--President Ali assures citizens PPP/C gov’t will deliver ‘faster, better, and greater’ on pledges, policies
Rollout of E-ID ongoing
The Government of Guyana has started rolling out the new Electronic National Digital Identity Card (E-ID), with the enrolment of the public sector. The Ministry of Home Affairs’ staff were registered in the first phase on Monday. Staff must present valid ID, proof of address, and relevant civil-status documents as part of the enrolment process (Ministry of Home Affairs)
Bhagwandin emphasises govt’s massive social support to Guyanese
--rejects WIN leader’s attempt to distort historical reality of PPP/C’s investments, commitments
Main Street buzzes as Christmas Village 2025 launch nears
--preparations in full swing with lights, decorations and vendors anxious to kick off the festive season
Preparations are in full swing along Main Street as organisers, vendors and supporting agencies put the final touches on
No plan to displace vendors
--Minister Manickchand says, points to intention to have widespread consultation before reorganisation of markets --encourages shoppers to keep their receipts, inspect items before making a purchase amidst Christmas season
No plan to displace vendors
--Minister Manickchand says; points to intention to have widespread consultation before reorganisation of markets
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, on Monday, said there are no plans at this time to displace vendors plying their trade at the Stabroek Market.
The minister, who was
being interviewed on the inaugural edition of GoMoseley Radio by Gordon Moseley and his co-host, Allana Bose, made this statement in wake of headlines which claim that the Stabroek Market vendors were being displaced. The minis-
try is currently beautifying the Stabroek Square which is close to where many of the vendors operate.
In her remarks, she emphasised that no vendor has been stopped or will be stopped from selling at this time. Minister Manickchand
said she has seen narratives which suggest that business in the area has slowed because of the beautification work.
Refuting this, the minister related that if persons go on ground, they will see that this is not true.
She expressed hope that persons can be shown and assured that they can trust their leaders when they make a commitment for things to be done or not to be done.
“So, we said very clearly at this point, vendors are not going to be moved, and they will not be moved at this point. We have to reorganise different squares: The Bourda Market, the Mon Repos Market, the Stabroek Market.
We have to reorganise public spaces. We have to do that in consultation with people, and for me particularly that people who make a living off those spaces are not interfered with their living,” she said.
The minister emphasised that the intention is to build a space that would allow families to sit and enjoy the experiences of the market.
Hinting at their plans, she said, “imagine it, tables, families buy something from Demico and eating it over there.
Music playing, two young artistes who are trying
to start up their band going right there and playing their music for people to hear. An artist setting up their place where they can do portraits of people who pass by [and] the clock working in the background.
I’m saying that fingers crossed… just a building out of a new area.”
Minister Manickchand said that these features in this space will boost business, especially during the Christmas season.
Looking at the longterm, Minister Manickchand said government is indeed looking to restore the entire Georgetown, the Stabroek Block being one of the major areas.
She mentioned that there are plans in place to rebuild the Stabroek Market, adding that restoring this public space does not mean replacement, but enhancing its historic features.
Additionally, the minister commented on the notable reduction of garbage since her ministry placed garbage bins in critical areas around the market, and the clearing out of those bins by a dedicated garbage truck at specific times each day. This already signals the start of massive changes in the Stabroek Market area, she added.
Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand
A visual representation of what the Stabroek Market Square will look like after beautification exercise has been completed (Photo: Ministry of Local Government & Regional Development/Facebook)
‘We
know what our commitments are’
--President Ali assures citizens PPP/C gov’t will deliver ‘faster, better, and greater’ on pledges, policies
CENTREING his message on a bold assurance that his government will deliver “faster, better, and greater,” President, Dr Irfaan Ali recently reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promises.
The President pushed back against claims that his government has fallen short on its pledges. He stressed that the administration remains fully focused on executing its development agenda and meeting the needs of citizens.
The government, he reaffirmed, is committed to building prosperity and ensuring that citizens benefit from real policies to improve their livelihoods.
He pointed to the country’s expanding economy, fuelled by unprecedented growth, expanding private-sector confidence and a wave of new investments across multiple industries.
President Ali cautioned that such momentum requires more than slogans and simplistic assumptions.
“Our economy is not a toy,” he said, adding, “This is real business that demands technical competence and brain power.”
COMMITMENTS
In his New Year address, President, Dr Irfaan Ali had outlined an expansive vision for Guyana’s development in 2025, framing the period ahead as one of the most transformative moments in the nation’s history.
He emphasised that the government’s long-term objective of delivering a better quality of life for every citizen is no longer aspirational, but increasingly tangible, with projections that Guyana could achieve one of the highest living standards in the hemisphere before the decade closes.
“Since 2020, from then, we have been singularly focused on the rapid transformation to a modern, prosperous Guyana for all – one where national prosperity translates into community, household and individual well-being,” the President had said, adding: “The physical transformation of our country is very much underway and visible for all to see.”
The vision was for Guyana to achieve one of the highest living standards in the hemisphere by decade’s end.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
The commitments outlined in the President’s New Year message have since been translated into tangible results, with the government delivering on several major pledges.
These included substantial increases in wages, pensions and social assistance; continued subsidies to cushion global cost-of-living pressures; the reintroduction of the “Because We Care” grant for schoolchildren and the rollout of the $100,000 cash grant for every adult citizen.
Significant progress was also recorded in infrastructural development, with new roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and housing projects advancing across the country. Most notable was the recent commissioning of the New Demerara River Bridge, which is formally named after Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.
ECONOMIC
EXPANSION
Diversification of the economy continued with the Ministry of Finance reporting an overall real GDP growth of 7.5 percent and a non-oil growth rate of 13.8 percent in its 2025 mid-year report.
President Ali had reiterated that such momentum requires discipline and prudent management of the country’s economy.
The report underscores the country’s continued transformation, underpinned by strong performances in both the oil-and-gas and non-oil sectors — particularly agriculture, manufacturing, and construction.
This marked the fifth consecutive year of non-oil expansion at the
half-year point, following the global downturn in 2020.
MORE THAN CASH GRANT AND BONUSES
Building on the PPP/C’s track record of fulfilling its commitments, President Ali had only last week stated that the government’s support will go beyond cash bonuses and transfers.
“This government has a very elaborate agenda for the upliftment of your life, for the improvement of your life, for building prosperity for you, for building prosperity for your
community, for empowering you, for giving you the opportunity to live a life in which you have access to the best health care, best education, home ownership, reduced interest rates, access to low-interest business development loans and grants with no collateral, access to textbooks, expanded school-feeding programmes, expanded infrastructure, community infrastructure, building out facilities to support women’s health,” he told reporters last week.
The President has already announced that the government will be giving $150,000 to each fisherfolk as part of an effort to better support these workers.
This was a commitment made during the campaign trail. President Ali had disclosed that Guyanese fisherfolk can expect more direct support, training, co-investment opportunities and a climate fund to enhance their lives and the local industry.
President Ali then outlined plans to adopt newer technologies, training and equipping fisherfolk with the tools needed to ply their trade with greater precision.
He recently announced too that rice farmers across the country will benefit from a $2.7 billion support, with the government providing more incentives.
MORE GRANTS, HOLISTIC SUPPORT
Meanwhile, Vice-President Jagdeo too has assured Guyanese that there will be “several” cash grants during the PPP/C’s five-year term in office.
Responding to rumours that the cash grants will no longer be distributed individually but on a household level, the Vice-President said: “There has been no such discussion at any level in the government. It’s a blatant lie; we never made any such decision.
“Whatever the president said on the campaign trail will be done,” Dr Jagdeo said during a recent press conference.
Last year, citizens aged 18 and older benefitted from a one-off $100,000 cash grant as part of a series of initiatives designed to more inclusively share the country’s wealth. That intervention was welcomed as a direct relief measure during the festive season.
A REVIVAL
Since returning to office in 2020, the PPP/C administration has presented its stewardship as a reversal of the previous A Partnership for National Unity & Alliance For change (APNU+AFC) administration’s stagnant and contracting TURN TO PAGE 9
Bhagwandin emphasises govt’s massive social support to Guyanese
--rejects WIN leader’s attempt to distort historical reality of PPP/C’s investments, commitments
FINANCIAL Analyst
Joel
Bhagwandin has issued an unreserved defence of the government’s delivery of direct cash transfers and overall social support to Guyanese.
He argued that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has, for more than a decade, maintained a robust and institutionalised set of social-relief programmes that long predate the country’s oil wealth.
His statement comes as a sharp rebuttal to recent criticism from We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party leader and United States-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed, whom Bhagwandin accused of launching “one of the lowest political attacks directed at President, Dr Irfaan Ali about cash grants.”
In his commentary, Bhagwandin rejected the WIN leader’s attempt to draw parallels between Guyana and oil-rich Middle Eastern states that provide direct cash transfers to citizens. According to him, the businessman’s selective use of foreign examples reveals a deeper contradiction.
In a pre-recorded, scripted statement on his page, the WIN leader referenced Middle Eastern countries that pay their citizens direct cash
transfers.
Bhagwandin noted that Mohamed seemed far more familiar with the affairs of Middle Eastern countries than with the fiscal-management practices and policies implemented by the PPP/C government in Guyana.
He suggested that the businessman “may not be aware” of Guyana’s track record “because he was busy engaged in alleged illicit trading of gold, for which he is now the subject of Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions and having been indicted in a U.S. Court of law.”
Against this backdrop, Bhagwandin sought to clarify what he described as a long-standing, well-documented commitment to direct cash support for households.
“Guyana, under the PPP/C government, has been transferring various forms of direct cash transfers and relief to Guyanese households long before crude oil and gas was [sic] discovered,” he stated.
To make that point clear, he outlined a series of policies, which he framed as concrete forms of direct financial assistance.
Foremost among these was the Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) programme
introduced in 2013. The scheme, which applies to home loans up to $30 million, effectively reduces the interest burden on borrowers. Bhagwandin added that the annual interest on a loan of up to $30 million amounts to roughly $904,000, which totals about $22.6 million over a 25-year repayment period.
He added that for a low-income loan of up to $10 million, the annual interest is about $300,000, or approximately $7.5 million over the same 25-year term.
He emphasised that “This
is a form of direct cash transfer to the citizens.”
Another major initiative cited was the “Because We Care” cash grant, first launched in 2014, then discontinued during the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration, and reinstated by the PPP/C in 2021.
