Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-05-2025

Justice Jo-Ann Barlow Justice Navindra Singh

Justice Nareshwar Harnanan

Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry

JSC makes history with recommended appointments of seven appellate judges

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five to take oath of office today

IN a landmark moment for the judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has recommended the appointment of seven judges to the Guyana Court of Appeal, five of whom are scheduled to be sworn in by President Irfaan Ali today.

The seven persons who have been recommended are: Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, Justice

Navindra Singh, Justice Nareshwar Harnanan, Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Mrs. Joycelin Kyte- Thomas, Justice Damone Younge and Mr. Rafiq Khan, SC.

According to a press release issued by the Supreme Court of judicature on Tuesday night, President Ali has fixed today as the date for the swearing in of five of the above-mentioned persons.

“Due to the exigencies of

office and the need to address outstanding matters, two of those persons will be taking the oath of office at a later date . They are Justice Damone Younge and Mr. Rafiq Khan, SC,” the release said. Further, it said, “History is being made in Guyana as this is the first time in the history of our courts that so many judges will be appointed at one time to the Court of Appeal.”

Gov’t approves $885M solar retrofit for 21 Amerindian villages

–– PM Phillips unveils major energy, ICT expansion at NTC Conference

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, on Tuesday, announced that Cabinet has approved an $885 million investment for the retrofitting of solar photovoltaic systems in 21 Amerindian villages across Regions One, Two, Four, Seven and Nine.

The investment, expected to benefit approximately 12,700 residents, forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to expand access to clean and reliable energy in remote communities.

Prime Minister Phillips made this disclosure on the second day of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur

generation capacity of 5.2 megawatts through a combination of fossil fuel generator sets, hydropower, and solar installations.

However, only two megawatts are currently in use. According to the Prime Minister, this underutilised capacity presents significant potential for the development of agro-processing and micro-enterprise initiatives. He noted that such opportunities could support the growth of small-scale industries and value-added production, particularly in mango and cashew processing within the region.

The Prime Minister also highlighted several addi -

are now connected, you could access universities and colleges throughout the world.”

He reminded attendees that through this level of connectivity, many individuals from the hinterland have enrolled in the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, while others have already graduated, thanks to the government’s transformative agenda.

Meanwhile, the heads of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), and the ICT Access for Hinterland Poor and Remote Communities

Chung Conference Centre, where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive community development. He also reiterated the administration’s priority to bridge the energy and digital divides, improving the lives of Guyana’s Amerindians in hinterland and riverine regions.

In highlighting the ongoing transformation, the Prime Minister referenced Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine), which currently has an installed

tional measures aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of residents in the hinterland. He spoke of initiatives to enhance ICT connectivity and the opportunities this would bring.

“I’m using Region Nine as an example to show that we are serious about development in your communities. You are connected to the rest of Guyana through ICT; you are connected to the world, to the future. That is how we improve the delivery of medical services and education. Because you

(HPRC) Project Management Unit—all under the purview of the Prime Minister—provided comprehensive updates on the government’s ongoing efforts to expand energy access, enhance digital infrastructure, and foster innovation and empowerment across Amerindian communities.

The GEA reported that, over the last five years, 37,230 solar home systems have been procured, primarily for hinterland households. Additionally, 55 solar mini-grid installations

are supplying more than 2.15 megawatts of electricity to schools, health facilities, village offices, and other public infrastructure. Noteworthy projects include the 1.5-megawatt and 0.65-megawatt solar farms in Bartica (Region Seven) and Mahdia (Region Eight), respectively, along with a 1-megawatt solar plant in Lethem (Region Nine).

The Moco Moco and Kumu hydropower projects are also contributing to Region Nine’s energy grid. These interventions are reducing diesel dependence, lowering emissions, and improving access to essential public services.

The NDMA reported that 228 of the 253 targeted hinterland and Amerindian communities have been connected to high-speed internet under the Government’s 2024 connectivity rollout, benefitting more than 129,000 residents.

These installations include government buildings, as well as 139 operational ICT hubs. The remaining 25 communities, which initially lacked reliable power or suitable facilities, are expected to be connected by August 2025 through spe-

cially designed solar-powered solutions.

To date, over 1,900 residents across 70 communities have participated in digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness training.

These sessions cover critical topics such as safe browsing, password protection, and access to government e-services. The “Girls in ICT” initiative has also expanded into Region Nine, with completed sessions in communities such as St Ignatius and Aishalton. Additional training is planned for the year as part of the government’s broader push for digital inclusion and youth empowerment.

