Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20-11-2025

Young Sophia student shares presidential ambition in meeting with President Ali

PRESIDENT, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday, International Men’s Day, met with a remarkable ten-year-old, Treyson Mahadeo, who has big aspirations of one day becoming a President.

Treyson, who lives in B Field Sophia, walked into the meeting with confidence and his questions ready for His Excellency.

“Good afternoon, sir. I wanted to ask you what do you do for your President job? How exactly hard is it?”, Mahadeo noted.

President Ali shared that leadership is less about difficulty and more about commitment.

“Once you have com-

mitment, once you work hard, right, and as the President, you have to be

able to love people, you have to be able to listen to people, you have to be

able to work at every level…,” President Ali said. President Ali spoke

about the joy he finds in serving others and reminded the young student that success comes from determination, loving what you do and meaningful work.

When Treyson revealed his dreams of becoming a president, scientist or engineer, the President encouraged him to build a strong foundation through education and consistent effort. Treyson shared with President Ali that although he likes to read in his school’s library, books are limited.

“We don’t have many books…some kids are not able to afford books, I prefer that every child has an opportunity to be able to read,” young

Treyson said.

President Ali noted his statement and commended Treyson on his selflessness and compassion for others.

“You know what’s beautiful about that? That I’m asking you questions about what you think, and you’re thinking about everyone else. And that’s a good quality…That’s a quality that makes you an exceptional person,” President Ali said.

It was an ideal reflection of what International Men’s Day celebrates: boys and men who uplift others, think beyond themselves, and who embody integrity and compassion. (Credit: Britany Roberts)

CJIA stages full-scale emergency drill to test national response readiness

THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Wednesday carried out a full-scale emergency exercise aimed at testing the country’s airport-security and emergency-response systems, temporarily triggering a controlled lockdown of parts of the terminal around 9:00 hours.

The simulation, conducted in the Arrivals area and other sections of the airport, formed part of a scheduled drill coordinated with major national security and emergency agencies. Officials said the exercise was designed to assess response times, inter-agency coordination, and the functionality of communication and command systems.

As part of the drill, an alarm was activated and the terminal went into lockdown while the Emergency Operations Centre was

brought online. The controlled scenario allowed responders to test their readiness without disrupting routine airport activity.

CJIA’s Security Director, Manmohan Balram, described the exercise as a “tremendous success,” noting that it offered a critical opportunity to evaluate operational capabilities and strengthen coordination among agencies.

Deputy Superintendent Clifton Davis, Officer-in-Charge at the Timehri Police Station, said his focus during the exercise was managing the movement and deployment of teams on the ground. The drill, he added, allowed units “to test our response structure in real time” and ensure quick mobilisation when required.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Errol Watts highlighted the strong

grasp of Standard Operating Procedures demonstrated by participating ranks, stressing the need for continuous assessments to maintain effective threat response.

Agencies involved in the simulation included the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Tactical Services Unit, Customs, Immigration, the Civil Defence Commission, the Ministry of Health, and other airport partners.

Airport officials said the exercise was conducted in keeping with international aviation requirements and supports national efforts to enhance emergency response capacity. Normal airport operations continued throughout the drill, and authorities emphasised that the public was never at risk.

Airport officials said the exercise was conducted in keeping with international aviation requirements and supports national efforts to enhance emergency response capacity

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and ten-year-old Treyson Mahadeo share a photo-moment on Tuesday

EU-EOM report lacks substantive analysis

––

campaigning on achievements nothing unusual

––– President Ali says, highlights subjective, partisan and completely biased evaluation

THE European Union’s election mission (EU-EOM) to Guyana’s 2025 general and regional elections has drawn criticism for what President Dr. Irfaan Ali has described as a ‘noticeable absence of substantive analysis’ as he defended the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s (PPP/C’s) focus on its achievements during the recent campaign leading to the September 1 polls.

Dr. Ali, during a live broadcast on Wednesday said highlighting the government’s achievements was nothing unusual for an incumbency seeking re-election and argued that the EU-EOM overlooked essential context in their assessment.

The EU-EOM final report on the country’s polls was made public on Tuesday.

While the report acknowledged polls were ‘peaceful and well-run,’ Chief Observer Robert Biedron stated that the country’s elections took place under ‘deep political polarisation’ from political parties, with the mission observing what it described as “an uneven playing field and undue advantage by incumbency.”

President Ali questioned the credibility of the mission’s findings, suggesting that the composition and methodology of the mission’s observations may have influenced the report’s tone and conclusions.

He argued that observer groups such as the EU must be held to higher standards when selecting in-country personnel, claiming that several individuals involved in the process had known associations with figures who openly hold partisan positions.

He believed that portions of the report were inadequate and “lacked analysis.”

According to the President, this raises legitimate concerns about the report’s independence and the extent to which some affiliations may have shaped the final assessments presented to the public.

“If you go through some of the staff that were hired in this process by the EU, their own staff that influenced the outcome of the report, you would have to question those persons’ independence because they’re associated with, or are in association with, persons who would have expressed partisan positions on many issues.”

While the EU-EOM report was positive about procedural

systems, President Ali forcefully rejected the claims of ‘undue advantage by incumbency.’

These, he said, are unfounded and rooted in complaints from political participants rather than objective observation.

“This comment is not based on any facts. It is based primarily on complaints by political participants in the elections and their affiliates.”

“So incumbency comes with positive and negative, but because of the performance of the People’s Progressive Party Civic government, we delivered on our commitment… That’s not an incumbency advantage.

That is a commitment that the government made in its manifesto of 2020 to 2025, that the incumbent would have delivered on, and the incumbent has a duty and responsibility like any other country in the European Union,” President Ali added.

COMMITMENTS

President Ali pointed out that many of the initiatives highlighted in the report as “advantages” had been longstanding commitments, fully documented in the government’s fiscal packages and manifesto.

“This is not an incumbency problem. We have a responsibility to speak about

our success. What kind of system will deny an incumbent to celebrate his success, speak about his success to use its great management of the economy and added revenue to expand social programmes those were our commitment,” he said, adding:

“If you went back to my test of 2020, and the budget, you would see that those are commitments that we made. So, I just wanted to make that very clear, that I find that statement objectionable.”

TRANSPARENCY, REFORM EFFORTS AND OMITTED CONTEXT

The President also hit back at the report’s note of ‘insufficient regulation of campaign finance’.

To this end, the President noted that the mission failed to acknowledge the work that is ongoing to modernise the country’s electoral laws.

“We said, the process of enhancing the laws, the process of modernising the laws for election sand advancing these laws would form part of the constitutional reform that is ongoing long before the elections,” he said.

Dr. Ali noted that the government has acknowledged that there are still a num -

ber of areas that need to be addressed, and as such, the constitutional reform process is ongoing.

The government, he noted, had met with the EU-EOM during their initial assessments and visits to the country leading up to the polls.

“Nowhere in the report point [s] to the fact that there is an ongoing constitutional reform process…the analytical aspect of this statement points to the inexperience and points to the fact that it has no basis in reality.”

The president also objected to the EU’s focus on media bias, stating, “We have statistics to show that there are many private media entities that were 80 per cent negative against the People’s Progressive Party Civic, some 90 per cent negative. So, it is not favouring the ruling party.

That’s… not the case.”

‘PEACEFUL AND WELL RUN’

President Ali reaffirmed his governments to the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

He emphasised that Guyana’s 2025 polls were “free and fair,” a sentiment echoed by numerous electoral missions observing the process.

“The report points to the fact that the elections

were peaceful, well run, but that was how they described Election Day. Elections were peaceful, calm, and orderly,” he said.

The EU had deployed some 50 observers across the country to observe both the campaign and Election Day proceedings.

In its final report, which has also since been handed over to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the EU noted that there were significant improvements in some legal frameworks and reforms, most notably, the real-time online publication of Statements of Poll, which marked significant improvements for the transparency and traceability of results.

The President further thanked the EU-EOM for their participation and called for a re-evaluation of the methodologies, signalling Guyana’s openness for continued collaboration.

“We look forward to continuing our work with the European Union and the electoral observation commission as we work towards building a stronger and more resilient electoral system here in Guyana, as we want to see all across the world,” he affirmed.

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali

‘We

are opening up Guyana to the world’

–– Public

Works

Minister says, highlights

governments push for regional connectivity, trade opportunities in massive infrastructure programme

By Naomi Parris

FROM bridges to new highways, the government’s expansive infrastructure programme is designed to boost regional connectivity and unlock major trade opportunities; this is according to Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill.

Minister Edghill, during an appearance on the ‘Starting Point’ podcast, emphasised that the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration is “opening up Guyana to the world” through a coordinated push to modernise transport networks, expand cross-border links, and strengthen the nation’s role in the wider Caribbean and South American markets.

“These are not things that’s still in the pipeline… things are happening. It might not be obvious to everybody, because they’re not traveling those routes, and a lot of it you’re not seeing every day, but when it comes together and the

connections are made, it’s going to be the wow factor.”

SUPENAAM TO CHARITY

Pointing to the buildout of a massive ecosystem set to connect Guyana’s hinterland with the coast and further onward to the Caribbean and wider Latin American region, Minister Edghill said the government’s infrastructure master plan is deliberately designed to stimulate economic momentum and ensure Guyanese are positioned to seize opportunities.

He emphasised that each project, from highways to ports, forms part of a wider network that will make the movement of people, goods, and services faster, cheaper, and more reliable. He highlighted the plans for regions two and three, which are earmarked to be hubs for trade, tourism, and massive investments.

Expanding on this vision, the minister revealed

that major upgrades are already in motion along the Essequibo Coast, where the government intends to transform the existing roadway into a modern four-lane corridor.

“And in this term, we’re going to make that road into a four-lane road. Four lanes from Supenaam to Charity. We’re building out a new wharf a Charity to take care of what is going on in the Pomeroon, as well as the people who come over from Region One through Moruca to Charity.”

Edghill added that the transport revolution is not limited to roadworks alone. Significant investment is also going toward expanding maritime capacity, with two new ferries that have become operational during the governments first term in office.

