President Dr. Irfaan Ali and team on Tuesday held virtual discussions on several key issues with US Secretary of Commerce Mr. Howard Lutnick, and Secretary of the Interior Mr. Doug Burgum
Guyana, US advance discussions on crucial areas of mutual interest
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday held virtual discussions on several key issues with the United States of America Secretary of Commerce Mr. Howard Lutnick, and the Secretary of the Interior Mr Doug Burgum.
The US Cabinet Secretaries expressed interest in deepening trade and commercial relations, including ‘mega’ investments in infrastructure and energy projects in the near future.
President Ali was
According to information from the President’s official Facebook page, the discussion focused on trade, tariffs, food and energy security, the development of modern infrastructure, and security partnerships, among other areas of interest.
joined by Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud; Guyana’s Ambassador to Mexico and Deputy Chief of Mission in Washington, Zulfikar Ally; Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan; National Security Adviser Captain Gerry Gouveia; and Director of the National Intelligence Agency Colonel Sheldon Howell.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali and team on Tuesday held virtual discussions on several key issues with US Secretary of Commerce Mr. Howard Lutnick, and Secretary of the Interior Mr. Doug Burgum
More support for families, cheaper electricity, expanded opportunities
–– part of package for a bright, stable future for Guyanese, Jagdeo says
MORE cash transfers for families, tax reductions and cheaper, stable electricity are among some of the major development plans that will help shape the PPP/C government’s next term in office, according to Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
Jagdeo while speaking at a public meeting at the Mahaica Market Square on Tuesday, pledged to citizens that: “You’re going to see a changed Guyana.”
After inheriting an economy that was marred with massive unemployment and hundreds of bur-
densome taxes, he highlighted a Guyana today where Guyanese are no longer hopeless.
Since taking up office in 2020, VP Jagdeo said that there have been no new taxes and in fact, there have been numerous major tax cuts to ensure that citizens can live a better life.
Speaking on the impact of the measures that have been implemented by the government, Dr. Jagdeo said tens of billions of dollars annually have been injected into the pockets of citizens.
Among these is the
‘Because We Care’ cash grant that was taken away by the previous coalition administration but was reinstated by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government. This initiative has placed some $11 billion more per year into the pockets of families, benefitting around 200,000 school-aged children.
He used the opportunity to highlight the transportation grant that the government is promising to implement in its new term. In the coming days, families will hear what the sum of the grant will be,
he disclosed.
Jagdeo further said that the government has implemented programmes and policies that target every group and as such, pension and public assistance have also increased.
He said that there will be continued cash grants like the $100,000 one that was distributed to adult Guyanese. He promised that such an initiative will be rolled out periodically.
As the VP continued to speak on the targeted support being provided to families, he said that the newborn grant of $100,000 will be given to every child born in Guyana.
“If the babies are born in Guyana, then we should give them the money because these are children born in Guyana,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, those living along the East Coast corridor will benefit from a major water treatment plant at Hope which will improve supply their water supply.
Industries including rice, mining, and fishing will receive continued support, while tax reductions will remain a key
policy priority, Dr. Jagdeo stressed to his audience.
He further pointed out that the government is spending billions to subsidise electricity and this has resulted in stable rates.
Fuel costs have been reduced through the removal of the 50 per cent tax, he later said.
In the government’s new term, he said that electricity rates will be slashed by 50 per cent and Guyana will also be able to produce its own cooking gas that will be
cheaper for Guyanese.
Turning his attention to housing, he highlighted that this sector which was neglected under the previous government has seen massive development under the present administration.
Over 50,000 house lots have been allocated and according to VP Jagdeo, housing developments will be accelerated in the government’s new term, with even more support for the construction of houses.
Wismar power outage resulted from fallen utility pole ––
ON August 10, 2025, residents of Wismar experienced a total power outage that disrupted daily activities and community events. Following a comprehensive internal review and field reports, the Linden Electricity Company Inc. (LECI) has issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident and addressing widespread public concerns.
According to LECI management, the outage originated in the Wisroc area near Wisburg Secondary School, caused by a fallen utility pole owned by One Communication (formerly Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company – GTT). This pole came down onto a power line managed by the Linden Utility Services Co-op
Society Limited (LUSCSL), thereby cutting electricity supply across the Wismar region.
In response to circulating rumours and misleading claims, LECI firmly denied any involvement in intentionally causing or facilitating the power failure.
The company categorically stated that such allegations are false and defamatory, misrepresenting LECI’s commitment to reliable, safe, and unbiased service.
The outage was a result of a third-party infrastructure failure, beyond LECI’s control or jurisdiction. The management emphasised that their dedication to serving all residents of Linden, on both the Wismar and Mackenzie shores, remains unwavering and impartial.
LECI clarifies, rejects allegations of intentional power outage
“Upon becoming aware of the outage through an employee in the affected area, LECI took immediate action by notifying LUSCSL’s engineering team and advising the isolation of the impacted zone to accelerate restoration efforts,” the utility company said, adding: “This timely response also helped facilitate the contin-
uation of power supply to other areas, including Burnham Drive, the site of a scheduled public event.”
The company highlighted that its communication efforts, including a public update on its official Facebook page, were voluntarily undertaken, without any external influence or pressure.
LECI reassured the public of its ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and the prevention of misinformation.
The company pledges to maintain open and factual communication with the community, reinforcing public trust and its fiduciary responsibility within the Region 10 electricity sector.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo addresses supporters and residents of Mahaica
A section of crowd at the public meeting held at Mahaica on Tuesday
More than 9,000 teachers trained in just over three years
– Minister Manickchand says
MORE than 9,000 teachers have been trained over the last three-anda-half years, according to Minister of Education Priya Manickchand.
The minister provided the update at the commissioning of Mashabo Nursery School in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) on Tuesday.
The government claims that more skilled teachers in schools will greatly improve the quality of education in classrooms.
“That 9,000 teachers trained have allowed us to move the trained teachers in the hinterland and riverine communities from 43 per cent to 86 per cent. You now have a higher number of trained teachers in your commu-
nities,” Minister Manickchand said.
The coast has seen a sharp increase in trained teachers, up from 63 per cent to a massive 98 per cent.
Teachers in the hinterland regions and riverine communities no longer have to leave their homes to attend the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).
This is as a result of the government’s policy that is making education much more accessible to individuals from the hinterland who can take courses without having to leave their villages.
“Once you have the qualifications and you want to become a teacher,
we will train you,” the education minister said.
Minister Manickchand noted that the government will continue to provide training opportunities to people who are desirous of becoming trained teachers.
“Every young person who wants to be trained will be trained. We will pay you as you are train-
ing; we will make sure that you don’t have to incur any training costs as you are going through that training.
That is what the PPP/C stands for,“ she said. (DPI)
Mashabo, Tapakuma get boost in early childhood education
––– with commissioning of modern nursery schools
By Indrawattie Natram
RESIDENTS of Mashabo and Tapakuma Lake, on Tuesday, celebrated a major milestone with the commissioning of modern nursery schools in the villages.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during the commissioning ceremony of the Mashabo Nursery School, said the initiative is
part of the government’s commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of location, has access to quality early childhood education.
“This is one of 67 nursery schools built across Guyana in the last three and a half years—the most ever constructed by any government in such a short time,” Minister Manickchand said.
“Now you have a brand-
new building, not an old kitchen converted into a classroom or the bottom of someone’s house, but an edifice with beautiful, dedicated space for young learners,” she added.
The minister highlighted that Mashabo is undergoing rapid transformation, with massive infrastructure development and expanded teacher training within Region Two.
“This is not a village that
is forgotten. Services that never reached the people before are now here because of the PPP/C’s commitment,” she added.
Assistant Chief Education Officer for Nursery Education, Devendre Persaud, described the commissioning as more than the opening of a school, but also the creation of opportunities.
“Development is not limited by geography. Infrastructure will go wherever people live. This building is a symbol
also reminded residents of the government’s fulfilled promises in education since 2021, including the increase of the Because We Care cash grant from $10,000 to $55,000, provision of textbooks, implementation of a breakfast programme in Mashabo, and a 50 per cent rise in NGSA examination performance.
Minister Manickchand said that more and more teachers are being trained to deliver.
Toshao of Mashabo, Henry Hendricks, expressed his
Parents extended gratitude to the Ministry of Education and the President of Guyana for this intervention.
Headteacher of the Mashabo Primary School Modi Beepats said that the school grades have improved, and children are doing better.
He said that the children are also offered hot meals and lunch, while attendance rates have also improved. He thanked the Minister and her team for boosting education delivery.
of equity in education and of a nation moving forward,” he said.
