urges new GDF officers to serve the people, defend the Constitution and lead
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali (centre) is flanked by Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan; Colonel Sheldon Howell; and Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency and National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia (Ret’d), along with the 22 newly commissioned Second Lieutenants of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) following the presentation of instruments of commission and state warrants at State House on Friday (DPI photo)
Ansa McAL Mall to transform Chateau Margot landscape
— President Ali hails private investment as catalyst for East Coast transformation
‘We have a responsibility to combat
—President Ali affirms Guyana’s position to maintain regional peace, dismantle illicit operations
World Trade Centre Georgetown to help local firms tap into international markets –– Gears up for official launch next week
National top performer, Yashoda Samaroo, admitted to the Bar
‘We have a responsibility to combat transnational crime’
—President Ali affirms Guyana’s position to maintain regional peace, dismantle illicit operations
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan
Ali has reiterated Guyana’s commitment to supporting international efforts against drug trafficking and transnational crime, following reports of a recent United States strike on a vessel allegedly transporting narcotics from Venezuela in Caribbean waters.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, President Ali addressed questions re -
garding the US operation, which is said to have targeted a vessel involved in illicit drug trafficking originating from Venezuela, a growing concern in the region.
“We will do everything in support of combating transnational crime and illicit drugs. We have a responsibility for the citizens of this region and the people globally to support and to work with
our allies,” President Ali said.
Emphasising Guyana’s long-standing partnerships in regional security cooperation, President Ali noted that collaboration in the fight against transnational crime is nothing new for the country.
“We have been collaborating for decades. We’ve been supporting each other for decades in the fight against drugs and
illicit activity.”
He reminded that Guyana has partnered with nations such as the United States, Brazil, Colombia and Suriname for decades to curb transnational crime and dismantle illicit operations.
He also dismissed claims that U.S. actions could destabilise the Caribbean, calling for any such suggestions to be taken seriously and scru-
tinised.
“If anyone says the Caribbean should be afraid, they should be called in for questioning,” Ali said. “That would mean they have information suggesting some harm would come to the region.”
However, the President was clear in outlining his foremost responsibility, asserting: “My priority as Commander-in-Chief
is to ensure the safety of this country, people of this country and our territory.”
According to several international reports, two suspects have been detained following a U.S military strike on a suspected drug vessel.
This is a part of a larger operation that was launched by President Donald Trump last month to curb the trafficking of drugs.
‘Loyalty to Guyana above all’
— President Ali tells new GDF officers
— urges new GDF officers to serve the people, defend the Constitution and lead with honour
STANDING before the nation’s newest military leaders, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President Dr. Irfaan Ali urged the latest cohorts of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to put loyalty before self, underscoring the key role leadership plays in safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, on Friday, administered the instruments of commission and state warrants while commending those officers for their dedication and achievement.
“You are the newest custodians of a noble tra-
not an individual, but the people of Guyana- all of them. Your first duty is to defend our nation’s sovereignty and uphold the democratic principles that define our Republic,” the President stressed.
The presentation of the instruments, according to the President, is not just about individual achievement, but also the “renewal of the covenant between the public and those who are defending under the authority.”
With the power vested within the National Defence Act, President Ali administered the instrument to 22 officers of the Standard Officers Course Number 56, three warrant
the official entry for those officers to enter into the ranks of those entrusted to “safeguard our nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Dr. Ali said.
As he continued to address those officers, the President reminded them that the instrument bestowed is not one of privilege but of responsibility to Guyana and its Constitution.
“You are assuming leadership at a time of rapid transformation, both within our country and across the global security environment. The nature of warfare and defence has evolved.
“Traditional threats are now compounded by
dition,” Dr. Ali said while explaining to the officers that loyalty must always be to the Constitution and the Co-Operative Republic of Guyana, transcending political or personal affiliations.
“You serve not a party,
officers and one chief petty officer.
“These signify that you have been tested, proven and now found worthy of leadership in our national defence,” he said.
The presentation of the instruments marked
transnational risk, cyber intrusion, narco trafficking, illegal fishing, environmental disasters and the ripple effect of regional instability. Modern military leadership requires more than physical readiness. It demands strategic
thinking, technological confidence and adaptability,” the Head of State said.
Dr Ali said that the officer must be as comfortable with data and digital tools as with discipline and drills, noting that the GDF is committed to continuous education, to ensure officers develop the skills necessary for a modern, agile and technologically advanced military.
“The GDF must always act as a unifying symbol of national pride and stability. As Guyana continues its journey of transformation, driven by new industries, new infrastructure and new opportunities, the Defence Force must mirror that transformation. You must be the
embodiment of the discipline, co-operation and foresight that our nation itself strives to achieve,” President Ali said.
While stating that leadership is both a privilege and a burden, Dr. Ali called on the officers to lead with humility, cour-
age and vision, affirming that their service represents a higher calling.
With these instruments, the President reminded the officers that their courage remains the most indispensable of military virtues and it is a result of standing in the face of danger, whether from
external aggression or internal disorder.
“The eyes of your nation are upon you, and the future of our defence force rests in part on your shoulders,” he noted, while telling officers that may their service bring honour to Guyana and the people.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali
Newly commissioned officers of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) take their oath of allegiance, pledging to serve the Co-operative Republic of Guyana with loyalty, honour, and discipline
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali receives a salute from a newly commissioned officer during the presentation of instruments of commission and state warrants at State House on Friday (Delano Williams photos)
US$60M Ansa McAL Mall to transform Chateau Margot landscape
— President Ali hails private investment as catalyst for East Coast transformation
FUELLED by major infrastructural projects, rising private investment and expanding residential and commercial zones, the East Coast Demerara corridor is becoming a key driver of national growth.
This is according to
President, Dr Irfaan Ali, who on Friday joined with executives of Ansa McAl for the sod-turning of the company’s new US$60 million mall at Chateau Margot.
“The East Coast in particular is fast emerging as one of the country’s
most dynamic corridors of growth, a place where tradition needs transformation,” President Ali said during his feature address.
Describing the investment as a vote of confidence in Guyana’s economy and people, the Pres-
property to a “Guyana Strip,” an external space designed to celebrate local culture and accommodate small businesses.
“In your development here, there must be a mechanism through which this development will offer those small
ident said the new mall will redefine the landscape of the East Coast.
“Businesses are expanding. Investors are stepping forward, and communities are opening their doors to opportunity. This is the essence of building tomorrow’s East Coast today; it means creating opportunities where people live so families can find work, businesses thrive and young people can see a future for themselves right here at home,” he said.
The commercial development, spanning 110,000 square feet, will feature contemporary designs for shopping, dining, and leisure, and is expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction, while providing long-term employment in retail and services.
At the President’s request, ANSA McAL will also dedicate part of the
businesses that we are building the opportunity to establish a footprint in your development, the President said.
He reiterated that the government remains focused on sustaining the current momentum of development, maintaining discipline in delivery and converting plans into tangible results.
Chairman of ANSA McAL Limited, Anthony Norman Sabga, said the investment stands as a symbol of regional expertise and local partnership.
“We are proud to have walked this journey alongside you. We have learnt, grown, and become even more confident in Guyana’s immense potential. This confidence continues to guide our investment today,” Sabga said.
The mall will be constructed adjacent to the iconic Chateau Margot chimney, a historic land-
mark of Guyana’s sugar industry and a maritime beacon for ships approaching Georgetown.
Sabga gave the assurance that the monument will be preserved as part of the project’s design.
“The iconic chimney, which is adjacent to the mall, stands out, symbolising the resilience and strength of the communi-
ty, a proud reminder of the nation’s industrial spirit,” the conglomerate said. The development will also include over 24,000 square feet of premium office suites and nearly 500 parking spaces, ensuring accessibility and convenience for visitors. Construction is expected to be completed within 18 months.
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Anthony Norman Sabga, Chairman of Ansa McAL Limited
President Ali joined executives of Ansa McAl to officially turn the sod for the construction of a US$60M mall at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara (Delano Williams photos)
An artist’s impression of the US$60M mall at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara
CH&PA to roll out real-time project monitoring framework to boost efficiency, accountability
THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is advancing plans to implement a real-time project tracking framework aimed at strengthening oversight, improving efficiency and ensuring greater accountability across its national housing and infrastructural programmes.
Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Martin Pertab, made the disclosure during a series of site visits along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and East Bank Demerara corridor on Friday, where he reiterated the Authority’s commitment to adopting a more data-driven and results-oriented approach to project management.
