Nepal turmoil adds to India's woes in South Asia
Nepal has become the third country in India's immediate neighbourhood to see a violent uprising topple its government in recent years.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned after more than 20 people died in clashes with police during anti-government demonstrations triggered by a social media ban.
A nationwide curfew is in place and the army is attempting to bring the situation under control after protesters stormed parliament and set fire to the homes of several politicians.
For many, the scenes in Kathmandu were reminiscent of the turmoil that gripped Bangladesh last year, and Sri Lanka in 2022.
Though Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are also India's close neighbours in South Asia, Delhi's relationship with Kathmandu is special because of historic people-to-people, economic and strategic ties.
Nepal shares a largely open border of more than 1,750km (466 miles) with five Indian states; Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Bihar and West Bengal.
Delhi is keenly watching developments across the border, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi swiftly reacting to the unfolding events.
"The violence in Nepal is heart-rending. I am anguished that many young people have lost their lives," Modi wrote in a post on X on Tuesday.
Stressing that "stability, peace and prosperity of Nepal are of utmost importance", he appealed to "all my brothers and sisters in Nepal to support peace".
Modi also chaired an emergency security meeting with his cabinet colleagues on Tuesday to discuss the situation.
Charlie Kirk dies after shot while visiting Utah university, Trump says
Charlie Kirk, the founder of the conservative youth activist organization Turning Point USA, has died after he was shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, President Donald Trump said.
"The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead," Trump said on social media. "No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!"
A single shot was fired on the Orem campus toward Kirk, a visiting speaker, shortly after noon, the school said.
"He was hit and taken from the location by his security," the university said.
A suspect in the shooting remains at large, according to Orem police, which said they are supporting Utah Valley University in the investigation. The university had previously said a suspect was in custody.
Kirk, 31, was taken to a hospital after being shot, according to Turning Point USA, saying, "We are praying for him at this time."
Trump posted on social media earlier: "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!"
"It's horrific. It's one of the most horrible things I've ever seen," Trump told ABC News chief Washington correspondent Jonathan Karl.
FBI and ATF agents are on the scene, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the agency "stands in full support of the ongoing response and investigation."
Utah Valley student Luke Pitman, who witnessed the shooting, told Salt Lake City ABC affiliate KTVX that he heard a "big bang."
"We thought it was confetti. Then, everyone started ducking down," he told the station. "And then, I look over at Charlie Kirk and I see blood coming from his neck."
Utah Sen. Mike Lee said he is "tracking the situation at Utah Valley University closely."
"Please join me in praying for Charlie Kirk and the students gathered there," he said on social media.
Vice President JD Vance also said on X, "Say a prayer for Charlie Kirk, a genuinely good guy and a young father."
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said he is being briefed "following the violence directed at Charlie Kirk" during the conservative political activist's visit to the campus.
"Those responsible will be held fully accountable. Violence has no place in our public life. Americans of every political persuasion must unite in condemning this act," he said on X.
The university was the first stop this fall for Turning Point USA's "American Comeback Tour," which is traveling to multiple college campuses around the country.
Utah Valley University's campus is closed and classes have been canceled until further notice, the school said.
"There is no call to shelter in place at this time," Orem police said. "If you see something suspicious, please report it to police dispatch by calling 911 or the non-emergency number."
The incident sparked immediate condemnation from leaders on both sides of the political aisle.
"The attack on Charlie Kirk is horrifying and this growing type of unconscionable violence cannot be allowed in our society," Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said on X.
California's Gavin Newsom, a fellow Democratic governor, said on X that the "attack on Charlie Kirk is disgusting, vile, and reprehensible. In the United States of America, we must reject political violence in EVERY form."
Republican Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo said the "attack was sickening and heartbreaking, and there is no place -- ever -- for violence in American politics."
Source- ABC
Ed Sheeran's will makes provisions for a posthumous album that his wife will curate
Starting with his new one, Play, Ed Sheeran's next series of albums will all be named after the buttons on a stereo, such as Rewind, Pause, Fast Forward and, eventually, Stop. But Ed says there's one more album in that series -- and it'll come out after he's dead.