Persaud urged teachers to maintain the school with pride and give children the strongest possible foundation for learning.
“When learning takes place in a conducive environment, it becomes a centre of excellence,” he remarked.
Minister Manickchand
gratitude, saying, “I am proud and happy for the new school.
The Government of Guyana has made this possible.”
Acting Headteacher of Mashabo Nursery, Manesha Deochand, said the commissioning marks a new chapter for the community.
“We are committed to serving our learners and ensuring they receive a quality education,” she affirmed.
At Tapakuma, Minister Manickchand said the village has now benefited from its own separate nursery facility, which will serve 17 children.
The move alleviates overcrowding at Tapakuma Primary, which previously struggled to accommodate both nursery and primary learners in one space.
Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva noted that 13 new schools have been built in Region Two since 2020, including four nursery schools.
She recalled how, in the past, accessing education meant paddling a canoe; today, boats with engines have made travel easier.
“Education is being delivered regardless of geographic location,” she said, describing the PPP/C as a caring government.
Toshao of Tapakuma, Keanu Thomas, expressed pride in the new school, calling it an important addition to the community’s history.
Acting Headteacher Kaameshwarie Barker said the building opens new opportunities for young minds, while teacher Esta Cornelius shared that children are now much more comfortable.
She thanked President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for fulfilling his promise to the community.
Residents of Mashabo and Tapakuma Lake, on Tuesday, celebrated a major milestone with the commissioning of modern nursery schools in the villages
Stronger Charges
THE government’s growing actions against gold smuggling is a positive move.
However, it needs to go much further to stop a few criminals from putting our entire mining sector and vital international relationships at risk.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has announced stronger charges against smugglers, which are necessary.
Currently, gold smuggling in Guyana has shifted from a local law enforcement problem to a global threat that could harm our economy.
When a single individual can “cripple the entire mining sector”, as President Ali indicated, we need to understand that this issue goes beyond
tax evasion; that it concerns national security.
The government estimates that smuggling has cost Guyana over US$50 million in lost revenue, while the potential fallout from international sanctions could be far worse.
The Vice-President rightly points out the enforcement gap that allows smugglers to act without fear of consequence.
His call for tougher prosecutorial tools must be matched by stronger action from our judiciary, which often views these serious crimes as minor issues. When foreign nationals and local accomplices can get back to smuggling within days of arrest, we essentially
give them a free pass to damage our economy.
This crisis is urgent because of its international impact. If our gold sector continues to be hit, every legitimate miner, ranging from small operators to large exporters, would face administrative challenges that could obliterate their livelihoods.
The government has taken important steps to combat this threat with intelligence-driven operations, and the formation of a multi-agency task force. Still, these efforts must continue and grow.
We need not only tougher penalties but also stricter border controls, better tracking technology, and stronger in-
‘Opposition doesn’t have plans for you’
–– Former PNCR member, Region Four Vice-Chairman urges citizens to ‘lock in’ a second term for PPP/C for continued transformation
DEFIANT and unapologetic, former opposition member and Vice-Chairman of Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Samuel Sandy, urged Guyanese voters ahead of the September 1 polls to choose the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for continued progress.
ternational cooperation to break down the complex networks behind gold smuggling.
Most importantly, we have to realise that gold smuggling is not without victims. It hurts our nation’s economic independence, and threatens the well-being of all Guyanese. The government’s message to legitimate miners is clear: Sell your gold legally, and you will have our full support.
At the same time, the message to smugglers must be just as clear: You will face the full weight of the law and the consequences of your actions.
The time for tolerance has ended. Guyana’s gold should benefit our nation, not criminal enterprises.
Sandy who is among the many Afro-Guyanese being attacked publicly for endorsing the ruling party, did not mince his words when he said he feels respected and welcomed in the PPP/C.
He urged citizens to stay the course with the PPP/C to continue the progress and to reject the opposition’s attempts to divide Guyana.
He said: “I must warn
While warning them of the opposition’s rebranding to shift its tarnished image, the vice-chairman during a public meeting on Tuesday at the Mahaica Market Square said: “They (opposition) are trying to fool us; they keep changing their names over and over…A snake can shed its skin over and over, but at the end of the day, we know it is a snake… and we know that you don’t pet snakes, snakes are venomous.”
you of those who are coming now to tell you that they will offer you this, and they will offer you that. Let them know that you have experienced transformation, and the only party that can continue that is the People’s Progressive Party.”
Sandy said that while all the opposition knows how to take away, the PPP/C knows how to restore and open doors.
“They (opposition) don’t have plans for you,” he said, cautioning citizens of the opposition’s lofty promises.
The regional official
urged voters to reject the opposition and its attempt to seduce the electorate with unrealistic promises.
He pointed to the development taking place in Guyana from massive employment opportunities to the transformation of the education sector and said: “Through the GOAL scholarships, we have universities all around the world being accessed by our people for free.
So, what is it they (opposition) are coming to offer? We have it already, and much, much more to come.”
Former PNCR member and Region Four Vice-Chairman, Samuel Sandy
Got a call from Aubrey Norton yesterday
YESTERDAY (Tuesday) morning while preparing for breakfast, my wife yelled out to me, “come and see this.” The egg she burst had two yolks. Before I could concentrate my stare on the double yolk, my cell rang. It was Aubrey Norton.
As we spoke, memories came back of the unlimited political analyses Aubrey and I had over the long decades. I did mention twice in my columns that I found Aubrey to have a fine analytical mind when dissecting the contents of Guyanese society. It was a civil chat which ended with him saying that he has nothing against me, and I signed off saying that I acknowledge he has some positive qualities and I can be quoted on that. Well, I am informing the Guyanese people now that I said so.
I felt a tinge of sadness after we had finished speaking. I will explain below. Aubrey called to say that my predictions about him have all failed and those I am currently composing will fail too. He said I have shaped my intellectualism to suit my political beliefs.
Why was I sad? Because that was not the Aubrey Norton I have known over the long years with a keen mind in analysing politics.
What I witnessed on Tuesday was the disappearance of that mind. It is an inevitability in politics that the intellectual loses the analytical mind when he/she becomes embedded in the pursuit of state power.
Former WPA intellectuals, Drs. Rupert Roopnaraine, Clive Thomas and Maurice Odle were pathetic, miserable and enormous failures when in power. Their stint in state power has destroyed completely the legacy they once enjoyed when they were critical of state power. When they got power themselves, they became abject performers without even an infinitesimal grasp of reality. That distance that the intellectual brings to the analysis of politics is lost. The politician negates the intellectual and the mind begins to fool the politician. The politician loses touch with reality. The politi-
cian sees what he wants to see not what you are showing him.
One lonely Saturday morning, I had a serene chat with President Ali at his home. Ali makes me feel mentally comfortable when speaking to him and the philosophical instincts kick in. I told Ali I admire him, want to see him get elected and would be happy to contribute to that eventuality. But I did say to him that if I care for him, I have to tell him what is inside my crystal ball and how I see it, not how he wants to see it.
I gave him the example of President Forbes Burnham and GuySuCo head, Harold David. Burnham and David would have heated exchanges about the sugar industry and David would be adamant in sticking with his points. Burnham welcomed the courage and independent expressions of David
and David remained one of the few persons Burnham appreciated.
President Ali agreed that a leader is better served and successfully too when he/she is offered perspectives that are not self-serving but derived from independent and original way of looking at society, its people and its contents. This is where Ali leads Norton by billions of miles.
I am convinced with that telephonic chat yesterday with Aubrey that he is not living in the real world and surrounds himself with people that simply praise him. I saw a fawning Facebook page in which Dexter Todd wrote that Aubrey is a man that loves all ethnicities.
Aubrey needs some incisive advice on the multi-racial deficit of the PNC under his leadership that has never been so poorly displayed under Burnham, Hoyte
and Robert Corbin.
I don’t know if Aubrey is right about my “failed” predictions. My opinion is that I have been right all the time. My prediction of his post 2023 leadership of the PNC has been correct.
As soon as he was elected, I wrote that the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC) would do to him what they did to Corbin. The MCC was brutal with Corbin. They ostracised him, starved him of funds, and formed their own party, the AFC. My prediction about the MCC was right.
My prediction of how the MCC would treat Norton in the 2025 election year came through. The MCC resurrected Nigel Hughes
and together with MCC personality, Terrence Campbell, they simply told Aubrey to step side; they will fund the coalition and will run the campaign.
