PNP presses government to remove Andrew Wheatley as Integrity Commission probe continues

The People's National Party has stepped up demands for the government to remove Dr Andrew Wheatley from cabinet while the Integrity Commission continues its investigation into him. Speaking at a divisional meeting in Mineral Heights, Clarendon, over the weekend, Hayes division councillor CN Barnswell said retaining Wheatley in the post was damaging Jamaica's reputation overseas.

Former Caribbean Maritime University employee Kevon Panton, who is accused of embezzling $1.7 million from the institution, has been warned that he could face a custodial sentence if he fails to repay the remaining sum. Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Court Judge Peter Wilson delivered the warning during Monday's hearing on the matter. Panton has repaid $552,500 of the alleged missing funds, reducing the outstanding balance to $1,149,500.

The National Water Commission says its $177 million Western Resilience Project will play a major role in easing the current dry spell affecting the island. Following a tour of the eastern segment of the scheme, acting corporate public relations manager Delano Williams said recent work was already producing results. He noted that the recommissioning of Belfield was helping to maintain reliable water supply to elevated farming communities and was improving service across the wider network.

Leaders from across the Caribbean and the diaspora have come together under the We Whistle Global initiative to explore ways to improve healthcare, strengthen economies, and create more opportunities for citizens. Founder Stacy Lucy said the foundation is focused on converting regional partnerships into meaningful action. Co-founder Denise Williams said improving healthcare remains the organisation's primary focus.

In international news, Cuba has been hit by another nationwide blackout. The cause of the outage remains unknown, but the country's grid operator said an investigation is under way. The blackout comes as Cuba continues to battle a deepening energy crisis driven by sharp declines in oil imports. Earlier this year, United States sanctions disrupted fuel shipments to the island. On Monday, Cuba's president accused Washington of using the restrictions to trigger social unrest.