President Ali walks into a celebratory atmosphere at Kuru Kururu where he held a community meeting ahead of the September 1 Regional and General Elections. During his address to residents and supporters, he unveiled an impressive list of development plans for communities along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, including the construction of a state-of-the-art hospital, hotels, and resorts and clean tap water (Delano Williams photo)
PPP/C’s list of candidates dynamic,
–– Dr. Jagdeo says; points out that no gov’t role was promised to anyone Gov’t welcomes U.S legislation to bolster security ties with Guyana, deter Venezuelan
A brand new Brickdam Secondary School will be welcoming students when the new school year begins in September. The school is located at the corners of Brickdam and Camp Street, a few buildings from where it once stood. On Thursday, Education Minister Priya Manickchand visited the school to see first-hand the final touches that were being made. In this Ministry of Education photo, Minister Manickchand is seen touring the Home Economics Department as it was being readied for the students’ arrival
Dr. Jagdeo
State-of-the-art hospital for Soesdyke-Linden Highway
–– proposals for hotels, resorts being considered, President Ali announces at Kuru Kururu meeting
By Naomi Parris
IN a clearly-defined strategy to propel the development of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Thursday announced that plans are afoot to construct a state-of-theart hospital somewhere along it.
The Head of State was at the time addressing a community meeting at Kuru Kururu where he outlined a comprehensive development plan for the corridor, emphasising its potential to improve living conditions, accelerate agriculture, health services, and education.
“On the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, just like we have in Diamond, we are going to build a firstclass healthcare facility for you right here on the Linden-Soesdyke highway. You will have your own accident and emergency; you will have your own surgical theatres, you will
have your own beds,” the President told hundreds of residents.
This facility, he explained further, will be similar to the recently commissioned Diamond Regional Hospital, which is designed to meet international standards and outfitted with 24-hour emergency and laboratory services. It is also outfitted with an oxygen plant, water-filtration system, advanced diagnostics technology, 75 beds, three operating theatres, and several intensive care units, which also exceed Chinese, British and American standards.
While the government intends to build the infrastructure needed to drive development, he noted, too, that it is equally important to ensure that residents are well positioned to leverage the opportunities being presented to them.
“We want your children to be your healthcare
workers,” he said. “We want your children to be your teachers; we want your children to be your doctors and engineers. That is why we have made university education free.”
President Ali noted that proposals have already been made for the construction of new hotels and resorts along the highway; initiatives that will create many opportunities.
“We have major project proposals for resorts; for resorts and hotels to be built on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. Very shortly, the new hotel at Timerhi will open, and they will have to find 1,500 persons to work in that hotel. Where are they going to come from? Right here on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway,” he said.
Speaking further on the targetted community initiatives, President Ali assured residents that the government will continue to invest in opening new lands for housing, improv-
ing drainage and irrigation, and building safe and sustainable communities.
“If we want to build value on the Linden- Soesdyke Highway,” he said, “we have to remove from the ad hoc type of development that is taking
Minister Kwame McCoy
place, and we have to have more structured development, where you can have proper rates; you can have treated water, street lights, schools, health centres, and you can have all the amenities of a modern urban planning area.”
Already, the government, through the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, has completed occupational surveys identifying 153 plots of land.
The paperwork and allocation have since
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
Scores of persons at the community meeting at Kuru Kururu, on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway on Thursday (Delano Williams photos)
State-of-the-art hospital ...
been completed for 85 per cent of those plots located in the Kuru Kururu North squatting area.
The gathering was told that at the Kuru Kururu-Swan turn area, more than 206 plots were surveyed and allocated.
“We’re going to help you to ensure you build your homes and own your homes, because one of the big programmes that we want to launch on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway is a home-improvement project and a home ownership project, where we’ll bring the banks; We’ll co-finance with the banks,” President Ali said, adding:
speak to you with such a clearly defined plan for the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.”
To this end, he noted that the government will continue to give citizens greater access to land ownership, and greater access to capital.
“I challenge any leader to come here and
“This plan is not only about wealth transfer; this is about wealth creation. There is a dif-
ference between wealth transfer and wealth creation. This plan is about helping you to create opportunities to grow; to create opportunities to build businesses, to create opportunity to have a prosperous future right here on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway,” the president said.
Meanwhile, Minister
within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, who is also the cluster head for communities along the highway, highlighted the President’s steady leadership, compassion, and work ethic, emphasising the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s commitment to genuine development
and community improvement.
“We are not about trying to say things to people that will amount to nonsensical, or that will not come into fruition or reality.
We deliver on every single thing we say we will do, and this is a President and a party of honour,” Minister McCoy said.
24/7 electricity, community infrastructure overhaul
–– among major plans for Kuru Kururu, other Soesdyke-Linden communities
–– President Ali urges residents to vote for a brighter future for their children
By Naomi Parris
FROM round the clock
electricity to treated water coming from the tap, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has unveiled an ambitious plan to supercharge development along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, starting with Kuru Kururu.
With the countdown to the September 1 General and Regional Elections underway, President Ali on Thursday passionately laid out a future vision where infrastructure, opportunity, and quality of life are dramatically elevated for residents in this key corridor.
“We want your children to have the best possible future right here on the highway,” the Head of
State declared to loud applause. “A future in which you can get to Georgetown on new highways in 35 minutes; a future in which we can have agricultural equipment and machinery given to the farmers here collectively, so that you can be supported with the capital investment that is needed to make you more productive.”
In a sweeping series of announcements, Dr Ali confirmed that the government will move to expand the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) transmission line, ensuring 24/7 electricity in every community along the highway, a boost for households and businesses alike.
That’s not all. The PPP/ C’s vision includes treated
water piped directly to homes, upgraded internal roads, improved drainage, and enhanced recreational spaces.
“We are going to launch an aggressive infrastructure improvement project for all of the highway, your grounds, your parks, all of it will be upgraded under your government, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic government,” he said.
“We are going to make vehicle ownership, home ownership, more easier for you,” he assured adding that residents can expect “A future in which you will have reduced tax burden, better infrastructure, easier accessibility to loans.”
President Ali offered a passionate reminder of
Dr.
what the coming elections represent, noting that it was not just for the present, but for future generations. He used the opportunity to urge residents to not be wary of other political contenders who may attempt to ‘buy’ votes and steer them away from development.
“Any person who believes that your vote is for
sale also believe that your dignity is for sale because your vote is about your children, your family and your community, and your children and your family is part of your dignity. And anyone who believes that they can give you some money and take your vote believes that your dignity can be bought and sold.”
President
Irfaan Ali
Amid the major announcements, supporters who gathered at Thursday’s engagement erupted with welcoming chants and applauses (Delano Williams photos)
The Power of Participation
GUYANA’S impressive transformation over the past five years has not happened by chance.
It comes from careful, evidence-based planning that values the input of ordinary citizens.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s dedication to widespread consultation shows true democratic governance, unlike the empty promises and unrealistic proposals from other political groups.
The recent consultations at the Ramada Hotel and Princess Hotel highlight this commitment to participatory democracy. President, Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo did not present a fixed agenda; they listened.
They engaged with stakeholders from various backgrounds—private-sector representatives, religious leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and the diaspora—to make sure that the nation’s development plan reflects the true desires of its people.
This approach is not just a gesture. Since April, the PPP/C has collected over 5,000 submissions from more than 2,000 individuals, showing an unprecedented level of civic involvement in policy creation.
The party’s General Secretary remarked, “Your concerns will shape the future policies of the People’s Progressive Party,” turning citizens’ feedback into real governance.
This is democracy in its purest form— where the governed plays an active role in shaping their future. The difference with opposition parties is stark.
While the PPP/C offers detailed, costed proposals based on extensive consultations, opposition figures like Aubrey Norton and Nigel Hughes make grand promises without showing how they would fund them.
Their proposals—including monthly cash grants of $100,000 to $150,000 per adult, $100,000 monthly pensions, and 35% salary increases—would drain the Natural Resource Fund within a year, according to financial experts.
More concerning is the opposition’s lack of meaningful consultation.
Where are their community engagements? Where is their evidence of grassroots input? Instead, we see internal power struggles and policy stances that seem to come from boardrooms rather than community halls.
The APNU+AFC’s rejection of the
government’s electoral-reform consultations, which have been ongoing for months, shows their preference for obstruction over participation.
The PPP/C’s approach goes beyond campaign promises to active governance. From specialised consultations with Tain residents to form targeted committees, to engaging with farmers at Cullen Old Road before infrastructural work, the party shows that good governance requires ongoing dialogue with citizens.
Even in areas such as mental health, the government has focused on community inputs to ensure that solutions are culturally relevant and locally suitable.
This commitment to consultation is not just about democratic values—it leads to better outcomes. The party’s record is impressive: over 50,000 house lots distributed, 60,000 jobs created, and infrastructural investments that have changed communities. These achievements come from policies shaped by citizens’ inputs, not from isolated political moves.
The Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, which guides the nation’s development framework, reflects this consultative approach.
Unlike the opposition’s vague talk about “people-centred development,” the PPP/C has developed a national plan that balances economic growth with environmental care—a model that is now being copied worldwide.
As Guyana heads toward the September 2025 elections, voters must recognise the key difference between parties that involve citizens as partners in development and those that see them only as recipients of campaign promises.
The PPP/C’s extensive consultation process, shown by thousands of submissions and numerous community engagements, reflects a commitment to governance that is both responsive and accountable.
Effective development requires more than good intentions—it requires evidence, consultation, and the insights gained from co-operative discussion.
The PPP/C’s approach embodies these values, ensuring that Guyana’s ongoing prosperity is built on the strong foundation of citizens involvement rather than the unstable ground of political opportunism.