My prediction is that the PNC will lose badly under Norton and he will be replaced. When that happens, Aubrey and I will lime once more at Bam Bam Alley. The only difference is that I still do not drink but will have mauby with black pudding and cook-up rice with him.
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.
Second cohort completes SBM Offshore Guyana’s ‘graduate engineers programme’
- third batch onboarded, company says
A NEW cohort of graduate engineers from SBM Offshore Guyana has successfully completed the intensive training programme.
According to a press release, the eight graduates were formally recognised during a ceremony hosted by SBM Offshore Guyana on August 8, 2025.
These engineers underwent an extensive 18-month programme,
where they were carefully assessed at SBM Offshore’s international locations to determine their final placements within the company’s operations locally.
This experience provided valuable insights into the operational life cycle of the vessel – design, construction, and operation.
Meanwhile, the third incoming batch of trainees, comprising of nine
Guyanese, were warmly welcomed to the programme and commended on reaching this significant milestone. They are scheduled to begin their next chapter on the Whiptail project.
Shaun Prince, Human Resources Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, during his opening remarks noted that the programme should be seen as highly beneficial. He stated, “This pro-
gramme offers more than just career growth, but an opportunity to dream big and deliver boldly. With world-class training and international exposure in countries such as Singapore and the Netherlands, our Graduate Engineers are positioned to make lasting contributions to the oil and gas sector as distinguished professionals and future leaders.”
Additionally, General Manager of SBM Off -
shore Guyana, Martin Cheong in his remarks stated, “Your hard work, dedication and perseverance have brought you to this remarkable milestone. Today, we celebrate not just your achievements, but the bright futures ahead of you.”
He offered further words of encouragement, stating, “As you step into the professional world, remember that you are more than engineers- you are innovators, problem solvers and key contributors to the future of this country.”
Johanan Dolphin, a graduate, offered brief words of encouragement to the new engineers challenging them to take advantage of the opportunity they now have.
“SBM has been number one in the FPSO business for decades ... the only way we can still be number one is if people accept the training, learn and carry on the mantle,” he stated. “So, you and
I are in the best position to learn from the best and brightest and also become the best and brightest so that SBM can remain number one.”
The Graduate Engineers’ Programme was established to target and train young Guyanese engineers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge required to advance their careers in the oil and gas industry, particularly within SBM Offshore’s operations.
In order to successfully achieve this goal, all candidates are rotated amongst various departments to efficiently understand the key processes and procedures, enabling them to effectively support all projects and operations conducted by SBM Offshore Guyana.
A component of the training will soon be conducted at the Facility Simulator (FacTor) Unit of the Guyana Technical Training College Incorporated in Port Mourant, Berbice.
The second cohort and third incoming batch of Graduate Engineers along with the General Manager and representatives from SBM Offshore Guyana
Mohameds make frequent visits to Venezuelan embassy, apply for visas
- Todd highlights after meeting with Bolivarian Republic’s Ambassador - says this poses grave threat to Guyana’s sovereignty
VENEZUELAN Ambassador to Guyana, Carlos Amador Perez Silva, has confirmed that U.S.-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed and members of his family, allegedly recently applied for visas to travel to Caracas.
This is according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Todd, who during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Tuesday, raised an alarm over “grave concerns” for Guyana’s sovereignty, democracy and vital international partnerships.
Minister Todd revealed that the confirmation came during a meeting he requested with the Ambassador after learning that the Mohameds, long accused by U.S. officials of ties to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s regime, had been making frequent visits to the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown.
“Only recently, we found out that the Mohamed’s have been fre -
quently visiting the Venezuela embassy here in Georgetown…When I summoned the Venezuelan ambassador, he confirmed that the Mohamed’s visited the embassy to apply for visas to go to Venezuela, specifically Caracas,” Todd said.
According to Todd, this development is “no coincidence” and must be seen against the backdrop of mounting evidence from international partners, including the United States, that Venezuela is actively seeking to undermine Guyana’s democratic processes and territorial integrity.
“We know that Venezuela would use any attempt to derail the case before the ICJ, and they will explore every opportunity possible to threaten our sovereignty and territorial integrity. This can pose a threat, particularly at this moment of our General and Regional Elections, when we know foreign interference is possible,” Todd stressed.
MOHAMED A
‘PRO-MADURO PUPPET’- U.S. OFFICIALS
In recent weeks, members of the U.S. Congress have issued stern warnings to Guyana.
Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar said, “We remain deeply concerned about efforts to undermine democracy in Guyana… Individuals sanctioned for illicit activities must not be allowed to jeopardise this vital relationship.”
Meanwhile, Congressman Carlos Gimenez accused the Maduro regime of backing “pro-Maduro puppet candidate Azruddin Mohamed,” pointing to his status as a sanctioned individual by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
In June 2024, OFAC sanctioned Nazar Mohamed, his son Azruddin, and their businesses, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World, and Team Mohamed’s Racing, alleging that between 2019 and 2023 they had under-declared over 10,000
kilogrammes of gold exports, defrauding Guyana of more than US$50 million in taxes.
Azruddin, now the public face of the newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party, has been repeatedly linked by U.S. officials to illicit gold smuggling and money laundering operations tied to Venezuela.
Minister Todd warned that any alignment between the Mohameds and the Maduro regime could have severe repercussions.
“If it is clear that the Mohamed’s are close to Nicolás Maduro and his regime, that can pose a serious threat to our sovereignty, and it can also affect our relations with the United States and our
traditional partnership. It is of grave concern to us as a people and as a nation,” Minister Todd warned. With Guyana’s ICJ case ongoing, national elections approaching, Todd reaffirmed that the government would remain vigilant and proactive to prevent any external attempt to destabilise the nation.
Well-known local businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin
‘Don’t
be carried
away
by what’s on the Internet’
- Dr. Jagdeo cautions young voters of ‘vile’ untruths, rumours being peddled Online against PPP/C
THREE weeks before Guyana heads to the polls, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has issued a blunt message to young voters, warning of the incoming digital wave of ‘vile’ untruths aimed at damaging the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s image.
The Vice-President, during Monday’s airing of the show, ‘Starting Point’, cautioned young voters of the digital ambush that has already commenced.
Dr. Jagdeo said that the opposition and its operatives are attempting to drown the government’s prudent financial management, and the transformation taking place since they took office in 2020, by peddling rumours and untruths.
“I'm convinced that the future would be a good one, and the people of this country have to make a choice on September 1. I just want to say to those young kids who are out there who can get carried away by what's on the Internet. And over the next three weeks, you'll see the rumours will become vile,” the Vice-President said.
Dr. Jagdeo further stated that the opposition will resurrect every little thing to try to make the ruling PPP/C look bad.
“They go back to the past; things that were disproved, all of that, and they're going back. The opposition will do that. They'll get some of the socalled influencers to spread the vilest things about our people,” he said.
Dr. Jagdeo recalled how the opposition attempted to use these tactics during the 2015 General and Regional Elections, and when the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) took office they undertook a political witch hunt on the PPP/C.
However, their witch hunt was unsuccessful, he said.
“We've seen their talk about extra-judicial killing before at election time, and another kind of propaganda. And so, people are going to be subjected to this heavily. And they're going to be subjected to the lies of the WIN people,” the Vice-President said.
Unlike the Opposition, the VP said, the PPP/C has not been campaigning on sloganeering, but rather has put in place a comprehensive development plan for Guyana.
He has consistently said that young people are at the heart of Guyana’s national development, and that the government, recognising this, continues to push a youth policy that complements this vision. Putting more money into the pockets of citizens and creating vehicles for wealth creation is a part of the government’s strong economic agenda.
This is accomplished through tax cuts, increases in social benefits, expanded small business support, and investments in various sectors, all aimed at improving the quality of life for all Guyanese.
“If you trace the history of the People's Progressive Party, we've always been careful and deliberate about economic policies,” he said.
Dr. Jagdeo highlighted that the PPP/C is a party that keeps its promises, as evidenced by their track record. Looking ahead, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to the government’s plans to foster wealth creation through more supportive policies for small businesses, mining, agriculture, fisheries, hospitality, and other sectors.
This includes zero-interest loans for small and medium-sized businesses, and favourable tax policies to stimulate job creation and economic diversification.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
McCoy slams Patterson’s ‘blatant falsehood’ about VP Jagdeo
- says gov’t implemented clear, merit-based promotions policy that rewards police for longevity, discipline, performance
MINISTER
within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy has dismissed what he describes as “a calculated and dishonest attempt” to portray Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo as the arbiter of police promotions.
McCoy was at the time responding to a recent news article which quoted Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman David Patterson.
