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Jofra Archer to miss rest of Ashes series

Sherrylyn Clarke
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Jofra Archer to miss rest of Ashes series

Melbourne, Australia – England has been dealt a significant blow in an already disappointing Ashes series, with fast bowler Jofra Archer now set to miss the final two matches due to a side strain.

The 30-year-old Barbadian has been a standout performer for England during the series, grabbing nine wickets at an average of 27.11, inclusive of a five-wicket haul.

Archer took 5-53 in Australia’s first innings in Adelaide, his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket for six years.

However, he was limited to only 12.4 overs in Australia’s second innings, and a scan on Tuesday in Melbourne revealed the side injury.

Archer also scored his maiden Test half century in the third Test in Adelaide, which Australia won to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series.

It is the latest setback to Archer’s career, with the pacer only making his return to Test cricket in July following a four-year absence after spending years battling elbow and back injuries.

He made his comeback against India at Lord’s five months ago and has played five Tests before being hit by another injury.

Archer will return to the UK after the fourth Test to be assessed, after which a decision can be made on his availability for the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, beginning in February.

England captain Ben Stokes praised Archer for his effort in the Ashes.

“The effort that he’s put in over these three games has been exceptional.

“There were a lot of question marks around his ability or whatever it may be coming out to Australia, and he’s put in a great effort for the team,” Stokes said.

Jacob Bethell in action for England. (ECB)

Archer’s place in the England XI is taken by Gus Atkinson, while Ollie Pope has been replaced by Barbadian Jacob Bethell.

Pope has been dropped after a poor run of form, with his highest score in six innings on this Ashes tour being 46, extending his run of eight Tests against Australia without a half-century.

He has been under pressure since Bethell made his Test debut in New Zealand at the end of last year, when the left-hander made three half-centuries in as many matches.

However, Bethell has endured a stop-start year since that breakthrough tour of New Zealand.

He has played only three first-class matches in the past year, one of which was the fifth Test against India at The Oval, when he made scores of six and five.

The 22-year-old Bethell did make 71 for England Lions against Australia A in Brisbane earlier this month. (CMC)

Somalians vote as universal adult suffrage set to return after more than 50 years

Sherrylyn Clarke
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Somalians vote as universal adult suffrage set to return after more than 50 years

Mogadishu – Residents of Somalia’s capital Mogadishu voted on Thursday in municipal elections meant to pave the way for the East African country’s first direct national polls in more than half a century.

With the exception of votes in the semi-autonomous region of Puntland and the breakaway region of Somaliland, Somalia last held direct elections in 1969, months before military general Mohamed Siad Barre took power in a coup.

After years of civil war that followed Barre’s fall in 1991, indirect elections were introduced in 2004. The idea was to promote consensus among rival clans in the face of an Islamist insurgency, although some Somalis say politicians prefer indirect elections because they create opportunities for corruption.

Under the system, clan representatives elect lawmakers, who then choose the president. The president, in turn, has been responsible for appointing Mogadishu’s mayor.

The vote in Mogadishu, a city of some 3 million people where security conditions have improved in recent years despite continuing attacks by al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab militants, is seen as a test run for direct elections at the national level.

Around 1 605 candidates are running for 390 posts in Mogadishu’s district councils, said Abdishakur Abib Hayir, a member of the National Electoral Commission. Council members will then choose a mayor.

“It shows Somalia is standing on its feet and moving forward,” Hayir told Reuters. “After the local election, elections can and will take place in the entire country.”

Residents waiting to vote formed long lines outside polling stations early in the morning, a Reuters witness said.

The streets were closed to vehicle traffic, and the airport, port and businesses remained closed.

The electoral commission said about 10 000 security personnel were deployed at polling stations.

“This is my first time to vote. I am very happy and I came here early in the morning, walking with other mothers,” Addey Isak Abdi, 65, who was covered with a pink veil, told Reuters.

A 2024 law restored universal suffrage ahead of federal elections expected next year. However, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reached a deal in August with some opposition leaders stipulating that while lawmakers would be directly elected in 2026, the president would still be chosen by parliament.

Opposition parties have argued the rapid introduction of a new electoral system would benefit Mohamud’s re-election prospects.

