Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19-12-2025

FRIDAY 19th December, 2025

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 108020

Over 13,000 Disciplined Services members to get one-month tax-free bonus

Gov’t initiatives, investments producing immediate results

- President Ali says, points to plethora of jobs available, projects that will unlock more opportunities, ensure long-term progress

The First Lady’s Christmas Market at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade opened on Thursday with a night of caroling to get Guyanese in that Christmas mood. Holiday shopping can be done at the venue between 17:00hrs to midnight, daily, until Sunday (Tourism Guyana photo)

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The Government of Guyana, in collaboration with Lindsayca Oil & Gas Integrated Solutions Group, on Thursday opened the Gas-to-Energy Project Job Fair at the Leonora Track & Field Stadium, Region Three. Over 1,000 employment opportunities are available (Ministry of Labour, Manpower & Planning photo)

‘We do not ‘You are in for January budget President Dr. Irfaan implement Ali commends GDF policies that lead much greater to ‘give effect’ to development’ President Ali’s ranks for sacrifice, to short-term – President Ali assures prosperity’ Leguan residents service, dedication - Dr. Jagdeo says, emphasises development – says reduced electricity SEE PAGE

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- says they have protected the borders, safeguarded Guyana’s territorial integrity

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expansion of tax relief measures, job creation, increase in public servants’ salaries, social support over next five years

SEE PAGE costs, new bridge 7 connecting Wakenaam to Leguan, tourism transformation on the cards

agenda

- Jagdeo says

President Ali leads Cabinet outreach across Region Three

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

January budget to ‘give effect’ to President Ali’s development agenda - Jagdeo says PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said that the 2026 national budget speech will be presented in January and will cement President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s broad policy direction for the nation.

“The budget speech will come in January,

PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams)

and it will give effect to what the President said, and much more, much more. What the President was doing [Wednesday evening] was outlining the broad agenda,” he said during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Robb Street.

With that said, Dr. Jagdeo made it clear that President Ali did not expound on all of his government’s initiatives, which are geared towards fostering longterm prosperity for all.

He used the opportunity to refute the opposition’s claims that President Ali presented his budget speech Wednesday evening.

At the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Dr. Ali unveiled a sweeping fiveyear agenda for “the most ambitious phase” of Guyana’s economic and social transformation, anchored in diversification, digitisation and broad-based prosperity.

He said that the re-elected People’s Progressive Party/Civic

(PPP/C) administration would “build on the historic achievements” of the past five years, with a sharpened focus on ensuring that growth is widely shared.

The ruling party had clearly outlined its intentions ahead of the September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections through a written Manifesto, which detailed the programmes and priorities it intends to pursue during its new term in office.

Back in August, President Ali had des c r i b e d t h e p a r t y ’s Manifesto as a “blueprint for development”, and a binding pact with the people, rather than a collection of campaign promises.

President Ali had stressed at the Manifesto’s official launch then that was crafted over several years through community engagement and policy planning, ensuring that it reflects national priorities rather than election-period rhetoric.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

President, Dr Irfaan Ali commends GDF ranks for sacrifice, service, dedication

- says they have protected the borders, safeguarded Guyana’s territorial integrity PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali joined members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) at Base Camp Stephenson for the annual Christmas Luncheon, a long-standing tradition that celebrates fellowship, service, and the spirit of the season.

The gathering offered an opportunity to recognise the sacrifices and dedication of the force, while reinforcing the values that underpin its operations.

Addressing the gathering, President Ali praised the profession-

alism and discipline of the force, noting that its members have “fulfilled your responsibilities with resolve, often in demanding circumstances. You have protected Guyanese borders. You have safeguarded our territorial integrity. You have upheld our sovereignty.”

He emphasised that these achievements are not abstract accomplishments but form the very foundation of the nation’s survival and security.

Dr Ali added: “They go to the very heart of our nationhood and our survival as a sovereign

state. It is precisely because these responsibilities are so fundamental, so weighty, and so enduring that they find their truest expression in the meaning of the uniform itself. The uniform you wear is more than a symbol of authority.”

Dr Ali reflected on the deeper significance of the uniform, describing it as “a pledge to the people of Guyana that their safety, their freedom, and their national patrimony will be defended.”

He stressed that the pledge “is not given for a moment, nor is it tested

President Dr. Irfaan Ali addresses GDF ranks at the annual Christmas Luncheon held at Base Camp Stephenson on Thursday

only in times of calm. It is one that must endure across changing circum-

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces serves lunch to GDF ranks

stances and emerging challenges.”

Highlighting the importance of personal development alongside professional service, President Ali instructed that all service members be registered with the Guyana Digital School and pursue Mathematics and English at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level.

“Because we are not only preparing you for the protection of this country, we are preparing you to live a life of honour and dignity long after you retire,” he said.

The President also noted the symbolic value of the luncheon’s time-honoured tradition, whereby senior officers

President Ali shares a moment with GDF ranks during Thursday’s annual Christmas Luncheon

serve junior ranks.

He explained, “Authority is expressed through service and leadership is demonstrated through humility. Rank in the Guyana Defence Force is functional and designed to ensure effectiveness and discipline, not to confer superiority or diminish dignity.”

He reminded members that every role within the force matters: “Every rank has its role.

Every role has its value.

Every contribution matters. From the newest recruit to the most senior officer, the force operates as a single body, with each part dependent on the other for strength and success.”

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the force in recent years, the President noted that Guyana continues to navigate an era of growing regional and international uncertainty.

He affirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a professional, well-prepared defence force capable of protecting the country and supporting international efforts to combat criminal activity.

President Ali concluded by expressing his gratitude to service members and their families: “I am honoured to participate in this tradition, and I extend warm Christmas greetings to you and your families, whose sacrifices and support make your service possible. May God bless you, may God bless your families, and bless our country and the Guyana Defence Force.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Over 13,000 Disciplined Services members to get one-month tax-free bonus - President Ali announces

GDF ranks celebrate after President Ali announces the one-month tax-free bonus (DPI photos) PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that a one-month tax-free bonus will be paid to members of the Disciplined Services, placing an addi-

tional $2.1 billion into the hands of more than 13,000 personnel for the holiday season.

Speaking at the Christmas Luncheon at the

Guyana Defence Force’s Base Camp Stephenson on Thursday, President Ali highlighted the history of the bonus programme, noting that “in 2020, we restored the bonus and expanded its coverage in 2023 to include civilian employees of the Guyana Defence Force.”

He added, “Over the past five years, we have placed over six billion dollars in the hands of our dis-

ciplined services through this bonus. Six billion dollars.” He said the latest payout would further recognise the sacrifices and dedication of service members.

“As your Commander-in-Chief, I am now pleased to announce that a one-month tax-free bonus will once again be paid to our disciplined forces, placing an additional 2.1 billion dollars of disposable income in the hands of

more than 13,000 members of the disciplined services.”

The payment of bonuses to servicemen and women was a standard practice under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government, but when the party left office in 2015, the A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration discontinued the programme.

In the lead-up to the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, the PPP/C pledged to reinstate the bonuses. By December 2020, the incentives were restored at half capacity, with service members receiving two weeks’ taxfree pay, and from 2021 onwards, they have been receiving their full salaries.

The President also encouraged the officers to remember their responsibilities during the festive season. He concluded his announcement by extending warm Christmas greetings to the members and their families.

Since taking office in 2020, the PPP/C government has implemented several measures to strengthen Guyana’s Joint Services and recognise the contributions of its members.

One of the most significant initiatives has been the restoration and expansion

of the tax-free bonus programme, which had been discontinued under the previous administration.

Initially reinstated at half capacity in December 2020, providing two weeks’ pay, the bonus has since been increased to a full month’s salary, benefitting more than 13,000 members and placing over $6B into the hands of disciplined services over five years.

The government has also focused on training and professional development, offering several training opportunities and ensuring that all service members are registered at the Guyana Digital School to pursue Mathematics and English at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level.

Through these measures, the administration has sought to enhance the professionalism, discipline, and welfare of the force, while also recognising the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

President Ali has emphasised that these investments are part of a broader strategy to ensure that the Joint Services remain well-prepared, motivated, and respected pillars of national security.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Gov’t initiatives, investments producing immediate results

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- President Ali says, points to plethora of jobs available, projects that will unlock more opportunities, ensure long-term progress

WITH the aim of bettering the lives of all Guyanese, the Government of Guyana led by President, Dr Irfaan Ali, is heavily focused on implementing ideas that it understands, believes in, and knows it can effectively execute.

President Ali highlighted this on Thursday while delivering the feature address at the opening of a gas-to-energy job fair hosted by the government in collaboration with Lindsayca Oil and Gas Integrated Solutions Group, at the Leonora Track and Field Stadium in Region Three.

The job fair aimed to employ some 1, 000 locals.

The event coincided with a two-day Cabinet outreach which continues across Region Three today.

President Ali in his ad-

dress highlighted the development taking place in the region, noting that the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Facility alone has direct-

for Region Three within the next four days.

“One hundred and twenty persons immediately needed by one compa-

ly and indirectly provided employment for over 425 persons.

Through the National Job Bank, a fully online platform, at least 300 new vacancies will be posted

ny. The sugar refinery that will need at least 100 persons converting what one government made derelict and scrapped to prosperity, transformation, and jobs,” the President told those

The government in collaboration with Lindsayca Oil and Gas Integrated Solutions Group held a gas-to-energy job fair, at the Leonora Track and Field Stadium in Region Three (DPI photo)

gathered.

He said that people have decided among themselves to trust the government to fix the issues or challenges that they are experiencing.

Turning his attention to the outreach activities, he emphasised that this approach to governance which targets every region is not superficial. The aim of such engagements he said is to build a connection between the government and the people.