Speaking to The Zane Lowe Show on Apple Music, Ed explains that he has plans in his will for the release of an album called Eject. "Cherry gets to pick the tracks for it," he tells Zane, referring to his wife.
According to Ed, the idea is for her to choose the 10 best songs of his entire career, starting from the age of 18, and release them. "You know how posthumous albums come out, but they're sort of unplanned?" Ed explains. "I want to sort of make a plan."
When Zane replies, "You want the estate to take care of and do it properly?," Ed says, "Yeah. And I'll talk to Cherry [about it] throughout my life ... 'I really like this one. I really like this one. I really like this one.'"
Ed points out that "you never know" when your life will end so, as he puts it, "I don't want to go and someone just to jumble up stuff and put it out. I want it to be planned."
Elsewhere in the interview, Zane asks Ed why he thinks, given his massive success, that he hasn't won more Grammys -- he only has four. Ed replies, "Because the music industry is a massive school playground, and there are the cool kids and the uncool kids and I've always been on the other side."
Source- ABC
Sabrina Carpenter thanks fans for #1 album: 'Luckiest girl in the world'
Sabrina Carpenter took to Instagram on Wednesday to thank fans for sending her new album, Man's Best Friend, straight to #1 on the Billboard 200.
"you guys have made Man’s Best Friend my second #1 album and my highest debut ever. that is very surreal!!!" she wrote, alongside a collection of behind-the-scenes photos and video of the making of the LP.
"i feel so lucky to have such beautiful love and support all around me. making this album with Jack [Antonoff], Amy [Allen] and John [Ryan] was one of the most pure wholesome electric times in my life and to see the way you are all resonating with it just makes me feel like the luckiest girl in the world," she continued.
"Thank you for listening (top to bottom!!!) and thank you for bringing this album into your lives and having such a damn good time with it, I’m having fun too :’)," she concluded. "i love you i love you i love you."
On her Instagram Story, Sabrina also marked the anniversary of the release of her single "Skinny Dipping," which came out Sept. 9, 2021 — several years before she became a global pop superstar. "4 years since skinny dipping making me emotional!" she noted, along with a still from the song's video.
In addition, Sabrina reposted TikToks from fellow musicians who are having fun with some of the songs on the new album: Joe Jonas made one set to her song "Nobody's Son," while the group HAIM used "House Tour" for a video set on their tour bus. Alex Warren's wife, Kouvr, used "When Did You Get Hot?" to show her and Alex's glow-up for the MTV VMAs.
Source- ABC
Behavioural Health Services Observes World Suicide Prevention Day
The Department of Behavioural Health Services (DBHS) joins the global community in observing World Suicide Prevention Day under the theme “Creating Hope Through Action.”
This year’s observance is part of DBHS’ national “Shift Your Mind: Reframing Mental Health in TCI” Anti-Stigma Campaign, which focuses on changing perceptions around mental health, reducing stigma, and fostering a culture of compassion and support.
Suicide remains a deeply urgent public health issue, touching families, workplaces, and communities across the world. In the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Department is calling on residents, businesses, and community leaders to come together in recognizing the signs, starting conversations, and taking action that could save a life.
Activities for World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 include:
Graceway “Pockets of Hope” Giveaway: Shoppers at local Graceway supermarkets will receive small, uplifting tokens designed to remind individuals that hope is always within reach.
Health Matters Television Feature: On Monday, September 8th, the DBHS team appeared on Health Matters to share practical guidance on suicide prevention, highlight available resources, and encourage open dialogue on mental health.
Community Awareness Drive: Key messages will be shared across social media, radio, and community spaces to highlight risk factors, warning signs, and local resources.
Dr Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, emphasized the importance of unity in prevention:
“Suicide prevention is not the responsibility of one person or one agency. It is the responsibility of all of us. Every life matters, and every conversation can make a difference. When we choose compassion over silence, we help create the kind of community where hope can grow.”
