Region Nine gets further renewable energy boost
–– with commissioning of 1.5-megawatt Kumu Hydropower Station
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips officially commissioned the 1.5-megawatt (MW) Kumu Hydropower Station on Thursday in Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo), marking a major milestone in the government’s strategy to expand renewable energy and accelerate development in Guyana’s hinterland.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the initiative aligns with the administration’s national vision centred on energy security, food security and climate security -three strategic pillars guiding Guyana’s transformation.
On the platform of energy security, Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the evolving energy mix, noting the government’s progress in deploying a combination of gas-to-power infrastructure, solar farms and hydropower to reduce costs and expand access across all 10 administrative regions.
“From 2020 to now, we’ve delivered 14.5 megawatts of electricity through solar and hydro projects. Today’s commissioning of the 1.5 MW Kumu Hydropower Station builds on that foundation, expanding our renewable-energy portfolio while improving quality of life for residents in Region Nine.”
The Prime Minister described Region Nine as one of Guyana’s fastest-growing regions, with visible advancements across sectors, including energy, roads, education, healthcare and digital access.
“This project is not just about electricity. It’s about building a platform for progress -- one that supports businesses, creates jobs, strengthens public services, and improves quality of life.”
He noted that the Kumu facility adds to the region’s growing renewable energy network, which includes the 0.7 MW Moco Moco Hydropower Plant and a
1 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) farm. Together, these provide a combined capacity of 3.2 MW. In a recent test, the Kumu and Moco Moco plants supplied Lethem with 100% of its electricity for a full 24-hour period using hydropower alone -- a landmark in sustainability and reliability.
The Honourable Prime Minister said that the Kumu plant feeds directly into the Lethem grid, but announced the government’s plans to build a dedicated distribution network to bring electricity to Kumu Village homes and businesses.
“What we’re producing exceeds current demand,” the Prime Minister remarked, encouraging residents to prepare their homes for connection and entrepreneurs to leverage the surplus capacity for new ventures, particularly women- and youth-led enterprises.
He noted the importance of bridging the gap between hinterland and coastal communities, citing recent Starlink internet installations and scholarship programmes such as GOAL that enable students and teachers to pursue online education while remaining in their communities.
“What happens on the coast can now be achieved in the hinterland -- longer study hours, greater productivity, and personal growth,” he said.
The Prime Minister also pointed to the positive ripple effects of improved energy access on tourism, education, healthcare, and employment. The Kumu Hydropower Plant has already created jobs for 20 residents, and young people are being encouraged to pursue STEM fields to capitalise on future opportunities.
Prime Minister Phillips also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to energy security and the development of tailored
Scenes from Thursday’s commissioning of the 1.5-megawatt Kumu Hydropower Station (OPM photos)
Mega agricultural projects, investments in tourism, other developments
–– on the cards for South Rupununi District, President Ali says
PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Friday, highlighted the growing role of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples in shaping the nation’s development, including in the South Rupununi District, where plans are underway to launch major agricultural initiatives, boost tourism, and expand marketing opportunities as part of a broader effort to strengthen food security and foster sustainable economic growth.
Speaking to residents during an engagement at Aishalton, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), the Head of State
noted that the government is already putting in motion a work plan for the next five years that will bring about a wave of development.
“Our Indigenous Peoples are accelerating their footprint in the national life of our country, and that is not by accident, that is because the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic has accelerated our investment in you, in your communities, in your villages, in your families allow you now to accelerate your footprint in the national life of our country, and that is important,” the President said.
He pointed to continuous investment in Region Nine, totaling over $110 billion in the last five years across various sectors.
Key investments include a 1,000 per cent increase in housing expenditure, 5,000 per cent from the Guyana Energy Agency, and over 2,000 per cent in transportation services. Expenditure in the agriculture, education, health and ICT sectors also saw significant increases.
He noted too that these investments will be further strengthened as the government looks to improve the quality of life of all citizens.
FOOD HUB
Particularly for the South Rupununi District, the government will work closely at the communities there to establish a food hub linking Guyana to its partners in neighbouring Brazil. This, the President said, will be “collective purpose and coordinated approach” leveraging the existing resources to redesign how food production is approached in the region.
Already, the Governments of Guyana and Brazil have been in talks to enhance regional trade.
Key stakeholders from Guyana and the State of Roraima met recently. The Northern Brazilian state has agreed to intensify efforts towards the completion of the second phase of the Linden to Lethem road.
“We’ll be working with our Brazilian partners and Ministry of Agriculture, and before the end of this year, we want to identify with the council, a large area that you will put down these mega agriculture areas to support your food security, region nine food security and Guyana food security,” President Ali said.
Currently, 121 km of all-weather road is being built between Linden and Mabura Hill. It is a joint endeavour of the Guyana Government, the United Kingdom and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
In addition to the plans for agriculture, the President noted that the government will mandate teams from the Ministry of Tourism and Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) to work closely with the council to establish tourism and marketing strategies to drive investments in the region.
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Friday, highlighted the growing role of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples in shaping
South Rupununi District
67 Bartica contractors to execute $132.5M drainage, desilting projects
A TOTAL of 67 contracts were signed by small contractors from Bartica, Region Seven, for the cleaning of drains, culverts, and road shoulders as part of ongoing efforts to mitigate flooding across the region.
The $132.5 million worth of desilting projects, signed on Friday, are expected to significantly impact the contractors’ lives, boost economic activity and drive growth in the area.
At the signing ceremony, Adrian Bradford told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the income from his project will go a long way to help him build a home for his family.
“I want to thank the government for this help. As a young father of three with a young wife, we were recently awarded the lease for our land, so this will be a great help for us to actually start constructing our home. Development has already begun, and I can only hope
for more,” Bradford said.
Ashanti King, a single mother of two who also supports two brothers, said the income from the initiative will help her to open her own business, and this will improve her financial situation.
“I’m currently working on a small business, and this is going to help me get it off the ground. I’m very grateful for this,” King said.
Another beneficiary, John Campbell, said the government’s previous works in his community, Mora Camp, inspired him to get involved in the initiative.
“Before receiving this award, I saw the work the government did in my community, and that alone gave me the confidence that real transformation is happening in Bartica. This initiative gives me more strength, knowing the government is working for us and our town,” Campbell shared.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Public Works
Bishop Juan Edghill announced that all of the awardees are first-time beneficiaries of the programme.
He encouraged the new contractors to carry out the works to the highest standard, stressing the importance of quality delivery.
“What we are doing here today is not just passing by and weeding a corner of a drain and moving on. Your involvement at this level means you are partners in development with the government, working to enhance and improve living standards,” the minister emphasised.
To ensure the works are executed efficiently and to ease any financial burdens, the government is providing up to 50 per cent of the contract sum as a mobilisation advance.
“So, it means that when you get your money, you have enough money to pay the workmen,” Minister Edghill explained.
The funds will also cover the payment of trucks to remove and properly dispose of waste materials.
Strict penalties will be enforced if contractors dump waste on the shoulders of roads.
Meanwhile, this type of investment is not new to Region Seven: just last year, over 60 small contractors also benefitted from similar works.
Minister Edghill reiterated the government’s commitment to providing economic opportunities to improve the lives of all Guyanese. (DPI)
A total of 67 contracts were signed by small contractors from Bartica, Region Seven, for the cleaning of drains, culverts, and road shoulders as part of ongoing efforts to mitigate flooding across the region
Jaipaul Sharma joins AFC as party continues to lose members
to APNU
coalition administration, Jaipaul Sharma, has recently joined the Alliance For Change (AFC) amidst defections to the party’s former coalition partner, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
Sharma, during the AFC’s press conference on Friday, said that he was heartened to be given the opportunity to be a candidate on the party’s list of candidates and their national top-up list.
Sharma, under the former coalition administration, served as junior Finance Minister from 2015 until he was moved to serve as junior Minister of Public Infrastructure in 2019.
He was a member of his father, CN Sharma’s Justice For All Party (JFAP), which had joined APNU to contest the 2015 general and regional elections.
However, in 2020, Sharma left the JFAP and joined the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) as he was on the party’s list of national top-up candidates, according to the list the party had submitted at that time.
Sharma’s joining of the AFC comes as several members of the party crossed over to the PNC/APNU, including Sherod Duncan, Deonarine Ramsaroop, and Juretha Fernandes, who has since been announced as the APNU’s prime ministerial candidate. This came after talks
between the AFC and APNU in relation to coalescing ahead of the elections had failed due to both parties being unable to come to an agreement.
While these coalition talks failed, AFC leader, Nigel Hughes on Friday told the news conference that his party is still in talks with ‘like-minded’ persons and parties ahead of the election to possibly form a joinder list.
“We certainly are in active discussions with other parties to explore joinder lists,” Hughes stated, noting that one of the parties that they are in talks with is the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) and that discussions thus far have been ‘positive.’
FORMER junior minister under the APNU+AFC
Former Junior Minister under the APNU+AFC, Jaipaul Sharma
‘A rich man’s vanity project’
US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed’s cousin dismisses his campaign for office, implores Guyanese not to follow the pomp, scene
––– urges persons to take note of the country’s progress ahead of upcoming elections
WITH general and regional elections drawing near, businesswoman Sarah Ibrahim has publicly distanced herself from the presidential ambitions of her cousin, US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed, warning Guyanese not to fall for what she described as “a rich man’s vanity project.”
Her comments, made in a strongly worded Facebook post, come at a time when Mohamed is ramping up his political campaign for ‘We Invest in Nationhood’ party under the guise of “independent leadership.”
But Ibrahim’s statement cuts to the core of what many observers have already been saying: this isn’t about service, it’s about ego.
“It’s no secret that my cousins have decided to run for presidency and the majority of our family is against him. Our love for The Mohameds is great, the family tree bends it doesn’t break. Our respect for our patriarch is still there, the truth that I think we can all agree on in and out of the family is, he has worked hard and was supported by his family thru the journey, no one wants to see his legacy be destroyed by the ego of his misguided children.
“If these were complete
strangers to me, I would have voiced the same criticism, and 100 percent sure it would have been worse. I’m smart and my future and my children’s future depend on whoever is running our country,” Ibrahim wrote.
Ibrahim took aim at the lack of policy, direction, or clear answers coming from the campaign, noting that some Guyanese in the diaspora are pushing a narrative far removed from the lived reality at home.
She called out persons for following behind the Mohamed campaign, mocking how even party members struggle to pronounce their candidate’s name “Az, Azure, Azo” a symbol, she said, of just how unserious the whole thing is.
“We want Azurdeen, Azo, Azure, Az! His party members can’t even get his name right. But are the people so gullible, that when faced with real questions about our country there are no answers. Only the allure of help. No real answers of how we help each other and grow OUR country,” she said.