“We are working on
systems that will allow us to track progress in real time. This will include details such as contractors’ names, their projects, and daily updates. From our end, we must have a hands-on approach to how things are progressing, especially in the area of home construction and infrastructure development,” Dr. Pertab explained.
The initiative forms part of a broader institutional strengthening drive as the Ministry targets the construction of some 8,000 homes annually under the Government’s affordable housing programme. He further highlighted that while efficiency remains a top priority, it will not come at the expense of quality, noting that tighter coordination
with other state agencies will enhance due diligence before contract awards.
“We must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to inefficiency if we are to successfully achieve our mandate,” Dr. Pertab affirmed.
The CH&PA’s new monitoring framework is expected to serve as a cornerstone of the Ministry’s ongoing modernisation efforts, ensuring that every housing and infrastructure project contributes meaningfully to Guyana’s wider goal of sustainable community development.
“The purpose is to ensure efficiency in the system on the project site. I want to stress efficiency, given the highest workload we have ahead of us. While there
would not sacrifice efficiency for quality,”
The Central Housing and Planning Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Martin Pertab, along with other stakeholders during a series of site visits along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and East Bank Demerara corridor on Friday is heavy emphasis on efficiency, we
Dr. Pertab stated.
Food-Secure Future
AS the world marked World Food Day 2025, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s message stood out as both a call to action and a reaffirmation of Guyana’s growing leadership in the global movement toward food security.
His statement was not just ceremonial; it was visionary, rooted in the understanding that food security is not merely about growing crops, but about nurturing resilience, equity, and sustainability across societies.
This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” captures the essence of the collective effort required to end hunger and malnutrition.
It is also particularly timely, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), an institution that has guided the world through decades of progress in agriculture and nutrition.
President Ali’s message recognised the FAO’s legacy while reminding us that global hunger remains one of humanity’s most persistent challenges.
The 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report underscores this reality, rising global food prices and inflation have eroded household incomes, especially in developing nations.
As healthy diets become less affordable, nutritional inequalities deepen, creating a crisis that demands urgent and united action.
Guyana has not been immune to these pressures. Like many nations, it has grappled with the ripple effects of disrupted supply chains and surging food costs.
Yet, in the midst of these challenges, Guyana has emerged as a beacon of resilience and innovation.
Under President Ali’s leadership, the government is advancing a bold and comprehensive agenda to transform Guyana into the regional food hub of the Caribbean, a vision that blends modern technology with traditional agricultural strengths.
The blueprint outlined by the President speaks to a country that is thinking beyond survival, toward sustainability and self-reliance.
Guyana is scaling up production in priority areas, diversifying into new crops and livestock, expanding aquaculture, and exploring new regional and international markets.
Simultaneously, heavy investments are being made in farm-to-market roads, modern storage facilities, ports, and transport links, the infrastructure that underpins agricultural success.
Even more significantly, Guyana is embracing digital agriculture and climate-smart technologies, recognising that modern farming must coexist with environmental responsibility.
The integration of women and youth into this agricultural transformation also demonstrates a government keen on inclusion and empowerment, ensuring that the benefits of progress are widely shared.
But, as President Ali rightly emphasised, food security cannot be achieved in isolation. The path forward requires the partnership of governments, private enterprises, civil society, and international allies. Hunger
is not a national problem; it is a global moral test. And no single nation, no matter how rich or resourceful, can overcome it alone.
Guyana’s commitment to this co-operative approach mirrors the spirit of World Food Day itself — the idea that shared goals demand shared effort. As the President expressed, “Together, hand in hand, we can build a better future.”
That sentiment should guide not just Guyana’s national policies but the global agenda. If the world is to overcome hunger and inequality, it must follow the same model of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion that Guyana is now championing.
The message of World Food Day 2025 is clear: food security is not a distant dream. With determination, investment, and unity, it can become a lived reality.
And Guyana, standing at the crossroads of opportunity and obligation, is proving that leadership grounded in compassion and vision can indeed turn that reality into a promise fulfilled, not just for itself, but for an entire region.
Carter Center urges political parties to submit campaign finance reports
THE Carter Center has called on all political parties that contested the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections to submit their campaign finance reports as required by law.
In a statement on Friday, the international observer mission reminded that under Guyana’s Representation of the People Act, all parties are legally obligated to submit post-election financial reports to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) within 35 days of the declaration of results.
The Center noted that with the publication of results in the Official Gazette on September 16, 2025, the statutory deadline for submission is now imminent.
“The Carter Center encourages all parties to comply with this reporting requirement as a step toward fostering a culture of transparency and accountability,” the statement read.
The Center also confirmed that its upcoming final report on the 2025 elections will include recommendations on campaign finance reform, intended to strengthen transparency and build greater trust in Guyana’s electoral processes.
The Carter Center had earlier issued its preliminary statement on September 3, two days after the polls, in which it praised the smooth conduct of election day operations.
During the elections, the mission deployed 47 ob -
servers from 21 countries who monitored 234 polling stations across all ten administrative regions.
The mission’s leadership at the time lauded Guyana’s democratic maturity, noting that while political mistrust remains a challenge, the conduct of the polls reflected a vibrant and resilient democracy.
“Guyana should be very proud of its elections and of its democracy,” the mission noted.
“Yes, there are persistent issues that have undermined trust between the parties at different times, but Guyana is a robust democracy, and the people of Guyana truly embrace their democratic values.”
GuyExpo celebrates 30 years showcasing Guyana’s growth, innovation
MARKING a significant milestone in driving business development and innovation, GuyExpo celebrates 30 years as one of the Caribbean’s leading events for trade and investment.
From its launch in 1995 as just a small local fair, GuyExpo has now evolved significantly into one of the largest and most influential experiences.
This collaborative
journey over the past three decades has seen the growth and development of manufacturers, entrepreneurs and investors, opening doors and providing meaningful opportunities to connect to
regional and international markets.
As the years progressed, patrons were able to experience a diverse range of small and medium-sized businesses exhibiting their products
This year’s exhibition celebrates that very evolution under the theme “Transformation Through Entrepreneurship and Innovation.” Scheduled for November 13 to 16, the National Exhibition Cen-
tainment lineup features local artists.
and services, giving them much-needed exposure and consistency to grow and expand in the industry.
This opened new avenues for foreign investors to experience and find opportunities in the rich diversity of Guyana’s major sectors.
The impact has even reached some of the most remote locations in Guyana, as it provides entrepreneurs with a platform to evolve with their unique contributions to Guyana’s business landscape and opportunities for economic growth.
tre in Sophia is set to be transformed with a vision to elevate the experience and sustain its legacy.
Beyond the exhibition booths, this year will feature an immersive line-up of activities, including a special Business-to-Business (B2B) component that will allow major companies to engage with local businesses that are participating this year, fostering networking and mentorship under one roof.
The tourism village returns with over 250 booths that highlight a diverse display of the sector, while the expanded enter-
In addition, exhibitors who have been with GuyExpo for the past 30 years will be honoured for their continuous participation and contributions to the event’s success.
Each year, the expo continues to expand in all sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing, tourism, oil and gas and even technology, showcasing Guyana’s rich cultural tapestry as a regional hub for trade and investment.
Reflecting on the past years of achievements, GuyExpo has played an instrumental role in connecting people with purpose. Looking ahead, Guyana’s future will be driven by opportunity, collaboration and innovation. (DPI)
Entrepreneur Dixie Jordan displays her brand of local beverages at the expo
Representative from local brand Roy’s Seasonings engages customers at GuyExpo
Patrons explore exhibition booths at GuyExpo 2024
Is GHK Lall a sanctimonious hypocrite?
MR GHK Lall has sent a legal letter to Guyanese Critic with the intention of filing a libel writ. The indictments against Azruddin Mohamed and his father in a US court with an impending trial have put the Gold Board into focus. Since Mr GHK Lall was head of the Gold Board at a time when, according to the US indictments, the Mohameds were engaged in tax evasion, Mr Lall has some explanations.
One would like to think that Mr Lall did not issue his threat of libel to scare people off from demanding answers from him. If he did, he would be silly to think that. Demerara Waves quotes Vice-President, Jagdeo as calling for an investigation of people at the Gold Board during the reign of the Mohameds and Mr Jagdeo mentioned Lall’s name.