Guyana’s estimated poverty rate is below 20%
Dear Editor,
IN 2022, the World Bank (WB) published a fact sheet on Guyana, which asserted that Guyana’s poverty level, “measured using the upper-middle income poverty line (US$5.5 per day in 2011 PPP) has dropped from close to 61% in 2006 to 48% in 2019, but was still among the highest in the Latin America and Caribbean Region (LAC)”.
I publicly challenged the accuracy of this estimate, and the WB has since removed the referenced factsheet from its website. For ease of reference, the original link (now inactive) was : https :// www worldbank org / en / news / factsheet/2020/09/02/the-world-bank-in-guyana. My critique was published in Stabroek News on December 15, 2022, and remains accessible here: https://www.stabroeknews. com/2022/12/15/opinion/letters/it-would-appear-the-world-bank-grossly-misrepresentedthe-iadbs-survey-in-its-updated-factsheet/ Yet, despite the removal of the factsheet, the WB continues to cite the same outdated and challengeable poverty estimate in its country overview for Guyana. To this end, reference is further made to a Stabroek News article dated July 17, 2025, with the caption: “World Bank says using poverty stats from 2019 as no recent data available”.
During a webinar organised by the Canada Caribbean Institute on July 8, 2025, I had the
privilege of participating as a panelist for a book launched titled ‘Oil and Climate Change in Guyana’s Wet Neighborhood: Probing Promises and Potential Peril’ by distinguished Professor, Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, where I reiterated my position in response to another panelist, Dr. Janete Bulkan.
Dr. Bulkan and her colleagues affiliated with the Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN), most of whom are seasoned academics, appear to place significant reliance on reports published by international institutions such as the WB, often treating these publications as authoritative and beyond interrogation. In contrast, my academic training has instilled in me a fundamentally different approach. I am guided by the principles of critical inquiry: to critically examine, evaluate, and synthesize information regardless of the source. While I acknowledge the value and respect the work of institutions such as the WB, I do not accept their reports uncritically. Instead, I treat such reports analytically—assessing their assumptions, methodologies, and implications before arriving at my own informed conclusions.
With respect to estimating the poverty level in Guyana in the absence of an updated, credible, and reliable report or data on the poverty level, anecdotal and economic indicators suggest that the rate of poverty is significantly lower than 48 per cent. For
instance, based level employees such as an unskilled labourer or a domestic worker, earn more than US$5.5 per day (US$165/month or G$34,402/month). A domestic helper earns $160,000/month, a cleaner earns more than $80,000/month, the lowest rank security officer earns more than $80,000/month, a laborer in the construction sector earns at a minimum $5,000/day (US$25/day).
It is important to note that poverty is typically measured at the household level, not the individual level. In doing so, there are different scientific approaches to measure poverty.
These include: (i) monetary approaches, (ii) multidimensional approaches, (iii) asset-based approaches, (iv) participatory and qualitative approaches, and (v) time based and dynamic approaches. Less rigorous approaches include the subjective and perception-based approaches.
Several socioeconomic indicators further substantiate the view that poverty has declined substantially, a few which were acknowledged by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as noted in their Article IV Report (2025):
The social welfare programmes targetting school children and senior citizens (direct cash transfers),
The housing programme whereby homeownership has grown at an unprecedented rate, facilitated by a comprehensive fiscal programme designed to make homeownership
affordable, through mortgage interest reliefs of 100 per cent, and at a subsidised cost, both direct and indirect subsidies (50,000 in the last five years),
Net disposable income has risen from $72 billion in 2015 to north of $400 billion in 2025,
Individual savings in the banking sector have more than doubled since 2015,
Vehicle ownership/registration has increased at a rate of 4x per annum from historical levels of less than 5,000 vehicles per annum, to more than 20,000 vehicles per annum,
Private consumption (household consumption/expenditure) has risen from eight per cent of GDP in 2015 to 23 pe cent of GDP in 2024, up from $71 billion annually to $1.5 trillion annually, signaling stronger spending power and increases in net disposable income. Against this background, any academically honest and methodologically sound poverty assessment in Guyana considering the comprehensive strategies employed by the present government aimed at poverty reduction, would conclude that poverty has reduced dramatically from over 90 per cent in the late 1980s to less than 20 per cent in 2025.
Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin
African Guyanese should read what Burke wrote
I HAVE always argued that David Hinds, Tacuma Ogunseye, Mark Benschop and Rickford Burke cannot attract the new generation of African people we have in Guyana.
This country has a very young generation. When a generation is born, many of the mores, traditions, values, customs and practices of the previous generation are either diminished or lost.
We have a young African population that hardly knows about the Burnham and Jagan rivalry; the Black Power movement in Guyana when Stokely Carmichael (Kwame Toure) came here; Eusi Kwayana and his organisation ASCRIA that he had formed. Even the role of Walter Rodney hardly features in the mind of the present population, because Rodney was active in the 1970s, almost 50 years ago. Seventy percent of the population is between 16 and 45. This is a different Guyana with a brand-new generation.
This important lesson, Burke, Benschop, Ogunseye and Hinds are yet to understand. When these four men address African Guyanese and speak to them, they use language that insults the cultural decency of the African race in Guyana.
I remember the words of Walter Rodney when he urged African Guyanese to resist President Burnham using them to go into court and lie in the witness box just to hang a PPP activist, Arnold Rampersaud. Rodney’s essential call to Africans was that Burnham was trampling on their dignity which they had preserved even under slavery.
The four names above insult the dignity of African Guyanese when they address African Guyanese about people
who criticise opposition politics, including this columnist. All African Guyanese should read what Rickford Burke wrote about me in his response to an analytical article of mine in the Guyana Chronicle for last Wednesday that assesses the reason prominent African personalities have gone over to Azruddin Mohamed and not the PNC or WPA.
When you read what Burke wrote then you see what kind of minds these people have, and it explains why African Guyanese are disgusted with them. It explains why almost 40 per cent of the PPP Kitty campaign launch was African Guyanese. It explains why some of the most wellknown African Guyanese citizens either are on the PPP’s nomination list or have endorsed the PPP. It explains why three PNC parliamentarians crossed over to Mohamed.
I will not sue Burke. That is not my style. I learnt decades ago that when you enter politics, there will be heat in the kitchen. In my 57 years of service to the Guyanese society, I have been assigned some nasty labels. So, I just shrug my shoulder over those long decades and carry on.
I have no time to sue Burke. If I do, he will lose the case in just minutes when the judge reads what he said about me. What Burke said about Frederick Kissoon is not the crux of the matter. It is the way he comes across to the constituencies that he wants to influence against Frederick Kissoon.
Is this the man that African Guyanese should listen to? David Hinds in a recent post said a few nasty things about me. But how effective is Hinds when he addresses
African Guyanese by referring to the then PNC parliamentarian, and then legal adviser to President Granger’s Government, Geeta Chandan-Edmond as a slavecatcher, a description that could have landed him a libel suit. Chris Ram, someone who probably hates the PPP, said openly on the Freddie Kissoon Show that Hinds was sprouting racism. Imagine, even Chris Ram is appalled at Hinds’ views on race in Guyana.
Did African Guyanese read the scurrilous, libellous things Hinds said about one of the most decent academics the current African generation produced in this country – Leonard Craig? James Bond also came in for an ugly chastisement from Hinds. One suspects that as the election campaign heats up, the PPP is going to play some ugly remarks by Hinds on the race question in Guyana that will deter people from voting for the PNC, because Hinds’s party is a part of APNU.
Burke went on an insane (and that is a mild word), vulgar cussing down of
Frederick Kissoon and one is curious to know how Aubrey Norton, Nigel Hughes, Terrence Campbell and Amanza Walton-Desir feel about Rickford Burke when they read what he wrote. Do they feel morally comfortable sharing this man’s politics?
People like David Hinds and Burke could have long been at least plausible if they used analysis to condemn people they don’t like.
Hinds never offered an intellectual rejection of why Craig joined the PPP. Instead, Craig was cussed down. Burke offered not one analytical point in reply to my column. Instead, it was an insane cussing down.
It explains why African Guyanese have drifted away from these people and are gone from them forever.
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.
Employers must give workers time off to vote on September 1 – GECOM
The following is the full text of a press release that was issued by the Guyana Elections Commission on Thursday:
“WITH General and Regional Elections set to take place on Monday, 1st September, 2025, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is cognisant that persons may be required to work or will be sta -
tioned away from their respective polling districts on duty during the conduct of the polls.
“It is therefore in this regard that GECOM takes this opportunity to inform all employers of the legal provisions to grant employees the requisite time off to vote at the elections.
“Specifically, Section 81 (1) of the Representation of the People Act
(ROPA), Cap 1:03 makes it mandatory that, ‘every employer shall permit every elector in his employ, other than any elector on whose behalf another elector has been appointed to vote as a proxy, to be absent from his work on election day for a reasonable time, in addition to the normal midday meal hour, for the purpose of voting at the election; and no employer should
make any deduction from pay or other remuneration of any such elector or impose on him or exact from him any penalty by reason of his absence during such period.’
“Accordingly, employees are advised that it is their constitutional right to vote at the election. As such, it is also their responsibility to engage their respective employers ahead of time to discuss
the requisite time off and to obtain the necessary approvals. Failure on the part of any employer to grant such request constitutes an election offence.
“Section 82 of ROPA provides that, ‘any employer who directly or indirectly, refuses or who by intimidation, undue influence or in any other way interferes with the granting to any elector in his employ of the peri -
od for voting prescribed by section 81 shall on summary conviction be liable to a fine of sixty-five thousand dollars ($65,000) and to imprisonment for six (6) months.’
“In view of the foregoing, GECOM is urging all persons to take note and put the necessary systems in place to ensure that they are able to vote on election day.”
Clean energy, brighter futures: LCDS brings solar power to remote communities
By Luann Williams
FOR as long as she can remember, Swarsattie Singh lived in total darkness due to a lack of access to electricity – a service most would consider a luxury in Guyana’s remote communities.
