Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 16-12-2025

Tuesday 16th December, 2025 PRICE

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No. 108017

New National Education Leadership Academy to further enhance education system SEE PAGE

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--through blended learning approach for educators that combines theory with practice, national priorities with local solutions, Minister Parag says

Work progresses on Gas-to-Energy project

Women take lead in top Regional Division 4A awards

On the road to transformative energy for Guyana! Lindsayca Guyana highlighted early Monday that gas Turbine #1 now stands on its foundation at the Gas-to-Energy project site. The company said the first GT-800 is in place, and the team is ready for the next ones (Lindsayca Guyana)

Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond has said that Best Cop, Cpl Bourne and runner-up Best Cop, Inspector V. Edward-Fraser for Regional Division 4A are proof that competence, commitment, and courage know no gender. She said the Force is stronger because of women like these (Source: Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond’s official Facebook page)

Public Works Special Division 4A: Serious Free CSEC Math, Projects Unit takes over Crime falls by 76% Princes Street project within last five years English for ranks --ministry terminates contract as contractor fails to execute Public Works Ministry: Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge safe, stable, fully reliable for use SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Stronger enforcement operations, increased --top priorities for Police Force in 2026, use of technology Police Commissioner says

By Trina Williams STRONGER enforcement operations, increased use of technology, and modernised policing will be top priorities as the Guyana Police Force moves ahead into 2026, Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken told ranks.

In his remarks at the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s Regional Division 4A Annual Christmas Luncheon and Award Ceremony on Monday, the Top Cop noted that

the coming year will mark a decisive shift in policing.

“Next year is a serious, serious year. Infrastructure development is going on right and left in this country; this obviously means there will be more need for stations and outposts, and, guess what?

There will be more need for policemen and women to join the Force. And so, as our span of control expands, we need to put systems in place to have that controlled

properly,” he said.

The Police Commissioner said that enforcement operations will be strengthened across divisions, pointing to plans to increase seizure of narcotics and guns and, overall, tackle all illicit activities.

Drug enforcement showed a dramatic shift, with the seizure of 233 kilogrammes of cocaine in 2025 in sharp contrast to the mere six kilogrammes seized in 2024. Cannabis-related

charges have also increased, with 244 persons charged this year, compared to 227 in 2024. Additionally, cocaine-possession charges rose from 38 persons in 2024 to 58 in 2025.

Beyond narcotics and cybercrime, the GPF recorded broad improvements in overall crime suppression.

It was confirmed that serious crimes dropped to 801 reports this year, 269 fewer than the 1,070 recorded in

2024. “Under operations, it was established for you to

increase seizure of guns, seizure of drugs and seizure of everything that is unlawful.

That is happening,” he said.

The Police Force continues to execute its plan, which has six core pillars that focus on enhanced safety, accountability, and modernisation.

However, the Top Cop announced that a seventh pillar will be introduced in the coming year.

The six pillars are operations, partnership, developing human capacity, infrastructure, performance, professionalism, and accountability.

With technology set to play a growing role, Hicken said that the GPF’s strategic TURN TO PAGE 4

THE World Trade Organisation (WTO)’s Negotiating Group on Rules (NGR) has announced that its new Chairman is Dr Leslie Ramsammy, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) Office in Geneva.

regional trade agreements,” the website outlined.

During the initial years of the negotiations, the NGR received proposals concerning, and actively worked on, all areas of the mandate, including fisheries subsidies.

Following the WTO’s 10th

According to the WTO NGR’s website, the NGR was established in February 2002, pursuant to the negotiating mandate on “WTO Rules” agreed at the WTO’s 4th Ministerial Conference in Doha.

“That original negotiating mandate was to clarify and improve the existing disciplines (the respective WTO Agreements) on anti-dumping and countervailing measures, and on subsidies, including fisheries subsidies, as well as in respect of

Ministerial Conference in Nairobi in 2015, fisheries subsidies has been the only active area of work in the NGR. The website stated that the work of the NGR is supervised by the Trade Negotiations Committee (TNC), which operates under the authority of the WTO’s General Council.

The TNC establishes negotiating procedures and monitors the progress of negotiations, and the chair of the NGR provides periodic reports to the TNC.

Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken

Dr Ramsammy is new Chair of WTO’s Negotiating Group on Rules

New National Education Leadership Academy to further enhance education system

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

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--through blended learning approach for educators that combines theory with practice, national priorities with local solutions, Minister Parag says

THE Ministry of Education on Monday officially launched the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA) as part of a major step towards strengthening leadership across Guyana’s education system.

The academy was launched in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Global Partnership for Education (GPE), and the International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP-UNESCO) during a ceremony at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

Minister of Education Sonia Parag, during her address at the launch, described the academy as a “flagship programme”, and underscored its importance within the government’s wider education reform agenda.

She noted that this initiative is linked to other recent developments in the sector, including the launch of the Guyana Digital School, which, she said, reflected a long-standing national vision for education transformation.

Parag noted that the establishment of NELA was rooted in the belief that education systems are shaped not only by infrastructure and technology, but also by the people who lead them.

“Today is more than the launch of a new programme; it is the affirmation of a national belief that education transforms lives, that leadership shapes systems, and that the future of Guyana is built quite deliberately in our classrooms and schools,” she said.

According to the minister, the Ministry of Education’s current strategic plan sets out a clear direction for providing quality, equitable education and lifelong learning for all, while recognising that strong leadership is essential to sustaining reform.

As such, she noted that

“strong education systems are not sustained by policy alone”.

“They are sustained by leaders who inspire teachers who believe in the potential of every child who confronts inequity with courage, and who turn vision into action,” Parag said.

She went on to say that leadership serves as a bridge between national aspirations and the daily reality of teaching and learning.

It is this bridge, she said, that the National Education Leadership Academy has been designed to strengthen.

The Academy is intended to build capacity among school leaders, district leaders, and instructional leaders who play a central role in translating policy into practice and ensuring reforms reach classrooms across the country.

Minister of Education Sonia Parag

Parag said the academy represents a statement of confidence in Guyana’s educators and administrators,

and an investment in those who stand at the heart of the country’s education system.

The first cohort of par-

ticipants of about 100 educators will undertake an intensive 18-month programme, described as both ambitious and transformative.

According to the minister, the programme will use a blended learning approach that combines theory with practice, reflection with action, and national priorities with local solutions.

These participants will be expected not only to study leadership, but also to apply it through practical projects aimed at improving schools and districts. These projects will be supported by mentoring and grounded in evidence.

“This is leadership with purpose, leadership that is ethical and inclusive, leadership that values collaboration, accountability,” Parag said. Minister Parag

highlighted the importance of partnership, noting that it is an essential part of national development, and that such a collaboration for the academy is a demonstration of that.

“This particular project is a demonstration of our continued partnership with the IDB, with UNESCO, and with other partners in ensuring that we strengthen the core of our nation, which is education,” she said.

The Education Minister expressed gratitude to the partners, and added that their involvement affirms Guyana’s commitment to excellence.

The academy opened with a two-day onboarding workshop set to conclude today, with several other courses set to take place during the 18-month duration of the programme.

Part of the first cohort of the NELA programme during its launch on Monday (Delano Williams photos)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Division 4A: Serious Crime falls by --Commander 76% within past five years McBean reports

SERIOUS crime in Regional Division 4A continues to decline, as Divisional Commander Simon McBean has reported that it has sharply fallen by more than 76 per cent over the past five years.

The Divisional Commander highlighted this during the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s Regional Division 4A Annual Christmas and Luncheon and Award Ceremony, on Monday.

Although Georgetown, which falls within this division, is experiencing rapid economic growth and activities, making it a major target for crime, the police force continues to resiliently respond to crime, ac-

Regional Division 4A Commander Simon McBean

cording to McBean.

A 2.4 per cent decrease in serious crimes compared to the same period in 2024 has been recorded.

However, looking at the broader picture over the last five years, the transformation is “staggering,” the Divisional Commander said, noting that since 2020, serious crimes in the division has fallen by more than 76 per cent.

It has moved from 836 recorded serious crimes at this time in 2020, to just 200 to date in 2025, the Divisional Commander noted.

Over 16,500 crime reports were investigated, resulting in 3,501 criminal charges, he said.

He attributed this reduction in crime to three strategic pillars, including strong leadership, technological integration and community partnership; this he dubbed as the “backbone of the success and remains the integral part between the police and the public.”

“While the numbers are positive, we acknowledge that one serious crime still is one too many,” he said, noting that public perception often lags behind data and the fear of crime remains a challenge for the GPF. Moving forward, the division’s goal is to ensure that the safety reflected in the statistics is a safety

truly felt by every citizen in their daily lives, according to McBean.

As it relates to the traffic department, McBean reported a 24 per cent decrease in fatal accidents, but he did disclose that there has been a three per cent increase in general traffic accidents.

He further reported that the traffic department brought over 5,660 persons before the court for violations.

McBean further reported that 28 illegal firearms were taken off of the streets and over 65 kilogrammes of cannabis and 18 grammes of cocaine were seized.

Public Works Special Projects Unit takes over Princes Street project --ministry terminates contract as contractor fails to execute

THE Ministry of Public Works’ Special Project Unit has taken over the Princes Street Road Widening Project, as the previous contrac-

tor has been terminated for failure to execute.

This was disclosed by Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill fol-

lowing a visit to the site on Monday.

The minister highlighted that residents in the area and other road users will get immediate relief as the work progresses.

He noted that the intention was to expand the width of Princes Street, and have better drainage arrangements for the area.

“Our intention is to expand the width of Princes Street, so we will be putting in better drainage arrangements. So when the traffic comes off of Cemetery Road with four lanes, we will have an upgraded Princes Street to move the traffic westward,” Minister Edghill said.

