THE Ministry of Education is intensifying its efforts to integrate music education into the national school system, aiming to foster more well-rounded students through a holistic learning approach.
This initiative falls under the Ministry’s broader
“Five Priorities” strategy, introduced by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, which also includes physical education, technical and vocational education, foreign languages, and volunteerism.
Joel Gonsalves, Education Officer with responsibility for music, explained
that the initiative is already transforming how music is taught in schools across Guyana.
“Our aim is that at the end of five years, students should have been exposed to, if not all, most of the elements within the Five Priorities—making them more rounded individu -
als. It’s a more holistic approach to education,” Gonsalves said.
As part of the music education rollout, trained music coaches have been assigned to schools nationwide. These coaches are helping students explore a range of instruments including the guitar, recorder,
Students engage in music and theory sessions during the 2025 Republic Bank Pan Minors Music Literacy Camp
keyboard, and steel pan, while also supporting the formation and development of school choirs.
The Ministry has also invested in instrument provision and infrastructure upgrades, including the recent establishment of a fully equipped music room at the West Demerara Secondary School. Many other schools are now being equipped with the resources needed to offer the Caribbean Examinations Council’s (CXC) music syllabus, an area that is seeing growing interest.
“We’ve already seen an increase in schools wanting to do the music exam. We are furnishing schools with recording and other technical equipment required for CXC,” Gonsalves added.
Beyond the classroom, the Ministry supports after-school music programmes including school-based steel bands and marching bands. There are currently eight marching bands operating across the country, along with a combined national marching band that performs at major events, including the National Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships.
In its continued com -
mitment to music development, the Ministry donates three new steel bands each year to schools and institutions. One such donation was recently made to the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) to enhance teacher training and development in the arts.
Another key programme is the Republic Bank Pan Minors Music Literacy Camp, now in its 14th edition. A joint effort between the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and Republic Bank, the camp offers children across various regions the opportunity to learn steel pan and basic music theory.
Gonsalves emphasised the broader value of music in a child’s development, “Music, to me, is much more than an art form. It is a powerful tool for education, cultural preservation, and personal expression. It brings balance to the young mind. Every child must be exposed to some level of music.”
With these ongoing initiatives, the Ministry of Education continues to reshape the national curriculum, ensuring that music education becomes a lasting and essential component of student development in Guyana.
the capacity to treat over 7000 litres of water daily and servicing over 14,000 residents, a new water treatment plant was commissioned on Wednesday at Parika, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).
Speaking to hundreds of residents and stakeholders, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, during a ceremonial address, disclosed that over $8.8 billion has been expended in the region to improve water services.
“In water alone, we’ve invested in this region more than $8.8 billion, bringing benefit to more than 89,000 residents. We have constructed water treatment plants in
neighboring Wales, Parfaite Harmonie; new plants are being constructed in Wakenaam and Leguan, and there are three major water treatment upgrades in Vergenoegen, Fellowship, and Pouderoyen,” Dr. Ali noted.
He added, “We are now doing evaluations of the groundwater potential and the performance of our aquifers because, you know, aquifers must inform us on our capacity and capability to meet the future demand.”
He explained that based on the expansive growth and multi-dimensional nature of the demand, the government will look to invest heavily in ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is built so that
there is network modernisation and expansion.
“We have industrial demand expanding, manufacturing, commercial demand expanding and household demand expanding. And we are not, as yet, at a stage in our water development where we can have industrial water, agricultural water, and also potable water.”
To further enhance its capability, the government will also look to boost the capacity of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), making it more agile and reactive to ensure that citizens across the country
have access to a clean water supply.
“The present structure of the organisation requires reorganisation,” President Ali said, noting that GWI will be required to work at a faster pace.
The government, he noted, will be doing an evaluation to harness the region’s fresh water to build its capacity to service the growing demand.
“There’s a comprehensive strategy for the water sector, but in this region, we have great potential in terms of fresh water that we adopted, whether it’s from the
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
conservancy or other areas.”
“I’ve asked the minister of housing and water to explore the possibility of putting at least one such facility where we can harness the fresh water, treat it, and put it back in the system as high volume, at high quality capacity,” he added.
He noted that the government will be rolling out its integrated water resource management strategy.
“That strategy is aimed at integrating every source of water, because as our country continues to grow, there’ll be greater demand for industrial purposes, for agricultural
purposes, and for manufacturing purposes. So, the strategy we’re pursuing is to give you the best quality water, but also to give our economy the water it needs to fuel the latest development.”
Meanwhile, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal noted that the project is part of a broader vision for inclusive development, with plans to achieve 100 per cent treated water access by 2025.
“Today, we turn the tap towards a better quality of life. Children, our children, therefore, will be able to grow up in a much healthy environment,” he said.
HEAD of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), Halim Khan, has praised President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali for what he described as a “visionary and people-focused investment” following the commissioning of a state-of-the-art $850 million water treatment plant at Parika on Wednesday.
Khan, a prominent private sector advocate in the region, lauded the initiative as not just an infrastructure project, but a bold investment in dignity, development, and quality of life.
“President Ali’s commitment to the people of Region Three is not just commendable— it’s transformational,” Khan stated. “This water treatment plant is more than pipes and tanks. It represents hope for families, stronger foundations for businesses, and an affirmation that no community is left behind.”
Constructed by Toshiba Water Solutions America Inc., the plant has the capacity to treat 4.5 million litres of water
The newly launched facility, which is expected to deliver 24-hour access to treated water to over 14,000 residents in Ruby, Bushy Park, Hydronie, Parika, Lookout, Salem, Hyde Park, Roed-en-Rust, Blake, Hubu, St Lawrence, and Lookabu, marks a significant milestone in the government’s push to modernise Region Three’s infrastructure and improve public health outcomes.
per day—enough to fill 18 million cups of tea. It is part of a broader water infrastructure overhaul across the region, which also includes new plants at Wales and La Parfaite Harmonie, ongoing construction in Leguan and Vreed-en-
Hoop, and upgrades at Fellowship, Pouderoyen, and Vergenoegen.
Khan noted that the business community is particularly optimistic about the long-term impact of these upgrades.
“Access to clean, reliable water is fundamen-
tal to both public health and economic productivity. The government’s Integrated Water Resource Management strategy is forward-thinking and positions Region Three as a prime area for sustainable growth,” he added.
President Ali, while commissioning the plant, reaffirmed his government’s broader vision to ensure every Guyanese home has access to clean water, especially in light of Region Three’s rapid growth in housing, agriculture, and commerce.
“This is about household comfort, public health, and industrial readiness,” the President said. “We are building for the future, a modern Guyana that is resilient, inclusive, and prepared for growth.”
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, also reiterated the government's commitment to achieving universal access to treated water in Region Three.
For Halim Khan and the wider private sector, this development is yet another example of the government delivering on its promises and laying the foundation for sustained regional development.
“We are witnessing meaningful progress that uplifts lives, builds investor confidence, and opens new doors for innovation and commerce in Region Three,” Khan affirmed. “This is the kind of leadership Guyana needs, and Region Three is proud to be a model of delivery and transformation.”
The plant draws its supply from two new wells drilled in 2022 and 2025. Previously, water in the region had iron levels significantly above World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, averaging six to 10 mg/L. The new facility now delivers water with iron content below 0.1 mg/L, ensuring safer consumption and cleaner domestic use.
IN a major stride towards achieving universal secondary education in Guyana’s hinterland, the Ministry of Education has officially launched the construction of a $350 million secondary school in Shulinab, South Central Rupununi.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand turned the sod for the project on Tuesday, marking a historic milestone for one of the country’s most remote Indigenous communities.
The new school will cater to 250 students, and is designed with a comprehensive model of infrastructure to support both learners and teachers.
According to a Ministry of Education statement, 20 construction contracts were awarded through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to execute the wide-ranging works.
These works include the construction of classrooms, laboratories, dormitories, teachers’ quarters, sanitary blocks, dining and kitchen areas, water storage systems, electrical installations, tarmac, and perimeter fencing.
The project is expected to be completed within six to eight months.
Minister Manickchand
highlighted that the initiative reflects a new model of school development in the hinterland, one that avoids large centralised institutions in favour of smaller, community-based schools.
“We could not be happier, because what we are trying to do is a new model; not build large schools where children have to be away from home for longer amounts of time without the guidance and love of
their family members, but smaller schools across,” she explained, adding:
“In Region Nine alone, we are building or have built nine secondary schools already.”
For generations, students in Shulinab and surrounding villages have had to travel long distances or relocate to access secondary education.
The new school will bring that opportunity clos-
er to home, helping to close long-standing education gaps in hinterland regions, and supporting the government’s commitment to equitable development.
Toshao Nicolas Fredericks of Shulinab described the sod-turning as a long-awaited achievement.
“We have been behind this school since I remember we joined the council in 2002,” Fredericks said. “It is a pleasure and an honour
speaking on behalf of the wider South Central Rupununi sub-district, said the new facility would ease the burden on students who now face long commutes to Sand Creek Secondary.
“This is a plus for us, especially where education is concerned. I feel relief because of the challenges we face in going to Sand Creek Secondary. So, this is a great effort that has been done by the President himself,” Ambrose said.
for me, as a Toshao, to have development take place under my council… We know that this is a government that is willing to work with us as Indigenous Peoples, as we are here to work with the government to ensure that development is brought to our community.”
The impact of the school will also extend beyond Shulinab. Toshao Bryan Ambrose of neighbouring Potarinau Village,
The Shulinab Secondary School is part of a broader national effort to build over 40 new secondary schools across Guyana, especially in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). Region Nine has already seen new schools completed in Katoka and Yupukari, with others currently under construction in Maruranau, Nappi, Tabatinga, Karasabai, Massara, and Karaudarnau.
With each school being built, Guyana moves closer to fulfilling its promise of ensuring that every child, regardless of geography, has access to quality secondary education within their own community.
FOUR political parties contesting the September 1 General and Regional Elections, on Tuesday, took a necessary and commendable step toward fostering peace and democratic integrity in Guyana.
By signing the Ethnic Relations Commission’s (ERC) Code of Conduct, these parties have pledged not just adherence to the letter of the law, but to the spirit of unity, tolerance, and responsible leadership during what is often a highly charged election season.
The code, championed by the ERC and endorsed by its Chairman, Shaikh Moeen-ul-Hack, is more than a ceremonial gesture. It is a moral contract—a public declaration of commitment to conducting political campaigns free of hate speech, ethnic division, and incitement.
It calls on parties and their leaders to put country above partisan rhetoric, and to appeal to their supporters not with inflam-
matory slogans, but with ideas, solutions, and a vision for Guyana’s future.
As rightly noted by Chairman Hack, the code of conduct is not symbolic, it is binding in spirit and principle. It draws its legitimacy from existing legislation, including the Representation of the People Act, the Discrimination Prevention Act, and the Cybercrime Act.
These laws already prohibit the types of behaviour the code seeks to address; the code simply amplifies the expectation that political actors will observe them with greater vigilance during the electoral process.
Guyana’s history offers enough cautionary tales of what can happen when political contestation crosses the line into ethnic posturing and incitement.
The ERC’s proactive engagement, therefore, must be applauded—not only as a safeguard against electoral instability, but as an affirmation of the kind of po-
litical culture we must all work to build.
It is disappointing, then, that some major parties, including A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) -- the main opposition party-- and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM)—chose not to participate in the signing.
Whatever their reasons, their absence raises questions about their willingness to publicly commit to peaceful, inclusive, and law-abiding campaigns.
In a plural society like Guyana, where political allegiance too often follows ethnic lines, public commitments to civility and non-discrimination are not optional, they are essential.
To those who did sign: Zulfikar Mustapha on behalf of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Hana Dmitriyev for We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), Khemraj Ramjattan for the Alliance For Change (AFC), and Eon Thomas for the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity
(ALP), this is just the beginning.
The real test lies in action: in how candidates speak at rallies, how party surrogates behave on social media, and how leaders respond when tensions rise.