The Office of the Prime Minister, through the HPRC Project Management Unit, reported that 140 ICT hubs have been completed to date.

Of these, 10 are currently being retrofitted with digital equipment, while 30 hubs remain under construction. A further 20 hubs are slated for development, bringing the national total to 200 ICT hubs once fully implemented. These facilities are being equipped with laptops, printers, smart TVs, solar power systems, and security infrastructure to support dig-

ital access in remote communities.

To sustain these hubs, 192 ICT Hub Managers have been trained in areas such as ICT operations, facility management, and photovoltaic maintenance.

Additionally, 32 ICT technicians have received professional certification in computer repairs, software configuration, and network systems. Approximately 1,518 community members have already benefitted from basic ICT training, with the programme aiming to reach 4,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

Under the grant component of the HPRC project, 180 Amerindian Village Councils and Community Development Councils have received funding of up to USD $40,000 per community to support the establishment and operation of these hubs. These grants are fostering employment creation, stimulating economic activity, and ensuring long-term sustainability at the community level.

Collectively, these initiatives are laying the foundation for a digitally inclusive and energy-resilient hinterland.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips

A section of the gathering at the second day of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

$3M for housing upgrades in Indigenous villages

$3M million will be allocated for village councils to support housing upgrades in Indigenous villages across Guyana.

The additional finance, according to the country’s Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, will provide much-needed assistance to those who require it.

“So, each of these villages will get $3 million to assist people for housing upgrades that would be managed by the village councils…so people [who] need help, they will get the help,” Jagdeo said, while addressing day two of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

This support, he said, will supplement the additional $1 million in funding that will be granted to villages to offset upgrades to their sport grounds/centres.

This is also in addition to money being disbursed through the Carbon Credit initiative, which saw Guyana signing an agreement with Hess Corporation, which purchased 30 per cent of the

country’s forest carbon over 10 years.

This initiative under the umbrella of the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 sees 15 per cent of all proceeds from this mechanism being allocated to improving Amerindian livelihoods.

Jagdeo said: “We are just going to give you some additional help in the villages itself, but we are also going to be spending money on developing housing schemes

in these communities that will get the full support of the government.”

Indigenous communities have seen the direct input of US$22.7 million in the first year (2023), US$23.27 million in the second year (2024) and a maintained US$23.27 million allocation in 2025, with some 3,000 projects being implemented simultaneously in more than 200 villages nationwide, Jagdeo noted.

Highlighting the govern-

Investigations into Saturday’s explosions ongoing

RANKS of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are yet to make an arrest as it relates to the recent explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) Mandela Avenue substation.

Sleuths are in possession of footage from the close circuit television (CCTV) camera mounted just outside the police outpost. However, it is not clear what the cameras may have captured. It is believed that the two incidents are connected.

According to a police statement, the first incident occurred at approximately 01:00 hrs. on May 17, 2025, at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, located at Vlissengen Square and East Front

Road.

The report said a loud explosion, originating from the southern side of the outpost, rocked the compound. A police constable on duty at the time heard two distinct blasts followed by debris impacting nearby rooftops. On inspection, it was discovered that the southern wall of the concrete structure had been significantly damaged.

The Crime Scene Unit later confirmed that the metal gate on the southern perimeter was completely blown away, and other parts of the outpost sustained structural damage.

The second site under investigation is the GPL substation at Mandela Avenue, which also experienced dam-

ment’s intention to expand support for children, the elderly, sports development, job creation, financial literacy, and security in hinterland communities, Jagdeo compared the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s support to indigenous communities with the “struggles faced by Amerindians” during the period of APNU+AFC governance from 2015 to 2020.

He pointed to the PPP/C’s achievements in five years, in-

– Jagdeo announces

cluding restoring and increasing the children’s education grant to $55,000, distributing 37,000 solar panels at a cost of $9.2 million, and operationalising 140 internet hubs.

He reminded that the oldage pension was also doubled to $41,000, and university education is now free. Healthcare investments include three hospitals in the hinterland, and upgrades to health facilities, among other developments.

The government, Jagdeo

added, has invested in infrastructure, including roads, with plans to pave internal roads in hinterland villages and upgrade main corridors.

“We have even started talking about increases in the Amerindian communities, but increases, increasing support for our children.

I mentioned health care, the elderly, sports development, job creation, all of these things are high on our agenda.”

age around the same time that the police outpost was targeted.

“Authorities are examining the possibility of a coordinated effort between both incidents,” police said.

The police added: “Eyewitnesses in the area have provided valuable accounts, and forensic teams are actively analysing all available evidence. The individuals contacted by police remain key to understanding the full scope of the events.”

