President Ali to develop CARICOM strategy on evolving definition of media
- encourages fact-based journalism as use of AI rapidly grows - urges press associations to adapt & include ‘broader disseminators of information’
No journalist in Guyana is harmed or in danger for reporting the truth - Minister Mc Coy - Media stalwarts receive awards
Family calls for calm ahead of Adriana Younge’s funeral tomorrow
- Prominent attorney urges focus on the probe to determine ‘manner of death’
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali flanked by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, and media professionals who received awards (Office of the President photo)
President Ali to develop CARICOM strategy on evolving definition of media
- encourages fact-based journalism as use of AI rapidly grows - urges press associations
to adapt & include ‘broader disseminators of information’
By Fareeza Haniff
AS the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) surges globally, Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali will soon present to his colleagues in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) a paper that he will develop on the evolving definition of media.
Speaking to media workers at a brunch he hosted at State House on Saturday in observance of World Press Freedom Day, the Head of State spoke at length about the evolving world of media, its definition, and the role that AI plays in changing its construct. He believes that the media and even regional leaders need to adapt.
“But can you survive if you don't adapt? These are key, key, key questions; mind-boggling questions. So, how do we ensure, in this environment of AI, that we pursue a path. And, for CARICOM, I am positioning this morning that we pursue a common path.
“Because we don't have the capacity individually to do this, to look at the intellectual and professional conduct of AI; that would look at the challenges, threats and opportunities of AI…that would look at policies, regulations
and legislations that would ensure AI does not go unchecked.
“If we don't do it, it's a ticking time bomb. If we don't ensure that AI is utilised, especially when it comes to the press and information dissemination, because information is so powerful that it can destabilise instantaneously,”
President Ali said.
With the global shift from traditional media already taking place, President Ali pointed out that the way leaders choose to disseminate information is now completely different.
“Many leaders today would engage the media in public; would engage the media in an environment where there are other contributors to the discussion, because leaders realise that there is power behind every instrument.
“And if you want your message not to be distorted, you have to maximise the potential of the power behind every instrument… So, media personnel will be operating in a different environment as the future evolves.
“In my humble opinion, the historic and traditional press conferences and press media room are changing rapidly. Because everyone un-
derstands the changing nature of information dissemination, of information access, of information availability,” the Head of State noted.
FACT-BASED JOURNALISM
As the definition of media changes and the use of AI surges, the President said everyone must acknowledge that the “world is at reset now”, and the question now lingers, “who constitutes the media?”
“Historically, we had a clear definition. But if the media is what gives news and information, then reach, responsibility, reliability and relevance are important. So, who is more relevant? Someone who can meet 300 million people in a second, or someone who will meet 3000 people in a day?
“Because the one who might be reaching 300 million might have reach, but are they responsible and reliable? So, how do we manage in this environment?” the President asked.
He believes there is “tremendous danger” when ethics is put on the back burner, and urged the media to stay true to fact-based journalism.
“What is the truth, and who communicates the truth? What are facts? Do facts even
have a role to play anymore in this race for information? Does science even have a role anymore?
“We have to answer these questions. Because, if information disseminators themselves are not relying on facts and science, and if they're more interested in that reach and impact and getting their force, then certain things will be sacrificed. And what we're seeing globally is that the most important aspects of fair and ethical reporting are sacrificed.”
Noting that there is a change in the way news is now disseminated, President Ali noted that in the next 12 months, Guyana must have a clearly defined framework to include AI and digitisation in every sphere of national life.
PRESS ASSOCIATIONS
As the media landscape changes, the President urged the various press associations to consider redefining “who are members” to include everyone who plays a role in disseminating information.
“You must also now contemplate whether the narrow, original confines of who are members must now be redefined to include the broader disseminators of information so that they can also be part
of a responsible system; not doing this is not also adapting to the changing realities of our country and the world,” President Ali emphasised.
In his message to the local media, the Head of State encouraged them to report fairly, especially as the country goes to the polls later this year.
“You play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, guiding conversations, and holding power accountable. This is an important year.
“The responsibility you bear is immense. And it is vital
that you take it seriously. Engage in rigorous fact-checking. Pursue balanced reporting. And dedicate yourselves to the ethics of journalism. In doing so, you will not only uphold the dignity of your profession, but you will also contribute to building a more informed and cohesive society.”
World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme, ‘Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media’.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday hosted a brunch at State House for media workers in honour of World Press Freedom Day (Office of the President photos)
President Ali visits Kitty fire victims
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Saturday, visited the families who were affected by last Thursday’s fire, which destroyed several buildings in Pike Street, Kitty, Georgetown. Reports indicate that the fire spread from the initial building and engulfed two other buildings. Both buildings are seemingly apartment complexes as well. With tenders dispatched at the entrances from both Pike and Thomas Streets, the firefighters tried, unsuccessfully, to contain the fire to one building. (Office of the President photos)
Family calls for calm ahead of Adriana Younge’s funeral tomorrow
- Prominent attorney urges focus on the probe to determine ‘manner of death’
By Feona Morrison
THE family of 11-yearold Adriana Younge has strongly opposed plans to protest and postpone her upcoming burial until a second postmortem examination is done. Adriana’s funeral is scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025.
She was found dead on April 24, 2025, in the swimming pool of the Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo
ly completed the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), and was eagerly awaiting her results, which are scheduled for release in June.
Following the discovery of her body at the hotel, the building was set on fire and enraged ‘protestors’ looted the establishment. The home of the hotel’s proprietor was also torched.
Adriana’s death had sparked fiery protests across the country.
(EBE). She had visited the hotel the previous day with family members.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Adriana’s aunt, Amika Lewis, urged the public to respect the family's wishes, stating, “It has been brought to our (the family’s) attention that persons are planning to protest and stop the burial of Adriana Younge until another postmortem is done! We do not agree to or condone this action. We will bury Adriana in a peaceful manner on Monday.
Honour Adriana and the wishes of her family. NO PROTESTS.”
She asked that supporters honour Adriana and her family by allowing the funeral to proceed quietly. The post ended with a plea to share the message widely to prevent unrest.
Her body will depart the Ezekiel Funeral Home at 11 a.m. and proceed to her residence in Hyde Park, Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) for viewing.
The funeral service will be held at the Rice Mill Tarmac in the area, followed by interment at the Vergenoegen Cemetery. Adriana, a pupil of the Parika Salem Primary School, had recent-
ogists... They concurred that Ms. Younge died by drowning.”
Dr. Anthony warned that the legal and scientific validity of a second autopsy could be compromised, especially since the child’s body was released to the family for burial after the initial examination and is no longer in official custody.
The Health Minister explained that the first fourhour-long post-mortem was
SECOND AUTOPSY
The Government of Guyana, on Friday night, pushed back against renewed calls for a second autopsy on Adriana, emphasising that three internationally respected forensic pathologists have unanimously concluded that she died by drowning.
“It [the autopsy] was very transparent. Everybody was satisfied and everything was recorded, and every single question asked of the pathologists was answered,” Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said in a televised broadcast to the nation on Friday night.
“If everyone was satisfied with the initial autopsy, why is there now a request for another pathologist?” he questioned.
The minister expressed concern that continued demands for another examination appear to be driven more by emotion and suspicion than science.
“It seems like there are elements out there who want to delay this process and create controversy,” he stated. “We have a very transparent process, with scientific evidence of what took place. And this was done by three eminent independent forensic pathol-
lice—are now reportedly being sought once again. In 2013, Dr Daisley came under fire for an incorrect cause of death in a high-profile case in the twin island republic.
In that case, he admitted to the family of the deceased that he erred when he stated the cause of death was murder. He subsequently apologised and clarified that the individual had actually succumbed to asthma-related
comprehensive, involving full-body scans, internal examinations, and with samples sent for testing at both Mount Sinai Hospital and the National Medical Services Laboratory in the United States.
“So, having a second autopsy—I’m not sure what that autopsy would find,” the minister said, urging the public to rely on scientific findings rather than emotion.
The official pathology team included experts from the U.S. and Barbados, including one selected by the family. The team included Dr. Glenn A. Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul of Barbados, both appointed by the government, along with Dr. Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner for the U.S. State of Delaware, who was chosen by Adriana's family.
The services of controversial Trinidad and Tobago pathologist Dr. Hubert Daisley—who was identified in 2012 by attorney-at-law and Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes, to observe the post-mortem examinations of three Lindeners fatally shot by po-
ily, stressed that although the autopsy confirmed the cause of death as drowning, it did not establish the manner of death— meaning that the possibility of murder has not been ruled out.
He reiterated the family’s suspicion of foul play and announced their intention to push for an international investigation, citing distrust in the local police.
The family is calling for the case to be handled by external agencies. A final report from the pathologists is expected soon.
COUNTERPRODUC-
TIVE SHIFT IN FOCUS
complications.
At the time, Trinidad and Tobago’s then-Health Minister had noted that Dr. Daisley was not recognised as a qualified forensic pathologist by the country’s Medical Board.
Addressing the current situation, Dr. Frank Anthony emphasised that before Dr. Daisley can be permitted to practise in Guyana, he must first obtain accreditation from the Guyana Medical Council—an independent body responsible for evaluating his qualifications and determining his suitability to carry out such work locally.
The post-mortem examination of Adriana confirmed that she died from drowning, with no signs of physical violence, broken bones, forced submersion, or sexual assault. However, due to the body’s advanced state of decomposition, the doctors were unable to determine the exact time or location of the drowning.
Discolouration on Adriana’s skin was attributed to water exposure, and what was initially believed to be cotton wool in her nose was clarified by pathologists to be froth.
Attorney Darren Wade, who represents the fam -
As calls mount for a second post-mortem examination on Younge’s body, prominent attorney, Dr. Dexter Todd, is cautioning against what he described as a potentially counterproductive shift in focus.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Todd addressed growing public discourse surrounding the child’s death and the family’s recent request for another autopsy.
Responding to this call for a second autopsy, Todd wrote, “Going back to focus on ‘cause of death’ is counter-productive. Each day that is wasted, the gathering of evidence to support the ‘manner of death’ becomes harder.”
He further emphasised the importance of focusing investigative efforts on the circumstances surrounding how Adriana died, rather than repeating what forensic experts have already established.