Chairman Hack’s reminder that “no electoral system is perfect” is both timely and wise. Democracy is, by nature, an imperfect and evolving exercise. It is through political maturity and restraint, not outrage and opportunism, that electoral flaws must be addressed.
As the campaign season intensifies, we urge all political actors—those who have signed the code and those who have not—to demonstrate that they are worthy of the public trust. The stakes are too high, and the people of Guyana deserve a peaceful, respectful, and constructive election.
Politics should be a true contest of ideas, guided by law, honour, and a commitment to nation-building.
THE trouble with people’s attitude toward Azruddin Mohamed is that they do not know a damn thing about him.
His name became popular for two reasons: PPP leaders began to mention him excessively and in my opinion that was politically unwise. Secondly, he came into the public eye because he is running for president.
Rewind the tape one year, two years, or three years ago, and he was completely unknown because he did not make public waves. He lived a playboy life, spending his father’s billions recklessly and showing off with his father’s money. I knew his father and counted him as a friend. But Shell Mohamed failed Guyana when he took billions of his money and put it into his son’s hands only for his son to use it in ostentatiously indecent ways that not even Western playboys do.
The difference between Western billionaires and Guyana’s Shell Mohamed is that Western billionaires are far more responsible people, and I mean very far more serious and responsible people than Shell Mohamed. I have known Shell for “donkey years” and couldn’t believe that he would tolerate the aberration that his son became.
Anyone who followed the news the past 60 years about extraordinarily wealthy men in Western societies would know that they do not allow their children to behave the way Shell allowed his son to conduct himself. Rich Americans ensure that their children work in the business, where they are tied down by hard work after they graduate from university.
The parents will allow for wealth-splashing, as in the purchase of expensive cars but
that goes with the territory. What goes with the territory also are long hours working in their parents’ business. Azruddin Mohamed, as is normal for playboys, bought a fleet of expensive cars but he missed two criteria that rich parents impose on their children—they have to educate themselves and they have to contribute to the ongoing success of the business.
Surely, they have playboys who did not go to college and refuse to toil in the family business but research will show they continue their playboy lifestyle without liberal funding from their parents. Rich parents in any country will allow their children to buy mansions and futuristic cars but they will not fund that lifestyle as a matter of policy. This is where Shell Mohamed went wrong and terribly so.
Azruddin Mohamed just did nothing as the years went by but spend his father’s money and he drifted into grey areas that the playboy children would never go. The Main Street incident was a descent into the unthinkable that rich parents would not condone in their children; also, such behavior will bring the law upon you.
My long-held theory of small countries with small populations, since I was a UG student in the seventies and a position I still hold and will always embrace, is that while small nations are saved from the psychic destruction that resides in large industrial nations with huge populations, in thinly populated nations there is the danger, almost inherent in society, that rich people penetrate the police.
It has been widely reported in this country that a businessman gave a senior police officer ten million dollars as a wedding gift. Herein lies the horror show of countries with sparse
populations. A tiny elite with money penetrates the police force and that elite becomes a school of untouchables.
I seriously hold to the belief that Azruddin Mohamed has been a beneficiary of the sociological structure of small societies whereby their tiny populations allow those wealthy folks to become immune from the reach of the law. I know about the Main Street incident for which the police force should seek international help for a renewed investigation.
A holistic analysis of Azruddin Mohamed’s life would reveal that he was not made of any substance and was just a spoilt, rich kid that had access to billions of dollars. This is how the society should view Mohamed. In terms of psychological fibre, Mohamed is a quintessential banality and social non-entity.
It is a sad reflection on Guyanese society and maybe the 21st-century world that Guya-
nese would see political value in someone like Mohamed. Has Guyanese society deteriorated so badly in its collective psyche that it would see political value in Mohamed and vote for him?
I don’t believe so. I do not have unlimited optimism about the human condition. In fact, my optimism about people has always been sparse, but I believe Homo sapiens is redeemable (unlike one of my favourite thinkers, Arthur Koestler) and because of that potential of redemption, Guyanese will not vote for Mohamed.
The guy has a fascination with expensive cars.
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.
FARMERS along the Essequibo Coast can look forward to a revitalised agricultural sector, as the government rolls out a series of transformative investments aimed at boosting crop production, improving infrastructure, and resolving long-standing industry challenges.
Vice President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, made the announcement on Wednesday during a community outreach in Jibb, where he addressed dozens of farmers and residents.
In his remarks, Dr. Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support
for the agriculture sector, pledging significant interventions that will create new opportunities and improve farmers' livelihoods.
One of the key highlights of his address was a push for crop diversification, with a particular focus on onion cultivation. “We’re looking at growing all the onion that we consume on the Essequibo Coast,” Jagdeo stated. “We’re going to bring in the seed, have the farmers work on that, because they can make much, much money.”
The Vice President underscored the administration’s belief in self-sufficiency and the potential profitability of alternative crops for local farmers.
While encouraging farmers to embrace high-value crops, Dr. Jagdeo also addressed the persistent issues affecting rice production, such as inadequate storage and mill intake capacity during peak harvesting seasons.
“In the rice industry, we promise if we’re going to get this high yield, we may have to invest in government-owned storage facilities where people can rent the space, keep the paddy there,” he explained. “You dry it early and you store it, so that you don’t have this six-week window between cutting the paddy and getting it into the mill.”
He made it clear that ex-
pecting private millers to bear the burden of additional infrastructure solely for peak periods would be unfair, hence the State’s likely intervention.
Beyond production challenges, the Vice President outlined plans to improve the region’s connectivity and trade capacity. Among the major projects announced was the construction of a four-lane highway linking Charity to Supenaam.
“We’d have to expand portage capacity for more vessels to come here… A four-lane road from Charity all the way to Supenaam on the Essequibo Coast… these things will open up markets and reduce transportation
Addressing farmers, PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, outlined an ambitious plan to expand crop production, improve farmto-market infrastructure, and resolve longstanding challenges faced by rice growers
time,” he told residents, who responded with enthusiastic applause.
Farm-to-market roads, he noted, remain a central part of the government’s development strategy for rural communities, helping to create jobs and boost incomes.
“You know once we’re in office, you have a sympathetic ear… Even in the tough times, we’re here,” he said.
For many farmers, the Vice President’s visit and the outlined initiatives signalled a brighter, more secure future for the Essequibo Coast’s agricultural economy—one rooted in opportunity, resilience, and growth.
Throughout his visit, Dr. Jagdeo reiterated the PPP/C Government’s commitment to listening and responding to the needs of the agricultural community.
IN a historic move toward sustainable energy and rural development, the village of Batavia has become the latest beneficiary of Guyana’s expanding solar energy network, now enjoying 24-hour electricity for the first time.
to key community hubs, including Arian Island and the village centre, which houses several government buildings.
connected.
Batavia, a remote riverine community of approximately 700 residents, previously relied almost entirely on gasoline-powered generators, a costly and unreliable source of energy. The arrival of solar-powered electricity has been described as life-changing by residents
“This solar project benefits us tremendously,” Gomez said. “Our children can study late at night using the lights. And for those who used lamps, they don’t have to worry about gasoline anymore. They just plug in and get their assignments done.”
to be wired. These efforts are expected to create new employment opportunities and strengthen local industries.
Gomez expressed gratitude on behalf of the community for the government's continued investment in rural and hinterland development.
The transformation comes through a state-ofthe-art solar farm developed under a US$1.4 million project, a promise fulfilled by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and executed by CNOOC Guyana.
The initiative, launched in 2021, includes two large solar farms, both of which are fully operational and already supplying power
“We must thank the government—not only for what they’re doing here, but across the country. In our village, we see tremendous transformation. Not just this project,
and community leaders.
Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Toshao Murphy Gomez shared that the benefits of the project are already being felt, even though some homes are still being
Gomez acknowledged that while more than half of the households are already connected, the major hurdle has been rewiring homes to meet the requirements of the new system.
“We don’t actually pay an electrician to wire our homes. We just buy a generator, a wire, a bulb, and a switch and connect it our-
Toshao of Batavia, Murphy Gomez calls the Solar Farm Project a major addition to the community; with the project creating jobs, helping families save money, and improving both the cost of living and the quality of life (Samuel
selves,” he explained. “But now, with this system, we have to get a fuse box and a certified electrician, which is a cost. But we are doing that now.”
The goal is to have full community coverage by the end of September, and progress is well underway.
Beyond personal convenience, the solar project is also expected to boost economic development in Batavia. A new cassava processing centre, currently under construction, will operate on solar power, and the village market is next in line
but in all areas, especially education. We have a new school opening soon. There’s just so much happening.” Batavia’s leap towards clean energy is part of Guyana’s broader commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development, positioning the country as a regional leader in climate-conscious innovation, even as it continues to develop its oil and gas resources.
ATTORNEY GENERAL (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC, on Tuesday evening, expressed his rebuke for what he described as “outlandish messages” and “incredulous promises” being made by political parties in the lead up to the 2025 elections and urged voters to hold leaders accountable at the polls.
Nandlall was at the time speaking during his weekly show “Issues in the News" during which he criticised the quality and credibility of statements made on the campaign trail, noting that some of the utterances show a disregard for the electorate’s intelligence.
He said the public must recognise the difference between what is credible and what is deliberately deceptive, noting that voters should no longer ac -
cept empty rhetoric or tolerate what he called “mental abuse” from politicians who appear to think they are smarter than the people they address.
According to Nandlall, such politicians are either attempting to deceive the public or believe voters are incapable of discerning truth from fiction, both
of which, he noted, are equally insulting.
To this end, he noted that the most effective response would be at the polls, stating, “An electorate has the most effective way to react, and that is not to vote for a politician who continues to insult their intelligence.”
It was then that the attorney-general called
out remarks made by APNU presidential candidate, Aubrey Norton, during a recent event where Norton reportedly told EU observers that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) would not be allowed to rig the upcoming elections.
Nandlall dismissed the statement as absurd, providing historical context in relation to electoral fraud that all pointed to the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R), the main party from which Norton hails, which forms the APNU.
The Attorney General listed a series of rigged elections from 1968 to 1985, along with the attempted manipulation of the 2020 results, and further questioned why Norton would make such a statement in the face of “Volumes of incontrovertible evidence.”
Further to this, the
AG took the time to respond to the APNU and other opposition parties' promises to investigate “extra-judicial killings.”
He pointed out that prior to the 2015 elections, they pledged to launch commissions of inquiry within 100 days into various killings; however, no such action was taken when that party entered office.
Instead, he noted, former President David Granger had publicly stated that inquiries were not held into the killing of persons following the 2002 jailbreak and the ensuing crime wave, due to a lack of evidence and witnesses, a contradiction Nandlall cited as evidence of “rank dotishness” and political dishonesty.
He noted that the party continuously invoke the names of persons who were killed to create some level of
unease, despite some of these cases already being taken before the country’s justice system.
“The justice system is delivering, but these political fraudsters who want to exploit these unfortunate tragedies are making it political narratives now and using it as ammunition… that is what they’re doing,” he said.
With this, he urged voters to use the upcoming general election on September 1 to demand a higher standard of political discourse, one that focuses on developmental issues such as job creation and poverty reduction.
“Politicians must stop this level of reason stupidity,” Nandlall said, adding that only the electorate has the power to bring about change by refusing to reward dishonesty and disrespect with their votes.
- Minister Mustapha delivers on promises
MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, met with farmers and residents from several communities along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway on Wednesday, where he fulfilled yet another set of commitments aimed at advancing agricultural development in the region.
Farmers from Loo Creek, Adventure, Kairuni, and Silver Hill, who are part of various organised farmers’ groups, received vital inputs to strengthen cash crop and poultry production.
the coming days, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) will deliver 10,000 broiler chicks with feed to be divided equally among farmers in the four communities, enabling them to increase production and income.
These included tillers, water tanks, watering cans, seeds, and other essential tools and inputs to support small- and medium-scale farming.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Mustapha reaffirmed the government’s commitment
to boosting agricultural productivity nationwide.
