‘We make policies for everyone’
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PRIME Minister
(Ret’d) Brigadier Mark Phillips has reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to inclusive development and economic growth, calling on citizens to reject what he described as the “failed leadership” of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (AP-
PM Phillips affirms gov’t commitment to inclusive development
urges supporters to reject failed leadership of former coalition
NU+AFC) coalition.
Addressing a massive gathering at Bath, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), PM Phillips urged Guyanese to prioritise national prosperity and shared advancement.
“This is the time we must say no more to the APNU; no more to the AFC… When they got into office, they screwed you without grease. They have failed to deliver,” he declared.
Drawing a sharp contrast between the coalition’s record and the PPP/C’s achievements, the Prime Minister highlighted the tangible gains achieved under the current administration, including increased old-age pensions, the reintroduction and expansion of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, the creation of thousands of new jobs, surpassing the ambitious 50,000 house-lot target, and significant upgrades to healthcare services.
“Five years of economic development, five years of growth, five years of prosperity, and we need five more years,” he told the
PM Phillips assured the diverse audience that the PPP/C governs without discrimination.
“When we make policies, we are colour-blind. We make policies for everybody; we believe in development, and we believe in you and your children’s future,” he said.
He stressed that the PPP/C is not “a goodweather government”, but one that stands with the people through all challenges.
“We were there in the thick and thin with you. When it’s raining, we are with you; when it’s flooding, we are with you. When it’s sunny, we are with you. That’s the kind of government we are,” he affirmed.
Speaking directly to those who once supported the Coalition, PM Phillips urged them to reject fear and embrace change.
“Don’t let anyone drive fear in you; take off the shackles. Be free; be mentally free,” he said, adding: “You will vote for economic development; you will vote for a better future for your children and for yourself. You will vote for the PPP/C.”
Prime Minister (Ret’d) Brigadier Mark Phillips (Delano Williams photos)
A section of the massive crowd at the Bath rally on Sunday
‘We
are your every day, every moment, every season’
- President Ali rallies Region Five to support continued growth
FOR 75 years, through every struggle and every triumph, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has stood shoulder-to-shoulder, no matter the season, with the people of Guyana, and President Dr. Irfaan Ali believes that that record of service will only grow stronger in the years ahead.
Addressing a mammoth crowd at Bath, Region
can look forward to.”
While others make empty promises, President Ali reminded his audience that the PPP/C has already delivered salary increases, tax cuts, subsidies, and grants, and is now pushing far beyond the basics into a future of large-scale transformation.
MAJOR INVESTMENTS COMING TO REGION FIVE
your children; preparing the next generation by investing in technical skills and capacity by upskilling the people,” the President said.
In agriculture, the administration will open up more than 40,000 acres of new la nd, improve drainage and irrigation in the backlands, and enhance farm-to-market roads. In residential areas, concrete drains,
Five (Mahaica-Berbice) on Sunday, the President declared, “We are your every day, your every season, and your every moment. Every time this country needed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, we were right there, from colonisation to independence, to fighting dictatorship, to returning democracy, to rebuilding a bankrupt economy, to giving our children a future they
The President announced progress in securing a major investment to bring a gas pipeline to the region, promising new opportunities for residents. Over the next five years, the government will focus on preparing the next generation through technical skills training, upskilling, and capacity building.
“The next five years are not only about creating those jobs. The next five years are preparing
community parks, and recreational facilities will be built to promote sustainable livelihoods.
President Ali said Region Five will see increased food production and youth-targeted opportunities, highlighting an aquaculture project expected to generate $1.5 billion by the end of the year, with the potential to reach $6 billion annually within three years.
“We are going to
hand that project over to the young people of Region Five, so you can earn it,” President Ali said.
Shifting his attention to the poultry industry, President Ali reminded them that the region has long had a rich traditional history in livestock farming.
As such, he outlined plans to increase the region’s livestock population by over 2,000% within five years, ably supported by investments in breeding, feed mills, pastures, and subsidised costs for farmers.
Projects already in place include the black belly sheep initiative, a modern abattoir built to international standards,
and a forthcoming cold storage facility to extend shelf life and add value to farmers’ products.
“We want to extend the shelf life of your product; we do not want you to dump your product, but we must add value to our product and find markets,” he affirmed.
The government will also establish a modern agro-processing facility equipped with advanced technology for medium and large-scale farmers.
“We will invest in you; in this economy, in your production, in your land, and make agriculture and production not only profitable but sustainable,” President Ali affirmed.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali (Delano Williams photos)
A section of the PPP/C’s rally at Bath on Sunday
President Ali commissions $553M Bartica Stelling – Modern facility to boost economic activity, connectivity
FOR years, the people of Bartica have relied on their riverside hub as a lifeline to the rest of Guyana, and now the gateway has been transformed.
President Dr Irfaan Ali commissioned the new $553 million Bartica Stelling, a modern, safer and more efficient port facility that promises to reshape daily life
in Region Seven.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Sunday, President Ali hailed the project as a major investment in the region’s economic transformation, underscoring the port’s role in supporting tourism, mining, agriculture, and trade.
“This is an investment that we believe
will help in the transformation of Region Seven,” the president said. “It is part of a broader vision to modernise Guyana’s waterfront infrastructure, integrate our transport systems, and create opportunities that bring prosperity to everyone.”
Before the project’s execution, several setbacks were encountered when the first phase was
awarded in 2017, including delays and complaints about the quality of work
The second phase came to a standstill until the PPP/C administration took office in August 2020.
Under President Ali’s leadership, work was advanced on the stelling to raise the standard to a satisfactory level while ensuring value for mon-
ey. Local contractor
K&K Construction and Hardware Supplies, based in Bartica, won the contract after the project was retendered.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, noted that the works were completed within the contract sum, calling it “a job well done” by the contractor and his team.
“This speaks to the visionary leadership of President Ali and the management style of the PPP/C administration.
We promised the people of Bartica we would get it finished, and we have
delivered,” he said.
Mayor of Bartica, Anthony Murray, described the commissioning as a “historic moment” for the township, noting that the facility will improve access, enhance safety, reduce costs for farmers and miners, and open doors for new markets.
The Bartica Stelling upgrade forms part of the government’s ongoing programme to modernise ports across Guyana, with similar works planned or underway in Parika, Vreed-en-Hoop, Supenaam, and Port Kaituma. (DPI)
President Dr Irfaan Ali addresses the gathering during the commissioning ceremony of the $553 million Bartica Stelling
A section of the new $553 million Bartica Stelling (DPI photos)
Amerindian leader, young engineer urges re-election of PPP/C
— Toshao John, Ricardo Phillips praise President Ali’s vision and track record
Moraikobai’s Toshao and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Derrick John (Delano Williams photo) Recardo Phillips
AN Amerindian leader, Derick John and a young civil engineer, Recardo Phillips, have added their voices to the growing call for the re-election of the President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali-led People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in the September 1 General and Regional Elections.
Moraikobai's Toshao and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Derrick John, delivered a fiery address at the political rally in Bath, West Coast Berbice, on Sunday, expressing strong support for President Ali.
Making it clear that he is
‘We
humbled to share the stage with “visionary leaders”, Toshao John said Guyanese learnt their lesson from the 2015 era when political parties offered grand promises but never delivered.
“We are not being fooled. We are a people that have learnt,” he declared, lauding the PPP/C as the only national political party that truly upholds unity and respect.
“We are voting for a party that has real, world-class projects and programmes… A movement that we have seen transforming our country,” he added.
Also endorsing the PPP/C was young civil en-
gineer, Recardo Phillips of Dundee, who credited the Ali-led administration with laying a strong foundation for Guyana’s future.
“I want to see a better Guyana for myself, my family, and for you. Without a People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government, we cannot achieve this,” Phillips told the gathering.
Both men are among scores of young leaders contesting as PPP/C candidates in the upcoming elections, reflecting the party’s continued appeal across demographics and its focus on buildi ng a unified and prosperous Guyana.
don’t have monies to give you’ – APNU’s Daniels says
- tells supporters APNU would not be a gov’t of handouts and grants
WITHOUT clearly explaining how an A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) government would “open up access” to funds that “belong” to Guyanese, Attorney-at-Law and party candidate Ronald Daniels has said that APNU does not have money to give out, and would not operate as a government of handouts.
The statement, made during the Party’s Linden campaign rally on Sunday, appears to contradict its promises of disbursing cash to Guyanese, including the headline pledge of a $1 million per household grant unveiled at its election campaign launch in Georgetown one month ago.
“The Aubrey Norton government is not going to give monies to you; we don’t have monies to give to you. The only thing we are going to do is to open up access to monies that belong to you,” Daniels said, adding that APNU would not be a government of “handouts and grants”.
Aubrey Norton had pro-
‘You are being used’
- Norton warns young people about candidates handing out a small ‘frek’ to protect themselves
OPPOSITION Leader Aubrey Norton has issued a strong warning to young voters not to fall for cash handouts from political candidates, saying such gestures are driven by self-interest and not genuine concern for the people.
Speaking at the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) rally in Linden on Sunday, Norton accused certain candidates of using money as a tool to sway voters ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.
“I want to say to them, you are being used. If you look at the money they’re spending on the campaign, you would know that they ain’t plan giving you no money,” the Party leader told the gathering.
He said the real motive behind the handouts is to protect personal interests; not to deliver lasting benefits to citizens.
“Don’t be fooled,” he cautioned, stressing that voters must not believe “a ‘money man’ can give you money” without strings attached.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over vote-buying, an illegal practice condemned by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), and flagged by electoral officials as a threat to free and fair elections.
Attorney-at-Law and APNU candidate Ronald Daniels
posed that that 58 per cent of the 2025 budget, under an APNU government, would go towards direct cash transfers.
The proposal was first championed by coalition partner Dr. David Hinds, who argued for an “investment in people” through a direct transfer of $1 million to every Guyanese citizen.