Singh lives in Susannah’s Rust, a village in the Demerara River off the Soesdyke-Linden Highway with a population of approximately 120 residents.
For about 15 years, life without electricity affected everything she did. She couldn’t easily charge her phone, there were no lights after dark, and there weren’t many ways to keep kids occupied after school.
“Usually we [have to] traverse the river to come to the school because only the school have solar [energy where we can] charge our phones,” she explained in an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI).
With the rollout of the government’s 30,000
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Home Energy Systems (SHE) project in communities like Susannah’s Rust, households are now enjoying clean, renewable energy for the very first time.
“It’s going to impact us greatly, especially at night,” Singh expressed after she collected her photovoltaic (PV) system at a distribution exercise earlier this year.
She was among hundreds of residents to receive two 9-watt LED lamps and a 12-watt stand-alone fan. The system also comes with a USB port for charging portable electronic devices, including mobile devices.
Singh acknowledged the strides being made by the government to improve livelihoods, stating that, “Ever since the president visited us, he has fulfilled all of his promises, and I am very excited for the future.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Ramlochan Narine, a resident of Low Wood, another community situated on
the Demerara River. He shared his appreciation, stating, “since I born and grow in this river, we used to use lanterns and flambo [and now] I am grateful for the solar we get now.”
In Region One, specifically Para, the solar systems mean that children in the community are now able to study in comfort at night.
Senior Councillor of Para, Kester Fredericks, shared that the village will no longer be required to buy fuel for generators.
Sheila Francis, a resident of Karaburi, told DPI that her daughter-inlaw, a teacher by profession, can now prepare her lessons with greater ease because of the photovoltaic systems.
Over in Kuru Kururu, Denise Williams, a mother of two, shared how difficult it was to support her children’s education using lamps and candles to complete school assignments.
She added, “I am so thankful for this solar and it will be of good use
of
are learning how to operate the PV systems
for me.”
These stories are not limited to these communities. Thousands of families across all administrative regions, who were not connected to the electricity grid, are enjoying life with a limited supply of electricity for the first time.
Since its rollout of the initiative in 2023,
it has impacted 37,230 Guyanese living in the riverine, hinterland and remote parts of Guyana. It is worth pointing out that it fulfils a commitment made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration in its 2020-2025 manifesto.
Importantly, it aligns with the vision
of achieving equitable energy access, as outlined in Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 and contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which aims to ensure the availability of affordable, reliable, and modern energy supply for all. (DPI)
Residents of Adventure, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, receiving solar panels
Residents
Chenapou in Region Eight
EPA continues to support
Guyana’s sustainability efforts
EXISTING for more than 25 years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) remains committed to supporting Guyana’s sustainability efforts and continues to fight to protect our biodiversity.
The EPA’s Executive Director, Kemraj Parsram, in a recent episode of the ‘United for Biodiversity- the Alliance’ podcast said that in addition to the fact that 85 per cent of Guyana’s land is forested and intact, we have a continuum of ecosystems.
He said from the marine environment to coastal mangroves, wetlands, lakes, conservancies, lowland forests and our savannahs, Guyana has several ecosystems still intact, with species that only belong in this geographic scope.
“We have maintained that value and that importance for livelihoods for Indigenous populations, and for us all,” Parsram said, “All the things that we do, from our agriculture to our forestry, depend on
these ecosystems and biodiversity as well. Maybe people think biodiversity is just animals or plants, but biodiversity is a variety of life.”
The EPA Head went on to say that Guyana can be viewed as a “living museum of evolutionary history”. He mentioned that recently, there have been people studying this area, with the likelihood of new species
being discovered.
He noted that importantly, Guyana is a refuge for endangered species. This includes our jaguars, manatees, and our turtles.
Parsram added that we have been protecting our forests, leveraging the economic aspect of our resources. He explained that in Guyana, because of our protected species, we have value that could be converted into biodiversity credit units, and then marketed globally, creating another form of income for Guyanese as a whole.
“The EPA is the focal point for the Convention on Biological Diversity. And so, there’s a Convention on Biological Diversity that speaks to three things. It speaks to conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use, and equitable benefit sharing of these resources,” Parsram posited.
Since its existence, Parsram said the EPA has been working and coordinating to ensure this happens.
According to the senior official, “We have our en-
vironmental authorization process. So, all development activities throughout the last 29 years, we’ve been sure that they are adequately permitted, the effects on the environment are assessed, and we set safeguards in place. So, we basically help in protecting the degradation of our resources. And hence, how our biodiversity is still world class as it is today.”
In December of 2022, the Global Biodiversity Framework, which saw 196 countries coming out and committing to 23 targets, recognised that globally, there was decline in biodiversity.
Parsram stated that these countries started committing to these efforts to expand their protected areas, improve its management, and look at financing for biodiversity. The EPA was part of that negotiation.
With the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit days away, Parsram said this alliance and the event is “much needed”.
Commending President Dr. Irfaan Ali on this, Parsram underscored that
coming out of this summit, he hopes to see how we can encourage the globe and get a partnership to deal with the expansion of our protected areas to meet the 30 by 30 goals, and importantly, the contribution to biodiversity finance.
“We are at a good state in Guyana in that we are leveraging our oil economy to strengthen our non-oil economy, but also investing in conservation; and then looking as well at other innovative means of bringing financing to support maintaining and conserving our biodiversity. So, this alliance, if those things are done, I think it will be very successful, and those are the three things I think this alliance, this summit will be important to,” he expressed.
Guyana is set to host the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit in Georgetown from July 23 to 25, 2025. The summit will bring together world leaders, experts, stakeholders, and local communities to strengthen global efforts to conserve and restore biodiversity.
WHO urges rollout of first long-acting HIV prevention jab
A BREAKTHROUGH HIV drug that only needs to be injected twice a year to offer near-total protection from the virus and developing AIDS should be made available “immediately” at pharmacies, clinics and via Online consultations, the UN health agency said recently.
Injectable lenacapavir, LEN for short, is a highly effective, long-acting antiretroviral alternative to daily oral pills and other shorter-acting options, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“While an HIV vaccine remains elusive, lenacapavir is the next best thing: A long-acting antiretroviral shown in trials to prevent almost all HIV infections among those at risk,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
TEST KIT ADVANTAGE
WHO’s support for the injectable drug is significant, because HIV prevention efforts are stagnating around the world.
To make it easier for people to receive the injection close to home, the UN agency also recommends the use of rapid-testing kits for the disease, as opposed to “complex, costly procedures”.
According to the agency, 1.3 million people contracted HIV in 2024; people most impacted were sex workers,
men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, people in prisons, and children and teens.
“WHO is committed to working with countries and partners to ensure this innovation reaches communities as quickly and safely as possible,” insisted Tedros, in comments during the 13th International AIDS Society Conference (IAS 2025) on HIV Science, in Kigali, Rwanda.
The recommendation for LEN is also in line with the US health authorities who approved it in June.
CALL FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Although access to the LEN injection remains limited outside clinical trials today, WHO urged governments, donors and partners to incorporate LEN “immediately” within national combination HIV-prevention programmes.
Other WHO-supported HIV-prevention options include daily oral tablets, injectable cabotegravir, which is injected once every two months, and the dapivirine vaginal ring, as part of a growing number of tools to end the HIV epidemic.
FUNDING DILEMMA
Amid massive funding cuts to the global effort to end HIV-AIDS, including the leading US Government
programme launched in 2003, PEPFAR, focusing on combating the disease in Africa, WHO also issued new operational guidance on how to sustain priority HIV services.
“We have the tools and the knowledge to end AIDS; what we need now is bold implementation of these recommendations, grounded in equity and powered by communities,” said Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes, and incoming Director of Science, Research, Evidence and Quality for Health.
HIV REMAINS A MAJOR GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE
By the end of 2024, an estimated 40.8 million people were living with HIV, with an estimated 65 per cent in Africa. Approximately 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes globally, and an estimated 1.3 million people acquired HIV, including 120,000 children.
More positively, access to HIV drugs continues to expand, with 31.6 million people receiving treatment in 2024, up from 30.3 million a year earlier. Without anti-retroviral medication, HIV attacks the body’s immune system, leading ultimately to the onset of AIDS. (UN)
A man holds a brochure about HIV/AIDS as he waits to attend a meeting on the disease in Iran (UNICEF/Shehzad Noorani file photo)
Jagdeo touts modern Georgetown Hospital, green park –– to help bolster patient life
SET to transform Georgetown and improve the life of patients, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said that a modern green landscaping park will be built after the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is transformed into a state-of-the-art facility.
He made these remarks on Thursday during a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown as he spoke about the government’s ambitious plans for a next term in office.
Dr. Jagdeo said: “Once we move out the maternity ward and the children’s ward to the new hospital, then we need to upgrade Georgetown
into a modern facility…and a really nice landscaping park. Maybe even the hospital people can come in the evening just, you know, visiting their family.” He emphasised that that is a project that the PPP/C government will start tackling immediately.
He also pointed to the construction of 12 regional hospitals that the PPP/C government has undertaken.
Already, the Enmore and Diamond Regional Hospitals have been opened.
The hospitals at Lima, De Kinderen, Bath and the No. 75 will be commissioned in the second and third quarters of 2025.
These hospitals will possess 24-hour Accident and Emergency facilities, 24-hour labs, a suite of im-
aging services including ultrasound, digital X-Ray, and CT scans, along with operation theatres and more.
Alongside these major facilities, the government has also injected significant investments to improve healthcare delivery for residents residing in hinterland communities.
The Moruca Regional Hospital, the Kato Regional Hospital and the Lethem Regional Hospital, are scheduled to become operational by 2027. In Kamarang, Region Seven, a modern hospital will also be built.
