LETTER: Fairness Questioned at INET Jumpy Soca Monarch Quarterfinals

Well well. That is something else. I wonder who this person is

I find it not fair as well cause he (the artiste) is posting all kind of videos of him in the USVI. Even with the Dancehall artiste Malie. I can’t imagine how the others artiste feels about this

We are firmly planted in the 21st century — an era defined by digital innovation, connectivity, and global transparency. Yet, in Antigua and Barbuda, our pageants and public contests continue to rely on outdated systems of evaluation, often determined by biased, disconnected, or even unqualified judges. It is time we evolve. It is time the voice of the people becomes the final say — and technology gives us the perfect solution. In an age where nearly every individual owns a smartphone and internet access is widespread, it is not only possible but practical to implement voting apps or platforms that allow audiences to participate in the judging process. Whether it’s for Carnival pageants, Soca Monarch competitions, school contests, or talent showcases — the crowd is often more engaged, informed, and emotionally invested than the panel on the stage. Why should the fate of a contestant lie in the hands of a few — some of whom are out of touch, inconsistent, or influenced by personal biases and affiliations? We’ve witnessed too many controversies, questionable placements, and public backlash. The people cry out for fairness, yet the system remains the same.
Introducing audience-based digital voting restores trust, encourages participation, and increases transparency. Apps can be developed or customized to allow secure, time-bound voting. Measures can be implemented to limit duplicate votes and ensure one-person-one-vote fairness. Not only does this empower the public, but it also boosts interest, engagement, and excitement around these events. Furthermore, using digital voting aligns with international trends — major shows like American Idol, The Voice, and Eurovision have successfully adopted audience voting, blending technology with tradition. Why should Antigua and Barbuda be left behind, when we have the talent, the audience, and the willpower to make our systems better? Let us embrace progress over politics, fairness over favoritism, and technology over tradition when it no longer serves us. It’s time we modernize the way our champions are crowned — not just for today, but for the generations to come.
Let the people decide. Let the island’s true voice be heard. by Pastor Courvoisier

If that is indeed the case then it’s rather unfair to the other contenders. Only the reigning monarch is immune at the moment. Who is the person

Hmmm. Pastor involved in carnival mele. Never see worse

Still no word from the organizers? Transparency isn’t optional when public trust is at stake. These events belong to the people, not a privileged few.