Guyana, Grenada deepen ties
Office
The Grenada
on Monday night further strengthening
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday received the Letters of Credence from the non‑resident Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to Guy ana, Maria Velasco, at the Office of the President on Shiv Chander paul Drive. Following the accreditation ceremony, President Ali and Ambassador Velasco discussed ways of strengthening collaboration. The President underscored that, in light of rapid global changes, the two countries should re‑evaluate and realign their relations towards a strategic partnership. He noted that many opportunities exist to expand bilateral co operation in combating climate change and in promoting food and energy security. The President also highlighted his government’s vision to improve the livelihoods of citizens through the development of human resources. Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co operation, Hugh Todd, and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Ms. Sharon Roopchand Edwards were also at the ceremony (Photo: President Dr. Irfaan Ali/Facebook)
Sealed U.S. Indictment
-urges
--urges dismissal of businessmen’s ‘frivolous, vexatious’ application on
Consulate in Georgetown, Guyana was officially opened
diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. Several ministers of government, members of the diplomatic corps and other officials attended the event held at New Market Street. In this DPI photo, President Ali and PM Mitchell lock hands to mark the momentous occasion
Gov’t responds to farmers’ concerns at Den Amstel
--drainage works to begin this week
AGRICULTURE
Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, announced on Saturday that drainage works will begin this week in Den Amstel and surrounding communities as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen agricultural production and improve livelihoods in Region Three.
“Starting next week, a machine will be deployed in the area to commence cleaning and clearing of these canals. Wherever there is an existing canal, we will clear it. We have been doing similar works around the country because the overall objective is to make Guyana the premier food-producing hub of the region,” Minister Mustapha explained.
The Minister also committed government support for farmers’ expansion efforts, noting that land clearing assistance will be provided once ownership is verified.
“I am willing to clear up to five acres of land for each farmer once you can show ownership. We will work with the GLSC to examine the lands here, and once ownership is established, we will clear those lands so you can plant and expand,” he said.
Cattle farmers were encouraged to organise themselves into groups to access structured interventions for pasture development. “If cattle farmers here form groups like those in Region Five, we can help you to establish new pastures just as we did there,” Minister Mustapha said.
During the Saturday outreach at Den Amstel, Minister Mustapha, accompanied by Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Hon. Vikash Ramkissoon, and other ministry officers, engaged farmers and residents on various challenges and outlined measures to boost agricultural productivity.
He reminded rice farmers of the government’s ongoing support, including subsidies and inputs to ease production
costs. “Last crop we contributed $300 per bag of paddy to farmers, and again this crop we contributed $300. We also provided one bag of fertiliser per acre, seed paddy, and other inputs to reduce your cost of production,” he noted. “We are also developing the infrastructure to support production increases. President Ali said we must develop all-weather roads across this country so farmers have access to take their produce out of the farms.”
Minister Mustapha urged farmers to stay focused on production rather than politics. “This is not about politics; it is about production. When you produce, it is good for the country, so we have to work together,” the Minister said. Highlighting the sector’s transformation, Minister Mustapha noted that since 2020, farmers have recorded growth in both traditional crops and new, high-value commodities.
“In 2022, Guyana imported approximately $2.6 billion worth of high-value crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers. Today, those very crops are being produced locally due to increased investment and technology,” he said.
Reflecting on the state of the sector before 2020, the Minister recalled that under the previous administration, there had been little government intervention even when rice prices were at their lowest.
He added that budgetary allocations for critical drainage and irrigation infrastructure had declined significantly and that institutions such as the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) were largely unresponsive.
Minister Mustapha emphasised that the current administration remains committed to strengthening the agricultural base nationwide through targeted investment, infrastructure development, and partnership with farmers.
Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, announced, on Saturday, that drainage works will begin this week in Den Amstel and surrounding communities as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen agricultural production and improve livelihoods in Region Three
‘Your family wants you home alive’ – President Ali
-urges caution, safety on
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has issued a heart-felt appeal for Guyanese to prioritise safety and responsibility during the festive period, stating that the excitement of Christmas must never come at the expense of lives.
The Head of State issued this call at a recent event during which he urged citizens to approach the celebrations with care, emphasising the devastating consequences of reckless behaviour on the country’s roadways.
“As we celebrate this beautiful season, I urge you to celebrate responsibly, care for each other, and keep safety first as your guiding principle. Celebrations mean nothing if they do not preserve life. Be safe on the road. Slow down, slow down,” he said.
Dr Ali issued a firm plea to motorists to cease dangerous practices, particularly drinking and driving.
“Stop the drinking and driving. Your family wants you home alive. Stop—stop it. Stop putting other people’s lives in danger. You—we collectively—have a respon-
sibility. Let us do this for our children, other people’s children, our family, and other people’s families,” he stressed.
Against this backdrop, the President also encouraged citizens to embrace the true spirit of the season by showing compassion and togetherness.
With this, he urged Guyanese to give the greatest gift through their time and presence throughout the season.
“Make this season one of connection and community. Give the greatest gift by your presence.
Be present in your neighbourhood. Be present in your family. Be present for your children. Be present in your community. Be present as a good human being. That is the greatest gift that you can give.”
Dr Ali pointed to a sense of optimism and unity across the country, noting that several government initiatives remain strong heading into the new year. “Guyana’s best days are the ones we choose to build together,” he said. He also urged citizens to
roadways ahead of bustling Christmas season
continue fostering harmony and national pride, underscoring the vision of One Guyana.
In November, officials noted that speed continued to be the single most lethal
factor on Guyana’s roads, with approximately 85 per cent of all fatal crashes this year being linked directly to speeding.
At that time, Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh described
the trend as deeply troubling and added that a majority of the fatal collisions are entirely preventable.
Some 18 of this year’s fatal accidents involved single vehicles whose drivers lost
control and slammed into bridges, medians or walls. He stated that many accidents were as a result of “poor judgement and excessive speed.”
Singh stressed that the figures could have been significantly lower had motorists exercised basic discipline.
“This could have been lower. It could have been lower if not only us in the equation of safety were taking the time to make the effort. Personal responsibility is not transferable, and it starts with us,” he said bluntly.
Singh warned that motorcyclists, in particular, continue to top fatality charts because of risky manoeuvres, lack of safety gear, and failure to follow signals.
Meanwhile, the Traffic Chief said the expanded enforcement posture for the Christmas season will aggressively target speeding, drunk driving, and dangerous manoeuvres, through the use of radar guns, SRIS cameras, and increased mobile patrols.
Rehabilitation works set to begin at La Penitence Market
REHABILITATION of the La Penitence Market is set to commence following a meeting on Monday between the Mayor and Councillors of Georgetown and representatives of E&A Consultancy, the firm approved by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development to execute the project.
The meeting, held on Monday, marked the formal start of the preparatory phase for the long-awaited upgrade, which is expected to address key structural and operational
deficiencies at the historic municipal market.
City officials acknowledged the ministry for what they described as a forward-looking approach to market development, noting that the collaboration allows the council to play a direct and meaningful role in steering the project.
In a brief statement, the council expressed appreciation to the ministry “for their progressive focus and allowing the council to play an integral role in the process,” adding that the intervention
is timely, given the increasing commercial demands on the facility. Members of the Council are scheduled to meet again with representatives of E&A Consultancy on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, to advance the initial stage of the rehabilitation plan.
The project forms part of the government’s wider agenda to modernise municipal markets across Georgetown, improve safety and sanitation standards and enhance the overall business environment for vendors and shoppers.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali (Delano Williams photo)
The La Penitence Market
Guyana, Grenada deepen ties
-as Office of the Honorary Consul for Grenada opens here -President Ali emphasises joint tourism push, stronger commercial relationship
GUYANA and Grenada on Monday marked a new chapter in their diplomatic and economic relations with the official opening of the Office of the Honorary Consul for Grenada in New Market Street, Georgetown.
Speaking at the event, President Dr Irfaan Ali described the occasion as a historic one, adding that it signals the growing of closer ties between the sister states of Grenada and Guyana.
Dr Ali noted that Grenada’s decision to establish the office reflects “Grenada’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Guyana.”
He added that relations between the two countries have long been warm, respectful and constructive within the Caribbean family.
As he addressed Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell, members of the diplomatic corps, several government ministers and other officials, the President highlighted the shared values that have bound the two nations over the years
through geography, history and a mutual commitment to regional integration. Both nations, he said, are strong champions of CARICOM, which remains the most important platform for ad-
vancing the development interests and aspirations of the Caribbean people.
President Ali pointed to increasing co-operation within CARICOM on issues such as trade, security, climate resilience, education and tourism, while also underscoring that the regional movement provides the framework for deepening
one-on-one ties.
Recently, he said, Guyana and Grenada have made tangible progress in boosting bilateral engagement, citing one of the key developments as the arrival of a Grenadian trade and investment mission last year.
According to the President, that mission laid the groundwork for what is ex-
pected to become “a robust commercial relationship”.
Another milestone was the introduction of direct flights between the two countries, which he described as an economic bridge, a cultural bridge, and a symbolic bridge.
With this, increased connectivity has already begun to support tourism, business exchanges, and people-to-people interactions, he said, adding that it represents just the beginning of what is possible.
Tourism, the President noted, is one of the most promising avenues for intensified partnership.
Against this backdrop, he praised Grenada’s globally recognised tourism sector, characterised by its beaches and marine attractions, while contrasting it with Guyana’s eco-tourism strengths.
“Together, these differences can become a powerful asset,” he said, envisioning multi-destination packages where travellers could experience both countries in one seamless journey.
“When people can move easily, ideas move easily. Business moves easily. Investment moves easily. Friendship moves easily,” he stated, noting that strengthened connectivity fosters trust and deepens bonds.
With the opening of the Honorary Consulate, President Ali said a significant step has been taken in advancing this vision. An honorary consul, he noted, represents “the possibilities of the relationship itself,” serving as a catalyst for communication, business facilitation and tourism promotion.
President Ali during his address at the opening of the Office of the Honorary Consul for Grenada on Monday night (DPI photos)
President Ali and Grenadian Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell (DPI photos)
Prosecutors dismantle core defence argument in high-stakes Mohameds’ extradition case
--urges dismissal of businessmen’s ‘frivolous, vexatious’ application on
By Feona Morrison
JAMAICAN King’s Counsel Terrence Williams and Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde on Monday presented sharply contrasting arguments as the extradition proceedings for businessman Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed continued before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman.
Speaking to reporters after his submissions, Forde, on behalf of the Mohameds, advanced a sweeping constitutional challenge to Guyana’s extradition framework under the Fugitive Offenders (Amendment) Act. He was assisted by Trinidad and Tobago Senior Counsel Rajiv Persad, and attorneys Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva. The United States— represented by Jamaican lawyer Terrence Williams—dismissed the effort as baseless and intended to delay the process. He was assisted by attorney Glen Hanoman and Jamaican lawyers Herbert McKenzie and Celine Deidrick.