“We believe that by 2025, each Guyanese should be entitled to one million dollars; not $100,000. That’s a ‘frek’. We’re talking about a real investment in people,” Hinds said at the launch.
Just last year, Norton was quoted in the press as stating
that if a coalition, including his People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) wins the 2025 elections, Guyanese would receive “predictable” cash grants on fixed schedules; grants that could also serve as proof of income for bank transactions.
Earlier this year, Norton also criticised the government’s $100,000 cash grant initiative, but promised that an APNU administration would provide transfers aimed at ensuring all Guyanese receive a liveable income, while increasing their ability to plan, purchase, save, and invest.
Last week, The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) reminded all stakeholders in the September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections that they all have a statutory duty and civic responsibility to contribute to the elections being conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner.
In this regard, the Commission took the opportunity to strongly emphasise the need for voters and other concerned stakeholders to be informed of the following provisions as enacted in the Representation of the People Act Cap: 1:03: “It is an offence for any person, including the voter himself, to communicate at any time to any person, any information about the political party for which any voter has voted
on his behalf or as a proxy on behalf of another voter; Similarly, it is an offence for anyone to influence, by any means, a voter to display his ballot paper, to make known the political party for whom he has voted on his behalf, or as a proxy.
Further, it is an offence for any person, directly or indirectly, to offer any money, gift, and/or a loan, to any voter to secure the vote of any voter at the elections.
Any person who commits any of the above offences shall be liable on summary conviction to pay a fine and to imprisonment for six months.”
“Persons convicted for any of the abov e offences may also be prohibited from participating in future elections,” GECOM said.
APNU Leader Aubrey Norton
False equivalence
THE attempt to compare OFAC sanctions on China Railway Construction Corporation with those imposed on Mohamed's Enterprise represents a fundamental misunderstanding of how US sanctions actually work, and threatens to mislead the Guyanese public about the gravity of corruption in their own backyard.
The comparison between these two sanction regimes isn't just flawed. It's intellectually dishonest, and potentially dangerous to Guyana's democratic institutions and international standing.
The Chinese construction giant faces what amounts to a narrow investment restriction under Executive Order 13959, which prohibits US persons from purchasing securities in companies deemed part of China's military-industrial complex.
This is essentially a capi-
Financial analyst Joel Bhagwandin deserves credit for setting the record straight, but his technical explanation deserves amplification, with a more forceful critique of this false equivalence.
tal markets sanction, serious for investors, but allowing the company to continue operating globally, including on infrastructure projects like Guyana's Harbour Bridge.
The company remains fully functional in international commerce outside the US securities markets.
In stark contrast, the Mohamed family and their enterprises face the full weight of Global Magnitsky sanctions, a designation reserved for the world's most serious human rights violators and corrupt actors.
These comprehensive asset-blocking sanctions freeze all US-accessible property, prohibit all transactions with US persons, and effectively excommunicate the sanctioned parties from the international financial system.
The crimes cited—gold smuggling, tax evasion exceeding $50 million, bribery of government officials, and systematic corruption— strike at the heart of Guyana's governance and economic integrity.
The distinction matters enormously for Guyana's future. As US Ambassador
Nicole Theriot warned, having an OFAC-sanctioned individual in parliament could trigger a cascade of consequences: Reduced American private sector investment, potential "derisking" by international banks, and strained diplomatic relations at a time when Guyana desperately needs US support to defend it against Venezuela’s territorial claims.
This isn't mere diplomatic posturing; it's a realistic assessment of how international finance and geopolitics intersect in an interconnected world.
McCoy defends PPP/C’s record on East Bank, Soesdyke-Linden Highway Communities
- says
APNU, AFC,
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs Kwame McCoy has defended the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s development record in communities along the East Bank, and Soesdyke-Linden Highway, rejecting claims that the administration has failed to deliver.
and other challengers have ‘no credible record’
The Mi nister, in a post via Facebook, said, “APNU, the AFC, Team Mohammed nor any of the political charlatans seeking your votes have no credible record of governance performance; nor anything of substance to offer for the next five years.”
He pointed to several initiatives rolled out in the past three years,
including community development projects, housing schemes, and infrastructure upgrades.
According to the minister, “10 of the 16 Soesdyke-Linden Highway villages… have been benefiting from LCDS community development funds at an average annual aggregated amount of $215 million.”
Further, he point -
ed to other developments, which included the construction of the new secondary school in Yarrowkabra, the allocation of more than 3,000 land titles, and the commencement of both a Young Professionals Housing Scheme and a single mothers’ homestead project set to empower 500 women.
Minister McCoy also highlighted major
investments such as a mega agro-processing plant, the development of Silica City, upgrades to the Linden–Soesdyke Highway, the expansion of the new Heroes Highway, and multiple private sector ventures expected to boost employment.
Those who perpetuate this false comparison do Guyana no favours. They minimise genuine corruption, while creating confusion about international law and sanctions regimes.
The Guyanese people deserve leaders who understand these distinctions and the stakes involved; not those who would obscure the difference between narrow investment restrictions and sanctions for criminal conduct that defrauds their own government of tens of millions in revenues.
He urged voters to “Compare this 3-year record of delivery with the 5-year tenure of the APNU-AFC coalition, and discover the night-and-day difference”, calling on them to support the PPP/C at the upcoming elections for the continuation of progress.
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs
Kwame McCoy
An appeal to the President for Mike Parris
WE have exactly three weeks remaining for the national election; therefore it is expected that columnists would concentrate on the campaign shape. I doubt between now and the 1st of September I will be able to complete everything I wanted to touch on. There is literally a plethora of campaign aberrations that need looking at, but three weeks will not be adequate time.
I break my campaign ruminations today to make an appeal to President Ali on behalf of CARICOM’s only Olympic medallist for boxing and Guyana’s only Olympic medalist – Mike Parris. I do not know Mr. Parris; never met him, never seen him even on screen. I am making this appeal to President Ali without even any knowledge of Mr. Parris of what I am doing here.
Mr. Parris won the bronze for boxing at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. That is 45 years ago. What this means is that almost 80 percent of the population either were too young or weren’t born when Mr. Parris did for Guyana what no one else before 1980 and after 1980 has done. He remains Guyana’s only Olympic medallist.
Shouldn’t this country show eternal gratitude for what Paris has achieved? We may differ on how he should be honoured but this entire nation would agree that he should be honoured. How does Mr. Paris live? I understand that he is a taxi driver. I do not know what the monthly takehome for a taxi-driver is but this I know – Guyana should not see Mr. Parris go without the modest things in life. I do believe that Guyana’s
only Olympic medallist should live a life without basic needs. I honestly don’t know how Mr. Parris lives, and I do not know if he would take objection to what is written here about his present life. I would like him to know that even if he thinks that he does not need financial honour from the government that should not deter me as a nationalist for advocating that there be some form of financial gratitude from his country.
Here is what I am suggesting. If it is true, according to Chronicle sports writer, Sean Devers, that Mr. Parris is a taxi driver that the state should purchase a reliable and newer vehicle for him to continue to ply his trade. This is a one-off payment.
Alternatively, there could be a permanent stipend of X amount each month. I am not going to state a precise figure;
‘Nothing to do with politics’ Anna Regina
Mayor
rejects WIN’s ‘victimisation’ claims — Says venue denials were due to prior bookings
By: Indrawattie Natram
MAYOR of Anna Regina, Devin Mohan, has dismissed as “false” and “garbage” allegations by the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party that the Town Council engaged in political victimisation by denying the party use of public venues for its upcoming rally.
According to Mayor Mohan, the venues in question, the Anna Regina Car Park and the Charity Community Centre Ground, were already booked for private events, and the council could not cancel those arrangements to accommodate WIN’s late request.
“The truth is, these venues were booked well in advance by private persons for their own events. The Town Council simply could not cancel those bookings to accommodate WIN’s request. This has nothing to do with politics,” Mohan stated, adding that the council operates strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.
that is for the state to decide. But most definitely, Guyana should do something for Mike Parris, the country’s only Olympic medallist.
My mind goes back to Johnny Braff, Guyana’s most successful home-based superstar. Johnny lived in a public assistance home and died in poverty. While he was alive, I did two columns appealing for some form of help for Johnny. This was during the Granger presidency but there was no movement towards Johnny by the state.
Come to think of it, I don’t know if anything is named after Mike Parris. What percentage of the population knows that in the history of Olympic participation, Guyana has only one medal and it was won for boxing by Mike Paris? It is for this reason, I continue to stress in my columns over the years
that when you put the name of a Guyanese contributor, it lives on forever. People will know who the achiever was.
Can you imagine a woman who lived most of her adult life outside of Guyana, secured a starring place in a Hollywood movie and was given a honorary doctorate by UG? What is my point? Let the lady have her doctorate. She deserves it. But those like Mike Parris must be justly recognised too.
How many people in this country know the Guyanese man to have first scored a World Cup goal? He did not play in an actual World Cup game. What he did, he played for Guyana for the World Cup qualifying games. It is referred to as a World Cup goal because it was the preliminary match for qualification. This was in 1976. His name is Vib-
ert Butts. I was livid when I read that Butts was remanded to prison for a few grams of marijuana that he used as a practicing Rastafari. I immediately fired off a column not asking for but demanding the granting of bail. As a country we should not treat our achievers like this?
What was going through the mind of that magistrate, assuming that she had a mind at the time. Butts subsequently secured bail after his achievement for his country was known. My deepest respect to Vibert Butts and Mike Parris.
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.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for a rally, was refused on the grounds that it was already booked.
The mayor noted that all venue bookings are properly documented and available for review, underscoring the council’s commitment to transparency.
WIN’s presidential candidate, Azruddin Mohamed, had accused local authorities of obstructing the party’s ability to meet with Essequibo residents ahead of its August 10, 2025, rally. Mohamed claimed that the Anna
He further added that, “This administration does not engage in political discrimination. These accusations are a deliberate attempt to create a false narrative and discredit the work we are doing for the community.”