“We have already purchased two additional ferries, one that will run the Supenaam route, Parika Supenaam, and the other will run from Georgetown to Moruca in Region One.”

Meanwhile, according to the minister, construction works have already commenced on that upgraded Parika port, envisioned as a world-class logistical hub.

“We already have three contractors in place, and the work for that port has already started, and that is going to be a port that carries with it, a mariner for people who want to come together with their yachts, it is going to have several facilities to roll on, roll off,” he added.

Once completed, the Parika port is expected to serve as a critical gateway for regional trade, equipped with the full suite of regulatory and processing services needed for international operations.

This port has been earmarked for a regional ferry

projects have unfolded, enhancing connectivity.

It was previously reported by the Guyana Chronicle that over 56.5 km of major roadways were completed or underway.

service to operate, allowing farmers in regions two and three to access lucrative markets.

The ferry service, which is a collaborative initiative among the Governments of Guyana, Trinidad &Tobago and Barbados, is intended to promote enhanced trade within the Caribbean Community [CARICOM].

“It would host offices for customs, immigration, CANU agriculture, processing and packaging, because it is from that Parika port that President Ali believes that a regional ferry will be able to work in taking our products to the rest of the Caribbean.”

MASS TRANSIT OPTIONS

Citing the scale and coordination behind these investments, the Public Works Minister reiterated that Guyana’s infrastructural transformation is not accidental but engineered to support long-term national development.

Travelling back inwards to the country’s capital city, Minister Edghill noted that already several massive

These included the Diamond to Buzz Bee Dam highway commissioned back in August; the Eccles to Great Diamond interlink road, commissioned back in 2021; the Mandela Avenue to Eccles highway, commissioned in 2022; and the Eccles to Great Diamond highway, also commissioned in 2022. The Great Diamond extension four-lane highway, commonly known as the Heroes Highway, was commissioned in 2023.

In addition to this, there have been extensive works to enhance smaller community roads and recreational spaces and parks across the city.

These initiatives are expected to be further complemented with President Ali’s ‘Rescue Georgetown’ programme—which is an ambitious plan to restore the city to its historic reputation as “The Garden City”, while advancing sustainable urban development.

The plan outlines 15 landmark demonstration projects that will focus on ‘green’ infrastructure, climate resilience, and the celebration of cultural heritage.

The government, Minister Edghill says intends to transform the entire Region Four exploring all mass transit options including the possibility of reintroducing train lines.

He pointed to the ongoing works along the East Coast Demerara’s railway embankment and works along the East Bank Corridor too that will be opening

up new lanes, lands, opportunities to citizens.

“That is part of the modernisation, because we also have to look at mass transit options in Georgetown, and that’s something that is ongoing in terms of our conversation and looking at ways and means,” he explained.

TRANSFORMING LIVES

While the government has earned praise for flagship developments such as the recently commissioned Dr Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge and the ongoing Linden–Mabura Road project, Edghill stressed that these are only part of a much wider portfolio of works that continue to transform lives across the country.

According to the minister, communities are experiencing reliable road access for the first time, replacing the muddy, treacherous trails that residents once had to navigate daily.

He believes that the real transformation is felt in those hinterland and riverine areas, where families who previously trekked through muddy footpaths to get to school, work, markets or health posts can now travel with ease on properly built roads.

“When the people from Crabwood Creek were able to come out of their yards and walk on the road to get to the main thoroughfares to go about their business.

That is major, because some of them literally came out of the mud.

The journey, the traversing there used to be knee deep mud,” he said

Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill during his appearance on the starting point podcast

Minister Edghill believes that the real transformation is felt in those hinterland and riverine areas, where families who previously trekked through muddy footpaths to get to school, work, markets or health posts can now travel with ease on properly built roads

Foreign Affairs Ministry marks International Men’s Day with staff recognition, health discussion

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, on Tuesday, observed International Men’s Day with an appreciation ceremony recognising male staff for long service and contributions to the foreign service

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, on Tuesday, observed International Men’s Day with an appreciation ceremony, recognising male staff for long service and contributions to the foreign service.

During the event, awards were presented to employees across several departments. The ministry said the initiative aimed to acknowledge the role men play in its operations and the wider public service.

As part of the observance, the Ministry’s Gender Affairs Committee also hosted an interactive session focused on men’s physical well-being and mental health.

Officials noted that the discussion was intended to raise awareness of health issues that commonly affect men but are often overlooked.

International Men’s Day is observed annually on November 19 and highlights the contributions of men and boys while drawing attention to social issues such as health challenges, gender stereotypes, and the well-being of male youth. The 2025 theme is “Celebrating Men and Boys.”

ERC expands harmony club pilot to Comenius Primary School

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Wednesday launched its third Harmony Club Pilot, extending the initiative to Comenius Primary School in Queenstown as part of its programme to promote cultural understanding and social cohesion among young learners.

The rollout follows earlier launches at Stella Maris and St. Gabriel’s Primary Schools. The ERC, working with the Ministry of Education, aims to introduce Harmony Clubs across the country as a structured way for learners to learn about Guyana’s ethnic diversity, national identity, and principles of peaceful coexistence.

ERC Chairman Shaikh

Moeenul Hack told students and teachers that the clubs are intended to help children develop respect for different faiths, customs and cultural backgrounds. He said early exposure to these values encourages stronger community relationships and supports national unity.

District Education Officer Wendy Johnson, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, said schools provide an ideal environment for introducing harmony-based activities and shaping attitudes around respect and empathy. She noted that the programme supports wider education goals focused on strengthening classroom environments and community relations. Comenius Primary

Headmistress Janice Torrington said the school welcomes the initiative, adding that its students are already encouraged to treat peers with respect regardless of background.

The Harmony Clubs will use guided discussions, cultural exchanges, games and interactive sessions to help students explore similarities and differences within Guyana’s multicultural population. The next pilots are scheduled for St. Ambrose Primary and North Georgetown Secondary.

The ERC said feedback from pilot schools will guide the national expansion of the programme, which is expected to involve institutions across all regions.

The Harmony Clubs will use guided discussions, cultural exchanges, games and interactive sessions to help students explore similarities and differences within Guyana’s multicultural population

CARICOM solidarity

THE devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has prompted one of the most significant demonstrations of regional solidarity the Caribbean has seen in years.

As the death toll rises and communities struggle to confront an estimated US$8 billion in physical damage, the response from Guyana and the wider CARICOM bloc is shaping up to be a critical test of the region’s longstanding pledge to collective security and mutual aid.

President Irfaan Ali’s commitment to help rebuild roofs for 200 Jamaican homes is more than a symbolic gesture. It signals a mobilisation of manpower, materials, and logistical resources; support that Jamaica urgently needs as it grapples with the catastrophic aftermath of a Category Five hurricane, one of the most intense ever to strike the island.

Ali’s on-the-ground visit with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and other CARICOM leaders underscores the seriousness of that commitment, as well as the scale of the crisis.

Melissa’s rapid intensification and direct hit on Westmoreland Parish left entire communities shredded.

President Ali’s reflections from the disaster zone, acknowledging both the devastation and the resilience of Jamaicans, capture the emotional weight of a region too familiar with climate-driven destruction.

The 45 confirmed deaths are almost certain to rise as investigations continue, a grim reminder of the human toll behind the headlines.

Still, the regional response has been swift. Guyana’s early shipments of generators, chainsaws, and tarpaulins helped stabilise initial recovery efforts, but a much larger consignment: building materials, water tanks, food supplies, and other essentials, is set to arrive this weekend.

Additional personnel will join Jamaica’s on-the-ground teams, reinforcing the commitment to help families secure safe shelter ahead of the Christmas season.

This aligns closely with Prime Min-

ister Holness’s ambitious pledge to ensure every affected household has a roof before year’s end. Whether that target is fully achievable remains to be seen, but the urgency behind it is justified.

CARICOM’s broader mobilisation, supported by CDEMA and the Regional Security System, has also been notable.

Barbados has pledged a field hospital and debris-removal equipment, while other member states are contributing relief items and technical support.

The co-ordinated Goodwill Mission led by regional leaders illustrates what functional regionalism looks like—decisive, collaborative, and rooted in shared vulnerability.

Yet this moment also raises harder questions. As climate impacts intensify, the Caribbean faces disasters of growing frequency and magnitude.

Melissa’s unprecedented strength shows that the region is not just responding to isolated crises but confronting a new climate reality.

Rebuilding roofs in Jamaica today may help families recover in the short

term, but longer-term resilience will require deeper structural planning, tougher building codes, stronger social protections, and significant investment in climate adaptation.

President Ali’s pledge, and CARICOM’s collective response, reflect a region that understands the necessity of standing together. But solidarity must be paired with strategy.

If the Caribbean is to “rebuild stronger,” as Holness put it, then disaster response cannot continue to outpace long-term prevention.

Melissa has exposed the vulnerabilities; now leadership across the region must show whether it is prepared to address them.

For now, Guyana’s support represents an important step at a moment when Jamaica needs it most.

But the true measure of regional resilience will lie not only in repairing homes before Christmas, but in building a future in which communities are better equipped to withstand the storms that will inevitably follow.

An open letter to President Irfaan Ali

Dear Mr. President,

ALL Guyanese are concerned with the effects of corruption on our country.

Recent decisions from the judiciary have been so contrary to well-established and understood norms that they have caused much speculation of corruption (bribery) of judges and magistrates.

It is with this in mind that I ask that you initiate a thorough investigation of the finances of ALL serving on the bench-

es of our judiciary.

The financial investigation arms, FIU and SOCU, are well funded by taxpayers and capable of providing returns on that investment, especially if they return an ‘all clear’ on this branch of government that we all rely on for justice.

For years the judiciary has interrogated the workings of government, it has arrogated policy and technical decision-making powers in clear cases of overreach; one would hope these were not

decisions financed by persons with vested interests, but doubts and suspicions are raised by members of the public when judgments are so outrageous as to be nonsensical.

The recent decision by Justice Gino Persaud that the GRA has no power to revisit values after goods have been cleared was immediately contradicted by a decision a mere two days later by Chancellor George who made it clear that this is not the norm and the power of revenue

agencies in Guyana and indeed, the world over is well established law.