He emphasised that the government was actively investing in transforming Guyana’s agriculture sector into one that is less labour-intensive and more technologically driven, while
ensuring that farmers— especially those in rural and hinterland communities—have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.
“When we were here last, we promised to support farmers with land clearing to expand culti-
vation. Since then, we’ve signed three contracts to clear 110 acres, representing an investment of approximately $32 million,” the minister stated.
He further announced that the ministry will expand its poultry programme in the area. In
Additionally, the ministry will provide a tractor with a trailer and implements to assist with land preparation and other farming activities. Minister Mustapha highlighted that those initiatives were part of the government’s ongoing efforts to deliver on its promises and ensure tangible benefits reach farming communities across Guyana. (DPI)
VICE PRESIDENT and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to improve infrastructure, boost community safety, and enhance the quality of life across villages in Region Two.
During a series of whistle-stop meetings on Wednesday, Dr. Jagdeo visited communities including Queenstown, Zorgen-Vlygt, Affiance, Reliance, Westbury, Richmond, Hampton Court, Walton Hall, Jibb, Better Success, Somerset, Berks, and Charity. The outreach followed his earlier engagements in Good Hope, Aurora, Hibernia, Pomona, Adventure, Onderneeming, Maria’s Lodge, Golden Fleece, and Cullen.
Outlining the government’s development agenda, the Vice President said the PPP/C administration remains committed to building “safe and secure communities” across the Essequibo Coast. Planned upgrades include: Installation of street lights and surveillance cameras; construction of concrete drains and improved drainage
systems; establishment of recreational spaces and playgrounds for children; and enhanced solid waste management and garbage collection systems.
“These investments will create cleaner, safer communities for families,” Dr. Jagdeo told residents, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to sustainable development.
Addressing housing concerns, the Vice President revealed that the government will continue expanding its housing programme. This includes speeding up the processing of applications, providing direct support for low-income home construction, and upgrading infrastructure in existing communities.
On employment, he highlighted increased support for part-time workers, trench cleaners, and pathway workers. He also pointed to plans to facilitate business growth through the proposed Development Bank.
“Our focus is on creating jobs and improving livelihoods while ensuring every family has access to worldclass healthcare and free education,” he stated.
Dr. Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to social programmes, announcing increases in the “Because We Care” education grant,
old-age pensions, and public assistance.
He also pledged continued investment in transportation for schoolchildren and the education sector at large.
‘FAKE
During the outreach, Dr. Jagdeo cautioned residents against being misled by opposition parties, specifically naming the APNU, AFC, and the WIIN party. He described their campaign promises as “fake” and lacking any realistic vision or plan to govern the country.
“Residents can check with the U.S. Treasury Department; anyone associated with WIIN should know that their bank accounts could be at risk,” he warned, referencing international sanctions.
He reminded citizens that Guyana has transitioned from “a state of bankruptcy to a vibrant, growing economy” under PPP/C leadership and called on Essequibians not to risk the country’s democratic and economic progress.
Residents welcomed the Vice President’s visit, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to directly engage with government officials and voice their concerns.
“We feel welcome and appreciated that our Vice
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is urging the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution as the country approaches its General and Regional Elections, scheduled for September 1, 2025.
In a public advisory issued on Wednesday, the Commission raised serious concerns about the rise in fake news and misinformation that has been circulating across both traditional and social media platforms.
GECOM noted that these disinformation campaigns pose a significant threat to public trust, the electoral process, and the democratic fabric of the nation.
Dr
is reaching out to meet with us,” one resident commented.
The two-day outreach forms part of the PPP/C’s ongoing efforts to stay connected with communities and tailor government policies to meet local needs.
As the body constitutionally mandated to oversee the conduct of elections in Guyana, GECOM reaffirmed its commitment to implementing its work plan with transparency and integrity.
The Commission called on all stakeholders, including voters, political parties, civil society groups, and media houses, to treat GECOM as the only credible and official source of information related to the electoral process.
To combat the spread of misinformation, GECOM will continue to release accurate and timely updates via its official website (www.gecom.org.gy), verified social media pages, and
The Commission emphasised that false narratives, whether intentional or not, can cause widespread confusion, erode confidence in State institutions, and potentially deter citizens from participating in the elections.
press releases.
The public is strongly encouraged to verify any election-related content by cross-referencing it with GECOM’s official communications before sharing or acting on it.
“Fake news can disrupt the democratic process, and undermine free and fair elections,” the Commission stated. “We appeal to every Guyanese to think critically and responsibly when engaging with information, particularly during this crucial election period.”
GECOM concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that the September 1 elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner that reflects the genuine will of the Guyanese people.
–– PM Phillips says no region will be left behind in Guyana’s digital transformation
IN a ground-breaking development for Guyana’s hinterland connectivity, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Wednesday hailed the commissioning of the first-ever direct submarine fibre-optic cable to Bartica by local telecommunications company ENet.
The milestone ushers in gigabit-speed internet access for residents and businesses in Bartica – a first for the town known as the gateway to the interior.
The Prime Minister, delivering remarks at the commissioning ceremony, lauded the project as a “historic milestone” that signifies real progress in closing the digital divide between Guyana’s coastland and hinterland. The high-speed internet connection, comparable to that available in Georgetown, is expected to transform the landscape of education, commerce, public services, and daily life in the Region Seven community.
“This is an immense technical achievement that also signifies a meaningful step towards bridging the digital divide between our coast and hinterland,” the Prime Minister stated. “We commend ENet for its bold investment and welcome this initiative as a demonstration of what can be achieved through partnership, innovation, and a shared commitment to national development.”
The new fibre-optic link is part of the Government of Guyana’s broader push under its Digital Guyana strategy to modernise national ICT infrastructure and promote inclusive development. Since liberalising the telecommunications sector in 2020, the Government has expanded connectivity to over
100 ICT hubs and more than 130 schools, particularly in underserved areas.
Bartica’s upgrade to highspeed internet opens the door to a host of possibilities— from enabling students to access real-time digital learning resources to allowing small businesses to scale operations beyond regional boundaries. Public institutions will now also benefit from greater speed and efficiency in delivering services.
“Connectivity is a necessity for education, commerce, healthcare, and good governance,” Prime Minister Phillips affirmed. “This initiative brings Bartica forward, integrating the community more fully into the national and global economy.”
He also reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring that all Guyanese— whether on the coast or in the interior—have equal access to digital infrastructure and public services.
“As I recently reaffirmed in Mabaruma,” the Prime Minister said, “these regions will receive the same standard of connectivity and government services that citizens along the
coast already enjoy.”
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has pledged that within the next year, every essential government service—including administrative licensing, GRA support, and financial services—will be accessible within hinterland communities, eliminating the need to travel to Georgetown.
With ENet’s submarine fibre-optic cable now delivering gigabit speeds to Bartica, residents are being brought into the fold of Guyana’s digital
transformation. The move not only supports regional equity but sets the stage for long-term social and economic growth.
“We realise that if the digital divide continues, we cannot speak of development in a truly inclusive way,”
Prime Minister Phillips concluded. “That is why the Government will continue to support initiatives like this one, ensuring that every region, every town, and every citizen is included in Guyana’s digital future.”
THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic government has invested more than $32 billion to establish new housing infrastructure in Region Three over the last five years, according to Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal at the commissioning of the water treatment plant at Parika on Wednesday.
Minister Croal noted that the government is undertaking a massive housing agenda across the region that will guarantee residents access to affordable and sustainable housing.
“Within the last three years, we have increased the household allocations to approximately 11,000 new allottees in Region Three. With those allocations, [we] also saw the opening up of 18 new housing areas,” he stated.
The government has been working to clear the region’s housing backlog.
Region Three has several housing schemes at Anna Catherina, Edinburg, Leonora, Groenveldt, Stewartville, Meten-Meer-Zorg, and Wales.
Funds totalling $10.5 billion have been invested in infrastructure works at the Wales Housing Scheme to ensure allottees have access to their lands before the end of this year.
These investments in housing developments have created numerous spin-off benefits, including an increase in employment opportunities, transportation, and other services for the residents.
Over the past five years, the government has allocated more than 52,000 house lots nationwide, with over 9,400 allocated in Region Three.
The government has been consistent in its housing programme over the years, empowering many families through homeownership and ensuring they have a sustainable future.
TWENTY-NINE pupils living in the village of Meriwau in Region Nine will no longer have to travel to Macushi Primary and Nursery Schools to receive an education.
Thanks to the intervention of the government, they now have direct access to their very own primary school, commissioned on Tuesday by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand.
Senior Councillor of Meri-
wau, Joan Stephen, expressed gratitude to the government for investing in the $30 million learning facility. Stephen, whose father was a former senior councilman of Meriwau, said that her father’s dream for the village to have its own school has been realised.
Reflecting on her childhood days, Stephen said, “It is a great moment for me because growing up as a kid, I did not have this opportunity to run out of my door to come to school. But now, the children have that at their disposal.”
The senior councillor also thanked the government for listening to the concerns of the villagers, adding, “We know
that our government is caring and listens attentively to all that we request, and our request has now come to a reality.”
Minister Manickchand reaffirmed the government’s mandate to expand access to education by ensuring that schools are constructed in hinterland and remote communities.
“This evidences our belief that if you prioritise education, our nation, communities and regions will grow. We are going to enhance the human capital product by far so that Guyana is going to look very different in 20 years,” the education minister said.
In Region Nine alone, construction is underway on nine
secondary, seven primary and 22 nursery schools. Construction will soon begin on a brandnew $350 million secondary school at Shulinab. When completed in about eight months, the school will serve 250 students from Katu’ur, Parikwaranau, Quiko, Baitoon, Meriwau and Potarinau. It will have classrooms, laboratories, a dormitory, and a cafeteria, among other essential amenities.
And to complement the construction of the facilities, teachers are being trained at Gunns Village, Parabara and Bashaizon to deliver quality education. (DPI)
By Faith Greene
AS Guyana’s maritime sector continues to expand, three key industry players, Noble Corporation, El Dorado Offshore, and MATPAL Marine Institute, have joined forces once again to launch the third cohort of the Noble Marine Cadet Scholarship Programme, inviting ambitious young Guyanese to chart a transformative career path at sea. Applications officially opened on August 6, 2025, and will remain open until October 31, 2025.
The scholarship offers full financial support over a three-year training period, covering tuition, developmental assistance, and oneon-one mentorship, aiming to equip cadets with the skills needed for thriving careers in navigation, marine engineering, and offshore operations.
Designed to nurture the next generation of seafarers, the programme has undergone significant upgrades to its application process.
Interested candidates can
now easily access scholarship details online and submit their applications directly via a QR code-enabled portal.
This tech-forward approach also includes access to preparatory resources to guide applicants through the interview and assessment phases.
The initiative is more than just a scholarship—it is a movement to close critical skill gaps in Guyana’s evolving energy and maritime industries.
Speaking on the importance of the programme, Noble Pioneer Captain Chris praised the trailblazing spirit of the first cohort of cadets, noting that their success laid the groundwork for others to follow.
“The stage that everyone has set—the success, the team you’ve built from the first group to the second—has made it possible for others to be part of such an outstanding opportunity,” Captain Chris remarked.
As the academic partner for the programme, MATPAL Marine Institute plays a crucial role in delivering world-class maritime training to the scholarship recipients. Ms. Coleen Abrams, a representative of MATPAL, expressed pride in the Institute’s two-decade journey training Guyanese mariners, growing from modest beginnings to a national leader in maritime education.
“We are proud to be that backbone for what has now blossomed into so many other offshoots for training and certification here in Guyana. In other words, we had to lie down for others to stand up— and we were happy to do so,” Abrams declared.
She urged cadets to embrace the opportunity, noting that each recipient represents another Guyanese youth empowered to uplift themselves and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
To widen access and awareness, the partners are launching a public sensitisation campaign throughout August and September via radio, social media, and
A TRAGIC road accident that claimed the life of a young medical technologist has resulted in a prison sentence for her boyfriend.
Niraz Persaud Sukdeo, 25, of Lancaster Village, was handed a three-year, twomonth prison term on August 6, 2025, for causing death by dangerous driving, under Section 35(1) of Guyana’s Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act (Cap. 51:02).
