Posts

Caribbean Roots Journalist Lester Holt Calls Its A Day At “NBC Nightly News”

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, February 24, 2025: Veteran Caribbean roots journalist Lester Holt, who has anchored and served as managing editor of NBC Nightly News for the past decade, announced Monday that he will be stepping down from the broadcast at the beginning of the summer.

Holt, whose maternal roots trace back to Jamaica, will continue his full-time role at Dateline, where he has been the principal anchor for nearly 15 years, according to a memo shared with NBC News staff. The network has not yet named his successor.

Holt took over as Nightly News anchor in June 2015 after spending eight years helming the weekend editions of the program and co-anchoring Weekend TODAY for 12 years. He has also served as principal anchor of Dateline since September 2011.

“A smile comes to my face when I think that with Nightly News and Dateline, I have now anchored two of the most successful and iconic television news programs in broadcast history,” Holt wrote in a message to his colleagues. “As a 20-year-old radio reporter on the police beat chasing breaking news around San Francisco, I could never have imagined my career path would unfold in the way it has. What an amazing ride.”

Over the past decade, Holt has covered some of the most defining events of the era, including the political rise of Donald Trump, the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the ongoing war in Gaza. Recently, he co-anchored NBC’s election night coverage, traveled to Iran for an exclusive interview with President Masoud Pezeshkian, and led a Dateline special on the devastating 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.

His interviews with world leaders—including Trump, Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—have frequently made headlines. Holt has also traveled extensively to cover natural disasters, mass shootings, and other major news events.

Holt’s Caribbean heritage comes from his maternal grandmother, May, an Afro-Jamaican woman born in Manchester Parish, Jamaica, who was raised in Harlem, New York. His maternal grandfather, Canute DeRozario, was born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, to an Indian father from Calcutta and an English-born White Jamaican mother.

Holt’s introduction to broadcasting came from his older brother, a disc jockey in Anchorage, Alaska. During his college years, Holt worked as a disc jockey at a country and western radio station before embarking on a journalism career that has made him one of the most respected news anchors of his generation.

ICE Nabs Jamaican National In Boston

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, Feb. 26, 2025: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have apprehended a Jamaican national in Massachusetts on serious criminal charges, underscoring the agency’s commitment to public safety.

ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, (ERO) arrested 26-year-old Jahmari Taffari Westcarth in Boston on Jan. 25 after he was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a family member in Massachusetts.

ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested 26-year-old Jahmari Taffari Westcarth in Boston. (US ICE image)

“Jahmari Taffari Westcarth stands accused of assaulting and victimizing a family member in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He represents a significant threat to the residents of our community,” said Patricia H. Hyde, acting field office director for ICE ERO Boston. “We simply refuse to tolerate such dangers to the law-abiding residents of our New England neighborhoods. ICE Boston stands firm in our commitment to prioritizing public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our neighborhoods.”

Westcarth first entered the U.S. illegally near San Ysidro, California, on Dec. 30, 2022, where he was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents. He was subsequently served with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge for further proceedings.

Following his arrest in Massachusetts, Westcarth was arraigned in Dorchester District Court on Jan. 8, 2025. ICE promptly issued an immigration detainer, requesting custody of Westcarth; however, the court declined to honor the detainer and released him from custody.

ICE later apprehended Westcarth on Jan. 25, and he remains in ICE custody pending further immigration enforcement actions.

This case highlights ongoing debates over local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, as well as ICE’s continued efforts to remove individuals who pose a public safety risk from U.S. communities.

U.S. Condemns Venezuelan Naval Threat Near Guyana’s Maritime Territory

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, March 1, 2025: The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs today issued a strong statement condemning the approach of a Venezuelan naval vessel toward Guyana’s assets within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

A sign that reads “Essiquibo Belongs to Guyana” displayed at the Madela Eccles roundabout in Georgetown, Guyana, on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024. The small nation’s economy is the fastest-growing in the world, but the boon has stoked challenges from inflation and a growing wealth gap to the looming threat of conflict with Venezuela. Photographer: Jose A. Alvarado Jr./Bloomberg via Getty Images

In the statement, the U.S. denounced the action as an unacceptable threat to Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory.