“We want people in policymaking to wake up in a community and smell what rice fields smell like. And wake up and hear the horns of trucks going to the sugar field because it builds a connection with the reality, and that is what is important in public policy. Those policies are not created in a vacuum… [they] are created within a framework, and that framework is what we are building,” the President asserted.

The Head of State added that his government’s method of leadership is not based on elections, but purposeful vision each day of the year. “For us this is hard work. Continuously, every single day of the year, and tonight, outside of all the connecting with people, we will find time to break bread together.”

He added, “The fertiliser plant, the gas plant, the

President, Dr Irfaan Ali delivering remarks at the gas-to-energy job fair on Thursday (Sachin Persaud photos) land development, and this is only for the shore-based infrastructure. All the other industries that will be built out in the construction phase alone will require thousands of jobs. And then permanently, in our projection, is at least 1,500 jobs we're talking about within that ecosystem. This is a reality. That is not five years from now, this is a reality that is immediately before us.”

The president added, “Today is an enormous moment for Region Three, but that moment has overflowed to all of Guyana to the extent that we had persons from every corner of Guyana coming to Re-

gion Three to look at these opportunities.”

He asked Guyanese to imagine what will happen following construction of the airport in Lethem, the new deepwater port in Rose Hall, or the investment in agro-processing zones, the special industrial zones that will be created across the country.

President Ali affirmed that Guyana is going to have local investment opportunities in Region Three, including investments in the fertiliser plant with a fixed rate on return, the gas-bottling and logistics plant, the glass factory and the data centre.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Navigating Guyana’s Digital Crossroads

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent directive to his cabinet, urging a national consultation to "arrest the abuse and harmful effects of social media," marks an important moment for Guyana’s digital democracy.

By specifically assigning the Ministers of Education, Information, Labour, and Public Service to this task, the President has recognised two key points.

The digital space in Guy-

ana has become a harsh environment of harassment and defamation. However, the solution should not come solely from the top.

The President’s focus on a response that is "thoughtful, inclusive and anchored in the recommendation of our people" offers a refreshing, though careful, promise of democratic engagement instead of authoritarian control.

The toxicity of Guyana’s social media land-

scape is clear. Attorney General Anil Nandlall has rightly described the current situation as a platform for the "slaughtering of people’s reputations."

From the harassment of teachers during online classes to the politically charged character attacks that increase our ethnic divides, the "harmful effects" mentioned by the President are not just ideas. They are everyday realities for many citizens.

THE ugliest manifestation of xenophobia I have seen in the Global South came from right here in Guyana.

It came from the forever chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Lincoln Lewis. His exhibition was long before oil money came.

In fact, it was in 2019. He was referring to the influx of Venezuelans.

Here are the degenerate words of Lewis: “We are a small nation in population size and the only English-speaking country in South America. Unplanned immigration brings with it consequences such as stress on the education and health services, housing overrun, the creation of slums, and our resources exploited by others willing to undersell their labour. We also face a crisis of submerging our culture further. This threat comes from others who do not speak our language and share a common culture... we also face a crisis of submerging our culture… we are facing a pending catastrophe which we must seek to avoid at all cost.”

Since the Venezuelans

came, there have been expressions of hypocrisy coming from Guyanese who don’t want foreigners here but these very Guyanese, I repeat these very Guyanese have close family members in other people’s countries.

Some of the names include Timothy Jonas, Mansoor Nadir, and Leonard Gildarie. Mr. Jonas in a letter of September 15, 2019 in Stabroek News called for cessation of granting citizenship to foreigners. Mr. Jonas is a Guyanese who has foreign citizenship which he stoutly refused to give up so he had to decline nomination to parliament in 2020 for his party ANUG. Mr. Mansoor Nadir on the Freddie Kissoon Show echoed sentiments similar to Jonas’. As we left the studio and was talking near his car, he told me his daughter and son live in North America.

My co-host, Leonard Gildarie was adamant on the show that we should put the brake on people coming to Guyana and while he said that at the very same time, his papers were coming through for residence in New

York.

I replied to the xenophobic miasma of Lewis informing readers that Mr. Lewis’ family members/close relatives live in the US. Now Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir wants Guyana to up the waiting time for citizenship to foreigners to 15 years.

Let me say upfront that is idiotic and wild nonsense and comes across to me as xenophobia. Why should foreigners live here, spend their money here, contribute to Guyana and have to wait 15 years before we give them citizenship?

At least these foreigners live in Guyana. Many of our diaspora folks do not contribute one cent to GRA and NIS, and the retail trade in Guyana. DDL, Bounty Supermarket, Banks DIH, Toolsie Persaud, Gafoors, Beharry Group of Company, John Fernandes, Mattai Supermarket, Courts Furniture, Giftland, Movie Towne among others do not receive a cent from these Guyanese who talk about our country yet do not live here.

Here is a list Guyanese who live abroad but want

Oil money has brought xenophobia to Guyana

However, the road to regulation is filled with risks. The Cybercrime Act of 2018, although important for addressing real cyber threats, has already faced criticism for being used as a weapon against political dissent instead of protecting the vulnerable.

This background makes the President’s call for "national consultation" critical. This ensures that "arresting abuse" does not turn into "arresting critics."

Including the Ministry of Education is particularly wise. The long-term solution lies not only in laws but also in digital literacy and promoting a culture of online respect among the youth.

Ultimately, the success of this initiative will be judged by the laws it creates. Will we see a framework in line with the United Nations Convention on Cybercrime, as the Attorney General promised, or a

harsh expansion of sedition laws?

The President has tied his administration’s policy-making reputation to this "spirit of consultation."

The response to social media abuse must truly reflect the will of the people, who seek protection from harassment but not at the expense of their right to speak out against issues, as the President has rightly acknowledged.

us to stop oil production. I have listed where they work and live.

1 – Dr. Janet Bulkan serves the University of British Columbia.

2- Dr. Alissa Trotz serves the University of Toronto 3- Dr. Nigel Westmass serves Hamilton College in New York 4- Dr. Maya Trotz serves the University of South Florida 5 - Isabelle DeCaires lives in her homeland of the UK where her son plays cricket in the county championship for Middlesex.

6 – Abyssinian Carto is of Rastafari orientation and lives in New York.

7- Dr. Cary Gildarie lives in New York.

8 – Terry Roopnaraine lives in his homeland of the UK.

9 – Pauline Melville moved to the UK since the early 1950s.

10 – Christina Samaroo moved to New York in 2008 11 – Luke Daniels lives in the UK Here is a challenge to Amanza Walton-Desir. If she does not have close relatives and family members abroad, I will stop writing. I can’t lose, so I will not stop writing because I know she has such people who live abroad.

The last set of people in the entire world who should frown on people coming to these shores is Guyanese.

Guyana has the largest percentage of all countries whose population lives abroad. Some 36.4 percent of the nationality known as Guyanese lives outside of Guyana. The only other Caribbean country on the list is Jamaica at 28.6 percent.

One in five persons in New York City is Guyanese. One in four persons in Antigua is Guyanese.

A substantial number of persons from Venezuela living in Guyana are Guyanese. We migrated in large numbers to Venezuela from the 1980s onwards. Instead of talking nonsense about people coming to Guyana to live, Ms. Desir should explain to Guyanese why there is a serious accusation being made against her in her own party – Forward Guyana Movement. Is the accusation factually based?

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

‘You are in for much greater development’ – President Ali assures Leguan residents – says reduced electricity costs, new bridge connecting Wakenaam to Leguan, tourism transformation on the cards

RESIDENTS of Leguan Island in Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara) are set to benefit from major development initiatives as the government prepares to present the first budget of its second term.

President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali gave the assurance during an engagement with residents at the Leguan Secondary School on Thursday, held as part of the government’s two-day outreach in the region.

REDUCED ELECTRICITY COST Following the installation of the 0.60-megawatt (MW) grid-forming solar farm in Leguan, President Ali said residents and the business community can expect a reduction in their electricity bills.

He added that engineers

are currently examining options to maximise the system’s capacity.

“You will see an announcement that will bring down your cost of electricity on this island significantly, because of the investment [we] have made in the solar energy,” he told the audience.

LEGUANWAKENAAM LINK On December 19, President Ali will commission additional ferry services, facilitating more frequent movement of residents, farmers and equipment between Leguan and surrounding communities.

Engineers are also conducting final assessments for the long-proposed bridge linking Leguan and Wakenaam, a project the president said will bring a dream to reality.

“We have been investing to make your lives better,” the Pres-

President, Dr Irfaan Ali in Leguan on Thursday

ident reminded residents, while acknowledging that more needs to be done to improve their livelihoods.

Meanwhile, rice farmers are set to benefit from a major drainage and water-storage project covering approximately 13,000 acres on the eastern side of the island.

The project will include 4.3 kilometres of new drainage canals, multiple intakes and intermediate structures,

along with additional heavy-duty machinery.

Construction is expected to begin after Budget 2026 is tabled, the president said.

A mini-excavator will be delivered to the island to assist with interlocking drains.

A HUB FOR TOURISM “Your island will become a hub for tourism, which means that you will have to produce more food and more jobs will be cre-

ated here right on this island,” the president revealed, noting that investors have shown tremendous interest in developing the tourism potential of the island.

Health services will also be strengthened, as the government has acquired X-ray units for the Leonora Cottage Hospital. Additionally, facilities for maternal, dental, and laboratory services will be developed.

Joining President Ali

were Minister of the Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally; Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vickash Ramkisson and Regional Chairman, Sheik Mohamed Inshan Ayube, among other officials.

To ensure that residents capitalise on the many opportunities, Minister Ally said his ministry will revisit the island to guide its youth on how to sign up for programmes under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) and Coursera initiatives.

The president also took the time to listen to residents’ concerns, which ranged from traffic hazards and agricultural issues to security and other community concerns.

(DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

At the UN, nations pledge people-first digital future, tighter AI safeguards

UN Member States on Wednesday pledged to narrow widening digital divides and put stronger safeguards around artificial intelligence (AI), as the General Assembly concluded a major review of how the world manages the Internet and fast-evolving digital technologies.

The high-level meeting marked the conclusion of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20), a process launched in the early 2000s to guide global cooperation on digital development, access and inclusion, at a time when the Internet was only starting to become an essential part of everyday life.

Two decades later, delegates said the challenge is no longer simply getting people Online but ensuring that digital technologies – including AI – are governed in ways that protect human rights, build trust, and close widening digital gaps.

WHY THE SUMMIT MATTERS WSIS was created in 2003 to help countries work together on the opportunities and risks posed by information and communication technologies, or ICT. It brought governments together with businesses, civil society and technical experts – a multistakeholder approach that remains central to digital governance today.

At this year’s review, participants reflected on how deeply digital tools now shape the economy, education, healthcare and daily life, while warning that millions remain excluded.

DIGITAL DIVIDES WIDENING In remarks to the General Assembly on Tuesday, its President, Annalena Baerbock, said access to the Internet has become essential – from telemedicine in remote villages to online education and digital financial ser-

Despite progress on many fronts, many communities around the world are still unable to reap the benefits of digital technologies (United Nations/Chetan Soni)

vices – yet progress is sluggish.

While global Internet access stands at around two-thirds of the world’s population, she noted that in developing countries it is far lower, and women and girls continue to be disproportionately left behind.

“Two decades later, our shared vision of a people-centred, inclusive and development-oriented information society remains unfinished,” she said.

She warned that access alone is not enough, stressing the need for responsible governance of emerging technologies such as AI, particularly as innovation often moves faster than regulation.

NEW PRIORITIES The meeting concluded with the adoption of an outcome document reaffirming countries’ commitment to a people-centred digital future grounded in human rights and the principles of the UN Charter.

The text calls for faster action to close digital divides, greater investment in digital

infrastructure and skills, and more predictable policy environments to support digital development. It also highlights the importance of trustworthy governance of data and AI, building on commitments already made under the Global Digital Compact.

Member States encouraged stronger international partnerships on AI capacity-building, particularly for developing countries, including training programmes, access to resources and support for smaller businesses.

The document also notes plans to establish an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and to launch a Global Dialogue on AI Governance in 2026.

PEOPLE AT THE CENTRE Throughout the process, speakers emphasised that governments cannot shape the digital future alone. The outcome reinforces the approach that brings governments, industry, civil society and the tech world together.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said WSIS was born from a belief that digital

innovation must reflect human needs, while UN Development Programme (UNDP) Associate Administrator Haoliang Xu described the review as both a moment to recognize progress and to chart a path forward.

That people-centred message also came through beyond the negotiating rooms.

CREATIVE AND INCLUSIVE: JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT Speaking to UN News on the sidelines of the meeting, actor and filmmaker Joseph Gordon-Levitt reflected on the human side of digital transformation, focusing on creativity, inclusion and the shared responsibility to shape healthier digital spaces as technology becomes ever more embedded in daily life.

“What’s inspiring to me about the UN and the community I’ve met here is that, despite it being an uphill battle – a bit of a David and Goliath dynamic – people are trying to work not just for a dollar, but for helping, for making the world better, often to support the most vulnerable in the global south,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Illegal third-lane drivers flagged by SRIS cameras charged, fined

THE Government of Guyana, through the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) jointly, with the Guyana Police Force and the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS), continues to strengthen road safety enforcement, with the SRIS detecting and flagging multiple instances of dangerous driving, resulting in three drivers being charged and fined a total of $190,000.

As a result of SRIS-generated video footage, since the introduction of illegal third-lane monitoring last week, three minibus drivers were charged, appeared in court, and pleaded guilty to dangerous driving offences, a release from the Guyana Police Force said.

Steffon Welch, of Lot 125 Eastville, Annandale Housing Scheme, driver of minibus BAG 6768, was fined $120,000 for three counts of dangerous driving.

Trenton Europe, of Lot 69, Block 20, Enmore Haslington, East Coast Demerara, driver of minibus BAE 2338, was fined $40,000 for one (1) count of dangerous driving.

Both offenders appeared at the Sparendamm Magistrate’s Court before His Worship Mr. Nurse.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, L a keram Omrow, of Lot 296 Long Pond, Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara, driver of minibus BAJ 2598, appeared before Her Worship Ms. Shivanie Lalaram at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court No. 7. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, and was fined $30,000.

The police said matters in relation to nine other minibus drivers, whose offences were identified and flagged by

SRIS, were called before the court; however, no appearances were made.

As a result, summonses were issued, requiring the following drivers to appear before the court on February 13, 2026: Stanley Mohamed – BAJ 7121, Noel Bowen – BZZ 1640, Avery Corbin – BAK 6541, Nyal Eustace Thom – BAD 6067, Phillip Premnauth Mohabir – BAJ 5423, Neil Dos Santos – BAD 5794, Martin Hunte – BAE 5920, Daniel Van Collins – BAE 7708 and Shane Walker – BMM 2609.

“The era of dangerous driving going unnoticed is over,” Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh stated adding, “With SRIS, offences are detected, recorded, and taken before the courts. Drivers who choose to break the law should expect consequences.”

The release added that the Guyana Police Force has advised that additional matters identified through SRIS are currently being prepared for filing, with cases to be brought before the courts on a continuous basis. The Police are also deploying additional resources to ensure that offenders, including those with outstanding tickets, are brought before the courts in the shortest possible time.

“These cases underscore the effectiveness of the Safe Road Intelligent System in remotely monitoring road behaviour, identifying high-risk offenders, and supporting evidence-based enforcement and prosecution,” the release said.

It stated that motorists are advised that unlawful and dangerous driving identified through SRIS will be pursued through the

courts without exception. The Government of Gu yan a remain s firmly committed to protecting lives on the roads through consistent, technology-driven enforcement.

One of the illegal third-lane drivers who was captured by SRIS

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Scenes from the Region Three Cabinet Outreach

President Dr Irfaan Ali is currently leading a twoday Cabinet Outreach in Region Three, taking government services directly to the people. The President, ministers, Members of Parliament, Advisors, and technical officers on Thursday engaged residents in dozens of locations including Leonora, Uitvlugt, Farm, Patentia and Stewartville. They provided platforms for residents to raise concerns, share their views and learn about government programmes and services. These Department of Public Information photos captured some of the engagements.

Today, the exercise continues, reaffirming the PPP/C government’s commitment to peoplecentred governance, which will ensure that community needs are addressed through dialogue and responsive action

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Guyana could eventually reach a point of no borrowing - Dr. Jagdeo says as nation maintains one of the lowest debt-to-GDP ratios in the world

GUYANA may soon reach a point where it no longer needs to borrow as People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday that the nation is being backed by prudent fiscal planning and a comprehensive fiveyear development framework.

At the time, Dr. Jagdeo was speaking at a press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street where he explained that Guyana’s development strategy and its expanding oil and non-oil economies have placed the country in a strong fiscal position.

While there is ongoing borrowing, which is being used to support national development, the Vice-President said that currently in the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), Guyana has more revenue than its total external foreign debt.

He said: “One of the few countries that has that and now our external debt would fall to about 12 per cent of GDP, one of the lowest in the world,” highlighting that while major economies are struggling under heavy debt burdens, Guyana is moving in the opposite direction.

He added: “And then towards the latter part, once the debt is already, the capital spending is amortised on the oil and gas sector, then the revenue starts going up higher towards the outer years, then you can easily retire, maybe we don't even need to borrow at that time.”

Further, he defended the government’s policy direction to support longterm planning for prosperity rather than short-term gains.

For instance, over the next five years, the government plans to invest over $800 billion in the housing sector, a move expected to benefit the lives of thousands of Guyanese, while simultaneously supporting broader economic growth.

“You don't manage for cash grant alone…. Cash grant should help supplement what you have” he said, noting that the government is also planning so that there are higher wages and salaries, increased pension,

improved public assistance.

Earlier this year, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean’s (ECLAC)’s “Fiscal Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2025” report disclosed that Guyana continues to boast the lowest public debt level in the region.

The report highlighted that Guyana’s public debt ratio has been decreasing since 2022 owing to high Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rates, which were higher than 40 per cent in real terms in 2024, driven by the expansion of offshore oil production.

Guyana has been transformed from a country that was once swallowed in debt to a nation with a public debt that continues to display a downward trend, and this was even highlighted in United Nations ECLAC’s “Fiscal Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2024” report.

Further, the United Nations ECLAC’s “Fiscal Panorama of Latin America and the Caribbean 2023” report had also said that Guyana’s debt-to- GDP ratio fell by an impressive 16 percentage points between 2021 and 2022, as a result of a 62.3 per cent increase in economic output in real terms, due to the commencement of offshore oil-and-gas production.

Under the leadership of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), there have been active steps to make strategic investments and manage the nation’s finances responsibly.

The total Public and Publicly Guaranteed (PPG) debt-to-GDP ratio has reduced from 47.4 per cent at the end of 2020 to 24.3 per cent at the end of 2024.

This was according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh previously.

Dr. Singh noted that Guyana’s total public and publicly guaranteed (PPG) debt amounted to US$5.993 billion at the end of 2024, mainly on account of net inflows from external and domestic creditors.

Under the People’s Na-

tional Congress (PNC), Guyana was marred by a significant debt service burden, when the country’s debt was once nine times the size of the economy and the country was using over 100 per cent of revenue to service debt.

However, Guyana has since gained better footing and is no longer facing a crippling debt servicing crisis.

