‘This is not a wish list; it is not empty rhetoric’
Snippets from the PPP/C 2025 Manifesto:
• No new taxes
• Increased salaries and benefits for public servants
• Construct 40,000 new homes
• Zero-interest loans for SMEs
• New terminal at CJIA, municipal airports at Lethem and Rose Hall/Canje
• Lower income and corporate taxes
• Lower taxes on vehicles
• A high-performance conditioning facility for athletes
• World-class indoor stadium
• Automated citizen reporting platform
• Continue to enhance local connectivity
• Nationwide parking lots for truckers, large vehicles
• Open up more than 100,000 new acres of arable land
• More cash grants
• Increased social support (pensions, education grant, etc…)
- President Ali says, as PPP/C introduces Manifesto ‘grounded in careful planning, strategic, realistic vision’ - anchored in building out Guyana, supporting all Guyanese, particularly country’s most vulnerable groups
‘Virtually impossible’ for anyone to vote twice in September elections
- GECOM’s CEO affirms;
DECO highlights over 700,000 persons registered to vote across Guyana
By Feona Morrison
WITH just under two weeks to go before Guyanese head to the polls, Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud has declared that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)
is fully prepared for the September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections.
Speaking at the Commission’s first press conference on Monday, Persaud sought to assure voters and political stakeholders that robust safe -
guards are in place to guarantee the credibility of the electoral process, emphasising that it is “virtually impossible” for anyone to cast more than one ballot, except in cases of collusion at polling places.
He noted, however, that the safeguards are stringent enough to detect and deter attempts at impersonation or repeat voting.
Persaud referenced the mandatory ink-marking of voters’ fingers after they cast their ballots.
According to him, the ink, specially formulated for durability, cannot be removed without applying substances before voting; an unlikely scenario given the rigorous procedures.
He emphasised that election officials have also been instructed to ensure that voters’ fingers are clean before the ink is applied, and that it is allowed to dry properly to minimise tampering.
“I recognise there was a comment about the potency of the ink. The manufacturers and suppliers have given assurance that it is not possible to remove the ink easily unless something was deliberately applied to the finger beforehand,” Persaud said.
He outlined further safeguards in detail, including the requirement to present a valid identification card before receiving a ballot.
Persaud said that polling staff and party agents are equipped with folios containing the photograph of each elector assigned to that polling station. This system, he emphasised, makes impersonation extremely difficult.
Deputy CEO Aneal Giddings said that the official list of electors (OLE) contains 757,690 registered voters across all 10 electoral districts. These voters are distributed across the ten electoral districts as follows: District One (Barima-Waini) has 24,453 registered voters, while District Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) accounts for 42,596 voters.
In District Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), there are 116,876 registered voters, and District Four (Demerara-Mahaica), the most populated district, has 323,436 voters. Moving further along the coast, District Five (Mahaica-Berbice) records 50,796 registered voters, while District Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has 111,554 voters. In the interior regions, District Seven (Cuyuni-
CEO Vishnu Persaud
Deputy CEO Aneal Giddings
‘This is not a wish list; it is not empty rhetoric’
- President Ali says, as PPP/C introduces Manifesto ‘grounded in careful planning, strategic, realistic vision’ - anchored in building out Guyana, supporting all Guyanese, particularly country’s most vulnerable groups
Affirming that Guyana’s future rests on “actionable and achievable policies” rather than empty rhetoric, President Dr. Irfaan Ali painted the next five years under his government as a period that will see results in economic transformation and social upliftment
By Trina Willaims
AFFIRMING that Guyana’s future rests on “actionable and achievable policies” rather than empty rhetoric, President Dr. Irfaan Ali painted the next five years under his government as a period that results in economic transformation and social upliftment.
The President on Monday joined Vice-President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and other Cabinet members to unveil what he branded as the party’s “blueprint for development”.
President Ali firmly stated: “I want to make it clear: This is not a wish list; it is not empty rhetoric. This is a declaration of intent; it is a blueprint for development, and importantly, it is a pact with the people. This is not about sound bites and one-liners. This is about actionable, achievable policies and programmes all aimed at uplifting the lives of every single Guyanese.”
The Manifesto, the President stressed, has been crafted over the years rather than in the heat of an election period, and it outlines regional development plans, infrastructure projects and policies aimed at household empowerment and
small-business growth.
He said the goal is to ensure prosperity and stability at every level of society, with economic resilience built into the framework to withstand global circumstances.
On that note, Dr. Ali said that the Manifesto is in keeping with macroeconomic fundamentals.
Given what is going around the world, such as global conflicts and market volatility, the President said that policies must be crafted with the international context in mind, and that is what the PPP/C’s Manifesto has done.
Further, he echoed his government’s commitment to understanding further challenges and how it can be mitigated.
“Over the last five years, we have been listening, going to the community and listening so our partners in this time, you the people of Guyana, you are [in] this front [and] centre,” President Ali said.
Firmly stating that the PPP/C has gotten all of its promises done, the President outlined a future with further developments in agriculture, housing, education, power efficiency etc.
“The plan is about development; advancing every Guyanese, advancing every sector, creating opportunities for every sector, incentivis-
ing the system to promote growth, expand businesses, create jobs and develop our country,” he said.
MODERN GUYANA
Dr. Ali outlined his government’s vision for a modern Guyana, noting that the nation must be digitally ready if it hopes to compete on the world stage.
He presented the digital transformation as central to national development, as he emphasised that deploying artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools at scale will be essential to unlocking new opportunities.
Pointing to the impending rollout of the national digital identification (ID) card, the President hailed the programme as fast, efficient, and seamless.
The Head of State noted that he became the first Guyanese to receive his digital ID, symbolising the dawn of a new era.
But the President went further, pointing to the benefits of this programme, noting that it will bring all citizens onto one platform and bar human bias.
The President stated that the government has crafted a “carefully calculated plan”, as efforts are already underway to develop a regional port in Charity, with investment in the coconut industry and the coffee industry.
The regional port will be linked to the Caribbean,
so that Guyana can ship directly from Charity to the Caribbean.
Turning his attention to Region Three, the President pointed to the Wales Gas-to-Energy project among other developments.
Shifting his focus to health, the government plans on building out the sector even further, aside from several regional hospitals that have been launched and offers quality services to thousands of citizens.
The President stated that the health system will be responsive to the particular situations on the ground that may arise.
The government will continue to incentivise the private sector, helping them to build out their facilities so that Guyana can become an attractive destination for health tourism.
The government aims to modernise agriculture by reducing costs, increasing yields, and supporting farmers with infrastructure and technology, President Ali stated.
He also touted investment in prawn production, and building out the hatching and production capacity in the poultry industry.
UPLIFTING ALL GUYANESE
The President spoke about how the PPP/C government will continue to work assiduously to lift all
Guyanese from their current position.
Meaning, if you are a citizen that does not own a house, the government will ensure that you get the house lot, he said.
“We do not promise; we deliver!” the President firmly stated, adding that the Manifesto’s foundation is putting the people first.
“This plan is based on equality for all,” he affirmed, noting that development will continue to be felt throughout the coast to the hinterland.
Inclusiveness, stamping out corruption, building out environmental stewardship and keeping the nation’s territorial integrity intact are also on the government’s agenda, President Ali stated.
“We have the track record; we have the global touch, the international recognition, the international partnership and international respect to keep Guyana safe,” he said.
2030 AND BEYOND
“We’re not only thinking about 2030 (alone), we have to optimise the opportunity for our oil-and-gas sector, so we can extend the life of the sector,” President Ali stated, as he pointed out that oil production is expected to sky rocket to 1.7 million barrels per day.
Further, the President said that the sugar industry will not be abandoned.
This position is a stark contrast from other parties which have outright stated that the industry will be downsized, possibly putting thousands of sugar workers once again on the breadline.
“It is going to be viable, and integrated in our economy,” he said.
On the creative industry, the President noted there will be continued support for Guyana’s local talent.
The government also pledged its support to the religious community.
Even as the government touts its support to developing every aspect of society, the President affirmed there will be no new taxes.
“None of our plans factor in any increase in taxes, increase in fees, increase in licence fees, mortgage, increase in water, electricity… and there will not be an increase,” Dr. Ali said.
As the government aims to build a strong and inclusive society, the Head of State said that the most vulnerable groups will receive further support.
Calling all Guyanese to rally behind the PPP/C, the President said, “Let us build together, our manifesto begins with our promise, but it ends with your calling.”
As he urged youths to seize the future, he told them the PPP/C’s manifesto is their launchpad.
Digital ID to streamline access to cash grant programme, other crucial services - says President Ali
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday said that the Single Electronic Identification System, a new digital ID initiative for all citizens, will be utilised to simplify registration and access to the government’s cash grant/voucher programme.
During his address at the commissioning of a new building at the North Ruimveldt Secondary School, the President disclosed that he was the first person to be enrolled in the digital identification system.
“The voucher programme is quite complex; it will now be in-
tegrated with our digital ID cards. Incidentally, I believe I was the first person registered for the new ID today,” he said.
The biometric cards will not only offer citizens preferential treatment in certain areas, but will also strengthen border control by monitoring who is entering the country. The cards will be important for daily transactions, including opening bank accounts, and are a critical part of Guyana’s wider digital
transformation agenda.
Already, the government has begun the rollout of several innovative technology initiatives aimed at improving access to basic services, which has seen the country heading into a new era with several digital and artificial intelligence-led platforms aimed at improving access to government services and enhancing security.
These platforms, the “Citizen Portal” and “AskGov”, President Ali had previously said, will ease every single bureaucracy, creating a stable, strong, service-driven and oriented system. These investments will see Guyana being competitive in building a strong and resilient economy, further strengthening the country’s transparency, efficiency, competitiveness, and reliability in services.
The Citizen Portal will bring together all government services in one simple digital window with just a few clicks. Citizens will be able to apply for passports, birth certificates, driver’s licences and ID cards, access health and education records, and file taxes, and businesses can have the registration done Online. Additionally, citizens will be able to access utility bills, apply for housing and construction permits and much more.
