Guyana Chronicle 26-04-2025 E-Paper

Think outside the box

–– Jagdeo urges youths to seize opportunities

By Trina Williams

WHILE urging a shift in mindset, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has encouraged youths to capitalise on the abundant opportunities within Guyana’s evolving economic landscape.

The Vice President made these remarks during a youth engagement at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Friday.

Dr Jagdeo advised young people to align themselves with highgrowth fields as Guyana’s oil and gas sector continues to rapidly evolve.

He noted that policy can be analysed from different perspectives and acknowledged that there may not always be a unified view when it comes to policymaking.

Because of this, he opened the floor for young

people to give their inputs and recommendations.

Students from the University of Guyana (UG) recognised the government’s transformative initiatives and sought advice on how they could be valuable contributors to the nation’s growth.

Several students asked the Vice President how they should approach the job market.

Addressing this, Dr Jagdeo pointed out that while there is a labour shortage in “blue-collar” jobs, when it comes to “white-collar” jobs, there must be an analysis of which sectors are in high demand for workers.

“Now the white-collar [jobs], a lot of this is dependent on what you study, and this is going to be vital in the future because if you’re an accountant, or somebody in

technology, or an engineer, you’re mopped up by everyone. Now, if you study something else, it becomes harder,” he explained.

He added, “So, the choice of career will have to shift to where the opportunities are.”

The Vice President also highlighted several sectors brimming with opportunities.

With 12 regional hospitals set to come on stream by 2028, he said approximately 6,000 persons will be needed to staff these facilities, in line with the government’s objective to deliver world-class healthcare services.

Additionally, he noted that agriculture — a prominent and evolving sector — will continue to create more opportunities, especially with the integration of smart technologies.

Guyana’s agricultural landscape, he said, has undergone a remarkable

transformation, evolving from subsistence farming to a dynamic, large-scale industry.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

On the matter of national advancement, Dr Jagdeo stressed the importance of thinking outside the box.

Addressing the future leaders of tomorrow, he advised them not to become routine in their approach.

He noted that the government has consistently crafted policies tailored to catapulting Guyana forward, taking the country out of debt left by the People’s National Congress (PNC) administration.

The current administration’s policies, he said, have resulted in record economic growth, while

creating more pathways for citizens across every sector.

“You have to, in your mindset at the national level, be prepared to explore unorthodox approaches — not fall prey to the orthodoxy of international prescriptions,” he stated.

He emphasised that within the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the history of policymaking has often focused on working within the system, but using innovative approaches to solve national challenges.

Documents such as the National Development Strategy, the Poverty Reduction Strategy and the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) have each responded to evolving national and global challenges, he added.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Destruction of public property, dirupting lives of ordinary citizens do not support Adrianna's cause

–– President Ali emphasises

PRESIDENT DR. IRFAAN ALI on Friday reaffirmed that justice must follow the law and warned that politically motivated disruptions aimed at derailing the investigation into the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge will not be tolerated.

“There is no way blocking public roads, burning public infrastructure, and inconveniencing citizens will help little

Adrianna’s cause or those interested in the truth. These actions are now politically instigated and will not be accepted. They are unlawful and unhelpful and action will be taken,”

President Ali said in a post on his official Facebook account.

He stressed that vandalism and unrest dishonour Adrianna’s memory and hinders the investigation, which must proceed through due process.

Protests began since Thursday outside the Leonora Police Station, blocking major roadways. Tensions escalated with debris burning, looting, and damage to private property.

Police reported that Younge was last seen Wednesday at the Double Day Hotel, where she had gone swimming with her grandmother and siblings. Surveillance footage showed her entering a red-

and-black Raum vehicle, allegedly rented to a man named Orlando.

Despite a search, she was not found until Thursday morning, when her father, Subrian Younge, pulled her lifeless body from the hotel pool.

This led to persons blocking the roads and setting fire to the hotel after looting it.

The neighbouring home next to the hotel was also burned during the blaze and looted. Additionally, the hotel owner’s residence was set alight.

Mandall transferred, hotel owner and several others questioned

–– as probe continues into circumstances surrounding tragic death of Adrianna Younge

AS the probe deepens into the tragic death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken has announced that an administrative decision was taken to immediately transfer Commander of Regional Division Number Three, Khalid Mandall to Regional Division Number Four B. Assistant Commissioner, Mahindra Siewnarine will serve as the new Regional Division Three Commander.

The transfer comes amidst mounting criticisms over the GPF’s handling of the matter involving the child.

Police in Regional Division Number Three had initially announced on Wednesday evening that the girl had been reported missing, and that her case was being treated as a suspected abduction.

They said she was last seen on Wednesday at the

hotel, where she had gone swimming with her grandmother, Carol Xavier, and her siblings.

According to the police, surveillance footage later showed Younge entering a red-and- black Raum motorcar which drove off in the direction of Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD), and that the vehicle was

allegedly rented to a man identified only as ‘Orlando’.

Up to press time on Wednesday, Younge had not been located, despite a thorough search of the hotel and its surroundings. Besides saying they were actively following all available leads as the probe continued, the po-

lice also reported that despite there being several surveillance cameras attached to the hotel, they were told by the manager when asked to review them that they were out of order.

Tragically, the family’s worst fears were realised on Thursday morning when Younge’s lifeless body was pulled from the hotel’s pool by her father, Subrian Younge; a painful discovery that ignited a fiery protest.

Amid mounting public outrage and calls for the release of surveillance footage showing Younge entering the red-and-black Raum motorcar at reference, the police have issued a further statement, saying, it “wishes to clarify information previously disseminated regarding an alleged abduction” of the child.

“Following preliminary investigations, it has been determined that cer-

tain details contained in the initial statement circulated were inaccurate. As such, the Force is currently reviewing the internal communication processes that led to the release of that statement,” the police said in its statement.

It also disclosed that the Divisional Commander and all ranks involved in preparing and issuing the initial report will be interviewed, and appropriate measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

In his statement on Friday, the Police Commissioner provided an update on the investigation into Younge’s death.

“Thus far, the investigators have contacted and questioned a number of individuals, including the proprietor of Double Day Hotel and Bar and his employees. A number of police ranks of Regional Division Number Three were also questioned.

“Additionally, a security guard attached to the hotel, along with a swimming instructor, was interviewed by detectives,” Police said.

At this juncture, the investigators are still interviewing persons who can assist with the investigations, Commissioner Hicken said.

He said too: “It is significant to note that the Guyana Police Force is also awaiting the arrival of another independent pathologist who was identified by family members of the deceased to perform the post-mortem examination.” The post-mortem examination is an important aspect of the investigation in order to confirm the cause of death of Adriana Younge.

The Commissioner said the Guyana Police Force will provide updates as the investigations unfold.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken REMOVED: Assistant Commissioner, Khalid Mandall

Trinidad and Tobago votes for parliament, PM, with opposition in lead

Port of Spain (AFP) –Trinidad and Tobago votes in parliamentary elections Monday that will determine whether Prime Minister Stuart Young stays in power as the twin-island Caribbean nation battles an economic slump and a rise in gang violence.

Voters will choose the 41 members of the lower House of Representatives for a five-year term.

Any party that emerges with a majority of seats will form a new government with its leader as prime minister. If none does, a

coalition government is likely in the nation known for attracting tourists with its carnival, nature and sandy beaches.

Former energy minister Young, 50, took over as prime minister earlier this month after Keith Rowley resigned to make way for new blood.

But his centre-left People’s National Movement (PNM) has been lagging in polls behind the centrist United National Congress (UNC) of former prime minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, 73.

“We are peaking at the

right time,” Persad-Bissessar — who has campaigned on promises of higher public wages — she said ahead of Monday’s vote.

Unrealistic promises, according to Young, who said “there is no way that a government, any government, could afford” the additional $2-billion bill this would entail.

Trinidad and Tobago has a population of 1.4 million people, of whom just over 1.1 million are eligible to vote Monday at 2,130 polling stations countrywide.

Police commissioner Ju-

nior Benjamin has warned of intelligence suggesting “that things are afoot to disrupt the electoral process,” without providing details.

Since December, the country was under a state of emergency that ended this month. It was declared to contend with a rise in gang-related killings.

Official data shows more than 600 homicides committed in the nation last year, many of them linked to criminal gangs.

According to a US Department of State report from March, the murder rate of 37 per 100,000 people made Trinidad and To-

bago the sixth most dangerous nation in the world.

The report said Latin American-based transnational criminal organisations operated in, and trafficked illegal goods through, Trinidad.

“The country’s southern border, which is approximately 10 miles from the Venezuelan coast, remained porous and vulnerable to illegal migration, drug trafficking, and human trafficking and smuggling,” it said.