“If you must go back to determine cause of death then review the video of the autopsy completed,” he advised, referencing the standard practice of recording autopsies for transparency and review.
Todd, known for his legal expertise in criminal and forensic matters, also underscored the principles that govern scientific inquiry in such cases. “We must be reminded that there is ethics in forensic science. This means that once the
science is used correctly by one expert, another expert reviewing that work must come to the same conclusions,” he stated. His comments appear to highlight concerns that ongoing public pressure and emotional reactions could cloud the judicial process. He warned: “More focus must be taken in this case, less the cry for justice will become a far cry.”
PROBE ONGOING
Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing, with authorities assuring the public that no aspect of the case is being neglected. The hotel’s owner Bhojnarine Bhola, who was held in connection with the incident, has since been released after the expiration of the 72-hour statutory detention period. However, he has been blacklisted from leaving the country and is required to report to the police daily. DNA samples have been taken from both Bhola and Adriana and sent to New York for testing.
Region Three Commander, Assistant Police Commissioner Khalid Mandall—who led the initial response at the Double Day Hotel when Adriana was reported missing—was first transferred to another police division but has since been placed on administrative leave. Additionally, three police ranks who were previously under close arrest have also been sent on administrative leave, while several civilian employees attached to the Guyana Police Force have been dismissed.
Meanwhile, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured the nation that a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted into Younge’s death, vowing that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of justice.
Adriana Younge
Attorney-at-Law Dexter Todd Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony Amika Lewis
Respect the law!
VENEZUELA'S continued disrespect for international law is a risky escalation of its long-standing effort to annex Guyana's sovereign Essequibo territory. The recent ICJ decision, where it voted 12-3 to bar Venezuela from holding elections in the Essequibo area, is yet another unequivocal confirmation of what Guyanese already knew - Essequibo is Guyana's.
The Government of Guyana’s call to Venezuela to "act responsibly" and respect ICJ decisions is not diplomatic rhetoric but a necessary plea for regional security and international legal respect for institutions.
Venezuela's January decision to hold elections for a putative "Guayana Esequiba State" is nothing less than an outright attempt at undermining Guyana's territorial integrity by political drama.
The historical record is
clear. The 1899 Arbitral Award ultimately determined the border between British Guiana (Guyana) and Venezuela. Venezuela accepted uncomplainingly this verdict for more than six decades before reversing itself when Guyana was soon to achieve independence in 1966. Such convenient timing is evidence of the opportunistic desires of Venezuela's expansionist ambitions.
The Essequibo region comprises about two-thirds of Guyana's territory and has remained in Guyanese hands and governance since independence. Venezuela's efforts to assert sovereignty over the region are a blatant violation of widely established international law and destabilisation of the entire Caribbean and Latin American region. Venezuela's activities surpass the posturing of petty politics. On March 1, 2025, a Venezuelan
vessel, the ABV Guaiqueiri PO-11-IMO 469552, forcefully intruded into Guyana's Exclusive Economic Zone, moving towards the FPSO PROSPERITY menacingly and proceeding illegally through Guyana's waters.
These aggressive actions reflect a calculated pattern of escalation threatening not just the sovereignty of Guyana but also its economic development. The threatening radio signals by the Venezuelan vessel, falsely reporting FPSO PROSPERITY to be operating in waters off Venezuela, were also a deadly act of provocation.
Constructing a bridge between Venezuela and Ankoko Island further demonstrates the determination of Caracas to occupy physically its ill-fated extraterritorial claims. Despite the Argyle Declaration of December 2024 being hailed as a diplomatic success that would arrest Venezuela's "rampaging
advance towards a possible invasion," the response of Venezuela afterwards suggests it was a strategic lull and not a genuine commitment to peaceful settlement.
Attorney Ralph Ramkarran appraised the Argyle Declaration correctly as a "great victory" for Guyana, but the response of Venezuela has contradicted the ethos of that accord through relentless acts of provocation.
Guyana's response to this conflict has been admirable - rigid adherence to international law, resorting to lawful means of solution, and exercising remarkable restraint in the face of provocation from Venezuela.
The presentation of Guyana's response to Venezuela's Counter-Memorial to the ICJ in December 2024 was another in the legal progression towards the final confirmation of Guyana's sovereignty over the Essequibo.
Venezuela's answer is to be received by August 2025, and oral hearings will follow. At each step, Guyana has reaffirmed that the ICJ judgment will be "definitive, final and binding" on both nations, demonstrating its dedication to judicial resolution that Venezuela should also adhere to.
The world community now has to be firmer in condemning Venezuela's land invasions. The ICJ orders of 2023 December and 2025 May are legally binding on Venezuela, and its contempt is a blatant challenge to the international legal order. Regional organisations such as CARICOM and the Organisation of American States must step up the pressure on Venezuela to respect these orders. The economic opportunities provided by the offshore oil finds in Guyana should not be derailed by the territorial aspirations of Venezuela. Venezuela's
actions become increasingly desperate as the Guyanese economy develops.
While this saga plays itself out in the halls of the ICJ, Venezuela must move beyond giving "lip service" to the Geneva Agreement and take active steps to abide by international law. The peace and stability of our region depend on it. Guyana's title to the Essequibo cannot be traded, and no amount of political maneuvering or military bravado by Venezuela will change this fundamental fact. The Guyana Government has a right to be suspicious and to warn its foreign friends and allies about the aggressive postures of Venezuela. It is time for Venezuela to see what the international community already seesthat the Essequibo region is and will always remain part of the sovereign nation of Guyana.
Guyana, the Land of Many Waters, must have qualified lifeguards
Dear Editor,
AS Guyana continues its rapid transformation, particularly within the expanding eco-tourism sector, the proliferation of beaches, resorts, and international and local hotels equipped with swimming pools, highlights a critical need: Implementing comprehensive swimming and lifeguard certification programmes. Such initiatives are vital for ensuring safety and security, and promoting public health, skill enhancement, and job creation.
Qualified lifeguards serve a critical role by safeguarding swimmers and the public in aquatic settings. Through extensive and structured training, lifeguards
gain essential skills in water rescue techniques, first aid, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), AED (Automated External Defibrillator) usage, and emergency response management. These internationally-accredited training elements ensure lifeguards can confidently instruct swimmers, swiftly respond to emergencies, and effectively manage stressful situations, significantly minimising the risks associated with water-based activities. The presence of professionally-trained lifeguards can dramatically improve safety standards at pools, beaches, water parks, and resorts, providing assurance and peace of mind to tourists and locals alike.
Additionally, lifeguards perform crucial roles beyond rescue operations. They actively maintain clean and safe environments, administer proper pool chemical treatments, and handle routine administrative tasks, such as opening and closing facilities. They also monitor weather conditions diligently, advising swimmers appropriately, and directing them towards safer zones. This is especially important in challenging terrains and waterways prone to riptides, such as those prevalent in Guyana.
Beyond immediate safety, establishing a formal lifeguard certification programme aligns perfectly with Guyana's broader
sports development strategy. Lifeguards can further their careers by conducting swimming lessons, coaching swim teams, and assuming leadership roles within aquatic sports management. This potential for professional growth underscores the significant career opportunities available in this sector, which remains largely untapped.
Historically, Guyana's first official lifeguard certification programme commenced in 2013 with twenty-five individuals initially enrolling. Only ten of the participants completed the rigorous nature of this elite training, receiving internationally recognised certificates, while others received recognition and acknowledgements.
The course, led by Canadian International Instructor Patrick D'Allmande, set a high benchmark for quality training, setting a standard we must uphold and expand upon.
Guyana faces a critical juncture regarding sports and recreational activities; sports must be recognised and promoted seriously at all levels. Establishing and enhancing lifeguard training programmes can be a cornerstone for broader sports development initiatives. Establishing the National Resource Centre was intended as a flagship National Sports Education and Development Training Facility, highlighting a national gov-
ernment-driven commitment to elevating sports standards nationwide.
Moving forward, it is imperative that Guyana invests in developing a vibrant National Lifeguard Association, and initiates comprehensive Lifeguard Instructor Training Programmes. Such programmes will empower Guyanese citizens with the necessary skills and certifications, strengthening local capacities, and significantly improving national water safety standards. Doing so ensures a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future for our nation.
Sincerely, Neil Kumar
New communication initiative solidifies Guyana’s progress
Dear Editor, GUYANA is stepping confidently and swiftly into a new digital era, which is welcoming for commerce and its people alike. With new technological initiatives currently underway, including the deployment of Starlink across rural clinics, we are witnessing the foundation of a truly modern telecom strategy, one being built on inclusion, innovation, and national security.
In just the past year, Guyana has made decisive progress towards solving long-standing challenges in the telecommunications sector. The rollout of Starlink, a cutting-edge lowearth orbit (LEO) satellite Internet service by SpaceX, represents a transformative move by the Government of Guyana to bring reliable, high-speed Internet to rural regions, from Lethem to Port Kaituma.
Starlink’s low latency (25–50 ms) and broadband-level speeds (100+ Mbps) are a massive leap forward, and the government’s decision to install the system in 300 health centres across the country demonstrates forward-thinking and results-oriented governance.
This is not the end of the story, but a powerful beginning for everyone. In rural areas where residents were limited to otherwise
normal standards of having high-speed Internet, accessibility to uninterrupted broadband and communication services will boost these rural communities in an unimaginable way.
As we expand broadband Internet access across Guyana, it is essential to look ahead. Satellite Internet, while fast and far-reaching, also brings strategic considerations: Who controls the data highways of the future?
Other nations are already thinking ahead. In Europe, the EU is investing in multi-orbit satellite systems to ensure digital sovereignty across its borders. Guyana, using strategic planning, is perfectly positioned to take similar forward-looking steps, shaping a future that is not just connected, but secure and self-determined.
The government's embrace of Starlink is the beginning of a broader, more diversified telecom strategy to establish a framework that ensures uninterrupted service under any condition, whether economic, environmental, or geopolitical. Such diversity also allows for robust redundancy, strengthening our telecom systems in times of emergency, and guaranteeing the continuity of essential services. Starlink can be a path through which further
local institutions may follow. It can be utilised as a vehicular mechanism to encourage and facilitate others, and to help with the development of Guyana’s rural areas.