Dr. Jagdeo also stated that the government has to rehabilitate the hospital in Linden and possibly construct a new hospital in Bartica.
BritCham, IDB discuss avenues for collaboration at recent engagement
THE British Chamber of Commerce Guyana (BritCham Guyana) met with representatives from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group to explore avenues for collaboration that will support innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience in Guyana and across the region.
Discussions between the entities were centred around IDB Invest’s and IDB Lab’s strategic investment and capacity-building tools tailored for Guyana’s evolving private sector.
According to BritCham, key areas of focus included Innovation and Ecosystem Development (IDB Lab), Private Sector Financing (IDB Invest), Capacity Building & Governance and Upcoming Calls for Proposals, including
the Amazonia Forever and Compete Caribbean initiatives aimed at sustainable development and entrepreneurship.
Representing BritCham at the recent engagement were its Chairman Faizal Khan, Senior Business Development Executive Debbie Persaud, and Business Development Executive Trisha Heeralall. They were joined by Dexter Phillips, CEO of Nations Inc., and Allan Newark, Country Manager of Kestrel Guyana. From the IDB Group, representatives included Lorena Solórzano Salazar, Country Representative; Mark Christopher Peters, Investment Management Officer; Maria Niles, Private Sector Development Consultant; Jared Kissoon, IDB Consultant and Travis
Double murder suspect found hanging at Kato Village; suicide suspected
MURDER suspect, Kendell Joseph, called ‘James’, a 26-year-old male Amerindian from Tuseneng Village, North Pakaraimas, was found hanging at Kato Village, North Pakaraimas on Thursday and police are investigating his death as a suspected suicide.
Joseph was wanted for the double murder of Clifton Thomas and Sylvester Thomas, which occurred on July 11, 2025, at Tuseneng Creek, North Pakaraimas.
According to the police, enquiries revealed that at about 07:00hrs on Thursday, the suspect’s mother, Diana Peters and her family, left their home and went out for breakfast.
At about 08:50 hrs, they returned home, and his sister, Lornia Joseph, 28, went to the back of the house. There,
Mitchell, PhD, Country Economics Specialist.
It was stated that Nations Inc. and Kestrel Guyana shared their growth plans and interest in engaging with IDB funding mechanisms and highlighted the practical opportunities for BritCham members.
BritCham revealed that it will also play a key role in circulating open proposal calls, and helping members access IDB’s training and funding programmes.
The Chamber said it looks forward to continued collaboration with the IDB Group to attract UK investment in impactful initiatives and support Guyana’s private sector in reaching its full potential.
BritCham is a professional business support organisation that works to protect, pro-
mote and encourage trade and commerce between Guyana and the United Kingdom (UK), with the aim to improve the quality of business
Kendell Joseph, called ‘James’
she observed Joseph hanging and in a motionless position. Police said she raised an alarm, and the matter was reported to the Kato Police Station.
The body was removed and taken to the Kato Cottage Hospital, where it was examined by the Medex who confirmed his death.
opportunities across the two countries.
Launched in 2023, BritCham is keen on governance, building understanding, focusing on its members, advocating to Governments, connecting members, and promoting Guyana and the UK.
IDB and BritCham representatives at the recent engagement (BritCham photo)
Citibank expresses interest in setting up representative office in Guyana
– Dr. Jagdeo announces
GLOBAL banking giant, Citibank has expressed interest in setting up a representative office in Guyana, the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday during a news conference.
This indication by this massive banking establishment signals growing international confidence in Guyana’s fast-evolving financial landscape.
Both PPP General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President and President, Dr. Irfaan Ali have announced that in its next term in office, the
PPP/C administration will catalyse growth in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through various programmes such as a Development Bank, which will be a state initiative.
Dr. Jagdeo said that the law has changed to allow representative offices of the big companies in the world to be established in Guyana. This means that the financial institutions can have an office in Guyana without setting up a full bank.
He said: “Already, Citibank, which is massive has indicated an interest in setting up a representative office
here. So that would help with a lot of the big projects by Guyanese companies and others to get access to that financing for their capital project without having
to go to our local banking system.”
With the introduction of new technologies, Guyana’s banking and financial sector is getting a facelift, Dr. Jagdeo said earlier this year.
The Vice-President is of the belief that the financial sector can become a humbug and could slow down the massive growth that Guyana is seeing in the real sector, if it does not expand in complexity and instruments.
“That is why we’re trying to drag it out of the stone ages into an environment that is appropriate to support the expansion in the real sector,” he said.
The banking and financial sector is an important
sector, which the government has been placing specific focus on to empower citizens to benefit from the massive economic transformation taking place across the country.
Access to financing is a main pillar for the establishment, growth and success of both small- and large-scale businesses, as well as the economic empowerment of individuals and households.
Under the stewardship of the PPP/C Government, Guyana’s financial sector has shown significant improvements in recent years in key performance indicators, reflecting a strengthening economy and robust regulatory oversight.
Free training opportunities offered to seafarers through MARAD
ALLUDING to the need for more qualified local personnel to work on Guyana-flagged vessels, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) journeyed to Region Six to engage individuals in the maritime sector.
Registrar of Seafarers Katina Benn, and Director of Maritime Safety Captain Courtney McDonald held sessions at the three-door koker in D’Edward and the MARAD Safety Office at the New Amsterdam Stelling,
highlighting MARAD’s commitment to sponsoring training for boat masters Grades 3, 2 and 1 certification, which will allow individuals to work on conventional- sized and other vessels.
Participants expressed interest in having maritime training delivered within the East Berbice-Corentyne region to help reduce transportation costs. The suggestion comes as many of the individuals wish to benefit from the fast-tracked, advanced training available to those
with prior experience in the maritime sector.
The MARAD team also provided free processing of Seaman’s Discharge Books, which cost approximately $11,000.
The outreach initiative forms part of the PPP/C government’s ongoing efforts to expand access to maritime opportunities.
The team is expected to continue its engagement in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) in the coming weeks. (MARAD)
PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
PPP/C’s list of candidates dynamic, diverse
WHILE the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has padded up its candidate list with staff from the PNCR headquarters, Congress Place, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s slate is a bold reflection of Guyana: Youthful, diverse, and nationally inclusive.
This was emphasised by PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday during a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown.
He drew a sharp contrast between the PPP/C and the APNU, noting that his party has a clear vision for the future.
While branding the former coalition government “clueless”, Dr. Jagdeo said: “So you can expect from September 2 that they’ll get back to work on continuing the development in the country, and addressing the promises. We don’t need to go through a learning curve.”
The PPP/C’s list of candidates has gathered positive attention, given that 27 of its candidates are under age 25, including one who is only 18 years old.
The General Secretary said: “They’re from all over Guyana; young people from all across our country.
We didn’t pick up all Congress Place staff and put them on our list because we had a hard time to find people… We didn’t take staff members of the party’s headquarters. We have an abundance of young people from across the country.”
While the opposition is scrambling to gather a crowd, and continues with uninspiring messages, the PPP/C is rolling out a campaign powered by fresh faces and bold ideas.
Dr. Jagdeo has stressed that the PPP/C’s list of candidates indisputably reinforces the fact that it is the only national party contesting the General and Regional Elections on September 1, 2025.
Youth parliamentarian Nicholas Sagadaya and youth activist Nikhil Sankar are among the young PPP/C candidates, which include young entrepreneurs, doctors, attorneys-at-law, and other professionals.
Sonia Latchman, Toshao of Bethany and Vice-Chair of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), and Vanda Pio, a 20-yearold candidate from Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) are also candidates.
The list of candidates represents the face of modern Guyana, and is duly
–– Dr. Jagdeo says; points out that no gov’t role was promised to anyone
qualified to take this nation to unprecedented heights over the next five years, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Dr. Jagdeo have stressed. Its composition draws from every corner of every administrative region in the country. In terms of gender, the list consists of nearly 40 per cent females, surpassing the legal one-third requirement.
The list reflects the multi-ethnic nature of Guyana’s demography, consisting of Afro-Guyanese, Indo-Guyanese, Amerindians, Mixed-Race, Portuguese and Chinese. It also reflects a presence from all the major religions of our country.
The list also captures persons from the working-class, including sugar workers, rice farmers,
Some of the PPP/C’s candidates
miners, construction workers, among others. It also includes large numbers of professionals, and an appreciable contingent from the business community. Students and ordinary Guyanese also enjoy a presence on the list.
The team of candidates
presented on Nomination Day provides the vision, the energy, the experience, the integrity, and everything else required to steer Guyana along the right path over the next five years, Dr. Jagdeo has emphasised.
Additionally, Dr. Jagdeo has said that the party has not
yet promised any candidate a position in government, but for sure, young candidates will be involved in capacity-building exercises.
He added that there will be a focus on “building capacity”, particularly among the young candidates.
The PPP/C said the team of candidates presented on Nomination Day provides the vision, the energy, the experience, the integrity, and everything else that is required to steer Guyana in the right direction over the next five years
Ministries could be reorganised to bolster efficiency under a new PPP/C gov’t –– Dr Jagdeo
WITH the aim to further sharpen its focus on efficiency in a new term, People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said that government ministries and bodies could be reorganised to ensure this can be achieved.
He made these remarks during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown.
Dr Jagdeo said that President, Dr Irfaan Ali will have to evaluate several criteria: performance, suitability, skill, people skill and a whole range of factors,
noting that he, himself, in his capacity as Head of State knows about this.
“In terms of government efficiencies or efficiency, it doesn’t necessarily mean the creation of new ministries, but a lot of what could result in that… it’s not our inten-
Public
tion to grow the number of ministries.
“It is to ensure that work is done more effectively in a different way, so that we can better serve the citizens of the country; and that may necessitate some reorganisation.
