Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 07-01-2026

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Guyana, US reaffirm commitment to 03 regional security, democracy, freedom No.108036

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–– Rubio praises President Ali for his leadership in regional security –– Dr Ali emphasises support for every effort to combat transnational crime

Work is progressing steadily on US$28 million Brickdam Police Station (Sachin Persaud photo)

Key extradition 02 documents tendered as exhibits PAGE

–– as Magistrate Latchman moves ahead with hearing after dismissing U.S.-indicted Mohameds’ bid to stall proceedings

MHSSS to expand empowerment Mohameds’ lawyers confident forecast 18 programmes for vulnerable raises concerns over 10 influence in legal matter groups in 2026 PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Key extradition documents tendered as exhibits - as Magistrate Latchman moves ahead with hearing after dismissing U.S.-indicted Mohameds’ bid to stall proceedings

Nazar Mohamed

PRIOR to the first witness’ testimony in the extradition committal proceedings against United States-indicted businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, another attempt by the defence to stall the process was shot down

by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman.

On Tuesday, the defence, in its attempt to delay the process, urged Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman to adjourn the proceedings, citing a series of pending legal challenges, including a constitutional motion, a judicial review application, and a notice of appeal filed with the Full Court.

The Mohameds are contesting their extradition to the United States, where they face

Azruddin Mohamed

charges of serious financial crimes, including money laundering, in a Florida court.

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, alongside attorneys Siand Dhurjon and Damien DaSilva argued that the committal hearing should be delayed until the High Court has addressed their constitutional motion and judicial review application, insisting that significant constitutional issues remain unresolved.

The defence also highlighted that on Monday, Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh refused to grant a stay of the extradition proceedings. Justice Singh ruled that while the Mohameds are entitled to pursue their constitutional challenge in the High Court, they had not satisfied the

Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman

Jamaican attorney Herbert McKenzie

stringent legal threshold required for interim relief.

He emphasised that the mere filing of constitutional proceedings does not automatically suspend concurrent statutory extradition processes, noting that stays in extradition matters are “exceptional, not routine.” Acting Chief Justice Singh is scheduled to hear arguments on the substantive constitutional matter next Wednesday.

Dhurjon further pointed out that the Mohameds’ legal team has sought a stay of the proceedings through multiple avenues, including their notice of appeal to the Full Court against the Chief Justice’s ruling, as well as through the judicial review application, both aimed at halting the extradition process.

In response, Jamaican attorney and prosecutor Herbert McKenzie submitted that

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde

filing an appeal does not trigger an automatic stay. Citing authorities from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Guyana’s highest court, McKenzie urged the magistrate to allow the extradition committal hearing to proceed without delay.

Prosecutor McKenzie also contended that no stay order had been issued by a higher court that the magistrate was required to follow.

CALL YOUR FIRST WITNESS After hearing arguments from both sides, Magistrate Latchman ultimately refused the defence’s request for a stay. She instructed the prosecution to proceed with the case, stating: “There is no stay granted in this matter. Prosecutor, call your first witness.”

Before the first witness was called, the prosecution was asked to outline the local equivalents of

Lead prosecutor, Jamaican King’s Counsel Terrence Williams

Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Co-operation, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards

the offences for which Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed are facing charges in the United States.

Lead prosecutor, Jamaican King’s Counsel Terrence Williams, detailed the alleged offences, while key diplomatic and extradition-related documents were tendered and marked as exhibits on Tuesday as the extradition committal proceedings against the embattled businessmen, formally commenced at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The prosecution’s first witness, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, testified as to her handling of documents received from the United States Embassy in Guyana, including a diplomatic note and accompanying materials linked to the extradition request.

Roopchand-Edwards told the court that she is responsible for “the financial, operational and technical matters at the ministry,” a portfolio that extends to Guyana’s foreign missions. She stated that the ministry is headed by Minister Hugh Todd.

While under examination by McKenzie, the witness was asked whether she recalled receiving any correspondence from the United States Embassy.

She testified that on October 30, 2025, she received an envelope containing a bundle of documents which, upon review, included diplomatic note number 417 indicating a request from the United States for the extradition of the Mohameds.

Roopchand-Edwards testified that once she confirmed the nature of the documents, she notified then TURN TO PAGE 4

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Guyana, US reaffirm commitment to regional security, democracy, freedom

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

–– Rubio praises President Ali for his leadership in regional security –– Dr Ali emphasises support for every effort to combat transnational crime PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, on Tuesday reaffirmed their nations’ deepening security partnership as both leaders committed to enhancing co-operation to counter transnational crime, protect regional stability and safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty.

According to a statement issued by the US Department of State and attributed to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott, Secretary Rubio spoke with President Ali to discuss strengthening bilateral security co-operation, commending the Guyanese Head of State for his leadership as a regional security partner and for Guyana’s expanding role in promoting stability across the Western Hemisphere.

“The Secretary reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to deepening security co-operation with Guyana to address shared challenges, including illicit narcotics and firearms trafficking, which threaten regional stability and economic resilience.

“Both leaders underscored the importance of continued collaboration to disrupt foreign terrorist organisations and transnational criminal networks, while strengthening law-enforcement capabilities and border security,” the US statement read.

In a statement issued

by Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation and attributed to Foreign Secretary Robert M Persaud, President Ali and Secretary Rubio also discussed recent developments in Venezuela and broader issues affecting the Western Hemisphere.

President Ali commended the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Secretary Rubio in reaffirming a shared commitment to freedom, democracy, and regional security, while reiterating Guyana’s steadfast commitment to working closely with the United States as a strategic and important security ally.

“President Ali reiterated Guyana’s steadfast commitment to working with the United States – the region’s strategic and important security ally.

The President re-emphasised Guyana’s support for every effort to combat transnational crime, including drugs and gold smuggling and narco-terrorism.

“The President also reiterated Guyana’s respect for the rule of law, free and fair elections, upholding of democratic norms and the furtherance of peace and prosperity for all the people of the region. President Ali welcomed Secretary Rubio’s reaffirmation of the US continued support for and partnership with Guyana in defence of our sovereignty and territorial

President, Dr Irfaan Ali and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio integrity,” the statement G u y a n a ’s C o m m a n d - ica (USA) to successfully said. er-in-Chief of the Armed capture Venezuelan PresBoth leaders commit- Forces had reaffirmed that ident Nicolás Maduro and ted to maintaining close the country’s top priority his wife. engagement on the issues continues to be the safety The Foreign Secretary discussed, as well as other and security of the nation of Guyana, Robert Persaud areas of mutual interest, and its citizens. corresponded President signalling continued moHe made these com- Ali’s statement via the mentum in Guyana–US ments while disclosing social media platform, X. relations anchored in se- that the regional developHere is the post in full: curity co-operation, dem- ments are being monitored “President Irfaan Ali: ‘We ocratic governance, and following the major mili- have been monitoring the regional stability. tary operation executed by situation #Venezuela all Over the weekend, the United States of Amer- morning. The priority is

the safety and security of our country. The Defence Board, the leadership of the GDF and our security forces are fully mobilised in accordance with our security plans. We have spoken to the SG (Secretary General) of CARICOM and as more information becomes available, we will further update the population.”

In a statement issued on Saturday evening, President Ali said the Government of Guyana continues to closely monitor developments and underscored that stability, respect for the rule of law and a democratic transition are critical to the future of Venezuela and the wider Americas.

President Ali reaffirmed Guyana’s support for efforts that uphold democratic norms and preserve the region as a Zone of Peace, while welcoming the leadership of the United States in reaffirming shared commitments to freedom, democracy and regional security.

He added that Guyana looks forward to constructive engagement in Venezuela’s next chapter in the interest of all Venezuelans.

On Monday, Maduro, 63 and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty in a New York federal court to four criminal counts that include narco-terrorism, cocaine-importation conspiracy and possession of machine guns and destructive devices.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Key extradition documents tendered...

FROM PAGE 2

Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond and delivered the documents to her on the same day. She added that she could not say what the minister did after receiving them.

The witness further testified that she also saw an Authority to Proceed (ATP), which she said she recognised from the minister’s signature.