The fatal collision occurred in the early hours of July 22, 2024, on the Kiltearn Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice.
Sukdeo was at the wheel of motorcar PAF 6330, travelling north at a high speed, allegedly under the influence, when he lost control and collided with a parked crane.
The impact caused the vehicle to veer off into a canal, ejecting 18-year-old Bibi Aleah Ali—a medical technologist and his common-law partner—who tragically succumbed to her injuries at Skeldon Public Hospital Sukdeo was transported to Anamayah Memorial Hospital in critical condition with multiple injuries
Sukdeo’s court journey began on September 18, 2024, at the No. 51 Magistrate’s Court before Her Worship Tuanna Hardy, where the charge was read. No plea was required initially as police information was still being processed, and he was granted $300,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to October 30, 2024
The full trial commenced on January 8, 2025, during which the prosecution presented seven witnesses. The testimony concluded on July 30, 2025, at which time Sukdeo was found guilty of the offence and remanded pending sentencing
community outreach. The initiative will highlight the benefits of the scholarship, share testimonials from past cadets, and provide insights into the maritime industry.
Thalia Wilson, Local Content Champion at El Dorado Offshore, explained the importance of this effort: “What we want to do is really sensitise the public… to share more information
about the scholarship, to give testimonials, and to highlight the benefits of this life-changing opportunity.”
Once applications close at the end of October, the shortlisting process will begin in November, with the 2026 Noble Scholars expected to be officially announced by the end of
December.
This partnership not only opens doors for individual success stories—it helps build a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to serve in Guyana’s rapidly expanding maritime and offshore sectors, ensuring that the nation’s youth are prepared to lead at home and at sea.
rine
On August 6, 2025, Sukdeo appeared virtually in court for sentencing and received a three-year, twomonth prison sentence.
This conviction underscores Guyana’s ongoing battle with road fatalities resulting from reckless driving, particularly speeding and intoxication at the wheel.
Authorities have emphasised the need for heightened road safety enforcement amid evolving legislation. Recent amendments to Cap. 51:02, notably addressing drunk driving and automation of enforcement measures (e-ticketing), reflect stricter control efforts
other
IN a bold leap toward modernisation and sustainable development, Guyana is on the brink of completing a revolutionary digital transformation in land management, ushering in a new era of efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility.
At the heart of this national advancement is the Sustainable Land Development and Management (SLDM) project, a collaborative initiative led by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and funded by the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF).
From updated infrastructure and cutting-edge technology to human capital development and sustainable land use practices, the transformation redefines how land is surveyed, administered, and managed— positioning Guyana as a global leader in digital geospatial innovation.
At the physical core of this transformation lies a robust expansion of GLSC’s regional presence. New offices have been constructed in Black Bush Polder, Bartica, and Port Kaituma, complementing recent buildings in Crane and New Amsterdam. For communities long underserved by centralised land administration systems, these modern offices—with staff housing included in Bartica, Port Kaituma, and a renovated facility in Mabaruma—bring critical services closer to home.
These regional hubs now allow residents and businesses across Guyana to access essential land services—ranging from residential and agricultural leases to support for eco-tourism, commercial ventures, and infrastructure development.
The project’s technological integration is arguably its most transformative dimension. A suite of state-of-the-art tools and systems is accelerating survey work, enhancing accuracy, and enabling a seamless digital experience for both staff and users.
Key highlights include:
Modern Survey Equipment: The national Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) network has expanded from 8 (mostly non-functional in 2020) to 11 active stations. This provides centimetre-level accuracy, allowing surveys to be completed in hours instead of weeks; GNSS and Total Stations: These devices, paired with new field-to-office workflows, have streamlined survey processing, vastly improving turnaround time; LIDAR and Aerial Mapping: High-resolution, airborne surveys now cover Georgetown, Linden, Lethem, Bartica, Mahdia, and rural areas in Regions 3, 4, 5, and 6. For the first time in over 40 years, Guyana’s topographic maps are being fully updated; Digital Survey Plan Management: The digitisation of over 90,000 survey plans— once trapped in physical bin cards—now allows instant access through an online index.
This removes the need for time-consuming, in-person file searches; Enterprise GIS Infrastructure: A hybrid system built on ESRI ArcGIS and opensource platforms supports integrated spatial analysis and data-sharing across agencies; and 3D Laser Scanning: A recently acquired Leica scanner enables high-definition 3D mapping— vital for engineering, public safety, disaster recovery, and even historic preservation.
Behind every piece of technology is a team of trained professionals driving meaningful change, and the SLDM project has made significant investments in training, upskilling, and academic collaboration to ensure long-term impact.
Through partnerships with the University of Guyana, new programmes in land administration, valuation, and spatial science have been introduced or proposed to strengthen the country’s professional base.
Technical staff have received in-depth instruction in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Total Station operations, and survey software, while inter-agency training has supported capacity-building across institutions such as the Geology and Mines Commission, Forestry Commission, and Housing Authority. Additionally, GLSC’s participation in major international conferences has exposed staff to global best practices and cutting-edge innovations, enabling them to align Guyana’s land management systems with internationally recognised standards.
As a direct result of this transformation, the GLSC has dramatically improved its responsiveness to national projects. From housing schemes and power lines to schools, hospitals, and roads, land-related surveys and permissions are now completed faster, helping unlock national and regional development.
High-precision GNSS tools ensure long-term accuracy and reliability in land boundaries, while digital survey records minimise disputes and administrative delays. Since 2020, the Commission has recorded a historic surge in land applications—thanks in large part to its upgraded systems.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking advancement has been in geodetic surveying— the science of measuring and understanding the Earth’s geometric shape and gravitational field.
Guyana has developed its own Geoid model, a complex mathematical tool used to
Guyana’s continuous operating reference stations
measure elevation in relation to sea level. This model, based on the Georgetown Datum (GD), provides a consistent baseline for vertical measurement—crucial for everything from infrastructure to flood risk management.
Moreover, Guyana’s integration into the South American SIRGAS network and adoption of a new national coordinate reference system, aligned with the globally recognised WGS 84, fulfills the UN’s call for a Global Geodetic Reference Framework.
The SLDM project is also laying the groundwork for a next-generation Lease Management System (LMS). This fully digital platform—currently in pilot phase—aims to manage all aspects of land leasing, including applications, approvals, survey data, and lease records.
Built to ISO standards and aligned with the Land Administration Domain Model (LADM), the LMS will provide a single, integrated interface for all land-related data. This promises transparency, speed, and accountability across all government land transactions.
In alignment with Guyana’s role in the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), the SLDM project also focuses on environmental restoration and sustainable
agriculture.
Pilot initiatives in Regions Four, Seven, and 10 are repurposing mined-out lands through shade house farming, vetiver grass planting, and dragon fruit cultivation. These efforts are supported by organic practices like vermicomposting and biochar use, aimed at restoring soil health and boosting productivity.
Dr. Gillian Smith, FAO’s Representative in Guyana, summarised the significance of the transformation:
“I am extremely pleased with the remarkable progress of this project, which is not only transforming how land is managed in Guyana but also positioning the country at the forefront of global advancements in technology for a sustainable future.”
As Guyana’s economy continues to expand, the transformation of its land management systems through the SLDM project is both timely and visionary. From mapping and leasing to restoration and development, Guyana now boasts a digitally integrated, globally aligned framework that ensures land remains a cornerstone of prosperity and sustainability.
Through precise, efficient, and tech-powered land governance, Guyana is not just managing land, it is reimagining its future on it.
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
CANEFIELD Village, once battered by economic hardship and uncertainty following the closure of the sugar estate, is now a reflection of transformation, recovery and hope, thanks to the policies and promises delivered by the PPP/C Government.
This was the message from Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, who addressed East Berbice-Corentyne residents during a recent community meeting.
“This was one of the areas that was deliberately targeted by the former government,” Mustapha said as he reflected on the difficult years prior to 2020. He reminded that the people of
Reflecting on the hardships of the previous administration, Mustapha shared, “Under the last five years from 2015 to 2020 we have seen over 35,000 people lost their jobs.” However, he stressed that the PPP/C government has reemployed those persons.
He outlined that 7,500 sugar workers and 2,000 community service officers were brought back into employment. “Ordinary citizens lost their jobs under their tenure; we have reemployed them, we have reemployed those persons,” he said.
The Minister pointed out that the PPP/C Government’s economic policies have now made the job market so robust that there is demand for more workers. “Today we are now looking for people to take up
Further, Mustapha said, “The list has persons with experience who know to run the country” and who have a proud legacy of delivering on all its people in the country.
He added that in order to make a proper decision come September, 1, “Let us look from where we came, what was our life before 2020, where our country was before 2020...”
Residents in Canefield shouted in agreement when he said members of the APNU+AFC “cannot come around anymore” recalling the pain of job losses and community collapse under the previous government.
“Since we have gotten in government in 2020, every single year sugar workers have been receiving increases in their wages and salary,” Mustapha told the crowd. He warned that the op-
Canje experienced some of the worst impacts after the closure of the sugar estate. “Your entire family life was affected, you lived it, you experienced it. Many families were broken up,” he stated, noting that basic necessities were taken away because persons could not pay their bills.
According to Mustapha, “We said when we get back into government that we will reopen the sugar estate that was closed and I can tell you that we didn’t only reopen the sugar estates but we have reemployed thousands of people.”
He told the crowd that the PPP/C Government is not one that reneges on its promises and pointed to the overall improvement in village economies across the region. With support being given to parents, children and families, he said, the Canje community has improved drastically.
jobs. We want more people to be employed; when you go in the private sector they are complaining that they are not getting workers,” Mustapha said. “We have seen our economy grow by leaps and bounds.”
He highlighted that when the PPP/C went to the electorate in 2020, they did so with a clear and honest manifesto that they promised to deliver on. “I am proud to tell you that for the first time in the history of our country we have seen a party that has delivered.”
He also emphasised the inclusivity and strength of the party's 2025 candidate list with twenty seven persons under the age of twenty five, “Our list has almost 40% that are female; we have farmers, we have sugar workers, we have professionals and we can go and list all the persons that make up our list.”
the people. However, this was not done and the estates were shortly closed by the former government.
Mustapha assured residents that the current government is doing what the former administration failed to do. “We ensure that money is allocated to the industry to ensure it survives.”
He added another major relief is about to take effect pointing out that from August, 1, the bridges in Guyana will be toll free. “We are seeing the landscape in Berbice is changing.”
In wrapping up, Mustapha highlighted the PPP/C’s unmatched track record of delivery, “In every single sector in our country I can stand here without a piece of paper and talk from my head what we have done and what we will be doing,” stressing that “the PPP/C track record speaks for itself.”
He proudly shared that under
the part-time employment programme in Berbice, “8,500 part time workers we have employed, most of those workers are female, housewives earning $40,000.”
Speaking on the attempts to rig the 2020 elections, he didn’t mince words, “Guyana gave them a chance and they not only did nothing but tried to steal the entire country in front the eyes of the world. For five months we had to wait to ensure that President Irfaan Ali sworn in.” This, he said, must never be forgotten.
As such, the minister urged that “they are coming once again to split the votes” but he said this must not be allowed stressing that their efforts to make the PPP/C a minority government should be refused.
“We are 32 days away from election; we are now on the homestretch. We can have all the big rallies, all the big meetings but if we don’t turn out and get
everyone to go cast their vote for the PPP/C we cannot win this election. Every single person that is here ensure that we advise and educate our neighbours and friends that every single person whose name is on the voters list goes out and cast their vote.”
With a charge from General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, that Region Six must give the PPP/C not less than 55,000 votes, “Today I can tell you when you look at the PPP/C candidate list and when you look at the entire support of the PPP/C we are the only national multiracial party.”
Mustapha stressed that founder of the party, Cheddi Jagan’s dream was being realised of bringing every Guyanese under the PPP/C banner.