The portal will also incorporate the electronic identification (eID) system, already implemented as a source of truth for citizens’ identity, enabling every Guyanese to have verified access to these services anytime, from anywhere in Guyana.
Guyanese, Justice Arif Bulkan, to join CCJ
THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), on Monday, announced that Justice Arif Bulkan, a Guyanese national, was selected to join the CCJ as a judge and will become the third Guyanese to be appointed to the bench.
This was disclosed in a media release from the court, which noted that Bulkan was selected by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), the independent body responsible for recruiting staff and judges for the CCJ.
Providing a brief background on Bulkan’s career, the release noted that he holds a Bachelor of Laws from The University of the West Indies; a Legal Education Certificate from
the Hugh Wooding Law School; a Master of Laws from University College London; and a Doctor of Philosophy in Law from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, Canada.
He has worked both regionally and internationally, and in the course of his career has functioned in various capacities, including as litigator, academic, author, activist, judge, and international law expert.
He will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Winston Anderson to the presidency of the court in July of this year.
The release went on to note that Justice Bulkan was admitted to the bar in Guyana in 1990 and practised law at the chambers of the Director of Public
‘Virtually
FROM PAGE 2
Mazaruni) has 17,846 voters, and District Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) accounts for 9,192 voters. The figures for District Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) were not provided in the data, but District 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) has 38,460 registered voters.
Together, these numbers confirm the national total of 757,690 electors, who will be served by 2,790 polling stations across the country on Election Day. Out of these, 62 are designated to private residences.
District One has 113 polling stations, while District Two has 158. District Three is allocated 407 polling stations, and District Four has the largest number, 1,018 stations.
District Five has 193 polling stations, and District Six has 435.
The interior regions have fewer polling stations, with District Seven at 99, District Eight at 58, and District Nine at 91. District 10
Prosecutions (DPP) from 1990 to 1996, during which he rose to the rank of Assistant DPP.
He was later in private practice from 1997 to 2004 and later sat on the Court of Appeal in Guyana in 2018, subsequently serving as a Judge of the Court of Appeal of Belize since May 2022.
It was further noted, between 2008 and 2022, Justice Bulkan taught in the Faculty of Law of The University of the West Indies.
He was also an expert member of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, serving as one of the Committee’s Vice Chairpersons from 2019 to 2022. He was elected in June 2023 to the In -
ter-American Commission on Human Rights for a four-year term and is currently serving as the Commission’s Second Vice-President.
The release added: “Justice Bulkan has published widely on indigenous rights, human rights, and constitutional law, including as sole author of ‘The Survival of Indigenous Rights in Guyana’ (2012) and a co-author of ‘Fundamentals of Caribbean Constitutional Law’ (first edition 2015 and second edition 2021). For his work in human rights, Justice Bulkan was conferred with the Anthony Sabga Caribbean Award for Public and Civic Contributions in 2017 and was named a PANCAP/CARICOM
Champion for Change in 2017.”
Further to this, the RJLSC, in announcing the appointment, stated that these appointments are made based solely on the merits of the applicants, including their expertise, integrity and dedication to justice.
Against this backdrop, it was disclosed that some 26 applications from Australia, Barbados, Canada, Cameroon, Fiji, Guyana,
Jamaica, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, The United States of America, and Trinidad and Tobago were received.
However, five candidates were shortlisted for further consideration and were subsequently interviewed, with Justice Bulkan becoming the successful applicant appointed. As such, he is expected to be sworn in as a judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice in October 2025.
impossible’ for anyone...
is assigned 148 polling stations.
Giddings underscored that the Commission has not issued any certificates of employment, meaning voters are expected to cast their votes only at their designated polling stations.
He also confirmed that 3,972 applications for proxy voting were received and processed according to law. Proxy voting means having someone else cast your vote for you. The deputy CEO said that 92 ballots were prepared for dispatch to 20 foreign missions abroad, and all have since been sent.
These include the consulate in Barbados; the embassy in Brussels, Belgium; the embassy in Brasilia, Brazil; the consulate in Toronto, Canada; and the High Commission in Ottawa, Canada. They also include the embassy in Beijing, China; the mission in Havana, Cuba; the High Commission in New Delhi, India;
the embassy in Kuwait and in Doha, Qatar; the High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa; the consulate in Nigeria; and the embassy in Paramaribo and the consulate in Suriname.
The list is rounded out by the permanent missions to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, and New York, USA; the consulate in Port of Spain,
Trinidad and Tobago; the High Commission in London, United Kingdom; the consulate in New York, USA; the embassy in Washington, DC; and the embassy in Caracas, Venezuela.
Meanwhile, GECOM announced that its media center will operate around the clock to provide timely updates on election day
and the subsequent vote count.
This is part of the Commission’s broader effort to maintain transparency and public confidence in the conduct of the polls. Persaud
affirmed that GECOM is fully prepared to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.
“Operationally, we are solidly ready,” he stated.
Justice Arif Bulkan
United purpose, clear vision
THE recent statement from its leadership that the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has "delivered on the plan for prosperity" goes beyond campaign talk; it highlights a real change in Guyana under strong leadership.
As the leaders presented their party as "the only true national movement in Guyana", the evidence backs this claim through clear achievements across various sectors.
The focus on diversity at the Manifesto launch shows an important aspect of the PPP/C's governance.
The mention of different groups like farmers, fishermen, business leaders, public servants, teachers, nurses, and religious leaders highlights the party's commitment to unity.
Unlike opposition parties that remain divided and focused on "empty promises and no vision", the PPP/C has shown its ability to bring together Guyana's diverse society with a clear development plan.
This inclusivity is not just for show; it translates into policies that help all Guyanese, no matter their
background.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips correctly compares the current path to the "disastrous policies that hurt areas like rice farming" under the previous APNU+AFC administration.
The signs of progress are clear: 60,000 new jobs created since 2020, with investors now finding it hard to locate available workers rather than workers struggling to find jobs.
The major infrastructure improvements can be seen "in every village, every community", including sig-
nificant highways like the Ogle to Eccles corridor, and thousands of local roads that enhance everyday life.
What makes the PPP/C unique is its consistent connection with the people.
Phillips's claim that the government "remained grounded" and did not retreat to "air-conditioned offices" reflects a governance style that values grassroots engagement over political show.
This has led to what Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo effectively calls a "tsunami of support"; not through flashy promises but through
OFAC sanctions
Dear Editor,
PLEASE allow me a few column inches in your newspaper to address a matter that unfortunately continues to rear its head because of the desperation of those working with and alongside US sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party.
The WIN party recently published correspondence showing that a query was made, no doubt at the request of the party's leadership and candidates, to the US Treasury Department's OFAC to ask for clarification on three issues as outlined below:
Issue One: Whether OFAC sanctions extend to the Guyanese on WIN's List of Candidates.
Issue Two: Whether OFAC sanctions affect local banks.
Issue Three: Whether OFAC sanctions would apply to Guyanese banks that do business with Azruddin Mohamed since no US citizen is involved and the US financial system is not being used.
Before dealing with the published reply from OFAC, it is important to note that the agency has a disclaimer featured prominently at the top of its acknowledgement document to WIN saying in effect:
Guidance from the OFAC Compliance Hotline is not for general use. It is only for guidance to whoever asks the question. The guidance provided by OFAC will only be given within the confines of the information shared with OFAC in the question.
The guidance from OFAC "does not excuse compliance with any law or regulation administered by OFAC or another agency" nor "release the recipient [of sanctionsmy emphasis] or any third party from civil or criminal liability for violation of any law or regulation." And lastly, the guidance from OFAC does not "constitute a finding of fact or conclusion of law with respect to the applicability or interpretation of any law or regulation.”
OFAC responded to WIN's queries saying:
regular fulfillment of commitments.
The differences with the opposition are clear. While the APNU+AFC struggles with internal conflicts and a lack of clear policies, the PPP/C has kept a united purpose and a clear vision. The opposition's campaign promises seem increasingly out of touch with financial reality, depending on fluctuating oil revenues while ignoring economic basics.
This careless approach contrasts sharply with the PPP/C's balanced, sustainable development strategy that
For Issue One: Yes, a Guyanese could be sanctioned for certain activities with Azruddin Mohamed if that person provides material support to Azruddin Mohamed.
For Issues Two and Three: OFAC did not respond to the direct link between itself and Guyanese banks. It instead focused on how US banks would be handled and confirmed that–Yes, US financial institutions could face sanctions for carrying out transactions that either involve the accounts of Azruddin Mohamed or if the transactions could benefit Azruddin Mohamed.
The response to Issues Two and Three by OFAC is of great importance because it now leaves room for the big question on how it is, then, that a local bank could find itself caught in the mix?
The answer– which has been repeated over and over again– is that local banks have agreements with US banks which support them as "correspondent banks" that provide a number of
services to Guyana-based banks without Guyanese banks having to set up shop in the United States.
To lose a correspondent bank relationship would be to stunt the growth of the local bank as a financial institution, especially for major investments.
But why do we care that Azruddin Mohamed is associated with these people? The answer is that Azruddin Mohamed can't do business through the banks. But when Mohamed himself has said publicly that his [sanctioned] money will be used to fund his political party, how then can the banks ensure that sanctioned money isn't flowing through the accounts of other account holders to the benefit of Azruddin Mohamed?
If those banks did not act as they already did, one would imagine that they might have to take on the heavy administrative burden of increased monitoring of the accounts of Azruddin's associates to ensure that (in keeping with OFAC's answer to the question raised by
Issue Two) Azruddin's sanctioned money isn't going out through the accounts of his party candidates who were all named in a legally-binding process by WIN in the List of Candidates submitted to GECOM which has now been gazetted.
No bank should be made to fetch the burden of that level of policing to ensure the integrity of its own system. Guyanese banks (if doing business with Azruddin Mohamed or any of his named associates from the political party he publicly admitted he is financing) have to do the right thing to protect their assets, the assets of other account holders, and its general operations.