The Government of Guyana has opened the door to a new kind of national telecom framework, and is building the foundation of a comprehensive and future-ready doctrine structured around four strategic pillars:
1. Telecommunications Sovereignty
While rapidly expanding, it’s also ensuring that the country remains firmly in control of its communications landscape. Guyana’s bandwidth and frequency allocation plan is impressive. The Ministry of Telecommunication and its team must be commended for the allocation of fields for the various frequencies.
2. Data Localisation Policies
With growing digital services across health, education, and governance, the government is already considering localised data storage for critical systems to ensure compliance, efficiency, and security.
New policies will be in order to ensure that easy accessibility to data and mass storage systems is secure. Efficiency in these areas is paramount, since downtime on such systems will incur finan-
cial losses and frustration for the general citizenry. Data and communication security are both at the top of the government’s lists, and would contribute to sustainable economic growth. Financial institutions, for example, are heavily reliant on data accessibility to conduct day-to-day business.
3. Open and Inclusive Procurement Models
Telecom tenders are being designed to prioritise local training, job creation, and longterm technical transfer, ensuring Guyanese experts are at the heart of our evolving infrastructure. This will increase the opportunities for existing companies to tender as well as stimulate the interest of others to establish new companies.
4. Telecom as a Public Good
By treating broadband access as essential infrastructure, Guyana’s government is ensuring that every citizen, regardless of geography or income, has the right tools to thrive in a digital age and digital economy.
This new digital coverage will help youths and young adults alike to become familiar with productive content that they can use to thrive. It is also a mechanism through which they can learn about new hobbies and pastimes which are constructive
and fun.
Guyana’s government and the nation at large are not just responding to change; they are helping to shape it. The steps already taken by the administration, especially the rural Starlink rollout, place the country in a leadership position across the Caribbean and South America.
Other nations such as Brazil and Colombia are moving towards similar models, combining satellite with terrestrial infrastructure. But few have acted as swiftly or decisively. Guyana is showing what digital transformation looks like when aligned with national goals and visionary leadership.
This vision extends beyond fibre cables and satellite dishes. It’s about education, e-health, smart agriculture, and e-government services that work for every citizen, coastland and hinterland alike.
With oil revenues being strategically reinvested, Guyana has seized the opportunity to build a telecom network that reflects its growth, ambition, and identity. The foundation is already being laid with leadership that sees beyond the present. By continuing this approach—welcoming innovation, pursuing telecommunications redundancy (via competition), and securing our data and networks—we can en-
sure that the digital Guyana of tomorrow is inclusive, efficient, and sovereign.
Telecommunications is the lifeline of a modern state. It drives health, education, commerce, and even national security. With the proactive steps already taken by the Government of Guyana, we are on the path to creating a smart, connected nation that leaves no region behind. Guyana would do well to continue in this direction—with innovation, with unity, and with national pride. Because Guyana’s future is not only bright—it is connected, it’s wholesome, and it is assured. Today, Guyanese, both within Guyana and beyond, are witnessing the gateway to a whole new era as the vision of One Guyana unfolds.
Guyana’s forward motion towards the new world is a momentum we must maintain. The benefits of these initiatives will ensure that Guyana will project a better quality of life for its nation. Unity equals strength, One Guyana we pledge.
Sincerely, Dr. Walter H. Persaud - Business Development Executive Steve Senwasane –Director Raphael Ready- Chief Executive Officer, Ready Builders & Information Technology Specialists
Fake news more than just a nuisance
FAKE news is more than just a nuisance; it's a global contagion. Fuelled by the viral nature of social media, disinformation spreads faster than facts, distorting reality, sowing division, and fuelling violence.
We don’t have to look abroad for evidence; we need only reflect on what transpired in the hours and days following the tragic death of Adrianna Younge. With a sizable share of our popula -
tion relying heavily on smartphones for news and information, it's little surprise that falsehoods flourished, and misinformation outpaced facts following the death of the 11-year-old.
That all may come across as too abstract. The reality is that disinformation surrounding this child’s death sparked public hysteria, and that hysteria ignited protests across the country. But even that feels too detached. The truth is, people died. Many others were injured, arrested, and charged with destroying property, and we are not out of the woods yet.
Disinformation thrives when we choose to ignore facts and allow emotions to drive our actions. You can assemble the most qualified forensic pathologists in the world to conduct a thorough autopsy to determine the cause of death, and still, the epidemic of outlandish claims will spread like wildfire.
There are several reasons for this trend. For one, newsrooms around the world are shrinking, leaving fewer journalists to uphold long-established guardrails; a mix of ethical codes, verification protocols, and editorial oversight designed to ensure accuracy and accountability.
In Guyana, a growing number of spirited “citizen journalists” operate as if they’re professional reporters, but without any of the guardrails. Last Monday, I watched a live interview streamed from the grounds of the Georgetown Pub -
lic Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The interviewee was intoxicated. The so-called digital reporter, one of many who’ve taken up the mantle of civil journalism in Guyana, warned his subject not to use profanities and went on to scold viewers who flooded his comment section with racist and hateful messages. There were hundreds. He then threatened to take action against them; perhaps his pre-emptive excuse should Facebook’s Community Enforcement Standards team come calling.
With user-generated content now pervasive, public institutions must remain alert. And that leads to the second, more sobering challenge: In Guyana, trust in key public institutions is badly frayed. If a poll were to be conducted, it would almost certainly reveal widespread public distrust of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). A vast number of Guyanese don’t believe the GPF has been living up to its motto to serve and protect.
Restoring public trust in the GPF; a cornerstone of national security, requires two key actions: Sustained community engagement, and a credible, transparent communications strategy. Only days ago, President Irfaan Ali and his Cabinet publicly acknowledged the urgency of better public messaging by the GPF. By that, they mean sticking to the facts without compromising the ongoing investigation. It has been proven, time and again, that when facts
are presented, gossip, speculation, and hearsay are pushed to the margins of society.
In the case of a dead child in a swimming pool at a hotel in Tuschen, the GPF communication branch went AWOL. It was shocking, if not downright embarrassing. In a country on a fast track to prosperity, I am curious to know what happened to GPF’s communication team.
Community engagement is just as vital as clear communication when it comes to building public trust in Law Enforcement. Yet, the Guyana Police Force often appears to operate in isolation from civil society. There is ample research demonstrating that policing becomes significantly more effective when police forces actively engage with community stakeholders. Let me illustrate with a telling example.
In 2009, leaders and parents within Canada’s Somali community began voicing their frustration over the lack of police response to a disturbing string of murders in Edmonton, Alberta. At the time I was assigned to the story, a growing number of Somali-Canadian men, many originally from the Greater Toronto area, had been murdered under mysterious circumstances. Neither the Edmonton Police Service nor the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), incidentally, the same force now being proposed by some in the APNU+AFC to investigate Adrianna’s death, had any leads. The
murder toll eventually surpassed 30.
Rather than acknowledging its investigative blind spots, law enforcement blamed the Somali community for being uncooperative, and dismissed the killings as gang-related, effectively writing them off. That indifference persisted until 2012, when Christopher Husbands, a Guyanese immigrant, opened fire in Toronto’s busy Eaton Centre food court. One of his victims was later identified as the triggerman behind the Edmonton murders. The spree ended not with policing, but by sheer coincidence.
Over several years, my reporting revealed a profound lack of trust between Somali elders and the police. A similar dynamic existed in Minneapolis, Minnesota. But there, a different approach yielded dramatic results. When Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek hired just two Somali officers, the city saw a nearly 50 per cent drop in serious crime within a year.
My point is simple: When the GPF takes real steps to adopt an effective community strategy and engage civil society, we all stand to benefit, not just from better security, but from a public discourse that isn’t hijacked by rumours of obeah and jumbie.
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.
Guyana: The rotten society
ONE of the most psychologically malignant things I see in this country is how people who are the problem in Guyana and that problem eats away at the fabric of society turn around and lift themselves so high as (in Barry Manilow’s famous song) when the stallion meets the sun and point to others as the problem.
Let’s quote from the Stabroek News’ (SN) editorial “All the rotten things” of May 1 (last Thursday): “Over the past eight days, much of what is wrong with Guyana has been on display.” The newspaper, no doubt, is referring to the Adrianna Young tragedy. So, let’s rewind the tape from May 1. This means that the newspaper refers to eight days, from Wednesday, April 23, to April 30.
The SN opined that in that period, much of what is wrong with this country was in full view. Here is what I will do now. Monday, April 28 to Saturday, May 3, (yesterday) is six days. Those past six days reveal in stark, sickening, mentally agonising ways what is wrong with this nation.
And what is wrong with
this nation includes that newspaper itself. It includes a human rights outfit named the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA). It takes in the Guyana Press Association and the degradation of journalism. It includes a party’s leadership named the Alliance For Change, the People’s National Congress, and certain civil society organisations. I could go on.
But if you sit down to chat with the management of the SN, the GHRA, Nigel Hughes, Red Thread, Dr. Clive Thomas, Dr. Alissa Trotz, Transparency Institute-Guyana Chapter, just to name a few and you ask them sincerely as a researcher if they think that they are part of the problem, that they contribute to the rotten things that form the title of the SN’s editorial, what do you think they would say?
They will evocatively tell you that Guyana has one problem, and all the rotten things stem from that one problem – the Government of Guyana. So here is what I will do in my capacity as a social activist of over 56 years, a media operative of 36 years and a trained academic since
I entered UG as a freshman in 1974. I will show you what is wrong with Guyana that has been on display for six days – April 28 to May 3, 2025.
In those six days, the SN has not featured one, not even one editorial about acid thrown on little children as part of the looting, robbing, burning and beating of innocent humans throughout many of the 10 regions of Guyana. A prominent city businessman told me a teenager was gang-raped that fateful, destructive Monday evening, but under no circumstances does the family want to go public. His wife knows the family.
As I told Dr. Baytoram Ramharack, when he contacted me, that is all the information I have and there are no details I can secure so far. I did tell Dr. Ramharack that maybe the President will have to persuade the family to go public. That is the inherent injustice with rape. The victim and her family feel ashamed and will not go public.
In what part of the world does a country endure the kind of ordeal Guyana faced last Monday, yet none of the private newspapers issue a
single condemnation? Yet the SN puts itself above society and tells Guyanese what is rotten in Guyana. So, what else is among the things that SN calls rotten? Six days have passed, and the GHRA has abstained from its favourite pastime – issuing press releases.