The intention to sue Guyanese Critic is not going to deter citizens from discussing Mr Lall’s time at the Gold Board. I have no proof of any wrongdoing of Lall at the Gold Board, so I am going to refrain from hurling accusations. But I will not refrain from asking him questions that the public needs to have answers for.
I endorse the sentiments of Mr Jagdeo that there should be a GRA and police investigation of Gold Board officials and I don’t see why the investigation should not include Mr Lall. He may have done nothing wrong, but if you are going to investigate, then as head of the Gold
Board, how can Mr Lall escape the police questioning?
The Mohamed gold scandal has riveted the nation and Mr Lall would be extremely stupid to think that, as chairman of the Gold Board, Guyanese are not going to ask for explanations from him. You don’t have to accuse Lall of any infraction or indiscretion, or criminal violation. He may have done nothing improper, but that is not the point.
The compelling reason for him to offer explanations to the Guyanese people is that he was chairman of the Gold Board at a time when, according to the US court documents, Mohamed began his alleged criminal enterprise.
Since the OFAC sanctions on the Mohameds, Lall has not found it obligatory to discuss his time at the helm of the Gold Board. This is unacceptable from a man who has five forums in which he relentlessly attacks the government of being corrupt. The forums are a daily column with the Kaieteur News, a daily contribution to the Stabroek News’ letter pages, a weekly column with Demerara Waves, a weekly column with the Village Voice and a weekly commentary on Kaieteur News Radio.
Is Mr Lall a sanctimonious hypocrite? He made and makes hundreds of accusations against the government, including lack of transparency and accountability, but he does not make himself account-
able to the Guyanese people. It is simply obnoxious that this man can churn out a voluminous amount of criticisms against the government on five media platforms but is just totally silent on his tenure at the Gold Board.
Here are pertinent questions for Mr Lall. How did the appointment as Gold Board chairman come about? Did he apply? Before he became chairman under the APNU+AFC government, the position was advertised. The two competing names were Ms Lisavette Ramotar and Yog Mahadeo. The former won out.
If the post was not advertised, then who facilitated Mr. Lall to become chairman? Was it an arrangement with the APNU half of the government or the AFC? Did Mr Lall interface with Azruddin Mohamed? If no, did he know about the large volume of gold Mr Mohamed was exporting? If no, then what was in his annual report?
How could Mr Lall not know who the large gold exporters were when those names have to be in his annual reports? Did any staff member ever bring it to the attention of Mr Lall that his staff was
collaborating with the Mohamed? If yes, did he include those revelations in his annual reports? Did Mr Lall ever convey to the then Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, that huge gold miners were engaged in tax evasion?
If the answer is no, then what the hell Mr Lall know during his tenure as head of the Gold Board? A person is entitled to say if they believe what a public figure said. I do not believe Mr Lall if he tells the public he did not know Azruddin.
How is that possible when Mohamed was the country’s largest gold exporter and Lall was chairman of the Gold Board? Finally, on an unrelated matter, but which involves accountability on the part of Lall, could he tell the Guyanese people if he is a big investor in Demerara Waves or if he is the owner?
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.
Machine Tech Guyana, Trident BMC launch workforce development programme to boost local skills
MACHINE Tech Guyana, in collaboration with Trident BMC, on Friday hosted a private open house at its Providence, East Bank Demerara warehouse complex, which also marked the official launch of a new workforce development programme aimed at enhancing local technical capacity.
The event was attended by Minister of Public Service, Zulfikar Ally, who lauded the companies for their investment in building Guyana’s skilled workforce and supporting the government’s drive for greater local participation in the country’s growing industrial and oil and gas sectors.
Machine Tech Guyana, which was established in May 2023, has been focused on developing local talent while continuously training its employees to operate specialised equipment. The company has also forged several strategic partnerships to expand its operational and technical capabilities.
Speaking at the event, Machine Tech’s Managing Director, Karl Heimbrock, highlighted the ongoing partnership with Trident BMC, which began approximately one year ago to increase efficiency and technical expertise.
Heimbrock revealed that six members of the company’s team are currently undergoing training to be qualified in specific carbon steel welding procedures, with plans for additional training as they advance. “We have other strategic partnerships in areas like crane lifting, hydraulics, and electronic tech with Altrad Sparrows,” he noted. “We’re also working with the Dickerman Group on tank cleaning and fabric maintenance, and we provide rental tools through Mason Specialty Tools and Drilling Tools International.”
The Managing Director underscored the company’s
long-term vision to create a self-sustaining training ecosystem led by experienced professionals. “The task now is to get persons with 20 to 25-plus years of experience in the industry who can perform the next level of training for our personnel,” he explained.
As Machine Tech’s workforce advances, Heimbrock said training will eventually extend to more complex materials. “As people keep getting better in their trade, we’ll move them into working with more exotic materials like super duplex, duplex, and stainless steels,” he said.
Machine Tech was started in May 2023, and has since tried to develop its local talent pool, while also continuing to train its workers to operate the equipment that they work with, and then develop strategic partnerships that allow them to build out all of its capabilities (Japheth Savory photo)
The company’s current workforce includes 30 Guyanese employees and two Indian specialists, with plans to expand by hiring more skilled locals. “We’re looking for people with drive, passion, and interest in their trade,” Heimbrock said. “We’re here to support and build local talent for the long term.”
Minister Ally, in congratulating both companies, emphasized that the Government of Guyana continues to encourage joint ventures that focus on the upskilling and empowerment of Guyanese workers. He commended their investment in welding and fabrication development, noting its alignment with national efforts to prepare lo-
cals for opportunities within the oil and gas industry. He further expressed government’s willingness to collaborate with Machine Tech Guyana and Trident BMC to ensure more Guyanese—particularly those from rural communities— are made aware of and benefit from such training opportunities.
DEPUTY Commissioner of Police and Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Fazil Karimbaksh, has filed a multi-million-dollar defamation lawsuit against journalist Leroy Smith, seeking damages in excess of $600 million.
The lawsuit, which was filed in the High Court of Georgetown, accuses Smith of publishing a series of defamatory statements across multiple online platforms aimed at damaging the senior officer’s reputation.
According to the statement of claim, Smith, who operates the widely followed Big Smith News Watch and its associated Facebook page, made a number of posts and articles allegedly questioning Karimbaksh’s leadership of SOCU and alleging unethical conduct within the Guyana
Police Force.
The filing alleges that these statements were “false, malicious, and calculated to embarrass [Karimbaksh],
injure his standing, and undermine his authority within the Guyana Police Force.”
Karimbaksh is seeking $100 million in damages for each of six separate publications, in addition to an injunction preventing Smith from making further defamatory statements.
He is also asking the court to compel Smith to remove all offending content from his online platforms.
In the suit, the Deputy Commissioner said the publications have caused him “considerable hurt, distress, and embarrassment,” exposing him to reputational harm both in public and within his professional circles.
The statement further claims that the defamatory posts have caused members of the public and his subordinates to question his competence, character, and
integrity.
Smith was served with court documents on Friday at Police Headquarters, Eve Leary by a High Court Marshal. This service reportedly came after three months of evasion, during which Smith allegedly avoided being served.
According to legal procedure, Smith now has 42 days to file a defence. Should he fail to respond within the stipulated timeframe, the court may rule in Karimbaksh’s favour by default.
Karimbaksh’s attorneys had earlier issued a letter demanding a public apology and retraction, warning that legal action would follow if the journalist did not comply.
In a pointed comment included in the court filing, Deputy Commissioner Karimbaksh signalled that more lawsuits will be
Minister of Public Service Zulfikar Ally
Managing Director of Machine Tech Guyana, Karl Heimbrock
SOCU head files $600M lawsuit against Journalist ‘Big Smith’
Fazil Karimbaksh
Leroy Smith, owner of ‘Big Smith News Watch’
World Trade Centre Georgetown to help local firms tap into international markets
–– Gears up for official launch next week
AIMING to help local businesses gain access to global opportunities, the World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) is gearing up for its official launch next week, offering Guyanese enterprises a direct link to over 300 World Trade Centres worldwide.
During a media engagement on Friday, Executive Chairman Komal Samaroo said the initiative forms part of wider efforts to build an
economy that is not only sustainable, but competitive on the international stage. “The underlying factor to be successful in the in-
ternational marketplace is to be internationally competitive in your business,” Samaroo said. “It is to understand the marketplace; it is to understand all the regulations that go within international markets. It is to understand the standards that are required.”
Samaroo explained that the Georgetown centre is part of a global network dedicated to facilitating trade, knowledge exchange, and business connectivity.