It was against this backdrop that he stated that two

Sections of Princes Street that were left uncompleted

contracts were awarded for the project from Cemetery Road heading west; however, the contractor has failed to execute its contractual obligations.

Edghill added: “Not only has he failed to execute his contractual obligation, but he has actually left the thor-

oughfare in a mess; an inconvenience to residents and other users. We’ve had to terminate this contract, and the Ministry’s Special Project Unit, under the leadership of senior engineer Colin Gittens has taken over this project.”

Since taking over the project, Edghill indicated

that the first thing they are seeking to do is clean up the entire project area to ensure that the road is usable and allows for traffic flow.

Subsequently, he noted, the Unit will go into full gear of completing the construction as intended by the design and build set out.

Stronger enforcement operations...

plan will be expanded to include upgraded command centres and digital reporting systems, which will improve policing.

Already, the government has made significant investments in among other things, 37 new and improved police facilities, five new command centres in 2025, thousands of body cameras, and a larger Safe City surveillance network.

Further, police stations nationwide will be standardised, meaning there will be modernised infrastructure in place, the Top Cop said.

MASSIVE INVESTMENTS Within the last five years, the GPF has witnessed the investment of billions of dollars to modernise the force’s infrastructure. These include the recon-

struction and rehabilitation of police stations, outposts, and living quarters across the country. The goal is to make these facilities more modern and community-friendly while ensuring they meet international standards.

However, notwithstanding these measures, the Top Cop reminded ranks that the force still has a duty to prepare for members of the public who are coming to the station. As he spoke on the partnership between the GPF and the public, Hicken said that the numerous outreaches are a part of a “policy that will not change,” declaring the Force will continue moving in the positive contemporary direction while urging ranks to maintain their upright posture.

The Police Commissioner’s remarks come on the heels of Commander-in-Chief and President Dr. Irfaan

FROM PAGE 2

Ali’s recent statement that a secure and harmonious society is built on trust between the police and the public, describing that trust as “the foundation” on which all other efforts rest.

According to the President, every crime prevented, every road made safer, and every life protected is the result of teamwork.

In 2025, the GPF has reported a 61.7 per cent crime clearance rate, and reducing serious crimes by 25.2 per cent.

This, according to President Ali, is “historic achievements” that reflect discipline, accountability, and a deep commitment to public safety.

“These numbers matter because they represent people, families who feel safer, communities that are more secure, and a country that is stronger,” he added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Minister Manickchand commends QC student’s ‘Cycle Smart Project’ -says it’s a good anti-littering initiative, will encourage recycling

CALLING for changes in attitudes when it comes to littering and recycling, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand has commended the implementation of the ‘Queen’s College Cycle Smart Project,’ mentioning its potential to become a national initiative.

Minister Manickchand related this during the launch of the environmental project created by QC Anushka Singh, which aims to reduce waste and promote recycling

and the use of bins as opposed to littering around the city and at the school.

Queen’s College in recent times has been the pioneer of three similar projects under Recover Guyana’s SHOUT competition, a national youth empowerment and environmental advocacy competition that engaged secondary school students nationwide in critical thinking, public speaking and practical environmental action.

Other projects successfully executed include the implementation of water dis-

pensers to encourage the reduction and reuse of plastic water bottles, the launch of a hydroponic kitchen garden, and now, the Cycle Smart Project.

In her speech, the minister commended those persons and organisations that have started to blaze the way forward in keeping the country clean.

Noting the increased “change of mindsets,” Minister Manickchand said, “I commend them. We didn’t see it two years ago. We didn’t see it last year. But

National Youth Environmental Speaker, Anushka Singh

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand (Recover Guyana photos)

that’s what vision and driving a vision does. People copy trends, and so if we could make trends that are good, that will change our bad habits, that will lead to the sustainability of our country and our life and our livelihoods, then imagine what Guyana could look like.”

The project she said, is an example of SHOUT standing almost alone in that time where initially government had only tri-monthly, bi-yearly cleanups, but didn’t have a sustained effort to ensure all citizens were becoming conscious of the backward, uncivilised and unconscionable decision to litter.

According to the minister, Anushka’s project is helping the QC campus, and all of its nearly 1,000 students to rethink what they want to do, and what they want their own homes, yards, communities, neighbourhoods, and schools to look like.

“Anushka is driving sustainable change, because for those 1,000 people, including the teachers, and some of you who do litter, including our cherished cleaners and your students, that’s 1,000

multiplied by 4, on average, in their homes; 4,000 people who are now becoming more conscious about whether I should [throw] out the banana skin through my window, drop the Dr Pepper can on the road, fling the KFC box through the bus window, or if I can look for colour-coded bins. Not only look for bins but look also for colour-coded bins to determine which one it is that is worthy of my trash.”

She said the school is a step ahead in implementing this. Stating that we are now speaking of recycling in a major way, the minister mentioned that they have received a few proposals from international and national companies about recycling.

She posited that the project at QC will not only bring about change in 4,000 to 5,000 of our people in this country, but it will bring a change that is shifting how we solve the separation of

garbage and how we can see the usefulness of that separation. By doing this, we as a nation can move to being able to reuse, recycle, and keep our waste manageable.

She challenged the teen to not let this project stop at Queen’s College, as thousands of people will be influenced by it, paving the way for it to become a national initiative.

The minister assured the teen that government will support her efforts.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Education as Security THE directive that every rank within the Guyana Police Force must attain CSEC passes in Mathematics and English within the next three years marks a defining shift in how national security is being approached.

Today’s security environment demands officers who can write reports clearly; interpret laws accurately; analyse data; engage communities and operate within increasingly digital systems.

Mathematics and English are not optional extras in that equation; they are basic tools of the job.

The government’s position is clear: education within the force is non-negotiable. And crucially, this mandate is not being issued in isolation.

It is being matched with access, support and opportunity.

By requiring every rank to also register on the Guyana Digital School platform, the administration is removing traditional barriers such as cost, time and location that have historically limited educational advancement for working officers.

This is where the policy matters most. Standards are

being raised, but so is the level of institutional support. In turn, the message to ranks is straightforward that the opportunity is there, the pathway is clear and the state is prepared to invest in their success.

The Police Commissioner’s call for immediate enrolment reinforces that this is not a suggestion or a distant aspiration; it is an operational priority. From constables to senior ranks, the expectation is uniform. Education is now embedded in the professional identity of the force.

This approach also speaks

to a wider national philosophy.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali has repeatedly framed education as a national security investment and rightly so.

A better-educated police force is more disciplined, more accountable, more adaptable and better equipped to serve a modern society.

It strengthens public trust, improves service delivery and aligns the force with international policing standards.

Change of this scale will not be easy. Some ranks will have to balance studies with demand-

ing schedules; others will need confidence as much as content.

But transformation rarely comes without effort.

What matters is direction.

And the direction is unmistakable.

This initiative signals a Guyana Police Force that is evolving, not just in equipment or technology, but in mindset. A force where competence, professionalism and learning are expected, supported and enforced.

Education is no longer optional, it is now part of the uniform.

Time for serious It is the law that describes action against errant Mohamed as a ‘fugitive offender’ mini-bus drivers

Dear Editor, I WISH to thank Mr Surujdai Juglall for his letter to the editor published in the December 15, 2025 edition of the Stabroek News under the caption, “Mohamed’s conduct is inconsistent with the Attorney General’s definition of fugitivity.”

The gravamen of the letter is Mr Juglall’s umbrage with my description of Mr Azruddin Mohamed as a “fugitive offender.” Based upon what I have seen elsewhere,

Mr Juglall is not singular in his misapprehensions of that phrase. Therefore, it is necessary that I set the public record straight.

My use of the term fugitive offender in describing Mr Mohamed is directly referrable to the governing legislation on the matter: the Fugitive Offenders Act, Cap. 10:04.

The Long Title of the Act reads “An Act to make provision with respect to the extradition of fugitive offenders from and to Guyana

and for matters connected therewith.”

Section Two of the Act defines a “fugitive offender” as “a person who is accused, or alleged to be unlawfully at large after conviction, of an extraditable offence committed within the jurisdiction of Guyana or any Commonwealth country or foreign territory and is or is suspected to be in any country or territory, other than the country or territory in which the offence was committed or the person was

convicted.”

I have taken the liberty to underline the relevant words in the definition applicable to Mr Mohamed for easy reading. In short, it is the law that describes Mr Mohamed as a “fugitive offender.”

I sincerely hope that this brief note will now put the matter to rest.

Yours faithfully, Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC MP Attorney General & Minister of Legal Affairs

Dear Editor, THE time has come for serious action to enforce strict discipline on the mini-bus drivers.

I travelled in a mini-bus last week and the conditions made me come off long before my destination; the bus was out of control. The loud and vulgar expletives that the driver was playing was more than enough for the elderly passenger and a passenger who was also travelling with her three-year-old son.

This has been going on for years. When is it going to end? Whenever a campaign is enforced, it is a seven-day wonder.

Commuters are paying a fare, so why do we have to endure such nastiness from these mini-bus drivers? I beg the authorities, please help during this crucial time.

Thank you, Name and address given

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Ron Robinson and the mistake Guyana must avoid

I WROTE a column on December 10 in which I ruminated on the subject of Guyana naming things after our dedicated patriots whose contributions in different spheres of life were immense. Two days after publication, Ron Robinson died.

I have done about four columns in which I advocated for something to be named after Ron while he was living among us. I suggested the Theatre Guild be named after him.

When we live among those who serve us, it is impeccable logic to honour these contributors while they are alive.

In this context, I welcome the new Demerara bridge being named after Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo. Shivanarine Chanderpaul has a street in his name and it was wise to do that while Mr.

Chanderpaul is living among us.

The story of Ron Robinson is the tale of a legend.

He was a legend of his time.

This man has donated over 60 years to the theatre and radio. When I was growing up as a teenager on D’Urban Street, Wortmanville, we did not have a radio in our home.

