Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 08-01-2026

Thursday 8th January, 2026 PRICE

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No.108037

‘We don’t invest in infrastructure because it is easy, we invest because it is necessary’ –– President Ali says, highlights investments to bring hinterland communities into economic mainstream 03 PAGE

$2.1B paddy subsidy rolled out as gov’t boosts support to rice farmers 04 PAGE

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday spearheaded the distribution of financial assistance to rice farmers, as the government continues to provide direct support to strengthen the rice industry and safeguard farmers’ livelihoods (Ministry of Agriculture photos)

‘Guyana will CXC moves toward ‘Recklessness, ignorance be on a high’ full digital exams and sheer hypocrisy’ 08 PAGE

–– President Ali says country leveraging raw produce, agro-processing capacity to push for global agro-industrial scale of food production

PAGE

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–– announces disaster recovery measures and education reforms 16 PAGE

–– Minister McCoy slams ‘noise masquerading as scrutiny’ and misinformation campaign by opposition elements

AG to engage Bar Association on Legal Practitioners Act amid public complaints 05 PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

‘We don’t invest in infrastructure because it is easy, we invest because it is necessary’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

–– President Ali says, highlights investments to bring hinterland communities into economic mainstream

THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive national development, emphasising that infrastructure investment is being pursued as a necessity rather than a convenience.

Addressing the importance of connectivity, President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently highlighted that access to modern infrastructure is essential for commerce, social development, and economic participation across the country.

“We do not invest in infrastructure because it is easy. We invest because this is necessary. We invest because every community, no matter how remote, deserves access to the lifeblood of connectivity and commerce,” he said on the sidelines of commissioning a nearly $800 million airstrip at Paramakatoi, Region Eight earlier this week.

Special attention was placed on remote and hinterland communities, including Paramakatoi, which the government views as integral to Guyana’s broader development agenda.

The President underscored that geographical distance should not be regarded as a limitation but as an opportunity to expand inclusion and unlock economic potential in areas rich in culture and natural resources.

“We do not see distance as a disadvantage. We see it as an opportunity for greater inclusion and enhanced

opportunity, but I also want you to ask yourselves a much broader question. I want you to ask yourselves, what kind of Guyana do we want to build? Do we want the Guyana where only the easy-toreach places prosper? Or do we want a Guyana where remote communities rich in culture and natural beauty also share in the benefits of development and connectivity? A Guyana where no child’s future is constrained by the fact that they were

born in a distant corner of the land,” he added.

The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration, he reiterated, maintains that national development must extend beyond easily accessible regions.

The vision is a Guyana in which prosperity is shared equitably and where remote communities benefit from the same development opportunities as coastal and urban areas.

He reiterated that im-

proved connectivity can transform access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill recently outlined major plans to improve connectivity between Regions Eight and Nine, noting that the initiative will significantly reduce the impact of limited access to services in hinterland communities.

Minister Edghill said the government’s focus is not only on improving infrastruc-

ture in the coastland but also on ensuring equitable access to essential services across the country.

He explained that a major component of the plan involves improved physical links between Regions Eight and Nine, including new air and road infrastructure.

“So, there’s a major plan for the connecting of Region Eight to Region Nine. The Karasabai airstrip will be constructed. We have just moved in that direction. So

just like Aishalton, we’re moving to Karasabai, upgrading that airstrip, and then we have to build all 29 bridges between Karasabai to Monkey Mountain, and then getting that road pushed all the way down to Paramakatoi, connecting all of the villages,” the minister stated.

He highlighted how poor connectivity directly affects the cost of living in hinterland areas, particularly due to transportation costs.

Minister Edghill noted that Region Eight, in particular, stands to benefit from expanded road infrastructure capable of accommodating larger vehicles, which would allow goods to be transported more efficiently.

“So, Region Eight will experience greater development. Historically and traditionally, from the Ministry of Public Works, we have engaged the communities of Region Eight. The community contracts to maintain their roads and to improve their roads, but those roads are mainly for ATVs and small vehicles, maybe pickups, but now we want to be able to expand that road, to take the trucks, so that in the economy of scales, we be able to bring the price down,” he explained.

According to the minister, improved roads will lower transportation costs, reduce vehicle wear and tear, and shorten travel times, with direct benefits for residents.

AS preparations intensify for Mashramani 2026, local artistes are continuing to benefit from increased visibility and opportunities under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS), with several creatives gaining exposure both locally and internationally.

One such beneficiary is Carlvin Burnett, Guyana’s reigning 2025 Dancehall Monarch, 2024

Soca Monarch, and 2022 CPL Monarch, who says the ministry’s support has played a significant role in advancing his career and the wider creative sector.

Burnett noted that the inclusion of local performers in national events has become increasingly noticeable, creating more consistent platforms for artistes to showcase their talents and reach wider audiences.

According to the reigning monarch, the MCYS has been instrumental in promoting local content and helping artistes expand their reach through strategic exposure, including online promotion and participation in major events.

“What they would normally do is post your content to their page so that you get a chance to engage with their crowd whilst you still engage with

yours. That way you make this thing bigger, because the more we network, the better it becomes,” Burnett said.

He also highlighted the importance of the various monarch competitions during Mashramani, describing them as key opportunities for artistes to gain recognition beyond Guyana’s borders.

He explained that while the competitions

provide a vital push, it is up to the artistes themselves to build on that momentum.

Burnett pointed out that through the ministry’s engagement, he has been able to perform for wider audiences and represent Guyana on international stages, including appearances at CARIFESTA 2025 and the World Expo in Japan last year.

“I want to take this opportunity to shout out the

ministry for the great work that they’ve been doing so far with the youth,” he said, while also expressing appreciation to the Ministers of Culture, Youth and Sport for their support over the past year.

Looking ahead, Burnett said he hopes the collaboration between the ministry and the creative community continues to strengthen.

“Let’s just continue to push culture,” he added.

Local artiste praises MCYS for expanding opportunities, international exposure

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

$2.1B paddy subsidy rolled out as gov’t boosts support to rice farmers

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has launched a $2.1 billion assistance programme to support rice farmers, providing a $300 per bag subsidy for paddy as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Guyana’s agricultural sector.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha oversaw the start of the subsidy distribution in Region Five on Wednesday, emphasising that the initiative is a key commitment from President Irfaan Ali to ease farmers’ financial burdens and ensure the long-term sustainability of the rice industry.

The initiative fulfils a commitment made by PresMinister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha speaking to rice farmers in Region Five on Wednesday ident Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, ensuring that rice farmers receive $300 per bag of paddy as support to offset production costs and stabilise incomes. As part of this exercise, approximately $480.5 million was distributed to 1,618 rice farmers in Region Five (Mahaica– Berbice).

This intervention forms part of a wider national programme, representing a total government investment of approximately $2.1 billion, aimed at sustaining rice production, enhancing food security, and reinforcing the resilience of one of Guyana’s most important agricultural sectors.

“As a government, we are supporting the farmers,” Mustapha told a gathering of rice producers, stressing that the support goes beyond budget allocations.

“We are here to deliver on a commitment made by the President of the country, and we are here to fulfill another promise made by the PPP/C Government.”

The Agriculture Minister stressed that the government recognises the importance of agriculture to Guyana’s development, noting that the sector has undergone significant transformation in recent years.

Mustapha, has reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to farmers in Region Five, pointing Government has launched a $2.1 billion assistance programme to support rice farmers, providing a $300 to extensive rehabilitation of agricultural infrastructure per bag subsidy for paddy as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Guyana’s agricultural sector have to be careful because Guyana’s overall develop- G u y a n a and significant financial in- Mustapha stated, vestments that continue to emphasising that support ment, noting that the sector was ranked number one in we have naysayers who do has gone beyond annual has undergone tremendous its ability to produce all nothing for the developbenefit the sector.

Addressing a gathering budget allocations. “We are transformation over the seven food groups required ment of this country. They of rice farmers, Minister here to deliver on commit- years. According to Mu- for food security. That is a go around bad-talking the Mustapha said the People’s ments made by the Presi- stapha, Guyana has now tremendous achievement government, bad-talking the minister, and making Progressive Party/Civic dent of the country, and we achieved global recognition for us,” he said.

He credited rice farmers accusations they cannot government has consis- are here to fulfill another for its agricultural potential. tently stood with farmers promise made by the PPP/C “Today, Guyana is ranked for playing an integral role prove. Unfortunately, at number one in the world in achieving this milestone times, we tend to believe through both budgetary Government.”

The agriculture min- in terms of agriculture. Out but cautioned against mis- them,” Mustapha told the and direct financial support.

“As a government, we are ister underscored the im- of 186 countries studied by information and unfounded farmers.

Turning to investments supporting the farmers,” portance of agriculture to an international university, criticism. “Sometimes we

made in the rice industry, the Minister described them as “tremendous,” particularly within the Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary (MMA) Scheme, the largest agricultural scheme in the country. He noted that almost 120,000 acres of land are available for rice cultivation in Region Five, along with lands designated for cattle rearing and other crops.