“We belong to a single international organisation with a common objective,” he noted. “We can access partners in that network to bring knowledge and information to Guyanese businesses that are desirous of exporting, just as we are in a position to help them and their entities in their respective cities learn about the Guyana market.”
With this, he emphasised that the centre is aimed to help educate Guyanese entrepreneurs at all levels, micro, small, medium and large and is also aimed at helping to find connections and contacts through various networking and training sessions that will be organised here.
“In the international market, the key element, or the foundation, is how you find distribution partners, partners that give you what is called route to market, so that the consumers can find your product to buy in those markets,” Samaroo explained.
The executive chairman
pointed out that building an international market presence requires a complete culture change from doing business domestically.
He reflected that historically, Guyana has remained primarily a producing country; the focus must now be on producing things higher on the value chain and products that consumers buy in the world.
Further, he said, “That’s how I see this organisation… A lot of training, knowledge, networking, and information to help empower Guyanese businesses to export, to diversify from the domestic market, particularly as we need to diversify our economy and don’t depend on oil and gas or the commodities that we have historically depended on.”
The official launch of the World Trade Centre Georgetown is set for Tuesday, October 21, at its Kingston headquarters, which was commissioned in June this year. President, Dr Irfaan Ali is expected to deliver the keynote address at the opening ceremony.
The launch week will feature several business and networking events designed to connect local companies with international partners and reinforce Guyana’s growing position within the global trading system.
“The World Trade Centre Georgetown will provide services, training, and international connections to help Guyanese businesses expand globally,” Samaroo affirmed.
Executive Chairman of the WTCG, Komal Samaroo (Sachin Persaud photos)
Ansa McAl answers Guyana’s charge to distribute Guyanese agro-products regionally
REGIONAL
conglomerate Ansa McAL has answered President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s call to leverage its extensive Caribbean distribution network to help promote Guyanese-made products across the region.
During a sod-turning ceremony on Friday for the company’s new US$60 million mall at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara, President Ali urged Ansa McAL to partner with Guyanese agro-processors, farmers, and small businesses to ensure their goods reach regional markets.
“Ansa McAL has the greatest distribution footprint in the region; your products are in every supermarket. You have three malls — this one will make four,” the President said.
He pointed out that while Guyana continues to invest heavily in agriculture and agro-processing, local producers often face barriers to entering regional markets, particularly Trinidad and Tobago.
“I charge Ansa McAL, with the support of the Guyana Marketing Corporation, to distribute Guyanese products in every one of your supermarkets,” President Ali declared.
The Head of State reminded the company that Guyana’s growing capacity is not just for domestic prosperity but for regional benefit.
“We have made a remarkable contribution to this region, and everything we are building is for this region. Our healthcare system will be available to this region. The region must back us. Ansa McAL must back us. You must remove those barriers in Trinidad and Tobago that
keep our goods off their shelves,” Dr Ali said.
He added that Guyana stands ready to consolidate shipments of local produce for export through the company’s network and stressed that investment must extend beyond retail.
“We don’t want Guyana to be seen only as a retail centre. We want investment in the value chain. If we don’t get the support, we have no choice but to build the infrastructure ourselves,” the President warned.
Responding immediately, Ansa McAL Chairman Anthony Norman Sabga pledged to support the President’s vision, proposing the development of a farmers’ market and green zone within the new mall’s complex — complete with stalls for indigenous products and sports facilities.
Sabga noted that Guyana’s rice is already distributed through Ansa McAL’s regional network, and the company intends to expand the shipment of other local goods. He directed his team to begin working with local agencies to organise the first containers of Guyanese-made products for distribution.
“I applaud the level of inspiration where a government wants to work with businesses to grow the fortunes of the country for everyone. When a country prospers, everybody prospers. Your ambition is phenomenal,” Sabga said.
Operating in Guyana for over 33 years, Ansa McAL has evolved from a trading company into a diversified conglomerate spanning automotive, beverage, and construction services.
Ansa McAl’s chairman, Anthony Norman Sabga on Friday accepted a charge by President, Dr Irfaan Ali to enhance the distribution of Guyanese products across the region (Delano Williams photo)
Huist Dieren, Spring Garden Mandirs shine at Region Two Diwali Motorcade
By Indrawattie Natram
THE Huist Diren Sanatan Dharma Mandir and the Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir emerged as the top winners at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Coast Praant Annual Diwali Motorcade, held on Thursday evening at the Anna Regina Car Park.
The grand event illuminated the Essequibo night sky and saw participation from 12 mandirs and one commercial float, each showcasing vibrant creativity, devotion and artistry.
In the Large Category, Huist Diren Sanatan Dharma Mandir secured first place, followed by Queenstown Gyaan Saagar Mandir in second, West Coast Demerara
Praant in third, Adventure Mandalee Mandir in fourth and Seeta Ram Radhay Shyam Dharma Mandir in fifth.
New Road Sada Shiva Naujawaan Mandir and New Road Vishnu Mandir also participated in this category.
In the small category, Spring Garden Bhuvaneshwar Mandir captured first place, with Affiance Vishnu Mandir placing second, Hi-
of the Guyana Hindu
Dr.
is also the Minister of Human Services and Social Security delivers greetings on behalf of both the Sabha and the Government of Guyana.
All participating mandirs received cash prizes and trophies in recognition of their efforts.
Judging criteria included punctuality, originality, illumination, creativity, depiction, attire, overall presentation and the appropriate use of music.
Speaking on behalf of
the Spring Garden Mandir, Mahindra Sharma explained that their float depicted the various forms of Goddess Lakshmi, symbolising prosperity, purity, and divinity during the Diwali season.
He noted that members had been working tirelessly over several nights to bring their concept to life, emphasising that participation in the motorcade is something the mandir eagerly anticipates each year.
The main highlight of the event was a performance from a folk-dance troupe from Utter Pradesh India. They amazed the audience with their performances. Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who is also the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, delivered greetings
bernia Mandir third, Radhay Krishna Bounty Hall Mandir fourth and Better Success Vishnu Mandir fifth.
Spring Garden Mandir winner of the small category
Huist Diren Mandir winner of the large category
A young girl depicting Goddess Lakshmi
President
Dharmic Sabha,
Vindhya Persaud, who
A section of the audience at the Anna Regina Car Park on Thursday night
CJIA, GTA welcomes passengers with Diwali cheer and cultural showcase
THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Friday came alive with vibrant colours, rhythmic music, and the sweet aroma of local delicacies as the facility joined forces with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) to welcome passengers arriving for the Festival of Lights, Diwali.
Incoming passengers from New York were greeted with a cultural display featuring traditional Indian dances, festive songs, and symbolic gift bags, capturing the essence of Guyana’s multicultural spirit.
The gesture, coordinated by CJIA and GTA staff, set a warm tone of celebration as passengers, some returning home, others visiting for the first time stepped into the country.
Each passenger received a goodie bag containing a diya and local sweet treats such as mithai, barfi and peera, along with a refreshing serving of local fruit juice.
The initiative, officials explained, was part of ongoing efforts to share Guyana’s culture and hospitality with the world.
GTA’s Senior Tourism Events Officer, Shellon Nichloas, underscored that similar activations are mounted around major na-
tional holidays to share Guyana’s food, music and culture with visitors and returning residents.
The intention is to offer an immediate “taste of Guyana” and set a welcoming tone from the moment of arrival.
Meanwhile, CJIA’s Public Relations Officer, Shunza Samuels, noted that the airport targets all major holidays to elevate “Brand Guyana” and position the destination as warm, organised and culturally rich.
The Diwali welcome, planned as a surprise, was framed as part of a wider push to market Guyana as the premier tourism destination in the region through authentic, people-centred experiences executed in partnership with public agencies and private collaborators.
Passengers responded positively to the activation and readily accepted the gifts, signalling strong receptivity to culture-forward hospitality.
Diwali will be celebrated nationwide on Monday as a public holiday.
Across Guyana, families will light diyas to symbolise the triumph of good over evil, with homes, communities and places of worship illuminated to mark the occasion.
Huist Dieren, Spring Garden Mandirs shine ...
From page 12
on behalf of both the Sabha and the Government of Guyana.
She expressed joy at celebrating Diwali with Essequibians and commended the Essequibo Coast Praant for its continued partnership in hosting the annual motorcade.
Dr. Persaud highlighted that the Diwali Motorcade has been hosted for five decades, evolving into a cherished national and global tradition that promotes unity, peace, and togetherness. She praised the efforts of all mandirs, particularly the youth, for preserving and promoting cultural and spiritual values.