So, we could not keep up with what was happening in Guyana. One Christmas in the 1960s, my father was given a radio and, from there on, that was what we listened to all the time.

I would never believe that the man all members of the Kissoon family listened to in the mornings, I would come to know and become his friend. Guyana looked forward to Ron Robinson in the mornings. The music I came to like when I was a teenager came from Ron in the mornings.

I came to love a haunting love song that remains one of my favourite songs of all time, through Ron Robinson. It is titled “Traces” by a now defunct group named Classics 1V. One morning, I heard him playing it, and I immediately liked it. I never knew there was an Italian saxophonist named Fausto Papetti. It was through Ron in the mornings I got to know about Papetti.

I bought every Papetti record I saw in the record shop when I was a student in Canada. I have about 25 Papetti albums in my house.

I am quite willing to part with some if you want them. My cell is 614-5927. My email is fredkissoon@yahoo.com.

I know vinyl is still popular in the world and is still being manufactured. People still listen to vinyl on a record player.

Thanks to listening to

Ron Robinson in the mornings when I was a teenager, I got to love the saxophone melodies of Fausto Papetti.

I got to know Ron well and he made two appearances on the Freddie Kissoon Show and those moments with him in the interview; I will revisit this weekend. Ron was a modest soul; his fame never got to his head and those of us who become wealthy and famous must take a leaf out of his book.

He is gone. He didn’t live to see something named after him. I am sure that is coming soon.

And we should welcome it but the act of naming something after Ron Robinson should galvanise every Guyanese to urge those at the level of the Georgetown City Council and the Government of Guyana to honour the great contributors to this unique country while they are still

alive.

If anyone reads the curriculum vitae of Ian Mc Donald they would be shocked to know that this man has done so much for Guyana. Mr. McDonald is in his early nineties and still doing fine.

He won the Guyana Prize last year. Let us name something after him and let’s do it quickly. Eddie Grant became our first musical superstar.

Eddie is alive and thriving.

He came from Plaisance. One of the most known streets in Plaisance is Prince William Street. Why not change that to Eddie Grant Street.

The essence of this column would be lost if I did not mention a certain philosophical characteristic of Ron Robinson, and that is the need to give your country something without expecting huge sums of money in return. I read an advertisement in the papers years ago of barbecue to raise

funds for Ron’s medical bill.

And last night (Monday), Kit Nascimento said on the Freddie Kissoon Show that President Ali agreed for the government to fund Ron’s heart operation.

This tells you the story of those who never put money in front of their work. Ron gave 60 years of service to culture in Guyana and he did not expect or receive a cent for his service.

He did for Guyana what was in his heart without looking for financial rewards.

This is called contribution to one’s country. This is called love for country.

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.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Minister Mustapha, new IICA Director discuss innovation, sustainability in advancing local ‘agri’ sector --explore possible areas of enhanced cooperation

NEWLY elected Director-General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Dr. Muhammad

Ibrahim on Monday paid a courtesy call on Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha at his Regent Street office.

Discussions during the meeting focused on advancing the development of Guyana’s agricultural sector, with emphasis on innovation, sus-

tainability, and strengthening cooperation between Guyana and IICA, the Agriculture Ministry said in a post on its Facebook page.

Dr. Ibrahim, a Guyanese national, is an agricultural engineer with more than 35 years of international experience in agricultural development.

He was elected Director-General of IICA in November 2025, and is slated to assume office in January 2026 for the 2026–2030 term.

He succeeds outgoing Director-General Manuel Otero, and was nominated by Guyana, with the endorsement of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

In his new role, Dr. Ibrahim is expected to advance initiatives centered

Newly elected IICA Director-General Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim on Monday paid a courtesy call on Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha at his Regent Street office

on agricultural innovation, resilience, and sustainable

development across the Americas.

Free CSEC Math, English for ranks

—Minister Walrond urges persons to take hold of the ‘tremendous opportunity’

EVERY member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is expected to attain Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination passes in Mathematics and English within the next three years, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond has announced, noting that education is “non-negotiable” and the government stands ready to support the force’s educational drive.

The minister made these remarks at the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s Regional Division 4A Annual Christmas and Luncheon and Award Ceremony on Monday.

Her remarks come on the

heels of a recent announcement made by Commander-in-Chief and President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who had issued a directive to the GPF calling for a force-wide educational uplift.

Minister Walrond said: “As commissioners reminded you, President Ali has charged all the ranks in the Guyana Police Force that education is a national security investment and a non-negotiable requirement for our modern police service. Every rank must secure passes in Math and English within the next three years, and every rank must be registered on the Guyana digital school platform.”

The minister described it as a “tremendous opportunity,” urging ranks to “run, grab, and take hold” of it.

“I want to charge you to take hold of your future and take advantage of the opportunities presented to you, so that you will be adequately equipped to be better servicemen and women,” she said.

Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken echoed those sentiments, urging ranks to sign up, as it is free of cost.

“Constables to Sergeants, who are not with their CXCs, please enrol. We are going to have it done,” he said.

“Enrol! We’re going to have to have it done,” he firmly stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Unreported increase in electricity use could create safety risks, overload transformers --GPL’s Nandlall says, encourages customers to comply with established regulation of reporting increases

THE Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) has urged customers to notify the utility company before increasing their electricity usage, cautioning that unreported load increases are contributing to voltage fluctuations, damaged meters and burnt appliances across communities.

In a public notice, GPL reminded residential, commercial and industrial customers that any increase in electricity usage must be reported “in accordance with Sections 8.1 and 4.2 of the Standard Terms and Conditions (STC) for Electric Services.”

Under Section 8.1, customers are required to give “reasonable prior written notice of any increase in service requirements, including any increase in expected energy consumption,” allowing the company to determine whether it can supply the revised service without changes to its facilities.

Section 4.2 provides that GPL will advise customers of the time needed to facilitate the increased service requirement.

The notice follows what GPL described as “an increase in reports of voltage fluctuations, damaged meters and burnt appliances” linked to transformer issues and low voltage caused by unreported increases in electricity usage.

During a telephone interview on Monday, the Leader of GPL’s Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, said that customers are required to inform GPL once they

increase their electrical load.

“Once you change that, your main switch size and you increase your load, you’re supposed to come and let us know,” the official said, adding that GPL then reassesses demand and, where necessary, increases transformer capacity “so that

Leader of GPL’s Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall

the community wouldn’t be affected.”

According to the official, the current challenge is that electricity demand is rising across entire neighbourhoods without the company being informed.

“What you have now is a whole community increasing load and nobody’s coming into GPL and telling us anything,” he said, noting that notifying the utility is “normal within the regulations.”

GPL has observed that

customers are increasing electricity consumption by adding air-conditioning units, installing heavy-duty appliances, expanding business operations and converting residential homes into multiple-dwelling houses, apartment buildings or commercial businesses.

While such changes may appear routine, the company warned that they can significantly affect the distribution network, leading to overloaded transformers, frequent outages and reduced service quality.

Addressing concerns about penalties, the GPL executive said customers are not fined for failing to report load increases.

“There’s no penalty,” he said, but noted that customers may be required to carry out improvements depending on the level of demand.

In some cases, significant expansions may require a dedicated transformer, which “may trigger a cost” depending on the load.

He also said that approval timelines depend on the scope of work required. If minimal work is needed, approval may be almost immediate, but larger upgrades can take longer.

Unreported increases, he warned, can also create safety risks.

Undersized service cables and overloaded transformers can lead to low voltage, overheating, and even fire hazards in homes, while affecting entire communities.

When asked whether customers could be restricted

from increasing their electricity usage, Nandlall said “no.”

GPL is, therefore, encouraging customers to contact the nearest Commercial Office or Service Centre to report any increase in load or planned changes to electricity

usage.

This process should be done in conjunction with the Government Electrical Inspectorate (GEI) under the Ministry of Public Works.

By notifying GPL of planned load increases, the

company said it can assess the impact on the network and take steps to upgrade or reinforce it as needed, ensuring electricity is delivered “safely and reliably without unnecessary interruptions.”

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Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge safe, stable, fully reliable for use

THE Ministry of Public Works (MoPW), on Monday, informed the public that continuous monitoring of settlement observation points of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge has confirmed that no abnormal settlement has occurred in the bridge foundations.

According to information from the ministry, all monitoring data indicate that the bridge structure remains safe, stable, and fully reliable for public use.

Regarding the pavement

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

--Public Works Ministry says

undulations observed on the side span of the main bridge, technical investigations have determined that these irregularities are limited to localised surface flatness variations arising from the asphalt pavement construction process.

Importantly, this condition affects only the pavement surface layer and does not compromise the bridge’s structural integrity or load-bearing capacity.

Additionally, the pavement undulation observed near the east approach bridge abutment has been attributed to the specific characteristics of this transition zone, where the road embankment “fill” interfaces with the concrete abutment structure.

Differences in material properties between the sand fill and the concrete structure have resulted in varying settlement behaviour, leading to a temporary elevation

difference that manifests as pavement undulation.

The contractor has been instructed to carry out remedial works shortly to restore a smooth and comfortable driving surface.

The Ministry of Public Works said it appreciated the vigilance and concern shown by members of the public and other stakeholders regarding this critical infrastructure.

The ministry remains fully committed to the professional and responsible management, monitoring, and maintenance of the bridge and its ancillary facilities, ensuring the highest standards of public safety and travel comfort. (DPI)

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

Guyana, Finland commit to strengthening diplomatic ties, economic co-operation

MINISTER of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd, and Non-Resident Ambassador of Finland to Guyana, Pertti Ikonen, recently discussed the strengthening of diplomatic ties and advancing bilateral economic co-operation between to two nation states.