As such, Ibrahim warned voters not to be swayed by social media campaigns and charity handouts.
“It’s like the beautiful, magical Lambo that fasci -
nated the nation will immediately fix all the roads, provide jobs and [give] fat bank accounts to every citizen? A rev of the engine will heal all illnesses and rainbows and gold coins will rain down on Guyanese with every turn it makes. Getting into all the good, the bad and the ugly won’t answer the questions, because people aren’t ready for the answers,” she added.
She urged against throwing all the progress made over the past few years for a “feel-good campaign.”
IGNORE THE NOISE
“In just about 50 days don’t listen to the noise. Don’t follow the pomp and scene. Look at the progress. Look at the speed at which our country is moving. It can’t happen overnight but it’s happening,” she said.
Ibrahim made it clear that her post wasn’t about family drama, it’s about Guyana’s future.
The businesswoman is not the first family member to come out against him. Recently, two of Azruddin’s uncles, Mohamed Yusuf and Mohamed Haseeb Yusuf, publicly declared that he is not capable of leading Guyana.
“My nephew, Azruddin
Mohamed, he does not understand politics, he does not understand geo-politics, he is a political [novice]…I don’t think he has that ability, and he is not that educated… that is my main reason. If he had those qualities, I would have been the first to endorse him, but he doesn’t have leadership qualities. So that is why I just dismiss him,” Mohamed Yusuf had said. Yusuf did not mince his words as he called out his nephew for turning his father’s 30 years of quiet but meaningful charity into a
“political circus” to fuel his own “narcissistic” ambitions.
“He hijacked his father’s charity and he is going about now and turn it into a political circus. He is going to the people and show them that he is such a charitable man and he deserves to lead them. But this guy is not fit, and he and his sister, Hannah Mohamed, they just wake up one morning and decide to form a political party because Azruddin has some social media standing and has a lot of followers. These people are just social media freaks,” Yusuf said.
The two highly respected Muslim men endorsed President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for a second term in office, describing him as the man capable of taking charge of Guyana’s further development.
Haseeb Yusuf had said too: “I have examined most of the candidates who are vying for leadership, for the highest office of this country and I have recognised that there is only one person, one candidate that has all of the prerequisites, to lead this country into the new era of development, the one who has the credentials, the vision, the competence, the empathy and the integrity, that goes with the office.
“I have examined all of the candidates, including my
nephew, Azruddin Mohamed, and I have only seen one person that outshines all the others…I hereby endorse Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali as President for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana for a second term,” the religious leader, educator, and social activist had said.
Nazar Mohamed, his son Azruddin and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11 2024, were sanctioned by U.S. 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.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports, and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities.
Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations, and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
PPP/C activists file police complaint after WIN supporters aggressively remove party flags in Mohamed’s presence
—Nandlall calls it ‘political thuggery,’ urges police to take action
FOLLOWING an incident which saw the supporters of United States-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed’s political party, WIN, aggressively grabbing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) flags and throwing them on the ground, activists attached to the governing party have decided to file an official police complaint.
In a video circulating across social media, WIN supporters can be clearly seen removing the PPP/C flags from a vehicle and discarding them, in the presence of WIN’s presidential candidate.
The Representation of the People Act, which is Guyana’s main electoral law, deals with unruly conduct at political meetings and reads that anyone who “acts or incites any other person to act in a disorderly manner for the purpose of preventing the transaction of business for which the meeting was called together shall be guilty of an illegal practice.”
Mohamed’s inaction is a clear indication of his encouragement of an illegal act which was done to prevent the PPP/C activists from doing their political work.
The PPP/C activists have also filed a complaint with the Ethnic Relations Com-
This was described by PPP/C activists as a “direct provocation and bullyism as seen by associates similar to the encounter with [the] GRA.”
mission (ERC).
Meanwhile, Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall, a PPP executive member, has since condemned the actions of the WIN supporters and called for swift police action.
“This type of political thuggery must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Hopefully, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will swiftly investigate and take the necessary actions,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
Nandlall, who is also Guyana’s Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, also called out Mohamed for his apparent approval of such illicit activities.
“Unsurprisingly, there
is an obvious lack of commonsense to appreciate the consequences that will flow from reciprocity, or worse yet, if every political party is to engage in similar conduct over the next ensuing six weeks. Hopefully, good sense shall prevail,” he said.
Just recently, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) urged political leaders to act responsibly and ensure that their conduct promotes national harmony and good relations across Guyana, especially during the period leading up to the September 1 elections.
It has also asked politicians to consistently urge their supporters to desist from engaging in acts of provocation, intimidation or hostility toward others.
Businesswoman Sarah Ibrahim
Campaign of substance, not spectacle
AS Guyana inches closer to another pivotal General and Regional Elections, it is clear that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) intends to make this contest about performance, not political theatre.
At a time when many are weary of hollow slogans and staged rallies, the PPP/C’s General Secretary and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has drawn a stark line between optics and outcomes, and rightly so.
Speaking at Freedom House ahead of the party’s official campaign launch, Dr. Jagdeo made one point unmistakably clear: the PPP/C will not be distracted by the temptation of grand shows or empty symbolism.
“We’re not dealing with optics politics,” he declared. Instead, the focus is, and must be, on the tangible progress made since taking office in 2020.
The evidence is not conjured from slogans but etched in the daily realities of thousands of Guyanese families.
Over 60,000 new jobs have been created since 2020, reversing the painful job losses of the previous administration. Public
servants have seen their wages rise, oldage pensions have doubled and more than 40,000 families now hold the keys to house lots that were once out of reach.
Students and young professionals have benefitted enormously too, nearly 30,000 Guyanese have been awarded fully funded GOAL scholarships, while the dream of free university education has become a reality for many at the University of Guyana.
Perhaps most telling is that these milestones were achieved not with fanfare, but with relentless, often uncelebrated work.
Even now, as the campaign season heats up, Dr Jagdeo insists that the PPP/C’s work will not pause for pomp. There is too much still to do: a transformative healthcare plan that includes 12 new hospitals, an infrastructural push to modernise roads and bridges and a renewed commitment to the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. These are not distant promises; they are projects that have already begun to shape the national landscape.
Contrast this with the spectacle that Dr. Jagdeo described at the APNU’s campaign
launch, a rally short on substance and long on what he bluntly called “fake sites” and “economically reckless” promises. Promising every Guyanese $1 million annually, or a 35 per cent pay raise for public servants without a credible plan to pay for it, is not vision; it is political gambling with Guyana’s hard-won stability.
The Vice President’s frank dismissal, that such promises would swallow up the entire national budget, leaving nothing for education, healthcare, or roads, should give every voter pause.
Dr. Jagdeo also highlighted the danger of backward thinking in a rapidly modernising country. Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton’s criticism of the GOAL scholarships and the Ali administration’s Digital School plan reveals an opposition stuck in the past while Guyana’s youth look to the future.
A generation embracing online learning, digital business, and new economic frontiers will not be served by leaders who appear out of touch with the demands of a digital age.
The contrast between the two approaches is stark. One camp trades in empty ges-
tures and impractical giveaways, the other continues to build, brick by brick, job by job, opportunity by opportunity, a Guyana that works for all Guyanese, regardless of where they live or which party they support.
It is perhaps telling that even traditional strongholds such as South Georgetown are turning toward the PPP/C’s message of unity and development.
As Dr Jagdeo noted, community groups once hesitant to show support now do so without prompting, a signal that people are paying less attention to flags and rallies, and more to the lived impact of a government that has not paused since the first day it took office.
In the weeks ahead, Guyana will hear more promises from every side, that is the nature of elections. But Guyanese must ask themselves a simple question: who is offering real, measurable progress and who is selling a performance?
The PPP/C’s record and its refusal to be distracted by “optics politics,” is a standard that every party should be held to.
South Rupununi Toshaos endorse President Ali for second term
A GROUP of Toshaos from the South Rupununi district have formally declared their support for President, Dr Irfaan Ali and the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), expressing their full confidence in the administration’s leadership ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
Speaking on behalf of the group, several Indigenous leaders said they are backing President Ali for a second term, citing the government’s strong track record of delivering on promises made in its manifesto.
“The government deserves our support as they have delivered all the promises they made during their manifesto. As leaders we have had comprehensive discussion with the President and we are satisfied with our future with the PPP/C is secured [sic],” one leader said. The endorsement follows what the Toshaos described as “comprehensive discussions” with the President and senior
government officials.
According to the leaders, the meetings reassured them of the administration’s dedication to Indigenous development, especially in the areas of agriculture, infrastructure, education, and economic opportunities.
lighted that since 2020, there have been notable changes at the village level, driven by the ministry’s commitment to advancing land titling, improving education, health, water, and infrastructure, revitalising the Community Service Officer (CSO) programme and increasing presidential grants.
In 2024 alone, $395.1 million was allocated as presidential grants to the villages and funded a range of tangible and beneficial projects.
Earlier this year, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, had announced that $4.7 billion was allocated to Amerindian villages in 2024 under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The funding benefitted approximately 254 communities across the country, marking a significant investment in the development and empowerment of Amerindian villages.
Minister Sukhai high-
Minister Sukhai emphasised that these grants have instilled a sense of ownership among villagers, as they actively construct, produce, and participate in the projects. One of the key areas of investment has been food security, with more than 40 projects implemented nationwide.
A group of Toshaos from the South Rupununi district have formally declared their support for President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)
The Israeli government is far worse than the Nazi regime
THE level of human cruelties that the Israeli Government is committing in Gaza has no parallel in any period in world history.
The Nazi government was not as sadistically bestial as the Israeli government and armed forces. Thursday night, my wife and I watched a movie on the Nazi occupation of France called “The Tenth Man”
I am confessing from deep within the bowels of my mind and the inner depths of my soul, that, as I watched how the Nazis were rounding up French citizens and killing them, I felt different as compared to watching literally dozens of movies on the Nazi regime.
And the reason being is that I said to myself what is so terrible about those scenes when compared to what the Israelis are doing in Gaza.
Before I move on, let me lecture some idiotic Guyanese (no apologies for using that adjective) about democracy in Guyana. I can write a column accusing the Israeli Government of being more fascist and anti-civilized than the Hitler Government and will not be removed as a columnist for this newspaper.
I can title a column the way I have above and will not face sanction from my government or any section of Guyana.
For those too stupid (no apologies again for use of that adjective) to understand the nature of the West, do they know that in not one Western country including Ireland (surprisingly) no column like this comparing the Israelis with the Nazis will be published and if by some mistake, any newspaper in the Western world prints it, then the writer
and editor and newspaper owner(s) may face possible prosecution.