Reorganisation along the lines of not just physical reorganisation but workload reorganisation, and also the tools that we use to deliver the efficiency will vastly change. So those are the key things that we are looking at.”
urged to desist from dumping garbage along new Ogle to Eccles Highway
THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in collaboration with the Industry-Plaisance Neighbourhood Democratic Council is advising the public that the indiscriminate dumping of garbage along public roadways, including the newly constructed Ogle to Eccles Highway, is illegal and is strictly prohibited.
In a notice to the public, the EPA said this practice violates the Environmental Protection Act, Cap. 20:05, and the Environmental Protection (Litter Enforcement) Regulations 2013. It warned that offenders found guilty of dumping waste in unauthorised areas will be prosecuted and may face fines and other penalties (including imprisonment), as stipulated by the Environ-
”The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, will be increasing surveillance and enforcement activities to curb this illegal practice.
“We urge all citizens to act responsibly and dispose of waste at designated collection sites and facilities. Keeping our environment clean is a shared responsibility.
“Let us all work together to preserve the health, safety, and beauty of our nation,” the EPA said.
Venezuelan teen ‘nabbed’ with cocaine at Mahaica
AT about 17:00hrs on Wednesday, police ranks on motorcycle patrol duty at Helena #2 Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, contacted an 18-year-old Venezuelan construction worker, who was standing on a bridge with a black one-strap bag hanging around his neck.
A search on his person and bag was conducted by the ranks, who found one transparent zip-lock bag containing seven parcels wrapped in black plastic and one white plastic wrapped together.
When opened, the parcels contained pieces of a hard, rock-like substance
suspected to be cocaine. The Venezuelan teen was cautioned, arrested, and escorted to the Mahaica Police Station, where the suspected cocaine was weighed and amounted to 11 grams.
The man was placed in custody as investigations continue. (GPF)
Gov’t welcomes U.S legislation to bolster security ties with Guyana, deter Venezuelan aggression
THE recently introduced U.S legislation which aims to strengthen U.S. security cooperation with Guyana and deter Venezuelan aggression against the country has been welcomed by the Government of Guyana.
Guyana’s Vice-President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said that he hopes the important piece of legislation deters Venezuela’s aggression.
He said this during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown.
Addressing the recent development, he said, “On the document in the Senate, we’re pleased that they would see it important, the United States government, to have the Department of Defense report regularly on the Venezuelan aggression towards Guyana. And hopefully to ensure that their designs on our country, which is an aggressive design, will not succeed. So, we’re quite pleased with that proposal.”
U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, introduced legislation to strengthen U.S. security cooperation with Guyana and deter Venezuelan aggression against the country.
“As Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro continues to threaten Guyana, the United States must work with Guyana to deter such aggression,” said a release on Wednesday from Bennet’s office.
He said: “This bill will force the Pentagon to evaluate current cooperation and determine where improvements can be made.”
Bennet’s legislation would require the Secretary of Defense to provide a report to Congress on the state of current security cooperation between the United States and Guyana and whether additional U.S. assistance is necessary to deter a potential Venezuelan attack on Guyana.
Since taking office in 2013, Maduro has ramped up threats against Guyana, claiming the country’s Essequibo region as part of Venezuela despite international law affirming the region’s status as part of Guyana, the release read.
Maduro’s regime, the release noted, has flown Venezuelan Air Force Jets over Guyanese territory and threatened oil facilities in Guyana’s internationally-recognised maritime territory, among other malicious actions.
Both the Biden and Trump administrations have bolstered security cooperation with Guyana and promised to impose costs on Venezuela if Caracas attacks Guyana. This bill would augment these bipartisan efforts.
Guyana is a key partner in advancing regional security, democracy, and stability, and a burgeoning oil exporter that supplies crude to Europe – helping the continent reduce its reliance on Russian crude amid Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war on Ukraine.
In January 2025, Bennet and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced the Venezuela Advancing Liberty, Opportunity, and Rights (VALOR) Act – after Maduro falsely claimed victory in 2024 elections and took office despite the Venezuelan people voting for Edmundo González Urrutia – to guide U.S. policy in support of a transition to democratic order in Venezuela. Bennet and Risch first introduced the VALOR Act in 2024 following Maduro’s sham July 2024 presidential election.
Bennet and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) also lead the Americas Act, the only major strategic economic plan to counter China’s geopolitical and economic influence in the Western Hemisphere. In February 2025, Bennet (D-Colo.) joined U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to introduce the Haiti
Economic Lift Program Extension (HELP) Act, which would extend trade benefits for apparel products produced in Haiti from 2025 to 2035.
Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and the Senate Armed Services Committee, co-sponsored this bill.
Bigger focus on cleaner, safer communities in PPP/C’s next term
– Dr Jagdeo says
CONTINUING to cement its position as the only political party that is serious about national development, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), in its next term, will focus on transforming communities throughout Guyana and responding to individual needs.
The PPP/C’s General
Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, made that commitment on Thursday during a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown.
At the time, the General Secretary was reflecting on the national consultation on the PPP/C’s 20252030 manifesto that was held on Wednesday.
Dr Jagdeo thanked the
large number of citizens who show up to be a part of the national discourse. With a clear focus on community upliftment, Dr Jagdeo pledged the installation of security cameras and lights, better garbage collection and the creation and rehabilitation of recreational facilities, if re-elected.
Since assuming office in 2020, the General Secretary said that the
has focused heavily on building out key infrastructure; but for
its next term there will be an enhanced focus on bettering communities.
The General Secretary said: “These promises that we’re making for the next five years were informed largely by what our experience has been on the ground for the past several years, interacting with communities, listening to people, hearing their concerns, making our own assessments and then from the suggestions that they recently submitted.”
He added: “We listened, and we ensured that their biggest concerns are reflected in our policies for the next five years.”
He emphasised that the community-level focus is a direct response to citizens who have actively voiced their needs.
CREATING A PROSPEROUS GUYANA
At the Ramada Princess Hotel on the East Bank of Demerara, President, Dr Irfaan Ali, Dr Jagdeo and other party executives listened to the opinions of Guyanese from all walks of life for several hours.
Outlining his ambitious roadmap to chart Guyana on a course of advanced global development, President Ali touched on several plans, ranging from fewer taxes, more support to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), rural infrastructure and tourism.
At the end of the engagement, President Ali thanked the massive audience for taking the time out to join the PPP/C on its “Forward Together for a Better Guyana” vision.
President Ali’s vision for Guyana is one of prosperity, inclusion, and technological advancement. He told the massive audience about plans to modernise the banking sector, reduce borrowing costs and eliminate unnecessary collateral requirements.
“The next five years are important because these are the areas that will lay the bedrock; the foundation through which the development will take
place, creating a united and prosperous Guyana where there is stable management of our macroeconomic framework, where opportunities are created for our people, where our borders are defended, where our national sovereignty and territorial integrity is [sic] intact, where there is free expression of speech and democracy, where we have an open society, a vibrant society, a society in which people can achieve their aspirations,” he said.
During the consultations, both President Ali and Dr Jagdeo pledged to expand sectors that will further enhance the lives of all Guyanese, including children, women, the elderly, as well as the vulnerable.
President Ali said that the government will carry on with pursuing policies that will generate wealth, stating, “The country must not only grow. Individuals, families, businesses, every single person must grow.” Continuing on his pro-growth agenda, the Head-of-State said that the PPP/C will advance further support to the business community. Also, a cornerstone in a modernised Guyana is the digitising of government services, allowing citizens, especially the elderly, to avoid the hassle of standing in long lines. He also touted financial literacy and other innovative investment instruments that will allow Guyanese to tap into financial growth and reap returns. Beyond the massive infrastructural projects, the President echoed his government’s commitment to building out the creative industry and tourism sector.
The PPP General Secretary also stated that since it welcomed the submissions of suggestions, the party has received over 5,000 submissions from 2,000 persons. In April, the PPP/C invited members of the public to make recommendations for initiatives that they would like to see implemented by a new PPP/C administration.
PPP/C General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo government
PPP/C’s campaign launch ‘biggest’ ever
–– Dr Jagdeo says
THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C’s) thunderous display of strength at its campaign launch last Sunday has been hailed by the party’s General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, as an “incredible affair” that drew one of the party’s biggest crowds ever.
During a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown, on Thursday, Dr Jagdeo sharply contrasted the opposition parties’ optics on social media in attempting to portray large crowds, compared to the PPP/C’s red tsunami.
He said: “It was an incredible affair. I’ve been in politics a long time, and I’ve attended campaign launches at the Kitty Market Square and that was the biggest crowd you’ve ever had by far. It was an event filled with festivity, energy, enthusiasm, diversity, and full of messages for the people of this country.”
While the opposition scrambles to keep its party together, the General Secretary said that the PPP/C’s red tsunami shocked the opposition’s camp.
“It sent fear down their spine,” he said.
Dr Jagdeo also took aim at those opposition critics who attempted to downplay their massive turnout, which saw Guyanese from all walks of life congregating in Kitty.
“If we had 5,000, they probably had 10. If you’re using the same ratio,” he said.
The demonstration last Sunday was not just popularity, but was also an indication of progress and a clear indication that citizens are welcoming the development.
Many of the attendees, according to Dr Jagdeo, were overjoyed by the PPP/C’s track record, noting that citizens were energised by the fact that the government not just makes promises, but also delivers.
He said: “People focus on promises delivered, and they were very proud that their party actually kept the commitment it made to the people of this country five years ago. They were excit-
ed about listening about the plans for the future and the President laid out many of those plans.”
Notably, the General Secretary also pointed to the diversity of the red tsunami, stating: “It’s a different crowd from the traditional crowd. [In] that gathering you had a large number of Indo- Guyanese, a large number of Afro-Guyanese, people of mixed descent, Amerindians and every other description you can think of. “
He added: “A lot of women came too,” noting that the party has a lot of women activists.