An Authority to Proceed in extradition is a formal ministerial approval confirming that a foreign request meets legal requirements and signalling the transition of the matter from the executive or political level to the judicial process for committal proceedings.

She said that she was familiar with Walrond’s signature, having known her in a professional capacity. The ATP was subsequently shown to the court.

At that stage, one of Mohamed’s attorneys, Dhurjon, objected, contending that the

prosecutor was leading the witness.

He argued that Walrond was not Roopchand-Edwards’ subject minister and that insufficient foundation had been laid for the document to be shown to the court. Dhurjon questioned how the witness could be “so intimately familiar with the minister’s signature” and pointed out that she was not the author of the ATP. He further asked whether the prosecution intended to tender the ATP through the Permanent Secretary. When Prosecutor McKenzie confirmed that this was his intention, Dhurjon objected, arguing: “This witness cannot tender this document. Nowhere in her statement is there mention of the ATP.” In rebuttal, McKenzie submitted that the document could properly be tendered through the witness, relying on provisions of the Evidence Act and the Fugitive Offenders

(Amendment) Act. He also cited common law principles, arguing that documents may be identified by persons familiar with an author’s signature, noting by way of example that if the author of a document is deceased, someone familiar with the signature may still identify it in court.

The court then heard further testimony from Roopchand-Edwards regarding her familiarity with Minister Walrond. She said that she had previously worked under Walrond when Walrond served as Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, during which time Roopchand-Edwards was Permanent Secretary of that ministry.

She testified that she had seen the minister sign several documents. Despite this, the magistrate again declined the prosecution’s request to have the documents tendered even for identification purposes, ruling that they had not been properly identified.

In response, Prosecutor McKenzie pursued a further line of questioning aimed at satisfying the court

on identification. He asked Roopchand-Edwards whether she was aware of Minister Todd generating any documents.

She replied that she was aware he had signed off on a document. She said that she had become familiar with Todd’s signature through working closely with him over the past three months, and stated that she had also known his signature from the period when they both worked as lecturers at the University of Guyana.

Despite this, Magistrate Latchman refused the prosecution’s initial request to tender the ATP. Prosecutor McKenzie then shifted focus, asking the witness to describe the documents that accompanied the diplomatic note.

Roopchand-Edwards stated: “I can identify the documents through the yellow and red ribbons, a seal from the United States Department of State and the Secretary of State’s signature.”

She further testified that she perused the documents to ensure that they “synchronised with the diplomatic note.”

The prosecution again sought leave to show the diplomatic note and accompanying bundle to the witness. This application was met with further objection from Dhurjon, who argued that the documents bore no unique markings attributable to the witness.

McKenzie responded that there was no requirement for the witness to make the documents “her own” in order to identify them.

He submitted that this was not the only way a document could be conclusively identified and maintained that she had sufficiently identified the document.

The magistrate ultimately granted the application to have the documents shown to the witness. McKenzie then applied to have the diplomatic note and the bundle tendered and marked as exhibits.

Dhurjon again objected, this time on the basis that the chain of custody and nexus of evidence had been broken. He argued that after Roopchand-Edwards delivered the documents to the minister, she did not see them again until they were produced in court.

“These documents could have come from anywhere,” he contended.

In response, McKenzie argued that there was no requirement to establish a chain of custody in this type of proceeding.

Magistrate Latchman ultimately overruled the objections and admitted the diplomatic note along with the accompanying documents, which were tendered and marked as exhibits in the extradition committal proceedings against

Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed.

Roopchand-Edwards is expected to continue her testimony when the matter resumes on Thursday, as the prosecution indicated its intention to call under five witnesses, including a few police ranks.

The Mohameds— owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise—remain on $150,000 bail each, have surrendered their passports, and must report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station as the extradition proceedings continue.

They were taken into custody on October 31, 2025 following a U.S. request for their extradition.

U.S. prosecutors have accused the father and son of running an international criminal network with alleged links to high offices in Venezuela and the Middle East.

The pair face 11 criminal counts in the U.S. Southern District of Florida involving alleged wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and customs violations tied to what authorities describe as a US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme.

The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both men in June 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and public corruption.

The U.S. investigation dates back to the mid-2010s and involved multiple agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Department of Homeland Security.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Connectivity as the Foundation

THE commissioning of Paramakatoi’s $800 million concrete airstrip means much more than just an engineering achievement It shows how the government is redefining what real development looks like. For a region often held back by its geography, this investment turns isolation into empowerment and hardship into opportunity. The question is no longer whether Region Eight can contribute to Guyana’s national story; it absolutely can. The real question is whether we have the shared vision to take advantage of this moment.Think about the years of difficulties residents have faced. A bag of cement, a gallon of fuel, a box of medicine; these essentials cost a lot, not because they are rare, but because they have to overcome geographical challenges. The old airstrip, with its unreliable surface, forced operators to charge high prices as if they were taking a gamble. Medical evacuations were also risky, with weather determining if a child received treatment or an elderly person got critical care.

This wasn’t just inconvenient, it was a

burden on those who were less fortunate, a penalty for being born in the wrong place.The new runway fundamentally changes this situation. Larger aircraft can now operate year-round, unaffected by seasonal weather. Operating costs will drop, and President Ali has rightly stated that the government will ensure these savings benefit flight operators and not just add to their profits. This is strong economic management, making sure that infrastructural investments lead to real benefits for residents instead of just boosting corporate profits.However, the true potential of the airstrip goes beyond just lowering costs. Paramakatoi is near a tourism treasure that has mostly gone untapped due to challenging access. Travel demands have shifted toward authenticity and sustainability. Tourists now want genuine cultural experiences rather than artificial resorts. They seek immersive encounters with real ecosystems and living traditions. Paramakatoi offers this, unexplored trails, unseen wildlife, and cultural experiences deeply rooted in indigenous history.With reliable air

service, tour operators can create yearround travel packages. Local entrepreneurs can establish ecolodges without worrying that a bad rainy season will leave tourists stranded. Young Amerindian women like Louann Augustus, newly appointed as the region’s tourism coordinator, can build futures based on their own heritage instead of seeking opportunities elsewhere.

This is not about exploitative tourism; it’s about empowering tourism—where communities control their own story and benefit financially.The agricultural possibilities are equally exciting. Highvalue crops such as carrots, onions, and potatoes have struggled in Region Eight, not because the land is poor, but because transportation costs made them unprofitable. Solar refrigerators and refrigerated containers, along with reliable transport, create the right conditions for commercial farming. The Ministry of Agriculture’s three-month plan to develop a commercialisation strategy, focusing on youth and women, shows this is not just a one-time project but part of a real economic transformation.What makes this moment

particularly important is its philosophical foundation. The airstrip represents a belief: that remote areas shouldn’t be neglected, that indigenous communities deserve the same infrastructure as coastal areas, and that true national development happens when all regions succeed. This contrasts sharply with the past where development in remote areas was treated as optional or symbolic.The connectedness of these investments, the airstrip tying into the Karasabai runway, which connects to 29 new bridges toward Lethem, shows careful planning for regional integration.

This is infrastructure with purpose, not just building for the sake of building.As Paramakatoi begins a new chapter, it does so not as a charity case but as a player in its own future. The concrete supporting larger aircraft is literally the base for new opportunities. The real measure of success will not be the precision of the engineers or the efficiency of the contractors, but the living standards of residents who can now envision futures that were once just dreams.

Mohamed's eviction of persons troubling, disappointing

Dear Editor,

IT is both troubling and disappointing to witness a billionaire, Mr. Mohamed, attempting to evict poor and vulnerable families from lands they occupy, while at the same time being the holder of many other properties spread across this country.

Such actions sit uncomfortably with any public claim of love, compassion, or concern for the poor.

At a time when there are vulnerable

families struggling simply to secure shelter and stability, the pursuit of eviction against those with the least means raises serious moral questions.

One must ask plainly: is this the kind of love for poor people that Mr. Mohamed has professed in public?

True concern for the vulnerable is demonstrated not by words or political posturing, but by humane and fair action, especially when power and wealth are so unevenly distributed.

It is also important to note that the

Mohamed family is more than financially capable of engaging the proper legal process.