“Venezuelan naval vessels threatening ExxonMobil’s floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) unit is unacceptable and a clear violation of Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory. Further provocation will result in consequences for the Maduro regime. The United States reaffirms its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and the 1899 arbitral award,” the statement read.

A Venezuelan military vessel reportedly entered Guyana’s waters on Saturday and docked near an ExxonMobil contracted vessel in the oil and gas rich Stabroek Block.

“We’re still gathering information at this time. Will share more when we know more,” an ExxonMobil Guyana spokesman told Demerara Waves online.

This reaffirmation from the US underscores the Trump administration’s unwavering support for Guyana’s territorial rights, particularly based on the 1899 arbitral award, which defines the border between the two nations. Venezuela moved its naval vessel to the Stabroek Block just days after United States President Donald Trump’s administration cancelled a Biden-era licence that had allowed US company Chevron to sell hydrocarbon products from its operations in Venezuela.

Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed the nation today and emphasized that the assets in question are lawfully positioned within Guyana’s EEZ and strongly condemned the Venezuelan vessel’s incursion as a violation of Guyana’s sovereignty.

According to President Ali, the Venezuelan vessel had transmitted a radio message asserting that it was operating in what it described as “disputed international waters” before continuing its course toward other offshore facilities.

However, the Guyanese leader firmly dismissed this claim.

“Let me be unequivocal. Maritime boundaries are recognized under international law, and this is a matter of grave concern,” Ali stated.

He also reassured the nation that his administration was addressing the situation with the utmost seriousness and responsibility.

Meanwhile, the regional body, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Saturday reiterated its unequivocal and unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.

“All such acts of aggression and provocation are contrary to international law and the 2023 Argyle Declaration. Expressly too Guyana and Venezuela are enjoined to avoid unnecessary confrontational actions,” the statement said. “This provocative incident of 1 March 2025 initiated by Venezuela runs counter to the agreed commitment of CARICOM and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) to ensure that the Caribbean region remains a Zone of Peace. It is critical that there be a peaceful resolution of the border controversy as is expected under the International Court of Justice, which already has conduct over the dispute.”

The Organization of American States (OAS) also “unequivocally” condemned the recent actions.

“Such acts of intimidation constitute a clear violation of international law, undermine regional stability, and threaten the principles of peaceful coexistence between nations,” said the OAS in a statement, reiterating its “steadfast support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

Helping Leaders Navigate Grief In The Workplace

/0 Comments/in /by

KINGSTON, JAMAICA, Thursday, March 6, 2025: Survivors Unlimited, a Jamaican based grief support training organization, is set to host a workshop, “Grief in the Workplace: A Guide for Leaders,” on March 19, 2025.

This virtual event aims to equip managers, HR professionals, and other organizational leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively support bereaved employees while maintaining workplace productivity and morale.

The event will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Dr. Diane Bergeron, Senior Research Scientist at the Center for Creative Leadership, USA, who will deliver the keynote address, “Understanding Bereavement in the Workplace: A Call for Compassionate Action.” Other prominent speakers include Dr. Cassida Jones-Johnson, President of the Human Resources Management Association of Jamaica, (HRMAJ),

Dr. Peter Weller, Clinical and Community Psychologist, and Ms. Marguerite Orane, Executive Leadership and Strategy Coach. Together, they will guide participants through practical approaches for supporting grieving employees, navigating team dynamics after a loss, and cultivating leadership resilience.

Discussions will be led by Hope McNish, a seasoned workshop facilitator and trained grief counsellor.

The Survivors Unlimited bereavement training series is an initiative of Healing Journey Retreats, a wellness organization located in Kingston, Jamaica. Its founder and president, Lorraine Jones-Lawrence, has been hosting workshops focused on the needs of grievers since 1999. She is a member of the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC), and author of the book, ‘You Gotta Get Up: Surviving the Loss of Your Child.’

More information on the workshop is available at www.survivorsunlimited.com

Caribbean-Born Congressman Targeted As GOP Labels Him ‘Illegal Immigrant’

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, March 6, 2025: Caribbean-born U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat has become the target of a controversial attack by House Republicans’ campaign arm, which labeled the Dominican-American lawmaker an “illegal immigrant,” sparking outrage from top Democrats.

