‘We
During a visit to the site at Wales, West Bank Demerara, on Friday night, President Irfaan Ali commended the pace of development (Office of the President photo)
Engineering, labour force to be doubled at gas-to-Energy site
- as 24-hour operations underway to meet 2026 deadline
- All four gas turbines to be laid by December
WORKS are progressing rapidly at the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project site, with 24-hour operations now underway to accelerate completion. All four gas turbines are expected to be installed by December, and by January, the majority of the project’s major equipment will be on site.
During a visit to the site at Wales, West Bank Demerara, on Friday night, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali commended the pace of development, describing the ongoing work as “tremendous.” Standing at the power plant site, the President observed that the final pour for the foundation base of the fourth turbine was being completed - a significant milestone in the project’s construction timeline.
The installation of the turbines represents a critical step forward in what the President has repeatedly described as Guyana’s most transformative energy initiative to date, aimed at delivering cheaper and more reliable power to the nation.
“So work is accelerating and one of the things that the contractor, the consultant and the project team, one of the things that they're committing to is working 24/7, increasing not only the manhours, but the manpower itself. The engineering and labour force here will more than double in the coming weeks, so that we can get back on a timeline as quickly as possible,” the President reported.
The scale of the project TURN TO PAGE 7
During a visit to the site at Wales, West Bank Demerara, on Friday night, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali commended the pace of development, describing the ongoing work as ‘tremendous’ (Office of the President photos)
‘We want to leapfrog this country into unbelievable places’
- President Ali says at opening of modern SOMA Hotel
& Restaurant - announces launch of four ‘apps’ to promote efficiency & convenience
By Trina Williams
FROM the hands of local innovators to the skyline of new developments, Guyana’s economic transformation is being driven mainly by the private sector, which has injected investments valued at hundreds of millions of US dollars, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has stated.
Speaking at the opening of the SOMA Hotel and Restaurant on Saturday in Houston, East Bank Demerara (EBD), President Ali commended the local private sector for their spirit of determination, which
DIGITAL FUTURE
The president outlined an ambitious roadmap for the country at the end of the decade, including two large gold mines being operational by the end of 2027, the completion of a second natural gas pipeline by the end of 2030 to power largescale industrial expansion, and world-class healthcare, education and food systems.
He also announced that within six weeks, he will be meeting with the private sector to launch four government applications that will allow for the conducting of government business in a transparent, productive
arrogance be what we are known for,” the president said.
It is within this light that the president explained why he invests so much time in the ‘One Guyana’ concept and the revival of Guyana, especially the capital city, Georgetown. He stated that the nation must reflect what Guyanese represent, noting that: “Our environment must speak about who we are”.
As he highlighted the other plans for Guyana which not only are anchored on economic development but also social transformation, Dr. Ali said: “There
hospitality landscape.
SOMA Hotel Restaurant, an investment by TO-
is fuelling the nation’s reshaping.
The President’s appraisal of the new modern piece of infrastructure underpinned the government’s broader development vision, one that seeks to, as he put it, “leapfrog” Guyana into a new chapter of diversification and technological advancement by 2030.
“This is not about oil and gas. What we're going to be building by 2030 is the most amazing outsideof-the-box, imaginative, diversified, forward-looking economy the world has ever seen. We want to leapfrog this country into unbelievable places, and we're going to go through that with God on our side and with the people,” the head of state said.
DIVERSIFIED &
and efficient manner, providing accountability that is digitally tracked.
“So, it is not only about us asking the private sector to make these investments, it is also about us in government holding ourselves accountable with the use of this technology,” President Ali said.
He stated that there must be an efficient and fair system that is less dependent on human biases, but more system-based.
“The country is going to be very different by 2030, and I would not like our people to be very different. I would like our people to still acknowledge the small things and blessings, to hold true to our culture and our values, to stay humble and be gracious about our blessings, and not to let
is no slowing down, by the grace of God, for us in the next 10 years, 15 years, because what we are doing is placing the ideas and the opportunities that will be accelerated in the world by 2035 today.”
SUPPORTING GUYANA
Behind the modern architecture of the new SOMA Hotel and Restaurant lies a story of family and legacy, according to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TOTALTEC, Lars Mangal.
He disclosed that the hotel was named after his two daughters, marking both personal inspiration and a bold vision for Guyana’s future. The newly opened hotel in Houston has been hailed as more than just another addition to Guyana’s
ment’s goal of expanding hotel capacity to meet growing visitor demand, with arrivals topping 371,000 last year.
The owner further stated, “When we first imagined SOMA, we wanted to create more than a hotel or a restaurant. We wanted to build a place, a purpose, a place that supports Guyana's most important industrial zones is one of the key zones of development in the country, and there are many more to come, and there are many more in progress and being built.”
Mangal said the hotel
able across multiple key development zones throughout Guyana.
“From here in Houston to future opportunities in industrial, coastal regional locations, we intend to scale the concept, bringing with it the same standards of comfort care and service that our clients and guests deserve and expect. None of the none of this would be possible without the collective effort and partnership of many. To our government, to the President, the Vice-President, for creating an enabling
TALTEC and its Guyanese partners complements Guyana’s rising hospitality industry, one that earned approximately G$13.6 billion in 2024, and now employs over 20,000 people, directly or indirectly.
The opening comes on the heels of the govern -
represents a new dimension of their commitment to Guyana’s development.
He added: “We see SOMA, not as a single project, but at the beginning of a larger vision where affordable, efficient, high-quality accommodation, dining, and hospitality become avail -
environment that encourages private investment, local entrepreneurship, ‘We thank you’.”
He also mentioned that the first phase of the SOMA Hotel and Restaurant will create 60-100 direct jobs for Guyanese men and women.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Chief Investment Officer at the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, along with the daughter of Lars Mangal, cut the ribbon to officially open the hotel
The newly-opened and modern SOMA Hotel and Restaurant
Munroe commends GBTI for introducing ‘invoice financing’ to support Guyanese oil and gas suppliers
DIRECTOR of the
Local Content Secretariat, Michael Munroe, has commended the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) for demonstrating flexibility as it now allows local companies to use invoices from oil and gas companies to access loans.
Access to financing has long been a major challenge for local suppliers trying to break into the petroleum sector. However, Munroe noted that GBTI has
taken the initiative to allow local suppliers to submit their invoices to obtain financing.
During a recent interview on the Starting Point Podcast -The Oil and Gas Edition, the director explained that local suppliers, after providing a service to an oil company, prepare and submit an invoice, but are then required to wait between 30 to 45 days to receive payment.
Munroe pointed out, “That window still requires a company to
operate. So, you still need working capital to continue your operations. So that, in and of itself, would have acted as an artificial impediment to allowing Guyanese companies to participate, that’s the first point, and two, to allowing them to grow.”
It should be noted that the government has already reduced the payment timeline from 90 days to 45 days and is still exploring ways to shorten it further.
“Another great initiative is, we have the local bank; I think GBTI would have introduced an invoicing financing mechanism, where, if you get an invoice from a particular company or a contract, you could use that invoice as a means of collateralising your business,” Munroe said.
He explained that this initiative eliminates the traditional approach to loans, which usual-
ly comes with several stringent requirements. With the progression of the petroleum industry, the director underscored the need to diversify and modernise how businesses are financed.
“I think we must commend GBTI… At the same time, this requires Guyanese businesses and Guyanese persons to use the banking industry, because a bank would be more amenable to doing this with a customer that has a history with them, that has a relationship with the bank,” he stressed.
As he urged local suppliers to build and maintain relationships with the local banking sector, the director encouraged other financial institutions to follow in the footsteps of GBTI, thereby strengthening Guyana’s leadership on local content.
Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Michael Munroe
‘Collaboration, not politics, must drive Region Six’ –
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
IN a significant leadership shift for Region Six, East Canje Berbice Welfare Officer, Junior Basant, was, on Friday, elected as the new Regional Chairman, while Wajid Shaheed Khan of East Bank Berbice was chosen as the new Regional Vice Chairman.
Their election ushers in a wave of young, new energy and renewed commitment to advancing the region’s ongoing development agenda and both men have indicated their willingness to work for the people of the region with plans to take a hands-on approach.
A total of 30 councillors were sworn in to serve on the new Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Six. Representing the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) are Doreen Alpin-Annamantadoo, Junior Basant, Dhanwattie Sheriann Beharry, Alicia Dowridge, Senel Ocienia Drepaul, Juliet Rosemary Jacobs, Wajid Saheed Khan, Elizabeth Aelin Regina Leitch-Austin, Shenellie Alexis Tabitha Matheson-Jafarally, Deonarine Persaud, Katherine Prasad, Gavin Wazim Ragnauth, Shannon Ramnauth, Surujdyal Sahadeo, Lounita Devi Sanichar, Shaun Erwell Smith, Intikab Ali Subhanallie, Swarendra Sukhpaul, Marshall Vanburn Augustus Thompson, Laurence Stuart Vandenburgh, and Reynard Alvin Ward.
Representing We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) are Krishna Beerbusham, Soroya Olivia Crawford-Downer, Eon Lewis, Heerawattie Mangaldeen, Trishanna Naomi Park, and Devendra Singh, while A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)
is represented by Mehalai Natasha McAlmont, Collin Emanuel Moore, and Candy Ramona Stewart. Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, who was present for the swearing-in ceremony, delivered a stern charge to the new councillors, reminding them that the oath is an important one: “You have committed yourself to the service of the people of Region Six.”
“You carry a lot of responsibilities,” Minister Mustapha said as he expressed optimism that Region Six will continue on the development path started in 2020.
“I want to encourage you to serve the people of Region Six with integrity, fairness and vision that will lead them into the path they want to see the region move on to.
“As you take your oath, let us ensure we put aside party politics, let us work together,” Minister Mustapha said, as he urged the councillors not to allow politics to divide the council and stall
development.
The PPP/C executive further noted that the central government will continue to make resources available to Region Six.
“Only through collaboration and partnership can you reach the level of development required. If you work in a hostile manner, then the people of this region will suffer.”
New Chairman pledges hands-on leadership, open-door approach
Meanwhile, the newly elected Regional Chairman, Junior Basant, 31, from Gamgaram Settlement, East
Berbice, told the Sunday Chronicle that his academic and professional background has shaped his commitment to public service. Basant holds a master’s degree in social work and is currently pursuing a second master’s in clinical psychology.
Politics, he said, has always been a part of him, having joined the People’s Youth Organisation (PYO) at a young age. “My inspiration has always been my drive to help people. That guided my studies in the social sciences and has been the foundation of my desire to serve,” he explained.
Expressing gratitude to his party for recognising his potential, Basant outlined his vision for Region Six.
“My plan is to help people, to be a stepping stone for them to capitalise on the opportunities that will be available. I want to be a face that residents can come to, creating an atmosphere of assistance and ensuring their concerns are acknowledged and addressed,” he said.
Basant, the son of a former sugar worker, admitted to feeling a mix of nerves and excitement.
“I am nervous, but I trust my capabilities and I am excited to undertake this challenge,” he said, urging residents to make use of the office’s open-door policy. “I do not shy away from challenges. I will work with the people to ensure solutions are found.”
Looking ahead, Basant expressed optimism about the region’s prospects. “The future of Region Six is bright, with continued development on the horizon,” he said, pledging hands-on leadership and a people-first approach.
New Vice Chairman promises dedicated service
Meanwhile, 48-year-old
Minister Mustapha tells new council
Wajid Shaheed Khan, the newly elected Regional Vice Chairman, told the Sunday Chronicle that he is “more eager than excited” to serve the people of Region Six on behalf of the PPP/C. “I will work to the best of my ability to serve and deliver on the promises made by the government,” he said.
Khan’s political journey began in his teenage years with the PYO in Edinburgh. Though the group dissolved in the early 2000s due to personal reasons and migration, Khan returned to active politics between 2013 and 2015 when former chairman, Zamal Hussain helped revive the party’s structure on the East Bank of Berbice. He has been serving the PPP/C ever since.
From 2018 to 2023, Khan served as chairman of the Enfield/New Doe Park NDC, and in 2020, he was elected as a councillor on the Region Six RDC. Drawing on his experience as an overseer for over seven years, he said his background will help guide him in his new role.
“Residents of Region Six can expect honesty, integrity, and continued hard work,” Khan said.
Canje,
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha (third from left), incoming Member of Parliament, Zamal Hussain (second from left), along with new Chairman elect, Junior Basant (right) and Vice Chairman elect, Wajid Shaheed Khan (left)
Smarter, Sustainable, Affordable Energy Future
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s government continues to deliver on its promise of transformation, one that is modern, people-centred and grounded in sustainable national development.
Among the flagship undertakings driving this transformation is the full-scale modernisation of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), a strategic initiative that will redefine how electricity is generated, transmitted, distributed and managed across the country.
Backed by firm government commitment and international expertise, GPL’s Smart Grid Transformation Programme represents one of the most ambitious energy modernisation efforts in the Caribbean. It stands as a testament to the PPP/C administration’s proactive leadership and its vision for a more resilient, inclusive, and technology-driven Guyana.