They also question whether the country is safe enough for mass voting given al Shabaab’s control over vast areas of the countryside and regular strikes on major population centres. (Reuters)

UPDATE: Fatal shooting at Chapel, St Philip

Sherrylyn Clarke
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UPDATE: Fatal shooting at Chapel, St Philip

The man who was shot and killed at Chapel #3, St Philip, on Christmas Eve has been identified by a relative.

He is Carlos Kerwin Jones, 46 years, of nearby #6 Chapel Land.

Police say he was sitting inside of a business establishment, when an assailant approached and discharged a number of gunshots.

Ambulance personnel were summoned and they examined the body, but found no signs of life. A medical doctor subsequently visited the scene and pronounced death.

As investigations continue, police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or have any information that may assist, to please contact the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1800-8477, Police Emergency 211 or the District ‘C’ Police Station at 416-8200 or 416-8204. (PR/SAT)

UPDATE: Fatal accident at Lancaster

Sherrylyn Clarke
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0
UPDATE: Fatal accident at Lancaster

A 24-year-old St Michael woman perished in the accident along Lancaster Bridge, St James last night.

Police say she was identified by a relative as Natalia James of Deacons Farm.

According to police, investigations have shown that a vehicle was traveling north around 10:15 p.m. when the driver collided with the retaining barrier causing injury to himself and his female passenger.

Ambulance personnel visited the scene, examined both and found no signs of life in James. A medical doctor also visited the scene and pronounced death.

The driver was transported to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for urgent medical attention.

Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact the Holetown Police Station at 419-1700/01. (PR/SAT)

SSA off on Christmas Day, New Year’s

Antoinette Connell
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SSA off on Christmas Day, New Year’s

There will be no garbage collection today, Christmas Day or on New Year’s Day by the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA).

The agency is also appealing to residents to remember the SSA when socialising over the Yuletide season and to park their vehicles to accommodate the trucks on the usual collection days.

Public relation officer of the SSA, Carl Padmore, said that while it is a person’s right to socialise, “We still would want them to be conscious that we want the free flow of SSA vehicles so that we can have the garbage picked up”.

He said the challenge was mainly in the St Michael and Christ Church areas.

“We’ve had occasion to get the police involved because of persons who are setting down their vehicles at T-junctions and at the top of gaps so then the SSA can’t manoeuvre through those gaps,” Padmore explained.

SSA Public Relations Officer Carl Padmore (FILE)

In addition, he said that while it is not unusual to see an increase in waste around this festive time, Barbadians also had a responsibility to keep the country clean. He pleaded with them to pay heed to the Government’s solid waste programme for the notification as to when the crew was visiting particular areas.

He said there are some that for the year have had more than one collection but as it happens in December, householders were still discarding items next to the road that can be reused, restored or even recycled.

“As we go into 2026, we really are making an appeal that we practice those other arms of solid waste management and those are key arms. Restoration can still happen and save a lot of items from going into the waste. Recycling can still happen as well. This is our country and we need to keep it clean. It’s an all-country effort,” he said.

Padmore was also concerned about residents still placing animal waste or faeces out for collection as the SSA has been seeing an increase in the practice.

“Persons are now resorting to placing animal waste in the household bins and it’s really causing a health hazard for the SSA crew,” he said.

In addition, he said there was a noticeable increase in the bulk waste in and around Bridgetown and he reminded store owners again to collapse the boxes.

“We are not seeing much improvement in that area at all. We are aware that the Barbados Fire Service and the Ministry of Health reminded them over and over about their responsibility in assisting with keeping Barbados clean, because there are a number of activities happening in communities, house parties and different things,” he said.

Padmore also warned store owners about vehicles obstructing the collection and the free flow of the truck.

There should be, Padmore said, no coconut oil or grease left on pavements by restaurant operators. It is their responsibility to seek the services of providers in those areas to deal with oil and grease. (AC)

Burst main on Princess Alice Highway

Sherrylyn Clarke
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0
Burst main on Princess Alice Highway

A crew from the Barbados Water Authority is fixing a burst main along Princess Alice Highway, The City, near the Immigration Department.