In case it hasn’t soaked in as yet, I repeat for your education, that a column of this nature that you are reading right here and now if printed in any newspaper in Canada, the US, the entire EU bloc, Australia and New Zealand will probably bring prosecution under some obscure law.
So why is Netanyahu a bigger blot on history than Hitler? The brutal reality about Netanyahu is that Hitler did not single out women and children to be killed. What the Nazi dictators did is that they would round up youths and men and kill them.
The Nazis did not specifically target women and children for death. In this context, the most evil form of genocide in human history has been committed by the Israeli government in the 21st century.
For the past month, each day in Gaza between 60 to 160 women and children are being targeted to be murdered. How is this done? They simply bomb women and children lining up for food.
I say most unapologetically, the Nazis in Germany never reached that level of sickening sadistic genocide. The Israeli Government is making the Nazis look like incompetent, blundering murderers.
The Israeli Government, last week, ordered the bombing of a café using the heaviest bombs in the arsenal of any army. Ordinary people were sitting in that café enjoying a moment of existence within the ruins of Gaza and the bombs came and blew them to pieces.
Region Nine gets further ...
renewable solutions, working in partnership with the private sector to foster investment and growth in hinterland regions.
“Since 2020, we’ve made the right decisions that led to this project’s timely and budget-conscious completion. We now look forward to entering the second phase of development; elevating our progress even further.”
The Kumu plant is part of a dual hydropower project executed under a US$12.85m Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract awarded in November 2022 to Vidullanka PLC of Sri Lanka. The contract included construction of the 1.5 MW Kumu station (US$9.0625m), and rehabilitation of the 0.7 MW Moco Moco station (US$3.7875m).
Cummings Electrical was awarded a US$1.274m contract for the construction of a 16.84 km transmission line linking the Kumu plant to the Lethem grid, as well as installation
of communication cables along the Moco Moco line. Both projects were com -
pleted on time and within budget, with no variations. (OPM)
I want to emphasise as an academic a theory here in what I am about to write below. Before I do so, I should inform readers that the truth is that my first essay that I submitted to any class at UG when I became a freshman was on Nazis Germany.
I have read dozens and dozens of books on Nazi Germany. I have taught the Holocaust in my UG course on philosophy whereby millions of Jews were put to death.
I am now saying as an academic theory that the Netanyahu Government in Israel since 2024 has become the worst perpetrator of genocidal violence in human history.
I have included in the theory that the worst bestialities in combat situation throughout history has been the Israeli killings of Palestinians the inhumanity of which exceeded the Nazis war on the Jews between 1933 and 1945.
I am convinced in my mind that the Israeli
Government views the Palestinians as a race of people with more scorn than the ways the Nazi Government between 1933 and 1945 thought of Jews.
What the world is seeing at this moment is how the Jewish leaders of Israel and its Jewish armed forces have acquired more race hate in their heart that exceeded the anti-Jewish racism of Hitler and his Nazi Party.
Here in the Global South we need to relook at our history curriculum that has informed us for the past 80 years that Hitler and Stalin were the two worst mass murderers in history.
No! Netanyahu is far more of a sick mind.
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.
From page 2
Parliamentarian to lead EU observer mission to Guyana
IN response to a formal invitation by the Government of Guyana, the High Representative / Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas has approved the deployment of an EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) to observe the General and Regional Elections scheduled for 1 September, 2025.
According to a press release, the High Representative has appointed Robert BIEDROŃ, Member of the
European Parliament, as Chief Observer.
The Chief Observer Mr BIEDROŃ, declared: “I am very honoured to lead the European Union Election Observation Mission to Guyana. These General & Regional Elections in September will be an important moment for Guyana to demonstrate its continued commitment to credible and peaceful democratic processes.
“At this pivotal time of
economic transformation, upholding democratic principles and human rights is especially important and Guyana has the opportunity to continue setting a strong example.”
The EU EOM said it will provide a comprehensive, independent and impartial assessment of the electoral process based on international and regional standards for democratic elections.
The EU EOM will comprise different groups of
observers. The core team will consist of nine election experts, scheduled to arrive in Guyana on August 23, 2025.
Some 14 long-term observers will join the mission at the beginning of August and will be deployed across the country.
Closer to election day, thereafter, 20 short-term observers will join the mission, as will locally recruited observers from the accredited diplomatic community.
In line with the EU methodology on election observation, the mission will issue a preliminary statement and conduct a press conference in Georgetown shortly after the elections.
A comprehensive final report, including recommendations to improve future electoral processes, will be prepared and shared with all relevant stakeholders after the conclusion of the entire electoral process.
Robert BIEDROŃ, Member of the European Parliament
AmCham Guyana, US Embassy to partner, provide commercial services for US companies
THE American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Guyana and the Foreign Commercial Service, US Embassy, Georgetown, on June 30 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the provision of commercial services and deepening bilateral trade relations between Guyana and the United States. This partnership marks a significant step towards fostering a more business-friendly environment and unlocking new commercial opportunities between Guyana and the United States.
cilitation and capacity development.
AmCham Guyana currently provides advocacy, market-entry and market-development support, investment fa-
The MoU is beneficial for US firms seeking to establish and grow their commercial presence within Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy.
The partnership includes a range of facilitation services designed to support US firms with market-entry strategies, business matchmaking and ongoing trade collaboration.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive suite of facilitation services that are designed to support US firms with crucial market-entry strategies, effective business matchmaking and robust on-going trade collaboration.
AmCham Executive Director Richard Leo
noted that “AmCham Guyana remains committed to deepening commercial engagement with Guyana, and this partnership
reflects our dedication to supporting US businesses while contributing to Guyana’s economic growth and prosperity.”
Former PNCR General Secretary joins US-sanctioned Mohamed’s party
FORMER Minister of State under the APNU+AFC Government and General Secretary of the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), Dawn Hastings-Williams has joined forces with US-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed, who is campaigning for office under his party We Invest in Nationhood (WIN).
Although there have been no reports of Hastings-Williams’ resignation from the PNC/R, a post
appeared on Team Mohamed’s Facebook page, which indicated that she is supporting Mohamed.
Citing information from the period she was in office, the former PNC/R General Secretary said:
“Guyana as we know, is endowed with an abundance of natural resources but yet we seem to be on a slow-moving poverty-reduction train. Available data by the World Bank as of 2019 indicate that 48 percent of our population live in poverty.
partners
“It is therefore obvious that we need stronger and more vigorous poverty-reduction strategies to combat this phenomenon. I found Azruddin Mohamed’s vision truly inspiring after reviewing the manifesto of the We Invest in Nationhood Party which outlines some of these strategies.”
Despite several criticisms, WIN is yet to present a manifesto or policy position to the public and face the press at an official press conference.
to make
Nazar Mohamed, his son Azruddin and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11 2024, were sanctioned by the U.S. 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.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mo-
hamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports, and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations, and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
Former People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) General Secretary, Dawn Hastings-Williams
conflicting promises to Guyanese
–– coalition party of unknown spiritual persons depart from commitment of $400,000 threshold, floats $200,000 instead
THERE continues to be a clear disconnect among the parties that form the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition. This is evidenced by the conflicting views shared by various representatives ahead of the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections.
On Friday, APNU Chairman Aubrey Norton claimed that he holds sole responsibility for making policy announcements on behalf of the coalition.
This comes a few days after APNU was forced to dismiss the comments from the leader of one of its main partners, Legalize Cannabis Guyana, Leon Saul. Saul, during the coalition’s campaign launch on Sunday, declared, “Sugar done, hemp and cannabis in… hemp and cannabis is [sic] in when the oil done. Hemp and cannabis oil will give us more than fossil fuel oil.”
Despite Norton’s comments after authority with-
in the coalition on policy issues, another partner, Kingdom Liberal Movement (KLM), has departed from APNU’s initial proposal of increasing the national income-tax threshold to $400,000— a figure that was heavily criticised as being unrealistic.
In a press release on Friday, KLM proposed a “taxfree system implemented for individuals earning under $200,000 per month.”
The party which has no named representatives, in
its press release said it has answered the “call of God and citizens,” and it plans to spread its message at scheduled engagements at different churches across Guyana. The incoherence among opposition members has long been widely criticised. People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had also previously blasted the opposition for changing its tune and contradicting itself on matters of national interest.
AG again slams delay in conclusion of election fraud trial –– calls it a ‘travesty’
ATTORNEY-GENER -
AL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the prolonged delay in the conclusion of the 2020 election fraud trial, describing the situation as a “travesty.”
Speaking on Tuesday during his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News,’ Nandlall lamented that the matters remain unresolved more than five years after the controversial elections were held.
He warned that with the current pace of the matters, the cases will still be pending by the time the country faces its next General and Regional Elections scheduled for September 1, 2025.
As the country approaches another election cycle, he stressed that the cases against individuals accused of attempting fraudulent conduct during the 2020 elections remain unresolved.
He emphasised: “So, right away, you get the clear impression that the case will not be concluded before September 1, and that must be a travesty from every conceivable perspective.”
The Attorney-General made it clear that the delay is not due to any shortcomings on the part of the prosecution, which he said has carried out its responsibilities with reasonable competence and diligence.
“The trial has made some headway in some of the charges,” Nandlall noted. “For July, the 28th, 29th, and 30th have been set for continuation, with additional dates scheduled in September, October, and November.”
He pointed out that the source of the delay is evident, though not attributed to the State’s legal team. AG Nandlall continued: “However, the trial will continue, and we will see where they [the defendants] end up.”
The Attorney-General’s comments add to growing public concern over the drawn-out nature of the high-profile election fraud trial.
Following a lengthy delay, the trial resumed in February before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
About seven witnesses have since testified, including Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, who acted as an election agent for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) during the
2020 elections.
Those charged with electoral fraud include People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph and former Health Minister under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence.
Also facing charges are former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, and former Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo.
Also charged are former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.
Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are represented by a robust defence team.
Due to the charges arising from the same set of circumstances, the matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting
significant cash bail.
It is the prosecution’s case that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the wilful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the PPP/C.
The prosecution, headed by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, is expected to call approximately 70 witnesses.
In the weeks that followed the March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.
The initial elections results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield,
Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall SC
claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.
Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.
GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.
GoInvest highlights new logistics sector
––
as region eyes multi-billion dollar agricultural market
GUYANA’S Chief Investment Officer, Dr Peter Ramsaroop, has emphasised that an entirely new logistics sector is emerging in the Caribbean, positioning Guyana and its neighbours to capitalise on a lucrative regional agricultural market worth billions of US dollars.
Dr Ramsaroop made the remarks during the launch of the International Business Conference (IBC), which will be hosted this October by the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC). The conference is expected to bring together regional business leaders to chart pathways for deeper economic collaboration.