But there's another element in the mix that is being conveniently left out by the people who don't want to believe that the local banks acted properly, and it's that the anti-money laundering system still has to be taken into consideration.
Azruddin Mohamed is a sanctioned person. Azruddin Mohamed submitted a List of Candidates to GECOM of people who could hold public office upon extraction at his request if he were ever to be successful in his bid.
These persons are all now recognised as "politi -
has positioned Guyana as a regional leader in economic growth and democratic governance.
The PPP/C's record speaks volumes, from eliminating over 300 harmful taxes and fees instituted by the previous administration to launching the most ambitious infrastructure programme in the nation's history.
The confidence in calling the party Guyana's only national movement is not just political rhetoric; it reflects a proven ability to unite and advance the country for all its citizens.
cally exposed persons" who enter the race no doubt with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and the global Financial Action Task Force (FATF) taking copious notes.
Banks are bound by a code of customer privacy and so would never outline these internal considerations. It is important to note that it was the WIN candidates themselves who told the public their accounts were being closed, not the banks. These precautionary measures by institutions that handle money are not new. These are the systems in operation. Recall that just a few years ago in 2021, Aubrey Norton couldn't even receive US$500 (about GY$100,000) through MoneyGram because the headquarters would've had to give the approval first.
That is how rigid the global financial system is. Local banks are right to protect themselves from fetching the high administrative burden of, and possibly being penalised for association with the gazetted associates of a man accused of US$50 million tax evasion, among other things.
Sincerely,
DM Wills
Recording Melly Mel, Rickford Burke and Nigel Hughes
NO human on Planet Earth, no matter how much they are engrossed in politics and run for political office can have the feel for history as a person trained in history.
When you are trained in history and you begin to teach history and write history and reflect about recorded times, there is psychic space in you not ordinarily found in non-historians.
The relentless instinct of the history aficionado is to search for things and put them in historical recordings. The history aficionado and the historian write with the country’s historiography in mind.
I began the Freddie Kissoon Show three years ago, and the recording of history was on my mind. I wanted our guests to tell Guyana the stories of their lives so they can be put into Guyana’s history books.
I am always, and I repeat, always uncomfortable when people are reluctant to name people and places. I am always mentally unsettled when they say, “a certain country or a certain place or a certain person”.
Once no libel is involved, then, make the specificities public. The necessity is more pressing when the person is dead. You cannot be sued for libel.
I once wrote at the time, when he was one of Guyana’s leading attorneys and one of Guyana’s richest lawyers, that Rex Mc Kay, when he worked as counter attendant at Bookers Stores stole a box of bicycle tubes was charged and convicted. He couldn’t sue for libel, because I had the Guyana Graphic article.
I wrote that because in a libel writ against me in which McKay was the plaintiff’s lawyer, he shouted out in front of Justice Donald Trotman that I stole books from the National Library. The judge was visibly upset. But McKay thought I was a little quiet boy, and so the courtroom was a scene of loud decibels.
So, McKay was convicted and it is now part of history. All humans have an obligation to enrich history by naming names. Can you imagine that Eusi Kwayana writing about the cowboy trial of the brother of Walter Rodney that Magistrate Norma Jack
and Rex McKay turned into a circus refused to name Jackman and referred to her as “a certain magistrate”?
Jackman was long dead, so why the foolish inclination of Kwayana to erase her name from history? Even Donald Rodney, a quantity
Kissoon Show, disclosed that a very enduring high-level PNC person very close to Forbes Burnham told him he had other ethnic blood in him, and he was glad he wasn’t pure African. Dev refused to name him. Dev could have exposed himself
And what they did was made public and thousands of people read what they wrote that it why Craig could mention it.
Craig wrote about the overseas-based person that wrote about someone monitoring his home. This was
surveyor by profession, refuses to add to history.
He told me after the assassination of Walter Rodney, a certain big name in the PNC government told him he will see that he is never able to work in Guyana. I asked him if the person was still alive. He said no, but refused to disclose his identity. So, the historian will never know that person.
Ravi Dev, on the Freddie
to a libel writ, but since the person is dead, I pressed Dev to name him. It was Haslyn Parris.
Leonard Craig, writing in the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, chose not to name Melly Mel, Rickford Burke and Nigel Hughes. I cannot understand that. The people of Guyana must know what they did.
Here is what they did as contained in Craig’s article.
the infamous Rickford Burke making a false allegation against Mikhail Rodrigues (Guyanese Critic).
Craig referred to Melly Mel, without naming her, about a series of extortion-laden recordings. Craig made reference to the interview Junior Baksh gave to Travis Chase without naming them. Everyone knows what Baksh and Chase intended to do with their propagandistic
assistance to Azruddin Mohamed.
Craig indicted Nigel Hughes for something terribly wrong that Nigel did to Priya Manickchand without naming Nigel. He referred to Nigel as a fading political figure. Here is what Nigel did, and I am appalled that Nigel could damage his credibility so deliberately.
The top CXC performer is an African youth with a hairstyle that carries long curls. It was Minister Manickchand that intervened in a hairstyle controversy, and demanded that children should be allowed to wear their hair how they want to.
In praising the youth, she made the point that his hairstyle did not affect his learning ability. Nigel took the Minister’s congratulatory statement about the boy’s hairdo and put an ethnic twist to it. Craig should have called him out.
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.
‘We
have delivered on the plan for prosperity’
POSITIONING the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) as the only true national movement in Guyana, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, has said that the party has “delivered on the plan for prosperity.”
In his address at the PPP/C’s manifesto launch on Monday, the Prime Minister highlighted how diverse the audience that gathered was.
He said, “We have farmers, we have fishermen, we have captains of business. We have public servants. We have teachers, we have nurses. I can see all of you peo -
- PM Phillips says PPP/C remains connected with the people, continues to craft policies for everyone
ple from all professional backgrounds, religions, religious leaders, and the
list goes on.
“Thank you for being here today to listen to the
plans of the only national party of Guyana. A party that represents all the
people of Guyana. A party that empowers and puts in the forefront our youth, our women.”
The Prime Minister highlighted how the country has been lifted off of the back burners of development reeling from disastrous policies of the former coalition administration that stifled different areas such as rice farming.
PM Phillips also pointed to the development taking place across Guyana.
“You go all over Guyana, every village, every community you see, infrastructure development, new roads, not only highways,” he stated.
The Prime Minister further stressed that the party has always remained connected with the people, with President, Dr. Irfaan Ali leading the charge.
“We, as a government, have remained grounded, a people centred government. A government that was with the people when we were in opposition and we remain connected with the people after we were elected to office. It’s not a case of you electing us and we retreated to our air-conditioned offices. We remain connected with the people,” he said.
‘President Ali the only viable contender’
WHILE highlighting that President Dr. Irfaan Ali faces no serious challenger at the upcoming polls, Frederick McWilfred, who once headed the Political Division at the Ministry of the Presidency under the David Granger administration, appealed to voters to lock in the President’s second term in office on September 1.
During the airing of “Political Insights”, McWilfred endorsed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for a second term, and said President Ali’s strength is further reinforced by having one of the greatest politicians of modern time, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, at his side.
who once headed the Political Division at the Ministry of the Presidency under the David Granger administration
Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
The former political adviser spoke about how the APNU+Alliance For Change (AFC) coalition left the opposition fractured, as the AFC, the smaller of the two parties, was sidelined and stripped of its purpose from 2015-2020.
fidence in the small party even gaining one seat in Parliament.
Addressing the APNU’s state under current leader and presidential hopeful, Aubrey Norton, McWilfred did not mince his words in highlighting how ineffective the party is now.
cording to McWilfred, is at its “worst state” since its formation, and has the “worst leader” since its formation.
While acknowledging public concerns about issues such as project quality under the PPP/C, McWilfred maintained that President Ali has demonstrated political will to lead Guyana’s transformation. Crucially, he argued
“The only viable presidential candidate is President Irfaan Ali,” he said.
that stability requires the PPP/C to return with a parliamentary majority. A repeat of 2011, when the PPP/C held the presidency but lost control of Parliament, would, in his view, “be a disaster for this country”.
He also reflected upon the downfall of the Opposition-the A
“The APNU+AFC coalition was essentially a PNC government. I think the AFC was destroyed as a political party and political force due to that coalition. The PNC leaders did not treat the AFC as a coalition partner. They were, you know, just pushed aside. They were miniaturised, and they lost their purpose,” McWilfred bluntly stated.
With the AFC being in such a sad shape, he did not express any con-
“I knew then, and I know now; once Aubrey Norton was Leader of the PNC, there would never be a coalition of forces,” he said, speaking off of personal experience that Norton is not the type of person that would allow anyone to suggest to him that in the interest of the coalition, they should have a consensus candidate.
In order for the democratic process to work, he said there needs to be a viable opposition, and the current APNU, ac -
“Unfortunately, from 2020, to now, performance of the opposition is really bad. They have not been an effective opposition at all, and I think that's largely due to Norton's inability to grasp with issues,” he opined, stating that after elections, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)- the larger party of the APNUneeds to do an introspection.
Turning his attention to OFAC-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed’s political party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), McWilfred said that the party is built on self-centered agendas.
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips addresses the gathering at the PPP/C Manifesto launch on Monday
Frederick McWilfred,
New 300-metre athletic track to benefit over 4,000 Georgetown students
- President Ali announces, commissions new wing at North Ruimveldt Secondary School
By Naomi Parris
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced that over 4,000 youths from across South Georgetown will soon benefit from a new FIFA-certified pitch, along with a 300-meter athletic track in the compound of the North Ruimveldt Secondary School.
The President made this announcement on Monday at the commissioning of a new $600 million wing at the school.
He underscored that the initiative is designed not just as an investment in sports, but also as part of an ecosystem of education, community upliftment, and youth development.
“It’s about nurturing confidence; capable and responsible citizens who can build prosperous lives for themselves and their families with combined investment, dedication and focus, will ensure that our
children are ready to meet the challenge of tomorrow, to step into a future that is bright, rewarding and full of promise,” President Ali said.