The Guyanese people need to know that no person is above the law, not even the Judges themselves.

Thank you for your kind attention to this matter.

Yours, Robin Singh

Guyana Government: Moment of weakness or courage?

THERE is a group of people in this country that has an instinct of entitlement, and that entitlement is on display at the moment.

If the leadership of the Government buckles to this pugnacious demand by this cabal masquerading under the title of civil society, then it may never recover from that episode of weakness. What is at stake here is the credibility of the political leadership of the government. The onus is on the government to tell this group that it will fight and expose its insane demand of entitlement.

Let’s discuss the entitlement mentality. Certain civil society entities believe they are entitled to shape this country to their liking because of their birthright as the inheritors of the colonial state. These people are from the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC), and they have confronted every president beginning with Forbes Burnham with the intention of wresting power. Through status and connections, the MCC believes that it must have participatory power in the state.

It would be impossible to analyse the political heritage and the political journey of the MCC in a newspaper column, but more than 20 columns of mine in this newspaper since 2023 have traced the evolution and present shape of the MCC, so let’s move on to the present confrontation with the Government of Guyana.

I refer readers to my article of Friday, October 3, 2025, titled “Guyana must end this masquerade.” This column could be interpreted as part 2 of the October 3 piece. Here is the story. Guyana is part of the global arrangement titled Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI). The body overseeing the function of EITI is named the Multi-stakeholder Group (MSG).

The government in each country where there is an EITI selects a convenor to arrange

for the country’s civil society organisations to be part of the MSG. The APNU+AFC government chose the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) to be the convener. The GHRA chose Mike McCormack and Vanda Radzik. This had to be a conflict of interest because McCormack heads the GHRA to be in the MSG. Their term has ended. The government has chosen Dr. Ivor English to be the convenor.

The usual suspect (TUS) in the MCC has rejected Dr. English as convenor. Guess why?

TUS and MCC (they overlap) want their colleagues in their incestuously intertwined organisations to choose the convenor. Here is the list of civil society groups from which the convenor comes, and as you see them, remember the word “incestuous” and note their anti-government bias.

Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA)

Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) – noteMike Mc Cormack is in the leadership of both.

Guyana Workers Union – note – its head, Norris Witter is co-chairman with Mike Mc Cormack of the GHRA.

East Coast Development Committee. This is headed by McCormack’s wife, Merle Mendonca

Amerindian People’s Association (APA) — anti-government

Guyana Organization of Indigenous People (GOIP)—anti-government. It should be noted that APA and GOIP are synonymous. Red Thread—anti-government Greenheart Movement. Note- Sherlina Najeer of this group is also part of Red Thread

SASOD. Note- Najeer is also part of SASOD

Transparency Institute Guyana (TIG)

Access to Information. This is headed by

Alfred Bhulai, who is also in TIG leadership

What we have here is TUS with its entitlement mentality wanting to dictate to the government who should be civil society’s representative on the MSG. But the charter of the EITI stipulates what constitutes a civil society organisation. The list includes the media, religious bodies, trade unions. So TUS has written to the Norway-based head office of EITI for them to put pressure on the government to cancel Dr. English’s appointment, but TUS has not canvassed the views of the following civil society groups:

NCN

The Chronicle

FITUG

Newsroom

The Medical Association

The Women’s Lawyer Association

The Bar Association

The Indian Arrival Committee

The Rastafari Council

CIOG

The Dharmic Sabha

ACDA

All of these entities constitute what we

call civil society. If you are going to select a person from civil society to sit on the MSG, then the dozens and dozens of civil society organisations must be invited to the general gathering that will select its representative. But this is not the route TUS is taking. It wants someone from among its incestuous playground to sit in the MSG.

What the Government of Guyana must do is to interface with EITI in Norway and describe the nature and conduct of this narrow group in Guyana. Finally, Transparency Institute Guyana said that it sent to the government “a list of excellent bona fide, independent civil society representatives.” Guess who these representatives are? The same groups named above.

If those people are independent, then Adolph Hitler was the female version of Mother Theresa.

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.

Security agencies trained to prevent sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment

THE Ministry of Home Affairs, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), on Wednesday hosted a capacity-building session for employees of the ministry and its security-sector agencies on the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH). The training took place at the Guyana Police Force Officers’ Training Centre.

The session focused on strengthening reporting mechanisms, improving referral pathways, and promoting a victim-centred approach for responding to cases of sexual misconduct within the workplace. Participants also reviewed the national PSEAH standards of conduct for public servants.

According to the ministry, the initiative aims to deepen understanding of PSEAH principles, foster a safer and more accountable work environment, and encourage a culture in which

employees can report concerns without fear of retaliation. The training also emphasised the need for accessible and confidential systems to address sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment.

Staff from several security and public service entities participated, including the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Prison Service, Customs

Anti-Narcotic Unit, Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory, Immigration Support Services, the General Register Office, the Juvenile Holding Centre and the Trafficking in Persons Unit.

The session was jointly facilitated by UNFPA PSEAH Specialist Carole Doucet and Eureka Duncan, Principal Personnel Officer at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Participants also reviewed the national PSEAH standards of conduct for public servants

UNFPA PSEAH Specialist, Carole Doucet

Election fraud trial… Sasenarine Singh details early tabulation process at Ashmin’s Building

— recounts SOP collection, security checks, Mingo’s initial assurances

THE election-fraud trial arising from the disputed March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections continued on Wednesday with detailed testimony from People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) supernumerary agent, Sasenarine Singh, who walked the court through the early hours of the tabulation exercise at the Ashmin’s Building, District Four’s command centre.

The ongoing matter concerns 19 charges—including conspiracy to defraud and misconduct in public office—brought against former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former APNU+AFC minister Volda Lawrence, PNCR member Carol Smith-Joseph and former GECOM staffers Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings and Michelle Miller.

“I personally saw the SOPs being posted,” Singh told the court that his role on Election Day involved collecting PPP/C polling agents and the sealed yellow envelopes they received at polling stations.

He said that at every location he visited, he personally observed presiding officers posting the Statement of Poll (SOP) outside the station as required by law.

According to him, the documents displayed contained “the polling station’s name, ballot box number, vote tallies for all contesting parties, signatures of observers and the presiding officer, and the unique identification number assigned to each SOP,” along with totals for valid, rejected, spoiled and overall votes.

Singh said he later transported the party’s agents and their SOP packets to Freedom House, where the documents

were handed over and remained in his custody in the now-well-known carry-on suitcases.

Singh said he slept briefly at Freedom House before walking up around 12:05 hrs on March 3, 2020.

He testified that he was then instructed by PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo to proceed immediately to the Ashmin’s Building for the tabulation and verification exercise.

Upon arrival, Singh recalled encountering “very heavy police presence” at the north-western corner of the building.

Officers conducted security checks, required GECOM badges, recorded names and addresses, and used airport-style scanners before allowing entry.

Once inside, Singh said he joined a packed room of observers, attorneys and party representatives, including several foreign missions and

civil society bodies.

He gave a detailed layout of the room, three long desks in the centre—one occupied by the PPP/C team, another by APNU+AFC representatives, and a third by smaller parties—along with a barricaded area to the east where GECOM staff were stationed.

A large projector screen to the northwest displayed data as it was entered.

Among those present, Singh identified attorneys Sonia Parag, Pauline Chase, Lenox Shuman, Charles Ramson and several international observers.

Singh testified that shortly after 02:00hrs, he observed Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo enter the room and outline the procedure he said would be followed under Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act.

According to Singh, Mingo stated that GECOM staff would: Raise each GECOM SOP for comparison with the parties’ carbon-copy SOPs, call out the votes for each contesting party along with rejected ballots and enter the results into a computer system that would project totals onto the large screen.

At that stage, Singh said, GECOM’s SOPs and the PPP/C’s carbon copies “were matching”, and the process, though slow, was unfolding as expected.

PROCESS HALTED AFTER MORE THAN 12 HOURS

Singh recounted that the tabulation proceeded throughout the day until approximately 9:00 p.m. on March 3, when Mingo announced that staff had been working for more than 12 hours and the exercise would be suspended.

Soon after, cleaning staff entered the room and request-

ed to sweep the area.

“Nobody left,” Singh said, but the woman swept the open spaces and exited. At around 10:45 p.m., Singh said he heard from Myers that Mingo had reportedly fallen ill.

Wednesday’s testimony forms part of the prosecution’s effort to establish what transpired inside the District Four command centre during the contentious tabulation process.

The defendants, represented by a robust legal team, continue to face 19 charges connected to allegations of attempts to inflate or manipulate votes in Guyana’s largest electoral district.

The matter continues on Thursday before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.

Due to the charges arising from the same set of circumstances, the matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail.

The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhanie, argued that each defendant played a “critical role” in the deliberate effort to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC and reduce votes for the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

In the weeks that followed the contentious March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.

The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President,

Dr Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020. The recount confirmed that the PPP/C had won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.

The initial elections results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, had claimed an APNU+AFC victory.

The APNU+AFC coalition had received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.

Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.

GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.

The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections have found that there were collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC, instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.

Chairman Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith made these findings based on evidence from the many witnesses who testified, along with the reports of the international observers.

“…our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining and

Bulky waste cleanup in Kingston, ‘Tiger Bay’ halted amid heavy traffic

THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development on Wednesday temporarily suspended its bulky waste removal exercise in Kingston and ‘Tiger Bay’ after traffic congestion in the area made it unsafe and impractical for crews to

continue.

According to the ministry, workers had already cleared 23 truckloads of waste before the pause was announced. The operation is scheduled to resume between midnight and 5 a.m., when lighter traffic is expected to allow for uninter-

rupted cleanup.

The removal exercise is part of ongoing efforts to support city-wide sanitation and improve conditions in Georgetown.

The ministry has asked residents and commuters to co-operate as the cleanup continues.

Sasenarine Singh details early ...

tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election,” they said in their report. The report found that Lowenfield blatantly made decisions and employed procedures in direct contradiction to the law and the will of the people. The findings revealed

too that GECOM staffers had ignored specific instructions from the court, used materials that were illegal and or manipulated, and sided with APNU+AFC agents to berate observers whenever objections were raised.