Minister of Health and Human Services, reinforced the Government’s commitment to protecting the well-being of its people:
“Our government is steadfast in ensuring that mental health is treated as a national priority. On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we stand with every family who has felt the pain of loss, and we renew our pledge to build a future where support is accessible, stigma is dismantled, and no one feels alone in their struggle.”
The Department reminds the public that help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or emotional distress, please contact the Department of Behavioural Health Services.
For Providenciales, North Caicos and Middle Caicos, call 338 3616
For Grand Turk, Salt Cay and South Caicos, call 338 3613
This World Suicide Prevention Day is not only about awareness. It is about action, taking the small steps that remind someone they are not alone, that their life matters, and that there is a community ready to stand with them.
Bahamas Government reduces VAT on a number of products
Prime Minister Phillip Davis says as a result of the Bahamian economy growing stronger “and government finances are on a sounder footing,” the value added tax (VAT) on a number of products has been reduced from September 1.
In a statement, Davis said that his administration has reduced by 50 per cent, the VAT on a range of essential items, such as medicines, medical supplies, feminine hygiene products, and baby and adult diapers.
“Medicines will now cost less at the pharmacy. Parents are now paying less for baby supplies. Women are now paying less for feminine care products. Families caring for elderly loved ones are now paying less for adult diapers. Reducing VAT to five per cent on these essential items is about easing the pressure on households who need it most,” Prime Minister Davis said.
He said that “this relief is possible because the economy is stronger and government finances are on a sounder footing” and that “as revenues grow and debt comes down, we are making life more affordable for Bahamian families.
“This progress is the result of choices we made to rescue the country from crisis and to drive a strong recovery. But our goal has never been recovery alone. Our mission is to build a bigger, more inclusive economy where economic gains are broadly shared.”
Davis said that this is why his government is expanding opportunities on every island of the archipelago, creating more jobs, supporting entrepreneurs, investing in roads, docks, and airports, modernizing our electricity grid, and preparing Bahamians with education, training, and upskilling so they can succeed in the current economy.
“Our continued efforts and focus are to build on this progress, widening the circle of opportunity, lowering costs for families, and ensuring growth reaches every island and every community,” Davis added.
Source- CMC
Explosion heard in Qatar's capital as Israel says it carried out strike on Hamas
Israel's military said Tuesday it carried out an airstrike targeting Hamas leadership, without saying where.
The announcement came as an explosion could be heard in Doha, Qatar's capital.
Al Jazeera, the Qatar-funded broadcaster, acknowledged the blasts. However, it didn't say what caused the blast. Qatari officials couldn't be immediately reached for comment.
Hamas' exiled leadership has long been based in Qatar, which has served as a mediator in talks between Hamas and Israel for several years, even before the latest war in the Gaza Strip.
A strike on its top leadership could further complicate negotiations over a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas.
Source - CBC
Bahamasair pilot fired following cockpit incident
The state-owned Bahamasair has confirmed that one of its pilots with 12 years experience with the company, and who was involved in a recent cockpit incident has been relieved of his duties following an investigation.
“Passenger safety and professional integrity remain our highest priorities. This incident was addressed thoroughly and transparently, and it is not reflective of the professionalism, discipline, and dedication of our outstanding team of pilots who continue to serve the traveling public with distinction,” Bahamasair managing director, Tracy Cooper, said in a statement.
“Going forward, we will continue to reinforce our cockpit management protocols, strengthen leadership development, and ensure that all employees uphold the values and standards expected of a national carrier.”
Bahamasair said that the incident occurred on August 31 involving an ATR turboprop aircraft, operating on a scheduled flight from Nassau to Marsh Harbour, Abaco, with continuation to West Palm Beach, Florida.
“The flight departed Nassau without issue. However, upon arrival in Marsh Harbour, the first officer advised the airline’s operations control center of a concern regarding cockpit dynamics and recommended, in the interest of professional standards, that the flight not proceed until the matter was reviewed.