She also urged Hindus to observe the five days of Diwali, perform Lakshmi Puja and continue the traditional practice of lighting earthen diyas rather than relying solely on modern lighting.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan also commended the event, congratulating the Essequibo Praant for its successful coordination.
He pledged the Region’s continued support and lauded the festival for fostering community unity and cultural pride.
Passengers as they arrived in Guyana via CJIA being welcomed for Diwali celebrations with sweet treats and local fruit juices (Japheth Savory photos)
City Council gets two trucks to boost waste-management capacity
THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown on Friday received two brand new trucks from the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, aimed at enhancing the city’s solid waste management and overall municipal services.
The official handing-over ceremony was led by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) of the Ministry, Dr. Josh Kanhai, at the Solid Waste Management Compound.
In attendance were His Worship, Mayor Alfred Mentore; Councillors Leon Saul, Clayton Hinds, and Kesha Sertima; Acting Town Clerk, Candace Nelson; Deputy Town Clerk, Carlyn Joseph; City Engineer, Colvern Venture and Director of Solid Waste Management, Walter Narine. According to Dr. Kanhai, the trucks form part of the Ministry’s continued efforts to build the operational capacity of municipalities and strengthen the delivery of essential public services.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration between central government and local authorities in achieving sustainable urban development and maintaining a clean, healthy capital city.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Council, Mayor Mentore said the new vehicles would help address some of Georgetown’s longstanding waste management challenges, while improving the overall environment for residents and visitors alike.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Dr. Josh Kanhai, hands over the trucks to Georgetown Mayor, Alfred Mentore
Xi underscores shared global duty to advance women’s development at Beijing meeting
CHINESE President Xi Jinping, on Monday, underscored the international community’s shared responsibility and called for more practical actions to promote women’s advancement.
Xi hailed women for “playing an important role in creating, promoting and carrying forward human civilization” while addressing the opening of a high-profile meeting on women affairs held in Beijing.
The Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women was convened to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women held in the Chinese capital.
Seen as a landmark event for global women’s cause, the 1995 conference adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which served as guiding documents for global women development and gender equality.
Guided by the spirit of the conference, equality between men and women has become a universal consensus of the international community and has been incorporated into UN development agenda and priority development targets.
Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the opening ceremony of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women and delivers a keynote speech at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 13, 2025. (Xinhua/ Shen Hong)
Participants make a video call while attending the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 13, 2025. The Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women was held in Beijing on Monday. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei)
A total of 189 countries have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and nearly 1,600 laws on women’s rights and interests have been enacted by more than 190 countries.
More and more countries have made national action plans to improve women’s well-being.
COMPLEX CHALLENGES
Yet Xi highlighted the “complex challenges” still hampering women’s allround development today.
Over 600 million women and girls around the world are still mired in war and conflict, and around 10 percent of women and girls are trapped in extreme poverty, he said, adding that deep-rooted problems such
as violence and discrimination still persist, and the gender digital divide is widening.
“Equality between men and women remains a lofty yet arduous task,” said the Chinese president.
The two-day meeting is expected to urge all parties to accelerate the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and inject new momentum into the promotion of global gender equality and the all-round development of women.
The 2025 Beijing meeting is “not only a commemoration of the past, but also a strategic opportunity to shape the future,” said Dilma Rousseff, president of the New Development Bank.
“My expectation is that this summit will not be a ceremonial event, but a catalytic moment -- one that reaffirms past commitments and sets new, concrete priorities for the next generation,” Rousseff told Xinhua.
As the world faces economic uncertainty, climate crises, conflicts and deepening inequality, recommitting to gender equality is critical for building a just and sustainable future, said Irina Bokova, former UNESCO director-general.
ACCELERATING ALL-ROUND DEVELOPMENT
In his address, Xi put forward four proposals to accelerate the process of women’s all-round development, in a bid to build a wider consensus, open up broader pathways and take more practical actions for this cause.
The Chinese president called for joint efforts to foster an enabling environment for women’s growth and development, and cultivate powerful momentum for the high-quality development of women’s cause.
He also proposed jointly developing governance frameworks to protect women’s rights and interests, and writing a new chapter in promoting global cooperation on women.
Efforts should be made to enhance the protection of women and girls in regions struck by war, conflict, poverty or natural disaster, and support the vital role of women in preventing conflict and rebuilding their homes, Xi said, calling for improving mechanisms against violence and resolutely cracking down on all forms of violence against women.
He urged countries to empower women’s high-quality development through sci-tech innovation, and support them in playing an even bigger role in green development.
Further tangible and accessible policy measures should be introduced to channel more quality health and educational resources to all women, said the Chinese president, calling for broadening the channels for women to participate in, and deliberate on, political affairs, and supporting their
extensive engagement in state and social governance.
“We must support women in assuming their historic responsibilities, enabling them to play a substantive role in global governance and share in its benefits,” Xi said.
“We should support the central role of the UN, urging it to pay more attention to the needs of women in developing countries and create broad cooperation platforms for women from all countries,” he added.
Xi also announced fresh measures to further support the global cause of women. In the next five years, China will donate another 10 million U.S. dollars to UN Women, and earmark a quota of 100 million dollars in China’s Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund for implementing development cooperation projects for women and girls in collaboration with international organisations.
The country will support 1,000 “small and beautiful” livelihood programmes that take women and girls as priority beneficiaries, invite 50,000 women to China for exchange and training programmes, and establish a Global Center for Women’s Capacity Building, according to the Chinese president.
Leaders from Iceland, Dominica, Ghana, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka, as well as senior UN officials, spoke at the opening ceremony.
The international community should take this meeting as a new starting point to advance the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and promote new progress in the global advancement of women, they said.
Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan also hosted a welcome banquet for international guests at Monday noon.
Senior Chinese officials including Cai Qi, Wang Yi and Yin Li attended the events.
Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the opening ceremony of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women and delivers a keynote speech at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 13, 2025 (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)
‘Our diversity is a blessing to be celebrated’– President Ali says
–– calls for continued unity as Guyana celebrates Diwali
FOR years, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has championed his ‘One Guyana’ vision, a call for national unity that transcends creed, class, and ethnicity.
On Friday evening, that vision came vividly to life on the lawns of State House, where the head of state hosted a radiant Diwali celebration filled with music, colour, and camaraderie.
Speaking to a gathering of spiritual leaders, government officials, and citizens from all walks of life, President Ali reminded the nation that “Our diversity is not a challenge to overcome; it is a blessing to be celebrated.”
He said the hosting of Diwali and other religious and cultural observances at State House reflects “a profound respect for the faiths and traditions that enrich our nation.”
The cultural items showcased Guyana’s deep cultural and traditional roots, and they filled the evening with warmth and informality.
President Ali said that Diwali was less about ceremony and more about making purposeful and human connections.
“Tonight is not meant to be a formal night,” he said with a broad smile. “It is a night of spiritual upliftment, a night of socialising with each other, and a night when we dip our fingers in the wonderful tradition of our seven curry in the leaf and enjoy together a meal.”
“When we honour each other’s beliefs, we strengthen the bonds that hold us together as one people.”
Guests were invited to share in a traditional feast, symbolising the bonds of family and community.
“One of the greatest celebrations of family is breaking bread together,” the President said. “That is why tonight, I want us all to break bread together.”
President Ali expressed gratitude to Mr Clifford Reis and the Banks DIH family, including Citizens Bank, for
their partnership and continued support.
He hinted at “exciting news” for next year’s Diwali and Phagwah celebrations as the company marks a major anniversary, noting that it wishes to integrate its milestone with national festivities that celebrate “our identity, our country, and what makes us truly Guyanese.”
The Head of State emphasised that events like these are a testament to the inclusive spirit that defines his leadership.
“Hosting these observances at State House symbolises something larger,” he said. “It says to every Guyanese, regardless of faith and ethnicity, this country belongs to you. This is your home. Your culture matters. Your presence enriches our Republic.”
Choosing to forgo formalities, President Ali said he wanted the evening to reflect equality and oneness.
“When we gather here, we are one and the same,
and we are celebrating each other,” he stated. “When we enjoy being in each other’s company, that is what will build our country in the strongest possible way.”
As the night unfolded with music, lights, and the gentle glow of diyas, the President reflected on Diwali’s timeless message.