After careful scrutiny, the CoI commissioners concluded that there was a conscious and deliberate – even brazen –effort to violate the provisions of section 84(1) of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA)

In so doing, certain “senior GECOM officials” abandoned all need for neutrality

Public Works Ministry counters misleading claims on Thomas Lands construction timeline

THE Ministry of Public Works has denied assertions made by former Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson regarding delays and public access to Phase Two of the Thomas Lands Rehabilitation Project, describing her statements as inaccurate.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the ministry said Ferguson’s claim—made in a video posted to Facebook on November 18—that the project has been ongoing for two years is “completely false.” According to officials, the 600-metre road project began on November 25, 2024, and carries a 12-month contractual deadline ending in November 2025.

The ministry stressed

that the project remains within its scheduled timeline and that the contractor, JKP Construction, is expected to complete the works as agreed. Phase One of the Thomas Lands rehabilitation, which covered the stretch from Albert Street to Queen’s College, was also executed by the company.

Responding to additional claims that the public is being improperly restricted from the area, the ministry said access limitations are in place for safety reasons and that only stakeholders operating between Irving Street and Albert Street were granted entry during construction.

These include the National Park, One Communications’ hardware operations, the

Civil Defence Commission, Maltinos Sports Ground, and the Transport Sports Club.

The ministry stated that all other road users are required to utilise alternative routes and rejected Ferguson’s assertion that commuters were being encouraged to traverse the active construction zone.

Officials added that recent rainfall has slowed field density testing of newly compacted loam and sand layers, as water saturation must subside before testing can continue without compromising structural work already completed.

The project, according to the ministry, remains on track for its scheduled completion next November.

and impartiality and demonstrated a bias for the APNU+AFC and, in the course of events over those days, showed an “open connection” with that party, and by their efforts sought a desired result for the coalition.

As such, the commissioners said that after consideration and analysis of the evidence, Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers “were principally responsible for clear and deliberate attempts to frustrate, obstruct and subvert the ascertainment of votes in electoral district No. 4.”

The removal exercise is part of ongoing efforts to support city-wide sanitation and improve conditions in Georgetown

High praise for government, sports commission at historic badminton gala

THE government and the National Sports Commission came in for high praise as the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) joined the national sporting fraternity in celebrating this year’s historic National Sports Awards Gala. This event continues to play a vital role in honouring the exceptional achievements of athletes, coaches, and administrators, while showcas-

ing the ongoing advancement of sport across Guyana.

The association took the opportunity to express appreciation to the government, the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport (MCYS), and the Na-

tional Sports Commission (NSC) for their steadfast support.

“The government’s investment continues to have a tangible and transformative impact on the development of badminton, enhancing facilities, expanding training programmes and creating opportunities for our athletes to compete at regional and international levels,” the GBA, in a release, said.

The release said that this unwavering support has strengthened athletes performances and continues to propel the sport.

The GBA said it also

President of the Guyana Badminton Association, Emelia Ramdhani

remains fully committed to working in partnership with the government “as we

pursue key long-term objectives, including increasing youth participation, building stronger coaching capacity and advancing our aspiration of qualifying a Guyanese badminton player for the Olympic Games.”

GBA extended heartfelt congratulations to all nominees and awardees:

“…their dedication, discipline, and pursuit of excellence embody the true spirit of sport”, the release said.

The Guyana Badminton Association pledges to continue elevating badminton and cultivating national pride through sport. (DPI)

Nearly half of women worldwide lack legal protection against digital violence, UN warns

NEARLY 1.8 billion women and girls worldwide are without legal protection against digital violence, according to UN Women, which highlighted the growing threat as part of its 16 Days of Activism campaign.

Digital abuse—including online harassment, cyberstalking, doxing, non-consensual image sharing, deepfakes, and gendered disinformation—is spreading rapidly, fuelled by artificial intelligence, anonymity, and gaps in legislation.

UN Women noted that fewer than 40 per cent of countries have laws protecting women from cyber harassment or stalking.

The effects of digital violence extend beyond the online space. Women in leadership, business, and politics are frequently targeted with harassment designed to force them off platforms or public life. Globally, one in four women journalists report

receiving online threats of physical violence, including death threats.

“What begins online doesn’t stay online. Digital abuse spills into real life, spreading fear, silencing voices, and—in the worst cases—leading to physical violence,” said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous. She emphasised that weak legal protections leave millions of women and girls vulnerable while perpetrators act with impunity.

UN Women highlighted efforts in several countries to strengthen protections, citing the UK’s Online Safety Act, Mexico’s Ley Olimpia, Australia’s Online Safety Act, and the EU’s Digital Safety Act. As of 2025, 117 countries reported initiatives addressing digital violence, though the organisation noted that global responses remain fragmented.

The agency is calling for stronger international co-operation, increased support for

survivors, enhanced accountability for perpetrators, and action by tech companies to create safer online spaces. Recommendations include investing in digital literacy, online safety training, and programmes aimed at challenging toxic online cultures.

UN Women also announced the launch of two new resources for governments and law enforcement: a supplement to its Handbook on Legislation addressing technology-facilitated violence against women, and a Guide for Police on addressing such violence. The tools aim to provide practical guidance on prevention and response to digital abuse.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign underscores the organisation’s call for urgent global action to close legal gaps, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure that technology promotes equality rather than harm.

Assuria launches add-on removing deductibles for motorists not at fault

ASSURIA has introduced a new motor-insurance add-on that removes the deductible for drivers who are not at fault in an accident, a policy the company says is intended to reduce out-of-pocket costs and speed up claims processing.

The “No Fault, No Deductible” add-on, announced this month, applies to incidents involving a third party and is available to both new

and existing comprehensive motor-insurance policyholders. Customers would pay an additional fee equal to 10 per cent of their existing deductible, the company said.

Assuria’s Managing Director, Yogindra Arjune, said the feature is intended to give motorists more predictable costs in circumstances where they were not responsible for a collision.

According to the company, the add-on can be

repurchased if the deductible is used and is intended to provide a lower-cost option for drivers seeking to limit unexpected expenses after an accident. The insurer said the measure forms part of its broader effort to streamline services and expand policy options as Guyana’s motor-vehicle market continues to grow.

Customers can obtain the add-on by contacting Assuria’s offices.

National symposium highlights men’s

health, wellness on International Men’s Day

IN observance of International Men’s Day, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security hosted a National Symposium on Men’s Health and Wellness, on Wednesday, at Herdmanston Lodge, bringing together stakeholders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to address critical issues affecting men.

The symposium, held in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Stabroek, Brocode, and Woodlands Hospital, aimed to promote dialogue on men’s physical and mental health, wellness, and the urgent need to confront domestic violence.

Under the theme “Stronger Men, Stronger Families, Stronger Guyana,” the event sought to foster practical solutions, strengthen community support systems, and encourage informed policy development.

In her keynote address, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, highlighted the growing movement of

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, addresses the gathering

men supporting one another and initiatives designed to create stronger families and communities.

She emphasised that many men avoid discussing personal issues, often neglecting their mental or sexual health, and stressed

National MoM Coordinator, Lieutenant Colonel Bhageshwar Murli, during his remarks to the attendees

the importance of regular wellness checks.

“If men check their mental health as often as they check sports scores, we would have healthier men,” Dr. Persaud said. She recounted instances where men delayed seeking help, some-

Guyana’s Human Rights reporting body holds final meeting for 2025

GUYANA’S National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-Up (NMRF), the inter-ministerial body responsible for coordinating the country’s human rights treaty reporting, convened its final meeting for 2025 on Tuesday.

The session included a presentation on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), one of the international human rights

instruments to which Guyana is a State party. Officials said the NMRF will begin collecting data from government ministries, constitutional agencies, statutory bodies and civil society organisations as part of its 2026 reporting cycle.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, which leads the mechanism, also acknowledged the contributions of NMRF members

throughout the year, noting that their collaboration supported the completion of Guyana’s Fourth Cycle Universal Periodic Review at the United Nations.

According to the ministry, Guyana’s NMRF model has helped expand participation in human rights reporting and strengthened institutional capacity across the public sector through structured co-ordination and information sharing.

times leading to violence or suicide, underscoring the need for mentorship and structured support.

The Ministry has developed programmes to address these challenges, including the Brave Programme

and Brave Centre in Region Three, safe spaces, the 914 hotline, the I Matter app, and gender-focused initiatives.

Lieutenant Colonel Bageshwari Murli, representing Men on Mission (MoM), praised the symposium as a call for men to lead in their families and communities.

He outlined MoM’s work, which includes mentoring programmes for boys aged seven to 15, housing support for single parents, and empowerment initiatives impacting over 1,000 vulnerable individuals nationwide.

“Empowering men strengthens communities,” Murli said. “Our programmes are about dignity, healing, and hope for men who bear unseen burdens and guide the next generation.”

The day-long event brought together public officials, private-sector representatives, and civil society partners to discuss strategies for improving men’s wellness and fostering environments where men can access the support needed to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

A draft policy on partner assault, titled the Partner Assault Relationship Programme, was presented to symposium stakeholders to guide ongoing efforts.

Drainage Task Force ‘wraps up’ consultations; report to reach President Ali within a week

THE National Drainage Task Force has concluded its public consultations on the Georgetown Drainage Improvement Project and is expected to submit its final report to President Dr. Irfaan Ali within a week.

The project aims to overhaul the capital’s aging drainage system and bolster its resilience against increasingly frequent and severe flooding.

The final meetings were held Tuesday evening with residents of Constituencies 12 and 14 at the North Ruimveldt Multilateral Secondary

School, and Constituency 9 at the Enterprise Primary School. These engagements marked the end of a twoweek outreach effort across more than 50 communities in 15 constituencies, as well as consultations with several private-sector organisations.

According to the Task Force, public feedback was largely positive, with residents expressing appreciation for the opportunity to raise concerns and share practical, community-level recommendations.

Officials said these con-

tributions will help shape the final strategy for what is expected to be one of the most significant drainage upgrades undertaken in Georgetown.