The initiative is designed to support the over 4,000 students drawn from North Ruimveldt, East Ruimveldt, South Ruimveldt, Tucville and Lodge Secondary Schools.
To support the infrastructure, the President proposed the forming of an integrated alliance of coaches, teachers and volunteers to support the children.
The government will also provide coaches to strengthen physical training and mentoring, while the Men on Mission (MOM) programme will contribute 60 voluntary hours monthly to support students’ personal development.
President Ali had previously mandated that all public schools will now move to dedicate Fridays
to physical education classes.
This is part of a larger national push to tackle screen addiction among
children, reduce sedentary lifestyles, and instill lifelong habits of health, teamwork, and discipline.
Ultimately, the Pres -
ident said, the goal is to create an ecosystem where communities can thrive, ensuring that children have access to quality education.
“ What we're doing here is part of a broader effort to equalise the delivery of quality education… The North Ruimveldt Secondary School will be fully equipped to provide the kind of comprehensive and balanced education that combines strong academic grounding with practical handson learning with modern science labs, smart classrooms and technical workshops,” he added.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand recounted when the old wing that once housed several classrooms and laboratories was destroyed by a fire back in 2021.
The school was destroyed just before the full resumption of in-person classes after the
COVID-19 pandemic was brought under control. It was then that the government committed to the rebuilding of the structure.
The new facility includes classrooms, science labs, a library, and staff rooms. Additional improvements included refurbishing the auditorium, canteen, and dining area, landscaping, and repainting administrative blocks.
The minister noted that the government is making conscious, equitable investments which have improved educational outcomes nationwide. The new wing and additional improvements, saw an investment of over $600 million.
The level A institution which boasts an 85.06 per cent pass rate at the recent The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination, will celebrate its 50th anniversary later next month.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Education Minister Priya Manickchand were joined by students, educators and other stakeholders to unveil an artist’s impression of the 300-metre athletic track (Delano William photos)
President Dr. Irfaan Ali is being given a demonstration of a science experiment by a student of the North Ruimveldt Secondary School
All set for Disciplined Services voting on Friday
ALL is set for members of Guyana’s Disciplined Services to cast their votes on Friday, August 22, 2025, ahead of the general electorate for the upcoming General and Regional Elections scheduled for September 1.
This was disclosed on Monday at a press conference held by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to inform the public about its preparedness for the upcoming elections.
This annual practice of early voting ensures that officers from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and Guyana Prison Service (GPS) are able to vote while remaining available for election security duties on polling day.
A total of 10,481 personnel is listed to
vote, with 6,909 from the GPF, 3,106 from the GDF, and 466 from the GPS.
The ranks will vote at designated balloting stations across the country, using standard ballot papers corresponding to their registered districts. Those unable to vote on August 22 will be able to participate with the general electorate on September 1.
The Guyana Fire Service (GFS), though part of the joint services, will vote on Elections Day. GECOM has confirmed that votes cast by the Disciplined Services are not counted separately.
Ballots are secured in tamper-proof containers, and later mixed with the general ballots on Election Day before counting, maintaining the integrity and
confidentiality of the process.
To oversee the voting process, Chief Election Officer (CEO), Vishnu Persaud appointed three ballot officers, as announced in the Official Gazette on June 5, 2025, in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, Cap. 1:03. Areana Britton will serve the GDF, Sharon Jethu the GPF, and Sadhna Boodhanlall the GPS.
The early voting of security personnel is intended to allow them to fulfill their electoral duties without disrupting the deployment of officers to polling stations on Election Day.
GECOM has emphasised that this process aligns with established procedures and safeguards, ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.
Police ranks lined up to participate in the 2020 elections
Education, Healthcare transformation in Region Three key to workforce development
THE people of Region Three are witnessing an unprecedented transformation in their social and economic landscape, as President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali will on Wednesday commission the brandnew Tuschen Secondary School, just weeks after cutting the ribbon on the state-of-the-art De Kinderen Hospital.
Together, these projects, one in education and the other in healthcare, signal a bold step towards uplifting communities, expanding opportunities, and ensuring a better quality of life for residents of the rapidly growing region.
At the forefront of private sector advocacy for these investments is Halim Khan, Head of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. who hailed the initiatives as “game-changing interventions that place people at the centre of development”.
The new Tuschen Secondary School is one of over 39 new schools constructed under President Ali’s administration, representing the government’s commitment to universal secondary education and tuition-free university access.
He explained that the newly commissioned state-of-the-art Tuschen Secondary School is designed to enhance learning with its 24 classrooms, modern science laboratories, a TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) centre, library, multi-purpose hall, cafeteria, and recreational facilities.
By introducing TVET skills training, the R3PSInc Head said, the school equips students with practical knowledge to pursue careers in agriculture, logistics, ecotourism, and other emerging industries that drive the region’s economy, fostering workforce development.
At the same time, he added, it addresses
- says R3PSInc. Head
vercrowding in schools, and promotes inclusive growth by ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has equal access to quality education.
Halim Khan described the school as more than a modern facility; he called it “a doorway to opportunity for hundreds of children in Region Three”.
“This is how we elevate our youth; by giving them modern learning environments to dream big and achieve more,”
Khan emphasised.
Only weeks before Wednesday’s commissioning, Khan said President Ali unveiled the $6.6 billion De Kinderen Hospital, the most advanced public healthcare facility ever built in Region Three.
The hospital offers specialised care in internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, cardiology, orthopaedics, psychiatry, dentistry, and ophthalmology.
It also houses an ICU, HDU, NICU, and boasts Guyana’s first public CT scanner in the region.
Khan described it as “a turning point in healthcare delivery for Region Three”, noting the hospital’s integration of digital patient records, robotic laboratory systems, and real-time imaging in its
noted. “They represent a vision for Region Three as a hub of growth, resilience, and opportunity. For the private sector, this means stronger communities, a better-trained workforce, and an environment where businesses can thrive.”
Khan reaffirmed his commitment on behalf of
the private sector: “We will continue to support the government’s transformational agenda, ensuring that Region Three remains a pillar of stability, progress, and prosperity for all Guyanese,” he said, adding:
“President Irfaan Ali’s transformative vision for Region Three and for Guyana as a whole has delivered tangible results in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His commitment to inclusive growth and human capital development has empowered our communities and strengthened the economy under ‘One Guyana’. I fully support his bid for a second term, confident that under his leadership, Guyana will continue on the path of progress and prosperity.”
operating theatres.
He stressed that the hospital is part of a broader strategy to modernise Guyana’s health sector, combining world-class infrastructure with human capital development.
Khan underscored the link between education and healthcare investments and the region’s wider economic transformation, and further explained that investing in human capital is central to Region Three’s development, as healthy and educated populations drive productivity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), he underscored, stands ready to collaborate with the government to expand opportunities in housing, commerce, and industrial development, further strengthening the region’s economic landscape.
As the fastest-growing region outside of Region Four, Region Three now benefits from modern schools, state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, and upgraded infrastructure, creating an environment that attracts both local and foreign investment, and sustains long-term regional momentum.
WITHOUT sound fiscal management, Guyana’s long-term prosperity can fall through, Vice-President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said, noting that key risks such as over reliance on oil revenues can derail the nation’s progress.
At the launch of the PPP/C’s manifesto on Monday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre Kingston, Dr. Jagdeo said that the government goes beyond promises, and noted that it has tailored sustainable development strategies to serve the nation.
He said: “Unlike other parties, I know anyone
in Guyana or anywhere in the world, you can go on ChatGPT and type in ‘produce a manifesto for me’ and there it will come up with a manifesto… But to craft a plan for the country, you have to situate it in the realities of that particular country and the challenges that the country will face.”
Vice-President and PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
The PPP/C’s policies, he said, are implemented in the context in which they do not put the country at risk.
Macro-economic management has always been a key focus of the PPP/C, as the Vice-President said that it was his party that took Guyana out of the pitfall of debt that the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) regime had placed the nation in.
“Macro-economic management is the fundamental to the success of all sectoral and regional policies, and we've demonstrated over decades that we are capable of managing in that manner today, long before oil, we fixed all of those things,” he said.
Aside from sound macro-economic management framework, he noted that Guyana runs the risk of falling prey to the Dutch Disease since it is an oil producing nation.
But, the PPP/C has focused and will continue to focus on diversifying the economy, he said,
referencing several new growth poles that will create the wealth of the future, from the hospitality sector to agriculture to biotechnology to the connection with Brazil.
As he spoke about other risks, the Vice-President said: “If your plans are not flexible, and they don't take into account the international variable, which he (President Irfaan Ali) spoke of, the changes in the global financial system, the changes in the world trading system, the political events in the world that can rapidly have an impact, here in Guyana.
“For example, when the war between Russia and Ukraine started, the serious escalation in fuel crisis. If the national plan doesn't account for those variables, and they are lopsided, then you can be harmed immeasurably.”
Moreover, the Vice-President noted that there are three sets of goals that the PPP/C is aiming to achieve within their next term in office.
Speaking about how the PPP/C has grown
as a formidable force, the Vice-President said that the Guyanese people have seen how the party is one that stays true to its commitments and continues to be a national movement that aims to unite all.
He further highlighted how the PPP/C kept its 2020 manifesto commitments, noting: “They've seen we're trustworthy, that we'll keep our promises to all the people of the country, as we did every promise that's listed in our manifesto in 2020. They were deliberately put there, and we have implemented them, and because we have implemented them in an equitable, fair manner, people have seen the true nature of this party, and more and more people are attracted not only to our vision, but to the collective that combined, unified collective that we operate.”
He also spoke about more social services, expanded business support and community-based issues being targeted.
PNCR Executive warns of Venezuela-style collapse if US-sanctioned businessman elected
EXECUTIVE Committee member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Mervyn Williams has cautioned that Guyana could face a Venezuela-style collapse if citizens elect leaders who are already under United States sanctions.