Mustapha explained that when he assumed office as Minister of Agriculture, much of the machinery assigned to the MMA Scheme was in a dilapidated state.

Today, however, the situation has changed significantly.

“We now have a fleet of almost eight excavators assigned to the area, and that will continue to increase. We have other pieces of machinery also coming to the scheme,” he said. “We are seeing more land being opened up, new structures being put into operation, and hundreds of kilometres of canals and dams being maintained.”

The minister said government remains focused on building a resilient rice industry by reducing the cost of production so that Guyana can remain competitive on the international market.

“As a responsible government, we are working to make this industry one of resilience, an industry where we can bring down the cost of production and compete internationally with world prices,” he stated.

He also highlighted interventions by the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), noting that $600 million the first investment was made to subsidise the price of paddy in 2025 - an initiative that had to be strongly defended in Parliament.

Further investments have also been made in drying floors, the rehabilitation of the Rice Research Station at Burma, and the rehabilitation and expansion of seed paddy facilities in Region Five and at Black Bush Polder. Additionally, significant resources have been directed towards improving drainage and irrigation systems, which remain critical to the sustainability of rice production.

Minister Mustapha reiterated that the PPP/C G o v e r n m e n t re m a i n s committed to strengthening the rice industry and ensuring farmers continue to benefit from policies and investments aimed at long-term growth and food security.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

AG to engage Bar Association on Legal Practitioners Act amid public complaints

ATTORNEY General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall has announced plans to engage the Guyana Bar Association in the coming months as part of a review of the Legal Practitioners Act, following calls from the judiciary for reform.

Speaking during his weekly programme Issues in the News, Nandlall said the existing legislation governing the legal profession must be examined to ensure stronger accountability, modernisation of professional standards, and greater protection for the public.

“The judiciary is calling for a review of the Legal Practitioners Act, and I support that call,” Nandlall said.

“I will be meeting with the executive of the Guyana Bar Association and will be engaging them on this matter over the next several months, the Legal Practitioners Act must be reviewed.”

He pointed to persistent public complaints about the conduct of lawyers as one of the driving factors behind the proposed reforms, noting that the profession must be willing to confront its own shortcomings.

“A stronger disciplinary framework, a framework that extracts a greater degree of accountability and responsibility from the legal profession, must be installed,” he said.

Nandlall added, “Too

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall S.C. many persons complain about the treatment which they receive at the hands of the lawyers. Too many persons complain of alleged negligent conduct by their lawyers.”

The Attorney General also referenced concerns about dishonesty within the profession, stressing the need for candid self-reflection.

“Too many persons complain about alleged dishonest conduct at the hands of their lawyers, and as a legal profession, we have to be candid and we have to accept the need to reform ourselves,” he said.

Against this backdrop, Nandlall underscored the importance and stature of the

legal profession in society, noting that it is one built on nobility and honour and plays a role in molding a society by ensuring adherence to the rule of law and compliance with public order.

He disclosed that initial discussions with the Bar Association had already indicated alignment on the need for change. “I’m happy in my engagement briefly, as it was with the president of the Bar Association that he shares my view; we need to modernise the entire environment in which the legal profession is operating,” Nandlall said.

Among the areas identified for review are disciplinary mechanisms, mandatory membership in rep-

resentative bodies, and the regulation of unqualified individuals performing legal functions. “My Intervention is to protect the legal profession,” he said, while warning against the harm caused when untrained individuals offer legal services.

The Attorney General also highlighted the need to revisit provisions related to advertising, particularly in the context of modern digital practices such as law firm websites.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

Growth tests discipline AS Guyana moves deeper into an era of rapid economic change, President Irfaan Ali’s recent remarks about productivity and work ethic touched on a subject the country cannot afford to avoid.

Booming revenues, rising wages and expanding opportunities are welcome developments. But history shows that sudden wealth, if not carefully managed, can weaken the very foundations needed to sustain it.

The President’s warning that higher earnings in some sectors are already reducing productive time should not be dismissed as rhetorical.

His example of workers who now earn in a few days what once took a full week to make points to a real risk in fast-growing economies: the temptation to treat short-term gain as a substitute for long-term effort and investment.

Economists have long described this phenomenon in resource-rich countries as a version of “Dutch disease”, not only in the technical sense of exchange rates

and distorted sectors, but also in the social sense, where easy money changes attitudes toward work, discipline and enterprise.

In that context, the President’s argument is less about blaming workers and more about recognising a structural and cultural challenge that accompanies sudden prosperity.

Guyana is not the first country to face this test. From parts of Africa to the Middle East and Latin America, many resource-driven economies have struggled to convert windfalls into lasting, broad-based development.

The lesson is consistent: wealth creation is not automatic. It depends on policy, institutions, and just as importantly, on how citizens respond to opportunity.

The administration’s emphasis on expanding sectors such as tourism and agriculture reflects an attempt to avoid overdependence on oil and gas.

If properly managed, new investments, including on islands such as Leguan, could indeed create secondary

markets for farmers, small suppliers and service providers. That kind of linkage is how growth spreads beyond a narrow set of industries.

Similarly, the push to lower energy costs through off-grid systems in hinterland, riverain and island communities is not only an infrastructure project but an economic one.

Cheaper electricity can raise disposable income, encourage saving and make small businesses more viable. But these benefits will matter little if the extra income is not matched by higher levels of productivity and investment.

The President is right to argue that national development is not only a matter of budgets and megaprojects; It is also about culture, expectations and habits.

A society that gradually shifts toward working less, producing less and relying more on windfall income will eventually find itself vulnerable when conditions change, as they always do.

At the same time, this conversation

must be handled carefully. Productivity cannot be improved by exhortation alone.

It also depends on education, skills training, reliable infrastructure, fair wages and modern working conditions.

If the State is asking citizens to work smarter and longer, it must also ensure that systems are in place to make that effort worthwhile and sustainable.

Guyana stands at a rare moment in its history. The country has resources, attention and opportunity that previous generations could scarcely imagine.

Whether these advantages translate into durable prosperity will depend not only on government policy, but on the collective choices of its people, about work, enterprise, saving and long-term ambition.

This is an uncomfortable but necessary national conversation.

The real danger is not that Guyana talks too much about productivity and mindset. It is that it talks too little, and too late.

‘Guyana will be on a high’ –– President Ali says country leveraging raw produce, agro-processing capacity to push for global agro-industrial scale of food production

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has said Guyana is positioning itself to become the Caribbean’s leading food production and distribution hub, as the country leverages its raw agricultural output, expanding agro-processing capacity and major infrastructure investments to reach global agro-industrial scale.

Speaking on the country’s long-term development strategy, President Ali noted that the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM) region is increasingly looking to Guyana to play a central role in ensuring food security.

He explained that this ambition is closely tied to strategic partnerships, including with Brazil’s Roraima state, which has signifi-

cant agricultural capacity at a global scale.

“The entire CARICOM region is now looking at Guyana as the production and distribution hub for food and this is closely integrated with Roraima because whilst we are building out the mega farms, it’s important that we have a partnership with a state like Roraima. That is huge in agriculture, and their productive capacity is at a global scale,” he said adding: “We are now leveraging that advantage to add value and create new wealth through agri-processing opportunities.”

He highlighted too recent investments aimed at strengthening the entire food ecosystem, from pro-

duction to processing, storage and distribution.

Among them is the abattoir at Onverwagt, which is capable of processing between 60 and 100 animals per day, supported by the ongoing development of cold storage facilities.

“We now have the food

ecosystem being developed to support large-scale processing, production, storage, and distribution. So, we are also building out the infrastructure. We’re talking about the airport at Lethem so we can export directly to the Caribbean.

We are looking at creating

an agro-industrial hub in Lethem to bring raw produce, add value, and handle all packaging for the Caribbean and North American markets, “he explained.

According to President Ali, these initiatives are part of a broader, integrated plan to modernise agriculture and scale up exports.

In addition, agro-industrial hubs are also planned for Berbice and Essequibo, while new port facilities at Parika and Charity will enable direct shipping of agricultural goods to the region.

The President said these developments demonstrate how investments in infrastructure, new agricultural lands, technology and market integration are being pursued simultaneously.

Looking ahead, Pres-

ident Ali expressed confidence that agriculture, alongside tourism, will drive unprecedented growth over the next five years.

“You see the integration, building out the infrastructure, investing in bringing new lands for production, adding the technology, and integrating it into the market,” President Ali said, adding: “That is the whole plan being developed here a very integrated, targeted approach. That is why agriculture and tourism, those two legs of the economy, in the next five years will blow our minds. What will take place in agriculture and tourism will blow our minds.

No doubt about that.

This country will be on a high.”

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Linden–Mabura road project now 62 per cent complete

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

GOVERNMENT officials on Wednesday received an updated progress briefing on the high-profile Linden-Mabura Road Project, one of the major infrastructure initiatives currently underway in the country.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, met with representatives of the construction firms responsible for the project to review progress and address implementation challenges.