Affordable and reliable electricity supply has long influenced the pace of Guyana’s industrialisation and the quality of life of its citizens. Recognising this, the Government is making substantive investments in the sector to continue reshaping the country’s power infrastructure, transforming it into a world-class utility. This comprehensive modernisation programme includes US$422 million for the construction of new substations, transmission and distribution networks. Plans
are underway to construct and upgrade additional substations and transmission lines, and to replace and upgrade the capacity of the submarine cable across the Demerara River, interconnecting the Vreed-en-Hoop and Kingston substations.
The new double-circuit power cables will be installed, using horizontal directional drilling, at a depth of about 25m below the riverbed, protecting it against disruptions of energy supply from the increasing maritime traffic in the Demerara River.
Included in this new Smart Grid initiative are the construction of 155 kilometres of 230 kilovolts (kV) transmission lines. The developments form part of GPL’s Transmission & Distribution Expansion Programme, which includes 209 kilometres of 69kV sub-transmission lines, 343 kilometres of distribution lines and eight new substations across Regions Three, Four, Five and Six, and upgrades to existing four substations.
The projects will be complemented by advanced technologies, including modern substation supervisory and control equipment, smart meters, advanced metering infrastructure, smart switches, and real-time fault indicators.
GPL is advancing the expansion of its smart-metering systems to connect all customers to the Smart Metering Scheme. The initial rollout of
20,000 smart meters and advanced metering infrastructure is already underway. By 2030, GPL will achieve full, Advanced Metering Infrastructure deployment across its customer base, ensuring complete integration into the Smart Metering System.
This transformation will provide GPL with real-time visibility to remotely monitor service quality and reliability, enabling proactive measures to consistently meet customer expectations. Guyana’s modernisation agenda centres on the Guyana National Control Centre (GNCC), a state-of-theart facility that will serve as the command hub for the national electricity grid.
At the heart of the GNCC is the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Energy Management System, the core of Guyana’s Smart Grid, which provides real-time monitoring and automated control across the network.
Phase One, currently underway, focuses on centralised supervision of the 230kV and 69kV transmission systems, power plants, and 13.8kV feeder heads, while Phase Two, beginning in 2026, will introduce advanced distribution and renewable-energy management systems, outage- management platforms and predictive analytics to enable full smart-grid functionality by 2030.
With SCADA integrated
into the GNCC, the system will enable rapid detection, isolation, and restoration of faults, significantly reducing outages and enhancing grid reliability and resilience.
Fully connected to all existing and new substations and transmission and distribution infrastructure, these upgrades will collectively cut total grid losses by over 50%, lowering operational costs and elevating service quality for all Guyanese.
The ongoing construction of the 300-megawatt Wales gas-to-energy (GTE) power plant—featuring modern control systems, battery storage and supporting transmission and distribution infrastructure— marks a transformative step toward reducing electricity tariffs by 50% upon its comple tion in 2026, a critical catalyst for sustaining Guyana’s economic growth.
Building on this foundation, Phase Two of the GTE projects, currently under evaluation, will add another 300 megawatts and deliver full interconnection and integration with the national grid at 230kV and 69kV, as well as the Guyana National Control Centre, while expanding high-voltage infrastructure to link new substations along the West Coast of Demerara and East Bank of Essequibo, extending to Bartica and surrounding areas to ensure reliable, affordable energy access.
Further, Phase Three envisions an additional 300-megawatt GTE power plant at Palmyra, Corentyne, Berbice, with similar integration into the national grid and GNCC, alongside high-voltage system expansion to connect new substations near Palmyra and Canefield, reinforcing grid resilience and nationwide energy security.
Complementing these efforts, the Government of Guyana and GPL are advancing grid integration and reliability by interconnecting Linden with the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) through new substations at Garden of Eden, Bamia, McKenzie, and Wismar, strengthening system resilience and improving service quality across regions.
In September, President Ali, at a press conference, underscored that the gas-to-energy project is not only an infrastructural investment, but also a catalyst for national competitiveness. This project will dramatically lower production costs for manufacturers, encourage industrial diversification and enhance Guyana’s attractiveness as a regional investment hub. This is part of the government’s broader strategy to build an energy-secure state, where the cost of doing business steadily declines while productivity and job creation rise.
To ensure world-class ex-
ecution and sustainability, the government has engaged InterEnergy Holdings (UK) to provide technical oversight, capacity building and management modernisation across GPL. This partnership, costing significantly less than traditional supervision arrangements, will oversee contract management, project integration and workforce training, which will ensure that the smart-grid transformation delivers measurable results, efficiency, and professional excellence.
The energy sector’s transformation reflects the government’s broader efforts to modernise public services through digitisation and innovation. Citizens will now be able to access services such as passport applications and acquisition, healthcare, and education more efficiently, embodying President Ali’s vision of a responsive, citizen-focused administration.
The GPL modernisation exemplifies this proactive governance, evident in new hospitals, digital health systems, e-passports, and expanded education. More than technology, it promises fairness, access, and empowerment—building a reliable, affordable energy grid that benefits every household and community, supporting a development philosophy centred on people.
Transforming Guyana’s fisheries: A sector on the rise
Dear Editor,
AS a proud Guyanese, I am heartened to see the remarkable strides our government is making to support fisherfolk and modernise the fisheries sector. Fishing is more than an industry; it is a lifeline for thousands of families along our coast and an important contributor to our national food security. For too long, fisherfolk operated with little support and outdated systems. Today, that picture is changing; in fact, over the last five years, strides have been made under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali and the Minister of Agriculture Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha.
When hardship struck in 2022 with low catches and high
costs, the Ministry of Agriculture stepped in with real relief. Over 7,500 fisherfolk benefitted from a $150,000 cash grant, injecting more than $1.1 billion into communities from Regions Two to Six. Taxes on critical fishing inputs and outboard engines were removed, helping crews to reduce operating expenses. These actions sent a clear message, and that was that our fisherfolk are not forgotten. At the same time, the government has invested in infrastructure that strengthens the industry from the ground up. Landing sites across the country are being rehabilitated with modern facilities, lighting, ramps, sheds, and cold storage to improve safety and product quality. Earlier this year, fisherfolk on the Upper Corentyne
celebrated the commissioning of a $32 million administrative building at No. 79 Village, with plans for a fuel station and hardware outlet to cut costs and improve efficiency. Only recently, seine nets valued at $14 million were distributed in Berbice, fulfilling commitments made by the Ministry.
Safety and sustainability have also been prioritised. Vessel Monitoring Devices are being introduced on artisanal boats to protect fisherfolk at sea and strengthen surveillance against piracy and illegal fishing. Partnerships with international agencies like the FAO are modernising the seabob shrimp industry, improving governance, data collection, and market readiness. These steps are not just about survival, they are
about building an internationally competitive industry.
Looking to the future, the Government’s vision is even more inspiring. Recognising the pressures of climate change and fluctuating catches, fisherfolk are being encouraged to diversify into aquaculture. In Region 6, brackish-water shrimp farming has already increased production dramatically, offering a steady income for fishing families. Aquaculture overall has expanded by more than 70% in recent years, with new hatcheries and marine cage systems in development. Plans for large aquaculture hubs will ensure that Guyana becomes a leader not only in wild-caught seafood, but also in farmed fish and shrimp.
Just as importantly, the legal
framework is being updated. Amendments to the Fisheries Act and a new Aquaculture Framework Bill are in progress to support co-management of resources, strengthen inland fisheries and align with international best practices. These reforms are vital for maintaining access to export markets where traceability and sustainability are key.
Of course, challenges remain, particularly in securing the 150 fishing licences from Suriname, which the government continues to pursue diplomatically. Climate variability will also test the resilience of our fisherfolk.
But what is encouraging is that for the first time in decades, the sector is not simply reacting to problems, it is being systematically transformed. As citizens,
we can take pride in this progress. What we are witnessing is more than short-term relief it is the building of a modern fisheries sector that will sustain our people for generations. From upgraded landing sites and safer seas to aquaculture expansion and stronger laws, the pieces are being put in place. Our fisherfolk deserve no less and I commend the Ministry of Agriculture and the wider government for ensuring that this vital sector is given the attention, investment, and vision it deserves. Guyana is indeed on the right path and as a nation, we can all be proud of the progress being made at sea and on shore.
Yours faithfully, A Proud Guyanese Citizen
Cash grants ignore class inequalities
I AM not a supporter of cash grants as a policy. I appreciate periodic cash donations by the state, but they should not be frequent. My position is to limit it to once a year and maybe on special occasions like Independence or Emancipation or Arrival Day.
I will never support the state offering cash grants frequently to citizens. It is a flawed system, both in terms of class inequalities and its contribution to national development. First, class equalities.
I believe that there are thousands of people so financially strong that they do not need cash grants from the state. By juxtaposition, there is a substantial number of working-class folks who should be given the amount that goes to the middle class, who collect it anyway. For these working-class folks, that money is a lifeline.
In terms of class analysis, I would suggest that instead of national cash grants, the state should use those billions of dollars to set up a powerful test agency staffed with highly trained statisticians, computer experts and financial experts and pay them well. Those people should research the class composition of Guyana using levels of employment and household structures.
The findings will reveal the class structure of the country and whose needs are greater than others. I have a deep, philosophical objection to a citizen who buys a steak for $72,000 and collects a cash grant the same amount of which is given to a public servant or nurse who has to travel from the West Coast every day to work in central Georgetown or the single mother who lives in a low-income area and sends three kids to school.
If I ever find myself supporting cash grants, it will be permanently for people who need the money, like single mothers, people with low-paying jobs and those who earn a living using animal-drawn carts.
This country is developing rapidly with conspicuous elevation of certain classes, but there is still a working-class stratum that needs the cash grant more than the citizens who are financially endowed. The more I think of the general cash grants, the more I find it an insult to the labouring masses who need the money.
Frequent cash grant disbursement is antithetical to national development. Frequent state donation to the general population amounts to dozens of billions of dollars annually. Guyana, despite its petro dollars, is still a developing country. Put that money into macro-eco-
nomic schemes that increase Guyana’s developmental trajectories.
First, instead of cash grants, put the money into a massive extension of the Ministry of Housing so that there are dozens of specialists engaged in the distribution of house lots. I have been physically burdened for a long time knowing that Guyana, one of the most uninhabited countries on Planet Earth, has a reasonable amount of people who do not own their own home. The space to give citizens land in this country is immeasurable. The average person should, in the next 20 years, have their own home. Use the cash grant money to create the bureaucracy to make this a reality.
Secondly, use cash grant money to expand the schools that cater for early school leavers. There should be dozens more of those industrial training schools like the
two there are on Woolford Avenue. Why give the youths at these industrial schools $100,000 quarterly when that money could go into training them that will equip them with a skill for the rest of their lives?
Thirdly, use the intended cash grants to subsidise our small farmers. Despite the World Trade Organization (WTO) mandating the abolition of subsidies and ushering in globalisation, it was a huge deception. The EU, since the birth of the WTO, have been subsidising European farmers while the IMF dictates to the Global South countries that they can’t give state subsidies and have state enterprises.
Two years ago, I read that a small farmer had a successful grape farm. I think it has gone out of existence. That is sad because Guyana is spending billions of American dollars to import grapes, apples, strawberries and a
vast array of other fruits and vegetables. Small farmers should be assisted in canning Guyana’s fruits.
Finally, take the money intended for cash grants and start a free transportation scheme for public sector workers who endure the burden of facing daily hassles of transportation.
The state should provide free transportation for its workers from home to office. The more I think of how unworkable frequent cash donation is, the sooner I wish it would be stopped. The Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, is dead right – cash handouts can create poverty.
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.
Engineering, labour force to...
was also highlighted with some 9,303 piles required and 25,000 cubic metres of concrete to be poured. When completed, the Wales Gas to Energy plant is expected to significantly reduce the electricity cost for Guyanese households and businesses.
Additionally, representatives from CH4/Lindsayca and the project’s main contractor, Engineers India Limited (EIL) noted that since the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge came into operation, there has been increased productivity.
Approximately 400 workers are currently stationed at the site, with plans to begin the 24-hour operations immediately. President Ali reaffirmed the company’s commitment to completing the project in 2026.
Additionally, Winston Brassington, project coordinator, noted that the work is progressing from the power plant to the substation in the north and then around to the NGL plant, with the foundations being poured. As he went into detail about the schedule of work to be done, he stated, “The intention is to try to get everything finished by next year.”
The Gas-to-Energy project represents Guyana’s determination to use its natural resources to lower costs, expand industries, and create new opportunities for citizens. With over two-thirds of the work already done and strong collaboration among the Government, ExxonMobil Guyana, and contractors, the project is moving steadily towards completion.
What Dr Mark France said
CHAIRMAN of A New and United Guyana (ANUG) Dr Mark France, said that the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party has not honoured the agreement that was signed between the two parties before the 2025 election.
