woman & health
The Tribune
‘Time T o ac T over roadside garages’
Sweeting says govt has identified Crown land for relocation
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
WOrKS Minister Clay Sweeting said the government has identified Crown land to relocate roadside garages around New providence.
He said an inter-ministerial committee, formed by the prime minister, is
in talks with businesses to develop a relocation plan that works for all parties. He said officials will prioritise discussions with the largest operations first, acknowledging that the issue involves “a lot of moving parts”. He said the Department of environmental planning
Human RigH ts committee Holds fiRst meeting afteR two yea Rs
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
ALMOST two years after parliament approved the establishment of a Human rights Committee, its members met for the first time on February 27. According to a statement from the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, committee members received a comprehensive briefing on The Bahamas’ international human rights obligations during the meeting. The statement also noted that the committee will initially meet twice a month to discuss various aspects of
Customers egg-cited over drop in egg prices at Super Value
By NEIL HARTNELL and ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporters
Super Value’s president yesterday said shoppers had gone “crazy” after it launched its own brand of eggs imported at a price almost two-thirds less than those imported from its regular uS supplier.
Debra Symonette declined to reveal where the supermarket chain had sourced some 1.296m eggs, priced at $3.79 and rising
to just over $4 with VST included, from but pledged that it will continue to seek out food products that will enable it to slash costs to consumers “even lower if possible”.
Potcake P lea foR Hel P to buRy son w Ho dRowned
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
LOCKSLeY “potcake” Thompson, a well-known street philosopher, is grappling with the loss of his son, who drowned at potter’s Cay Dock last week. Mr Thompson, a father of six, told The Tribune that Antonio Thompson, 42, was his first child to die. For
about five years, Antonio worked at the dock, helping to rebuild stalls damaged by fires and unloading the Mail Boat. He lived in a oneroom shack on a boat at the dock.
Mr Thompson said nothing could have prepared him for seeing his son’s lifeless body in a body bag last Thursday. gb woman abducted and attacked by man s He knew
A 63-YeAr-OLD Grand Bahama woman was abducted and violently attacked by a man she knew, according to police. The 52-year-old male suspect was taken into custody and is assisting police with their investigations. police said the incident took place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, when the victim arrived home. As she tried to get out of her vehicle, she was allegedly ambushed by the suspect, a 52-year-old man, who ordered her back into the car and forced her to drive to a specific park. Fearing for her life, the
Launch ceremony for Nassau Village Community Centre
A LAunch ceremony was held at The Nassau Village Community Centre yesterday for the Empowerment Hour Programme. The Ministry of Social Services has partnered with the Ministry of National Security to launch Empowerment Hour Programme in Nassau Village which will be held at the centre. Seen here is a mural that was created at the centre by Jamaal Rolle, ambassador and permanent delegate to UNESCO, and known as the Celebrity Artist.
Funeral Service for
Ricardo Nelson Eldon, 72 affectionately called “Box”
of High Vista, Nassau, The Bahamas, died at Doctors Hospital, Collins Avenue, Nassau, on Saturday 1st March, 2025, will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Kirk, Princes Street, Nassau, on Saturday, 8th March, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
Reverend Jude Vilma will officiate.
He was predeceased by his wife, Linda Eldon; grandchild, Mateo Jordan, parents, Harold and Barbara Eldon; step mother, Susan Eldon and step brother, David Pinder.
Cremation was held.
He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Kristin Eldon Whylly, Karen Eldon Jordan and Laura Eldon; grandson, Massimo Jordan; granddaughters, Amarie and Isla Whylly and Julietta Jordan; brothers, Chris and Roger Eldon; step brother, Gregory Pinder; sisters, Nancy Treco, Cheryl Sands and Susan Saunders; step sister, Michelle Piekarz; sons-in-law, Dwayne Whylly and Mario Jordan; brothers-in-law, John Treco, Billy Sands, Bruce Rowan and Tommy Piekarz; sisters-in-law, Janice Eldon, Catriona Eldon and Germaine Pinder; nieces and nephews, Jennifer Treco (Aaron Bahm), Lindsay Treco, Megan Forsythe (Michael), Matthew Sands (Gabrielle), Michael Sands, Christopher Eldon (Lauren), Kelly Jensen (Jordan), Tyler Eldon (Scout), William Saunders, Tristan Eldon, Cameron Eldon, Raquel Baldacci (Adriano), Amanda Pinder (Michael Freifeld), Christy Lightbourn and Dylan Lightbourn; cousins, Salina (Kim) Eldon, Bonnie (Pamela) Eldon, Liz, Sue (Richard) Cartwright, Regina Parroti and Michael (Susan) Parroti; great grand nieces and nephews, Hunter, Hannah, Addison, Trace, Gwyneth, Charlie, Landon, Isaiah, Luca, Chase and Lily.
In addition to those named, Rick was surrounded by a large and loving extended family and many dear friends, all of whom brought great joy to his life and will deeply miss him.
We the family encourage to wear coulourful attire that reflects his lively and bright spirit.
Instead of flowers the family request that donations be sent to MLS Ostomy Foundation or Spanish Wells Emergency Vehicles.
Arrangements by Kemp’s Funeral Home Limited.
Minister of State from India pays visits Bahamas National Trust
His Excellency Pabitra Margherita, india’s Minister of state for External Affairs, visited the Bahamas National Trust as part of his historic Ministerial Bilateral visit to The Bahamas—the first such visit from an indian Minister. Hosted by Zane Lightbourne, Minister of state for the Environment and Natural Resources, Minister Margherita toured the Bahamas National Trust, where he gained
insight into The Bahamas’ efforts in environmental conservation and national park management.
During the visit, Minister Margherita planted a Yellow Elder tree, the national flower of The Bahamas, as a symbol of indo-Bahamian friendship and a shared commitment to sustainability. This initiative aligns with india’s A Tree for Mother campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote global environmental stewardship. The visit underscored the mutual priorities of both nations in biodiversity protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development. it also provided a platform for discussions on future collaboration in environmental conservation efforts, strengthening ties between india and The Bahamas in this critical area.
Photos: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
Photos: nikia charlton
Potcake plea for help to bury son who drowned
“It really didn’t hit me until the following day,” he said. “Everybody started coming, sympathising. White boys, white girls too — he did know a lot of white people.”
He said he never realised how popular and loved his son was by others, with people offering condolences everywhere he goes and some of Antonio’s female friends bringing him food to lift his spirits.
He said his son, a Rastafarian, was known for his friendly spirit and love of conversation. He fondly recalled his son greeting him with “Blessed daddy” every time they saw each other. He believes his grief will feel heavier once the reality sets in at the funeral.
The tragic drowning has also burdened him with the financial responsibility of burying his son. Known for dragging around his oversized cart filled with hubcaps and a sign with his “thought of the day,” his income from selling $10 hubcaps and his monthly pension barely covers his living expenses.
“Some days I make $300,
some days people buy four,” he said, emphasising his unstable income.
He said that usually when people are cleaning their car and lose a hubcap during the week, they come to buy from him on Saturdays.
He noted that there have been times when he made only $10 in a whole week. Now, he needs $7,500 to cover his son’s funeral expenses and repast, stressing that he wants to give his son a proper goodbye.
He said his son had a child with a Cuban woman in Miami, but neither the child nor the woman live in The Bahamas.
He mentioned that his son sometimes drank with others at the dock.
“So probably he got intoxicated, wandered off, and somebody who hated him caught him off guard,” he claimed without evidence.