“Venezuelan organised criminal organisation and designated terrorist organisation Tren de Aragua has

been known to exploit this proximity for the transit of personnel and material.”

The Caribbean’s second-largest producer of natural gas, Trinidad and Tobago has also been battling an economic downturn blamed partly on a decline in production.

It had been banking on exploitation of the Dragon gas field in nearby Venezuelan waters, but has seen its licence withdrawn by the administration of US President Donald Trump under renewed sanctions against that country.

Gunmen kill at least 20 people in gold mining village of Nigeria’s Zamfara state

(Reuters) GUNMEN have killed at least 20 people in an attack in a gold mining village in Nigeria’s northwestern Zamfara state, residents and Amnesty International said. Details on a possible motive for the attack were not immediately known but Zamfara state has grappled with kidnappings for ransom

by armed gangs, who also target security forces.

Zamfara police’s spokesperson did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Ismail Hassan, a resident, told Reuters that gunmen in their hundreds opened fire on miners on Thursday

afternoon and a firefight ensued with over 20 people dead in the mining village of Gobirawa Chali in the Maru local government area of Zamfara state.

Another resident, Isah Ibrahim, said they had recovered 21 bodies following the attack and that several were

injured.

Amnesty International said in a statement the gunmen went house-to-house in Gobirawa Chali, killing over 20 people.

Armed gangs of men have killed and kidnapped hundreds across northwest Nigeria over the past two years, typically operating from remote forests.

The country’s thinly

stretched armed forces have struggled to secure the large, remote regions.

Nigeria’s military is stretched by insecurity across the country, including an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, deadly farmer-herder clashes in the central belt and clashes with separatist movements in the south.

Centerville Office Support opens in Berbice, creates 200 new jobs

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

THE Centerville Office Support Inc., officially opened its doors at Number 75 Village, Corentyne, on Friday, hosting a two-day job fair aimed at boosting employment in Region Six.

Speaking at the launch, Senior Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, reaffirmed the Government of Guyana’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen has access to economic opportunities, as outlined by President Irfaan Ali.

“When we say that we want to create opportunities for every single Guyanese person to uplift their life, we are speaking about education opportunities, training, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities,” Dr Singh stated.

He underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that every citizen receives a quality education, and for those who did not complete high school, access to alternative training programmes are being made available.

Highlighting the recent telecommunications legislation, Dr Singh said that the new act has opened the

sector to greater competition.

“It means more companies can invest in the telecommunications sector,” he explained. This development, he said, has already resulted in increased investments, such as the one by Centerville Office Support Inc.

Thanking the company’s team for choosing Guyana as an investment destination, Dr Singh expressed gratitude

for their commitment to national development.

“This government has a strong appreciation for your confidence in Guyana, your interest, your demonstrated interest to contribute to Guyana’s development,” he said, acknowledging the creation of 200 new jobs.

“That’s 200 persons— 200 families—who will be working here and earning an income,” he added, convey-

ing a message of appreciation on behalf of President Ali.

Dr Singh urged residents of Corentyne to seize the opportunity for meaningful employment. “This is an opportunity to get full-time work and earn a higher income,” he emphasised. Beyond employment, he said, the initiative presents a chance to gain valuable skills and training. “This is a first step in what can be an incredibly exciting journey.”

Drawing from personal experience, Dr Singh recounted stories of individuals who started as call centre agents and rose through the ranks to become supervisors, managers and even entrepreneurs who opened their own businesses.

He encouraged new employees to be diligent and professional, noting the high standards expected by inter-

national firms.

“Apply yourselves to the role” he told those gathered, as he pointed out that international companies require and expect a particular standard of operation with punctuality and reliability being key factors, he stressed.

Dr Singh also emphasised the importance of a disciplined and hardworking workforce, as Guyana continues to position itself as a top destination for investment.

“So, I am appealing to you to make us proud and demonstrate that we have a disciplined and hardworking workforce.”

In welcoming Centerville Office Support Inc to Region Six, he reaffirmed the government’s support: “You have our full support. We want you to grow, expand and do well.”

Inside the Centerville Office Support Inc.

The Centerville Office Support Inc. officially opened its doors in Number 75 Village, Corentyne, on Friday

Senior Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, touring the Number 75 Village, Corentyne facility with other officials.

Trust in Vision

IN a refreshing show of democratic engagement, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has been inundated with ideas and suggestions from Guyanese citizens at home and abroad—an overwhelming response to the party’s public call for contributions to shape its next term in office. According to General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo, the volume and depth of the submissions not only signal active civic interest but confirm that the party’s vision is resonating with the aspirations of the people.

More than 1,500 responses via WhatsApp and over 100 written submissions suggest something significant: Guyanese citizens are not only paying attention—they are eager to be part of the national conversation. This is democracy in action, and the PPP’s invitation for input is a commendable step toward

collaborative governance.

The suggestions cover a wide array of concerns—from foreign policy to fixing local drainage systems—proving that citizens care deeply about both the big picture and the everyday realities of life in Guyana. The fact that the General Secretary himself took the time to respond to questions and offer clarifications demonstrates the kind of accountability and responsiveness that citizens hope for from their leaders.

In addressing specific policy areas, Jagdeo reaffirmed the party’s commitment to social support programmes, including continued cash grants, increases in old-age pensions, and tax relief. These are critical signals that the PPP intends to maintain and build upon the welfare gains made in recent years. Also noteworthy is the promise of improved sporting infrastructure across

both the coast and hinterland—a meaningful move toward inclusivity and youth development.

Importantly, Jagdeo did not shy away from criticizing the Opposition-led Mayor and City Council (M&CC) for its apparent failure in managing Georgetown’s affairs, forcing the central government to step in.

While this points to deeper governance issues at the municipal level, it also underscores the need for administrative reform and a more cohesive approach to urban management.

From removing derelict vehicles to planning economic zones in rural areas, the citizen-driven proposals reflect both frustration with longstanding problems and hope for practical, forward-thinking solutions.

The call for relocating disruptive industrial businesses from residential zones, as well as suggestions to improve school transport and

provide free utilities to places of worship, all reflect a populace that is thinking constructively and communally.

The PPP’s next challenge is to ensure that these contributions are not merely symbolic but are actively considered and implemented where feasible. If this engagement truly shapes policy, it could set a powerful precedent for participatory governance in Guyana.

This moment should not be underestimated.

It reveals not only confidence in the PPP’s leadership but a renewed sense of civic duty among the people. If nurtured properly, this could mark the beginning of a deeper, more meaningful relationship between government and citizen—one based on trust, dialogue, and shared responsibility for the nation’s future.

Let us not forget APNU+AFC’s brazen attempts to rig the 2020 Elections

Dear Editor,

ALMOST exactly two (2) years ago, in April 2023, the Commission of Inquiry into the General and Regional Elections of Guyana of 2nd March 2020, delivered its Report to President Irfaan Ali.

As we approach the time of another General and Regional Elections, it is imperative that we remind ourselves of the Findings of that Report. Let me remind our readers. I quote extractions from the Summary of Findings of the Report:

“There was a conscious and deliberate –even brazen – effort to violate the provisions of section 84(1) of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA).

Senior Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) officials abandoned all need for neutrality and impartiality and demonstrated a bias for a competing political party and, in the course of events over those days, showed an open connection with that party and, by their efforts, sought a desired result for that party.

Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Mr. Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Ms. Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer (RO) Mr. Clairmont Mingo were principally responsible for clear and deliberate attempts to frustrate, obstruct and subvert the ascertainment of votes in electoral district

The DCEO knew or ought to have known that at the time of the RO’s declaration, the statutorily prescribed procedure and requirements of ascertainment and tabulation for electoral district No. 4 had not been completed and that therefore the RO’s declaration was a clear violation of the law. But the DCEO merely looked on. She said nothing and did nothing.

From the totality of the evidence surrounding the RO’s declaration, there appears to be such collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials as to likely amount to a conspiracy to make what was undoubtedly a premature and unlawful declaration of falsified results which showed the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) party as the winner of electoral district No. 4.

This was the ultimate goal of the CEO, the DCEO and the RO.

The conduct and actions of CEO Lowenfield, in relation to the discharge of his statutory duties prescribed by sections 96 and 97 of the ROPA, were a brazen attempt to prevent GECOM declaring the true results of the elections of 2nd March, 2020.

His conduct was – to borrow the words of former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding, Head of the OAS Observer Mission

to Guyana – a transparent attempt to alter the results of an election”.

While all of this was taking place as a “brazen attempt” to put the APNU/AFC back in office, former President and the leader of the APNU/AFC Party David Granger and his cohorts sat in waiting.