According to the latest data shared with the minister, approximately 75 per cent of the pavement work has been completed, while the overall project stands at 62 per cent complete. Recent pro-

ductivity figures show an average of 7 kilometres of pavement being laid each month in recent months.

The Linden-Mabura Road, a segment of the planned highway linking Linden to Lethem, is being developed as part of a broader national strategy to improve connectivity between Guyana’s coast and hinterland and to support economic activity.

The road spans around 121 kilometres and will provide a modern, all-weather corridor crucial for trade, transport, and the movement of goods and services across regions.

For communities along the route, including those in hinterland areas that rely heavily on the road

for access to markets and essential services, the improvement of this corridor is expected to deliver profound benefits.

Residents and transport operators have long relied on difficult dirt roads that were prone to erosion and seasonal disruption. The upgraded highway will significantly improve safety and reliability for commuters and commercial traffic alike.

As the project progresses toward full completion, government officials have reiterated their commitment to seeing the road delivered efficiently and sustainably, ensuring it fulfills its promise as a catalyst for regional development.

Mechanic fined for dangerous driving and speeding A 25-year-old mechanic from West Coast Demerara has been fined and had his driver’s license suspended following a court appearance for traffic offences.

Shemuel Douglas, employed with Farms Supplies Limited and residing at Crane Housing Scheme, was charged with dangerous driving and exceeding

Shemuel Douglas the speed limit.

Douglas appeared before Magistrate Shivani Lalaram at Georgetown Magistrates’ Court #7 on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. He pleaded guilty

to both charges.

The court fined Douglas $50,000 for dangerous driving, with an alternative of ten weeks’ imprisonment. His driver’s license was suspend-

ed for one year, effective January 7, 2026. For exceeding the speed limit, he was fined $40,000 or, in default of payment, eight weeks’ imprisonment.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and other officials receiving an updated progress briefing on the high-profile Linden-Mabura Road Project

Two incredible occurrences in Guyana in 2025

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THIS relatively unknown country, comparatively speaking, with just about 800,000 persons, produced and keep producing some strange political traits that, if Guyana were a globally known middle-power, the universities around the world would have turned out books after books about political developments in this country.

Two political curiosities occurred last year that are yet to generate sociological analyses from Guyanese academics in and out of the country. The first one is the unbelievable refusal of a political leader to resign from his party after his party was almost wiped out in a general election. Not one person from that party’s hierarchy or from within the leadership and its coalition partners in APNU asked that disgraced leader to step down.

Executives left; some remained and criticised the arrogance and autocratic behaviour of their leader, but last year not one of them told the leader that such a disaster normally and morally results in the leader leaving.

What happened in the PNC last year is unheard of in any country in the world. It simply does not happen in the real world.

The word “disaster” is a mild term when one puts under the microscope what happened to the PNC in the 2025 national election. It was reduced from 31 seats to 12. It lost all the regional government it controlled before 2025. It was displaced by a party birthed just three months before the poll, and the Statements of Poll showed that the party that displaced the PNC received its votes predominantly from parts of Guyana that traditionally voted for the PNC. And it

lost the Opposition Leader position in Parliament, which never happened before since the PNC’s birth in 1957.

It would have taken weeks, not months, for the leader to bow to internal pressure from his senior executives and leave. That did not happen last year. The disgraced leader went on to speak about his future endeavours as head of the party, and the party’s hierarchy remained silent. This incredible political debauchery is what the PNC’s hierarchy was happy to live with last year.

My contestation is that would not have happened in any political party in the 20th century or anywhere else in the world right now. Let’s go to Barbados to see what happened and if we see what happened there, if it made Guyana a political aberration last year in the entire world.

In 2018, the opposition, Barbados Labour Party won all the parliamentary seats. The incumbent, Freundel Stuart, of the Democratic Labour Party (DLM) resigned and was replaced by Verla De Peiza. In the 2022 election there was a unique repetition of the 2018 results; the DLM< did not get even one seat. De Peiza resigned as DLP’s leader to be replaced by Dr. Ronnie Yearwood. In a dispute within the DLP, its leader, Dr. Yearwood was expelled.

One can go on to cite literally dozens of examples around the world where the electoral devastation under the party leader caused his removal. What took place in Guyana last year has no parallel in any other country.

Norton would not have survived in any other country.

The second incredible occurrence last

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, January 8, 2026

year in this country took place within the PNC itself. Just a brief note before we proceed. The PNC has been one of the two historic, political leviathans in the history of Guyana, the other being the PPP. It held power from 1964 to 1992 and again from 2015 to 2020. The President of Guyana in those years (2015-2020), President Granger told a gathering of PNC die-hards in the diaspora that he was a member of the PNC for over 50 years.

Still alive in Guyana is one of the men that built the PNC after it was born in 1957.

He is Hamilton Green. From 1957 to 1992, Mr. Green was the third and, at times, the second most powerful man in the PNC. What Aubrey Norton did to the PNC from 2022 to September 2025, has not met with any response from the PNC stalwarts who have served the PNC from 1957 to 2025.

Mr. Granger, Mr. Green, the rest of the

former PNC ministers in the ANPU+AFC government of 2015-2020 uttered not a word about the dying PNC and the direct role Norton played in bringing the PNC to its deathbed last year. For the record, there was one exception, former Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

Like in the previous occurrence where electoral disaster visited the PNC, the second factor listed here made Guyana different from the rest of the world. Imagine a leader caused the exodus of the brains in the party and led it to electoral decimation, and the elders said not one word.

Guyana was a global embarrassment last year.

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.

‘Recklessness, ignorance and sheer hypocrisy’ –– Minister McCoy slams ‘noise masquerading as scrutiny’ and misinformation campaign by opposition elements

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy has condemned what he describes as “a deliberate campaign of misinformation” targeting public officials, warning that reckless accusations circulating on social media risk undermining trust in key State institutions.

Speaking during a video broadcast on Wednesday, he argued that recent claims of corruption against members of the Government are being driven by “recklessness, ignorance and, in some cases, sheer hypocrisy”.

He criticised commentators who compare the value of officials’ assets with their annual salaries, calling such analysis “deception” rather

than scrutiny.

“Let us be unequivocal: Conflating asset ownership with annual income is not analysis; it is deception. It ignores how capital formation actually works in the real world. Assets are acquired through mortgages, bank financing, structured loans, partnerships, retained earnings, and long-term investment vehicles. This is standard practice across every functioning economy. To suggest that assets must be purchased outright from monthly salaries is either a willful distortion or a profound misunderstanding of economics,” he said.

He further alleged that some of the “loudest critics” calling for transparency are themselves facing confirmed charges

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy of fraud, tax evasion, and utational damage by procorrupt practices, accus- jecting guilt onto others. ing them of attempting “These are not voices to launder their own rep- speaking from a place

of integrity; they are individuals attempting to launder their own reputational damage by projecting guilt onto others.

It is a classic deflection tactic, and the public should recognise it for what it is,” Minister McCoy said.

Defending existing oversight mechanisms, the minister pointed to legal requirements for Members of Parliament to declare their assets, liabilities and business interests to the Integrity Commission. He said this framework allows for proper verification and investigation where there is evidence of wrongdoing.

However, he warned against what he called “trial by Facebook posts, WhatsApp rumours or TikTok ranting”, argu-

ing that such attacks are designed to “confuse the public, inflame emotions and erode trust in governance” at a time of national progress.

The minister urged the public to reject “noise masquerading as scrutiny” and instead insist on accountability grounded in evidence, due process, and informed debate, rather than social media theatrics.

“What these attacks seek to do is undermine confidence in institutions by replacing facts with insinuation, and accountability with noise.

They are designed to confuse the public, inflame emotions, and erode trust in governance at a time when the country is making measurable progress,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Evergreen Paradise residents engage officials in community dialogue RESIDENTS of communities within the Evergreen Paradise Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) engaged in a productive dialogue with government officials during a stakeholder engagement exercise held on Tuesday afternoon at the 8th of May Primary School.

The meeting brought together community members, officials from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the NDC, and representatives from various government agencies to discuss local issues and development priorities.

The forum provided residents the opportunity to share their concerns

Regional Education Officer Shondelle Hercules talking to parents

and recommendations directly with senior officials, including Regional

Executive Officer Susan Saywack, Deputy and Assistant Regional Ex-

ecutive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan, Regional Engineer Kawan Suchit,

Regional Education Officer Shondelle, and Regional Health Officer Dr.

Ranjeev Singh. Representatives from Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) and the Ministry of Labour were also present to address sector-specific matters raised by the community.

Officials emphasised that the engagement served as a practical platform for open communication between residents and decision-makers, allowing issues to be clearly identified and addressed. They further indicated that similar stakeholder meetings will continue across all NDCs to support inclusive governance, responsive leadership, and sustainable community development initiatives.