Highlighting the region’s potential, Dr Ramsaroop pointed to staggering figures: “Jamaica imported US$1.2 billion worth of food from all over the world, not from Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil or the Caribbean. Trinidad imported another US$1.2
billion. Barbados imported US$400 million. We are sitting on a gold mine between these two nations.”
He proposed a collaborative approach to harness this untapped opportunity, suggesting that businesses in Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil and other parts of the Caribbean should join forces to “own this US$6 to US$10 billion agricultural market.”
“We are bridging these countries to deliver products and policies that will integrate the wider Caribbean region,” Dr Ramsaroop added, underscoring the importance of improved logistics and coordinated strategies to meet regional demand with local supply.
His remarks echo sentiments recently shared by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who, in his CARICOM Day message, underscored the urgent need to boost intra-regional trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience within the Caribbean
Community (CARICOM). The President highlighted Guyana’s expanding food production and growing energy resources as key enablers of this effort.
This push for greater regional integration comes as significant steps are being taken to strengthen logistics and transport links across the Caribbean. In 2024, CARI Cargo Inc. — the company behind the regional ferry service connecting Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago — was officially incorporated. This initiative aligns with the Caribbean Development Bank’s goal of enhancing food security and regional co-operation.
The service is expected to prioritise the movement of agricultural produce, with Trinidad’s Galleons Passage identified as the vessel to operate the route. The ferry, which has a capacity for 400 passengers and 60 vehicles, is equipped with amenities including a cafeteria, bar,
Driver remanded in fatal Bel Air hit and run
A 33-year-old businessman has been remanded to prison following charges related to a fatal hit-and-run motor vehicle accident that claimed the life of 16-yearold Kimberley Jones along the Bel Air Public Road, West Coast Berbice.
Paul Mahabal of Montrose, East Coast Demerara, appeared on Friday before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the Weldaad Magistrates’ Court, where he was charged with failing to stop after an accident and failing to render assistance. He pleaded not guilty to both charges and was remanded to prison.
The charges stem from a fatal collision that occurred around 21:20hrs on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. According to the police, Jones, a resident of Lot 63, Number 22 Village, Bel Air, was attempting to cross the road from north to south when she was struck by a motorcar bearing registration number PAF 2130.
Kimberley Jones Paul Mahabal
and VIP lounge, positioning it to play a crucial role in bridging markets within the region.
With investments in logistics infrastructure and strategic partnerships on the horizon, Guyana and its regional partners are aiming to transform the way food and other products move across the Caribbean, unlocking new economic opportunities and advancing the region’s food-security agenda.
Eyewitnesses and concerned residents rushed to Jones’s aid and transported her to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police ranks from the Mahaicony Police Station later intercepted the vehicle
The vehicle was reportedly being driven by Mahabal, who was proceeding west along the southern side of the roadway. Instead of stopping to assist, Mahabal allegedly fled the scene, leaving the unconscious teen on the road.
and arrested Mahabal. The vehicle has since been lodged as part of the investigation.
Investigators have indicated that additional charges, including causing death by dangerous driving, will be brought against Mahabal following the completion of a post-mortem examination on Jones.
Mahabal is expected to return to court on a later date pending further legal proceedings.
Chief Investment Officer of GoInvest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop
Gov’t to always prioritise development, empowerment, well-being of Guyana’s youth
ON the occasion of World Population Day 2025, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, reaffirmed the Government of Guyana’s commitment to investing in and empowering the country’s young people, describing them as essential drivers of national transformation.
The global observance, held under the theme “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world”, provided the platform for Singh to deliver a detailed and passionate reflection on the administration’s expansive efforts to centre youth in the country’s development.
“This government firmly recognises the vital role of young people in driving and benefitting from the transformative development and unprecedented progress taking place in our country today. These developments create enhanced opportunities and a brighter future for every citizen.”
He noted that the government’s efforts to protect and restore democratic rights have helped lay the groundwork for this transformation, arguing that inclusive governance has positioned youth at the centre of national policy-making and development planning.
According to Singh, the restoration of democracy has done more than secure the right to vote—it has created
“Our government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the development, empowerment, and well-being of our nation’s young people,” Singh declared.
an environment where young people are truly empowered to shape the course of the nation.
“By restoring democracy and returning the fundamental right to choose one’s government to all Guyanese, especially the youths, we have created an enabling environment that supports personal growth, drives community development, and fuels national progress,” he emphasised.
Singh said this year’s theme is not just inspiring but deeply aligned with the administration’s long-standing development goals, especially as they relate to education, health, employment, and family-building. He noted that young people represent a significant and vibrant portion of Guyana’s population, and, as such, their voices and aspirations must take centre
can use to empower its young people. Since assuming office in 2020. We have invested heavily in this sector with over $433 billion spent from 2020 to 2024, and $175 billion budgeted for this year.”
But beyond formal education, Singh stressed that empowering youth also means providing them with tangible opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. He spoke of targeted training programmes that have helped equip unemployed youth across the country with technical and life skills, enabling many to enter the workforce or start their own businesses.
stage in shaping the country’s future.
“Together, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous, and inclusive Guyana,” he stated. “We remain steadfast in creating an environment where every young person can build the future they envision with confidence and support.”
Reflecting on the government’s strategy, Singh spoke about the integrated approach to youth development, which relies heavily on sound fiscal planning and strategic investments across multiple sectors. He pointed to the unprecedented scale of resources being channeled into education, noting that the government views education as one of the most powerful and transformative tools available to uplift young people.
He recalled the administration’s major move to abolish tuition fees at the University of Guyana earlier this year, which he described as a fulfillment of a key promise and a turning point for tertiary education access in the country. Singh said this bold policy change, coupled with ongoing student loan write-offs, has already impacted thousands of lives and will continue to reshape Guyana’s human capital.
According to him, the government has exceeded its commitment by awarding over 39,000 scholarships to Guyanese citizens through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) initiative since taking office, surpassing the initial target of 20,000 scholarships.
This year, more than 9,000 scholarships have been awarded.
The minister noted: “Education is one of the most powerful tools a government
houselots allocated since the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration took office have gone to young people. He said this reflects the government’s recognition that a home is not merely a place to live, but a foundation for opportunity and generational wealth.
“Since assuming office, 53 percent of all houselots were allocated to young people between the ages of 21 to 35. We are ensuring that youth not only have a roof over their heads, but a stake in Guyana’s future,” Minister Singh reminded.
Among the skills training initiatives, he stated, is the life-changing Youth Skills Training Programme, which empowers unemployed youth with hands-on skills in areas such as carpentry, masonry, electrical installation and plumbing. Through community centres and youth-friendly hubs, this initiative has trained hundreds of young people annually, helping them to access sustainable employment or start their own ventures.
He singled out the revival and expansion of youth apprenticeship initiatives in the hinterland regions, describing these programmes as transformative. Singh highlighted the importance of ensuring that every young Guyanese, regardless of geography, has access to the tools and training necessary to succeed.
The government’s investments in health were also highlighted as a critical part of its empowerment strategy. Singh explained that expanding access to quality healthcare is central to building families and nurturing a healthy population. He spoke of major infrastructure upgrades underway in the sector, the use of technology to reach remote communities, and new voucher systems designed to eliminate cost barriers to essential services.
“These facilities ensure that young people and growing families can access world-class medical treatment and care,” Singh said, referencing the construction of new hospitals and the expansion of the telemedicine programme. He also lauded the introduction of services such as reproductive health support and preventive checkups, which he said are necessary for building a fair and hopeful future.
In discussing access to housing, Singh expressed pride that a majority of
“Our people are Guyana’s greatest resource. Our government continues to invest in our citizens and youths through the aforementioned programmes, in addition to various others such as the $100,000 cash grant for every Guyanese 18 years and older, the cash grant for every newborn baby and the $10,000 income tax deduction per month per child initiative. These initiatives support and empower our youths to build and create families in our progressive and prosperous One Guyana.”
The minister placed strong emphasis on the role of accurate data in shaping effective policy. He praised the work of the Bureau of Statistics and Guyana’s broader National Statistical System, noting that good data helps ensure that interventions are responsive and that no young person is left behind.
“These programmes all rest on the foundation of accurate, timely, and reliable data,” he said. “Whether it’s school enrollment rates, youth unemployment figures, or health outcomes, quality data ensures that decisions are targeted, inclusive, and impactful, ensuring no one is left behind.”
As he brought his message to a close, Singh issued a call to action for young people to actively engage in building Guyana’s future. He emphasised that their ideas, contributions, and leadership are needed now more than ever as the country continues to rise on the global stage.
“I call on all young Guyanese to step up, share your ideas, and play an active role in shaping the future of our nation,” Singh urged. “Your voices matter in every aspect of our national dialogue.
Together, we are building a Guyana that empowers its youth not only to dream but to realise those dreams.”
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh
Police outreach in Berbice, Central District welcomed by residents
–– noise, drugs, domestic violence among issues raised
THE Guyana Police Force has continued its efforts to strengthen ties with citizens through a series of community outreach engagements held on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
The initiatives, conducted in Central Police Station District and at Maida Farm, Corentyne Berbice, were part of the Force’s ongoing drive to promote citizen safety and build public trust through active listening, responsiveness, and partnership.
In the Central Police Station District, Sergeant Mentore, Corporal Roberts, Constable Trotman and others met with residents between 3:15 PM and 4:40 PM, visiting homes and interacting with community members to hear first-hand the issues affecting their daily lives.
Residents raised concerns about motorcyclists with loud exhausts, persistent noise nuisances, and persons suspected of smoking cannabis around the market area. Questions were also asked about how to properly acquire a driver’s licence.
Officers took the opportunity to brief residents on important topics, including domestic violence, child abuse, driving under the influence, and other common offences.
Contact information for the Station Sergeant in charge was also shared to make it easier for residents to report issues or seek guidance.
Community members expressed gratitude for the visit and commended the officers for being proactive, visible, and open to hearing their concerns.
Many described the engagement as a reassuring sign of the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and improving the quality of life in the district, which was reported as generally quiet with no serious incidents at this time.
Meanwhile, on the same day, Sergeant Brandt and Woman Constable Simon from the Whim Police Station carried out a similar community outreach at Maida Farm, Corentyne Berbice, between 11:00 AM and
11:50 AM.
During this interaction, residents spoke candidly about issues such as domestic violence, noise nuisance, peer pressure among youth, and drug abuse in the area. Concerns were also raised about the need for more proactive
responses when reports and requests for increased police patrols are made, especially at night.
Residents welcomed the engagement and praised the officers for taking the time to listen and address their challenges directly. Many said the visit boosted their confidence
in the police and signalled a clear commitment to working alongside communities to tackle issues before they escalate.