He lamented that Potter’s Cay Dock lacks CCTV cameras and electricity. He said he told police about his suspicion that his son was murdered, but they dismissed him.
Potcake can be contacted at 428-2263 or 434-5430.
Human Rights committee holds first meeting after two years
from page one
human rights protections.
Parliament’s chief clerk, David Forbes, previously told The Tribune that the committee had not yet met, but was expected to convene by the end of January.
The resolution
establishing the committee was passed on April 26, 2023. It is chaired by Attorney General Ryan Pinder, with Senator Michela Barnett-Ellis serving as deputy chair. Other members include Senator Erecia Hepburn-Forbes, Works Minister Clay Sweeting, Seabreeze MP Leslia Miller-Brice, East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson, and St Anne’s MP Adrian White.
The committee will play a critical role in advising the government on human rights matters, ensuring that legislation aligns with international obligations, and providing oversight on policies affecting fundamental rights, according to the statement.
Search called off for woman who jumped from cruiS e S hip near Grand Bahama
A SEARCH has been called off for a missing 56-year-old American woman who reportedly jumped from a cruise ship in waters off Grand Bahama yesterday. The incident occurred on Monday morning about 17 miles offshore.
Royal Bahamas Defense Force officials in Grand Bahama initially received a report around 11.30am. The ship’s agent at the Nassau Cruise Port also alerted officials in New Providence around 12:28pm. According to preliminary reports, the woman allegedly got into a heated argument with her fiancé on the night of March 2, just after 10pm, before going overboard. The US Coast Guard, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, and an AIRMIA MH-65 aircraft searched the area. However, efforts to locate the missing woman have been unsuccessful.
p olice inveS tiGate alleGed Suicide attempt
POLICE have launched an investigation following an alleged suicide attempt involving a 23-year-old woman on Sunday.
Preliminary reports indicate that the woman consumed a quantity of a suspected dangerous substance intending to take her own life.
A police motorcyclist responded to the alert and safely escorted the victim to the hospital, where she was later listed in stable condition.
Shortly after the resolution passed, Mr Pinder led a delegation to Geneva, Switzerland, for the United Nations Human Rights Council’s review of The Bahamas’ human rights record. The statement from the Attorney General’s Office said the committee’s establishment demonstrates the country’s commitment to protecting human rights, promoting legislative
accountability, and fostering a fair society. “This milestone marks a bold step forward in strengthening the nation’s legal framework and upholding the principles of democracy and human dignity,” the statement added.
The body of 42-year-old Antonio Thompson, son of Locksley ‘Potcake’ Thompson, is removed from the scene where he was found drowned at Potter’s Cay Dock last Thursday.
Photo: dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Water and Sewerage GM grilled over knowledge of the project in Gibson trial
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
A DEFENCE attorney in the criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others suggested yesterday that a prosecution witness may have an agenda as he pressed the witness on his involvement in the contracts at the centre of the case.
Ian Cargill, who represents former Water & Sewerage Corporation (WSC) general manager Elwood Donaldson Jr, questioned Robert Deal about his role at the WSC and his oversight of the projects under scrutiny.
Mr Deal, who served as deputy general manager under the Minnis administration, had previously testified that he was not directly involved in the corporation’s tank painting project.
When asked about his role at the company, Mr Deal explained that he was responsible for the corporation’s daily operations and reported to the board of directors.
Mr Cargill then focused on Mr Deal’s role while Mr Donaldson was still in charge. Mr Deal confirmed that, as deputy general manager, he reported to Donaldson, who in turn reported to the board and carried out its directives.
Mr Cargill asked: “In relation to the work before this court, did he receive
instructions from the board?”
Mr Deal referred to the board secretary’s certificates, saying they were clear on what they said, but added that he did not believe they indicated anything about the matter at hand.
Mr Cargill pressed him further, saying: “Either you knew or you didn’t know.”
“The only thing I know is what I saw on the board secretary’s certificates, sir,” Mr Deal replied.
The defence lawyer then challenged Mr Deal on whether he personally reviewed emails related to the project before forwarding them to Mr Donaldson or the board. Mr Deal asked which emails Mr Cargill was referring to, and the attorney responded, saying there were numerous emails from him that had been passed on to Mr Donaldson or sent directly to the board.
When Mr Cargill asked how often Mr Deal was updated on the project, Mr Deal said he received monthly reports, along with some weekly updates.
However, Mr Cargill sought to highlight what he perceived as inconsistencies in Mr Deal’s testimony regarding his involvement in the projects.
“Sir, let me understand this — you got some weekly reports, some daily reports, and some monthly reports, yet you claim
to know nothing about the project,” Mr Cargill remarked.
Mr Deal maintained that he had already clarified his involvement with the project. But Mr Cargill pressed further, saying: “According to your evidence, you were either daily, weekly, or monthly involved with these projects.”
Mr Deal responded that he would have received updates on all projects handled by the engineering department, which he oversaw.
Mr Cargill pushed back, asking Mr Deal to focus on his specific role in the project. Mr Deal suggested that Mr Cargill refer to the email spread if he wanted to know more about his involvement.
Mr Cargill replied that he didn’t need to review emails, as Mr Deal was on the stand to provide his own testimony.
Mr Deal reiterated that he had no involvement in key aspects of the project, including the tender process, letters of award, payment vouchers, or any meetings with the contractors.
“So you did everything else then?” Mr Cargill retorted.
Mr Deal fired back: “As I’ve said from the beginning, the job jacket was sent to me. I had some concerns regarding it. I expressed what the concerns were, and I reluctantly signed the job jacket.
I was not involved with the project beyond that.”
Mr Cargill asked whether Mr Deal had written anything to the board, to which Mr Deal responded that he had written to the general manager.
Mr Cargill then said: “My questions are specific. Whatever agenda you have, we’ll deal with that later. I’m asking you specific questions.”
The defence attorney continued by asking if, when questioning the general manager about the projects, Mr Deal was told that they were directives from the board. Mr Deal confirmed this.
Mr Cargill then asked: “Did you find anything to suggest that wasn’t true?”
Mr Deal replied, “No,” explaining that he had not conducted any investigations into the matter.
The trial, which focuses on allegations of misconduct and failure to declare interests in government contracts, continues. Gibson, Donaldson Jr, and others face charges related to their roles in awarding contracts during Gibson’s tenure.
The defence team includes Damian Gomez, KC, Geoffrey Farquharson, Murrio Ducille KC, Mr Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, and Raphael Moxey. The Crown’s legal team includes Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier, Karine MacVean, and others.
Critical shortage of podiatrists in country as nearly 20% of population has diabetes
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas faces a critical shortage of podiatrists, with only four practitioners serving a population of nearly 400,000 people, according to Dr Monique Mitchell, a local podiatrist working with the Ministry of Health.
She said the shortage is particularly pressing given that nearly 20 percent of Bahamians have diabetes, a major contributor to footrelated health issues.
She said without proper care, foot complications could lead to amputations — and up to 70 percent of people who undergo such procedures may not survive beyond five years.
Dr Mitchell, who cofounded the Foot Fest initiative with Dr Shanika Hill in 2020, underscored the urgent need for greater podiatric care in The Bahamas, explaining that the initiative, now in its fourth year, started as a response to the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian and has since grown to involve 54 volunteers, providing free foot care and screenings to over 1,000 patients annually.
“Foot Fest is critical in addressing the gap in podiatric care, but we need long-term solutions,” Dr
Mitchell said. “The government must invest in training and hiring more podiatrists to ensure Bahamians have access to care year-round — not just during this event.”