As Minister Singh put it, the current figures provide a clear indication of a marked improvement

in Guyana’s capacity to maintain public debt into the future, without the need for fiscal adjustments.

While noting that external PPG debt at the end of 2024 was US$2.239 billion, the minister said

that net inflows from external creditors in 2024 were mainly associated with major infrastructural works, healthcare projects, as well as social protection programmes and the procurement of aircraft for military use.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

‘We do not implement policies that lead to short-term prosperity’ - Dr. Jagdeo says, emphasises expansion of tax relief measures, job creation, increase in public servants’ salaries, social support over next five years

PLANNED tax relief, job creation, targeted support for the vulnerable, and a series of incentives are part of the centre pillars of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s fiveyear roadmap for nation-

al development, and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo firmly stated that the government intends to deliver on every one of its Manifesto promises.

A day after President Ali revealed a sweeping fiveyear agenda for “the most ambitious phase” of Guyana’s economic and social transformation, anchored in diversification, digitisation,

and broad-based prosperity, Dr. Jagdeo has noted that it represents a carefully planned, long-term strategy to drive inclusive growth.

Dr. Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday at

PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo Freedom House said that the President’s speech sets the government’s broad philosophy, priorities and planned framework for the next five years, which will ensure all citizens benefit.

He said: “We want every citizen of Guyana to feel part of that agenda; we want them to see all of their concerns, or some of their concerns, reflected in that agenda. We want them to see opportunities for growth and development in the agenda of the government, and if people study those carefully, then I believe that many of them at a corporate level, they can better plan their activities, and at the individual level, knowing where the country is headed and where the opportunities would be and what support you can get from government, you can start planning your lives to create more wealth for yourselves and your families, or to address some other concerns.”

Dr. Jagdeo, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President highlighted the significant progress made thus far, including the major inroads in health, education, infrastructure, social support, infrastructure and income growth.

“We made a lot of progress in the past five years because we kept our promise to people.

We expanded education, we expanded healthcare through many initiatives, we expanded infrastructure, we expanded job creation and income creation, and that's visible for all Guyanese to see,” he said.

Further, the PPP General Secretary pinpointed several major policy directions that will be pursued in the next five years, including tax relief, housing expansion, job creation and rural and hinterland development.

There will also be more provisions for salary increases

for public servants, and Dr. Jagdeo further recalled that earlier this year, there was an eight per cent salary hike for public servants.

Additionally, he pointed to social support measures, which were featured prominently in the President’s Wednesday address, which commits to increasing public assistance and establishing community-based disability support centres.

Co-investment opportunities with individuals interested in establishing daycare facilities for children and/or elderly care homes in their communities is also an avenue being explored by the government and according to the Vice President, those ventures would be tax free.

CAREFUL PLANNING Speaking on cash grants, Dr. Jagdeo said the government’s mandate includes looking at the entire future.

“We do not implement policies that lead to shortterm prosperity or seeming prosperity, and then long-term decline, as we've seen in so many other countries, because they're not careful about planning, they have a Single mindset, and the mindset is just about spending everything now without looking to the future.”

He noted that over the next five years, there will be several cash grants. Budget 2026, which will be presented early in the new year, will make provision for a $100,000 cash grant to every Guyanese citizen aged 18 years and older.

Additional cash grants will be paid over the next five years, as the government continues to roll out measures aimed at improving household welfare, and strengthening disposable income.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

VP Jagdeo affirms good health - says gov’t focused on delivering promises

WHILE dismissing the spurious rumours that he is ill, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has affirmed that the politically- motivated claims are completely false.

Taking note of the rumours that have been circulating in the public domain, Dr. Jagdeo, at a press conference on Thursday, said the false claims are part of a “hate industry” that has been directed at him for the longest while.

“No; I'm not ill. I have

PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

not been diagnosed with cancer. I'm not sick, and this is not Dilip speaking here; it's Bharrat Jagdeo,” he stated.

The Vice-President noted that his reduced public commentary has been a personal choice as the PPP/C had won the September 1 General and Regional Elections, and has since set out on a path to work for the citizens.

He then pointed to the criticism he faced during the campaign season, where opposition elements accused him of speaking

too frequently.

“And then I decided there are other important things to do, like working now to deliver on our promises. The elections are over for some people; they don't realise that until now, they're still fighting the elections.

“We won the elections with a huge majority; we have five years ahead of us.”

He added: “I didn't even bother to respond to this. We have been working now to deliver.”

the lives of its people.

“The Council was particularly pleased to learn of the government’s undertaking to improve the financial literacy and well-being of our ordinary people. Moreover, there is a promise to reduce the cost of living through realistic plans. The council noted that the physical, cultural and social transformation of our country received particular attention. In addition to efforts to diversify and build a resilient economy. Indeed, as the address articulated, we can both be strong and

fair. An aspiration we also subscribe to.”

“The union’s General Council, its highest forum outside of Congresses, was pleased with the initiatives and plans announced and elaborated by the President.

His pointed, frank and full address reinforces that we are in good hands and our future is assured. Indeed, the aspirations held by our ancestors are coming to realisation, and the future is certainly bright,” the statement added.

GAWU’s General Council endorses President Ali’s transformative agenda

THE General Council of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) at its meeting held on December 18, 2025, unanimously congratulated the President, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on a well-articulated, profound and all-encompassing address to the nation on December 17, 2025.

Through the address, the council expressed the belief that President Ali’s government’s vision is clear, not only for the next five years but for the long-

term development and sustainability of the nation, a press release said.

It added that the council recognised that in an address that lasted more than two hours, the President “offered our people what we should expect in the coming five (5) years and the broader policy vision that guides the administration’s plan. Of course, our people, particularly the working people, will be heartened to know that they remain central to the government’s thrust.

The vision of reducing poverty and increasing

wealth sustainably and pragmatically is a longheld dream of the working class.”

Further, the council applauded the government’s decision to announce yet another direct transfer of the nation’s wealth to the people. “We are aware that the announcement of the cash grant has dominated the national debate for weeks now. Of course, the Council could not ignore those who attempted, futilely, to score cheap political points. Even more significant is the clear commitment to similar

payouts in future years.”

The statement said that apart from the direct cash grant, the General Council acknowledged that the President implemented several worker-friendly policies. The commitment to increase the education grant, improve pensions, promote the development of childcare facilities, and continue the evolution in the health and education sectors are in themselves laudable advances. However, when viewed collectively, a clear picture emerged of a government committed to improving

Region Three on transformation fast track 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

- Finance Minister says during meeting with Anna Catherina residents

DELIVERING remarks at Anna Catherina on Thursday during a Cabinet Outreach to Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh thanked the residents on behalf of President Dr. Irfaan Ali for their support over the years, while highlighting that the region is on a fast track to transformation.

“Region Three is one of the most exciting regions to be in in Guyana right now. You have seen how dramatically the region is being transformed. You have seen since President Ali

cluding private sector investment,” Minister Singh underscored as he alluded as well to the building of a new port at Vreed-en-Hoop and other new ports along the West Bank Demerara, including at Versailles.

Dr. Singh also pointed to the gas-to-energy project and how it is transforming Wales and the West Bank of Demerara.

“The new investments that we have announced in relation to the build out of a brandnew port at Parika, and of course the opening up of the Parika/Goshen Road which will open up tremendous amounts of land and vast commercial possibilities as well

malls, new hospitals and a new bank among other developments.

“I want to say to you that if you believe that what you’ve seen over the last five years has been a dramatic changing of the face West Demerara, you have not seen anything yet because the next five years will be an even more incredible period of transformation for your region,” he posited.

Urging residents of Region Three, especially young people, to ensure that they become involved and take up the opportunities being provided in the region, the Minister explained that the transformation taking place is not just

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Singh addressing Anna Catherina residents during Thursday’s outreach

Three to be implemented here. It is a vision where every single young person has an opportunity to get good quality skills

Some of the residents who turned up to engage Minister Singh (MoF photos)

assumed office what a different place Region Three has become in just the space of five years. You have seen the construction of the new Demerara River Bridge, brand-new highways that have opened up new land and completely changed the face of the region, major investments that are taking place in-

as the transformation of major population centres,” he added.

Minister Singh noted that residents have already seen how in just five years under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic government Leonora has changed from being just a small village to being almost like a city with new shopping

physical but numerous opportunities are also being created as part of the region’s vast development.

“I am glad that our chairperson is a young person and we have so many young people from Region Three in our audience today. We wantPresident Ali’s vision for Guyana and for Region

and good quality training to be able to get good quality jobs or to become an entrepreneur and set up a good quality business that will generate good solid income,” he stated firmly.

Dr. Singh noted that young persons in the region must be able to use their skills and par-

ticipate meaningfully in the exciting transformation that is taking place across the region and the country as a whole.

“We want you to be able to transform your own lives and we want every single person to participate in what is taking place-to get better jobs, earn better incomes and live better lives and that is an important part of the transformation that we are working towards,” he concluded as residents welcomed the visit by the officials to the region to listen to their concerns.

Dr. Singh further assured residents that the government was there in the region to be of service to them and also wished to discuss the issues affecting them in that region and what government should do differently if there was this need.

“Because what we do is guided by what you tell us- that is our approach to governance and that is why we have continued to be able to continue to be in gov-

ernment because we are a listening government,” Minister Singh pointed out.

As part of its 2025 manifesto, government will roll out a number of initiatives over the next five years to further transform Region Three in addition to the transformation that has already taken place between 2020-2025..

Already, dual gas turbines weighing 90 tonnes have arrived in the country and were taken to the Wales construction site for a 300-megawatt natural gas power plant as part of government’s major Gas-to-Energy project. The project is slated to be completed in 2026 and will reduce electricity costs by fifty per cent for consumers on the grid. It should also allow for the production of enough cooking gas to meet and exceed domestic requirements in the country.