Dr Jagdeo also pointed out the role of young people at the launch, noting that their involvement signals their readiness for the future.
Calling it heartwarming, he said: “This party has a great future, because the young people are starting to pick up the mantle of leadership. Their involvement is heartwarming, because it’s in their hands that we will have the [sic] entrust the future of this party and country.”
He further noted that the massive crowd was not manufactured but, people just genuinely wanted to be a part of the PPP’s grand vision for Guyana.
The PPP/C launched its 2025 re-election campaign Sunday (July 13, 2025), with a high-energy rally at Kitty Market Square in Georgetown.
More than 30,000 supporters turned out for the event, blanketing the city centre in a sea of red and signalling what party leaders hope will be a landslide victory.
The rally, which filled the market and spilled into nearby streets, featured music, chants of “five more years,” and a flurry of national and party flags being waved under the afternoon sun. It marked the official start of what is expected to be a fierce and closely watched election season in the South American nation.
As the September 1 General and Regional Elections approach, the PPP/C is constantly reminding all that support lies in the streets, not on screens.
A section of the PPP/C’s campaign launch last Sunday at the Kitty Market Square
Chest Clinic conducts disease screening exercise at Charity River Dam
AS part of efforts to promote early disease detection and improve community health outcomes, the Chest Clinic of the Suddie Public Hospital on Thursday conducted a population screening exercise at the Charity River Dam, specifically targeting the Warrau settlement.
The medical team carried out tests for several infectious diseases, including 18 Mantoux tests for tuberculosis, 10 HIV tests,
10 Hepatitis B tests and 10 Hepatitis C tests.
According to Regional Health Officer Dr. Ranjeev Singh, the proactive initiative forms part of a broader public health strategy aimed at identifying individuals at risk, even if they are not exhibiting symptoms. Dr Singh said screening is a vital tool in reducing the long-term impact of diseases by facilitating early detection and prompt treatment.
Motorcyclist dies in Covent Garden accident
POLICE are investigating a fatal accident which occurred on Thursday at about 16:05 hours, on the eastern carriageway of Covent Garden public road, East Bank Demerara.
Confirmed dead is motorcyclist Gerald Da Silva, age 55 years, of Lot 10 Covent Garden.
According to a statement from the police, the accident involved motor lorry #GAG 2043, driven by Richard Kevin Ghani, age 23 years, of Alliance Road Timehri.
“Enquiries disclosed that the lorry was proceeding south along the eastern driving lane of Covent Garden public road, while the motorcycle was proceeding south along the western driving lane, a short distance ahead of the Lorry.
“It is alleged by the driver of the Lorry that as the motorcyclist approached a motor canter which was parked at the side of the road infront of him, the motorcyclist swerved eastwards to avoid the Canter. On seeing this, the Lorry driver said he applied brakes to avoid a collision.
“However, due to the short braking distance, the right side front of the lorry, collided with the motorcycle.
“As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist along with his motorcycle fell onto the road surface. The right side front and rear wheels of the lorry rolled over the motorcyclist, resulting in him receiving crushing injuries to his head and other parts of his body,” the police said.
The motorcyclist was escorted by police to Diamond Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.
The body is at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination.
According to Dr. Singh, the team will return to the location on Monday for a follow-up visit.
From this screening exercise, medical personnel will review results, provide counseling, and do referrals for further care if needed.
Dr. Singh said the potential benefits of the screening exercise include early detec-
tion of diseases such as TB, HIV, and Hepatitis, which can significantly increase survival rates by allowing for timely treatment.
Identifying illnesses in their early stages often means treatment is less aggressive and has fewer side effects.
Further, the team’s focus was on improving the
quality of life by managing diseases before symptoms worsen. This will ensure residents are able to maintain better health and well-being.
“The Chest Clinic’s outreach to the Warrau community highlights the importance of inclusive healthcare services and the government’s commitment to supporting
vulnerable and remote populations,” Dr Singh added. He said by taking healthcare directly to the people, particularly in underserved communities, health officials hope to reduce the spread of infectious diseases and strengthen the overall health system in Region Two.
A resident of the Warrau settlement being tested for infectious diseases
Reimbursement of CSEC exam fees begins in Region Two
– parents of 785 students set to benefit
PARENTS across Region Two are expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Irfaan Ali-led government following the reimbursement of Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination fees for those who wrote earlier this year.
The initiative, which was announced by President Ali, will bring relief to thousands of families across Guyana, especially those facing financial challenges. Guyanese students who wrote Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) subjects will also benefit, but this does not apply to Region Two as there are no sixth form schools located there.
Region Two’s Regional Education Officer (REdO), Shondelle Hercules, confirmed that a total of 785 students will be benefitting from the initiative which seeks to ease the financial burden on parents. The reimbursement began on Thursday.
“This gesture by the President is a timely and impactful one,” Hercules noted adding, “We have seen an
overwhelming sense of appreciation from families who were worried about affording these important exams. This reimbursement not only brings financial relief, but it also motivates students to strive for academic excellence.”
The reimbursement comes as part of a broader government commitment to improving access to education and supporting families throughout Guyana. Recently, President Ali had emphasised the administration’s belief that no student should be hindered by financial constraints when it comes to writing regional examinations.
Many parents in Region Two, particularly from communities such as Charity, Anna Regina, Queenstown, and Suddie, expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Some said the refund will help cover costs associated with further studies, while others said they intend to reinvest the funds into the purchasing of school supplies or to offset transportation
expenses for their children.
“President Ali really looking out for us,” said one mother from Lima. “This money will help send my daughter to lessons to prepare for CAPE. I’m thankful.”
Education stakeholders in the region believe the initiative will also lead to an increase in the number of students writing the regional examinations in the coming years, as parents feel more supported.
The reimbursement process in Region Two was organised through the Department of Education, with parents receiving the amount of money they paid for up to eight subjects. The process will last for several days and will be rolled out in keeping with a schedule released by the Ministry of Education.
Region Two’s education sector continues to benefit from targetted support under the current administration, including infrastructure upgrades, an increase in teacher training, and now, direct financial assistance to families.
Mohamed surrenders to police in attempt to pervert justice probe
AZRUDDIN Mohamed, the controversial businessman and leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party, turned himself in to police on Thursday morning, amid a deepening investigation into allegations of assault and attempted witness tampering involving one of his key political organisers.
Mohamed, who is currently under U.S. sanctions for alleged gold smuggling, surrendered to the Ruimveldt Police Station at approximately 10:20 hrs.
He was accompanied by his attorney, and is assisting ranks with the probe which centres around serious accusations that include attempting to pervert the course of justice.
According to police, a 29-year-old sales representative from McDoom, Greater Georgetown reported on July 16 that she was assaulted and threatened after seeking payment for work she was hired to do on Nomination Day (July 14) for the WIN party.
The woman identified Bradley ‘Doggy’ Sampson, a known WIN party organiser and Mohamed associate, as the man who hired her for $50,000 but only paid her $10,000 when she confronted him at the Square of the Revolution on July 15.
The woman alleged that Sampson physically assaulted her, delivering several punches and kicks before striking
her in the head with a firearm.
She informed police that a significant portion of the incident was captured on video, which has since been widely circulated on social media, prompting the police to issue a wanted bulletin for Sampson. Sampson has since turned himself over to the police.
Following the assault, she was reportedly invited to Mohamed’s residence in Green Field, East Bank Demerara, where she was allegedly held against her will for more than an hour by armed security guards, police said.
During the encounter, Mohamed allegedly berated her about the viral video, and attempted to pressure her into withdrawing the complaint against Sampson.
Police said the woman was allegedly offered $500,000 to retract her statement, and accompany Sampson to the station to tell offi-
has denied ever offering money to the woman, and stated that he firmly opposes violence against women.
According to him, he only called the woman to apologise on Sampson’s and his party’s behalf.
Mohamed has since been released on his own recognizance as investigations continue.
cers she no longer wished to pursue the matter.
She also claimed that one of the guards threatened her by implying he knew where she lived, and showed her a concealed firearm.
Despite repeated calls from Sampson on Wednesday morning urging her to drop the matter, the woman instead reported the incident to police at the East La Penitence Station. She was medically examined and issued with a medical certificate for her injuries.
Given the seriousness of the claims and the supporting video evidence, police issued a wanted bulletin for Sampson, and treated the allegations against Mohamed and his security detail as potentially criminal, possibly involving the obstruction of justice.
The police confirmed that Mohamed was approached at his residence on the night of July 16, but he was not immediately available.
Meanwhile, attorney Siand Dhurjon, who is representing Mohamed, contended that the offence being alleged against his client is not recognised under the law.
“The allegation is that he allegedly offered someone $500,000 to settle a grievance with a third party. There is nothing nefarious about that. Across the length of this country, courts would encourage parties to try to settle grievances,” Dhurjon asserted.
He also noted that law enforcement has been unable to contact the sales representative who made the complaint.
Mohamed, for his part,
Azruddin Mohamed
Bradley Sampson, called “Doggy”
Former GTU President jailed for 19 years for child rape
By Feona Morrison
COLWYN King, a former President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), former educator and father, was on Thursday sentenced to 19 years’ imprisonment for raping a six-year-old girl.
King, who is 61 years old, was found guilty last month by a 12-member jury.
The conviction was handed down at the High Court in Georgetown before Justice Simone Morris. He committed the crime on two separate occasions in April 2021.
The court heard that King committed sexual assault against the child by inserting his fingers into her vagina while she was alone in his care.
The victim continues to suffer emotional trauma.
The child and her mother delivered emotional statements to the court, outlining the devastating and ongoing effects of the abuse.
The child said that she continues to feel hurt and emotionally overwhelmed by the incident. In her own words, she said she cries when she is alone and described the impact of the abuse as something that has left a permanent scar
on her life.