The programme, which originally offered $10,000 per child, has since grown to $50,000 plus a $5,000 uniform allowance. Bhagwandin
made the point sharply: “This is a form of direct cash transfer to the citizens.”
He went on to describe the government’s actions regarding tertiary and secondary education as further examples of indirect but significant financial support.
“Prior to 2015,” he recalled, “under PPP/C government, Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) fees were partially subsidised. In 2025, the PPP/C government raised this subsidy to full coverage for eight subjects per child.”
He stated plainly that “this is another form of direct transfer to the citizens.”
Additionally, the long-standing public assistance programme, the writeoff of University of Guyana student loan debt, and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarships transitioning into free university education all fit within what Bhagwandin characterised as the government’s broad “institutionalised” commitment to supporting households.
Each measure, he stressed, represented “a form of direct cash transfer” or, in the case of education subsidies, “other forms of direct cash transfers to citizens.”
In terms of more recent
measures, Bhagwandin highlighted the newborn cash grant of $100,000 introduced in 2025, noting again: “This is another form of direct cash transfer to the citizens.”
He also included the government’s decision, when global energy prices skyrocketed following the COVID-19 pandemic, to intervene in electricity costs.
“When oil prices doubled in the post-COVID period,” he recalled, “the PPP/C government subsidised the increased cost to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), which is over $20 billion to keep electricity prices to the consumer constant.
REVERSAL OF TAXES
Bhagwandin then shifted his focus to tax policy, highlighting the reversal of more than 200 taxes implemented by the APNU+AFC administration. He argued that when the PPP/C government rolled back these taxes in 2020, the effect was equivalent to direct cash transfers to citizens valued at more than $90 billion annually.
Likewise, the government’s decision to reduce the excise tax on fuel imports from 50 per cent to zero percent was, to him, another significant form of household support, “valued at over $60 billion annually.”
Evaluated collectively, Bhagwandin argued that these measures represent an enormous, ongoing investment in public welfare.
“These are just few to mention,” he said, adding: “and if we are to quantify these measures as they currently stand, these would amount to upwards of $500 billion annually, in direct cash transfers to Guyanese households.”
Turning to the more recent promise of an annual direct cash grant, which the government introduced as a one-off programme in 2024, Bhagwandin insisted that the PPP/C remains committed to fulfilling its campaign promise.
Bhagwandin said: “The one-off cash grant which the PPP/C government introduced in 2024, that they promised will become an annual transfer in their campaign and 2025-2030 manifesto, be assured that it will become an annual transfer in TURN TO PAGE
Chief Magistrate sets new February 2026 dates for electoral fraud trial
CHIEF Magistrate (ag)
Faith Mc Gusty has announced new hearing dates for the ongoing electoral fraud case, scheduled for February 2026 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The proceedings are set to take place from February 16 to 20, with a second set of hearings planned for February 24 to 27.
After these sessions, new dates will be scheduled in consultation with both the prosecution and defence.
The trial concerns allegations of electoral fraud arising from the controversial
General and Regional Elections held on March 2, 2020. Those facing charges include former Chief Election Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO, Roxanne Myers; former Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; former Health Minister under the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence; and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member, Carol Smith-Joseph. Also on trial are former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) staffers Shef-
fern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.
The defendants are represented by a robust defence team, including attorneys Nigel Hughes, Dexter Todd, Eusi Anderson, Darren Wade and Ronald Daniels.
Collectively, the defendants face 19 charges ranging from conspiracy to defraud to misconduct in public of-
fice. The matters have been consolidated, as a result of the charges arising from the same set of circumstances. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail.
The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhanie, argued that each defendant played a “critical TURN TO PAGE 8
Volda Lawrence Clairmont Mingo
Carol Smith-Joseph Keith Lowenfield
Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty
Roxanne Myers
Enrique Livan
Michelle Miller
Denise Babb-Cummings
Sheffern February
Building a Legacy
THE announcement of a five-year plan for economic growth and infrastructure is exactly what Guyana needs, especially as the country deals with the tempting promise and real dangers of oil wealth.
President Irfaan Ali’s recent comments at the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber are encouraging.
The President’s focus on diversification instead of relying solely on oil is a smart move.
In fact, it is essential. With production expected to reach 1.3 million barrels per day by 2030, and a potential oversupply between 2025 and 2030, Guyana cannot afford to be complacent. The vision of inte-
grated infrastructure, whether seen in the Wales and Berbice energy system or in proposed shipping and logistics hubs connecting Brazil and CARICOM, shows the wise management that wealth demands.
These projects are the building blocks for a future beyond oil.
The social transfer programmes that have been implemented—the $100,000 cash grant for adults, increased education grants to $55,000, pension hikes to $41,000show a real effort to redistribute resources.
The IMF’s praise for these programmes is significant, as they have clearly reduced poverty and increased disposable income.
The crucial question is not
whether the government aims to share oil wealth fairly, but whether this five-year plan will lead to real change rather than just targeted cash transfers.
Cash grants help ease financial strain, but they do not ensure decent jobs or upward mobility.
The government’s plan to digitise the welfare system is a step forward for transparency, but we should not confuse being efficient in distributing benefits with being effective in creating wealth-building opportunities for the average Guyanese.
President Ali rightly points out that Guyana’s long-term strength lies not in oil production but in using that wealth to build human
capital, secure energy supplies, and diversify the economy.
This view is spot on. However, turning plans into results requires careful attention.
Free tertiary education and better school facilities are investments that deserve praise. So are improved hospitals and expanded health programme. These are the essential elements of real development.
The real test of this five-year plan will be reflected in the notebooks of children in better-equipped schools, in the business ideas of young entrepreneurs who can access low-collateral loans, in the stability of farmers armed with modern tools, and in the health of
communities free from preventable diseases.
It will also show in the dignity restored to workers in agriculture and fishing, sectors often overlooked in stories focused on success in the energy industry.
Guyana is at a crucial crossroads. The oil boom is real, the momentum is genuine, and the government seems genuinely committed to social welfare programmes.
Guyana must ensure that its five-year plan is not only ambitious but transformative, not just for overall GDP numbers, but for the everyday experiences of the people who built this nation.
The children who will inherit this future deserve nothing less.
Unpacking the PPP/C govt’s social relief programmes
Dear Editor,
EMBATTLED U.S.-sanctioned businessman and leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party unleashed one of the lowest of political attacks at the President about cash grants.
In a pre-recorded, scripted statement on his page, the WIN leader drew references to other countries that pay to their citizens direct cash transfers. Those countries referenced were Middle Eastern countries.
Interestingly, it would appear he knows quite a lot about those Middle Eastern countries and less or nothing at all about his own country’s fiscal management and policies implemented by the PPP/C government.
This is not surprising, because it should be noted that this individual appar-
ently does business with a particular Middle Eastern country, which is the subject of the gold-smuggling case he has found himself in deep trouble with.
It is the very Middle Eastern country he allegedly smuggled off over $300 billion worth of gold, evaded taxes to the value of some $191 billion and is now lecturing the President and by extension the PPP government about cash grants.
Guyana under the PPP/C government has been transferring various forms of direct cash transfers and relief to Guyanese households long before crude oil and gas were discovered.
He may not be aware of this because he was busy engaged in alleged illicit trading of gold, for which he is now the subject of OFAC sanctions and having been in-
dicted in a U.S. court of law. Consequently, since he appears uneducated about his country’s policies and has insinuated that those large, monarch-governed Middle Eastern countries pay their citizens cash grants from their oil resources, here are some interesting facts for his edification about Guyana:
• The Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) introduced in 2013 by the PPP/C government for home loans covering up to $30 million, is another form of direct cash transfer to citizens. The annual interest expense for a loan of up to $30 million is approximately, $904,000 or a total of $22.6 million over 25 years (the life of the loan)…for a low-income loan of up to $10 million, that is $300,000 in annual-interest expense or $7.5 million over the life of the loan for 25
years. This is a form of direct cash transfer to citizens.
• The “because we care cash grant” was introduced in 2014 by the PPP/C government, which was discontinued by the APNU government in 2015 – 2020, and reinstated by the PPP/C government in 2021. This cash grant was increased from $10,000 per child to $50,000 per child + $5,000 uniform allowance, bringing the total to $55,000 per child, annually. This is a form of direct cash transfer to citizens.
• Prior to 2015, under the PPP/C government, CXC fees were partially subsidised. In 2025, the PPP/C government raised this subsidy to full coverage for eight subjects per child. This is another form of direct transfer to citizens.
• The annual public assistance is another form of
direct cash transfer to citizens.
• The first phase of introducing free tertiary education was when the government implemented a debt-write -off policy for past students of the university of Guyana. All their old debts were written off. This is a form of direct cash transfer.
• When the GOAL scholarship was introduced and now free university education, these are other forms of direct cash transfers to citizens.
• In 2025, the government introduced a new-born cash grant of $100,000 per newborn. This is another form of direct cash transfer to citizens.
• When oil prices doubled in the post-COVID period, the PPP/C government subsidised the increased cost to GPL, which is over
$20 billion to keep electricity prices to the consumer constant; this is another form of direct cash transfer.
• In 2020, when the PPP/C government reversed the APNU+AFC draconian taxes, over 200 new taxes, these are essentially direct cash transfers to citizens amounting to over $90 billion annually.
• In 2020 through 2025 when the PPP/C government waived the excise tax on fuel imports from 50% to 0%—this is another form of direct cash transfer to citizens valued at over $60 billion annually. These are just a few to mention and if we are to quantify these measures as they currently stand, these would amount to upwards of $500 billion annually, in direct cash transfers to
My daughter, Nigel Westmaas and Dead Poets Society
MY daughter visited her parents for three weeks. She had one of the biggest scares of her life when, twice, we stopped at the pedestrian crossing, and drivers ignored my hazard lights and drove through, almost killing the crosser on those two occasions.
My daughter took the licence plate of one of the drivers, sent it to me by email to contact the police, but somehow I didn’t get it.
She sent me an email Sunday night telling me to see a deeply philosophical movie named “Dead Poets Society” because she looked at it on the plane on her return trip and was impressed.
She asked me to see the movie. I replied to say that I saw it before she was born and that the film was introduced to me by former WPA ideologue and former revolutionary Marxist, Nigel Westmaas.