“Diwali reminds us that darkness can never overpower light, and ignorance can never triumph over knowledge,” he said. “It teaches us that truth and justice will always prevail, even when the night seems long.”
He encouraged citizens to carry the light of Diwali beyond the evening’s festivities.
“The spirit of Diwali reminds us that light is meant
to be shared, and when one lamp is lit, it can light a thousand more without losing its flame. So let us be the lamps that light our country’s path forward together, brighter, united.”
The President invited
Guyanese to join Dr Vindhya
and the Guyana Hindu
for a grand Diwali motorcade this Sunday, praising the organisation for reaching a major milestone in its 50th anniversary. (DPI)
Persaud
Dharmic Sabha
National top performer, Yashoda Samaroo, admitted to the Bar
Newly-minted Attorney-at-Law, Yashoda Samaroo (centre) flanked by Madam Justice Kumar-Chetty at the High Court and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, who appeared on her behalf
AT just 23 years old, former Queen’s College scholar and national top performer Yashoda Samaroo has been officially admitted to practise as an Attorney-at-Law in the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.
Her petition for admission was presented before Madam Justice Kumar-Chetty at the High Court in
Attorney-at-Law, Yashoda Samaroo (second from right), with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, who appeared on her behalf, along with family members
Georgetown by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, who ap-
peared on her behalf.
Samaroo, who hails from Lusignan on the East Coast of Demerara, stood before the court surrounded by her family, mentors, and friends, describing the occasion as “the most anticipated day of [her] life.”
During her maiden address to the court, Samaroo reflected on her journey to the Bar — one marked by academic excellence, perseverance, and gratitude.
“Your Honour, as a young girl, the idea of becoming an Attorney-at-Law by the age of 23 felt like a dream almost too big to achieve,” she said. “While it was all I ever wanted, there was always a lingering doubt about whether I could truly make it — because from an early age, I knew of the exorbitant costs associated with legal studies.”
Samaroo’s academic record has been outstanding from the start. After completing her primary education at Valmiki Vidyalaya Primary School, she was named among the top ten performers nationally at the National Grade Six Assessment. At Queen’s College, she earned 15 Grade One passes and two Grade Two passes at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, ranking her as Guyana’s tenth National Top Performer in 2018.
Following her CSEC success, Samaroo joined the Audit Office of Guyana, where she worked for nearly five years before pursuing higher education full-time. She began her tertiary journey at the University of Guyana, completing her Bachelor of Laws degree with Distinction after first excelling in the Bachelor of Social Sciences (International Relations) programme with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
In 2023, she commenced studies at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad
and Tobago, where she was awarded the Legal Education Certificate on October 5, 2025, having successfully completed all prescribed courses. Her dedication also earned her a place on the Principal’s Roll of Honour, recognising her for achieving ‘A’ grades in seven of eleven courses over two years.
While at law school, Samaroo served as President of the Hindu Students’ Society and contributed to The Gavel, the institution’s official newsletter. She also completed ten weeks of in-service training at the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Chambers of the Attorney General of Guyana.
In her heartfelt address, Samaroo credited her family for their unwavering support throughout her journey. “Mom and Dad, my dreams became yours, and you both worked tirelessly to make them a reality,” she said, paying tribute to her parents’ sacrifices and encouragement.
She also expressed deep appreciation to her sisters, Sharada and Roshni, for their companionship; to her grandparents; to the Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud and the Persaud family; and to her mentors and colleagues at the Attorney General’s Chambers.
Samaroo closed her remarks with gratitude to her faith and a solemn vow to uphold the honour and dignity of her profession.
“I vow to serve the people of Guyana with the utmost professionalism and to the best of my ability,” she said. “I will always remain a student of the law and fulfill my duty to this Honourable Court.”
With her admission, Samaroo joins the growing number of young, high-achieving Guyanese entering the legal profession, embodying excellence, humility, and dedication to public service.
Anjulie brings Guyanese flair to the international stage
CANADIAN singer-songwriter, Anjulie Persaud, known simply as Anjulie, is proudly putting her Guyanese heritage on the international music map.
The award-winning artiste, whose parents hail from Guyana, continues to captivate global audiences with her distinct blend of soulful pop infused with Afro-Caribbean and South Asian rhythms.
Since the release of her self-titled debut album in 2009, Anjulie has steadily built a reputation for her smooth vocals, empowering lyrics, and cross-cultural sound. Her most recent album, Loveless Metropolis, dropped in 2022, but it’s her latest singles, Cinnamon Girl and Chai and Sunshine, that have taken the international charts by storm.
The latter, Chai and Sunshine, has amassed over five million Spotify streams, and, earlier this year, it was chosen as Instagram’s official anthem, inspiring more than 100,000 videos in just one week. The track — a soothing yet uplifting tune — perfectly captures Anjulie’s Indo-Guyanese roots and her message of mindfulness and peace.
In a brief interview, Anjulie described her artistry as a “mix of groove, mindfulness, and emotion.” She explained, “My goal is to create music that helps people feel grounded, free, and connected to their inner peace.”
Beyond her musical talents, Anjulie is passionate
about meditation, wellness, and storytelling, viewing songwriting as a form of therapy. She credits her philosophical curiosity — inspired by thinkers like Yuval Harari — for helping her explore deeper themes about connection and self-discovery. Growing up, her sound was shaped by musical legends such as Bob Marley, Sade, A.R. Rahman, and Lauryn Hill. “I was drawn to artistes who combined soul and substance — people who made you feel something,” she shared. “That blend of introspection and rhythm still drives my sound today.”
Anjulie’s songwriting credentials are equally impressive. She has written for several of the biggest names in the music industry, including Kelly Clarkson, Lady Gaga, and Nicki Minaj. Reflecting on these collaborations, she said, “It’s been inspiring to live vicariously through other artistes and hear them bring my lyrics to life. Every collaboration
taught me something about confidence, storytelling, and resilience.”
Recounting the inspiration behind Chai and Sunshine, Anjulie shared that the song was born one morning at her parents’ kitchen table, a place filled with childhood memories. “After years of ups and downs in the music industry and a lot of inner work, I wrote the phrase ‘All I need is chai and sunshine’ in my notebook,” she said. “It became a song about mindfulness, self-care, and refusing to compromise your peace or your values.”
Similarly, Cinnamon Girl explores themes of femininity and empowerment. “It’s about stepping into your soft, strong, feminine energy and embracing who you are with warmth and confidence,” Anjulie explained.
Later this year, Anjulie plans to visit Guyana for the first time to shoot a few music videos, a journey she describes as deeply personal. “This is where my parents grew up. I can’t wait to ex-
Police investigating incident at Leonora Secondary School captured on video
THE Guyana Police Force has launched an investigation into an incident that occurred around 12:30hrs on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Leonora Secondary School, where a young male was seen on video entering the school’s compound armed with what appeared to be a short cutlass.
According to a police statement, ranks responded promptly after a report was made, but the individuals involved had already left the area.
Preliminary enquiries revealed that a group of male students within the com -
pound allegedly threw bricks at three males passing along the roadway, prompting one of them to enter the compound with the weapon seen
–– Canadian singer-songwriter celebrates her roots through soulful global hits
plore this part of my identity more deeply, to see the land, the colours, and the rhythm of life here. It feels like coming full circle.”
She also expressed
in the video.
Police said a teacher intervened swiftly, managing to chase the armed individual out of the compound. Fortunately, no one was injured during the ordeal.
An officer later revisited the school to conduct follow-up enquiries with the Head Teacher. Investigators believe the confrontation may have stemmed from a prior dispute involving students within the school.
The Guyana Police Force has confirmed that it is working closely with school officials and the Welfare Department as investigations continue.
her interest in collaborating with local Guyanese and Caribbean artistes, saying, “There’s so much raw, beautiful talent in Guyana and across the Caribbean. I’m always looking to connect with artistes who share a love for authenticity and fusion.”
International singer/songwriter, Anjulie Persaud
A snippet from the video of the incident
THAG to host second annual Tapas, Rum & Wine Experience this Sunday
–– event promises a fusion of Guyanese creativity, global flavours, and fine spirits
THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) is set to host its second annual Tapas,
Rum & Wine event this Sunday at the Guyana Marriott Hotel Ballroom, offering patrons an eve -
ning of culinary artistry, premium beverages, and vibrant entertainment.
Sponsored by the Guy-
ana Marriott Hotel and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), this year’s event is being touted as one of
Guyana’s premier culinary and beverage experiences, bringing together some of the country’s finest chefs, caterers, and beverage experts.