Forde placed the 2009 amendments—specifically
Section 8 3(a) and Section 8 3(b)—at the centre of his argument, maintaining that these changes raise constitutional issues serious enough to require an immediate referral to the High Court for proper determination. He emphasised the seriousness of the questions his team had placed before the magistrate.
“The arguments centred around the unconstitutionality of the amendments made in 2009,” he said, adding, “We believe that we would have presented the arguments clearly, which shows the potential unconstitutionality and the basis for the referral to the High Court.”
Forde outlined three major constitutional concerns. The first involved the power of the Minister of Home Affairs to arrest, detain and extradite a citizen, which he said raised serious questions about the separation of powers. The second issue was whether Parliament can direct the court in how to interpret a statute and, more troublingly, direct it towards a predetermined conclusion regarding a specific section of the Act. This, he argued, struck at the heart of judicial independence.
To illustrate this, Forde referenced the Barry Dataram extradition case, in which Full Court Justices Ian Chang and William Ramlall found deficiencies in the extradition arrangements between Guyana and the United States.
At that time, he said the court determined that Section 8(3)(b) of the extradition law required the treaty to contain a particular provision on re-extradition—one that simply was not present.
Forde argued that Parliament’s 2009 amendments attempted to rectify this by legislatively instructing the courts to read the missing provision “as if it is in fact” present in the treaty, a move he described as constitutionally suspect.
The third issue raised by the defence involved a clause in the 2009 amendment that prohibited persons facing extradition from challenging illegalities in the extradition arrangements themselves. Forde argued that this effectively barred citizens from defending their rights in the very process that could see them sent abroad for prosecution.
The Senior Counsel also took issue with what he described as a troubling pattern in disclosure during the proceedings. He pointed to the state’s submission of a new diplomatic document from the United States concerning re-extradition protections.
“Once again, that did not happen,” he said, referring to incomplete disclosure before submissions. More critically, he argued that the new document appeared designed to remedy deficiencies identified in case law—yet lacked the legal force required under the statutory scheme.
“More importantly, this
disclosure seeks to remedy the very breach of the legislation. We are of the view that currently that document has no legal validity of regard to the scheme of the legislation.” According to him, the document contains assurances from the United States that the Mohameds will not be extradited to a third state.
‘VIOLATION OF RIGHTS’
In essence, Forde argued that the amendments violate
his clients’ right to liberty and other fundamental rights, restrict their access to a fair legal process, and should consequently be referred to the High Court for determination under Article 153(3) of the Constitution of Guyana.
While Forde characterised the constitutional questions as integral to the fairness of the proceedings, King’s Counsel Williams was unequivocal in rejecting the defence’s position.
He argued that extradition
constitutional issues
hearings have specific legal parameters, and the issues raised fall entirely outside them.
“The main argument was that the constitutional issues do not arise for the consideration of the learned magistrate,” he told reporters.
“The application is frivolous and vexatious, because, first of all, there are no real constitutional issues, and they certainly do not arise for consideration at this time.”
Williams stressed that many of the rights the defence relies on do not apply within the context of extradition at all. Williams noted that many of the rights the defence relied on explicitly exclude considerations of extradition.
The magistrate, he added, has a defined statutory role, and “the duty that she has to perform does not include the considerations that the defendants have raised.”
The state attorney further defended his reliance on Justice Jo-Ann Barlow’s decision in the matter of Marvin Williams (aka Troy Thomas) v The Attorney General and the Director of Public Prosecutions, calling it the only judicial pronouncement interpreting the relevant amendments.
“Justice Barlow… is the
first, and as far as we know, only pronouncement on the amendment, and it itself reaffirmed what the Court of Appeal had previously said in King v The Director of Prisons et al,” he explained. For that reason, he said, it was essential to place the ruling before the court. Williams also addressed the issue of “specialty”—the rule preventing an extradited person from being sent to a third country. He said the defence raised this matter “to the press and not to the court,” prompting the state to respond with a diplomatic assurance. According to TURN TO PAGE 14
Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin, accompanied by their attorneys, Siand Dhurjon and Damien DaSilva at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts
Jamaican King’s Counsel Terrence Williams (Sachin Persaud photo)
Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde (Sachin Persaud photo)
Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman
Prospect is Progress
GUYANA took another visible step toward a cleaner energy future this weekend with the commissioning of a new 3-megawatt solar photovoltaic farm at Prospect, East Berbice Corentyne.
The project, built under the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Programme (GUYSOL), represents more than hardware, panels and wiring; it is a symbolic and practical reminder that the transition to a diversified, resilient energy system is no longer aspirational, it is underway.
The presence of senior government officials, including Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, alongside international development partners such as the Inter-American Development Bank, underscores how seriously the country continues to approach its energy agenda.
But ceremonies alone are not what matter. What matters is
consistency, scale, and the political will to accelerate the pace of transformation.
The Prime Minister framed the Prospect installation as part of a “national constellation” of renewable energy projects now rising across the regions, from Hampshire in Region Six to Charity in Region Two and Trafalgar in Region Five.
He is correct: taken together, these projects strengthen the fragile Demerara–Berbice Interconnected System, lower household and business costs, and begin to chip away at Guyana’s overreliance on fossil-fuel generation.
The Prospect facility, capable of generating 4,800 megawatt-hours annually and avoiding over 3,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, is a meaningful addition.
Moreover, Region Six’s rapid residential and industrial expansion makes this investment not
only desirable but necessary.
That the plant is built to withstand extreme wind speeds, features modern inverter technology, and is ready for future battery integration speaks to a maturing approach to energy planning, one that anticipates tomorrow rather than reacting to yesterday’s crises.
Yet, while solar farms like Prospect are important, they cannot shoulder the entire burden of Guyana’s energy evolution.
The Prime Minister’s own remarks acknowledged this, pointing to the flagship Gas-to-Energy Project now under construction at Wales.
The country cannot sustainably grow without large, stable baseload generation, and the promised 50 per cent reduction in electricity costs, when delivered, would dramatically improve national competitiveness.
In fairness, the administra -
tion has taken steps to stabilise the grid: new generation units at Garden of Eden, emergency installations at Columbia, and even temporary power ships have all filled crucial gaps.
Simultaneously, progress in hinterland electrification, through solar systems in places like Lethem, Mahdia and Leguan and hydropower upgrades at Kato and Kumu, recognises that development must be equitable.
What must come next, however, is a coordinated and transparent long-term framework that ensures these initiatives endure beyond political cycles. Renewable projects make headlines; reliable electricity makes a nation.
Regional Chairman Junior Basant was right when he said the Prospect farm is not simply infrastructure, it is an investment in people.
Clean energy creates jobs, im-
proves resilience, and strengthens economic diversification. It is also aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, which remains one of the country’s most recognisable global commitments. Still, direction must be matched by discipline. Solar farms must be connected efficiently. Baseline power must be affordable. Institutional capacity must grow in parallel with technology. And most of all, the public must be able to trust that these projects are more than ribbon-cutting opportunities.
Prospect is progress. But progress is only meaningful if it forms part of a relentless, unwavering commitment to building an energy sector that can support a modern, rapidly developing Guyana.
On this front, the country has begun to walk the path, but must keep its pace steady, ambitious, and accountable.
Mr. Bahadur should be the last to speak
Dear Editor,
MR. DWARKA Bahadur, a candidate for the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, used his Facebook page to express criticism of a recent engagement between President Irfaan Ali and other government officials with a team from India on December 06, 2025.
According to the December 7, 2025, Stabroek News, the meeting focused on a recent examination by Indian experts within the sugar industry. Furthermore, the public was advised that a more comprehensive re-
port was being prepared to guide specific interventions aimed at addressing shortcomings.
From his Facebook armchair, Mr. Bahadur, among other things, sought to throw cold water on efforts to address the issues plaguing the industry.
He went on to contend that the industry was capable of addressing its challenges. It is instructive to note that the gentleman was, until last year, responsible for factory operations across the sugar industry. As we understand it, the GuySuCo Management and
Board decided not to renew his contract.
Although we are not familiar with the reason(s) for the decision, it is reasonable to assume that a highly performing employee would be retained. Of course, some months after his ties with the industry were severed, we saw him donning a political cap, a right he enjoys as any Guyanese, though the timing would appear coincidental.
It is also not lost on us that the industry’s factories, in particular, have been a real let-down during the ongoing second crop. From
the reports we received, important and critical maintenance was not pursued, and essential components were not replaced.
Based on our knowledge of factory operations, some of these tasks should have been planned as far back as a year ago or even earlier. Yet inexplicably, they, from all appearances, did not receive the attention they deserved. Is it a case of any absence of knowledge, or is there more in the mortar than the pestle can pound?
Recently, President Ali emphasised the need to improve the industry’s man-
agement. This view is endorsed by the GAWU and supported by thousands of sugar workers. The President announced that a new model with clear KPIs was being developed. We believe this is a necessary step. Furthermore, His Excellency alluded to previous bouts of mismanagement and likened it to a colleague of Mr. Bahadur. It is significant to note that Mr. Bahadur’s colleague was also sent packing; again, would highly competent employees not be retained?
The GAWU remains supportive of measures and actions that would enhance the industry’s performance and efficiency. Indeed, we have long highlighted its potential and noted that it has been held back for various reasons. We believe an allhands-on-deck approach is essential, and the engagement of external resources would be critical to fostering a turnaround.
Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine President GAWU
Passing the baton or the buck?
Dear Editor, HISTORY has recorded the rise of people and personalities from poverty to presidency and the fall of property and power from prosperity to paucity. Their advocacy and adversity streamline a continuum of one extreme of excessiveness to the extension of an end in expiration.
From the former group, the iconic figure of the internationally renowned former President of the United States of America, Abraham Lincoln, takes centre stage. Aligned to this historic journey is none other than our very own Guyanese Dr. Cheddi Jagan, referred to as the “Father of the Nation.”
Not privileged to be “born with a silver spoon,” they did not live a life in luxury. In commonality, they also departed leaving a wealth of words and wisdom rather than a world of material and money. In the latter group, many celebrities from the “Rich and Famous,” left a bankrupt domain after descending from “riches to
rags,” literally. Emerging to enjoy the limelight of name and fame, many have submerged to be dethroned with doom and gloom.
Vulnerable to this legacy points to King Croesus of Lydia (Ancient Greece) who lost kingdom and freedom, and Emperor Nero (Roman Empire), whose downfall and death left Rome in turmoil.
In the annals of Guyana’s fight for democracy, the writings and wordings of Dr. Jagan have left an indelible mark to make and shape the policies and principles of politicians, parties and people to sustain a binding Guyana bonded and banded in dignity, honesty and morality:
“We didn’t come into the government just to have glory, big names, to make big money and to live in high style. We came into the government with the help of the working people and other democratic forces in this country to see that we have real development, to build a new democratic culture, to make a new ethic, not that one person must live at the
expense of others, but an ethic based on humanity and high moral content”— Dr. Cheddi Jagan 16.06.1993.