Dr France admitted on the Freddie Kissoon Show last Wednesday that ANUG has been “shafted” by WIN.
He stated that four out of six pillars of the agreement have still not been honoured. Interestingly, Dr France does not want to make the agreement public as yet, stating that he does not have the ‘permission’ of the ANUG executive to do so. He claimed that at least two seats were to go to ANUG as a result of WIN gaining 16 in the elections. The politician said
ANUG was allotted only one parliamentary seat.
Dr France alleged that Azruddin Mohamed, when confronted by the ANUG executive, appeared to claim “ignorance” of the agreement.
He said that this development was “sad” for third-party politics in Guyana and said a lot about Mohamed and WIN. Yet still, Dr France
admitted that no decision has been taken to sue WIN or Mohamed for breaching the signed agreement.
Dr France said publicly that WIN needs structure and administration, questioning if WIN, as the main opposition, is prepared to hold the People's Progressive Party/ Civic accountable in parliament.
In the same breath, he revealed that ANUG was an independent party and is focused on rebuilding its image and party. He explained that ANUG had been reeling from the aftermath of resignations from its membership and executive since it signed the agreement to work with WIN. He described it as a “backlash,” but also admitted that the ANUG executive was seeing some positives from it.
He questioned WIN’s lack of transparency and structure in the selection of MPs, which was a bone of contention between ANUG and WIN, but tried hard not to criticise Mohamed.
In the end, he shied away from answering why he was not chosen by Mohamed to go to parliament. He bobbed and weaved throughout the interview, saying that he did not put himself forward and that he wanted others to go.
On the indictments that the US has brought against Mohamed, Dr France said that if Mohamed is taken away from Guyana, he does not see WIN operating without Mohamed. After all, Dr France must be commended for appearing on that show to answer the tough questions. Let’s analyse his statements on the show.
Firstly, if what was said is true, Dr France should immediately resign the Chairmanship of ANUG and remove himself from the limelight. Dr France has failed the membership of ANUG and all persons who voted for WIN because of ANUG. He has presided over two failed agreements which saw ANUG “shafted,” disrespected, sidelined and locked out of parliament completely.
In 2020, when ANUG should have taken up its seat in parliament following the Deputy Speaker's resignation, Dr Asha Kissoon was allowed to enter instead to serve what was thought to be a short three-month period. She “shafted” ANUG,
serving the entire two years and seven months period. Dr France and ANUG were running around like a toothless poodle. They could not reverse the disrespect and crudeness shown to them by Kissoon.
Again, he signed the agreement for six tenets to be enforced after the polls. WIN, according to him, has not so far. WIN breached the signed agreement. Yet, the ANUG chairman failed to make the signed agreement public and is holding calm because of a decision of the ANUG executive.
BS! Weak, Disingenuous. What’s there to hide now that the ANUG is independent and the elections are over?
What does he not want the public to see? Why is he trying to protect WIN and Mohamed against ANUG’s interests?
Dr France has shown bad political leadership, and that he is unfit for the position of chairman. He is not playing politics, and he has not learned from the first time that politics is not church and that it is a calculated power game.
ANUG is now bleeding, and nothing Dr France or the ANUG executive says will stop it. It has had a bad run in politics and he should offer his resignation from ANUG. He has already said he personally was not in agreement with how ANUG is sheepishly handling the fallout. It is clear that WIN and Mohamed are bullying and bulldozing ANUG.
The chairmanship should be fighting for what was to be given to ANUG in the agreement, not doing these pitiful interviews. Politics is power, and politics is strategic.
Secondly, if ANUG believes in the power of coalitions, it should be careful of who it makes its partners. Clearly, ANUG’s membership was not in favour of teaming with WIN but the executive still rammed the agreement through. Now, ANUG is left with nothing really to show; that’s because there is no mutual respect and trust.
If one cannot enforce the agreement signed by moving to the courts, then why sign it at all? ANUG has suffered a real political blow and the public will never recover
-- not if it continues in the same vein.
Agreement to contest an election alongside another party should not cost either side their individuality or image. ANUG has lost both in the course of the last eight years.
Thirdly, Mohamed used ANUG and repaid the debt by scouting out Nandranie Singh to be a parliamentarian. Singh does not have the experience nor did not come through the ranks of ANUG. She doesn’t even understand what the principles of ANUG are and what the movement’s purpose is.
Dr France sat there and lied through his teeth that Singh was a member of ANUG before nomination Day. She was parachuted into the Mohamed camp. She will work on his agenda and frankly do his bidding in parliament, and there is nothing ANUG nor Dr France could do or say about it.
ANUG, as a matter of fact, is not represented in parliament. None of the other 28 names were considered by WIN for national or regional seats.
So, why is Dr France comfortable telling the public that Mohamed is claiming ignorance of the deal he signed and posted in the media? The public will not accept that if that is the case. If Mohamed could recall the details surrounding the price of the Lamborghini and details of the 11 indictments he faces, then he should accurately remember six clauses.
Dr France is not being direct or honest with the public. He does not care about ANUG.
Fourthly, Dr France lied shamelessly when he said that he did not put himself forward for the parliament. He is on the WIN list as published by GECOM, but Mohamed did not choose him because of his reputation for not being honest, and he frankly loathes him since Nomination Day activities. Dr France is generally not well liked by WIN supporters and in the inner bosom of WIN. There have been many arguments and butting of heads with him because he is seen as a politician who is arrogant and cunning.
Why does Dr France not TURN TO PAGE 9
The failure of spin: Why Azruddin’s day in court is now inevitable
THE Mohameds will have their day in a U.S. courtroom and, in time, before a Guyanese judge as well. When that moment arrives, no amount of social media theatrics will make the slightest difference. It may disappoint those who are tempted to believe otherwise, but the PPP/C, no matter what illusions some may harbour, holds not an ounce of sway over the workings of the American legal system.
Struggling to grasp the implications of “United States vs. Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed” does not render the matter trivial, nor does it justify its dismissal. Legal briefs are written in the language of law, not with the easy clarity of newspaper columns, a reality that makes them no less consequential.
As I write, Azruddin is feigning ignorance as to why he and his party are being treated as if they are radioactive. He is particularly ruffled that his party’s candidate, Mark Goring, did not win the position as Chairman for Region Ten.
“I don’t know why all of these parties are trying to work together to get WIN out,” a befuddled Azruddin told News Source Guyana.
Azruddin should spend less time in his half-a-million-dollar air-conditioned Lamborghini and more time outside with the Guyanese who are working tirelessly to move our country forward. Instead of complimenting President Irfaan Ali and his administration on a job well done with the construction of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara
River Bridge, Azruddin’s sister, Hana Khamelia, the toxic mouthpiece of Team Mohamed, chose instead to take umbrage with the naming of the bridge. No one, as far as I can tell, fears Azruddin’s ideas; there aren’t any. He has no track record of leadership or service. How about his programmes and initiatives?
Zilch. Has he built a bridge, a road, a house or an outhouse? He has not even flushed a public toilet in his life.
Hours after the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida indicted Azruddin, his sister screamed political persecution. According to U.S. records, 21,304 non-U.S. citizens (i.e. foreign nationals) were sentenced in federal courts in 2024 alone for cases involving immigration violations, drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and firearms offences. Most of these foreign nationals are from Latin American countries. What Team Mohamed fails to understand is that Azruddin is just another number. The PPP/C is not a bogeyman.
The people of Guyana are not easily fooled.
For the last 18 months, my day job has been to write and edit stories about government programmes, initiatives and policies. Our team follows ministers of government as they go about addressing the needs of ordinary Guyanese. I have reviewed thousands of photos and hours of video of ministers on the ground in hinterland and coastal communities. At no point in time have I ever seen a PPP/C minister or an elected PNC/APNU member, for that matter, walking around as if they are a billboard for luxury brands.
Azruddin, on the other hand, struts his stuff like a peacock on social media platforms. He is nothing but an empty flexer. It astonishes me that a great deal of people don’t see it that way.
Two months ago, an imam in Georgetown endorsed President Irfaan Ali for a second term. The imam detailed his experience when, months earlier, he tried to visit the U.S. on a valid visa. He said that U.S. immigration offi-
What Dr Mark...
want to speak the truth and shame the devil?
It is disheartening and disingenuous yet pleasing to hear Dr France’s admission that WIN needs administration and structure.
But he should be speaking about ANUG’s problems and not WIN, even though it is a dig at Mohamed and Odessa Primus’ management of the WIN grouping. His comments, though about Mohamed and WIN’s future, offer food for thought.
Finally, WIN tricked ANUG. It is as simple as that. ANUG must now regroup and refocus itself. It
should test its independence at the local government polls in a year’s time without the heavy weight of Dr France to see if it could go alone to another general and regional elections.
The public may reject it as they did the AFC and APNU. Dr France has failed yet again to garner the respect of the public as a result of his deportment, dishonesty and double standards shown clearly on the show.
The fact is, he is a weak, uninspiring, politically bankrupt and spineless politician who is holding onto the chairmanship by a thread.
FROM PAGE 8
The public will never understand what he says or does as a politician.
The public must be glad and thankful that he is not going to parliament and is kept locked out of the room where real power is wielded. If hypocritical and duplicitous were a person, it would be Dr France.
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.
imam posing inside Azruddin’s extravagant mansion, where marble floors and gilded gold ceilings glisten under opulent chandeliers, a setting that all but shouts privilege.
As a pointed contrast to her brother’s display of wealth, Khamelia inserted a photo of the imam delivering the Friday sermon in a space that is clearly well-worn and unadorned, its plainness underscoring simplicity.
cials in New York questioned him about his relationship with the Mohameds. His visa was subsequently cancelled, and he was put on the next flight back to Guyana.
That particular imam was subjected to a withering public rebuke by Hana Khamelia herself. On her Facebook page, she set out to embarrass him, posting photos taken before the U.S. sanctioned her brother. The images show the
When another imam stepped up to endorse President Ali, he too came in for a severe public reprimand that slipped dangerously into slander. Uninterested in facts, Azruddin’s sister accused him of living rent-free in her grandma's house. This particular imam took to Facebook to defend his character and demand an apology.
It came as a surprise to me when, last Tuesday, Azruddin’s sister urged the Muslim community to rally behind her brother, claiming
that he is being persecuted and quoting the Prophet Muhammad, “When a single limb is wounded, the whole body feels the pain.” It was a cynical attempt by her to invoke religion as a shield for conduct that cannot be defended on religious grounds. Azruddin is not on trial for his faith; he was indicted for large-scale gold fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering, brought against him by the United States after a meticulous investigation supported by forensic evidence. Pretending these charges are acts of religious oppression is a ploy, one designed to distract, divide, and deflect from the facts that matter most.
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.
Charting a new course for Guyana’s maritime and oil future
THE recent opening of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge marks a watershed moment in Guyana's development trajectory. For the first time in our nation's history, ships can now pass unimpeded down the Demerara River. This achievement is primarily celebrated as a milestone in infrastructure that improves the lives of commuters.
ues to reshape our economic landscape.
However, it also carries profound implications for our maritime sector and the oil and gas industry that contin-
The old bridge, which had been in service since 1978, featured a retractable span that could only accommodate limited vessel traffic during specific windows.
This created bottlenecks
that added days to shipping schedules and increased operational costs for companies relying on river access to Georgetown's port facilities.
The removal of this constraint positions Guyana to handle substantially increased port activity as our offshore sector grows.
While major oil and gas facilities like GYSBI, VEHSI, the Sol fuel facility and G-Port are located upstream of the old bridge and weren’t directly blocked by the span itself, the downstream bottleneck still created ripple effects throughout the entire port system.
Vessels waiting for bridge openings often congested the river, delaying incoming supply ships and creating scheduling conflicts that forced operators to build in costly buffer time, which resulted in an inefficient chain reaction.
The new bridge reduces these complications, allowing for more predictable supply chain operations. For an industry where drilling rigs can cost upwards of US$500,000 per day to operate, even modest improvements in logistics efficiency generate substantial savings.
Maritime economists have long recognised that when vessels can access terminals without delay, fuel distribution becomes more reliable, supply chain costs decrease, and industries dependent on consistent maritime access gain competitive advantages. When Singapore developed Jurong Island into a major petrochemical hub in the 1990s and 2000s, seamless vessel access to terminals proved critical.
The island now processes over 1.3 million barrels of crude oil daily and has at-
tracted more than $50 billion in investments, demonstrating how reliable maritime access enables industrial expansion.
The lesson translates directly to Guyana as we develop our own petroleum-based economy.
Guyana now stands at a comparable juncture. According to Dr. Martin Pertab, former head of the Local Content Secretariat, Guyana's offshore sector is bracing for a major hiring surge in 2026, but the supply of certified local maritime workers is falling short of demand.
This skills gap represents both a challenge and an opportunity. As port activity increases with unrestricted vessel passage, the need for skilled maritime professionals, from harbour pilots to logistics coordinators to vessel maintenance technicians, will only intensify.