According to information from the ministry, Minister Todd also updated Ambassador Ikonen on the case between Guyana and Venezuela currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Ambassador Ikonen noted that the rules-based international order must be respected and upheld and emphasised the need for all states to be respectful of international law, including judgements handed down by the ICJ. Minister Todd reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and Guyana’s

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd, and Non-Resident Ambassador of Finland to Guyana, Pertti Ikonen

commitment to the rulesbased international order.

Guyana and Finland established diplomatic relations on April 2, 1979,

and have ever since enjoyed cordial relations with collaborations at the multilateral level through Caricom and the United Nations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

P&P Insurance Brokers donates $2.5M to ten charitable organisations pany has steadily increased its contributions.

Last year, each organisation received $200,000, bringing the total donation to $2 million. This year, however, marks P&P’s 40th anniversary, which Mr. Panday said provided an ideal opportunity to further expand the company’s giving.

As a result, each of the ten organisations received $250,000, bringing the total value of the donations to $2.5 million.

Mr. Panday said the consistent growth of the programme reflects P&P’s enduring commitment to giving back to society. He noted that the company’s ability to

P&P Insurance Brokers Limited continued its long-standing tradition of corporate philanthropy

P&P Insurance Brokers Limited continued its long-standing tradition of corporate philanthropy, donating a total of $2.5 million to ten charitable organisations as part of its annual Christmas outreach.

The initiative, which has

been ongoing for the past 19 years, supports organisations engaged in humanitarian and social development work across Guyana.

In brief remarks at the recent presentation ceremony, Executive Director of P&P Insurance Brokers, Mr.

Vikash Panday, reflected on the growth of the programme since its inception.

He explained that the initiative began with donations of $100,000 each to ten organisations, amounting to a total of $1 million.

Over the years, the com-

THAG, Roraima Airways recognise GPF Immigration Department at annual awards ceremony

THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), along with Roraima Airways, on Saturday, recognised the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Immigration Department for its performance during 2025, citing operational achievements that supported the country’s growing travel and tourism sector.

The commendation was made during the Immigration Department’s Annual Christmas Awards Ceremony and Dinner, held on December 13 at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex in Georgetown.

According to the organisers, the Immigration Department facilitated the movement of more than one million passengers into and out of Guyana over the past year. The department was also credited with supporting the opening of 39 new routes and expanding the use of technology through digital initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery.

These developments were noted as contributing factors to the continued expansion of Guyana’s tourism and hospi-

THAG President, Mitra Ramkumar, hands over to Woman Corporal Mariangel Smith an all-expense-paid trip for two to Arrowpoint Nature Resort, sponsored

by Roraima Airways

tality industry, as the country experiences increased air traffic and visitor arrivals.

The ceremony also served to recognise individual members of the department for their service and professionalism. Awards were presented to ranks for outstanding performance, and Christmas hampers were distributed as part of the year-end observance.Woman Corporal Mar-

iangel Smith was named the Immigration Department’s Best Cop of the Year 2025.

The award was presented in recognition of her performance and commitment to duty throughout the year.

As part of her award, Woman Corporal Smith received an all-expense-paid trip for two to Arrowpoint Nature Resort, sponsored

by Roraima Airways.

sustain and increase these annual contributions is directly tied to its continued success, and he expressed gratitude to clients for their unwavering support over the years.

He also highlighted that P&P has, throughout its existence, maintained a reputation for supporting worthwhile causes and community initiatives.

Commending the representatives of the beneficiary organisations, Mr. Panday praised the vital work they perform and encouraged them to continue playing their important roles in serving vulnerable groups within society.

The organisations bene-

fitting from this year’s donations are Bless the Children Home, Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, Uncle Eddie’s Home, Friends of the Archer’s Home, the Dharm Shala, Cheshire Homes Guyana, Hauraruni Girls Home, Bal Nivas Shelter, Joshua House Children Centre, and Abraham’s Tent Inc. Mr. Panday also extended Christmas greetings to all present. In response, representatives of the various organisations expressed sincere appreciation to Mr. Panday and P&P Insurance Brokers for their continued generosity and long-standing support, offering reciprocal season’s greetings.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Research in area of gender studies could --as stakeholders implored to deepen partnership, get more attention collaboration at UG IGS’ 10th anniversary event

THE University of Guyana’s Institute for Gender Studies (IGS) celebrated its 10th anniversary on December 1, with various stakeholders calling for increased collaboration and partnership to advance gender studies programmes, gender dialogue, and research in Guyana.

The anniversary event included an art exhibition, dinner and keynote address held in the Education Lec-

ture Theatre, UG’s Turkeyen Campus. It brought together a distinguished gathering of policymakers, activists, ambassadors, faculty and other instrumental partners who have championed the work of the Institute over the decade.

In her remarks, Director of the IGS, Dr. Lisa Edwards, reflected on the institution’s journey and expressed deep gratitude for the continuous support from local and international partners.

A key feature of the evening was the address by Professor Emerita Kamala Kempadoo, a pioneer in the start of the IGS. Professor Kempadoo commended the institute for its dedication on educating the public on gender issues, conducting essential research, and keeping vital conversations going.

In her keynote address, Professor Kempadoo delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Sex,

Gender and Violence: The (Feminist) Struggle Continues,” in which she explored the complex ways sexuality shapes social and material realities.

Her discussion examined how intimate relationships, whether formed for emotional connection, financial support, or improved living conditions, can influence a person’s life trajectory.

She also highlighted how sexual expression becomes

Director of the Institute for Gender Studies, Dr Lisa Edwards, presents a token of appreciation to Professor Emerita Kamala Kempadoo of York University during the IGS’ 10th anniversary celebration at the University of Guyana’s Education Lecture Theatre

visible through behaviours, interactions, and the fulfilment of human desires.

Additionally, she addressed the use of sexual and emotional energy in sustaining social life, meeting personal and collective needs, and navigating systems of power, opportunity, and development.

The anniversary dinner featured other compelling remarks from key representatives, underscoring the collaborative spirit that sustains the IGS. The Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana and Suriname, lauded the Institute’s impactful approach: “What I like about the gender institute is that it is facilitating public conversations to talk about gender violence not only against women but to have the conversations with men and boys and girls. We will continue to support the role of the institute and this initiative.”

The Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indranie Chandarpal, took attendees down memory lane, chronicling the Institute’s inception and the sustained effort required for its work. She noted the collaboration in supporting the research process and the provision of scholarships for women to study.

She also appreciated the successful events produced through the partnership, extended appreciation to all current and past IGS staff, and challenged the Institute to continue to focus on the tasks initially outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, thanked the Canadian High Commissioner and other stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring the work of the IGS is supported and sustained.

She emphasised that the IGS is crucial in “allowing those who have a voice to speak up.” Professor Mohamed Martin further acknowledged Professor Kempadoo as the “mother of the institute from its inception” assuring attendees that the IGS is “in good hands.”

The IGS was officially inaugurated on the August 28, 2015 by the University of Guyana in partnership with the University of the West Indies’ (UWI) Institute of Gender and Development Studies and York University in Canada.

The Institute was established to serve as a hub for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary teaching, research, dialogue, and action on local and transnational issues on women and gender.

Key speakers at the launch of the IGS highlighted the crucial role of the IGS in contributing to the formulation and implementation of a national gender and development policy, advancing gender justice, and tackling social problems faced by citizens.

The IGS was seen as a functional commitment by the university to meet its obligation to address social problems and contribute significantly to Guyana’s national policy agenda.

(University of Guyana)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

77 per cent of BIT’s graduates gainfully employed - CEO tells annual staff ‘confab’ - conference focused on workforce development, employee well-being

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT), under the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, on Monday, commenced its 2025 Annual Staff Conference at the Windjammer International Cuisine and Comfort Inn, bringing together staff and partners for two days of strategic engagement aimed at strengthening organisational performance and workforce development.

Held under the theme “Unlocking Potential: Advancing Organisational Growth for Strategic Workforce Development,” the conference runs from December 15 to 16 and places strong emphasis on personal development, institutional resilience, and improving the delivery of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes nationwide.

Delivering the opening remarks, Chief Executive Officer of BIT, Mr. Richard Maughn, described the theme as central to the agency’s mandate of enhancing quality of life and supporting economic development through skills training, with the full backing of the Government of Guyana.

He noted that for many years, BIT has played a pivotal role in workforce development, guided by community-based training models that respond directly to local and national labour market needs.

Mr. Maughn highlighted that over the past five years, BIT has supported the skills development

of more than 16,369 individuals, often through extended working hours that reflect the dedication and commitment of staff.

In 2025 alone, the agency implemented 202 training projects, benefitting 3,509 participants across 45 occupational areas, surpassing its programme targets.

He reported that through the National Training Programme for Empowerment, BIT achieved 143 per cent of its national target. Significant gains were also recorded under the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment, which trained 2,376 youths, representing a 161 per cent achievement rate.

Training for persons with disabilities exceeded expectations as well, with 106 participants trained, accounting for 212 per cent of the target.

Advances in gender empowerment were also underscored, with 615 women trained in traditionally male-dominated occupational areas, achieving 117 per cent of the target and expanding women’s participation in skilled trades.

Additionally, the National Apprenticeship Programme trained 314 apprentices, exceeding its target by five per cent, in collaboration with major industrial partners including GNIC, Demerara Harbour Bridge, GuySuCo, BOSAI Minerals, and Kwakwani Utilities Inc. According to tracer studies conducted in 2025, 77 per cent of BIT’s graduates are gainfully employed, many within their trained fields.

Mr. Maughn described this outcome as clear evidence of the agency’s impact on workforce readiness and economic participation.

Richard Maughn, CEO, Board of Industrial Training

While acknowledging these achievements, the BIT’s CEO also pointed to the challenges faced by staff, including heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and burnout.

He stressed the importance of addressing psychosocial risks in the workplace, noting that international

The staff of the Board of Industrial Training are participating in a two-day training session at the Windjammer International Cuisine and Comfort Inn

research, including guidance from the International Labour Organization, has shown that poor working conditions can negatively affect mental health, productivity, and overall well-being.