Other manifesto plans include expanding drainage and irrigation systems and networks in the region (Hope-like canals) to bolster the sector ’s climate resilience and bring additional acreage under rice cultivation, establishing a port facility at Parika and bridging Leguan and Wakenaam among other initiatives.

Also accompanying the senior minister during the meeting at Anna Catherina today were Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Vikash Ramkissoon and Parliamentary Secretary Mishka Whyte Griffith. (MoF)

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Regional Police Division #2 records significant reduction in crime for 2025

THE Guyana Police Force Regional Police Division #2 has recorded a significant reduction in crime for 2025, with statistics showing a 39.2 per cent decrease in reported criminal activity, and a 54.2 per

cent ‘clear-up rate’ across the division.

These figures were disclosed by Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Khemraj Shivbarran during the division’s Annual Luncheon and Awards Cer-

emony on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Jaigobin Hotel Conference Room, Henrietta, Essequibo Coast.

The event brought together senior officers, ranks, and stakeholders to review the division’s performance, and

to recognise ranks’ outstanding service.

Senior Superintendent Shivbarran attributed the reduction in crime to sustained enforcement, strategic operational planning, and disciplined execution of policing strategies throughout the region.

He explained that a combination of intelligence-led operations, targeted patrols, and increased police visi-

bility played a key role in deterring criminal activity and improving public safety.

The Regional Commander further reported that the division achieved a 54.2 per cent clear-up rate, reflecting strong investigative work and effective collaboration between patrol and investigative units.

He noted that timely responses to reports and adherence to operational procedures have been instrumental in solving cases and bringing offenders before the courts.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Scenes from Regional Police Division #2’s Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony

Community cooperation was also highlighted as a critical component of the Division’s success. Senior Superintendent Shivbarran acknowledged the support of residents and community stakeholders, stating that public trust and information sharing continue to strengthen crime-fighting efforts across the Essequibo Coast.

Commending the ranks of Regional Police Division Two, the Commander praised their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to duty.

He stressed that maintaining consistency and accountability throughout the year was essential in achieving measurable results and encouraged ranks to remain focused on delivering quality service.

The Luncheon and Awards Ceremony also served as an opportunity to recognise ranks and stakeholders for their dedication and contributions to policing within the region, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility in maintaining law and order.

Senior Superintendent Shivbarran concluded by extending Christmas greetings and best wishes for a safe and prosperous New Year to ranks, their families, and residents of Region Two, reaffirming the division’s commitment to sustaining the gains made and further strengthening public safety in the coming year.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

ENet backs 24th Vergenoegen Village Day - as Christmas tradition grows into national spectacle

WHAT began as a simple gesture of appreciation within a tight-knit community has blossomed into one of Guyana’s most anticipated Christmas Day traditions, and this year’s 24th annual Vergenoegen Village Day promises to be no different.

Set for December 25, the event once again enjoys the backing of ENet, one of Guyana’s leading providers of television, Internet and information technology services, reinforcing a long-standing partnership that has helped sustain and grow the celebration over the years.

A press release said that the village day, which was originally conceived to honour villagers who made meaningful contributions to the development and spirit of Vergenoegen, has steadily evolved beyond its modest beginnings.

It added that today, it stands as a signature Christmas event on the national calendar, drawing families, music lovers, and visitors from across Region Three and beyond.

Coordinated by Sling-

erz Family Entertainment, the day’s activities begin long before the music takes centre stage.

“True to its community-focused roots, the event opens with the distribution of hampers to elderly and less fortunate residents in the East Bank Essequibo Community.

This charitable outreach has remained a cornerstone of the Vergenoegen Village Day, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas is felt where it matters most.

“Another major highlight will be the massive toy distribution, scheduled for the Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac,” the release said.

According to the organisers, the Rice Mill Tarmac will be transformed into a vibrant family-friendly arena, where children and their families can enjoy face painting, a designated play area, toy distribution, and a range of other activities, all completely free of charge.

While the initiative is aimed primarily at children within the village, organisers have noted that, over the years, it has naturally expanded to include families and youngsters

from neighbouring communities.

“The Village Day is centred around Vergenoegen, but our intention has always been to spread Christmas cheer as far as we can,” organisers said, noting that the smiles of children remain the true measure of the event’s success.

The release noted that ENet’s involvement has been a constant throughout the growth of Village Day. On Thursday, Devon London, ENet’s Head of Business, formally handed over the company’s contribution to Slingerz Family Entertainment at ENet’s Camp Street location, reaffirming the company’s commitment to community development and cultural celebration.

Slingerz Family Entertainment expressed gratitude for ENet’s continued support, describing the partnership as vital to keeping the Vergenoegen Village Day alive and impactful. The organisers also voiced optimism about future collaborations aimed at elevating the event even further, the release added.

ENet’s Business Head, Devon London, (right), makes his company’s presentation to Slingerz Family Entertainment representative, Aswell Mohabir for this year’s Vergenoegen Village Day (Enet photo)

“While charity and community are at the heart of Village Day, the celebration has also earned a reputation as one of the most sought-after Christmas concerts in Guyana.

Over the years, some of the Caribbean’s biggest names, particularly from the dancehall genre, have entertained massive crowds in Vergenoegen.

“Last year, the entertainment segment was temporarily relocated to the National Track and Field Facility due to repairs on the access road leading to the Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac.

“However, following

strong attendance and feedback from patrons, organisers have opted to return the concert to the Leonora facility this year, citing plans to further elevate the overall experience.

“What started as a village celebration born from humble beginnings has now grown into something resembling a celebration of all of Region Three, with patrons converging from every corner of Guyana,” the release said adding that this year’s concert lineup underscores that evolution.

Jamaican dancehall heavyweights Skeng and

Valiant will headline the Christmas Day show, which will feature several local acts.

Known for their high-energy performances and chart-topping hits that dominate playlists and street corners across Guyana, both artistes bring a brand of dancehall that resonates strongly with local audiences.

For Skeng, the appearance marks his first performance at a Slingerz Family Entertainment event on the West Side, while Valiant will be making his second appearance, returning by popular demand.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Scenes from the Region President Dr Irfaan Ali is currently leading a two-day Cabinet Outreach in Region Three, taking government services directly to the people. The President, ministers, Members of Parliament, Advisors,

and technical officers on Thursday engaged residents in dozens of locations including Leonora, Uitvlugt, Farm, Patentia and Stewartville.

They provided platforms for residents to raise concerns, share their

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Three Cabinet Outreach

views and learn about government programmes and services. These Department of Public Information photos captured some of the engagements. Today, the exercise continues, reaffirming the PPP/C

government’s commitment to people-centred governance, which will ensure that community needs are addressed through dialogue and responsive action

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Digicel becomes Caribbean’s first to achieve CIPS Ethical Procurement & Supply Kitemark accreditation THE Digicel Group has become the first company in the Caribbean to be awarded the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Corporate Ethical Procurement & Supply Kitemark, joining an elite group of organisations worldwide recognised for excellence in ethical procurement and supply chain integrity.

bar for responsible sourcing and supply chain governance in the region.”

The press release said that for customers and partners, the CIPS Kitemark provides assurance that Digicel operates ethically and responsibly across its supply chain. Procurement decisions are guided not only by commercial value but also by ethical considerations,

The award was presented last week at the first CIPS Caribbean Conference and Awards at the Hyatt Regency in Trinidad, where Digicel’s Procurement team accepted the distinction, a release from the company said.

It added that the accreditation highlights Digicel’s commitment to ethical sourcing, supplier integrity, and strong governance. It is awarded to organisations that demonstrate consistent ethical practices across their procurement process and is validated through independent audits.

“This accreditation is an important reflection of how we do business,” said Arshad Ali, Director of Group Procurement, Supply Chain & Real Estate for Digicel.

“It demonstrates the significant progress we have made in embedding ethical, transparent, and accountable procurement practices for the Group and reinforces our commitment to raising the

ensuring every interaction reflects integrity and accountability. Partners can expect fair, transparent engagement, clear ethical standards, and stronger long-term relationships built on trust and compliance, creating a more stable and reliable ecosystem for everyone involved.

“This award highlights Digicel’s commitment to ethical practices, along with the continued enhancement of our ethics and compliance programmes. It also gives our customers, suppliers, and partners confidence that Digicel is committed to the highest ethical standards,” said Michael Watson, Chief Compliance and Cyber Security Officer for Digicel Group.

This milestone underscores Digicel’s ongoing commitment to ethical leadership, responsible growth, and delivering long-term value for the region, the release added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Residents laud gov’t for sustained developnment in Glasgow Scheme

Omawattie Rampertab

GOVERNMENT-LED development efforts continue to make a tangible impact in communities across Region Six, with residents of the Glasgow Housing Scheme, East Bank Berbice, expressing satisfaction and appreciation for the steady improvements to infrastructure, services, and overall living conditions in their area.

Rolston Benjamin stressed that he is overwhelmed with the development that is happening in the country presently. “I just want to thank the government for what they are doing and I throw my support behind our President, Dr Irfaan Ali, because of what he is doing, his vision.

So, I just want to extend my

Judith Cameron

gratitude. My emotions are so overwhelmed because of the things he has done.”

He added, “I am not only living at Glasgow Housing Scheme, but I’m farming on the East Bank [Berbice] and the government has sent machine to clean five acres of land there for us so that we can plant and you know as a farmer, I really want to thank the govenrment because years ago when you first go to farm, you under bush, then you got to throw down the tree, then you got to wait a month then you gonna burn, then you go pick up the stuff, then you gonna plant, two three months done, then you wait for an income but because of this vision that the President has, they send

in machine, they clean the land and they dig the drain for you. What more can we want? So I am so thankful and so grateful for what he has done.”