FLASHBACK – Caribbean born U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) speaks during a Congressional Hispanic Caucus news conference at the House Triangle on February 26, 2025 in Washington, DC. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus addressed Trump’s first month in office and his policies. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) took aim at Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) after he delivered the Spanish-language response to President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress earlier this week. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the NRCC claimed, “Democrats literally chose an illegal immigrant to give their response to President Trump’s address.”

Espaillat, who immigrated from the Dominican Republic as a child, has long been open about his journey from an undocumented immigrant to a U.S. citizen and member of Congress. He and his family overstayed a tourist visa but received green cards within a year, and he has now been a naturalized U.S. citizen for decades.

Democrats Condemn GOP Attack

The NRCC’s remarks were swiftly denounced by top Democratic leaders, who called the attack racist and misleading. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries blasted the post, stating, “These people are disgusting.”

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin accused the GOP of embracing bigotry, writing, “They wear their racism like a badge of honor—absolutely despicable!” Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) called for accountability, tweeting, “Whoever is the intern @NRCC that tweeted this racist shit needs to be fired.”

Espaillat, who was born in the Dominican Republic and serves as chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, has not responded publicly to the attack, but he has consistently championed immigrant rights and clashed with Trump over immigration policies since first taking office.

NRCC Doubles Down

Despite the backlash, the NRCC stood by its comments, dismissing criticism from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, who called the attack “vile, ignorant, and racist.”

In response, NRCC spokesperson Mike Marinella fired back, arguing that “Democrats caring more about policing words instead of policing our border shows just how out of touch they are.”

A History of Tensions

This latest attack is not the first time Congressman Adriano Espaillat – the first Dominican-American member of Congress- has found himself at odds with Trump and the GOP over immigration policies.

As a progressive lawmaker, he has championed immigration reform, DACA protections, and pathways to citizenship, making him a frequent target of Republican criticism. With racial and immigration tensions playing a major role in Trump’s re-election bid, the attack on Espaillat signals a deepening divide over who belongs in America – a question that millions of Caribbean and Latin American immigrants now face amid the 2025 political landscape.

Turks and Caicos Issues Advisory After SpaceX Starship Explodes Again

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, March 6, 2025: For the second time in weeks the government of the Turks and Caicos has had to deal with SpaceX debris falling out of the sky. The government tonight again had to issue an urgent advisory following the mid-air explosion of SpaceX’s Starship during its latest test flight from Texas on March 6th. Debris also fell on the Bahamas.

A statement posted to the Turks and Caicos government’s official Instagram account confirmed that officials are in contact with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), SpaceX, and UK agencies to determine the position of any debris from the spacecraft.

“We wish to advise the public that this evening’s SpaceX launch appears to have broken up in flight. We are in contact with the US FAA, SpaceX, and UK agency leads to confirm the position. Post-incident protocols have been engaged. The National Security Secretariat will continue to keep the public apprised as we work to ensure the safety and security of our Islands,” the statement read.

History of SpaceX Debris in Turks and Caicos

It is not yet clear whether debris has reached the archipelago, but this is not the first time SpaceX’s Starship has posed a potential risk to the region. So who will be paying for the clean-up? Will it be the SpaceX owner and chainsaw swinging DOGE head, Elon Musk?

In January 2025, a previous Starship failure resulted in debris falling onto the Turks and Caicos Islands, with volunteers collecting wreckage from beaches, roads, and private properties. One car in South Caicos was struck, though no injuries were reported at the time.

Starship’s Latest Failure Sparks Concerns

Thursday’s test flight from Texas saw SpaceX’s massive Starship exploded minutes after lift-off, marking the second major failure in just two months.

The FAA temporarily halted air traffic in parts of Florida due to the risk of falling debris.

Videos on social media captured fiery debris streaking across the skies near South Florida, the Bahamas, and Turks & Caicos.

SpaceX lost contact with Starship shortly before it spun out of control and exploded.

Despite the ongoing investigation into January’s failed launch, the FAA allowed this test to proceed after SpaceX claimed vehicle upgrades had been made.

Officials Urge Caution

Authorities in Turks and Caicos continue to monitor the situation, urging residents to stay alert for any potential debris and report any unusual objects found on land or in the ocean.