Against this backdrop, Mr. Maughn explained that the conference is deliberately focused on strengthening staff capacity and support systems. Sessions over the two days will address team building, professional collaboration, workplace relationships, and strategies for mental and emotional self-care among busy professionals.

The workshop component of the conference is being facilitated by Solutions Training Consultancy and Counselling Services, led by Dr. Wil Campbell, Psy.D., alongside BIT’s technical officers. The sessions will also focus on improving monitoring, research and evaluation practices, and establishing an implementation and reporting framework for BIT’s 2026 training programmes.

Mr. Maughn reminded staff that the agency’s success is rooted in collective values, including loyalty, integrity, and humility, which he said are essential for sustaining growth in an era of rapid national transformation.

He expressed confidence that the conference would refresh and prepare staff to meet the evolving demands of Guyana’s expanding economy, while strengthening BIT’s role in strategic workforce development.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Nominations open for ‘An age of greatness, seventh annual 25 Influential achievement in Guyanese theatre, drama has passed’ Women Leaders Award --National School of Theatre Arts & Drama says on passing of Ron Robinson The following is the full text of a statement from the National School of Theatre Arts and Drama:

Lyndell Danzie-Black

THE NICO Consulting and Cerulean Inc., on Monday, announced the official opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the 25 Influential Women Leaders Award, a nationally recognised platform celebrating visionary women whose leadership is advancing Guyana’s continued transformation.

According to a press release, the award has become one of the country’s most anticipated recognitions of women driving impact across sectors. The 2026 awards ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Georgetown, Guyana.

Nominations are now open and will close on February 6, 2026. Submissions can be made via the official website: www.25iwla.com.

Over the years, the 25 Influential Women Leaders Award has highlighted leaders from diverse fields, including business, education, energy, technology, finance, healthcare, public service, community development, and the creative industries.

“This award is more than a celebration; it is a national movement, one that honours the women shaping Guyana at a time when our country now stands on a pivotal economic trajectory. As our economy accelerates and global eyes turn toward us, it is the leadership, innovation, and resilience of women that will define the next decade.

“This is our moment to amplify the voices of phenomenal women whose sto-

ries ignite action, drive equity, and strengthen the fabric of our society, Nominate the trailblazers who challenge norms, break barriers, and boldly lead in this new era of Guyana’s growth. Their influence does not just inspire, it shapes the future we are stepping into together,” emphasised Lyndell Danzie-Black, Co-founder & Managing Director of Cerulean Inc. “When we launched this platform, we asked a simple question: What happens when we shine a light on the women already changing Guyana? The answer has been extraordinary. These honourees aren’t waiting for permission. They’re building industries, writing policy, launching businesses, and raising the next generation of leaders.

“Progress doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because women like this refuse to accept anything less than transformation. That’s the Guyana we’re building, and this award is our commitment to making sure the world sees it,” said Michelle A. Nicholas, Co-founder & CEO of The NICO Consulting.

The organisers encourage citizens, organisations, and members of the Guyanese diaspora to nominate women who are breaking barriers, leading boldly, and contributing significantly during this defining moment in the country’s development.

Nominees will be evalu a t e d o n p ro f e s s i o n a l achievements, community impact, ethical leadership,

Michelle A. Nicholas

and alignment with the Award’s values of excellence and transformational influence. Those selected will also gain access to the acclaimed Women’s Leadership Programme (WLP), designed to support growth, visibility, and cross-sector collaboration.

“ON this solemn occasion, on behalf of The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, and also of the National Drama Company, I pay tribute to Ronald Owen Robinson, A.A., numbered among the great theatre and broadcasting personalities of the nation of Guyana.

Ron Robinson, actor, director, producer, radio and TV broadcaster, co-founder of The Theatre Company, Production Director of Merundoi radio series, former Chairman of the Theatre Guild, whose name became a household word in Guyana, famous for several memorable plays, dramatic performances, radio programmers, TV satirical series, and as the winner of many awards and prizes, he reigned for decades as the nation’s best actor and best director. Ron served as a tutor at the Drama School, was a pioneering TV news anchor, broke records with Gem Madhoo for the longest running and most popular dramatic productions, and contributed to culture in diverse ways. The loss of Ron Robinson signifies the passing of an age of greatness and achievement in Guyanese theatre and drama.

“The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, like the entire Guyanese nation, is in his debt, and on this solemn and reflective occasion, acknowledges an outstanding artiste and says thanks to Ron.”

The late Ronald Owen Robinson, A.A.

NCN honours life, legacy of late veteran broadcaster Ron Robinson

THE National Communications Network (NCN), on Monday, began the first of a series of commemorative events at its headquarters on Homestretch Avenue to honour the life and legacy of legendary broadcaster Ron Owen Robinson, A.A., who took his final bow last Friday and signed off for the last time.

NCN, home to both radio and television, was a familiar space for Robinson, affectionately known as Uncle Ron, who dedicated six decades of his life to broadcasting.

In February, on World Radio Day this year, NCN unveiled its Radio Wall of Fame, celebrating pioneers and contributors to the country’s rich radio history.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy signs the book of condolences for the late veteran broadcaster, Ron Robinson

NCN opened a Book of Condolences in honour of Ron Robinson A.A., on Monday

Robinson was among those honoured, and colleagues recall how meaningful it was for him to see himself recognised on the wall and to live with that honour in his final months.Later in May, Ron received the Lifetime Achievement Award on World Press Freedom Day from the Office of the President.

While Ron’s contributions spanned radio, television and theatre, radio remained his greatest love.

He remained actively on air with NCN Radio to the very end, hosting a classical music programme, Treasury of Music and Church Calling, continuing a lifetime of service to audiences across Guyana.

In tribute to his extraordinary contribution, NCN has opened a Book of Condolences, inviting colleagues, friends, listeners, and admirers to sign throughout the week at Homestretch Avenue in honour of a man whose talent and dedication came so naturally.

A special tribute programme will be aired tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. on the Voice of Guyana, followed by a Night of Reflections on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. at Homestretch Avenue as the nation prepares to lay Ron Robinson to rest on Friday.

NCN said it hopes that these activities will stand as a fitting tribute, its final rendezvous with one of Guyana’s most cherished broadcasting icons.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Lethem steps up preparations for -Town Clerk highlights security plans, road works, Christmas Season clean-up drive, seasonal boost for small businesses

By Shaniya Harding AS Lethem, like the rest of Guyana, gears up for a bustling holiday season, the town clerk and council are rolling out a number of initiatives aimed at improving health, security, and accessibility across the municipality.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle amid the growing Christmas activities, Town Clerk Keisha Williams said the council is spearhead-

ing clean-up efforts, implementing security and traffic measures, and pushing ahead with road works, all geared towards ensuring a safe and welcoming Christmas season for shoppers, residents, and small businesses.

With increased travel expected during the holidays, one of the council’s main areas of focus this season is transportation and accessibility.

Williams explained that

contractors working on road rehabilitation projects in Lethem are pushing to complete works as early as possible ahead of Christmas.

“We are working on getting a number of roads asphalted in the municipality of Lethem. And coming up to the Christmas season, the contractors have been pushing to asphalt all those roads, and to finalise those contracts before the Christmas season,” Williams said. With travel

Contractors are pushing to complete road rehabilitation and asphalting works within areas like Tabatinga Housing Scheme, which is pictured here, ahead of the Christmas season (Lethem Town Council photos)

comes increased traffic, a hurdle the council says it is well prepared to manage.

Williams noted that the council has been working closely with local police ranks to ensure traffic remains under control, particularly given the large volume of vehicles that pass through the region daily.

“For security, we have made preparations for that with the police for traffic management,” she said, adding, “We would have met with the police to put measures in place for traffic control, given the fact that we are a border town with sometimes more than 1,000 cars a day in Lethem.”

The council is also focused on maintaining cleanliness amid the hustle and bustle of the season. Williams explained that the municipality has launched its annual clean-up campaign, and extended the hours for its waste collection services.

“We are doing our cleanup drive, which we do annually. It is something that is done throughout the year, but we have started our clean-up drive for the municipality to ensure that we have a clean Christmas, not just a bright Christmas. Also, for our waste collection service, we have added extra hours to ensure that the town is clean,” she said.

Alongside efforts to ensure a safer and more enjoyable Christmas season, Williams highlighted the positive impact the holidays are having on small businesses and entrepreneurs.

“We have seen quite a few small businesses popping up in the municipality, of which the council is supporting with regulating the operation of their businesses,” she said.

She further noted that, “We have noticed that there TURN TO PAGE 17

The municipality has launched its annual clean-up campaign, and extended waste collection hours ahead of the Christmas season

Town Clerk Keisha Williams (right) and Mayor of Lethem John Macedo (left) engage a resident

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Cops cleared of obstructing justice in Quindon Bacchus murder probe CHARGES against Guyana Police Force (GPF) members Cadet Officer Dameion McLennon and Lance Corporal Thurston Simon were dismissed on Monday, after Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore upheld no-case submissions at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Both officers had faced allegations of attempting to obstruct justice by providing false information during the investigation into the June 10, 2022, shooting death of 23-yearold Quindon Bacchus, a father of one from Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

McLennon and Simon had been on cash bail pending the hearing. McLennon and Simon were represented by attorneys Bernard DaSilva and Glen Hanoman, respectively.

Last month in related proceedings, Demerara High Court Judge Gino Persaud upheld a no-case submission for 24-year-old Police Lance Corporal Kristoff De Nobrega, who was charged with Bacchus’s murder.

The judge ruled that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence to support the charge and ordered the jury to return a not-guilty verdict, formally acquitting De Nobrega.

Following a preliminary inquiry last year, a magistrate had found sufficient evidence to commit De Nobrega to stand trial at the Demerara Criminal Assizes.