The Guyana Police Force has reassured the public that it is taking these matters seriously and that all efforts are being made to ensure public safety and to bring those responsible to justice.

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo

Economic Progress, Not Political Posturing

THE New Building Society Limited (NBS) recently refuted accusations by Opposition Parliamentarian Annette Ferguson that President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s announcement of an increased mortgage ceiling from $20 million to $30 million was a political stunt prior to planned elections.

Her comments which appeared in the Stabroek News not only mischaracterised the nature of the announcement, but actually muddied the very extensive deliberation and preparation that has preceded this significant financial policy change.

The suggestion that this news constitutes a campaign ploy rather than a careful economic calculation is due for full examination and refutation.

Contrary to Ferguson’s allegations, increasing the ceiling on mortgage has been on the agenda for nearly a year now, as revealed by documents. NBS officials have convened a series of meaningful meetings with President Ali and the Minister of Finance to discuss this in particular.

The Society’s 85th Annual General Meeting report even included official correspondence detailing the rationale for raising the ceiling to $35 million from $20 million, showing that this was not a thoughtless move nor an impulsive political stunt.

These exchanges are based on NBS’s

proven record of adopting borrower-friendly policies. In 2022, the Society significantly lowered interest rates to as low as 3.5 percent for smaller loans and 5.7 percent for bigger mortgages, a decision that has brought considerable financial relief to thousands of Guyanese homeowners.

This history of increasing fiscal policy strongly contradicts the idea that lifting the ceiling is an election-driven deviation from normal business practice.

Lifting the ceiling to a $30 million mortgage is a huge chance for young professionals and middle-class Guyanese to get access to the finance needed to acquire quality housing in an up-and-coming property market.

This policy revision acknowledges Guyana’s increasing housing market, with prices for building and property costs naturally rising in direct correlation with the economic development of the country.

By this adjustment, NBS is simply bringing its policies up to date relative to actual housing market conditions that exist for current and future homeowners.

As a mutual organisation, NBS operates on the philosophy of “profit sufficiency rather than profit maximisation,” a critical differentiation that guides its entire financial services approach.

The Society maintains earnings reserves

of 20 percent of assets, far above the capacity to effortlessly absorb this higher mortgage limit without compromising financial health. These are the values of a prudent financial institution, not the mathematics of a political apparatus.

The record of the Society testifies to its commitment towards fostering homeownership across Guyana. Borrowers have availed themselves of a cumulative total of over 300 million dollars in rebates annually, since the lowering of interest rates in 2022.

This substantial financial benefit coupled with the favourable 2.75 percent interest on savings accounts is testimony to NBS’s fair-playing approach towards serving borrowers as well as savers.

These are cautious moves grounded in sound management of money due to good economic conditions in Guyana and not political calendar matters.

It should be said that the NBS initially requested such an appeal for the mortgage ceiling to be raised to $35 million as far back as June 2024, finally accepting the level of $30 million proposed by the government.

This multi-month negotiation process defies any speculation of this being a hasty pre-election declaration. The agreement maintained existing interest rate structures, so this ceiling increase would not be a cost

burden to borrowers.

President Ali’s decision to make this announcement at the Labour Brunch must be viewed in its correct context. These events naturally are platforms to herald economic and social progress for workers and citizens.

The report of increased access to home funding is obviously in this category. Rather than grabbing powers from the NBS, the President was only reporting a positive result of ongoing discussions between government and the Society.

The mortgage ceiling increase is sound fiscal policymaking and not political opportunism. The documented timing of discussion, NBS’s consistent record of borrower-focused policies, and the clear-cut economic rationale of the move all go to make up a real financial policy transformation and not campaign tacticism.

By focusing on unsubstantiated political agendas rather than the tangible benefits that this policy has to offer citizens in Guyana, critics miss the important impact this adjustment will have on home ownership across the country.

As Guyana intensifies its economic transformation, its policies must be revised to adjust to new realities, and the increased mortgage limit is just one of them.

Withholding national solidarity is unconscionable, a shameful betrayal

Dear Editor,

IT may not come as a surprise to many of us that on Friday, May 23rd, the opposition PNC/APNU will once again prove that their political ambitions far outweigh any genuine sense of patriotism or national duty.

In the face of Venezuela’s outrageous and illegal attempt to make claims over the Essequibo region through sham elections, one would have expected a unified and resolute Guyanese front.

Instead, what we are likely to see from Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton is another disgraceful attempt to score political points while the nation’s sovereignty hangs in the balance. This is the hallmark of poor leadership.