One night the two of us were alone in the WPA office and we discussed at length the message of the film. Nigel was really influenced by this movie. I saw myself in that movie. When I went to teach at the University of Guyana at Berbice, I tried to instill the values that the movie extols.
These include the necessity to avoid conformity to the prevailing thoughts; that you must follow your ideas that you believe can work for you. The huge part in the message of that film is that you must never allow others to think for you.
I was that lecturer in Dead Poets Society when I taught in Berbice. On my farewell, the students dedicated a poem to me with a very moving philosophical tribute. I framed it and it hangs on the wall of my house and is the first thing you see when you enter my
home.
I thought of writing this column about Nigel Westmaas and Dead Poets Society because of what Westmaas has become. If there was any teenager in politics that my wife liked it was Westmaas. When I was courting her, Nigel would be with me many times when I was on a rendezvous with her.
I replied to my daughter telling her that once I see a mention of Dead Poets Society movie, I think of Westmaas and how impossible it is to understand Homo sapiens.
Do you know Sigmund Freud once wrote that he never understood people despite decades of researching the nature of the mind?
I don’t want to accuse Westmaas of racism because he may want to sue. A few months ago, David Hinds threatened to sue me for calling him a racist. Why pick on
me when dozens and dozens of high-profile critics of David have frequently referred to him in such terms?
I will never believe Westmaas, who was so moved by the values the Dead Poets Society preached, could now be the complete opposite of the time when he loved that movie’s message.
Westmaas is anti-Indian.
I did not see that in so many WPA people that I spent decades with. Westmaas is now one of the purest exponents of the superiority of the Mulatto/Creole race and he is unashamed in his embrace of race and class in Guyanese sociology. He is regarded by The Usual Suspects (TUS) and the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC) as their darling.
This was a man that in his youthful days was enthralled with revolutionary politics, revolutionary leaders, and Marxist perspectives. Look at
his decline today. Westmaas is an apologist for pro-imperialist penetration of the Global South. He was part of a group that wrote President Ali demanding that Guyana stop oil production and switch to cleaner energy which he says the West will finance.
He was very close in the heroic days of Walter Rodney with WPA stalwart, Maurice Odle. Did he read Odle’s autobiography? Perhaps the leading international economist that Guyana produced. Odle describes the West’s switch from colonialism to what he terms the New Imperialism.
Odle describes the cruel ways in which the West stifles the growth of the Global South. It is clear to Odle that our former colonial masters will never stop in their subjugation of the post-colonial world.
This is the same Westmaas that says the West will finance Guyana if we switch to cleaner energy. This man puts his faith in the New Imperialism to provide for Guyana’s future. I remind readers that when he and the MCC and TUS wrote the President, they reminded President Ali that greenhouse effects kill African people. Really! Only African people?
I broke with Westmaas in April 2020 when he refused my request to condemn the attempts at rigging the 2020 elections. I was so stupid not to see all these years who people like Westmaas really were.
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.
The Stabroek dilemma
Dear Editor,
I’VE watched the situation at Stabroek evolve for years, and it’s clear that what we’re dealing with now didn’t appear overnight. Stabroek has become a textbook example of what happens when institutions hesitate for too long.
Lawlessness never emerges in a vacuum. Instead, it grows in the gaps where authority sends mixed
signals, where rules are enforced only when convenient and where officials hope that passive engagement will somehow maintain order.
Anyone familiar with public administration knows that once a pattern like that takes hold, deviant behaviour starts to look legitimate.
Indeed, it becomes part of the culture and, before long, tests the limits of the state’s authority.
That is exactly what happened outside the market. People like to pretend vendors suddenly materialised under the clock and across every square foot of the public space, but they didn’t. Their expansion was slow and predictable.
The city allowed it. Enforcement softened. Political actors avoided confrontation. Consequently, parking bays and access lanes began to
function as vending strips. Over time, the informal arrangement felt normal, even permanent.
Here’s the part many prefer not to confront. When informal vending becomes the de facto regulator of a busy public square, any effort to restore order will be described as displacement or oppression. Yet, the area was never designed to operate as a retail corridor. Stabroek is
Unpacking the PPP/C govt’s...
Guyanese households.
The one-off cash grant which the PPP/C government introduced in 2024, that they promised will become an annual transfer in their campaign and 2025-2030 manifesto, be assured that it will become an annual transfer in addition to all of the above introduced under the PPP, all of which were implemented before oil revenues started flowing to the treasury. One has to also be mind-
ful that those funds would have to be appropriated in the budget, and the government is currently pre-occupied with 2026 budget preparation.
This is alien to the WIN leader and one can understand why he would not appreciate this because he has a long-standing, well established track record of not being in alignment with the law, not accustomed to compliance with the law and
therefore is completely unaware and ignorant of the fiscal laws, fiscal management and public- accountability procedures and practices.
Or perhaps, he is more anxious for another sitting of the National Assembly, not because he cares about the people, but his own self-serving motive designed to escape the consequences of the OFAC sanction. Guyana’s approach to direct cash transfers is robust,
institutionalised, and predates oil revenues.
The PPP/C government has implemented numerous measures benefitting households, amounting to over $500 billion annually. Criticisms from the WIN leader are baseless and reflect a lack of understanding of established fiscal policies and accountability procedures.
Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin
one of the most important transportation hubs in the capital.
It moves thousands of commuters, drivers, delivery trucks, and pedestrians every day. When a bus can’t make a simple turn without executing a three-point manoeuvre, you’re not managing a city— you’re managing chaos.
I don’t blame the vendors. After all, they responded to the signals they were given.
If a system rewards encroachment with tolerance, people will naturally adapt to that environment. At the same time, I can’t pretend the state is wrong for reclaiming the space either.
A functioning city needs predictable routes, safe walkways and public infrastructure that supports movement, not congestion.
Public space must work for everyone, not just those who have become comfortable occupying it.
This is why the government’s upgrades, though
disruptive, are necessary. After years of drift, you can’t restore order with gentle suggestions. Ultimately, recalibrating a system that has normalised disorder requires clear and decisive intervention.
Strong political leadership has to step in, reassert the rule of law, restore confidence, and reinforce the standards that hold a city together. Waiting only increases the political and social cost of fixing the problem later.
Two things can be true at the same time. Vendors deserve stability and support.
The wider public deserves order and mobility. However, what cannot continue is a downtown corridor shaped by hesitation and tolerated disorder. For Stabroek to function as a true capital-city hub, the country must confront reality and restore balance with firmness and clarity.
Respectfully, Brian Azore
GOGEC to sign landmark MoU with GTI to boost oil, gas training
THE Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) has announced plans to formalise a major new partnership with the Government Technical Institute (GTI), to strengthen the country’s technical workforce for careers in the rapidly expanding oil and gas sector.
During his address at the chamber’s dinner, GOGEC President Manniram Prashad announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions will be signed in the coming months.
He described the upcoming agreement as a significant step towards aligning local education with the evolving demands of the energy industry.
According to Prashad, the partnership will focus on developing tailored technical programmes, hands-on training opportunities, and specialised skills that reflect the needs of oil and gas operators and service companies.
He said: “This partnership will focus on developing technical programmes, practical training opportunities and industry-specific skills
that better prepare our young workforce for careers in the oil and gas industry.”
Prashad added that the initiative supports both national development and the long-term sustainability of the sector.
He said: “It is a major step in ensuring we build a skilled, job-ready generation.”
The MoU is expected to help students gain practical experience while improving their employability.
“This is a major step in aligning education with industry needs and supporting
the development of a skilled, job-ready generation.”
Beyond these partnerships, Prashad noted that GOGEC will continue to serve as a bridge between local entrepreneurs and international companies.
Through trade missions, business expos, international conferences and sector-specific events, the chamber intends to foster meaningful connections that translate into real business opportunities and strengthened local capacity.
“As we reflect on 2025, we do so with immense pride.
This year has reaffirmed GOGEC’s role as a pivotal catalyst in shaping the private sector’s participation in Guyana’s oil and gas industry. It has been a year of impactful advocacy, deeper collaboration and expanded opportunities for Guyanese businesses and citizens,” he added.
He further reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to ensuring the sector’s expansion is equitable, sustainable, and widely beneficial.
“Our chamber remains committed to ensuring that this sector’s growth is inclusive, sustainable, and
beneficial to all. We continue to champion transparency, strengthened local content and the creation of an enabling environment where Guyanese businesses—large and small—can thrive,” he said.
Chief Magistrate sets new February 2026 dates for...
role” in the deliberate effort to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC and reduce votes for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
In the weeks that followed the contentious March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President, Dr Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.
The initial elections results, announced by for-
mer CEO Lowenfield, had claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.
Criminal charges were filed against the defendants following the PPP/C’s return to office in August, 2020.
GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.
The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections have found that there were collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral
system.
Chairman Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith made these findings based on evidence from the many witnesses who testified along with the reports of the international observers.
“…our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election,” they said in their report.
Bhagwandin emphasises...
addition to all of the above.”
He said that these commitments must follow the budget cycle, emphasising that “those funds would have to be appropriated in the budget, and the government is currently pre-occupied with 2026 budget preparation.”
Bhagwandin contrasted this responsible approach with what he described as the WIN leader’s disregard for legal and fiscal norms.
According to Bhagwandin, this political figure “Not accustomed to compliance with the law, and therefore is completely unaware and ignorant of the fiscal laws, fiscal management and pub-
lic accountability procedures and practices.”
PERSONAL MOTIVES
Bhagwandin even suggested that the businessman’s push for immediate political action may stem not from public interest, but personal motives.
He said: “Or perhaps, he is more anxious for another sitting of the National Assembly, not because he cares about the people, but his own self-serving motive designed to escape the consequences of the OFAC sanctions.”
Bhagwandin reiterated what he viewed as the central truth of the debate:
that Guyana’s social-support structure is not temporary, experimental, or dependent solely on oil. Rather, he said, “Guyana’s approach to direct cash transfers is robust, institutionalised, and predates oil revenues.” Measuring all programmes collectively, he concluded that “the PPP/C government has implemented numerous measures benefitting households, amounting to over $500 billion annually.”
The criticisms from Mohamed, he argued, “are baseless and reflect a lack of understanding of established fiscal policies and accountability procedures.”