How many have acknowledged, adopted and articulated his ideals and ideas to idolise an awareness for a culture of truth, temperance and transparency in today’s context? A plague in today’s society is contagious of crime, corruption, conspiracy, controversy, contradictory and complacency, which contaminate the free flow of law and order. It is often said that, “when money talks, morality walks!”
APJ Abdul Kalam, India’s 11th President, sold newspapers in order to finance his studies and became a vegetarian for economic reasons. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s 2nd President, used passed down text books in college, being born during difficult times. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s 1st President, hailed as the “Founding Father,” once worked as a railway sweeper. A champion of the poor, Jerry Rawlins, a former Ghana’s
President, rather than vast wealth, he left a legacy of strong leadership.
“Privatisation and divestment must be approached with due care. I was not elected President to preside over the liquidation of Guyana. I was mandated by the Guyanese people to rebuild the economy and restore a decent standard of life for all Guyanese. In all my political career, I did not succumb to pressure to serve narrow partisan interests; I do not intend to do so now. I will not surrender the interests of the nation for expediency or short-term gain”— Dr. Cheddi Jagan May 1993.
Burnham’s nationalisation programme was self-serving and accommodated the whims and fancies of party card holders who were the friends, families and favourites of the PNC party.
Sustained in power through the rigging of elections, dictatorship, control of the armed forces and financial misappropriations, Guyana suffered from a bankrupt economy and became the
poorest nation in the Caribbean, next to Haiti. It was the PNC and AFC who sold out the birthright of Guyanese when they signed the worst lopsided oil agreement in the history of the industry.
“The people are indestructible. You may beat them, gag them, detain them, imprison them, shoot and toll the bell for them, but they will rise again, not mysteriously, but inevitably. And we who speak for them and voice their aspirations will never be silenced”— Dr. Jagan 26.04.1963
Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela and Dr. Cheddi Jagan, they all were jailed in the fight for democracy, independence, civil rights activism and in defence of human rights infringement and racial discrimination.
Gandhi used non-violent civil disobedience in India’s fight for freedom to break the back of the British Empire. He held no political post and died as a pauper, having given away all his material wealth and left with a lasting
legacy of immense moral authority.
“How can you preach in Sunday school and elsewhere: ‘thou shall not steal,’ when stealing at the top has become the high road to success”— Dr. Jagan 11.07.1973
The truth, many cannot handle as it becomes an inconvenient tool to work with. For some, to look into the eyes of others and lie is an easy task and there is no remorse to follow.
“We (CARICOM Heads of Governments) must set our face sternly against corruption and extravagance. We cannot have a Cadillac-style living with donkey-cart economies. Our leaders must set the example of democratic, accountable, clean and lean governance and efficient governance”— Dr. Jagan 1992.
The Home Affairs Minister, Honorable Oneidge Walrond, is on a clean-up campaign. We Guyanese should pledge our support in this worthy cause.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall.
Rebuking the politics of fabrication
Dear Editor,
IN this new era of our political culture, we are constantly witnessing the proliferation of misinformation, which has become one of the most corrosive forces undermining our democratic and progressive discourse.
Several days ago presented yet another example of the lowest ebb in public behaviour on social media by fellow Guyanese: the deliberate sharing of fabricated rumors, false propaganda, and sensationalised narratives targeting one of Guyana’s most prominent and consequential/important political figures.
No matter if you love or hate him, no one can deny his significant contributions towards our country’s development in the past and at present, Honourable Bharrat Jagdeo.
This episode, propagated by known social media actors, though regrettable, is emblematic of a broader phe-
nomenon where individuals lacking relevance or a sense of importance, or who are incapable of or choose not to make genuine and positive public contributions, resort to digital manipulation and cyberbullying in an attempt to manufacture visibility, accumulate online engagement, or convert controversy into monetised attention.
Such conduct is not merely intellectually dishonest; it is socially destabilising. The deliberate construction and promotion of falsehoods reflects a troubling departure from the ethical commitment that should guide public debate.
Individuals who engage in these practices exploit the vulnerabilities of the digital information ecosystem where algorithms reward outrage, where speed eclipses accuracy, and truth is often overshadowed by theatricality.
When the desire for personal gain, be it real or superficial, supersedes honesty and civic responsibility,
the outcome is a polluted information landscape that weakens public trust, devalues meaningful political dialogue, threatens the integrity of governance, and brings the public to question the credibility of those individuals, “straight up.”
The craving impulse to create mischief through scandals, manufactured lies, stories, and innuendo arises from a deeper crisis of relevance.
Those who lack substantive ideas, professional or personal achievements, or meaningful contributions to national development often rely on negativity as a surrogate for importance.
By generating false narratives and controversy, they momentarily satisfy their desire for attention, even if it comes at the expense of truth, damage to a person’s image, character, their family and business, or general public cohesion. Their tactics, however, reveal more about their own inadequacies and
insecurities than about the individuals they attempt to malign.
Last week, we saw what appeared to be not one but coordinated attempts to defame Guyana’s Vice President, who remains fully engaged in the rigorous task of helping to steer the administration, plan and prepare the nation’s national budget, and execute critical governmental responsibilities for the country’s continued development and its people’s advancement during these challenging times.
These actions clearly underscore the disconnect between political reality and online sensationalism. While these misinformation merchants chase fleeting digital gratification from likes and shares, the national leadership continues the more demanding and consequential work of governance for our people and country. Their efforts cannot and will not be derailed by the noise of unsubstantiated and vacuous
claims.
From my vantage point, the persistence of such attacks reinforces the need for robust civic education, digital literacy, institutional mechanisms, and legislative reform to safeguard the public sphere against such manipulative and dangerous narratives. The antidote to falsehood is not merely rebuttal, but a collective reaffirmation of truth as a democratic value.
Truth possesses the sustainability that fabrication lacks. False narratives may flare quickly, but they collapse under scrutiny; progress, on the other hand, endures.
Further, the new neophyte opposition has equally exhibited a willingness to embrace misinformation as a political tool is emblematic of a strategic void, an admission that substantive policy alternatives, credible leadership, or a demonstrable developmental vision are grossly lacking.
Such a posture not only undermines their own legitimacy as a suitable alternative but also distances them further from the electorate.
A “political movement” that relies on distortion as its primary currency cannot expect to earn public confidence in the long term, let alone govern effectively. If such behaviour persists, it will not merely delay their desire to hold and lead in public office; it will entrench their irrelevance as a socalled “political movement.” Ultimately, the truth is resilient. Governance is measured not by online theatrics, but by the tangible and intangible national outcomes: economic growth, social stability, infrastructural development and transformation, an improved quality of life for the citizenry in a stable and safe environment.
These are the domains in which the President, Prime Minister, Vice President, and the administration continue
TURN TO PAGE 8
Romania, EU Observer Report and Guyanese imperialist propagandists
is a member of the European Union (EU). In the last general election, a few months ago, Romania’s election council banned Mr. Calin Georgescu who was leading the polls before the election, from participating in the presidential race.
Mr. Georgescu was set to win. But he was banned because he had a pro-Russian outlook. The excuse the election council gave was that Mr. Georgescu’s received help from Russia. No evidence was provided by the council.
The Vice President of the US, JD Vance was shocked at this banning and denounced it. So did Elon Musk. But to date, there has been not one word from any section of the EU on what Romania did. But hold on! Could there have been a conspiracy between Romania and the EU to prevent Mr. Georgescu from contesting?
This very EU sent down an election observer mission to Guyana in September and some sections of the report had nasty, ugly misrepresentations of the politics of Guyana. The EU made several claims and left one graphic occurrence unmentioned.
It reported that the ruling PPP/C enjoyed an advantage due to incumbency, an absurdity in the real world since all incumbents have a natural
advantage simply because they are in power at the time of the contest.
Romania banned a presidential contestant. In Guyana, a presidential entry at the time of his candidacy was sanctioned by the US government. He was allowed to contest and won 16 seats.
Secondly, the EU Election Observer Mission printed that the incumbent had advantage in the state media. There was no reporting that the opposition enjoyed better coverage in the private media.
The mission failed to include vote-buying which APNU and the PPP/C accused WIN of and which most Guyanese thought WIN had done.
The question that needs to be asked is how did the mission gather information? The mission, I am convinced, was barefaced enough to interview anti-government critics bypassing independent voices and personalities sympathetic to the government.
And here is where a form of imperialism in Guyana needs discussion. There is a man named Henry Jeffrey who is perhaps the chief defender of imperialist narratives in Guyana. His latest embrace of that narrative was in the Kaieteur News yesterday (Monday).
Here are the organisations that pronounce on democracy in countries in the Global
South – V-Dem Institute from Sweden; Reporters Without Borders in France; Transparency International in Germany; Freedom House in New York; and World Justice Project Index in Washington D.C.
A word about Jeffrey before we move on. Mr. Jeffrey is in his early 80s and was one of the official ideological custodians of Burnhamite socialism in Guyana. Mr. Jeffrey was the head of Cuffy Ideological Institute under the Burnham presidency. The curriculum was on Marxism-Leninism.
Today, if you ask Forbes Burnham what he thinks of the organisations named that Jeffrey quotes from in his Kaieteur News’ letters every week, he would instantly dismiss them as imperialist vehicles.
None of these organisations visit the developing countries whose governance they assess. Here is what they do. First, they check the internet and they cut and paste. This explains why an academic writer on Guyana’s oil industry last year, referred to Guyana as a Latin country. He could not have done even a preliminary enquiry into Guyana’s sociology.
Secondly, they contact local anti-government activists. This is what the EU Election Observer Mission did. They spoke to the Guyana Human
Rights Association, a popular anti-government reporter, Transparency InstituteGuyana Chapter and others who hate the government. Reporters Without Borders denounced pressure on the media by the government a few weeks ago.
Ask them who they sent to Guyana to compile their report. They will not answer because they spoke to anti-government media operatives. They did not send anyone to interview Guyanese personalities. Guess who the contact persons in Guyana for Transparency International are? The local chapter which is overflowing with
anti-government haters and who, in 2020, sent a bogus report to their parent body in Germany?
One of Jeffrey’s favourite imperialist platforms in the West is the Swedish-based organisation from an unknown university in Sweden. It goes by the name -V-Dem Institute. This body, each year, does an assessment of democracy in all the countries in the world. But V-Dem never sent a researcher to Guyana.
Former UG sociology professor, Dr. Tara Singh contacted V-Dem to find out who their researchers were/are in Guyana that they rely on.
V-Dem told Dr. Singh,
it cannot reveal that information. Do you know why? They do not send any researchers to Guyana but rely on local people here who are anti-government. Why do you think since 2020 Jeffrey has been quoting V-Dem. I think you know why. Finally, Israel and Western countries are always assessed as more democratic than developing countries.
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.