‘Go wuk wid yuh mattie blackman, cah all blackman is di same ting’ — recording captures voice suspected to be Nazar “Shell” Mohamed’s in racist rant against African national employee

Embattled businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, who is indicted in a US court alongside his son, Azruddin Mohamed, is facing questions of racial bias after a recording surfaced in which a voice suspected to be that of the elder Mohamed is heard hurling racist insults at a man believed to be a former employee from the African continent.

“Ya need to go and wuk wid ya mattie blackman, because all black man is the same thing, whether you come from Africa, whether you come from England…

Caribbean, wherever,” the voice, believed to be Mohamed’s, is heard shouting in a dismissive and disparaging tone.

While hurling expletives, the dominant voice in the video stops just

Embattled businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed

short of calling the man, believed to be an employee, ungrateful.

“You just keep calling them man and telling them about money… you nah think about whah I do for you!

“Don’t tell me nothing! I don’t want to hear nothing! You listen to me!” the voice believed to be Nazar

Mohamed shouts as the meek-sounding employee makes a futile attempt to clarify his side of the story.

“People does be too good to ayo dese! Das wah the rest of them do to me whah come from Africa!” the voice believed to be Mohamed is also heard saying.

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THAG condemns assault on content creator near La Penitence Market

THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) has condemned a recent assault involving content creator Antony D’Oliveira of the Jumps Travel Documentary YouTube channel, describing the incident as unfortunate and inconsistent with the values of Guyanese society.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, THAG said the incident occurred in the vicinity of the La Penitence Market and stressed that violence is never an acceptable response

under any circumstances. The association underscored that public spaces must remain safe environments for both residents and visitors.

“Any form of assault is unacceptable,” the association said, adding that such behaviour has no place in Guyana’s communities.

THAG also sought to assure the public and visitors that the incident does not reflect the character or everyday conduct of the Guyanese people, who are widely known for their hospitality and openness. The associa-

tion noted that across the country, markets, villages, and communities continue to welcome visitors and storytellers seeking to experience Guyana’s culture and way of life.

The association pointed out that Guyana’s tourism product is rooted in people, shared spaces, cultural exchange, and mutual respect, and said these values must continue to guide interactions in public spaces.

THAG encouraged calm, understanding, and constructive engagement in resolving conflicts and reiterat-

ed that violence and confrontation have no place in society.

The association said it remains committed to promoting a safe and welcom-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

ing environment that supports livelihoods, protects community

spaces, and reflects the values that define Guyana.

New CEO to steer One Communications through Guyana’s growth phase - Abraham Smith appointed One Communications CEO ONE Communications on Wednesday announced the appointment of Abraham Smith as Chief Executive Officer.

Smith brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience across the Caribbean and Latin America, including recent CEO-level stewardship of one of the region’s largest and most complex markets.

Brad Martin, Chairman of One Communications said, “As Guyana continues one of the most dynamic periods of growth in its history, the role of reliable, future-ready connectivity has never been more critical.

Abraham is a seasoned leader who understands the national responsibility that comes with telecommunications

One Communications CEO, Abraham Smith

leadership.

He has a deep respect for local culture and a commitment to balancing commercial success with meaningful community impact.

We are confident he will strengthen One Communications’ role as a trusted partner in Guyana’s development.”

As CEO, Smith will oversee both One’s residential operations as well as Brava, the company’s business arm, with a mandate to enhance both commercial and residential customer experience, strengthen network resilience, and expand enterprise partnerships.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Prime Minister meets One Communications executives on telecom sector

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips met with executives from One Communications (Guyana)

P R I M E M i n i s t e r, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips met with executives from One Communications (Guyana) on Wednesday at the Office of

the Prime Minister on Camp Street.

The delegation included Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of parent company Atlantic Tele-Network

(ATN) International, Mr. Brad Martin; newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of One Communications, Mr. Abraham Smith; Deputy Chief Executive

Officer (DCEO), Mr. Richard Stanton; and Legal Counsel, Mr. Kadeem Davis.

Discussions centred on Guyana’s telecommunications sector,

including regulatory frameworks and network development, as well as opportunities for continued investment and collaboration.

The Prime Minister was joined by Director of the Telecommunications Agency (Ag.), Mr. Chrissamny Christmah.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Region Six records one of highest crime reductions nationwide

- regional commander highlights data, strengthened investigative capacity and heightened public engagements REGION Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) recorded significant decline in key crime categories last year, reflecting broader national trends of reduced serious offences, according to police statistics and official summaries.

Under the leadership of Regional Commander Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus, Region Six reported a 55.3 per cent reduction in serious crimes within its jurisdiction, one of the highest such declines across the country.

When contacted for a comment, the commander noted that the data show a notable decrease in gun robberies, which fell from 23 incidents to 14, and a total of nine murders, of which more than a dozen were solved, an indicator of improved inves-

tigative outcomes.

Region Six’s overall performance in crime reduction, he said places it among the leading administrative divisions nationwide.

Nationally, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has highlighted larger declines in serious crime, with official figures showing an overall reduction of serious offences by approximately 25 per cent in 2025 compared with the previous year, representing one of the lowest levels in a decade.

The force also recorded a crime clearance rate of over 61 per cent, a figure that has been noted by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali as a historic achievement for law enforcement in Guyana.

In Region Six, improved outcomes have been attributed to stronger community

Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus during one of his many outreaches building trust between communities and law enforcement in the region co-operation and enhanced operational practices.

Commander Bacchus noted that a combination of increased patrols, more robust intelligence coordination, and heightened public engagement contributed to better case detection and resolution rates.

He emphasised that building trust between communities and law enforcement has been central to the region’s gains.

While murders in Region Six last year remained at a similar level to 2024, the improved detection and case clearance figures were highlighted by regional po-

lice as evidence of strengthened investigative capacity.

Law enforcement sources pointed to closer interaction with residents, which has resulted in swifter information flow and a more active role from community members in assisting police operations.

Police and government officials have repeatedly underscored the importance of continuing community-oriented policing and evidence-led operations to sustain and build on recent gains. The expansion of real-time command centres,

enhanced resource deployment, and strengthened public engagement efforts are among the strategic priorities cited for 2026.

As Guyana moves forward with efforts to improve public safety and reduce crime, Region Six’s performance, under Assistant Commissioner Bacchus’s command, stands out as a key example of local commitment to law enforcement objectives and community co-operation in addressing crime.

Minibus driver sentenced for dangerous driving involving minor

A 38-year-old minibus driver from East Coast Demerara has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to Dangerous Driving following an incident involving a minor in Georgetown.

Martin Hunte, of Lot 52 La Bonne Intention Housing Scheme, was arrested by police after the offence occurred on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at

Martin Hunte

approximately 18:45 hours on Public Road, Kitty, Georgetown. The

incident involved an 11-year-old student enrolled in Grade 7 at a local school.

H u n t e a p p e a re d b e f o re M a g i s t r a t e Shivani Lalaram at Georgetown Magistrates' Court #7, where the charge was read to him. He entered a guilty plea, and the court subsequently sentenced him to 12 months’ imprisonment.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Eighteen new schools to become operational in 2026

EIGHTEEN new schools across Guyana are slated to become operational by the end of the first quarter of 2026, as the Ministry of Education continues its push to expand access to education and improve learning environments nationwide.

According to the Ministry, the commissioning process for the facilities is already underway, with several of the schools expected to begin accommodating students even before formal opening ceremonies are held.

This approach, officials said, is intended

to ensure that teaching and learning continue without disruption, particularly in communities where overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure have long been a concern.

The new schools form part of the government’s wider education infrastructure drive, which has seen significant investment in recent years in response to rising student populations, expanding housing schemes, and increased migration to developing areas.

Authorities have repeatedly acknowledged that population growth and internal movement

have placed pressure on existing schools, especially in rapidly expanding regions.

Education officials have said the new facilities are designed to provide more suitable learning spaces, reduce overcrowding, and improve overall teaching conditions.

The Ministry of Education said the programme reflects its ongoing commitment to ensuring more equitable access to schooling and to creating environments that are more conducive to academic achievement.

Two Mabaruma men fined for driving under the influence

Jonel Fernandes

TWO men from Mabaruma were fined for driving under the influence after being found with breath alcohol levels above the legal limit.

Jonel Fernandes and Trivette Harry were arrested and charged with operating motor vehicles while impaired. They appeared on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Mabaruma Magistrate’s

Court before Magistrate Clive Nurse, where the charges were formally read to them.

Both men pleaded guilty to the charges. The court sentenced each to a fine of $200,000 with an alternative of five months’ imprisonment if the fines are not paid.

The convictions were made under Guyana’s traffic laws, which set

Trivette Harry

prescribed alcohol limits for drivers to ensure road safety. Driving while intoxicated is treated as a serious offence due to the increased risk of accidents and injury.

The magistrate’s ruling concludes the case, with the fines payable to the court or the custodial alternative enforceable if payment is not made.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Early childhood centre in Ogle records enrollment growth - highlights shift in teaching approaches

By Faith Greene JUST over a year after opening its doors, an early childhood education centre in Ogle has recorded a steady increase in enrollment, reflecting growing interest among parents in alternative approaches to early learning in Guyana.