Let's describe what Nigel Hughes said in response to a question about the looting, robberies and application of bodily violence. He did not use the word PPP. He said one of the major parties, and he could not have been referring to the PNC, because the PNC was part of the press conference.
Hughes told Guyana that what occurred on Monday, April 28, was the work of agents provocateurs sent by one of those major parties. Hughes could not, at a conceptual level, condemn the low-life hooligans because, in effect, there were no lowlife hooligans beating and robbing people. The culprits were agent provocateurs.
So, there were no castiga-
Oil spill bill ensures effective management of Guyana’s energy sector
ON Monday last, the long-anticipated Oil Pollution, Prevention, Preparedness, Response, and Responsibility Bill was tabled in the National Assembly. This marked a historic and significant step in Guyana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen systems aimed at preventing and responding to offshore oil spills.
Once passed, the Bill will greatly enhance national preparedness and ensure that responsible parties are held accountable in the unlikely event of an oil spill. It forms a key part of the government’s broader strategy to effectively manage the energy sector. Oil companies operating in Guyana will be obligated to cover the cost of clean-up operations, undertake environmental
restoration as far as possible, and compensate affected individuals.
The legislation sets out a comprehensive national legal framework for oil spill prevention, preparedness, response, and compensation. It designates the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) as the national authority responsible for coordinating response efforts and mitigating the impact of any spill. A formalised National Oil Spill Committee within the CDC will oversee the development of an Incident Command System and lead regular training and drill exercises to ensure readiness.
This Bill also responds to concerns raised by critics about Guyana’s ability to protect both its citizens and neighbouring countries in the
event of an offshore spill. In support of national preparedness efforts, ExxonMobil Guyana and its co-venturers have pledged a comprehensive financial assurance and insurance package. This includes US$100 million in liability coverage for oil spill incidents, US$500 million for operator’s extra expense insurance, and a US$2 billion affiliate company guarantee to reinforce their commitment.
Guyana has also taken a major step forward by becoming one of just 13 countries in the world to have a capping stack on hand. This vital piece of equipment is designed to swiftly halt the flow of oil from a well in the event of a blowout, thereby limiting any potential damage. The capping stack
tions of those who set out to destroy Guyana last Monday. Mr. Aubrey Norton, prior to Hughes’ denial, echoed the agent provocateur explanation. We are indeed a rotten country when a human rights organisation refuses to comment on one of the world's most blatant attempts to rig an election. We are a rotten country when the central body of journalists elects itself. We are a rotten nation
when trade union leaders have been in office for over 35 years. The past six days showed the real rottenness in Guyana.
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.
is part of a broader oil spill response system that includes continuous drills and preparedness activities executed both onshore and offshore by the CDC.
The Oil Pollution, Prevention, Preparedness, Response, and Responsibility Bill 2025 is a transformative development in Guyana’s energy landscape. It strengthens an already evolving framework put in place by both the government and industry operators to safeguard the environment and public welfare. With these systems in place, Guyanese and neighbouring countries can feel reassured that comprehensive mechanisms exist to protect their lives and livelihoods.
Seeking justice & peace for little Adriana Younge
TOMORROW, Guyanese from all walks of life will celebrate the life of 11-yearold Adriana Younge as she is laid to rest. The family have planned a fitting sendoff that is suited to her after the last two weeks. She will receive glowing tributes, and the call will ring out for justice for Adriana.
And, now that three international pathologists have said that she died as a result of drowning, there is some peace. Yet still, there are now more questions that remain than answers. The public and the family need answers, and they need them now. They need to know that since the pathologists gave the cause of different as drowning, whether this rules out a homicide investigation. They would honestly like to know whether the request made through the lawyers for the probe will take on an international and independent face.
As Adriana is going to be laid to rest, that family is urging that there be no protest, and for peace to reign while the government and the Guyana Police Force move ahead with the next stage of the investigation into her death. Adriana’s family made it clear that they want no violence and no misdemeanours from the public. Also, no incitement or acts of public terrorism must take place in the name of Adriana; no robbing or looting that will seek to further blemish her good name. Firstly, the public stood in utter shock and bewilderment as a group of opposition politicians, loyalists, and groups sought to justify the so-called ‘scrape mentality’ in Guyana as they pursued scoring their cheap political points. Dr. Terrence Campbell and Dorwin Bess should be ashamed of themselves for seeking to normalise and justify the behaviour of the
men and women referred to as ‘scrapes’. These men can never be taken seriously by any right-thinking and decent Guyanese who love their country and want to see it developed.
The public was mortified to see the leader of the Alliance for Change Nigel Hughes, and former PNC-APNU+AFC Ministers
Catherine Hughes, David Patterson, Annette Ferguson, Dawn Hastings-Williams and Simona Broomes in the same gathering as people justifying the ‘scrape mentality’. While they acknowledge the comments made by Broomes and Hughes, the public will in no way acknowledge the ‘scrape mentality’.
Some fail to appreciate the link between ‘scrapes’ and the death Adriana and other Guyanese, while others fail to see how her memory is honoured through the opportunistic and vile actions of ‘scrape-heads’ or the ‘scrape
mentality’. The objective Guyanese also do not appreciate that rioting, looting and robbing innocent Guyanese is the way to seek justice for Adriana, and get the attention of the authorities, which the group claims have been “neglecting the scrapes”.
Let the record show that the majority of the public supports, wholeheartedly, the peaceful movement for justice for Adriana. They support her family every step of the way in getting to the bottom of how their daughter died. The public supports Guyanese in their vigils and other peaceful pickets against this seeming injustice that was meted out in this instance. The public stands with them, and believes that wrong is wrong, and could never be made right.
Yet, the public does not support justifying violence and criminality or ‘scrape mentality’. They do not sup-
port the acts of arson, theft, and other despicable illegal acts that occurred on the day of terror and autopsy. They do not support the destruction of private and public property, stealing of items from stores and setting parts of critical infrastructure ablaze.
Secondly, the public will never support the idea of calling for ‘scrapes’, the perpetrators of these crimes, to be seen not as criminals, but as untapped potential. Therefore, a majority of the public supports the Guyana Police Force taking action against each and every one who participated in wreaking havoc on innocent Guyanese and businesses. This is not to say that they are not suspicious of the police, or that lack of trust does not exist.
The majority of Guyanese reject this aspect of the ‘scrape mentality’ that links bad, unruly and criminal behaviour with inaction on the part of the authorities. We should never praise this behaviour or condone it. The public does not want to see this “untapped potential”; if this is what the “scrape mentality” shows the public it is.
Guyanese must condemn the looting and destruction of private and public property, even as they are aware that there were opportunists who infiltrated the peaceful protest. After all, ‘Scrapes’ or ‘Scrape-Head’ is a derogatory term or insult often used to describe people who are involved in criminal activities, or viewed by society as troublemakers or delinquents. Simply put, it means calling the actions of this group of people ignorant and foolish.
The public must not believe in labelling or calling oneself a ‘scrape’ or ‘scrapehead’, and in referring to people, particularly disadvantaged youth, in such a way. Many of the young people who are called this way, the public believes, have gone to school and know right from wrong. They have the commonsense to appreci-
ate that they are making bad choices.
They are urged to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to them at the community and national levels to change the trajectory of their lives. Youths must be allowed to express themselves, but within the confines of the law.
Thirdly, Bess and the group may “stand with the scrapes”, but all peace-loving, pursuers of justice, decent-minded people are standing on the side of the law. However, even though they said they were against the violence and destruction, their intent was on riling up the people to continue the protests, because it served all of their political purposes. Telling them to “rise” or claiming that they “are not calling for an end to protest, but a rise in purpose” is evidence enough for me.
Going to Tuschen and holding a press conference near the hotel where Adriana’s body was found is just their desperation seeping through their cold veneers. It was politically immature and nasty. It is not symbolic. It is playing petty politics, and making it clear that this isn’t about justice for Adriana. Her death is being used as ‘collateral damage’, if it will help these so-called political patriots achieve their aim of winning the upcoming elections.
Finally, Guyanese will ensure that justice does not slip away from our grasp. Guyanese have to think strategically, intelligently and act wisely. Justice is only attainable if Guyanese are allowed to peacefully demonstrate while others go about their day. Justifying “scrape mentality” is justifying violence, criminality. Point blank.
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.
No journalist in Guyana is harmed or in danger for reporting the truth
- Minister Mc Coy
- Media stalwarts receive awards
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information and Public Affairs, Kwame Mc Coy, has said that in a world where journalists continue to face grave threats for doing their jobs, Guyana stands as a notable exception.
Mc Coy made this known while addressing a gathering of media professionals on Saturday at a brunch hosted by President Dr. Irfaan Ali at State House in celebration of World Press Freedom Day.
“Around the world, dozens of journalists have died this past year in war zones, in detention and at the hands of regimes that fear the truth,” he said. The minister stated that these men and women were not mere casualties of
have no such case where our journalists are harmed based on what they report.”
Against this backdrop, he emphasised the importance of responsible journalism and underscored the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration’s policy of embracing the freedom of the press.
“Sometimes it's not always the reports that align itself with the truth and reality, but you will never find us at any time in our history or in future as the People’s Progressive Party Civic government harming our journalists because of what they report,” he affirmed.
Further to this, he reiterated that the government embraces the freedom, celebrates the freedom with
cally and professionally, we thank you sincerely.”
Meanwhile, the Minister stated that as Guyana continues to participate in regional and international bodies like the Media Freedom Coalition, he called for continued unity in advancing a free, fair and ethical media landscape.
“Let us recommit to a media landscape that is free, but also fair, open, but also honest,” he said.
Meanwhile, during the brunch, several media professionals were recognised for their exemplary contributions to the media landscape in the country. President Ali presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Ronald ‘Ron’ Robinson; the Excellence in Media Award
Media award to the Editor-inChief of the
conflict but were guardians of public trust.
Contrasting Guyana’s media environment with more hostile global landscapes, Mc Coy reaffirmed the government of Guyana’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom.
He said, “In Guyana, we
journalists and looks forward always to working with them.