In the face of intimidation, Minister Browne’s resilience stands out
Dear Editor,
THE way Minister Sarah Browne was attacked by Azruddin Mohamed and Odessa Primus of the WIN Party outside the Amerindian Hostel should trouble every decent Guyanese, but more so Indigenous Guyanese. This was a clear case of disrespect and intimidation of a female Indigenous Guyanese.
Minister Browne is no stranger to hard work nor sacrifice. She rose quietly through the ranks, from the grassroots, from the very communities that too often go unheard.
She knows what service means. Her very story exemplifies Indigenous resilience. This is why it pains me to see the blatant disrespect meted out to a fellow Indigenous
sister. Especially with the disrespect coming from a new political party leader now claiming to champion the Indigenous constituent.
The bullyism that Sarah faced is nothing new. Every Indigenous sister who has ever worked their way up from nothing would’ve identified with that moment deeply. Minister Browne represents the many who had to fight their way into spaces where others are simply born into privilege.
While Azruddin Mohamed was born with a gold spoon in his mouth, Minister Sarah was staying in that very hostel. And while Mr. Mohamed had the luxury of being chauffeured from home to school, Sarah Browne simply used a canoe. Her calmness in that heated scene
to apply disciplined focus to achieve and maintain. It is quite clear that no volume of propaganda can or will overshadow their sustained performance. In the long arc of political history, lies are temporary, but tangible and intangible development is permanent. Those who invest in falsehoods will remain on the periphery of national development, observers rather than architects, critics rather than contributors.
was more powerful than any argument. Why? Because she showed that she’s grounded in purpose, not pettiness. Quiet resilience over flagrant bullyism and intimidation. That is who she is. Politics should never bring us to the gutter. Minister Browne’s composure reminded us that leadership is about holding your peace even when others try to derail it.
What we saw on display was the real Sarah Browne: A focused and undaunted Indigenous warrior, anchored in resilience throughout the noise.
Yours sincerely, Ms. Tristan Henry Councilor - St. Cuthbert’s Mission/Pakuri Village Council
FROM PAGE 7
And unless they recalibrate toward integrity, constructive analysis, constructive criticism, truth, and substance that can make offerings better and hold those in office accountable for their stewardship, their place on the opposition benches may very well extend far beyond the foreseeable political horizon.
Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira
ROMANIA
Sealed U.S. Indictment signals national-security concerns in Mohameds’ Case — Expert warns of implications for Guyana
AS oral arguments commenced in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday in the high-profile extradition proceedings involving embattled businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, US journalist and researcher, Thomas Anderson, says court records reveal that the day after the publicly unsealed grand jury indictment, U.S. prosecutors filed a “Restricted Unredacted Indictment” in the same case, meaning a more detailed, sealed indictment remains hidden from public view.
organisation. He is an expert in Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and has worked with various publications, including The New York Times and the New York Post, on stories related to the indictments against former Senator Bob Menendez.
He also co-authored the book Gold Bar Bob: The Downfall of the Most Corrupt U.S. Senator, along with Isabel Vincent.
ber. According to the filings, Nazar owns 90 per cent of Mohamed’s Enterprise, with Azruddin holding the remaining 10 per cent. The two face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for the most serious charge.
alleged defrauding of the Guyana government of over US$50 million in unpaid duty taxes.
Mae Thomas, the former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Labour, was also sanctioned for allegedly accepting bribes in exchange for facilitating the awarding of government contracts to the Mohameds.
investigation into the Mohameds in the mid-2010s, supported by intelligence sharing and law-enforcement co-operation between Guyana and the United States that dates back to around 2016–2017.
Anderson argues this isn’t a routine sealed filing but a sign that the prosecution may be dealing with sensitive evidence, possibly matters touching on national security or high-stakes financial crime investigations.
in the case.
Sealed or restricted indictments in U.S. federal
The Mohameds—owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise— remain on $150,000 bail each. Conditions of their bail required them to surrender their passports and report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station, measures intended to ensure their availability for ongoing legal proceedings. On the morning of October 31, both father and
He warns that if the courts in Guyana allow Mohamed to evade extradition, the country risks being viewed internationally as a safe harbour for fugitives, even those facing charges of national or international significance.
In early October 2025, a U.S. grand jury in the Southern District of Florida indicted Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, on multiple charges, including wire fraud, money laundering, and customs violations tied to an alleged US$50 million gold-export tax-evasion scheme.
Extradition proceedings began in Guyana’s courts. As of late November 2025, prosecutors reportedly made full disclosure of U.S. materials
courts are not unusual. Legal doctrine explains that such filings are often used to protect ongoing investigations, guard the identities of cooperating witnesses, or preserve national-security interests. But in this context, Anderson warns that, because of the possible severity of the unredacted charges, the consequences extend far beyond the courtroom. If Guyanese courts fail to extradite, the decision could send a signal internationally that Guyana tolerates impunity for largescale financial crimes, undermining confidence in its judicial and law-enforcement systems.
Thomas Anderson is a government watchdog and the director of the DC-based Last Government Watchdog
son were taken into custody in Georgetown in connection with the extradition request from the U.S.
The father and son have been hit with an 11-count indictment in the U.S. Florida Southern District Court. The pair face 10 counts jointly, while Azruddin is charged with an additional count related to the importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ into Guyana.
Court documents allege that Azruddin and his father conspired to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, aiding and abetting and customs-related violations connected to an alleged US$50 million gold-export and tax-evasion scheme.
The indictment was issued by a grand jury in Octo-
In June 2024, the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Nazar and Azruddin for engaging in gold smuggling and public corruption, including the
U.S. authorities are believed to have launched their
The probe involved several U.S. agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
US journalist and researcher, Thomas Anderson
Housing services geared at supporting, uplifting citizens – Minister Croal
MINISTER of Housing, Collin Croal, has said that the ministry is currently completing groundwork for the identification of additional housing lands in different regions.
He made this comment during a live Facebook broadcast of Livewire on Monday, where he emphasised government’s commitment to clearing the existing backlog of applications in several regions.
According to the minister, Region Four has over 75, 000 pending applications, which is the largest amount among the ten regions.
With this in mind, he announced that, in 2026, persons can look forward
to the commencement of the implementation of the housing programme.
“The intention is not just 40,000 new applicants or persons who will be allocated. It’s also to give an opportunity to persons who have been allocated in many of those new areas for which the construction is nearing completion or is by now completed.
For example, those allocations we did last year, the infrastructure work for access is, you know, by and large, they are near completion.
“So, it’s about going to the communities, maybe identifying two or three contractors and engaging
with the banks on the spot. So, persons who have allocations within these areas can have an engagement with the contractor, with the banks to be able to see if they can have a pre-qualification and move forward. So, this is one way we’re seeing how we can help with the occupancy,” Minister Croal highlighted.
Additionally, the minister highlighted the ministry’s viral subsidising initiative, which he said is another way of allowing persons who may have an interest in these initiatives.
He mentioned the more than $50 million in steel and cement subsidies in Region Nine, which is helping
village economies to thrive and landowners to start their foundation.
The minister said, “Some of the banks don’t ask for a down payment. But they can even use that now that they’ve started their foundation.
They can use that as an initiative to go to the bank to say, hey, this is the amount of work I’ve done on my land, can you give me a loan, et cetera? So, it’s to help with the construction.”
He added that when this is done, the local economy is being supported.
“We are supporting because the cement or the steel et cetera is being procured within the region.”
Minister Rodrigues signals major role for entertainment industry in tourism expansion
WITH massive expansion expected in the new year in Guyana’s tourism sector, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, has signalled that the government will collaborate with stakeholders in the entertainment and promotion industry.
Rodrigues made this known on Monday during a stakeholder engagement session with entertainers and promoters, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
During the engagement, the minister said the tourism sector is on the brink of significant transformation, noting that expansion plans for 2026 will require stronger partnerships across the industry, including with entertainers and event promoters.
“Guyana’s tourism sector will see massive expansion in 2026… so we’re going to enter a period of aggressive expansion for 2026 and it is one that will include collaboration for all of the stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sector and I heard a lot of entertainers
say sometimes the tourism and hospitality sector forgets about us, that we’re a major stakeholder in the tourism landscape of our country,” she noted.
Rodrigues said the administration recognises that the creative sector is also essential to building a strong and attractive tourism product.
As part of the government’s long-term plan, Rodrigues reaffirmed commitments made ahead of this
year’s elections to formalise an annual national calendar of events.
“Our vision for 20262030… one of the commitments we made going into the elections this year is that we will confirm a calendar of events - an annual calendar of events going forward.
She noted that while this helps with predictability, it also ensures that travellers are given enough notice for them to be able to organise themselves, look at the cal-
endar and decide what times of the year they would like to visit.
Against this backdrop, Rodrigues said that in building out such a calendar of events, the government intends to support promoters while ensuring their activities complement the national tourism strategy.
“Most of you in this room plan your own independent events, and we always want to encourage the private sector to plan their events, but we want you to be successful while you’re doing it and we want to give you the support with your events as well, and it’s a great filler for our national calendar as well,”
she said.
To this end, the minister assured stakeholders that structured collaboration will remain a priority as Guyana prepares for a period of unprecedented tourism growth and further noted that the government will continue to support the local creative sector.
A section of the gathering at the stakeholder engagement on Monday
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues (Delano Williams photos)
Minister of Housing, Collin Croal (Photo: Ministry of Housing/ Facebook)
Court-Appointed team to oversee operations of Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha
A RECENT High Court order has placed the management of the Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (GSDS) under the temporary oversight of Attorney-at-Law Ms. Geeta Chandan-Edmond and Mr. Mahendra Mookram, following an application filed earlier this year.
The order, issued by Justice Gino Persaud and published on December 7, 2025 in the Guyana Chronicle Newspaper, stems from an application made on May 22, 2025. With the consent of all parties involved, the Court directed that the two appointees assume responsibility for the affairs of the Maha Sabha, one of Guyana’s oldest Hindu organisations, incorporated in 1954 under Ordinance No. 42.
Under the Court’s directive, Chandan-Edmond and Mookram are tasked
with several key functions, including: Compiling an official membership register in keeping with the organisation’s constitution; Managing the Maha Sabha’s financial affairs until a new Executive Committee is duly elected, which includes ensuring that all outstanding annual accounts are prepared and audited by registered auditors within 15 months; and organising and presiding over elections for all office bearers, and taking all necessary steps to bring the organisation into full compliance with its constitution.
Ms. Geeta Chandan-Edmond is a lawyer with substantial judicial and political experience. From magistrate to party general secretary to Member of Parliament, her career has evolved through both legal and political spheres. Recently, she was ap -
pointed an Adviser for Government Efficiency and Implementation to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
The Court further ordered that the existing Trustees must hand over all financial records to the appointed managers within 28 days of the ruling.
The notice, issued under the signature of Ms. Mahadal Lalu, General Secretary of the Maha Sabha, advised members and the wider public that the directives were made for transparency and organisational guidance.