With their vast resources, access to legal counsel is not an issue. Evictions, if they are to be pursued at all, must follow the correct procedures of the courts, with due regard for the rights, dignity, and circumstances of those affected. Attempts to intimidate or pressure poor families outside of these lawful processes only deepen public concern and resentment.

Guyana is watching.

The public expects those with great wealth to exercise restraint, responsibility, and basic humanity.

Wealth should never be used as a weapon against the poor, nor should it place anyone above ethical conduct or the rule of law.

Yours faithfully, A Concerned Citizen

Gov’t to link hinterland regions to boost connectivity, improve cost of living

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

M I N I S T E R of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill outlined the government’s plan to better connect the hinterland regions, aiming to improve access to services and reduce living costs.

Speaking during a recent live broadcast, the minister said major infrastructure works to link Regions Eight and Nine are underway.

At the centre of the plan is the construction and upgrading of the Karasabai airstrip. The airstrip will mirror the construction of the Aishalton airstrip, aimed at improving air access to remote communities.

He also announced plans to construct 29 bridges between Karasabai and Monkey Mountain.

“Then getting that road pushed all the way down to Paramakatoi, connecting all of the villages,” he

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill during the engagement in Paramakatoi explained.

“It was an interesting disThis, he said, is critical to covery of a bag of cement long-term national devel- at one price, let’s say it opment, especially in cost is $1600 or $16,000 at reduction, as he pointed Lethem, but by the time to the high cost of basic it gets to Monkey Moungoods. tain, because of the cost of

transportation, the price is sometimes multiplied by four or by five,” he said.

The minister added that with the construction of this critical infrastructure, the impact will be almost immediate.

“When we improve those bridges and get the roads developed just like what has happened between Linden and Lethem, [where] we have built out the 45 bridges, and we are seeing now trucks, buses, cars, everything just moving, the same thing will happen. So, Region Eight will experience greater development,” Minister Edghill emphasised.

The public works minister said the new focus is to expand these roads to accommodate larger trucks, allowing goods to be transported more cheaply and efficiently.

“In the economy of scales, we will be able to bring prices down, cost of living in those areas will go down. While we may be spending money on Capital Investment, and some people who don’t understand the long-term goal and the long-term framework, when you can get more vehicles in, cut travel time and wear and tear on vehicles, the impact in the community

Hinterland Road

Internal Road in Monkey Mountain, Region Eight

is great,“ Minister Edghill said.

Beyond the development in Regions Eight and Nine, the minister highlighted ongoing road works linked to the proposed Corentyne River bridge, which is being pursued with support from the Surinamese government.

Roads are being developed from El Dorado to Orealla, with further connections planned to Siparuta and Kwakwani.

Minister Edghill said that the particular project is expected to reach its final award phase this year.

The consequences of Guyana’s unfortunate politics in 2025

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YOU can win an election not on your own substance, but based on the circumstances that favour you.

Had Jimmy Carter in 1980 concede the Democratic Party nomination to Edward Kennedy, Ronald Reagan would have been beaten badly. In 1980, a Kennedy name would not have lost.

In 2024, in the US, all the White liberals and White youths who voted for Barack Obama were gone from Kamala Harris. President Trump had a goldmine waiting for him.

The American people were disgusted with the senility of Mr Biden. They thought the Democratic Party should have replaced him long before the election date.

Secondly, America was not prepared for a Black woman president. How the Democratic Party could not see that reality simply showed that these people in the West think they are better than the peoples in the Global South.

The Kamala Harris defeat showed that their intellectual substance that they have shoved down the throats of the post-colonial world is more brittle than the intellectual fibre of the Global South.

Let’s look at how politicians can win votes not because they are made of sound stuff, but because circumstances shaped fate to provide huge advantages to them. The fight for electoral victory in 2025 in Guyana should have been between the PPP and an entity named, APNU+AFC. The prediction was that the PPP would win anyway. How good the APNU+AFC would have done was a ubiquitous curiosity.

The presence and popularity of Irfaan Ali made a PPP loss virtually impossible. But as it turned out, there was no APNU+AFC and if there were, they would have been no WIN. What happened in Guyana’s electoral pol-

itics last year is one of the saddest yet comical moments in the entire history of Guyana, both colonial and post-colonial. How did WIN come to have 16 seats?

An APNU+AFC coalition was what the anti-PPP voters wanted. Again, we must invoke the words of Vice-President Jagdeo.

He said there were voters who didn’t want to vote for the PPP, but they didn’t want to give their votes to the PNC. Why? Here are brief notes on why that happened.

The AFC told the PNC that its leadership was not politically attractive in Guyana. The AFC suggested that it was best that the APNU join with the AFC and have a consensus candidate from outside the PNC. The PNC told the AFC that the PNC was the bigger, more historic party, therefore by numbers, it must have the presidential candidate and that person must be Aubrey Norton.

The AFC told the PNC that was a naive reading of Guyanese politics. The AFC told the PNC Norton was not electable. The PNC informed the AFC that if Norton was not electable, so was Nigel Hughes.

At that stage, both parties were right.

Norton’s credibility had gone, but Hughes’ political standing in Guyana had disappeared.

But the AFC proved more flexible. The AFC dropped Hughes’s candidacy in place of another consensus candidate from outside. The PNC said it had to be Norton, and Norton it must be.

At that stage in Guyanese politics in 2025, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) received its trump card. What the opposition supporters and opposition voters wanted was an APNU+AFC ticket without Norton and Hughes.

They wanted something new, presentable and exciting. If the PNC and AFC had given opposition voters that new thing, there would

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

never have been a WIN party.

Despite his money train that never stopped running during the election campaign, Azruddin Mohamed would have fallen by the wayside if there was an APNU+AFC entity with someone as the presidential candidate without baggage and coming from outside the perimeters and parameters on the PNC and the AFC. The big story in Guyana in 2025 was the rise of WIN and what it did in three months that damaged the PNC. But there is more to this story and it needs to be told. There would have been no meteoric rise of WIN and the 16 seats it got would not have even been six had the PNC and AFC appeared as reasonable, credible people to their supporters.

Once more, Mr Jagdeo’s words rever-

berate. Mr Jagdeo said on election day, there were people who didn’t want to vote for the PPP, but couldn’t give their vote to the PNC. The reason for this was when they looked at the PNC and the AFC and saw the failure to seek compromise, they went into a mental vortex. They couldn’t vote for the PPP but couldn’t vote for what the PNC had become. I think as a Pavlovian reflex, they chose WIN without WIN having anything going for it.

That is why WIN will not survive beyond 2027.

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.

Paramakatoi residents to become key stakeholders in major quarry 9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

–– through partnership with private sector which includes training to manage operations, President Ali announces

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that residents of Paramakatoi (Region Eight) will ultimately become the owners of a major quarry, following a private-sector investment linked to ongoing infrastructural works in the hinterland.

The Head of State disclosed that the founder of International Import and Supplies, the company behind the nearly $800 million expansion of the Paramakatoi airstrip, has invested approximately US$2 million in establishing a quarry in the area.

Under a formal agreement, the contractor will manage the quarry for a five-year period alongside local residents, during which time persons will be trained in its management and operations.

At the end of that period, full ownership of the quarry, including its facil-

ities, will be transferred to the people of Paramakatoi.

“That’s $400 million from what I’m told and I am pleased to say that the contractor has entered into an agreement that for the next five years, or for five years, he will manage the quarry with the people, training the people in the management and operations of the quarry, and in five years, the quarry will be handed over to the people of this area,” the Head of State said.

He added: “This is the type of partnerships that are long lasting, the type of partnership that involves the private sector, government and the people… and it’s the same partnership we want in the aviation sector that when we invest and we build out, the people must feel the impact on that investment on their pockets.

“When we removed

President, Dr Irfaan Ali VAT that the last govern- President Ali added. ment, the APNU+AFC The President related [A Partnership for Na- that the initiative is part tional Unity+ Alliance of a broader model adoptFor Change] placed on ed by the government in hinterland travel, it is this hinterland road construcgovernment that removed tion, which has focused that VAT, and we want on skills transfer and longthat benefit to the people,” term employment.