To this end, he expressed appreciation to members of the press and stated, “To all the journalists and media workers… who have walked the beat, told stories and held power to account, ethi-
was presented to Zenella Tamaira Marks (NCN), Merrano Isaacs (NCN), and Tusika Martin (Guyana Times/ TVG/iNews).
Guyana has increased its position in this year’s World Press Freedom Index, now ranking 73rd out of 180 countries. This is an
improvement from its 77th position in 2024. Guyana scored 60.12 this year, a slight increase from last year’s 60.1.
Also present at the media brunch were the Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, government ministers, representatives from the diplomatic community and media fraternity.
President Ali presents the Lifetime Achievement Award to Ronald ‘Ron’ Robinson
Minister Mc Coy presents the Excellence in
Guyana Times/TVG/iNews, Tusika Martin
US$192M East Coast road expansion project on track for October completion deadline
THE US$192 million East Coast road expansion project from Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau is progressing steadily and remains on schedule to meet its extended October
31 completion deadline.
To accelerate construction, the contractor, China Railway First Group Co. Limited, has adopted a segmented approach, allowing works to be executed simul-
taneously across various sections. However, progress had temporarily stalled along the Plaisance to Bee Hive stretch, East Coast Demerara, due to homes and businesses obstructing the expanded road alignment.
The Ministry of Public Works has since intervened to have these structures removed or pushed back, with affected residents being relocated.
On Friday, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, led a site inspection to assess progress and address concerns from affected residents. He was accompanied by engineers
their continued cooperation to avoid delays to the construction timeline.
“We have gone ahead, there were 108 persons from Enmore to Belfield. Everybody has come in, signed, and settled, except one person. Everyone else has collected their monies based on the consultant’s calculations,” he stated.
Minister Edghill continued, “We are at the last stage now. We are kindly
where along the line, the government has to do the government’s work.”
Based on the latest project report, the physical progress of the expansion stands at 56.5 per cent, while the planned target for this phase was 89.1 percent. Minister Edghill affirmed that the pace of construction will pick up over the coming weeks.
Once completed, the massive but transforma-
and technical staff overseeing the project. During the visit, Minister Edghill met with the final five residents between Haslington and Victoria who are yet to relocate. He encouraged
asking everybody to wrap up in the next couple of days and push back. We don’t want to put anybody out of bread, that is why we made sure we made the arrangements, but some -
tive project is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion along the busy East Coast corridor, improving travel times and road safety for thousands of commuters. (DPI)
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, led a site inspection to assess progress and address concerns from affected residents
FAO food price index increases in April
(FAO) - The benchmark measure of world food commodity prices increased in April, driven by higher quotations for major cereals, meat and dairy products, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) reported on Friday.
The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a set of globally traded food commodities, averaged 128.3 points in April, up 1.0 per cent from March, and 7.6 per cent from the same month last year.
The FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 1.2 per cent from March. Global wheat prices edged up slightly, supported by tightening exportable supplies in the Russian Federation, while the FAO All Rice Price Index rose on stronger demand for fragrant varieties. International maize prices rose due to seasonally tighter stock levels in the United States of America. Currency fluctuations influenced price movements in world markets, while tariff policy adjustments raised market uncertainty.
The FAO Meat Price Index was up 3.2 per cent in April compared to March, with quotations rising across all meat categories, led by those for pig meat. Bovine meat prices also firmed, particularly in Australia and Brazil, amid steady global import demand and limited export availabilities. The FAO Dairy Price Index increased by 2.4 per cent in April from the previous month to stand as much as 22.9 per cent higher than a year earlier. The rise was led by international butter prices, which hit a new alltime high due to declining inventories in Europe. By contrast, the FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index declined by 2.3 per cent, though it remained 20.7 per cent higher than its year-ago level. Palm oil
- World cereal, meat and dairy prices up, while sugar quotations down
prices fell markedly due to seasonally higher outputs in major Southeast Asian producing countries, while global soy and rapeseed oil prices rose on the back of strong global import demand. Sunflower oil prices remained largely stable.
The FAO Sugar Price Index also dropped by 3.5 per cent from March, largely due to concerns over the uncertain global economic outlook and its potential impact on the demand from the beverage and food processing sectors, which together account for the bulk of global sugar consumption.
Cereal supply and demand in the year ahead FAO also released a new Cereal Supply and Demand Brief on Friday, with revised estimates for 2024 and fresh insights on cropping conditions and prospects for 2025.
FAO’s latest forecast for 2025 wheat production is pegged at 795 million tonnes, on par with the previous year. Prospects point to a record output in Asia, buoyed by India and Pakistan, improved conditions in southern Europe and North Africa, along with stable production in Canada and the Russian Federation. However, rainfall deficits in northern Europe and the Near East and drought concerns in the United States of America
are weighing on the overall prospects.
Harvesting of the 2025 coarse grain crops is beginning in the southern hemisphere, with maize output expected to increase in Brazil and South Africa. In the northern hemisphere, early expectations point to a 5 percent expansion in coarse grain plantings in the United States of America.
Meanwhile, FAO has slightly revised downward its estimate for global cereal production in 2024 to 2 848 million tonnes, even as global rice output in 2024/25 will likely expand by 1.5 per cent to reach record high of 543.6 million tonnes.
FAO’s new forecast for world cereal utilisation in 2024/25 stands at 2 870 million tonnes, a 1.0 per cent increase over the 2023/24 level, driven by expectations of higher feed use of maize in China and the Russian Federation, along with increased rice consumption in various African countries.
World cereal stocks are now predicted to decline by 1.9 per cent to 868.2 million tonnes by the close of the 2025 seasons, driving down FAO’s forecast for the world cereal stocksto-use ratio in 2024/25 to 29.9 per cent – still considered to be in a comfortable buffer zone.
FAO has slightly reduced its forecast for world cereal trade in 2024/25 to 478.6 million tonnes, which would mark a 6.8
per cent contraction from 2023/24, and the lowest level since 2019/20. Global trade in coarse grains is forecast to contract even
faster, due largely to lower demand from China, and smaller exportable maize supplies in Brazil. International trade in rice is now seen increasing by 1.2 per cent to a new record high of 60.4 million tonnes.
The Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), hosted by FAO, also published its monthly Market Monitor on Friday. In addition to the regular market analysis, the new issue includes a feature article examining fertilizer markets and global trade, which have been impacted by a host of geopolitical factors in recent years, and are poised to face increased uncertainty due to the evolving trade policy landscape.
Making cheese in Tunisia
President Ali touts fashion industry as catalyst for tourism & economic growth
- Guyana Fashion Council to be launched as Railway Courtyard to become new creative hub
By Shaniya Harding
FEATURING some of Guyana’s best designers and the nation’s top models, the Origins Fashion Festival kicked off in grand style on Friday evening. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the event sought to showcase Guyanese creativity across various realms of fashion. Delivering the keynote address, President Dr. Irfaan Ali said the event was more than just a step forward for the country’s creatives; it also serves as a vehicle for diversifying the nation’s economic and tourism landscape.
In his address at the Grand Railway Courtyard on Lamaha Street, the President underscored the government’s commitment to building a world-class fashion industry in Guyana, one that aligns with broader efforts in tourism devel-
opment and economic diversification.
“This event promises to be a vibrant celebration of creativity and talent. It offers the opportunity to showcase the dynamism of the fashion industry and highlight the role of fashion as a catalyst for the diversification of our
tourism sector,” President Ali told an enthusiastic crowd of designers, models, cultural stakeholders, and international guests. The event brings together 38 designers and over 60 models to showcase a wide range of styles, including contemporary, avant-garde,
ful economic engine” capable of stimulating multiple sectors. With the global fashion event market projected to surpass US$200 billion by 2032, Guyana is aiming to claim its share.
“We are creating opportunities for talented fashion designers and models while stimulating the hospitality, retail, and service sectors. Fashion tourism has the potential to promote Guyana as a unique destination on the global fashion map,” he stated.
portunity to launch the Guyana Fashion Council that will work hand-inhand with the government as we build a market, as we invest in the industry itself,” President Ali shared.
He explained that the Grand Railway Courtyard will be transformed into a creative hub where local designers and artisans will have access to essential equipment, facilities, and platforms to produce and market their products.
traditional, and costume design. The festival also includes workshops on textile identification, sustainability, AI in fashion, and industry development.
President Ali emphasised that fashion is more than just aesthetics, describing it as a “power-
Central to the President’s vision is the establishment of a supportive ecosystem for creatives. As part of this effort, he announced the formation of the Guyana Fashion Council, a body that will work hand-in-hand with the government to guide investment, infrastructure, and market development in the fashion industry.
“This gives us the op-
“This gives us the opportunity to launch a space of creative talent; where anyone with a creative talent in the fashion industry can walk in, use those facilities, create what they think can be a successful product, and have the avenue through which they can market it.”
A festival catalogue featuring designers from across Guyana and the diaspora was also unveiled, with QR codes linking directly to creators’ platforms to encourage local and international support.
“Scan that barcode, follow them, keep abreast with their product, and buy from our designers. They are creative, they are good, and they know what they’re about,” the President urged attendees. President Ali concluded with a call for collective participation in elevating Guyana’s fashion industry, emphasising the values of unity, creativity, and economic empowerment.
“Let us build this together, stronger together, as we move forward together as a people. One love, one Guyana, fashion for all in the world.” The Origins Fashion Festival continues this weekend with runway shows, design expos, and interactive sessions aimed at fortifying Guyana’s place in the global fashion arena.
Striking a pose on the Origins runway, more than 60 of Guyana’s best models showcase the bold creativity of Guyana’s fashion scene (Guyana Fashion Festival photos)
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, at the launch of the Origins Fashion Festival
Minister Ramson announces
100 more community grounds to be upgraded -
DURING a visit to Region Six (Corentyne-Berbice) on Saturday, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., announced that President Irfaan Ali has tasked him with upgrading 100 grounds across the country.
The minister stated that each of these grounds will be equipped with modern lighting infrastructure, ensuring they can be utilised safely and effectively during both day and night. This move is part of the government’s broader commitment to youth development, community engagement, and the promotion of sports at the grassroots level.
According to Ramson, before this initiative, 75 grounds were upgraded across the country. Touching on the new initiative, Charles stated, “that process is actually going to commence now.”
At the Skeldon Back Centre Ground, one of the facilities selected to be outfitted with new lighting systems, Minister Ramson noted that the project is scheduled for completion in July. He expressed optimism that, should all proceed according to plan, the installation could
be finalised as early as June.
