Gov’t hires distinguished Canadian homicide expert to probe Adriana Younge’s death
IN keeping with a promise made by His Excellency, the President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Government of Guyana has secured the services of a distinguished retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Mr. Leonard Mc Coshen, a trained and qualified homicide and sus-
picious death investigator to assist in the probe to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of Adriana Younge. The Ministry of Home Affairs in providing this update on Thursday, said in a press statement that Mr. Mc Coshen has over 30 years of experience as an investigator
of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
“He had spent 20 of those years attached to the Serious Crimes Branch (SCB)- in the Major Crimes Unit (MCU), with the mandate to investigate serious, complex and sensitive matters, mainly homicides and deaths where foul play was suspected.
“He has successfully supervised and coordinated over 200 homicides, kidnappings, and other serious and complex investigations,” the statement said adding that in this regard, Mr. Mc Coshen brings a wealth of training, qualifications, and experience to the ongoing investigation into the child’s death.
Adriana was found dead on April 24, 2025, in the swimming pool of the Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), the day after she was reported missing. She disappeared shortly after arriving at the hotel with relatives.
Adriana, a promising pupil of the Parika Salem Primary School, had written the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) days before her tragic death and was eagerly awaiting her results. It was always her dream to attend the prestigious Queen’s College.
Following the discovery of her lifeless body in the hotel’s pool, the building was set on fire and enraged ‘pro-
testors’ looted the establishment. Additionally, the home of the hotel’s proprietor was torched by unknown persons. It has since been reported that three internationally respected forensic pathologists have concluded that she died by drowning. Samples taken from the body were sent for testing at the Mount Sinai Hospital and the National Medical Services Laboratory in the United States and the authorities here are awaiting those results.
President Ali has already announced that everything possible will be done to ensure that the circumstances are investigated and her family gets the closure.
Gov’t welcomes IMF’s favourable assessment of Guyana’s economic policies, performance – Minister Singh
SENIOR Finance Minister
Dr Ashni Singh on Thursday welcomed the favourable assessment given by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on both the economic policies being implemented by the government and the strong performance of the Guyanese economy.
In its latest Article IV Consultation, the IMF lauded Guyana’s exceptional economic performance, citing the country’s rapid oil-fuelled transformation and robust nonoil growth.
The IMF declared Guyana’s economic outlook “highly favourable,” supported by strong fundamentals, balanced risks, and a resilient external position.
“Guyana’s economic transformation is advancing strongly and broadening in scale,” the IMF said in a statement following the Executive Board’s review.
“Rapidly expanding oil production, strong non-oil output, and large-scale public infrastructure investment supported the highest real GDP [Gross Domestic Product] growth rate in the world, averaging 47 percent per year since 2022.”
According to the report, real oil GDP surged nearly 58 per cent in 2024, while non-oil GDP grew by over 13 per cent, demonstrating the country’s steady progress in diversifying economic activities even as the energy sector drives momentum.
The IMF noted that inflation remained moderate, reaching 2.9 per cent by the end of 2024, up slightly from two per cent the year before. This was primarily due to international food price pressures and domestic flooding that affected supply chains.
Guyana’s fiscal stance, while expansionary, reflects the government’s focus on meeting urgent development needs. The IMF noted that the overall fiscal deficit widened from 5.1 per cent of GDP (11.7 per cent of non-oil GDP) in 2022 to 7.3 per cent (21 percent of non-oil GDP) in 2024, largely due to a sharp increase
billion—equivalent to over 12½ per cent of GDP.
The economic outlook remains highly favourable. Looking ahead, the IMF projects that Guyana’s economy will grow at an average annual rate of 14 per cent over the next five years, fuelled by oil production and spillover benefits to other sectors. Real nonoil GDP growth is expected to average around 6¾ per cent, significantly higher than the pre-oil decade average.
“Positive spillovers from the oil sector and improvements in infrastructure, productivity, and resilience are expected to boost real non-oil
in capital spending. Despite this, the country’s external accounts remain robust. “Driven by higher oil exports, Guyana’s current account surplus more than doubled in 2024, reaching about 24½ per cent of GDP,” the report stated. Gross international reserves topped US$1 billion by the end of 2024, while the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) accumulated over US$1.1 billion during the year, bringing its total to US$3.1
GDP growth,” the report stated. Inflation is forecast to rise moderately to around four percent in 2025, but fiscal and external balances are expected to narrow slightly, with continued savings in the NRF reinforcing economic stability.