Atikali Learning Lab, located at Lot 6 Temple Street, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, began operations in 2024 with seven students.

The institution now serves 48 children between the ages of 15 months and five years, spread across three classes: pre-school, ju-

rors a broader shift in how parents are thinking about early childhood education, with increased emphasis on social, emotional and developmental learning alongside academic preparation.

Across Guyana and the wider Caribbean, education officials and child development specialists have in recent years stressed the importance of stronger foundations in the early years, particularly in literacy, numeracy, social skills and problem-solving.

A t i k a l i ’s p r o grammes are built around a research-based curriculum model that focuses on developmentally ap-

icant weight on children’s social and emotional development, motor skills, independence and critical thinking, rather than rote learning.

Founder and Managing Director Quenita Walrond said the institution’s first year has been focused on establishing and refining its teaching model.

She noted that the school’s priority has been to build a system that supports child development in a balanced way, combining academic learning with creativity, exploration and social growth.

“We are looking at development first,” Walrond said in an interview, adding that the

play-based but grounded in research-backed methods, allowing teachers to assess and guide students using established developmental frameworks rather than anecdotal observation alone.

The school’s curriculum is delivered in collaboration with the internationally recognised Creative Curriculum programme, and Atikali has been selected as an ambassador school for that model in Guyana.

Education experts have increasingly pointed to such frameworks as a way to strengthen early childhood outcomes, especially in systems where formal schooling often

Leading women of Atikali Learning Lab, Founder and Managing Director Quenita Walrond (right) and Business Strategy and Marketing Lead Tracey Smith

Quenita captured with a few of her students during their time outdoors (Delano Williams photo)

nior kindergarten and senior kindergarten.

The school maintains what it describes as appropriate teacher-to-student ratios for each age group.

The centre’s founders say the growth mir-

propriate learning and play-based instruction, combined with early exposure to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).

The school’s approach places signif-

aim is to support children’s overall well-being and character formation, not only academic performance.

Business Strategy and Marketing Lead Tracey Smith said the institution’s approach is

begins with a strong focus on memorisation rather than conceptual understanding.

Smith also noted that while the institution is faith-centred, its student body is diverse, with children from a

range of ethnic and religious backgrounds.

The growth of Atikali comes at a time when early childhood education is receiving greater attention both locally and regionally.

Policymakers and educators have repeatedly

highlighted the link between strong early learning foundations and improved performance at the primary and secondary levels, as well as better longterm social outcomes.

Looking ahead, the school’s leadership says the immediate focus is on refining its current model before considering expansion into the primary education level, a move they say would be driven by internal capacity and demand rather than rapid growth.

For now, the experience of the Oglebased institution appears to underscore a wider trend: increasing interest among parents in early childhood programmes that balance academic preparation with social, emotional and developmental learning during the formative years. Persons can contact Atikali at info@atikalilearninglab.com.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Centenarian Eileen Bunbury celebrates 100 years of faith, family, and service BUILT on faith, sustained by prayer, and wrapped in the love of her family, Ms. Eileen Bunbury has reached a remarkable milestone—her 100th birthday. On Wednesday, Minister

the centenarian’s life and legacy.

Born and raised in Sparendaam, Ms. Bunbury is the proud mother of 13 children and a matriarch whose life has been devoted to family, faith, and

her through a century of life.

After completing her schooling, Ms. Bunbury dedicated herself to caring for her family, finding joy in everyday activities such as sewing, singing, and nur-

Centenarian Ms. Eileen Bunbury and Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud shared a light moment at her home in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, to celebrate her 100th birthday

of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, visited Ms. Bunbury at her home in Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, to celebrate

community. Her early education at St. Paul’s and Wesleyan Methodist Primary Schools laid a foundation of discipline, devotion, and love that would guide

turing those around her.

Her unwavering faith has remained central to her life; Sundays have always been sacred, and she consistently encouraged her family

to join her in worship.

Today, Granny Eileen’s family spans five generations, including 28 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren—a living testament to the values she has instilled through patience, prayer, and love.

In sharing her wisdom with younger

generations, Ms. Bunbury offered a simple yet powerful message: “Don’t give up. Keep on praying.”

Minister Persaud described the centenarian as an inspiration to the nation. “Granny Eileen exemplifies resilience, faith, and dedication.

Her life reminds us of the importance of family, community, and service,” the Minister said.

M s . B u n b u r y ’s 100th birthday is more than a personal milestone; it is a celebration of a life devoted to uplifting others, nurturing family bonds, and leaving a lasting legacy. In the words of those who know her, she is a remarkable woman of God whose light continues to shine for generations to come.

Bartica residents sentenced in cannabis trafficking case FOUR residents of Bartica faced charges related to narcotics trafficking after authorities discovered 272 grammes of cannabis in their possession.

The case concluded this week at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

The accused were identified as Tecina Angel Wills, 22, a Fire Woman of Two and a Half Miles, Bartica– Potaro Road; Rhon Smith, 36, a Labourer of Mora Camp, Bartica; Walter Benn, 27, a Prison Officer of Mora Camp, Bartica; and Melissa Allen, 28, a Vendor

Tecina Angel Wills

of Mora Camp, Bartica, Essequibo River.

All four were arrested on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, and formally charged the following day with Pos-

session of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking, an offence under Guyana’s narcotics legislation which carries custodial sentences for the production, posses-

Tecina Angel Wills

sion, or distribution of controlled substances with intent to sell.

The matter was heard on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, before Magistrate Teriq

Walter Benn

Mohammed. Following the trial, Tecina Angel Wills and Rhon S m i t h w e re f o u n d guilty and each sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. Walter

Benn pleaded guilty to the charge and received a three-year prison term. Melissa Allen was acquitted, and the charge against her was dismissed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

CXC moves toward full digital exams - announces disaster recovery measures and education reforms

THE Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced major advances in digital testing, new disaster recovery measures, and expanded education reform initiatives as more than 10,000 candidates across the region sit the January 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

The updates were outlined by Registrar and Chief Executive O ff i c e r D r Wa y n e Wesley during a media briefing in Kingston, Jamaica, on Tuesday, where he also disclosed key decisions taken by the Council’s Board of Governors at its recent governance meetings.

Dr Wesley said the January examinations, which began earlier this week and conclude on January 29, are being administered using CXC’s digital e-assessment and hybrid systems. He noted that the Council intends to move all examinations fully on-screen within the next three to five years.

Immediately following the January sit-

Registrar of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Dr. Wayne Wesley

ting, CXC will begin preparations for the traditional May–June examination period, during which more than 100,000 candidates are expected to sit over 600,000 CSEC and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) subject entries.

As part of its institutional reforms, CXC has formally approved its Regional Disaster and Business Recovery Protocol, which outlines how the organisation responds when a participating

member state is affected by disasters such as hurricanes, floods or volcanic eruptions.

Dr Wesley said the protocol has already been activated in support of Jamaica following the impact of Hurricane Melissa. Under an agreed action plan with the Jamaican Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, affected schools will be allowed flexibility in how examinations are administered, including the use of a modified approach. Late regis-

tration fees have been waived, the deadline for School-Based Assessments (SBAs) has been extended to June 15, 2026, and candidates will still receive their results in August alongside the rest of the region. Students who feel unprepared to sit the examinations may also apply for a refund or defer to a later sitting in 2027.

On the academic front, Dr Wesley said the Council has approved two new policy documents aimed at improving learning outcomes across the region. These include updated literacy and numeracy standards for the first three years of secondary school, as well as revised targets and performance benchmarks for prima-

ry education under the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA).

He also provided an update on the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), a new initiative aimed at expanding certification opportunities.

Originally projected to involve 3,000 students, the pilot programme has attracted more than 6,400 candidates from 13 member states across 48 examination centres.

In addition, CXC reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education, particularly for students with disabilities. Dr Wesley said the Council will continue to advocate for the adoption of the WIPO Marrakesh Treaty across the region to support visually im-

paired and print-disabled learners. During the 2025 examinations, special assessment arrangements were made for more than 3,400 candidates with visual impairments and other special needs.

Dr Wesley said the Council’s work is guided by a renewed focus on strengthening resilience in times of crisis, improving service delivery, and widening access to education for all learners across the Caribbean.

He added that CXC intends to build on these initiatives throughout 2026 as it continues to modernise its operations and expand its role in supporting education systems across the region.

Barima River fisherman charged with attempted murder

A 26-year-old fisherman from Barima River, North West District, has been charged with Attempt to Commit Murder following an alleged attack on a local farmer last month.

The accused, George Joseph, allegedly committed the offence against 54-year-old Sandra Dawson at her residence on Saturday, December 7, 2025. Joseph was arrested the following day, Sunday, December 8, 2025, and formally charged with the offence.

On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, Joseph appeared before Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court. The charge was read to him, and in accordance with the procedures for indictable offences in Guyana, he was not required to enter a plea at this stage. Joseph was re-

George Joseph manded to prison pending the next court date.