He added that the Charity Community Centre Ground was also denied to WIN, with officials citing it was waterlogged and unsuitable for public gatherings due to recent weather conditions.
Mohamed described the sequence of denials as “ongoing victimisation,” saying it was painful to be unable to return to his ancestral home of Johanna Cecilia to meet with residents, including rice and cattle farmers, coconut cultivators, timber harvesters, and housewives.
Regina Car Park, recently used by the ruling
Anna Regina Mayor, Devin Mohan
Are opposition elements immune from criticism and counterattack?
WHENEVER politicians in the ruling party respond to personal attacks or attempts to scathe the party or government publicly, we often hear of the charge of intol -
erance to criticism. As it appears, some people in this society seem to believe that politicians in government, in their own right and the government as a whole, must absorb
all manner of twisted and manufactured political attacks and should not respond. Any sliver of response from the government usually evokes cries of victimisation and intolerance.
These charges are loudest from the opposition, however, when the scale of responses and reaction to even mild criticisms is evaluated, any honest report will show that opposition politicians and elements opposed to the government display more crass intolerance than anything coming from the government.
Roaming our information avenues are many malicious anti-government actors whose sole purpose is to weaponise misinformation to try to cause maximum political damage.
Social media is littered with personalities who gain notoriety fuelled by incessant anti-government propaganda, half-truths and raging lies. Some of the greatest offenders do not reside in Guyana; they are perched overseas, where it is difficult or nearly impossible to serve them legal notices for libel and defamation, or they can easily escape their day in court or circumvent criminal charges under our cybercrime laws.
The government, for its part, must respond when criticised or attacked. I don’t think any sensible person anywhere on the planet will deny the government its right to respond. In fact, it is a sacred duty of the government to constantly and continuously provide information, counteract disinformation, defend its record and effectively treat with persistent, calculated mischievous elements.
Of recent vintage, we have the ubiquity of a certain anti-government so -
cial media sensation, who makes daily outrageous accusations against the government and government officials.
Not so long ago, this personality labelled the $100,000 cash grant as a scam and alleged that the cheques are valid for only 3 days. This kind of false information has several effects; it can deter eligible persons from accessing the grant because the 3-day window is inconvenient; it could fuel an artificial deluge of people trying to cash in before expiration, thereby overwhelming the small admin staff and overcrowding the banks, which would give the appearance of confusion everywhere in the country; it can also lead to general distrust of government and break down of law and order.
In the last few days, this same social media personality claimed that there is a sinister plan by the government to detain thousands of black youths, in known Afro-dominated enclaves, close to the election date and incarcerate them solely to prevent them from voting for the opposition.
You do not need lenses or filters to see how diabolically dangerous this type of disinformation is.
This personality has had several pages removed and the account deactivated by Meta, because decent-minded Guyanese must have flagged and reported the page. No doubt, the blame for the deactivations was placed on the government, accompanied by searing charges of intolerance and victimisation.
Even if the government were in some way direct-
ly involved in the request to remove such a page, it would not be inappropriate. Some of those pages, prior to their removal, had amassed north of 200,000 followers. This represents nearly one-third of the Guyanese population. Just the sheer scale of having such major perpetuation of dangerous disinformation and unfounded character assignations as a daily menu should not see the light of day, where possible. Opposition elements seem to think they can make any damaging statement about any person, in or close to the government, at any time while the government warm the seat of docility and allows misinformation, criminality, defamation, character assassination and unmitigated lies to go unrivalled. If these overseas personalities were in Guyana and were willing to defend the veracity of their daily outpourings in court, then that is a different matter.
However, if they insulate themselves from our court process while scandalising and literally destroying lives and relationships and instigating social disorder, whatever mechanisms are at the government’s disposal to have their social media accounts permanently removed should be used. It may be the only resort despite the illegitimate claims of intolerance.
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.
Research roundtable explores policy and preservation of Afro-Guyanese Masquerade Traditions
CONTINUING his work on the preservation and revitalisation of Guyana’s masquerade traditions, Ph.D candidate in Ethnomusicology at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, Edwin Mansook, on Sunday, hosted a Research Roundtable on the Afro-Guyanese Masquerade Traditions at the National School of Dance, National Park, Georgetown.
The session followed an educational research workshop held on July 9, 2025, at Queen’s College, which centred on strategies to breathe new life into the centuries-old masquerade performance culture.
Mansook said the aim of combining academic research with cultural preservation is to develop collaborative and sustainable approaches for the safeguarding and transmission of masquerade knowledge, while ensuring the cultural contributions of practitioners are respected.
With nine participants, the roundtable engaged stakeholders in education, including representatives from the University of Guyana, members of the public, mass curators, and cultural facilitators. The ultimate goal, Mansook explained, is to create strategies with a
focus on cultural policy that acknowledges and supports marginalised cultural practitioners.
“When policy does not reflect this particular cadre of community members, their voices are unheard. The aim is to have the lived experiences of the mass curators shared in this forum, so that policymakers can capture these essences and translate them into meaningful change,” Mansook said.
He noted that without policies reflecting these realities, change in the sector will remain elusive. Importantly, he emphasised that the labour of masqueraders should be viewed and valued as cultural capital.
The session was divided into five sections: Introduc-
tion, Cultural Identity and National Identity, Disparities and Marginalisation, Action Oriented Dialogue and Cultural Policy, and the wrap-up.
Under each of these, discussions ranged from issues of belonging and respectability, viewing masquerade as labour, reflecting on how labour is perceived locally, and leveraging social, economic and cultural frameworks and policies to support masquerade cultural expressions as legitimate professional labour and a sustainable cultural form.
Mansook stressed that while he has developed a suggested policy framework, it remains open for additions or revisions from participants.
The suggested policy
Essequibo religious scholars endorse President Ali, PPP/C for second term
TWO respected Muslim scholars from Region Two, Shaykh Faoud Mohamed and Moulana Yunus McLennan, have publicly endorsed President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali for a second term in office, citing his vision, dedication, and commitment to serving all Guyanese.
Speaking from the Anna Regina Masjid on Sunday, both leaders emphasised that their endorsement was rooted in values and principles rather than political divisions.
In a joint message, Shaykh Faoud Mohamed expressed that President Ali has proven himself during his first term as “a leader with a clear vision, always striving to serve the best interests of his people”. He described the Head of State as “the people’s president”, known for listening to citizens’ concerns and working tirelessly to improve their lives.
Quoting the Qur’an, the
religious leader said: “Is the reward for good anything but good? Dr. Ali’s actions and sincerity in governance reflect the very principles of service and leadership valued in Islam.”
Yunus McLennan echoed similar sentiments, urging voters to look beyond race, and instead focus on leadership qualities that unite the nation. “We
must respect the opinions of all citizens and their political choices, fostering an environment of understanding and collaboration,” he said. Both scholars called on citizens to support President Ali in the upcoming elections, expressing confidence that his continued leadership would keep Guyana on the path of progress and prosperity.
— Ph.D candidate, Edwin Mansook, advances dialogue on cultural revitalisation
framework has four points: access and inclusion- who gets support, where to get funding; education and transmission- are Afro-Guyanese traditions and community-derived strategies
taught in schools, do educational programmes integrate performance and embodied learning into school curricula; funding and infrastructure- are there grants, festivals, rehearse spaces or
institutions that support these practices; and reciprocity and exchange- are cultural initiatives rooted in an ethic of reciprocity, where communities are active partners, beneficiaries, and co-creator, rather than passive subjects of study, with conscious focus on addressing power dynamics.
Mansook underscored that a cultural policy framework grounded in social justice creates environments where traditions are not simply viewed as aesthetic expressions, but as sites for inquiry, agency, and social transformation, with mutual respect for empowering marginalised groups.
Researcher, Edwin Mansook (Delano Williams Photos) A section of participants at Sunday’s roundtable
Two respected Muslim scholars from Region Two, Shaykh Faoud Mohamed and Moulana Yunus McLennan
PPP/C’s track record and performance remain unmatched
- Dr. Singh reminds Corriverton residents, rallies thousands at PPP/C’s grand public meeting in Upper Corentyne
SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, has reaffirmed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) track record and performance remain unmatched by any other political party in Guyana’s history.
Addressing thousands of energised supporters during the PPP/C’s grand public meeting in Corriverton, Region Six, last Friday night, Dr. Singh said the diversity of the gathering and the mix of political newcomers and seasoned leaders on stage symbolised the party’s enduring strength and future.
“When you see so many young persons on their own political journey with the PPP/C and at the same time on the same stage with a political titan and giant like Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, you see the obvious reason why we should be voting for the People’s Progressive Party on September 1.
“The future of our party is alive and well, and when I look on this stage and into the audience at the beautiful faces of diverse Guyana, I see yet another reason why we will be voting for the PPP/C,” Dr. Singh declared to loud applause.
He stressed that the PPP/C remains the only truly national party, representing “every single demographic group—young and not so young, and persons of every ethnicity and religion—legitimately claiming this distinction.”
TRACK RECORD
ABOVE ALL
While noting that there are “literally thousands of reasons” to vote PPP/C on September 1, Dr. Singh zeroed in on the most important: the party’s track record.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh
The Guyanese people, he said, studied the PPP/C’s record both in government and opposition, compared it to the “dismal, pathetic and dreadful” APNU+AFC performance from 2015 to 2020, and decisively chose the PPP/C.
“They studied our track record as a government previously, they studied our track record as an Opposition from 2015-2020, they studied the dismal, pathetic and dreadful performance of APNU+AFC from 2015-2020 and they decided in 2020 that the PPP/C was their choice,” he recalled.
DELIVERING ON COMMITMENTS
He recalled that in 2020, after fighting the “brutal dictatorship” of APNU+AFC— likening them to the pre1992 PNC dictatorship—the PPP/C presented a manifesto that outlined clear commitments.