With SpaceX’s test flights continuing to raise safety concerns, the latest incident has once again put the spotlight on the risks posed to Caribbean nations in the path of falling debris and the cost of clean up.

Caribbean Recipe Of The Week – Stuffed Roast Fish

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: As a meat and sea food lover  I will prepare the usual fare of chicken, turkey, pork, sausages, burgers, steak and various sea foods, such as grill shrimp, lobster and  roast stuff fish. I will jerk some and some I will grill after a simple marinade of oil, salt, black pepper and garlic.

I will also select a few starches like plantains and Irish and sweet potatoes and add several vegetables to the menu. For example, I will add egg plant, zucchini, asparagus, tomatoes, yellow squash, carrots, and sweet peppers. In addition I will add spinach and lettuce for a simply salad.

Today I will share with you my recipe For Stuffed Roast Fish on the grill.

Print

Stuffed Roast Fish

Stuffed roast fish on the grill is a flavorful, savory dish that’s perfect for outdoor cooking. Start by cleaning the fish with lemon juice and water, then marinate with salt, black pepper, onion, garlic, scallions, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and pimento seeds. Stuff the fish with this aromatic marinade along with cabbage and okra for added texture and flavor. Wrap the stuffed fish in aluminum foil or banana leaves, adding melted butter for richness. Grill over charcoal for 10-15 minutes, allowing the fish to roast to perfection with a tender, smoky flavor. This dish brings a deliciously unique twist to any grilling occasion!
Prep Time 1 hour hour
Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
Servings 4 People
Author NewsAmericas

Ingredients

2 Whole Jack Fish or 2 Whole Red Snapper1/2 lemon juice5 cups waterSaltBlack pepper to taste1 large onion minced2 cloves garlic minced4 stalks scallion minced1 small scotch bonnet pepper minced )2 sprigs thyme4 whole pimento seeds4 tablespoons butter2 cups cabbage chopped6 whole okra (chopped)2 pieces aluminum foil or banana leaf

Instructions

Clean fish with a mixture of lemon juice and water.
2 Whole Jack Fish or 2 Whole Red Snapper, 1/2 lemon juice, 5 cups water
Marinate fish for one hour with salt, black pepper onion, garlic, scallion, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, pimento seeds and  2 tables spoon of melted  butter.
Salt, Black pepper to taste, 1 large onion, 2 cloves garlic, 4 stalks scallion, 1 small scotch bonnet pepper minced ), 2 sprigs thyme, 4 whole pimento seeds, 4 tablespoons butter
Stuff  the marinade  into the cavity/ belly of each fish. Add cabbage and  okra.
2 cups cabbage, 6 whole okra
Place each fish in the center of the aluminum foil or banana leaf.
2 pieces aluminum foil or banana leaf
Add remaining butter, then wrap the fish securely.
4 tablespoons butter
Place on heated charcoal grill and leave to roast for 10-15 minutes.

Grilled stuffed fish is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any cookout or gathering. The combination of fresh herbs, spicy scotch bonnet, and the richness of butter and vegetables creates a mouthwatering filling, while the grilling adds a smoky depth to the fish. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or trying it for the first time, this recipe is simple yet full of taste. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, aromatic meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Bon Appetite!

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfoodscaribbean/

Caribbean Recipe Of The Week – Pernil

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Most Caribbean nationals love pork. We stew it (Pernil), roast it, fry it and Jerk it! It is served as a main course or an appetizer.

Because pork is considered a white meat, it is often favored over red meat. The method of cooking though is largely decided by ethnicity. For example, if you are French as in Haitian, the pork meat will be stewed and then fried while if you are Spanish as in Cuban, Puerto Rican  or Dominican Republican,  the preferred method of cooking  pork is roasting.

Most other Caribbean national will stew, curry or jerk the pork. When pork is prepared by the Haitian method it is called Griot; when pork shoulder is prepared by the Spanish Caribbean method it called Pernil!

Today I will share my recipe for Pernil.