The Guyana Police Force said such activities are part of its wider strategy to build trust and confidence, promote community safety,
and demonstrate competence and professionalism through visible partnership with citizens.
These outreach efforts, officers stressed, will continue across various districts as the Force works to ensure every community feels heard, safe, and supported.
Police ranks took the opportunity to brief residents on important topics, including domestic violence, child abuse, driving under the influence, and other common offences
Conflicting views reveal APNU’s lack of credible plan for sugar industry – GAWU says
The following is the full text of a statement from the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union:
“THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has observed with concern the contradictory and confusing signals emerging from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) regarding its position on the sugar industry.
While Opposition Leader Mr. Aubrey Norton recently expressed a desire to “save sugar,” his political partner, Mr. Leon Saul of the Legalize Cannabis Guyana party - now affiliated with APNU - has publicly advocated for closing the sugar industry in favour of cultivating hemp and cannabis.
Although APNU has since attempted to distance
itself from Mr. Saul’s remarks, the emergence of such discordant views within its ranks reveals a troubling lack of coherence and clarity. It evokes memories of the many past broken promises made by APNU.
It must be recalled that ahead of the 2015 General Elections, the APNU+AFC coalition promised sugar workers that the industry would not be closed but revitalised.
Instead, once elected, the coalition launched an assault on the sugar industry, resulting in the closure of several estates, including Wales, Enmore, Rose Hall, and Skeldon.
These decisions triggered massive layoffs, affected the livelihoods of thousands of workers and their families, and brought unprecedented hardship to communities
across the sugar belt.
APNU’s claim that it now seeks to preserve the industry rings hollow, especially when its “plans” include repurposing sugar lands for construction, a move that raises serious concerns about the future of jobs and the industry’s sustenance.
GAWU is certain that citizens of Guyana, especially the many sugar workers, remain well-informed and discerning.
Workers vividly remember who stood with them in their darkest hours, and who
wielded the axe that devastated their livelihoods. The latest contradictory remarks and policy flip-flopping are evidence that APNU lacks a vision or credible plan for the sugar industry.
“The Union urges sugar workers and the wider public to remain vigilant, and to recognise that any real future for the industry must be built on honesty, commitment, and respect for the contributions of the working class - principles that were clearly absent under APNU’s stewardship.”
GPF refutes Nigel Hughes’ claims on evidence disclosure in murder case
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has strongly refuted claims made by Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes regarding the disclosure of evidence in the ongoing court matter of Police vs. Marlon DaSilva, who is charged with the murder of Kenesha Vaughn.
In a statement issued on Friday via his personal Facebook page, Hughes alleged that Magistrate Judy Latchman, who is presiding over the matter, had ordered that all evidence intended for use by the prosecution must be handed over to both the court and the defence by May 12, 2025. Hughes further contended that despite this order, the Police Force failed to meet the deadline and sought to provide additional statements as late as June 26, 2025.
However, the GPF, citing information from a Senior State Counsel at the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers, has rejected Hughes’ assertions as misleading. According to the Force, Hughes’ initial request for disclosure was made on April 30, 2025, and the requested documents were provided to his law office on May 9, 2025 — three days before the court-ordered deadline.
“This fact is in stark contrast to the misleading contention by Nigel Hughes,” the Police Force said, adding that Hughes’ statement represents a blatant attempt to misinform the public.
Additionally, the GPF noted that an associate of Hughes recently informed a police witness at court that an adjournment would be sought because Hughes would not be present for the hearing.
Clarifying its role in the matter, the Police Force emphasised that it is not prosecuting the murder case against Marlon DaSilva. The GPF explained that Hughes himself had applied for and was granted a Fiat by the DPP, giving him and his firm sole conduct of the prosecution since March 17, 2025.
Given recent developments, the GPF said it intends to raise the issue with the DPP with a view to revoking the Fiat, arguing that the private prosecutor has demonstrated an inability to advance the matter effectively.
“For the capital offence of murder, this state of affairs is unacceptable,” the Police Force said in its statement.
The case, which involves the alleged murder of Kenesha Vaughn, continues before the courts.
GTTCI graduates second cohort
–– marking milestone in Guyana’s Oil and Gas expansion
THE atmosphere was filled with pride, celebration, and hope for the future as 24 trainees graduated from the second cohort of the world-class offshore training programme at the Guyana Technical Training
gramme is a tribute to your capabilities,” Dr. Singh remarked.
“You were not given a certificate for simply turning up. This was a rigorous programme delivered by instructors from across the globe.”
Guyanese families. Over the past five years, the oil and gas sector has created over 6,000 jobs through ExxonMobil and its Tier 1 contractors.
“But none of this happened by accident,” Dr.
expands rapidly, Dr. Singh pointed out that the challenge ahead will be sourcing enough skilled professionals to fill the growing number of opportunities.
“Our objective is to create the conditions for
every Guyanese of working age to gain a skill, secure a good job, and build a better life.”
In closing, he celebrated the accomplishments of the graduates and offered a hopeful challenge: “Seize this opportunity. You’ve already proven yourselves, but this is just the beginning. Represent Guyana with pride and excellence.
We know you’ll make us proud.”
College Inc. (GTTCI).
The event marked not just a personal triumph for the graduates, but also a major national milestone in Guyana’s transformation into a global energy player.
Delivering the feature address, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Ashni Singh, extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class and their families.
“The privilege is mine to attend this graduation ceremony for the second cohort of trainees successfully completing this internationally accredited training programme. You are a very special group of people,” Dr. Singh said.
The GTTCI programme delivered in partnership with industry leaders such as SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil was executed at the location in Port Morant, with a component conducted in Canada.
Graduates underwent rigorous theoretical and handson training designed to prepare them for work on Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels and other offshore platforms.
From a competitive pool of more than 600 applicants, only 24 were selected a testament to their talent, dedication, and potential.
“You competed with hundreds of other applicants. Just making it into this pro-
He commended the graduates for their sacrifices being away from their families, committing to intense study, and adapting to demanding schedules and reminded them that graduation is not the end, but the beginning of a much larger journey.
“This is the start of a much more important journey,” he said, encouraging the new professionals to view the moment as a launchpad for a promising career in oil and gas, both in Guyana and beyond.
Reflecting on ExxonMobil Guyana’s current President, who began his career aboard a vessel, Dr. Singh emphasised that such achievements are within reach for the graduates. “Not all of you will become CEOs, but some of you certainly could. Those who succeed will be those who consistently turn up, perform well, and take responsibility.”
From a broader perspective, Dr. Singh highlighted that the graduation was part of a much bigger story- Guyana’s economic transformation and its integration into the global oil and gas sector. “Five years ago, there were no Guyanese working offshore. Today, there are about 900. By the end of the decade, that number is expected to more than double.”
He emphasised that these roles represent more than employment; they reflect a pathway to middle-class prosperity for thousands of
Singh asserted as he stressed that it was made possible through deliberate policies and visionary leadership.
He outlined several legislative measures enacted by the government to ensure transparency, sustainability, and local participation in the oil and gas sector, including the Natural Resource Fund Act, the Local Content Act and the Petroleum Activities Act.
The Local Content Act, in particular, has opened the door for over 1,000 local companies to access more than GY$1.5 billion in procurement opportunities. It also mandates employment of Guyanese nationals in 40 strategic areas of the industry.
“You represent the face of this new Guyanese workforce,” Dr. Singh told the graduates. “How you perform will shape the world’s opinion of our people. We want SBM and Exxon to speak glowingly of the Guyanese workforce and that starts with you.”
He also commended President Irfaan Ali’s push for localised training and noted that the next cohort of offshore trainees will undergo their full training right here in Guyana enhancing access and reducing costs. “We want to train as many people as possible. And with a facility like GTTCI fully operational locally, we’re ready to do just that.”
As Guyana’s economy
The trainees who graduated from the second cohort of the world-class offshore training programme at the Guyana Technical Training College Inc
‘We
are bringing opportunities to you’
–– Labour Minister says at launch of inaugural aircraft maintenance programme in Region Two
––
emphasises government’s commitment to investing in youths, handing them the tools for a successful future
By Indrawattie Natram
IN a landmark step toward expanding technical and vocational education across Guyana, Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, on Friday, officially launched the Aircraft Maintenance Foundation Skills Programme in Region Two.
The launch was held at the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI) and marks the first time such a programme was being delivered outside the Art Williams & Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School (AWHWAES)
Minister Hamilton said, “This is a transformative moment not just for Region Two, but for the entire country. It reflects this government’s commitment to decentralising opportunities and investing in the youth of every community.”
He urged the inaugural batch of 20 students to take the training seriously, stressing the importance of discipline, punctuality, and focus as key drivers of their future success.
Minister Hamilton noted that this vision was born from a visit to the Ogle-based aviation school in November 2022,
highlighted the significance of the launch in fulfilling BIT’s mission of delivering demand-driven, competency-based, industry-aligned training across Guyana.
“This programme is not just about technical training—it is about transforming lives and building stronger communities. The aviation sector is dynamic, respected, and full of opportunity,” Maughn said.
AWHWAES’ General Manager emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between theory and practice in aviation.
“Discipline, precision, and safety define success
course, it is a strategic investment in the country’s aviation sector. She said the course is designed to equip learners with essential skills and in aircraft maintenance, ground operations, safety protocols, technical communication and much more.
Meanwhile, Acting Principal of the ETI Shivnarine Jasoda said that her institution is happy to partner with the ministry’s Board of Industrial Training to make the programme possible.
One of the beneficiaries, Amesha Persaud, expressed gratitude and optimism about her future.
campus at Ogle. The programme will be facilitated at the ETI.
The initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and AWHWAES, will run for nine months and is aligned with Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) Level 1 standards. This alignment ensures that successful graduates will not only be equipped with critical technical skills but will also be regionally certified under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework, making them eligible to work in any Caribbean country.
In his keynote address,
where he met with its Chairman, Captain Paul Ronald Reece, General Manager, Nalini Chanderban and their team. It was then that the need to democratise access to aviation training across Guyana was identified.
“This programme offers a certified and meaningful path into the aviation sector, especially for young people who may not meet the requirements of higher-level aviation training. It brings industry-standard skills directly to their doorstep,” he added.
Also delivering remarks was Richard Maughn, the Chief Executive Officer of the Board of Industrial Training. He
in this industry. The training being delivered here is aligned with real-world applications and international standards,” Chanderban noted.
She added that the training programme marks the beginning of new opportunities, new careers and a new generation of skilled professionals in the aviation industry.
She said that in a world where the aviation industry continues to grow and evolve rapidly, the demand for technical competence, safety, awareness and foundational excellence has never been greater.