They may well have been declared the government had it not been for the persistent intervention of the Local Observers, those of the International Community and, ultimately, the intervention of the threat of sanctions from the Government of the United States of America, and, in all probability, from the major democratic governments of the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe and South American countries.

Where would Guyana be today should that have happened? We don’t have to look far. We would have been a pariah state as the Maduro regime of Venezuela finds itself today.

A country ruled by a dictator through the force of arms, under sanctions by the USA, virtually unable to sell its vast oil wealth (much larger than ours), supported only by other dictatorship regimes external to our hemisphere, its people in poverty and fleeing their country by the thousands.

The former GECOM officials named in the Commission of Inquiry Report are still before our Courts, largely due to the lethargy,

deliberate or otherwise, of our justice system and may well not be prosecuted before the coming elections.

However, to the everlasting credit of the Chairman of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, supported by the representatives of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) on the Commission who voted with her, none of them remain in GECOM.

In contrast and to their everlasting discredit, indeed, their shame, those who were active leaders of APNU/AFC and in positions of authority of that coalition party’s attempt to rig the 2020 Elections, remain in place and refuse to either acknowledge or apologise, yet they unbelievably ask the electorate for their vote. We do not, for instance, hear the voices of David Granger nor Aubrey Norton nor Nigel Hughes.

Let us not forget who was in power for the fifteen (15) months between the no confidence motion in Parliament and the March 2020 Elections and the five (5) months between the conduct of the voting and the final correct declaration of the results and who now ask to be given electoral power again.

No. 4.

Naming places after Guyanese who deserve it

THE studio where the Freddie Kissoon Show is recorded is located on Laluni Street in Queenstown.

The street is bordered by Peter Rose Street and Irving Street — both named after colonial administrators from the United Kingdom.

So, one day, one of the guests in the studio, the phenomenal cricket star, Sir Clive Lloyd, was chatting with us about Queenstown before the recording started.

Sir Clive shared that within a radius of one block in Queenstown, four West Indian Test cricket stars had lived. One of the streets in that block was named after the greatest spin bowler the West Indies has ever produced – Lance Gibbs.

Today, I write yet another column — as I have done many times over my 36 years as a columnist — to once again implore the authorities to name places, anything really, after the superb Guyanese who have made immense contributions to this country.

This column here was motivated by the news that a street in Bel Air has been named after the famous politician from the PPP –Boysie Ramkarran – who grew up in Bel Air.

His Worship, the Mayor of Georgetown, made the announcement a few days ago. I welcome the honour bestowed on Mr. Ramkarran. He deserves it.

We have a reluctance in this country in naming things after great Guyanese. Please correct me if I am

wrong, but within the last ten years only four places have been given the names of nationalistic Guyanese.

They are: The Arthur Chung International Convention Centre; Ogle airport now bears the name of Eugene Correia; part of New Garden Street is now Shiv Chanderpaul Drive; and now Boysie Ramkarran Street.

I can understand if the president of Guyana is a lawyer, economist, accountant, doctor, engineer and has no special fondness for the subject of history, but if he or she is a historian then you would expect the president to have a special place in his/her heart for the recording of history.

In this respect, David Granger has been an exasperating disappointment.

He was trained as a historian and edited a book on Guyanese history and authored several others on the historical evolution of certain institutions.

Yet in his five years of presidency, he only honoured two Guyanese by naming places after them — Arthur Chung and Eugene Correia. You would have expected that under a president that was a historian there would have been a deluge of streets and buildings named after famous Guyanese.

What is Guyana waiting for when literally dozens and dozens of worthy names should be recognized through something being named after them?

I still cannot fathom

why North Road remains North Road when it should be changed to Desmond Hoyte Street. Hoyte rejected the trappings of majestic state buildings and as president he lived in his modest private home on North Road.

I am not one who believes that his presidency was excellent, far from it; I think the Economic Recovery Programme was a devastating blow to the welfare of the working people who built this country.

The way Mr. Hoyte sold off state properties is one of the lowest moments in governance in the history of this country.

But in the final analysis, Hoyte was a decent president who chose country over power. He deserves to be remembered.

One of the enigmas of this strange and esoteric country is the absence of Rohan Kanhai’s name on anything. If Guyana ever produced ten sports superstars, Kanhai is one.

He remains one of the great Guyanese to have been born in and grew up in

Berbice. I believe without hesitation that Gibbs, Lloyd and Chanderpaul deserve the accolade. But so does Kanhai.

Ramnesh Sarwan is the only cricketer of international fame to come out of the small island of Wakenaam. Why not name the Wakenaam stelling after him. Eddie Grant was a Guyanese superstar long before Rihanna was born.

Barbados and Jamaica have named places after Rihanna and Marley respectively. Name something after Eddie Grant.

The state should fund a doctoral scholarship in science in the name of Dr. Joshua Ramsammy. Dr. Ramsammy fought for the right of Guyanese to vote, and for Guyana to be a free country.

In those patriotic contributions, he almost lost his life when at the Stabroek Square an attempt was made on his life. We do not have to change the name of Stabroek Market but we can change Stabroek Square to Josh Ramsammy Square.

The state should fund a scholarship in journalism

in the name of Jesuit priest, Andrew Morrison. He was a one-man army that took on President Forbes Burnham. With his little newspaper, The Catholic Standard, he took Guyanese journalism to the highest point. I could go on but I am keeping other names for forthcoming columns.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

Drainage, waste management, parking areas

to be prioritised in next development phase

– VP Jagdeo

VICE President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has said that improving internal drainage systems and waste management will be one of the main focuses in the next term of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration.

Last week, the PPP rolled out a public discourse initiative, inviting Guyanese to share ideas that could shape the government’s 2025-2030 Manifesto.

During a news conference, on Thursday, at Freedom House, Dr Jagdeo, the PPP’s general secretary, revealed that thousands of suggestions were received, all positive and focused on improving lives.

One of the major issues highlighted was the state of internal drainage, particularly in Georgetown and surrounding commu-

nities. He explained to reporters that many drains are blocked due to years of neglect, poor construction, and unregulated infrastructure.

To address this, the government would examine the construction of concrete drainages in communities.

“We’d have to do major restructuring to get this done but that’s part of the plan …I can understand the concerns because I see a lot of it came in the suggestions,” he said.

While that is being examined, he reminded that the government has already provided the NDCs with heavy-duty equipment that should be used to clean and maintain drainage structures in the various communities.

Another priority includes waste management, which according to Dr Jagdeo, will be addressed

through the establishment of garbage disposal sites in each Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

Dr Jagdeo noted, “this is part of the plan. We already have started rolling it out. It would be rolled out in earnest in the next five years, so I can understand this this preoccupation of so many people because they see this is a pressing problem now. But

that will be addressed.”

Another sore issue brought forward was the urban congestion, that is currently inconveniencing vehicle users, especially in the city. While the government is constructing a designated area for heavy duty vehicles’ parking, Dr Jagdeo recognised the need for parking spaces for the ordinary people.

As such, the government intends to create

10,000 new parking spaces in Georgetown by upgrading roadside areas and pavements.

“It’s part of our … beautification plan for the city, not just trees but also upgrading parapets. It’s not just a Georgetown plan – it’s for the country. So, this is a really good suggestion and…we appreciate the ideas too because they just don’t mention parking but they are also suggesting solutions behind it.

We can’t put all of that in the manifesto but definitely I can I can assure you, that this is a priority focus for the future,” he affirmed.

As communities grow, there have been increased conflicts between residential and commercial activities. To this end, the PPP GS said the government is proposing the development of small business parks on the outskirts of villages to relocate workshops and enterprises, allowing them to expand without disturbing residents.

Touching on social services, he said digitisation will continue to be a major initiative, enabling easier access to pensions and public assistance.

Plans are also underway for a development financing institution to support small businesses and broader financial inclusion, as the public interest in investment opportunities expands rapidly.

He emphasised too that the administration will focus heavily on land distribution and construction support to help more people achieve homeownership.

Dr Jagdeo also assured that in the next term, the Because We Care grants will increase significantly, including old-age pensions that will see increases in the next five years. He affirmed too that the taxes on vehicles are set to be reduced, while sport facilities will be improved nationwide.

“I think I think it’s commendable and that people are participating and [they have not submitted] not a single negative…thousands of suggestions … [that are] focused on changing lives to the better,” Dr Jagdeo stated. (DPI)

Additionally, the school feeding programme will be expanded, and transportation support for students is under review, possibly through enhanced cash grants rather than direct transport services.