“This is a blatant falsehood. The Constitution is clear in that promotions within the Guyana Police Force are the responsibility of the Commissioner of Police and the Police Service Commission,” McCoy said in a statement on his official Facebook page.
He related that the Vice-President, speaking on behalf of the government, had drawn attention to “concerns expressed by officers who served with loyalty and distinction and believe they were deliberately denied advancement”.
McCoy said: “To claim that Dr. Jagdeo ‘presided over’ promotions is pure political mischief intended to distract from the truth.”
He added that it was the APNU+AFC that systematically undermined morale, stalled promotions, and stripped away the Joint
Services’ bonus.
According to the minister, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has implemented a clear, merit-based promotions policy that rewards “longevity, discipline, and performance” while creating career opportunities that he noted were deliberately blocked by the former administration.
He further outlined measures introduced and reintroduced by the government, including the correction of salary inequities among lower ranks, the restoration of the Joint Services bonus, and significant investments in modern policing infrastructure.
These, he added, include new patrol vehicles, the rollout of body cameras, expansion of the Safe City project, and advanced forensic and communications equipment, alongside continuous training and technical upgrades.
“The APNU+AFC had every opportunity to deliver these reforms, but chose neglect and political manipulation instead,” McCoy stated.
He went on to say: “The PPP/C administration is uplifting the GPF into a motivated, respected, and professional institution capable of delivering law and order to every citizen, and free from partisan interference.”
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs Kwame McCoy
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) and other law enforcement agencies are investigating a credible threat to the life of the Director of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, which is believed to be linked to recent crackdowns on major drug trafficking operations.
Senior security officials have confirmed that the threat was first relayed to Guyanese authorities by international intelligence partners.
Authorities investigating threat against CANU director International team returns to Guyana for final 2025 Paediatric Cardiac Mission
A message, reportedly shared via WhatsApp and intercepted by investigators, suggested growing frustration among high-level drug figures. “What’s happening is that them man getting real impatient and fed up with the big man. So, they want throw he down,” the message read.
According to security sources, the threat is suspected to have originated from key drug players operating in this hemisphere, with possible links to Venezuela or Colombia.
The timing coincides with several recent drug seizures in Guyana that disrupted cartel networks in both countries.
When contacted, Singh confirmed that he had been briefed on the threat, noting that it has been reported to both local law enforcement and CANU’s international partners.
“This is not just a threat against me personally; it is a threat against the Unit and the work we are doing to tackle the narcotics trade,” Singh stated.
Authorities are treating the matter with urgency, given the potential involvement of transnational organised crime. Guyana has been intensifying its anti-narcotics operations in collaboration with the United States and other partners to reduce the flow of illicit drugs through the country.
Investigations are ongoing, with heightened security measures reportedly in place for Singh and key members of CANU.
- GPHC, GOLI saving lives in collaboration
THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), in partnership with Gift of Life International (GOLI), successfully concluded its second paediatric cardiac collaboration of the year, from August 4 to 8, bringing advanced heart care to children across Guyana battling serious congenital heart conditions. This vital initiative
united local medical experts with a 25-member international team, led by Dr. Rodrigo Soto, to perform two critical types of lifesaving procedures: Paediatric cardiac catheterizations and open-heart surgeries.
Throughout the mission, the teams completed 10 cardiac catheterizations and six open-heart surgeries, directly aiding 16
young patients.
In addition to surgical interventions, the team conducted comprehensive paediatric cardiology screenings for 80 children, identifying those in need of immediate treatment, future follow-ups, or reassurance that no further intervention was required.
To date, 13 of the 16 patients have been safely discharged, with
the remaining three expected to return home soon.
Beyond direct patient care, the collaboration focused heavily on building local capacity. The visiting team provided mentorship, hands-on training, and skill transfer opportunities to GPHC physicians, nurses, and support staff.
This knowledge-sharing effort aims to strengthen Guy-
ana’s ability to provide high-quality paediatric cardiac care locally, reducing reliance on overseas treatment.
“The GOLI–GPHC partnership continues to transform lives while building local expertise,” said Dr. Sara Singh, Head of the Paediatric Department at GPHC.
“Our shared commitment is to ensure that every child in Guyana with a heart condition
has access to the care they need, right here at home,” she added.
The Gift of Life International team is scheduled to return for their third and final mission of 2025 from December 6 to 16, continuing their life-saving work and expanding hope for more children to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
CANU Director James Singh
The visiting team provided mentorship, hands-on training, and skill transfer opportunities to GPHC physicians, nurses, and support staff
Businessman rejects ‘false, damaging’ allegations by former agent -
IN response to an interview going the rounds on social media, prominent businessman Tamesh Jagmohan has publicly refuted as false and damaging allegations made by Junior Baksh
mulls legal action
regarding their past business dealings.
The businessman, in a statement, has clarified that Baksh previously worked as his gold-buying agent several years ago, but their professional relationship
ended due to serious concerns over Baksh’s unethical business practices.
Firmly denying the accusations, Jagmohan emphasised that he has always operated his enterprises in full compli-
ance with the laws of Guyana.
He expressed suspicion about the timing of these claims, suggesting they may be driven by ulterior motives.
To protect his reputation, he confirmed
that all legal avenues are being explored, including potential proceedings against Baksh and anyone who might have influenced or supported the dissemination of these statements.
Five Cuban-trained Guyanese doctors return to strengthen local health sector
GUYANA’S growing demand for qualified medical personnel has received a welcome boost with the graduation of five more Guyanese doctors from the University of Medical Sciences of Havana, Cuba.
The newly-minted physicians: Dr. Savanna Sumintra Pearson, Dr. Ronichia Schwiers, Dr. Christopher Lakish, Dr. Renecia Mickle, and Dr. Alexander Giddel Isaacs, will soon return home to serve under the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Pearson, from Region Four, distinguished herself academically, graduating with Titulo de Oro (Gold Diploma) honours.
On a Government of Guyana scholarship since 2018, she attended the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), where she earned multiple awards, including the Premio Destacado and Premio Mencion. She also held leadership roles as Vice-Secretary of the Student Association and as a member of the Board of Examiners in Humanistic and Social Sciences.
Dr. Schwiers, also a Titulo de Oro recipient, began her medical journey in Cuba in 2018. She credited her success to discipline, late-night study sessions, and perseverance through the chal-
lenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her time abroad enriched her culturally, forging friendships and networks with peers from around the world.
Region Three’s Dr. Lakish pursued medicine with steadfast determination, having attended several local schools before entering ELAM. Aspiring to specialise in
neurosurgery, he hopes to work alongside leading local specialists such as Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi and Dr. Asif Subhan to advance this field in Guyana.
Dr. Mickle, of Region Six and a Bishop’s High School alumna, began her pre-medical studies at ELAM in 2018 on a government scholarship. Fluent in Spanish, she
led her student group as President and represented Guyanese students at official events throughout her tenure.
Dr. Isaacs, raised in South Ruimveldt, holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the Southern Caribbean.
Awarded a government scholarship in 2018, he endured seven
rigorous years of study in Cuba, navigating the pandemic and academic pressures. Passionate about public speaking, writing, and sports, he is considering specialisation in general surgery.
Last Friday, the group visited the Guyana Embassy in Cuba, where Guyana’s Ambassador, His Excellency Halim Majeed, officially au -
thenticated their academic documents.
The addition of these five Cuban-trained doctors reflects the government’s continued investment in human capital for the health sector, ensuring more communities gain access to skilled medical care as Guyana’s healthcare system expands.
From right to left: Dr. Christopher Lakish, Dr. Savanna Pearson, Ambassador Halim Majeed, Dr. Ronichia Schwiers, Dr. Renecia Mickle, and Dr. Alexander Isaacs
Prominent local businessman Tamesh Jagmohan
Guyana Fire Service boosts national capacity, warns against dangerous prank calls
- responded to over 4,300 emergencies so far in 2025
Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham, has reported significant progress in strengthening the Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) capacity and coverage, while cautioning the public against the growing problem of prank calls that threaten lives.
Speaking on Tuesday on Episode Eight of Safeguarding Our Nation, Wickham stressed the importance of public awareness, stating that there needs to be more
attention to fire prevention, fire safety and public awareness.
Reflecting on the service’s growth, he noted that in the early 1990s, Guyana had five fire stations. The country now has 22 fire stations.
Recently, new stations have been commissioned in Mahdia, Region Eight; Lethem, Region Nine; and Mabaruma, Region One.