Print

Pernil – Roasted Pork Shoulder

Pernil, a succulent roasted pork shoulder, is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, known for its rich flavor and tender texture. This dish starts with a marinade of garlic, oregano, black pepper, olive oil, vinegar, and salt, which infuses the pork with bold, savory flavors. After marinating overnight, the pork is slow-roasted to perfection, with the skin crisped to create irresistible chicharrón. Perfect for celebrations or a hearty family meal, Pernil is a showstopper that highlights the beauty of simple, well-balanced ingredients.
Course Main Course
Cuisine #caribbean
Keyword Pernil
Prep Time 8 hours hours
Cook Time 6 hours hours
Servings 8 People

Ingredients

8 lbs picnic pork shoulder12 minced garlic cloves4 teaspoons dried oregano5 teaspoons black pepper3 tablespoons olive oil3 tablespoons white vinegar8 teaspoons salt

Instructions

Wash the pork shoulder thoroughly with vinegar.
8 lbs picnic pork shoulder, 3 tablespoons white vinegar
With a sharp knife, make 1 inch deep cuts into the pork.
With mortar and pestle, crush garlic, oregano and black pepper together. Add olive oil, vinegar and salt. Mix well.
12 minced garlic cloves, 4 teaspoons dried oregano, 5 teaspoons black pepper, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, 8 teaspoons salt
Spoon some of the garlic mixture inside the small cuts around the pork, and spread remaining mixture all over the pork.
Place pork in an aluminum turkey pan (skin side up); cover with aluminum foil tightly. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Bake in pre-heated 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 to 6 hours.
Remove aluminum foil and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for another hour or until skin is crisp. Closely watch this so you don’t burn the skin (chicharrone). Pork should be well-done and tender.

Bon Appetite

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfoodscaribbean/

Ten Things to Know About Desi Bouterse, The Late Former President and Fugitive of Suriname

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Dec. 27, 2024: Desi Bouterse, a polarizing figure in Suriname’s history and its former President, left behind a legacy marked by dictatorship, populism, and controversy. Here are ten things to know about him in his death:

FLASHBACK: Suriname’s former president (2010-2020) Desi Bouterse walks next to a body guard while leaving the High Court of Justice after a hearing in his appeals case in the December 8, 1982 murders, in Paramaribo on January 31, 2023. – Suriname’s public prosecutor’s office reaffirmed its request for a 20-year prison sentence for Bouterse if the sentence against him for the execution of 15 opponents in 1982 is upheld. Attorney General Carmen Rasam also formally requested Bouterse’s imprisonment if the sentence is confirmed. (Photo by Ranu Abhelakh / AFP) (Photo by RANU ABHELAKH/AFP via Getty Images)Desi Bouterse walks next to a body guard while leaving the High Court of Justice after a hearing in his appeals case in the December 8, 1982 murders, in Paramaribo on January 31, 2023. – Suriname’s public prosecutor’s office reaffirmed its request for a 20-year prison sentence for Bouterse if the sentence against him for the execution of 15 opponents in 1982 is upheld. Attorney General Carmen Rasam also formally requested Bouterse’s imprisonment if the sentence is confirmed. (Photo by Ranu Abhelakh / AFP) (Photo by RANU ABHELAKH/AFP via Getty Images)

Military Coup Leader: Desi Bouterse, was born in Domburg, Suriname. Bouterse was born into a multiracial family of Amerindian, African, Dutch, French, and Chinese descent. Raised by his aunt in Paramaribo after moving from Domburg, he attended local schools but did not complete his education. In 1968, he moved to the Netherlands, joined the Dutch armed forces, and trained as a non-commissioned officer. A skilled athlete, he captained a basketball team during his training.

In 1970, he married Ingrid Figueira, his teenage sweetheart from Suriname, and they had two children, Peggy and Dino. Following his military service, he was stationed in Germany before returning to Suriname with his family in 1975 after the country’s independence. He aimed to contribute to building the Surinamese army and became chairman of a new military union in 1979, setting the stage for his rise to power.

On February 25, 1980, Desi Bouterse, along with Roy Horb and fourteen other sergeants, orchestrated the “Sergeants Coup,” overthrowing the Henck Arron government. Known as the Groep van zestien (Group of Sixteen), they installed Bouterse as the chairman of the National Military Council, making him the de facto dictator of Suriname. From 1980 to 1988, he held power through puppet presidents he controlled.