Upon returning to office, the PPP/C immediately implemented an emergency budget, reversing over 200 hardship taxes imposed by APNU+AFC, including VAT on electricity, water, medicines, school supplies, building materials, and agricultural and mining equipment. Increases in land rent and drainage and irrigation charges were also rolled back.
Dr. Singh reminded residents that long before oil revenues, the PPP/C had introduced a school cash grant for every child. APNU+AFC, he said, “went into the pockets of every single parent” and took it away.
The PPP/C not only restored the grant but increased it to $55,000 per child, injecting more than $11 billion annually into households, with the money circulating and benefitting the wider economy.
He noted that APNU+AFC also destroyed jobs, closing sugar estates, including in Upper Corentyne, putting more than 7,000 sugar workers out of work.
“They took away jobs even with all the taxes they imposed. The entire economy was in collapse-they closed down the sugar industry, abandoned the rice industry, well you know they had promised to keep sugar open, they came into government and right away started to close down sugar estates putting more than 7,000 people who were directly employed out of work and the people of Upper Corentyne, you know how that felt!”
“We said we would reopen the sugar estates, create
UG confirms tuition, facilities fees free for Guyanese students
- Billing system glitch being addressed ahead of September semester
THE University of Guyana (UG) has reaffirmed that tuition and facilities fees for Guyanese students are now fully funded by the State, in keeping with the Government of Guyana’s policy which took effect in January 2025.
The institution said it is working to update its Students Records Management System (SRMS) to reflect the change in time for the new
academic year, beginning September 2025.
Since the State is paying the cost per student, invoices will still be generated internally within the SRMS, but will not be payable by students. However, a glitch in the system has caused some students to still see invoices on their accounts.
“The University appreciates the error being flagged, and regrets any inconve -
jobs, and invest in drainage and irrigation so farmers could return to the land—and we have delivered on all of that,” he said.
Since 2020, the government has created over 60,000 jobs, doubled old age pensions, more than doubled public assistance, lowered income tax rates, and doubled the income tax threshold.
Over 82,000 people have been trained under various programmes, and more than 39,000 scholarships have been awarded, nearly double the 20,000 promised.
Major developments include the construction of new
hospitals nationwide, one of which will open before month-end at Number 75 Village, establishment of the Guyana Technical Training College at Port Mourant, and a new Tourism and Hospitality Training Institute. In Region Six alone, more than 300 residents were recently trained as heavy-duty equipment operators.
Other improvements in the Region, he added, under the PPP/C include new roads, the new Hope Canal and development in every single sector including in agriculture.
Dr. Singh highlighted the
construction of three new Hope-like canals to reduce flooding risks and improve farm irrigation, alongside ongoing road works and the new Hope Canal itself. He underscored the government’s swift response to farmers’ needs, providing planting materials, fertilisers, breeding stock, and on-theground engagement.
“That is the nature of the PPP/C—every single week we are on the ground, listening and delivering,” Dr. Singh said, as the red crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
nience that may have arisen as a result… We deeply appreciate the consideration and gracious patience of our students as the necessary changes to the new system are made and tested in the coming weeks,” UG stated in a release.
The technical team has moved to correct the issue to ensure Guyanese students no longer see the non-billable invoices.
A section of the massive crowd at Corriverton, Region Six
Isuzu’s return signals confidence in
Guyana’s ‘booming economy’ - Minister Edghill
– 2025 MU-X and D-MAX models introduced to local market through Marics
Following his address at the re-introduction of Isuzu to Guyana, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, took time to look at the vehicles, 2025 model MU-X and D-MAX vehicles, which are introduced to Guyana by Marics and Company Limited
GUYANA’S private sector and vehicle enthusiasts have a new reason to celebrate, as Isuzu has officially returned to the local market through Marics and Company Limited.
Now an authorised dealer, Marics has launched the 2025 MU-X and D-MAX models, marking a significant addition to the country’s automotive offerings.
The re-introduction ceremony, held Saturday evening at the Marriott Hotel, featured a keynote address from Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, who lauded the investment as a reflection of Guyana’s rapid economic and infrastructural transformation.
“Investments like these are what happen when a
country is growing, when the economy is booming, when businesses are expanding, and when families are developing more options for leisure,” Minister Edghill said. “People see themselves requiring an upgrade to suit the times in which we are living.”
He described Guyana as “a country in a hurry” since 2020, driven largely by the transformative impact of the oil and gas sector, which has attracted a wave of reputable international companies.
However, the Minister stressed that growth is not confined to oil and gas. He pointed to major developments in connectivity, agriculture, mining, forestry, ICT, micro-enterprises, and regional linkages across South
Officials and representatives from Marics and Isuzu participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the re-introduction of Isuzu vehicles to Guyana
America.
“If you watch and see what has been happening across the country—the connectivity, the expansion for agriculture, for mining, for forestry, for information communication technology, for micro-enterprises, for the movement and connectivity between Guyana and the rest of South America; bringing that seamless transition— Brazil, France, Guyana, Suriname, Guyana, Brazil, and into the rest of South America, developing that corridor,” he said.
Minister Edghill noted that Isuzu’s fuel-efficient technology supports Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, allowing the country to maintain a minimal carbon footprint even as
mobility increases.
“With our low carbon footprint, having fuel efficiency is very, very important. No matter how we expand or grow, we can remain with our green footprint, remain in that zero, and minimise emissions,” he stated.
The Minister also predicted rising demand for reliable vehicles as the government decentralises services nationwide.
“As government service expands—and that will happen because of the decentralisation into the regional system—expanding education, expanding health care, ensuring pure water is to every village, getting ICT and connectivity in every nook and cranny, much, much more movement will take place.
People are still expressing preference for roads versus motorways,” he said.
He concluded his address by thanking both Marics and Company Limited and Isuzu, stating that partnerships like these demonstrate the potential of Guyana’s private sector.
“Thank you for the vote of confidence that you have given in the economy, that you continue to find ways and means of expanding, increasing, and improving. Making the statement, ‘We’re here to stay.’ The private sector is well engaged, and the fiscal incentives that are coming for behavioural ownership, and the fiscal incentives that already exist, make this a solid investment,” he said.
The event also featured remarks from Anand Kalladeen, General Manager of Marics; Jonathan Permaul, Director of Marics; Marcos Garcia, Sales & Marketing Manager for Isuzu Motors International Operations in Panama; and Yosuke Sagara, General Manager of Isuzu Motors International Operations in Thailand.
Guests at the Marriott Hotel were treated to a hands-on experience with the new MU-X and D-MAX models, marking Isuzu’s renewed commitment to the Guyanese market and further expanding consumer choice in the country’s fast-growing automotive sector.
PPP/C’s return to Office could shape Guyana’s economic destiny — Ramkarran
IF the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) secures a comfortable majority in the September 1 General and Regional Elections, Guyana’s economic trajectory could be decisively shaped for decades to come, according to political activist, Senior Counsel Ralph Ramkarran.
Writing in his most recent Conversation Tree column, Ramkarran said, “If, as expected, the PPP is returned to office with a comfortable majority at the elections on September 1, Guyana’s economic destiny will truly be shaped.”
He noted that the framework for this transformation is already visible, with a significant share of national income, dominated by oil revenues, being channelled into health, education, and infrastructure.
“Every indication is that as Guyana’s income grows, these expenditures will grow substantially,” Ramkarran observed, describing such investment as the proven foundation for countries that have successfully transitioned from poverty to developed or advanced developing status.
TESTED STRATEGY FOR GROWTH
- says intensified investment in health, education and infrastructure key to sustained growth
Attorney-at-Law Ralph Ramkarran,SC
According to the Senior Counsel, the policy has been “tried and tested” over the past five years, and, if intensified with increased
oil revenues, could cement Guyana’s future as “a vastly developed nation with at least regional, if not international clout”.
As he went on to explain, “This strategy has been tried and tested over the past five years, and if the next government intensifies this course with greater oil income, Guyana’s future destiny as a vastly developed nation with at least regional, if not international clout, is assured. Guyana’s development would have a positive impact on the economic fortunes of the region.”
However, Ramkarran cautioned that the oil resource is finite, and that there is always a risk of contracting the Dutch disease, where dependence on oil could weaken other sectors.
As such, he welcomed the government’s parallel emphasis on agriculture, mining, and tourism, supported by private investment to diversify the economy.
On the issue of poverty reduction, he urged realism, warning that progress is often slow, and can be hampered by unforeseen challenges.
Nonetheless, he expressed hope that within the next five years, growing oil revenues could be strategically used to offset the high cost of living, particularly through targeted support for vulnerable groups.
Minister Edghill emphasised that the reintroduction and continued investment by international companies like Isuzu reflect the significant growth seen in Guyana’s private sector
How Abigale John is ‘brewing’ success in Buxton
IN the East Coast Demerara village of Buxton, 38-year-old entrepreneur, Abigale John, is building a name for herself in Guyana’s agro-processing sector with her brand ‘Propa Local’, producing herbal teas, fruit-flavoured vinegars, and wines from locally grown fruits and plants.
Coming from a long line of farmers, agro-processors, and skilled tradespeople, John’s roots are firmly grounded in agricultural tradition. For four generations, her family has farmed in Guyana—today led by her brother, who operates the family farm at Canal #1 Polder, West Bank Demerara.
During an interview with
the John family has produced pineapples on a large scale. In 2019, Abigale saw an opportunity to diversify beyond wines. She began experimenting with pineapple vinegar, which quickly became a customer favourite for marinades and salads. Soon after, she introduced other fruit-flavoured vinegars, including anti-desma and mango varieties.
She revealed that the pineapple vinegar was born, and it was an instant favourite for customers and then she also introduced other fruit-flavoured vinegars.