“I will never forget what happened,” she told the court in a statement read on her behalf.
The victim’s mother expressed profound sorrow and guilt over what had happened to her daughter. She told the court that her child still screams in her sleep and suffers from frequent emotional breakdowns. According to the mother, the girl’s academ-
ic performance has also declined significantly, and she struggles with concentration and confidence.
The mother expressed deep guilt over not being able to protect her child when it mattered most.
State Counsel Geneva Wills, the prosecutor, emphasised several aggravating factors, including the serious and damaging nature of the offence against a very young child, King’s threats to harm the victim if she spoke out, the victim’s young age and vulnerability, and King’s violation of the trust placed in him as a caregiver.
She also highlighted the lasting emotional and psychological impact on the child, King’s complete lack of remorse, his continued denial of guilt despite conviction, and an unfavourable probation report referencing previous allegations of sexual assault.
She also pointed out how prevalent such offences have become.
During sentencing, Justice Morris emphasised that King had breached the trust placed in him by the child’s parents.
The judge began with a base sentence of 16 years and added three additional years due to aggravating factors, including the child’s young age, the psychological harm inflicted, threats made by King to silence the child, and King’s continued denial of responsibility.
Considering King’s age, the judge remarked that his chances of rehabil-
itation are limited.
To support the offender’s rehabilitation and reintegration into society, the judge ordered that he undergo counselling until the Chief Probation Officer determines it is no longer necessary.
The probation report revealed that in 2009, King was charged and remanded for a similar offence, which led to him being asked to resign from his position as GTU President.
Although he was ac -
quitted in that case in 2016, several members of his community had long expressed concerns about his alleged behaviour toward women and underage girls.
King addressed the court during the sentencing hearing and once again denied the allegations and pleading for mercy. “This is very difficult. Nothing like this ever happened. I am innocent, and I am at your mercy,” an emotional King told the trial judge.
King was previously on bail during the trial but was remanded to prison after the verdict was delivered.
Muntaz Ali served as the other State Counsel on the prosecution team. The time King spent on remand has to be deducted from his 19-year prison sentence.
King was represented by attorney-at-law Tonza Sarrabo during his trial, but chose to represent himself at Thursday’s sentencing hearing.
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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday July 18, 2025) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) AUST 3; WI 0 (2) Mitchell Starc (AUST)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI made most runs in the recent Test series against AUST? (2) Which AUST made most runs?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Pogacar retains lead of Tour de France
(BBC) - Tadej Pogacar regained the overall lead of the Tour de France as he stormed up the Hautacam climb to win stage 12.
Jonas Vingegaard's Visma-Lease a Bike team were expected to attack the reigning champion on the first true mountain stage of this year's Tour, which ended with the first summit finish.
Pogacar was also sporting dressings on his left arm after falling at the end of Wednesday's stage, but the Slovenian showed no ill effects as he attacked on the gruelling final climb.
The three-time Tour winner went clear early on the 13.5km ascent and continued to stretch his lead, winning the stage by two minutes 10 seconds from Vingegaard.
That meant he reclaimed the yellow jersey from Ben Healy and more than doubled his time advantage over Vingegaard, his main rival for the general classification, who is now 3 mins 31 secs behind.
Remco Evenepoel struggled on the final climbs but did enough to prevent Florian Lipowitz moving into third place overall, while British rider Oscar Onley, 22, climbed to sixth after crossing fifth on the day.
It was on this climb that Vingegaard struck the decisive blow on the 2022 Tour, taking a minute out of Pogacar as the Dane won stage 18 en route to clinching his first Tour title. "I was trying with my head through the wall to get back the yellow jersey [in 2022] but Visma was too strong back then," said Pogacar, 26. "I almost forgot about that. I was just looking forward to today, then all the people,
all the time were, coming to me saying 'oh yeah, this is the revenge time', blah blah blah.
"Then when we approached the bottom of the climb it was the reverse story of a few years ago. One Belgian guy again on the front, Tim [Wellens], and our team. I'm super happy to take time [out of Vingegaard] and win on
this climb."
The race moved into the Pyrenees on Thursday, with the Hautacam being the first hors categorie climb of this year's Tour.
Wellens and UAE Emirates-XRG teammates Jhonatan Narvaez and Adam Yates were all at the front of the peloton to help Pogacar launch the attack that saw him overtake local rider Bruno Armirail, who led going into the final climb, and leave behind his GC rivals.
Pogacar dedicated his third stage win on this year's Tour - and his 20th overall - to Samuele Privitera, the 19-year-old Italian development rider who died after a crash at the Giro della Valle d'Aosta on Wednesday.
Evenepoel recovered from being dropped on the earlier Col du Soulor climb to reduce the damage on the 180.6km stage from Auch.
The Belgian, who finished third behind Pogacar and Vingegaard on his Tour debut last year, is now more than four minutes down but will hope to cut the gap on Friday's time trial having won the first time trial of this year's Tour.
Healy also struggled in the Pyrenees heat, which reached 34C, and the Irish breakaway specialist lost more than 13 minutes to slip back down to 11th in the GC standings.
ICC proposes USA Cricket Board resign as part of roadmap for Olympics certification
(ESPNCRICINFO) - THE ICC has initiated steps to "reset" and overhaul the leadership and governance structure at USA Cricket (USAC) at the behest of US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). The development comes as part of the need for USAC to secure national governing body (NGB) status from USOPC which is mandatory for all sports that were added to LA28 Games.
In 2023, cricket was among five new sports added to the LA28 roster by the International Olympics Committee (IOC) based on the large audience the sport generates, especially in the Indian sub-continent. As hosts, the USA are expected to be one of the six teams to contest for medals in both men's and women's categories. However, USAC is yet to satisfy all the
norms set by USOPC to achieve NGB certification.
Having already warned USAC last July of serious implications, including the danger of being derecognised as the governing body for cricket in the US, the ICC has now rolled up its sleeves and laid out a "roadmap" in an email to USAC on July 10.
That communication, sent by ICC general counsel Jonathan Hall, and accessed by ESPNcricinfo, comes nearly a week prior to the ICC AGM, which will be held in Singapore on July 20 where the ICC Board will discuss the USAC issue.
The roadmap, which comprises six steps, was drawn by the ICC's Normalisation Committee which coordinated with USOPC. The Normalisation panel, which is headed by ICC chair Jay Shah, met
senior USAC top brass twice - first in April on an online call and then in Los Angeles in June. In both meetings, the USAC, which was represented by its chair Venu Pisike and CEO Johnathan Atkeison, was told of the chief concerns of the USOPC and how they could be remedied.
"A stage-wise approach shall be implemented to restore regulatory compliance and functional integrity to USA Cricket, with the ultimate aim of securing National Governing Body (NGB) recognition by the USOPC and eligibility for LA28 Olympic participation," the ICC said in the July 10 email.
"The Committee is committed to helping to restore the integrity and credibility of USA Cricket. The roadmap provides a structured and lawful pathway to achieving NGB status and ensuring that USA
Cricket is eligible to participate in LA28 as a fully compliant Olympic sporting body."
The roadmap
The first step of the roadmap involves the USAC removing its existing independent directors and replacing them with the three new names. The ICC "in consultation and cooperation" with USOPC would help finalise the three new directors who would need to fulfil the norms under the USAC constitution.
The USOPC has made it mandatory that one of the three new directors "must" be a female member.
The USAC Board comprises 10 directors including Pisike, who was appointed chair in July 2023 and whose terms ends this December.
The others comprise Anj Balusu, Atul Rai, Kuljeet Singh Nijjar,
Arjun Gona, two former USA players Srinivas Salver and Nadia Gruny, along with two independent directors Pintoo Shah and David Haubert. The third independent director's role held by Patricia Whittaker was terminated in December 2024 and the position has not been filled since then.
The Normalisation Committee has also said that all existing directors would need to serve a mandatory two-year cooling-off period, which could also be extended further once the USAC constitution is updated, before they can contest elections for any governance post.
"This shall be subject to review and any longer period of ineligibility that may be required under the revised USA Cricket Constitution, ICC regulations, or USOPC governance requirements," the ICC email said.
During Thursday’s stage Tadej Pogacar had dressings on his left arm, which was bandaged by the time he got to the podium
Regional and local stars set to feature in Georgetown/East Coast Zone in Kares T10
THE highly anticipated Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone is set for July 19 and 20 across venues, and a top field of players will be on show for the 32 registered teams.
The defending national champions, Titans All-Stars, will be led by Leon Johnson, who has the services of Christopher Barnwell, Keemo Paul, Kemol Savory, Quentin Sampson, among other high-profile national players.
Team Corruption has arguably made the biggest signings, signing Trinidadians Jesse Bootan, Djourn Charles, Joshua James, and Terrence Hinds. They look to improve on their semi-final finish in 2023.
But there are still title contenders: the formidable Village Rams, led by seasoned tapeball player and former national youth player Omesh
One
Danram. They will have some of Guyana’s brightest young talents in support. As one peruses the other teams, many of which are community-based, more national players, such as Rajendra Chandrika, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, and many talented junior players, surface.
Brooklyn Youth Strikers is another name to remember, given their 2024 exploits and Pure Entertainers.
The East Coast teams, such as Lusignan, Better Hope, Young Rivals, and Dream 11, are worth monitoring. But given the talent on each team, it is too close to call who will be the zone champion.