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Norton attacks Chief Justice

IN what can be seen as an attempt to undermine the judiciary, People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) Leader, Aubrey Norton, took aim at Guyana’s acting Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire on Friday criticising her rulings in a series of cases involving the country’s Top Cop.

At a PNC/R news conference, Norton denounced the appointment of Clifton Hicken as Commissioner of Police and faulted the Chief Justice for decisions that he said consistently favoured the government.

“We had challenged his appointment of him having been acting, not as the substantive position, we had challenged that... the Chief Justice, in her normal style, in recent times, ruled in favour of the government,” Norton said.

The controversy be -

gan in August 2022, when George-Wiltshire upheld President Irfaan Ali’s appointment of Hicken to act as Commissioner of Police.

Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones had filed a constitutional challenge claiming the appointment was unlawful because it lacked the constitutionally required “meaningful consultations” with the Opposition Leader.

At the time, the office of Opposition Leader was vacant.

The Chief Justice ruled that in the absence of an Opposition Leader, the President could not be faulted for proceeding with the appointment.

A second legal challenge followed in August 2023, this time contesting the extension of Hicken’s acting tenure after he reached the official retirement age.

PNCR activist Carol Joseph argued that while the Constitution allows the President to extend the tenure of a substantive Commissioner of Police,

not a substantive Commissioner of Police, that the statutory provisions that are applicable to a substantive Commissioner of Police would also apply to an acting Commissioner of Police.”

Despite these rulings, the opposition signalled its intent to continue its legal battle. In August 2023, attorney Roysdale Forde, SC, who represented Jones, described the Chief Justice’s decision as “too grave to be left standing” and confirmed plans to appeal.

no such provision existed for an acting appointee.

On February 6, 2024, George-Wiltshire dismissed the case, finding that constitutional provisions applied equally to both acting and substantive commissioners.

On December 19, 2024, Hicken was formally sworn in as Guyana’s Commissioner of Police after acting in the role since 2022.

She held that “the framers of the Constitution envisioned that if there is

He took the Oath of Office before President Ali, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Guyana.

Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Chairman of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton and acting Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire

Biometric ID cards coming in 2026 to streamline services for Guyanese citizens

–– VP Jagdeo says

By Trina Williams

BEFORE mid-2026, Guyanese citizens will be issued new biometric ID cards designed to distinguish them from foreigners and provide additional benefits, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced on Friday.

Speaking during an engagement with youths at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Dr Jagdeo explained that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader push to modernise and secure national services.

“Before mid-next year, every Guyanese citizen will

get an ID card with biometrics on it that would allow them some preferences. Every foreigner who lives here will have a different card, but in another colour. Our people will get some additional benefits,” the Vice President said.

The biometric cards will not only offer citizens preferential treatment in certain areas, but will also strengthen

border control by monitoring who is entering the country.

Dr Jagdeo noted that the cards will be important for daily transactions, including opening bank accounts, and are a critical part of Guyana’s wider digital transformation agenda.

In Guyana’s case, the country has already outlined plans to digitise its healthcare system and has launched the Guyana Digital Initiative aimed at moulding tech experts. Aside from this, Guyana’s first-of-its-kind digital school will serve the Caribbean.

These initiatives, the Guyanese leader explained, are all aimed at ensuring that Guyana remains relevant and competitive on the global stage.

Back in 2024, Dr Jagdeo had said that this system will allow for pre-screening of passengers, and the use of automated gates, where travellers can simply swipe their identification documents for expedited entry.

He, however, noted that this system would also easily flag discrepancies.

Dr Jagdeo pointed out that upon entry and screen-

ing, all necessary information will be recorded by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

“When you enter into the country, immediately that record goes to a government central database that will be able to track you if you come in on a short-term visa. So, if you overstay, you get flagged; if you come in on a particular visa, you can’t get a work permit,” Dr Jagdeo had explained.

He’d added: “We can know who is coming into our country. We can keep our people secure, and we can flag undesirables before they come home.”

Electronic gates (e-gates) have been installed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

These innovative gates revolutionise the travel process, offering passengers faster check-in times, smoother security screenings and a more convenient overall experience.

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

‘We must be strong for each other’

–– Guyanese unite in loss of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge

By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay

IN the wake of the heartbreaking death of 11-yearold Arianna Younge at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, Guyanese from all walks of life are uniting in grief, offering condolences to her family, and calling for renewed vigilance and systemic reforms across the country.

The tragedy, which unfolded over the Easter weekend, has left a deep wound in the hearts of many, sparking national conversations about child safety, police accountability, and the importance of community unity during times of sorrow.

Among those moved to speak out was Paul Ignatius, a father of three, who admitted that he found it impossible to rest on Thursday night after seeing the distressing updates circulating on social media.

Ignatius said that as a parent, the loss struck particularly close to home, prompting deep reflection not only on the safety of his own children but on the well-being of all children across Guyana.

“I know that such an act is hurtful for us all as a country and as parents. Such an act isn’t something that can be undone, but what we do from here on is important for all of us as Guyanese,” he expressed solemnly.

Ignatius explained that the nation must find strength through unity, even amidst the overwhelming grief.

“We must unite as a community, a village, and a country while grieving with the

parents. I know it is difficult for some of us to think about unity at a time like this, but we have to as a country,” he said.

Beyond the call for national solidarity, Ignatius pointed to the need for greater vigilance from parents and caregivers.

He urged families to adopt a more cautious and proactive approach when it comes to their children’s safety, particularly in public and unfamiliar settings.

At the same time, Ignatius voiced concern about the conduct of some members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), stating that while many officers uphold the values of service and protection, there are others whose unprofessional behaviour undermines public trust.

Drawing on the old saying, “one herring spoils the whole barrel,” he stressed the urgency for leadership within the police force to take firm action against corruption and indiscipline.

“If we want to see real change, it has to start at the top. Those who are unfit to serve must be removed if we are serious about protecting our people, especially our children,” Ignatius noted.

Sharing her own emotional reaction, Lisa Chappelle, a mother of one, recounted visiting her sister in Tuschen on the day of the tragedy.

Overcome with emotion, she embraced her daughter tightly, thanking God for her safety and praying for the grieving Younge family.

“As a mother, I cannot imagine what that mother is feeling, but I know that it

isn’t easy for her. The thought of this event gives me chills,” Chappelle said.

She called upon citizens to channel their heartbreak into collective prayer and faith, urging everyone to seek peace and healing, even amid the overwhelming sorrow.

“God knows what exactly happened, and he will reveal the truth to us,” Chappelle said.

“We have to pray as a country. I know emotions are high, but let us trust in God and have faith that this sad situation will bring about change in our GPF so that we can feel safer with them protecting us.”

Chappelle also reinforced the call for greater parental vigilance, particularly at recreational venues and other public places.

She urged parents to supervise their children closely, ensuring their well-being at all times, especially in unfamiliar or unsupervised environments.

Adding to the chorus of voices was Delon (only name given), a father of three from Laing Avenue, who described the current period as one of profound sadness for the entire nation.

While acknowledging the anger and frustration that many feel, he also cautioned

against the reckless spread of information on social media.

“I don’t believe that there is anyone in Guyana who doesn’t want to know what really happened to that child, except, of course, for the person or persons who may be involved in her death,”

Delon said.

However, he pointed out that while the public demands justice, it is crucial to approach the situation with responsibility and care to avoid further harm or division.

“We cannot let this situation divide us,” Delon said.

“We all saw what happened live, and we also saw that the GPF was negligent in how

they handled the situation. However, I still have faith that we have a president [Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali] who will do everything in his power to get the answers.”

Expressing deep sympathy for the grieving family, Delon urged Guyanese to remain strong and united during this difficult time.

“Let us be strong for each other. Let us unite and pray while trusting that the truth will come to light,” he said.

On Thursday, President Ali has directed the Commissioner of Police to assemble a special investigative team dedicated to uncovering the full truth of the events leading to Adrianna’s death. He had saif that no resource or effort will be spared in this investigation.

Furthermore, President Ali has requested a detailed explanation from the police regarding every action taken since the matter was reported, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability.

He also met with Adrianna’s grieving family, offering them unconditional support and assuring them of the government’s commitment to justice.

As investigations continue into the tragic circumstances surrounding Arianna Younge’s death, the country remains in mourning.

The tragedy has renewed calls for systemic reforms, greater accountability within law enforcement, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s children.

Father of three, Paul Ignatius

As digital initiatives advance, cybersecurity remains top priority – PM Phillips

WITH significant advancements being made in digital initiatives, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has said that cybersecurity remains a top priority for the government.

The Prime Minister made these remarks, on Friday, while delivering the feature address at a cybersecurity fair hosted by the National Data Management Author-

ity (NDMA) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Phillips told the gathering that the Government of Guyana has long recognised that information and communication technology (ICT) is not an afterthought but a cornerstone of national development.