The consultations were led by Minister of Housing, Collin Croal; Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn; and Head of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Lionel Wordsworth.

They were supported by representatives from the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, the

Sea and River Defence Department, the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

Croal said the Task Force is now compiling a comprehensive report, combining public input with technical assessments.

“Our goal is to present President Ali with a document that reflects both community needs and the realities of our current drainage chal-

lenges,” he noted.

Wordsworth stressed the urgency of the project, citing rapid urban expansion, increased impermeable surfaces, persistent littering, and the impacts of climate change—particularly heavier rainfall—as factors straining a decades-old system already operating beyond capacity.

The government’s plan includes rehabilitating canals and sluices, constructing new drainage infrastructure, improving maintenance practices, and installing additional

pumps across the city.

Officials said the initiative forms part of a wider transformation of Georgetown that will also involve upgraded roads, improved parapets, and enhanced parking infrastructure to support a more resilient and efficiently-managed capital.

Residents who did not participate in the consultations may still submit feedback via email at nationaldrainagetaskforce. gy@gmail.com.

engagements marked the end of a two-week outreach effort across more than 50 communities in 15 constituencies, as well as consultations with several private-sector organisations

Education Ministry expands anti-bullying campaign with outreach in Region Seven

THE Ministry of Education has intensified its national anti-bullying and anti-violence campaign with a series of school engagements in Region Seven, part of a broader effort to strengthen safety and support systems across the education sector.

A ministry team visited six schools, St. John the Baptist Primary, St. Anthony’s Primary, Agatash Primary, Potaro Primary, Two Miles Primary, and Three Miles Secondary, where learners and teachers participated in discussions on bullying, reporting mechanisms, and strategies for fostering respectful school environments. Officials said the sessions were designed to encourage open dialogue and

The outreach forms part of the ministry’s ongoing work to develop a national Anti-Bullying and Anti-Violence Policy

empower learners to speak up about

work to develop a national Anti-Bullying and Anti-Violence Policy. Public input is being sought, and the ministry is urging parents, teachers, and community members to report incidents and submit recommendations as the policy is finalised. Education officials reiterated that creating safe and nurturing schools requires sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.

The ministry says it remains committed to expanding the campaign to other regions as it works to ensure that all students learn in environments defined by respect and empathy.

Two men charged in Ruimveldt assault case

TWO men appeared in Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday facing charges related to an alleged altercation in Ruimveldt last month.

Victor Mahadeo, 43, a vendor and father of three, and Delon Allicock, 38, a fisherman and boxer, both residents of Ruimveldt, were charged with assault in separate cases stemming from an incident on Octo-

ber 21, 2025.

Mahadeo is accused of unlawfully assaulting Allicock, while Allicock faces charges of unlawfully and maliciously wounding Mahadeo.

Prosecutors told the court that the two men are known to each other and that the confrontation reportedly arose from a disagreement. Both men pleaded not guilty to the charges. Magistrate Fabayo Azore granted bail, setting Mahadeo’s at $25,000 and Allicock’s at $50,000. Both were also ordered to enter into a peace bond and were instructed to avoid further confrontations.

The case has been adjourned, with both men scheduled to return to court on January 14, 2026.

These

Minister of Housing, Collin Croal

Chinese cities dominate global science hub rankings

CHINESE cities account for more than half of the world’s top 10 scientific research hubs, according to the latest Nature Index supplement, with Beijing retaining its position as the leading global science city — a title it has held since 2016.

According to the “Nature Index 2025 Science Cities” supplement, the number of Chinese cities among the global top 10 rose from five in 2023 to six in 2024.

While Beijing tops the chart, Shanghai holds second place. The other Chinese cities on the list are Nanjing (fifth) in Jiangsu province, Guangzhou (sixth) in Guangdong province, Wuhan (eighth) in Hubei province and Hangzhou (10th) in Zhejiang province.

The New York metropolitan area; the Boston metropolitan area; the San Francisco Bay Area and the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, which are all in the United States, are also among the global top 10 scientific research hubs.

The supplement, compiled by an organisation associated with international publisher Springer Nature, draws on the Nature Index open database, which tracks all contributions made by global research institutions to 145 high-quality natural-science and health-science journals.

Shang Yanran, deputy chief planner at the Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute in Beijing, said the newly released supplement shows that China plays an important role in driving global scientific and technological innovation.

“Innovation is highly concentrated geographically, with North America represented by Silicon Valley, Europe by London, East Asia by Tokyo and Southeast Asia by Singapore. China has diversified the global innovation landscape, forming a structure centred on Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, with other key cities collaborating in innovation,” she said.

Chinese cities lead in three of the five major subjects evaluated by the index, namely chemistry, physical sciences, and Earth and environmental

sciences. Among these, Chinese cities have, for the first time, swept the top 10 ranks in chemistry, and claimed six spots in each of the other two fields. Beijing ranks first in all three fields.

In biological sciences, Western cities continue to lead, with New York and Boston holding the top two spots, and Beijing making it to third place. In health sciences, US cities account for half of the top 10 positions, while Beijing ranks sixth.

In the overall rankings, Hangzhou, home to tech giants such as Alibaba and DeepSeek, advanced three spots since the 2023 Nature Index supplement was released to make it to the world’s top 10 scientific research hubs in 2024.

It has established a longterm support mechanism for basic research, becoming one of the first provincial capitals to set up a regional innovation and development joint fund with the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Last year, Hangzhou’s research and development expenditure surpassed 85 billion yuan ($12 billion), an increase of 8.3 percent from the previous year, according to local authorities.

Wuhan, which ranked ninth in 2023, climbed a spot to eighth place in 2024. The city is now home to more than 16,600 hightech enterprises, with the transaction value of technology contracts exceeding 260 billion yuan last year. The average annual growth rate of loan balances for sci-tech enterprises in the city has reached 20 percent, according to the Wuhan bureau of science and technology innovation.

Yin Hejun, minister of science and technology, said last month that sci-tech innovation can catalyse new industries, growth models and growth drivers, serving as the core element in developing new quality productive forces.

Shang, from the Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute, said: “As the competitiveness and influence of these cities grow, they are better positioned to attract top talent and resources, becoming critical nodes in the global innovation network and contributing Chinese solu-

tions to worldwide sci-tech advancement.”

Wei Wangyu, Yang Cheng and Xinhua contributed to this story.

Visitors interact with a robot dog at the 2025 World AI Conference (WAIC) in East China’s Shanghai, July 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

CARICOM workshop strengthens census analysis skills across Caribbean

NATIONAL Statistical Offices (NSOs) from across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are participating in a regional training workshop aimed at improving the analysis and reporting of population and housing census data.

The five-day workshop, held from November 17–21 in Grenada, is funded under the European Union’s Eleventh Development Fund (11th EDF) through the Strengthening the Framework for CARICOM Integration and Cooperation Process (SFCICP) Programme.

It focuses on enhancing technical capacity in editing, validating, and interpreting census data, as well as producing policy-relevant reports, visualisations, and development indicators.

Participants are using tools such as SPSS, Excel, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to work with their own census datasets, generate indicators linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and produce graphics and tables for public communication.

Halim Brizan, Director of the CARICOM Regional Statistics Programme, highlighted the importance of accurate census data for development planning. “The Population and Housing Census is a direct source of SDG

Guyana, Indonesia explore expanded agricultural co-operation

MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, met with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Guyana, Angus Priono, to discuss strengthening bilateral co-operation in agriculture, with a focus on technical assistance, training, and sectoral expansion.

During the meeting, held at the minister’s Regent Street office, Mustapha outlined Guyana’s priority areas for development, including aquaculture

and the continued expansion of key crop industries such as rice, sugar, corn, coconuts, and soya. He noted that Guyana’s role as CARICOM’s leading food-producing nation positions it to benefit significantly from international partnerships aimed at increasing production and improving sectoral capacity.

Ambassador Priono identified several emerging opportunities for collaboration between the two countries and

said Indonesia is prepared to offer scholarships to Guyanese students pursuing agricultural studies. The initiative, he added, is expected to help build human-resource capacity and support Guyana’s long-term food production goals.

The meeting forms part of Guyana’s wider efforts to deepen bilateral relations with global partners as the government continues to push its food security agenda across the region.

data and a key input to many SDG indicators. It also provides the statistical frame on which numerous household surveys rely to track national and regional development progress,” he said.

Junior Alexis of Grena-

da’s Statistics Office noted that several Member States are in the final stages of their 2020 census round, emphasising that the workshop addresses gaps in technical capacity. “This is not only a technical priority, but also

a developmental imperative that supports climate resilience planning, social policy, education, labour force strategies, agricultural development, and economic transformation,” Alexis said.

Experts leading the workshop include Dr. Frank Eelens and Dr. Bart de Bruijn from IBF International Consulting Firm, who specialise in population and development.

Several CARICOM Member States, including The Bahamas, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Montserrat, have previously benefitted from in-country technical assistance funded under the 11th EDF.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen the region’s capacity to produce accurate, timely, and actionable statistical data for policymakers, researchers, and citizens.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Guyana, Angus Priono, strengthen bilateral co-operation in agriculture

Truck drivers, owners briefed on upcoming speed governor implementation

THE Guyana Police Force, in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs and other government agencies, held a sensitisation forum on Wednesday with truck drivers and owners ahead of the nationwide rollout of Auto Control Speed Governors for heavy-duty trucks.

owners and operators to educate drivers on road safety and compliance with traffic regulations.

Officials from the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Home Affairs highlighted supporting measures, including the introduction of certified weigh-scale systems to ensure trucks operate within legal weight limits, and coordination among agencies to facilitate the rollout.

legislation is expected to specify penalties for tampering with, bypassing, or operating vehicles without certified devices.

The meeting, held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, forms part of the national Auto Control Speed Management System (ACSMS), aimed at reducing speed-related accidents by limiting trucks to a maximum speed of 80 km/h. Officials outlined the operation of the speed-limiting devices and the framework for enforcement and compliance.

Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, described the initiative as a life-saving measure, not -

ing that approximately 40 per cent of fatal accidents this year involved trucks.