The initiative has expanded beyond providing immediate care, with an emphasis on education.
Dr Mitchell, with other speakers, advocated for preventive measures, urging Bahamians to maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and get regular check-ups, including annual HbA1c tests to detect diabetes early.
Foot Fest 2025, launched on Monday in New Providence, aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly in foot care related to diabetes.
Organised in partnership with Barry University and the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the event brings together medical professionals and volunteers to offer podiatric care at temporary clinics in South Beach, Flamingo Gardens, and Good News SeventhDay Adventist Church.
The event provides diabetic health screenings, along with foot examinations and treatment, while also offering education on wound care, nutrition, and foot hygiene. Dr Gabrielle Hutchison Donaldson, a volunteer
podiatrist, emphasised that diabetes, when managed properly, does not have to result in limb loss.
“Once you’re educated and take proper care of yourself, you can prevent the kind of limb loss we see in severe cases,” she said, referring to a recent case of LaVar Ball’s foot amputation due to a diabetic ulcer.
In addition to direct patient care, Foot Fest 2025 also offers a continuing education series for healthcare professionals from March 3 to March 7.
The virtual series, hosted on Zoom, will feature experts on wound management, diabetic foot exams, and surgical treatments for diabetic ulcers. Foot Fest 2025 will run from March 2 to March 7, with free health screenings, foot exams, and surgeries available at locations across Nassau and Exuma. In Nassau, clinics will be held at the South Beach Health Centre, Elizabeth Estates, Fleming Street, and Flamingo Gardens. Residents of Exuma can access care at the Exuma Medical Centre in George Town on March 5.
Organisers encourage Bahamians to book appointments in advance, though walk-ins are welcome.
AdriAn Gibson
Several organisation to help rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Community Centre
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
SEVERAL organisations have partnered to rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries Community Centre, which was known as a beacon of hope in the Kemp Road community.
In January, a fire destroyed the centre, which provided hot meals, clothing, counselling, and a safe space for those in need. Pastor Laura Johnson-Taylor, founder of the ministry, told The Tribune the centre needed at least $250,000 to rebuild and restart its operations.
Bahamas Striping Group Companies (BSGC), in a statement said it joined forces with the Fox Foundation, The Zonta Club of Nassau, Simplified Group of Companies, The Ministry of National Security, Insurance Management, and other corporate sponsors to rebuild the Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries
Community Centre.
“The Bahamas Striping Group of Companies has always been committed to empowering communities, and this initiative is a testament to our mission of giving back,” said Dominic Sturrup, Executive Chairman of BSGC.
“Since its inception, Bahamas Striping Group of Companies has been an integral part of the Kemp Road community. We are committed to leveraging a Public-Private-People Partnership (3PPP) to unite local businesses and utilise our collective resources to rebuild this vital community centre. This initiative is more than just reconstruction — it’s a demonstration of Bahamian companies coming together for goodwill, recognising the centre’s profound impact on the community and ensuring its legacy continues.”
Fox Foundation cofounder Adrianna Fox said their foundation recognises Eljhay’s Hilltop
Cottage Ministries Com-
munity Centre as an “historic landmark” within the community.
“This initiative comes from the heart, and we are honoured to be a part of the rebuilding efforts,” she said.
The project plans to restore the facility to reboot to offer feeding programmes, resources, and support to those in need. The rebuild will include structural enhancements, upgraded facilities, and improved accessibility, ensuring the centre can continue leading in service.
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe also said that construction work groups within the correctional facility are available, and they are committed to collaborating with private donors to restore and reopen the facility.
The organisations involved invited additional corporate sponsors, volunteers, and community members to join in their efforts.
Teen among four shot in drive-by shooting
POLICE are investigating a drive-by shooting that left four men injured on Sunday evening.
According to initial reports, around 5.50pm, a group of people were outside an apartment complex off Blue Hill Road south when a black Japanese-model vehicle pulled up. Two armed men got out of the car, opened fire on the group, and then fled south on Blue Hill Road.
DIRECTOR – INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Sterling Bank & Trust Limited is a boutique bank located on Paradise Island, The Bahamas with ambitious plans to grow and expand its business. The Bank is seeking a suitable candidate to fill the position of Director –International Business Development to promote its growth of assets and liabilities franchise.
Position Overview
Four men — aged 27, 24, 21, and 16 — were shot during the attack. They were taken to hospital by a private vehicle and were last listed in stable condition.
Police later recovered the vehicle used in the shooting, but no arrests have been reported. In a separate incident, police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred early Sunday morning. Shortly before 5.30am, a man and a female friend
were sitting in his vehicle outside his residence when two masked men dressed in dark clothing emerged from the rear of the property. One of the suspects brandished a firearm and robbed the victim of his phone, cash, and other personal belongings before both culprits fled in an unknown direction.
Police are appealing for anyone with information on either incident to come forward.
woman abducted and attacked by man she knew
from page one
vehicle crashed. Police arrived at the scene and arrested the suspect.
Emergency Medical Services provided immediate assistance and took the victim to the hospital for treatment.
The Director – International Business Development is responsible for overseeing the process of business development within the Bank to promote its longevity. Duties will include working closely with other company executives and management teams, meeting with potential business partners and maintaining existing client relationships while monitoring market trends to pursue new business opportunities.
The prospective candidate should possess the following:-
• Bring/have a book of business with a minimum value of US$100M within the first 12 months of joining the Bank and annually thereafter;
• Minimum 10 years of experience in business development in a Private Banking environment;
• Should possess a graduate degree preferably in Finance, Management or any equivalent qualification;
• Should have proven track record in mobilizing deposits from different territories/geographies for a Private Bank;
• Good communication skills both oral and written;
• Ability to market the Bank’s liability products and services and advise the Management of the market trend in terms of products and services;
• Manage overall relationship profitability and portfolio risk with responsibility for profitable growth of the portfolio and;
• Ensure compliance with all Bank’s policies and procedures, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti Money laundering (AML) requirements in all dealings with existing and potential clients within a Private Banking environment.
Interested candidates may apply via email with your resume along with a cover letter to hr@sterlingbt.com on or before 14th March 2025.
Only applications received to this email address will be accepted and those shortlisted will be contacted. Absolutely no telephone call.
Pastor Laura Johnson-Taylor (second from left) meets with Freetown MP Wayne Munroe (centre), Adrianna Fox co-founder of Fox Foundation (second from right), and Dominic Sturrup, senior vice president of Bahamas Striping Group of Companies (right) as they shared plans for several organisations to work together to rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries Community Centre on Kemp Road which was recently destroyed by fire.
Photos: BsCG
woman complied, but during the drive, the attacker turned violent, stabbing her repeatedly in the left arm. She escaped, and the
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Israel has cut off all supplies to Gaza, here’s what that means
ISrAel has cut off the entry of all food and other goods into Gaza in an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of its war with Hamas. The United Nations and other humanitarian aid providers are sharply criticizing the decision and calling it a violation of international law.
“A tool of extortion,” Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry said. “A reckless act of collective punishment,” Oxfam said. Key mediator egypt accused Israel of using “starvation as a weapon.”
Hunger has been an issue throughout the war for Gaza’s over two million people, and some aid experts had warned of possible famine. Now there is concern about losing the progress that experts reported under the past six weeks of a ceasefire.
Israel is trying to pressure the Hamas militant group to agree to what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government describes as a US proposal to extend the ceasefire’s first phase instead of beginning negotiations on the far more difficult second phase. In phase two, Hamas would release the remaining living hostages in return for Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire. Here’s a look at what Israel’s decision means and the reactions.