The government has recognised this imperative and intends to introduce the Modern Port Act, which would seek to establish an independent port authority to ensure professional and independent oversight of port operations.
This legislative framework, once finalised, combined with improved infrastructure, positions Guyana's maritime sector for the expansion that our oil and gas industry demands.
The new bridge also symbolises the reinvestment of oil revenues into transformational infrastructure that creates multiplier effects across the economy. Financed partially through a US$172 million loan from the Bank of China, the project represents a strategic use of the government's enhanced borrowing capacity. The gov-
ernment's recent decision to raise the debt ceiling, backed by steadily increasing petroleum production revenues, demonstrates fiscal confidence grounded in tangible resource wealth that enables financing for projects of this magnitude.
This creates a beneficial cycle worth examining closely. Oil and gas revenues financially support major infrastructure projects like the bridge.
These projects, in turn, reduce operational costs and improve efficiency for the very industry generating those revenues, while simultaneously benefitting every other sector dependent on maritime access. Agriculture exports skyrocket, and construction materials arrive more reliably. The entire economy becomes more competitive.
Looking forward, the interplay between petroleum revenues and infrastructure development will likely define Guyana's overall development trajectory for the next decade.
The Gas-to-Energy project, highway expansions, the new Berbice River bridge and port modernisation initiatives are all supported by the same revenue source and serve similar dual purposes, improving quality of life for citizens while enhancing the operational environment for continued resource development.
For those in the oil and gas sector, this development represents an operational environment where logistical challenges decrease and predictability increases.
For the maritime sector, it heralds an era of expansion and local content opportunity. For Guyana as a whole, it offers proof that our oil wealth can quite literally bridge the gap between what we were and what we are becoming.
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.
CJIA taps SITA’s cutting-edge tech. to boost airport services
THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC) is moving ahead with plans to modernise operations and significantly improve the passenger experience through the integration of biometric technology and advanced digital systems.
This follows a high-level meeting between CJIAC’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ramesh Ghir, and senior executives of Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques (SITA), including the company’s President for the Americas, Mr. Shwan Gregor.
A press release from the airport noted that the talks centred on advancing CJIAC’s technology roadmap - a key pillar of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision to transform Guyana’s main international gateway into a modern, efficient, and technology-driven airport.
According to Ghir, the initiative will focus on enhancing service quality and reducing passenger processing times through the use of biometric systems and SITA’s state-ofthe-art airport management solutions.
Among the technologies discussed were:
• Self-Check-In
Kiosks: SITA will work closely with airlines operating at the airport to ensure seamless integration and greater accessibility for passengers using the self-service kiosks already in operation.
• Off-Airport Services: Plans are in place to introduce Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) and self-check-in and baggage tag printing facilities at major international hotels, allowing travellers to begin the check-in process before arriving at
the airport.
• Reduced Processing Times: The deployment of Curb Side Check-in and Self Bag Drop services will further streamline departures and ease congestion at the terminal.
According to the press release, SITA’s executives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Guyana’s aviation sector, noting that the country remains a critical market for the company. They pledged to deliver the latest technology solutions
Police recover .32 pistol during Ogle-New Highway search
POLICE conducted a cordon-and-search operation on Friday evening between 20:05 hours and 20:35 hours along the access roads connecting the Ogle New Highway and Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara. The operation targeted drugs, firearms, ammunition, and stolen or illegally obtained items, a press release from the Police Force noted.
During the search, officers discovered a black plastic bag concealed among a pile of stones on the western side of the access
The gun found by the police
road. Inside the bag, police found a .32 pistol with a matching magazine and one live round of .32 ammuni-
tion. No arrests were made in connection with the discovery, and investigations are ongoing.
to help CJIAC position itself as a regional leader in passenger processing and biometric adoption.
Both teams have committed to close collaboration in the coming months to roll out the new systems - a move that represents a major step toward creating a more seamless, efficient, and passenger-friendly travel experience at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Ramesh Ghir, CEO of CJIAC; Mr. Shwan Gregor, President SITA Americas; Mr. George Miley, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean; and other senior SITA executives.
CEO of the CJIAC, Mr. Ramesh Ghir and officials of SITA
‘Don’t sign over your home, make wills’
- Minister Persaud warns against elderly exploitation, abandonment
MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has sounded the alarm over a disturbing rise in cases where elderly citizens sign over their properties to relatives, only to be neglected or abandoned shortly after.
Speaking on the Starting Point Podcast recently, Dr. Persaud described heartbreaking instances of seniors left homeless and destitute mere weeks after transferring ownership of their homes.
“Don’t get me wrong, I know that’s their personal choice, but we see the fallout of it — where two weeks after someone signs over their entire house, they are on the road. They are abandoned at the [shelters]. We see a lot of dumping of seniors, whether at the hospital or at any of our institutions,” she stated.
Minister Persaud en -
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud
couraged families who are struggling to care for their elderly relatives to reach out to the ministry for support instead of abandoning them.
- after failed alliance talks
Dr. Persaud also urged seniors to safeguard their assets by making legal wills instead of signing over their properties, stressing that this ensures their wishes are respected and their security preserved.
“Don’t sign over your home. Stay in your house, live there, and make a will. We must promote will-making so that people are not left on their own. It really comes back to people being caring and not just taking from older folks and leaving them,” she emphasised.
A will, or a testament, is a legal document that describes how you would like your property and other assets to be distributed after your death.
“If you know you cannot care for your parent, come and talk to us and let us find a good solution. Don’t dump them on the road, because they are left out there to survive,” she appealed.
According to her, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has expanded access to medical and social care for vulnerable seniors.
Through this partnership, elderly residents at the shelters now have access to surgeries, eye and dental care, and treatment for infectious diseases.
She added, “We are continuing that coordinated approach — having them assess people for mental health challenges, how they can access health care, and look at those who are there because of substance abuse. We want to make sure they have holistic care.”
“It really comes back to families and people being caring,” the Minister emphasised, noting that compassion and responsibility within families are key to protecting the elderly.
BUSINESSMAN Terrence Campbell, who is set to lead A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in the next Parliament, has launched a scathing critique of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, accusing its Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) candidate, Mark Goring, of arrogance and unpopularity.
In a video posted to his personal social media page and later shared on APNU’s official account, Campbell claimed that the WIN party has not been transparent with the public about internal challenges, particularly regarding Goring’s standing within the party.
According to Campbell, Goring is “a deeply unpopular and arrogant candidate, unpopular even amongst WIN councillors.”
His remarks follow a failed attempt between APNU and WIN to form a political alliance ahead of the upcoming parliamentary session, a move that had been widely speculated as part of broader opposition efforts to consolidate support.
He said: “Now it is rich for anyone to come and say that in the absence of an agreement, the APNU must not push its candidates to the highest offices in the region. That is what we did, and that is what we have a right to do, and that's what our supporters expect us to do in the absence of an agreement. Now our candidate wasn't successful in Region Four, but our candidate in Region 10 did a lot better.”
Campbell’s comments come in light after a quiet attempt to forge a deal to secure chairmanship of key Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) ended in a public spat and blame game between the APNU and WIN.
The turmoil within the opposition camp has laid bare deep fractures, with WIN leader and US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed accusing APNU of colluding to block his party from power.
However, Mohamed’s party executive, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, contradicted his sentiments by confirming that WIN was secretly engaging APNU ahead of the elections of regional chairpersons and vice-chairpersons.
Frustrated and shocked by the stalemate in Region 10, Mohamed said: “Right now its 9-9 and clearly you can see that the PPP, the APNU and the FGM, they all voted together and WIN voted separated because with their nine, its five from the APNU, the three from PPP, and one from FGM, I don’t know why all of these parties are trying to work together to get WIN out.”
Sarabo-Halley, in an invited comment after the election in Region Four, where the PPP/C secured both chairmanship and vice chairmanship, however, admitted that WIN initially intended to support the APNU for chairmanship in exchange for vice-chairmanship.
She told reporters: “Our initial decision, I’ll be quite frank with you, there were discussions with the APNU, and our original decision was to come in and support the APNU for the position of chairmanship, and that, hopefully, they will support us for the position of vice-chair. That was the original intention.”
Further, she confirmed that the WIN party did not hold any talks with the governing PPP/C. Sarabo-Halley said WIN was “prepared to work with APNU because it has the second highest votes in the region combined, hopefully with FGM to maintain their hold in Region Four at the RDC level.”
In a statement, APNU, however, said it “moved forward independently” after WIN allegedly sought to sideline the coalition from several key regional seats.
According to the release, “discussions held with the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party regarding a potential agreement ahead of today’s elections for Regional Chairs and Vice-Chairs did not result in any agreement. In fact, it manifested that WIN was prepared to exclude APNU from Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship in many Regions.”
APNU insisted it made “genuine efforts to arrive at a co-operative framework that would reflect the aspirations of our shared constituents,” but said that “the parties were unable to finalise an understanding before the elections.”
With the deal now dead, APNU moved swiftly to field its own slate of candidates, signalling a clear break from WIN’s strategy.
Terrence Campbell
Dr Leslie Ramsammy: A lifetime of service rooted in equality and public duty
IN a quiet but decisive tone, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy recalls how the ink-stained pages of colonial-era newspapers first stirred his imagination as a boy growing up on the Albion sugar estate.
Long before he became one of Guyana’s most influential public servants and global health advocates, Ramsammy wanted to be a journalist, a voice for fairness and truth in a world that, to him, seemed deeply unequal.
“I grew up during what I would call the glory days of journalism,” he said reflectively. “The newspapers were political, the journalists were fearless, and the stories shaped how people saw themselves.”
He remembers reading the works of Guyanese writers like Ricky Singh and Carl Blackman, men who used words as instruments of resistance. “I wanted to write like them,” he admits. “I wanted to tell stories that mattered.”
Dr Leslie Satruken Ramsammy- still a teacher at heart, decades into public service
Dr. Ramsammy’s academic path led him far from Albion’s dusty roads. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from Pace University, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Biology and Biochemistry from St. John’s University in New York.
“Public service is about people, not prestige.”
FORMATIVE YEARS IN THE SHADOW OF INEQUALITY
Born in Berbice, Ramsammy’s early life was defined by both hardship and aspiration. His childhood on the sugar estates exposed him to the stark divide between the wealthy white managers and the poor workers who kept the industry alive.
“We saw poverty in its rawest form,” he recalls. “Poverty didn’t mean not having a phone or a car, it meant wondering whether you would eat that day.”
He remembers walking past the fenced compounds of the estate managers, watching their families play tennis on wellkept courts while children like him fashioned cricket bats from bits of wood.
“All I wanted,” he said softly, “was to hold a racket, something as simple as that felt like a world away.”
These early encounters with social inequality became the bedrock of his political and humanitarian philosophy.
Even as a child, he questioned why childbirth was so often fatal for poor women and why children in rural villages died so easily.
“If God created life, why are people dying from giving birth?” he recalled asking himself as a boy.
That early moral curiosity would later evolve into a lifelong mission: to make quality healthcare and education accessible to all, regardless of where they were born.
FROM SCIENCE TO SERVICE
He would later serve as a professor of medicine and a senior scientist in the United States before returning home to dedicate his career to public service.
“I came back because, while my work abroad brought satisfaction, it didn’t bring happiness,” he explained. “I wanted to serve my people.”
That decision would define the next four decades of his life. From teacher and scientist to policymaker and minister, Ramsammy became one of the longest-serving public figures in modern Guyana, his career spanning education, health, agriculture, and now diplomacy.
CHAMPION OF HEALTH EQUITY
When he took up the post of Minister of Health in 2001, Guyana’s public health system was struggling with limited infrastructure, scarce resources, and high maternal and infant mortality rates.
“We didn’t have enough specialists, we didn’t have the technology, and many rural clinics lacked even basic equipment,” he recalled.
Under his leadership, Guyana saw dramatic improvements in HIV/AIDS prevention, immunisation, and maternal care.
He spearheaded programmes to reduce motherto-child transmission of HIV, expanded community health outreach, and laid the foundation for the modern public health infrastructure now serving the nation.
Later, as Minister of Agriculture (2011–2015), he turned the same results-driven focus to rural livelihoods and food security, overseeing modernisation efforts in the sugar and
rice industries.
Even after leaving ministerial office, Ramsammy continued to shape policy as an adviser to the Ministry of Health and chair of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Board.
His ongoing work includes leading Guyana’s delegation as Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva and as Ambassador to the Swiss Confederation and the World Trade Organization.
Yet despite these global appointments, he insists that his motivations remain deeply personal.
“From the time I was a boy, I believed that where you are born should not determine your chance to live a full, healthy life,” he said. “A child in Black Bush Polder or Moruca should have the same chance of sur-
- from the canefields of Albion to the corridors of Geneva, Guyana’s veteran public servant reflects on a life defined by compassion, discipline, and the pursuit of fairness
viving to age five as one born in Boston or London.”