Speaking at a recent PNCR-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) rally meeting, Williams drew comparisons to Venezuela’s economic downfall under President Nicolás Maduro, who was sanctioned shortly after assuming office.
Maduro is currently under sanctions, and has a US$50 million reward offer for his arrest after being directly linked to drug smuggling operations. He and other high-ranking Venezuelan officials have been linked to a range of offences, including narco-terrorism, corruption. and drug trafficking.
“There is a risk! The President of Venezuela was sanctioned after he became the president,” Williams said, adding: “The whole country collapsed, and we have got to deal with the migrants of Venezuela in our midst, and we understand the suffering that they have to endure.
“We are good citizens of the Earth and
we reach out to them; we embrace them, we empathise with them, and we offer them support, because we know of their suffering.”
In what sounded more like a warning than a question, Williams asked the swell of APNU supporters at the rally, “Do you want another country to embrace you, because you elected people who are sanctioned?”
Williams’ unease comes against the backdrop of heightened concerns over the US-sanctioned Mohamed family and their involvement in Guyana’s political affairs.
In August 2024, the Bank of Guyana confirmed that all banks in the country had closed accounts belonging to Nazar Mohamed, his son Azruddin, and their companies, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World, and Team Mohamed’s Racing.
The move followed sanctions imposed on June 11, 2024, by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for their alleged roles in corruption.
The consequences have been far-reaching. Persons affiliated with the Mohameds have lost visas, while candidates of their political outfit, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), were discouraged from continuing to hold ac-
counts with certain local banks as said financial institutions sought to protect their ties with correspondent US banks.
OFAC has also warned that non-US persons risk being sanctioned if found providing material support to the Mohameds, under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had also raised the alarm, stating that Guyana could face “crippling international consequences” if Azruddin Mohamed, who has been positioning himself for political office, were to be elected.
“This country could face sanctions and big trouble with the United States of America if he is elected. His sanctions, they are serious sanctions,” Dr. Jagdeo stressed.
The United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot recently echoed those concerns, labelling any attempt to integrate an OFAC-sanctioned individual into Guyana’s government as “problematic”.
“Yes, we are concerned anytime an OFAC-sanctioned individual has the potential to become a member of government… It’s problematic in multiple ways,” Ambassador Theri -
ot said, warning that such developments could carry both diplomatic and economic repercussions.
PNCR Executive Committee Member
Mervyn Williams
Traffic division records over 2,600 road
violations in one week
Traffic officials are warning that drivers and motorcyclists must adhere to road safety rules, as penalties will be firmly applied to prevent further loss of life
THE Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department has reported a total of 2,015 cases made for the period August 10–16, 2025, with 660 of those related to traffic violations.
The department’s statistics highlight persistent concerns on the nation’s roadways. The most common infractions recorded were tinted motor vehicles (158 cases), failure to wear safety helmets (144 cases), and speeding (120 cases). These were followed by seatbelt breaches (93), unlighted motor vehicles (front –37, rear – 48), driving under the influence (16), faulty packing (21), and breach of prescribed fitness conditions (23).
Police traffic officials have repeatedly underscored that such violations are not minor, as they often contribute to serious and fatal accidents.
The heavy number of helmet and seatbelt violations, in particular, raises concerns about compliance with basic safety measures.
Guyana has seen a troubling increase in road fatalities in recent years, many of which are linked to reckless driving, speeding, and impaired driving.
The Traffic Department has on several occasions emphasized the importance of enforcement campaigns and public awareness in reducing deaths on the country’s roadways.
The latest figures reflect the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing dangerous road use practices. Authorities are urging drivers and motorcyclists to observe road safety regulations, stressing that penalties will continue to be enforced in an effort to save lives.
Lethem crash claims lives of young family of three
A TRAGIC accident along the Pirara Trail Road in Central Lethem, Region Nine, has claimed the lives of a young family of three, leaving the Rupununi community in shock and mourning.
Dead are 23-year-old motorcyclist Jagnarine Stephen, his 24-year-old wife, Kyrea Stephen, and their two-year-old daughter Laurel Stephen, all of Yakarinta Village, North Rupununi.
The fatal crash occurred at around 11:20 hrs on Sunday, August 17, 2025, when the family, who was travelling on a red-and-black motorcycle, was struck by a minibus bearing registration number #BAC 8020.
The vehicle is owned by one Shawn Pedro of Tabatinga, Lethem, and was being driven at the time by 34-year-old Darwell Bernard of Katoka Village.
Police investigations revealed that the minibus was proceeding north along the trail at about 50 kmph when the driver, while negotiating a turn, collided with the motorcycle, which was reportedly travelling in the opposite direction at a fast rate.
The impact threw the family from the motorcycle, leaving them with severe injuries. An Emergency Medical Team from the Lethem Hospital responded promptly with an ambulance and
doctor on duty. Tragically, Jagnarine Stephen and his young daughter were pronounced dead at the scene. Kyrea Stephen, who was picked up in an unconscious state, later succumbed to her injuries while being transported to the Lethem Regional Hospital.
The bodies of the deceased were taken to the hospital’s mortuary, where they await post-mortem examinations.
Meanwhile, the minibus driver was arrested and taken into custody. Police confirmed that two breathalyser tests conducted on him returned negative results for alcohol. Investigations are ongoing.
The young family of three in happier times
GPF, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s office launch crisis management training ahead of elections
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF), in collaboration with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, on Monday launched a Crisis Management Training Programme at the Officers’ Training Centre, Camp Road, Georgetown, with 58 ranks from the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) participating.
The training comes just weeks before Guyana’s General and Regional Elections on September 1, 2025, a period when law enforcement plays a critical role in ensuring peace, order, and public trust.
Delivering opening remarks, Woman Senior Superintendent Dr. Nicola Kendall described the initiative as “yet another significant step in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the professionalism, readiness, and resilience of our ranks in the face of complex challenges”.
She stressed that crises, whether natural disasters, civil disturbances, or emerging security threats, require not just courage but specialized knowledge, planning, and coordination.
Dr. Kendall said the programme will equip officers with the tools to respond decisively, and restore order with integrity and accountability.
She also noted that the partnership with the US Embassy reflects the importance of international cooperation in building safer, more resilient societies.
US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot also underscored the timeliness of the training, particularly in the lead-up to the elections. She emphasised the need for effective crisis response, timely communication, and professionalism to
safeguard citizens’ rights to vote, assemble, and express themselves peacefully. The Ambassador reaffirmed the US Government’s support for Guyana’s security and sovereignty, adding that the initiative will help ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken described the programme as “far more than a routine training exercise”, pointing out that it reflects the GPF’s strategic vision to build capacity through international collaboration, as outlined in its Strategic Plan 2022–2026. He said that while unrest during the elections is unlikely, the TSU will maintain the highest level of readiness.
“The eyes of the nation will be upon us during this election period and beyond,” Hicken told the officers, stressing that crisis management is about anticipating challenges, preventing escalation, and restoring order with fairness and sound judgment.
The programme involves officers working closely with experienced Miami-Dade law enforcement professionals, sharing best practices on high-risk operations, crowd management, VIP protection, counter-terrorism, and critical incident response.
The launch was attended by representatives of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office—Sergeant Oscar Pla, Sergeant Lazaro Rodriguez, and Deputy Ramon Rodriguez—as well as officials from the U.S. Embassy, including Regional Security Officer Tim Semons and Political & Economic Chief Russell Zalizniak.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken and US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole D. Theriot (centre) flanked by representatives of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, officials from the US Embassy and ranks who will participate in the Crisis Management Training Programme
India-CARICOM prosthetic limbs camp launched in Guyana
In a landmark effort to strengthen rehabilitation services across the country, Kalpataru Projects International Limited, in collaboration with the High Commission of India, the CARICOM Secretariat, and the Ministry of Health, launched the India-CARICOM Prosthetic Limbs Camp at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre in Georgetown.
The initiative celebrates ongoing collaboration between Guyana, India, and CARICOM aimed at improving the disability and rehabilitation sector.
The camp, hosted by the Kalpataru Project Outreach Team, provides Jaipur Foot prosthetic limbs to amputee patients, focusing on restoring mobility and extending access to persons living in the hinterland and other regions across Guyana.
Director of Disability and Rehabilitation Services, Dr. Ariane Mangar highlighted the transformative impact of the programme.
“This partnership has already begun to transform lives, giving persons with amputations the opportunity to regain independence, mobility, and dignity,” she said. Dr. Mangar noted that 35 limbs have already been completed, with plans to fit another 50 by the camp’s conclusion on August 30, 2025. She emphasised that amputees from all regions of Guyana, including Regions One, Two, Three, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, and Ten, will benefit from the initiative.
The programme also includes training local personnel in prosthetics, ensuring that the skills to manufacture and fit Jaipur Foot prostheses remain in Guyana after the camp concludes.
Dr. Mangar expressed, “Together, Guyana and India are showing how international cooperation can bring real change, restoring mobility, and, more importantly, restoring lives.”
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony underscored the urgency of addressing the needs of amputees, whether due to accidents or diabetes.
“When we talk about these prostheses really transforming life, it’s not a cliché; it’s actually happening. It’s going to change how they view life, and what they’re able to do. Maybe it’s like a
second life that you’re getting with these prostheses,” he said.
Dr. Anthony also confirmed that the partnership with Jaipur Foot India is designed as a continuous engagement to reach more patients more efficiently.
Representing Kalpataru Projects, Anagha Poojari described the prosthetic limb donation as central to the company’s global mission to restore mobility and dignity.
“These prosthetic limbs are more than medical devices; they are lifelines that empower people to walk, work, and live with confidence,” she stated, citing similar transformative initiatives in Ethiopia and Tanzania.
CARICOM’s Deputy Programme Manager in Health Sector Development, Dr. Serena Bender Pelswidsk commended the initiative, noting that free prosthetic limbs will significantly improve participants’ mobility and quality of life. She expressed optimism for continued collaboration between CARICOM member states and India.