The ceasefire’s first phase ended early Sunday. Minutes later, Israel said it supported a new proposal to extend that phase through the Jewish holiday of Passover in mid-April. It called the proposal a US one from Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. Israel also warned it could resume the war after the first phase if it believes negotiations are ineffective. Negotiations on the second phase were meant to start a month ago, increasing the uncertainty around the fragile truce. Hamas has insisted that those talks begin. later Sunday, Israel announced the immediate cutoff of aid to Gaza.
The Trump administration has not issued a statement about Israel’s announcement or its decision to cut off aid. It’s also not clear when Witkoff will visit the Middle east again. He had been expected to visit last week.
The US under the Biden administration pressed Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, threatening to limit weapons support. Aid organizations repeatedly criticized Israeli restrictions on items entering the small coastal territory, while hundreds of trucks with aid at times waited to enter.
Israel says it has allowed in enough aid. It has blamed shortages on what it called the UN’s inability to distribute it, and accused Hamas militants of siphoning off aid.
For months before the ceasefire, some Palestinians reported limiting meals,
searching through garbage and foraging for edible weeds as food supplies ran low.
The ceasefire’s first phase took effect on January 19 and allowed a surge of aid into Gaza. An average of 600 trucks with aid entered per day. Those daily 600 trucks of aid were meant to continue entering through all three phases of the ceasefire.
However, Hamas says less than 50% of the agreed-upon number of trucks carrying fuel, for generators and other uses, were allowed in. Hamas also says the entry of live animals and animal feed, key for food security, were denied entry.
Still, Palestinians in Gaza were able to stock up on some supplies. “The ceasefire brought some much-needed relief to Gaza, but it was far from enough to cover the immense needs,” the Norwegian refugee Council said Sunday.
Israel’s announcement came hours after Muslims in Gaza marked the first breaking of the fast during the holy month of ramadan, with long tables set for collective meals snaking through the rubble of war-destroyed buildings.
The sudden aid cutoff sent Palestinians hurrying to markets. Prices in Gaza “tripled immediately,” Mahmoud Shalabi, the Medical Aid for Palestinians’ deputy director of programs in northern Gaza, told The Associated Press.
Prominent in the immediate criticism of Israel’s aid cutoff were statements calling the decision a violation.
“International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid,” said the UN humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher.
Hours after Israel’s announcement, five non-governmental groups asked Israel’s Supreme Court for an interim order barring the state from preventing aid from entering Gaza, claiming the move violates Israel’s obligations under international law and amounts to a war crime: “These obligations cannot be condition on political considerations.”
last year, the International Criminal Court said there was reason to believe Israel had used “starvation as a method of warfare” when it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The allegation is also central to South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.
On Sunday, Kenneth roth, former head of Human rights Watch, said Israel as an occupying power has an “absolute duty” to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions, and called Israel’s decision “a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy” that led to the ICC warrant.
By CARA ANNA Associated Press
End to taking advantage of America
EDITOR, The Tribune. WHAT is President Trump dealing with? We could take days perhaps to fully articulate an answer to such a question. But, I world like to touch on one of the cards which I think President Trump has laid soundly on the international political table – to the ire of many national sucker and cut-sucker
leaders throughout our world. Trump made it clear in Africa, Asia, europe and the Americas that the USA has had enough of being taken advantage of; as many of the nations and international organisations which have been supported by US tax dollars over the decades – have been and are still supporting enemies of the United States
of America, and American Ideals. Some seem to want something for nothing –like the hapless leader of Ukraine, Mr Zelensky. Trump had the right to run that cut-sucker out of the White House, in my humble opinion. DENNIS DAMES Nassau, February 28, 2025.
Trump right to cut off NATO
EDITOR, The Tribune.
SINCe the end of World War II, a group of european countries have managed to extend their hegemonic relationship with the rest of the world long after losing their colonial empires. They have managed this by essentially usurping the industrial, military and political power of the United States into their service.
The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) is the formalisation of this relationship, although the “collective west” has often acted as a unit outside this organisation to deploy disproportionate power and influence in the world, very often to the detriment of the majority of countries.
That NATO is essentially a european, rather than American, project is evident not only in the location of its headquarters in Brussels, but also (and more significantly) by an analysis of who pays most for it and who benefits most from it (spoiler: they aren’t the same).
Today it is most evident in the panic and hysteria being witnessed in european capitals in the face of an American president who is uncommitted to the project and its latest proxy-war (in Ukraine).
Churchill once allegedly claimed that the purpose of NATO is to keep “America in, Germany down and russia out”. Whether or not he said this, the first part of the statement has been the consistent obsession of both British and continental european schemes for a eurocentric postwar order. like the arch imperialist that he was, Churchill understood that, to maintain its lopsided power relations with the rest of the world, his country (like the other middle-status powers of europe) required an essentially colonial hold over the financial and military resources of its former American colony.
So they set about convincing postwar US administrations to commit their country’s resources to a hegemonic project supposedly bound by common “western” values, but in reality more focused on outcomes that extend the control of “the west” over the world’s resources and security arrangements. They were assisted in this by a system of financial incentives for the war industries that flourished as constant post-colonial wars (in Africa, the Middle
east, and Indo-China) provided US arms producers with a market that literally feeds off war. This led President eisenhower to warn in his departing speech to Americans of a “military industrial complex” that was extending dangerously and corruptly into the nation’s institutions and polity.
Today, the beneficiaries of this system have most obviously been not Americans, but europeans – whom it has allowed to construct elaborate welfare states and invest in high human development at home, while promoting chaos and instability abroad behind the shelter of American power. And it has made the United States unnecessary enemies, not only of russia (a historic bulwark to Western european expansionism) but of many of europe’s ex-colonial victims, struggling to protect their resources from an international system built to preserve the privileges of their ex-colonisers.
In order to understand the anti-western hostility of Iran, for instance, one has to go back to 1953, when the company now known as British Petroleum (BP) was born of a British-led overthrow of the democratically elected government of Iran, which had the temerity to seek to use Iranian oil wealth for the Iranian people.
President Mossadegh was deposed and replaced by a corrupt but pliant absolutist Monarch, whose angry overthrow in 1979 brought us the theocracy that we have today. And it all started with a simple act of resource theft, backed by American muscle but benefiting British elites recently bereft of an empire in which to do their resource-stealing. So today, the United States and Iran are trapped in a cycle of needless hostility by an event organised by and benefiting the British establishment.
Far from being a one-off, this pattern has continued right up to the present. And it is as ugly today as it was in 1953.
Anyone who saw even the limited (and heavily sanitized) coverage of the NATO attack on libya in 2011 will note the extreme violence toward civilian populations that has become the collective
west’s hallmark pattern of warfare – always targeting an utterly defenceless state and always involving aerial bombardment and, hence, disproportionate civilian casualties.
libya was pulverised, its institutions destroyed and its civil infrastructure reduced to rubble. Its oil wealth, which once funded the most generous educational, health and social programmes in the developing world, were then “liberated” by western companies, while its people (the alleged intended beneficiaries of “Operation Unified Protector”) were left in wretched penury.
To hear today’s european politicians (some of whom participated in the destruction of libya) describe Mr Putin’s relatively measured and even cautious war in Ukraine as “barbaric “ and “murderous” is to peer into an alternative universe where the truth is upside down and the mirror of hypocrisy apparently reflects no light.