PUBLIC SERVICE AS A CALLING
Throughout his conversation, Ramsammy returned repeatedly to a single theme: service. For him, public office has never been a path to wealth or prestige but a moral obligation.
“Public service should never be seen as a vehicle to accumulate wealth,” he says firmly. “It is about serving your brothers and sisters, whether
you are a teacher, a doctor, or a cleaner. You do it because you care about people.”
He acknowledges the pressures that come with decades of public life, long hours, constant travel, and separation from family.
“I’ve been lucky to have a supportive family,” he noted.
Married for over fifty years, he and his wife raised three children — all born in New York — and are now grandparents.
His reflections reveal a man who views success not through material gain but through impact.
“I’ve helped people become wealthy,” he said with a quiet smile. “But I’ve never felt the need to accumulate for myself.
“Our family life isn’t typical,” he admitted. “We’re often apart, but we stay emotionally close. I made sacrifices, but I also taught my children that true happiness comes from helping others.”
Allied Health to play key role in Guyana’s digital, medical frontiers
By Feona Morrison
MINISTER of Health
Dr. Frank Anthony has underscored the growing importance of allied health professionals in Guyana’s rapidly modernising healthcare landscape, pointing to major advancements in digital health, research, and medical technology that will demand new skills and regulations.
Delivering remarks at the Allied Health Conference on
Saturday, at the Ministry of Health’s Brickdam Headquarters, Dr. Anthony highlighted the evolving role of allied health workers as the ministry rolls out transformative initiatives such as electronic health records, artificial intelligence (AI) applications, and robotic surgery.
“We are also, at the Georgetown Public Hospital as some of you know, in the process of rolling out electronic health records,” the minister said. He explained
that while doctors and nurses will help create patient records, “we also would have a group of technical people, in case the platform goes down and we need some assistance”.
Dr. Anthony announced that the ministry will soon be launching an institute to train digital health technicians, with a specialised curriculum developed in partnership with Mount Sinai Health System and supported through the Greater Guyana Initiative,
- Dr. Anthony
which has provided US$5 million in funding.
“In the next month or so, we will be launching an institute to train these digital technicians, and this is a programme that we’d be working on with Mount Sinai,” he said, adding: “We have just completed the curriculum, and the funding for this programme is being done through the Greater Guyana Initiative.”
As Guyana introduces new technology across its health system, Dr. Anthony
noted that the rise of digital medicine will require regulation and the recognition of emerging professions. “The whole area of digital health is going to bring in new professionals that we didn’t have before, and we’ll have to find a way how regulate them,” he stated.
He pointed to the introduction of AI in medical imaging as another area transforming healthcare delivery.
“At the Georgetown Hospital, they would have started doing some work in using AI to do interpretation of images. It’s going to be far more accurate in detecting patterns than the human eye,” he explained. Some AI software, he noted, have already reached “about 99% accuracy”.
Looking further ahead, Dr. Anthony said Guyana plans to introduce robotic surgery, which will require another set of specialised allied health professionals.
“Every movement that the robot would make, it is planned,” he said. “Before they even touch the patient, they’re able to plan everything in minute detail, so that when they go and start performing this, it is very, very precise.
“So, if you have a complex fracture, every fragment of that fracture, they plan how they're going to move each piece of the bone, and how that is going to be fitted back. The robot is programmed in such a precise way as to ensure that you have optimum care.” However, he cautioned that these advancements are not yet covered under existing legislation. “We don’t have that in any part of our legislation, because we have never contemplated this,” he said. “We also don’t have the technicians to manage such pieces of equipment.”
Dr. Anthony also emphasised the need for more research across every field in allied health. “We have to also get maybe a body that can collate the different types of research that we have going on in the country,” he said, noting that many departments are unaware of ongoing studies.
Highlighting Guyana’s progress in health research, he pointed to work being done with Harvard University to improve malaria detection using digital microscopy.
“They have actually developed some technology where, once you put the slide under the microscope, it would upload it to a software in the ‘Cloud’, and there is an interpretation of that slide to tell you it’s what type of
Health Minister
Dr. Frank Anthony
malaria,” he said. “We are the first country to have started doing that.” The minister called for a return to Guyana’s long tradition of scientific research, recalling that as early as 1869, a doctor at the New Amsterdam Psychiatric Hospital had published a mental health journal. “We’ve had that tradition. Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost it, and I think we need to reclaim that,” Dr. Anthony said.
Turning his attention to health infrastructure, Dr. Anthony outlined plans for six new hospitals currently under construction, including at Moruka, Kato, Lethem, Ogle, New Amsterdam, and West Demerara, and the establishment of a specialised oncology hospital. “We want in the next five years to be, or start becoming, the hub for medicine in the Caribbean,” he said. “It sounds like a very ambitious thing, but we are very confident that with the investments that we’re making, we can become the hub.” He also highlighted future collaboration with Northwell Health, which operates New York’s largest ambulance network, to improve Guyana’s emergency medical services.
“You can expect over the next couple of years you will see a different arrangement in terms of emergency medical services,” he said. “We want to make sure that our ambulances; emergency medical personnel can provide care, active care, while getting that patient to the hospital.”
Concluding his address, Dr. Anthony encouraged continued professional development among allied health workers. “Once you stick with the profession and you constantly upgrade yourself, it is going to be a very fulfilling one,” he said. “It is important that we train, and we continue to train... because, if we’re going to improve practice, we have to constantly upgrade ourselves and provide opportunities where people can give more knowledge.”
President Ali highlights Wales development zone as hub for manufacturing, agro-processing, among other ventures
By Trina Williams
GUYANA’S landmark gas-to-energy project is poised to fuel far more than affordable electricity - it will also serve as the foundation for the development of the expansive Wales Development Zone, which is set to host a range of new industries, including a fertiliser plant, data centres, and manufacturing facilities.
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali visited the project site at Wales, West Bank
dent, the project represents a major leap toward industrialisation and energy security, transforming Wales into a dynamic economic hub that will power Guyana’s next phase of growth.
“The manufacturing, agro-processing, light industry, all of that, because, as you know, one of the subsets of this entire investment is the reduction in the cost of energy, which will make manufacturing, industrial development, agro-processing, more competitive,” President Ali said.
Demerara, on Friday night, where he observed the accelerated pace of works and provided an update on the broader development plans tied to the initiative.
The 1,400-acre Wales Development Zone is being developed around the core infrastructure of the Gas-to-Energy plant, positioning it as the centrepiece of Guyana’s emerging industrial landscape.
President Ali emphasised that the Gas-to-Energy project is not just about a pipeline and power generation, but about building the foundation for a diversified, production-driven economy. He noted that the integration of industrial facilities within the development zone will help create thousands of jobs, reduce operational costs, and boost competitiveness across multiple sectors.
According to the Presi -
industrial development across key regions. President Ali has been a strong advocate for expanding the agro-processing industry, promoting innovation, technology adoption, and partnerships to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). At the same time, he continues to champion climate action and public-private collaboration
as essential pillars of sustainable growth.
Earlier this year, President Ali announced that Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara) is on track to become the industrial capital of Guyana. With major infrastructure projects and investment frameworks already taking shape, the region is being strategically
positioned as a cornerstone of Guyana’s rapidly diversifying economy.
Boasting a vibrant mix of commercial and industrial activity, Region Three is steadily emerging as an economic powerhouse — a hub that will drive national productivity, create jobs, and enhance competitiveness across multiple sectors.
“Region Three is strategically positioned with access to natural resources, agricultural strength, and proximity to major markets, including the Essequibo Coast, Bartica, and the populous Region Four, giving Region Three advantages which must be harnessed,” Dr. Ali said.
To propel Region Three
TURN TO PAGE 19
Aside from those areas, the government is also examining the possibility of a constructing a glass plant.
“The study has been completed on that in relation to the need for glass bottles in the region. We also have the private sector, who are looking at some of these opportunities from a marketing perspective and also from an investment perspective.”
The President also spoke of massive connectivity projects in the pipeline, noting that Region Three will be linked via the Del Conte Road to Bartica, Timehri, the Sand Hill Road, and further on to the new highway leading to Brazil.
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
With a firm commitment to diversifying Guyana’s economy, the government is intensifying its focus on
President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the Wales Gas-to-Energy site on Friday night (Office of the President photo)
Dr Leslie Ramsammy...
FROM PAGE 13
My satisfaction comes from seeing others do well, from
knowing that someone’s life is better because of something I helped make possible.”
MENTORSHIP, LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY
Dr. Ramsammy’s influence extends far beyond his formal titles. As a teacher, minister, and diplomat, he has mentored generations of students, civil servants, and health professionals.
“I’ve never failed a student,” he says, recalling his early teaching days. “If someone didn’t pass, I would make them study again, come back, and take the test until they did. My job was to help them learn, not to punish them.”
That same philosophy, he said, guides his approach to leadership. “People make mistakes. But I believe most people are good. They just need guidance, patience, and opportunity.”
Asked what advice he would give to young Guyanese entering public service, Ramsammy paused before answering: “Do your job to the best of your ability, whatever that job is. If you’re a clerk, help someone fill out a form. If you’re a doctor, make sure your patient leaves with hope. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the nation.”
He believes that Guyana’s progress depends on a culture of compassion and collective responsibility.
“We can all change the
Dr Leslie Ramsammy in January 2015, at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, during one of his multiple presentations in the United States
world,” he said. “Not everyone will build a bridge or write a law, but even small acts, a teacher staying late with a student, a nurse comforting a patient, make the world a better place.”
Even as he represents Guyana on the world stage, Ramsammy remains deeply aware of the country’s unfinished work.
“We’ve made progress,”
pursuit of perfection to become an excuse for paralysis,” he cautioned. “We didn’t always have the resources, but we still built schools, hospitals, and universities because our people needed them. That’s the spirit that must continue.”
A PHILOSOPHY OF HUMANITY
he said, reflecting on the transformation of the health sector.
“We have modern hospitals, trained specialists, and better infrastructure. But our biggest challenge now is motivation, inspiring people to always aim higher.”
He draws inspiration from Guyana’s fou nding leaders, particularly Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan, whom he credits as moral compasses in his own political journey.
“Janet was one of my early inspirations,” he said. “She fought for the rights of informal workers, for women, for the poor. She taught me that equality is not charity, it is justice.”
Looking back, Ramsammy remains proud of how far Guyana has come, yet he refuses to be complacent.
“We must never allow the
Now in his later years, Dr. Ramsammy continues to serve, not out of obligation, but conviction.
“I will serve to the last breath I take,” he said simply. His life, from the cane fields of Albion to the corridors of Geneva, reflects a single enduring belief: that human dignity should never be determined by wealth, geography, or privilege.
Each night, he said, he reflects on two questions before sleep: “Did I do something today that I am proud of? And did I do something I should not be proud of?”
It is, perhaps, the measure of a man who has spent his life in service, a public servant whose vision for equality was forged not in the halls of power, but in the quiet conviction of a child reading a newspaper on a sugar estate.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy and his wife
‘No obstacle is insurmountable’
- Zola Williams reflects on perseverance as she joins the legal profession
ZOLA Williams, a former Legal Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources, was formally admitted to practise as an attorney-at-law on Friday before Justice Gino Persaud at the Demerara High Court.
Her petition was presented to the court by Attorney-at-Law Stacey Weever. Williams’ admission marks a significant milestone in a career that has spanned more than 15 years in the public service, where she contributed extensively to the governance and regulation of Guyana’s natural resources sector.
A graduate of the University of Guyana, Williams earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) before beginning her career at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). She later joined the Ministry of Natural Resources, serving in several key areas, including the Petroleum Regulation Division and the Local Content Secretariat.
In 2015, Williams furthered her studies at the Uni-
versity of Dundee in Scotland, United Kingdom, where she obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Oil and Gas Law and Policy.
This specialisation positioned her at the forefront of critical policy work in Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector, particularly in licence reviews and renewals between the Government and international operators.
Williams described her admission as the culmination of “a journey defined by perseverance, faith, and sacrifice.” She recounted the personal and financial challenges that shaped her pursuit of legal qualification, emphasising the deep resilience required to reach this milestone.
“It has been more than a decade of unwavering determination, years filled with triumphs, tears, and moments that tested every fibre of my being,” Williams told the court.
“There were countless late nights of study, balancing responsibilities, and pushing through exhaustion when
giving up seemed easier than going on.”
The attorney shared that she made several difficult choices along the way, including leaving her job and mortgaging her home twice to finance her legal education. “Each decision carried uncertainty,” she said, “but also hope.”
Williams also reflected on a particularly painful period during her studies when her brother fell gravely ill.
“In that moment, I questioned whether I had the strength to continue or if I should return home to be with my family,” she recalled. “Yet, through faith, the support of my loved ones, and an unrelenting sense of purpose, I pressed on.”
Expressing deep gratitude, Williams said her achievement was not hers alone but one made possible through divine grace and the encouragement of those around her.
“I stand here today not only as a testament to perseverance, but as living proof that with God’s grace, cour-
age, and determination, no obstacle is insurmountable,” she declared.