The matter has been adjourned to February 7, 2027, for further proceedings. Attempted murder is a serious offence under Guyana’s criminal law, carrying

substantial custodial penalties if the accused is found guilty following trial.

The police investigation is ongoing, and additional evidence may be presented when the case resumes before the court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Mbappe equals Ronaldo record as Real Madrid beat Sevilla KYLIAN Mbappe equalled Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 59 goals in a calendar year for Real Madrid in a hard-fought win over Sevilla which kept up the pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Real took the lead seven minutes before the break when Jude Bellingham leaped above Lucien Agoume and glanced a header from a Rodrygo free-kick into the top corner.

Sevilla had opportunities to equalise, although Real's task was made easier after the break when Marcao was shown a second yellow card for a rash foul on Bellingham.

Mbappe, celebrating his 27th birthday, then converted from the penalty spot in the 86th minute, after Rodrygo was clumsily fouled by Juanlu Sanchez, to equal Ronaldo's record from 2013.

"It's a special day because it's my birthday. I always said it would be a dream to play in a game on my birthday and at Real Madrid, the club of my dreams," Mbappe told Real Madrid TV. "It was the objective to finish the year with a positive result and the record is incredible.

"To do like Cristiano did, my idol, the best player in Real Madrid's history and a world great, it's an honour for me."

Until late in the game, France forward Mbappe had endured something of a frustrating evening.

He had failed to register a shot on target in the first half before shooting straight at Odysseas Vlachodimos in the Sevilla goal shortly after half-time.

Isaac Romero then had two good opportunities to equalise as Sevilla picked off Real on the counter-attack, only for Thibaut Courtois to deny him on both occasions.

Mbappe had another chance when he dribbled inside from the left flank but curled a shot from a tight angle beyond the far post, then headed against the crossbar.

However, the moment to match the milestone of Bernabeu legend Ronaldo arrived late in the contest and he duly sent Vlachodimos the wrong way with his

Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid from Paris St-Germain in 2024

spot-kick.

Real were awarded a second penalty when Bellingham was felled - potentially giving Mbappe a

chance to break Ronaldo's record - only for the Video Assistant Referee to overturn it on review. (BBC Sport) 12:00 hrs Bluenose Belle

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday, January 8, 2026) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 457/6 (vs NZ, Christchurch) (2) 27 (vs AUST, Kingston) Today’s Quiz: (1) What has been the result of the just-ended ENG/ AUST Test series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

21

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

McCullum and Key given chance to retain roles HEAD coach Brendon McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key will be given the chance to stay on and show they can improve the England set-up, despite the Ashes defeat in Australia.

McCullum and Key have come under scrutiny after England surrendered the series with losses in the opening three Tests of the best-of-five series.

Both men and Test captain Ben Stokes have expressed a desire to remain in their positions – McCullum and Stokes have contracts with England until after the home Ashes in 2027.

And the management of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are not minded to impose the sweeping changes that often follow Ashes defeats down under.

Any decision to remove 44-year-old McCullum in particular would have been complicated by the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India, beginning in February.

Instead, the future of the hierarchy now seems to rest on their willingness to accept the need for change and their ability to enact it.

How long they are given to make alterations and improve results is unclear.

A poor World Cup would increase pressure, then England's next Test is against New Zealand in June.

The scope for what could be changed is also broad. So much criticism of this England regime has centred on the culture New Zealander McCullum has created, including preparation, training methods and an apparent lack of accountability for mistakes made on the field.

England's off-field activities have also been questioned on this tour. Time playing golf and the amount of drinking done on a holiday in Noosa between the second and third Tests have come into focus.

"I have no problem with cricketers playing golf but this team has been loose on this tour," former England captain Michael Vaughan told the Test Match Special podcast.

"They need to sharpen up. The management needs to accept that it needs to change slightly."

Under Key, McCullum and Stokes, England have

Brendon McCullum, left, was appointed by Rob Key in 2022

stripped back their preparation for overseas tours.

England won the opening Test on their five previous tours before the Ashes.

In Australia they played only one warm-up match, against England Lions at a club ground in Perth. McCullum and Key have both subsequently admitted that mistakes were made in England's preparation.

England have slimmed down their backroom staff since McCullum took charge. Marcus Trescothick

and Jeetan Patel are the only full-time assistant coaches with England for the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney.

David Saker is also part of the coaching team on a short-term deal as a bowling consultant – the third different man to hold the role in little more than a year. There has not been a coach with a fielding specialism working with the England team since Paul Collingwood departed from the set-up at the beginning of the home summer.

Changes or additions to

the coaching staff could be one way England alter their methods, if the moves are accepted by McCullum.

Vaughan, who captained England to victory in the 2005 Ashes, added: "McCullum can change if he is not stubborn and understands that it is a learning process.

"He is a young coach and if he is willing to change, then he can carry on. If you look at the detail in this England side, the preparation has been poor. The detail needs to come in for England.

"If Baz is willing to be reasonable, I have no problem with this combination carrying on. The Test team can improve and England cricket needs more detail and a more professional approach."

When they took charge in 2022, McCullum and Stokes breathed life into England's Test team, delivering 10 wins from their first 11 matches in charge.

McCullum was subsequently also placed in charge of England's white-ball teams at the beginning of last year, though the results of the Test side have been on

a steady decline.

If England are beaten on the final day of the fifth Test against Australia on Thursday, it will be their 14th defeat in their past 28 matches. They have not won a marquee five-match series against Australia or India, home or away, since 2018.

"Brendon McCullum has got to change," said Vaughan. "This team have not won a five-Test series on his watch. They have got nowhere near a World Test Championship final, not beaten India, not beaten Australia. Those are the big series.

"The methods that he has brought and the psychology he talks about, England have not coped with the pressure or won a big series. In this series they went 2-0 down too quickly. He needs to be honest with himself.

"It is all about winning and the end result. This method has been judged in Australia. This England side, under this regime, has been entertaining but they do not get the trophies in their hand and that is what you get judged on."(BBC Sport)

New Zealand bowler Duffy to make Lionel Messi eyes owning a club after playing days are done T20 World Cup bow WELLINGTON, (Reuters) - New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy is set to make his Twenty20 World Cup debut next month after being picked in the 15-member squad led by Mitchell Santner on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old, currently the second-ranked bowler in T20 internationals, was in red-hot form across formats in 2025 when he claimed a total 81 international wickets from 36 matches, breaking Richard Hadlee’s 40-year record of 79.

Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry and Adam Milne are the pace bowlers alongside pace-bowling all-rounder Jimmy Neesham.

Both Ferguson and Henry may take brief paternity leave during the tournament, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said in a statement. Kyle Jamieson will travel with the squad as the pace-bowling reserve.

Apart from Santner, New Zealand will have four other spin options in specialist Ish

New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy set to make his T20 debut

Sodhi and all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra.

Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell and Tim Seifert are the specialist batters.

“I’m really happy with the skills and experience of this squad and I think we have a group which can make New Zealand proud," head coach Rob Walter said.

"We’ve got plenty of power and skill in the bat-

ting, quality bowlers who can adapt to conditions, plus five all-rounders who all bring something slightly different.

"This is an experienced group and the players are no strangers to playing in the sub-continent, which will be valuable."

New Zealand exited in the group stage of the 2024 World Cup in West Indies but will be better prepared this time having arranged a five-match T20 series against defending champions and tournament co-host India this month.

They will begin their Group D campaign against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8.

New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.

MLS superstar Lionel Messi wants to follow in the footsteps of Inter Miami's David Beckham and become a club owner after he hangs up his boots.

The 38-year-old Argentina legend, who is signed with Miami through 2028, said he prefers ownership over coaching as his second act.

"I don't see myself as a coach," the two-time MLS MVP and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner told Argentine streaming channel Luzu TV in an interview published Tuesday.

MLS Messi, who guided Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup championship in 2025, has a future minority ownership stake in the MLS club in his contract.

In May, he helped longtime former MLS and FC Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez to launch a new fourth-division club

MLS superstar Lionel Messi

Deportivo LSM in Suarez's native Uruguay.

"I want to thank Luis for giving me this opportunity, for inviting me to join him and share this project that he has been working on for many years and that has grown a lot," Messi said at the time, per ESPN Uruguay.

"Being able to be a part of this is an honour.

I hope to contribute everything I can to continue growing this club and to be by your side."

Messi and Miami begin the 2026 MLS regular season on February 21 at Los Angeles FC. (Reuters)

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FIFA will scan World Cup players to make offside avatars FIFA plans to create AI-enabled 3D avatars of every player at the 2026 World Cup to enhance the tournament's semi-automated offside technology.

This will mean creating a digital scan of all 1,248 players in the 26-man squads of the 48 teams.

Each player will enter a chamber to be scanned, a process that should take just one second and only needs to be done once during their pre-tournament photo shoot.

FIFA says the scan "captures highly accurate bodypart dimensions" to make more accurate offside decisions.

It expects this to mean tournament officials will be able to "track players reliably during fast or obstructed movements" and says final decisions will be "displayed more realistically and in a more engaging way".