Against this backdrop, through strategic investments in public infrastructure, cybersecurity, and

e-government services, the administration is ensuring that all citizens — whether on the coast or in remote areas — have access to the opportunities of a connected society.

He said, “To remain competitive in a rapidly evolving world, it is essential that our citizens access government services seamlessly, securely, and efficiently. That is why we continue expanding our e-services portfolio, thereby reducing bureaucracy and making interactions with government agencies more convenient.”

Initiatives like the E-Gates system at the airport, the Safe Road Intelligence System with e-ticketing, the E-ID project, and the national health record management system, he said, are at the forefront of the government’s digital transformation efforts.

These investments, he added, are already producing results, with more communities gaining access to improved internet connectivity, government agencies integrating digital solutions, and public services becoming faster and more accessible.

At the heart of these efforts is the NDMA, which is bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no Guyanese is left behind.

While the digital footprint expands, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of acknowledging

and confronting the growing cybersecurity threats that accompany this transformation.

Attacks on government institutions, financial systems, and critical infrastructure, he noted, are becoming more frequent, more sophisticated, and more damaging.

As a proactive measure, the government last year released 43 cybersecurity policies, standards, and guidelines.

“That is an initiative aimed at strengthening all our government agencies. These measures are now being adopted across ministries and agencies, reinforcing our commitment to protecting national data and critical systems,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Phillips noted that during the fair, public sector employees would be exposed to essential cybersecurity skills, and engage in workshops, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

This initiative aims to demonstrate the security of the digital infrastructure and ensure national cyber resilience.

“As we stand at the crossroads of innovation and development, our path forward is clear: we must continue investing in ICT, fortifying our cybersecurity frameworks, and expanding services to serve the people of Guyana more effectively,” the Prime Minister affirmed.

Participants in the Cybersecurity fair hosted by the NDMA on Friday along with Prime Minister Brigadier Ret’d Mark Phillips.

Prime Minister Brigadier Ret’d Mark Phillips (Delano Williams photos)

Scotiabank named Caribbean’s Best Bank 2025

— Guyana among individual country winners

SCOTIABANK has been named the Caribbean’s Best Bank for 2025 by Global Finance Magazine, with the institution securing several individual country awards, including in Guyana.

Each year, Global Finance (New York) recognises the world’s top financial institutions, assessing them against a trusted standard of excellence.

According to Publisher and Editorial Director of Global Finance, Joseph D. Giarraputo, this year’s winners were selected based on their ability to meet customer needs in challenging markets, maintain strong results, and innovate for long-term success.

“Global Finance’s Best Bank Awards honour financial institutions that excel in diversity of offerings, long term stability, and technological innovation.

“The winners of this

year’s awards are those banks that attended carefully to their customers’ needs in difficult markets and accomplished strong results while laying the foundations for future success,” Giarraputo said.

Meanwhile, Country Manager for Scotiabank Guyana, Nafeeza Gaffoor, welcomed the recognition, praising the hard work of the bank’s employees and reiterating its commitment to clients.

“We are excited by this

recognition as it shows that we are making progress against our strategy. The award reflects the hard work and dedication of our team and all that we are achieving together as we create value for our clients.

“Our strong performance and introduction of innovative digital enhancements has enabled us to lead the local market. We remain focused on deepening client relationships, leading with advice and following with solutions, as we build high- quality

experiences,” Gaffoor stated.

The latest accolade follows Scotiabank Guyana’s success in December 2024, when it was named Bank of the Year 2024.

As part of its strategy to make banking easier for its clients, Scotiabank has recently introduced several digital innovations.

These include the redesigned Scotia Caribbean App, offering customers 24/7 banking access from their mobile devices, and an enhanced Scotia OnLine Banking platform, featuring one-time password protection and expanded bill payment services.

The bank has also ad -

vanced its merchant services, developing a proprietary application to integrate unmanned payment solutions and kiosks.

In addition to Guyana, Scotiabank was also named Best Bank 2025 in the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, and Turks & Caicos.

Police Sergeant remanded for murder of Linden man

POLICE Sergeant Philbert Kendall, who is at the centre of a controversial fatal shooting in Linden has been charged with murder, weeks after the incident sparked widespread public unrest and calls for justice.

On Friday, Kendall was arraigned at the before by Senior Magistrate Fabayo

Azore at Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for the shooting death of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters. He was not required to plead to the capital offence and was remanded to prison until May 9, 2025. The incident occurred on April 7, 2025, in the mining town, where Sergeant Kend-

all, then in plainclothes, pursued Peters, who was wanted for questioning in relation to a child rape investigation.

Also, CCTV footage later confirmed Sergeant Kendall was seen exiting an unmarked vehicle and chasing Peters, who had been near a roadside shop.

In a subsequent report

to his superiors, the policeman claimed that during the chase, Peters attempted to escape over a fence. The officer said that as he tried to pull Peters down, his service pistol accidentally discharged, fatally wounding the young man.

But the explanation failed to calm tensions in Linden. Peters’ death ignited a protest, with residents demand-

ing transparency and accountability.

The unrest peaked when another man, 32-year-old Keon Fogenay, was fatally shot during a clash between protesters and police.

The government turned to the Regional Security System (RSS)—a regional policing body—for assistance. A

three-member team was dispatched to Guyana to review the circumstances surrounding both shootings.

The probe into Peters’ killing has since concluded, with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advising that Sergeant Kendall face a charge for the capital offence of murder.

Police Sergeant Philbert Kendall at the courthouse on Monday

Police Sergeant Philbert Kendall

‘We expect Guyana to continue to have very fast growth rates’ – IMF rep says

WITH Guyana being hailed as the fastest-growing economy in the world since 2022, Deputy Director of the Western Hemisphere Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ana Corbacho, has said that they expect this growth to continue.

Corbacho made these remarks during a press conference on the Regional Economic Outlook for the Western Hemisphere on Friday.

She added that Guyana has been the fastest-growing economy not only in the Caribbean but in the world, with an average growth rate

of 47 per cent between 2022 and 2024.

“We expect Guyana to continue to have very fast growth rates in an environment of macroeconomic stability,” the deputy director said.

She further indicated that in the current global and uncertain environment, maintaining macroeconomic stability is critical, along with continuing to strengthen resilience to shocks.

This, she added, includes shocks from oil prices, as well as building strong institutions to ensure the benefits of oil wealth are shared

Deputy Director of the Western Hemisphere Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Ana Corbacho

across generations.

“Currently, oil revenues are already helping Guyana address very significant development needs,” Corbacho told the conference.

According to the IMF’s April World Economic Outlook, Guyana is poised to remain one of the world’s fastest-growing economies in 2025, with a projected GDP growth of 10.3 per cent.

This forecast places Guyana second only to Libya in economic expansion. Following the onset of oil production, Guyana has consistently achieved double-digit economic growth.

Land was there to be developed but APNU+AFC never did

–– 1,500 lots to be allocated in Region Six in

just two days

Speaking at the Region Six leg of the government’s aggressive Dream Realised housing drive at State House, New Amster-

MINISTER of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, has slammed the former A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) + Alliance For Change (AFC) administration for failing to allocate lands that were readily available during their time in office, accusing them of neglecting the needs of ordinary citizens.

dam, on Friday, Croal said the former government had access to the same land now being used to bring thousands of Guyanese closer to homeownership — but did little with it.

“The lands are all here,

so the APNUAFC government had these lands to allocate too, they had it at their disposal,” he said, while highlighting that the former government had not invested in any new development structure for housing.

In sharp contrast, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government will be distributing 1,500 house lots in just two days — part of its broader promise to allocate 50,000 lots during its first term.

Minister Croal also rejected opposition criticisms of the government’s

housing programme, noting that allocations are not based on “idle talk,” but real action: finding land, investing in infrastructure and delivering to the people.

Further to this, he said, “You must understand too that you have a government that is people-centred and is committed to ensuring that we make the lives of all our citizens better.”

On Friday, the minister indicated that in Region Six to date, in just four and a half years of the PPP/C’s tenure, they have allocated some 4,545 lots.

Against this backdrop, he told the gathering that

the government of Guyana has committed that all pending applications in Region Six from December 31, 2024 and prior will be addressed this year.

Additionally, he said that more land will continually be made available, and by the end of May, the ministry will return to the region to allocate more lots in new areas such as Overwinning.

“We are committed and we are responding. There’s no need to get anxiety, there’s no need to worry because we will work every day for all 10 regions to address housing matters,” Croal affirmed.

continues to

‘We can’t allow the city to deteriorate’ – VP Jagdeo says – as M&CC

VICE President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has declared that central government will not allow the city and its surroundings to deteriorate while the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R )-led Mayor & City Council (M&CC) continues to fail in delivering basic services, especially garbage collection.