He noted that nearly 2,000 hinterland residents across the country have been trained in construction, with close to

1,500 people employed on a permanent basis for most of last year through road-building projects in the region.

“Those are the quiet things that we do to benefit the people of these regions. So, my friends, Paramakatoi’s barrier to development has always been isolation because of access, isolated by terrain, hemmed in by mountains and separated from reliable river transport.

Paramakatoi has always been by geography a place apart,” Dr Ali said.

He reiterated that the quarry arrangement is a sustainable partnership among the government, the private sector and local communities, stressing that such collaborations are designed to deliver lasting economic benefits directly to the people.

According to the President, this same approach underpins investments in the aviation sector, ensuring that residents feel the tangible impact of development in their daily lives.

President Ali also highlighted measures taken by his administration to ease the cost of living for hinterland residents, including removal of the value-added tax on hinterland travel and the elimination of fuel taxes when international fuel prices rose, so that increased costs would not be passed on to consumers.

Turning to the broader development challenges facing Paramakatoi, the President said the community’s greatest obstacle has historically been isolation.

Surrounded by mountainous terrain, lacking reliable river transport and major highways, the area has long depended on difficult overland trails and air travel.

He emphasised that government investments in roads and airstrip infrastructure are aimed at overcoming these geographic barriers and opening up Paramakatoi to sustained economic and social development.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

MHSSS to expand empowerment programmes for vulnerable groups in 2026 –– initiatives to support women, the elderly, persons living with disabilities among plans

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) has kicked off 2026 with an expansive slate of programmes aimed at economic empowerment, social protection and support for vulnerable populations.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle following the ministry’s first open day of the year, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud said the ministry will be expanding several initiatives, with a strong focus on women, persons living with disabilities, survivors of violence and the elderly.

A major priority for 2026 is the expansion of economic empowerment programmes for women, particularly those seeking to start or grow small businesses. While the ministry does not provide direct cash grants, it offers practical support through equipment such as refrigerators, freezers

and coolers to help women become more productive and sustainable. “We started first with women coming in who would have wanted to start their own businesses, but they might have needed an appliance, they might have needed some kind of support towards their business. While we do not give financial aid, we can help with anything…a cooler, a fridge, a freezer,” Minister Persaud explained.

Those participants will also be encouraged to join the Women’s Innovation Investment Network (WIIN), one of the ministry’s flagship initiatives.

Minister Persaud said the WIN programme, which has already trained over 19,000 people, is expected to expand significantly. “The Women’s Innovation Investment Network programme has been able to train over 19,000 people, will now expand to train well over 25,000 people. That is the

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud said the ministry will be expanding several flagship initiatives, with a strong focus on women, persons living with disabilities, survivors of violence and the elderly in 2026 (Sachin Persaud photo) intention,” she said. ership Institute and will As part of this expan- be accessible to everyone. sion, the ministry will “It is not only going to introduce culinary arts be open to women, but training for the first time. men as well, and persons A new Culinary Centre living with disabilities. is set to open early this And they are going to year at the Cove and John benefit from a very beauGuyana Women’s Lead- tiful programme that can lead them into opportunities they might not have thought of,” the minister said.

The ministry is also strengthening partnerships to broaden econom-

ic opportunities, including a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to support emerging agricultural enterprises. This will include initiatives such as hydroponics and food security projects aligned with the government’s broader development agenda. Another area slated for growth is garment construction, one of the ministry’s most successful programmes.

Minister Persaud said the focus will shift from basic sewing skills to participation in the fashion industry, building on existing sewing hubs and equipment support provided in communities nationwide. “We are looking at how can we move people who are very creative and innovative using the launchpad of the WIN programme into the fashion industry to get them to increase or even generate an income,” she stated, highlighting the initiative’s link to the government’s emphasis on the orange economy.

Support for persons living with disabilities will be significantly

scaled up, including the expansion of the Assistive Aids Programme, which provides free wheelchairs, walkers, canes and white canes. A new Support Services Unit for People Living with Disabilities will also be established to address more specialised needs. Additionally, the ministry will continue working with international partners and the government to support survivors of domestic violence and trafficking in persons, ensuring access to training, funding and long-term support to promote independence.

Attention will also be placed on reforming the public assistance register, as the number of beneficiaries continues to grow nationwide. The goal, Persaud said, is to help individuals transition from dependency to financial independence.

“We are looking at how can we move persons from that dependency through all of the initiatives we are doing and beyond this ministry to being able to fend for themselves, being able to be independent,’ Minister Persaud added.

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Guyanese to benefit from first-ever Biosafety Level Three laboratory

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

PATIENTS are set to benefit from improved diagnostic services with the establishment of Guyana’s first-ever Biosafety Level Three (BSL3) laboratory, which will enable the safe testing of dangerous and complex samples locally.

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony said that alongside the construction of new hospitals, strengthening laboratory services remains a priority, noting that accurate diagnosis is often the difference between early treatment and serious complications.

For mothers also awaiting test results for a sick child or elderly patients managing long-term illnesses, faster diagnostics will mean fewer sleepless nights and quicker medical decisions.

The BSL-3 laboratory will be supported by

upgrades to the National Public Health Reference Laboratory, including gene sequencing technology to track and identify emerging diseases.

“This is absolutely important in tracking new diseases using molecular surveillance,” the minister said during a recent televised update.

Hospital laboratories across the country are also being upgraded and digitally interconnected to reduce delays and ensure that doctors can access results more quickly and reliably.

For patients awaiting organ transplants, another critical development is on the horizon. The health minister announced plans to establish a Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) laboratory, enabling local donor-recipient matching for the first time.

“ We h a v e a l r e a d y bought the equipment, and we are in the process of training local experts so that we can do HLA testing right here in Guyana,” he said.

Previously, these tests had to be sent overseas, adding weeks of uncertainty and additional costs for families already under strain.

A new Food and Drug laboratory is also being constructed at the University of Guyana to strengthen oversight of medicines and food safety, further protecting patients.

Together, these investments reflect a healthcare system being shaped around the patient experience, where accuracy, speed and peace of mind matter as much as buildings and equipment. (DPI)

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Rodrigues slams ‘libellous’ claims

by U.S.-indicted Azruddin Mohamed

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

–– says allegations aimed at derailing extradition

MINISTER of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues has rejected recent “libellous and simply false” claims by U.S.-indicted Azruddin Mohamed against her, stating that it is a clear attempt by him to divert attention from his extradition proceedings.

While outrightly rebutting the allegations being spewed by Mohamed, Minister Rodrigues reaffirmed that her assets overseas and locally are declared and lawfully acquired.

In the statement, the minister made it clear that the U.S.-indicted Mohamed has taken public information and “twisted it to satisfy his own perverse narrative.”

Minister Rodrigues, once again, said that as a Minister of Government, she is classified as a Politically Exposed Person (PEP) and as such, every bank and financial institution in the civilised world demands step-by-step proof of funds when a transaction is being done.

The minister said that the “desperate” narrative being perpetuated by Mohamed that her assets are funded by illicit activities is “libellous

and simply false.”

She then drew a sharp contrast between herself and Mohamed, stating: “Imagine the irony of the Mohamed’s, accused by international organisations of drug trafficking, money laundering, gold smuggling and links to Hezbollah and other terrorist organisations, compounded by a US indictment, accusing me of wrong-doing.”

DISPUTING ALLEGATIONS The minister then addressed the allegations made by Mohamed against her. First, she said two of her properties in the state of Florida can be independently verified since they form part of the public record.

The third address, 8601 NW 46th Ct. Lauderhill, FL is that of a property owned by a company of which she has shares.

Secondly, in contrast to Mohamed’s claim that the property was purchased in full on March 11, 2024, the minister said that the property was, in fact, purchased with a mortgage from a US

Financial Institution, AD Mortgage.

As evidence, she has made public her annual tax and interest statement for 2024, showing the date and value of the mortgage.

The property is rented, and the mortgage is being serviced by the rental income, she clarified.

“All of this is public record in the State of Florida and could have been easily verified by Azruddin Mohamed. He chose instead to intentionally mislead the public,” she said.

