at Louisiana State University, finished sixth overall in the 400m in a field of 54 runners.

Italian brothers mystify World Cup

WEST INDIAN FANSare still in a state of euphoria with their team’s 30-run over England last Tuesday in the ICC World Cup.

The English squad is frank about their performance and their captain put it in perspective.

England, the pundits agree, survived a scare with Nepal who came within one shot of achieving victory. Italy, on the other hand, were hammered by the Scots in their first match. Scotland themselves, were disposed by the West Indies in their opening encounter.

West Indies face Nepal this Sunday, and this fixture will have added attention. The Nepalese might have been hoping to accomplish the task they failed against England, and they might have banked their points hope on playing Italy.

The Italians produced a script hitherto unimagined by everyone. Nepal is an emerging cricketing nation. They impressed in the 2024 World Cup and many Vincentians were in their corner in the matches against Bangladesh and South Africa at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. Many believed they ought to have won those encounters.

When Nepal had the West Indies lined up for a clean sweep in a three match showdown last year, focus on Nepal as a force to reckon sharpened.

The performance against England enhanced their reputation. But the sporting arena is a crude equalizer. If there might be shock, is the way Italy secured their first World Cup points with a ten wicket win over Nepal yesterday.

They knocked up 124 for 0, brushing aside Nepal who were dismissed for 123. That was the same country which run England to the wire. One would have thought that the chase would have been close. Lo and behold, the brotherhood of Anthony and Justin Mosca achieved the victory in 12.4 overs with 62 and 60 from their bats. The ICC World Cup just got an injection.

The Italy win serves as a sports tonic, for everyone knows of Italy’s prowess or reputation in football. They have been somewhat off beat in recent years as far as appearance at the FIFA World Cup is concerned. Perhaps the message might come over that that countries have be multi-sport oriented.

England is an example, so is Australia, and even the USA. Netherlands, and South Africa can also be ranked as widespread sporting nations. It brings out the point that sports and country’s development can go hand in hand. It benefits many a nation to spread out their sports programme. One recalls that our closest call to World Cup appearance was with an Under-20 which boasted a number of outstanding athletes. That ought to have been the template of any national sporting squad. The time is not expired for attention to be paid to preparation of athletes. A regime allowing for sporting enthusiasts to have a good form of athletic training will redound to the expansion of any sporting discipline.

SVG out, USA in FIFA U17 World Cup

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, which was host (February 05 – 10) to the latest round of Group E of the CONCACAF U17 World Cup Qualifiers, will have to try again for a place in another FIFA U17 World Cup.

With the United States playing unbeaten in the recent Qualifiers staged at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, they finished top of Group E, and will advance to its 20th FIFA World Cup appearance, the lone country from that Group.

SVG meanwhile, had two loses (8-0 against the USA and 10-0 against the Dominican Republic) and one draw (2-2 against St. Kitts Nevis) in their final try for a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Jaymor Williams and substitute Beau Hoyte accounted for SVG’s two goals, with T’Quandre Burroughs and Savi-K Morton doing likewise for St. Kitts Nevis.

The USA finished with 19 goals and conceded one while the Dominican Republic scored 16 and conceded one to finish in second place. St. Kitts and Nevis and SVG finished on one point each, but the former finished third with a minus 15 goal difference to St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ minus 18 difference.

The 2026 U17 FIFA World Cup, which in the past has been graced with the likes Lionel Messi, Luis Figo, Ronaldinho, Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Neymar and Victor Osimhen, kicks off in Qatar on Sunday, 3rd November and runs until Friday, 27th November.

After a FIFA Council meeting held on 14 March 2024, it was announced that Qatar would host the next five editions of the U-17 World Cup (2025—2029), as part of the new annual cycle implemented by FIFA for the tournament. That meeting also announced that both sexes’ U-17 World Cups would be held annually.

And as of February 1, 2026, four countries have already qualified for the World Cup. These are Qatar (Host) and the three spots allowed the Oceania Football Confederation filled byNew Caledonia, New Zealand and Fiji.