Over the medium term, the continued expansion of oil production will further strengthen the external position, with substantial savings accumulation in the NRF.
Risks to the outlook were
deemed “broadly balanced.” Upside risks include further oil discoveries and productivity-enhancing investments, particularly those aimed at bolstering energy resilience.
“On the upside, additional oil discoveries and productivity-enhancing investments, including to strengthen energy resilience would further bolster Guyana’s long-term economic prospects, while expanding construction activity would support higher shortterm non-oil GDP growth.”
However, the IMF cautioned about potential downside risks such as overheating pressures, which could lead to inflation spikes and an overvalued exchange rate.
Global commodity price swings and climate-related disruptions continue to pose significant risks to Guyana’s economic outlook.
“Commodity price volatility in a highly uncertain global environment, including from trade policy and climate shocks, could also adversely affect inflation and alter the macroeconomic outlook,” the IMF said.
IMF COMMENDATIONS
Executive Directors of the IMF praised Guyana’s commitment to balancing growth with macroeconomic stability.
“Directors welcomed Guyana’s remarkable economic progress to attain high-income status, supported by rapidly expanding oil production and robust non-oil growth,” the Board noted. “They commend-
considered the monetary policy stance as appropriately tight to help contain inflation, while noting the need for further tightening if inflation risks escalate. They saw merit in enhancing the monetary policy toolkit and deepening financial markets to help strengthen the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission.
ed the authorities’ commitment to balancing development needs with prudent policies to entrench macroeconomic and fiscal stability.”
They noted that Guyana’s economic outlook remains highly favourable with balanced risks, strong fundamentals, and a strong external position supported by substantial accumulation of oil revenue in the NRF.
The directors concurred that the current fiscal stance is appropriate given development needs. They welcomed the authorities’ commitment to eliminate the overall fiscal deficit over the medium term and further narrow the non-oil primary deficit to levels consistent with ensuring intergenerational equity and preserving fiscal and macroeconomic sustainability.
“They highlighted the need for a comprehensive medium-term fiscal framework with an explicit anchor and an operational target,” the Board added, encouraging regular evaluations of spending related to development objectives.
They highlighted the need for a comprehensive medium-term fiscal framework with an explicit anchor and an operational target, along with regular assessments of expenditure related to reaching development objectives. They positively noted the authorities’ continued efforts to strengthen public financial management as well as the low risk of debt distress given low public debt.
Additionally, the directors
Directors highlighted the need for policy consistency to support Guyana’s stabilised exchange rate regime, which they said remains appropriate at this stage of economic development. However, they also encouraged authorities to assess the potential benefits of moving toward a more flexible exchange rate framework in the medium term, as the economy continues to evolve and diversify.
The Board also commended the government’s commitment to preserving financial stability, applauding ongoing efforts to improve financial sector oversight. This includes monitoring risks related to sectoral lending and transactions involving related parties, as well as strengthening macroprudential supervision and broadening regulatory oversight.
To support sound financial management, the IMF called for improved statistical coverage, particularly in relation to institutional balance sheets and real estate price data.
Further, the IMF welcomed Guyana’s broader efforts to foster inclusive growth and expand economic diversification. Directors noted progress in improving the business climate, advancing climate and energy resilience, and building workforce skills.
They also recognised improvements in governance and transparency, particularly within the areas of anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), and public financial disclosure—encouraging continued alignment with international standards.
The next Article IV consultation between the IMF and Guyana is expected to occur in 12 months, following the standard review cycle.
Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh
Aerial view of Georgetown, the capital of Guyana (IOM/Gema Cortes photo)
Photo credit: REUTERS/Yuri Gripas
Strong action to be taken against lawbreakers regardless of political affiliation – GS Jagdeo
GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said that enforcement action will be taken against those who participate in illegal activities regardless of their political affiliation.
The general secretary, who also performs the duties of vice president, made the remark during his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday.
Last week, several businesses and individuals were attacked and robbed, suffering great damage to property and wellbeing.
More than two dozen individuals were subsequently brought before the court charged with inciting public terror.