The expansion is set to continue, with six more fire stations under con -
struction in Onderneeming and Charity, Region Two; Wismar, Region 10; Parika, Region Three; Mahaicony and Soesdyke Highway, Region Four.
According to Wickham, this is meant for the GFS to reach those in distress in a timely manner.
He explained that government investment in the sector has been substantial.
He said the government has invested $9 billion in the Fire Service to provide fire tenders, firefighting
equipment, and infrastructure upgrades, creating a more accommodating environment for firefighters to live and work.
Wickham assured the public that “all fire tenders do have water in them,” with each truck carrying 450 gallons. However, he pointed out that with good management, a full tank lasts between two and three minutes, and backup sources like canals, hydrants, or open water are crucial.
The Chief Fire Officer stressed that the success of emergency response depends on multiple factors, including early calls, traffic conditions, whether there is construction material on the roadway and access, as blocked gates and tightly grilled buildings can slow response.
He added that “hydrant infrastructure across the country has been audited and upgraded” but noted that “with older neighbourhoods facing issues, firefighters now come prepared to identify alternate water sources.”
So far this year, the Fire Service’s emergency medical teams have responded to over 4,319 calls, including the successful delivery of five babies.
Emphasising the urgency of their work, Wickham said, “We take our response as an emergency.”
He reminded the public that in the case of an emergency, they should call 912 to get support from the fire service.
However, Wickham revealed a troubling statistic. He revealed that an alarming two-thirds of all emergency calls are prank calls, wasting resources, delaying real response and putting lives at risk.
He issued a direct appeal, stating, “For those persons who are in the habit of making prank calls to the fire service, I advise you consider the waste of resources that it takes to go to a call when there is no need for those appliances to be there…”
He explained that while prank calls waste resources, there is always
the possibility that your own home—or your neighbour’s—could be the one in genuine need of the GFS to protect lives and property.
Highlighting improvements in hinterland service, Wickham said that in the hinterland, 40 pick-up type fire tenders were deployed to render assistance on time.
Reflecting on the 2023 Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire that claimed the lives of 20 children, Wickham said the GFS has taken lessons from the tragedy and put measures in place to prevent a recurrence.
“So, the GFS has employed greater fire prevention tactics—going into communities, inspecting schools, inspecting dorms, training dorm leaders on how to manage in the event of a fire, conducting building inspections, and making recommendations—so that we can prevent the destruction of life and property by fire,” he explained.
He said that public awareness campaigns and regular fire drills are vital tools in equipping communities with the knowledge and readiness needed to prevent and respond effectively to fire emergencies.
According to Wickham, members of the public often make the GFS’s work more challenging by ignoring fire service sirens during emergency responses, leaving construction materials on roadways, heavily grilling their homes, and damag ing fire service equipment.
Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham
CANU seizes 9kg of cocaine, firearm in Parika operation
THE Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) on Monday, August 11, 2025, intercepted a vehicle along the Parika Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBD), seizing a large quantity of cocaine.
Acting on intelligence, CANU officers stopped a motor car and discovered
several parcels containing a whitish powdery substance suspected to be cocaine.
A follow-up search at the suspect’s residence led to the discovery of a 5.32 Taurus pistol with a magazine containing 14 rounds of .22 ammunition, along with several black bags containing additional sus-
pected cocaine.
The narcotics tested positive for cocaine, weighing a total of 9.034 kilograms.
Four suspects were arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters along with the seized items.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
The seized narcotics, firearm, and ammunition
Parag highlights National Pathway Workers Project as key anti-poverty measure
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, has praised the National Pathway Workers Project as a transformative initiative that is both alleviating
poverty and creating opportunities for long-term economic mobility.
Speaking on the Starting Point podcast on Saturday, Parag revealed that the programme currently employs 18,000 Guya -
nese, of which 12,000 are women.
She described the project as very significant for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) because it was launched with the intention of “lifting
people out of poverty.”
Parag noted that the programme also addresses global economic pressures.
Knowing there is a cost-of-living issue globally, Parag said the gov-
ernment had put measures in place to cushion this. Under the National Pathway Workers Project, participants work 10 days per month and receive $40,000, providing much-needed income support.
Beyond direct earnings, the government has been working with financial institutions to ensure wider access to home ownership.
Parag noted that the government is collaborating with banks to reduce interest rates and stimulate greater home ownership, with income from the parttime programme intended to help participants cover mortgage payments.
She stressed that the project is not intended as a short-term fix. “The programme is not a temporary measure. It is something to be able to move people from one level to the next in terms of training and acquiring qualifications to move into permanent jobs.”
Parag emphasised that the government’s longterm vision is to ensure that beneficiaries are able to transition into more sustainable careers. “We want to be able to position them in a different space in life two to three years from now,” she stated, framing the initiative as a stepping stone toward greater independence and stability.
Minister Parag highlighted the programme’s success in enabling participants to gain skills and earn an income at the same time.
“The opportunities are so abundant in terms of training—whether it be a technical skill or an academic qualification. We are encouraging people to take these opportunities because, obviously, we want our human resources, our most valuable asset, to be able to move forward with our transformation as well,” she explained.
The National Pathway Workers Project was implemented by the Office of the Vice President in 2022. The initiative began in 2022 with 10,750 workers, and has seen a significant increase in participation. The programme represents an annual investment of billions of dollars.
The initiative has been well-received by citizens, with many lauding the government’s proactive approach to job creation. Since the PPP/C took office in 2020, over 50,000 people have gained employment. Achieving this milestone ahead of schedule represents a significant accomplishment for the PPP/C, fulfilling its 2020-2025 manifesto promise to create 50,000 new jobs by the end of its first term.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag
‘Minutes’ jailed for two years, fined for aiding cannabis trafficking
SHEMROY Robertson, known as “Minutes,” was found guilty of aiding the commission of trafficking 1.174 kilograms of cannabis.
He was sentenced to two years in prison and fined $30,000 by Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court on Friday, August 8, 2025.
The conviction arose from a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) operation on June 17, 2021, during which officers inter -
cepted 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.
Robertson has a history of previous arrests.
On January 15, 2016, he was charged alongside another suspect for possession of 1.156 kilograms of cocaine. While the other individual was released,
Robertson was committed to stand trial in the High Court and granted bail of $600,000, with the matter still pend -
ing. He was also arrested and charged with three others on March 6, 2017, but the charges against him were later dropped.
Shemroy Robertson
Police arrest suspect who, allegedly, murdered his ex-wife
SWIFT police work led to the arrest of a man accused of murdering his ex-wife, 45-year-old Bibi Shazida Hanif, early Tuesday morning, at her Samaroo Dam, West Bank Demerara home.
According to police reports, at around 08:30 hrs, acting on information received, ranks intercepted motor car PZZ 3660 along No. 66 Public Road,
Division Three for further investigation.
Police allege that, between 04:44 hrs and 05:25 hrs on Tuesday, True fatally stabbed Hanif, who was employed as a cleaner at Rapid Oil Field, Halliburton, Garden of Eden, East Bank Essequibo.
Investigators disclosed that Hanif lived with her 18-year-old son, who is currently staying with his
Corentyne, Berbice.
The vehicle was being driven by Abdul Jameer True, 29, of Parika, East Bank Essequibo. In the back seat, officers found Martin True, 53, of Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, who was identified as the murder suspect.
True was informed of the allegation, arrested, cautioned, and escorted to the Springlands Police Station. He will be transferred to Regional Police
father in Berbice. Hayden Xavier, a 44-year-old Trinidadian national and Inspector at Rapid Oil Field, told police he had been in a relationship with Hanif since March, following her separation from True.
He said Hanif had lived with him at Providence, East Bank Demerara, before returning to her Samaroo Dam home two weeks ago.
Xavier recounted that Hanif typically used the
company bus to travel from Samaroo Dam to Providence Public Road, where he would collect her for work. On Tuesday, at 04:44 hrs, Hanif called Xavier to say she would be late and asked him to pick her up.
About 20 minutes later, while on the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Xavier called her phone, only to have True answer and reportedly say, “I now fix she deh.”
Alarmed, Xavier went to the Vreed-en-Hoop Po-
lice Station to report the matter before heading to Hanif’s home.
When officers arrived, they discovered Hanif lying motionless in blood next to her bed. Two stab wounds were visible on her back. She was rushed
to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The body is currently at Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Martin True
Hope, Seales flatten Pakistan to end West Indies’ 34-year drought
which will serve as the jewel in the crown. Mohammad Rizwan can be tricky to settle on a length to for all his fidgetiness, and as he took a step out, he determined the fourth-stump line on a hard length was safe to leave on both counts.