At a time when Guyana is confronting an existential threat, Mr. Norton has already

chosen to inject division and dissonance into what should be a clear and unwavering national position.

While he mouthed hollow words of support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, he immediately undermined that same support by tying it to unrelated domestic grievances and political demands.

In doing so, he sent a dangerous message, not only to the Venezuelan regime but also to the international community, that Guyana’s national interests are conditional and negotiable in the eyes of the Opposition.

Make no mistake, Venezuela is watching. So too is the world. They will not distinguish between “the government” and “the people” when determining the strength of our collective position.

Norton’s decision to make support for the country contingent upon recognition of his political role reeks of opportunism and is

nothing short of antinational. No credible opposition in a functioning democracy should ever play politics with territorial integrity.

To raise the issue of the Local Government Commission, the tragic death of Adriana Younge, or even the handling of looting under the Terrorism Act, as serious as those matters are, in the same breath as Guyana’s battle to safeguard its borders, is a blatant and cynical conflation.

These matters, important in their own right, must be addressed in separate fora. But to withhold national solidarity in this time of crisis is unconscionable.

The Opposition could have, and should have, expressed their misgivings about governance while standing shoulder to shoulder with the Government of Guyana on this issue.

But their decision to grandstand, to issue ultimatums, and to cloak partisan grievanc-

es as patriotic concern is a betrayal of the Guyanese people and a gift to Venezuela’s expansionist ambitions.

It is a dereliction of duty and a moral failure. For Mr. Norton to suggest that Guyanese unity is subject to political negotiation is to trample on the very foundation of nationhood.

At this juncture, we do not need performances, nor do we need conditions, we need clarity, cohesion, and courage, and opposition parliamentarians should use their conscience and stand with the government in any parliamentary provisions on Venezuela.

The time for posturing is over. The Essequibo is ours. And those who cannot stand in definite defence of it should hang their heads in shame.

Sincerely, (Name and address provided)

Mortgage ceiling hike driven by people’s needs, it is no political ploy

Dear Editor,

WE have to refer to a letter written by Hon Annette Ferguson in today’s Stabroek News (SN) in which she implies that His Excellency Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali was using the Labour Brunch as a campaign strategy for the upcoming elections.

In particular, she mentioned that the announcement of the increase in the mortgage ceiling from $20M to $30M as a political ploy and over the heads of the Society’s Administration.

Far from it, the Society has been engaging His Excellency on this matter for nearly a year. Our last report for its 85th AGM carried a letter to this effect and sought to justify the increase from $20 million to $35 million.

We had two meetings with His Excellency and the Honourable Minister of Finance on this and other matters relating to the Society.

We highlighted to His Excellency our decision in 2022 to drastically reduce the interest rate to as low as 3.5 per cent to the highest being 5.7 per cent.

This request for the increase in the mortgage ceiling to $35 million will assist many young professional applicants to own a decent home and grow their wealth.

As a mutual organisation, the objective of the New Building Society Limited (NBS) is profit sufficiency rather than profit maximization.

Our Retain Earnings Reserves is 20 per cent of Total Assets and the NBS is in a robust financial health to be able to sustain the increase in mortgage ceiling and new rate adjustment. Importantly, Guyanese will benefit significantly from this higher ceiling of $30 million.

In fact, since 2022 when we reduced interest rates for every mortgage holder, they all have been benefitting from substantial rebates of in excess of 300 million dollars per year.

This is a significant benefit to borrowers which follows our high interest rate on savings account of 2.75 per cent.

The borrowers and savers are both benefitting from our decisions in these areas of

Griping over Jagdeo’s remarks unfounded

Dear Editor,

THERE has been some pearl-clutching in the press by some, including MP Ferguson, over a falsehood that VP Jagdeo labelled the collective public as “stupid people”.

In a recent letter, Ms. Ferguson described the VP and his government as an “increasingly autocratic regime” and called on all Guyanese to condemn him for remarks she claims were “dangerously detached from reality”.

This is truly fascinating.

Is this the same Ms. Ferguson who sat in Cabinet while her government squatted in office and violated the Constitution after losing a No Confidence Motion?

Is this the same Ms. Ferguson, whose government tried to steal our right to vote — just five years ago — in what was described as “the most transparent attempt to alter the results of an election” in modern Caribbean history?

Is this that same Ms. Ferguson?

The newfound paragon of virtue?

Here is what Jagdeo actually said:

“You would have us believe, you are stretching our imagination. That she packed her bag in Guyana, booked a ticket, jumped on a plane, went to New York, and asked them to cancel her visa and then come back home?