The coup, initially popular among citizens, was justified as a fight against corruption and unemployment. However, historian Rosemarijn Hoefte noted the lack of clear political or ideological planning behind it. On the day of the coup, Bouterse’s forces burned down the Central Police Station, now a “Monument of the Revolution,” commemorated annually on February 25.

The military regime imposed strict curfews, curtailed press freedoms, and, by 1985, banned political parties while heavily censoring public assembly. The dictatorship was marked by corruption and brutality, including the 1982 December Murders of 15 political opponents, which led to the closure of the University of Suriname.

Though Bouterse forged ties with Cuba, North Korea, and the Soviet Union, his regime avoided Communist ideology. Relations with the Netherlands soured, leading to a suspension of aid and deepening economic crises, worsened by falling bauxite prices. Rising instability and uprisings ultimately challenged his grip on power.

Infamous “December Murders”: In 1982, he ordered the torture and execution of 15 political dissidents, including journalists, academics, and lawyers. This event traumatized Suriname and strained its international relations.

Civil War Instigator: His rule sparked a guerrilla war led by his former bodyguard, Ronnie Brunswijk, resulting in a bloody civil conflict that ended his dictatorship.

Transition to Democracy: Suriname returned to civilian rule in 1988, but Bouterse remained influential, leading the National Democratic Party (NDP).

Convicted Drug Trafficker: In 1999, Bouterse was convicted in absentia by a Dutch court for cocaine trafficking.

Populist President: Despite his past, Bouterse became Suriname’s president in 2010 and was re-elected in 2015, using populist rhetoric to gain support.

Institutional Changes: As president, he shifted alliances away from the Netherlands toward China and Venezuela, while appointing family members to government positions.

Murder Conviction: In 2019, he was convicted for his role in the December Murders and sentenced to 20 years in prison, a decision upheld in 2023.

Fugitive Status: In January 2024, instead of surrendering to authorities, Bouterse went into hiding, evading his prison sentence.

Death at 79: Bouterse died on December 24, 2024, as a divisive figure, remembered as both a national hero and a brutal dictator.

Caribbean Recipe – Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY: Recently I was asked to do jerk pork for some of my friends at work. I bought a pork leg and prepared the pork with the necessary seasonings and allowed it to marinate for one week in the refrigerator and the freezer.

When I was ready to put it on the grill after thawing it to room temperature , it started to rain heavily . I decided to roast the leg in the oven. The result was delicious!

Below is the recipe for Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg.

Print

Oven Roasted Jerk Pork Leg

To prepare oven-roasted jerk pork leg, core the pork leg and rub it with wet jerk seasoning, dry jerk seasoning, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, and pimento seeds. Marinate in the refrigerator for one week. Before roasting, bring the pork to room temperature. Roast in a 375°F oven for 3-4 hours, basting regularly with jerk seasoning. Once cooked, slice the leg and serve with jerk sauce, rice and peas, or ground provisions and dumplings.
Course Main Course
Cuisine #caribbean
Keyword Jerk Pork Leg
Prep Time 7 days days
Cook Time 4 hours hours
Servings 10 People

Ingredients

A 10 lb Pork Leg2 bottles wet jerk seasonings1/2 bottles dry jerk seasonings2 tbs garlic powder1/4 cup apple cider vinegarPimento seeds

Instructions

Core pork leg with a sharp knife.
A 10 lb Pork Leg
Rub all the seasonings on the whole leg.
2 bottles wet jerk seasonings, 1/2 bottles dry jerk seasonings, 2 tbs garlic powder, Pimento seeds
Marinate for one week in the refrigerator.
To roast pork leg , allow leg to thaw to room temperature .
Set oven to 375 degrees
Put leg in oven and roast for 3-4 hours.
Use jerk seasonings to base pork throughout cooking process.
When fully cooked, slice the leg and use jerk sauce to accompany each slice.

Notes

Serve with rice and peas or ground provision and dumplings.

Bon Appetite!

By Minna LaFortune

EDITOR’S NOTE: Minna LaFortune is a trained Caribbean caterer and also president of the  Society for the Advancement of the Caribbean Diaspora (SACD). Check out her food group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/bestfood scaribbean/