The road, which normally has three lanes, has been reduced to two near the work site and motorists should exercise caution. (SAT)

Baby girl born on Christmas Day

Sherrylyn Clarke
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0
Baby girl born on Christmas Day

First-time mother Tameisha Forde delivered a baby girl around 3:14 a.m. this Christmas Day at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The little bundle of joy weight 6’12”.

She told the media she was not expecting the baby to arrive so soon – she was due in January. Yesterday she went to the polyclinic for a check-up and her water broke.

Forde said they have not picked a name yet, but are leaning towards a combination of hers and the baby’s father, Chad.

No babies were born at Bayview Hospital. (SAT)

Christmas Message: Acting Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick

Ashminnie Moonsammy
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Christmas Message: Acting Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick

It is the conviction of an anonymous writer that “Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made. If you want a different result, make a different choice”.

This is sound advice for this time of the year we call the Christmas season. It may be a time of hustle and bustle where commercialism sometimes replaces common sense. But it is not a time when some people should throw caution to the wind and take comfort in complacency. The choices we make during this yuletide season should add value to our experiences and not vanity.

This is a season, which, for many, captures the spirit of love, joy, peace, giving, family, friends and feasting. It embodies harmony, contentment, reassurance and hopefulness. All of these conditions, however,  can be sullied by indifferent choices, which can instantly transform “the most wonderful time of the year” into a time of mayhem and mourning. What you must acknowledge is that your power of choice can influence the outcomes you encounter at this closing time of 2025.

The Barbados Fire Service wishes all residents and visitors to these beautiful shores, a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. We encourage everyone to continue making that deliberate choice to prioritise safety while enjoying the warmth and joy of the holidays. We draw inspiration from the annual statistics which, up until now, bear reflection of the positive choices you have been making during the year. 

For the first eleven months of 2025, the Barbados Fire Service responded to 1,557 emergencies, including 64 residential fires, 58 motor vehicle fires, and 11 commercial building fires. Compared to 2024, this represents a 9% decrease in residential fires, a 9% decrease in motor vehicle fires, and a 4% decrease in commercial building fires. We thank you for your contribution and cooperation in helping us to achieve these improvements.

As the festivities draw near, we urge you to keep these fire and life safety tips in mind and practise, as they will greatly support the maintenance of peaceful and safe conditions.

  • Do not overload electrical circuits or extension cords.
  • Keep electrical plugs away from rugs and water sources.
  • Never leave stoves unattended while cooking or baking.
  • Assign a designated driver – never drink and drive.
  • Keep unsupervised children away from open flames, matches, and lighters.
  • When cooking, keep fabrics and clothing away from flames.
  • Water your live Christmas tree regularly and keep it away from heat sources.
  • Use certified lights and avoid leaving decorations plugged in overnight.
  • Practise road safety – avoid speeding and distractions.
  • Dial 311 immediately in case of fire or any emergency.

While we endeavour to create and maintain optimum conditions for ourselves and our families, let us not forget or neglect those who are considered vulnerable among us – the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those living alone – ensuring their safety and comfort. Together, we can make this holiday season not only merry and bright but also safe and secure.

Christmas Message: Chairman of BPSA Mr James Clarke

Nationnews Desk
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Christmas Message: Chairman of BPSA Mr James Clarke

The Barbados Private Sector Association extends warm Season’s Greetings to all at this festive time of the year.

For the BPSA, 2025 unfolded against a challenging global backdrop. Slower global economic growth, shaped in part by renewed tariff tensions and ongoing trade disruptions, has had a measurable impact on businesses and on the wider economy. In particular, the application of tariffs on certain Barbadian exports to the United States constrained export performance and contributed to an expansion of the trade deficit.

Despite these challenges, Barbados demonstrated notable economic resilience. The economy continued to expand, supported by record-low unemployment, increased labour-force participation, sustained investment activity, and a significant boom in the construction sector. Strong performance in tourism further underpinned growth, allowing the country to advance in the face of persistent global headwinds.

These outcomes reflect the enduring value of Social Partnership as well as the resilience and adaptability of Barbadian workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses alike. Nevertheless, this is not a moment for complacency. The holiday season offers an opportunity to pause, rest, and reflect, while renewing our collective resolve to strengthen Barbados’ long-term competitiveness. We wish all families peace, good health, and joy.