The Guyana Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, founded in 1934, remains a central institution within the Hindu community. The intervention is intended to restore administrative order and pave the way for constitutionally guided elections and improved governance.
Suspect arrested, stolen items recovered following break-in at Home Affairs Ministry
The stolen items recovered
POLICE have arrested a 48-year-old man and recovered several stolen items following an early-morning break-in at the Ministry of Home Affairs on Brickdam, Georgetown.
The Guyana Police Force said the incident occurred between 03:00 hours and 04:55 hours on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Preliminary enquiries revealed that several electronic devices, including laptop computers, electronic tablets, and digital cameras, along with personal belongings of a
staff member, were stolen from the building.
Investigators found sections of the Ministry’s middle and lower flats ransacked. An eastern-side washroom window on the lower flat was discovered open, and police believe it was used as the entry point.
CCTV footage obtained from the building was reviewed by detectives, which ultimately led to the suspect’s arrest and the recovery of several items.
Police say the investigation remains active.
General Secretary (GS) of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS), Sabita Lalu (left) and member of the SDMS, attorney-at-law, Ms. Geeta Chandan-Edmond (at right), with SDMS member, Rodley Meren Mathoo (centre) who had received an award for recently being admitted to the bar (Delano Williams photo)
New Lethem Hospital to bring advanced level 4 healthcare services to Region Nine
RESIDENTS of Lethem and surrounding areas are set to benefit from advanced healthcare services with the construction of the new Lethem Regional Hospital.
During a visit to the region, Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, met with the hospital’s leadership and staff and introduced the newly appointed management team.
Dr. Cerdel McWatt, who previously served as the Regional Health Officer (RHO)
of Region 9, has now been appointed the new Director of Regional Health Services (RHS).
Dr. Evan Henry is the new RHO, and Dr. Paige Carter will form part of the region’s health management team.
Reflecting on the developments, Dr. Mahadeo said, “The staff spoke about the things that they would have done.
They recognised the developments that took place over the years, and they are
looking forward to the new hospital that is being constructed.”
The new hospital, valued at US$31.1 million with 90 beds, began construction in 2025, with completion expected by August 2027.
Once operational, it will provide level 4 healthcare services, including 24-hour emergency care, intensive care, high-dependency and neonatal units, two modern operating theatres and a minor theatre, laboratory and diagnostic imaging such as
Hundreds support Human Services Ministry’s gender-based violence initiative
THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security on Sunday hosted its Stride Against Silence and Cinema with a Cause led by Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud from the Kitty Roundabout to the Kingston Seawall Bandstand.
This noble stand drew support from hundreds of eager supporters who rallied together with one powerful message: Guyana stands united to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV), moving a step toward a safer, more compassionate Guyana. Minister Persaud noted that last year, there was a 33 per cent reduction in domestic-violence murders. This year this number has almost doubled. According to her, this shows that no matter
the number of systems and services put in place, it’s the people who must change.
“It is the people. The way they think. The way they see themselves and others, and more importantly, how they value the lives, the well-being, the welfare of those outside of themselves,” the minister shared. Dr Persaud underscored that we have to become a society of conscious people. There is no replacement for that she said.
The minister recalled that when the 914 hotline was launched in 2021, people questioned the move, asking why another hotline was being established and whether it was going to be a solution to the problem. She highlighted that today, the hotline responds to thousands of calls,
CT scans, maternity and child care, outpatient clinics for chronic and acute conditions, and pharmacy services.
This hospital is part of President Irfan Ali’s vision of bringing world-class healthcare to every citizen of this country.
During the visit, Dr. Mahadeo also toured the Annai Hospital, where ongoing works include upgrades to the drugs bond and improvements to the nurses’ hostel.
Highlighting the anticipation surrounding the new Lethem facility, he said, “They will be offering services that were never offered before. Formerly, if a patient needed even a minor surgical intervention, they would have to travel down to Mahdia or
to the coast. Now, all those things will be happening in the region itself.”
A courtesy call was also made on the newly- appointed Regional Chairman, who expressed strong support for the healthcare developments and pledged active involvement in overseeing progress at the primary health facilities.
The new Lethem Regional Hospital represents a major milestone in bringing modern, specialised healthcare services to Region Nine, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for surgery and other specialised care, and ensuring equitable access to advanced medical treatment in the hinterland.
with over 10,000 calls for this year alone. According to Dr Persaud, more than 200 of these calls relate to violence against children, while 250 are directly related to violence against adults.
Noting that there are persons who are afraid to call, she said, “When you live in an environment of fear in your own home, you need the courage to take steps to come out of that environment. How will you find it in yourself?”
The minister said the IMatter App is there, an extension of the 914 hotline, allowing persons who need help to chat live with counsellors, legal aids and other support services.
Dr Persaud further mentioned that in 2026, we will see more modifications to these services.
She called on persons to use a whistle - a simple item which she says can sound the alarm for help. Along with
women, the minister said there is a growing number of men making reports against/ about violence.
“We’ve started a Brave Centre in Region Three, an empowerment centre for men where they have brave circles and they speak about many things including fatherhood, masculinity, empowerment, emotions, conflict, partnerships,” the minister revealed.
She said the hardest thing to do is to change mindsets,
biases, prejudice, and cultural norms and values.
“We have to start doing, and start doing it at home. We’re creating the ecosystem. It’s not perfect, but we’re going to work hard and harder at it until it’s perfect because that matters too. Our government believes in inclusivity, accessibility and we’re going to work until we have that down 1,001 per cent,” she added.
Director General, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo and Dr. Cerdel McWatt, Director of RHS, meet with the leadership of Lethem Hospital
Director General, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo alongside leadership and staff of the Lethem Hospital
Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud walks alongside cabinet ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps in unity to end gender-based violence (Photo: Ministry of Human Services and Social Security/ Facebook)
Cuba hails 53 years of diplomatic ties with CARICOM
- reaffirms commitment to regional co-operation
CUBA and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), on Monday, marked 53 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Havana and the four pioneering Caribbean nations that first recognised Cuba, as well as the 23rd anniversary of Cuba–CARICOM Day.
The milestone was commemorated with invited comments from Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, Jorge Francisco Soberón Luis, who reflected on the historic roots and enduring strength of the partnership.
Ambassador Soberón recalled that, on December 8, 1972, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago took what he described as a courageous political decision to formalise diplomatic relations with Cuba at a time of intense geopolitical pressure.
He quoted the late Cuban revolutionary leader, Fidel Castro, who lauded the four regional leaders—Errol Barrow, Forbes Burnham, Michael Manley, and Eric Williams—as architects of both their nations’ independence and the early foundations of Caribbean integration.
According to the Ambassador, the decision of those states more than five
decades ago helped define CARICOM’s foreign policy identity, grounded in independence, courage, and concerted action—principles that continue to shape the Community’s engagement on global issues.
Soberón said Cuba remains “forever grateful” for the unwavering solidarity shown by CARICOM member states over the years, particularly their consistent support for Havana’s call to end the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade, which has been in place for over 60 years.
He also thanked regional governments for repeatedly
condemning Cuba’s designation on the U.S. list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, a classification he described as illegitimate.
Cuba, he noted, is proud of the “excellent relations” it enjoys with all its Caribbean neighbours and intends to deepen co-operation across a wide range of sectors.
This includes ongoing collaboration in health, education, agriculture, climate change adaptation, and the continued training of Caribbean students in Cuba through its long-standing scholarship programme.
Reaffirming Havana’s dedication to Caribbean unity, Soberón cited Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, who told regional leaders at the VIII Cuba-CARICOM Summit in 2022 that the relationship between Cuba and CARICOM stands as “a paradigm in international relations based on respect and solidarity, demonstrating that a better world is possible.”
The Ambassador emphasised that the spirit of co-operation envisioned by the region’s founding leaders remains alive and will guide future efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Cuba and the Caribbean Community.
BIT training spurs jobs, empowers women in Region Seven
MORE than 600 residents of Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) have participated in the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programmes between 2020 and 2025. Of the 574 who completed their training, 312 were men, and 262 were women.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, stated that the Government of Guyana’s investment of over $87 million in developing the region’s workforce was a profitable endeavour. He highlighted the region’s remarkable achievement during the BIT Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony at the Bartica Community Centre on Fri -
day. “These numbers are powerful because behind each one is a family, a future, and a Guyanese dream,” the minister said.
This year alone, 105 graduates were certified across six occupational areas delivered in partnership with G-Mining Ventures Guyana. The programmes covered heavy-duty equipment operation; commercial food preparation; hospitality; welding and fabrication; heavy-duty mechanics and electrical installation.
Minister Griffith confirmed that G-Mining Ventures has committed to employing as many of the graduates as possible.
“This partnership reflects confidence in our govern -
Extensive desilting works begin across Georgetown to strengthen flood prevention efforts
EXTENSIVE desilting works have begun along several key drainage channels in Georgetown as the government undertakes efforts to reinforce the capital city’s flood prevention infrastructure.
The operation, led by the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) under the Ministry of Agriculture, commenced at the Commerce Street outfall channel and Avenue of the Republic.
According to a publication by the ministry, the intervention aims to improve the rate at which water is discharged from the city, particularly during heavy rainfall and high tides.
The work will clear the
channels by removing silt that has blocked water flow.
The buildup has been a major contributor to localised flooding in both commercial and residential areas.
In the coming weeks, similar activities will be extended to other outfall channels across the capital. These include Cowan Street, Church Street, Princess Street, Sussex Street, La Penitence, South Ruimveldt, North Ruimveldt and Rome.
NDIA teams are also excavating beneath the bridge along the South Road drainage channel. The ministry stated that clearing this bottleneck will enable water to move more freely toward the sluice, improving the overall
efficiency of the drainage system in one of the city’s busiest corridors.
These works form part of a wider programme to strengthen Georgetown’s ability to cope with heavy rainfall.
This initiative aligns with President Ali’s clean city initiative, a comprehensive Georgetown Restoration Plan also known as the ‘city rescue or city revival plan’. It aims to restore Georgetown to its historic status as the ‘Garden City of the Caribbean’ through nationwide cleanup exercises, infrastructure development, and behavioural change campaigns. (DPI)
ment’s leadership and, more importantly, confidence in the young people of Region Seven,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the broader national reforms, which expanded access to education, including free schooling from nursery through university and refunds for CXC fees.
“Our young people are living in a different Guyana today,” he added, while emphasising that “We are building a nation where opportunity is not a privilege, it is a guarantee.”
BIT’s reach has extended across the Upper Mazaruni, with training delivered in Kamarang, Paruima, Jawalla, Waramadong, Kako, Kwebanna and other communities. Courses such as small-engine repairs; tractor operations; garment construction and building construction continue to support development across the region.