“She could have gone into the embassy and asked for the cancellation right here. And that is what they are spinning... This country got some really stupid people, really, who are pushing that line.”

Let’s get something straight: this wasn’t a swipe at the Guyanese electorate. It was a clear takedown of the narrative being peddled around Odessa Primus’ visa denial.

Twisting those words to suggest Jagdeo called all Guyanese “stupid” isn’t just dishonest — it’s downright foolish.

This isn’t just a mere damp squib— it is flatulence. And those taking offence may very well be offering self-reflective truths.

Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar.

our operation. The economic situation in the country allows us to do so.

Having recognized the need to increase the mortgage ceiling, the Directors of NBS have unanimously sought the Government of Guyana’s approval for the increase of up to $35 million in its mortgage ceiling.

This request was first made since June 2024.

We finally agreed recently with the government’s proposal of $30 million maximum with the understanding that we will not increase interest rates from our existing rates of 3.5 per cent for lower loans and 5.7 per cent

for loans higher than nine million dollars and up to $30 million dollars.

The announcement by His Excellency at the Labour Brunch was no doubt intended to signal to his audience the many areas of progress being derived by the workers of our beautiful country under his administration and should not be seen as usurping any organization’s role or authority.

Yours faithfully, Anil Kishun, CEO/Director/Secretary

The silence over the atrocities of anti-government minds

I BELIEVE there are many areas of government’s directions that one can criticise.

It lacks commonsense to say there is a government on Planet Earth whose performance is perfect and there are no dimensions which can be subjected to criticism.

What we have in this country is a mindset so insanely hostile to the government that when you read and listen to them, you would think that except for government’s sins, Guyana is a perfect country. Guyana’s physiology is in fact riddled with degeneracy that cries out for exposure.

I came from an era in this country where people would hold a placard night and day, protesting wrong things organisations did that are unrelated to governmental behaviour. In the current era, malignant, odious things are on our doorsteps and there are no comments, even a one-line paragraph, or a one-minute voice note.

I did not do a column on World Press Freedom Day because there were more relevant and exigent topics to pursue. Even this piece here I almost didn’t do because I have some more comments on the Adriana Younge

tragedy. But as a media operative of 36 years, I thought I should take a look at Guyana on World Press Freedom Day.

I will digress in a few paragraphs before I look at the state of journalism in Guyana. I ran into one of Guyana’s known names and as we chatted, he brought up the case of the government appealing a case that an NIS pensioner had won. He thinks the state should not appeal the matter.

In our conversation, he never raised one word about the myriad violations, social aberrations and nasty violations that I highlight in these columns 30 times each month, or if you want to put it another, every day.

What is taking place in this country is tremendous degeneracy that never sees a word of comment, much less criticism by people who are so obsessed with the government and the PPP that you want to think each night before they sleep they look under their beds to see if any PPP leader is there.

What I would like is that when people stop me that they do not bring up government action only, but also the nasty behaviour that exists elsewhere in this country.

World Press Freedom Day has found Guyana’s journalism in a deplorable state.

The current president of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Nazima Raghubir, has exceeded her term limits.

Here is what Ms Raghubir did. She was in her second term when COVID struck. During COVID, Ms Raghubir was the president and her second term should have ended in January 2022. Ms Raghubir said no. There was COVID, so we could not have election from 2022 onwards.

So in 2023, the GPA held elections and Ms Raghubir was installed as president. Ms Raghubir said that you couldn’t count the years 2020 to 2022 when there were no elections because there was COVID.

So Ms. Raghubir is now in her fifth year as president which is constitutionally not possible.

The 2023 election was riddled with discrepancies in which the voters’ list was

See page 9

available only to the incumbent.

The silence over the atrocities ... Man, 58, dies after jet ski collision at Splashmin’s Fun Park

The 2023 election of the GPA was blatantly corrugated. What was there to celebrate on World Press Freedom Day in Guyana in 2025?

Mr Mike Mc Cormack of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) issued a press release on May 14, 2025 on the Adriana Younge tragedy in which the GHRA called on the diplomatic community to look into the issue of public trust in national institutions including the state-owned media.

Mr. Mc Cormack chose to identify the state-owned media only. But do the Guyanese people have trust in the GHRA itself and the general media landscape in this country? Enter Timothy Jonas. Mr Jonas is a respected attorney and one of the founders of the political party – ANUG.

There was the widespread reporting of a confrontation between Mr. Jonas and journalist, Gordon Moseley on the balcony on the High Court during the election disaster of 2020.