“Let us go home tonight and ensure our future is secured” as he once more urged everyone to come out and vote solidly for his party on September 1.
position had plans to completely dismantle the sugar industry, and stated plainly, “They want to do away with sugar.”
“But I want to tell the sugar workers that as long as the PPP/C is in government your future is secured. We will continue to invest in sugar.”
Mustapha said that more than $60 billion has been injected into GuySuCo since 2020. “Sugar will be secure,” he noted, adding that the corporation is being modernised, with 40% already mechanised. “We are spending money so that we can rebuild GuySuCo so that it can be sustainable” and eventually break even.
He also reminded the gathering that both he and President Irfaan Ali had urged for an economic study to be done before the estates were closed, to understand how closure would affect
‘I
stated
UNITED States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, has firmly rejected claims that she or the United States is attempting to interfere in Guyana’s electoral process, expressing disappointment over what she called a mischaracterisation of her recent comments.
The backlash stemmed from remarks Ambassador Theriot made regarding the implications of a US-sanctioned individual potentially entering Guyana’s Parliament.
She noted that such a development could have consequences for US-Guyana relations, citing similar situations in other countries.
Speaking to reporters,
- reaffirms respect for Guyana’s sovereignty which restricts financial and diplomatic engagement with designated individuals.
Ambassador Theriot clarified her position, stating, “I was a little upset by that characterisation simply because I was stating facts. I was asked what being OFAC-sanctioned meant in terms of a US government being able to work with an individual, and I simply gave the facts that have occurred in other countries where OFAC-sanctioned individuals were members of government, and how the US had to adjust how we worked with those governments.”
The ambassador was referring to sanctions imposed by the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC),
She emphasised that her comments were based on publicly available information from the US Treasury’s website, adding that she had no political motivations or desire to meddle in Guyana’s internal affairs.
“We have absolutely no interest in interfering in your elections,” Theriot asserted. “I was asked a question, and I gave the facts as I understand them, as they are published on our Department of
Treasury website. I have no interest or intention of interfering in the Government of Guyana’s elections. This is a sovereign country. You run your elections as you see fit.”
Theriot further explained that any support the US offers in the realm of electoral processes, such as technical assistance or election security, comes only when requested by the Guyanese government. “How you run your elections is entirely up to you,” she reiterated.
In 2024, the Department
of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced that it sanctioned Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, as well as several of their companies.
Azruddin Mohamed has since launched a political party called, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) and he is running as the presidential candidate. His party has been approved by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to contest the elections on September 1. The sanctions are re -
lated to money laundering, drug trafficking and gold smuggling, according to reports seen by international news agency Reuters.
‘I saw men cry’: Former journalist-turnedactivist recalls hardship under opposition rule
- says ‘This election is about every Guyanese family’ - notes from shrimp farming to scholarships, PPP/C is delivering
WITH just 25 days until Guyanese head to the polls, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) received a powerful boost in Region Six from one of its rising voices, Malisa Playter Harry, a passionate young activist and advocate for grassroots progress.
Addressing a lively crowd of supporters, Playter Harry, a former journalist, opened by expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who turned out in large numbers.
“Many of you left your jobs, your homes, and your families to be here today. That tells me you are committed, you believe in this party, and you believe in the future of this country,” she said.
With Election Day drawing near, she confidently predicted a landslide victory for the PPP/C. “From the energy I feel in this crowd, I know that come E-Day, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic will not just win we will win resoundingly!”
Before yielding the stage to Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, Playter Harry took the opportunity to drive home why this election matters and why voting PPP/C is more than just a political choice.
“Let’s talk about track records,” she said, taking a pointed jab at opposition leaders. “The PPP/C doesn’t work for one group or one community. We work for all Guyanese regardless of
whether they wear red, green, or blue.”
Playter Harry outlined how the PPP/C has created real, inclusive policies that lift up communities, citing agriculture as a prime example of transformative development under the current government.
From modern farming techniques to investments in aquaculture and billions poured into farm-to-market roads, she explained how the sector has not only revived but flourished.
“Today, shrimp farming is thriving again in Region Six. That means jobs, income, and dignity for hundreds of families,” she said.
The young activist also reminded the audience of the dark days under the APNU+AFC administration, particularly for sugar work-
ers.
“I was a journalist during that time. I saw men cry after entire livelihoods were stripped from them. I heard single mothers say they were surviving on one meal a day,” she recalled. “That is the legacy of APNU+AFC. And now they want to come back and talk about reviving sugar? The only thing that needs reviving is their memory of what they did.”
She also condemned the opposition’s decision to give themselves a 50 per cent salary increase shortly after taking office. “That alone tells you whose side they were really on,” she declared.
Playter Harry then praised President Irfaan Ali’s leadership, describing the visible and wide-reaching developments taking place across Guyana. “The Be -
cause We Care cash grants, free UG tuition, scholarships through GOAL—these are real tools helping parents and young people build a brighter future,” she said.
She then turned to housing, adding, “Thousands of families now have access to affordable house lots especially right here in Berbice. That’s progress.”
“New regional hospitals and specialised care are being made available so you don’t have to fly out of the country to get treated with dignity.”
In terms of infrastructure, “Roads, drainage, bridges, and sea defences these aren’t just projects. They are lifelines that are making life better right here in our communities.”
She noted that “these achievements are not just promises, but tangible improvements that people can feel and benefit from daily.”
With passion and urgency, Playter Harry urged the crowd to not only vote but to campaign within their communities.
“Talk to your neighbours, your family, your co-workers. Convince those who are on the fence. This election is not just about the PPP/C. It’s about every farmer who wants to grow and earn, every parent who wants a better life for their child, every young person who wants to stay in Guyana and succeed,” she said.
THREE families in Haslington are celebrating a new chapter in their lives after receiving the keys to their brand-new homes under the Ministry of Housing and Water’s Core Home Support initiative, part of the broader Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP).
The keys and electrical certificates were officially handed over on Wednesday, during a brief ceremony, by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, at the Ministry’s headquarters. Also present were Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Director of Operations, Mrs. Denise King-Tudor, and Deputy Director of
“I am so happy that I got this key, that I would be able to go into my new home,” Ms. O’Dell said with joy. “It will help us in a lot of ways because we used to pay a rent of $30,000 a month, so [now] we get our own house, that money [ will] go to something else.”
Another beneficiary, Ms. Evette Abrams, echoed similar sentiments. Though she had owned a plot of land for years, financial hardships had prevented her from building. She credited the programme for giving her the breakthrough she desperately needed.
The AHUAP’s Component 1.1: Affordable and Sustainable Housing, encompasses both the Core
Community Development, Mrs. Donell Bess-Bascom.
The Core Home Support initiative is being executed in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and aims to improve the living conditions of low-income households. Each home is valued between $5 million and $6.5 million and features two bedrooms, a kitchen, and indoor sanitary facilities. Beneficiaries are required to contribute just GYD $100,000 toward the construction, making homeownership significantly more accessible.
Among the new homeowners is Ms. Maylene O’Dell, who shared her deep sense of relief at no longer having to pay monthly rent.
including Westminster, Onderneeming, Recht-DoorZee, Lust en Rust, and Parfaite Harmonie Phase II.
On the East Coast Demerara alone, an estimated $243.25 million has already been invested
Home construction initiative and Home Improvement Subsidies—ranging between $500,000 and $750,000—to assist families with critical home repairs through the provision of materials.
In total, the programme targets the construction of approximately 300 Core Homes and the disbursement of 916 Home Improvement Subsidies. Beneficiary selection for the programme has been completed, and applications are now closed.
Geographically, AHUAP spans communities from Georgetown to Grove on the East Bank Demerara, up to Hope on the East Coast Demerara, and various areas on the West Bank Demerara
toward the construction of 25 Core Homes and the distribution of 148 Home Improvement Subsidies—offering hundreds of families hope, dignity, and the security of a place to call home.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, officially hands over the keys and electrical certificates during a brief ceremony at the Ministry’s headquarters
IN commemoration of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, the University of Guyana’s Department of Biology, in collaboration with the UG Biology Club, hosted a successful mangrove cleanup at the Chateau Margot Mangrove Forest on July 26, 2025.
The initiative brought together faculty members, students, and key environmental partners in a unified
Ram emphasised that while clean-up activities alone are not a solution to marine pollution, they serve as a powerful tool to raise awareness about the impact of plastic and other waste materials on fragile ecosystems.
More than 40 participants took part in the activity, including representatives from Jan De Nul, the British High Commission, the Protected Areas Commission, the Centre for the Study
effort to remove waste and raise awareness about the critical role mangroves play in coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. The cleanup reaffirms the University’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable ecosystem management.
“Mangroves are vital to the health of our environment and coastal communities,” stated Mark Ram, Lecturer and Mangrove Ecologist with UG’s Department of Biology. “They act as natural barriers against storm surges, provide habitat for marine life, and store significant amounts of carbon. This exercise not only contributes to restoring this essential ecosystem, but also educates the public on the urgent need for conservation.”
of Biological Diversity at UG, Ecotrust Society, and members of the UG Biology Club.
Together, they collected over 100 bags of garbage from the mangrove area, including tyres, snack wrappers, freezers, plastic bottles, and bags—demonstrating the sheer scale of pollution threatening Guyana’s coastal resources.
The Department of Biology extended heartfelt thanks to all participants and supporting agencies for their collaboration and dedication to environmental protection. The department also encouraged the wider public to take collective action to preserve Guyana’s rich and fragile mangrove ecosystems, which are essential to the country’s ecological and economic future.
THE European Union (EU) has officially launched its full-scale election observation mission (EOM) in Guyana, with long-term observers now deployed across the country to assess preparations for the upcoming general and regional elections.
Speaking to the local press on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Observer, Vania Anguelova, announced the commencement of the mission’s nationwide activities,
EU EOM’s Deputy Chief Observer, Vania Anguelova
noting that 14 long-term observers have been stationed in various regions to monitor the electoral environment.
“This marks the beginning of our full-scale election observation activities in Guyana. We are deploying 14 long-term observers in the different regions. We will cover all ten regions,” Anguelova stated.
Ahead of their deployment, the observers underwent a three-day briefing in the capital, during which they were educated on Guyana’s electoral laws and procedures. Their mission is to engage with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive and impartial analysis of the electoral process.
“Our long-term observers will meet with the different stakeholders in the region. They will meet with political parties, candidates contesting there, local branches of
the elections administration; they will also meet with the civil society, local media,” Anguelova explained.
Last week, the EU team, led by the chief observer and member of the European Parliament, had already begun consultations with key figures involved in the electoral process. These included representatives of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), political parties, presidential candidates, the judiciary, and civil society organisations.
“Last week we met with a series of interlocutors; we met with different institutions, including the [Guyana] Elections Commission, we met with political parties, presidential candidates; we met also with civil society, the judiciary,” Anguelova said.
She emphasised that the EU’s approach remains impartial and evidence-based.
“They will make an independent, neutral, and factbased assessment on the election preparations and the election process,” she affirmed.
Closer to election day, the mission will be bolstered by an additional 20 short-term observers. In total, around 50 EU observers will be on the ground to observe polling, counting, and the tabulation of results.
The EU Election Observation Mission is expected to issue a preliminary statement shortly after election day, followed by a final report with recommendations aimed at supporting electoral reforms in Guyana.
US Visa bond pilot programme will not affect Guyanese, says Ambassador
THE United States is preparing to implement a pilot programme in the coming weeks that may require tourists and business travellers from certain countries to post bonds of up to US$15,000.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to address visa overstays by foreign nationals.
A recent report from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) revealed that in Fiscal Year 2023, over 3,100 Guyanese nationals who entered the country on non-immigrant B1/B2 visas—typically used for tourism and business—remained in the US beyond their authorised stay.
Despite this figure, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, has made it clear that Guyanese applicants are not currently included in the list of countries affected by the new bond requirement.
“Right now, this programme does not apply to Guyanese citizens. As far as I’m aware, Guyana’s overstay rate isn’t particularly high,” Ambassador Theriot told reporters. She added, “At this stage, there’s no indication that Guyana will be included, and I would be quite surprised if that changed.”