The class of 2025 now joins a growing workforce driving transformation across Region Seven and the wider nation. In his charge to the graduates, Minister Griffith said, “Your certificate is not the end, it’s your beginning. Stay connected, stay empowered and go forward confidently to build the Guyana you want to live in.” (DPI)
Ongoing desilting works in Georgetown
Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, Jorge Francisco Soberón Luis
One of the graduates collects her certificate from Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith (DPI photos)
A Christmas Miracle… From infertility to new life against all odds
IN the realm of medical triumphs, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Ms. Melinda Singh, an extraordinary journey marked by hope, resilience, and the power of multidisciplinary care at GPHC.
After 17 long years of secondary infertility (the inability to have another child after previously having one or more successful pregnancies), the dream of
filled with joy and unexpected challenges.
Ms. Singh arrived at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation with her spouse, fuelled by a relentless desire to have a baby boy. A series of strategic therapeutic management plans culminated in a successful artificial insemination.
life-threatening injuries, including significant trauma to her hip and a complete fracture of her femur. The road ahead was fraught with complications, requiring surgeries and extensive medical interventions.
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quired assistance with even the simplest daily activities. Yet, her determination and courage shone through, propelling her toward recovery.
Yet, amidst these trials, Dr. Rozan and his dedicated team remained steadfast. Through a shared decision-making process, they chose to continue the
having another child was finally within reach. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Rafi Rozan, a Specialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility consultant, Melinda embarked on a complex journey toward conception that would ultimately lead her to celebrate a pregnancy
For Melinda, the news of her pregnancy was met with tears of joy, a testament to the emotional rollercoaster she had endured. However, this joy was soon overshadowed by unforeseen circumstances.
During her first trimester, catastrophe struck in the form of a major motor vehicle accident, leaving her with multiple serious
pregnancy despite the significant risks. The decision underscored a commitment to prioritising the health of both mother and child, even in the face of adversity.
Recovering from polytrauma was a daunting challenge. Bedridden and unable to ambulate, Melinda re -
Throughout her high-risk pregnancy, the specialised team at GPHC conducted rigorous antenatal visits to monitor and address any emerging challenges. Their collaborative approach included experts from Obstetrics, Orthopaedics, Radiology, and Nursing, ensuring comprehensive care that was crucial for the health of both mother and baby.
As the weeks turned into months, anticipation built toward what would become a moment of profound significance. Dr. Rozan was determined to witness a normal vaginal delivery at term. And on that day, the team of skilled midwives, obstetricians, and paediatric specialists came together to make this dream a reality.
The culmination of this extraordinary journey arrived, and Melinda gave birth to a healthy baby boy, who cried out with life and vigour. With a normal weight, excellent Apgar scores, and no complications for either mother or child, the delivery marked a triumphant finish to a harrowing saga.
Walking out of GPHC with her Christmas baby in her arms last Friday, December 5, Melinda was a vivid reminder of how far she had come, from the depths of infertility and trauma to the heights of motherhood. This story is more than just a medical case; it exemplifies the remarkable collaboration TURN TO OAGE 15
UMAMI Incorporated recently announced that its products are now available in stores in Canada, North America. Managing Director of UMAMI, Chris Persaud, said that this is a new market the company has tapped into this year.
According to Persaud, 2025 was a good year in terms of export potential. He said the brand equity was so strong that the demand for it is now not only in the traditional diaspora market but also in non-traditional markets.
“The Canadian Canadians are asking for it, and I would assume that’s because of the influx of the expats we have here through the Oil and Gas.
You know, they come, they see it, they go back home and they’re asking for it. And we got, we managed to lock down a good distributor, and so we’re now available in Canada,” the Managing Director said.
Persaud stated that while the company exports to the United States, it also exports its product throughout the Caribbean, with market presence
in St. Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Grenada, Dominica and a number of other islands.
He remarked that UMAMI has always been a brand that is built on national pride, adding that the demand has been tremendous from locals and persons visiting.
Notably, just last week, UMAMI was awarded an Export Achievement Award from the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), in recognition of its entry into the Canadian market. UMAMI Incorporated is a local manufacturer that produces a wide array of value-added, high quality, agro-processed food commodities. These include sauces, seasonings and condiments.
The company is focused on consistent product quality using appropriate technology, and its dedicated teams work tirelessly to ensure optimum customer satisfaction.
The word UMAMI derives from the Japanese language and means “pleasant taste”.
Prosecutors dismantle core defence argument
Williams, the note clarified that “the defendants will not be sent to a third state from the requesting state [United States].”
The King’s Counsel submitted that established judicial precedent requires such challenges to be raised only after extradition proceedings have concluded.
Entertaining them at this stage, he argued, would serve no legitimate purpose other than to stall the ongoing process.
Responding to Williams, Forde rejected any suggestion that the application was frivolous, stating the law itself required the court to consider whether the issues were vexatious.
“We articulated the reasons why it’s not frivolous and vexatious to have the questions that we wanted to refer to the High Court be determined by the High Court,” he explained.
In the meantime, the Mohameds’ lawyers have been granted until this morning to submit their arguments regarding the diplomatic note.
Principal Magistrate Latchman indicated that she will deliver her ruling on both the constitutional matters and the diplomatic note on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
BACKGROUND
The Mohameds—owners
of Mohamed’s Enterprise— remain on $150,000 bail each, have surrendered their passports and must report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station as the extradition proceedings continue.
They were taken into custody on October 31 following a U.S. request for their extradition.
U.S. prosecutors have accused the father and son of running an international criminal network with al -
leged links to “high offices” in Venezuela, claims Forde has rejected, stating:
“No, nothing like that has been disclosed… There’s not even an allegation of such in the actual extradition document.”
The pair face 11 criminal counts in the U.S. Southern District of Florida involving alleged wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and customs violations tied to what author-
FROM PAGE 5
ities describe as a US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme.
The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both men in June 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and public corruption.
The U.S. investigation dates back to the mid-2010s and involved multiple agencies, including the DEA, FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security.
UMAMI products are now available in Canada (Photo; UMAMI Incorporated/ Facebook)
Melinda Singh (seated) with members of the specialised team that ensured she delivered a healthy baby boy (GPHC photo)
From infertility to new...
across disciplines and the resilience of a mother.
The successful outcome of Melinda’s case is a testament to the effective management of high-risk situations and the enhancement of our healthcare system in Guyana. It highlights the fundamental principle that
comprehensive care, rooted in teamwork can transform lives, even when faced with the most daunting of challenges.
As we celebrate this new bundle of joy this Christmas season, let us remember the profound impact that compassionate, multidisciplinary
PAGE 14
care can have on individuals and families.
The story of this family serves as an inspiration, a reminder that hope, resilience, and collaboration can lead to miracles in the most unexpected of circumstances.
(GPHC)
Special Constable granted $500,000 bail over fatal stabbing of lover
A 27-year-old Special Constable from Parfaite Harmonie, was, on Monday, granted $500,000 bail after being charged with manslaughter in connection with the fatal stabbing of her partner
Rayana Simpson of Lot 429 Recht-Door-Zee, Parfaite Harmonie, appeared before Magistrate Rhondel Weever at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable charge was read to her.
The charge stems from the death of 42-year-old Peter Michael Rawlins, a porter of Tucville, Georgetown, who was fatally wounded
on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. She was not required to enter a plea and was ordered to report to the Leonora Police Station on the 15th of every month as a condition of bail. The case has been adjourned to January 13, 2026.
Police reported that Rawlins and Simpson, who shared a relationship, were at her Recht-Door-Zee residence when an alleged argument occurred, during which Rawlins sustained a stab wound to his upper right leg.
He was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead while receiving treatment.
Linden businessman remanded over gun, ammo charges following police raid
A 30-year-old Linden businessman was, on Friday, remanded to prison after being charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, following a police operation that uncovered two suspected pistols, 56 rounds of ammunition and millions in cash.
Dukquan Rose of Redwood Crescent, Mackenzie, appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court, where the charge of Possession of Firearm and Ammunition without Licence, contrary to Section 16(2)(a) of the Firearm Act,
Chapter 16:05, was read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded. The matter was adjourned to December 16, 2025. Rose’s court appearance stems from a December 3 operation at his home, during which police uncovered suspected illegal weapons concealed beneath the flooring of a bedroom on the upper flat.
According to the Guyana Police Force, ranks found “a suspected Glock 19 9mm pistol, a suspected Polymer80 9mm pistol, six magazines and a total of fifty-six (56) 9mm rounds.”
Additional searches of the same room unearthed
$6,915,000 GYD and US$7,445 stored inside a wardrobe.
Rayana Simpson
Dukquan Rose
Greaves embraces...
circuit. Adapting to foreign conditions has meant a dedicated focus on strength, nutrition, and mental fortitude.
“Everything had to change because it’s not easy being on the road in different conditions. Adapting in the gym, getting stronger, eating better and being a bit more patient because at this level, everything is not given to you.”
His role as a genuine all-rounder demands par -
(From page 23)
ticular resilience, and it is one that he relishes every chance he gets. “You can be bowling, and within an hour or two, you could be batting again. So, you’re putting your mind to it, and adapting to change.”
Having laid down a marker with one of the great rearguard innings, Greaves will aim to build on that foundation when the second Test begins at the Basin Reserve.
Aaliyah Moore: From...
collection of qualifications, including A Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communication (2024) and A Master of Business Administration (2025); Graduate Certificates in Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies (2024/2025) and African Studies (2025/2026).
Moore's award as the Guyana Police Force's Sportswoman of the Year 2025 stands as a robust recognition of this holistic success.
Her journey—from an
England cannot have...
ford to flinch when you come down here," said McCullum.
"This is not a country to start doubting yourself or to walk away from the challenge.
"You come to this country and have a glass jaw, you have no chance. You have to be strong, tough, and you have to get on with it."
The loss in Brisbane extended England's winless run in Australia to 17 matches, including 15 defeats, dating back to 2011.
(From page 23)
unsure child to an All-American athlete and multiple-degree holder—is a resonant message to aspiring athletes across Guyana: "You can be great if you believe in yourself and keep trying, even when life gets hard."
The Guyana Police Force, led by Commissioner Clifton Hicken, celebrates Moore not just for her victories but for her role as a symbol of hope, discipline, and national pride.
I don't think I played...
ways 'come off' like Kohli has learned in his long and decorated career. "When you play for that long, 1516 years, of course, you are going to have many phases where you doubt your ability especially as a batsman because you are literally relying on one mistake. So, you tend to go into a space where you feel like maybe I am not good enough, the nerves take over. That's the beauty of sport, especially a skill like batting where you have to keep overcoming that fear," he reflected, highlighting the
(From page 21)
need to embrace the ups and downs.
"Every ball that you play, and eventually play a long innings, you get into a zone again where you can start playing confidently. So, it's a whole journey of learning and getting to know yourself better and becoming better as a person along the whole way," he added.
Kohli said that being a batter has been a big part of his personal growth. "It just improves you as a person in general and your whole temperament becomes much better and balanced over so many years. So, yes, I have had many phases where I have doubted myself and I haven't been shy to admit that. So, I think it's a pretty human part of anyone's journey for that long," he noted.