From page 8

Mr Jonas told Mr Moseley he is not giving him any comment because he believes Mr Moseley would not report him accurately. Is there public trust in the media in Guyana? Why did Mr. Mc Cormack single out the state-media only when the independence of the journalistic mind died years ago in this country?

Mc Cormack said not one word about the rigged 2023 election of the GPA. Transparency International- Guyana Chapter said not one word about the fraudulent 2023 GPA elections.

In this country, insane anti-government actors see absolutely nothing wrong with sections of the Guyanese society whose cancerous tentacles endanger the biology of Guyana.

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.

POLICE are investigating the death of 58-year-old Joseph Sahadeo, who lost his life following a jet ski collision on Sunday afternoon at Splashmin’s Fun Park and Village.

According to a police press release issued on Tuesday, the incident occurred around 13:00 hours on May 18, 2025.

Sahadeo, of 167 Grant Ville Park, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara, had travelled to the popular recreational site with his wife Goumattie Singh, daughter Padmini Sahadeo, and other relatives.

The family had taken two jet skis with them, which were placed into the water upon arrival. Police said Sahadeo mounted one of

the jet skis, while his daughter and her friend were on the other.

“It is alleged that the [man] collided with the jet ski Padmini was on and hit his head,” the report stated.

He subsequently fell into the water and was quickly rescued by family and friends.

Sahadeo was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was examined by a doctor and pronounced dead. Police noted that “visible injuries were seen to the head and face” of the deceased.

The body was later transported to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination, as investigations continue.

US ready to support GDF with defence of Guyana’s borders

–– Ambassador Theriot maintains will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana

THE United States (US) has pledged full support to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in its efforts to secure the country’s borders, and crack down on escalating criminal activities linked to Venezuelan aggression along the frontier.

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, while speaking at an event on Tuesday, declared that the United States will continue to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with Guyana in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

the news recently due to the sindicatos acts of aggression against the GDF patrolling the Cuyuni River.

“Venezuela has been in

“These are criminals engaging in criminal activity and the United States stands ready to support the GDF in its effort to eradicate this activity along Guyana’s frontier and to ensure the safety and security of Guyana’s people,” Ambassador Theriot said.

The incidents, which occurred between May 13 and 15, 2025, involved armed men in civilian clothing firing at GDF ranks from the Venezuelan side of the river between Eteringbang and Makapa.

No soldiers were injured, and the GDF confirmed that its personnel responded with “appropriate action” in all instances.

Ambassador Theriot’s comments come as Venezuela continues to defy international orders, including provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), by planning to hold what it claims are “elections” in Guyana’s Essequibo region on May 25.

“We fully support the ICJ provisional measures for Venezuela to halt its socalled elections in the Essequibo… We are extremely unhappy that they made that ill-advised decision to go ahead,” Theriot noted.

The ambassador added that the US State Department will soon release a “very strongly worded” statement making Washington’s position on the matter crystal clear.

Theriot dismissed Venezuela’s provocations as nothing more than “sabre-rattling” and warned that no such tactics would alter America’s longstanding commitment to Guyana.

“No amount of bluster or sabre-rattling changes the fact that the United States will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana,” she asserted.

During his visit to Guyana in March, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to Venezuela, stating that any aggression towards Guyana or US oil major, ExxonMobil, would result in severe consequences for the Maduro regime.

“If they were to attack Guyana or attack ExxonMobil or anything like that, it would be a very bad day; a very bad week for them, and it would not end well,” Rubio said, referring directly to the Venezuelan Government.

He added: “I’m not going to get into the details of what we’ll do. We’re not big on those kinds of threats; I think everybody understands.”

Rubio’s statement had followed a recent incursion into Guyana’s waters by a Venezuelan Coast Guard patrol vessel, which targeted ships supporting ExxonMobil’s offshore operations, including the Prosperity Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel.

The FPSO currently produces up to 250,000 barrels of oil per day, and is central to Guyana’s rapidly-growing energy sector.

The aggressive action raised alarm in Washington and globally, marking a serious escalation in a controversy that has seen Caracas increasingly encroach on

Guyanese maritime territory, including oil-rich acreage legally licensed by Guyana to ExxonMobil.

The Secretary of State said that the United States stands firmly behind Guyana’s right to develop its natural resources without intimidation or coercion from neighbouring regimes.

He further noted that the presence and mobility of the US Navy should serve as a clear reminder of America’s global reach and military capabilities.

“We have a big Navy; it can get anywhere in the world…We have commitments that exist today with Guyana, and we want to build on those; expand on those. But sufficing to say, if that regime were to do something such as that, it would be a very bad move,” the US official said.