“Each fatality represents a grieving family and a preventable loss,” Hicken said,

emphasising the dangers posed by heavy trucks travelling at excessive speeds due to limited stopping distances and the severity of collisions. He urged truck

The forum also outlined the legislative pathway for the initiative. Once consultations are complete, the Ministry of Legal Affairs will draft a Bill granting legal authority for the installation and enforcement of speed governors. The

Senior officials in attendance included Deputy Permanent Secretary Dwayne Adams, Kester Hinds of the Ministry of Public Works, Ayana Fabel of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and representatives from the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Police Force’s Strategic Planning Unit.

The ACSMS is part of the government’s broader road safety strategy, designed to prevent accidents, protect motorists and pedestrians, and preserve national road infrastructure.

Mr. Halim Brizan, Director, Regional Statistics Programme, CARICOM Secretariat (seated, left) with facilitators and participants in the regional workshop

The meeting, held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, forms part of the national Auto Control Speed Management System (ACSMS), aimed at reducing speed-related accidents by limiting trucks to a maximum speed of 80 km/h

Guyana joins global community for GIS day, announces new GeoPortal

THE Ministry of Natural Resources, on Wednesday, joined global observances of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day 2025, using the occasion to launch a new geospatial platform intended to improve data access and support decision-making across the sector.

GIS Day, celebrated annually, highlights the role of geospatial technologies and professionals in addressing environmental, infrastructural, and developmental challenges. This year’s theme, “Geo-Generalist Era: Where Spatial Meets Everything,” reflects the increasing inte-

gration of spatial data into public and private-sector operations worldwide.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, said the ministry’s newly-developed GeoPortal aligns with the government’s national digitisation agenda and will enhance the work of the ministry and its technical agencies. The portal will offer downloadable spatial datasets, documentation, dashboards, maps, and other tools to support planning and resource management.

According to the ministry, expanding access to geospatial information will help strengthen oversight,

Wendy’s partners with Vurlon Mills Football Academy for youth football festival

WENDY’S Guyana has joined the Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA) as a partner for its annual Year-End Football Festival, an event that brings together more than 100 young players for a day of competition and skills development.

Now in its third year, the festival features athletes between the ages of 4 and 15 across several age groups, from U-6 to U-14.

Wendy’s Guyana has joined the Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA) as a partner for its annual Year-End Football Festival

The one-day event, scheduled for December 20, 2025, is intended to give young footballers an opportunity to improve their abilities, build confidence and develop teamwork.

VMFA founder Vurlon Mills said the programme continues to show positive results among its participants. He noted that private-sector involvement is an important part of sustaining the initiative, adding that the academy welcomes the new partnership.

Wendy’s Director, Iman Cummings, said the company’s support reflects its interest in contributing to youth-focused activities and community development.

The festival is expected to attract families, supporters, and young athletes for the final major event on the academy’s annual calendar.

improve transparency, and support evidence-based policy decisions in areas such as forestry, mining, land use, and environmental monitoring.

The launch also coincided with wider acknowledgements of the contributions made by local GIS technicians and analysts, whose work supports national development projects and environmental management systems.

GIS Day, celebrated annually, highlights the role of geospatial technologies and professionals in addressing environmental, infrastructural, and developmental challenges

SINOTRUK highlights rising sales, export ambitions at 2025 Global Partner Conference

CHINESE commercial vehicle manufacturer, SINOTRUK, reported stronger sales and outlined major export ambitions during its 2025 Global Partner Conference, held October 18 in Qingdao and attended by more than 600 partners from nearly 100 countries.

The company said it sold 335,000 vehicles between January and September, a 22.8 per cent increase over the same period last year.

Heavy-duty truck exports reached 111,000 units, up 24.5 per cent. Growth was also recorded in new energy vehicles, light trucks, mining trucks, and aftermarket parts, according to data presented at the event.

Executives highlighted the firm’s expanding global service network, which now includes more than 700 parts and service outlets and over 40 training centres.

Chairman Liu Zhengtao reiterated the company’s strategic focus on sustainability, digitalisation, customer service, global expansion, and business diversification.

The company also presented digital fleet-management and AI diagnostic tools designed to reduce operating costs and improve safety

He said SINOTRUK aims to deepen co-operation with international distributors as it pursues its next phase of overseas growth.

The company set ambitious export targets for 2030, including 250,000 heavy trucks, 100,000 light trucks, 50,000 light vehicles, and 3,000 mining trucks, along with US$1 billion in overseas aftermarket revenue.

In addition to the strategic meetings, SINOTRUK displayed 24 vehicles across logistics, construction, mining, and new energy categories. Models showcased included the C9H tractor, recently certified under the EU’s Whole Vehicle Type Approval system, updated dump trucks, electric and diesel mining trucks ranging from 30 to 135 tons, and new electric and hybrid offerings.

The company also presented digital fleet-management and AI diagnostic tools designed to reduce operating costs and improve safety.

Several distributors received awards for service, marketing, and overall contribution. Each awardee was given a SINOTRUK pickup truck.

The conference forms part of SINOTRUK’s broader push to strengthen its presence in global markets, where it faces growing competition from other Chinese and international manufacturers.

Hope’s ton in vain as Conway, Santner...

31st over which yielded 19 runs.

After driving Henry for two successive boundaries in the penultimate over, Hope, who was named Player-ofthe-Match, reached his 19th ODI century and first against New Zealand in the final over by hitting Jamieson down the ground for a huge six.

In doing so, Hope became the second fastest West Indian to reach 6000 ODI runs (142 innings), behind only Sir Vivian Richards who achieved the feat in 141 innings, while also equaling Brian Lara for the second most ODI centuries (19), six behind Chris Gayle’s record of 25.

Needing to score at over seven runs an over, New Zealand got off to the perfect start with Conway and Rachin Ravindra, who made 56, putting on 106 runs for the first wicket.

Justin Greaves got the

breakthrough when he had Ravindra caught at point after facing 46 balls, inclusive of five sixes and four fours.

The wickets of Will Young for 11 and the dangerous Mark Chapman, who failed to get off the mark, followed in quick succession to see New Zealand slip to 136 for three in the 22nd over.

Conway looked set to reach his century until he slashed Shamar Springer straight into the hands of backward point after striking 13 fours and one six off 84 balls.

West Indies seemed in control of the contest with the home side requiring 40 runs from the last three overs.

However, Santner smashed Forde for two fours and a six in the 32nd over that leaked 18 runs and then clobbered Springer for a four and six in the penultimate over that produced 14 runs.

Needing eight runs off the final over bowled by Jayden Seales, Tom Latham guided

a head-high full toss from the bowler over the keeper for four, with the delivery also being called a no-ball.

Latham only got a single

(From back page)

off the ensuing free hit, but they were able to pick up singles off the next two deliveries to ice the contest. Latham ended on 39 not

out off 29 balls in an unbeaten 54-run partnership. The third and final ODI is scheduled to be played on Friday.

SCOREBOARD

WEST INDIES

John Campbell c Tickner b Jamieson 4

Ackeem Auguste c Jamieson b Smith 22

Keacy Carty c Chapman b Jamieson 7

*+Shai Hope not out 109

Sherfane Rutherford c Conway b Santner 13

Roston Chase b Smith 2

Justin Greaves c Bracewell b Smith 22

Romario Shepherd c Henry b Tickner 22

Matthew Forde c Young b Smith 21

Shamar Springer c Young b Jamieson 6

Jayden Seales not out 1

Extras (lb3, nb1, w14) 18

TOTAL (nine wickets; 34 overs) 247

Fall of wickets: 1-15, 2-38, 3-62, 4-83, 5-86, 6-130, 7-177, 8-220, 9-235.

Bowling: Henry 7-1-62-0, Jamieson 7-244-3, Tickner 6-0-61-1, Smith 7-0-42-4, Santner 7-0-35-1.

NEW ZEALAND

Devon Conway c Chase b Springer 90

Rachin Ravindra c Chase b Greaves 56

Will Young c Rutherford b Chase 11

Mark Chapman c Greaves b Seales 0

+Tom Latham not out 39

Michael Bracewell lbw b Forde 11

*Mitchell Santner not out 34

Extras (lb1, nb1, w5) 7

TOTAL (five wickets; 33.3 overs) 248

Did not bat: Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner. Fall of wickets: 1-106, 2-135, 3-136, 4-166, 5-194.

Bowling: Forde 7-1-42-1, Seales 6.3-0-511, Shepherd 3-0-17-0, Greaves 4-0-35-1, Chase 7-0-44-1, Springer 6-0-58-1.

Toss: New Zealand elected to field. Result: New Zealand won by five wickets to lead the three-match series 2-0. Player-of-the-Match: Shai Hope.

National Rugby teams get critical...

MINISTRY BACKING AND ELITE PREPARATION

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

WINCANTON

08:27 hrs Prairie Diamond

09:00 hrs St Irene

09:35 hrs Jaitroplaclasse

10:10 hrs Taritino

10:45 hrs Offiah's Boy

11:20 hrs Pep Talking

11:55 hrs Bailly's Comet

SOUTHWELL

12:30 hrs Galileo Island

13:00 hrs Hashtagnotions

13:30 hrs Amber Honey

14:00 hrs Oatbound

14:30 hrs Solvency

15:00 hrs Berkshire Sundance

15:30 hrs Saxom Prince

16:00 hrs Nunc Est Bibendum

16:30 hrs Little Miss India

NEWCASTLE

11:35 hrs Military Cross

12:10 hrs Fanjove

12:45 hrs Horace Wallace

13:15 hrs East Tyrone

13:45 hrs Lethal Nymph

14:15 hrs Call Me Betty

Ahead of the trip, Ministers Charles Ramson Jr. and Steven Jacobs met with

14:45 hrs Overlooked 15:15 hrs Asadjumeirah

THURLES

08:20 hrs Say It First

08:50 hrs Found A Diamond

09:25 hrs Place De La Nation

10:00 hrs Pourquoi Poi 10:35 hrs Lambay Island

11:10 hrs No Big Deal 11:45 hrs Le Labo

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

VAAL

08:05 hrs Hota Rubi

08:40 hrs Royal Invitation

09:15 hrs Matcha Mint

09:50 hrs Michael Faraday

10:25 hrs Cosmic Speed

11:00 hrs Captain Selvie

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

AQUEDUCT

Race 1 Britain

Race 2 Off Script

Race 3 Sheer Will Race 4 Flat On Race 5 It Takes Heart

Race 6 Garden Of Grace

Race 7 Bendoog

(From back page)

the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), players, and coaches, providing new gear and financial support.