According to police reports, on the day of the incident, ranks conducted an operation at Haslington, ECD, around 14:30hrs based on intelligence received earlier.

A 22-year-old construction worker guided

Lance Corporal Thurston Simon

later died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation from multiple gunshot wounds.

Following a recommendation from the Police Complaints Authority on July 3, 2022, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advised that charges be instituted against Lance Corporal Simon and Cadet Officer McLennon.

Lance Corporal De Nobrega was separately charged with the murder of Bacchus.

In a separate civil matter, Justice Nigel Niles ruled in 2024 that the state must pay GY$24 million to Bacchus’s mother after acknowledging liability for his unlawful killing.

Cadet Officer Dameion McLennon

officers to Bacchus, who allegedly possessed a firearm and had intended to sell it to an undercover officer. During the exchange, Bacchus reportedly fired at the officer and was struck in return.

A .380 pistol with one round and spent shells were recovered at the scene. Bacchus

Lance Corporal Kristoff De Nobrega

Lethem steps up...

is support for the small businesses from the general public. And this is as a result of the efforts of the Small Business Bureau, the town council, as well as the fact that because of the training that a lot of them would have received, they are now marketing their product using the various means of communication available.”

The festive atmosphere in Lethem has already been set, following the town’s annual

Christmas tree light-up and decorating activities held last week, which drew hundreds of residents.

“On Saturday, on the 13th of December, we had our annual Christmas tree lightup in the municipality. The event was attended by almost 800 residents, which includes children as well.

There was a Christmas concert that included folks from the various religious sectors, students from the

FROM PAGE 16

secondary and primary schools, as well as residents who participated in the concert and presented,” Williams added.

As Christmas approaches, the town council says it will continue working with stakeholders to ensure Lethem remains clean, safe, and accessible, while fostering an environment where residents and businesses can fully enjoy and benefit from the festive season.

Quindon Bacchus

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

U-19 Men’s CWC 2026 countdown begins with trophy unveiled

...Former Zimbabwe captain, Tatenda Taibu, is tournament ambassador THE countdown to the ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 officially began as Zimbabwe unveiled the tournament trophy at a ceremony in Harare.

Co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia, the event will run from January 15 to February 6 and feature 16 teams, including debutants Tanzania, as the next generation of global stars take centre stage.

Former Zimbabwe captain, Tatenda Taibu, who was also a former U-19 World Cup player, having 195 appearances across formats, was announced as the tournament ambassador, set to inspire young cricketers through his journey from age-group cricket to becoming one of the country’s greats.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, acting Permanent Secretary Cynthia Mawema described the tournament as a landmark moment for African

cricket, calling it a global celebration of youthful talent.

“This is not just another event on the cricket calendar – it is a global festival of youthful brilliance,” she said.

“Zimbabwe and Namibia will host an experience that will be remembered for years to come.

"The tournament will inspire young people, strengthen development pathways, attract new fans and showcase Zimbabwe as a worldclass sporting nation ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.”

Zimbabwe’s Cricket Vice Chairman, Sylvester Matshaka, representing Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani, thanked the ICC for once again placing its trust in the country to host a major global event.

“Hosting this global youth tournament – alongside our colleagues in Namibia – is a responsibility we

accept with great pride.

“The U-19 World Cup is where future stars first announce themselves to the world and we are delighted that the class of 2026 will do so on our pitches.”

Tournament Director Hamilton Masakadza confirmed that preparations in Harare and Bulawayo are progressing well, with venues, logistics and accommodation firmly in place. He also announced that entry to all matches will be free, encouraging fans across the country to attend.

“Entry to all matches is completely free.

“We want everyone – from first-time cricket fans to diehard supporters – to come and experience the excitement.”

Matches in Zimbabwe will be played at Harare Sports Club, Takashinga Cricket Club and Queens Sports Club, with Namibia hosting fixtures in Windhoek.

Ahead of the tournament, the ICC U-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy will tour Masvingo, Bulawayo and Harare from January 4 to 7.

Cricket Namibia representatives joined the launch, with Vice Chairman Polly Negongo expressing pride in co-hosting the tournament and highlighting its importance in inspiring Namibia’s next generation of cricketers.

“Namibia is proud, prepared and deeply excited to co-host this prestigious global event alongside our neighbours, Zimbabwe.

“For Namibia, hosting a World Cup is a moment of national significance and a powerful opportunity to inspire the next generation of cricketers.”

Defending champion, Australia, will be hunting to add one more ICC trophy under their belt and retain the trophy that they lifted following a thumping win over India in the 2024 edition. (ICC Media)

Wharton's nine-goal haul powers... (From back page) terval, leading 3-1, fuelled by an early strike from Joel Griffith (18’) and a brace from the phenomenal Jeremiah Griffith (32’, 41’).

The second half, however, witnessed a massive shift in momentum. Despite Griffith completing his hattrick in the 55th minute and scoring a fourth in the 81st

ENGLISH RACING TIPS WINCANTON 08:30 hrs Jeriko Du Reponet 09:00 hrs The Big Reveal 09:30 hrs Piping Rock 10:00 hrs Swinging Safari 10:30 hrs Noahsgreatrainbow 11:00 hrs Apples Moon 11:30 hrs Rainbow Belle NEWCASTLE 11:12 hrs Young Endless 11:45 hrs Jackabi 12:15 hrs Sunlit Sea 12:45 hrs Inspired 13:15 hrs Miss Raincloud

minute, his individual brilliance was cancelled out by a collective Jamaican resurgence. Kingston College's Davion Clarke (48’, 74’) and Abreil Fisher (70’, 75’) drove the comeback, with Nthanda Scott providing the final, decisive strike in the 87th minute to seal the heart-stopping 6-5 result for the Jamaicans.

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Over at the Ministry of Education Ground, Group B also delivered crucial points: Nikiere Technical (Suriname) proved too disciplined for Brazil’s José Vieira de Sales Guerra State School, clinching a 2-0 victory. Goals from Darien Doris (16’) and Jizreel Sedoc (76’) secured the valuable win.

St Benedict College (Trinidad and Tobago) dominated Annai Secondary with a convincing 4-0 shutout.

Josiah Barrow opened the scoring (39’), before Jelani Stoute bagged a second-half brace (55’, 69’), followed by

Jelani Scott (72’), placing the Trinidadian side in a commanding early position.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, making the upcoming fixtures critical.

Matches continue today at both venues: At Queen’s College, Kington’s College face ACEAS at 12:30h, followed

by St. Benedict’s College against Nikiere Technical from 14:30h.

At MoE, Chase faces West Ruimveldt from 18:00h, followed by Guerra State School against Annai from 20:00h.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday, December 16, 2025) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kemar Roach-7 wickets (2) Jacob Duffy-8 wickets Today’s Quiz: (1) What were the WI opening stands in the first Test of the current series against NZ? (2) What were NZ’s opening stands?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Lakers blow 20-point 4th-quarter lead vs Suns, still win in chaotic finish SOMEBODY had to win this game. It turned out to be the Los Angeles Lakers in one of the most chaotic finishes of this or any other NBA season.

The Lakers held a 20-point lead over the Phoenix Suns Sunday night with less than eight minutes remaining in the game. The Suns then rallied to take their own lead with 12.2 seconds remaining, only to blow it in the final seconds.

The finish featured a goahead 3 from Dillon Brooks, who was then immediately ejected for bumping LeBron James in the aftermath.

James missed the ensuing technical free throw, but the

Lakers managed to pull out the 116-114 win regardless.

Whew. Here's how it went down. The game was tied at 62-62 early in the third quarter. But the Lakers took control via a 24-0 run that started midway through the third and gave them a 9577 lead on a 3 by James with 9:30 remaining in the fourth.

The Lakers then appeared to be on cruise control when they expanded the lead to 99-79 with 8:40 remaining.

But the Suns weren't done. They went on a 35-14 run of their own that concluded with a 3 by Brooks with James' hand in his face.

That bucket gave the Suns a 114-113 lead with 12.2 sec-

onds remaining.

And the Suns should have had the opportunity for more.

James clearly bumped Brooks on the follow through and should have been called for a foul; but officials didn't blow their whistles.

So Brooks, who has plenty of history with James, got up from the court and walked over to bump James in the chest. Officials definitely noticed that.

They called Brooks for a technical foul upon replay review for "unsporting contact" and "aggressively approaching James." The technical was his second of the game, and his night

was done. Officials did not address the contact James initially made with Brooks on his shot.

James went to the line to shoot the technical free throw. But he missed, and the Suns maintained their one-point lead.

But James was offered redemption at the line after officials whistled Devin Booker for fouling him on a closeout as James attempted a 3. Here's that foul, which Booker immediately protested: The Suns challenged the foul but their protest was to no avail. Officials determined that Booker made "illegal contact with his right

Lebron James (left), and Dillon Brooks during their fierce encounter

hand to the right wrist of James."

James went to the line for three free throws and a chance to take the lead.

He missed the first. But he made the last two to give the Lakers a 115-114 lead with 3 seconds remaining.

Grayson Allen had a contested look at a goahead floater on the other end that missed, and the Lakers held on for the win following a Phoenix foul on the rebound with 0.4 seconds remaining. (Yahoo Sports)

Seifert, Peake give Melbourne Shafali Verma claims the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award Renegades a winning start A DAY out from the IPL 2026 auction, keeper-opener Tim Seifert smashed a scintillating 102 off just 56 deliveries, powering Melbourne Renegades to a winning start against Brisbane Heat.

Fifties from Colin Munro and Jimmy Peirson, and a late effort from Hugh Weibgen (38* off 20), took Heat close in the chase.