On the geopolitical front, Rubio explicitly denounced Venezuela’s territorial claims as “illegitimate”, and reaffirmed Washington’s unwavering support for Georgetown.

“There will be consequences for adventurism,” he declared, noting: “We will not allow illegitimate territorial claims to be an impediment to your dreams, and to your right to develop this country into a symbol that I hope will inspire others.”

US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot

‘Votes were inflated for APNU+AFC’

–– Minister Parag testifies in election fraud trial

–– recalls challenges with spreadsheets in Region Four vote tabulation, verification; chaos at GECOM locations

–– says recount confirmed PPP/C victory at March 2020 polls

By Feona Morrison

LOCAL Government and Regional Development

Minister Sonia Parag took the stand on Tuesday as the second witness in the long-anticipated 2020 electoral fraud trial, currently underway before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Charged are People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph; former Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO at GECOM Roxanne Myers; former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.

Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are represented by a battery of lawyers.

As a result of 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.

It is the prosecution’s case that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the wilful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C).

During her lengthy testimony, Minister Parag, who is also an attorney-at-law, detailed the actions and behaviours of former key GECOM officials, specifically highlighting the alleged misconduct she and others observed and protested against.

As a Candidate of Poll for the PPP/C in the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, she testified to observing voting in areas from Unity to Supply, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on elections day. She testified that she was sent to the GECOM Command Centre at the Ashmin’s Building on High and Hadfield streets, Georgetown, at 08:00hrs on March 3, 2020. She was accompanied by

both local and international observers—including representatives from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Carter Center and the European Union—to witness the tabulation of votes for Region Four, Guyana’s largest voting district.

Minister Parag, guided in her testimony by prosecutor, Attorney-at-Law Latchmie Rahamat, stated that she observed Mingo conducting the tabulation and verification for District Four using Statements of Poll (SoPs).

“At that time, I had with me the copies of the SoPs received by the PPP/C. For each SoPs [sic], there is a box number being called out. So, as Mingo was calling the box number, I was taking out the SoPs according to that box number to compare the numbers on the copies of the SoPs I had and the numbers that were being called by Mingo,” said Parag as she explained the process.

She stated that the tabulation process proceeded “smoothly” on March 3, 2020.

The tabulation process, according to her, was sus-

pended at 21:00hrs after Mingo complained of being tired.

VOTE COUNT SKEWED AGAINST PPP/C

The witness told the court that she returned to GECOM’s Command Centre around 08:00hrs on March 4, 2020, when she encountered Myers, the then Deputy Returning Officer, along with Miller and a woman identified only as Miss Bowman, who was pregnant at the time.

Minister Parag testified that Myers told her that Miller and Bowman would continue with the tabulation process. She mentioned that Lawrence was present as well.

“Bowman had a laptop in front of her. Miller had what appeared to be a spreadsheet in front of her.”

Providing evidence of a pattern of fraudulent activities intended to rig the election results, Parag said: “Michelle Miller was the one calling the numbers from the spreadsheets. They [GECOM

staff] started at box 4001, which was the Upper East Bank.

“When Miller started to call from that box number, she was calling numbers for the PPP/C, the APNU+AFC, and other parties that contested the elections. From box 4001, the numbers that Miller called—I compared them with the numbers I had on the copies of the SoPs—and they did not match the numbers on my SoPs.”

Parag said she objected to the numbers Miller was calling and proceeded to announce the figures she had. Although Miller paused briefly, the minster said she continued reading out the numbers.

“I objected. I said these are not the numbers, because the numbers that were being called by Michelle Miller were actually adding votes for the APNU+AFC and deducting votes for the PPP/C.

“She [Miller] then went on to box 4002. For every box, from 4002 to 4021, I objected to every single one of those boxes. The numbers she called did not match the numbers I had on the copies of the SoPs for the PPP/C or

the APNU+AFC,” Minister Parag testified.

Minister Parag recalled hearing whispers from those seated nearby as she continued to voice her objections. She specifically remembered now Minister Kwame McCoy shouting, “They are trying to rig these elections.”

At that point, she recalled that Jonathan Yearwood of the A New and United Guyana (ANUG) party demanded that GECOM staff produce the SoPs.

When asked what happened after Yearwood made his request, Parag recounted: “She [Miller] stopped for a bit, and shortly after, the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, entered the room. Lowenfield listened to the objections.”

Minister Parag told the court that she remembered Lowenfield saying that the spreadsheets had votes recorded from the SoPs.