Jagdeo said they continue to neglect responsibilities like road maintenance, drainage, and recreational facilities.

He believes that the current state of the city, which has tons of garbage pileups, is deliberately allowed by the council to shift blame to the PPP government, especially in an election season. In the meantime,

He launched a scathing attack on the city council for its poor management and lack of accountability, in light of concerns about the city’s current poor state.

According to Dr Jagdeo, the City Council has been collecting significant revenue, including a container fee that has brought in over $2 billion in nine years. However, the council has not provided its financial statements to show where the money is being expended.

“Every month, they get $25 to $30 million in a cheque; that’s $300 million [and] you don’t even hear about it,” the VP told reporters at a press conference held at Freedom House, Georgetown.

Despite the council generating revenues from initiatives like these, Dr

VP Jagdeo said a task force, comprising public, private, and civil society representatives will be established to clean up Georgetown and address the garbage woes.

“They know it’s election time, so they just leave everything on the street… like what they were trying to do by trying to increase the valuation for properties in Georgetown,” he stated.

Notwithstanding this, Dr Jagdeo, who is also the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) general secretary, reminded that the government has invested billions to upgrade thoroughfares in the various communities . Additionally, some 100,000 street lights have been procured and will soon be installed across communities.

In sport, significant resources have been expended to upgrade and

neglect its waste management duties

rehabilitate more than 30 sport grounds from Agricola on the East Bank of Demerara to Cummings Lodge on the East Coast Demerara.

Contracts have also been awarded to individuals to clean internal drainages, a responsibility that normally falls

under the purview of the M&CC.

“Had it not been for [the] Central Government’s massive injection into the city, this would have been a very different place…we cannot allow the city to deteriorate,” the vice president declared.

He also revealed that the government is making true to its promise as contracts have been awarded to 60 small contractors to upgrade the Le Repentir Cemetery It has been the final resting place for citizens of Georgetown and was first established in 1861.

“We [will] do the drainage…then you would have lights in the cemetery so people can drive through. And then hopefully we can do other things to upgrade this cemetery [like to] plant some trees into that area,” he told reporters. (DPI)

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

New modern Annai Hospital commissioned

--Surgical procedures being conducted for the first time today

RESIDENTS of Annai and surrounding villages in the North Rupununi, Region Nine will no longer have to travel long hours to the Lethem Regional Hospital or the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to access health services, as the new modern Annai District Hospital was commissioned on Friday.

For the very first time, surgical procedures will be conducted today at the hospital by a team of 11 medical professionals from GPHC over the next two days.

Residents will benefit from a wide range of medical services too.

Trenton Robertson, a resident from Annai, recalled how difficult it was for them to travel to Lethem Regional Hospital to receive medical care.

Residents usually have to pay $6,000 for transportation to travel to Lethem Regional Hospital.

“It was really hard for us …We had to travel far. We used to pay $6,000 for the round trip [to go to Lethem Regional Hospital] …But now that we have this, it has become easier. I’m glad to see the ambulance that was [provided] to us…This is very good that our president is doing for Annai village,” Rodrigues said.

Nurse-in-Charge at Annai District Hospital, Camilla Johnnie, stated that the transitioning of Annai Health Centre into a district hospital

is a major step towards improving healthcare access for Annai residents.

“When I came here in 2021. It was a health centre… It was difficult for us to go to Lethem. At that time, we didn’t have any transportation or ambulance during that time,” the nurse said.

charged…I feel really happy for the people of this district that they no longer have to go far,” she said.

Nurse Johnnie added, “It is a new step forward for the healthcare team at Annai District Hospital. It gives us more space, equipment and resources to give quality

munity Benab at Rupertee, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony stated that the hospital’s opening clearly demonstrates the kind of progress achieved so far to deliver efficient healthcare to remote communities.

“In the past, people used to leave Region Nine, cross

Lethem Regional Hospital,” he said.

Minister Anthony said that almost $36 million was poured into upgrading and modernising the Annai District Hospital.

A total of $76 million was spent on the hospital’s surgical theatre and the relevant

Nurse Johnnie said that the opening of the hospital has also eliminated the need for patients, especially from the riverine areas, to be referred to Lethem Hospital for medical services.

“Residents used to cry out that it was difficult for them since they had no financial support or relatives in Lethem to stay by when they got dis-

nursing care to the patients that we serve.”

Eleanor Joel, a resident from Annai Central, said the new facility will provide a comfortable space for residents from riverine villages like Crashwater, Rewa and Apoteri to receive medical care and treatment.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at the com-

the Takutu Bridge and go across to Brazil to get medical care. That was the trend for many years. Today, because of the quality of healthcare that we have on our side of the border, we have seen the traffic going the other way. That is why people are coming to us. It is a testament to the quality of healthcare professionals that we have at the

medical equipment.

The government spent $14 million to retrofit the laboratory facilities and another $14 million for the new storage bond.

About $ 28 million was invested to build staffing quarters and $48 million more will be invested to furnish the quarters.

An all-terrain vehicle

Dr. Paul highly qualified to conduct Adrianna Younge’s autopsy

--International forensic expert’s credentials reaffirmed amid questions

DESPITE public attempts to question his qualifications, internationally recognised forensic pathologist Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul is more than qualified to conduct the autopsy on 11-year-old Adrianna Younge.

Dr. Paul brings over 23 years of experience in forensic pathology, covering thousands of autopsy examinations, crime scene analyses and forensic reports.

Since 2021, he has served as Consultant Forensic Pathologist at the Forensic Sciences Centre in Barbados under the Office of the Attorney General.

He is a Member of the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine (MFFLM) of the Royal College of Physicians (UK) and holds an MBBS,

MD, and DNB, along with professional licensing in Barbados, the UK, and India.

Dr. Paul’s extensive career includes service as a Forensic Medical Examiner for Police Scotland and NHS Trusts in the United Kingdom for over a decade.

He has also served as a Resident Medical Officer at BMI Alexandra Hospital and has held various academic teaching positions across India and Northern Ireland.

In addition to performing autopsies in complex homicide, suicide, and drug-related cases, he has trained law enforcement officers internationally and presented research at major forensic conferences.

The government had brought Dr. Paul to Guyana as part of efforts to ensure

transparency, independence, and public trust in the probe into Younge’s death.

Nevertheless, on Friday, the family of Adrianna Younge, through opposition-aligned attorney Darren Wade, refused to allow Dr. Paul to perform the autopsy.

Wade publicly questioned whether Dr. Paul possesses postgraduate training specifically in anatomical pathology and called for the Government of Guyana to allow investigators from the United States or Canada to conduct the investigation instead.

Authorities are currently awaiting the arrival of another independent pathologist who was identified by family members of the deceased to perform the post-mortem examination. Forensic pathologist Dr. Shubhakar Paul (Credit Look News)

(ATV) and a $18 million ambulance were also provided to the Annai Hospital to improve access to transportation.

Moreover, a new X-ray machine costing about $60 million was procured for the facility that will soon be installed there.

Minister Anthony said that close to $236 million has been spent on Annai Hospital over the years.

“We are making big investments in the region. We are making investments in the people. We want people to be healthy. If you have facilities like this, it is going to make people healthy. Because when they’re sick, they can come here to get those services…People now have a place where they can come to get treatment,” the health minister.

Investments totalling more than $450 million have been spent to advance healthcare in this subregion alone over the last couple of years.

Dr Anthony emphasised, “This is what progress looks like…The opening of the new Annai district hospital is just one of many steps to demonstrate the improvement of our community. This is an important milestone in the history of this village.”

Regional Health Officer Dr Cerdel McWatt spoke of the investments made to buttress the region’s human resource capacity, which has increased the level of service being provided and building a resilient healthcare system in Region Nine.

A total of 377 individuals from the region have been trained in various health programmes.

He added that the health infrastructure in the region has benefitted from major improvements to ensure residents have quality services.

The region is also working assiduously to improve surgical procedures which has contributed to a decline in the mortality rate, Dr McWatt stated.

Moreover, the region’s fleet of vehicles is poised to increase as three new ambulances will be provided very soon.