The India-CARICOM Prosthetic Limbs Camp represents a crucial step in expanding access to high-quality rehabilitation services in Guyana, giving hope, independence, and renewed opportunity to persons living with amputations.
Standing from second left are: KPIL representative Anagha Poojari, Project Head for KPIL P.K Mohanty, High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana Gale Miller Garnett, High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, Deputy Programme Manager in Health Sector Development at CARICOM Dr. Serena Bender Pelswidsk, and third from right, Director of Disability and Rehabilitation Services in Guyana Dr. Ariane Mangar, flanked by other officials, and beneficiaries (Delano Williams Photo)
Three dead, one injured in fatal Soesdyke-Linden Highway crash
POLICE are investigating a tragic accident that claimed the lives of three persons and left another seriously injured early Saturday morning on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
The fatal crash occurred at around 01:30 hrs on August 16, 2025 in the vicinity of Loo Creek, when a car collided with a parked lorry.
According to reports, the accident involved Motor Car #PAH 9911, owned and driven by 26-year-old Mairo Campbell of Hyde Park, Timehri, and Motor Lorry #GAF 2776, which was parked along the western side of the highway after suffering a blown-out front tyre.
Campbell’s vehicle was carrying three passengers at the time:Sixyear-old Marenzo Campbell, 26-year-old Shelly Joseph, and 25-year-old Keiron Wells, all of Hyde Park, Timehri.
Investigations revealed that the lorry, laden with wooden materials, had been left on the roadway without any reflectors or warning signals to alert other
motorists. Campbell, who was reportedly driving at a fast rate, crashed into the rear of the vehicle.
The impact left all four occupants of the car with severe head and bodily injuries.
Police, assisted by public-spirited citizens, removed them from the mangled car and rushed them to the Linden Hospital Complex. Sadly, young Marenzo Campbell and Keiron Wells were pronounced dead on arrival, while Shelly Joseph succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment.
Driver Mairo Campbell remains hospitalised with a dislocated left foot and a displaced left eye. His condition has been listed as serious but stable.
Police confirmed that a breathalyser test conducted on the lorry driver returned negative for alcohol. However, further checks revealed that the driver was not the holder of a licence to operate that class of vehicle.
The bodies of the deceased are awaiting post-mortem examinations as investigations continue.
The fatal crash occurred at around 01:30 hrs on August 16, 2025, in the vicinity of Loo Creek, when a car collided with a parked lorry
Dataman wins Guyana Cup in...
crossed the finish line ahead of Anthem King, with Ritorna Vincentori and Stat finishing third and fourth, respectively.
The day's events, which started delayed due to the rain, saw several other notable results. Three D Movie claimed the J/K/L Maidens for J's Racing, which had a dominant day with four total wins.
Proteas
(From back page)
In the First Time Starter, Top Gun came away with the win, while American Traveller took the honours in the fourth race ahead of the ill-fated ‘Blinding Lights’.
add young gun Maphaka to...
ferent for a few of the boys," Marsh said.
The opening match of the three-game series will be held in Cairns on Tuesday, with the series then switching to Mackay for the final two clashes.
Australia squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mar-
Nice Time won the Juvenile Stakes, and in the Sprint Classic, Regal Man was supreme, beating favourite John Bull.
J's Racing Stables also celebrated victory in the Derby, with Spank Me taking a commanding win.
(From page 30)
nus Labuschagne, Adam Zampa
South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Kwena Maphaka, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen.
Gill, Siraj likely to miss out on...
expected to be picked for the September 9-28 championship, with Jaiswal appearing to have the edge. It is possible that neither is selected, but for now Gill seems to be trailing in the race - unless Gautam Gambhir makes a strong pitch for the Test skipper.
The other batters in the squad are likely to be Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh, with one more batting slot still to be decided. Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar are the contenders, but Shreyas Iyer - who led from the front for IPL finalists Punjab Kings - may not be as fortunate. Jitesh Sharma is expected to claim the second wicketkeep-
er's spot.
Siraj, the highest wicket-taker in the Anderson-Tendulkar series with a spirited performance and currently the toast of the nation, may struggle to find a place, as Jasprit Bumrah - arguably the best bowler in the worldwill be entrusted with the job of leading the attack. Spots are expected for Arshdeep Singh and one (or both) of Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana Hardik Pandya, who bowled the crucial last over in the T20 World Cup, will be the other pacer in the squad. Veteran seamer Mohammed Shami, who was part of the XI in the last T20I that India played (versus
CSK clarify Dewald Brevis signing...
(From page 29)
the team was willing to pay him extra, which is why he came in," added Ashwin.
Under IPL regulations, a replacement player cannot be signed for a fee exceeding that of the player he replaces. Furthermore, the rules add that, " If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee actually paid to him will be reduced to take account of
the Franchisee's matches during the relevant Season which took place before he was registered and any other relevant deductions under the Player Contract."
Dewald Brevis, who was unsold at the auction, had come in as a mid-season replacement for pacer Gurjapneet Singh, who was ruled out injured after being signed for INR 2.2 crore at the auction in Jeddah.
In its statement, CSK said Brevis was signed in April 2025 for INR 2.2 crore, the same amount Gurjapneet had fetched at the auction, and that the process adhered to clause 6.6 of the IPL Player Regulations 2025-27 relating to replacement players. The franchise also pointed to the IPL's own media advisory issued on April 18 confirming the signing under these terms. (Cricbuzz)
(From page 29)
England) is unlikely to be considered.
Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi along with vice-captain Axar Patel, will be
the designated spinners and a place for Washington Sundar, who was part of the last T20I squad in February, is likely, if not guaranteed. (Cricbuzz)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, August 19, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Shai Hope-6 (4 catches/2 stumpings) (2) Mohammad Rizwan-4 (3 catches/1 stumping)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI cracked most sixes in a single innings in the recent WI/PAK ODI series?
(2) Which PAK struck most sixes in a single game? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
BRIGHTON
09:15hrs London Is Blue
09:45hrs Bee My Honey
10:15hrs Foinix
10:45hrs Chourmo
11:15hrs Bear To Dream 11:45hrs Poetic Force
KEMPTON
09:30hrs Sweet Love
10:00hrs Allegresse
10:30hrs The New Bay Pearl
11:00hrs Dubai Beach
11:30hrs Karthon
13:10hrs Hayynah
13:40hrs Sporting Light
14:10hrs Little Keilee
14:40hrs Kento
15:10hrs Daytona Lady
15:40hrs Team Player
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
KENILWORTH
08:10hrs Bugle Boy
08:45hrs Yamazaki
09:20hrs Kamchatka
09:55hrs Haretoi
10:35hrs Blind Date
11:10hrs Champagne Mac
IRISH RACING TIPS
ROSCOMMON
12:20hrs Cheers Again
12:50hrs Tharaka
13:20hrs Giovanni Giorgio
13:50hrs Próxima Centauri
14:20hrs William Browne
14:60hrs Juniper Sling 15:20hrs Pillar Of Hope
AMERICAN
SA20 not threatened by BBL's aim to be second-biggest league after IPL, says Smith
THE SA20 organisers believe they have established enough of a foothold not to be threatened by the BBL's aim to become the second-biggest league in the world after the IPL, according to commissioner Graeme Smith.
The SA20, which will begin its fourth season on Boxing Day this year and has IPL ownership across all six franchises, has the second-highest salary cap after the IPL of R41 million (US$2.31 million). By that measure, it could be regarded as the next-best league in the global game and with a marquee auction scheduled for September 9, Smith explained they plan to stay that way.
"When we started, we were built up against the ILT20 and Big Bash and we set ourselves big ambitions upfront," Smith told ESPNcricinfo ahead of the closing of player registration for the auction. "In the southern hemisphere window, we want to dominate, and we want to be the biggest league outside the IPL.
Three years in, we've set the standard. Every decision we make is around making sure that we uphold those standards. I expect there will be a top number of leagues that will elevate themselves
in a calendar cycle and that will be the priority for players, investors and fans. Our ambitions are to remain right at the top of that alongside IPL.
Smith's comments come less than two weeks after CA CEO Todd Greenberg told SEN radio that his board would "unashamedly" chase second spot by exploring privatisation.
"It's going to be very hard to chase the IPL, given the scale of cricket in India, but unashamedly, we want to run a league that comes second. And to do that we're going to need to make sure that player availability and player salaries are commensurate with everything else that goes on around the world, and there's one thing you need for that, you need money, you need investment. We'd be naive if we weren't asking ourselves these questions and making sure we've got an eye on what's next," Greenberg said.
The BBL's move to seek private investment will make it the last of the established leagues to look for funding outside of board structures. The Hundred is the most recent to make the same moves, with deals for six out of their eight teams finalised ahead of next season. While happenings in the Hundred do
not affect the SA20 because it is played in a different window, the BBL clashes with the SA20, which could mean a clash over status and crucially, player availability. Again, Smith had reason to be bullish. While the BBL is played at the same time as Australia's international summer and so does not have Test players fully available, all South Africa's national and domestically contracted players will prioritise the SA20, even if at the expense of international games. South Africa sent an understrength Test side to New Zealand last year, as an example of this policy in action. At the time, it drew criticism, but with South Africa going on to win the World Test Championship final, Smith sees it as proof that formats can co-exist if the planning is right.
Gill, Siraj likely to miss out on Asia Cup squad
THE Indian selectors will meet in Mumbai on Tuesday (today) to pick the squad for the Asia Cup, and their choices may well defy conventional wisdom and general expectations. Some of the standout performers from the England tour - including Shubman Gill, the star batter, and Mohammed Siraj, the valiant spearhead - could still find it difficult to make the cut.
Gill hammered over 750 runs - second only to the legendary Sunil Gavaskar in terms of aggregate in a series. But the obvious explanation is that those runs came in five-day games and Asia Cup is a short T20I championship He also compiled a staggering 650 runs in the IPL, but those came as an opener, and the selectors are expected to stick with the current pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. There is always room
for a third opener, and Gill's name is certain to come up for discussion, but Yashasvi Jaiswal is a strong contender for the role. One of them is
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"Everyone was worried that we were going to destroy Test cricket but we've seen our national team go on a few years later to win the World Test Championship final. We've all played our role in the ecosystem," he said. "We've been part of bringing gravitas back to South African cricket, seeing new fans come back to the game and new energy."