As he shouldered arms, he would have heard the mildest clink behind him, like ice-cubes tinkling in a glass. The ball had seamed back in and kissed the off bail without even touching the stumps; it could not have been dislodged more clinically if someone picked it up and set it on the ground.
A punch-drunk Pakistan were already dreaming up wild scenarios for how this match could turn, and it’s safe to say they all involved Babar Azam. Babar, though, was a mere plot-point to Seales’ perfect day as he trapped him in front with the batter still in single figures to leave Pakistan reeling at 23 for 4. It was those 92 balls that defined the game. Pakistan may have started well, but it barely feels like it matters now. The cracks and weaknesses were apparent even then, when Rizwan turned to Hussain Talat for his first deliveries in international cricket after the Powerplay saw them constrict West Indies, only for Evin Lewis to pick him up for two sixes and break the shackles. Abrar was so accurate and menacing he
SCOREBOARD
WEST INDIES
Brandon King c Salman b Shah
Evin Lewis c sub (Haris) b Ahmed
Keacy Carty lbw b Ahmed
*+Shai Hope not out
Sherfane Rutherford c Talat b Ayub
Roston Chase b Shah
Gudakesh Motie c&b Nawaz
Justin Greaves not out
Extras (lb6, nb1, w9)
TOTAL (six wickets; 50 overs)
Did not bat: Romario Shepherd, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-57, 3-68, 4-113, 5-177, 6-184.
Bowling: Shah 10-0-72-2, Ali 10-1-60-0, Talat 4-0-26-0, Ahmed 9-1-34-2, Ayub 8-0-36-1, M Nawaz 9-0-60-1.
often appeared on the verge of running through West Indies early, and the hosts spent much of the innings batting at a glacial pace well under four runs per over. It does not matter now.
Neither does whatever happened after that fourth Pakistan wicket fell. Salman Ali Agha and Hasan Nawaz had little ambition beyond stealing a few singles each over, even if that made the ultimately Herculean task even more insurmountable as the asking rate spiked. That Pakistan had stripped their side of full-time bowlers for superficial batting depth hardly seemed to matter. They knew they were never getting there anyway, and when the spin of Motie and Chase accounted for them in quick succession, West Indies could see the finish line.
To do the honours, they handed that baton to none
PAKISTAN
Saim Ayub c +Hope b Seales
Abdullah Shafique c Motie b Seales
Babar Azam lbw b Seales
*+Mohammad Rizwan b Seales
Salman Agha c&b Motie
Hasan Nawaz st +Hope b Motie
Hussain Talat b Chase
Mohammad Nawaz not out
Naseem Shah c&b Seales
Hasan Ali b Seales
Abrar Ahmed run out
Extras (b4, w6)
TOTAL (all out; 29.2 overs)
Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-8, 3-8, 4-23, 5-61, 6-62, 7-70, 8-92, 9-92, 10-92.
Bowling: Seales 7.2-0-18-6, Shepherd 5-2-10-0, Joseph 4-0-7-0, Motie 7-0-37-2, Chase 6-1-16-1.
Result: West Indies won by 202 runs to win the three-match series 2-1.
Player-of-the-Match: Shai Hope.
Player-of-the-Series: Jayden Seales.
other than Seales, who blew past Naseem and Hasan Ali before Abrar jogged through for a single that was never on. Chase effected a direct hit, that sharpness depriving Seales the opportunity to bag the best ever bowling figures in men’s ODIs by a West Indian. For all of the young speedster’s brilliance, the fact Pakistan ensured they had a final say in their own downfall felt somewhat apt. (ESPN Cricinfo)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
Two-Tier Tests: Plenty in theory, thin on pragmatism
THE two-tier Test Championship, which has dominated recent cricketing discourse, may remain more in theory than in practice.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has openly opposed the proposed format - two divisions of six teams each, with one or two sides promoted and relegated after every cycle - and the England board is not alone in its indifference to the plan.
That has now become something of a red flag for many member boards, as every country wants to play India, England and Australia - the driving forces behind the longest and most revered format of the game. More specifically, apart from the Ashes in either country, only a series involving India can make a Test contest commercially and financially viable for most other nations and no
board wants to miss out on an opportunity to play the Big 3. If approved by the ICC Board, the 12 Test-playing nations would be split into two divisions. The "Big Three"India, Australia and Englandwould join South Africa, New Zealand and Sri Lanka (based on the latest rankings) in the top tier, while the remaining six - Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe - would slug it out in the second, lower division. The debate is gaining traction at a time when the target is to revive Test cricket in countries outside of the Big 3. "That can be achieved not by staging frequent series among the Big Three, but by involving them in contests with other nations," said a source conversant with the developments. The Cricket West Indies (CWI) said clearly that if the structure were to
ICC Chairman Jay Shah
be overhauled, the financial model needs to be a major part of that change.
"The CWI does not have a position as we have not held any discussion or seen any specifics (on two-tier cham-
Women’s World Cup 2025: Bengaluru games shifted; Trivandrum likely to host
BENGALURU is off Women's World Cup (WWC) radar and there will be a new venue for the ODI World Cup beginning September 30. Apart from Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Indore (in India) and Colombo, there will be another hosting city and the International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to make the announcement within a day or two. Thiruvananthapuram is considered favourite for the displaced games.
Although a formal announcement is not yet out, the decision is understood to have been made late on Monday night after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) failed to secure permission for the games, despite the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) granting a two-day extension.
The original deadline was Saturday (August 9), but the BCCI is believed to have told the beleaguered KSCA that it will wait till Monday (August 11).
Cricbuzz was first to report on the uncertainty on August 7 over Bengaluru matches. The BCCI and the ICC are understood to have expressed helplessness in waiting longer and they told the KSCA that time is fast running out. Incidentally,
on Monday, the ICC marked the 50-day countdown to the tournament, scheduled from September 30 to November 2. With the venue change likely, the ICC may have to revise the schedule - in part or in full.
Chinnaswamy Stadium was initially allotted five games, including the inaugural match involving India on September 30.
However, following catastrophic events of June 4 when RCB's victory march turned tragic resulting in death of 11 fans and injuries to scores, things seemingly have become difficult.
The State Government has toughened the stance toward cricket games in the city.
Potentially Bengaluru would have also hosted the final too on November 2 since chances of Pakistan qualifying for the title clash are considered bleak. As is the arrangement, all Pakistan games are to be played at a neutral venue and hence Colombo came into the picture. Should Pakistan qualify for the final, Colombo will host the match.
Repeated calls and messages to the KSCA officials remained unanswered but sources within the BCCI have revealed that the Chinnaswamy games are being moved. Hyderabad and Thi-
pionship) other than public speculation. Our position relates to the financial model that underpins Test and other bilateral international cricket which we do not believe is fit for purpose and which would have to be a major part of any overhaul," West Indies board CEO Chris Dehring told Cricbuzz.
The ECB concern is somewhat similar - what if England don't get to play India or Australia, the money-spinning series, should any of these teams be relegated to the lower tier. "We wouldn't want, as England, if we go through a fallow period, to fall into Division Two and not play Australia or India.
That simply couldn't happen. Common sense needs to prevail," ECB chair Richard Thomson is widely quoted as saying in the media. England just concluded a blockbuster
series against India and it does not want be in a situation where an India series is not possible The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is understood to have opposed the two-division structure during recent ICC meetings in Singapore. "The Test schedule of the ICC is locked for the next two years. So it is too premature to discuss this," a PCB spokesman told this website when reached for a response on the proposed structure.
Apart from resistance to the concept, the ICC could face practical challenges in implementing the plan. The Test FTP cycle is usually locked in for four years. For instance, if Ireland were to qualify for the top division within the first two years, its schedule for the following two years would be rendered meaningless, as it would be required to face top-tier teams
with whom no fixtures would have been scheduled in that particular cycle.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has remained silent on the matter, though insiders suggest most boards have told them that they, invariably, seek to engage with India. Former New Zealand cricketer Roger Twose has been a strong advocate of the six-team format, and appears to have the backing of Cricket Australia (CA).
The ICC has set up a working group comprising, among others, its Chair Jay Shah, Twose, ECB CEO Richard Gould and ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta. The panel is expected to submit to its recommendations by year-end, but whether the plan can secure the requisite support at the ICC board remains the moot point.
(Cricbuzz)
Duplantis breaks pole vault world record for
13th time
ruvananthapuram are being considered as potential alternatives, and Cricbuzz understands chances of Kerala getting the matches are higher. Chennai could have also been a potential alternative but was ruled out as TNCA had informed BCCI that the ground was not available till December owing to renovation works.