Toshao of Annai, Ivor Daniels: Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock and Hinterland Health Coordinator, Michael Gouveia also delivered remarks at the event. (DPI)

Minister Anthony hands over an ambulance to Annai District Hospital

SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Shane Watson (RR) (2) Glen Maxwell (Punjab)

TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who was voted Man of theTournament in IPL 2015 (2) Who won the Award in IPL 2016? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

ENGLISH RACING SANDOWN

CARIBBEAN REGIONAL YOUTH TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

Sukhai and Billingy earn bronze in girls’ doubles

Jasmine Billingy and Samara Sukhai showed grit and determination to earn Guyana’s first medal at the Caribbean Regional Youth Table Tennis Championship on Friday in Bridgetown, Barbados.

The duo, playing the semifinal won their opening set 11-7 against Puerto Rican Ariana Aponte and Aurora Bonome.

Despite a strong second set rally which they lost 1311, they fell away in the later stages of the match, losing the third and fourth sets 11-6 and 11-9 to settle for a bronze.

The girls earlier won their quarter final match by beating Jamaican pair Christina Royes and Mystique Sharpe 3-1.

They lost the first two sets but bounce back to win the last three sets straight 18-16, 11-5 and 11-7 to reach the quarter finals.

In boys’ doubles action, the pair of Colin Wong and Malachi Moore lost to Barbados duo Alex Henry and Rachad Gill 3 sets to 2 in the round of 32.

In the round of 16, Jonathan Van Lange and Krystian Sahadeo beat Trinidad’s Ameer Mohamed and Sekel McIntosh 3-2.

In the quarter final they faced Puerto Rico’s Chrisnomar Aviles and Jose Nieves.

The Guyanese lost the first set 11-9 but won the second and third 11-7 and 11-1. They were however outmatched in the next two sets 11-9 and 11-7 to be knocked out.

The girls’ pair of Akira Watson and Angel Robinson also were defeated in straight set 3-0 by Dominican Republic’s Figueroa De La Cruz and Yesmelly Guerrero in their round of 16 match-up.

Meanwhile on Thursday in the singles category stage Akira Watson beat Trinidad Jonnah Mohammed in straight sets 3-0 in the girls group.

Also in the winner circle was Samara Sukhai who got the better of her Jamaican counterpart Kira Scott 3-2 in the round of 32 before beating Watson 3-0 to reach the quarter-finals.

However, Billingy failed to advance to the quarter finals after going down to Keeara Whyte and Angel Robinson lost in a tough match 3-2 to Jamaica’s Kayan Denton.

In the boys singles group Colin Wong lost to Ameer Mohamed 3-2, while Kystian Sahadeo beat Barrinton

Loague 3-0.

Van Lange also beat Grenada’s DeWayne Dinnoh-Newlands 3-0, Malachi more also picked up a win over T&T’s Sekel 3-0.

Van Lange won his round of 32 match against St Lucia’s Joshua Lubin 4-1. Sahadeo lost in the singles round of 32 to Eduardo Darley 4-0 and Malachi lost to Jamaican Azizi Johnson In the mix doubles Wong and Sukhai lost to a pair from Dominican Republic 3-1, while Van Lange and Billingy beat St Vincent’ s Terence Ashton and Jessica McCarter.

Also, in the round of 32 doubles action, Moore and Watson lost to a Cuba team 3-0, Sahadeo and Robinson also suffered the same fate against Alejandro Martinez and Adriana Bode from Cuba.

Van Lange and Billingy’s campaign ended in the doubles round of 16 as they went down to a Puerto Rican duo 3-0.

Today (Saturday), Van Lange will play the boys round of 16 match against Trinidad’s Malik Gopaul and Sukhai will play her girls quarter finals match against Martinez Hernandez.

GCB U19 Inter- County Super

50 set to bowl off today

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) on Friday announced the official schedule and team selections for the 2025 GCB Under-19 Inter-County Super50 Championship, which is set to bowl off today.

This year’s tournament will feature four teams: Demerara, Berbice, Essequibo, and the GCB Select XI.

Following the recent spell of inclement weather, these are the revised dates for the tournament, carefully adjusted to ensure fair play and competitive balance across all participating counties.

Today, Essequibo will play Demerara at the Imam Bacchus Ground, while Berbice plays the Select XI at Police SC.

Round two is set for Mon-

day with the Select XI playing Demerara at LBI, while Berbice will play Essequibo at the Police SC.

The following day, Demerara will clash with Berbice at the Police SC, while the Select XI will play Essequibo at LBI.

The final will take place on a date and at a venue to be confirmed.

TEAM SQUADS:

Demerara Under-19:

Sachin Balgobin (Captain), Jayden Dowlin (Vice Captain), Shiloh Adams, Vickash Wilkinson, Ryan Latif, Nicholas Shiopersad, Romeo Deonarain, Shamar Apple (Wk ), Wavell Allen, Kelvin Raymond, Udesh Seetaram, Nityanand Mathura, Neeraj Bani , Vemol Lall,

Emmanuel Lewis Standby Players: Deonarine Dindyal, Lakeram Sukhdeo , Moin Persaud, Shane Prince, Syaad Lakeram, Arvin Sukhnand

Essequibo Under-19:

Raqendra Ramrattan (Captain) Godbaran Chulai, Shazim Mohamed, Bruce Vincent, Ronaldo Jeffery (Vice Captain), Teddy Wong, Glodewin Henry, Jelroy Brown , Ovin Persaud, Mahendra Sankar, Nicholas Lovell, Benny Persaud, Harold Daniels , Saif Samaroo, Ashton Simmons Reserves: Trivel Evans, Andres Fraser, Nafron Gill, Saheed Baksh, Shazim Mohamed

Berbice Under-19: Rampersaud Ramnauth ,

Sanjay Algoo, Matthew Pottaya (Vice Captain), Salim Khan, Okasie Boyce, Kevin Kisten, Damion Cecil, Afraz Ali Boodhu, Ari Afrizal Kadir , Micah Amsterdam, Daniel Joseph, Rashad Gaffur, Kumar Deopershad, Romesh Bharrat

Coach: Gregory Crandon

Manager: Rajendra Beharry

GCB Select XI:

Romario Ramdeholl (Captain), Parmeshwar Ram (Vice Captain), Jonathan Mentore, Kishan Silas, Dave Mohabir, Joshua Boodram, Avishkar Beharry, Adil Ali, Devon Wharton, Raj Tika, Andres Fraser, Natron Gill, Trivel Evans, Saheed Baksh and Shazam Mohamed.

Linden Guinness Greatest In the Streets…

Final preliminary matches tonight

SPANIARDS are heading Group ‘D’ and will qualify for a quarterfinal spot, as play continues tonight (Saturday) in this year ’s 11th Linden Greatest in the Streets football tournament

The Spaniards, after winning their only two matches played so far have a perfect six points in the tournament which continues this evening at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

Following two nights of gripping action, defending champions Silver Bullets and Realist Ballers are on four points from a win and a draw in Group ‘A.’

Group ‘B’s’ DC Ballers and Swag in Group ‘C,’ all have four points from a win

and a draw and must be favoured also to advance.

Group ‘D’ ‘s LA Ballers and High Rollers, both have three points from one win and a draw to trail Spaniards, but the tussle in Group ‘C’ is between Turf President and Young Gunners, both with two draws on two points.

In Group ‘B’ Assasa Ballers and Hard Ball also drew their two matches played for two points

Day three’s matchups will start from 19:00hrs when Spaniards play Excuse the Rush, who lost their two previous matches in Group ‘D’ encounters.

At 19.30hrs in a Group ‘C ’ battle, Turf will face Coomacka, who have a win and a loss for their one point.

Then at 20.00hrs, Hard Ball Management, who have two draws in two points, take on YMCA who have a draw and a loss for one point in Group ‘B’

This will be followed by a Group ‘A’ clash at 20.30hrs, featuring Bombers who have one point from a loss and a draw against Realist Ballers, who have four points from a win and a draw.

That match will be followed by one in Group ‘D’ at 21:00hrs as LA Ballers, who have a win and a loss for three points, match skills with High Rollers who are on similar points and a similar record

At 21.30hrs in Group ‘B’, the rivalry is between

In another game at 22.00hrs in Group ‘A’, the defending champions Silver Bullets who have won and drawn the two games played so far for four points, will face Pro Ballers who are on one point from a loss and a draw.

The night -cap game at 22.30hrs or between Group ‘C’’s Swag Entertainment, who are on four points from a win and a draw, clashing with Young Gunners who have drawn their two games played so far for two points.

After tonight, the quarterfinals are set for next Wednesday at the Retrieve Hard Court. (Joe Chapman).

Massy/Milo School U18 Football Championship…

Dolphin storm into final; Chase edge Waramuri

HIGH octane action was the talk of the Ministry Education ground on Thursday as the Petra Organization staged the semifinal of the Massy Milo Schools Football Championship.

Defending champions Chase Academy and top challenger Dolphin emerged as respective winners to put themselves within touching distance of the 2025 title.