At the same time, the SA20 also attracts internationals from other countries and last year had several English Test players, who had the winter off, join the tournament. This season, with the Ashes on, could be different but Smith still anticipates a strong contingent.
"In the first two seasons we saw a lot of the England white-ball players come through and then with the
FTP ebbing and flowing every year that changes," he said. "So, this year with the Ashes, we see some of those white ball players come back and maybe the Test players won't form part of this season. The Ashes finishes on the ninth (of January, 2026). I don't know if some of their players will form part of replacement lists, but we've seen the likes of a Jos Butler come back into the tournament this year as an example."
Buttler, who played for Paarl Royals in the first two seasons, has been pre-signed by Durban's Super Giants for the fourth season. Each franchise was allowed a maximum of six retentions or presigned players ahead of the new season. Of the 36 spots available, only a third (13) have been filled by South
African players which Smith believes will create a lively auction. "I expected a lot more top South African players to pre-sign and that didn't happen," he said. "From our perspective it's set up a very exciting auction with a very big purse."
The fourth season of the SA20 will be played over the festive period as South Africa do not host any home Tests this summer. Matches will not be played on any of the new drop-in pitches which are planned for the 2027 ODI World Cup but Smith hopes the lack of cricket this season will result in surfaces with a bit more life in them compared to last year, when they showed signs of wear.
"The pitches last year didn't play as well as we would have liked and it's something that's being worked on in terms of revamping stadiums and facilities ahead of the World Cup," he said. "We're working closely with Cricket South Africa in terms of improving the quality of stadiums, lights and pitches. Everything is a big work in progress behind the scenes."
The SA20 auction will take place in Johannesburg on September 9. Player registration for the auction closed on Monday, August 18.
CSK clarify Dewald Brevis signing after Ashwin remarks
CHENNAI Super Kings have issued a clarification around the mid-season signing of South Africa's Dewald Brevis in IPL 2025, stating that the deal was "in complete compliance" with tournament regulations. The statement came after R Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that CSK had to pay 'extra money' to secure the services of the South African.
"Dewald Brevis had a great time in the IPL last year after CSK got him in in the back half of the season," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him but they had to let him go after
not being able to pay extra money. He had a base price in the auction but discussions and negotiations would have happened with his agent, that 'I'll join the team only for a certain sum of money'. "His concept would have been that 'If I play this season, my value (for the next auction) will go higher'. So he might have told CSK, 'I'll need the extra money'. And
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The SA20 has IPL ownership across all six franchises (SA20)
Shubman Gill andMohammed Siraj recently headlined India's Test summer in England
Dewald Brevis came in as an injury replacement for Gurjapneet Singh
Sue Bird, four-time WNBA champion, has statue unveiled in Seattle
“YOU’RE the GOAT, Sue!”
It’s easy for Seattle fans to think so. The longtime Storm point guard already had her jersey retired and a street in the city named after her, and on Sunday became the first player in WNBA history to have a statue erected outside of a team’s home arena.
“There’s just not a lot of women that are honoured in this way,” Bird said before her statue’s unveiling.
“We have tons of men and I’m actually proud and honoured, especially in the city of Seattle, to be with those other male athletes. Those are elite, elite athletes. I’m really proud to be in the same breath as the greats that have come through here, but even more proud to be the first WNBA player.”
In total, the Storm’s scoring leader racked up 6,803 points to complement her WNBA-record 3,234 assists.
Bird, a 13-time All-Star who won four WNBA championships, is the only player in league history to win titles across three different decades.
After she was selected No. 1 in the 2002 WNBA draft, Bird was both critical to and observed the league’s rapid ascent. While grateful for her personal accomplishments and those of the Storm, Bird takes great pride in what stars like herself and those in attendance, such as Diana Taurasi and Lauren Jackson, have done for the WNBA.
“What’s always been so
Bird’s 8-foot, 650-pound statue is located close to that of former Supersonics player and coach Lenny Wilkens, who became the first person to have a statue unveiled outside Climate Pledge Arena in June. The statue depicts Bird, 44, scoring a layup, which she said was a nod to how she scored both her first and final baskets in the WNBA.
wonderful about seeing it grow, where it literally right now it’s the biggest, ‘I told you so’ that anybody of us could ever have in our lives,” Bird said. “Because we knew. We knew what we had, we believed in it. We just needed other people to see it.”
“The city has given me a home, a place where I could have a career, a place where I felt welcome,” Bird said. “A place where I really grew up. I mean in a lot of ways, I really grew up here.”
Evidenced by the latest addition outside Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle is also where Bird dominated. In spending her entire career with the Storm, Bird joined the NBA’s Dirk Nowitzki and the late Kobe Bryant as the only players to spend 20 or more seasons with one franchise and have a statue erected in their likeness.
Many professional male athletes across various professional sports have been
Barbados and Leewards dominate to secure second-round wins in CWI Rising Stars U17 championship
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – The second day of the second round in the CWI Rising Stars Under-17 Two-Day Championship saw commanding performances from Barbados and the Leeward Islands, while Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana battled to a hard-fought draw.
At the National Cricket Centre, Barbados secured a comprehensive victory over Jamaica, winning by an innings and two runs.
Jamaica’s batting struggled throughout the match, collapsing for just 68 in their first innings, with Zarell Harding bagging 4-9 and Javed Worrell 3-13 leading Barbados’ charge.
Despite an improved second innings score of 141, with Nicoli McKenzie getting 25 and Odane Binns 18, the rest of the Jamaican batting offered little resistance, as Asher Branford’s fiery spell of 5-25 sealed the win.
Barbados’ Jordan Graham, 58, and Justin Parris, 43, had earlier set up the dominant position with solid batting contributions in their total of 211 for 7 declared. Ramnaresh Singh was the pick of the Jamaican bowlers with 3-30.
At the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, the Leeward Islands produced a clinical performance to thrash the Windward Islands by 244 runs.
After posting 238 in their first innings, thanks to Kunal Tilokani’s 85 and J’Quan Athanaze’s 52, the Leewards declared their second innings at 143 for 5, setting an imposing target.
The Windwards crumbled twice, first for 74, with Tilokani taking 5-11, and then for just 63 in their second innings, as Tilokani again wreaked havoc with 5-9.
Jonathan Daniel, 34, in the first innings was the lone
afforded such honours across the country. But as Bird noted, it has been rare for those in the women’s basketball world to receive the same treatment.
Las Vegas Aces centre
A’ja Wilson has a statue at her alma mater, South
resistance for the Windwards, while Cody Fontinelle’s 6-96 in the first innings went in vain.
At Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana played out a tense draw. Guyana first made 109, after which T&T replied with 184. Guyana then fought hard in their second innings, finishing at 137 for 8, with Adrian Hetmyer scoring 25 and Richard Ramdehol 24.
Daniel Holder was the standout bowler for T&T, claiming 6-23 in the second innings after his 4-15 in the first. Earlier, Saleem Khan, 35 and Aadi Ramsaran, 30, had anchored T&T’s innings, but Dave Mohabir, 3-25 and Parmeshwar Ram, 3-35, kept Guyana in the contest.
Round three begins tomorrow with the following fixtures- T&T vs Jamaica at NCC, Guyana vs Leewards at Inshan Ali Park and Barbados vs Winwards at Queen’s Park Oval.
Carolina, and Hall of Fame coach Pat Summitt does, too, next to Tennessee’s Thompson-Boling Arena.
To join the likes of Wilson and Summitt, as well as Wilkens, in receiving a statue is a development Bird hardly takes lightly.
“This is really exciting to be – I don’t even know if honoured really covers it because it’s a bronze statue that will be there forever,” Bird said. “And, it feels different when you think of it that way.” (The Globe and Mail)
Proteas add young gun Maphaka to squad as ODI debut looms for Brevis
SOUTH Africa have added teenage quick Kwena Maphaka to their squad for the upcoming threematch ODI series against Australia.
Maphaka earns a place in the 17-player ODI squad on the back of some impressive performances during the recent T20I series with the Aussies, where the left-armer collected nine scalps to finish as the leading wicket-taker across the series.
The 19-year-old could be in contention to add to his two ODI caps during the series with Australia that commences in Cairns on Tuesday, with in-form batter Dewald Brevis almost certain to win an ODI debut following some superb efforts in the 20-over series that the Aussies won 2-1.
Brevis managed a series-best 180 runs across the three matches at an average of 90 and strike rate in excess of 200 and South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma admitted he had been impressed with the efforts of the 22-year-old.
"It's always exciting when you see the young faces," Bavuma said.
"Obviously the big talk has been on Brevis, (he's been) putting up his hand and showing what he is capable of.
"(I'm) excited to see what he can also bring within the one-day stuff."
For Bavuma, the ODI series in Australia will mark his first competitive contest since he led South Africa to their first ICC World Test Championship title in June and will also serve as his first test on the hamstring injury he picked up from the same match.
Bavuma said his hamstring was 'feeling good' ahead of his return and the South African skipper also confirmed he would bat at
No.3 for the opening match of the three-game series behind openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram. Australia welcome experienced batter Marnus Labuschagne back into their squad after he was dropped for the recent Test series against the West Indies in the Caribbean, with Mitch Marsh filling in for regular skipper Pat Cummins who is absent.
Marsh helped Australia register the 2-1 triumph over South Africa during the T20I series and is hoping for more of the same during the 50over matches.
"Getting ready to spend three and a half hours in the field will be a little bit dif-
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Former Seattle Storm point guard Sue Bird stands near her statue after its unveiling outside Climate Pledge Arena, Sunday in Seattle
Teenage quick Kwena Maphaka
CWI unveils bold vision for Americas cricket at ICC conference in Singapore
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) took centre stage at the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) annual conference in Singapore, presenting an ambitious plan to unite the Americas under a single cricketing federation and accelerate the sport’s explosive growth across the hemisphere.