The minister went on to say that Mohamed has repeatedly and wrongly equated her assets to her public service salary, deeming his efforts as “asinine.”

“This is an unfair and asinine comparison that completely disregards how a person leverages equity to access loans from the banking system. In addition to my public service salary, I receive rental income from other properties and proceeds from our family businesses,” she said.

In the interest of transparency and to remove any

doubt as to her source of funds, the minister is published the Certificates of Title for Lots 1242 and 1243 Peter’s Hall, which prove that she acquired mortgages on those properties when they were purchased.

She also denied owning the Herstelling property where she currently resides, stating that the title shows it was acquired in 2016, prior to her entry into government.

She also denied owning a gas station located at 224 Camp and New Market Streets in Georgetown.

“This is also not true,” the minister said, noting that the gas station has been owned

by Shell Antilles and Guianas Limited since 1962 and never changed ownership.

“The transport for this property is part of the public record and can be easily verified. My partner is the operator of this establishment. We do not own any of the assets on that property,” Rodrigues said.

“This clearly establishes a pattern of lies peddled by Azruddin Mohamed to cause public confusion and to distract from his own criminality. While Azruddin Mohamed has deceived people about his business, his income and his life, I can produce evidence to clear my good name.

“Azruddin Mohamed still has to answer for the international reports on his involvement in gold smuggling, drug trafficking, money laundering and other criminal activities from which his wealth was acquired.

This is the same individual who said his party’s symbol is a leopard instead of a jaguar,” the statement concluded.

Guyana nearing 100 per cent safe, treated water access after massive investments –– Minister Indar says

GUYANA is on the verge of universal access to safe, potable water, as Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar has said that from 2020-2025, there has been the construction and upgrade of a number of water treatment plants and wells, along with other investments in the sector.

The minister during a recent address, said that between 2020 and 2025, the proportion of the population that has access to water has increased to about 98.3 per cent.

“That is a high figure, but we intend to make that 100 per cent,” Indar said.

As it relates to water infrastructure, the minister noted that between 2020 and 2025, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has constructed several major water treatment plants across Guyana including: Caledonia, Bachelor’s Adventure, Cummings Lodge and Onderneeming.

There are several water treatment plants under construction including one in Bartica, Region Seven, which is set to benefit

hundreds of residents from Four Miles to Five Miles.

There were also a number of water treatment plants that were upgraded in various regions, including Regions Four, Five and Six, the minister said.

In terms of the infrastructure investment, the government has injected in the last five years, some $65 billion into the water sector.

“And we will continue to do that from 2026 to 2030 because the strategy is really to have everybody have potable water, treated water,” the minister.

He then turned his attention to the riverine

communities and noted that access to water in the hinterland is now 91 per cent.

“So, we will continue to work to raise those numbers, to make sure that everybody enjoys treated water, water that is potable,” the minister stated.

In the hinterland, from 2020 to 2025, the government has invested $5.5 billion and this resulted in the drilling of 131 wells, raising the accessible limit.

Indar further said that the government is also moving to construct surface water treatment plants such as one in Diamond

and Hope.

The surface-water treatment plant at Hope will benefit residents from Cove & John to Cane Grove.

This modern facility will significantly expand treated-water coverage and align with national efforts to deliver highquality potable water to all households.

Baksh reaffirmed GWI’s commitment to high-quality service, noting that these projects form part of the Government of Guyana’s broader investment in water sector modernisation.

The minister said that

while are ongoing challenges, the ministry is working to fix them.

“That is why we need to continue to invest and put more wells in place and more transmission lines to move the water to the areas to accommodate the massive expansion in housing that we are seeing,” he further stated.

Beyond physical infrastructure, Minister Indar stated that the water sector is also set for digital transformation as plans are in place to automate operations, boosting customer relationship management and smart metering.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Mate: the drink that keeps a forest alive

- the shared agricultural heritage sustaining communities and forests in southern Brazil

IN southern Brazil, a drink is never just a drink. A cuia, a customary drinking vessel, filled with chimarrão, the traditional Brazilian erva-mate infusion, is passed from hand to hand, opening a conversation and grounding people in place. The cup carries more than warmth; it carries the memory of forest and the knowledge of how to live with it.

In Brazil’s south-central Parana State, erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is cultivated within native forests rather than in cleared fields. This sustainable way of producing

tinuation of traditional agroforestry systems is not accidental. It is the result of daily decisions, knowledge and care accumulated over generations, and collective effort. These farming systems have kept the remaining forest ecologically functional, economically productive and socially managed, building resilience while sustaining rural livelihoods and transmitting knowledge through generations.

“This is not just a farming system; it is a way of being with the forest,” says Evelyn Nimmo, Adjunct Professor

do Meio, more than 130 families depend directly on erva-mate, often for around 70 percent of their household income.

BIODIVERSITY AS PROTECTION The system these communities manage is neither static nor neglected. Forests are actively cared for through selective pruning and natural regeneration. Erva-mate grows alongside native fruit trees, medicinal plants and forest species, creating a multi-layered environment that supports biodiversity, protects soils and regulates

food has supported family livelihoods for generations, shaping a landscape where agriculture depends on the forest instead of replacing it. Beyond its cultural roots, erva-mate is also globally significant. Alongside Argentina and Paraguay, Brazil is among the world’s leading producers and exporters, supplying regional and international markets.

LIVING WITH THE FOREST This traditional shaded erva-mate system is exceptional because it combines agricultural production, biodiversity conservation and social organization under intense environmental pressure.

The Araucaria Forest, part of the Atlantic Forest biome, is among the most threatened ecosystems on the planet. Decades of deforestation and land-use change have reduced it to a fraction of its original size.

In this context, the con-

at the State University of Ponta Grossa, Brazil. “Production happens within the forest, guided by agroecological principles and ancestral knowledge. Communities manage canopy cover, regeneration and diversity in ways that allow the forest to remain standing while sustaining livelihoods.”

This understanding of the forest translates into concrete practices on the ground. “For a long time now, we have understood that it is necessary to preserve the Araucaria Forest, protect water sources and avoid the use of agrochemicals,” says João Carlos Andrianchyk, a small-scale erva-mate producer. “We are passing this understanding on to younger people because the world will need this work if we want to continue the good life we have here.”

That “good life” is rooted in continuity: the ability to live from the land without exhausting it. In communities such as Pontilhão and Paço

water cycles.

Unlike industrial monocultures, where pests are controlled through chemical inputs, these forest-based systems rely on ecological balance. “There is a caterpillar that damages erva-mate,” explains producer João Negir e Silva. “But we have gone ten to eleven years without outbreaks here. They reach neighboring areas, but they do not come here because of the biological diversity we maintain.”

Here, biodiversity is not an abstract concept but a form of protection. Birds, insects and plants interact in ways that reduce vulnerability and allow production to continue without degrading the forest.

Work follows the rhythms of the ecosystem. Erva-mate leaves are harvested every three years, giving plants time to regenerate. Fruit is collected without shaking trees.

Many producers propa-

gate seedlings themselves, maintaining native tree species such as araucaria, imbuia and canela guaicá—key components of the Araucaria Forest—and reinforcing forest structure over time.

“We survive from agriculture and from the erva-mate we grow,” says rural producer Olga Wenglarek.

“Everything is used, from firewood for cooking to food from our gardens. There is care involved in surviving and in making sure that those who come after us will also find a place.”

RECOGNITION WITH PURPOSE What makes this effort especially significant is that the Araucaria tree (Araucaria angustifolia), the forest’s keystone species, cannot be effectively conserved through conventional seed banks. Its seeds are highly perishable and require living, functioning landscapes to survive. As a result, the long-term conservation of

the Araucaria Forest depends directly on communities who keep the forest standing, productive and connected.

That responsibility extends across generations.

Long before erva-mate entered commercial markets, it was part of life for Indigenous Peoples. Known as ka’a by the Guarani, the native tree has long been used in ceremonies, rituals and daily consumption.

“Erva-mate has always been part of our collective life,” says cacique (a leader of Indigenous Peoples) Antonio Lima of the Rio d’Areia land. “It is not only about consumption. It is community work, with shared rules on forest care, when to harvest and how to do it. This organization is what has allowed the forest to remain standing and the community to remain united.”