Besides the tournament opener, the other league games originally slated for Bengaluru were England-South Africa (on October 3), India-Bangladesh (on October 26), and then the two knockout matches.
The Karnataka government's tough stance towards cricket matches has raised serious question marks over future events in the city, mainly the T20 World Cup early next year and the IPL. Recently, it did not give permission for the Maharaja Cup which was later shifted to Mysuru.
The eight competing teams for the Women's World Cup are Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh and Pakistan besides hosts India and Sri Lanka. There are 31 games in all in the competition, including 28 league matches, two semifinals and the final. (Cricbuzz)
ARMAND Duplantis broke the men's pole vault world record for a 13th time - and third this year - with a clearance of 6.29m at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old double Olympic and world champion cleared 6.28m at the Stockholm Diamond League meeting in June.
But he surpassed that figure with his second attempt in Budapest on Tuesday.
Duplantis first broke the world record, then held by Frenchman Renaud Lavillenie for six years, in February 2020 with a 6.17m clearance in Poland. His trademark is to progress the record in one-centimetre increments.
Duplantis missed his first attempt at 6.11m, with Greece's Emmanouil Karalis retiring after failing twice at the same height. The Swede then had the bar raised to try for a new record, which he successfully completed, despite rattling the bar slightly on his second effort.
Duplantis ran straight to the crowd to celebrate with his family and partner Desire Inglander. On Saturday, he competes at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland, where he also broke the world record last year.
Duplantis will also bid to become the second man, after Sergey Bubka, to win three successive world outdoor pole vault titles when he competes in Tokyo next month. Between 1984 and 1994, Ukraine's Bubka broke the outdoor world record 17 times and the indoor mark 18. (BBC Sport).
Five rookies who could make...
of 4-2-5-2 against Yorkshire at Headingley. Ghazanfar could be just as deadly and unhittable on the spin-friendly surfaces in the Caribbean. However, he might miss the second half of the CPL if he gets picked in Afghanistan’s squad for the Asia Cup starting September 9 in the UAE.
Bevon Jacobs is another emerging T20 star who is part of Mumbai Indians in the IPL and MI Emirates in the ILT20 in the UAE. He is now poised to make his CPL debut for Antigua & Barbuda Falcons along with Ghazanfar.
From page 30
At over six feet tall, the New Zealand power-hitter has the height and reach to mess with the lengths of bowlers. He has always been good against pace, and this CPL will be a test of his skills against spin on potentially slow surfaces.
New Zealand currently have a settled middle order in T20Is, but success against spin in the Caribbean could prompt the team management to include him as a wildcard for next year’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. (ESPN Cricinfo)
Armand Duplantis became the first man to retain the Olympic pole vault title since American Bob Richards in 1952 and 1956 at the Games in Paris last summer.
Five rookies who could make a splash in CPL 2025
..A left-arm quick, a six hitter who can bat in the top order, and a couple of mystery spinners are all part of our list
THE 13th season of the CPL, which will kick off on August 14, will feature a number of T20 stars from the Caribbean as well as from other parts of the world. Here are five CPL rookies who could make a mark in the upcoming season.
Having moved on from the likes of Sheldon Cottrell and Obed McCoy, West Indies are trialling Jediah Blades in the left-arm seamer's role ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Even before he had played in the CPL, Blades, now 23, was fasttracked into the West Indies side after impressing with the new ball for Guyana Rainforest Rangers in the inaugural West Indies breakout league, a tournament that was held earlier this year to identify emerging talent in the region.
After conceding 40 runs in three overs on T20I debut
against Australia, Blades bounced back in his second match, trapping Mitchell Marsh lbw with a sharp inswinger with the new ball before dismissing Mitchell Owen and Cooper Connolly with the older one. A good CPL season could potentially put Blades in T20 World Cup contention.
Kofi James isn't really a rookie - he is 27 and has
played 12 CPL games so far - but hasn't fulfilled his potential yet. Could this be James' season?
He showed attacking enterprise at the top for Leeward Islands Thunder in the breakout league, finishing on top of the runs charts (240 at a strike rate of nearly 158) and on top of the sixes chart with 16. With both Rahkeem Cornwall and Alick Athanaze
Vikings and Riverside cricket clubs provide support for ‘Project Cricket Gear’
VIKINGS and Riverside Cricket Clubs of the USA have donated one pair of cricket shoes and four pairs of batting gloves to “Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative of Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA.
The long-established cricket clubs expressed confidence in the project and is impressed with its work. The initiative is grateful to Raj Rai, Kumar Dindyal, Sohan Bheer, Shazam Hussein, Tony, Derek and Krishna Kallicharran.
Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $730,000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, 36 pairs of cricket shoes, 38 pairs of batting pads, 47 cricket bats, 46 pairs of batting gloves, 29 thigh pads, three pairs of
wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 14 gear bags, 13 bat rubbers, seven helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, one pair of inners, 16 boxes and four of white cricket balls, 13 boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone and 28 footballs.
To date, 99 players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted directly from cash, nine gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 37 bats, four boxes, six helmets, 36 pairs of cricket shoes, 21pairs of batting pads, 25 thigh pads, one bat grip, 40 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and four pairs of wicket-keeping gloves with one pair of inners.
Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.
moving out of Barbados Royals, James could be combined with Quinton de Kock and Brandon King in a new-look top order. James also bowls off-spin and can be matched up against left-hand batters.
The Knight Riders franchise has always been big on mystery spinners across leagues and for this CPL season, they have recruited
Usman Tariq, who has had success with Quetta Gladiators in the PSL.
Tariq, who is predominantly an offspinner, comes to a near-complete halt as he approaches his delivery stride before firing darts with a slinging, side-arm action. He often slings it in from wide of the crease, making it even
more difficult for batters to pick him.
The 27-year-old has played ten games in the PSL, taking 12 wickets at an economy rate of 7.64, and the upcoming CPL will be his first stint in a franchise T20 league outside Pakistan.
Afghanistan teenager AM Ghazanfar is another mystery spinner who is set for his maiden CPL stint. He impressed Mumbai Indians with his variations during a trial in the UAE and had them forking out INR 4.80 crore (US$ 570,000 approx.) for him during the IPL 2025 auction.
Though Ghazanfar missed the IPL with injury, he reminded the world of his mystery in the T20 Blast for Derbyshire, where he took 16 wickets in 14 games at an economy rate of 7.05. It included a mesmerising spell Turn to page 29
‘Women’s game needs scrutiny’ - Perry on The Hundred and Ashes
IN the world of women's cricket, Ellyse Perry has seen it all.
From an Australia debut in 2007 at the age of just 16, to juggling international football alongside cricket, to the unforgettable 3-19 with a fractured ankle to win the World Cup in 2013 - one of her eight World Cup winsplus a Commonwealth Games triumph in 2022.
Throughout it all, the game has transformed beyond recognition, with Perry as the star at its centre.
The 34-year-old all-rounder has 337 caps for Australia across formats, having been one of the country's first players to be awarded a central contract in 2008, and is now one of the top names on any wish list for the world's various franchise leagues.
Having represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru in India's Women's Premier League and Sydney Sixers in her native Women's Big Bash (WBBL), Perry is now beginning her third season with Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred, having spent the early summer playing for Hampshire in the Women's Vitality Blast and the OneDay Cup. Though Perry's focus is on leading Phoenix, who finished seventh in the
table in 2024, she and the other Australians in the tournament - including Alana King, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield - will have one eye on the upcoming challenge of defending their 50-over World Cup title in India this autumn.
The Australia side has a strong case to be regarded as one of the greatest teams in sporting history but their most recent triumph, a 16-0 thrashing of England in the Ashes, saw a spotlight on women's cricket in the UK like never before. "It's really easy to get caught up in the scoreline of that series without really seeing the bigger picture," said Perry.
"There are some amazing players in that English team, world-class players who can win a game from anywhere.
"It was a moment in time. It was great for us and for our fans, playing at home during our summer, but I sort of feel like it was probably a bit of an anomaly. "The next time we meet, it'll be different circumstances – maybe in a World Cup. It's a moment that has passed and not something that we all want to get stuck on or gloat about because cricket is so fickle, things can change so quickly." England received widespread criticism for the
defeats and their attitude, with fans becoming increasingly frustrated by repeated claims of them being "so close" to beating Australia and with accusations of cosiness and complacency within the team.
Though Perry admits she did not pay much attention to what was said in the media during the series, she welcomes the increased scrutiny as a good thing for the game.