The proposal, headlined by the creation of La Federación de Críquet de las Américas (FECA), seeks to formalise collaboration among cricket-playing nations in North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
The initiative comes at a time when cricket’s popularity is skyrocketing in the region, with Brazil now boasting 88,000 registered
Elite League 7
players with over 50% being women, while the USA has surpassed 400,000 players, including 53,000 in youth programs.
CWI CEO Chris Dehring emphasised that FECA would serve as a vital platform for development, competition, and regional engagement.
“Elevating the sport in the wider hemisphere benefits us all. By connecting emerging markets in the Americas with our established structures, we can create more matches, exposure, and opportunities at every level, for both ICC associate members and Cricket West Indies nations.”
The proposal also included discussions on an Americas Championship, modelled after the Asia Cup, where Caribbean nations could compete individually against teams from North, Central, and South America. Additionally, pathways for Olympic and Pan American Games qualification were explored, ensuring all countries in the region have a fair shot at global representation.
With cricket’s return to the Olympics in 2028, Dehring stressed the importance of inclusion for Caribbean nations.
“Our 15 proud nations deserve a fair pathway to compete. Individual countries vying for Olympic qualification will not only boost national pride but also strengthen the West Indies team in the long run.”
The conference saw participation from cricket associations across the Americas, including the USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Bermuda, and The Bahamas, all united in their commitment to harnessing cricket’s growing momentum in the Western Hemisphere.
GDF notch up another win as Slingerz hold lead at the top of table
DEFENDING Elite League
champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) put on a show to clinch an important win, while Slingerz Football Club on Sunday again brought out their A-game to maintain their unbeaten record in the 2025 edition of the Guyana Football Federation Elite League season at the Leonora National Stadium.
Den Amstel’s difficult
run in the Elite League continued as they suffered their 8th loss this season 4-2.
They went down to GDF in the feature clash at the weekend.
The defending champions went ahead in the 38th minute of the contest off of a Stephen Mcdonald strike before Den Amstel’s Delon Lanferman equalised three minutes later as they went into the break one goal
apiece.
A second-half double from Trayon Bobb coming within eight minutes of each other in the 50th and 58th minutes gave the soldiers the advantage 2-1.
Abumchi Opara would add to that making it 4-1 in the 69th minute as the soldiers started to strut their offensive prowess.
Den Amstel‘s Deon Alfred got on to the score sheet
in the 87th minute but that proved his only intervention as they succumbed to a 4-2 defeat.
In the other clash, Slingerz who hold the sway at the top of the league table after picking up their 11th win when they clashed with Essequibo’s Mainstay Gold Star.
It was their most one-sided win of the season as they demolished their new oppo-
Webster leaving no stone unturned for Ashes berth
DESPITE a positive start to his Test career, which includes four fifties from his seven Tests - many of which were played on trying surfaces - lanky all-rounder Beau Webster isn’t taking things for granted.
“When you're at the top level, you're fighting to hang on to your spot,” Webster, who had recently finished a stint in county following the West Indies Tests, told reporters in Hobart in the context of keeping his Test place for the Ashes.
nents who is a novice team in the league this year.
Mainstay’s woes continued as they found the going tough unable to get into the back of the net instead going down 2-0 to Slingerz. Slingerz new recruit Jean-Heim McFree showed his chops to record a fiver.
McFree had good support from Kemar Beckford and Bryan Wharton with both registering hat-tricks.
Derron Niles, Romaine Brackenridge and Derrel Garcia contributed with doubles with Job Caesar, Daniel Ross and Solomon Austin getting solitary goals. On the table behind Slingerz at the top is the Guyana Police Force on eight wins with three draws and a loss with Western Tigers third. Guyana Defence Force are fourth with Santos.
“With all the wonderful cricketers around the country, and especially a guy like Cameron Green, he batted at the top of the order [in the West Indies], and didn't bowl.
“He's obviously going to be back bowling this summer, which is going to put a bit more pressure on my spot at No. 6 as the allrounder. But I welcome it.”
While Marnus Labuschagne has thrown his hat in the ring as a contender to open for Australia but should Green’s bowling returns be encouraging, the Australia selectors can
Tasmania’s latest international cricketing star reasons that Cameron Green, who has impressed since his return at No. 3, will sooner than later return to bowling, and that might open up his spot in the lower middle-order to scrutiny.
find ways to accommodate the experienced Labuschagne into the XI while also playing specialist openers.
On the latest edition of The ICC Review, Ricky Ponting was all praise for Mitchell Starc, who recently completed 100 Tests and 400 Test wickets against West Indies.
This would leave the seven-Test-old Webster under the scanner, but the all-rounder is ready to once again prove his worth in the domestic red-ball setup.
“I feel like I've been in this position before a lot in my career,” Webster added. “Where I've got to score runs to either go to the next level or
stay on the team. It's certainly not unfamiliar.
“I'm looking forward to once again showing what I can do at [Sheffield] Shield level, and hopefully, be lining up in that first Ashes Test in Perth.
“It's going to be a massive summer. I'm sure the team's going to change a little bit throughout those five Tests. I'm just going to do everything I can to make sure I'm there for all five.”
Webster will have four prospective Shield fixtures to make a strong case for Australia’s selectors to pick two all-rounders for the upcoming Ashes.
The all-rounder has full
Australia all-rounder Beau Webster
faith in his capabilities, should the call-up come for him.
“I feel like I've scored some tough runs. At the same time, there's no hundred next to my name, which I would have loved to go on with one of those [half-centuries].
“I felt like I was batting as good as I have done in a
number of those innings. I feel like I've got all the tools to succeed this summer in the Ashes with what England are going to potentially bring."
The series starts on November 21, and will be a part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27. (ICC Media)
ICC annual conference in Singapore
Dataman, a horse from the United States of America, won the Guyana Cup 2025
Dataman wins Guyana Cup in day marred by tragedy
THE horse racing community in Guyana is in mourning after the tragic death of 18-year-old jockey Kishawn Pereira, who fell from his mount in a race at the Guyana Cup on Sunday.
The incident occurred in the penultimate H-Class Open, which was won by Trinidad’s Emotional Damage of PHVH Racing Stables. Pereira was riding ‘Blinding Lights’ and was reportedly well-placed in third when the horse stumbled, sending the jockey heavily to the ground. He was rushed to the hospital by on-site paramedics but sadly did not survive his injuries.
The Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing
Committee confirmed the tragic news, stating that while the circumstances are under review, the day's early-morning showers may have left soft, unseen spots on the track.
In a statement, they described Pereira as a "talented young rider with a bright future" and affirmed their commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure the safety of the sport.
West Indies Women’s Rising Stars begin high-performance camp at Chennai Super Kings Academy
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has taken another major step in its groundbreaking India development programme, sending 15 of the region’s most talented female cricketers to a high-performance training camp at the prestigious Chennai Super Kings Academy.
The squad, led by head coach Merissa Aguilleira and supported by assistant coaches Ryan Hinds and Tremayne Smartt, along with team manager Yasmine St Ange, departed Barbados on August 12 for the intensive two-week programme, running from August 13 to 30.
The group includes established senior players such as Ashmini Munisar, Zaida James, Djenaba Joseph, and Trishan Holder, alongside current and former West Indies Under-19 standouts like Naijanni Cumberbatch, Niya Latchman, and Samara Ramnath.
namurthy and his expert coaching staff, the players will undergo rigorous training sessions and competitive practice matches, leveraging the academy’s world-class facilities.
CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
“After the success of our men’s camp in December, we’re thrilled to provide this opportunity to our top female prospects. The Chennai Super Kings Academy offers an elite environment that challenges our players to adapt to different cricketing conditions while developing critical skills, particularly against spin.”
“This programme is a vital part of our strategy to deepen our talent pool and ensure equal development opportunities for women. We’re confident these players will return stronger, raising the standard of West Indies women’s cricket.”
In the day's main event, the Guyana Cup, Dataman of Master Z Racing Stables sealed victory in a dramatic finish under the floodlights at Rising Sun Turf Club. The one-mile race carried a top prize of $20 million. Dataman
The camp is designed to sharpen their skills against spin bowling, enhance technical proficiency, and build mental resilience in subcontinental conditions, which are key elements for success at the international level.
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Under the guidance of Chennai Super Kings Academy Director Sriram Krish -
Antigua and Barbuda’s domino duo reign supreme as
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC ) –Antigua and Barbuda is basking in pride after its very own Kaid “Rocky” Jarvis and Patricia “Pim” Lewis dominated the competition to be crowned Mixed Pair Domino World Champions.
The dynamic duo triumphed at the prestigious Domino World Tournament, showcasing unmatched skill, strategy, and teamwork to outplay elite opponents from across the globe.
Hailing from the renowned Bo-
World Champions
lans Revellers Domino Club, Jarvis and Lewis have long been celebrated for their consistency and mastery of the game.
Their victory has ignited celebrations not only in their home village of Bolans but across the entire nation, solidifying their status as national sporting icons.
Senator Dwayne George, caretaker for St. Mary’s South, lauded the pair’s historic achievement, calling it a testament to the nation’s talent and determination.
“This is a moment of immense pride for Antigua and Barbuda,” George declared. Rocky and Pim have proven that with dedication and teamwork, our people can excel on the world stage. Their victory inspires our youth and reinforces the belief that greatness is within reach.”
The win underscores the vital role of community-based clubs like Bolans Revellers in nurturing homegrown talent and elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s presence in international sports.
With plans to alternate between men’s and women’s squads annually, CWI continues to lead the way in innovative player development, reinforcing its commitment to long-term growth and gender parity in West Indies cricket.
The female contingent at the high-performance training camp at the prestigious Chennai Super Kings Academy
Antigua and Barbuda duo crowned Domino World Champions (Photo by Dwanye George)