Now a senior member of the team alongside Rohit Sharma, Kohli said that moments like a decider bring the best out of them. "It's always brought the best out of us over the years. That's what we play our cricket for. You don't want it to be 1-1. But when it is 1-1 and it's a decider, you get excited. I want to make a play today. I want to make a dent into the game. And I want to do something special for the team. That's what we have always done over so many years," he explained. (Cricbuzz)
Stokes' team must be victorious in all three of the remaining Tests, beginning in Adelaide on 17 December (23:30 GMT, 16 December), if they are to win the urn for
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
UTTOXETER
09:00hrs Fingle Bride
09:30hrs Charismatic Soldier
10:00hrs Baron Noir
10:30hrs Ski Lodge
11:00hrs Harakiri
11:33hrs Pipas Lescribaa
NEWCASTLE
11:18hrs Sisterandbrother
11:55hrs Get An Attitude
12:30hrs Dolos Dream
13:00hrs Rhythm Hooves
13:30hrs Priapos
14:00hrs Concert Boy
14:30hrs Superior Council
15:00hrs Yorkshire Glory
15:40hrs Invincible Annice
the first time since 2015. England will spend part of the gap between Tests on a break in the resort town of Noosa, on the Sunshine Coast. They will then train for three days in the run-up to the match in Adelaide. Decisions around preparation and tour games have come under scrutiny on the tour. England played only one match, against England Lions, before the series began, then opted to send none of the players from the first Test to a Lions game against the Prime Minister's XI in the run-up to the second Test. (BBC Sport)
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
GREYVILLE
08:30hrs Green Glow
09:05hrs Mac Hardy
09:45hrs Spinmyangelsspin
10:20hrs Time In Paris
10:55hrs United Nations
IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN
08:20hrs Kurasso Blue
08:50hrs Fillyoureye
09:20hrs Echoing Silence
09:50hrs Newbrook Diamond
10:20hrs Charlus
10:50hrs Cosmo Renfro 11:23hrs Lough Nigara
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, December 9, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Malcolm Marshall-27 wickets (4 Tests) (2) Bruce Taylor-27 wickets (4 Tests)
Today’s Quiz: (1) How many WI players have led the team in Tests against NZ to date?
(2) How many NZ players have led the team in Tests versus the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
(From back page)
Oklahoma City continue winning ways without MVP Gilgeous-Alexander
THE Oklahoma City Thunder had no issues on Sunday night, even with reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sitting on the bench.
The Delta Center in Salt Lake City, on the other hand, struggled.
Midway through the second quarter, a smoke machine sitting on top of one of the baskets in the arena started going off randomly while Thunder star Chet Holmgren was shooting a free throw. It kept going off for quite some time, too, and nobody on the court seemed to notice.
Holmgren even threw down a dunk on a fast break before officials stopped the game to fix the broken smoke machine — which made for quite the scene.
“He is literally setting this place on fire,” one of the announcers joked.
The Jazz opened the game with a free throw, though that was their only lead of the night. The Thunder responded with a 13-0 burst before rolling to the 131-101 win.
It marked their 15th consecutive victory and brought them to 23-1 on the season — which is on pace to break
the league’s single-season wins record set by the Golden State Warriors back during the 2015-16 campaign. Holmgren led the way with 25 points and nine rebounds for the Thunder. Jalen Williams had 25 points, too, and Aaron Wiggins added 19 points off the bench. They shot 58% from the field as a group and 21of-42 from behind the arc.
Gilgeous-Alexander sat out due to left elbow bursitis, marking his first missed game of the season.
Kyle Filipowski led the
Jazz with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Both Walter Clayton Jr. and Taylor Hendricks added 20 points off the bench. The Jazz fell to 8-15 after the loss, which marked their second straight loss by 30 points or more. While it’s unclear what sparked the smoke on Sunday night, the arena staff has some time to figure it out. The Jazz have one game this week, against the Grizzlies in Memphis, and won’t be back at home until they host the Dallas Mavericks on December 15. (Yahoo Sports)
I don't think I played at this level for 2-3 years: Kohli
WITH knocks of 135, 102 and 65*, Virat Kohli rolled back the years and produced a series to rival his very best - underlined by his 20th Player of the Series award in international cricket. By his own admission, it was the best we'd seen of Kohli in recent memory.
"Playing the way I have in this series has been the most satisfying thing for me. I don't think I have played at this level for a good 2-3 years now and I feel really free in my mind. Just the whole game is coming together nicely," he said following India's nine-wicket series-deciding win over South Africa. And there was evidence of that freedom as he struck 12 sixes in the series, three more than the next best.
Shakib wishes to play one final bilateral series before signing off
FORMER Bangladesh captain, Shakib al Hasan, has taken a U-turn from his Test and T20I retirement. The all-rounder wishes to play all three formats before retiring from international cricket officially.
Last year, on the eve of the second Test against India in Kanpur in September 2024, Shakib announced his retirement from T20Is with immediate effect and expressed to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) his desire to retire from Test cricket at the end of the following home series against South Africa in Mirpur, subject to security clearance to play in that series.
Following that announcement, Shakib has failed to get security clearance to return home and has been living in exile since the fall of Awami League government. A Member of Parliament at the time of the erstwhile government, he did not play international cricket for over a year.
Shakib is currently busy playing in different franchise-based leagues and he insisted that he is still continuing his cricketing journey with the hope of returning home sooner than later, and to make his dream into reality he needs to stay fit and in shape and that is the reason he is playing.
retire from all formats in a series. So it can start from T20I, ODI and Test, or Test, ODI, T20I. Either way, I'm fine, but I want to play a whole series and retire. That's what I want," he said adding that he will not continue further after the series.
"I think when a player says something they try to stick to their words. They normally don't change it all of a sudden. It doesn't matter if I play well or not. I might play a bad series after that, if I want to play. But I don't need to do that," he said.
sequently suspended after his county stint with Surrey in 2024, revealed that excessive bowling had a toll on him and as a result he had been bowling with an illegal action a little bit intentionally. Shakib was later cleared to continue with his bowling after failing in the first test.
"When I play freely, then I know I can hit sixes. So, I just wanted to have some fun because I was batting well, just take a bit more risk. Just push my own boundaries and see where we go. There's always levels you can unlock and you just need to take a
risk," he said.
It all started at Ranchi where Kohli struck his 52nd ODI hundred setting up a 17-run win for India and he pinned it as his favourite knock of the series. "I hadn't played a game since Australia. Just to come out and you know when you start hitting the ball well.
And also, just how your energy is on the day. You just feel so confident of taking risks. And when they come off, of course, it unlocks, as I said, that zone as a batsman which you are craving for. So, Ranchi was very special for me because it just opened me up in a way that I haven't felt for a while. I am just grateful for how these three games have gone," he said.
It doesn't, however, al -
(Turn to page 20)
"I am hopeful (to return to Bangladesh) and that's why I am playing (to retire in front of home crowd) and I think it will happen and that's the reason, the only reason I am playing (is to stay fit and stay in shape so that I can make me available for international cricket)," Shakib was quoted on the Beard Before Wicket podcast, which featured Moeen Ali, on Sunday.
"I am officially not retired from all formats. This is the first time I'll be revealing that," he said.
"My plan is to go back to Bangladesh, play one full series of ODI, Test, and T20, and retire. I mean, [I can]
"I think this is enough. It's just a nicer way to say bye to the fans that they supported me always, give something back to them, playing a home series," he added.
Earlier this year, in September, Bangladesh's sports adviser, Asif Mahmud, declared that Shakib would not be allowed to play for the country after he wished former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her birthday.
Shakib last played Tests against Pakistan and India in 2024. While he was effectively barred from international cricket during that period, this is the first time a government official has publicly confirmed the ban.
Shakib, who was reported for a suspect action and sub-
"I think I was doing it a little bit intentionally because I bowled more than 70 overs [in one match], I never bowled 70 overs in my career in a Test match. I was playing that four-day match for Surrey against Somerset in Taunton.
I was so tired. I played back-to-back Test matches in Pakistan. We won that series and then I went to play those four-day matches. The only thing I was thinking the umpire could have done was just warn me first, at least. But it is in the rules, so they had the right. I didn't complain," said Shakib.
"I went to do the test, I failed. And then I saw my test. I was like, 'okay, so these things are happening'. Then I had to train for a couple of weeks so I went back to Surrey again and they were kind enough to help me. I did two sessions and I was back to normal. I was like, 'it's so easy'," he said. (Cricbuzz)
Chet Holmgren, right, led the way with 25 points
Before the Kanpur Test against India last year, Shakib al Hasan had announced his wish to retire from T20s with immediate effect
Virat Kohli finished unbeaten on 65 on Saturday
Den Amstel and Monedderlust latest winners in GFF Super 16 Cup
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Sunday kicked off their year-end Super 16 Cup football competition at the National Training Center, Providence.
The double-header clash pitted West Coast side Den Amstel against Beacon Fc, whom they defeated 5-0 in a remarkable display of offence prowess.
Shakeel King sparkled first with his goal in the 15th minute before Delon Landerman cued up his strike to make it 2-0.
Dwayne Peters made it 3-0 before the half with an-
other striking shot past the Beacon custodian.
Late goals from Amaniki Buntin in the 79th minute and Kevis Fraser in the 89th sealed the contest for Den Amstel as they finished 5-l winners.
In the opening fixture of the night Berbice’s Monedderlust defeated Buxton 3-0.
Nifon Thom scored the game’s first goal in the 42nd minute before second-half goals from Stephon Moore and Azainne Benjamin completed the win.
On the opening day on Saturday, Ann’s Grove opened the tournament with
England's 'Bazball' message dead - Agnew column
I HAVE spoken to England captain Ben Stokes in the immediate aftermath of two defeats on this Ashes tour.
The Stokes I encountered after the loss in Brisbane was completely different from the man in front of me following the defeat in Perth.
It was clear he had things to say. Stokes was looking beyond the person holding the microphone and instead speaking to fans at home. There was a clear point he wanted to get across, and he did it very powerfully.
To me, the Bazball message is dead. That does not mean the personnel has to change or regimes need to be swept aside – those decisions will come at the end of the
series – but it means there has been a realisation by England that the way in which they play their Test cricket must be altered.
The philosophy of Stokes and Brendon McCullum was necessary when they took over the England team in 2022. It was a breath of fresh air.
But it was also unsustainable. It was straightforward for good teams to work out. Somewhere along the way, the rhetoric ran away from England. It got out of control and cost them matches.
Now, there is a sense Stokes has observed something in the Australia team. When Stokes said his dressing room is "not a place for weak
men," he was making a comparison to the way Australia play their cricket.
There are no loose shots, there is a willingness to soak up pressure, to not leave the job to the next man.