As we look to 2026, the private sector remains firmly committed to supporting the effective implementation of initiatives under Mission Barbados, alongside the continued rollout of reforms at Business Barbados, and improvements at the Bridgetown Port. These efforts are critical to enhancing productivity, reducing the cost of doing business, and enabling Barbadian enterprises to compete more effectively in regional and global markets.

May the New Year be embraced with renewed energy, purpose, and confidence as we work together to build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Barbados. Season’s Greetings once again and best wishes for the New Year.

Christmas Message: Anglican Bishop Michael Maxwell

Sherrylyn Clarke
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0
Christmas Message: Anglican Bishop Michael Maxwell

Greetings to you, my fellow Barbadians, on this Christmas Day as we celebrate, with Christians across the world, the birthday of our King, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Christmas is considered by many to be the most joyous time of the year, for it carries many signs of joy—the sweet carols and music that fill the air, the beautiful lights in our homes and on our streets, the warmth and cheer of our family gatherings, the act of gift-giving, and the sweet taste of black cake, ham, and sorrel. These traditions of Christmas truly bring delight, but we are often in need of the reminder that they are not the main reason for the season. They simply point us toward a greater and deeper truth that is to be our real source of joy in this life.

The true joy of Christmas lies in the remarkable truth that God stepped into our world in the person of Jesus Christ to offer hope, peace, love, and joy. This is why we love to sing that carol: “Joy to the world, the Lord is come, let earth receive her King.”

For in Jesus, our Lord, God drew near—offering peace, hope, and a love that does not fade with the season. He came to free and transform us from the attitudes and burdens that rob us of joy, such as fear, bitterness, pride, unforgiveness, and the anxieties that weigh heavily on our hearts. He invited us into a new way of living where joy is not temporary, but rooted in His presence to love us and to lead us. We receive and experience that joy when we, on earth, receive Him as our King and follow the path He shows.

This year, that message of where true joy is to be found is especially important. Although many are celebrating, we know that there are also many who are carrying heavy burdens. Some are grieving, especially for lives that have been cut short due to violence. Some are facing financial strain due to joblessness and the rising cost of living. Some feel the weight of loneliness or a terminal illness, and others are troubled by the conflicts and uncertainties within their homes, our Caribbean region, and the wider world.

If that is your reality today, hear this: Christmas is for you. Christmas is for all of us, for Jesus came not only for those who rejoice now but also for those who are currently struggling in life. He came as Emmanuel—God with us—for the burdened, the wounded, the heavy-laden, and the broken-hearted. He came to offer a joy that lifts us above what tries to pull us down.

This is the heart of God, and as we are called to be His people, we are to reflect His heart by drawing near to others, being present for them, and responding to their brokenness in love—enabling them to experience the joy of our presence.

Barbados has long been known for its kindness, its community spirit, and its willingness to look out for one another, and this has enabled our people to find joy in life here on this rock. This season of Christmas calls us once again to become home and community builders who enable love, peace, and joy to be experienced by our neighbours and ourselves.

So let us be inspired, even during this season, to reach out to those who feel alone; to listen and respond to those who are hurting; and to extend generosity to those in need. Joy is made possible and visible when we, in our response to others, choose compassion over indifference, forgiveness over resentment, reconciliation over hostility, and gentleness over aggression.

As we are called to experience joy during this Christmastide, let us not leave this joy behind when the season ends or when the decorations and lights are taken down. Let joy fill our homes, our workplaces, our communities, and our nation all year round. Let us speak joy into discouragement—especially for our young people. Let us live joy in ways that help others sense God’s presence among us. May we allow God in Christ to remove from our hearts anything that blocks the flow of His joy into our lives or into the lives of others.

On this Christmas Day and beyond, may our hearts be strengthened, our hope renewed, and our spirits lifted by the good news that still rings true: “Joy to the world—the Lord is come!”

I wish you and yours, on behalf of my family and the Anglican Church in Barbados, a blessed and joyous Christmas season and God’s continued favour, with the sharing of His joy in 2026.

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