“If they break the law, I don’t care if they claim they’re PPP or not…I support strong enforcement action who broke the law. I support that,” Dr Jagdeo affirmed.
He said that while some of the individuals appear hell-bent on creating havoc, there may be a few who were unjustly arraigned and others who were influenced into participating in illegal activity.
Government’s intention, the general secretary said, is not to have these young people fall by the wayside even after facing the consequences for their actions.
“We have been making an effort to get all of people [trained and employed]…we will continue to work because we cannot lose these youngsters,” he assured.
To ensure a sustainable system, Dr Jagdeo said that the government has already begun to explore compulsory schooling for
cause they were poor and neglected by society.
He posited that it is the same group of people who did nothing to help these very individuals during their past tenure in office.
“In 1990, eight-seven per cent of the population was living under the poverty line…so [they] didn’t only dispossess or made poor a small group of people, you made almost the entire country poor. That is their track record,” he said, referencing the People’s National Congress’ tenure in office up to 1992.
inmates.
Meanwhile, the general secretary lambasted the opposition for laying the blame at the feet of the PPP/C, suggesting that the looters only participated in the violent protests be-
Dr Jagdeo said that the APNUAFC preferred to keep these youngsters in intellectual bondage in order to consistently have them at their disposal.
“It’s APNU that doesn’t want them to be
“Where was Nigel Hughes or Cathy Hughes then? What did they do with these kids? In fact, more people started losing jobs again…they lost welfare [when they were in office]…since we have come back into office, we now have labour shortages. So, if any of these youngsters want to be trained, we have publicly said that we will pay for every training,” he explained.
trained, because this is an army of people that they can mobilise to do their bidding and then dissasociate themselves from them. They’re not interested in these youngsters to change their lives. The only want them to remain in a situation where they can be mobilised,” the general secretary asserted. (DPI)
General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Compelling reason why we must speak to the Guyanese people
I BEGAN my Sunday column with the following words. I quote: “One of the most psychologically malignant things I see in this country is how people who are the problem in Guyana and that problem eats away at the fabric of society, turn around and lift themselves so high as (in Barry Manilow’s famous song) when the stallion meets the sun and point to others as the problem.”
The very next day, that is, Monday, Vincent Alexander proved me correct in a weird, eerie, but sickening way. I quote from Alexander’s letter that next day, which carried the title, “Certain trends are entrenching the ethno-political divide in Guyana.” I am asking every Guyanese if they believe that someone like Vincent Alexander could write that knowing who Vincent Alexander is.
And who is Vincent Alexander? A Guyanese whose writings, emanations, articulations, arguments, pronouncements, and propaganda have contributed to the very widening ethnic and political distrust, suspicion, and animosity that we see in Guyana. And how long has Alexander been at it? More than 50 years when he started out as the chairman of the youth arm of the People’s National Congress.
Is there a piece of evidence that we can cite to show that Alexander is still at it? The evidence is his very letter of Monday, May 5, in which he accuses others of contributing to racial and ethnic polarisation. Ironically his letter is a continuation of his racially inspired themes. I offer graphic evidence by quoting from that very letter.
Now read this and tell me if Alexander’s
hypocrisy has any limit: “I have discerned a certain trend, that is attributable to public influencers such as some media, some social media influencers, some public commentators, politicians and even civil society organisations, that is worrying and reflects and entrenches the ethno-political divide in Guyana. While there is glaring and undeniable evidence that the Heroes Highway does not traverse the path of the demolished homes, commercial and farm steads in Mocha-Arcadia, and similarly that Adriana’s body was not in the pool immediately, and for some time after her disappearance, there are those who continue to peddle the opposite narrative. This is the trend of disinformation to which I am referring.”
There is no evidence whatsoever by any foreign or local police or forensic authority that Adriana Younge’s body was ever out of the pool. Where is Alexander’s evidence? The Mocha-Arcadia squatters accepted compensation and moved on with their lives. Those who refused to leave lost their case in front of the Chief Justice.
Both situations Alexander used were delicate, sensitive matters that if not handled properly could contribute to the racial divide. I assert without even an ounce of hesitation, Alexander’s citing of these two fictions has made an input in widening what he accuses others of doing. Let’s move on to Lincoln Lewis’ letter published on Thursday and titled, “We called on the government to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections.”