"It shows that people care, and people expect a certain level of performance from their elite female teams, and they are passionate about it.
"That's a far cry from where the women's game was five to 10 years ago. So, while criticism and being held to account isn't always a pleasant thing, equally it's a very positive thing for the direction of the game and that it's being taken really seriously.
"People expect more [now we are paid more] and all we've wanted is to be taken seriously and to be respected, for the way that we play the game and the level that we can take the game to, so with that comes pressure to perform.
"There will be moments where that's hard to handle and it's a challenge, but it's also exactly what the game needs."(BBC Sport).
Derek Kalicharran (left), accepts the tokens from Raj Rai in the presence of other club members
Jediah Blades made his T20I debut recently • Randy Brooks/AFP via Getty Images)
Usman Tariq has played two seasons of PSL(•PCB) Bevon Jacobs has a T20 strike rate of 147.31•BCCI
Georgetown Women Classic Basketball Series… Ramlall sisters engineer Guyana’s clean sweep of Suriname
GUYANA’S women’s basketball team completed a clean sweep of their two-match series with Suriname on Monday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The Guyanese won the contest, 65-57, after another overwhelming showing by the local women’s outfit.
Asha Ramlall led the scoring with 21 points, with 19 each from Amisha and Arshia Ramlall as the Ramlall siblings’ scoring ability was on show for a second time on home soil, to dismiss the opposition.
The games were tight for two quarters, as Surname sought to bounce back from their series opening loss, trailing by one point, 18-17, at the end of the first quarter, while at the end of the half they were down by 2 points, 36-34.
However, by the third quarter, the tide would start to turn as the
locals outscored their South American counterpart, 18-10, in the third to lead, 54- 44, before closing it out, 65-57, for the win.
In the first exhibition clash of the evening, Georgetown came up against Linden combined. Georgetown would take the
Jamaica book spot in Americas Qualifiers, Barbados eliminated
MEXICO CITY, Mexico, (CMC) – Jamaica men’s national basketball team qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers after finishing second in Group A of the Pre-Qualifiers here in Ciudad Obregón.
Jamaica finished with a 2-1 record after going down 90-61 to Mexico in their top-ofthe-table clash on Sunday to earn an automatic spot in the Qualifiers.
With the victory, the Mexicans confirmed their status as group favourites by securing three wins, averaging a 25-point margin of victory.
However, despite winning their final game against Costa Rica, 83-56, Barbados did not
advance after placing third in the group with a 1-2 record, while Costa Rica placed fourth after going winless in their three games.
It means the groups for the 2027 Americas Qualifiers are now fully set, following the conclusion of the Pre-Qualifiers played in Mexico and Chile.
Jamaica has been drawn in Group B alongside The Bahamas, Canada, and Puerto Rico.
Mexico will compete in Group A with the USA, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, while Venezuela, Colombia, Chile, and Brazil make up Group C.
The fourth and final Group D comprises Argentina, Uruguay, Panama and Cuba.
win, 83-75, with Jaden Simon leading the cause with 19 points, and Domintre Rankin also scoring 17 points in the win.
Sha’Carri Richardson issues heartfelt apology to Christian Coleman
AMERICAN sprinter
Sha’Carri Richardson has issued a heartfelt apology to her boyfriend, fellow US runner Christian Coleman, after allegedly assaulting him at a US airport.
“I apologise to Christian. He came into my life and gave me more than a relationship but a greater understanding of unconditional love from what I’ve experienced in my past,” Richardson wrote in a post to her Instagram stories.
She said due to her “past trauma and pain”, she was “blind” and “blocked off” to receiving and expressing love.
“I love him and to him I can’t apologise enough,” Richardson wrote. “My [apology] should be just as loud as my actions, honestly louder.
“To Christian, I love you and I am sorry,” she concluded.
Richardson spent a night in jail late July after being detained, with a police report later stating she was caught on video repeatedly shoving Coleman forcefully.
Coleman sprang to the
defence of Richardson in an interview last week, saying he believed she should not have been detained following the incident at Seattle-Tacoma Airport.
“For me personally, I feel like it was a sucky situation all round,” Coleman said when asked about the incident by AFP. “I don’t feel like she should have been arrested.
“I mean people have discussions and emotions and stuff like that. She has things that she needs to work on for herself of course. So do I, so do you, so does everybody.
“But I’m the type of guy who’s in the business of extending grace, and mercy and love.” (Jamaica Observer)
Anish Ramlall led Linden in scoring with 28 points, with 12 from Stephen George in the victory.
American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson
Jamaica qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers
Guyana National Women’s basketball team
West Indies celebrate their first men’s bilateral ODI series against Pakistan since 1991 •
Hope, Seales flatten Pakistan to end West Indies’ 34-year drought
KNOWING when it's time to go is a valuable trait, and if Pakistan were in any doubt their time in the Caribbean was up, West Indies quashed them and sent the visitors out of town with a comprehensive trouncing.
Jayden Seales' six-wicket haul - the joint second-best figures by a West Indian in men's ODI cricketand an unbeaten hundred from Shai
Hope put Pakistan to the sword in each innings. It was more than enough to secure West Indies' first ODI series win over Pakistan in 34 years with their biggest ever win over Pakistan, scything through them for 92 having set them 295 to win.
(Scores: West Indies 294 for 6 (Hope 120*, Greaves 43*, Abrar 2-34) beat Pakistan 92 (Agha 30,
Seales 6-18, Motie
by 202 runs)
It was a 15.2-over passage of play straddling both innings which lay at the heart of West Indies' dominance, a stunning inversion of a script Pakistan thought they had been writing all along. West Indies struggled to get going on what looked a tricky pitch to negotiate against the slower bowlers,
with Mohammad Rizwan greedily getting through as many of their part-time fifth bowling options as possible.
West Indies appeared to have sacrificed an ambitious innings total in exchange for conservatism that at least preserved their wickets, but as a result, they hadn't yet crossed 200 by the start of the 44th over.
It took one ball to change that, a
Bascombe: Give Sammy a chance
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC )– Director of Cricket at Cricket West Indies, Miles Bascombe, believes it is too early to judge West Indies all format head coach Daren Sammy based on the performance of the regional side in one Test series.
The West Indies were trounced 3-0 by Australia in Sammy’s first series in charge of the Test team in July, which included them being skittled out for a paltry 27 – the second lowest score in Test history – in the second innings of the third Test match.
They were also defeated 5-0 by the same opponents in the following T20I series and 2-1 by Pakistan in the just concluded T20I series in Florida.
They are currently tied 1-1 in the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan, with the final match scheduled to be played on Tuesday.
Despite those results and widespread calls for Sammy to be fired from several quar-
ters, including former West Indies players, Bascombe said Sammy had not been given enough of an opportunity to prove his worth.
However, speaking during a press conference on Monday following the conclusion of a two-day emergency meeting to address critical challenges facing West Indies cricket, he pointed out that Sammy would be expected to produce better results in the future.
“The underlying reason in [hiring Sammy] was that we felt Daren had been able to articulate a clear plan and we saw him do that in the white-ball format and we pretty much wanted the same type of approach towards Test cricket.
“He is still only one series into his tenure as all-format coach, and while the 27 might be the highlight or lowlight of that first series, we have to admit that we saw some substantial improvement in terms of our bowling unit,” Bascombe maintained.
“We saw even a Brandon King, who is one of those players that some persons might have pigeonholed as a white-ball player, we saw that he was able to show that he was up for the challenge of Test cricket.
“As Daren goes on, as we start to put some of the strategic initiatives in place to help the team prepare and help the players to grow their potential, we expect that performances will be better,” he added.
Bascombe disputed suggestions that Sammy’s hiring had been a cost-cutting measure for CWI.
“I could definitely say that there is no real significant savings in terms of having Daren as all-format coach because we would still need additional support for him.
“So we would still have to have camps, many times he would not be available himself because he would be on tour and so we would still need to bring in other support
smeared six from Hope off the first ball from Mohammad Nawaz bringing up that milestone. A second six off the next delivery emphasised his intent, and Pakistan watched frozen as West Indies shuffled themselves off the canvas and began landing body blows Pakistan one after the other.
But it was the third of his six Turn to page 28
staff, which would come at a cost, so there was definitely no sort of financial consideration in terms of merging the roles,” Bascombe said.
2-37)
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe
Jayden Seales finished with a career-best six-for • (AFP/Getty Images)
(AFP/Getty Images)
Shai Hope remained unbeaten on 120 after making his 18th ODI ton • (AFP/Getty Images)