As a Buxtonian, she decided to launch her small business with the brand “Propa Local”, introducing her line of herbal
the Guyana Chronicle, John said her venture was born out of the need to earn a living after her small tee-shirt printing business began to decline.
Under the guidance of her uncle, Aubrey John, the family’s expert winemaker, she switched gears during the COVID-19 pandemic and started making wines from local fruits supplied by the family farm.
Before launching her own label, she had actively promoted her uncle’s GG Wines, selling them from her home in Middle Walk, seaside Buxton, and marketing them on the local airwaves with passion.
This experience opened doors and inspired her to branch out on her own.
FROM PINEAPPLES TO NEW PRODUCTS
For more than 70 years,
—turns family farming legacy into thriving agro-processing business, ‘Propa Local’
abroad. A chance experience, gifting visitors bottles of pineapple vinegar along with their wine purchases, proved to be a breakthrough, with rave reviews encouraging her to expand production.
She has also showcased her products at both local and overseas expos and will be exhibiting at Guyana’s Largest Building Expo from August 14 to 17 at the National Stadium.
From her showroom and
processing facility in Buxton, John employs one full-time worker and engages six local youths on a part-time basis. They pick moringa leaves, jamoon, and other fruits, earning income while contributing to the business.
Currently, John is upgrading her packaging and maintaining ISO GY 9001 certification, ensuring her products meet international quality standards.
teas, wines and vinegars, all available on the local market. When her own business of tee-shirt printing died, she wanted to venture into winemaking to recoup losses and take a chance on a new business and in 2022, her wine-making business was conceptualised.
John’s persistence has paid off. She has since become certified and registered, earning the ‘Made in Guyana’ mark of approval from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) in 2024. Her products are now available at the Guyana Shop on Robb Street, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), and select mini-marts at gas stations.
Her biggest customer base is overseas-based Guyanese who purchase products to take
Abigale John of ‘Propa Local’
The locally produced wines
The different flavours of teas on sale
The three flavours of vinegars produced
‘We are fighting against racism and criminality’ – Jagdeo says
WITH just weeks to go before Guyanese head to the polls, the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is sounding an alarm, warning of attempts to incite racial tension and efforts to use political office as a shield against criminal accountability.
Addressing a massive rally at Bath, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), on Sunday night, PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo accused the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) of engaging in divisive, racebased politics, while branding the newly-formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party a political front for US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed.
“In this election, we are not fighting parties with policies; we are fighting two things: Racism and criminality,” Jagdeo told the charged crowd.
Taking aim at APNU, he charged that the opposition has failed to present credible plans for Guyana’s development.
“We don’t have opponents with real plans for the future; just some spewing racism, and one man hoping a seat in Parliament will save him from jail,” Jagdeo said to
loud applause.
Turning his attention to WIN, the PPP/C General Secretary alleged that the party’s primary goal is to shield Mohamed from legal consequences.
“This is a party trying to protect one man from criminality,” Jagdeo declared, adding that Mohamed’s legal troubles have already led to revoked visas and frozen bank accounts for some of
his associates, several of whom are now seeking political refuge.
Jagdeo urged Region Five voters to see through what he described as the “desperate tactics” of opposition-aligned forces, stressing that the PPP/C’s focus remains on uniting Guyanese and delivering real development.
“We don't have opponents who have any plan for
their future,” he said. “We have people who are spreading racism.”
The General Secretary reiterated that the PPP/C has long positioned itself as a party of national unity, a commitment reflected in the massive, multi-ethnic turnouts at rallies and public meetings across the country.
“When I look upon the crowd, and I see the vast numbers and the diversity
Misleading to equate Mohameds’ sanctions to China Railway’s
FINANCIAL
- financial analyst sets the record straight
analyst Joel Bhagwandin has cautioned against misleading comparisons between different types of U.S. sanctions, noting that distortions can erode the public’s understanding and mask the seriousness of grave offences.
In detailed statements posted on his Facebook pages, Bhagwandin addressed a post circulating online which sought to equate sanctions imposed by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on the Chinese company contracted to build Guyana’s new Demerara Harbour Bridge with those placed on Mohamed’s Enterprise and its principals in Guyana.
In August last year, the Bank of Guyana confirmed that all banks in Guyana have closed accounts they had with the Mohamed family and their businesses following US sanctions for their alleged roles in public corruption.
Azruddin, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11, 2024 were sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which oversees sanctions against individuals and entities tied to illicit activities and hostile
foreign governments.
However, Bhagwandin stressed that the two cases are “fundamentally different in scope, intent, and impact”.
He explained that the Chinese firm, China Railway Construction, was sanctioned under a capital market restriction pursuant to a US Executive Order targeting companies linked to the Chinese military. This measure prohibits US persons from investing in the company’s securities, but does not freeze assets or impose trade bans.
“OFAC did not impose asset freezes or trade bans on this firm,” Bhagwandin stated, noting that the company remains operational globally, and is not prohibited under
of the people, it makes me immensely proud about this party, and how big we have grown. It causes me to think that our party, long into the future, will continue to lead this country,” he said, adding:
“We have committed every single day to work for all Guyanese, regardless of their race, their religion, their gender. Because of that, we have seen this gigantic success.”
After sharply criticising the opposition parties, Jagdeo turned his attention to the PPP/C’s record while in government, citing the restoration of economic stability, investment in education, and measures to reduce poverty
since 2020.
“When you vote for the PPP, you’re voting to continue what we started in 2020 to restore life back in the country. We have to help people who live in poverty. We have to take care of the children. We are now making university education free. We gave them back their grants. We are paying for eight CXC subjects,” he said.
A Party committed to uplifting every Guyanese, Jagdeo reaffirmed that the PPP/C will continue rolling out a wide range of policies and programmes aimed at transforming lives, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
international law from participating in projects.
By contrast, he said, the sanctions on the Mohameds and associated entities were issued under Executive Order 13818, which implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. These sanctions were imposed for alleged money laundering, gold smuggling, drug trafficking, and public corruption.
These measures include full blocking sanctions — all property and interests in property within U.S. jurisdiction are frozen; US persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with the sanctioned individuals or entities; and they are cut off from the
US financial system.
In a follow-up post, Bhagwandin explained that the restrictions on Chinese companies fall under Executive Order 14032, issued by former US President Joe Biden in June 2021. This order targets publicly-traded securities of companies connected to the Chinese military-industrial complex and surveillance technology sector.
He pointed out that dozens of major Chinese corporations, including Huawei, China Mobile, and CNOOC are under the same investment restrictions, yet continue to operate internationally.
“The sanctions are not equivalent in scope, intent, or impact,” Bhagwandin reiterated. “The Chinese firm faces investment restrictions, while the Guyanese individuals and entities face comprehensive sanctions for serious criminal conduct. Misrepresenting these facts undermines public understanding and distracts from the gravity of the offences committed,” he said.
PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams photo)
An aerial view of the massive turnout at the Bath rally
Mustapha rallies Region Six behind PPP/C’s development agenda
THE People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has emphasised its record of delivery, outlining key policy successes that have shaped the transformation of communities across Guyana under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali.
Speaking in Hampshire, Corentyne on Tuesday last, Executive Secretary of the PPP/C and Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, said that the party's policies have led to significant im-
ress is visible across all ten regions. “The transformation is felt in classrooms, clinics, marketplaces, and homes across the country,” he noted.
He also underscored the government’s people-centred governance approach. “We listen to your views and take them on board and that is how we are crafting our manifesto,” he said, reiterating the PPP/C’s commitment to inclusive, responsive leadership.
Mustapha reminded cit-
2020,” he said.
Addressing a packed gathering, Mustapha declared: “The PPP/C has delivered without a shadow of a doubt.”
He added, “Our party doesn’t make empty promises. We make commitments, and more importantly we deliver on them.
From the coastlands to the hinterland, every Guyanese can see the transformation unfolding under President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C administration.”
Encouraging voter
provements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, and job creation.
He highlighted the government's clear development agenda, citing investments in improved roads, water, electricity, and the modernisation of key sectors. He relayed that, as the Minister of Agriculture, he saw firsthand the impact of the party’s policies. Farmers who were once neglected are now receiving the tools, training, and support they need to thrive. Drainage and irrigation systems have been overhauled. Markets have been expanded. And the agro-processing sector is booming, he stated.
Mustapha pointed to tangible outcomes in communities, from bridges and roads to schools and clinics, noting that prog -
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, addresses residents of Hampshire, Corentyne
izens that when the PPP/C returned to office in 2020, Guyana was grappling with stagnation, deteriorating public services, and a weakened economy.
“The country was in a state of regression. Key sectors such as agriculture, education, health, water, and infrastructure had suffered years of neglect and mismanagement,” he stated. He emphasised that it was under the PPP/C that a turnaround began.
As the nation heads into elections, Mustapha called on voters to reflect on what is at stake.
“This election is not just about seats, but rather it is about securing the future of a nation that is on the rise. It is about continuing the journey of transformation that began with the return of capable, committed leadership in
turnout on September 1st, Mustapha stressed, “We can have the largest rally and all the grand public meetings, but the most important thing is to ensure on elections day every single person turns out to vote.”
As he closed, Mustapha expressed high confidence in the party’s support. He said Region Six has been challenged by PPP/C General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo to deliver over 55,000 votes.
“I have confidence in you, I know the resilience of the Berbice people and the people in Region Six and I know that when the votes will be tabulated on the night of election that Region Six will deliver to the Peoples Progressive Party the highest number of votes in the history of our party.”
Guyanese pugilists win...
having the heart of a lion, he could not get up.
Desmond Amsterdam had an auspicious professional debut, knocking Romeo Norville to the canvas in 1:10 seconds in the opening round of their four-round catch-weight fight.
In the other professional bout on the Card, Edmond Declou from Linden, and Guyanese-born Barbadian
Charwin Estwick were engaged in battle for the vacant National Super Middleweight title over 10 rounds.