The other places are expected to be filled at follows: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) - 9

Spots; Confederation of African Football (CAF)- 10 Spots; Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) - 8 Spots; South American Football Confederation (COMEBOL) - 7 Spots; Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)11 Spots.

According to Wikipedia, the U17 World Cup is peculiar in that “the majority of titles have gone to teams from outside the strongest regional confederations (CONMEBOL and UEFA). Of the 20 editions held so far, 10 (50 percent of the total) have been won by teams from North and Central America, Africa, and Asia.”

Africa is the most successful continental zone with seven tournament wins (five for Nigeria, two for Ghana) and six times as runner-up.

The reigning world champion of U17 football is Portugal, who won their first title at the 2025

tournament when they defeated Austria 1—0 in the

I.B.A. ALLEN

A BYERA MANwho was allegedly found in possession of five rounds of ammunition concealed in a sandwich at the Argyle International Airport (AIS), close to one year ago, will know his fate on April 21.

Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie reserved her decision on Tuesday, following closing arguments from Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre and Defense Lawyer Grant Connell. Kafique Francis is

‘Remove Lovelace from death row’

Continued from Page 4.

Only death row inmate

facing a charge of having five rounds of 9mm ammunition without license.

The prosecutor’s case is that on June 24, 2024, Francis, who was then employed at the AIA, reported for work and at around 8:05am, went to the checkpoint at the security scan. He passed his bag and other items through the scanner, and the persons operating the scanner observed what appeared to be the rounds. They informed him of the observation.

and his mother placed his breakfast (sandwich) in his bag.

He rushed out to nearby and the bag was left unattended. When he came back about 15 minutes later, it was not in the same place.

He got a ride to the airport in a truck, but his bag was left unattended at different points, including when he went to the washroom at the AIS.

convince the court beyond a reasonable doubt, that the accused had knowledge, custody/control of the ammunition.

But Francis’ lawyer Grant Connell argued that the prosecution failed to bring anything before the court to prove their case.

“The Prosecution did not verify if it is one and the same sandwich his mother made,” Connell said.

not even call his mother who packed the sandwich as a witness.

Connell pointed out that “the defendant does not have to prove anything, and if there is doubt, it must be resolved in favour of the defendant.”

The court understood that Francis’s parents are both former police officers.

Bullet-in-sandwich case awaits decision Maintenance worker gunned down

Superintendent of Prisons Dwayne Bailey confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, that Lovelace has been on death row since 2004. He also confirmed that up to press time, he was still on death row, and he is the only inmate on death row. In a landmark 1993 case, Pratt and Morgan vs the Attorney General of Jamaica, the Privy Council ruled that executing prisoners after an excessive delay (generally more than five years) on death row, constitutes, “inhumane or degrading punishment,” effectively commuting their sentences to life imprisonment. It established that “prolonged death row syndrome” is unconstitutional.

They scanned the bag again, and the same items showed up on the scanner. As a result, those on duty informed their supervisor, and the police were informed.

Francis opened the bag in the presence of the police and the ammunition was found in a sandwich.

Francis did not give a written statement to the police, but his defence to the court was that on the morning in question, he was running a bit late

In his closing arguments, Prosecutor Pierre asked the court to consider all the evidence available at the trial. He contended that the prosecution had produced enough evidence to

“What has the prosecution brought to prove that he (Francis) had knowledge custody/control?” Connell argued.

He noted that they did

Upon completion of the arguments of the prosecution and defense, Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie said she needed time to review the evidence, and adjourned the matter to April 21.

Continued from Backpage. Richards’ family is calling for a thorough investigation and justice in the matter. Relatives described him as

a quiet individual who was not involved in criminal activity.

The investigation into this homicide, the fourth for the year, is ongoing.