Speaking about why the programme matters, Chanderban said that the initiative is not just a
Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, speaks at the launch of the first Aircraft Maintenance Foundation Skills Programme in Region Two. The ministry’s Board of Industrial Training and the Art Williams & Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School (AWHWAES) collaboration will benefit 20 persons
“This programme will change my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue a career in aviation right here in my region,” she said.
The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Labour and its partners, continues to make significant strides in Tech-
nical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). This aircraft maintenance programme is a key part of the “New TVET Agenda”, which aims to equip Guyanese across all regions with quality skills, certifications, and real-world opportunities.
Particiants pose with Minister Hamilton and other officials at the launch of the Aircraft Maintenance Foundation Skills Programme
New housing area developed at Hof Van Aurich in Region Two
– scores of families move closer to home ownership after being allocated house lots
By Indrawattie Natram
THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), on Friday, launched a new housing scheme at Hof Van Aurich and by the end of the day, over 200 house lots were distributed.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a housing outreach at the Regional Housing Office announced that the newly-opened development spans more than
es, we are pushing forward with development and working closely with the relevant agencies to resolve outstanding issues in areas like Lima Sands, Charity, and Onderneeming.”
He noted that the new housing scheme is a continuation of the government’s comprehensive housing programme. Just a few years ago, the region’s housing department was operating out of the RDC building, but the growing demand led to expanded services and dedicated infrastructure. To further improve the delivery of
and infrastructure development, before allocations are made.
Between 2015 and 2020, only 1,271 lots were allocated in Region Two. But, under the current PPP/C administration, over 53,000 house lots have been distributed nationwide, well beyond the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s manifesto promises of 10,000 house lots annually.
“As your government secures more revenue, we are reinvesting it directly into communities like yours,” the minister stated. “People now have
100 acres and is located approximately 1.5 miles inland from the main road.
In its initial phase, the scheme will accommodate up to 400 residential house lots, with expansion plans already underway to meet the region’s growing housing demand.
“This is now the third major housing area being developed by the ministry in Region Two,” Minister Croal stated.
“Despite the challeng-
services, upgrades to that building are imminent.
Minister Croal also confirmed that additional lands have been made available for housing at Charity and Onderneeming through collaboration with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission over the years.
He emphasised that the process of opening new housing areas involves significant groundwork such as planning, surveys,
excited
ers. “I’m happy the government is making this easier for people. I won’t have to pay rent anymore.”
Residents were also given the opportunity to visit and see the location of their new lots firsthand.
Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva praised the initiative, calling it a “positive move” for Region Two, especially amid the growing housing demand.
“This is exactly what the region needs. The government is meeting people where they are and making real, impactful investments,” she stated.
RESOLVING LAND OWNERSHIP ISSUES
more disposable income, and through government housing programmes, they are gaining access to affordable land and support to build their homes.”
Meanwhile, many of the beneficiaries had applied over two years ago and on Friday they expressed their relief and excitement at finally being allocated a lot.
“This is a dream come true,” said Abiola James, one of the new landown-
During the launch, Minister Croal used the opportunity to addressed the persistent land regularisation issues in several Region Two communities especially in Lima Sands.
He said building surveys and household inventories have been completed and approximately 45 families will receive land titles by the end of August.
In Paradise, Jib, Mariah’s Lodge and Walton
Hall, about 60 house lots are undergoing title processing. For Good Hope Reserve, 40 lots are in the planning stage for ownership determination.
Since 2011, more than 226 house lots have been regularised in the region, with another 190 lots currently being processed.
While lands have been allocated in Charity, Minister Croal acknowledged that flooding has hindered development. He assured residents that both the Drainage and Irrigation Authority and the Sea and River Defence Department are working to fix this. New drainage pumps are being procured and installed.
Revetment works are also being carried out to strengthen coastal defences.
“Flooding cannot be ignored,” Minister Croal stressed. “We are addressing it on both inland and coastal fronts so that when we show you your lot, you’re ready to build,” he added.
The government is also improving access to treated water in the region. Some $3.3 billion has been
invested in housing infrastructure in Region Two and treated water coverage has increased from 52 per cent to 85 per cent in the last five years. In the hinterland and Pomeroon areas, over $12 million is being spent this year alone to expand water access. Projects include drilled wells and system upgrades in Dredge Creek, St. Monica, Mashabo, Capoey, and Mainstay (which is receiving a second well). There is presently ongoing works being done in Bethany, Karawab, Wakapoa, Siriki, Abrams Creek, and St. Deny’s Mission.
A new water barge is stationed in the Pomeroon to supply remote villages.
The Housing Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Bishram Kuppen and Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, were on hand to assist with the selection process for the first set of allottees.
CH&PA’s Director of Operations, Denise King-Tudor, and Director of Community Development, Gladwin Charles, were also present.
An
resident picks her lot number with the help of Minister Croal
The layout of the area showing the location of the house lots
Region Three poised to become industrial hub amid major development drive
REGION Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara) is rapidly transforming into a major centre of development, with billions of dollars being invested in critical infrastructure and community enhancement projects by the Government of Guyana.
During a recent engagement, President Dr. Irfaan Ali described the region as being “on track to becoming the industrial capital of Guyana,” pointing to a range of ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening reliable infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents.
Speaking with this publication during a visit to
Regional Executive Officer at Region Three’s Regional Democratic Council, Devanand Ramdatt Photo creditAlicia Campbell
the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office on Friday, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Devanand Ramdatt described Region Three as “an epicenter of development,” adding that residents are witnessing tangible changes that they are deeply passionate about.
“From burial grounds being cleaned and upgraded — not just those managed by the NDCs but also those overseen by churches and private organisations — to modern playgrounds in every community, we’re seeing and feeling the transformation,” Ramdatt said.
Last year, 40 community playgrounds were developed across Region Three, with another 20 expected to be completed this year.
The REO highlighted that major investments have also been made in transportation and health infrastructure. Approximately 200 community roads are currently under construction through the Ministry of Public Works, alongside the installation of streetlights in numerous neighbourhoods.
Healthcare services are also set to expand significantly, with new and upgraded facilities, including
Ramdatt noted that the region’s development push is part of the Government’s wider agenda to ensure every Guyanese community has access to reliable infrastructure, modern facilities, and opportunities for growth.
“Region Three is on the rise,” Ramdatt affirmed. “We’re creating the conditions for communities to thrive and for our region to lead the way in Guyana’s journey of transformation.”
the highly anticipated De Kinderen Hospital. Education infrastructure is also being boosted, with three new secondary schools under construction through the Ministry of Education.
On Wakenaam Island, an estimated $28 million has been allocated for a multipurpose facility that will provide essential government services closer to home for residents. According to Ramdatt, the facility will allow agencies to establish offices on the island or schedule regular visits, reducing the need for residents to travel to Georgetown for critical services.
Additionally, farmers on Wakenaam will soon benefit from improved farm-tomarket access, as three new roads are planned at an estimated cost of $50 million. These roads are expected to help local farmers transport their produce, including rice, more efficiently to markets.
These projects come on top of the construction of the new Demerara River Bridge, a transformative piece of national infrastructure that will further connect Region Three with Georgetown and other key economic zones.
De Kinderen Hospital, De Kinderen Region Three
A road being paved in Klien Pouderoyen, Region Three
Guyana Global Super League Wright, McDermott spearhead Hurricanes to 7-wicket win
By Sean Devers
HOBART Hurricanes, on the back of a 78-run partnership between Skipper Ben McDermott and Macalister Wright, beat Dubai Capitals by seven wickets in the third match of the 2025 Guyana Global Super League yesterday at Providence.
Wright’s even fifty, his fifth in this format, lasted 47 balls and included five boundaries, while McDermott scored a blistering 48 from 24 balls with five fours and three sixes to their team 142-3 from 17 overs in reply to Dubai Capitals’ 141-8.
After losing Bhanuka Rajapaksa (15) at 24, McDermott and Wright went after the bowling with disdain.
The Hurricanes gal -
loped to 71-1 off six overs to record the highest power-play total in the twoyear history of the GSL before McDermott was bowled by Qais Ahmad at 102-2.
Wright reached the second fifty in this year’s tournament before he was dismissed by 18-year-old Aryaman Varma with victory just six runs away.
Jake Doran (23) and Nikhil Chaudhary (4) then took the Hurricanes to an emphatic win with 18 balls to spare.
Earlier, asked to bat on a slow track and lightning-fast Providence outfield, Sediqullah Atal hit three fours and two sixes in 25, and along with Rohan Mustafa (8) added 28 for the first wicket before Mohammad Nabi removed them both to leave Dubai Riders on 48-2.
IRISH RACING TIPS
DUNDALK
08:20 hrs The Highway Rat
08:52 hrs Eric Lock
09:27 hrs Sidney Reilly
10:02 hrs Rampage
10:35 hrs Morning
Apptoach
11:05 hrs Game Point
11:40 hrs Janes Harbour
12:15 hrs Quickshot
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
TURFFONTEIN
08:30 hrs One Fell Swoop
09:05 hrs Godspeed
09:40 hrs Molotov Cocktail
10:15 hrs Bacchus
10:30 hrs King Of Numbers
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
ASCOT
08:45 hrs Anashhad
09:22 hrs Haatem
09:57 hrs Tremorgio
10:30 hrs Orange Sky
11:10 hrs Night Breeze
11:50 hrs Redorange
12:20 hrs Tokyo Joe
NEWMARKET
08:40 hrs Snow Light
09:12 hrs Miss Nightfall
09:50 hrs More Thunder
10:25 hrs Fifth Column
11:00 hrs Italy
11:35 hrs Inisherin
12:10 hrs Claymore
YORK
09:00 hrs Old Cock
09:35 hrs JM Junlge
10:10 hrs Romieu
10:45 hrs Tabletalk
11:15 hrs Going Commando
11:45 hrs Russian Rumour
12:25 hrs Aberama Gold
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
SARATOGA
Race 1 Tagermeen
Race 2 Ginger Ale
Race 3 Uncle Jim
Race 4 Ceepeegee
Race 5 Clear Conscience
Race 6 Delightful Darling
Race 7 jMalarchuka cð
Race 8 Far Bridge
Niroshan Dickwella (12) fell to left-arm spinner Fabian Allen without addition to the score.
Shakib Al Hasan could not replicate his first game performance, when he scored a match-winning 58 against Central Stags as Dubai Capitals slipped to 55-4 in seven overs.
The 38-year-old Shakib was removed by Nabi for seven before Skipper Gulbadin Naib and Kadeem Alleyne took their team to 82 before Allen got rid of Alleyne (14).
But after 13 overs were bowled and the Total on 93-5, a heavy shower stopped play at 11:00 hours.