The taller Declou was having the better of Estwick when an accidental clash of heads opened a cut on Estwick’s face.
This caused the doctor to stop the contest in the fourth round. The fight ended in a no-contest.
(From back page)
In the Amateur bouts: Josh Chester beat Itavius Vanderstoop in the Featherweight division.
Ryan Roger beat Curtis McDonald in the Lightweight division Terron Wintz beat Justice Joseph of St. Lucia in the Junior Welterweight division.
Abiola Jackman beat Merlicia Durham in the Heavyweight division.
Several Bangladesh cricketers fail to live up to...
management told Cricbuzz on Sunday. "Few others also did well, but at the same time there were couple of cricketers who could not meet our expectations."
A fitness camp is currently underway before starting skill training for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Netherlands home followed by the Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates,.
Mehedi Hasan Miraz finished second in the first batch, completing the run
(From page 22)
in 6 minutes and 1 second while Mushfiqur Rahim, who has retired from One Day Internationals and T20s, completed the 1600 metres in 6 minutes and 10 seconds, finishing third.
Tanzim Hasan Sakib finished the 1600 metres in 5 minutes and 53 seconds in the second group comprising 15 cricketers. Following him was Shahadat Hossain Dipu, who completed it in 6 minutes, and Parvez Hossain Emon came third with 6 minutes and 13 seconds.
Guyana’s Combined Force...
nese team home in a reduced game due to a late start.
Scores: Hibiscus (62 all out in 14. 5 overs), Combined Forces 63-4 in 13 overs)
The Trinidadians won the toss and elected to bat on a slow pitch and a heavy outfield in bright sunshine.
But only Sherika Campbell, who hit a six and four in her 16 offered any resistance as Extras top scored with 21.
Yonette Welcome (2-7) and Varuni Pitamber (2-3) supported Madramootoo. When the home team began their reply with a
Six cricketers from the 25-member preliminary camp missed the fitness test, which includes T20 captain Liton Kumar Das and Towhid Hridoy. Four other cricketers who are part of the 'A' team tour of Australia - Nurul Hasan Sohan, Saif Hasan, Afif Hossain, and Mahidul Islam Ankonalso missed the test. Following the fitness camp, the players will move to Sylhet on August 20 for the skill training camp. (Cricbuzz)
(From page 23)
good partnership between Crystal Durant (15) and Naomi Barkoy (18) while Madramootoo contributed 10. Zaheera Mohit took 2-10 After a rest day today the seres resumes tomorrow at the same venue when game two will be contested. (Sean Devers)
David, Hazlewood star as Australia make it record nine T20Is wins in a row
AUSTRALIA extended its T20I match-winning streak to a record nine games and pulled off its lowest successful defence against South Africa despite losing six wickets inside the first eight overs.
Amid an explosive start, Australia stumbled to 75 for 6 before Tim David's superbly-constructed 52-ball 83 and seventh-wicket stand of 59 with Ben Dwarshuis took them to a match-winning total. Mitchell Marsh has now won 22 out of 25 matches as T20I captain.
(Scores: Australia 178 (David 83, Maphaka 4-20) beat South Africa 161 for 9 (Rickelton 71, Dwarshuis 3-26, Hazlewood 3-27) by 17 runs)
As much as South Africa were blown away by Australia's ultra-aggressive batting approach they also have themselves to blame for letting their hosts get away.
South Africa dropped four catches - including David on 56 - though they bowled Australia out for the first time in 26 T20I meetings.
The biggest positive was the performance of left-armer Kwena Maphaka who, at 19 years and 124 days old, became the youngest bowler from a Full Member country to take a T20I four-wicket haul. It was not enough to limit Australia to a chaseable score.
South Africa's downfall was their lack of power hitting. They struck only two
sixes compared to Australia's 13 (and David was responsible for eight on his own) and appeared to be specialist batter short. By the time George Linde arrived at the crease at No. 6, South Africa needed 59 runs off 33 balls and Josh Hazlewood had broken the game's best partnership of 72 between Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs. He would also end Linde's stay to finish with 3 for 26.
Adam Zampa took two wickets in two balls and South Africa lost four wickets for three runs in the space of 10 balls to all but end their chase. Rickelton batted until the last over, when South Africa needed 21 runs to win, and was stunningly caught by Glenn Maxwell on the boundary. Dwarshuis also picked up three wickets as South Africa finished 17 runs short.
AUSTRALIA'S ROLLICKING START
Australia batted first for the first time in seven T20Is and wasted no time showing their intent. Marsh slammed Lungi Ngidi over long-off to mark only the second time Australia have started a match with a six. Ngidi's opening over cost 14. Their big test was always going to come against Kagiso Rabada, who only conceded one run off his first four balls, then had Head dropped at point and caught at short third to win the opening exchange.
Josh Inglis was out for
Tim David was left needing to repair the damage, which he did magnificently (Getty
a duck as he tried to slice a square drive over point off Linde, who was then taken for 14 runs off three balls. The best was yet to come. When Marsh skied Rabada to deep backward square, David hit him for six down the ground. Corbin Bosch's first over was the most expensive of his short T20I career so far and Ngidi was taken for 10 in two balls before he took pace off and removed the in-form Cameron Green off the penultimate ball of the powerplay. Australia had accumulated 71 by then: their second-highest in a powerplay against South Africa and the highest in their last six matches, which includes the five in West Indies Muthusamy reels them in Maphaka quietened things down after the powerplay with an over that went for four and brought the
Second boxer dies from brain injury after Tokyo event
A SECOND Japanese boxer has died from a brain injury suffered at an event in Tokyo.
Hiromasa Urakawa, 28, died on Saturday after he was beaten via knockout in the eighth round of his fight with Yoji Saito on August 2.
It follows the death of Shigetoshi Kotari, on Friday, from injuries sustained during a separate bout on the same card at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall. Both boxers underwent surgery for subdural haematoma - a condition where blood collects between the skull and the brain.
The World Boxing Or -
ganisation (WBO) said, it "mourns the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito".
It added: "This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time."
Following the event, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) announced all Oriental
…The home side was in trouble on 74 for 6 but Tim David constructed a superb innings then the bowlers were impressive
wicket of Mitchell Owen and had excellent support from left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy. Maxwell, batting at No. 7, tried the reverse sweep, the flick and drive before he sliced Muthusamy to deep cover where Linde took an excellent running catch. Muthusamy's second over was just as good as he maintained a tight line to Dwarshuis and David and conceded only one. After two overs, his analysis read: 2-02-1 and he finished with 1 for 24 off four overs.
DAVID STANDS ALONE
At 75 for 6 in the eighth over, Australia was in danger of not batting out the innings but David not only ensured they did but that they got to a defendable score. David's six-hitting against the short ball was particularly impressive, from his flat-batted pull off Maphaka in the ninth over to the swivel-pull off Bosch in the 13th, which came two balls before he smoked Bosch through the covers to bring up 50.
But it was the way he made South Africa pay for dropping him that stung most. David was on 56 when Stubbs put down a skier at long-on and went on to hit Muthusamy for massive back-to-back sixes followed
by another against Ngidi's slower ball. Seven of his eight sixes were scored in front of square and four in the 'V'. David added 27 runs after he was put down. He was in sight for a second hundred before he was caught at long-on with 10 balls left in the innings.
MAXWELL MAKES HIS MARK WITH THE BALL
From opening in West Indies, Maxwell found himself at No. 7 but played a vital role in the field. He shared the new ball as a matchup against the left-handed Rickelton and caused problems. He convinced Marsh to review an lbw call against Rickelton off his fourth ball when he beat the outside edge but the batter survived on umpire's call.
When Maxwell changed ends, Rickelton still could not get him away (two runs off six balls against him) and he also had a plan against another left-hander, Lhuandre Pretorius. Maxwell had a long-off in place and dished it up full, Pretorius went inside-out and picked out the fielder. Maxwell bowled his full quota of four overs, finishing with 1 for 29, and took two decisive catches to cap off a good performance.
Hazlewood has the (al -
most) final say but Maxwell adds the full stop
Hazlewood, back in the side after missing the West Indies series, took the first wicket when Aiden Markram, who hit three boundaries off his first five balls, drove him to cover and then made the breakthrough that all but won the game. He was brought in the 15th over when South Africa needed 60 runs to win and with a partnership that was threatening.
Rickelton and Stubbs had put on 72 off 52 balls when Hazlewood bowled a cross seam delivery to Stubbs, who tried to pull but bottom-edged through to Inglis. Australia inserted a slip and, three balls later, Hazlewood ended a game-changing over when he bowled it back of a length, Linde played across the line and got a thick edge. Maxwell completed the catch at slip but something far more spectacular would follow in the final over.
Maxwell was on the long-on boundary when Rickelton, who had given South Africa a glimmer despite battling for fluency, tried to hit Dwarshuis for six but jumped over the rope, parried the ball back in and completed the catch without touching the boundary or breaking a sweat.
Labuschagne ready to return as Test opener
AUSTRALIA Test batter, Marnus Labuschagne, has been out of the Australia Test lineup since the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025.
and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts will now be 10 rounds instead of 12.
Japanese media reported that the JBC has launched an investigation and is planning to hold a meeting in September to discuss the deaths.
Urakawa is the third high-profile boxer to die in 2025 after Irishman John Cooney passed away in February following a fight in Belfast.
Cooney, age 28, died after suffering an intracranial haemorrhage from his fight against Welshman Nathan Howell. (BBC Sport)
Following the final, he was dropped in the West Indies after a considerable poor run in the format, where he averaged 33.08 since December 2022.
Now the batter is plotting his return to the international red-ball format, and is ready to take up the role of an opener in the upcoming Ashes series.
“I would be happy to do that [open batting] - I would love to,'' he told News Corp in an interview. "If opener is where I need to bat to be playing in the Test team, that's fine."