Can any human living in Guyana be-
lieve that Lincoln Lewis could write that after Lewis’ open rejection of the legal results of the 2020 elections? Here is what Lewis wrote on July 2020 when all the respected international organisations and all the governments of the world without exception had pronounced that the March 2020 election in Guyana was free, fair, and credible and that the incumbent APNU+AFC must respect the results.
Here is Lewis in his own words: “I call on President David Granger not to allow history to record him as it did Nero. You have the power vested in your office to correct this public hijacking of Guyana’s elections, this confounded brazen highway robbery, this piracy, this buccaneering politics unleashed on Guyana. … This is no longer only about electoral victory. It is about our youth, our future. It is a shame for GECOM to attempt to declare any election … If GECOM cannot declare
election on credible votes or declarations never challenged or deemed invalid in a court of law, then Mr. President, it behooves you to cancel these elections. You have the power; you have the right to so do. Mr. President, for the good of Guyana, her laws, and people, cancel these elections.”
So, what do you make of Alexander and Lewis? The answer is simple. They know what they are doing. They know they want people to read and listen to them in the hope they can play on those people’s minds. But they will not succeed if we expose them and in exposing them, we educate Guyanese in and out of the land. That is the sacred duty of those who need to keep exposing people like Alexander and Lewis.
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.
ERC, police urged to take action over Baby Skello’s
‘distasteful,
obscene’ mockery of Hindu goddess
–– calls mount for public apology, removal of offensive material from all digital platforms
THE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has publicly registered its concern about the contents of Guyanese singer, Baby Skello’s new music video, which mocks a Hindu goddess.
In a press release, the religious organisation said that the Hindu community is “outraged and deeply offended” by the video’s vulgar and disrespectful lyrics and content.
“His obscene lyrics gravely disparage Maha Lakshmi who is revered and worshipped by Hindus globally.
“Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha calls on the Ethnic Relations Commission and the Guyana Police Force to take con-
dign action against this artiste. He should be held accountable for his actions and also publicly apologise to the Hindu community and withdraw the song,” the release said.
The release added that while the Hindu community is peaceful and respects all faiths and people across our country, the attacks on their religion and practices have not gone unnoticed.
“The Hindu community strongly rejects this distasteful and completely unwarranted narrative. We are also deeply concerned about the continued disrespect to women being portrayed by performers in the name of music and art, recognising its impact
in driving harassment and violence against women and girls.
“We call on all Guyanese and the wider community to join us in condemning this artiste and his disgusting song and video,” the release said.
Meanwhile, the ERC in a statement Thursday afternoon said it condemns the blasphemous and obscene depiction of the Hindu deity
“The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) strongly condemns the recent circulation of a song by the performer known as Baby Skello, which portrays the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi in a vulgar, sexually explicit, and blasphemous manner.
This content constitutes a deeply offensive act that strikes at the heart of the Hindu community’s religious beliefs and is wholly unacceptable in a society that values mutual respect and coexistence,” the statement said.
The Commission noted that it firmly believes that freedom of expression carries with it the responsibility to respect the religious and cultural traditions of all groups in Guyana.
“Any content that mocks, insults, or degrades sacred religious figures undermines social harmony and offends the values of decency and tolerance that Guyanese society upholds,” it said.
Further, the statement noted that as part of its response, the ERC formally requests that Baby Skello remove the song from all digital platforms and cease all forms of public dissemination of the material.
“The Commission views this action as a necessary step toward mitigating further harm and signaling that such expressions have no place in our plural society.
“The ERC also affirms that it will explore all legal avenues available under the laws of Guyana in addressing this matter.
Discussions are underway with the Relevant authorities to determine appropriate legal action and ensure accountability.
“In addition, the Commission will intensify its efforts to engage with stakeholders, including artistes, producers, and media platforms—to promote awareness of the importance of religious respect. Educational campaigns will be launched to reinforce those values, especially among younger audiences and content creators.
“The ERC remains steadfast in its mandate to protect the rights, dignity, and beliefs of all Guyanese and to ensure that acts of religious disrespect are met with decisive and lawful responses,” the statement said.