When the action resumed at 11:45 hours in brilliant sunshine, the spattering of fans in the stands watched as Naib,
who hit two fours and six in his 31, was caught and bowled by Usama Mir at 106-6.
The 30-year-old Allen, who has played 20 ODIs and 39 T20Is for the West Indies, dismissed fellow West Indian Dominic Drakes (11) to leave the Riders on 122-7 to finish with 3-21.
Jesse Bootan (18) fell to fast bowler Odean Smith at 138-8 in the final over.
Nabi had 3-21, and Allen got 3-21
After a break today, the tournament resumes tomorrow. the action resumes with Rangpur Riders playing Hobart Hurricanes at 10:00 hours before Dubai Capitals come up against Guyana Amazon Warriors under lights from 19:00 hours.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday July 12, 2025)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Josh Inglis (2) Steve Smith
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who are the WI that registered ‘ducks’ in the second Test of the current series versus AUST? (2) Who are the AUST that recorded ‘ducks’ in that game?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Bumrah five-for, Archer’s Test return headline closely contested day
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Jasprit Bumrah was saved, or saved himself, for Lords. The temptation of the most famous honour’s board in the world might have had something to do with it, and if so, the plan worked. Bumrah was able to claim a five-for that helped bowl England out for 387 but he was far from the only fast bowler that set the pulse racing.
Jofra Archer would have spent three years thinking about this moment, being told of the light at the end of the tunnel as he willed himself through the rehab his body needed to shoulder the burden that comes with Test cricket. Three balls into his first over back, the light wasn’t hypothetical anymore. His day in the sun had finally come and he was bathed in its glow as he celebrated a wicket. Yashasvi Jaiswal was sent back, wondering what he could have done against an 89mph rocket. Karun Nair was greeted by a 93mph missile. Bumrah was carving out legacy. Archer was clearing away the cobwebs. Lord’s was spoiled rotten. KL Rahul went to stumps unbeaten on 53 and holds in his hands much of India’s hopes of getting close to England’s total. They are 242 behind.
The fans stood up as one to salute Joe Root when he got the chance the vent the nerves of spending the night on 99, the first ball offering him width that he took on happily. An outside edge squirted away to the deep third boundary to signal the Englishman’s 37th Test century - which puts him in the top five in all of Test cricket. He went past Rahul Dravid and Steven Smith. Late in the day, he stooped to
conquer the world, a beautiful diving catch to his left securing an unprecedented 211th catch for England.
It was a special occasion at Lord’s - Red for Ruth day, where everyone is encouraged to wear their support for the charity run by former captain Andrew Strauss on their sleeves. It seemed to have moved inanimate objects as well because the pitch became a lot more generous to those willing to bend their backs. The quicker pace it offered made the sideways movement all the more deadly.
Set batters found themselves undone when they least expected it. Ben Stokes’ off stump was off to the races immediately after he hit a boundary. Root, on 104, turned lead-footed all of a sudden, which created a gap between bat and pad for Bumrah to hurtle through. Shubman Gill, who came into this game with 585 runs in four innings, was snapped up for just 16. Jamie Smith went to lunch having rescued England from 271 for 7 to 355 for 7 but as soon as he came back, Mohammed Siraj found his outside edge. He celebrated the wicket by signalling the number 20, like many footballers have done this week to pay tribute to Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Liverpool forward who died in a car crash in Spain.
There was one who proved adept, so much that the very concept of dismissal started to look remote. Rahul made 53 not out off 113 balls and went to stumps unbeaten. This innings was built on his discipline and his judgment outside the off stump and his alertness for scoring opportunities when England shifted
Look what Jasprit Bumrah did to Joe Root•Jul 11, 2025•PA Photos/Getty Images
their lines straighter. Equally, his focus stood out. Archer tested him with a 142 kph bouncer. Rahul was surprised by it - his feet off the floor, his balance shot to hell and yet even in that vulnerable state he was able to get his hands over the ball and cushion its journey back into the ground. There was another example of his defensive skills in the next over itself, when Stokes went wide of the wicket to maximise the away movement that he gets. Rahul was aware of what the bowler was trying to do and he was very careful to present a straight bat instead of being sucked in by the angle and offering a closed one. Rishabh Pant batted through injury. Nair almost got his redemption but
fell 10 short of a half-century. England overloaded Gill. Targeting him with a bouncer barrage armed with five men on the leg side. Coaxing him across his stumps to bring lbw into play. Filling up the front of the wicket with catchers and also blockers that prevented easy singles.
The Indian captain lost his patience this time, attempted to find loopholes, like backing away to cut a short ball way down leg and didn’t see his wicket coming. Chris Woakes, with the keeper up to the stumps, switched up the play and went for his outside edge.
He got it. England went to stumps with a lead that looks stronger for this bit of enterprise.
Lack of experience letting us down at crucial stages
CMC – West Indies Test captain Roston Chase believes a lack of experience is the main reason the regional side finds itself down 2-0 in their three-match Test series against Australia. The West Indies were competitive for the first two days in both Test matches in Barbados and Grenada, but eventually capitulated to lose both games inside three days. Speaking to reporters
on Friday, on the eve of the third and final day/ night Test at Sabina Park, Chase admitted that the West Indies’ batsmen in particular, were not adequately prepared to deal with Australia’s world class bowling quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc, who are all ranked among the 10 best Test bowlers in the world. Chase said the Win -
dies’ lack of experience was evident as the game progressed.
“I think it’s a bit of fitness and I think it’s a bit of the know-how. I think the guys are lacking a bit in the experience of that second innings.
“We had a chat about the after-lunch session. I think we’re playing good cricket before lunch, but every time after lunch, whether it be batting or bowling, we tend to slack-
en off and we can’t seem to really put a finger on it as yet, but I would just say that I think it’s the knowhow in terms of batting against good bowlers for a consistent period of time,” Chase said.
“We play first-class cricket to come here, but I don’t think our first-class cricket is a good judge to bring you to international level, because in most first-class teams there are probably one or two good
bowlers, but in this lineup they are four guys in the top 10 that are going to be there consistently so I think that is a factor.
“I also think that probably scoreboard pressure as well. I mean, seeing the lead in front of you I think it plays a bit on the mental,” he further added.
Despite having already conceded the series, Chase said it was still important for the West Indies to try to win the
final Test.
With the series marking the start of a new Test Championship cycle, he said valuable points were up for grabs.
“Every game is important because there are points for the games, so it’s not only about winning the series, but we have to win matches to get that percentage up so you can be in contention to go further up the table,” Chase said.
‘One Guyana’ King and Queen of the Sand Football finals on Saturday night
JUST about two months of hectic action will come to an exciting climax on Saturday night when the respective champions of the 2025 ‘One Guyana’ King and Queen of the Sand Football championships are crowned.
Al l the action will unfold at the People’s Progressive Party Office Ground, located at Five Corner, Industrial Area from 19:30hrs.
The action was nerve racking last weekend when the semifinals were contested and still the talk of the town was the Speightland vs GDF female clash which went down to the wire and just a single goal decided the winner.
It was defending champions Speightland who prevailed 5-4 and will have the chance to keep the title when they face Iconic Strikers in the championship match which has a
purse of $800,000 at stake for the winner with the loser set to receive, $300,000. USA based Annalisa Vincent is expected to once
again play a pivotal role in Speightland’s quest to retain the title and bragging rights for another year. Vincent almost single handedly took
CWI confirms all systems ready for Sabina Park test
THE countdown is on, and the energy is building as Cricket West Indies (CWI) officially confirms that all systems are go for the historic day/night Test match between the West Indies and Australia at Sabina Park, starting this Saturday, July 12.
Both teams have now had a taste of the unique twilight conditions, completing high-intensity training sessions under lights on Wednesday (Australia) and Thursday (West Indies). The response? Overwhelmingly positive.
West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy gave the lights and the atmosphere a glowing review.
“The lights look really good. Our batters and bowlers went through their paces and had no complaints. There’s a real buzz in the camp—everyone’s excited to play in this environment, especially at such a historic and beautiful venue.”
The much-anticipated encounter will mark the
first ever day/night Test in Jamaica and only the second in the Caribbean, following the 2018 clash between West Indies and Sri Lanka at Kensington Oval.
This milestone moment was made possible following the successful installation of an upgraded lighting system at Sabina Park, which was recently verified by an independent lighting company to have met ICC standards.
President of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Dr. Donovan Bennett, thanked those who worked tirelessly to assist with the successful upgrades.
“On behalf of the Jamaica Cricket Association, I want to sincerely thank the Government of Jamaica for their invaluable support in upgrading the lights at Sabina Park — a major step forward for cricket in our country,” he said.
“I also want to express special thanks to Courts for their generous refurbishment of the players’ dressing room and dining
area, the Government of India for the gifting of new scoreboards, and Sandals for assisting with the fabrication of the scoreboard frame.”
With preparations complete, Sammy says the West Indies are fired up to make history and make their fans proud.
“We all understand the importance of this match. It’s a first for Jamaica, and we want to give our fans five days of quality cricket and joy. The players are eager to rise to the occasion.”
Dr. Bennett urged cricket fans and Jamaicans in general, not to miss out on being a part of national history.
“I encourage the Jamaican public to come out in their numbers for this historic occasion — let’s fill the stands and show our support. And remember, children under 16 are free, so bring the whole family and be part of this proud moment in our cricketing history.”
apart the GDF in the semis and with the likes of Nikita Wayne, Lakeisha Pearson, Tennacia Williams, and Sasha James will fancy their
chances of taking care of the challenge that will be brought to the park by Iconic Ballers
Their opponent is the only unbeaten team left standing having topped their group in the group stages but will find the atmosphere on Saturday night quite different.
In their line up will be Horicia Adams, Shanic Thornhill, Shontel Greene, Janelle Edmonson, Tiandi Smith, and Amanda McKenzie aiming to keep their unbeaten record intact.
The third-place clash which will set proceedings on the way from 19:30hrs will be between the GDF and Hururu with $200,000 and $100,000 at stake for the winner and loser.
The male championship match with a winner’s purse of 1.5 Million up for grabs features Goal IQ against LA Ballers which will be the
team to beat as they are they only male team not to taste defeat so far
They will aim to maintain their flawless style of play and will once again depend on the likes of the efficient Marcus Tudor, Zidane Ramdihol, Tyric McAllister, Nicholas Gentle, Andre Mayers, and Jashaw Moore to take them over the line.
Standing in their was will be Goal IQ’s Donovan Francis, Deshawn Joseph, Jamal Haynes, and Shane Haynes. Fans can expect a fierce battle with the losing team walking away with $500,000.