However, if Stokes and McCullum are questioning the mindset of the players, they have to look at themselves.
Have England got into this situation because of a feeling of pressure or expectation to play in a certain way?
When England have fallen in a heap, it is usually because of the batting. Have the players been able to bat in a way that is comfortable for them, or have they been acting out of an obligation to conform?
a 2-1 win over Uitvlugt Warriors.
Yohance Francis and Jermain Samuels scored on either side of the break for
Ann’s Grove to put them on course for the victory.
Dwayne St Kitts with a late strike reduced their opponents lead to 2-1, but Ann’s Grove’s defence stood up to scrutiny by holding the warriors off for the victory 2-1.
On the same night Santos Fc blanked Campton 2-0.
Gerry Burnette’s goal in the 26th minute and Candel Hazel in the 37th ensured Santos walked away the winner.
Henry, Smith and Santner ruled out of remainder of West Indies Tests
NEW Zealand have been dealt a triple injury blow with Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner and Nathan Smith all ruled out of the remainder of the three-match Test Series against West Indies.
Henry (calf tear) and Smith (side strain) picked up their injuries during the drawn opening Test in Christchurch, while Santner was withdrawn before the match with a groin issue.
Henry suffered his calf injury after landing awkwardly during a spell on day four, with scans confirming a tear in his right leg. He has been ruled out of the series and is targeting a return in January. Smith, meanwhile, strained his side on day two and is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks.
The setbacks have led to maiden Test call-ups for Northern Districts all-rounder Kristian Clarke and Canterbury fast bowler Michael Rae, both of whom trained with the squad in Wellington on Tuesday ahead of the second Test.
Glenn Phillips, initially with the squad in Christchurch as a substitute fielder, has been formally added to
the Test group for the rest of the series. Canterbury wicketkeeper Mitch Hay has also linked up with the side as cover for Tom Blundell, who picked up a hamstring tear while batting in the first Test.
Meanwhile, Santner's groin injury will require more rehabilitation before he can resume Test duties.
Head coach Rob Walter said the left-arm spinner was progressing well but was not yet ready for the
physical demands of the format. "Mitchell has made great progress and is able to bat and bowl with no discomfort. There is still a risk when he runs or moves laterally, which we can't control on the cricket field," Walter said.
The second Test begins at the Basin Reserve on Wednesday, with the third and final Test set to begin at the Bay Oval in Tauranga on December 18. (Cricbuzz)
Den Amstel scorers (right to left) Shakeel King, Amaniki Buntin,Delon Lanferman, Kevis Fraser and Dwayne Peters
Ben Stokes' England team were also 2-0 down in the last Ashes, then came back to draw 2-2
Matt Henry picked up a calf tear during a spell with the ball on day four
Aaliyah Moore: From self-doubt to Track and Field standout
THE journey of the recently crowned Guyana Police Force’s Sportswoman of the Year 2025 is a powerful testament to the transformation that discipline and belief can achieve, both on the track and in the classroom.
Moore's athletic career began early, when she joined the Police Progressive Youth Club (PPYC) at the age of eleven, yet her early years were marked by apprehension.
Growing up in a large family of athletes, she struggled with self-doubt, which led her to hesitate about the intense training required in secondary school.
"She was afraid of hard work, and her mind was not strong yet," the Guyana Police Force noted in a Facebook post.
Aaliyah Moore has excelled in academics
Despite the internal struggle, her natural talent persisted. The defining moment came in 2020 when she received a scholarship to Monroe College during the global upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic. She recognised that the only barrier to greatness was her own mindset.
braced not only physical training but mental fortitude, becoming disciplined, confident, and focused. This commitment led to a phenomenal two-year transformation:
Athletic Success: She was named a multiple-time All-American Athlete and secured national championship titles.
At Monroe, under the guidance of Coach Shirvon Greene, Moore’s focus shifted dramatically. She em -
Greaves embraces the ‘massive step up’ after heroic rearguard
CHRISTCHURCH,
New Zealand, (CMC) –
All-rounder Justin Greaves has hailed Test cricket as a “massive step up” from the regional first-class circuit, following a monumental match-saving double century that stunned New Zealand recently.
The 31-year-old, whose unbeaten 202 guided the West Indies to a remarkable draw in the first Test, credits his evolution to relentless adaptation and guidance from senior teammate Jason Holder.
Faced with an improbable target of 531 and the West Indies reeling at 72 for 4, Greaves produced an epic of concentration, occupying the crease for nearly nine and a half hours and facing 388 deliveries.
His marathon effort steered the tourists to safety after 163.3 overs, ensuring the series remains level heading into Tuesday’s second Test in Wellington.
“Test cricket is a lot more demanding both physically
Greaves
and mentally,” Greaves said.
“This is where I always wanted to be, so I had to change the way I train, both strengthand conditioning-wise and skill-wise. I’m enjoying it, learning as I go along.”
Central to his development have been conversations with Holder, the former West Indies captain and fellow all-rounder. Greaves revealed he has sought Holder’s counsel to understand the blueprint for sustained success at the highest level.
“I lean on Jason Hold -
er. I’ve dropped him a few messages in terms of finding out what he’s done to have the career he’s had in Test cricket so far. If I can pick up some tips from the other successful all-rounders around the world when we play against them, I pretty much do that.”
Now 12 Tests into his career, with tours of Australia and Pakistan under his belt, Greaves emphasised the total lifestyle shift required to thrive on the international
(Turn to page 20)
Academic Excellence: She graduated in 2022 with an Associate Degree in Business Administration while maintaining a perfect
4.0 GPA, receiving twenty scholarship offers from other schools.
Moore ultimately chose the prestigious University of Kansas (KU) to continue her education and track career.
In her first year, she made an immediate impact, winning the competitive Big 12 Indoor Conference title and earning the highly regarded Jayhawker of the Year award.
The road was not without challenge. Moore battled multiple injuries, but her re-
'I am not weak' says
lentless spirit, forged through years of self-development, refused to concede.
Despite the physical setbacks, she persevered and made it to the rigorous National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Championships twice. Her dedication extended far beyond the running lanes. Moore continued to excel academically, demonstrating a deep curiosity about culture and leadership. She accumulated an impressive
(Turn to page 20)
Slot, but Salah could return
LIVERPOOL manager, Arne Slot, says he is "not weak" and denies the situation with Mohamed Salah has undermined his authority.
The 33-year-old winger has been left out of the squad to face Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday after giving an explosive interview two days ago, claiming he was "thrown under the bus" by Liverpool and his relationship with Slot had broken down.
Slot says he does not feel that way and was "surprised" by Salah's comments.
Speaking in Milan on Monday night, Slot added he had "no clue" if Salah, who signed a new two-year contract in April, had played his last game for Liverpool, but added he was a "firm believer that there is always a possibility to return for a
player".
He said his conversation with Salah to tell him he would not travel to Milan was "a short one".
"Usually I am calm and polite, but that doesn't mean I am weak," he said.
"If a player has these commands about so many things, then it's about me and the club to react. We reacted in way you can see - he's not here."
He added: "I don't feel my authority is undermined, it is not the way I feel it.
"After tomorrow we will look at the situation. There is always the possibility to return for a player. I have no clue [if he has played his last game for Liverpool] - I cannot answer that question at this point in time." (BBC Sport)
From left: Aaliyah Moore, Shahab Hack, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken and Emanuel Archibald
West Indies Test all-rounder Justin
Mohamed Salah last scored for Liverpool on November 1
Suriname cops overall IGG 2025 title; Guyana finishes second
THE 2025 Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) concluded Sunday evening with a dramatic points race, resulting in Suriname narrowly snatching the overall championship title, leaving host nation Guyana just short of the coveted trophy.
After two days of intense
competition across six core disciplines, Suriname clinched the top spot with 83 points. Guyana finished a hyper-competitive second with 75 points, while French Guiana was right on their heels, tallying 73 points in the official final count. Despite missing out on the overall crown, Team Guyana
secured titles in Futsal, Chess and Track and Field.
Suriname's consistency across team sports proved to be the difference-maker in the final tally, securing key titles in Swimming and Volleyball. They also shared the Basketball championship.
Following the conclusion
of the Games, representatives from all three countries reaffirmed their joint commitment to preserving the event, which has maintained a tradition dating back to 1967.
This commitment to continuity underscores the Games' vital role in providing competitive opportunities for young
athletes aged 14 to 18.
At the closing ceremony, Minister Steven Jacobs, speaking on behalf of the Guyanese government, applauded the unity on display.
“IGG was nothing short of spectacular,” Minister Jacobs stated, pledging Guyana's continued support for the Games.
He also issued a challenge to the competitors: to deepen their knowledge in the “science of the sport” as they seek to improve their performances on the regional and international levels.
Suriname has been confirmed as the host of the 2026 Inter-Guiana Games.
Briton Norris wins
A TEARFUL Lando Norris won his first Formula 1 drivers' championship by securing the third place he needed in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The 26-year-old took the title by two points from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who won the race to take his eighth victory of the year, one more than the Briton and his McLaren team-mate Oscar Piastri.
McLaren were always in control of a race packed with tension even though
Briton Norris wins
his first F1 title in Abu Dhabi
England cannot have 'glass jaw' ‒ McCullum
his first F1 title in Abu Dhabi
Verstappen was on course for victory from the first lap, because Piastri finished second and was in a position to help Norris if needed.
Norris becomes the 11th British F1 world champion at the end of his seventh season in F1, a year that he started slowly but in which he came on strong in the second half of the year.
And it is McLaren's first drivers' and constructors' title double since 1998.
"I've not cried in a while and I didn't think I would
cry but I did," said a jubilant Norris.
"I mean, it feels amazing, I now know what Max feels like. I want to congratulate Max and Oscar, my two biggest competitors the whole season.
"It's been a pleasure to race against both of them and an honour, I've learned a lot from both of them as well.
"I've enjoyed it and it has been a long year but we did it and I'm so proud of everyone." (BBC Sport)
ENGLAND will have "no chance" of recovering in the Ashes series if they play with a "glass jaw," says head coach Brendon McCullum.
The tourists are 2-0 down with three to play after defeat in the second Test in Brisbane. England have never come back from that deficit to win an Ashes series.
Following the loss at the Gabba, captain Ben Stokes said his dressing room is "no place for weak men."
Asked if he agreed with Stokes, McCullum replied: "100%. It's no different to the language I've been using. You don't get to feel sorry for yourself in these jobs.
"This is not a country where you can expect to be anything other than fully committed to what you're doing."
England are on the verge of surrendering the series at the earliest possible opportu-
Brendon McCullum's England team are winless in their past four Tests
nity after losing the first two Tests in fewer than six days of cricket. In the first Test in Perth, the tourists were bowled out for 172 and 164, including
collapses of seven wickets for 78 runs and 9-99. In the second innings in Perth, England lost 6-80.
"Ultimately, you can't af-
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Lando Norris is the 11th Briton to win the F1 drivers' championship