Omawattie Rampersaud, who has been living in the Glasgow Scheme for more than 19 years, also expressed satisfaction with the pace of progress and development taking place in the community and across the country.

She stated, “I’m pleased with the progress and developnment not only in Glasgow but the country at large and I am very happy that the government continue to do the good work, especially for the young people. I am very happy for them because in our days we never had this kind of

Rolston Benjamin

opportunity and I’m very grateful for the opportunity that the young people are getting.”

Rampersaud noted that the expanded opportunities now available to young people represent a significant change from previous years, adding that these advancements give the younger generation a stronger foundation for growth, advancement, and a better future.

Sookdeo Karran, of Lot 823 Glasgow Housing Scheme, added that the government has significantly transformed the area.

He noted that the installation of streetlights throughout the scheme has greatly benefitted residents by improving safety for

Sookdeo Karran

residents who return home late from work in the evenings.

“Everything good so far. Them do all the road, the streets and them open some fresh land for people to farm, clean all the drains.”

Karran who has been residing in the area for close to 23 years said that “at one time, this place was so bad that car man can’t come in this place.

If you got sick at the back here then you surely dead or them drag you out and carry you. So, it good; all them street complete in the village here and everything good. We just feel pleased what the government is doing for all them communities.”

Meanwhile, Judith

Cameron, who has been living in the community for more than 10 years, expressed her appreciation for the steady development that is taking place.

“I am grateful to the government for the development in the area. Our streets are up to date, we have streetlights, and one of the things that I have been rooting for mostly is the water-treatment plant that will be commissioned for the area.”

Cameron noted that these improvements have significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents, adding that the upgraded infrastructure and access to essential services reflect a positive transformation of the community.

THAG welcomes double-cab pick-up flat tax, removal of corporate taxes across agriculture, agro-processing value chain THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) warmly welcomes President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s announcement of the introduction of a flat tax on double-cab pick-ups, along with the removal of corporate taxes across the entire agriculture and agro-processing value chain.

According to a statement, THAG is partic-

ularly pleased with the implementation of a flat tax of two million dollars on double-cab pickups under 2000cc, and three million dollars on double-cab pick-ups between 2000cc and 2500cc.

“This measure will significantly improve access to these essential vehicles for tourism businesses, especially those operating in Guyana’s hinterland regions, where reliable

transportation is critical to daily operations,” the statement said.

The Association said it also strongly welcomes the President’s declaration that corporate taxes will be removed across the agriculture and agro-processing value chain.

This policy, it notes, will enhance Guyana’s competitiveness as an investment destination for agri-tourism, agriculture, agro-process-

ing, and food production, while simultaneously reducing the cost of locally sourced fresh produce supplied to the tourism and hospitality sector.

“THAG commends the Government of Guyana for these forward-looking measures, which will strengthen inter-sectoral linkages, sup-

port sustainable economic growth, and further position Guyana as a competitive tourism destination,” the statement added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Five-year sentence for Laluni man in killing of ‘DJ Viper’

DWAYNE Thomas, a 23-year-old resident of Laluni Creek, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, has been sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for manslaughter in the death of 28-year-old Brian Pitman, popularly known as “DJ Viper.”

The sentence was handed down by Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh at the High Court in Demerara on Wednesday.

Thomas, who had initially been indicted for murder, accepted a plea to the lesser charge of manslaughter based on an agreed statement of facts presented to the court.

Justice Singh began

the sentencing process at a starting point of 20 years’ imprisonment but applied several deductions: six and two-thirds years for Thomas’s early guilty plea; four years for favourable probation and prison reports; two and one-third years for demonstrated remorse and two years for his youth and the circumstances surrounding the offence.

These reductions, totalling 15 years, resulted in the final custodial term of five years. The five-year sentence will be further reduced based on the time the convict has already spent on remand.

Thomas was repre-

Dwayne Thomas

Brian Pitman aka DJ Viper

sented by attorney-at-law Madan Kissoon. The prosecution was handled by attorneys-at-law Simran Gajraj, Christopher Belfield and Geneva Wills.

According to court records, the fatal incident unfolded around 20:00hrs on January 8, 2023, outside a family member’s home along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway in Laluni. Thomas, along with two other men riding motorcycles, began attacking Omar Bacchus, Pitman’s father-in-law.

Pitman reportedly ran to Bacchus’s aid armed with a piece of wood, but was confronted by Thomas and the two others who were all carrying sharp objects.

During the attack, Pitman fell to the ground and was struck repeatedly. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

A post-mortem examination revealed four incised wounds inflict-

ed with a heavy, sharp instrument applied with significant force, with the cause of death listed as haemorrhage and shock due to multiple incised wounds.

Pre-sentencing reports provide further context on Thomas’s background.

Born on February 24, 2002, in Laluni Creek, Linden, he is the youngest of seven children born to Alanzo Allen and Ingrid Thomas.

Following the separation of his parents when he was nine years old, Thomas relocated with his mother and siblings to Helena Number Two, Mahaica, where they lived in rented accommodation.

At age 18, he returned to Laluni Creek to reside with his father and worked as a cash-crop farmer, producing fruits and vegetables. Reports indicate that Thomas did not attend secondary school due to financial constraints, but had maintained employment from a young age.

Probation and prison reports described him as having a quiet personality with no prior criminal record. While in custody, he had no infractions, though he did not participate in any training programme.

Thomas also expressed remorse for the incident, acknowledging that it was never his intention for someone to die. Probation Officer Stacy Newton recommended that he undergo rehabilitative programmes while serving his sentence, emphasising both accountability and the potential for personal

Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh

reform.

The victim-impact statements submitted to the court illustrated the profound consequences of Pitman’s death on his family. His wife, Yazeeda Bacchus, said the loss of her husband has had a severe emotional and psychological toll on her and their two young children, who were 23 months and eight months old respectively, at the time of the incident.

She described feeling mentally drained, emotionally isolated, and overwhelmed by the responsibility of raising the children alone. “Since the death of my husband, I am affected mentally and emotionally, I constantly lock myself away from people, and I cry a lot… My children are now trying to adjust to the situation,” she said, calling for justice for her late husband.

P i t m a n ’s m o t h e r, Tricia Dundas, recalled the challenges she faced raising her son as a sin-

gle parent and described him as respectful, loving, and hardworking. She revealed that his death had taken a toll on her health and forced her to seek professional help. She urged the court to impose the maximum penalty on Thomas.

Pitman’s father, John Pitman, stated that the loss of his son has affected him deeply, making it difficult to perform daily activities and cope with reminders of his late son. “I miss my son very much and my life has never and will never be the same without him.

I would like justice for the death of my son. He did not deserve to die the way he did,” he said.

In delivering the sentence, Justice Singh carefully considered the mitigating factors relating to Thomas, including his youth, lack of prior convictions, and acceptance of responsibility, alongside the gravity of the crime and the devastating impact on Pitman’s family.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Massy delivers solid growth in 2025 - sets course for bold transformation, ambitious future THE Massy Group has closed the Financial Year 2025 (FY2025) on a strong footing, delivering growth in revenue, profit, and cash generation despite global market volatility.

These results underscore the strength of Massy’s diversified portfolios and disciplined execution, the company said in a statement, adding that the group’s third-party revenue grew three per cent to TT$15.8 billion (US$2.3 billion), while Profit Before Tax from continuing operations rose four per cent to TT$1.1 billion (US$169.3 million).

Additionally, Profit After Tax increased 14 per cent to TT$766.3 million (US$113.7 million), supported by improved efficiency and portfolio discipline and the Net Cash generated from operating activities surged 24 per cent to TT$1.67 billion (US$247.7 million), a figure that represents the actual cash the businesses bring in from its day-to-day operations which can be used to invest, reduce debt, and return value to shareholders. Strong operating cash flow is one of the clearest indicators of a healthy, stable business.

The company said that the debt-to-equity ratio improved to 34 per cent excluding leases, reinforcing financial flexibility.

“This shows how much of the company is financed by borrowing versus by shareholders.

A lower number means the company is using debt responsibly and is in a stronger position to handle economic shocks and invest in new growth opportunities,” it said.

It was noted that across its portfolios, Massy delivered resilient performances.

Integrated Retail Portfolio (IRP) remained the largest contributor, with revenue up four per cent to TT$9.9 billion, driven by strong growth in Trinidad, Barbados, Guyana, and the OECS. Further, Gas Products Portfolio (GPP) saw revenue decline six per cent to TT$2.03 billion due to softer demand, but still delivered an eight per cent rise in Profit Before Tax to TT$385 million, underscoring tight cost discipline.

Additionally, the Motors & Machines Portfolio recorded revenue growth of seven per cent to TT$3.73 billion, while Profit Before Tax declined 18 per cent to TT$186 million as market conditions pressured margins.

Regarding financial services, the company explained that this combines Massy Finance GFC and Massy Remittances. These businesses link the Group’s operating portfolios directly to credit, digital payments and foreign-exchange capacity, strengthening liquidity and financial resilience.

It was noted that shareholders benefitted from a five per cent increase in total dividends per share to 17.70 cents, while earnings per share rose nine per cent to 36.49 cents, delivering an earnings yield of 9.8 per cent. Earnings yield shows how much profit investors receive for every dollar invested in the share — similar to an interest rate on savings

but applied to shares, helping the public judge whether the stock offers good value.

Meanwhile, Massy’s share price appreciated five per cent over the financial year, resulting in a total shareholder return of 12.18 per cent. Total shareholder return combines share-price growth and dividends received, showing the full benefit to investors over the financial year.

The company said that FY2025 also marked a leadership transition.

James McLetchie assumed the role of Group

President and CEO on 1 October 2025, succeeding David Affonso, whose three decades of leadership helped shape Massy’s success. The board also welcomed Ivette Zuniga as CFO and Ryan Latchu as CEO of the Group’s Motors & Machines Portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to strong governance and talent development.