GOGEC President Manniram Prashad
Gov’t unfazed by ‘obstructionists’ as Georgetown restoration initiative moves forward --Minister McCoy says
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, has reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring and revitalising Georgetown will not be derailed by the political opposition and their obstructive tactics.
“There is a clear indication that the obstructionists have emerged at a time when the government has intensified the much-needed and long-awaited rescue and revival plan for our cherished capital city,” McCoy said, addressing concerns about political interference.
He pointed to past obstructionist tactics from the opposition, noting that “it is their card of choice,” but emphasised that the government is prepared to proceed.
“I say to all the obstructionist actors, “this time nah long time”. The government is in no mood to be deterred by any individual or a group that sets out to destabilise or derail national plans for the benefit of all Guyanese,” McCoy added, underscoring the government’s resolve to see the initiative through.
The minister stressed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is committed to inclusivity throughout the restoration project.
“This People’s Progressive Party/Civic government will be inclusive. We will consult, and we will discuss, as we have done in the case of the city rescue plan,” he said, while making it clear that political compromises will not dictate the project’s course.
The minister added: “What we will not do is trade concessions and make compromises to satisfy the politics of the narrow-focused, petty-minded opposition.”
Highlighting the significance of the project, McCoy said: “What the PPP/C government is about to do in
the capital city is larger than the comprehension of the opposition and has enjoyed the confidence and support by the majority of Guyanese, including those who reside in the city.”
The minister also addressed concerns about Stabroek Market vendors, urging them to focus on the benefits of the restoration rather than opposition influence.
“The Stabroek Market vendors must not allow themselves to be part of the opposition’s play and to allow themselves to be deprived of the opportunity to ply their trade in a respectable, dignified environment that reflects national pride,” he said.
“Our mission is to support individuals’ ability to earn and to lead meaningful and productive lives,”
McCoy continued, assuring vendors that “the Stabroek Market vendors should have no fear of being displaced by the hands of this People’s Progressive Party/Civic government.”
He acknowledged that while there may be temporary inconveniences, “these temporary inconveniences will eventually be over, much to the satisfaction of all who
frequent Stabroek Square.”
McCoy also criticised those he described as obstructionists, highlighting their self-interest and disregard for public welfare.
“The oppressors are those who shout the loudest, including those who have enriched themselves through their tax evasion and other schemes. These agents of chaos and confusion do not care about your well-being. They would gladly keep you in your present environmental conditions so that they will always have an opportunity to feed their empty, cheap politics,” he said.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring Georgetown, pledging a comprehensive approach to clean up and modernise the capital city.
Speaking on the matter recently, he had said, “Your government is actively pursuing the full rescue of Georgetown. We have to clean it up, fix it up, nice it up, and place it among the most beautiful cities in this region.”
The President emphasised that the restoration process will be accelerated while involving residents in key decisions.
“We’re going to start working in an accelerated way, but the people of Georgetown, you will have choices to make, and we want you to walk the long journey with us,” he stated.
Dr. Ali detailed the practical steps planned for the city, starting with infrastructure improvements.
He noted: “I’ve already directed that the full mapping and condition survey of every drain in the city be done based on GIS [Geographic Information System]. After that, we will launch a massive drainage programme across every street, every alley, every single area in Georgetown.”
‘We know what our commitments are’
policies, highlighting the reopening of parts of the sugar industry, the restoration of thousands of jobs and the creation of more than 60,000 additional employment opportunities, including part-time roles that have sparked small-scale enterprises and agricultural activity across communities.
The PPP/C government has also underscored its removal of over 300 taxes and fees introduced under the previous administration, alongside a series of tax cuts and
The Head of State also announced plans to address urban housing challenges, noting, “I’ve asked for a full mapping of all the housing stock in Georgetown so that we can develop a sustainable urban housing plan that will ensure housing stock issues in the city are dealt with.”
He further highlighted the importance of recreation and quality of life, adding, “I’ve also asked for a mapping of every recreational facility and a condition survey so that we can invest in recreation to bring a quality of life in the city that leads to wellness.”
The initiative aims to
revive Georgetown, restoring its historic status as the ‘Garden City’ while promoting sustainable urban development that aligns with the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.
The plan outlines 15 landmark demonstration projects that will focus on green infrastructure, climate resilience, and the celebration of cultural heritage.
Among the proposals are the transformation of the historic transport building and train station into a museum and training centre, the creation of walking trails throughout the city, immedi-
ate upgrades to the Stabroek waterfront, and improvements to key shopping areas.
The ‘Rescue Georgetown’ plan is part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise infrastructure, preserve the nation’s history, and create a vibrant, resilient capital city that inspires national pride and attracts global recognition.
Residents and business owners have welcomed the government’s Georgetown restoration plan, expressing optimism that it will breathe new life into the city and boost economic activity.
FROM PAGE 3
relief measures intended to ease household pressures.
These measures include the elimination of VAT on machinery, equipment, water, electricity, data services, hinterland travel and other essential goods and services.
Sectors such as mining and sugar, which officials argue had been sidelined, have since received renewed attention as part of a broader strategy to diversify and modernise the national economy.
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy
Local Government Minister cannot choose Regional Chairman if there is a tie -
role was changed in 2017, Minister Manickchand says
THE Minister of Local Government and Regional Development does not determine who becomes Chairman for a Regional Democratic Council (RDC) if there is a tie in the elections.
This statement was made by the Subject Minister, Priya Manickchand, on Monday, while responding to a
question about her role in deciding on a Chairman of the Region Ten RDC. At the time, she was the guest on a live radio programme. It was previously reported that the election of a new Chairman ended on October 10, 2025, after A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) candidate Dominque Blair, and We Invest In Nationhood
(WIN) candidate Mark Goring tied for the position.
Minister Manickchand stated that the role of the minister in selecting a chairman was changed in 2017. Prior to that, the minister was able to intervene if there was the need for a tie-breaker.
“The law removed the role, and it was right to remove the role because here
you have a politically partisan minister who is going to go into a place to tie break,” she said.
“How do you think that’s going to work? It’s not even if the minister’s fair, it’s that it would have appeared unfair,” she further explained.
Furthermore, the minister said justice must appear to be fair. In any kind of action, the perception must not be that it was unfair, she affirmed.
Minister Manickchand said that she has no doubt that Region Ten will move forward in their process for the determination of a Chairman and Vice-Chairman.
She noted that there is a process that needs to be engaged, adding that the Clerk is responsible for this.
CCAC urges suppliers to refrain from displaying
‘No Refund’ signs
--encourages shoppers to keep their receipts, inspect items before making a purchase amidst Christmas season
WITH the Christmas season here, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) has urged suppliers to refrain from displaying the “No Refund” signs or refuse to offer refunds, returns, or exchanges as guided by the conditions under the Consumer Affairs Act.
“In an effort to reduce the spike in consumer complaints, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) once again takes the opportunity to remind consumers to ensure that they receive value for every dollar spent by ensuring that they assert their rights in line with the Consumer Affairs Act (CAA) No.13 of 2011. Suppliers are also reminded to comply with and adhere to the CAA,” CCAC said in a press release on Monday.
The commission recommended that consumers create a list and research products/ services before making a final purchase decision. All contracts/agreements should be thoroughly read and understood before signing.
Consumers were also urged to demand a receipt for all purchases, as these serve as sufficient legal proof of purchase to facilitate returns, refunds, or exchanges.
“All items should be inspected before final purchase, and written warranties of at least six months should be requested. The return of non-defective goods must be done within seven days of purchase. The goods
should be in the original package, unused, and not tampered with. In this instance, a supplier can charge up to a 10 per cent restocking fee in keeping with the law,” the commission said.
The CCAC added: “For the period January 2025 to date, according to the commission, there have been 461 complaints valued at G$471,290,072. The value of G$333,969,282 has been resolved, with the remainder currently being pursued.”
Consumers are encouraged to call the CCAC at 219-4410/3 or WhatsApp at 625-0557 for inquiries, and file complaints online at ccac.gov.gy.
Man arrested for allegedly assaulting electric motorcycle rider
POLICE in Regional Division #3 are investigating an alleged assault incident that occurred on Sunday November 30, 2025, about 20:00hrs at Fisher Dam Access Road, Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo.
Initial investigations revealed that a collision occurred when a 25-year-old male construction worker of Zeelugt North was proceeding on an electric motorcycle along the roadway, where a 32-year-old male Pandit of Zeelugt Housing Scheme was engaged
Firearm, ammunition found in abandoned structure at Mocha – Police
POLICE in Regional Division #4 ‘B’ are investigating the discovery of a suspected firearm, and ammunition during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Mocha/Arcadia, East Bank Demerara.
During the operation, ranks observed an abandoned structure and conducted checks in the immediate vicinity where a black plastic bag containing a suspected 9mm pistol and five (5) live matching rounds were found.
in a gathering on the said roadway. Following the collision, the rider was allegedly assaulted by the Pandit and received injuries to his face and body.
The 32-year-old male suspect was subsequently arrested and placed into custody pending investigations.
The injured male was treated at the De Kinderen Regional Hospital and sent away. Investigations are ongoing. (GPF)
The gun and ammunition that were found in Mocha on Sunday (GPF photo)
The items were secured and lodged as part of the ongoing investigation.
No arrests have been made. Investigations continue. (GPF)
Main Street buzzes as Christmas Village 2025 launch nears
By Shaniya Harding
PREPARATIONS are in full swing along Main Street as organisers, vendors and supporting agencies put the final touches on this year’s Christmas Village.
Now an established fixture on the holiday calendar, the village is taking shape with its decorative arches, vendor tents, children’s activity booths, and ongoing clean-up works all nearing completion ahead of opening day.
Running from December 5 to 31, the event titled, “One Day in a Christmas Village and Supermarket,” will feature weekend performances, giveaways, festive treats, and hands-on creative workshops, all designed to capture the flavour of a truly Guyanese Christmas.
Ministry officials say the atmosphere is already building as crews move into the last phase of setup, preparing to welcome the thousands expected to pass through the Main Street corridor throughout the season.
Crews from the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works are working to recreate an authentic Guyanese holiday atmosphere.
Logistics Manager at the Tourism Ministry, Jolyon Harry, said that works are well underway and on schedule as the team prepares to welcome thousands of vis-
itors throughout the month.