Renegades’ opener Josh Browne offered the early elevation before departing in the third over. Mohammad Rizwan then struggled on his way to a 10-ball four and Jake Fraser-McGurk fell for a seven-ball 14. From 82/3 in the 10th over, the real fireworks began as Seifert joined forces with Oliver Peake. Seifert got to a 30-ball half-century in the 11th over, where he also smashed two sixes to take 21 off Nathan McSweeney. The duo punished Shaheen in the 13th over, hitting 19 runs off it.

No amount of bowling change brought respite for Heat as the pair collected 9, 12 and 15 off the next three overs. To make matters worse, Shaheen capped off his horror BBL debut by being taken off the attack in his

Tim Seifert smashed 102 off 56 balls

third over for bowling two beamers.

He finished with figures of 0-43 in 2.4 overs. Jack Wildermuth dismissed both in the 19th over but their stand worth 121 runs off just 54 deliveries set the Renegades up for a 200-plus total.

Seifert's essay included nine fours and six sixes, while Peake hit six fours and three sixes in his 29-ball 57.

Heat's chase was hampered by early wickets, even as Munro got going. They were down to 21/2 in the fourth over and then lost Matt Renshaw in the seventh. Max Bryant added 45 off 27 with Munro, but Heat suffered a mini-collapse in the middle.

They went from 100/3 to

108/6 in the space of two overs, and were left to chase 105 off 42.

Peirson and Weibgen then kept the Renegades on their toes by launching into Xavier Bartlett and Patrick Dooley. They then smashed 19 runs off Fergus O'Reily and 13 off Hassan Khan to bring the equation to 60 off 18. Jason Beherendorff then gave away 15 runs to set up the possibility of a stunning chase.

Will Sutherland went for 6, 4, 6 but then dismissed Piersen, for a 22ball 50. It left Heat to get 26 off 6, which proved to be a bridge too far. They ended on 198/8, losing by 14 runs.

(Cricbuzz)

INDIA’S Shafali Verma has been crowned the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2025 following her decisive showing in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 final against South Africa.

Drafted into the squad as a late replacement for the injured Pratika Rawal, the 21-year-old delivered a standout all-round performance on the biggest stage.

Shafali Verma reflects on her magical role in India's ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 win.

The right-hander struck a fluent 87 off 78 balls, which is the highest score by an Indian opener in a World Cup final.

Her aggressive start, combined with a record 100run opening stand with Smriti Mandhana, powered India to 298/7 in the title clash.

Shafali’s impact extended with the ball as well. She dismissed Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp in successive overs, breaking crucial partnerships during South Africa’s chase to finish with tidy figures of 2/36 from seven overs.

“My first ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup experi-

Shafali Verma delivered a standout all-round performance on the biggest stage

ence didn’t go as I expected but it ended far better than I could have ever wished or imagined." said Verma.

“I’m grateful that I could contribute to the team’s success in the Final and that I was able to be a part of making history in winning the World Cup for the first time and in front of a home crowd.

“I’m truly honoured to be named the Women’s Player of the Month for November.

I dedicate this award to my teammates, coaches, family and everyone who has supported my journey until now. We win and lose as a team, the same goes for this award.”

Her all-round brilliance

in the final earned Shafali the Player of the Match award that sealed India’s maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup title, making them only the fourth team to lift the coveted trophy.

The recognition caps a remarkable turnaround for Shafali, who was earlier dropped from India’s ODI squad and returned to domestic cricket to regain form before earning her World Cup recall.

Her November exploit showcased not only her resurgence but also her growing big-match temperament, cementing her place at the heart of India’s historic triumph in the final.

(ICC Media)

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

England overlooks Bashir for crucial Ashes Test ENGLAND has overlooked spinner Shoaib Bashir for the crucial third Ashes Test against Australia in Adelaide.

The tourists, who need to win to keep alive hopes of regaining the urn, have made one change from the team beaten in the second Test in Brisbane.

As expected, Josh Tongue replaces fellow pace bowler Gus Atkinson.

It is the omission of 22-year-old Bashir that is most striking for a Test where spin is likely to play an important role.

England has instead retained all-rounder Will Jacks

after he played his first Test in three years in Brisbane.

It is a huge decision by England’s captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum for a Test where jobs and reputations could be on the line.

It calls into question the entire experiment involving Bashir, whom England has asked to learn on the job in Test cricket over the past two years.

Bashir's absence from the first two Tests in Australia has been explained by the conditions.

Australia’s off-spinner, Nathan Lyon, bowled only two overs in the first Test

Shoaib Bashir has not played for England since the third Test against India in July

and then was left out of the second.

But Lyon will return on Wednesday (23:30 GMT Tuesday) on a ground where no other bowler has taken more than his 63 Test wickets, with legendary Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne just behind on 56.

The importance of spin will likely be accentuated by the extreme temperatures forecast in Adelaide - as high as 39C for Thursday's second day.

England has previously backed Bashir as their frontline spinner, despite him not being the first-choice slow bowler for his county

Somerset. Bashir's deal at Taunton expired at the end of the season and he is yet to sign a new one.

Stokes and McCullum felt Bashir had the attributes to succeed in Australia, mainly a high release point and the ability to extract bounce from the surface.

His performances in an England shirt since making his debut in India at the beginning of 2024 have been a qualified success.

Bashir's 68 wickets in 19 Tests have come at an average of 39, and in May he became the youngest England bowler to reach 50 wickets.

But Bashir has not played

for England since breaking his finger in the third Test against India in July. His best moment in an England shirt was also his most recent act taking the wicket to win that thrilling Test at Lord's.

Before the Brisbane Test, when off-spinning all-rounder Jacks was selected ahead of Bashir, Stokes still backed Bashir as the tourists' frontline spinner.

England’s XI for third Ashes Test v Australia: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue.

SA’s Simon Harmer cops Harry Brook admits execution lapse after 'shocking shots' HARRY Brook admitted Even so, Brook said he ICC Men's Player of the that the first two Tests of would not dwell on regret, the Ashes series hadn't only on learning from those Month award quite gone to plan for him, moments. "I'll be the first per-

Simon Harmer finished the two-Test series with 17 wickets

SOUTH Africa’s spinner Simon Harmer has been named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for his stellar performances during the ICC World Test Championship series against India.

The right-arm spinner ‘beat out’ competition from Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam and Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz to claim the coveted award for the first time.

Harmer earned the honour on the back of a dominant Test series in which he was also named Player of the Series, playing a pivotal role in South Africa’s historic 2-0 victory, their first Test series win in India since 2000.

In the two matches, Harmer picked up a staggering 17 wickets, helping South Africa comprehensively defeat India in Kolkata and Guwahati.

“It’s a privilege to be named the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November." said Harmer.

“Playing for my country is a dream come true and anything else that comes from it as a result is a bonus.

“I share this award with

my teammates, coaches and support staff and dedicate it to my family who allow me to go out and live my dream, often having to leave them at home to do so.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of the Proteas team and I hope to enjoy many more successful seasons with this remarkable group of people.”

The 36-year-old continued his exceptional form in the second match, taking nine wickets as South Africa sealed a historic series win.

His three wickets in the first innings helped the visitors gain a massive 288-run lead. Harmer then delivered his best spell of the series in the second innings, completely outfoxing India with his spin brilliance. His return of 6/37 powered South Africa to a dominant 408-run victory.

Simon Harmer finished the two-Test series with 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 and an economy of 5.66. His outstanding performances not only secured the series sweep but also lifted South Africa to second place in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 standings. (JCC Media)

conceding that his usually sharp feel for tempo and situation has deserted him at key moments. England's vice-captain said he has struggled to strike the right balance between absorbing pressure and forcing the issue.

"It hasn't been an ideal series," he said two days out from the Adelaide Test.

"Sometimes, I've got to rein it in a little bit: learn when to absorb the pressure a little bit more, and realise when the opportunity arises to put the pressure back on them. I feel like I haven't done that as well as I usually do. I just haven't identified those situations well enough."

Brook explained that much of his aggression has come in response to England losing early wickets, with his intent often shaped by the need to wrest back momentum rather than play within himself. It worked in the first innings in Perth when he top-scored with a 61-ball 52, but that approach hasn't quite paid off thereafter with scores of 0, 31 and 15 since.

"Most of the time when I've been overly aggressive is when we've lost early wickets and I've tried to counter-punch and put them back under pressure. I tried to do that in Perth in the first in-

Harry Brook tipped his hat to the relentless accuracy of Australia's bowling attack, saying they had offered very little margin for error

nings: I played quite nicely and gloved down the leg side."

While Brook believes his reading of the game remains sound, he accepted that the execution which defined his early international career hasn't quite been there in this series. He also acknowledged that two of his dismissals, caught behind driving at a back-of-a-length ball in Perth, and edging a big drive off Mitchell Starc in the first innings in Brisbane were "shocking shots."

"I try to read situations as well as possible, and then it all depends on my execution.

And so far [in this series], my execution hasn't been as good as it has been at the start of

my career.

"They were shocking shots," Brook added. "I'll admit that every day of the week, especially that one in Perth, it was nearly a bouncer and I tried to drive it. It was just bad batting. The one in Brisbane, I've tried to hit for six."

Those moments, Brook felt, illustrated the need for greater restraint and an ability to trust rotation rather than forcing big shots. "That's what I mean when I try to say that I need to rein it in a little bit. I can almost just take that and hit it for one and get down the other end. Whoever else is in with me at the other end can just get on strike and just keep trying to rotate.

son to stand up and say that they were bad shots. I don't regret them, but if I was there again, I would try and play it slightly differently."

Brook, however, tipped his hat to the relentless accuracy of Australia's bowling attack, saying they had offered very little margin for error. "You can't take this bowling attack lightly: they very rarely miss," he said.

"You've got to try and create your own bad balls. Doing that might be me running down; it might be me changing my guard or whatever.

Look, they don't miss often and you've got to tip your hat to them sometimes. They've bowled really well in this series."

