San Fernando J’Ouvert bandleader wants clarification on results

THE leader of a J’Ouvert band (modern category) has written to the San Fernando City Corporation Carnival Committee expressing his displeasure with the judging criteria and carnival results.

Head of B Man and Lord Street Fusion Family Event, Anthony Charles, addressed the letter to Chief Judge Ancil Rooplal. The band placed third with its presentation Tru Talk… No Effin Lie, scoring 230 points.

The winner was Dev’s Barbershop, with its portrayal of AI Generation, scoring 248 points. Poudre J’Ouvert placed second with 234 points, with its presentation The Spirit of the Dame Lorraine – Dancing Through Diversity.

Charles referenced the guidelines set out in the committee handbook, which explain the three J’Ouvert categories: traditional, modern, and earth (paint, mud, oil, and other accessories).

“Based on this, we believe the band Poudre was incorrectly judged in the modern category when it should have been assessed in the earth category, as it is a paint band,” the letter said.

“We request clarification on why Poudre was categorised differently, as this may have affected their score and overall result. Therefore, we are vehemently asking that the placement of such bands be reviewed and that the band(s) be placed in the appropriate categories.”

Charles also raised concerns regarding the penalties outlined for infractions.

“We observed that there were no penalties applied for infractions that occurred along the route, despite these guidelines being clearly stated,” the letter said.

“Could you please provide an explanation as to why these penalties were not enforced, especially in situations where certain rules may not have been followed?”

Charles said while he and his members understood that managing a large event like San Fernando J'Ouvert came with challenges, they believed that addressing the concerns would ensure a fairer process for all participants moving forward.

“Thank you for your attention to these matters. We look forward to your prompt response and clarification,” the letter said.

The letter was dated March 7, the same day the results were announced.

Speaking to reporters at City Hall after the results were announced, mayor Robert Parris was asked judging criteria.

“I look at things in a very logical matter. If I as a bandleader register modern, how could another leader say that I am not modern? It does not make sense. So at the end of the day if it is you registered for modern, you were judged in modern. The judges’ decision is final.”

Parris added that last year’s results had discrepancies, and he ensured that did not happen this year.