AI REAL ESTATE

MAINTENANCE WORKER GUNNED DOWN

Stories by KENVILLE HORNE

KEVIN “MASICKA” RICHARDS,a 25-year-old maintenance worker at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, was shot and killed late Friday night in Montaque, Mesopotamia. According to reports, the incident occurred around 10:50 p.m. Richards was reportedly ‘liming’ with friends a short distance from his home, when a rented vehicle pulled up nearby. Two masked

gunmen exited the vehicle, causing the group to scatter.

Eyewitnesses told THE VINCENTIAN that Richards, who was not facing the vehicle when it arrived on the scene, attempted to flee when the gunmen opened fire. He reportedly fell behind a nearby house, just a few metres from where he had been sitting, where he was shot multiple times.

Despite his injuries, witnesses said Richards managed to “get up and walk from behind the

Continued on Page 23.

house,” and entered the house before collapsing. Occupants of the house alerted the police.

Police reported that Richards arrived at the Levi Latham Health Centre with multiple gunshot wounds and was unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead by a medical practitioner.

Sources in the neighbouring community of Richland Park indicated that Richards had been in the area shortly before the shooting, and appeared to have been followed by

a vehicle. Other sources confirmed that he had returned to Montaque moments before the fatal attack.

“We saw the car rounding the area and someone said it was moving suspiciously. As soon as that was mentioned, some men who were sitting nearby got up and started to move. Then we saw the masked men with guns, and people started running. Kevin tried to run, but they followed him and started shooting,” one witness recounted.

Even as police investigations continue into the killing,, the motive for the killing remains unclear.

However, some residents speculate that the incident may be linked to a previous altercation involving Richards and another group during a “Country Meet Town” event.

Reports also suggest there was a subsequent encounter at a recent party.

VINCY 'BEENIE MAN' SHOT DEAD

A 43-YEAR-OLD LABOURER known by the nickname “Beenie Man” was shot and killed along the Diamond/Brighton Public Road, on Saturday, February 7.

Police reported that around 7:20 p.m., Lenford Peters of Richland Park was walking along the roadway when he was approached by a masked assailant, brandishing a gun and who opened fire on Peters.

Peters sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the brazen attack.

Officers responding to reports of the shooting found Peters lying motionless with apparent

gunshot injuries. A medical practitioner later arrived at the scene and pronounced him dead. Peters, who was known to frequent the Kingstown area, had reportedly been seen in the city just hours before the incident.

Residents of Richland Park described Peters as someone who had experienced personal struggles in the pas, but had shown signs of change in recent years.

One resident said that although he previously appeared troubled and was sometimes argumentative, he had become calmer over time. Peters had endured significant personal loss.

Several years ago, his son, then a student of Bishop’s College Kingstown, was found dead in the Fenton Mountains.

Peters said then that the tragedy deeply affected him.

More recently, another death occurred within his ‘extended family’. On February 3, 2026, SashaAnn Caine, a 39-year-old domestic worker and the girlfriend of Peters’ father, was found unresponsive at a home in Richland Park around 4:00 a.m.

The District Medical Officer pronounced her dead at the scene.

Lenford “Beenie Man” Peters’ death was counted as this country’s 5th homicide for the year.

Authorities later ruled out foul play in that matter.

Investigations into Peters’ killing are ongoing.

WANTED MAN APPREHENDED

A MAN WHO WAS BEING SOUGHT by police was arrested on Wednesday in Arnos Vale.

The individual has been identified as Sjada Daniel of Prospect.

Reports indicate that Daniel attempted to evade officers and resisted arrest and attempted to flee.

In a video circulated on various social media platform, police coul;d be gbeard telling Daniel to stop. His defiance led to a police action, dyring which Daniel sustained a hgunshoy would to his foot.

The word is that Sjada Daniel may have been lucky since he escaped the wrath of citizens who were on the hunt for him. (Photo Credit: RSVGPF)

Police had earlier issued a wanted bulletin naming Daniel as a person of interest in an ongoing investigation into a series of burglary offenses, and the public was advised not to approach him.