Digital transformation crucial to Guyana’s long-term success amid oil boom - WANSat Networks COO
–– says Guyana has potential to become a digital hub for the Caribbean
By Feona Morrison
AS Guyana’s oil-driven economic boom continues to reshape its future, a leading local telecom executive is urging the country to prioritise digital transformation as a cornerstone of its development strategy.
William Moseley, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of WANSat Networks, made this call during this week’s episode of the Energy Per-
spectives Podcast, where he discussed the pivotal role of connectivity in supporting Guyana’s rapid growth.
As Guyana’s oil sector continues to expand in the coming years, digital transformation will be critical to maximising the country’s performance, the COO said.
He added that WANSat is fully committed to supporting both the government and the nation in achieving this goal.
Moseley stressed that digital infrastructure must keep pace with the country’s evolving economic landscape, which is projected to experience sustained growth for decades, thanks largely to oil revenues
However, he warned that economic prosperity alone would not be enough to ensure equitable and long-lasting development unless digital solutions are integrated across sectors.
He pointed specifically to areas such as education and healthcare—especially telemedicine and e-Learning—as requiring urgent investment in connectivity and technology to bridge existing service gaps and enable national advancement.
“…five, 10 years down the road, there is going to be the need for greater connectivity because there is going to be growth in the education sector [with] e-learning, for health, telemedicine…” Moseley explained.
Further, he noted that the company’s overarching mission is to bridge the digital divide not just in Guyana, but across Suriname and the wider Caribbean.
However, he acknowledged that achieving this
challenges, emphasising the importance of securing longterm investment and calling for increased incentives to help drive the vision forward.
“There is a cost associated with this; we will have to secure investments,” he noted, adding, “That would take time, and we would have to be very patient and persistent to achieve that goal.”
While he admitted that WANSat Networks is still in the early stages of this ambitious journey, the COO expressed optimism about the company’s potential impact, emphasising that the mission is both realistic and achievable. “It’s doable,” he affirmed.
In response to the Guyanese government’s efforts
ambitious goal will require far more than the efforts of a single company. He emphasised that this digital evolution should not be a fragmented effort, but rather a collective national mission that includes government, private sector, and international partners.
“This is quite an audacious goal. We want to aspire for great things; we do not want to settle,” Moseley said before stressing the importance of collaboration at all levels, noting that the success of this mission hinges on collective action and knowledge sharing.
“It means, therefore, that we will have to reach out to take a collaborative approach,” he explained. “We have to consult with government entities, we have to consult with experts in other countries, we have to consult with leadership and get others involved.”
Moseley acknowledged that bridging the digital divide across Guyana, Suriname, and the Caribbean entails substantial financial
William Moseley
“We took the opportunity to provide training to youngsters in remote communities,” he said. “We give them the opportunity to have ownership in this enterprise…to take on the responsibility of supporting and maintaining the service.”
WANSat Networks, which specialises in satellite broadband internet services across remote and underserved regions, has been eyeing Guyana’s market as one with immense potential.
to fast-track digital infrastructure, Moseley commended the authorities for recognising the critical role of connectivity in national development.
“Kudos to the Guyanese authorities. They’ve recognised the importance of connectivity,” Moseley said. “There is always an opportunity to improve.”
He pointed out that while progress is being made, there is room to strengthen collaboration and inclusivity in the approach. “I think there is an opportunity in the area of a collaborative approach and inclusivity by having everyone play a part,” he added, noting that WANSat has already begun laying the groundwork through an initial partnership with a company that has “deep roots” in Guyana.
Moseley highlighted WANSat’s commitment to empowering local communities, especially in remote areas, by providing hands-on training and opportunities for meaningful involvement in the company’s operations.
Moseley noted that the firm’s existing capabilities position it well to support both urban and hinterland communities as the demand for reliable, high-speed internet continues to rise.
Reflecting on WANSat’s rapid progress, Moseley expressed pride in the company’s achievements since its launch, especially its ability to deliver satellite internet coverage across all ten administrative regions of Guyana.
“When we look back… in just about two and a half years, we are here. It is a great deal of joy and satisfaction at where we are,” he said with pride.
Moseley noted that Guyana’s unique geography— with its expansive rainforest covering approximately 85 per cent of the country’s landmass—makes it particularly well-suited for satellite-based connectivity solutions.