LOOKING AHEAD

Massy is entering a new chapter focused on transformation, the company said, adding that the Group is accelerating its evolution into a more connected, data-enabled, and people-led organisation.

Investments in technology, innovation, and talent will drive growth and resilience, ensuring sustainable value for all stakeholders.

Chairman Robert Riley commented: “FY2025 was a year of progress and renewal.

We delivered strong results while laying the foundation for an ambitious future. Massy is continuing to evolve, embracing innovation and building resilience to create lasting value for generations to come.”

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President Ali outlines ‘high-performance vision’ to improve athlete development

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has unveiled a transformative blueprint for Guyanese sport, mandating that every national team will now receive one month of professional conditioning training ahead of international competitions.

The announcement, made on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, forms a core part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) 2025-2030 agenda.

The President’s vision seeks to bridge the gap between “grassroots participation” and “international podium finishes” by professionalising the preparation of the nation’s athletes.

A central pillar of the newly launched manifesto is establishing a dedicated high-performance conditioning facility. This modern hub will serve as the base for pre-competition preparation, high-intensity training, and athlete rehabilitation.

“Every national team rep-

resenting Guyana will now benefit from one month of condition training,” President Ali stated, emphasising that “upskilling” the nation’s talent is essential for Guyana to compete effectively on the global stage.

The administration also confirmed the new Palmyra Stadium is a priority, alongside other modern sports facilities designed to foster elite-level training.

The President’s high-performance push follows five years of record-breaking expenditure in the sector.

Between 2020 and 2025, the government invested an unprecedented $17.6 billion (GYD) in sport.

This funding surge facilitated: Community Impact: Upgrades to 400 community and sports grounds across the country; Regional Milestones: The completion of the Caribbean’s first doubles squash court and Infrastructure Renovation: Comprehensive upgrades to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the National Stadium at

Providence, and the National Aquatic Centre.

The physical landscape of Guyanese sport is currently undergoing its most significant expansion in decades.

Three major cricket stadiums are currently under construction at Anna Regina (Region Two), Palmyra (Region Six), and McKenzie (Region Ten).

T h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s

reach is also extending into the hinterland and coastal regions with several multi-purpose indoor sports halls under construction in Regions One, Three, Seven, Eight, and Nine. Specific projects are already underway in Leonora, Lethem, Mabaruma, Mahdia, and Mongrippa Hill.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday December 19, 2025)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Latham, Conway make West Indies toil

(ESPNCRICINFO) - The Bay of Plenty lived up to its name but only for New Zealand. Devon Conway and Tom Latham harvested a century each and by that time they were having so much fun they would barely let anybody else play.

West Indies could argue that was a bit rude. They were in Mount Maunganui looking for rich bounty as well. A first Test win on these shores for 30 years, which if secured would hand them a share of this series’ spoils.

All of that cast them in the role of a protagonist at the start of the day. But as time wore on and records - both trivial and tumultuous - came to pass, Roston Chase and his men faded into the background.

Each of the five previous Test matches at this ground have yielded

a wicket in its first session. This one didn’t. Kane Williamson, so used to an early start at the office, had to wait the longest he ever has to clock in.

So restless had he grown that at the start of the final session, he was seen wearing all his gear barring the helmet practising a rapid-fire series of leaves and blocks. There will be reels.

Split-screens with Latham and Conway facing real cricket balls out in the middle and this guy just pretending to do so with a caption of who did it better. The answer is actually Terry Jarvis and Glenn Turner.

Latham had a big part in the history he helped make. Over 25 home Tests, dating all the way back to March 2012, New Zealand have only ever chosen to bowl after win-

ning the toss. Here, he had a hunch about putting runs on the board.

Outside of that one bold move, everything else he did was basic.

Playing close to the body. Knowing exactly where his off stump was.

Frustrating the bowlers to target his pads.

Manufacturing easy put-aways.

Latham’s 15th Test century - where he went past 6000 runs as an opener - was proof that fairy tales aren’t the only things that can come to life.

Textbooks do too. It took all the way to 6.30pm for Latham to fall on 137. Test cricket was so close to having a fifth opening pair lasting the entire first day.

Conway played himself into form. Twenty-six of his last 39 innings were cut short at or below the 30-run mark, which isn’t ideal considering his role at the top of

the order is to set the whole team up. Given he was walking out onto a pitch with an unusual amount of grass - 13mm, normally it’s around 7-10mm - there was cause for concern. He put them all to bed, weathering an initial period where West Indies were willing to give up only 11 runs in eight overs. He instigated the first period of New Zealand dominance, the six overs to morning drinks where they scored a-run-a-ball. He went on to bat for longer than he has ever done since his double-century on debut at Lord’s four years ago.

The only way any of this could have been worse for West Indies was if they had brought it all on themselves, and only the finest line separated that from what actually happened.

Because they got what they

wanted at the toss. First use of a surface that looked like it had been left in the care of a kindergartener with a green crayon. The bowlers, though, didn’t make the best use of it.

Their third seamer, Anderson Phillip, started with a spell of 3-0-25-0, and as hard as he tried to improve - creating a rare wicket-taking opportunity when Latham nicked one behind to the keeper on 104 and was dropped - he still went to stumps with 14-2-71-0.

It was symptomatic of a bowling attack that still produced jaffas - and might feel aggrieved none of them yielded any joy - but didn’t have it in them to back it up; to hit the good length spot consistently, test the batter’s discipline and search for vulnerability.

Walter re-elected as President of Albion Cricket Club

VEMEN Walter returned as President of the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club

VEMEN Walter returned as President of the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club when the club held its Annual General Meeting recently at the Albion Community Centre’s main hall.

Walter, one of the most experienced and proven cricket administrators in Guyana and also a highly respected human resources professional, was re-elected unopposed to serve for a 7th straight term, having also held the position for five (5) years from 1995 to 1999.

Retired GuySuCo Albion Estate’s Senior Laboratory Technician - Imtiaz Bacchus, with over 28 years of service to Albion’s cricket as an administrator, was re-elected as Vice-President and so too

were Secretary, Naeeem Khan and Treasurer, Orvin Mangru.

Khan is an agriculturalist who is currently in the teaching profession while Mangru, a former Guyana youth and Berbice Senior Inter-County off-spinner, is now an established building contractor in Berbice.

Former Albion and Berbice youth cricketer who is currently a school teacher at the Port Mourant Secondary School, Adrian Singh, will continue as the Club’s Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer, while Sewnarine Chattergoon, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul along with Zameer Khan, Fabian Naiken, Ramalingum Mangali and Sandeep Ramdass, will all service as Committee Members.

Chattergoon, Bishoo and Permaul are all former Test Cricketers from Albion while Khan, currently a Field Superintendent at GuySuCo’s Albion Estate, has also represented Albion at the first division level and Berbice at the Under-19 level.

Naiken is an experienced cricket coach and administrator who served the club with excellence over the years while Mangali and Ramdass are prominent businessmen in the Albion area.

The new executives will be meeting shortly to name the Club’s captains, vice-captains, and managers of the respective teams, together with the club’s sub-committees for the year 2026.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Australia have the urn in their sights as England self-destruct again

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Australia have not yet officially retained the Ashes, but it already seems a matter of “when” not “if” after England’s challenge wilted in the heat on day two in Adelaide. Ben Stokes battled defiantly, facing 151 balls and batting for more than four hours for his unbeaten 45, but the captain found few allies on the burning deck as England were left staring at a hefty first-innings deficit amid ever-diminishing hopes of keeping the series alive until Christmas.

Stokes had asked for his players to “show a bit of dog” in their bid to make an improbable comeback from 2-0 down, but England were all too easily brought to heel by an Australia side with more than enough pedigree, despite the absence of Steven Smith and Josh Hazlewood.

Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon both made an immediate impact on their return to the XI - Cummins taking 3 for 54 in his first competitive outing since July’s tour of the Caribbean - as England were

Pat Cummins celebrates the wicket of Joe Root - for the 12th time • Getty Images

rounded up without much fuss on what looked like the perfect day for batting.

Their one minor victory came in keeping Mitchell Starc wicketless for the first time in the series; though, as he had started off proceedings by thumping a flurry of fours to bring up his second

half-century in as many games, with Australia merrily adding 45 runs to their overnight 326 for 8, that could only be claimed as a partial success.

There was more Snicko aggro, too, with both sides making their frustrations with the technology clear. England were aggrieved at Chris Gaffaney, the third umpire,

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders hold nerve to overcome Gulf Giants

CMC – THE Abu Dhabi Knight Riders produced a nail-biting display of power-hitting and nerve to overcome the Gulf Giants by four wickets at the Zayed Cricket Stadium here on Thursday, vaulting from sixth to fourth in the ILT20 points table.

Chasing a competitive 166, the Knight Riders’ victory was built on a blistering opening foundation and finished with trademark late fireworks.

English duo Phil Salt, with 35 off 24 and Alex Hales, 46 off 39, launched the chase with a confident 61-run opening stand in 44 balls, Salt notably racing to 8,000 T20 career runs in the process.

Despite a middle-overs fightback from the Giants, led by Tabraiz Shamsi’s impressive 3-23, the Knight Riders always kept pace.

Hales anchored the innings, while West Indian Sherfane Rutherford, with 30 off 22, provided crucial acceleration, smashing Moeen Ali for 16 runs in the 14th over.

The game swung again when Chris Wood dismissed Hales at 125-3, and Shamsi’s removal of Alishan Sharafu soon after left the

outcome in the balance.

Needing 39 from the final five overs, Andre Russell, with another swashbuckling innings of 21 off 13, emerged as the ice-cool finisher.