The Sunday Chronicle understands that 22 grounds will benefit from upgrades in Region Six. During his visit, Minister Ramson inspected five community grounds as part of the ongoing national enhancement initiative. He
emphasised the importance of these on-the-ground engagements, explaining that his presence in the communities allows him to directly consult with residents and local athletes who actively use the facilities.
This participatory ap-
proach, he said, ensures that community members have a voice in the decision-making process, particularly in selecting the most suitable locations for the installation of the lighting fixtures. Ramson stressed that in -
volving the public not only fosters transparency but also strengthens the sense of ownership and pride in these upgraded spaces. Minister Ramson also handed over sporting gears at the various locations.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. meeting with residents at the Skeldon Back Centre Ground
GPF continues community outreaches as calm returns
AS calm and normalcy return to the streets of Guyana, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its ongoing efforts to foster safer communities and enhance public trust. From April 30 to May 2, 2025, ranks of the GPF conducted a series of impactful outreach initiatives across several East Coast Demerara communities. These activities included walkabouts, face-to-face engagement with residents and businesses, and a roadside lecture promoting traffic safety, all coordinated by officers from Regional Division 4C.
Following a few days of unrest, April 30, saw several teams of officers visiting communities such as Dazzel Housing Scheme, Cane Grove, Paradise, Vigilance, Annandale, Lusignan, and Nonpareil. Led by Inspector Sardinha and supported by Sergeants Robbins, Tyndale, and Austin, along with Corporals Hitbaran, McKenzie, and other ranks from the Enmore, Cane Grove, Vigilance, and Annandale Police Stations, the officers conducted walkabout exercises and engaged directly with residents.
A press release from the
force noted that the initiative was warmly received by community members, many of whom expressed appreciation for the visible presence of motorcycle patrols during both day and night.
The release noted that residents took the opportunity to share concerns, make suggestions, and commend the police for maintaining an approachable presence. Officers responded by addressing issues and offering practical guidance on crime prevention and public safety, further strengthening the relationship between the police and the public.
On the same day, another outreach was conducted in the Enterprise/Nonpareil, Mahaica, and Cane Grove areas. This initiative was led by Sergeant Fraser, Sergeant Williams, Corporal McKenzie, and Corporal Calendar. Officers spoke with residents and business owners about the importance of vigilance, especially regarding suspicious behaviour.
The release noted that social concerns, including domestic violence and conflict resolution, were also discussed. According to the press release, the officers
provided advice on home and business security, as well as the importance of promptly reporting unusual activities. The community responded positively, praising the proactive approach taken by the ranks.
On Friday, May 2, the focus shifted to road safety. Inspector Scott and Constable Giles of the Beterverwagting Traffic Department conducted a brief but impactful traffic awareness session along the Beterverwagting Public Road. Under the 2024/2025 Road Safety Theme, “Do the Right Thing,” drivers were reminded to keep their vehicle documents current, avoid speeding, and never drive under the influence of alcohol. Officers also emphasised the importance of covering loose materials in truck trays, adhering to police signals and road signs, and practicing the “Five C’s” of road safety: care, caution, courtesy, consideration, and common sense.
These outreach activities highlight the Guyana Police Force’s commitment to rebuilding public confidence, enhancing community relations, and promoting safety through visibility and dialogue.
Officers engage residents and drivers across East Coast communities to rebuild trust, promote safety, and maintain peace
Activities by the Guyana Police Force included a roadside lecture promoting traffic safety
Port Kaituma shop owner arrested following discovery of cannabis
The cannabis discovered by the police
POLICE in Regional Division #1, on Friday, seized over 25 grams of suspected cannabis from a shop owner in Port Kaituma during a search of the premises.
According to police, the shop owner voluntarily handed over two Ziplock bags containing suspected cannabis. However, during a further search, the ranks discovered a bulky plastic
bag that also contained additional Ziploc bags filled with the suspected illegal substance.
The shop owner was cautioned and arrested. When weighed, the narcotics amounted to approximately 25.3 grams. He was subsequently placed in custody pending charges (s). Investigations are ongoing.
LBI man remanded on gun, cannabis charges
TOUSSAINT Williams,
a 29-year-old Supernumerary Constable and resident of Lot 37 Ujama Housing Scheme, LBI, East Coast Demerara, was on Friday charged with the possession of a firearm without a licence, possession of ammunition without a licence, and possession of 23 grams of cannabis.
He appeared before Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court #1, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. Williams was remanded to prison until his next court appearance scheduled for June 3, 2025.
According to reports from the Guyana Police Force, on April 30, 2025, at around 21:00 hrs, police ranks from the Spar-
endaam Police Station were on mobile patrol at Industry Crown Dam, East Coast Demerara, when they observed Williams acting suspiciously.
Williams was stopped and searched by the ranks, during which they discovered a transparent plastic wrap containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis in his pocket. A further search revealed a .38 revolver with six live matching rounds of ammunition. The serial number of the firearm was not visible.
Williams was arrested and taken to the Sparendaam Police Station, where the suspected narcotics were weighed in his presence and found to amount to 23 grams.
Toussaint Williams
Man found not guilty in 2020 New Market St. murder
SHAWN Small, who had been on trial for the 2020 murder of 43-year-old Bharrat Dass, was found not guilty by a jury on Friday at the Demerara High Court.
During his arraignment last month before Justice Jo Ann Barlow, Shawn Small, represented by attorney Kiswana Jefford, entered a not guilty plea to the charge.
Small, a man in his late 20s, was last known to be living at D’Andrade Street, Newtown Kitty, Georgetown. He was charged with felony murder in relation to a robbery that allegedly took place on November 5, 2020, at New Market Street, Georgetown, during which Bharrat Dass was stabbed multiple times.
Reports stated that, on the day in question, November
5, 2020, Small, along with other persons, was drinking at Dass’ workplace at New Market Street, Georgetown. All of Dass’ drinking partners later left.
Small, it is alleged, subsequently returned and inflicted several blows to Dass’ head before escaping with his cellular phone and money. Dass, who was injured, was discovered by his son and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he succumbed to his injuries on November 11, 2020.
The matter was reported to the police, and an investigation was conducted. Consequently, Small was arrested and charged with the capital offence. After deliberations, however, the 12-member jury returned a not guilty verdict.
Shawn Small
Bharrat Dass
Justice Jo Ann Barlow
Shepherd mashes...
FROM BACK PAGE
hit his maiden IPL half-century, becoming the third-youngest player to pass the landmark at 21 and 192 days.
He was caught by Brevis off Matheesha Pathirana for 55 just short of the halfway mark, with Chen-
nai then putting on a strong bowling display that stalled their opponents' innings.
Having been 97-1, RCB found themselves 159-5 with 12 balls to go, but Shepherd was to step up in spectacular style.
He blazed four fours and six sixes, with Khaleel
Ahmed's penultimate over going for 33 and Pathirana's last six deliveries costing 21.
Ayush, 17, almost stole the limelight, hitting 14 boundaries before he was caught in the deep by Krunal Pandya trying to reach a first IPL century
with a six.
Ngidi finished with figures of 3-30 after trapping Brevis lbw and having dismissed Sam Curran earlier in the innings, but Dayal took the bowling plaudits as he closed out the victory with some steely death bowling.
The win sees RCB move up two places to first in the IPL table, rising above Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans, while Chennai, who are out of contention for the end of season play-offs, remain bottom with two wins from eleven games.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Sunday May 04, 2025) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Yusuf Pathan (RR) (2) Anil Kumble (RCB) Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who was declared Man of the Final in IPL 2010? (2) Who claimed the prize in 2011? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
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Independence Cup softball registration closes May 12
THE Demerara Softball Cricket Association (DSCA) will stage a grand threeday softball tournament in honour of Guyana’s 59th year of attainment of Independence.
ACCORDING to organizer, Samuel Kingston, the tournament, which will feature three categories – Open All Stars, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50is set for May 24-26 and will be held at venues around Georgetown, including Queen’s College, Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), YMCA and Police Sports Club.
The three-day extravaganza is being held in conjunction with the DSCA and Cloud Nine Inc.
Entrance fee in each category is $50,000 with the winners guaranteed $200,000 and the winner’s trophy. The second-place team will also receive a trophy while there are incentive trophies for the Most Valuable Players (MVP), the best bowler and best batsman in each category. Interested teams are asked to contact Kingston on 619-5103. Registration closes on Monday, May 12.
Recent
Marco Invitational X1 cart off Shivanandan Madholall memorial game
MARCO Invitational XI carted off the 12th edition of the Shivanandan Madholall memorial match, played last Sunday at Reliance Sports Ground, Essequibo Coast.
The annual feature, played in memory of the former Guyana youth player, saw Marco XI defeating Anisa X1 by eight wickets.
Asked to take first strike, Anisa X1 reached a respectable 184 for nine from their allotted 20 overs. Marco X1 achieved the required target with 17 balls to spare, losing eight wickets in the process.
Kumar Das led the run chase with a fine 66 which was decorated with five fours and two sixes. Useful contributions came from Mark Austin and Rovendra Mandolall with 54 not out and 50 retired-out respectively. Austin, who represented Essequibo at the inter-county level, lashed six sixes and a four during his 18-ball knock.
Mandolall, the elder brother of Shivanandan and
who also donned colours for the Guyana national under-19 team, struck two sixes and three fours. The two added an enterprising 109 for the opening stand.
Earlier, Anisa X1 lost wickets at regular intervals and were 34 for five after the first eight overs with
Players from Marco’s X1 pose with their winnings
veteran left-arm bowler, Dhanni Deodath, causing the early destruction. However, Narendra Madholall, another sibling of Shivanandan, stabilised the innings with a disciplined 69, spanking five fours and four sixes. He received fine support from
Freddy Lall with 27 not out and Avinash Singh who contributed 19. Deodath ended with two for 21 while Sudesh Persaud, Rovendra Mandolall and Ravendra Madholall claimed two wickets each.
The winning and run-
ners-up teams were recipient of trophies. Rovendra Mandolall was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP), Deodath the best bowler and Das the best batsman. The three received trophies for their splendid efforts.