“The event is called ‘One Day in a Christmas Village and Supermarket.’ The theme is to celebrate the Guyanese Christmas. This year, it’s going to be from the 5th of December to the 31st,” he explained.
The décor is also helping to set the tone, as Harry noted, “For the décor, we have the beautiful arches,
which will be one of the highlights of the event. We are very much on schedule. The arches should be finished between today and tomorrow. Right now, it’s final touches. The tents are being completed, and Public Works [Ministry] is doing clean-up today and tomorrow.”
Activities for the monthlong celebration are expected to draw families from across
-preparations in full swing with lights, decorations, vendors anxious to kick off the festive season
the country, with a mix of entertainment, giveaways, and interactive experiences for children.
“We will have different processors and the supermarket, of course. Each weekend, from Friday to Sunday, we’ll have live performances by local artistes, saxophonists, steel pan players, singers, and even some drama,” Harry said. The Ministry of Tourism will also host its own booth, where visitors can look forward to prizes, toys, and traditional Christmas treats.
“We usually give away prizes and toys, along with traditional Christmas goodies like ginger beer, mauby, and black cake,” he noted.
Meanwhile, the Guyana Tourism Authority will operate activity booths aimed at younger visitors. “They have workshops where children can participate in face painting and make gingerbread houses,” Harry added.
Electrical preparations are also progressing steadily as technicians work to ensure the village is powered safely throughout the month-long event.
Kendol Providence, an electrical engineer with Guyana Power and Light, said his
team has been on the ground alongside contractors to secure all systems before opening day. “The contractors are responsible for setting up the structures. We are preparing to connect the power and make sure everything is in place regarding electrical regulations and proper codes,” he explained.
Providence assured that visitors can expect a smooth, uninterrupted experience once the lights come on.
“There will be no blackout
TURN TO PAGE 15
Jolyon Harry, Logistics Manager, Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, says preparations are on schedule to deliver an authentic Guyanese Christmas experience (Sachin Persaud photos)
Preparations are in full swing along Main Street as organisers, vendors and supporting agencies put the final touches on this year’s Christmas Village which is set to be launched on December 5
Kendol Providence, Electrical Engineer, Guyana Power and Light, assures that power systems are fully in place to ensure a safe, blackout-free holiday season
Kenneth Nelson, Artisan Vendor, highlights that Christmas provides a vital boost in business and opportunities for entrepreneurs
Mahaica Village Day draws large crowd, strengthens police–community relations
THE Mahaica community came alive on Sunday as Regional Division 4C, in partnership with the Mahaica Police Station Management Committee, successfully hosted Mahaica Village Day 2025, a vibrant celebration that drew residents from across the district to the Helena Community Centre Ground.
The event, which began at 10:00 hours on November 30, featured a full slate of family-friendly activities that transformed the venue into a bustling hub of sport, entertainment, and community unity.
Cricket, football, dominoes, tug-of-war, novelty games, trampoline fun, and a range of children’s competitions kept participants engaged throughout the day, while younger attendees flocked to the bouncy castle and enjoyed several free giveaways.
One of the major highlights of the celebration was the formal presentation of trophies, medals, and prizes to participants across all categories.
Organisers noted that the high level of sportsmanship and community spirit on display reflected the strong social bonds within the Mahaica area.
Food booths offering popular favourites, including BBQ and fish and chips,
added to the festive spirit, drawing large crowds and helping to create a lively, carnival-like atmosphere for families.
Beyond entertainment, the event carried significant purpose. According to Regional Division 4C, Mahaica Village Day forms part of a broader effort to build trust and collaboration between police officers and the communities they serve. With the holiday season approaching and national security agencies advocating for stronger community partnerships, the initiative was both timely and relevant.
Police officials emphasised that activities like Village Day help bridge the gap between law enforcement and residents, fostering mutual respect, open communication, and shared responsibility for safety.
Community-based engagements have become a central component of the Guyana Police Force’s modern policing strategy, which focuses on visibility, relationship-building, and proactive public interaction.
The ranks of Regional Division 4C and the Mahaica Police Station Management Committee extended heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, sponsors, residents, and supporters who contributed to the event’s success. They noted that the strong turnout
and enthusiastic participation demonstrated the community’s commitment to unity, co-operation, and positive social engagement.
With its blend of culture, sport, and collaboration, Mahaica Village Day 2025 has been hailed as one of the most successful community events of the year and a model for similar initiatives across the region.
Beyond entertainment, the event carried significant purpose. According to Regional Division 4C, Mahaica Village Day forms part of a broader effort to build trust and collaboration between police officers and the communities they serve
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department recorded 3,089 traffic offences during the period 23rd to 29th November, 2025, as authorities continue heightened enforcement and public-education efforts aimed at reducing carnage on the country’s roads.
According to the weekly enforcement summary, speeding remained the leading offence, with 748 drivers cited. This has consistently been the most common violation nationwide and remains a major contributor to fatal accidents, prompting GPF to increase highway patrols and nighttime monitoring.
recurring issue in both urban and rural districts.
Police also charged 98 operators for breaches of prescribed fitness conditions, while 35 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence.
Other major offences included tinted front windscreens (307 cases), failure to wear safety helmets (116 cases), unlicensed drivers (61), and leaving vehicles in dangerous positions (179), a
Traffic ranks also documented 106 seatbelt violations, 39 cases of pillion riders without helmets, 14 faulty packing offences, and more than 100 unlighted vehicle violations, split between
front (54) and rear (49) lights. Fourteen drivers were also charged for breaching traffic-light signals.
Alongside enforcement, the GPF continued its nationwide road-safety education outreach, visiting eight schools across Regions 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9 between Monday, 24th and Friday, 28th November, 2025. The sessions targeted nursery and primary-level students, focusing on pedestrian awareness, proper crossing techniques, and ear-
From Sunday, 23rd to Saturday, 29th November, the Traffic Department also conducted a series of engagements targeting drivers, riders, pedestrians, bar operators, and general road users across 30 locations countrywide ly road-use responsibility.
Schools visited included Cane Grove Primary and Helena Nursery in Region 4C; Yakasari Primary in Region 6; Early Learners Nursery and Parika Back Primary in Region 3; Lovely Lass Nursery in Region 5; Semonie Nursery in Region 9 and
Chase Academy in Region 4A.
Police officials say educating children early remains critical as the country sees increasing traffic volume driven by rapid expansion in transportation, commerce, and population movement.
From Sunday, 23rd to
Saturday, 29th November, the Traffic Department also conducted a series of engagements targeting drivers, riders, pedestrians, bar operators, and general road users across 30 locations countrywide.
Outreach areas included TURN TO PAGE 15
Main Street buzzes as Christmas Village 2025...
this season; we have backup generators, and everything is in place,” he said, noting that the team has spent the past two weeks ensuring the village’s lights are fully installed and ready to shine safely throughout the holiday season.
For vendors, the Christmas Village represents one of the most active commercial periods of the year, offering a welcome boost in sales for small businesses.
Kenneth Nelson, a yearround artisan who regularly sets up along Main Street, said the season brings an economic lift that many small entrepreneurs depend
Speeding
several high-traffic corridors—such as Heroes Highway, Nelson Mandela Avenue, Sheriff Street, Brickdam, Turkeyen, Tuschen, Zeelugt, Mahaica, and the East Coast corridor—as well as communities such as Melanie, Mon Repos, East La Penitence, Mabaruma, Anna Regina, Canje, and Moco Moco Village.
Recognising the link between alcohol consumption and road accidents, the GPF
on. “Christmas is a season where any young entrepreneur or businessperson looks forward to the economic activity. Christmas is when the economics run, so I am definitely into the economics of the season.”
With bonuses circulating and shoppers spending more freely, Nelson noted that the village helps vendors start the new year on stronger footing.
“People have a little more spending power. As an entrepreneur, I look forward to Christmas because people spend a little money, and with the new year starting, you get a good work start,”
he explained. He also encouraged others to take advantage of the opportunity, emphasising the positive impact initiative like these has on small businesses.
As the final preparations wrap up and Main Street set to be transformed into a festive corridor, ministry teams, technicians, and organisers all express confidence in the readiness of the space to welcome families, shoppers, and holiday explorers throughout the month.
The village is poised to deliver the sights, sounds and spirit of a true Guyanese Christmas.
dominates weekly...
also hosted educational sessions at bars and entertainment venues, including Spice Grand, Elite Bar, Elevate Bar, Escape Lounge, JAM’s Bar, Island Bar, and other nightspots. The department additionally visited Massy Distribution’s Montrose Branch to engage employees and corporate drivers on safe-driving standards. With the holiday season approaching, a period that historically records increased
FROM PAGE 14
road accidents, the GPF says enforcement will continue to intensify. Officers are expected to maintain high visibility at nightspots, public-road hotspots, and major arteries while expanding education in schools and communities. Authorities continue to urge the public to adopt safer road-use habits, emphasising that enforcement alone cannot reduce traffic deaths without broad behavioural change.
No evidence of patient deaths due to oxygen deprivation at Linden Health Complex
--Region 10 RHO says in response to recent claims
THE Office of the Regional Health Officer of Region 10 has responded to concerns raised in Letters to the Editor published in the Kaieteur News and Stabroek News on December 01, 2025, regarding patient care at the Linden Hospital Complex.
Following the publication of these allegations, Dr. Gregory Harris, Regional Health Officer, stated that his office immediately launched a thorough review and investigation focusing on the hospital’s oxygen supply system and backup units throughout 2025.
The investigation has uncovered no evidence of patient deaths due to oxygen
deprivation. Additionally, no oxygen shortages were reported during the period under review.
The hospital’s oxygen systems remain fully functional, with supply levels maintained consistently through both primary and backup reserves.
Dr. Harris emphasised the importance of accurate and verified information, acknowledging the community’s grief when lives are lost, but affirming that the Linden Hospital Complex continues to operate with full access to essential medical resources, including oxygen.
‘Giddel’s’
remains committed to preparing learners for academic excellence
SEVEN years ago, Giddel Thompson, a dedicated educator, was spotlighted for his effort in creating a fun learning environment for children through his private lessons, Giddel’s All Momentous Intellectuals (GIDAMI).
Thompson, at the time, expressed hope to expand his reach, increase the capacity of his venture and be among Guyana’s well-known, established tutors such as Sir Morgan, Sir Leon and Sir Lee. This dream is becoming a reality for the educator, who can now facilitate more students at his Q8-562, Go Slow
more access to us.”