Opening is not Labuschagne’s natural suit, but Cameron Green had an impressive run in seaming conditions
at No. 3, which was Labuschagne’s older role. Green scored 184 runs in six innings in the West Indies.
This might mean that Labuschagne could be asked to try his luck as an opener yet again, and the batter was more than ready to give it a go. Marnus Labuschagne was too rapid for Mahmudullah
as the Bangladesh batter fell short on a quick single during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023
“If you had asked me where I prefer to bat, obviously I have batted at three my whole career, but at this stage you don't get a choice. I opened in the World Test Championship final and felt I batted quite well. I got in but did not go on with it.”
Labuschagne scored 39 runs over two innings in the final at Lord’s, getting starts but failing to convert them. But the batter, who plays three Sheffield Shield games before the Australia home Tests, can still be in consideration given Sam Konstas’ dry run in the West Indies (50 runs from six innings).
Labuschagne is still a part of the ODI setup, and can feature in the upcoming three-game series against South Africa. (ICC Media)
Images)
Aussie batter Marnus Labuschagne
Crystal Palace beat Liverpool on penalties to win Community Shield
CRYSTAL Palace started the new season with a suddenly familiar feeling, basking in trophy glory as triumphant underdogs at Wembley.
The FA Cup holders beat Premier League champions Liverpool 3-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw to win an enthralling Community Shield on Sunday.
Goalkeeper Dean Henderson was the shootout hero for Palace as he saved from Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott, while Mohamed Salah sent his kick over the bar.
It allowed 21-year-old midfielder Justin Devenny, sent on as a stoppage-time substitute, to smash the winning penalty past Alisson.
Palace, who had not won a major trophy in their history until this year, have now earned two in three months at Wembley, having snatched the first at Manchester City's expense.
They are also the first club to win the Community Shield on their debut in the match for 50 years, since Derby County in 1975.
Spot-kicks provided a thrilling conclusion to one of the most exciting season openers in years, in which the drama started in just the fourth minute.
Four of Liverpool's five major summer signings start-
ed, and two of those players combined to brilliant effect in the early moments at sundrenched Wembley.
Florian Wirtz, Liverpool's £116m record signing, fed Hugo Ekitike on the edge of the box and the French striker turned and struck a low right-foot shot into the far bottom right corner, beyond the diving Henderson. Palace were undaunted and deservedly equalised 13 minutes later when JeanPhilippe Mateta slotted in from the spot after Virgil van Dijk fouled Ismaila Sarr. Mateta would also score in the shootout later.
But soon after, yet another Liverpool newcomer stepped up as right-back Jeremie Frimpong jinked into the Palace box and chipped what looked like a cross over Henderson, the ball hitting the far post and bouncing in.
Moments earlier, Liverpool's supporters had been paying a 20th-minute tribute to Diogo Jota, the forward who wore the number 20 shirt for the club before his tragic death in a car crash last month.
Ekitike should have extended the Reds' advantage in the opening minute of the second half but guided a header wide from inside the six-yard box. The new signing from Eintracht Frankfurt also blazed over from 12 yards.
Liverpool were made to pay when Ismaila Sarr was played onside by Frimpong and finished clinically in off the post.
Palace felt they should then have had a penalty when Mac Allister appeared to handle a cross, but the onfield decision was upheld by the video assistant referee (VAR), before Devenny was inches away from scoring the winner in the final seconds.
However, Palace's Northern Ireland midfielder would soon have his moment in the sun.
Palace celebrate and await Uefa judgement day
A big moment is com -
Brave cruises to victory over struggling Phoenix
ENGLAND’S Jofra Archer took 2-16 as Southern Brave comfortably beat struggling Birmingham Phoenix by nine wickets in the men's Hundred.
Archer and New Zealand spinner Michael Bracewell, who took 3-10, restricted Phoenix to 106-7, with Joe Clarke's 36 and Ben Duckett's 20 the only contributions of note.
It was a formidable performance from Brave's bowling attack, led by the pace of Archer and Chris Jordan, as they were in control throughout, after winning the toss.
Duckett was caught behind off Jordan, Jacob Bethell was bowled by Bracewell for one before
to end Phoenix's hopes of posting a competitive total.
Brave started their chase cautiously, reaching 28-0 after the 25-ball powerplay, but increased their run-rate before James Vince was dismissed for 41 from 30 having added 75 for the first wicket with Leus du Plooy.
Du Plooy finished unbeaten on 48 from 39 balls with former England opener, Jason Roy, adding 18 as they cruised to their below-par target with 19 balls to spare.
ing for Palace on Monday, when they will discover from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) whether their appeal against demotion from the Europa League has been successful.
But there was no evidence of the 'Sunday scaries' - that dread of what lies in wait on Monday - for the Eagles.
Just as in the FA Cup final against Manchester City, Oliver Glasner's team refused to take a step backwards against one of English football's heavyweights.
Manager Glasner looked to recapture the glorious feelings stoked by their last visit to Wembley, naming the
same starting XI he chose for the cup final.
For a while, the magic seemed to be absent.
Two moments of sluggish defending in wide areas cost Palace in the first half, while Henderson perhaps should have moved his feet quicker in reaction to both goals.
But they rode out the Liverpool storm, led once again by captain Marc Guehi who as ever put every ounce of sweat and blood into his performance. Palace will be desperate for him to stay, amid links to Liverpool this summer.
And Henderson stepped up when it counted most,
saving two penalties at the same end where he stopped Omar Marmoush's spot-kick in May's cup final Liverpool falls short on emotional day
This was Liverpool's first competitive game since the deaths of Jota and his brother Andre Silva, so there was an emotional intensity that made the occasion strikingly different to previous Community Shields.
Wreaths were laid in honour and memory of Jota and Silva before kick-off, before a minute's silence which was cut short amid noise from the crowd.
There was particular poignancy about both Liverpool goals.
The first came thanks to good team play off the left wing, the position where Jota served Liverpool so well for five seasons.
The second goal came after Liverpool fans stood and applauded in memory of their former player.
Jota would have been proud of the confidence and impudence that Frimpong showed in beating Palace’s full-back, Tyrick Mitchell. He would have enjoyed the end result too - whether Frimpong meant it or not. Ultimately, though, Liverpool was not quite able to win their 17th Community Shield. (BBC Sport)
Several Bangladesh cricketers fail to live up to standards in new fitness test
Nahid Rana impressed in the fitness training, few other cricketers failed to live up to the expectations in the 1600-metre running at the National Stadium on Sunday.
at mid-off with eight balls remaining
Brave joins defending champions, Oval Invincibles, at the top of the table with two wins from two, while Phoenix have lost both of their opening matches. (BBC Sport)
Earlier, players' fitness was monitored by the YoYo or beep tests. However, since the arrival of the new strength and conditioning coach, Nathan Keily, the team management has opted for the 1600-metre run and the 40-metre sprint to test the fitness of players.
It was learnt pacer Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed along with Tanvir Islam and Shamim Patowary took nearly eight minutes to complete the 1600-me -
ter run. Rana, on the other hand, was the best among the 22 cricketers who took part in the fitness test, completing the 1600-metre run in just 5 minutes and 31 seconds. "Rana was just outstanding," a member of the team
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Crystal Palace celebrates winning the Community Shield for the first time
Archer removed Liam Livingstone for 12 and had Clarke caught
Jofra Archer took 2-16 as Brave dominated Phoenix
WHILE
Mushfiqur Rahim was among the fastest to complete the 1600-metre run
Rutherford blitz, Chase's control hands West Indies series-levelling win
WEST Indies overcame Pakistan's spinners as well as the weather to power home by five wickets to level the series 1-1.
In a chase which ebbed and flowed, a blitz from Sherfane Rutherford and a controlled innings at the death by Roston Chase saw them home with two overs to spare.
Their task was made significantly harder than it might have been when Jayden Seales' standout fast-bowling performance had restricted Pakistan to 171 for 7 in 37 overs. The target was slightly upwards, owing to multiple rain delays in the first innings.
(Scores: West Indies 184 for 5 (Chase 49*, Rutherford 45, Mohammad Nawaz 2-17) beat Pakistan 171 for 7 (Hasan Nawaz 36*, Talat 31, Seales 3-23) by 5 wickets) Pakistan were put in to bat first, and played stodgy cricket inconsistent with the decade they were playing it in. Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub found the occasional Powerplay boundary but interspersed it with strings of dot deliveries; the first ten overs saw just five singles taken.
When extra pace and canny field placement extracted an outside edge from Ayub in the ninth over, it was the ninth successive ball the lefthander had faced which had not produced a run. Three balls later, Babar Azam was cleaned up by a Seales special that burst through the gate and made a mess of his stumps, and put West Indies firmly on top.
Jayden Seales flew high in a match-winning three-for (AFP/Getty Images)
It brought Mohammad Rizwan out, but he appeared to have left positivity behind in the dressing room; he scored just 4 off his first 23 deliveries.
A shower that delayed play by 90 minutes did not help Pakistan find their rhythm. Jediah Blades took his maiden ODI wicket by drawing an edge from Shafique that ended his battle of an innings the over after play resumed.
As run-scoring became an increasing struggle, West Indies' spinners and seamers alike kept making inroads.
Gudakesh Motie trapped the Pakistan captain in front.
Roston Chase got a ball to keep low and produce an under edge off Hussain Talat's bat to conclude his comparatively brighter innings.
Salman Ali Agha struggled to see any scoring area beside the little dab to deep third, and when Shamar Joseph surprised him with the straighter bouncer, a top edge sent him packing.
A further rain delay truncated the game to Pakistan's benefit, with the innings winding down, allowing Hasan Nawaz to go for broke in what became seven death overs. Cruelly for Pakistan, though, that stubborn cloud unloaded its contents upon the Brian Lara Stadium once more, just as he had begun to get going. That little passage of play saw 32 scored in 3.1 overs, but Pakistan were denied a big finish with their final three overs wiped out.