In closing, he said Guyana has the potential to become a digital hub for the Caribbean, a move that would inevitably spark increased demand for connectivity and technological infrastructure.
WANSat Networks COO
Only PPP/C has a defined plan for Guyana’s future – Jagdeo
–– promises roll out of five-year digital transformation strategy
GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, said that as a government, his party intends to continue to push digitisation over the next five years.
Dr Jagdeo made this known during his weekly press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, during which he noted that the PPP/C is the only party with a defined plan for the future.
“We believe that people must know what to expect in the next five years… they have already seen what we have done… but many people want to know what is going to happen in the next five years.”
The general secretary outlined key aspects of the digital transformation strategy and pointed out that there will be technological upgrades in public services, law enforcement, healthcare, education and governance.
Part of this plan, he stated, includes the use of blockchain technology to address issues of record tampering, among other things, in relation to land allocation and mining.
“We are committed to introducing [blockchain] in many public sector agencies that have to do with records and public ser -
vice,” he said, adding that tamper-proof technology for certain systems can ensure that persons are not at a disadvantage.
In addition to this, Dr Jagdeo stated that the overhaul of healthcare delivery is already underway and will continue as work has commenced on the Electronic Health Record System.
He disclosed, “In the next term, every person in Guyana will have their record in electronic form. It would follow you through your life.”
The contract has already been awarded for this and it is expected to enhance continuity of care and the data protection legislation that was passed recently will ensure its security.
In relation to public safety, Dr Jagdeo indicated that the expansion of surveillance cameras and the e-ticketing system has marked a significant shift in law enforcement.
Further to this, he said this system has received massive public support, with more citizens asking how soon they can see cameras in their communities to aid in curbing petty crime, among other things.
Additionally, the system e-ticketing system will be further expanded as he highlighted that it would
ensure equal treatment under traffic laws.
Its further expansion over the next term, Jagdeo said may be able to cover more activities, for example, documents like ensuring insurance and fitness on vehicles are up to date.
He said there will no longer be a need for officers to stop drivers on the
roadside as all of these infractions will be picked up, and those committing offences will receive their tickets, among other things.
Among other forward-looking initiatives for the party’s next term in office, Dr Jagdeo spoke about the strengthening of the country’s 911 system through centralised recording, the
introduction of AI-powered agriculture and education platforms and constructing regional facilities to support technical training under the GOAL scholarship.
Meanwhile, he stated that the PPP/C administration will invest in human capital to cater for the push towards digitisation.
“We’d have to hire a
slew of young people to populate these entities and to run this system,” he said. With this, he stated that scholarships and training in areas like cybersecurity and technical maintenance will be prioritised to prepare the next generation for the evolving demands of the digital economy.
Squatters relocated to Plantation Success to soon sign land-ownership documents
RESIDENTS who were previously allocated residential lots in the new Plantation Success Housing Development, including relocated squatters, will soon be able to begin the process of obtaining ownership documents.
Housing and Water Minister, the Hon Collin Croal, made this announcement during a community meeting with residents on Wednesday. He stated that the signing of Agreements of Sale for
the area will begin in two weeks.
The minister also addressed concerns from residents regarding the trucks passing through the community to access work sites.
He informed them about measures that
will be implemented by the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force, including designated routes for trucks to follow and enforced speed limits.
Also present at the meeting was the Minister within the Ministry
of Public Works, Deodat Indar, who pledged support from his agency in addressing the residents’ concerns.
Residents have called on the government to intervene, as they have been experiencing disruptions in their daily
activities due to ongoing infrastructure projects in their communities.
Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has committed to holding contractors accountable and ensuring relief for the residents.
(MoHW)
Relocated squatters will soon be signing the Agreements of Sale for the land they now occupy at Plantation Success (Photos: MoHW/Facebook)
Works progressing on vital East Coast backlands road link
- $5.5B investment will support power transmission from Wales GtE facility to Berbice, Jagdeo says
INFRASTRUCTURAL
development is being undertaken aback established villages along the East Coast of Demerara, to advance the support for the installation of power transmission lines.
This is according to General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who made this disclosure during his press conference on Thursday.
He stated that currently, the 46-kilometre crusher-run road from Georgetown to Mahaica is being constructed and is a development that is not visible to most residents but vital to energy and development goals.