GRFU President Ryan Dey expressed profound gratitude, noting that the level of government contribution and engagement is the most support the teams have received in many years, which is helping to "rebuild confidence and elevate the sport."

In a significant boost to preparations, President Dr. Irfaan Ali also secured free access for national players to the high-level strength and conditioning facilities at Fitness 53, owned by former West Indies cricket captain Ramnaresh Sarwan.

This year's competition marks a welcome return for a newly established women’s rugby team, a development the sport hasn't seen in nearly a decade. The team, captained by Sabola Gray, will be fighting for one of the two qualification spots against nations including Mexico, Jamaica, and the hosts, Trinidad and Tobago.

The Men’s team, led by Lionel Holder, faces a challenging MT1 pool that features regional heavyweights, including defending champions Canada, Mexico, and Trinidad and Tobago. Historically, the Guyanese men have been a regional powerhouse, winning the RAN championship seven times, though they are currently undergoing a transitional phase.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday, November 20, 2025)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) NZ won by 7 runs (2) Daryl Mitchell (NZ)

Today’s Quiz: (1) When did the WI & NZ first play a Test match against each other?

(2) Who were the captains involved? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

'Tremendous honour'

- Federer added to Hall of Fame

ROGER Federer will become the first member of the 'Big Three' of tennis to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

Federer, 44, retired in 2022 having won 103 ATP-level titles, second only to Jimmy Connors (109) during the Open era.

The Swiss great was the first man to win 20 Grand Slam singles titles - a total since surpassed by 'Big Three' rivals Novak Djokovic (24) and Rafael Nadal (22).

Federer, one of only eight men to achieve a career Grand Slam, received the news at Swiss Tennis, where he played in his youth, as he was welcomed by some of the current 270 Hall of Fame members in a video call.

"It's a tremendous honour to be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame and to stand alongside so many of the game's great champions," Federer said.

"Throughout my career,

I've always valued the history of tennis and the example set by those who came before me.

"To be recognised in this way by the sport and by my peers is deeply humbling.

I look forward to visiting Newport next August to celebrate this special moment with the tennis community."

Federer will be inducted over the weekend of 27-29

August next year, when ceremonies will take place in Newport, Rhode Island, in the United States.

Among his 20 major triumphs, Federer won a record eight men's singles titles at Wimbledon.

He held the world number one ranking for a total of 310 weeks - including a record 237 consecutive weeks.

Broadcaster and journalist Mary Carillo has also been elected in the Contributor Category.

Fred Perry and Virginia Wade are among the famous British names already in the Hall of Fame.

(BBC Sport)

James breaks NBA record with first game of season

LEBRON James became the first player to take part in 23 consecutive NBA seasons when he stepped onto the court for the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old, who missed his side's opening 14 games of the season because of sciatica, contributed 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds in 30 minutes of a 140-126 home win over the Utah Jazz.

James - the NBA's record scorer - overtook Vince Carter's mark of having played in 22 successive NBA seasons, while his two three-pointers also moved him above Reggie Miller into sixth place in the NBA's all-time list of most three-pointers made.

Last season LeBron James became the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 combined points across regular season and play-off games

Greatbatch elected New Zealand Cricket president as board posts NZ$2.2 million profit

FORMER wicketkeeper-batter Mark Greatbatch has been elected as New Zealand Cricket (NZC) president, the board said in a release on Wednesday.

A press release from the board also announced a profit of NZ$ 2.2 million for this financial year, turning around a projected deficit of NZ$ 6.8 million.

Greatbatch, who played 41 Tests and 84 ODIs for New Zealand from 1988 to 1996, has also served as head coach and selector for the national men's team. He replaced Lesley Murdoch, who completed her threeyear term.

"I want to convey my enormous gratitude to Lesley for her professionalism as the NZC President over the past three years, and for her great support for the game as well as the organisation," NZC chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon said.

"I also want to welcome and congratulate Mark as our new President and wish him well in the role. We are fortunate in New Zealand cricket to have such strong

figures wanting to contribute and give back to the game."

NZC had returned a surplus of NZ$ 8 million in 2024. Wednesday's press release said NZC's "reserves [were] at a record $37m, supported by strong broadcasting agreements, high-value playing programmes, and a solid commercial base."

"NZC's financial position is a strong one," Puketapu-Lyndon said. "A small net surplus represents a significant outperformance against budget, reflecting prudent management and disciplined

oversight - through what was a challenging operating environment.

"Cricket here has never been a one-size-fits-all affair and NZC places great value in the ability of our Major and District Associations, and clubs to understand what works best in their regions and catchments.

"We're committed to working closely with them to ensure they're well equipped to service the grassroots environment upon which our entire game is based."(ESPN Cricinfo)

Doncic had a game high 37 points and four steals in the win against the Jazz as he also contributed 10 assists and five rebounds.

"It's been a long time since he played basketball, so I think for the first game back, he looked amazing," said Lakers team-mate Luka Doncic. "He's going to keep getting his rhythm, and help us a lot."

Austin Reaves scored 26 points for the Lakers, while Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen scored 34 and 31 points respectively for Utah.

The win puts the Lakers fourth in the Western Conference, with the Jazz in 10th place. (BBC Sport)

Roger Federer became the first man to win Wimbledon eight times in 2017

Mark Greatbatch has previously coached the men's national team and served as a selector (Getty Images)

Stokes calls on England to 'create history'

ENGLAND captain, Ben Stokes, has called on his team to "create history" by winning the Ashes in Australia.

Only five England teams have won an Ashes series in this country since World War II and just two of those successes have come in the past 40 years.

England have not taken

a series here since 201011, which was also the last time they won a Test in Australia.

But Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum have breathed life into England's Test cricket since they took charge in 2022.

After a thrilling and controversial Ashes series in the UK was drawn 2-2 in

2023, the latest edition of cricket's oldest rivalry is one of the most eagerly anticipated in recent memory.

And Stokes' team will begin Friday's first Test in Perth with a genuine chance of pulling off a rare away Ashes triumph.

"A lot has been spoken of about the history and how it has gone for England,"

Royal International Hotel commits to KFC Goodwill Series

Royal International Hotel General Manager Pamela Manasseh handing over to Petra Co Director Troy Mendonca the cheque in the presence of Petra’s Troy Peters and a Royal International Hotel official

ROYAL International Hotel is the latest corporate sponsor to get on board with the 2025 KFC Goodwill U-18 International Schools Football Tournament set to take place from December 14 –21 at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

General Manager of Royal International Hotel Pamela Manasseh said the management of the hotel is grateful to offer their support for the youth tournament.

“We are forming our unwavering support to Petra as an organisational pillar of strength and inspiration in the realm of sports and youth development. Petra’s dedication to nurturing young talent, fostering character and growth and creating meaningful opportunities through sports is not only admirable but it is truly

essential. You have empowered countless young people, encouraging them to dream bigger, strive harder and believe in their own potential.”

Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca says the belief in the competition is high and they are elated with the support from partners to pull off another successful competition.

“We at Petra will continue to push hard, continue to put our best foot forward to deliver this tournament and by virtue of Royal International Hotel coming on board once again it’s indicative of the work we have been doing for the past couple of years. The Support speaks volumes for the belief in this programme and we want to thank them sincerely for developing this relationship.”

The series also has the backing of Ministry of Cul-

ture, Youth and Sport which committed to the international series for the first time earlier this month and will partner for its successful hosting.

The winning team from the ongoing Republic Bank Secondary Schools League along with the second-placed side will earn the right to face teams from Suriname, Brazil, Jamaica and Trinidad in the KFC Goodwill International Football Series set for December.

Some of the teams are Montiero Lobato School from Boa-Vista Brazil, Kingston College from Jamaica, Anglican Central Educational Authority (ACEA) from Bahamas, Nikerie Select from Suriname and Defending Champions Chase Academic Foundation along with Annai Secondary or St Ignatius Secondary.

said Stokes.

"This is our chance to create our own history and it is up to us how that looks."

England have not won an Ashes series since a 2015 triumph on home soil. They surrendered the urn with a 4-0 defeat in Australia in 2017-18 and have not won it back since.

(BBC Sport)

Wales will 'take anybody' in World Cup

play-off draw

WALES’ focus lies on today’s World Cup play-off draw as they wait to discover their semi-final and potential final opponents.

Having finished second in their qualifying group courtesy of an emphatic 7-1 triumph over North Macedonia - their biggest win since 1978 - Craig Bellamy's side will play the last-four encounter on home soil.

They will face either Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo or Republic of Ireland in that fixture on March 26.

Former Wales striker, Rob Earnshaw, believes the Dragons will relish a tie against any opponent on the back of their most recent result at Cardiff City Stadium.

"I know Craig Bellamy, I played with him and his mentality is 'give us whoever, it doesn't matter'," Earnshaw told BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast.

"A lot of people were saying last night, 'do we really want Republic of Ire-

land as it's that derby feel?'.

I think a lot of people didn't. But for me, that would be incredible.

"So it's one of those, yes, we'll take Kosovo or Bosnia and Albania are not bad and the Republic of Ireland, of course, they're a very good team so they'll be difficult.

"But you just feel that we'll take anybody right now and it doesn't matter, and a lot of that is down to Craig Bellamy."

Potential play-off semi-final opponents assessed Wales sit 32nd in the Fifa world rankings, with Republic of Ireland 59th, Albania 63rd, Bosnia-Herzegovina 71st and Kosovo 80th.

Albania enjoyed a strong qualifying campaign, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Group K winners England, who claimed maximum points without conceding a single goal.

Burnley's Armando Broja and Lazio's Elseid Hysaj are among the Red and Blacks' more notable names, al -

though it was former Inter Milan, Barcelona and Watford forward Rey Manaj who topped their scoring chart in qualifying with three goals.