The US Embassy in Georgetown had earlier issued a public reminder warning non-immigrant visa holders about the consequences of overstaying their permitted time in the US.
According to a notice shared via the Embassy’s social media platforms, overstaying a visa could lead to a permanent ban from entering the United States. Visa holders are urged to respect the conditions of their stay.
The B1/B2 visa generally allows for a stay of up to six months, but travellers must ensure they leave before the period expires. Failure to do so may result in long-term or even lifetime entry restrictions.
FORMER Opposition Member of Parliament, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, who is now a candidate on the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) list for the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections, made a passionate case for trust and transformation during a community meeting in Berbice on Tuesday evening.
Addressing residents gathered at the Experiment Bath rally, Chandan-Edmond underscored the PPP/C’s proven track record and its bold vision for Guyana’s future.
She urged voters to consider not just the tangible accomplishments of the current administration, but also the intangible effects of its steady and strategic leadership under President Dr Irfaan Ali.
“This is a party you can trust,” she declared, highlighting the administration’s achievements in infrastruc-
Former Opposition Member of Parliament, Geeta Chandan-Edmond
ture, education, healthcare, digital advancement, and economic development since taking office.
She also pointed to the PPP/C’s well-documented development agenda for the next five years as a clear sign of its preparedness and forward-thinking approach.
Chandan-Edmond drew a sharp contrast between the PPP/C’s leadership and the handling of sensitive national issues by the opposition.
Citing the recent threat of foreign aggression against Guyana, she commended the PPP/C government’s diplomatic agility and composure in securing swift international support and rallying regional and global organisations in defence of Guyana’s sovereignty.
“The government’s response to the threat of invasion showcased not just leadership, but statesmanship. It reflected calm, calculated diplomacy and the trust of the international community,” she noted. “Now compare that to how the opposition handled something as straightforward as a parliamentary motion. That alone speaks volumes.”
The former PNC MP encouraged voters to ask themselves a critical question as election day approaches: Who can you really trust to lead this country through complex global challenges?
Chandan-Edmond’s crossover to the PPP/C has been seen by many as a significant endorsement of the party’s national vision and leadership values.
Her appearance at the Berbice rally is part of the PPP/C’s ongoing campaign across the country to reinforce its grassroots presence and connect with citizens on the issues that matter most.
As Guyana prepares for the September elections, the PPP/C continues to position itself as the party of stability, growth, and inclusive transformation.
AN unnamed former county cricket coach has been suspended for nine months after admitting charges of sexual misconduct.
The independent Cricket Discipline Panel found the man had sent sexually explicit pictures to two female junior members of staff in the summers of 2023 and 2024.
He admitted five breaches of professional conduct regulations, including send-
ing unsolicited sexual images to two colleagues.
The panel declined to identify the individual due to "exceptional" health-related circumstances and "serious risk of harm" if his name was made public.
The panel's report said the second woman "was much younger than the respondent and he occupied a far more senior position than she did" at the cricket club.
He was sacked as a result of his behaviour and has not been employed in the sport since.
In submissions to the panel, it was noted the coach had "apologised for his misconduct and expressed genuine remorse".
It said he had voluntarily taken an education course and "worked with a former professional sportswoman to understand the impact of unsolicited explicit messages".
"He hoped that now he was emerging as a better person," the report states.
"He had a greater understanding of workplace boundaries, the misuse of social media and what amounted to sexual harassment."
The ban is backdated six months to the charges being served, plus three months suspended and a mandatory education course to be completed.
Chris Haward, managing
(From back page)
rankings news, Australia’s Tim David gained two spots to grab the 16th position thanks to a blistering century against the West Indies as Pakistan opener Saim Ayub leap-frogged to 37th position, climbing 25 positions after his stellar show in Florida.
The highest T20I wicket-getter for the West Indies, Jason Holder improved 23 spots to equal Keshav Maharaj in 32nd spot in the ICC Men’s T20I Bowler Rankings. (ICC Media)
director of the cricket regulator, said: "This kind of conduct is unacceptable.
"Where such instances are identified they will be investigated and those responsible will be held to account. Removing sexual misconduct from the game is a priority for the cricket
regulator.
"We recognise that it takes a lot of courage for those impacted to come forward. We are committed to investigating thoroughly and expeditiously when allegations are raised with us, whether current or in the past." (BBC Sport)
(Thursday, August 7, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) PAK 2; WI 1 (2) Mohammad Nawaz (PAK)
Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI made most runs in the recent T20 series versus PAK? (2) Which PAK scored most runs?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
…Bharrat and Ganpat are top performers
THE Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy (RHTPP) Under-13 team has started their defence of the Berbice Cricket Board Under-13 Championship with three consecutive victories in the BCB/Singh Brothers Tournament.
The RHTPP Team had won the last tournament in 2024 when they defeated the Rose Hall Canje team by five wickets to lift their third title in six years.
The team in 2025 is being led by Berbice youth Jayden Ganpat, who has so far taken 10 wickets with his left arm spin while the highly talented Khemraj Bharrat has spearheaded the defending champions batting with solid batting in the three games.
In the matches played over three consecutive days, Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy defeated Albion B, Port Mourant Cricket Club and Albion A to emerge as the champions of Zone C and advance to the quarter-finals.
RHT Poonai Pharmacy batted first against Albion B in the 30 allotted overs at the Albion Sports Complex and reached 210 for 6 with Khemraj Bharrat scoring 45 not out, Akeem Fraser 34, Jayden Ganpat 31, Randy Williams 17, Dishan La Cruz 16 and Joshua Dhanraj 14 not out. Albion B in response were bowled out for 86 runs in 28 overs as Dishan LaCruz took four for 15, and Bharrat
two for nine in five impressive overs. The RHTPP team won by 124 runs.
On Monday, they crushed Port Mourant by 130 runs at the Port Mourant ground. Batting first after winning the toss, the visitors amassed a solid score of 220 for four from 30 overs with Royston Crandon top scoring with a solid 71, which included six delightful boundaries.
Crandon received support from Justin Hicks, 32 not out, Khemraj Bharrat, 30 not out and Akeem Fraser 20.
In reply, PMCC were shot out for 90 in 28 overs with only S Samaroo reaching double figures with 17. The twin pair of left arm spinners Jayden Ganpat and Khemraj Bharrat were the main destroyers with four for 11 and four for seven respectively. Anthony Srikissoon took one for 20.
In the final Zone C match, Albion A won the toss at the Area H Ground and decided to take first strike in brilliant sunlight. They were never allowed to score freely as pacers Disham LaCrux and Anthony Srikissoon bowled a tight line and length. Albion crawled to 30 for one wicket at the end of the tenth over.
The introduction of the twin left arm spin duo, Ganpat and Bharrat added more pressure. Albion were restricted to 120 for 8 off their allotted 30 overs. Extras top scored with 33 while Sahid
Gajnabi scored a solid 31 with two boundaries and a six.
Daniel Johnson scored 14 runs and Nicholas Madramootoo 10, while Ganpat claimed four wickets for 18 runs from six very impressive overs and Akeem Fraser two for 18 from four overs.
Rose Hall Town Poonai Pharmacy in reply reached 122 for seven in 27 overs as Bharrat continued his impressive form with the bat with a solid 41 inclusive of four boundaries while Justin Hicks made 16 and Fraser 14. Randy Williams also contributed a vital ten not out to lead the defending champions over the line. Daniel Johnson was the most successful bowler for Albion with two wickets for nine runs from three overs.
The tournament is being sponsored by the Singh Brothers Company and involves twelve teams divided into four zones.
...Tendulkar also praised Gill's front-foot defence and Rahul's judgement of his off stump and said Jaiswal “was a treat to watch”
SACHIN Tendulkar has hailed the efforts of some of the India players who played a key role in the five-match Test series against England that ended 2-2 after a heart-stopping finish on the final day.
Tendulkar heaped praise on "unbelievable" Mohammed Siraj, talked about how KL Rahul tightened his game around off stump with "precise footwork", how Yashasvi Jaiswal showed a lot of character and maturity during his twin hundreds, and how Shubman Gill remained "calm and composed" as a captain.
Apart from the high-octane finish and the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy being shared, the series saw a number of twists and turns, dramatic face-offs and some extraordinary individual efforts, such as Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes walking out to bat with injuries.
Pant played four of the five Tests and scored two centuries and three half-centuries, the last of them with a fractured right foot to average 68.42 with a strike rate of 77.6.
"The sweep shot that he played, he likes to get under the ball to scoop it with some elevation," Tendulkar said on Reddit. "People think he has fallen, but it is intentional so that he can get under the ball. The secret to play those shots is to be able
to get under the ball. So it's a planned fall, he doesn't go off-balance. All that depends on the length of the ball."
While calling Pant's strokeplay and the "punch" he adds to them a "god's gift", Tendulkar said, "There were occasions where people felt he doesn't have to play that shot, it's not the right time, but someone like Rishabh should be left alone. But when he's looking to save a match, he has to have a different approach, like in the last 15-20 overs of a match. But he has figured out [how to approach an innings] depending on the match situation."
Gill was 'so much in control', Rahul played some 'magnificent shots'.
The two batting stalwarts for India in this series were Gill and opener Rahul, who racked up 754 runs and 532 runs respectively with six hundreds between them. Tendulkar pointed out both batters had "precise footwork" on the challenging conditions in England. Gill's series aggregate was the second-highest tally of a captain, only behind Don Bradman's 810 in 1936.
"He was extremely consistent as far as his thought process was concerned because it reflects on your footwork," he said of Gill.
"If you're not clear in your head, your body doesn't respond accordingly, and
Over the course of the series, Mohammed
came into his own and peaked in the final Test
his body was responding brilliantly. He looked so much in control, he had so much time to play the ball. The most important thing I noticed was the respect to a good ball where the tendency sometimes is to push the ball on the front foot, even if it's not close to your foot. He was able to defend there and consistently defend well on the front foot. His front-foot defence was solid."
On Rahul, who scored more than one hundred in a series for the first time in a Test series, Tendulkar said: "He was terrific, possibly
one of the best I've seen him bat. The way he was defending close to the body, he was leaving in a completely organised manner, he knew exactly where his off stump was and which balls to leave. I got the feeling sometimes he was able to frustrate the bowler, that where should they bowl to him if he's letting so many balls go. So he got the bowlers to come back to him, and when the ball was in striking range he played some magnificent shots. I thought he looked in that zone, calm and composed."
Siraj 'doesn't get the credit he deserves'
Among the bowlers, Siraj impressed Tendulkar. Siraj was the only bowler across both teams to play all five Tests and sent down 1113 balls in all, 361 more than anyone, and led the wicket-takers' list with a haul of 23. He had to do the heavy lifting in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah in two Tests.
"Unbelievable. Superb approach. I love his attitude. I love the spring in his legs," Tendulkar said. "For a fast bowler to be constantly in your face like that, no batsman will like it. And the approach he had till the end on the last day, I could hear commentators also saying he bowled around 90mph (145kph) on the last day after having bowled more than 1000 deliveries in the series. That shows his courage and big heart.
"The way he started on the last day was remarkable and he has always been instrumental, playing a key role whenever we need him, whenever we want him to deliver that knockout punch, he's been able to do that consistently in the past, and so was the case in this series. The way he picked all those wickets and performed, he doesn't get the credit he deserves."
Jaiswal was 'a treat to watch'
Rahul's batting partner Jaiswal ended the tour with a century at The Oval, just like he had started at Leeds in the first Test. He scored two more half-centuries in between and drew particular praise for his century in the fifth Test, where he stitched a crucial century stand with nightwatcher Akash Deep. Jaiswal finished the series with 411 runs at an average of 41.10.
I was impressed with Yashasvi's mindset. He's a fearless batsman and he knows when to accelerate, when to see through a phase, and when to go to the non-striker's end. He scored a hundred on a difficult track in the first Test where the ball moved around a bit, not as much and not for as long as we expected, but he played an important role there.