“Putin’s war” is in fact a defensive action against a NATO project launched decades ago to weaken, surround and destabilise russia, by interfering in the internal affairs of its neighbors. Mr Trump knows this. He also knows that the gambit has failed and that now the only hope of the petty hegemons (be they American neo-cons or warmongering european poodles) is to somehow involve the United States in another forever war –this time against a nuclear power. Sensibly, he wants no part of it.
When the west provoked this proxy war in Ukraine three years ago, I wrote a letter in this column expressing the hope and belief that it would end not just in an unequivocal western military defeat, but also the end of NATO as an organisation.
Today it is becoming clear that neither hope will be disappointed. Without American support, there is no NATO and Mr Trump has just signaled that he intends to use the power of his country in the service of its own people, spelling the death of a “collective west” whose sole, ironic purpose has been to extend the worldwide footprint of empire at the expense of the country that first rebelled against it.
Well done, Mr Trump. ANDREW ALLEN Nassau, March 3, 2025.
A CUTE potcake pup enjoying some playtime on the beach.
‘Time to act over roadside garages’
and Protection (DEPP) is assessing the feasibility of the proposed site, emphasising that the government must ensure the move does not create new problems down the line.
He said the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Housing, the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs, and the Prime Minister’s Office are all involved in the relocation effort.
For years, residents have complained about the unchecked spread of roadside garages, citing environmental hazards, derelict vehicles, and fumes affecting nearby homes. However, despite their frustration, enforcement has been absent, and the problem has only worsened.
The issue came to the forefront again this month when a fire destroyed Honda Plus, a vehicle storage and car parts business located along the main road in the Victoria Gardens subdivision. Residents expressed renewed concerns about businesses like these operating in residential areas, with one claiming neighbours had been trying to get the
establishment shut down for years.
The owner, Bryan Bethel, defended his business, insisting he had obtained five different licences and operated legally. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Victoria Gardens’ MP, Dr Michael Darville, announced plans for a town hall meeting where government agencies will present a plan of action to residents.
Other MPs voiced their growing frustration, but the reality remains: they have the power to act but have yet to implement an effective solution.
Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin said enforcement is “complicated” and has failed to yield timely results. She stressed that authorities must conduct a thorough assessment before approving businesses in mixed-use communities to avoid negative impacts on residents.
“These roadside garages are popping up, with cars littering the streets, derelict vehicles piling up, and fumes affecting nearby homes,” she said.
Nassau Village MP Jamahl Strachan said the issue is worsening,
estimating there are now ten to 15 roadside garages in his constituency. He attributed the growth to people seeking entrepreneurship opportunities without fully understanding environmental regulations.
Centreville MP Jomo Campbell said at least four garages had been identified in his constituency, though he suspects there are more. He argued that addressing the problem requires more than just removing the vehicles.
“It’s a mindset that we have to work towards changing,” he said. “We don’t just want to remove the vehicles and leave the mindset. Residents must understand that this is their neighbourhood, and they should want to keep it as clean and pristine as their own home.”
Bain and Grants Town MP Wayde Watson said there are more than five garages in his constituency and agreed relocation is necessary.
“Apparently, we need to relocate them so they can continue their business, but it’s really dampening the aesthetics and contributing to social ills,” he said.
Man on bail for charges of kidnapping, rape and two murders accuses judge of bias
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS
Tribune Staff Reporter
lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
A MAN on bail charged with kidnapping, rape, and two murders, presented a recusal motion in court without the support of legal counsel, accusing the judge of bias.
Trevon Stevens claimed that Justice Franklyn Williams had already formed an opinion about his guilt before the trial had even begun.
He pointed to what he described as a prejudicial statement made by the judge to a court clerk, when Justice Williams allegedly referred to Stevens as having killed his girlfriend and her child without using the word “alleged.”
He argued that this comment –– along with a reference to his previous conviction for causing grievous harm to a former girlfriend –– demonstrated a clear bias.
In his application, he
argued that his right to a fair trial, as guaranteed under Article 20 of the Bahamian Constitution, was being infringed upon due to what he described as “ostensible bias” by Justice Williams. He pointed to the judge’s past remarks about him during a bail hearing, when Justice Williams had stated that Stevens was a “threat to society, and in particular, to females.” He also criticised the judge for citing his prior conviction for violence against a female as a reason for denying bail, drawing parallels to the charges in the current case. Justice Williams, however, dismissed the recusal motion, stating that Stevens’ claims did not meet the threshold for judicial bias. The judge noted that remarks made during proceedings, particularly in the context of bail hearings, were not improper and were within the scope of the judge’s role in assessing the risk to public safety.
Man on bail for Murder and two others charged with stealing cars
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN awaiting a murder trial was sent to prison after being accused in a series of recent car thefts in New Providence.
Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned Kobe Taylor, 18, with Tarran Seymour, 18, and Jeffery Toussaint, 22, on two counts each of stealing and receiving.
Prosecutors allege that the defendants stole a silver coloured 2008 Bluebird Sylphy from Brian Rolle’s residence in Sunset Meadows on January 27,
valued at $2,500. They are also accused of stealing a grey colour0ed 2013 Nissan Cube belonging to Tallia Smith from her home in southwestern New Providence on February 1 valued at $5,000.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges. Assistant Superintendent of Police Pratt, who prosecuted the case, objected to Taylor’s bail, citing his pending murder charges and attempted murder. She also mentioned that Taylor is under electronic monitoring for these offences.
Taylor was denied bail, and was remanded to the
Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. However, Seymour and Toussaint were granted bail at $5,000 with one or two sureties each.
As part of their bail conditions, they must sign in at the East Street South Police Station every Friday by 6pm. The defendants were also warned not to interfere with witnesses or complainants or risk having their bail revoked.
The trial for this matter is scheduled to begin on May 6.
Bjorn Ferguson represented Taylor, while Kristina Saunders represented Seymour.
Man accused of robbery with violence, grievous har M and threats of death
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was granted bail after being accused of attacking his former girlfriend last month and stealing cash from her by force.
Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned Rodrecco Taylor, 34, on charges of robbery with violence, grievous harm, and
threats of death.
Prosecutors allege that during a verbal altercation on February 18, Taylor punched the complainant multiple times in the face and choked her. He also allegedly threatened to kill her before stealing $100.
The complainant reportedly suffered injuries as a result of the attack.
Taylor pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Bail was set at $5,000
with one or two sureties. Under the conditions of his release, he must sign in at the East Street South Police Station every Friday by 6pm and is prohibited from interfering with the complainant or any witnesses. His trial is set to begin on May 5.
Glendon Rolle represented the accused, while Assistant Superintendent of Police Pratt prosecuted the case.
woM an charged with seriously injuring M an sent to s andilands for evaluation
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A WOMAN was remanded to Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre yesterday after being accused of seriously injuring a man in Leslie Estates last week.
Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans arraigned Faydeen Aspinall on charges of grievous harm and threats of death.
Prosecutors allege that during a physical altercation on February 27, Aspinall injured and threatened to kill Aubert
Cunningham. She did not enter a plea, as she was ordered to Sandilands for a psychological evaluation. She is expected to return to court on May 5, when her psychological report will be presented. Police Constable Evans prosecuted the case.
Man accused of rape chose to serve two years in prison for bail breach charge
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN accused of rape chose to serve two months in prison yesterday after admitting to breaching his curfew while out on bail.
Senior Magistrate Raquel Whyms arraigned
Referring to legal precedent, Justice Williams emphasised that judges are presumed impartial, and that accusations of bias must be supported by clear evidence of prejudgment.