It is worth noting that Albania have never qualified for a World Cup, although they featured at Euro 2016 and Euro 2024, failing to reach the knockout stages on both occasions.

As Slovenia and Sweden endured torrid campaigns, with both failing to win a qualifying match, Group B was a straight shootout between Switzerland and Kosovo.

The Swiss ended the sixgame campaign three points clear of Kosovo, whose one defeat came at the hands of the group winners.

Kosovo include former Manchester City goalkeeper, Arijanet Muric and Mallorca's Vedat Muriqi - his nation's all-time top scorer - in a squad targeting a first major tournament appearance. They have never faced Wales. (BBC Sport)

Ben Stokes is captaining England in an away Ashes series for the first time

Wales have won eight of their 16 matches under Craig Bellamy

McClaren resigns as Reggae Boyz head coach

KINGSTON, Jamaica, ( CMC) – Steve McClaren has resigned as head coach of Jamaica’s men’s football team after failing to lead them to an automatic qualifying spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Jamaica finished second in Group B of their CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers after playing to a goalless draw with Curacao in their final match at the National Stadium on Tuesday.

The Reggae Boyz needed a victory to book their spot at next year’s World Cup, but will now have to qualify through the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

Moments after the result, the 64-year-old McClaren, who took over head coaching duties just over a year ago, stepped down from the position.

“Over the last 18 months, I have given everything I have to this job, to this role. I carried the weight and pride of this job with the deepest respect.

“Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career. But football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal, which was to qualify

from this group,” McClaren said in a statement.

“It is the responsibility of the leader, myself, to step forward, take accountability and make decisions in the best interests of the team for them to go forward.

“After deep reflection and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team,” he disclosed.

McClaren admitted that adjusting to football in the Caribbean had not been easy.

“These 18 months have been hard – really hard. I

have had to learn lessons very quickly.

“The experience of Concacaf football has been unique for me. Caribbean football is different to central American football, which is different to north American football.

I have not experienced that before,” he admitted.

McClaren replaced Heimir Hellgrimsson – the current Republic of Ireland chief – in August 2024 and took charge of 24 matches in total.

He won 13 of those, with his side losing only once in World Cup qualifying – a 2-0 defeat to Curacao in October.

Rain has final say in opening round of Super50 Cup

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – The first two matches of this year’s CG United Super50 Cup ended in no-results after heavy showers forced play to be abandoned here on Wednesday.

Over at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground, only 5.1 overs were possible before rain brought a premature end to the match between Barbados Pride and Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, with Barbados 48 without loss.

Guyana on stream to host Senior Caribbean Squash Championships from Nov. 23-29

THE 2025 Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships has found a new home in Guyana. Following the necessary relocation from Jamaica due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa, the Senior regional event will now be staged at the National Racquet Centre in Georgetown from November 23-29.

The Guyana Squash Association (GSA) confirmed that preparations are in high gear to host the regional spectacle, which is set to feature over 120 of the best players from nine territories across the Caribbean.

Team Guyana enters the competition as the presumptive favourite, tasked with defending their courts and securing an unprecedented fifth consecutive regional title.

The national team, recently named the National Sport Team of the Year at the 2024 National Sports Awards, carries significant momentum into the event.

Leading the charge for the Guyanese is the reigning National Women’s Squash Champion, Ashley Khalil, who was also the Sportswoman of the Year runner-up. The team will showcase high-level technique and fitness as they look to maintain their regional supremacy.

In a powerful gesture of regional sportsmanship, the GSA unveiled the official tournament logo, which symbolically features an interplay between the national birds of the two hosting nations: the Swallowtail (Jamaica) and the Crimson Topaz (Guyana). This design, featuring a squash ball at its centre, underscores the Caribbean sporting community's cultural sensitivity and unity despite the last-minute venue shift.

Guyana’s ability to assume hosting duties was cemented by recent government investment in infrastructure.

The National Racquet Centre

recently commissioned a new Doubles Squash Court in February 2025, a project initiated by President Dr. Mohammed Irfaan Ali.

This new facility ensures Guyana possesses the modern facilities required to host the expanded CASA Championships.

The GSA press release noted the relocation became necessary after the hurricane impacted the Jamaican association’s organising capacity and the availability of their facilities.

Over 120 athletes will compete in both singles and team segments across the male and female divisions. The participating territories confirmed for the Championships include: Barbados, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Dominican Republic, and the British Virgin Islands.

West Indies defeat England by six wickets in second Youth ODI

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, (CMC) – West Indies Under-19s defeated England Under-19s by six wickets via the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern method in the second Youth One Day International here at the National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

Scores

ENGLAND U19s 1605 in 31.4 overs (Farhan Ahmed 46 not out, Caleb Falconer 42 not out, Joe Moores 27, Will Bennison 20; Jakeem Pollard 2-20).

WEST INDIES 192-4 in 30 overs (Jonathan van Lange 57 not out, Earsinho Fontaine 39, Tyriek Bryan 31, Zachary Carter 26; Jack Nelson 2-25).

At the Queen’s Park Oval, Guyana Harpy Eagles were on their way to posting a formidable score before showers brought an end to the contest.

The Harpy Eagles were coasting at 287 for six after 47 overs, thanks to half centuries from Kevlon Anderson, who made 83, Raymond Perez, who scored 61, while Matthew Nandu scored 54.

Brad Barnes (2-45) and Marquino Mindley (2-51), were the best bowlers for the Red Force.

Captain Kyle Mayers was unbeaten on 24, while Leniko Boucher finished on 21 not out.

Steve McClaren has stepped down as Reggae Boyz head coach

Kevlon Anderson top scored for the Guyana Harpy Eagles with 83

Jonathan van Lange hit an unbeaten 57

Curacao qualifies for first-ever World Cup after drawing with Reggae Boyz

KINGSTON, Jamaica, , (CMC) – Curacao is headed to the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history after holding Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz to a goalless draw in their final CONCACAF World Cup qualifying match here on Tuesday.

The result was enough to ensure that Curacao finished unbeaten and atop Group B on 12 points from their six games, one more than Jamaica, who will now have

Hope’s ton in vain as Conway, Santner propel Kiwis to victory ln second ODI

NAPIER, New Zealand, , (CMC) –

Opener Devin Conway and skipper Mitchell Santner both starred with the bat for New Zealand to upstage Shai Hope’s explosive century and propel their team to a gripping five-wicket win over West Indies in their rain-affected second One Day International here on Wednesday.

The West Indies captain smashed a boundary laden 109 off just 69 balls, which helped them recover from 86 for five to post a formidable 247 for nine, after persistent showers forced the contest at McLean Park to be reduced to 34 overs per side.

But Conway smashed 90 at the top of the order, while Santner provided the finishing touches by bludgeoning an unbeaten 34 off just 15 balls, to see the home side reach 248 for five with three balls remaining and give them an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match

to go through the FIFA PlayOff Tournament in order to book their spot at next year’s World Cup.

Playing at home at the National Stadium, the Reggae Boyz will consider themselves unlucky not to have found the back of the net after hitting the woodwork on three occasions.

Greg Leigh almost broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, but his header bounced off the right post and away to safety.

series.

Both teams were forced to wait to take the field after rain delayed the start of the match by three hours, resulting in 32 overs being lost.

Once play resumed, New Zealand’s fast bowling duo of Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry stifled openers John Campbell and Ackeem Auguste by sending down three maidens in the first four overs.

The pressure eventually told when Campbell threw his bat at an outswinger from Jamieson and was caught at third man for four with the score on 15.

Keacy Carty didn’t last long, driving a delivery from Jamieson straight to backward point to be out for seven.

His exit brought Hope to the crease, and it didn’t take long for him to get going, belting Blair Tickner for two boundaries to end the 11th over.

But has become the norm, the West

Shai Hope scored an unbeaten 109 against New Zealand in the second ODI

Indies suffered a top order collapse, losing the wickets of Auguste for 22, Sherfane Rutherford for 13 and Roston Chase for two, to slip to 86 for five in the 16th over.

Hope helped to stage a remarkable recovery through partnerships of 44 with Justin Greaves (22), 47 with Romario Shepherd (22) and 43 with Matthew Forde who made 21.

He got to his half century off 42 balls by guiding Nathan Smith down to third man for a single before causing complete havoc in the final 10 overs, which saw the Windies blast 117 runs.

Hope clobbered Matt Henry for three fours in the 29th over to move into the 80s and followed that up by hitting Tickner for two boundaries in the ensuing over to accelerate to 90.

Curaçao also wasted a good opportunity to take the lead in the 66th minute, but Jamaica’s goalkeeper Andre Blake did well to save Jürgen Locadia’s shot from inside the box which was headed for the bottom-left corner.

National Rugby teams get critical Government support ahead of RAN Sevens

Guyana's national Men’s and Women’s Rugby Sevens teams have received a critical pre-tournament boost from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport as they enter the high-stakes Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Championship this week.

The tournament, running from November 21 to 23 at the Larry Gomes Stadium, is not just about regional pride—it serves as a direct, dual-purpose qualifier for major international rugby events.

(Turn to page 20)

Forde got in on the action by swatting Jamieson for three fours and a six to start the

The RAN Sevens is the essential pathway to the elite levels of global rugby. The rewards for success are sub-

stantial: World Rugby SVNS Pathway: Winners of both the Men’s Tier 1 (MT1) and Women’s brackets will secure spots on the highly coveted World Rugby Sevens Series pathway, offering a route to the sport’s most prominent annual circuit. 2026 CAC Games: The competition also acts as a direct qualifier for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Santo Domingo. The top three MT1 teams (excluding Canada) and the top two Women’s teams will secure their berths.

(Turn to page 20)

Jamaica then saw two more headers rattle the woodwork in the dying stages, with Shamar Nicholson hitting the crossbar in the 70th minute and Bailey Cadamarteri the right post in the 87th minute.

Curacao players celebrate after their historic qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup (Photo courtesy CONCACAF)

Ministers of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. and Steven Jacobs with members of the national rugby team and management