Looking ahead to her legal career, Williams pledged to serve her country and the justice system with integrity and humility. “I accept this responsibility with humility, and I pledge to serve with honour, discipline, and dedication to the highest ideals of the legal profession,” she said.
“The practice of law will demand much intellectually, ethically, and emotionally, but I stand ready. Ready to serve my country, to uphold the dignity of this court, and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of justice in Guyana.”
Williams concluded by expressing appreciation to those who supported her journey, stating, “To all who have supported me, whether through mentorship, friendship, or quiet encouragement, I extend my heartfelt thanks.”
During the brief ceremony, Justice Persaud commended Williams for her
extensive experience and commitment to public service. He described her professional journey as “impressive,” noting that her legal and regulatory background in the extractive industries will serve the Bar and the wider society well.
The judge encouraged Williams to uphold the highest standards of integrity,
discipline, and excellence as she transitions into private legal practice.
Williams recently completed her Legal Education Certificate (LEC) at the Eugene Dupuch Law School in The Bahamas, fulfilling the final academic requirement to be admitted to practise law in the Commonwealth Caribbean.
Attorney-at-Law Zola Williams alongside Justice Gino Persaud
Police probe knife attack on East Bank Demerara family
POLICE are investigating an alleged wounding incident involving a Coverden family on the East Bank Demerara on Friday afternoon. The victims, 53-year-old housewife Indira Thomas, her 68-year-old husband William Thomas, a business-
man, and their 18-monthold granddaughter, were reportedly attacked while stuck in traffic along the East Bank road corridor at approximately 15:30 hours.
Authorities have arrested 68-year-old Wilfred Aaron, a construction worker
from Coverden, in connection with the incident. Investigators say the suspect and the victims are neighbours, though they have had prolonged disputes and are not on speaking terms.
According to Indira Thomas, the family was returning from picking up
their granddaughter from a daycare and playgroup in Friendship when the suspect began verbally abusing her husband, using expletives and allegedly threatening to kill him.
When William Thomas stepped out of the vehicle to assess the situation, Aaron allegedly armed himself with a knife and attacked him, causing injuries to his abdomen and ear.
The 18-month-old child
also sustained injuries to her left wrist, while Indira, who tried to intervene, was cut on her elbow, palm, and three fingers on her right hand (index, middle, and ring fingers). The family subsequently drove to the Diamond Regional Hospital, where they were examined, treated, and released.
Indira was cut on her elbow, palm, and three fingers on her right hand
Police investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and question the suspect.
Man shot during armed robbery at Annandale wake
POLICE are investigating an alleged armed robbery in Annandale, East Coast Demerara, in which a 30-year-old autobody worker from Non P ariel was shot and robbed early Saturday morning.
According to a press release from the police, the victim was attending the wake of the late Eagon Williams when the incident occurred around 12:05 AM. While stepping away from the gathering to relieve himself, he noticed two men of
African descent approaching him. One of the suspects was armed with a handgun, and both were riding a motorcycle (registration unknown). The victim attempted to flee towards the wake house, but the suspects caught up with him, held him at gunpoint, and demanded money. He resisted, and during the confrontation, the armed suspect allegedly fired a shot, hitting him in the right thigh and causing him to fall to the ground.
The assailants then stole the victim’s haversack, which contained a Samsung S9 phone valued at $40,000 and personal documents, before fleeing the scene on the motorcycle. The injured man was assisted by wake attendees and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corp oration, where he was admitted and scheduled for surgery. Police investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to search for the suspects.
Man arrested in Karasabai for having unlicensed shotgun
POLI CE in Regional Division #9 have arrested a 36-year-old labourer in Karasabai Village, South Pakaraimas, after he was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
According to police reports, officers, acting on information, visited a farm where Joseph Francis was making clay bricks. While speaking with him, officers noticed a 20-gauge single-barrel shotgun about ten feet away from Francis.
The shotgun found by the police
When questioned, Francis admitted ownership of the firearm but stated that he did not have a valid firearm licence. He was subsequently arrested and taken to the Karasabai Police Station along with the shotgun. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
POLICE are investigating an armed robbery at the China #11 Supermarket in Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, owned by 38-year-old Chinese businessman, Zhuangshui Xu. The incident occurred on Friday at approximately 20:44 hours.
Xu told the police that three masked men entered the supermarket while he was behind the cashier counter, attending to custom-
ers. The police release noted that one suspect, dressed in a camouflage hoodie and dark pants with a black cloth covering his face, was armed with a handgun.
The second wore a longsleeve grey and blue jersey with blue pants and a blue face covering, carrying a knife, while the third suspect, clad in a long-sleeve blue jersey and dark pants with a grey face covering, was armed with a cutlass.
The suspects demanded that Xu hand over the cash. One of the men entered the cashier area and removed the day’s earnings from the register, placing the cash along with $50,000 worth of Digicel and GT&T phone cards into a black plastic bag. The trio then fled on foot in an unknown direction.
Police have questioned several persons in connection with the robbery, and investigations are ongoing.
Georgetown vendor found guilty of cocaine trafficking nine years after CANU chase
NEARLY nine years after a drug bust in the capital, a 31-year-old clothes vendor has been found guilty of cocaine trafficking.
Shemroy Robertson, known as “Minutes,” was recently convicted by a 12-member jury in the High Court in Demerara for possessing 1.156 kilogrammes of cocaine for trafficking. The verdict was delivered before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif, who has deferred sentencing to a later date.
Robertson’s conviction stems from a 2016 operation by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). Officers had intercepted a gold Nissan Bluebird in the vicinity of Princes Street, Louisa Row, and Hadfield Street, Georgetown. During the pursuit, Robertson was seen throwing a black plastic bag through the driver’s side window.
The discarded bag was later recovered and found to contain 139 pellets filled with a whitish substance. Forensic analysis confirmed the substance to be cocaine, weighing just over a kilogramme.
Following the discovery, CANU officers tracked Robertson to a Mandela Avenue residence, where he was found hiding under a bed. He was
arrested and subsequently charged with possession of narcotics for trafficking.
At his trial, Robertson was represented by Attorney-at-Law Lyndon Amsterdam, while the State’s case was led by prosecutors, attorneys-at-law Darin Chan and Latifah Elliot.
In an unsworn statement from the dock, Robertson denied any connection to the drugs, claiming he had no involvement in the offence. However, after reviewing the evidence presented by CANU officers, the jury unanimously rejected his defence and returned a guilty verdict.
In August, Robertson was found guilty of aiding the commission of trafficking 1.174 kilogrammes of cannabis. He was sentenced to two years in prison and fined $30,000 by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Vigilance Magistrates’ Courts.
The conviction arose from a CANU operation on June 17, 2021, during which officers intercepted a minibus at Ann’s Grove Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and arrested a suspect with the illicit drugs. Robertson was later arrested on June 28, 2021, in connection with the bust.
President Ali...
to new heights, President Ali has underscored the government’s continued investment in reliable infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and ports, to strengthen connectivity and support the seamless movement of goods and services. At the same time, the administration is ensuring that businesses have greater access to financing and capital, fostering expansion, innovation, and competitiveness to meet growing market demands.
Most recently, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced plans to establish a zero-interest development bank to further empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The institution will be capitalised with US$200 million in seed fund-
FROM PAGE 15
ing, which will be released in tranches.
Dr. Jagdeo explained that the concept work has already begun, and the bank could become operational by the end of 2026. Once established, it will offer zero-interest loans with reduced collateral requirements, providing critical financial support to small businesses and entrepreneurs across the country.
An expert committee has been appointed to design the framework for the SME Development Bank. The team will examine international best practices, develop the necessary legal and institutional structures, and determine the most effective financial mechanisms to operationalise the bank.
Shemroy Robertson
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
CHEPSTOW
08:37 hrs My Gift To You
09:07 hrs Settle Down Jill
09:42 hrs Blueking D’oroux
10:17 hrs Celtic Dino
10:52 hrs Mount Tempest
11:27 hrs Moveit Like Minnie 12:02 hrs
Cooltobecareless
GOODWOOD
08:52 hrs Harlington
09:27 hrs Sing The Blues
10:02 hrs Magnatura
10:37 hrs Thunder Blue
11:12 hrs Posideon’s Warrior
11:47 hrs Hafeet Alain
12:22 hrs Day Of Grace
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
GREYVILLE
08:25 hrs Cats Pajamas
09:00 hrs On My Honour 09:35 hrs Quickstepgal
hrs Go Grayson Go
hrs Turbo Twenty Two
IRISH RACING TIPS
NAAS
08:25 hrs Josh’s Joy
09:00 hrs Strike Zone
09:35 hrs Redemption Road
10:10 hrs Swelter
10:45 hrs It’s A Heartbeat
11:20 hrs Jetara
11:55 hrs Galzaghi
12:30 hrs Narlita
India in control of second Test
• From on Page 28
He survived after being given out on 26 and the score on 73 when he was adjudged lbw, but his review showed Jadeja’s delivery would have missed leg stump
But just when the pair looked well set, Chanderpaul edged Jadeja to first slip where KL Rahul took a juggling catch to dismiss him for 34.
Hope was aggressive from the start of his innings, hitting Bumrah and Jadeja for boundaries in consecutive overs.
Together with Athanaze they took the Windies past the 100 mark before disaster struck for the West Indies in the space of eight balls.
Nine runs short of a well-deserved half century, Athanaze attempted to hit a half volley from Yadav onto the onside, but it ballooned off the bottom of the bat to midwicket for Jadeja to take the simplest of catches.
And without troubling the score, skipper Chase was back in the pavilion after he tried to flick Jadeja through the leg side, but only managed to get a leading edge which went
n SCOREBOARD
INDIA 1st innings (overnight 318 for two) Yashasvi Jaiswal run out
KL Rahul st +Imlach
straight back to the bowler.
Hope and Imlach ensured there would be no further losses for the Windies in the final session during an unbroken partnership of 33 to see out the day.
Earlier, after resuming on 318 for two, India dominated the opening sessions while adding exactly 200 runs for the loss of three wickets.
Yashasvi Jaiswal only added two runs to his overnight score of 173 before being run out by Chanderpaul at mid-off after he set off for a run but was turned back by his captain Shubman Gill.
Gill, who started the day on 20, shouldered the responsibility of getting his side up to a massive total, scoring his 10th Test century on his way to ending unbeaten on 129 from 196 balls, inclusive of 16 fours and two sixes.
He received good support from Dhruv Jurel who made 44 and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made 43, before declaring the innings before tea.
Jomel Warrican was the Windies’ best bowler with 3-98.
TOTAL (five wickets; 134.2 overs)
dec’d Did not bat: Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
Fall of wickets: 1-58, 2-251, 3-325, 4-416, 5-518.
Bowling: Seales 22-2-88-0, Phillip 17-2-71-0, Greaves 14-1-58-0, Pierre 30-2-120-0, Warrican 34-6-98-3, Chase 17.2-0-83-1. WEST
Yet to bat: Justin Greaves, Jomel Warrican, Khary Pierre, Anderson Phillip, Jayden Seales. Fall of wickets: 1-21, 2-87, 3-106, 4-107.
Bowling: Bumrah 6-3-18-0, Siraj 4-0-9-0, Jadeja 14-3-37-3, Yadav 12-3-45-1, Sundar 7-1-23-0. Toss: India elected to bat after winning the toss.
Position: West Indies trail India by 378 runs with six wickets remaining.
Sunday, October 12th, 2025 CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Malcolm Marshall-76 wkts (17 Tests) (2) Kapil Dev-89 wkts (25 Tests) Today’s Quiz:
Thousands line streets for Ricky Hatton’s funeral
THE great and the good of the boxing world were among thousands of mourners who said an emotional farewell to world champion Ricky Hatton at his funeral earlier.
Hatton, whose passion, personality and skills drew huge crowds throughout his career, was found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester, on 14 September at the age of 46. The boxer’s son Campbell, who followed his father into the ring, paid tribute during the service at Manchester Cathedral.
“I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you, dad, and that we won’t be making any new memories – but the ones we did I will cherish forever,” he said.
“Growing up I looked up to my dad in every aspect of life, whether it be following a career in boxing like he did or the way he carried himself out of the ring. But all of that was fuelled by the love I had and always will have for him.”
Hatton’s mother Carol said in a state-
ment read on her behalf: “‘The Hitman’ was adored by his army of fans – the People’s Champion, and he would say that’s how he would want to be remembered. Long before this accolade he was our little champion from the day he was born.”
Among those attending were boxers
Trophy Stall whip Bhimsain X1 to cart off Halley’s softball feature
TROPHY Stall defeated Bhimsain X1 by 12 runs in an exciting 20-over softball feature, played on Friday night at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown.
The game, played in honour of visiting veteran sports journalist, Frederick Halley, saw Trophy Stall batting first and reaching a formidable 182 for six in their allotted 20 overs. Bhimsain X1, in reply, were 170 for five when their 20 overs expired.