He stated that the project involved some 12 contractors and is being executed at a cost of around $5.5 billion. He added that it aims to open access to the East Coast backlands.
“This road will give us critical access needed to implement a larger project… the transmission of power from the Wales Gas-to-Energy (GtE) facility all the way to Berbice,” he said.
Further to this, contracts have already been
awarded for the construction of large steel transmission towers that will carry high-voltage power lines across the country.
This part of the project, he said, is being done to the tune of around US$500 million and will introduce a new 230 KVA transmission line serving as a major upgrade from the current wooden pole system along the railway embankment.
“With this new system, we’ll be able to move large volumes of power all the way to Berbice, enabling the industrialisation of the East Coast, Region Five and Region Six,” Jagdeo said.
He added, “Along the transmission route, substations will allow us to step down the voltage and distribute reliable, cheaper electricity to surrounding communities.”
The PPP GS emphasised that while this project may not be easily visible to all, it is essential for Guyana’s modern infrastructure and economic growth.
“This is the machinery of the future being worked on without much fanfare,” he said.
PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Eighth ‘A Treat for My Mother’ Event Takes the Stage Sunday
THE eighth edition of ‘A Treat for My Mother’, produced and directed by Simone Dowding, through her Purple Arts Productions company, is slated for this Sunday at the National Cultural Centre.
‘A Treat for My Mother’ is a musical variety show comprising golden oldies music, sung by some of Guyana’s top performers. This list includes Bonnie Alves, Charmaine Blackman, Sean Bhola, Sheron Cadogan-Taylor, Barbara Lee, and Leona Walton.
On board with this year’s production, for the first time, are Maxwell Hunte and Michelle Gonsalves as well. Included in this is a jazz segment, with a performance by saxophonist Damion Layne.
In addition to the topnotch musical performances, Dowding said there will be a fashion segment, called ‘The Fashion Trap’. She explained that to prevent mirroring the previous director, the late Mr. Winfield James, who in years prior would have used drama, she opted to do a fashion segment.
The purpose of the Fashion Trap segment of the programme, she said, serves to provide young designers an opportunity to showcase and market their work, and to network.
While over the last two stagings of the show, local boutiques took on the fashion segment, the production makes its way back to local designers with Nelsion Nurse already on board.
Much like last year, there will be a prize of gold earrings from L. Seepersaud Maraj and Son’s
Limited given to the mother dressed best in deep or dark purple. A second prize of gold jewellery from Jacobs Jewellery and Pawn Shop will be given to the second-best-dressed mother in deep or dark purple. A lucky mother will also be receiving a bouquet from Ribbons N’ Bows.
Dowding expressed, “We just want to give back to our mothers. When you come to our show, we guarantee that you may not be walking out with your purse in your hands alone,” adding that, “We just want mothers to feel wanted and mothers to feel loved.”
Alongside this, door prizes include beauty baskets from DeSinco Trading, furniture from Kissoon’s Furniture Store and ND&S Furniture Store, as well as gifts from Wendy Seeper-
saud and Jermaine’s Woodworking.
Other prizes include a Mother’s Day cake sponsored by Melody Treats and Catering Company, and a special wig for a mother between the ages of 20 and 35 years old by Abby’s Touch of Magic.
Speaking on the evolution of the show, Dowding stated, “We are in a better place than the first time we started because we have a different variety, a different couple of things added to it now. And more people learn of us now, and more people know of the signature of my work. So, you find more people coming out.”
She further expressed gratitude and noted that there were several sponsors onboard to help make the show possible.
09:45 hrs All Well And Good 10:15 hrs Cloudy Wednesday
10:50 hrs Can't Beat History
11:23 hrs Bethpage
12:00 hrs Robber's Bridge
IRISH RACING TIPS
DOWNPATRICK
11:50 hrs Game On 12:25 hrs Our Zebo 12:57 hrs Killian's Garden 13:32 hrs Miss Gitana 14:07 hrs Calahill 14:42 hrs General Hubble 15:17 hrs Derryville
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
BELMONT
Race 1 Mila Candy Race 2 It Takes Heart Race 3 John The Baptist Race 4 Serendipity Race 5 Karen's Honor Race 6 La Salvadorena
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West Indies home series against Pakistan Tickets go on sale online
CRICKET West Indies (CWI) is excited to announce that online tickets are now available for the “WI Home Full Ah Energy” white ball series against Pakistan set for Florida and Trinidad from July 31- August 12.