In his ruling, the judge reminded Stevens of his presumption of innocence, as enshrined in Article 20 of the Constitution, and outlined that judicial remarks made in the course of bail hearings or other pre-trial matters did not automatically indicate bias.
He further clarified that his previous statements regarding Stevens’ past convictions were made in the context of assessing bail and not as an indication of guilt in the current case. Ultimately, Justice Williams struck out the motion, ruling that there was no legitimate basis for recusal, and ordered that Stevens’ trial would proceed as scheduled. The case, set for May 2025, will continue under the oversight of the judge.
Sedell Pierre, 34, on a charge of violating his bail conditions.
Pierre had been granted Supreme Court bail after being accused of raping a 41-year-old woman in New Providence on February 7, 2023.
While on release, he reportedly breached his court-ordered residential curfew on three occasions between February 3 and 22. Pierre pleaded guilty to the charge.
Although he was ordered to pay a $1,500 fine, he opted to serve a two-month prison term instead. Sergeant 2257 Wilkinson prosecuted the case.
A roAdside garge with multiple vehicles and car parts cluttering the yard in New Providence.
Photo: dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Arrogance, greed, jealousy, and envy are part of our culture
In the Bahamas, there are many who, with their means, quietly make contributions to various organisations. They insist on their names not being called, as they believe in the purity of their actions.
For instance, they fund a local school’s scholarship program, help youth organisations and sports, donate to a community health clinic, or help those in need. Their selfless acts, devoid of any desire for recognition, serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. These unsung heroes, through their selfless acts, inspire admiration and understanding of the true essence of giving.
On the other hand, some help get publicity so that they’re seen differently. These kinds of people mentioned are pure and unadulterated people with the lowest self-esteem and thrive from being in the limelight. So, being our brother’s keeper is only valid in the book. We pay lip service to giving, but our hearts are not pure and are not sensitive to the plight of our brothers and sisters. We would want to be seen as selfless when the truth is said we are selfish people who could care less about anyone, even blood relatives. Everything is cool as long as no one will be better off than us.
Like countless others, I am driven to help others. I can name a few Bahamians who go beyond to assist, but I want their names to remain anonymous. It is best not to be known because vultures that cannot be satisfied would come pouncing to attempt to meet their unquenchable greed. Let’s all strive to be selfless, which is the true mark of a generous society.
Greed has consumed far too many of us. We become successful, move away from our neighbourhoods, and disregard family and friends who have fallen on hard times. We move into gated communities and completely forget how we got there, yet we want more and stop at nothing to block our friends and family from having the same experiences. There has been a new kind of greed in the last few years. Politically, an alarming crew found a way to fleece the country by acquiring influence and capitalising on it, but they could not get enough. So they go back to the well without conscience and then brag about it. Because they are not
FACING REALITY
By Ivo I ne Ingraham
used to being successful, they set out to block any attempt by their friends or family to experience the same. Seeing people bickering and complaining is disheartening because they cannot get “something for nothing”. The chorus of unsatisfied gluttons is sickening. Greed comes from those hell-bent on having it all, whether in political power, economic wealth, or social status. And if they do have their way, it comes through those who can make things happen or threaten everyone until they achieve it. Societal greed leads to inequality and undermines trust and cooperation. We must critique this greed
and strive for a more equitable and generous society. The detrimental impact of greed and arrogance is a cause for concern and should urgently motivate us to change.
The atmosphere is ripe for envy and jealousy. People who would not lift a finger to help themselves are angry with those who have applied themselves. The jealousy is so deep that there are many negative behaviours when the lazy parasite does not have their way. But getting something for nothing seems to be the new norm, or expecting to torment a politician long enough, they will succumb under the pressure and acquiesce.
Similarly, people experience annoying arrogance from rookie politicians who wake up on 17 September and realise they are now Members of Parliament. Few had the popularity or stock to be elected, but they rode on the popularity of others whose compassionate personalities paved the way.
This arrogance in leadership is not just distasteful; it’s a cause for concern.
When leaders become arrogant, they often lose touch with the needs and concerns of the people they are supposed to serve, which can lead to decisions that benefit the few at the expense of the many. We
But the stark reality is that the only important thing is that people do not remember all of the rhetoric, the many social media posts, or the giveaways; people only remember how you make them feel.
need leaders who remember that they are not ‘too big for their bridges’ and hardly represent why they were elected, which is to serve.
Walking around with a puffed-up chest and displaying a superiority complex is not a good formula for service; it’s a turn-off. Leaders must experience an epiphany that the purpose for being elected is for service. The people are the employer, not the other way around. Humility, not arrogance, should be the hallmark of a good leader. They should remember that they are there to serve the people, not to be served by them, invoking a sense of accountability and responsibility in the audience.
We should not have to kiss the ring to get good representation, and no one is doing us the people a favour. Members of parliament are so arrogant that some walk in a crowded room and ‘not a dog say bow-wow.’ It is simply amazing how common courtesies have disappeared. Some act like gods. If you were not in their clique, then dog eat your lunch. But the stark reality is that the only important thing is that people do not remember all of the rhetoric, the many social media posts, or the giveaways; people only remember how you make them feel.
Disrespecting people for no reason other than being an MP still has not settled.
On another subject, hiring anyone to do a job and expecting subordinates to train them is not only foolish but degrading and counterproductive. A word to the wise is not to expect people on the ‘stinking end of the stick’ to cooperate favourably, thus creating a hostile atmosphere, expecting that to be a positive environment with positive outcomes.
I am generalising these scenarios without naming anyone so that those in authority who think about being inhumane remember that if you burn down the bridge, you may have to cross to the other side. Cruel and unusual punishment is terrible for a positive atmosphere, company or country.
Let’s face reality: Arrogance, greed, jealousy, and envy are part of our culture. We will not make much progress until we stop wasting energy and time tearing each other down. We must find ways to encourage each other and celebrate people’s achievements. When we progress, reach back and give a helping hand; that is the only way we can build a better Bahamas. This could mean supporting local businesses, volunteering in your community, or advocating for policy changes that promote equality and fairness.
Still hope after disastrous White House encounter
Such is the power of modern communications in today’s interconnected world that an incident deemed to be sufficiently newsworthy can spread across the globe almost instantaneously. It is called, of course, “going viral”.
Over the weekend, all eyes were on the latest example of this; namely, the tempestuous and unsavoury meeting, in the presence of the media, in the White house last Friday that ended in an angry shouting match between President Trump and his Vice President on the one side and President Zelenskyy of ukraine on the other. Embarrassingly, the numerous officials and media present – and later the rest of the world -- witnessed a complete breakdown of the civilized norms of diplomatic exchanges in public between heads of government.
It is worth watching the whole video of the meeting lasting some 45 minutes in order to see that the main part of it was cordial and business-like from the beginning. Trump and Vance may have been irritated by a warning from Zelenskyy that any appeasement of Putin as the aggressor would have consequences for the rest of the world including the uS itself and by his insistence on at least discussing at the start of peace negotiations security guarantees as part of a ceasefire agreement.
The meeting only deteriorated in to an altercation following an aggressive intervention by JD Vance about Zelenskyy’s alleged lack of respect and gratitude to America for its active diplomacy and military support for ukraine during the past three years of conflict.