The GIDAMI owner said one of his challenges is that most persons come to register for lessons when they are expected to write their Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams the following year. Doing this means there are only eight or fewer months to prepare a child for their CSEC exams.
To avoid pressure, he urges parents to register their children at least by Grade Nine, so that there is enough time to prepare them to excel.
With 41 learners enrolled, Thompson teaches mathematics to pupils from Grade
Avenue, Tucville, Georgetown location, four houses off Mandela Avenue.
In a recent interview with this paper, Thompson, who is popularly known as ‘Sir Gidami,’ said his expansion was prompted by the need to continue teaching. Thompson has been an educator for around 15 years. His lessons have been in existence for just as long.
Throughout the years, Thompson has strived for more, first with his move from his initial location in Sophia, Georgetown, to Gordon Street, Kitty and now to Tucville.
Thompson said, “It was difficult to get persons to send their kids to Sophia for after-school lessons. So, the attendance, or I should say the registration, wasn’t going the way it was supposed to go.”
He continued, “So now we’re more centred in Georgetown. Persons have
Five to students at the CSEC level.
“I’m only working in class with students, in grades in secondary school. So, we work with those students in class and for the grade six, right now I’m only doing private tutoring for Grade Five and Six students,” he revealed, adding that in January, there will be another intake of Grade Five and Six students.
On staff there are about six teachers, a cleaner and administrative staff. The teachers focus on subject areas such as English, Social Studies, Integrated Science, Principles of Business, Principles of Accounts, Office Administration and Human and Social Biology.
The teachers come from several secondary schools including Saint Stanislaus College, North Georgetown Secondary and Annandale Secondary School, among others.
Giddel Thompson, the man behind GIDAMI.
Pepsi Hikers, Saints, T&T...
had a few players missing; they came back with all that energy… We felt familiar with each other; comfortable with each other, and we just keep it up, because, we knew we had to put everything out there. And that is what we did; we have been hunting our 10th diamond for years, and this is extremely special, because we finally achieve it.”
Meanwhile, in the Masters Category, T&T Masters needed a penalty shoot to overcome GCC Vintage in the Masters over 50 category.
T&T’s Roger Daniel
scored a double, with Shawn Alexander scoring the other goal for the T&T side.
Anthony Solomon, Alan Fernandes, and Devin Hooper scored for GCC Vintage. The contest was 3-3 at the end of regulation time, but T&T won it in the shootout. 2-0.
The over-40 Masters final featured GCC the Sequel and Hikers.
Hickers’ Jerazeno Bell opened their account for the early lead, but it was short-lived, as GCC’s Kevin Spencer scored the equaliser.
The sea-saw battle continued for much of the clash
before Hickers closed it out in the end, 4-3.
Bell would finish with a double for Hickers, with Robert France and Randy Hope scoring the other goals.
In the women open final, it was another scorcher when GBTI GCC and Saints hockey clubs battled it out.
Saints’ Africo Blackman was the first to put one at the back of the net with her strike in the 13th minute.
GBTI GCC’s Gabriella Xavier then leveled the scores a few minutes later, 1-1, Saints Number 10 Clayza
Khawaja gets a good workout...
for us to win the game and win this series. I think it's just game by game and you work out what's your best team."
Ahead of the 2023 Ashes, David Warner laid out his retirement timeline, stating that he wanted to finish at the SCG in early 2024. In the end he made it, providing some useful contributions against England then starting his final series against Pakistan with 164 in Perth Khawaja has never publicly outlined what his ideal
finishing point would be, but the final Ashes Test at the SCG, the ground where he returned with his twin hundreds in the 2020-21 series, has often been thought of as the perfect stepping off point. However, Labuschagne said that what the team needed should be the over-riding factor.
"I think the most important thing is the team comes first at any stage," he said. "I know there's different times where different people may have done that [picked a finishing point] in
Hurricanes win top-of-the-table clash to...
(From page 23)
and Amy Jones combined to hit five boundaries before Molly Strano spun a web around the Stars. The offspinner ripped into the middle order as Stars went from 49/3 to 54/7 in stunning fashion. From thereon, recov -
ENGLISH RACING TIPS 9 LINGFIELD
08:00 hrs Banyan
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11:30 hrs Alafdhal
SOUTHWELL
08:52 hrs As Legends Have It
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10:22 hrs Looping D'arc
10:52 hrs Duel Au Soleil
11:23 hrs Ballyhiho
NEWCASTLE
11:12 hrs Relocal
11:42 hrs Art Gallery
ery was just not in sight, as they eventually got bowled out for 98. Despite the blip, Stars would still fancy their chances of entering the Finals, given they are still second on the table with two matches left to play. (Cricbuzz)
12:15 hrs Crown The Future
12:45 hrs Cerelia
13:15 hrs Up The Agenda
13:45 hrs Aisling Oscar
14:15 hrs Jesmond Dawn
14:45 hrs Thunderstorm Katie
IRISH RACING TIPS
CLONMEL
08:05 hrs Justatan
08:35 hrs No Big Deal
09:05 hrs Staffordshire Knot
09:35 hrs Spinningayarn
10:05 hrs Maciver
10:35 hrs Spanish John
1105 hrs One Last Tango
11:35 hrs Qualimita
SOUTH AFRICA RACING
TIPS
TURFFONTEIN
O8:25 hrs Banha Bridge
09:00 hrs Tiger Storm
09:35 hrs Mister Wilson
10:10 hrs Argo Alley
10:45 hrs Guerrilla Warfare
Bobb then gave Saints the advantage with her penalty strike to make it 2-1 before Xavier scored again.
Makeda Harding followed with a field goal of her own to make it 3-2 as they looked to clinch the win.
However Saints Charlia Webb would spoil those plans when she converted a penalty corner in the last minute of the game to tie the contest, and force penalty shoot-outs with the scores level on 3-3.
In the shoot-out, Saints proved flawless to record a 3-1 victory.
(From page 22)
the past. But taking nothing away, he's an amazing player…averaging 45 for Australia all around the world… [But] it's just what is the best way we win the game and what does that look like, and that's what's most important."
Carse played a straight bat when asked who England would prefer to see at the top of the order. "I don't have to make that decision, so that's up to the captain and the coach of the Australian side, but whatever we're presented with we'll stick to our plans," he said.
"That was a phenomenal knock played by a
high-quality player [Head], and if he does open the batting again we've got set plans that we'll look to use, but I don't think anything changes from a mindset thing. He had an incredible day that afternoon."
Meanwhile, Pat Cummins put in another impressive net session, bowling two spells either side of having a bat, as he continues his path towards returning from his back injury. Cummins is not part of Australia's 14man squad for this match with a return in Adelaide appearing the most likely scenario. (ESPN Cricinfo)
Drakes says work ethic behind Pride’s...
(From back page)
The guys recognised that once you have these colours, they’re up for it.”
Drakes praised the leadership of captain Kyle Mayers, while pointing out that it had been a total team effort.
“The captain really led from the front; he led exceptionally well, and he was
well supported by the whole group; Kraigg Brathwaite sharing his wisdom, Desmond Haynes, and then having the support of the BCA, this trophy means so much not only to the BCA but to the people in Barbados, and I’m really happy for everyone,” he said.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, December 2, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Sherwin Campbell/Adrian Griffith-276 for first wicket (Hamilton, 1999/2000)
(2) Glen Turner/Terry Jarvis-387 for first wicket (Georgetown, 1972)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI wicketkeeper has effected the most Test dismissals against NZ to date?
(2) Which NZ wicketkeeper has effected the most Test dismissals versus the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves lead red-hot Lakers past Pelicans
AS long as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are playing, the Lakers always stand a good chance of winning — even if LeBron James is out.
That proved to be the case yet again Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena as the Lakers rolled over the injury-depleted New Orleans Pelicans 133-121 with James out managing a left foot injury.
The Lakers (15-4) won their seventh straight game behind Doncic’s 34 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists and Reaves’ 33 points and eight assists.
“I don't know what made it special, but I think we're just good basketball players," said Doncic about his success playing alongside Reaves.
The Lakers have a game Monday against the visiting Phoenix Suns, but it's unclear if James will play.
James missed the first 14 games of this season with sciatica and has played in just four games. Left foot injury management also kept him out of some games last season.
With James in his 23rd NBA campaign at age 40, it remains to be seen how many back-to-back games he will play this season. The Lakers have 10 sets left after Monday.
Luka Doncic in action Sunday night
The 15-4 Lakers have 63 regular-season games left, meaning that James can miss only two more if he wants to reach the NBA minimum of 65 games that players need to appear in to earn postseason awards. James has made a league-record 21 straight AllNBA teams.
Redick said individual postseason awards have “never come up as something that’s important" in his discussions with James.
The Lakers scored 77 points in the first half against New Orleans, tying the most points they have scored in any half this season, and they scored 46 points in the first quarter, the most they have scored in any frame this season.
It figured to be an easy night for the Lakers with the Pelicans (3-18) missing starters and key role players, including Zion Williamson, who was managing a left hamstring injury.
“We wanted to play with the right intent,” Redick said. “Thought we did that.”
Even so, Lakers center Deandre Ayton was a force with 22 points and 12 rebounds.
Late in the fourth quarter, however, Ayton limped to the bench after bumping his right knee. But Ayton, who missed one game with a right knee contusion earlier this season, said he’ll be available to play against the Suns, his former team. (Yahoo Sports)
Kohli earns praise after ton as focus turns to future plans
INDIA’s batter, Virat Kohli, received plenty of plaudits after he scored his 52nd ODI century in a Player of the Match performance against South Africa on Sunday.
Kohli was at his brilliant best as he blasted 135 from just 120 deliveries in Ranchi and in the process helped India to a 17-run triumph and a 1-0 series lead in the threegame ODI series against the Proteas.
The veteran shared a 136-run stand with former skipper Rohit Sharma (57) and looked in great touch as he reached triple figures for the first time in 50-over cricket since his superb unbeaten century against Pakistan at the ICC Champions Trophy in February.
The innings caught the eye of India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, who admitted it was an honour to watch the 37-year-old still at the top of his game.
“It was an outstanding knock, obviously. He batted really well, not just in the one-day format but all the formats he has done well,” Kotak said of Kohli.