Support for Brook has remained strong within the England camp, with master batter Joe Root offering a glowing endorsement of his Yorkshire teammate on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast.

"He can kill teams with a whisper," Root said. "Harry Brook is a generational player, and he is going to deliver at some point in this series. You watch out. He is a match-winner. If he gets himself in and set at some point in this series, he's going to go and do something very special for us."

(Cricbuzz)

'At least one million tickets' to cost... (From page 23) Katz-Mayfield called LA28's random draw process "the fairest way to ensure that the broadest number of people can get access to

tickets and that no one is advantaged or disadvantaged."

"No matter when you go in, whether you're the first person in or the last person

in, you have the same opportunity," she added.

Registration for tickets for the 2028 Olympics will be open until March 18 and

there is no advantage to registering early.

No purchase or payment is required to sign up for the draw. (BBC Sport)

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 16, 2025

One Guyana/K&S President’s Futsal Championship

Defending champions Sparta Boss begins title defence as Round of 32 kicks off tonight AS the action heats up in the third One Guyana/ Kashif &amp Shanghai President’s Futsal Championship coordinated by the Kashif &amp Shanghai Organisation in association with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, room for any lapses will be minimised from tonight when the round-of-32 get cracking with five (5) matches.

The top 16 teams from the 2024/2025 edition who drew byes to this round will now be tested and based on their performances last time around, are tipped to get into the round of 16 -- no guarantees though.

The main clash tonight at the tournament venue, the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, will feature defending champions Sparta Boss against

first-round winner, Laing Avenue. This star-studded Sparta side coached by Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, just off delivering Guyana’s maiden title win at the Inter-Guiana Games, will fancy their chances of going all the way.

Setting things in train will be North-East and firstround winner, Kingston, from 20:00hrs. Bent Street ‘B’ will seek to topple another first-round winner, Kanaimas in the second match of the night, followed by Silver Bullets taking on Make It Happen. Back Circle will take centre stage when they match skills with Sophia Ballers in the night’s penultimate clash.

Fans can look forward to a night of pulsating rivalry as teams continue to keep their eyes on the

Intense rivalry is anticipated as the tournament heads into the Round-of-32

top prize of $3,000,000 (Three Million Dollars).

Thursday night will see another five-matches contested when Team Family comes up against Agricola Ballers

in the opener, followed by Gold is Money against West Side Ballers, Team Cruel and Ballers United; Bent Street ‘A’ vs Alexander Village and North Ruimveldt

vs Stabroek Ballers.

Six matches are slated for Friday Night: Festival City vs Beavers; Z-Tekk vs Corinthians; YMCA vs Melanie; Lethem vs Espanyol; Bomb Squad vs Albouystown and Road Warriors vs Footsteppers.

Play in the round-robin format for schools will continue on Tuesday at the same venue from 11:00hrs with six matches. Carmel will face off with Westminster; Charlestown comes up against St Joseph High; West Demerara engages Bishop’s High; VYC Academy plays New Central High; Cummings Lodge battles Annandale and Hope Secondary tests Lodge.

A total of seven matches will set the Hall alive on Thursday at the same time: St Jospeh High vs Carmel;

St John’s College vs Charlestown; South Ruimveldt vs Bishop’s High; New Central vs West Demerara; Brickdam vs Cummings Lodge; Annandale vs Dolphin and West Ruimveldt vs North Ruimveldt.

The organisers are expressing thanks to the following sponsors: the Government of Guyana; The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; the Ministry of Tourism; the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs; Ansa McAl; Rashleigh Sam’s Enterprise; Bakewell; Cevons Environmental Services; Dinars Trading; Maggie’s; Jai Signs and Designs; Star Party Rentals; Super Bet; Hits and Jams 94.1FM; Jumbo Jet; MVP Sports; GENEQUIP; Impressions; and Colours Boutique.

Dominant Sabalenka wins back-to-back 'At least one million tickets' to cost $28 for LA28 WTA awards WORLD number one, Aryna Sabalenka, has been voted the Women's Tennis Association player of the year for a second successive season.

The 27-year-old won four titles - the most on tour including retaining the US Open against Amanda Anisimova in September to claim her fourth Grand Slam singles triumph.

Across the season Sabalenka played in a tour-best nine finals, with losses to Madison Keys in the Australian Open final in January and Coco Gauff in June's French Open final.

The Belarusian also won the Brisbane International in January, the Miami Open in March and the Madrid Open in May, and spent the entire year as world number one, finishing 2025 top of the rankings for a second successive year.

In July, she became the first player to top 12,000 WTA ranking points since Serena Williams in 2015.

Sabalenka finished the season with a 63-12 winloss record, and picked up a record £11m in prize money.

She received almost 80% of the votes cast by interna-

Aryna Sabalenka finished the season with a 23-3 Grand Slam win-loss record

tional tennis media.

On December 28, she will face 2022 Wimbledon runner-up Nick Kyrgios in a Battle of the Sexes-style exhibition match in a bid to "help bring women's tennis to a higher level".

Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, 28, has been voted comeback player of the year after taking a 13-month break following the birth of her first child and returning to the sport at the start of this year.

Canadian 19-year-old Victoria Mboko picked up newcomer of the year after starting the season ranked outside the world's top 300

and climbing to world number 18.

Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend were voted doubles team of the year after winning their second Grand Slam title together, while Anisimova was named most improved player of the year after reaching five finals.

Last week, Carlos Alcaraz took home three honours in the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Awards, including the year-end number one award, while Jannik Sinner was voted fans' favourite for a third time. (BBC Sport)

The Olympics was last held in Los Angeles in 1984

AT least one million tickets for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles will be priced at $28 (£20.94).

Organisers confirmed the pricing as they announced that fans will be able to register their interest from next month in attending the Games.

From January 14, fans can enter a random ticket draw covering all Olympic sports and those who are selected will be given a time slot to purchase tickets in April.

The announcement by LA28 organisers comes amid criticism of ticket prices for next year's football World Cup in the US, Mex-

ico and Canada.

Group-stage tickets for the 2026 World Cup will be up to three times the prices of those for the previous tournament in Qatar in 2022, while the cheapest ticket for the final will cost £3,119.

Every sport at the 2028 Olympic Games will have tickets available at $28, while a third of tickets for the event will be "under $100".

"That's not just lip service to a couple tickets in the corner of some venue, but a meaningful number of tickets," said LA28 chief, Allison Katz-Mayfield.

"We're looking at at least a million tickets at $28."

Tickets for the 2024 Olympics in Paris started at 24 euros (£20).

The cheapest ticket for England's opening World Cup match against Croatia next June is priced at £198, with Scotland's opener against Haiti costing £134.

Fans' group Football Supporters Europe has said it is "astonished" by FIFA’S pricing strategy, and called for ticket sales to be "halted immediately".

FIFA told BBC Sport last Friday that it had received five million World Cup ticket requests in 24 hours from fans across more than 200 countries.

(Turn to page 22)

The unveiling of the trophy in Zimbabwe yesterday

U-19 Men’s CWC 2026 countdown begins with trophy unveiled

PAGE

20

...Former Zimbabwe captain, Tatenda Taibu, is tournament ambassador

GTTA rewards national champions Britton and Billingy

The men who led Chase to the dominant victory

Wharton's nine-goal haul powers Chase's 24-1 rout in KFC Football THE 2025 KFC International School football tournament launched on Sunday with an explosive statement of intent from the defending champions, Chase’s Academic Foundation, followed by a breathtaking 11-goal thriller that set a ferocious pace for the competition ahead.

At the Queen’s College Ground, Chase’s Academic Foundation delivered a statistical anomaly, securing a massive 24-1 victory over the Anglican Central Education Authority Select (ACEAS) of the Bahamas in the Group

A opener.

The headline act of the day belonged squarely to Chase’s forward Bryan Wharton, who etched his name into the tournament's history books with a staggering nine-goal haul. Wharton’s clinical and relentless finishing overwhelmed the Bahamian defence, cementing the thumping triumph and sending an ominous warning to the rest of the field.

Wharton’s output was backed by phenomenal goal-scoring depth, including a hat-trick from Isiah Ifill (three), two goals each from

Onesi Dunn, Shaquan David, and Whitney King, along with single strikes from Nyron Barrow, Mark Glasgow, Kemron Pellew, Neeaz Baksh, and Damani Hardy.

The solitary goal for the Bahamian outfit came from an unfortunate own goal.

While Chase’s sheer power was on display, the second match delivered unadulterated drama as Kingston College of Jamaica secured a thrilling 6-5 victory over local side West Ruimveldt Secondary.

West Ruimveldt had looked comfortable at the in(Turn to page 20)

The top performers with their accolades

THE Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has formally recognised the champions of the 2025 Senior National Table Tennis Tournament, marking a changing of the guard in the women's division and confirming the continued dominance of the men's top player.

The presentation ceremony, held at the Guyana Olympic Association conference room, celebrated the winners across singles, doubles, and class categories.

The headline news came from the Women’s Singles final, where 15-year-old

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Jasmine Billingy secured her first-ever senior national championship title. Billingy overcame Samara Sukhai, who finished second, with Nevaeh Clarkson and Akira Watson sharing third place.

In the Men’s Singles, Shemar Britton was crowned the new national champion, continuing his reign at the top of the sport.

Elishaba Johnson secured the runner-up spot, while Jonathan Van Lange and Alleyne shared third place.

Britton proved the most decorated athlete of the tournament, securing three titles overall by partnering

in both the doubles categories: Men’s Doubles: Britton secured the title alongside Jonathan Van Lange.

Mixed Doubles: Britton partnered with Chelsea Edghill to claim the championship.

Billingy also had a sensational tournament, adding the Women's Doubles title to her singles triumph, partnering with runner-up Samara Sukhai.

Other champions crowned included: Malachi Moore (B Class Open) and Alex Garraway (C Class Open)

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025