In this context, the recognition of the traditional shade-grown erva-mate sys-

tem as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) carries particular significance. Designated in May 2025, the system became Brazil’s second GIAHS, joining the Espinhaço Range Sempre-Vivas system.

“This recognition is much more than a title,” says Jorge Meza, FAO Representative in Brazil. “It shows how local communities have managed forests sustainably for centuries, protecting biodiversity, generating income and maintaining strong cultural identities.”

In Paraná, agriculture does not stand apart from nature. It stands with it.

The forest remains not because it was left alone, but because it has been worked, cared for and shared — building resilience for people and ecosystems alike.

(FAO)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Updated emergency medical services system set for phased introduction this year - Health Minister says

AS part of a series of improvements set for Guyana’s healthcare system, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, has said that updated emergency medical services will be introduced this year.

The minister made this known during a video message, during which he addressed the government’s vision for this current term, as highlighted by President, Dr Irfaan Ali. Speaking directly on the plans for new or updated emergency medical services, he said that this will be rolled out over the next two to three years, and entails standardising the types of ambulances being used as part of the system.

Additionally, Dr Anthony said, “Apart from standardisation of the ambulance, we’ll be training

EMT’s, Emergency Medical Technicians at various levels, level one, level two, level three, so that they can provide services while transporting the patient.

All of these ambulances will be equipped with various things to keep people alive while they transport them.”

Dr Anthony disclosed that there will be a central location where they will coordinate all the ambulances that people can call in.

“We’ll be able to dispatch ambulances, and we are working with Northwell to ensure that we improve the standards of dispatch and to ensure that protocols are properly followed,” he added.

Additionally, he said ambulances will be prepositioned to improve response times so that pa-

tients could benefit from these services.

Also to be integrated into this new system will be the water ambulances and medevacs, according to the minister.

He affirmed, “So, starting from early next year, you will see us start introducing elements of this.

And over the next couple of years, the system will be fully built out, and we'll have a new emergency medical service that would be run by a semi-autonomous authority.”

The Health Minister declared that there are many things to look forward to over the next five

years, as laid out by the President.

“You can look forward to better care, you can look forward to care that will be timely. You can look forward to wherever you are living, that you would see an improvement in healthcare,” Dr Anthony said.

In September 2025,

President Ali had announced that Guyana signed an agreement with Northwell Health to manage emergency medical services.

At that time, he stated that Northwell will be managing the service while capacity is built over the next three years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Mohameds’ lawyers confident forecast raises concerns over influence in legal matter

ONE of the attorneys representing U.S.-indicted father and son duo, Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed, Siand Dhurjon, has publicly forecasted that the extradition proceedings will be defeated, raising public concern regarding influence in a legal matter involving U.S. sanctions and alleged international corruption.

Speaking to reporters outside of the court, Attorney-at-Law Dhurjon said with apparent certainty, the extradition proceedings will

eventually fail.

He said: “These things will only result in one outcome, and that is the complete discharge of these proceedings at one stage or the other, at one court or another court. Make no mistake, the Mohameds are not going anywhere. These extradition proceedings will be overcome."

Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman begun the committal proceedings on Tuesday, which will decide whether the father and son can be formally extradited to the United States to

face the pending indictments.

However, Dhurjon’s

comments have raised concerns about the possibility of whether undue

confidence or perceived influence could steer the proceedings, which are meant to be strictly judicial and impartial.

The magistrate, on Tuesday, rejected an application by the Mohameds to halt the extradition proceedings.

The ruling came despite what Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, described as an effort by their lawyers to delay the extradition proceedings through frivolous litigation.

It also followed Monday’s refusal by Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh of an application seeking to stay the extradition proceedings for the Mohameds.

The Mohameds— owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise—remain on bail as the extradition proceedings continue.

U.S. prosecutors have accused the father and son of running an international criminal network with alleged links to “high offices” in Venezuela and the Middle East.

The pair face 11 criminal counts in the U.S. Southern District of Florida involving alleged wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and customs violations tied to what authorities describe as a US$50 million gold- export and tax-evasion scheme.

The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both men in June 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and public corruption.

The US investigation dates back to the mid-2010s and involved multiple agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, January 7, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Commander Bacchus visits family of Chinese national killed in East Canje robbery

Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus speaks with the family of Chinese national Chen Yong Ping, who was recently murdered during a robbery at his home in Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice

ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police and Commander of Regional Division #6, Shivpersaud Bacchus, on Monday, paid a condolence visit to the family of Chinese national Chen Yong Ping, who was recently murdered during a robbery at his home in Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice.

Bacchus, accompanied by members of his command team, visited the residence where the fatal attack occurred and met with the deceased man’s wife, Wu Xiaofeng, and their son, Cheng Dongrong.

The visit came as investigations continue into the killing, which has shocked residents of the

quiet East Canje community.

During the engagement, the police commander and his team expressed condolences to the grieving family and offered words of comfort in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Bacchus also reassured them that the Guyana Police Force remains fully committed to pursuing the investigation and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

Chen Yong Ping was killed during what police have described as a robbery at his residence, adding to concerns about violent crime targeting business owners and residents in parts of the county.

The incident has prompted renewed calls from community members for strengthened security and more visible policing.

Also present at Monday’s visit were Detective Assistant Superintendent J. Henry, Woman Assistant Superintendent, C. Kelly, Assistant Superintendent K. Gravesande, Woman Inspector R. Benjamin, and other police ranks.

Police have said investigations are ongoing and that they are continuing to pursue all available leads in the case, even as the force seeks to provide support to the bereaved family during this difficult period.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

PGS offering day-care service to employees IN August 2025, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security met with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and launched its Day, Night, and Early Childhood Centres Programme, encouraging businesses to establish on-site childcare services for their employees.

Several weeks later, the Professional Guard Service (PGS), under the leadership of Managing Director Mr Sean Kirkpatrick, implemented systems to allow employees to have their children remain supervised at the office while they executed their duties, the chamber said in a Facebook post.

It noted that five employees have been benefitting from this programme which is aimed at removing barriers to employment for parents.

According to the post, Mr Kirkpatrick explained that the objective is to create a work environment that allows parents to work

PGS Managing Director Sean Kirkpatrick with the assurance that their children are in a safe and supervised environment, giving them peace of mind.

The PGS has thus far utilised a room at the office to create a playroom which will be further developed this year.

The GCCI said it commends PGS for this initiative which provides the opportunity for inclusive employment opportunities—particularly for single-parent and working mothers.

“The chamber encourages other companies to integrate similar systems in their organisations,” the post said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Unity Gym continues to ‘level up’

ANOTHER trophy-laden performance for the Unity Gym closed out the 2025 season in style.

The gym recently partnered with several athletes for the 2025 Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) ‘Clash of the Titans,’ and its medal haul was bountiful.

Apart from snagging the Super Heavyweight, Masters, and Overall titles through Colin ‘Mr Clean’ Chesney, the gym also had standout performances in the other classes of the December championships.

Dwayne Mars finished second in the super heavyweight category to Chesney, with Yusuf Khan finishing second in the physique competition and Johnathan Jeffrey finishing third.

Anthony McLean won the over 165lb class, placed third in the Master’s division, as well as second in the Classic Physique class, while Orlando Dublin picked up the Heavyweight class.

Martin Nathan Longe placed third in the Under 165lb Class, while Shemar Burrowes won the Under 154lb class.

Romelton Siland won both the Men’s Fitness and Fit model categories; Steve Sajar came runner-up in the latter category, with Warren George finishing second in the former.

Savita Bodhoo won the female fitness model, with Emelvena Wesmoreland finishing third.

Amariah Siland also won the kids fitness category for the 11-13-year-olds, taking the total accolade count to more 16 at the end of the event, a grand way to close off the year, according to team member Fyzal Bacchus.

“I think when we started the year, we were targeting these competitions, and I think the aim then was 10 trophies. When we look back now, we took home 16 trophies in our last event, and I’d say that was a great year to close off the 2025 year,” he added.