"In the last Test he scored a magnificent hundred on a difficult track. Before that the tracks weren't as challenging, but the last one was a difficult one to bat on. He showed a lot of character, maturity and determination.
The way he was guiding Akash Deep...a batter's responsibility is not to score his own runs, it's also how you build partnerships. He played a role in how to motivate Akash Deep. All in all, a fantastic series for Yashasvi, a treat to watch. (ESPN Cricinfo)
MASON Greenwood is on the brink of a return to international football, this time in the colours of Jamaica, after being granted citizenship and receiving his Jamaican passport, according to a report from the BBC.
The 23-year-old, who earned his only England cap in September 2020 against Iceland, has not played international football since. He and Manchester City’s Phil Foden were sent home shortly after that match for breaching Covid-19 quarantine protocols. Now, with his Jamaican passport secured, all that remains is for the Football Association (FA) to officially approve a switch of allegiance to the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), which would clear Greenwood to feature in the Reggae Boyz squad for next month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago. Greenwood’s international career had stalled amid serious legal troubles that led to his departure from Manchester United.
ruary that year. He joined Spanish club Getafe on loan for the 2023-24 season before securing a permanent move to Ligue 1 side Marseille in 2024.
The talented forward recently found the net in Marseille’s 1-1 pre-season draw with Sevilla, further boosting his stock amid reported interest from Inter Milan and Saudi ProLeague outfit Al-Nassr.
He left the Premier League giants in 2023 after charges of attempted rape and assault were dropped in Feb -
Greenwood’s potential inclusion forms part of a renewed recruitment strategy by Jamaica, spearheaded by former England manager Steve McClaren, who has taken charge of the national
team. The initiative focuses on attracting UK-raised players with Jamaican heritage to bolster the Reggae Boyz squad as they seek to return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since their historic 1998 appearance.
Other players reportedly being targeted include Brentford defender Rico Henry and Tottenham’s Tyrese Hall, who is currently on loan at Notts County.
With Greenwood’s paperwork nearly complete, his long-awaited return to international football could soon come in green, gold, and black just in time for Jamaica’s crucial campaign to reach the 2026 World Cup
and
THE Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) yesterday announced the Guyana teams that will participate in the Junior Pan American Games and the CAREBACO Junior Team tournaments.
The talented junior athletes will travel for two prestigious international competitions this August.
Guyana’s Junior Pan American Games team will depart for Asunción, Paraguay today, while the CAREBACO Junior Team Tournament is scheduled from August 14-17, 2025 in Barbados.
Frank Waddell, Jonathan Debidin, Mishka Beharry, and Leshaunte Berkley will represent Guyana at the PANAM Games.
These athletes will compete in the Singles and Mixed Doubles events. The competition runs from August 10 to 13, 2025. The team will be led by National Senior Men’s Champion, Akili Haynes, who will serve as both Coach and Manager.
Coach Haynes and the team will travel to Bridgetown, Barbados, where they will be joined by Ruel Rambiriche to represent Guyana at the CAREBACO Junior Team Tournament.
Frank Waddell will not participate in this leg due to age eligibility restrictions.
In Barbados, the Guyanese team will compete in the Mixed Team Event, facing regional opponents across five match categories:
for
(L-R Back) Joanathan Debidin, Leshaunte Berkley, Ruel Rambiriche, Yonneil Benjamin, Christopher Jordan: (L-R Front) Liam Brumell, Mishka Beharry, Anjaneysa Godette, Joel Rambiriche
Boys’ Singles, Girls’ Singles, Boys’ Doubles, Girls’ Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.
Joining them in Barbados for the CAREBACO Individual Championships, August 19-23, 2025 will be another strong contingent consisting of Coach Nkosi Beaton and players Yonneil Benjamin, Christopher Jordan, Joel
Rambiriche, Anjaneysa Godette, and Liam Brumell.
These athletes will compete in their respective U11 to U19 age categories.
The GBA extends best wishes to the young Badminton team as they continue to represent the nation with pride and determination on the international stage. (Sean Devers)
hammad Nabi, and Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar. We have also added Nangyal Kharoti and Sharafuddin Ashraf, particularly Sharafuddin Ashraf, who has been doing great in domestic cricket for the last few years and was the Player of the Tournament in the Shpageeza 2025," he added.
"We have added a num-
ber of new guys such as top-order batter Wafiullah Tarakhil who was great in domestic events and was part of our A team too. Two pacers Abdullah Ahmadzai who is part of the preparation camp for the first time and Bashir Ahmad who have played with our A team. They are the future of Afghanistan. After the tri-na -
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Cricket fans across the Caribbean are in for a thrilling season as RUSH Sports has been confirmed as the official broadcaster for the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL)
The men’s CPL will deliver 34 high-octane matches from August 14 to September 21, while the WCPL will feature seven action-packed games between September
6 and 17.
Both tournaments will light up world-class venues in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago, bringing the electrifying atmosphere of the Biggest Party in Sport to fans across the region.
The men’s competition will showcase a star-studded lineup, including power hitters like Quinton de Kock, Andre Russell, and Nicholas Pooran, alongside bowling maestros Mohammad Amir
and Imad Wasim.
Jamaica’s Rovman Powell will also be among the big names battling for supremacy.
Meanwhile, the WCPL promises fierce competition as Hayley Matthews, the world’s top-ranked all-rounder, looks to guide the Barbados Royals to a historic third straight title.
However, she’ll face stiff challenges from explosive players like Deandra Dottin and speedster Shabnim Ismail, guaranteeing edge-of-the-seat action.
Seales focused on tactics and team morale ahead of crucial Pakistan ODI series
TAROUBA, Trinidad, (CMC) – West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales emphasised the importance of refining tactics, embracing his role as the strike bowler, and boosting team morale as the Caribbean side prepares for the first ODI against Pakistan at the Brian Lara Cricket Ground in Tarouba on Friday.
Speaking ahead of the match, Seales stressed the need for purposeful training and addressing past shortcomings that plagued the side in their T20 series loss to the same opposition.
“It’s just about getting our tactics right and training with a purpose, keeping our intensities high in training, and working on the things we fell short in the past games. We just want to keep getting better as we go along.”
The 23-year-old, now entrusted with leading the new-ball attack, acknowledged the dual responsibility of taking early wickets and containing runs against a Pakistan batting unit that is
(From page 26)
tion series and the camps, the coach, captain, and the selection committee will all decide together whom to go with for the Asia Cup," he further explained.
Mubariz said that captain and coach will have to decide regarding their opening pair as there are three candidates - Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal and Ibrahim
Zadran for the two spots.
"The opening pair will be decided by the coach and captain as per the condition and plan for the day and event, but yes, all of the mentioned players will be part of our top order," he added.
Afghanistan will start their Asia Cup campaign on September 9 against Hong
a disappointing Australia series, Seales admitted that a strong performance is vital to restoring confidence and regional pride.
“A win is what we need to give us back that confidence and boost team morale. For me, it would be good to do well in front of my home crowd, but playing a day-night match against Pakistan is a crucial series for us in terms of points, but my performance isn’t what matters right now, it’s about the team doing well.”
known to throw everything at opposition bowlers.
“Being the new-ball bowler in the team now, my role is to get wickets at the top, and if that doesn’t go to plan, then obviously keep the runs down,” Seales said. “In this day and age of 50-over cricket, I’ll take six runs (economy rate), or even five and a half any day.”
Coming off a tough T20 series loss to Pakistan and
Kong in Abu Dhabi while they are scheduled to play the next two games respectively against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka on September 16 and 18.
Afghanistan's 22-member preliminary squad: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Sediqullah Atal, Wafiullah Tarakhil, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Ra-
With the 2027 ODI World Cup qualification race heating up, Seales insisted the West Indies are taking a measured approach and are keen to avoid a dreaded qualification scenario one again.
“We’ll take every series as it comes, step by step. We know what’s at stake, the teams we have to play, and how many games we need to win to avoid being in a tough position again. We’re trying our best, playing our best cricket, and working hard to get to that stage.”
sooli, Mohammad Ishaq, Rashid Khan (C), Mohammad Nabi, Nangyal Kharoti, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Karim Janat, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Zadran, AM Ghazanfar, Noor Ahmad, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Naveen ul Haq, Farid Malik, Saleem Safi, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad. (Cricbuzz)
THE Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) is supporting Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) coach Kenisha Headley’s participation in the prestigious University of Delaware International Coaching Enrichment Certificate Programme (ICECP).
This move marks a significant investment in strengthening coaching expertise within Guyanese athletics.
Headley, a dedicated and long-serving coach and sports administrator, was nominated by the AAG, endorsed by the GOA, and officially selected by the University of Delaware in partnership with Olympic Solidarity.
She will participate in the 16th edition of this elite coaching development initiative.
The ICECP is a globally respected and intensive programme designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of national-level coaches and coordinators.
The programme, which runs from July 2025 to April 2026, is conducted under the patronage of the University of Delaware, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and Olympic Solidarity.
This comprehensive programme is designed to equip coaches with advanced proficiencies in:
Sport science
• Talent identification and athlete development
• Athlete safety and welfare
• Coaching ethics and leadership
• Grassroots and high-performance sport develop -
ment
• Coaching education and management
A core component of the programme involves the creation and execution of a personal coaching project.
This project is designed to implement sustainable improvements within the national sports structure, addressing a developmental gap within the AAG.
It was developed with the participants’ National Olympic Committee and sports federation.
This allows coaches to apply their new expertise to improve their national sport systems.
As part of her orientation, Coach Headley has already commenced work at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee’s Training Center, engaging with expert lecturers,
LAUDERHILL, Florida, (CMC) – Despite a 2-1 T20 series defeat against Pakistan, West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder remains optimistic about his team’s ability to turn things around.
With the ODI series on the horizon, Holder has called for greater self-belief within the squad, insisting that a few key improvements could put the Caribbean side back on track.
The T20 series exposed some batting frailties, with Sherfane Rutherford and Jewel Andrew topping the Windies’ run charts with just 71 runs each across three matches, paling in comparison to Pakistan’s Saim Ayub, who amassed 130 runs.
On the bowling front, Holder was a bright spot, claiming six wickets, though he was outshone by Pakistan’s Mohammad Nawaz, who took seven.
Speaking after the series loss, Holder acknowledged the team’s struggles but emphasised that a shift in mindset could spark a revival.
“I think it’s a combination of a few things,” Holder said. “We’ve not played well in the last couple of weeks. We haven’t had momentum; we
high-performance coaches, and sport development professionals.
Impact on Guyanese athletics
With the sport of athletics in Guyana on a steady
rise, this initiative marks a strategic investment in the AAG’s human resource development.
Headley’s participation in ICECP is expected to be a transformative milestone in advancing Guyana’s coaching infrastructure and longterm athlete development pathways.
This initiative also aligns with the GOA’s broader strategic developmental plan, which focuses on maximising Olympic Solidarity resources to build coaching capacities and create sustainable sport systems across all affiliated members.
“The GAPS Programme offers us a rare and transformative opportunity to reset our national approach to Paralympic sport development, developing leaders who understand the challenges and can drive mean-
ingful change by empowering voices and leaders from within the differently-abled community from which national sporting bodies can support and align with, we are promoting not just inclusivity, but authenticity and sustainability.
The GOA envisions this initiative as a cornerstone in a broader national movement where para-sport becomes an integral part of Guyana’s sporting identity, offering hope, opportunity, and empowerment to all,” said Godfrey Munroe, President of the Guyana Olympic Association. Munroe, and the Executive Committee have extended their congratulations to Headley, looking forward to the positive impact her training will bring to the future of athletics in Guyana.
AFGHANISTAN Cricket
Board official said on Tuesday that they are not losing their sleep over the form of star leg spinner Rashid Khan as they are confident he will make a comeback in the upcoming Asia Cup.
ACB announced a 22-member preliminary squad led by Rashid for the upcoming Asia Cup, set to be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 28.
haven’t had luck. But having said that, I think we can turn things around. We need confidence. When we play, we probably lack a little bit of that, and I think that goes along with momentum.”
The experienced all-rounder believes a strong start in the ODIs could set the tone for a much-needed resurgence.