FIFA has been working on ways to improve offside decisions for the World Cup

There was controversy in the Premier League earlier this season when a Newcastle goal against Manchester City was allowed to stand.

Ruben Dias appeared to be jumping in the semi-automated offside graphic. This did not match the television pictures of the game.

FIFA hopes that by taking accurate scans of each player it can improve how these decisions are shown to supporters.

The technology was tested in FIFA'S Intercontinental Cup, with Flamengo and Pyramids FC players scanned ahead of their match in December.

FIFA announced last month it was testing new technology which can determine if the ball goes out of play before a goal is scored. It has also developed 'real-time 3D recreation' to make line-of-sight offside decisions.

Louisiana State University signs Guyanese Keliza Smith LOUISIANA State University (LSU) track and field head coach Dennis Shaver on Tuesday announced the signing of Guyanese sprinter Keliza Smith to the university's women’s programme.

Smith, a native of West Bank Demerara, will join the Tigers as a junior this spring, moving from Barton Community College where she established herself as a leading figure in the junior college circuit.

During her two-year tenure at Barton, Smith secured 15 USTFCCCA First Team All-American honors and won the NJCAA 60-metre national title.

Her personal bests include a time of 11.37 seconds in the 100 metres—a Guyanese national under-20 record—as well as 7.28s in the 60m, 23.08s in the 200m, and 52.91s in the 400m.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Farhan, bowlers shine as Pakistan take 1-0 lead PAKISTAN took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series with a convincing six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

After winning the toss and opting to bowl, the visitors produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismantle the Sri Lankan lineup for a modest 128. Despite a shaky middle-over period, the Pakistan chase was anchored by a composed half-century from opener Sahibzada Farhan, allowing them to reach the target with 20 balls to spare.

Sri Lanka's innings never truly found its rhythm as they lost wickets at regular intervals. The collapse began early when Kamil Mishara fell for a duck to Salman Mirza in the third over. Pathum Nissanka followed shortly after, departing for a run-a-ball 12. The introduction of spin further choked the scoring, with Shadab Khan marking his return to the side by removing Kusal Mendis (14) and Dhananjaya de Silva (10) in the same over. Charith Asalanka provided a brief spark with a six but was eventually dismissed for 18 by Abrar Ahmed.

The lone resistance for the hosts came from Janith

Sahibzada Farhan hit 51 in the chase

Liyanage, who top-scored with a gritty 40 off 31 balls.

Abrar was the pick of the bowlers, utilising his variations to claim 3 for 25, while Salman Mirza also finished with three wickets to wrap up the tail.

In response, Pakistan's openers provided a blistering start to eliminate any scoreboard pressure. Sahibzada and Saim Ayub put on a rapid 55-run stand within the first six overs. Farhan was particularly aggressive, launching Nuwan Thushara for two massive sixes in a single over to set the tone. Although Maheesh Theekshana broke the partnership by cleaning up Ayub for 24, the damage was largely done.

The visitors made 59/1 at nearly 10 RPO in the PowerPlay. Sri Lanka attempted to claw back into the contest as

Hasaranga dismissed Salman Agha for 16 and Dushmantha Chameera removed the dangerous Farhan just after he reached his fifty. Dhananjaya de Silva added to the tension by stumping Fakhar Zaman for 10, leaving Pakistan at 106 for 4.

However, with the required rate well under control, Shadab and Usman Khan remained calm to navigate the remaining runs.

Farhan's 51 off 33 balls remained the defining knock of the match, earning him the Player of the Match honours as Pakistan cruised to 129 for 4 with two balls to spare in the 17th over.

The teams will meet again at the same venue for the second T20I, with Sri Lanka needing a win to stay alive in the three-match series. (Cricbuzz)

Hope’s career unbeaten... (From page 23) Hope's innings was a combination of style, power and grace, no matter his next 59 runs took lesser time - 31 balls.

The required run rate at the halfway mark of the chase was 11.20. DSG were 90 for 3 after ten overs, as all

three of Marques Ackerman (27), Kane Williamson (12) and Aiden Markram (16) had departed after looking good.

Buttler, who came at No. 3, needed solid company, but he got none of it.

With two wickets and two overs remaining, DSG

needed another 40 runs to win. Buttler's fireworks against Williams got 22 of those in the 19th over. With him having retained strike for the start of the final over, DSG still had hope.

But PC's Hope had the final say. (Cricinfo)

Shamar and Alzarri on track... (From page 23) Shallow confirmed that a provisional squad has been drafted. The final 15-man roster for the tournament, co-hosted

by India and Sri Lanka, is expected to be announced following the West Indies’ Guyanese sprinter Keliza Smith

On the international stage, Smith recently earned a bronze medal in the 100m at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, marking Guyana’s first podium finish at the event. She also secured bronze in the 200m at the

Junior Pan American Games in Paraguay.

At LSU, Smith will join fellow Guyanese athletes Malachi Austin and Athaleyha Hinckson, further expanding the programme's international contingent.

series against Afghanistan in late January.

The West Indies are scheduled to play a threematch T20I series in South Africa as final preparation before opening their World

Cup campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on Feb. 7.

The twice-champion Caribbean side has been drawn in Group C alongside England, Nepal, and Italy.

New champions to be... (From back page) control, with a 5-second increment per move.

This format demands a unique blend of tactical precision and instinctive decision-making, as players have little time to recover from mid-game blunders.

Trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers in

the primary Under-12 divisions for both boys and girls.

Recognising the importance of early development, the GCF will also present trophies and medals to the top three positions in the Under-10 and Under-8 categories.

The GCF expressed its

continued gratitude to ACADO Guyana for their steadfast support.

Through the MOO! Milk brand, the company has remained a vital partner in fostering the next generation of Guyanese chess masters.

The first move is scheduled for 9:30 AM.

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Coach Smartt confident of success ‒ in reduced women’s cricket tournament in St. Vincent

By Sean Devers LAST year in St. Vincent, Guyana won the Regional Women’s T20 title, and this year, again in St. Vincent, the Guyanese are hoping to bring home the ‘double’ by winning both the 50-overs and T20 in a tournament that has been reduced from five to three rounds.

Last Monday, in sweltering heat at the Lusignan Community Centre Ground, the ladies were taken through their paces by former Guyana and West Indies pacer Tremayne Smartt, who is the team’s Head Coach.

The 40-year-old Smartt lamented that the adverse weather affected the preparation, but added, “We are doing well so far. The rain was beyond our control; it was God’s work.”

Commenting on the tournament being reduced, she said: “We would like more cricket, but CWI’s decision is beyond our control, and much focus is on what is in front of us, and playing our best cricket in both formats.

“Our strength is the batting and all-rounders and the bulk of the players who would

Guyana Chronicle’s Sean Devers interviewing Guyana’s Head Coach Tremayne Smartt at Lusignan (Sachin Singh photos)

have played last year. So they would be familiar with the conditions in St. Vincent, unless it has changed drastically in a year” said Smartt, who played in the Men’s team at the first-division level for New Amsterdam side, Tucber Park.

‘We have seven players

with West Indies experience, including five who are presently in the regional side.

So are backing on the experienced played to lead by example.

We have just two new faces in the squad in Fiona Benjamin from the Hinterland team, which participated in the last Inter-County tournament, and Berbican Danellie Manns, who has played for Guyana and West Indies at the U-19 level,” said Smartt, the NSC’s Coach the year.

Captain Shamaine Campbelle, who has been playing for Guyana’s senior Women’s team since 2006 is the most experienced player in the squad.

The other current West Indies players in the squad are wicket-keeper/opening batter Mandy Mangru; batting all-rounder Shabika Gajnabi; off-spinner Ashmini Munisar; and all-rounder Realeanna Grimmond.

Realeanna’s cousin, Sheneta Grimmond and left-arm spinner Kaysia Schultz are also former West Indies players.

Smartt said that both Guyana’s premier off-spinner Plaffianna Millington, the

Shabika Gajnabi hits over mid-off during a net session

former owing to the ‘flu’, and Benjamin missed Monday’s session, which entailed a two-hour batting and bowling practice on the pitch.

According to Smartt, who played 57 ODIs and 58 T20s for the West Indies between 2009-2018, despite the absence of West Indies pacer Cherry-Ann Fraser due to injury, and 20-year-old

leg-spinner Nyia Latchman, who has made herself unavailable, she is upbeat about her charges doing well.

The squad was set to have its final practice session on Tuesday before it departs for St. Vincent on January 10, when they oppose the Windward Islands in their opening game.

Meanwhile, speaking to

the nature of her injury, Fraser said: “I have a nerve issue at the base of my spine and have now commenced ‘rehab’ work. I could be out of Cricket until possibly May. But I’m hoping it’s shorter than that.”

The right-arm fast bowler also confirmed that CWI is paying for her medical treatment.

To her credit, the 26-yearold left-handed batter has 19 ODIs and 23 T20Is for the West Indies between 2020 and 2025 when she injured her back.