Man-of-the-match, for the winning team, Lalta Gainda hit a fine 52 which included three fours and a six and received valuable support from Lynden Lyght who four fours in his 42. Openers Oswald Chandla and Rickey Deonarine chipped in with 29 (three fours and a six) and 28 (five fours) respectively, sharing an opening stand of 50.
Skipper Seeraj Bhimsain led from the front for the losing team, spanking six four and a six in a top score of 55 while Hubert Wright contributed 51 with five fours, the two sharing fourth wicket partnership of 80. Vickey Ramsaywak claimed three for 19.
At the presentation ceremony, that followed, several individual awards were handed out to the outstanding players, Apart from Gainda, Bhinsain copped both the player of the match and the batsman with the highest score for his team. Vicky Ramsaywack took the best bowler prize for the winning team, Lyght the best batsman, Anil Beharry and Ernesto – best fielders.
Other prize winners on Bhimsain X1 were R. Persaud (best bowler), Ramsaywack (best catch) and David Sardina (best fielder). All the trophies were donated by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall.
Among those paying glowing tributes to Halley for his contributions to softball and sports in general were Beharry, Sunich, Deonarine and Bhimsain.
Halley expressed sincere appreciation for the fine gesture. The game was organised and sponsored by Trophy Stall and Bhimsain in conjunction with Deonarine.
Clarke, Natasha Jonas, Amir Khan, Frank Bruno, Barry McGuigan, Anthony Crolla and former trainer Billy Graham. Also present were Liam Gallagher, Wayne and Coleen Rooney, Tyson and Tommy Fury, Chris Kamara, Paddy McGuinness and Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff.
Hatton’s funeral cortege was led by the famous Reliant van from Only Fools And Horses. The former world champion was a huge fan of the sitcom and once bought one of the original three-wheelers, which he used to drive around his home city.
On the way to the service, the cortege arrived at the Cheshire Cheese pub – Hatton’s local – and was met with applause from mourners. There was a pause at Hatton’s Gym, where emotional fans sang and took pictures.
Throngs of well-wishers gathered around the cathedral ahead of the service. Afterwards, the procession made its way to the Etihad Stadium, home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City.
The Stockport-born boxer won world titles in both the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions. He quickly rose through the amateur and domestic ranks to face elite fighters of his generation, including Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao. (BBC Sport)
Frazer
The funeral was held at Manchester Cathedral after a long procession around the city
Seeraj Bhimsain is rewarded for his efforts by a representative of Trophy Stall
Man-of-the-match in the winning team, Lalta Gainda, receives his award from Frederick Halley
Haaland hat-trick puts Norway closer to World Cup return
ERLING Haaland scored a hat-trick as Norway took a significant step towards qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998 with an emphatic win against Israel.
Israel goalkeeper Daniel Peretz twice denied Manchester City forward Haaland from the penalty spot in the opening five minutes, saving initially and then stopping again when a retake was ordered for encroachment.
But the hosts did not have to wait long to take the lead, as Israeli midfielder Anan Khalaili headed into his own net from an Alexander Sorloth cross.
Haaland, Norway’s record scorer, doubled his side’s advantage with a neat rightfooted finish.
It was the 10th game in a row for club and country in which Haaland has scored, and he has found the net in all but one of his 12 appearances for City and Norway this season.
Norway scored a comedic third one minute later when Peretz’s clearance rebounded into his own net off defender Idan Nachmias.
Haaland scored his second with a towering header, before completing his treble by nodding in Antonio Nusa’s cross at the back post.
The 25-year-old has now scored 51 goals in 46 appearances for his country, and is the quickest player in history to score 50 or more
goals for his nation, beating Harry Kane’s record of bringing up a half-century in 71 matches for England.
Haaland’s hat-trick - his sixth for Norway - means he is four behind the record jointly held by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Victory leaves Norway in a commanding position in Group I as they look to qualify for their first international tournament since 2000 and their first World Cup since 1998.
They have a nine-point lead over secondplaced Italy, although Gennaro Gattuso’s side have two matches in hand.
Group winners qualify automatically for the 2026 finals, which take place in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Norway continue their campaign at home against Estonia on 13 November, before their final group match against Italy three days later.
Manchester City striker Haaland is the leading scorer in European qualifying with 12 goals so far.
He also became the fastest player in men’s international football to reach 50 goals for his country and now boasts 51 goals for Norway in just 46 games.
England captain Harry Kane held the previous record, bringing up his half-century in 71 appearances.
December window likely for IPL 2026 auction
THE IPL 2026 auction is likely to be held in the second or third week of December, with December 13-15 emerging as the probable window. Franchise officials, who have spoken to the BCCI authorities, have disclosed to Cricbuzz that discussions are centred on those dates, although the Governing Council of the league is yet to firm up the schedule.
Additionally, there is no indication, at this stage, of the auction being taken overseas, as was the case in the last two editions - first in Dubai (2023) and then in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (2024). Franchise sources suggest that it would not be a surprise if the BCCI decides to hold the mini-auction in India itself. Again, that decision is yet to be concretised.
What, however, can be said with a fair degree of certainty is that the retention deadline is November 15. By then, franchises will have to submit the names of the players they plan to release ahead of the auction. There are, though, no indications of a large-scale churn, except perhaps from Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, who finished at the bottom last season.
Among the players reportedly on the release list are Deepak Hooda, Vijay
Shankar, Rahul Tripathi, Sam Curran, and even Devon Conway from Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The five-time champions already have INR 9.75 crore added to their purse following R Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL.
At the top of the Royals’ list will be Sanju Samson, unless the franchise manages to pull off a trade for the skipper. There had also been some talk of the Royals’ plans to release their two Sri Lankan spinners - Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana - but with Kumar Sangakkara set for return as head coach, that thinking may well change.
Players such as T Natarajan, Mitchell Starc, Akash Deep, Mayank Yadav and David Miller among others, may have to look for new franchises, although there is no confirmation as yet - just as in the case of Venkatesh Iyer, the third most expensive buy at the last auction, picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 23.75 crore. Going by the buzz among franchises, Cameron Green is expected to be one of the hottest names at the auction. The Australian all-rounder, who missed the previous auction due to injury, has already attracted interest from several teams and he is sure to be hotly pursued. (Cricbuzz)
Namibia beat South Africa in historic first match
NAMIBIA completed a historic fourwicket T20 win over neighbours South Africa in the first meeting between the two sides.
In a one-off 20-over match to mark the opening of the new Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, Gerhard Erasmus’ side needed 11 runs off the final over to chase 135.
• (Scores: South Africa 134-8 (20 overs): Smith 31 (30); Trumpelmann 3-28 Namibia 138-6 (20 overs): Green 30* (23); Burger 2-21).
Zane Green, who top-scored with an unbeaten 30 off 23 balls, struck Andile Simelane’s first delivery for six before running four off the next three balls alongside Ruben Trumpelmann to level the scores.
A dot ball took the match down to the fi-
nal delivery, which Green hit over mid-wicket for four to secure a memorable win for the Associate nation.
South Africa were fielding something of a makeshift side with a number of key players in Pakistan for an upcoming Test series, but did welcome back wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock for his first international appearance since June 2024.
However, his comeback lasted just four balls as he was caught by Trumpelmann off Erasmus for one in the opening over. Wickets fell at regular intervals as the Proteas were reduced to 82-6 in the 13th over, including a middle-order collapse where they lost three wickets for 13 runs.
However, Jason Smith, top-scoring with 31 (30), held the innings together with the lower order before Gerald Coetzee’s late flourish pushed them to 134-8. (BBC Sport)
Erling Haaland made his Norway debut in 2019
Zane Green shared a match-winning seventh-wicket stand with Ruben Trumpelmann
Quinten Sampson: from tapeball cricket to CPL Breakout Player
By Sean Devers
GUYANA and Essequibo bating all-rounder Quinten Sampson was born on August 4, 2000, to Eversly and Lloyd Sampson.
The Twenty-five-year-old Quentin Sampson hails from the small Island of Caria Caria in the Essequibo River.
He started playing cricket at age six while attending the Caria Caria Primary School.
His father organised village games, and Quinten was allowed to play with the senior team while he was still in school.
Quinten’s dad would pay to make his own team to give his son a chance to play. This motivated the lad to fall in love with the game.
On finishing primary school, Quinten moved to secondary school on
England
the Essequibo Coast and stayed in the dorms because he did not have a family there.
While playing tapeball cricket on the school’s tarmac, his teacher asked him if ever played hardball cricket.
He said no, explaining that he was scared of being hit by the hardball.
The teacher took Quinten to play hardball cricket… and that was how it all began.
After a good Inter-County Super50 tournament, Quintin played two Regional 50-over matches for Guyana in 2023 but made a duck and 13 with the bat and failed to take a wicket.
The 25-year-old hopes for an outstanding inter-county tournament (Essequibo played Demerara yesterday in Essequibo) to regain his spot in the team for the first time since 2023.
One of Sampson’s biggest inspira-
‘have great chance’
FORMER England bowler Chris Woakes says Ben Stokes’ side “have a hell of a chance” of winning the Ashes in Australia for the first time since 2010-11 this winter.
Woakes retired from international cricket last month after a shoulder injury sustained in his 62nd and final Test against India this summer ruled him out of the tour.
The 36-year-old was part of two Ashes tours in which England failed to win a Test but is confident of a better showing this winter.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Going to Australia is a different beast. I’m hoping the guys can go and do a good job and we’ve got a great chance this time.
“We have great depth and a great squad. The lads in the first XI, if they can stay fit and on the field we have a hell of a chance.
“Ashes cricket is played with more venom behind it but these players have played a lot of international cricket and enough to know what it’s about.
“We have been building nicely over the last few years but not quite got over the line in the big series, but it doesn’t get any bigger than this.
“We are due a competitive performance down under and these guys have got that in the locker.”
Woakes called time on his career when it became clear he would not be fit to make the Ashes tour.
But he thinks he would have been
tion is Keemo Paul because where he came from is similar to where Sampson grew up. Sampson had a consistent 2025 CPL with the bat and was awarded the ‘breakout’ player in the CPL, in which Paul played. Sampson played nine CPL matches and two fifties when asked to open.
His 241 runs were scored at a strike rate of 157.57. He hit 18 fours and 16 sixes.
Sampson, who plays for Police Sports Club at the first division level, is also an accomplished softball player who was the MVP in the justconcluded One Guyana Unification Softball Cup.
Sampson’s message to young cricketers is to believe in what you want; anything is possible.
His dream is to represent Guyana and the West Indies at all levels.
to win Ashes - Woakes
selected without the injury - which famously saw him come out to bat against India with his arm in a sling - and says he is ‘on track’ to make a playing return in franchise cricket by the end of the year.
He said: “From the moment I was injured it would have been a real push to get fit for the Ashes and they needed to select the squad. It was clear I wasn’t going to make it.
“In my mind I would have made the
Neves header hands Portugal win over Republic of Ireland
RUBEN Neves’ stoppage-time header broke the Republic of Ireland’s hearts and handed Portugal a dramatic World Cup qualifying win in Lisbon after Cristiano Ronaldo was denied from the spot.
Neves rose brilliantly to steer Francisco Trincao’s cross home and spare Ronaldo’s blushes after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s failure to convert from 12 yards.
squad if I didn’t get injured, I have a lot to give and it’s always good to have guys who have done it in Australia and know what is expected.
“Physically I feel great apart from a freak accident with the shoulder and it’s repairing nicely and getting stronger.
“I have made big progress in the last few weeks and am hoping to play some franchise cricket in December.”
(BBC Sport)
Ronaldo was denied by Caoimhin Kelleher 15 minutes from time after Dara O’Shea was adjudged to have used his arm to block Trincao’s effort.
After Kelleher’s intervention, it looked as though the Republic of Ireland would take a hard-fought point back to Dublin, only for Neves to condemn them to another defeat after last month’s shock reverse to Armenia in Yerevan.
Hungary’s 2-0 win over Armenia in Group F’s other fixture on Saturday means they sit second, five points behind leaders Portugal after three rounds of games. The Republic of Ireland are bottom, two points adrift of Armenia before a crucial meeting in Dublin on Tuesday. (BBC Sport)
Quinten Sampson sits on the motorcycle he won for being MVP in the open category of the One Guyana Softball competition.
Ruben Neves rose brilliantly to score the winner and move Portugal on to nine points
Chris Woakes’ last act for England was coming out to bat against India with his injured arm in a sling
Ex- Windies Test players among those picked for O40s T20 World Cup
THE Guyanese pair Narsingh Deonarine and Mahendra Nagamootoo are the only former West Indies Test players named in a West Indies 18-man squad for the inaugural O40s T20 World Cup set to take place in Karachi, Pakistan next month.
Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) congratulates the Guyana and Barbados governments for their continued support. According to CWIMA, a robust squad has been selected, showcasing the talent and experience needed to compete for the championship. Players have been recruited from Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, and the USA, with Guyana contributing the largest number of players. Narsingh Deonarine, a former West Indies Test cricketer, is anticipated to captain the Caribbean team once again, having previously led them to the finals of the O40s World Cup in Pakistan two years ago.