“If we can get some momentum going now, even into the ODIs, it would put us in good stead. It’s not rocket science, we haven’t played well, and we know we need to improve. But I still think we’re
doing a lot of things well. We just need to put together a complete game, be more confident, and more expressive.”
Holder dismissed suggestions that the West Indies lack the firepower to compete, pointing to injuries as a key factor in their recent struggles.
“We lost some key players due to injury who would have been playing here. There are a lot of factors that haven’t gone our way. But we’ve got the adequate personnel to beat Pakistan, it’s just about making the most of what we have.”
Rashid decided not to take part in the Major League Cricket for MI New York following the Indian Premier League after an ordinary season by his standards where he picked nine wickets at an economy rate of 9.34 and average of 57.11 for Gujarat Titans.
"Rashid Khan is Afghanistan's superstar player. He has always done it for the team. Being in form or out of form, that's a part of game but he knows very well how to come back stronger and perform in major events for the team and the country," Mir Mubariz, ACB's selection committee member, told Cricbuzz.
Mubariz also stated that the board will host a twoweek preparation camp
before competing in the tri-nation T20I series that includes UAE and Pakistan.
Following the series, Afghanistan will focus on Asia Cup where they have been drawn in Group B alongside Hong Kong, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
"We have announced a preliminary squad for the preparation camp ahead of the tri-nation series and Asia Cup where the newly-included guys will be checked by both the coaching staff and the captain during the training and preparation camp," Mubariz said, adding that they are expected to pick their World Cup squad from the 22 members of the preliminary camp unless
they have to change their plans due to injuries.
"Yeah, we will probably go with these 22 players to the upcoming Asia Cup, but there might be changes in case of injury, and we will take care of such issues with the passage of time," he said, taking stock of the pace battery that has been included.
"Yeah, we have a great bunch of pacers. We have included Abdullah Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad, and Salim Safi is also returning after an injury. So, they all have the ability to bowl around 140."
"The whole world knows Afghanistan has got the best spin unit, with the likes of Rashid Khan, Mujeeb, Mo-
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GUYANA picked up their first win in the 2025 CONCACAF Boy’s Under-15 Championship campaign on Wednesday in League B against Cayman Islands. Playing in Group C in Aruba, the match-up saw couple of red cards handed out for aggressive play with Guyana coming out on top in the clash 3-1.
In the contest Cayman Islands who were eventually reduced to 9 boys on the field would score the opener to push the Guyanese on the back foot nine minutes into the contest.
The Guyanese pressed their case with several chances going begging until Mark Glasgow found the back of the net in the 28 minutes to level the scores going into the half 1-1.
After the resumption, a near altercation between a
couple of players from both sides saw a Cayman Islands player getting booked for mouthing off within ear shot of the referee and was duly given a straight red card reducing Cayman to 10 players. Cayman woes amplified when one of their striker attacked Guyana upright with his spikes up and hit the local goal keeper and got another red for his team.
The resulting penalty saw Nyron Barrow bending one past Cayman keeper to make it 2-1.
A stoppage time strike from Germaine Garrette coming three minutes into second half would complete the rout to hand Guyana its first win in the Concacaf U15 championship 3-1.
Meanwhile on Tuesday evening, Puerto Rico continued their winning way in Guyana opening clash hand-
This series marks a crucial step in the West Indies’ preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, offering a chance to test themselves against a higher-ranked opponent.
Head Coach Daren Sammy emphasised the importance of the matches. “Pakistan presents a different challenge, but our focus remains on securing automatic qualification for 2027. These games are vital for gaining ranking points and building momentum.”
Sammy also highlighted the squad’s growing confidence. “Maintaining a winning mentality and team cohesion is key, not just for now, but for long-term success.”
Match Schedule – West Indies vs Pakistan 50 Over Series
1st ODI: August 8– Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad @2pm
2nd ODI: August 10 – Brian Lara Cricket Academy,
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has secured a major boost for the Reggae Boyz’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, announcing Sunshine Snacks Jamaica as an official sponsor.
The Caribbean snack brand will support the national team through its crucial qualification journey, starting with six decisive matches in the coming months.
JFF President Michael Ricketts hailed the partnership as another landmark move in the association’s bid to help the team on their World Cup qualification journey.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Sunshine Snacks to the Reggae Boyz family at this critical stage. Their backing
ing them a 5-ol drubbing.
Puerto Rico Captain Wilfredo Reyes was the star of the game with a brace and two assists in the win.
Puerto Rico got their scoring of the mark with tapin from Troy Montañez in the 13’ before Marco Russo found the back of the net in the 39’ with a shot from within the box.
Reyes then recorded his second in 45’ after receiving a beautiful ball over the top and beating a defender to finish it.
He notched his brace in the 57’ as he used great skill to create space and finish off with a strong blast.
Russo put an exclamation on the victory with a brace of his own, scoring his second in the 68’ to close it out.
Guyana play again in Aruba later today against Cuba in league B group C.
(From back page)
Trinidad @9:30am
3rd ODI: August 12 – Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad @9:30am West Indies CG United
ODI Squad: Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
strengthens our preparations and energises our mission to qualify for the World Cup.”
As part of the deal, Sunshine Snacks will enhance the matchday experience for fans with giveaways and interactive activations during home games.
“This is a historic moment for Jamaican football, and we’re proud to stand with the Reggae Boyz,” said Shantell Hill Afonso, Marketing Manager at Sunshine Snacks Jamaica. “Just like the team, it’s our time to shine. We’re excited to celebrate Caribbean excellence on the world stage and bring our fans together on this journey.”
Roy Simpson, JFF Interim General Secretary, emphasised the significance of corporate support. “Sponsors
like Sunshine Snacks help us deliver on our ‘Football for the People’ vision. Their commitment brings the nation closer to the game as we chase our World Cup dream.”
Tanya Lee Perkins, JFF Ambassador leading sponsorship efforts, praised Sunshine Snacks’ continued investment in Jamaican football, from the Jamaica Premier League to the national team.
“Their partnership is vital as we tackle the financial demands of qualification. More exciting collaborations are on the horizon,” she revealed.
The Reggae Boyz resume their campaign on September 5 against Bermuda, followed by a home clash with Trinidad & Tobago on September 9 at the National Stadium.
ST LUCIA KINGS’ head coach, Daren Sammy, has announced that veteran South African allrounder David Wiese will lead the defending Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) champions in the 2025 season.
In a video message posted on social media, Sammy, the franchise's most iconic figure and namesake of the Daren Sammy Stadium, confirmed Wiese’s appointment ahead of the team’s opening match on August 23 at home in Gros Islet.
"Hello St. Lucia Kings fans, CPL 2025 is almost here and it's time for you to know who will lead us in our title defence of 2025, and it's no other than David Wiese,” Sammy declared. “Someone who's part of the family, who's been with us over a number of years, put in some excellent performances throughout the years. We cannot wait to start our first home game."
Wiese, known for his powerful hitting and crafty seam bowling, has been a consistent contributor for the Kings in recent seasons and played a key role in their historic title win in 2024.
His experience and calm leadership have made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in the dressing room.
Sammy also issued a rallying cry to the fans ahead of the new campaign, urging them to turn out in their numbers to support the team and its new captain at the Daren Sammy Stadium, affectionately dubbed "The Blue Fortress" by supporters.
Wiese becomes the latest in a line of high-profile leaders for the Kings, who are aiming to become the first team to win back-to-back CPL titles since the Trinbago Knight Riders in 2017 and 2018.
With the "Biggest Party in Sport" just weeks away, the champions appear locked and loaded and with Wiese at the helm, St Lucia Kings fans have every reason to believe they’re in for another special season.
“We know St. Lucia Kings fans are the best fans. You will come out at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and paint it blue as you support our new captain and the Saint Lucia Kings team this season,” he said. “Get your tickets, 23rd, we’re looking to see you at home. Let’s make it a grand occasion.”
(Sportsmax)
St Vincent, (CMC)
West Indies cricket captain, Sir Clive Lloyd, on Monday, made an impassioned plea for the region to come together in an effort to save West Indies cricket.
Sir Clive was visibly moved to tears during an emotional tribute at the Emancipation Cricket Festival in St Vincent and the Grenadines, where he and other members of the West Indies’ 1975 World Cup-winning team were honoured.
Speaking at a packed luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, the 80-year-old Sir Clive struggled to hold back tears as he addressed senior national officials, dignitaries, former teammates, local cricket officials, and Vincentians.
“We made our West Indians walk tall wherever they were, and we should continue to do so if we can only tell these young men the importance of cricket in our lives. Where would we have been without cricket? To me cricket has given me upward mobility and done a lot for people who have worked to see this game grow. We cannot let it die. We must save West Indies cricket,” Sir Clive said.
“We must do everything to save West Indies cricket.
This is our institution, and it is what we helped to build. We gave all we had to bring glory to the people of the West Indies. This is about our cricket and our people … because I love this game, and I love my people.”
The event marked the culmination of a weeklong celebration of Caribbean cricket heritage.
With the passage of a special Citizenship Bill, Sir Clive and the other 11 surviving teammates from the 1975 squad were granted Vincentian citizenship.
Dr Gonsalves, who spearheaded the initiative, paid glowing tribute to the World Cup winners during his remarks, calling Sir Clive “one of the greatest leaders in the history of sport, not just cricket.”
The Prime Minister noted that Sir Clive’s captaincy had elevated the West Indies not only to a sporting power, but also to a symbol of post-colonial pride.
The emotion of the day was amplified by the unveiling of the renamed “Legends Stand” at the Arnos Vale Stadium, where members of the team were honoured with framed postage stamps.
Deryck Murray, vice-captain of the team and a former Trinidad and Tobago diplomat, who was also present for
Mohammed Siraj Prasidh Krishna
INDIA pacers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna achieved their career-best ratings of 674 points and 368 points respectively after their memorable performances in The Oval Test against England.
While Player of the Match in the fifth Test, Siraj climbed 12 places to grab 15th spot in the latest ICC Men’s Test Bowler Rankings, fellow pacer Krishna moved 25 places to rank 59th in the list after picking up eight wickets in the deciding Test which India won by six runs.
This is both Siraj’s and Krishna’s highest-ever position in the Test ranking, after churning out match-winning spells in the final Test against England.
England pacers Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue have also attained their career-best positions after snapping eight wickets each
in The Oval Test. While Atkinson breaks into the top 10 for the first time, Tongue is up 14 places to secure the 46th position in the rankings table.
The Oval centurion Yashasvi Jaiswal gained three spots to break into the top five for Test batters with 792 rating points even as the other centurions in the game Joe Root and Harry Brook continue to firmly hold the first two positions in the ICC Men’s Test Batter Rankings.
From the Zimbabwe-New Zealand series, Daryl Mitchell jumped up four places to break into the top 10 of the batter rankings while teammate Matt Henry sits pretty in fourth spot jumping three rungs ahead with a career-best 817 rating points, while continuing his shorter formats form into red-ball cricket as well.
In T20I
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the events, thanked Dr Gonsalves.
“I am proud to stand beside my teammates again … my brothers.
“We did a great job back then and we remain together to this day. This shows what unity and purpose can achieve,” Murray said.
“To have a stand named in our honour and to be recognised in this way as was done here in St Vincent is hugely significant and I want to thank the Prime Minister,” he said.
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been rested as part of workload management
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a 15-man squad for the upcoming CG United OneDay International (ODI) series against Pakistan, set to be played at Trinidad’s Brian Lara Cricket Academy.
The three-match series, scheduled for August 8, 10, and 12, will be the final leg of the “Full Ah Energy” home season as the West Indies aim to extend their home form.
With eyes on securing a fourth straight ODI series victory on home soil, the selectors have retained the core of players who delivered wins against England, Bangladesh, and during the UK tour earlier this year.
However, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been rested, as part of workload management, while all-rounder Romario Shepherd returns after missing the Ireland and England fixtures.
All-rounder Romario Shepherd returns after missing the Ireland and England fixtures (Turn to page 27)