“Bahamasair Flight Operations Management acted promptly and responsibly, relieving both flight crew members of duty in accordance with standard industry practices. Relief pilots were immediately dispatched to Marsh Harbour, and the flight continued to West Palm Beach without further incident.”
Bahamasair said that a formal debriefing was scheduled for the following day and that prior to the debrief it “received voice messages determined to be from the captain in question, which were found to be inappropriate and inconsistent with the airline’s professional standards.
“Bahamasair maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of intimidation or unprofessional conduct. While no safety issues were reported during the flight, the airline views this matter with the utmost seriousness. The Captain involved has since been relieved of his duties and is no longer employed with the airline,” Bahamasair said, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and accountability.
Source-CMC
Ministry of Education Partners with WizdomCRM to Launch Stock Market Game in Schools
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture is pleased to announce its partnership with WizdomCRM Caribbean Limited for the implementation of the Sustainable Virtual Stock Market Game, a pioneering initiative that combines artificial intelligence (AI), gamified learning, and financial literacy education to prepare students for success in the 21st-century workforce.
The Stock Market Game AI Platform provides students with a virtual investment of USD $25,000.00 to learn how to save, budget, and invest using real-time stock market data. This dynamic tool empowers students to develop essential skills in financial management, sustainable investment, and critical thinking while competing in an inter-regional competition involving more than 14,000 students from Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, and now, the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Targeted at 3rd, 4th, and 5th Form students, the program will run in participating schools from October to December 2025, culminating in a prize-giving ceremony in January 2026 to recognise the winners of the Stock Market Game.
Training sessions officially began on Monday, 1 September 2025, following the arrival of the WizdomCRM delegation. Visits have since been conducted at Raymond Gardiner High School (North Caicos), Marjorie Basden High School (South Caicos), H.J. Robinson High School (Grand Turk), as well as engagements with 3rd–5th Form students across both public and private schools on Providenciales.
In addition, parents will be engaged through virtual sensitisation sessions in November 2025, further strengthening home–school partnerships in support of this initiative.
Hon. Rachel M. Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture, welcomed the program, stating:
“The launch of the Sustainable Virtual Stock Market Game marks an important milestone for education in the Turks and Caicos Islands. By integrating artificial intelligence and financial literacy into our classrooms, we are equipping our students with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. This initiative not only supports academic excellence but also fosters critical life skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, and responsible investment. I commend WizdomCRM and our partner Rubis Turks and Caicos for working alongside us to make this vision a reality, and I look forward to seeing our students excel in this exciting regional competition.”
The Ministry of Education has identified this programme as a strategic priority, advancing financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and 21st-century skills in alignment with the Government’s broader mandate to prepare students for lifelong success.
ANDY MISSICK APPOINTED JUVENILE MANAGER
The Office of the Deputy Governor is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Andy Missick as Juvenile Manager within the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Services, Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities.
Mr. Missick, a graduate of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (Honours), has served as a Social Worker, Probation Officer, and Registration Officer. He has also completed professional training in rehabilitation practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, counseling, conflict resolution, and reintegration planning.
Beyond his professional work, he is known for his youth leadership and community service. He currently serves as the Male CARICOM Youth Ambassador, a Youth Parliamentarian, and has represented TCI at several international forums. He is also the President of the Rotaract Club of Providenciales, where he has been an active volunteer for seven years.
On his appointment, Mr. Missick shared his deep commitment to youth empowerment, saying: “This is more than a role; it is a calling to stand in the gap for our youth… I believe in second chances, opportunity, and guiding our young people to become the leaders of tomorrow.”
Deputy Governor Anya Williams congratulated Mr. Missick, stating:
“The Juvenile Manager plays a critical role in shaping the future of our islands by supporting and rehabilitating at-risk youth.
Mr. Missick’s passion, experience, and proven leadership make him an excellent choice for this important position.”