“This was the 52nd ODI hundred he got, so he’s a thoroughly outstanding player, and he took responsibility, and the way he batted was very good.”
The century also further raised the question as to whether Kohli and Rohit would continue to ply their trade at ODI level, with the hope of continuing on until the next edition of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup
in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in 2027.
India’s assistant coach, Morne Morkel, suggested prior to the first ODI with South Africa that the experienced duo could play on until the next World Cup, but Kotak believes it is way too early to tell.
Kotak said there was still plenty of international cricket to be played prior to the next 50-over World Cup and urged onlookers to enjoy the presence of Kohli still at the peak of his powers in his current rich vein of form.
“I don’t know why we need to look at all this. He’s really batting well. I don’t see any reason we need to talk about his future,” Kotak added.
“It’s just the way he’s batting, it’s just brilliant, man. The way he’s performing, the way he main-
SUNIL Gavaskar said Shukri Conrad should have been mindful of the history between India and South Africa, noting that South African cricket owes India gratitude for the support it has received over the years. He pointedly remarked that, with all SA20 franchises owned by Indians, many South African players are getting employment opportunities because of Indian investment in the league.
"When you consider the current landscape of South African cricket, especially the SA20, five out of the six franchises (all six) are Indian-owned.
These owners are significantly supporting South African players - not just the international stars who are well taken care of, but the fringe players as wellgiving them opportunities to build strong careers," Gavaskar said referring to South Africa coach remark that he wanted India to grovel on the field during second Test in Guwahati recently.
"You could say it was an ill-advised use of the word. We need to look back at South Africa's re-entry into international cricket. It was the Indian Cricket Board that proposed South Africa's readmission after more than 20 years of isolation,
and their first international match on return was played in India," Gavaskar told broadcaster Jio Star, adding, "Indian and South African cricket have shared a positive, collaborative relationship for decades.
"Across all the years and encounters between the two teams, cricket has always been competitive and tough, but never hostile. I have witnessed nearly every India-South Africa contest, and it has always been hard, fair cricket.
Nothing beyond that.
So yes, it may have been an ill-advised remark - wrong time, wrong place. I hope that in his next media inter-
action, he addresses it.
"I don't think an apology is necessary; I personally don't believe in apologies. But acknowledging it and making up for it would be accepted by everyone. These things happen. In the heat of the moment, you can get carried away and say something that goes a bit over the top. Given the strong connection between Indian and South African cricket over the last 30 years, I think he can simply clarify that he got a bit carried away."
Conrad used the racially-loaded word 'grovel,' a term infamously used by Tony Greig in the 1970s for the West Indies. "We didn't
tains his fitness, there are no questions about anything.”
The focus now switches to Raipur on Wednesday as India look to wrap up the series with another strong performance ahead of the third and final game of the series in Visakhapatnam on Saturday.
For Kohli the focus will remain the same as the right-hander maintains the same preparation he has used throughout his career that helped him remain as one of the best white-ball players in the game.
"I think, at this stage, with the experience that I have, for me, it's about being physically fit, mentally ready and excited to play the games that I'm playing, and more or less everything else should take care of itself," Kohli said post-game.
"I've never been a big believer of a lot of preparation. All my cricket has been mental. As long as I feel mentally I can play the game, I work physically very hard every day of my life; it's got nothing to do with cricket anymore, it's just the way I live.
"So as long as my fitness levels are up and my enjoyment and mental sharpness is there, then you can visualise the game and you see yourself running as hard, reacting fast on the ball, then you know it's fine. (I know) one of the days when the game opens up and you get a start, you'll be able to score some runs." (ICC Media)
want to declare too early... obviously we wanted India to spend as much time on their feet out in the field. We wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase - bat them completely out of the game, and then say to them, 'Well, come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening,'" the South Africa coach said after Day 4 of the second Test in Guwahati.
Dale Steyn, a South African great, distanced himself from the coach's stand. "I'm not on that boat. I don't like that. I almost don't even want to make a comment about it. There are certain things you just don't say. There's stigma attached to it. It just wasn't necessary. South Africa were in such a dominant position-saying nothing is enough. I'm just not on that boat," Steyn said. (Cricbuzz)
India batter, Virat Kohli
Sunil Gavaskar called Shukri Conrad's 'grovel' remark ill-advised
Diamond Mineral Water Indoor International Hockey Festival…
Pepsi Hikers, Saints, T&T Masters claim title
THE 20th Edition of the Diamond Mineral Water Indoor International Hockey Festival saw one of the most thrilling conclusions to the competition as Pepsi Hikers showed why they are regarded as one of the best indoor clubs in the Region.
Pepsi Hikers, who went into the competition with
nine titles to their name successfully hunted down their 10th crown.
They put on a performance worthy of the 20th staging of the competition to eclipse the Trinidad and Tobago Police Squad, 7-2.
Hikers came surging out of the blocks with goals from Aroydy Branford in the 3rd minute with a penalty strike
which was doubled by skipper Robert France a minute later with his first field goal.
T&T Police Squad rebounded after the start of the second quarter with goals off the sticks of Nicholas Grant and captain Jordan Reynos levelling the scores, 2-2, and putting the pressure back on Hikers.
After the break, a rejuve-
nated Pepsi Hikers came out more determined and hit the mark straight away to move ahead with their skipper France leading the way with his second field goal.
Phillip Herings then extended Hikers’ lead before the Jamarj Assanah show began.
Khawaja gets a good workout ahead of pink-ball Test
USMAN Khawaja batted for the first time since the Perth Test as looked to prove his fitness for the day-night encounter at the Gabba after the back spasms which curtailed his role in the opening match of the Ashes.
Having done some physio and gentle fielding on Sunday, Khawaja was put through his paces by Australia's medical staff on the outfield, including running and stretching, before batting for 30 minutes during the team's day-time session on Monday.
Khawaja purely faced assistant coach Michael Di
Venuto with the sidearm during his half hour in the nets, of which a considerable number of deliveries were short, giving his back a good workout. The session was an optional one for Australia, although all the players were present, and they will have another full session under lights on Tuesday.
Speaking last week at an event for his foundation, Khawaja said he "should be right" for his hometown Test, and was not requiring further painkillers after initially suffering the back spasms on the opening day at Perth Stadium.
England collapsed so quickly on the first afternoon that Khawaja was unable to open due to the time he'd spent off the field and when he emerged at No. 4 could only make 2 before gloving a short ball from Brydon Carse.
On the second day Khawaja took his place at first slip, taking a catch to remove Harry Brook and then spilling a low edge offered by Jamie Smith. His back went into spasm while leaping for another edge provided by Smith, opening the way for Travis Head to make his 123 in Australia's chase.
Khawaja's form was under scrutiny heading into the series - he is now averaging 31.84 since the end of the 2023 Ashes with one century in 45 innings - and coupled with the way Head threw down the gauntlet as an opener, and his public statements about being keen for the role, it has sparked a debate about whether now is the time to draw an end to Khawaja's Test career.
"I think Usman is a high quality player," Marnus Labuschagne said. "You look at his record, 85 Tests and what he's done for Australian cricket, especially since his comeback in 2021.
Assanah, after several near misses earlier in the clash was unstoppable, scoring a searing hat-trick to take the game away from the Trinidad side, 7-2.
Jamarj Assanah, speaking to Chronicle Sport after the game, said: “It felt amazing; the guys went out and upped their game and we just kept the energy really high. Over the past few years, we
He's been super consistent; he's been really the rock [in] the top there. I think there's been a lot of talk about how many opening partners he's had over his time.
"He's an amazing player. The way he's gone about his game, the way he's gone
from a No. 3, 4 and then opened the batting...navigated some tricky scenarios, he's just been awesome. "But I'm not a selector. I think whatever happens is up to the people above my pay grade and what they deem is the best way
(Turn to page 20)
Men’s division Champions, Pepsi Hikers, receiving their trophy from Ms Raveena Mangal, DDL Executive Brand Manager. Also receiving a trophy was Captain Samarj Assanah, who was also the MVP
Women’s division Champions, Saints, receiving their trophy from Raveena Mangal, DDL Executive Brand Manager. Best Goalkeeper Sarah Harry is at second right, front row, while MVP Makaylah Poole is at left
Over-40 division Champions, Hickers, receiving their trophy from Assistant Director of Sport, Franklin Wilson
Over-50 division Champions, TT Masters with their Trophy
Aussie batter Usman Khawaja (Turn to page 20)
GPF officers cricket team supports Lance Corporal Sherica Campbell
THE Guyana Police Force Officers’ cricket team yesterday presented cricket gear to Lance Corporal Sherica Campbell, who is currently representing the Berbice Senior Women’s team in the ongoing Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) 50-over Inter-County tournament.
Lance Corporal Campbell, who is stationed at the Police Communications Branch is a product of the Police Cricket Club, and also a member of the Rose Hall Cricket Club.
She is an accomplished all-rounder, an opening batter and medium-pace bowler, whose progress continues to highlight the talent emerging from within the force.
The presentation was made by Deputy Commissioner “Administration” Ravindradat Budhram, Chairman of the Police Officers’ cricket team, who was accompanied by Senior Superintendent Jermaine Johnson, Officer-in-Charge of Information Technology and Communication; Superintendent Ronald Alli, Second-in-Command of the Tactical Services Unit and Vice-Captain of the Officers’ Cricket Team and Sports Development Officer
L-R Deputy Commissioner “Administration” Mr Ravindradat Budhram, Chairman of the Police Officers’ Cricket Team, hands over the gear to Lance Corporal Sherica Campbell.
In the photo are Senior Superintendent Jermaine Johnson, Officer-in-Charge of Information Technology and Communication; Superintendent Ronald Alli, Second-in-Command of the Tactical Services Unit and Vice-Captain of the Officers’ Cricket Team and Sports Development Officer, Colin Boyce.
Mr Colin Boyce. During the engagement, Deputy Commissioner Budhram congratulated Lance Corporal Campbell on behalf of the Guyana Police Force and reaffirmed the organisation’s strong support for its sportsmen and women, noting that their dedication and achievements help build
pride and discipline across the force.
The Guyana Police Force extends best wishes to Lance Corporal Campbell as she continues her cricketing journey and remains committed to supporting the development of its athletes across all sporting disciplines.