The 32 teams are: Mighty Tarmac Legends, Vipers All-Stars, The Other Guys, Tropix Essentials, Up Tap XI, Team Eastsyde, Hill Foot Strikers, Team Corruption, Mystic Marvels, Pure Entertainers, Maver-
icks All-Stars, East-West Matadors, Supernovas, Titans All-Stars, Kings, Beharry Champion XI, Better Hope All-Stars, Giftland Titans, No Limit, Team AVP, Lusignan Sports Club, Royal Raptors, Housing & Water One Guyana, Team Upsetterz, Village Rams, Powertech, Dream 11 All-Stars, Raps Blazers, Brooklyn Youth Strikers, Navin and Sons Construction XI, Young Rivals Sports Club, and Team Infinity. Seven venues will host matches on Saturday. They are Malteenoes Sports Club, Georgetown Cricket Club, Better Hope Community Centre Ground, Lusignan Sports Club, Everest Cricket Club, YMCA, and the National Stadium, Providence. Lusignan will host the finals on July 20, and admission is free to all venues. Matches commence from 09:30h.
Guyana Basketball Premier League semis…
Pacesetters and Victory Valley Royals force game three
BOUNTY Colts and Wortmanville Pacesetters have both forced game three in their playoff series of the one Guyana Basketball League.
They both forced the final games after some impressive wins at the Cliff Anderson Sport Hall on Tuesday evening. Bounty Colts coming off a bruising series opening loss 78-65 bounced back in emphatic fashion to square the series with a 78-64-point win over Victory Valley Royals.
It was Royals that came out the blocks strong with a 4 point lead 18-14 at the end of the first quarter before Colts surged past in the second period to lead at the half 37-30. That momentum would remain
with Colts as they extended their advantage 62-46 at the end of the third before closing out the 14 points victory 78-64.
At the helm for colts was veteran point guard Shelroy Thomas who dropped 24 points and Quacey Shortt contributing 18 points in the double digit win.
Vibert Benjamin 16 and Harold Adams 15 led Royals in the loss.
In the other clash of the night, Pacesetters kept their best of three series alive by winning game two 80-58. Pacesetters clashed with defending champions Ravens and pulled out all the stops to the decider.
Pacesetters was the more aggressive of the two sides as they led
from start to finish leading 16-8 in the first quarter, 39-28 in the second and 54-42 in the third before completing the win by 22 points.
Troy David led pacesetters with 14 buckets while support came from Tariq Cave and Wilman Delgado with 12 points each.
The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, and National Sports Commission.
The League’s regular season featured 22 teams evenly split in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for bragging rights, a million dollars and the coveted national club league trophy.
The zone champion will pocket $300,000 while the runners-up get $100,000.
At the national final, the team will have the opportunity to compete for an additional $1.7 million.
The national finals will offer even greater rewards, with the runner-up taking home $700,000, a trophy, and medals, while the losing semi-finalists will each receive $300,000.
Individual brilliance will also be recognized throughout the tournament, with prizes including MVP ($150,000 + motorcycle), Most Runs ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Most Wickets ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Man-of-the-National Final ($75,000 + trophy + TV), Highest Strike Rate ($35,000), and Best Economy ($35,000).
The Kares One Guyana T10
Tapeball Blast has garnered support from a wide range of sponsors, including Kares Engineering Inc, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, KFC Guyana, Star Rentals, Banks DIH, ENet, Guyana Lottery Company, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Impressions, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal, Shawn’s Mini Mart, Giftland Group of Companies, Kris Jagdeo Construction Company, Montra Restaurant & Lounge, Windsor Estates, The New Doctor’s Clinic, GuyOil, ANSA McAL, SuperBet Guyana, Digital Technology, Camille’s Academy, Navin Construction, Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, Continental Transportation, and Environmental & Technical Solutions.
Cricket West Indies announces “DRE DAY” Ticket Offer for T20Is
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Cricket
West Indies (CWI) is calling on all Jamaicans and cricket fans across the island to come out in full force to rally round the West Indies during the two T20 Internationals against Australia, set for July 20 and 22 at Sabina Park.
To ensure the stands are “Full Ah Energy” and packed with maroon pride, CWI is launching a special ticket promotion – “DRE DAY” – a Buy One, Get One FREE offer encouraging fans to come out in their numbers to support the West Indies team, while also paying tribute to one of the region’s most electrifying players, Andre Russell, as he prepares to make his final international appearances.
“These matches are an important moment for the West Indies team as we take on a world-class Australian side on home turf,” said CWI CEO Chris Dehring.
“We want to see Sabina Park rocking with support for our players – and as part of that, we’re also proud to honour Andre Russell, a true Jamaican star, who has represented the region with explosive brilliance. ‘DRE DAY’ is about uniting behind the team and celebrating one of our finest as he takes his final bow in maroon.”
The offer is available on General Tickets ONLY, purchased by local CARICOM citizens (does NOT apply to Party Stand or Cricket
in Jamaica
Andre Russell
Cave, Hospitality tickets, as well as already discounted tickets for Children and Seniors – currently available for 50 per cent off).
Fans purchasing online can select the “DRE DAY SPECIAL OFFER!”, while those purchasing at the Sabina Park box office will have the deal automatically applied. These two matches promise fireworks on the field and emotional moments in the stands. It’s a chance to support the team, salute a champion, and inspire the next generation of West Indies cricketers.
GOA Supports Taekwondo Athlete
Ceili Peterson 2025 FISU World
University Games Participation
THE Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association (G.O.A.) as part of its ongoing commitment to the development of Olympic hopefuls and the advancement of high-performance sport in Guyana lent its support to elite taekwondo athlete Ms. Ceili Peterson, participation at the 2025 FISU World University Games.
Ceili Peterson, one of Guyana’s promising young Olympic prospects, has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and performance on the international stage.
She is currently ranked among the top 20 athletes in the world in her weight class. She has represented Guyana at several major international competitions within the Olympic cycle and continues to demonstrate excellence, discipline, and national pride on the global stage earning respect and admiration for her skill, and commitment, work ethic, and quiet determination.
The 2025 FISU Summer World University Games, a prestigious multi-sport competition bringing together elite university athletes from across the globe, opened yesterday on July 16 across five cities in the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region, with Berlin also serving as an outlying host venue. Ceili Peterson will be competing on Sunday 20th July, 2025.
As she continues her athletic journey, Ceili will be the sole athlete representing Guyana at the prestigious games, but she is more than ready for the challenge.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Ms. Peterson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a Minor in Psychology from York University in Toronto, Canada (Class of 2022). She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Kinesiology, with a focus on Sport Psychology, a testament to her passion for both athletic and academic excellence.
She will be accompanied at the Games by her coach, Ms. Yvette Yong as she competes among the world’s top university athletes, aiming
to put Guyana on the medal radar at this global event.
“It is with pride deep gratitude I am proud and honoured to represent Guyana in Rhine-Ruhr at the 2025 FISU World Uni-
versity Games,” Peterson shared. “It means the world to compete on this global stage and to inspire boys and girls in Guyana to set big goals and pursue their athletic dreams.”
ExxonMobil Global Super League...
Rain curtails final group stage match
A RAIN curtailed final match in the group stages of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) saw defending champions Rangpur Riders denied the chance to continue their clean sweep of victories into a fourth match in a row.
Heavy showers at Providence Stadium saw the Riders match against bottom of the table Central Stags at first shortened to a 17 over game then further reduced to 14 overs per side before being called off all together as the rain returned with only the Riders innings able to be completed.
If the Riders wanted a tune up or a contest ahead of tomorrow’s final against home side Guyana Amazon Warriors then they were still given one in the batting by Stags as Saif Hasan and Mahidul Islam Ankon were the only batters to make double figures on an increasingly wet wicket and sodden outfield.
Bowled out for just 79 runs in 13.5 overs the Riders had any blushes spared by the weather as the match was abandoned without the sides re-taking the field.
Central Stags disappointing campaign ended on a more promising note as their bowling attack made short work of the Riders batting line up, particularly the lower order. Three bowlers; Angus Schaw, Jayden
Blair Tickner of Central Stags in the field as it rains during the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League T20 match between Rangpur Riders v Central Stags at Providence Stadium on July 17, 2025 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen - GSLT20/Global Super League via Getty Images)
Lennox and Blair Tickner all picked up three wickets as the Providence Stadium wicket became conducive to both seam and spin.
With all eyes set on Friday night’s final between the competitions two strongest sides, it is hoped the weather stays away and this year’s GSL closes with a tight contest between Rangpur Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors.
President Ali pledges support for IKO Academy Guyana
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali met with head of IKO Guyana Jeffrey Wong and his team at State House on Tuesday to get their plans for the sport.
President Ali pledged financial support to the group for the purchase of training mats and for infrastructural upgrades at Hope Secondary School on the East Coast of Demerara, where the academy trains several young people.
He further announced that the school’s tarmac will be outfitted with basketball, badminton, and tennis
- Hope Secondary School tops IKO club competition
facilities to support youth development.
The Head of State also committed to collaborating with the group to implement its plan to introduce karate in schools and community spaces across the country.
Meanwhile, the International Karate Organization Academy Guyana over the weekend held their club competition at the Muslim Youth Organization compound.
Female Karateka Ebony Moore demonstrated her fighting skills over the weekend to lead her Hope
Secondary School Karate Club to the International Karate Organization Academy Guyana Inter Club title.
Ebony Moore got her club’s campaign going in the female Kata getting the better of club mates Athalia Douglas and Kathleen Gill to take first place.
The top male fighter was Kayin Yarde from IKO Linden.
Yarde showed knowledge and skill of his Kata craft to defeat Hope Secondary’s Prince James and fellow Lindener Renaldo Fecker.
In the Kumite category, Moore
rose to the challenge again, defeating all opponents including top rival Kathleen Gill and Saraphina De Jonge to finish with the gold medal.
The men’s Kumite group was also won by IKO Linden’s Yarde who had to see off the test from Prince James and Ezequiel Singh.
Hope Secondary, after copping two gold, four silver, and three bronze medals, took home the best overall club honour with IKO Linden in second place with two gold medals one silver medal with IKO Georgetown coming in third.
Ceili Peterson and her Coach Yvette Yong carrying the Golden Arrowhead proudly at the Opening Ceremony