From 17:00 hours to 22:00 hours, guests will be treated to a rich showcase of innovative tapas creations, paired with exclusive rum and wine selections designed to excite the palate. Participating establishments include Banks DIH Limited, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Lehr Inc., Gemini Cocktails, The Wine Vault, Grand Coastal Hotel, Bistro Café & Bar, Fresh, Nikkei Guyana, Cara Lodge, Le Chef Catering, Sushi by Selina, and the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
According to THAG, Tapas, Rum & Wine is designed not only as a night of indulgence but also as a platform to inspire culinary innovation and highlight the diversity of Guyana’s hospitality industry. “The goal of the event is to encourage local chefs to be creative, push boundaries, and show patrons the high level of craftsmanship that exists within the local hospitality industry,” a representative noted.
The Association emphasised that the event encourages patrons to see and experience food and drink differently, appreciating the creativity and thought that go into every dish and pour.
During Monday’s launch ceremony, participating chefs gave patrons a preview of what to expect. Grand Coastal’s Executive Chef, Fabio Sarmiento and Sous-Chef, John Portales, said their presentation will showcase Guyanese products elevated with international techniques, resulting in unique culinary creations that “respect the Guyanese flavour.”
Sarmiento added, “We put different techniques in the product to make a different kind of food, and respect the Guyanese flavour.” Grand Coastal, which frequently offers themed experiences such as Flavours of Guyana and Sunday Brunch, is known for combining local ingredients with international flair.
Also featured at Sunday’s event will be Sushi by Selina, a catering brand known for merging authentic Japanese cuisine with Caribbean influences. Owner Selina Yhun, who is also a 26-year-old sous-chef at Amici, shared that she aims to make sushi more accessible to local tastes.
“When people think about sushi, they think raw fish,” Yhun explained. “I’ll be making it edible for Caribbean people, of course. I’m also hoping to pair it with our El Dorado 12-yearold rum.”
With its growing popularity, Tapas, Rum & Wine is fast becoming one of THAG’s signature annual events, celebrating the evolution and creativity of Guyana’s culinary landscape.
Tickets for Tapas, Rum & Wine 2025 cost $12,000, which includes entry and chits redeemable for tapas. Beverages will be sold separately. Tickets are available at: THAG Secretariat, 157 Waterloo Street, Georgetown (Ground Floor, PSC Building); and Bistro Café & Bar, 176 Middle and Waterloo Streets (King’s Hotel and Residences Building).
For food lovers and connoisseurs of fine rum and wine, this Sunday’s Tapas, Rum & Wine promises to be a flavourful journey through Guyana’s evolving culinary scene.
Tapas, Rum and Wine is quickly becoming a signature event of THAG, a celebration of the evolving local culinary and beverage scene (Sachin Persaud photo)
Sammy sounds alarm ahead of opening ODI
(CMC) - Faced with a pitch for the opening ODI against Bangladesh that West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has described as something he’s never seen, he has called on his troops to quickly assess the conditions and make the necessary adjustments.
The West Indies will take on Bangladesh here on Saturday at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in the first of three ODIs, with both sides seeking crucial points in their bid for automatic qualification at the 2027 ICC World Cup in South Africa.
While Sammy said he expected conditions in Bangladesh to be similar to those in India where the West Indies just concluded their two-match Test series, he raised some concerns about the state of the pitch after seeing it on Friday.
“The captain has not seen the wicket, but I have. I’m not sure if we could replicate it, we’ve never seen anything like that, but we all know the challenges that the sub-continent brings, especially to our batters.
“We will not let the pitch play on our minds. Wherever we go the mantra remains the same.
“You still have to assess the conditions that you are faced with and then once you’ve assessed it, you have to decide what skillset is required to be successful and you back yourself in the delivery,” Sammy said during a pre-match press conference.
He, however, admitted that with most of the ODI batsmen having been in India, he expected that to give them an advantage.
“I think coming from India is something to our advantage…it is the closest conditions you’d get, but at the end of the day the experience, the knowledge, the application of oneself at the crease and understanding what is required and assessing the conditions very quickly [is critical].
“For some of the guys it’s probably foreign to them, but the learning will have to be done whilst we play,” Sammy said.
“Like I said, it’s going to be a challenge here in Bangladesh from what I’ve seen, but one challenge which I think my team is much prepared for because most of my batters are coming from India and transferring here to Bangladesh.
“We’re on a quest for automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa and that’s what the team is focusing on, get-
ting those points to give you that automatic qualification.
“The last ODI series we played against Bangladesh, at home, was a successful one. We know they’re a team that always brings that challenge to you at home so my guys and my captain would agree that we have to come here and play some good cricket in order to win,” the head coach added.
Meanwhile, captain Shai Hope said even though West Indies defeated Bangladesh in their last series at home and Bangladesh was recently whipped 3-0 by Afghanistan in their just concluded ODI series, the West Indies would not be taking them lightly.
He maintained that despite those recent results, Bangladesh was still a very dangerous side when playing at home.
“When we speak about cricket, it’s always that the better team on the day wins, so regardless of previous results, whether it’s a long time ago or the recent past, it’s still important to play the cricket on the day.
“We understand that Bangladesh is a very, very powerful team, especially in their own conditions, so West Indies coming here in these foreign conditions, we understand the challenges and then we see what they’ve done in the recent past, so that could also be a motivation for the Bangladesh team, so we’re definitely not going to be taking that lightly,” Hope said.
THE Courts Optical Boys under 11 football tournament will get into the business side of the competition with the commencement of the round of 16 at the Ministry of Education Ground on CARFESTA avenue later today (Saturday).
The 16 strongest teams coming out of the initial 32 in the group stages emerged after heated play in the round robin segment of the competition.
They are now set to battle in the knockout stages.
The top round of 16 qualifier is St John
the Baptist who stormed out of their group with a hat-trick of victories over St Theressa, Genesis and Ann’s Grove primaries.
They will kick off the day’s clashes against Stella Maris Primary, with multiple times former champions St Pius on the verge of another quarter finals berth when they take on Potaro primary.
St Pius who looked like a shell of themselves in the competition so far have squeezed into the round of 16 as the best third place side and will have their work cut out for them against the unbeaten Potaro Primary.
Potato has dismissed the likes of the Redeemer, Winfer Gardens and Smith Memorial in their group.
Also set to have a chance to reach the quarter final stage is North Georgetown who will line-up against Agatash primary.
Debutant Agatash has been a force to reckon with some eye-catching performances to reach the round of 16 stage.
Next Charity Primary meets St Gabriel’s at 13:00 hours.
Also set to collide are West Ruimveldt and St Theresa Primary, West has been in
up
Verstappen takes pole for COTA sprint
(Formula 1) - Max Verstappen has taken pole position for the Sprint at the United States Grand Prix, the Dutchman putting in a stunning lap during the final moments of Sprint Qualifying to beat both McLaren cars.
Lando Norris had set the pace through the session, the Briton having topped SQ1 and SQ2 before initially looking to have repeated this feat in SQ3. But it was Verstappen who went fastest of all, the Red Bull driver’s effort of 1m 32.143s putting him just 0.071s clear of Norris.
The other McLaren of Oscar Piastri was just over three-tenths off Verstappen’s time in third, while Nico Hulkenberg caught the eye by slotting his Kick Sauber into P4. Mercedes’
George Russell followed in P5, ahead of the Aston Martin of Fernando Alonso. Williams’ Carlos Sainz bounced back from limited running in FP1 to take seventh on the grid, while team mate Alex Albon claimed ninth. Lewis Hamilton was sandwiched between them in what looked to be a tricky session for Ferrari, with his team mate Charles Leclerc rounding out the order in 10th.
Days after being confirmed as a Mercedes driver for 2026, Kimi Antonelli just missed out on reaching SQ3 by only 0.006s. The Italian was joined by Racing Bulls’ Isack Hadjar, who exited in P12 ahead of Alpine’s Pierre Gasly in P13.
Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll and the Rac-
ing Bulls of Liam Lawson, meanwhile, both had their lap times deleted due to track limits, meaning that neither recorded a time to put them in 14th and 15th places.
A number of drivers failed to reach the line in time to complete their final runs in a frantic finish to SQ1, with Haas’ Ollie Bearman (P16), Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda (P18), the other Haas machine of Esteban Ocon (P19) and Kick Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto (P20) suffering this fate, the latter not getting a time on the board at all after his first was deleted for exceeding track limits.