West Indies Women are set to play Test cricket for the first time ever since March 2006 when they faced Australia, and South Africa in April of that year. Fraser is hopeful that she is fully recovered in time for the South Africa Test.

GUYANA SQUAD: Shamaine Campbelle (Captain), Ashmini Munisar (Vice-Captain), Shabika Gajnabi, Sheneta Grimmond, Realeanna Grimmond, Kaysia Schultz, Laurene Williams, Latoya Williams, Analesia D’Aguiar, Plaffianna Millington, Mandy Mangru, Danelle Manns, Feona Benjamin and Tremaine Marks.

Shamar and Alzarri on track for T20 World Hope’s career unbeaten 118 helps Pretoria Capitals overcome Buttler scare Cup, says CWI Director SHAI Hope scored what he never had in 194 previous T20 innings. His career-best knock of 118* from 69 balls, the highest by a batter in SA20's short history, took Pretoria Capitals (PC) to 201 at Kingsmead.

In reply, the hosts Durban's Super Giants (DSG) had to do what they had never done before - successfully chase down a target of more than 167 in a completed game at SA20.

With DSG needing 42 more off the remaining 17 balls, and Jos Buttler batting on 74 with a handy David Wiese at the other end, faint hope of a win was still lingering. But PC's Lungi Ngidi did what had never been done before in the SA20.

His 18th-over hat-trick left the home fans with dropped shoulders. They suddenly woke up, though, when Buttler went 6, 6, 2, 4

Shai Hope spanked a career best 118 not out

off back-to-back legal deliveries against Lizaad Williams in the 19th.

However, with 18 runs to get in the final over, Roston Chase nailed attempted yorkers, and Buttler (97*) lost two partners to run-outs.

Eventually, PC won by 15 runs but not without a scare.

Hope and his opening partner Connor Esterhuizen added 101 in 11 overs. But the latter hardly seemed to be present. While Esterhuizen's dismissal on a steady 37 off 28 balls ended the partnership, Hope had thumped 59 in 38 deliveries by then.

(Turn to page 22)

WEST Indies fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph are on track to be fit for the upcoming Men’s T20 World Cup following successful rehabilitation from respective injuries, Cricket West Indies (CWI) medical officials said on Tuesday.

Shamar Joseph, 26, has been sidelined since September 2025 with a shoulder injury, missing the recent Test tour of India and the ongoing series in Bangladesh.

However, medical director Dr. Donovan Bennett confirmed the pacer has resumed high-intensity training.

"The latest update I have on Shamar is that he is fit and ready to go," Bennett told a Barbadian radio programme – Mason and Guest. "He was bowling in the 140s [kph] without experiencing any discomfort."

Alzarri Joseph, who missed the India series due to

Pacer Shamar Joseph is expected to be fully fit for the World T20

a lower-back injury described

by CWI as a "degeneration of a previously resolved injury," has also commenced returnto-play protocols. Officials

expect both players to be available for the tournament, which begins in February.

CWI President Kishore (Turn to page 22)

Bethell's maiden century stalls Australia's victory march in fifth Ashes test

By Nick Mulvenney SYDNEY, (Reuters) - Jacob Bethell scored his maiden test century to lead an England rearguard action on the fourth day of the fifth test on Wednesday, but Australia still looked firmly set for victory and a 4-1 series triumph.

Anchored by Bethell's 142 not-out, England reached the close of play on 302 for eight with a modest lead of 119 runs over Australia's bumper first-innings tally of 567.

If England are to defy Australia to close out the series on a relatively good pitch, they are likely to have to do so without the bowling of captain Ben Stokes, who

pulled up with a groin issue in the first hour of the day.

"He's moving pretty gingerly," Bethell told reporters.

"So I don't think that bodes too well for him bowling tomorrow."

Bethell has looked a strong addition to the team after coming into the side in place of Ollie Pope for England's fourth test victory in Melbourne last week.

The 22-year-old confirmed his promise on Wednesday, holding England's innings together in a string of big partnerships -- 81 runs with opener Ben Duckett, 102 with Harry Brook and 45 with Jamie Smith.

Playing only his sixth test, Bethell spent a nervous

couple of overs on 99 before reaching the most important milestone in the game with a crunching four.

"It's pretty special. It's not really sunk in yet," Bethell told reporters.

"We had to graft hard out there and ideally we'd be a couple wickets less. But yeah, 119 ahead. I think we've got a chance if we get it up to 180190, potentially, tomorrow."

His partners fared less well.

Duckett was bowled by Michael Neser for 42 soon after lunch when he looked well-set, Brook was ousted lbw for the same score on an Australian DRS appeal, and Smith was farcically run-out for 26.

Stokes lasted five balls and scored one run when he did finally come out to bat, caught in the slips off a thick edge to leave his team clinging on at 267-7 and give Australia all-rounder Beau Webster his third wicket of the day.

Webster (3-51) had earlier shattered English hopes of giving Australia a fourth-innings run chase that might truly test them when he removed Brook and Will Jacks in the space of three balls with his part-time off spin.

All of Australia's bowlers were unremitting in their effort and application with Mitchell Starc removing opener Zak Crawley lbw for one with the fifth ball of the

Jacob Bethell finished Day 4 unbeaten on 142

innings to claim his 29th wicket of the series.

Crawley did not offer a shot as the ball thumped into his pad and England's opening partnership failed to survive the opening over for the fourth time in the series.

Scott Boland, remarkably not even a first-choice selection when all Australia's quicks are fit, was again uber-reliable and ousted danger man Joe Root for six in an lbw decision confirmed

by DRS. The 36-year-old returned to take the last wicket of the day -- his 20th of the series -- by inducing a thick edge off Brydon Carse that Steve Smith gobbled up in the slips.

One bright note for En-

gland at the backend of the series has been the bowling of seamer Josh Tongue (3-97) and he was again to the fore as the visitors mopped up the last three Australian wickets in the first hour of play.

He removed Smith for 138 and Starc for five before many in another bumper crowd of 42,864 had taken their seats.

Australia's last batsman, Boland, edged the ball to the slips off the first delivery he faced from Jacks, leaving Webster 71 not out.

Webster has had to bide his time to get his chance to play in the series and was delighted with his returns having fought his way into the team.

Sinclair Foundation Tapeball competition set for Bourda on Sunday MORE than $500,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs when the annual Kevin Sinclair Foundation Tapeball Competition takes place at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), Bourda on Sunday.

Unlike previous tournaments, this year will also feature four female teams and with added incentives at stake, competition is expected to be fierce in both categories.

According to the Guyana and West Indies all-rounder, Kevin Sinclair he’s

committed to the upliftment of the grassroots sport which has steadily grown into a fixture on Guyana’s local sporting calendar.

Sinclair pointed out that his foundation has been working to reach aspiring cricketers from all corners of the country, providing opportunities for exposure, competition and personal development.

Sinclair added that the competition was about nurturing local talent, pointing out that tapeball cricket remains one

of the most accessible and popular entry points for young players, especially in communities with limited resources.

This year’s tournament features 10 male teams, including Madhia, Eccles All Stars, Team Sip N Play and Team Corruption, among others.

Sinclair, who hails from New Amsterdam, Berbice, rose through the local and regional ranks to earn selection for the West Indies team, becoming an effective spin-bowling all-rounder.

Kevin Sinclair, left, receives one of the trophies from Trophy Stall proprietor Ramesh Sunich

New champions to be crowned at U-12 Rapid Chess

Marcia Lee (right) receives the sponsorship from Alicia DeAbreu, CEO of ACADO Guyana

THE Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) is set to launch its 2026 competitive season this Saturday, January 10, with the National Under-12 Rapid Chess Championships.

Sponsored by ACADO Guyana (formerly DeSinco) under the MOO! Milk brand, the tournament marks a significant milestone as it moves to a state-of-the-art venue: the newly constructed ACADO Building on Heroes Highway, Rome, East Bank Demerara.

The GCF anticipates a turnout of over 50 participants, fueled by the momentum of last year’s record-breaking event. The

tournament will feature separate boys’ and girls’ categories, with subdivided prizes for U-12, U-10, and U-8 age groups.

A new era is guaranteed for the junior ranks this year. With defending champions Abel Fernandez and Kataleya Sam having aged out of the Under-12 bracket, the "vacant throne" has added a layer of intensity to the pre-tournament atmosphere.

In the Boys’ Championship, the race for the podium is wide open. Javier Davenand and Vir Narine enter as heavy favorites, but the duo of Aiden and Arian Tinnie are expected to provide stiff competition in what is

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being viewed as one of the most unpredictable fields in years.

The Girls’ Championship is equally competitive. Saura Ruplall, Amy Ramphal, and Divya Persaud—all of whom boast significant tournament experience—are tipped to lead the charge. In the high-pressure environment of rapid chess, their familiarity with clock management could prove the deciding factor.

The championships will be contested over seven rounds using the Swiss format.

The "Rapid" designation reflects the 15-minute time (Turn to page 22)

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2026