Trump then doubled down on this in berating Zelenskyy at length for his lack of cooperation and willingness
The Peter Young column
to assist American efforts to end the war, saying brutally that his country was in big trouble and “he held none of the cards” so needed American help. This bruising encounter surely came as a shock to all concerned. Evidently, that week in Washington had been carefully choreographed in advance. There were separate meetings at the White house on Monday with President Macron of France and on Thursday with the British prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, who produced an invitation from King charles for a second state visit by the president to Britain. This was accepted on the spot. Then, on Friday afternoon, President Zelenskyy was due to sign an agreement with the uS that would give it access to ukraine’s substantial deposits of rare earth minerals. But, alas, that did not happen, since Zelenskyy hastily departed the White house after the furious exchange with Trump.
The next day, Zelenskyy appeared in London and had talks with Starmer who welcomed him warmly and reiterated Britain’s firm, unwavering support for
ukraine while announcing a new nearly $3 billion military aid package to ukraine funded by frozen Russian assets. Zelenskyy also received a large number of messages of support from European leaders.
Then, on Sunday, at his own request, the president had an audience with the King after Starmer had hosted a summit in London of European leaders to discuss a peace plan, which, he said, would be put to Trump for consideration. In the words of NATO secretary general Mark Rutte, this meeting was “really positive” and he told reporters that the first step was to make sure a peace deal was agreed before there were discussions about how to guarantee it.
Prime Minister Starmer commented after the summit that “we are at a crossroads in history” and “Europe must now do the heavy lifting”, though uS backing, he said, was essential for any peace process to work. he unveiled a plan for the uK, France
and others to work with ukraine to stop the fighting and to be discussed with the uS before taking it forward together.
Four points have been agreed: to keep military aid flowing into ukraine, to have Kyiv at the table for any peace talks, to maintain the aim of European leaders to deter any future Russian invasion of ukraine and to form a “coalition of the willing” to defend ukraine and guarantee peace there.
Inevitably, there have been varied reactions to Friday’s unruly spat. To some outsiders, how disappointing it was to listen to people like secretary of state Marco Rubio tamely toeing his master’s line. What is more, the uS’s latest stance at the uN is considered by many as a disgrace. Some commentators consider that as soon as the exchanges at Friday’s meeting became heated Trump should have drawn the proceedings to a halt. Such behaviour should not have been allowed
to happen in front of the media and any differences of this kind should only be aired behind closed doors.
To that extent, even though Trump’s irritation may have been justified, the whole episode has been described as a display of “boorish brutishness” designed to humiliate Zelenskyy. Vance talked about respect for the Oval Office – others ask about the respect that should have been accorded to the head of state of another country seated by invitation in that Oval Office.
People are already now looking at the vice president in another light as a man who cannot control himself and becomes a bully in a public setting; and they are drawing fresh attention to his undiplomatic approach at the recent Munich Security conference. Thus far, he has had to face protests during a ski trip to Vermont over the weekend, and it is being said that this incident could even be remembered if he makes a bid for the
top job in four years’ time. As for Trump, interestingly some observers have said that he will never act properly like a statesman because he is motivated primarily by doing deals and does not see the bigger picture. Moreover, he seems to characterize the war as a kind of binary conflict between two countries who should both take their share of the burden or blame for the fighting and its causes when it was clearly the case that Russia illegally invaded its neighbour.
All that said, an important aspect of this whole issue is that the minerals deal ought to benefit ukraine in so far as it will bring the uS formally in to play with long-term projects involving a firm commitment to the country in terms of security. This is because the uS will need to protect its investments in mining and the personnel employed there. It could anyway be part of a wider security guarantee, though, reportedly, such security protection is already built in to the draft minerals agreement. Furthermore, a significant proportion of the mining concerned is located in the east of the country over which Russia now claims control – and the uS will surely wish to do what it can to protect its interests there.
From what most people are saying, it should now be for Zelenskyy to try to salvage the mining deal and to repair, generally, his relationship with Trump. While the details of Europe’s plan to end the war are awaited, it will be compelling to watch developments. As Trump himself has said repeatedly, large numbers are dying needlessly on the battlefield, and for the sake of humanity this war has to be brought to an end.
Britain increases its defence spending Is peace in Ukraine attainable?
TO some in Britain, prime minister Starmer’s decision to increase defence spending and reduce overseas aid to pay for this is a defining moment for the new Labour government. It goes against the party’s election manifesto and shows that -- together with, for example, tightening the nation’s borders -- he has no intention of leading an exclusively liberal left administration. But in today’s uncertain world such an increase perhaps reflects the reality of overseas conflicts undermining security and prosperity at home and the fact that the first duty of government is to protect its citizens in an ever more dangerous world. It was announced in the PM’s statement of 25 February that spending on defence is to increase to 2.5 per cent of GDP from April, 2027, with an ambition to reach 3 per cent in the next parliament as economic and fiscal conditions allow. This means spending some $17 billion more on defence every year from 2027. In the words of the statement, this will deliver the stability that underpins economic growth by ensuring a secure environment in which business can thrive.
The government has claimed that, at the same time as a new reinvigorated approach to the defence industry will drive economic growth and create jobs across the uK, it will also bolster national security and protect borders.
This announcement came the day after the third anniversary of
Russia’s illegal invasion of ukraine and it shows the uK’s continued readiness to step up and meet this serious threat to global stability. It was clearly also timed to coincide with Starmer’s visit to Washington last week. It is a fair bet that it is partly a response, as well, to the uS president’s consistent pressure on all NATO members to increase their defence spending.
This new commitment will see the biggest sustained increase in defence spending in Britain since the cold War as the uK enters an era of intensifying geopolitical competition and conflict. The announcement also demonstrates Britain’s readiness to maintain its global leadership and especially when it is becoming clear that Europe will have to be more responsible for its own security, not least in relation to ukraine.
Britain’s finance minister has urged European leaders to follow the uK lead, saying that the world has changed and “the
importance of hard power -- of securing our defence -- is clearly more important today than it has been for a long time,” and “we have to respond to that.”
The increase in defence spending will be funded by reducing Overseas Development Assistance from 0.5 per cent to 0.3 per cent of Gross National Income.
That, of course, is a big step for a socialist government to take, and it has been labelled a “betrayal” by development charities.
The premier has made it clear that the uK remains fully committed to making the world a safer and more prosperous place.
But, in his view, the way to do that is by deterring and preventing conflict and targeting aid more effectively; for example, increased humanitarian funding to countries like Sudan which is now in desperate need of assistance. Meanwhile, the government also remains committed in the longer term to returning to spending 0.7 per cent of GNI on aid as soon as the economy allows.
ON his return to Kyiv after a tumultuous visit to Washington and London last week, President Zelenskyy said in a statement yesterday that Russia had intensified its attacks on ukraine recently and that this raised serious doubts about whether Putin really wants to end the war. The ukrainian president also took the opportunity of expressing to the American government and people once gain his country’s gratitude for their enormous help and support in successfully resisting Russian aggression during the last three years of war.
Interestingly, commentators in the uK have been wondering why, during the flurry of activity over ukraine during the past week, so little has been said about whether the Russians are really willing to try to end the war, which Putin still calls a ‘special military operation’, and withdraw from ukraine. Or has this been discussed and we are not being told about it?