Also exiting in the first segment of Sprint Qualifying was Alpine’s Franco Colapinto, the Argentinian driver ending the session in P17.
fine form playing undefeated after wins over Charity, Sophia and St Aloysius.
Georgetown International Academy will battle in the round of 16 for the first time against seasoned campaigners Tucville, another former champion.
Tucville will be hungry for more goals after dominating their contests with Stella Marris, St Mary’s and Batavia in the group stage.
Leonora is also set to face off with Marian Academy, while defending champion Santa Rosa will play Redeemer primary in the final match-up for the day.
Bassarath to be re-elected for sixth term as TTCB head
CMC – Azim Bassarath is set to be re-elected , president of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) for a record sixth straight term.
Bassarath, the current Cricket West Indies (CWI) vice-president, was the only candidate who vied for the position when nominations closed last Friday, meaning he will be returned unopposed as president on October 25, when the TTCB holds its national executive elections.
Also being nominated unopposed are Altaf Baksh for the position of first vice-president, and attorney-at-law Henry Chase for the post of general secretary.
Meanwhile, Kerwin John, head of the Tobago Cricket Association, faces a challenge from former national cricketer Rajendra Mangalie for the position of second vice-president.
Incumbent third vice-present Parasram Singh comes up against Avinash Suruj, while TTCB treasurer Stephen Ramkissoon faces off with Richard Ramkissoon.
Six candidates have been nominated for the positions of executive members from which five will be selected.
They are Ann Browne-John, Mitra Ragoonanan, Frank Simmons, Ravi Teeluck, Dr Anand Rampersad, and Sharaz Mohammed.
The successful candidates will serve four-year terms of office.
Bassarath has held the post since 2009 when he defeated Deryck Murray.
Verstappen will line
in pole position for the sprint on Saturday
I-Cee Grand Prix 1 Chess Tournament concludes...
Sandiford, Joshi reign in their categories
KERON Sandiford and Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi clinched first place in their respective categories in the I-CEE-sponsored Grand Prix 1 Chess tournament at the David Rose Special School that ended on Sunday October 12, 2025.
Sandiford finished in fine form with an impressive seven points after playing unbeaten in the eight-round classical style format of the open category.
The twenty-two-year-old defeated six of his opponents, with his two half points coming from draws with third-place winner Candidate Master Sachin Pitamber and second-place winner Kyle Couchman in rounds five and six, respectively.
Joshi also played unbeaten after gaining a remarkable 8 points in the female category.
The fifteen-year-old 2025 Women’s Chess Champion continued to dominate the local female chess arena with her strategic and consistent play.
In the closely contested open category, top seed Couchman gained second place in the competition with seven points after losing to Sandiford on the tie-break system.
Couchman’s two half points came with the draws against Sandiford and Pitamber. In their match that lasted less than 40 moves, Sandiford and Couchman agreed to a draw in an even endgame with rooks, pawns and kings
remaining in the fight.
In third place, Pitamber also played unbeaten with 6.5 points, with his additional draw against Jaden Taylor. Gilbert Williams and Rashad Hussain gained 5.5 points each, while Taylor, Shiv Nandalall, Kishan Puran, and Joshua Gopaul finished with five points each.
Sandiford’s match with CM Pitamber lasted a marathon 91 moves. Their battle ended with only the two kings remaining on the board as both opponents exhausted each other’s side with captures and clever manoeuvres
GFF/ Blue Water U15 football continues today...
in an endgame that made checkmate difficult.
In the female category, WCM Joshi defeated former National Women’s Champions Sasha Shariff and WCM Jessica Callender among her opponents. Joshi successfully breached both Callender’s and Shariff’s king defences to claim victory in their separate encounters.
The U-12 Girls’ Chess Champion Kataleya Sam fought her way for the second-place prize with six points. Her only loss came against Joshi in the fourth round.
Sam’s notable games were her victory
Christianburg Wismar ‘Multi’ is latest school to reach last 16
THE Round of Sixteen of the Guyana Football Federation / Blue Water Shipping Girls U-15 football tournament being played in collaboration with the Ministry of Education continues today (Saturday) on the Essequibo Coast at Richmond ground, with three more teams battling to make it to the quarterfinal stages.
Those teams which will be in action today are Waramuri Primary top, Charity Secondary, and Abrams Zuil Secondary.
Tomorrow (Sunday) the action switches to the National Training Centre, Providence, where Marian Academy, Vreed en Hoop Secondary, West Minster Secondary, and Bartica Secondary will try to emerge out to reach the last 16.
The teams already through are President’s College, Bushlot Secondary, Christiansburg Wismar Secondary, and Anai Secondary and Wauna Primary Top.
In the latest round played last Saturday, Christianburg Wismar Secondary (Multi) School progressed, after winning and drawing their games at the Wisburg Secondary School ground in Linden.
At the centre of their progression was diminutive player Ronessa Stellingburg, who secured goals in both of their matches played.
They first defeated fellow Linden opponents Mackenzie High in the first game 2-1, and in their other game the result was drawn 1-1 against Dora Secondary, which the third game of the afternoon.
Stellingburg opened the scoring for the ‘Multi’ girls with a strike in the 5th minute of the game to take the lead.
When play resumed in the second half, the home side went 2-0 up, this time through a shot from Natalyeh Headley in the 66th minute, but a late goal by MHS’s Tenisha David could not stop the ‘Multi’ side winning, 2-1.
In the next game the ‘Multi’ unit and Dora’s girls encounter, ended in a 1-1 stalemate with Dora Secondary taking the lead as early as the 7th minute, and at half time were leading, 1-0.
However, Stellingburg was there to knot the scores when she netted for the Linden females in the 48th minute, to see them gain a draw and move through to the next round.
Mackenzie High School, after a scoreless first half, would gain a 1-0 win when they faced Dora, with Shania Grey getting the lone goal of that game in the 36th minute. (Joe Chapman)
over seasoned player Sasha Shariff and draws with Ciel Clement and Treskolé Archibald.
Archibald took away the third-place prize after ending with 5.5 points. Former Women’s Champion, Jessica Callender, placed fourth with 5.5 points after fighting her way back to the top after her loss against Joshi in the third round and Archibald in the fifth round.
Shariff, Clement, Chelsea Harrison, and Maliha Rajkumar all ended with 4.5 points each. The FIDE-rated tournament attracted the largest ever for a Grand Prix qualifying tournament with thirty-six males and eighteen females, vying for a chance to represent Guyana in the 2026 Chess Olympiad. The tournaments were overseen by FIDE Arbiter John Lee, who also live-streamed the top twelve boards for viewers at home. Results were published on chess-results.com.
Cash prizes, sponsored by I-CEE, totalling $100,000 were awarded to the top three players for each category.
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) would like to extend its gratitude to I-CEE for once again coming on board to support chess in Guyana.
• Interested persons can follow the GCF on Facebook and Instagram. All info about chess clubs and registration for membership with the GCF can be done on guyanachess.gy.
Windies to host youth ODI series against England
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has confirmed a seven-match Youth ODI series between the West Indies Men’s Under-19 team and England Under-19s, scheduled from 16 November to 1 December 2025 at the Grenada National Stadium in St George’s.
The series is a key part of the squad’s preparation for the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup in January 2026, following their narrow 4–3 series win over Sri Lanka in Antigua. All matches will now be played in Grenada after the fixtures were relocated from St Vincent. CWI had requested use of the National Sports Council facilities in St Vincent since March 2025, but recent correspondence confirmed the grounds were unavailable due to international commitments.
Both teams are set to arrive in Grenada on 8 November, with three days of training planned at the venue. A warm-up match between England Under-19s and a Grenada Under-25 select XI is scheduled for 12 November ahead of the opening ODI.
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, welcomed the tour, noting its importance in developing the squad. “This series against England is crucial to refining the team through consistent, high-quality competition,” he said. “These matches will ensure our players deepen their skills, temperament, and match awareness before the World Cup.”
All matches bowl off at 9:00 a.m., with live streaming on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and live scorecards on www. windiescricket.com
Left to Right Sachin Pitamber, Kyle Couchman,Keron Sandiford, Aditi Joshi, Katelya Sam, Treskole Archibald
Ronessa Stellingburg scored in both games for Christianburg Wismar Secondary
Round of Sixteen action is set for the Ministry of Education Ground
Shai Hope and Mehidy Hasan Miraz make an appearance for the photographers a day out from the first ODI • BCB