Hurricanes win top-of-the-table clash to secure spot in Finals
DANNI Wyatt-Hodge's excellent form in WBBL 11 continued as she set up Hobart Hurricanes' big win over Melbourne Stars in the top-of-thetable clash. The 81-run victory has now ensured that Hurricanes become the first team this season to secure a spot in the Finals.
Wyatt-Hodge, who kickstarted the tournament with scores of 90, 45, 44 and 72* went through a mini rut before redeeming herself with a 55 in the last game. And on Monday (December 1), she was in her element again, as she put on 61 for the opening wicket with Lizelle Lee, who raced to 32 off just 20 balls. After Lee's departure, it was Nat Sciver-Brunt who
Danni Wyatt-Hodge laid the platform for Hobart Huricanes' big win over Melbourne Stars
hurt Stars with a quickfire 31 as the pair added 63 for the second wicket. Wyatt-Hodge continued to bat deep into the innings in a rain-affected clash that was reduced to 17 overs. Eventually, she fell in the final over of the innings for a well-made 71 that pow -
Highland Creek cart off top honours at SCA’s 46th annual presentation
ON a night when teams and individual players were rewarded for their sterling efforts during the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) 2025 season, Highland Creek stole top honours in the Elite Division, upstaging 2024 winners, Toronto Rhinos, who created a stir in their first year in the prestigious division by claiming the coveted title.
Although ending the season as the points winners, Toronto Rhinos failed
to replicate their 2024 performance and had to settle for the runners-up spot in the playoff final as the SCA held its 46th annual presentation, dinner and dance with much pomp and ceremony at the Grand Cinnamon Banquet Hall in Markham, Ontario, Canada last Saturday night.
The respective Most Valuable Players (MVPs) were Ruvindu Gunsekara (Highland Creek) and Rizwan Khalid (Toronto Rhinos).
The Premier Division saw Team Tigers A taking emerging winners of the playoff final, whipping the much-fancied Knightly with the respective MVPs being MD Tambir and MD Nayeem.
ered Hurricanes to 176/4. In the chase, Stars were on the back foot right from the outset, as Meg Lanning lost her stumps in just the third over and prior to her dismissal, they also lost Rhys McKenna. Annebel Sutherland
Durham United carted off the top spot in the First Division, winning from Victoria Park with Oneil Parchment and Shiva Reddy claiming the MVP awards.
Friends United won the Second Division title, turning back the challenge of Bangla Warriors with the MVPs being Charan Nagaraj and Faisal Munna.
The Third Division playoff winners were Team Tigers B who won from Pickering Panthers, The MVPs were Tauhid Sabiq and Barim Ali.
Scarborough Kingz Masterclass claimed the Over-50 Division title, winning from Canadian Seniors with former Canadian player Austin Codrington taking the MVP honours for the winners and Shahis Hansrod for the runners-up.
Other title winners were Naseeb in the T30 Elite with Toronto Rhinos as runners-up; Royal Strikers in the T30 Premier with Kokuvil as runners-up; Deccan Riders in the T30 First Division with Starz as the runners-up; Naseeb in the T20 Elite with Youngstars as runners-up; Knightly in the T20 Premier with Kandyans as runners-up; Palace Panthers in the T20 First Division with Highland Creek as the runners-up; Knights United in the T20 Second Division and Hurricanes the runners-up, while Scarborough Legends emerged as the SCA T20 Super
knockout champions with Ambassadors being the runners-up.
The Junior Division saw SCA winning the Under-17 from Durham Cricket Academy; SCA capturing the Under-15 from Toronto Curling Skating and Cricket Club, while the latter took both the Under-13 and Under-11 crowns from Durham Cricket Academy.
The Division Season winners included Knights Sports Club – T20 Second Division, Highland Creek – T20 First Division, Knightly – T20 Premier, Scarborough Legends –T20 Elite, Deccan Riders – T30 First, Bangla Warriors – T30 Premiere, Naseeb – T30 Elite, Canadian Seniors – Over-50, Team Tigers B – Third Division, Bangla Warriors – Second Division, Durham United – First Division, Knightly – Premier and Toronto Rhinos – Elite.
Among the several sponsors were Shiv Persaud (Prime America); Trophy Stall (Toronto/ Guyana); Norman Sue Bakery and Roy Lalkissoon. (Frederick Halley)
Arslan Khan (right), of Highland Creek, collects the winning Elite Trophy from SCA President, Shiv Persaud
SCA President, Shiv Persaud, hands over the Premier League trophy to skipper Md A Tambir, in the presence of other teammates
Champions Chase Academic Foundation collect the League trophy from RBL Guyana Managing Director, Toussant Boyce
CHASE Academic Foundation’s execution was flawless like their record in the final of the Republic Bank Limited (RBL) Secondary Schools Football League to see them successfully defend their title at the Ministry of Education ground on Sunday.
Chase Academic went into the final day of the League with a perfect record and completed the job to reclaim their title. They played their final fixture against Dolphin Secondary whom they defeated 3-0.
Isaiah Ifill scored in the
22nd minute to give Chase their first goal before goals from Bryan Wharton and Shaquan David sealed the win.
Chase Academic finished the tournament with 7 wins on 21 points to earn the right to defend the title in the 2026 edition.
West Ruimveldt Secondary whose only loss was to Chase Academic also finished strong for second place. They battered Charlestown 5-1, West Ruimveldt Secondary needed to win and Chase Academic to lose for West Ruimveldt to claim the league title. In their clash
for the second place spot, they whipped Charlestown Secondary.
Charlestown Secondary’s Cambie Deanglo showed their intentions early in the competition with the opening goal in the 2nd minute of play.
West Ruimveldt’s Jeremiah Griffith tied the scores then gave his team the goahead goal after successful strikes in the 8th and 14th minutes.
Donovan Welcome made it 3-1 before Griffith returned to complete the hat-trick. Welcome also scored his second goal with Dellon
Garner receives Order of Freedom of Barbados
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC )–IN a fitting tribute to a colossal figure in the world of cricket, legendary West Indies fast bowler, Joel Garner, was, on Sunday, conferred with the Order of Freedom of Barbados, the nation’s highest award, as part of the 2025 Independence and Republic celebrations.
Garner, affectionately known as “Big Bird” for his towering frame and even larger impact on the game, was one of only three distinguished Barbadians to receive the honour for “distinguished and extraordinary service.”
He stands alongside Central Bank Governor, Dr Kevin Greenidge and healthcare leader, Dr Kurt Lambert, in this elite group.
The award citation specifically recognises Garner for “his outstanding leadership as a distinguished sports administrator, sterling service to national cricket development and extraordinary contribution to West Indies and Barbados cricket as one of the greatest fast bowlers in history.”
The honour solidifies the status of the 72-year-old not just as a sporting icon, but as a national treasure.
As a key member of the feared West Indies pace attacks of the 1970s and 80s, Garner was a nightmare for batsmen worldwide, his unplayable yorkers and steep bounce cementing his place in crick-
eting folklore.
Upon receiving the award, a characteristically humble Garner shifted the praise to those who supported him throughout his journey.
“I’m thankful, humbled,” Garner stated. “But at the same time, what I would like to do is sort of remember all those people who were with me along the journey. Some of them are no longer here, and some of them are still around. I’m sharing the award with them because we didn’t do it alone.”
He painted a vivid picture of collective effort, adding, “They were with us when we were in the trenches doing all the work, bringing some joy and happiness to the people around us.”
In a poignant personal moment, Garner credited his grandmother for keeping him grounded throughout his meteoric rise to fame. “I’m a grandmother’s boy, for all. And she’s the one who kept me grounded and kept my feet to the ground.”
Reflecting on his storied playing career, which struck fear into the hearts of opposing teams, Garner summed up his philosophy with simple, powerful clarity.
“When I was playing, all I was doing was enjoying what I was doing and trying to perform. It was a profession, so I tried to do the best that I could while I was playing.”
Chase Academic Foundation reclaim RBL Schools Football League title
Philadelphia also registering a goal to complete the 5-1 victory.
West Ruimveldt leading goal scorer, Jeremiah Griffith, said the win was very important, “It means a lot because it is the first time in the KFC and I think we will do good in it……on the training ground we are doing well and we came out and did what we have to do to progress” West Ruimveldt’s other scorer, Dellon Philadelphia, said they were elated to compete in the KFC goodwill competition, “We came out with one plan in our mind and it was to win and get the
three points and move on to the KFC and as the captain said, it is our first time going into the KFC Goodwill tournament and we worked hard and progressed and got the three points”
West Ruimveldt and Charlestown will advance to the KFC goodwill tournament as the two next best teams after Champions Chase Academic earned an automatic spot as defending champions.
In the other clashes President’s College went down to Abram Zuil Secondary 2-0 and Three Mile Secondary beat South Ruimveldt Sec-
ondary 3-1.
Chase Academic, for the win, grabbed $300,000 with $200,000 for West Ruimveldt and $100,000 for Charlestown with all monies towards a school project.
The League also served to ready the top teams for the December KFC series which will see Chase Academic Foundation, West Ruimveldt and Charlestown lining up against Annai Secondary along with teams from Suriname, Brazil, Jamaica, Bahamas and Trinidad in the KFC Goodwill series starting next week.
Drakes says work ethic behind Pride’s Super50 Cup success
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) –
Head coach of the Barbados Pride, Vasbert Drakes has lauded his team’s work ethic after they captured the CG United Super50 Cup title in Trinidad on Saturday.
The Pride captured the US$100,000 first prize with a dominant nine-wicket victory over the home side, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, to claim their first Super50 title since 2018.
Speaking to members of the media on Sunday, moments after touching down at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados, Drakes said the team’s preparations before and during the tournament was a major factor in their success.
“I’m happy for the group of players. I think they worked fantastically well during the preparation phase, which started from May this year.
“Obviously, leaving Barbados, we recognised that we had to prepare really well because going into Trinidad, certainly with the weather situation, we knew that we wouldn’t get the practice sessions that we wanted to. So, as a group, the guys worked really hard, and I’m really happy for them,” Drakes said, adding:
“Before the guys went onto the field yesterday [Saturday], they recognised that playing for Barbados is a privilege and an honour, but not a given.
(Turn to page 20)
The victorious Barbados Pride team that captured the CG United Super50 Cup on Saturday