It is argued, of course, that Trump’s tactic of making concessions in advance of negotiations has been the best means of persuading Putin to come to the table. But, without using force, which could lead to another world war, the only way to end the conflict is for Putin to be persuaded that it is his own interests to negotiate. his murderous foray into ukraine has clearly been a failure for him since ukraine, with the help of the West, has successfully resisted his overwhelming military force. But he does not care about massive Russian casualties
and loss of equipment, not least because as a dictator he does not have to answer to local public opinion. It is said that one element of diplomacy is to “provide ladders down which other people can climb”. But in the rush to be tough on Putin, some people are now questioning whether sufficient weight has been given to this advice. Putin is in possession of large chunks of ukrainian territory in the east of the country as well as having annexed
crimea in 2014. Since it now appears that, after three years of conflict, ukraine is unlikely to be able to win the war, he can only be dislodged by negotiation. That is not appeasement – it is facing reality. Without keeping the Russians at the negotiating table, the prospects for peace are slim. So, notwithstanding those exchanges in the Oval Office, perhaps Trump’s approach might be the best way of trying to achieve it after all.
Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Photo: aP
BRitain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks to apprentices and representatives in the defence industry, during a careers fair inside 10 Downing Street in central London yesterday.
Photo: adrian Dennis/AP
PResiDent Donald Trump welcomes Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in Washington on Friday.
Photo: Ben Curtis/AP
AT NEARLY 60, few people return to the classroom. However, Lucretia Rolle is one individual who sees age as nothing but a number.
Age no barrier to learning The BTVI Story
In fact, Lucretia is so determined that as a prospective 2025 graduate of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), she is working to complete a barbering certificate this semster and her cosmetology diploma by summer.
She said it was with an open mind that she approached adjusting to a classroom setting predominantly composed of younger students.
“Rather than perceiving the age difference as an obstacle, I embrace it as a distinct advantage. My life experiences enable me to approach subjects from multiple perspectives. I observe that younger students often appreciate and value real world insights. In turn, their enthusiasm and innovative ideas serve as inspiration for me,” said Lucretia.
“Fortunately, I took the initiative to enrol in various digital courses, which enhanced my familiarity with contemporary technology. This preparation facilitated a smoother transition to BTVI. Rather than feeling outpaced, I feel empowered to contribute,” she added.
Admittedly, financial challenges previously hindered Lucretia’s
educational journey. However, she is now taking advantage of the government tuition grant.
“The tuition grant is an exceptional opportunity that motivates me to maximise my potential by enroling in courses aligned with my aspirations. With this perspective, I refuse to allow age or circumstances to impede my education, especially considering that financial and personal constraints previously hindered my pursuits,” she stated.
Additionally, while in the classroom, Lucretia is busy helping others on their educational journey.
“I am passionate about and dedicated to recruiting potential students, assisting them with registration and addressing their needs before each semester.
When I come across individuals – young and old – whether roaming the streets, in wash houses,
CHINA OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG SCHOLARS
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
TRAVIS Collins, an alumnus of the South China University of Technology, recently shared his experience of studying international trade and economics in Chinese at one of China’s toptier universities.
Speaking to Tribune Education, he emphasized the remarkable affordability and cultural benefits of education in China, noting that his tuition costs were around $3,000 a year, an incredibly low price for the high-quality education offered.
“I was shocked at how good the education was for such a cheap price,” said Mr Collins, reflecting on his time at the university.
He also highlighted the personal enrichment that came with living and studying in China, including bonding with peers and submerging himself in China’s rich cultural activities.
“It was an awesome experience. The best part about it is you’re in the culture, and you get to meet so many interesting people and experience so much,” he added.
Travis encourages students to attend prestigious Chinese universities, which are considered comparable to the Ivy League in the United States, to maximise career opportunities.
He also emphasised the career advantages of being bilingual, noting that fluency in both Chinese and English makes it easier to find work as an expat.
“At that point, an extra skill set you have is that you’re fluent in Chinese, but you’re also fluent in English, so you’re very sought after,” he explained.
In light of his experience, Travis encourages students to apply for the 2025/2026 Chinese Government Scholarships, which are now open.
Four full scholarships are available, providing tuition coverage, living expenses, and basic medical insurance for study at top Chinese universities.
For more information on these scholarships and how to apply, visit http://bs.china-embassy. gov.cn or email chinaemb_bs@mfa.gov.cn.
malls or food stores, I encourage them to enrol in BTVI, especially in the beauty or construction trades. I also encourage them to go to other institutions that align with their career goals,” said the former senior surveillance officer.
“I firmly believe that education empowers, transforms and creates opportunities. I have witnessed firsthand how returning to the classroom can significantly change lives, giving individuals the confidence to pursue their talents and dreams,” she stated.
Meantime, Lucretia expresses her experience at BTVI as “profoundly enriching and fulfilling”.
“The learning environment is engaging, fostering collaboration, curiosity and personal development. There is excellent instruction and the curriculum balances theory and practical, supplying me with the essential tools for success,” she stated.
GB IS READY FOR A TECHNICAL REVOLUTION
BY DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
FRED Delancy, founder of Ruthnell Technical Institute, has announced plans to launch a “technical education revolution” aimed at providing young people with access to free technical education.
“We are promoting what we call a technical education revolution that will ensure our residents have easy access to free, good-quality technical education,” he said on Friday.
Mr Delancy said RTI will seek support from industrial partners to train and equip young people, ages 16 to 22, with technical skills, creating a more productive workforce.
RTI recently hosted a technical education career fair and workshop at Eight Mile Rock High School. It was open to all public schools in Grand Bahama. Deputy Director of the Ministry of Education
Michelle Bowleg, along with representatives from Dravo Rock, Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute, Pineyard Technical, and the Grand Bahama Port Authority, spoke to students about opportunities in the technical field.
Mr Delancy also recognised five outstanding students who finished at the top of their respective technical courses at Ruthnell. They also
received a goodie bag and $50 cash each.
“We believe that much of the social ills this country is experiencing can be attributed to young people because they have nothing to do. If we exposed them to more skills through technical education, I think they would contribute greatly to the development of this country and not spend time committing crime and causing so much problems.”
Ms Bowleg emphasised the importance of the career fair, noting that it provides students with valuable exposure to the benefits of technical education.
She encouraged students to plan ahead, set goals, and ensure that any technical schools they enroll in are certified by NAECOB.
Ms Bowleg also advised students on the importance of developing marketable skills, maintaining a professional appearance, communicating effectively, and staying up to date with industry trends.
“We want them to take advantage of everything the industry has to offer,” she said.
Ms Bowleg added that the Ministry of Education is pleased with the effectiveness of Grand Bahama’s technical and vocational programs.
“Grand Bahama, I can say, we are well on our way in terms of equipping students for the future and for the workforce,” she said.
RAENIA Fowler, a 12thgrade student at Noble Preparatory Academy, is a standout in both academics and extracurriculars. Consistently on the Honor Roll, she is also the head photographer of the school’s media club and cheerleading captain.
Her journey into photography began at home, where she assisted her mother, who had taken up photography as a hobby.
Inspired by her mother’s passion, Raenia soon received her own professional camera and began perfecting her skills.
At just 16, Raenia became a published photographer with Up and Away Travel Magazine for their April-June 2024 edition, which later won the 2024 World Travel Award for the Caribbean’s Leading Inflight Magazine.
THE fourth annual Joyce Bannister Memorial Aviation Scholarship has been presented by The Aimsir Group to Homer Curtis III, supporting his pursuit of flight training abroad.
Organisers said: “Homer exemplifies the legacy of Joyce Bannister. Despite
facing a family crisis that required him to prioritise his father’s care over his education, he remained steadfast in his dream of becoming a pilot. His resilience in the face of adversity reflects his strength of character and unwavering determination.”
“The BTVI Story” is a monthly column which highlights how the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is
‘Charting the Course for Success’ for learners in a multiplicity of trades. The column is produced by BTVI’s Office of Public Relations.
LUCRETIA ROLLE