At the start of the year,

the team had Marley Vyphius winning the Battle of the Rising Stars’ novice competition and I think that’s where our team started.”

While some athletes did medal, the gym proprietor explained that he also saw improved performances from others who did not place among the top spots.

“I want to single out one athlete in particular who, while he didn’t place among the top spots, really improved from his time with us, and that is Kewsie Anderson. With the work that Kewsie has put in, a lot of people from outside the gym won’t understand it, but it’s a lot of work. For sure, he is a star in the future and one to watch.”

I also want to acknowledge the hard work of Roley Chandler, who captured the Men’s Physique title.

He just came out of a cross-fit event in Suriname and went straight into the competition and that takes hard work.”

“Christina Ramsammy, won the Miss Bikini contest and we want her to know that we recognise the hard work during the year as well as her willingness to help all other athletes across the gym regardless of affiliation.”

Melitha Anderson, who picked up the Bikini Wellness title has been in the sport since 2023 and she has been a staple in the sport, never missing a show while being a mother of three and still finding the time to train and diet, it’s amazing and we as a team acknowledge

and respect these athletes.”

Improved performances linked to new partnerships A key pillar to the success of the gym at competitions is their partnerships, according to Bacchus.

YUSOFIT (Yusuf Khan), RAZOR FITNESS (Darius Ramsammy), V FITNESS (Videsh Sookram), RADICAL FITNESS (Romel Silo), AKBAR GYM (Salim Munaf), E MASTER INC. (Oudit Seenarain), and THE HEALTH CLUB (Anil Persaud) all joined forces this year to produce the results seen on December 21, and the work that went into that ‘Unity’ cannot be overstated.

“Many people think that to achieve success, it needs to be a one-man or onebrand show. That isn’t the case here as is evident with the name of our gym, Unity.

And that’s what we did this year. We felt all these brands under one umbrella would be better, and it turned out that they all complemented each other,” Bacchus added.

In 2026, there are bigger and better things poised for the members and partners of the gym according to the owner, saying, “This year (2026) has already started well, partners have seen our success and are returning for more.

There are also a few new things that myself and those partners are working on to ensure more success at the gym level and more success for athletes on a personal level.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday January 07, 2026)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 457/6 (vs NZ, Christchurch) (2) 27 (vs AUST, Kingston) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who delivered the first ball of the final Test of the current ENG/AUST series?

(2) Who faced it?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Head, Smith make England bowlers toil at SCG

(ESPNCRICINFO) - TRAVIS Head departed the SCG field to a thunderous ovation after his latest demolition of England in this Ashes series. But the roars from the terraces soon deafened when Usman Khawaja walked to the crease in his final Test match.

After Head’s belligerent 163 off 166 balls, his third century in what has been a remarkable series, Khawaja - batting at No.6 - could not produce a fairytale innings against a flagging England attack in the Sydney sunshine. In what might prove to be his final Test innings, Khawaja fell for 17 in an ungainly dismissal - a low

full-toss from Brydon Carse - and left the ground to more hearty applause.

Skipper Steven Smith then stole the show for the remainder of day three with an unbeaten 129 off 205 balls to put Australia in a commanding position as they seek a convincing 4-1 series victory.

Australia appear to have broken England’s spirit in an innings stretching 124 overs.

Their first-innings lead has ballooned to 134 runs and looks particularly significant with uneven bounce becoming notable and cracks set to widen amid warm weather in Sydney.

Smith wasn’t at his most fluent, but looked locked

in from the get go with his usual theatrics at the crease on full display.

He even at one point asked Carse at mid-off to put his sunglasses on the back of his hat due to the reflection.

Smith feasted on wayward England bowling and also made a point to be aggressive against spinners Will Jacks and Jacob Bethell.

A 37th Test century and 13th against England almost felt inevitable as he ended a relatively lean series in style, kissing his helmet in celebration late in the day.

Smith moved into second all-time on the Ashes run-scorers and century list, with only Sir Donald Bradman ahead on both fronts.

(CMC) - Former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has revealed that it was not his choice to retire from Test cricket almost 11 years ago.

Speaking recently on the Beard Before Wicket Podcast, the 42-year-old said he believed then West Indies head coach Otis Gibson was responsible for pushing him out of the side.

Bravo, considered one of the greatest-ever T20 players, played 40 Tests for the West Indies, scoring 2200 runs, inclusive of three centuries and 13 half centuries at an average of 31.42. He also took 86 wickets with two five-wicket hauls, at an average of 39.83.

“No, I didn’t decide to give up Test cricket, they decided to give me up. So, it’s funny that you ask that question because my assistant coach, Otis [Gibson], is the guy who was the coach of [the] West Indies team back then, when my Test career came [to an end].

“I didn’t think it had

anything to do with Sammy because I think at that time Sammy was a young captain and the captaincy was just given to him, so he didn’t have much influence, so much say over what team was selected,” Bravo said.

“So, I always tell Gibbo it was him and the selectors back then and the board’s decision.

It was never my personal decision to finish Test cricket and that’s [the] God honest truth.”

Bravo said he made the tough decision to retire after he was left off the Test team for five years.

He recalled that the selectors saw him mainly as a white-ball cricketer, despite declaring his interest in playing Test cricket.

“I had made it very clear that I wanted to continue my Test journey and obviously, they had different plans and different ideas and there’s not much I could have done.

“But if it was my decision, I would have played a lot more Test matches and

longer,” Bravo admitted.

However, while he was disappointed to have his Test career cut short, Bravo acknowledged that the outcome also opened the door to a different chapter of his career and one that would eventually redefine his legacy.

“It was cut short and you lose here, but I gained here. Because I think if I continued to play more Test matches, I would not have the T20 career that I have,” he acknowledged.

Bravo says Gibson responsible for Test cricket exit

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His first home Ashes hundred since the 2017-18 series has tightened Australia’s grip on the match.

They were aided by shabby bowling and fielding from England, who dropped four catches in the first session with Smith being reprieved on 12 by Zak Crawley at legslip just before lunch.

The early part of the day was dominated by Head, who had only just fallen short of scoring a century in an elongated final session on day two, but it didn’t take him long to reach his 12th Test ton.

After resuming on 91, Head completed his 105-ball century just 25 minutes into the day’s play and he cele-

brated by sticking his helmet on top of his bat handle as he once again had the crowd in the palm of his hands.

It ended Head’s modest record at the SCG as he became the fifth player to score tons at seven different venues in Australia.

Head received strong support from Michael Neser, who was used wisely as the nightwatcher ahead of Scott Boland after the latter performed the role in the previous Test.

Neser showed off his batting credentials, having made 4000 career runs in first-class cricket with five centuries.

He frustrated England with solid defence and the occasional boundary to grind

down the beleaguered tourists. Head continued his rampant form from the previous afternoon when he inflicted more pain on hapless seamer Matthew Potts, whose Ashes debut has turned into a nightmare.

A new day did not bring an improved showing with Potts immediately smashed for three consecutive fours by a ruthless Head.

England continued to persist with short-ball plans, even to Neser, and it almost paid off when Head skied Carse to deep midwicket only for Jacks to drop a sitter, taking his eyes off the ball as he was seemingly worried about the nearby boundary cushion.

Dwayne Bravo (right) and Otis Gibson

08:35 hrs Sapphire Sirocco 09:05 hrs Hierachy 09:35 hrs Gogo Yubari 10:05 hrs Lisa Joy 10:35 hrs Frankali 11:05 hrs Sandition 11:35 hrs Combustion KEMPTON 13:00 hrs Espona Bay 13:30 hrs Adalida

14:00 hrs Lerwick 14:30 hrs Mount Athos 15:00 hrs Rajinoora 15:30 hrs Sax Appeal 16:00 hrs Fiddlers Green AMERICAN RACING TIPS TAMPA BAY DOWNS Race 1 Jassai Race 2 Factorbella Race 3 The Best Distance Race 4 Arrogancy Race 5 Silver Punch Race 6 Easy Come Easy Go Race 7 Fortunate Ryder

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

AAG pushing seniors to kick off 2026

THE Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) will start its 2026 with a cross-country race, which according to Vice President Niall Stanton is set for January 17th at the Guyana Defence Force Ground.

