National

Three Junkanoo A-Groups Call for Judging Reform

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Now that the Junkanoo parades are over, three top Junkanoo groups are expressing growing frustration over what they describe as a broken judging system.

Published

1 year ago

January 14, 2025

Delvardo Emmanuel

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Now that the Junkanoo parades are over, three top Junkanoo groups are expressing growing frustration over what they describe as a broken judging system.

In a press conference at Crypto Isle, Genesis, Roots, and the Music Makers revealed they banded together calling judging unfair.

Leading the charge for change is the Genesis Junkanoo Organization’s Chairman, Philip Taylor.

The groups are collectively compiling a document of recommendations to the JCNP, which includes clear and transparent judging criteria, and improved training for judges among others Roots Junkanoo Chairman Duane Ellis says younger groups often face systemic disadvantages and feel overlooked in the judging process.

Adding his voice to the call for reform is Chairman of the Music Makers Gary Russell, who alleges discrepancies in rule enforcement have been a long-standing issue.

We reached out to the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP) for comment, but didn’t get a response up to air time.