The Mandolall family
took the opportunity to express their gratitude to all the players for their participation in the game. Shivanandan, who represented Essequibo at all levels, died at age 30 in 2013 due to Malaria. Marco and Anisa are his two children.
Flashback:
Republic Cup Over-40 winners Ariel Masters, led by Samuel Kingston, pose with their winnings
Rockets beat Warriors to set up game seven decider
FRED VanVleet scored 29 points as the Houston Rockets beat the Golden State Warriors 115-107 to level their NBA playoff first-round series at 3-3 and force a deciding game seven.
Experienced point guard VanVleet starred for the Rockets, adding eight assists and eight rebounds to his points haul, while Alperen Sengun recorded a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds.
The Warriors held a commanding 3-1 lead in the series but have twice failed to close it out, losing to the Rockets in game five on Wednesday and again in game six on Friday.
Rockets head coach, Ime Udoka, said of VanVleet: "He's had some really good stretches lately. "He knows what it is. He's been a champion. Been there, done that. So I wouldn't expect anything
less than that from him."
Warriors coach, Steve Kerr, added: "I thought we got some good looks against the zone but then, once they pulled away by 10 or 12, it was easier for them to run us off the line."
The Rockets will host game seven Today, with the winning team to face the Minnesota Timberwolves who clinched a 4-1 win against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Fred VanVleet led the scoring for the Houston Rockets with 29 points
Popovich steps down as Spurs coach after 29 years
GREGG Popovich has stepped down from his position as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs after 29 seasons with the team.
On Friday the Spurs announced that Popovich, 76, will transition into the role of president of basketball operations at the organisation.
to the wonderful players, coaches, staff and fans who allowed me to serve them as the Spurs head coach and I am excited for the opportunity to continue to support the organisation, community and city that are so meaningful to me."
2025 NBA play-offs - they have not played in the post-season since 2019 - after finishing the regular season with a 34-48 record.
Mitch Johnson, who served as acting head coach after Popovich took a leave of absence following his stroke, will take over as head coach.
coach in 1996. He was the longest-serving active coach in any major US sport. The longest-serving NBA coach is now Erik Spoelstra, 54, who has led the Miami Heat since the 2008-09 season.
Over 29 seasons Popovich oversaw 1,422 regular-season victories - the most by a head coach in NBA history - and led the Spurs to five NBA championships, most recently in 2014.
"While my love and passion for the game re-
main, I've decided it's time to step away as head coach," said Popovich. "I'm forever grateful
Popovich has not been on the sidelines since suffering a mild stroke in November before a home win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In his absence the Spurs failed to reach the
Popovich arrived in San Antonio in 1988 as an assistant coach, and after a two-year spell with the Golden State Warriors, returned to the Spurs as head
Popovich led the US men's basketball team to gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a coach in 2023.(BBC Sport)
Royals Queens, Invaders through to
‘Essequibo Is We Own’ Female 10-10 final
ROYALS Queens and Invaders have advanced to the final of the inaugural Essequibo Is We Own female two-day 10-10 competition which is set for Sunday at Affiance/ Number 1 Ground, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
On Saturday at the
same venue, both Royals Queens and Invaders defeated Capoey in the semifinal segment. In the opening encounter, Royals Queens won by 34 runs while in the second fixture, Pitch Invaders were also dominant, winning by 55 runs. Adena Smith produced
an excellent all-round performance to lead Invaders while Heslyn Lucas scored 25 runs and took two wickets to be the player-of-thematch. Smith was chosen as the player-of-the-match for her all-round display. Meanwhile, nine teams will contest the opening category at various venues
tomorrow with the two top teams featuring in the final as well also at Affiance/ Number 1 facility.
In addition to those two categories, there will be an Over-40, 10-10 with three sides vying for a trophy and monetary prize.
Action is slated to commence at 9:00 hours.
Teams confirmed for the veterans are: Caribbean Cricket Club 2, Essequibo Legends and Untouchables.
Teams for the opening are: Queenstown/Ariel, Richmond, Paradise, Golden Fleece, Capoey Jaguars, United Titans, United Brothers and Renegades.
All three categories finals will be played at the venue mentioned above.
The Honourable Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. is expected to grace the occasion with other officials from Region Two.
Gregg Popovich became Spurs head coach in 1996
Kishane Thompson among four Jamaican podiums at Shanghai Diamond League
DESPITE not clinching any top spots, Jamaican athletes Danielle Williams, Kishane Thompson, Jordan Scott, and Rasheed Broadbell once again underlined their world-class status as they delivered the four podium finishes among a strong Caribbean contingent at the Wanda Diamond League in Shanghai on Saturday.
In one of the most anticipated events of the night, Williams, a two-time world champion, was gallant in her effort but had to bow to a blazing performance by American Grace Stark in the women’s 100m hurdles. Williams, who had edged Stark in the Diamond League opener in Xiamen, gave another technically sound display, but Stark turned the tables this time, storming to a Meet Record and World-Leading 12.42s.
Williams clocked 12.55s for a well-earned second place, while South Africa’s Marione Fourie rounded out the top three in 12.62s. Bahamian Devynne Charlton, still finding her form this season, placed seventh in a season’s best 12.78s.
Earlier, in his first 100m outing of the year, Thompson sent an early warning to his competitors, as he clocked a brisk 9.99s to finish second behind South Africa’s Akani Simbine (9.98s) in a tight finish. The legal 0.5 mps wind aided an exciting contest, where Botswana’s Letsile
Tebogo was third in 10.03s, and fellow Jamaican Rohan Watson took sixth in 10.18s.
Still buoyed by his win in Xiamen, Scott produced another podium performance in the men’s triple jump. Though not at his explosive best, the Jamaican managed 17.00m on his third attempt, which
proved good enough for second place. His other valid marks—16.66m and 16.52m — were below par by his high standards, and he fouled three times.
Portugal's Pedro Pichardo edged him with a season-best 17.03m, while China’s Zhu Yaming completed the top
three with 16.92m.
Meanwhile, Broadbell continues to build momentum as he turned in a season’s best 13.24s to finish third in a high-quality men’s 110m hurdles. American Cordell Tinch lit up the track with a World-Leading and Meet Record 12.87s, erasing the 12-year-old mark of China’s Xiang Liu (12.97s). Japan’s Rachid Muratake ran a tidy 13.10s to take second.
Broadbell's compatriots, Hansle Parchment was sixth in 13.32s, and Orlando Bennett finished eighth in 13.49s.
Elsewhere on the track, Jamaican standout Natoya Goule-Toppin ran a season’s best 1:58.43 in the women’s 800m to place fourth in a fast race won by Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma in a Meet Record and World Leading 1:56.64. Duguma lowered the previous best of 1:58.58 set by Morocco’s Hasna Benhassi in 2005. Australia’s Sarah Billings (1:57.83) and Uganda’s Halimah Nakaayi (1:58.39) were second and third, respectively.
Grenada's Kirani James ran a solid 44.94s to place fifth in the men’s 400m, as
the USA’s Christopher Bailey took the win in 44.17s. The Botswanan pair of Bayapo Ndori (44.32s) and Busang Collen Kebinatshipi (44.63s) were second and third, respectively.
In the men’s 400m hurdles, Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands registered 49.15s for fifth, as Norway’s Karsten Warholm obliterated the field in a World Leading 47.28s. Brazil’s Matheus Lima, with a personal best of 48.08s, was second, and Sweden’s Carl Bengtstrom was third in a season’s best of 48.72s.
Finally, Jamaica’s Danniel Thomas-Dodd was unable to get into her groove in the women's shot put, as she finished ninth with a best of 18.21m. American Chase Jackson won with a mammoth 20.54m, also a new Meet Record. Jackson bettered the previous mark of 20.23 set by China’s Lijiao Gong in 2015, as Netherlands’ Jessica Schilder (19.77m) and Sweden’s Fanny Roos, with a National Record of 19.66m, took the runners-up spots. (Sportsmax)
Shami’s form a concern for India as England tour nears
HAVING made his comeback to international cricket at the ICC Champions Trophy, Mohammed Shami has been firing under the radar in the ongoing Indian Premier League season. With the high-profile tour of England on the horizon, India will be boosted with veteran quick Mohammed Shami back in the mix.
Shami, who had been out of action for over a year’s time following the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup owing to a knee injury, had returned back in Indian colours at the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy.
he came back from an injury last week or last month. He started playing domestic cricket last year and this is May already.
From his nine outings in the ongoing IPL season, Shami has only notched six wickets, averaging 56.16 at an economy rate of 11.23.
pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who had sustained a back injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year and missed out on India's Champions Trophy assignment but has since returned in the IPL.
India will also be bolstered by the presence of Mohammed Siraj, who is among the leading wicket-takers in the IPL this season - 14 dismissals from 10 outings.
"He's not looking good,"
As India wrapped up an unbeaten campaign to seal the title, Shami finished with nine wickets under his belt. However, the 34-year-old’s recent form in the ongoing IPL 2025 season will give India a cause to worry for the tour of England, believes former India opener Aakash Chopra.
Chopra told ESPN Cricinfo, elaborating on how the rightarm quick hasn’t been able to make an impact since his return to competitive cricket. "That's a big question there, no, because it's not like
On how his lean patch impacts India, Chopra added, “All of us were harping about the fact that [at the] Border-Gavaskar Trophy, [Jasprit] Bumrah was alone, there was no Shami, and if there was Shami how things would have been different. But will there be Shami [in England] is the question. And what kind of Shami?”
Another big name who is expected to make a return during the England Tests is
The pace spearhead, who was named ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year for 2024 and the Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year, had finished as the leading wicket-taker in the five-Test series Down Under - snapping an astonishing 32 scalps. Bumrah has picked 11 scalps from his seven games for Mumbai Indians in the league.
An elated Jasprit Bumrah speaks on the privilege of being honoured with multiple ICC awards for his incredible 2024 ICC Awards.
India also have multiple other avenues to choose from with the likes of Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana having featured in their last assignment in Australia.
In the latest edition of The ICC Review, former India head coach Ravi Shastri had also pointed out a couple of left-field picks in left-arm seamers Arshdeep Singh and Khaleel Ahmed. India will square off against England in the first Test starting June 20 in Headingley. (ICC Media)
India pacer Mohammed Shami
Kishane Thompson sent an early warning to his competitors
McKenzie, Andrew help Thunder end T&T Legions’ unbeaten streak
TAROUBA, Trinidad, (CMC) – MICAH McKenzie led with the ball and Jewel Andrew starred with the bat as the Leeward Islands Thunder inflicted the first defeat on the Trinidad and Tobago Legions in the West Indies Breakout League here on Friday.