The squad features a balanced mix of youth and experience, with the oldest member, 62-yedar-old Zamin Amin, holding the remarkable distinction of representing the West Indies across all three age categories—O40s, O50s, and O60s—simultaneously. Many players in this lineup participated in last November’s Windies Cricket extravaganza in Barbados, here talents like Larry Babb, Vishan Lall, Antonnel Atwell, Asif Chan, Reno Mittleholzer, Raja Pooran, Randy Ramanan, Lawrence Farnum and Devindra Maharaj displayed their skills at the T20 level.
Twelve nations are expected to participate in this groundbreaking World Cup.
The Government of Guyana has consistently shown support for masters’ cricket both locally and internationally.The potential for sports tourism at this level is significant, and these athletes serve as exemplary role models for the mentorship programme initiated by the Guyana Government to enhance sports development.
Many Masters cricketers also contribute as coaches, umpires, referees, mentors, and administrators at the club level, while promoting healthy lifestyles. Masters cricket has also played a crucial role in engaging families and revitalising the fan base for West Indies cricket.
For these numerous benefits, CWIMA
extends heartfelt congratulations to the Masters cricketers and acknowledges the ongoing support from governments such as Guyana and Barbados for Masters’ cricket throughout the region and beyond. An important announcement regarding the next World Cup is forthcoming.
The full 18-member squad includes: Narsingh Deonarine, Mahendra Nagamootoo, Randy Ramanan, Raja Amit Pooran, Devindra Maharaj, Royston Crandon, Lawrence Farnum, Joel Leacock, Larry Babb, Vishan Lall, Asif Chan, Antonnel Atwell, Reno Mittleholzer, Mohan Chatram, Richard Latif, Devon Clements, Hemraj Garbarran, and Zamin Amin.
Nandu’s
century leads Demerara to win over hosts Essequibo
DEMERARA skipper Matthew Nandu
scored a 102-ball 73 with seven boundaries to lead his team to a 50-run win over Essequibo at the ‘new’ Hampton court ground on the Essequibo Coast as the GCB’s Queensway Security Service Inc Inter-County Super50 got underway, yesterday.
Ushardeva Balgobin (40) and Raymond Perez (40), Mavindra Dindyal (14), Shamar Apple (11) Ashmead Nedd (10) and Richie Looknauth (10) were the batters to reach double figures as Demerara from 180-3 to all out for 229 in 45.2 overs.
Nandu and Balgobin added 67 for the first wicket before Keemo Paul removed Balgobin.
Perez and Nandu then took the score 140 before Perez departed before Dindyal was
run out at 167-3.
When Ricardo Adams had Jonathan Van Lange (5) caught and bowled at 180 Demerara lost their seven wickets for 49 runs.
Thaddeus Lovell took-43 including the scalps of Nandu, Renaldo Ali-Mohammed (0) and Looknauth.
Ronsford Beaton (2-29) and Adams (239) were other wicket- takers for Essequibo who were dismissed for 179 in 37.3).
Paul hit two sixes in 30 but only Kevin Boodie (29) of the other batters passed 15.
Kemol Savory scored and Van Lange bowled Quinton Sampson for a first ball duck to finish with 4-35 and got support from Looknauth (3-26).
The tournament continues today with Berbice facing the GCB Select. The game commences at 09:00 hours.
High demand as semi-final tickets roll out for Women’s World Cup 2025
THE sale of tickets for the semi-finals of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 will start from 6pm IST on October 11, the ICC has announced. Google Pay users have an exclusive two-day pre-sale window before the general sale goes live at 7pm IST on October 13.
The release stated that tickets are avail-
able for the first semi-final on September 29 in Guwahati.
The first semi-final will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo if Pakistan qualify. In that case, there will be a 100 per cent refund for fans who had booked tickets in Guwahati. The chances of Pakistan’s qualification
are slim with them losing each of their first three games, including one against Bangladesh. The tickets for the first semi-final are priced at INR 100 while those for the second semi-final at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai are priced at INR 150.
The Navi Mumbai stadium has attracted big crowds for women’s games in the recent
past. Tickets for the India vs Australia match in Visakhapatnam on October 12 and for the India vs England game on October 19 in Indore have already been sold out.
Tickets for India vs New Zealand on
tober 23 and India vs Bangladesh on October 26 are close to being sold out as
Oc
well.
Narsingh Deonarine
Mahendra Nagamootoo
Matthew Nandu
Sciver-Brunt, Ecclestone star as England go top
ENGLAND remains unbeaten in the Women’s World Cup after Nat SciverBrunt’s sensational century and a remarkable spell of 4-17 from Sophie Ecclestone set up a crushing 89-run win over Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Having put England in to bat, Sri Lanka were left to rue dropping Sciver-Brunt on three, as she punished them with a run-a-ball 117 in England’s competitive 253-9.
• (Scores: England 253-9 (50 overs): Sciver-Brunt 117 (117); Ranaweera 3-33; Sri Lanka 164 (45.4 overs): Harshitha 33 (37); Ecclestone 4-17)
The game was delicately poised with England 179-6 after 40 overs, but the captain timed her acceleration to perfection with 49 runs coming from the last five.
In reply, Sri Lanka’s captain and key batter Chamari Athapaththu retired hurt early in their innings, but fellow opener, Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama led a promising recovery to 95-1.
But the co-hosts’ lack of batting depth cost them, despite Athapaththu’s return to the crease before she fell for 15, and they finished 164 all out in the 46th over, Ecclestone’s often-unplayable spell of turn and bounce doing the damage.
England’s third win in a row puts them top of the eight-team table, one point above defending champions Australia.
Earlier, Sciver-Brunt played a lone hand as the rest of England’s top order made promising starts but were unable to capitalise, with opener Tammy Beaumont’s 32 the next-highest contribution.
Amy Jones was run out for 11 and Beau-
mont was caught in the covers, before Sciver-Brunt and former captain Heather Knight consolidated with a patient stand of 60.
Knight was caught sweeping for 29 and England suffered another middle-order wobble to spin, including the loss of Emma Lamb and Alice Capsey to Inoka Ranaweera in the 35th over.
The discipline of Dean stabilised England again as she added 38 for the seventh wicket with Sciver-Brunt, which allowed the skipper to kick on at the death and ensure they had set a winning score.
England will look to maintain their winning run against Pakistan, also in Colombo, on Wednesday. (BBC Sport)
Centrobasket Spots at Stake:
faces The Bahamas in opener
will launch its bid for regional basketball supremacy when they open the FIBA Women’s Caribbean Championship campaign against the Bahamas on November 12.
The five-nation tournament, hosted at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, runs from November 12 to 16 and carries immense stakes: the top three finishers will secure places at the prestigious 2026 Centrobasket Women’s Championship.
Hosts Guyana will be joined by the Bahamas, Jamaica, Suriname, and the Virgin Islands (ISV) in the competition.
The championship will utilise a roundrobin format, meaning each competing team
London inks deal with PUMA
ASTRIES, Saint Lucia, ( CMC )–Rising track star Naomi London has become the second Saint Lucian track and field athlete to ink a sponsorship deal with German sportswear giants PUMA.
The 18-year-old London made the announcement on Friday, joining Olympic gold medalist and World Championship bronze medalist Julien Alfred as an ambassador at the third largest sportswear manufacturer in the world.
In a post on social media, an excited London said, “Oh to be a PUMA GIRL. Blessed and thankful to join the PUMA family.”
It is the latest major accomplishment by the young sprinter, who is having a
Guyana
will play every other side once over the five days.
Upon the conclusion of the group stage, the three teams with the best win-loss records will automatically qualify for the Centrobasket tournament next year.
The field of qualified teams for Centrobasket 2026 is already partially set. Mexico, El Salvador, and Nicaragua have secured their spots after finishing on the podium at the 2025 COCABA Women’s Championship in June.
Cuba are the reigning champions of the CBC Women’s Championship.
The hosts claimed the title in the 2022 edition.
Guyana will hope to play their best during the tournament
breakout season. London, a 2023 double CARIFTA silver medalist, broke Alfred’s national junior record in March when she clocked 11.23 seconds in the 100 metres at the Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays.
Two months later she ran a wind-aided 11.09 at the Texas State Twilight Last Chance Meet to become the fifth-fastest teenager in the world under all conditions for 2025.
Earlier this year London became a brand ambassador for the nation’s biggest bank, Bank of Saint Lucia.
She is already among the early favourites for gold in the Under-20 girls’ 100m at the 2026 CARIFTA Games after missing the last two editions through injury.
GUYANA
England remain on top as Sciver-Brunt and Ecclestone star against Sri Lanka
Saint Lucia’s teenaged sprint sensation Naomi London has signed a deal with PUMA
DELHI, India, (CMC) –Spearheaded by Ravindra Jadeja’s three-wicket haul, India grabbed two late wickets to derail West Indies’ spirited batting effort in the final session and seize control at the end of play on the second day of the second Test here on Saturday.
Chasing India’s massive first innings total of 518 for five declared, West Indies were comfortably poised at 106 for two before Jadeja and fel-
Registration continues for staging of Unity Softball Cup
IN keeping with wishes of Ministers of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. and Steven Jacobs, who delivered remarks at the inaugural One Unification softball tournament, urging the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. to ensure they make full use of the four new stadiums across the country which are due to be officially open later this year, the entity has taken up the challenge.
Minister Ramson had also urged the tournament’s organisers and players to consider: rotating the finals around the country in order to broaden the tournament’s reach and impact.
Following closely on the successful staging of the recent the GSCL, in conjunction with the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport, is leaving no stone unturned to keep the grassroot game alive.
To this end the GSCL will be at it again on the weekend of October 31, November 1 and 2 with the One Guyana Unity Softball Cup taking centre stage.
According to the organisers, this tournament is being used “to bring our people together through sports and by extension the grassroot game.”
This tournament will however be played with a difference with matches scheduled to be played in all three counties – Demerara, Essequibo and Berbice with the Open set for grounds across the ancient county, the Masters Over-40 in Essequibo and the Legends Ove-50 in Demerara.
In addition, the women’s category will be played in Georgetown.
The action culminates at the Police Sports
in all four categories.
The winners of all three men’s categories are guaranteed $500, 000 while the runnersup will take home $100,000. Other incentives will also be up for grabs, with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in each category, including the women, riding off with a motorcycle.
The winners of the women’s category will be awarded $200,000 and the losers $100,000.
Registration is ongoing and interested teams are asked to contact 219-041 or 7460090.
Meanwhile, teams in Berbice are asked to contact Ganesh Balgobin on 642-9893 and for Essequibo, Patrick Rooplall on 671-5697.
low spinner Kuldeep Yadav removed Alick Athanaze and Roston Chase for the addition of just one run, to see the visitors limp to 140 for four at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, still 378 runs in arrears.
The Windies will rely heavily on Shai Hope, who is unbeaten on 31 and Tevin Imlach, who is 14 not out, if they are to avoid the followon on Sunday’s third day.
India owed their advantage to left-arm spinner Jadeja, who did the early damage by claiming three of the four wickets to fall.
After West Indies’ openers John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul did well to see off the new ball threats of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, Jadeja’s early introduction after just eight
overs gained immediate results.
Campbell paddled Jadeja’s first delivery to the fine leg boundary, but could consider himself unlucky when his well hit sweep shot lodged in the grill of Sai Sudharsan’s helmet stationed at short leg as he took evasive action, to be out caught for 10 with 21 runs on the board.
Chanderpaul and Athanaze took their team to the tea interval without further alarm at 26 for one and steadied the innings during a 66-run partnership for the second wicket. Athanaze was especially impressive against the spinners, hitting Yadav for a four and a six in his third over and then blasting him for two more boundaries to take the score past 50.
Chanderpaul got in on the act too, clobbering Jadeja for two fours in the ensuing over.
• Continues on Page 22
Police Boxers
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) boxing team has received a vital delivery of equipment as they step up preparations for the upcoming Terrence Poole National Intermediate Boxing Championships.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram officially handed over the gear on Tuesday last, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to supporting sport and youth development within its ranks.
The presentation, held at the Police Sports Club ground, saw the equipment received by Head Coach and seasoned national boxer, Dexter Marques.
According to Coach Marques, the delivery provides a much-needed boost as the
team intensifies its training regimen ahead of the championships scheduled for October 25-27 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
“The gear is an added boost,” Marques stated. “Training started three weeks ago for the 20 Police boxers expected to participate in the championship.”
The GPF boxers have shown considerable promise this year.
Earlier in the year, they successfully punched their way to second-place finishes in both the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) Novice Boxing Championship and the National Development Programme, proving their capability in the local fraternity.
The team will target the top spot in the Intermediate Championships later this month.
Club ground on the final day with the finals
Much will depend on Shai Hope if the West Indies are to avoid the follow-on in the second Test against India
Minister Charles Ramson