West Indies were set an entirely manageable 181 in 35 overs, though Hasan Ali's
Guyana’s Combined Force beat Hibiscus of Trinidad in women’s cricket
A USEFUL all-round performance from Guyana’s player, Tilleya Madramootoo, spearheaded Combined Force of Guyana to a six-wicket win against the visiting Hibiscus team from Trinidad yesterday at the Malteenoes ground to go 1-0 in their five-match women’s T20 series.
Player-of-the-Match, Madramootoo, captured 2-4 before returning to hit an unbeaten 10 to see the Guya-
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opening salvo soon cast that expectation into jeopardy. Wickets in each of his first two overs sent the openers back, and the hosts found themselves stuck in the same mire that dogged Pakistan.
Rizwan, sensing an opportunity to strangle, brought the spinners in after six overs, with Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed producing the desired results.
The scoring rate briefly slowed to a trickle, particularly as far as Keacy Carty was concerned. His first 26 balls produced just three singles, piling the pressure on his captain at the other end. An intriguing plot point concerned Pakistan's fifth bowling option; the one over Ayub had bowled leaked 10, and another from Agha shed another 11.
With a newly-arrived Rutherford, and the asking
rate over six, Rizwan made the fateful decision of turning to Shaheen Afridi, and the batter picked his moment.
Two fours and a six saw him plunder 17 that over, and with Rizwan turning immediately to the part-time Agha, another 20 were lopped off the target.
It bought West Indies the cushion to see off the primary spinners Abrar and Mohammad Nawaz more respectfully, but the pair weren't content with containment. Nawaz found extra turn to have Hope stumped before, in what felt like a game-turning moment, he induced Rutherford into a smear that found square leg. It was part of an eight-over period that saw just 17 scored, but, just as significantly, Pakistan had bowled out Nawaz. Chase slapped a couple of sixes the following Ayub over to
wrench the asking rate below six once more, and it was there that it would stay for the rest of the game.
The returning fast bowlers never packed the same threat, and West Indies began to milk them in addition to finding the odd boundary that took the game further out of the visitors' reach. Justin Greaves had looked uncertain against the turn, but was impressively assured now, a wristy flick over mid-on for six off Hasan Ali perhaps the shot of the innings. By now, the equation was purely mathematical, with Chase's crisp drive through the offside sealing a topsy-turvy win on a day that promised each outcome at a certain point, before settling on the one the Trinidad crowd had come to witness. (ESPN Cricinfo)
SCOREBOARD
PAKISTAN
Saim Ayub c Greaves b Seales 23
Abdullah Shafique c Motie b Blades 26
Babar Azam b Seales 0
*+Mohammad Rizwan lbw b Motie 16
Hussain Talat c +Hope b Joseph 31
Salman Agha c +Hope b Joseph 9
Hasan Nawaz not out 36
Mohammad Nawaz c Motie b Seales 5
Shaheen Afridi not out 11
Extras (b2, nb1, w11) 14
TOTAL (seven wickets; 37 overs) 171
Did not bat: Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed. Fall of wickets: 1-37, 2-37, 3-64, 4-88, 5-114, 6-114, 7-143.
Bowling: Seales 7-2-23-3, Blades 7-046-1, Joseph 7-1-27-1, Motie 8-0-31-1, Greaves 2-0-16-0, Chase 6-0-26-1.
WEST INDIES
Brandon King c +Rizwan b Ali 1
Evin Lewis c +Rizwan b Ali 7
Keacy Carty b Ahmed 16
*+Shai Hope st +Rizwan b M Nawaz 32 Sherfane Rutherford c Shafique b M Nawaz 45
Roston Chase not out 49
Justin Greaves not out 26
Extras (lb8) 8
TOTAL (five wickets; 33.2 overs) 184
Did not bat: Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, Jediah Blades. Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-12, 3-48, 4-102, 5-107.
Bowling: Afridi 6-0-35-0, Ali 6.2-1-35-2, Ahmed 7-0-23-1, M Nawaz 7-0-17-2, Ayub 4-0-33-0, Agha 3-0-33-0. Player-of-the-Match: Roston Chase.
Tapper inks deal with sportswear giants Adidas
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – MEGAN Tapper, Jamaica’s women’s national 100 metre hurdles champion, has signed a four-year professional contract with Adidas.
The 31-year-old, who captured bronze at the 2020 Olympics, said she was delighted to sign the deal with one of the largest athletic apparel and sportswear brands in the world.
“At 31, I’m not slowing down, I’m levelling up. Honoured to sign a four-year deal with Adidas as we chase greatness, stride for stride in three stripes,” Tapper said.
Tapper, who produced a personal best 12.34 seconds to win her fourth national title at the Jamaican Championships back in June, has been in tremendous form in 2025. She also clocked the same time at the prestigious Meeting International
in Monaco in July.
(From left) Tilleya Madramootoo, Varuni Pitamber and Yonette Welcome shared six wickets among them (Sean Devers photo)
d’Athlétisme Herculis EBS Diamond League
Megan Tapper, Jamaica’s national 100 metre hurdles champion
By Sean Devers
THE Guyanese pugilists won their fights against their overseas opponents when the curtains came down in the wee hours of the morning on Sunday, as International Boxing returned to the refurbished Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The event was promoted by Mike Goberdhan, Pinegrove Promotions, Elton Dharry and Nex Gen Promotions and sanctioned by the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) and the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA).
The super-fight card included nine bouts and a fashion show during the break between the four amateur bouts and the five professional fights.
valle, and Minister of Communications Kwame McCoy, were also among the vocal crowd. Chow Pow made his debut as Ring Announcer and did a good job.
In the feature bout, 39-year-old former Guyana National, IBF Intercontinental bantamweight and
Guyanese pugilists win as international Boxing returns to refurbished Sports Hall
The Card, which included a female contest, was sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Ramchand’s Auto, Pine Grove Inn Steak and Seafood Restaurant, and Super Bet Guyana.
A fair-sized gathering, which included National Squash players, while Mike Parris, who celebrated the 45th Anniversary of winning Guyana’s only Olympic medal with a fitness walk yesterday, was among several former Boxing Champions who were entertained by music from the Daks New Generation sound system.
Director of Sport and GBA President Steve Nin -
the WBA Fedecentro super-flyweight Champion, Guyana-born USA-based Elton Dharry, was taken the full eight rounds in a close fight against Roger Saldana in their Super Flyweight clash.
In the end, Dharry took his record to Total fights 34 fights, 27 wins with six defeats and a draw by a unanimous decision.
However, scores from the three judges did not truly reflect how close the fight was.
Saldana caught Dharry with some good shots in the opening round, and was the busier of the two boxers.
Although Dharry retaliated with some well-executed jabs, the Colombian continued coming forward. After four rounds, he had thrown more punches.
Round Five was the best round for Dharry, who hails from the island of Leguan on the Essequibo River.
Saldana, who was saved by the bell, demonstrated an aggressive style, but was backed up against the ropes by
Dharry, who executed some telling combinations to the body and head.
In the penultimate round, Dharry caught his man with a clinical upper cut, but the Colombian counter-attacked as the pair traded blows.
In the final round, both fighters maintained the intensity, despite being tired, but Dharry, bleeding from a cut just above his right eye, did just enough to win the contest.
“I expected a hard fight, since boxers from Latin America are usually tough fighters. I hope to fight for a world title in November in Guyana,” disclosed Dharry, the first boxer to win a world title on Guyana’s soil.
The main supporting bout was a one-sided affair, as two-time Olympian Keevin Allicock used Omar Cuello as a punching bag.
Eighteen seconds into the fifth round, Cuello’s corner decided he had tak-
en enough punishment and threw in the towel, as Allicock remained unbeaten in his short professional career.
At 40, Dexter Marques showed that age is just a number, and drew heavily on his experience of 23 fights to knock out Sammy Ramos in 44 seconds of the fifth round of their featherweight bout, taking his record to 19 wins and four losses.
Marques got hit a few times in the first round, but fought back towards the end of the first stanza, as Ramos won the round.
The second saw both boxers trading punches, and Ramos being hit with a wicked right to the midsection. But Ramos, like most Latin American fighters, shook it off and just kept going.
Both fighters went at each other, but as they began to tire, they employed ‘tying-up’ tactics.
Ramos was hit by a flurry of shots and staggered on the ropes, but refused to quit.
In the fifth round, a vicious right cross connected just below Ramson’s heart, flooring him in 44 seconds of the round, and despite his
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Commissioner Of Police Inter-Regions T20 semi-finals set
SEMI-FINAL action in the Commissioner of Police (COP) annual Inter-Regions knockout T20 tournament are set for today and Wednesday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.
The first semi-final, featuring defending champions, Headquarters and the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) gets underway at 11:00 hrs today while last year’s runner-up, Officers and 4 A & B clash on Wednesday from 13:00 hrs.
The last quarter-final encounter, played at the same venue on Friday, saw Officers making light work of Region 5, winning by a massive 77 runs.
Led by their potent pace attack, Officers literally destroyed the Region 5 batting after they were set 146 for victory, reducing them to 68 all out in 10.1 overs.
Stephen Harris bowled impressively to capture four for 13 while the Benn brothers, Troy and Trevor,
supported admirably with figures of two for eight and 28 respectively.
Earlier, Ronald Ali was again among the runs, slamming five sixes in a top score of 41 while Ivor Trotz supported with a gallant 39 which contained one four and four sixes after Officers won the toss and elected to take first strike.
Bowling for Region 5, Lennox Williams took three for 27 and Titus Webster two for 19.
Roger Saldana (left) and Elton Dharry went toe-to-toe in a close fight (Sean Devers photos)
Keevin Allicock (right) drills a left to the body of Omar Cuello
Referee Eon Jardine watches as Desmond Amsterdam surveys the damage as he knocks Romeo Norville to the canvas in 1:10 seconds in the opening round
Ronald Ali slammed five sixes in his top score of 41