The semis kicked off with the first game on Thursday evening at the CARFESTA avenue ground.

Dolphin Secondary, still searching for their first title, clashed with West Ruimveldt Secondary and earned a 3-1 victory.

Dolphin Secondary’s Collin Frank David opened their account with a 60th minute strike before Ezekiel Frank David added to their advantage with his first in the 64th before adding a second in the 81st to make it 3-nil.

West Ruimveldt Secondary Jeremiah Griffith soon responded a minute later to pull back the lead but that was their only goal in the match at Dolphin tightened their defense to hold on for the win.

Next the featured semi saw Waramuri Secondary meeting multiple-time champion Chase’s Academic Foundation

It was a ding-dong affair; Chase’s top scorer

Bryan Wharton wasted little time as he hit the back of the net 2 minute after the opening whistle.

His teammate Isaiah Ifill doubled the lead in the 14th as they went into the break, up 2-nil.

Waramuri Secondary came roaring back in the second half with Rondell Peters scoring in the 51st followed by an Eldon Lewis strike in the 77th minute to bring the game level.

Peters then returned to give them the lead for the first time in the clash with his second before Chase’s Ifill tied up the game with his second goal in the 89th.

After regulation and extra time failed to produce a winner, the game went to penalty kicks with Chase emerging winner 7-6.

Chase will have to produce an even better showing to defending their title with a player down after top striker Wharton got a red card in the semis and will miss the final.

The tournament started with 24 schools in March with Round Robin games also played at the Queen’s college ground.

The stop school sides are playing for bragging rights, championship trophy and the 300,000-dollar cash prize which will be used for a school project of their choice with 200,000 and 100,000 for the second and third place schools respectively.

Assasa Ballers with taking on DC Ballers.

One Guyana Basketball Premier League on at CASH this weekend

The One Guyana Basketball Premier League continues this weekend day as 12 teams battle for a place in next month’s playoff rounds at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The weekend action opens with Plaisance Guardians competing against Guyana Defense Force.

Berbice Renegades, coming off their recent win, will take on Mambas before Victory Valley Royals play Stabroek Eagles. On Sunday North Ruimveldt Ravens, who are the defending champion play Kwakwani Untouchables. Retrieve raiders also will meet Block 22 Flames with Jets closing off the day

against Berbice Renegades.

Ravens continue to lead the Harpy Eagles Conference with seven wins in eight games followed by Eagles with a perfect record of seven straight wins.

The UG Trojans led the Jaguar Conference with six wins ahead of Bounty Colts.

The league is sponsored

by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, and National Sports Commission.

The League is set to conclude in May and features 22 teams evenly split in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for bragging rights, top dollars and the coveted trophy.

2025 SUBZONE 2.3.3 ABSOLUTE & WOMEN CHESS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Chess Champions put in admirable performance

Guyana’s Candidate Master (CM) Taffin Khan, the reigning National Chess Champion, and Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Jessica Callender, 2024’s National Women Champion, have returned home following their participation in the, hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association from April 11th to April 18th, 2025.

can players Mckoy (1729), Stephenson (1861), and Belinfante (1898). He drew games with his Trinidadian opponent Bisnath (1891), Jain (1910) from Jamaica , and FM Moncur from the Bahamas.

Barbadian WFM Hannah Willson (1847) delivered a stellar performance in the Women’s category , dominating the field and clinching

In the Absolute category, International Master Orlando Husbands (2291) of Barbados emerged as the overall champion, finishing with an impressive 7.5 points out of a maximum of 9.

Representing Guyana, CM Khan delivered a commendable performance, securing 5.5 points and finishing in 15th place among a competitive field of international players.

While entering with an ELO rating of 2023 , Khan experienced two setbacks, losing to Trinidad’s Vassell (1664 ) in the opening round and to strong contender FM Ryan Harper (2125) in round eight. Nevertheless, he demonstrated his strength with wins over Trinidad’s Sookraj (1586) and Jamai -

the championship with a commanding 8 points out of a possible 9.

WCM Jessica Callender (1568) finished in 14th place with a total of 4.5 points, which included two wins and five draws with only two losses. After losing her first round against WCM Reifer -Belle (1816) from Barbados, Callender secured victories against Grenada’s Flanders and WCM Wahid (1588) from St. Lucia. Callender drew with Aruba’s Moreno Mora (1678), Trinidad’s Dolly (1596), Duffrin (1558) and Ali, and WCM Zara Majid (1576) from the Cayman Islands. Neighboring Suriname’s WCM Kaslan (1740) won against Callender in the eighth round. Callender described her

West Indies Breakout League

Guyana Rainforest Rangers lose opening game

without scoring and Cyrus continued his heroics by sending Quentin Sampson and Kemol Savory back to the dressing room, as the Rangers slumped to 131 for seven in the 18th over.

first Sub Zone tournament as an incredible experience, highlighting the opportunity to compete against top players from eight nations. She expressed her excitement at losing only two games, noting that her toughest match was in the first round against eventual runner-up, Barbadian WCM Chanon Reifer-Belle. Khan commented that the nature of the games was of a high standard and quite challenging. He welcomed the experience of playing against other talented chess players from other countries.

The tournament featured top players from across the region, including representatives from Antigua and Barbuda,

CMC – Windward Islands Infernos leg spinner Darel Cyrus grabbed four wickets to lead his side to a sensational 25-run victory over the Guyana Rainforest Rangers in the opening match of the inaugural West Indies Breakout League here on Friday.

Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Netherlands Antilles, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The tournament champions of each tournament will automatically earn the right to participate in the next FIDE World Cup.

The Guyana Chess Federation congratulates Khan and Callender on their achievements and continues to champion the growth of local players as they compete internationally.

Chasing a modest total of 167 for victory, the Rangers seemed to be cruising to victory at 120 for one in the 15th over, with Kevlon Anderson and Adrian Sukhwa at the crease in a 107-run partnership.

But Cyrus sparked a middle order collapse by snaring four wickets for the addition of just 10 runs, as the Rangers remarkably finished on 141 for nine from their 20 overs.

Pacer Ryan John broke the partnership by dismissing Sukhwa after he had scored 57 from 43 deliveries with six fours and one six, before Cyrus took over proceedings. He accounted for the prized wicket of Anderson, who made 58 from 43 balls, inclusive of three sixes and three fours, to leave the score 126 for three and without another run being added he claimed the scalp of Kevin Sinclair for a duck.

One run later, fast bowler Shadrack Descarte dismissed Ronaldo Alimohamed

Needing 32 runs off the last two overs, Ashmead Nedd was run out for two and Dillon Douglas had Nial Smith caught for one to help complete an unlikely comefrom-behind victory.

Cyrus ended with 4-37 while John took 2-16 for the Infernos.

Earlier, Playerof- the-Match Alick Athanaze cracked an unbeaten half century to rescue the Infernos from 38 for four and propel them to 166 for six from their 20 overs.

Athanaze clobbered 91 off 57 deliveries and hit seven sixes and five fours, as the Infernos bludgeoned 58 runs off the last three overs.

Athanaze shared a 83-run partnership with Dillon Douglas, who made 26, for the fifth wicket and then added an unbroken 33 runs with Noelle Leo, to end the innings in a blaze.

The left-hander was especially savage on Alimohamed, who he hit for three sixes in the final over that yielded 29 runs.

Nial Smith was the Rangers’ best bowler with 3-28 and Jediah Blades finished with 2-34.

Taffin Khan (right) in action

Jessica Calendar (right) in action

Guyana Rainforest Rangers lose opening game

GRFU selects team for (RAN) International 15s Tournament

Angus named as captain

Jamal Angus has been named captain of the Green Machine Rugby team, the side that heads into today’s Rugby America’s North International 15’s tournament.

The team was selected late Thursday evening ahead of today’s clash against the Cayman Islands

scheduled for 14:00hrs at the National Park

The Team will be encamped at the Royal International Hotel & Mall, Mandela Avenue.

Full team: Rondel Mc Arthur, Makaya Smith, Vallon Adams, Christian Klass, Kelvin Grant, Jamal Angus (Captain), Shawn David, James Osborne,

CARIBBEAN REGIONAL YOUTH TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

Sukhai and Billingy earn bronze in girls’ doubles

Guyana Doubles Pair Jasmine Billingy and Samara Sukhai.

Michael Edwards, Godfrey Broomes, Lancelot Adonis, Lionel Holder, Michael Barrow, Odida Douglas, Tyresse Prescod, Kevon David, Devon Charles, Adam Yhip, Osbert Robertson, Sean Phillips, Marlon Small, Delmar Headley, Akino James, Jermain Joseph.