Fans can now purchase tickets in their preferred viewing locations from the Windies Tickets service at www.tickets.windiescricket. com.
This tour by Pakistan will bring a thrilling climax to a busy summer of cricket for the West Indies Men’s team at home. The eagerly awaited series will feature three (3) blockbuster T20 Internationals at the Broward County Stadium in Florida, including back-to-back matches on August 2 and August 3. These matches will be followed by three
(3) high intensity One Day Internationals at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.
Fans can purchase tickets securely in advance from www.tickets.windiescricket. com to save digitally on their mobile device or print at home for presentation at the venue, avoiding the need to travel to, or queue at the box offices. They may also take advantage of additional
benefits such as exclusive early ticket access and discounts.
Box offices will open several days in advance of the first match in each series.
Grab your tickets early and be there to support our flag bearers of West Indies cricket!
2025 Match Schedule for the Men’s series against Pakistan
T20 International Matches
July 31: 1st T20I, Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida @8pm local time
August 2: 2nd T20I, Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida @8pm local time
August 3: 3rd T20I, Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida @8pm local time
One Day International Matches
August 8: 1st CG
United ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad @2pm local time
August 10: 2nd CG
United ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad @9:30am local time
August 12: 3rd CG
United ODI, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad @9:30am local time
Guyana crushes Trinidad and Tobago women
CMC – Trinidad and Tobago Women produced a horrendous batting display on their way to being crushed by Guyana Women by eight wickets in the Women’s T20 Blaze on Wednesday.
In an embarrassing performance, not a single batter scored in double digits as T&T Women were routed for just 35 in 14.3 overs at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.
Five players failed to trouble the scores and the nine extras conceded by Guyana were more than any individual score, with opener Shunelle Sawh top scoring with eight.
Guyana then easily overhauled their target, racing to 37 for two off 6.3 overs to claim a predictable victory.
There was no sign of the drama to come when T&T Women were 20 for one in the fifth over.
But Plaffiana Millington set things in motion by bowling Britney Cooper for four, before
Sheneta Grimmond trapped Djenaba Joseph lbw for four and bowled Anisa Mohammed for a duck to leave the score 22 for four.
Four balls later it was 23 for five when Grimmond struck again, bowling Samara Ramnath for a duck.
None of the remaining batters scored more than three runs after that, as T&T Women unbelievably lost nine wickets for 15 runs.
Grimmond finished
with 3-5, Ashmini Munisar took 2-2 and Millington 2-10.
Faced with a straightforward chase, Guyana Women started shakily, losing openers Grimmond and Mandy Mangru with just nine runs on the board.
However, Shabika Gajnabi finished on 14 not out and captain Shemaine Campbelle hit an unbeaten 13 to steer their side to victory.
CWI ‘monitoring’ situation between Pakistan and India
CMC – WITH several West Indies players currently participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL), Cricket West Indies (CWI) is paying close attention to the ongoing standoff between India and Pakistan.
Tensions between the two countries have escalated since the Pa-
halgam attack on April 22, a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 27 people. The incident is considered the deadliest attack on civilians in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The Resistance Front (TRF), believed to be an offshoot of Pakistan-based Islamist
terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility for the attack.
In a press release issued on Thursday, CWI said it was keeping a close eye on the situation and would move to ensure the safety of West Indians if necessary.
“Cricket West Indies (CWI) is closely monitoring the escalating
situation between India and Pakistan following recent military actions in the region.
“We are in active communication with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and our players currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL),” the
statement read.
“We have also engaged our strategic partner, West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA), to coordinate and ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all West Indies players and support personnel in the region. The welfare of our people remains our highest priority.
“CWI continues to
receive regular updates through diplomatic, governmental, and cricketing channels, and stands ready to offer assistance where necessary. We remain committed to the spirit of international cricket and to supporting our players through this uncertain and sensitive period,” the statement further added.
Shemaine Campbelle scored 13 not out to help Guyana Women thump T&T Women