Stanton, speaking to the media recently said that the AAG has an ambitious plan for the new year, adding, “Our major objective this year for the AAG is to have our athletes participate in as many international events, also give our athletes exposure and hopefully our athletes can medal gold or silver at all these major events. This year is more in terms of promoting the sport, promoting our senior athletes and have more growth and hopeful-

ly it brings more sponsors on board to help promote track and field in Guyana.”

He says the junior athletes dominated the National Sports Commission (NSC) awards which means their nursery is producing the goods.

Now, the AAG wants to translate that success to the senior ranks by working with athletes, clubs, managers and coaches through a wide range of initiatives and programmes targeting further improvement in all areas of the sport.

The AAG begin their work on the track with their development meet which according to Stanton has helped a lot.

“Our developmental meet are

basically to sharpen our athletes in terms of fitness, so the coaches can have an idea to fine tune the programme for the year, a main focus for the early part of the year is to have our young athletes finetuned and ready and prepared for the CARIFTA trails.

What the athletes need to know especially the young athletes going to CARFITA, is that the qualifying period will be open very shortly and the timing for qualifying remains the same, the only changes this year is that you must qualify, if you did not qualify or make the time or distance for whatever event then you will not be selected to participate in the camp or be a part of the team.”

Starting next month (February), the body will begin the first of three CARFITA trails on the 7th followed by dates on the 21st and 28th. The trials will culminate with a competition featuring CARFITA versus the rest, they the athletics body will hold pre camps from March 20-22 and 27-29.

The CARFITA games are scheduled for Grenada from April 4-6.

Stanton says that they will be having more fund raisers this year to garner needed funds for athlete preparation and travel to international competition.

In May, Guyana will have a chance to send a representative team World Athletics relays in

Botswana which will be preceeded by the Boyce and Associates Relay.

Guyana’s Overseas-Based Sports Association championship is set for May 23 with the Burgete Williams 10k a day later.

The National Youth, Junior and Senior Championship from June 26-28 will close off the first half of the year.

Other major events scheduled for this year include, Aliann Pompey invitational in July, Commonwealth Games, Central American and Caribbean Games, One Guyana Athletics Championship in August, South American Games in September and Youth Olympic Games among others.

Persaud and Toppin stand out in Archery Guyana year-end tournament

The tournament, held on December 31, served as a critical fixture for athletes to accrue ranking points and benchmark their technical progression against international standards

IN a high-stakes finale to the 2025 season, Archery Guyana turned the Everest Cricket Club Grounds into a battlefield of precision.

With national ranking points on the line and the pressure of a “win-or-go-home” atmosphere, the country’s top archers delivered a masterclass in focus to close out the year.

In the Recurve Men’s bracket,

Jeewanram Persaud put on a clinical display of marksmanship.

Fending off a gritty surge from silver medalist Lucas Chung and the hard-charging Trevaughn Waldron, Persaud secured the Gold, cementing his status as the man to beat in the national rankings.

On the women’s side, Karin Onica Toppin proved why she’s a force to be reckoned with.

In a head-to-head clash of nerves, Toppin outpointed Roshini Boodhoo to claim the top spot on the podium.

The Barebow divisions—where technology takes a backseat to raw instinct—saw Mehandra Chatargum and Melesa Ramnaraine dominate their respective fields.

Chatargum survived a three-way dogfight against Nolan Gray and

Richard Dookie to take the Men’s title, while Ramnaraine cruised to a statement victory in the Women’s division.

The “Next Gen” of Guyanese archery officially put the league on notice.

Saifullah Gani (U18 Recurve) and Fatima Gani (U18 Barebow) both secured Gold, proving the future of the sport is in very capa-

ble—and very steady—hands.

“Success in archery is built on patience and dedication to the process,” said Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon.

With the backing of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Olympic Association, the federation is clearly playing the long game, building a pathway for international glory.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

GMR&SC announces super lap series

THE Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) is taking a bold step for road safety and grassroots motorsport with the launch of the 2026 Super Lap Series.

Executive Luis Kumar announced the new Time Attack championship as a solution to speeding on the roadways. “We are moving the need for speed off the highways and onto the safe environment of the South Dakota Circuit,” Kumar stated.

“This is the only place you

should be driving at 100%.”

The series features a Pro Street Class explicitly designed for the average driver.

Unlike circuit racing, there is no wheel-to-wheel combat; competitors race strictly against the clock. This “no-contact” format eliminates the risk of collision, making it safe to run your daily-driven car.

“To maintain the grassroots spirit, full vehicle interiors must remain intact; no stripped-out race cars are allowed in this class,” Kumar

The series features a Pro Street Class specially designed for the average driver

noted. “We want to replicate the success of the Vitz Cup. Safety is key: no roll cage is required for Pro Street.

You only need an FIA-certified helmet and your factory three-point seatbelt.”

Expanding the action beyond four wheels, Rider and

Executive Member Alain Hopkinson stated that bikes will also be included in this time-attack event.

Hopkinson confirmed a specific focus on three distinct groups, allowing motorcycle enthusiasts to safely test their limits and

machinery against the clock in a controlled environment.

The Super Lap Series is the perfect entry point for novices. Drivers and riders will share the pits with Guyana’s top racing personalities, providing a unique mentorship opportunity in

which veterans can guide newcomers on vehicle setup and driving techniques.

For those seeking extreme performance on four wheels, the Unlimited Group offers unrestricted builds for fully prepared track machines.

RHTYSC completes another fruitful year - 35th annual Christmas outreach a massive success

FOR the 35th successive year, the cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) M.S., hosted a highly successful Christmas outreach initiative as part of their personal development programme.

The programme was launched on December 1 and ended on Sunday 28th.

Club secretary Albert Fate and cricket manager Robby Kissooulall both described the month-long programme as the best ever and expressed delight that the teams were able to make the festive season a little brighter for thousands of less fortunate kids and their families.

The massive Christmas outreach programme included the distribution of 800 food hampers to less fortunate families.

Food hampers included flour, sugar, cooking oil, matches, sweet soap, macaroni, chowmein, onions, garlic salt and tomato sauce.

The teams also shared out 100 special hampers in conjunction with Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat.

On Monday, December 15, the cricket teams hosted a Christmas party for 250 kids at the area ‘H’ ground where each child received a Christmas toy, goodies bags, a collection of items.

Donation of food hampers to the Rose Hall Town Council

Hundreds of residents, including members of the ST Francis Xavier Roman Catholic church received special Christmas packages consisting of apples, grapes, walnuts, drinks, juice, sweets and biscuits.

Over 4,000 Christmas toys were shared out across Berbice via a network of sister organisations, while dozens of families also received a Christmas Day breakfast consisting of juice, a loaf of baked bread, and

pepper pot.

Financial assistance was also provided to 12 less fortunate families while others benefitted from the donation of footwear, clothing and educational materials.

The highlight of the 2025 programme was the hosting of the 11th edition of the Rose Hall Town Christmas village in the compound of the Rose Hall Town primary school.

Thousands of excited children accompanied their parents to visit the village which consisted of numerous inflatable characters, 20-foot Christmas tree, toy house, the nativity scene, family bridge, horror house, photo studio, trampolines, bouncy castle and numerous children’s games.

The 2025 programme was organised by the Poonai Pharmacy Under 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17, Pepsi Under 19, Metro Females and NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Under 21 teams.

The teams expressed thanks to everyone who assisted to make the programme a success, especially the Office of the Prime Minister, KSM Investment, Bakewell, Panthera Solutions, Professor Paloma Mohamed, Minister Vickram Bharrat, Minister Collin Croal, former Member of Parliament Faizal Jaferally, Zamal Hussain MP, VNet Communications, the Nero sisters, and Francessa Trotman among others.

Unity Gym continues to ‘level up’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, January 7, 2026

SEE PAGE

24

Some of the team members of the Unity Gym

Head, Smith make England AAG pushing seniors to bowlers toil at SCG SEE PAGE

25

kick off 2026 SEE PAGE

26

Steven Smith brought up his 13th Ashes century • Gareth Copley/Getty Images

AAG Vice president Niall Stanton

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| WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026