The third-place match is between Spaniards and Hardknocks with cash prizes of $200,000 and $100,000 at stake for the winner and loser
Punctuating the third place matches and the finals will be an exhibition game between old rivals, Linden and Georgetown.
ExxonMobil Global Super League…
Exciting fan activations unveiled
THE ExxonMobil Global Super League (GSL) unveiled its official list of sponsors for the highly anticipated 2025 edition. In a strong show of national pride and support, some of Guyana’s most respected corporate names have joined Founding Partner and Title Sponsor, ExxonMobil Guyana, in powering the tournament’s vision to elevate the sporting and cultural landscape of one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Joining this premier cricket showcase are celebrated Guyanese brands including Demerara Bank, Beharry Group (via their Champion and Indi brands), Enet, Limacol, Betcabana, and Queensway Security. Their commitment to GSL 2 goes beyond financial support - these brands are bringing fans closer to the action with dynamic, community-focused fan activations that reflect the vibrant spirit of Guyana.
Among the standout initiatives are Demerara Bank’s “Clean Catch” Award rewards any fan who makes a crowd catch during a match with GY$100,000, Enet’s “Unnecto Fan of the Match” celebrates fan passion by awarding the best-dressed
spectator at each game a Unnecto 5G Bolt smartphone and Beharry Group’s “Little Champions” Programme is giving local schoolchildren the unforgettable opportunity to attend their very first international cricket match.
These initiatives aim to build lasting memories for fans and reinforce the GSL’s commitment to youth engagement and community empowerment.
GSL Chairman Sir Clive Lloyd expressed heartfelt appreciation for the groundswell of local support:
“There would be no Global Super League without the incredible commitment of ExxonMobil Guyana. We are deeply grateful for the leadership and - no pun intended - energy they’ve brought to both the League and the country.
“It is equally inspiring to witness so many esteemed Guyanese companies step forward to support what is a landmark moment in Guyana’s sporting and cultural journey. Their belief in GSL’s vision is helping us bring world-class cricket to local fans while projecting the image of a young, dynamic, and culturally rich nation to the world.”
The third edition of the ‘One Guyana’ Kings and Queens of the Sand will end on Saturday night.
ExxonMobil U14 quarter finals set for Sunday
THE final eight teams have separated themselves from the pack and are in with a chance to reach the final of the ExxonMobil U14 Schools Football Championship at the Ministry of Education ground.
Sunday’s quarter finals will start with the girls category, Marian Academy will clash with Vreed-EnHoop followed by Bushlot playing Chase Academic Foundation.
The other girls contest will pit Abram Zuil against Waramuri and the final battle for the day will feature East Ruimveldt against Bartica secondary.
On the boys’ side, West Ruimveldt firstly look horns with St Johns College after which Chase Academy will play Bygeval, Dolphin takes on Waramuri and three Miles secondary clash with East Ruimveldt secondary.
Meanwhile in the round
The final eight teams in the boys and girls segments of the ExxonMobil U14 Schools Football Championship will clash this weekend at the Ministry of Education Ground
of 16 action this week, Abram Zuil Secondary advanced after a 4-nil defeat of St Joseph High. Defending champion Chase Academic Foundation ensured they will have a chance to defend their crown with a 3-1 win over Charlestown Secondary
thanks to Jadan Christian, Nyron Barrow and Jashan Haynes who led them at the front.
Bygeval Secondary needed penalty kicks to see off Charity Secondary 3-2. Lindens’s Three Mile Secondary also axed New Amsterdam Secondary
3-nil with all the goals coming off the cleats of Joshua James.
West Demerara lost to East Ruimveldt 3-1, and Dolphin Secondary advanced 7-6 on penalty kicks against Cotton Field Secondary.
Vrymans Erven Sec -
ondary handed Vreed En Hoop Secondary a walk over while West Minster Secondary was defeated by East Ruimveldt 1-nil.
St John College led by goals from Jasiah Nedd and Shangi Welch beat Belladrum Secondary 3-nil.
One Guyana Basketball League
On the girls’ side Abram Zuil Secondary chief Goal Scorers was Akeela Williams who registered a triple as they dismissed St Joseph high 4-nil.
Good Hope Secondary was also demolished by Bartica Secondary 11-nil complements of triples from Kelys Williams and Virlerkys Simon with Ronelly Williams also recording a brace.
Marian Academy also stompped their authority with a 6-nil win over West Ruimveldt; Maran Academy’s Haley Haberkorn and Kaleigh Todd scored doubles in the win.
New Central High also lost to Bushlot Secondary 2-1 while Waramuri Secondary also picked up a win on the day against St Joseph High 4-2.
Chase Academic Foundation also defeated Annandale Secondary 2-1
Battle for final spots continues with final 4
VICTORY Valley Royals and defending champions
North Ruimveldt Ravens on Thursday evening began their battle for a slot in the finals of the ongoing One Guyana Basketball League.
The League entered the semifinal round at the Cliff Anderson’s Sports Hall.
The final four battle pits the champions Ravens against Worthmanville Pacesetters and Linden’s top side Victory Valley Royals against the Bounty Colts.
In the opening game of their three-match series on Thursday, Ravens showed hunger and poise as they narrowly clinched a onepoint win 62-61 over the Pacesetters.
The clash started evenly with the scores tied after the first quarter 8-8.
However, going into the break, Ravens started to pull away as Alroy Nurse and Nikkoloi Smith put in a great shooting performance.
Ravens Basketball team
Smith would put his foot on the gas to finish with 14 points with 13 for Nurse as they battled hard.
They led 23-19 at the half but Pacesetters were not out of the contest as yet as they put in a swashbuckling performance to tie the scores up 43-43 at the end of the third.
Pacesetters keep pressing their case with Jahleel Duke 13, Troy David 13 and Randy Richardson 11 showing their value but in the end, Ravens would close it out narrowly. In the other clash Linden’s Victory Valley Royals overcame former storied club champion Bounty Colts. It was another close contest as they scores were leveled at the end of the first quarter 16-16 and at the half
32-32. It was in the third quarter that Royals started to impose their will on the clash.
Yonnick Tappin showed his shooting prowess once again as he registered 25 points.
Veteran national player and back bone of Royals Horald Adams also played well to record 22 points as they led 56-45 going into the final quarter.
Colt’s Sheldon Thomas and Dimitre Rankin tried to hold back the tide, with their 13 points each but it was to no avail as Royals skipper Orlan Glasgow, another national player, proved the difference maker with his 16 points.
Royals closed out the win by 13 points in an explosive fourth quarter run to win it 78-65.
The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, and National Sports Commission.
The League’s regular season featured 22 teams evenly split in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country.
They are battling for bragging rights, a million dollars and the coveted national club league trophy.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Japhet Savory Photo)
By Sean Devers
GUYANA Amazon Warriors rebounded from their first-night loss with an emphatic 66-run win over Central Stags in the fourth match of the Guyana Global Super League at Providence last night.
An 84-run third-wicket stand between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and teenager Jewel Andrew helped the Warriors to 158-6 before the 46-year-old Captain Imran Thair captured 4-23. Dwaine Pretorius took 3-18 and David Wiese had 2-14 to bowl out the team from New Zealand for 92 in 14.2 overs.
Central Stags invited the Warriors to bat on a slow track and a fast outfield.
Johnson Charles (8) dumped Ajaz Patel for six in the first over before Matthew Forde induced the right-handed St Lucian to edge a delivery that left him to the Keeper at 10-1.
Gurbaz got going with a straight six off Ford and belted Jayden Lennox for a massive six and swept him four off consecutive balls.
Moeen Ali (6) lofted Blair Tickner over cover for four, but the pacer had the last laugh when he plucked out Ali’s middle stump at 32-2.
Gurbaz lofted Patel for six and swept him for four as the Tassa drums rolled, and another large turnout despite the Warriors’ loss on Thursday night, danced in the stands.
Guyana scored 51 in the six power-play overs as Andrew and Gurbaz sprinted between the wickets, putting pressure on the Stags’ fielders.
Andrew clipped Josh Clarkson for consecutive boundaries to fine leg as the roar from the hyped up fans reached a crescendo.
The 50 partnership was posted from 36 balls as the pair of youngsters not only
Guyana Global Super League Wright, McDermott spearhead Hurricanes to 7-wicket win
Gurbaz and Thair give GAW first win Global Super League
looked for boundary shots but also ran hard.
At the halfway stage, the hosts were 84-2 with the 23-year-old Gurbaz on 38 and the 18-year-old Andrew on 30.
Andrew from Antigua greeted Angus Schaw with a pugnacious six to motor into the 40s.
But when five short of his second T20 fitty, Andrew was run out at 116-3. His innings lasted 29 balls and included three fours and a six.
Gurbaz reached his 32nd fifty in this format from 37 balls with two fours and two sixes and shared in an 84-run third wicket stand with Andrew.
Gurbaz was given lbw by Umpire Rayan Banwarie in his second match as Schaw made the breakthrough. His 58 from 47 balls with three fours and two sixes. Gurbaz’s demise left the Warriors on 129-4.
With the score on 138, Shimron Hetmyer (12) suffered his second failure in as many matches when his impetuous shot off Schaw was taken in the deep.
Pretorius (12) fell to Ford at 156 before Rutherford, who got going with a brutal six off Ford, was unbeaten on 16 with him when the 20 overs expired, was David Wiese, on two.
Schaw had 2-24 and Ford 2-34. Set 159 to win, Stags lost Dane Cleaver (6) as Pretorius struck at 6-1.
Dean Foxcroft (9) was bowled by Pretorius at 18-2 before Tom Bruce (1) was run out by a brilliant throw from the square leg boundary from Gudakesh Motie at 20-3 and when Skipper Imran bowled Josh Clarkson (0) behind his back three runs later, the crowd was delirious.
The Power-Play produced just 34 runs while William Clark (2) was lbw to Thair at 37-5 as Umpire Banwarie was again spot on.
Forde played a few shots in 25 with a four and two sixes before he walked across his and was bowled by David Wiese as Stags stuttered to 68-6
Opener Will Young was putting up a fight and pulled Shamar Springer for four to move into the 30s.
The evergreen Thair bowled Schaw (7) before trapping Ajaz Patel lbw for a duck at 80-8.
Pretorius bowled Lennox (1) at 86-9 before Young (26) fell to Wiese as the Warriors completed their first win
Nadia Batson (Soca) and Sonia Singh (Chutney) performed during the innings break.
Ben McDermott of Hobart Hurricanes bats during the Global Super League T20 match between Hobart Hurricanes v Dubai Capitals at Providence Stadium on July 11, 2025 in Georgetown, Guyana
(Photo by Ashley Allen - GSLT20/Global Super League via Getty Images)