Legions’ opener, Amir Jangoo, struck an enterprising half century as the home side posted 151 for eight from their 20 overs at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, after being sent in by the visitors.
McKenzie grabbed four wickets with his leg breaks to help orchestrate a middle order collapse that sucked all
of the life out of the Legions’ innings.
Andrew then struck 47 from 28 balls, as the Thunder comfortably chased down their target, finishing on 152 for seven with 18 balls to spare.
The Thunder handed the top-of-the-table Legions their first loss in four outings, while they remain the only unbeaten team in the competition with three wins from their three matches.
Jangoo was the mainstay of the Legions’ total, with his 52 requiring 39 balls and containing five fours and two sixes.
Together with Kamil Pooran, they took the Le -
gions to a comfortable position of 80 for two in the 12th over, during a 44-run partnership.
But things went downhill after McKenzie trapped Pooran lbw for six to grab his second wicket of the match.
McKenzie then had Jangoo caught five runs later, and with his next delivery he had Navin Bidaisee lbw for a first ball duck to see the Legions slip to 85 for five.
The home side was rescued by Johann Layne, who hit an unbeaten 22 off 10 balls and Joshua James, who finished on 13 not out from eight balls, after they fell into even further trouble at 114 for eight in the 18th over.
McKenzie finished with figures of 4-25 and Cameron Pennyfeather supported with
2-21. The Thunder found themselves in a spot of bother ear-
ly on when Shaaron Lewis dismissed Jaime
for a duck and Layne accounted for Mikyle Louis, to leave the score 24 for two.
But Andrew and opener Kofi James put on 62 runs for the third wicket to help them rebuild their innings.
And after James fell for 36 and Andrew lost his wicket for 47 to see them slide to 115 for four, Giovonte Depeiza scored 32 to carry them within sight of the finish, before losing his wicket with seven runs needed for victory.
Layne took 2-28 with his medium pace, while off spinner Navin Bidaisse claimed 2-36.
FIFA warns SVB of suspension if law courts interfere with elections
PARAMARIBO, Suriname, (CMC) – The Surinamese Football Association (SVB) could face a possible suspension from FIFA if the law courts interfere in its elections, which are due to be held on Friday.
In an official letter to the SVB, FIFA emphatically warned that any interference by the courts in the election process or in de-
cisions by the SVB could result in an immediate suspension of the association. The world governing body for football issued the warning following a decision by three football clubs – Real Moengotapu, Sophia’s Lust and Highway Star, to file a lawsuit with the National Court of Suriname after one candidate list for the elections was excluded by the SVB election
committee.
According to FIFA, this procedure before the regular court constitutes a direct violation of both the FIFA and SVB statutes.
In the letter, dated April 30, FIFA stated that the principle of independent sports governance is clearly laid down in Article 51 of its statutes, where it is prohibited to submit disputes to ordinary courts, including
for interim measures.
FIFA explained that conflicts within the football governing body must first be dealt with entirely through the internal procedures of the SVB and may only be submitted to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) as a last resort – unless national law explicitly provides otherwise.
FIFA further maintained that any form of ‘improper
third-party influence’ – including judicial interference – constitutes a violation of Article 14 paragraph 1 (i) and Article 19 paragraph 1 of the FIFA statutes.
“Such a violation may result in the suspension of the SVB, regardless of whether the violation is directly attributable to the SVB,” FIFA pointed out.
If suspended, the SVB would be banned from all
international tournaments and programmes, including the upcoming Gold Cup matches and the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.
Following the warning, SVB vice-president, Dayasankar Mathoera, called for the May 2 elections to take place according to statutory rules and without external interference.
Sabalenka beats spirited Gauff to win Madrid Open
ARYNA Sabalenka overcame a spirited fightback from Coco Gauff to claim her third Madrid Open title with a thrilling 6-3 7-6 (7-3) win.
World number one Sabalenka dominated the opening set but squandered a championship point in a fluctuating second set as Gauff forced a tie-break.
There was still little to separate them as Gauff recovered from 3-0 to make it 3-3 but a double fault
gave 26-year-old Sabalenka the victory. Both came into the final confidently, with Belarusian Sabalenka as
the world's best and Gauff coming off the back of her stunning semi-final win over Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka made a fly-
ing start, which included 17 points won in a row, but Gauff's brave recovery saw her take a 5-3 lead in the second set.
The 21-year-old American then saved six break points to thwart Sabalenka's comeback after she had made it 5-5.
But Sabalenka held her nerve under pressure in her sixth final of 2025 so far, adding the Madrid title to her wins in Brisbane and Miami.
Her previous wins in
Madrid came in 2021 and 2023 and she was runner-up to Swiatek in 2024.
She ties with Czech player Petra Kvitova (2011, 2015, and 2018) for the most wins in the tournament.
"Congratulations to Coco. I am so happy to see you back playing your best tennis,” Sabalenka said.
“You are such a fighter and I love playing against you.
"With my team, we
have been through a lot together so thank you to them."
Gauff said to Sabalenka: "I think its four straight finals for you... Congratulations to you for all the success you are having."
She added: "This has been a step in the right direction for me. It is one of my favourite cities and tournaments to come to, and hopefully we can go on and win more from here."
Cornelius
Aryna Sabalenka joins Petra Kvitova as the only player to win three Madrid Open titles
Jewel Andrew on the go during his knock of 47 against the T&T Legions (Photo courtesy CWI Media)
Shepherd smashes 14-ball 50 in thrilling RCB win
ROMARIO Shepherd hit the second-fastest half-century in Indian Premier League history as Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Chennai Super Kings by just two runs to go top of the table.
The West Indian batter was on one at the end of the 18th over, but finished with a superb 53 not out from 14 balls as RCB surged to 213-5. But bottom side Chennai almost pulled off a remarkable chase, as Ayush
Mhatre (94) and Ravindra Jadeja (77 not out) put on 114 for the third wicket.
Lungi Ngidi removed Ayush and Dewald Brevis with successive deliveries to leave the visitors 172-4, but Jadeja was joined by fellow veteran Mahendra
Rabada serving provisional ban for positive drug test
SOUTH AFRICAN fast bowler, Kagiso Rabada, said he was serving a provisional suspension for failing a drugs test.
The 29-year-old returned home from the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he was playing for Gujarat Titans at the start of last month to "deal with an important personal matter".
He has now confirmed it was because he "returned an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug".
Neither Rabada nor Cricket South Africa (CSA), which confirmed the findings of the test, has disclosed the drug or the length of his provisional ban.
Rabada is due to play in the World Test Championship final at Lord's, when South Africa will face Australia from 11-15 June.
"I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down," said Rabada, who has played 241 times for South Africa across all formats, in a statement released by the South African Cricketers' Association.
"I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. This privilege is much larger than me. It goes beyond my personal aspirations.
"I am serving a provisional suspension and I am looking forward to returning to the game I love playing."
Cricket South Africa said:
"The incident is regrettable,” and added
"However, Rabada has re-
assured CSA and his fans of his commitment to upholding professional standards and has restated his passion to the sport of cricket and the country he represents with purpose."
Rabada had been in good form and in October he became just the sixth South African cricketer to reach 300 Test wickets.
He was the quickest-ever cricketer to reach the landmark in terms of deliveries bowled, taking 11,817 balls.
He played in the Titans' first two IPL matches this season, taking two wickets before flying home.
It is unclear if he will return to the competition with the Titans this season, with four matches of the regular season remaining.
Rabada added: "Moving forward, this moment will not define me. I will keep doing what I have always done, continuously working hard and playing with passion and devotion to my craft."(BBC Sport).
Singh Dhoni and the pair dug in to leave their side needing 15 from the final over.
Yash Dayal conceded two singles and then removed Dhoni lbw for 12, but his next delivery was a waist-high no-ball that Shi-
vam Dube smashed for six.
But with only six from three balls required, Dayal recovered, his remaining deliveries going for a single each to secure a win that took RCB two points clear at the top of the IPL standings.
The competition's new leaders had got off to a strong start having been put into bat, with Jacob Bethell and Virat Kohli (62) putting on an opening stand of 97.
England batter Bethell
Latchman bowls Guyana Women to victory over Windward Islands
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC )– Nyia Latchman delivered a devastating spell of leg spin bowling that crippled Windward Islands Women and set up a straightforward victory for Guyana Women in the Women’s T20 Blaze here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field on Saturday.
Latchman tore through the Windward Islands’ lower order, grabbing 4-8 from her two overs to limit them to 61 for nine in a contest that was reduced to 13 overs due to persistent showers.
Needing 65 to win due to the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method, Guyana eased to 65 for three off 12 overs.
There was nothing to suggest the Windward Islands Women would be dismissed so cheaply when openers Nerissa Crafton and Japhina Joseph were busy adding 29 runs for the first wicket.
However, Sheneta Grimmond bowled Crafton and Jannillea Glasgow for 14 and one respectively, to leave the score 33 for two.
But from a score of 46 for two, the Windward Islands shockingly lost their last eight
Gajnabi scored an unbeaten 26 to lead Guyana Women to victory over the Windward Islands Women
wickets for 15 runs, thanks mainly in part to Latchman.
Joseph was needlessly run out for 17, before Ashmini Munisar snared the wickets of Afy Fletcher and Ashlene Edward in the space of three balls, to see the Windward Islands slip to 51 for five.
Latchman then accounted for the wickets of Earnisha Fontaine, Carena Noel, Zaida James and Niesha Cherry for the addition of just 10 runs to wrap
up the innings.
Realeanna Grimmond (30) and Shabika Gajnabi, who scored an unbeaten 26, then steered their side to victory in a 54-run partnership for the second wicket.
And even though Guyana lost Grimmond and captain Shemaine Campbelle in quick succession, the result was never in doubt as they reached their target with an over to spare.
Shabika
Kagiso Rabada made his international debut in 2014
Romario Shepherd had played in three 2025 IPL matches prior to facing Chennai Super Kings, not batting in any of them