After a tense period, he broke the shackles with a monstrous six off Matthew Forde in the 18th over and fittingly sealed the win, launching Chris Wood over the ropes with four balls to spare.

Earlier, the Giants’ innings were defined by a lone hand from Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

The Afghan wicketkeeper-batter played a sublime knock of 72 from just 45 balls (including four fours and five sixes), single-handedly propelling his side to a strong position.

His dismissal, courtesy of a spectacular diving catch by Alishan Sharafu off Ajay Kumar, triggered a dramatic collapse. Veteran leg-spinner Piyush Chawla was the chief destroyer, weaving his magic to claim 4-27, including two wickets in one over as the Giants slumped from 131-4 to 135-6.

Their final total of 165-7 proved insufficient on a night where the Knight Riders’ firepower ultimately prevailed.

giving Jamie Smith out caught behind off Cummins on the evidence from Real-Time Snickometer, following the controversy around Alex Carey’s non-dismissal on day one. Smith had survived moments before in bizarre circumstances, with Gaffaney determining the ball had come off his helmet, despite TV pictures suggesting contact with the glove, as Australia argued (although whether the ball had carried to Usman Khawaja at slip or not was a different matter).

Joe Root was also reprieved, with Gaffaney unconvinced that an inside edge on to pad had reached Carey’s gloves on the full. None of which detracted from the fact that England had seemingly torpedoed their own hopes once again with another flaccid batting display as temperatures approached 40C in Adelaide.

A sloppy start with the ball, which led to a heated exchange between Stokes and Jofra Archer even as the latter was on his way to securing a first Test five-for since 2019, was compounded by England

losing their top three in the space of 15 balls before lunch. Root was then dismissed for the 12th time in Tests

by Cummins - nobody has had more success against England’s key batter - and the innings fell away after a 56-run stand for the fifth wicket between Stokes and Harry Brook.

Archer did manage to stick around alongside Stokes to the close, putting on the second-longest partnership of the innings, though Australia’s lead was still above 150 and England faced the prospect of batting last on a surface that’s expected to break up in the heat.

The suspicion at the end of day one was that Australia had left plenty of runs on the table, despite Carey’s maiden Ashes hundred taking them beyond 300.

England needed to make good on the promise of runs, that anticipation only sharpened by Starc striking five boundaries in 12 balls as Australia’s tail wagged to good effect. Archer was leaky but removed both Starc and Lyon on the way to a third five-wicket haul against Australia.

Phil Salt launches a six•Dec 18, 2025•CREIMAS/ILT20

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

Pentecostal Fire Champions Silver Church basketball Shattas gain first victory features church - FC YMCA, Capital FC, among second-night winners teams tonight UDFA/BANKS DIH Christmas Futsal Day Two……

- Shootout competition among pastors added attraction

THE Linden Pentecostal Fire Assembly of God (AOG) Church’s Youth Department has organised a two-night basketball championship which will see combined church teams within Linden taking the court tonight and tomorrow night at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

Organised by former coach of national club champions Victory Valley Royals Christopher Pollydore and former youth national player United States-based Marlon Pollydore, who will be present, the aim is to get basketball competitions again among the church brethren.

With this in mind, four teams will face off tonight.

In the first game, the combined Pentecostal Fire/ WISROCK AOG and Emmanuel AOG team from the west of Linden take on a veterans team.

Mount Carmel AOG, Praise Tabernacle AOG and Calvary Temple combined side face South Assembly AOG in the other knockout match starting at 18:00hrs.

In addition to those two encounters, there will be a shootout contest for youths Under 15 and Under 10 years old.

There is also a specially arranged shootout contest among the pastors from across Linden to spice up the two nights of basketball.

According to Christopher Pollydore the winners will contest the final Saturday night, and the losers will combine to take on a Georgetown representative church team as the supporting game tomorrow night also.

He said trophies, replicas and medals will go to the winners in all the categories on the final night.

By Joe Chapman DEFENDING champions Silver Shattas brushed aside Amelia’s Ward Panthers, 11-2, to win for the first time after drawing their opening game in the ongoing year’s Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) fourth annual Banks DIH futsal Championship.

On Wednesday night, at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden, they were not the only winners as FC YMCA, Capital FC, Winners Con-

brace from Barrack John and another goal off the boot of Jaden Nelson, pushed them to victory after they had won their opening match last Saturday against Eagles United 8-2.

Capital FC then overwhelmed Fearless 5-0, after a 2-0 half-time score, to secure their second Group ‘B’ victory following their walkover victory against Coomacka on the opening night.

This time, Duquan Wilson and Selwyn Barnes both scored doubles with the other

were leading 2-0 at lemon time.

The fourth match was a Group ‘B’ affair with Blueberry Hill gaining a 4-0 win over Coomacka.Rondell Arthur’s double and single strikes from Joshua Daniels and Samuel Broomes were responsible for the victory

by Blueberry Hill, their second after winning their first match against Fearless, 2-1.

Botafago then thrashed Rockstone 9-0, behind Shemar Caesar’s hat-trick, a brace each from Ojani Whit-

Reynolds accounting for their goals.

Dexter Milo Jr and Amani King were the scorers for Eagles United.

In the other result of the night last year’s winners Silver Shattas, after being held to a 3-3 draw against Group ‘A’ opponents Topp XX, battered Amelia’s Ward Panthers 11-2 to record their first win.

They led 3-1 after the first period ended and Colwyn Drakes helped himself to a quadruple of goals for

Action between Silver Shattas against Amelia’s Ward Panthers

nection and Blueberry Hill won for the second time.

Playing in the first game of the night, a Group ‘C’ clash, FC YMCA rebounded from a 0-2 half-time deficit to rally to a 3-2 victory against Net Rockers, who were ahead, compliments of goals by Shane Luckie and Denzil Pryor before the opening stanza ended.

But FC YMCA, led by a

from Devonte Tappin ensuring the win.

Topp XX then scored a solid 5-3 win over Hi Stars in their Group ‘A’ matchup.

Wednesday night’s win was the first for Topp XX who held Silver Shattas to a 3-3 draw in their first match.

For the winners, Ryan Arthur had a hat-trick as Jamal Bentick accounted for the other goals, after they

tington and Shane Haynes and the other two goals from Malachi Todd and Ronel Depustrom.

Botafago had lost their first game against Milerock 3-1.

In a Group ‘C’ encounter, Winners Connection outplayed Eagles United 3-2, after being ahead at half time 2-1, with Akeem Caesar, Anthony Layne and Jamal

the winners, with hat-tricks coming from Jehu Regis and Jonah Simon, with Damian Williams getting the other goal. For the losers Damal Warner and Paul Trotman were their scorers.

This preliminary round of group matches will continue on Sunday night, with seven matches at the tournament venue the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

KFC Goodwill International Schools Football Championship Chase eclipses Kingston College to maintain perfect run - Semis set for today CHASE Academic Foundation is one step closer to a successful defence of their KFC Goodwill International Football title after edging top contender Kingston College out of Jamaica 3-2.

The champions had the worst possible start to their clash against their Jamaican challenge, as talisman Bryan Wharton got a straight red card 10 minutes after the opening whistle.

It was the result of Wharton mouthing off to the onfield officials, who were in a no-nonsense mood, the situation got from bad to worse as Chase’s other top striker Nyron Barrow got a yellow card for a foul in the 15th minute causing the defending champions to play more cautiously.

Kingston capitalized, scoring a minute later to record the game’s first goal and it was Shaquon Elliot that executed the strike to perfection

as the tourists pushed Chase onto the back foot.

After the resumption, Chase sought to rebound but without success as it was Kingston’s Riley Kevwaroo that found the back of the net to make it 2-nil for his school team.

Chase, down a man, bruised and frustrated needed a hero and Barrow broke the shackles, stepping up to bury one in the 60th to make it 2-1.

The successful strike gave energy and momentum to Chase’s resurgence, but they struggled to find the equaliser until Mark Glasgow tied the game in the 80th minute.

While the hope of a win for both teams seemed to be vanishing, Shaquan David came to the fore and recorded his most consequential goal for the defending champs, giving them the lead which held to the final whistle and

Annai Secondary and St Benedict College in heated battle

a spot in today’s semi-final.

In other clashes, Annai Secondary lost to Suriname’s Nikiere Technical School 9-3. Jizzreel Sedoc led the

Surinamese with a hat-trick with Darien Dors scoring a brace.

Shaheen Nabebux, Sennery Mac-Intosh, Reuel Me-

sarch and Johathan Gomes were Suriname’s other goal scorers.

Annai Secondary’s goals came from Darius Wilson,

Jermaine Jobe and Sunil Moses.

West Ruimveldt Secondary mauled Anglican Central Educational Authority (ACEA) from Bahamas 15-1.

West Ruimveldt Secondary’s goals were shared between Donavan Welcome and Jeremiah Griffith with four each, a hat-trick from Dominic Lesprance and a pair of goals from Marvin Sealey.

B r a z i l ’s J o s e Vi e r a School also lost to Trinidad and Tobago’s St Benedict College 1-nil after the lone goal from Josiah Barrow.

The semi-final which kicks off this evening at the Ministry of Education’s ground from 18:00hrs sees St Benedicts College coming up against Jamaica’s Kingston College.

Champions Chase meet Suriname’s Nikiere Technical School in the other semi at 20:00hrs.

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President Ali outlines ‘highperformance vision’ to improve athlete development

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 19, 2025

SEE PAGE

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his address to the nation on Wednesday

Latham, Conway make West Indies toil

KFC Goodwill International Schools Football Championship Chase eclipses Kingston College to maintain perfect run - Semis set for today SEE PAGE

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SEE PAGE

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Tom Latham and Devon Conway put up a double-century stand•Dec 18, 2025•AFP/Getty Images

Chase Academic Foundation player of the match Shaquan David going for goal

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| FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2025