As an election observer, she noted that Teni Housty, the then-President of the Bar Association of Guyana, read aloud Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) regarding the use of SoPs.

Essentially, Section 84 mandates that the Returning Officer determine the total number of votes cast in support of each list, in accordance with the SoPs.

Minister Parag said that a member of the GECOM staff had left the room and returned with what looked like SoPs, while she persisted in her protest against the use of spreadsheets in the tabulation process. The witness said that while comparing the numbers on her SoPs with those being read by the GECOM staff using their own SoPs, she found that the figures

matched exactly.

In her testimony, Parag stated that the tabulation and verification process resumed from box 4001, using what appeared to be GECOM’s SoPs, while she simultaneously compared the figures with the copies of the SoPs in her possession.

She stated that GECOM employees claimed they were tired and the process was interrupted at 21:00hrs.

Minister Parag testified that she objected to halting the tabulation process because she wanted it to continue uninterrupted.

Despite her objections, the process was stopped. Several others in the room also protested, demanding that the tabulation proceed, according to her.

Following these events, she recalled that Miller and Bowman were replaced by two other GECOM staff members, including a man she identified as Livan.

“He [Livan] was calling the numbers extremely slowly. He said he was tired too, and he slowed down… very low voice, and then he just stopped. It was about 12:30 in the morning on March 5, 2020,” she added.

The witness deposed that only 421 of the 879 ballot boxes in District Four were counted at this point. According to the minister, the tabulation process was then halted amid commotion outside, and she left the GECOM Command Centre around 03:00hrs on March 5, 2025.

BOMB SCARE, PREMATURE DECLARATION

She testified that she returned to the Command Centre at 11:00hrs on March 5, 2020, when police officers informed her of a bomb scare at the location.

“I remained where I was; I wasn’t moving,” she said, adding that she did not believe there was a bomb scare.

“I recalled Myers saying that we had to leave the room,” she testified, noting, “I didn’t go anywhere. I didn’t believe there was a bomb scare. I thought it was a [plan] to get us out of the building. I took a seat and stayed there all day.”

Later that afternoon, Minister Parag stated that Mingo arrived at

the

Volda Lawrence

Clairmont Mingo

Carol Smith-Joseph Keith Lowenfield

Roxanne Myers Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag

Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty

‘Votes were inflated ...

Command Centre holding a piece of paper.

“He looked down and said, ‘I have a declaration to make in relation to Region Four and the Representation of the People Act,’” she recalled.

“I said, ‘You cannot do this; the tabulation process is not completed,’” she recalled telling Mingo.

Minister Parag described the atmosphere in the room as tense and chaotic. She add-

ed that, shortly after, Mingo walked out of the room without making a declaration.

Minister Parag testified that she later discovered a declaration form on the GECOM website bearing the signature of Mingo, which contained a purported declaration of results for Region Four.

INJUNCTIONS

She said this development prompted the filing

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of a Fixed Date Application (FDA) against GECOM and several of its officials, including Mingo.

The application, she noted, was filed by PPP/C’s General Secretary and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, seeking several injunctions.

Minister Parag said that three injunctions were granted, including one by the Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, SC, which specifically restrained Mingo from declaring

the valid votes for Region Four until he had complied with Section 84 of RoPA.

She explained that the order directed Mingo to complete the tabulation and verification of votes using the SoPs before making any declaration, and that the process was to be concluded by 11:00hrs on March 12, 2020.

Minister Parag returned to the Command Centre that same day, where Mingo announced he would continue the tabulation process using spreadsheets.

Parag said she objected, emphasising that this went against the Chief Justice’s ruling, and insisted that the SoPs be used instead.

She stated that Mingo, however, insisted he could use whatever method he preferred, arguing that the court ruling did not explicitly require the use of SoPs.

According to Minister Parag, this sparked objections from everyone present, including foreign diplomats.

She recalled that Mingo then left, and GECOM Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh arrived at the Command Centre.

Minister Parag told the court that she raised concerns with GECOM Chairperson over Mingo’s actions. According to her, Justice Singh indicated she was not aware of the Chief Justice’s ruling at the time, but was awaiting a copy.

She said contempt-ofcourt proceedings were later

filed against Mingo, and the tabulation and verification process resumed on March 13, 2020, at GECOM’s Kingston, Georgetown headquarters.

RUSHED MANNER

Minister Parag said that while at the Kingston location, she encountered GECOM employees Denise Babb-Cummings and Sheffern February, as well as PNCR’s Carol Smith-Joseph.

She stated that February was calling out numbers from what appeared to be SoPs, but was doing so at a very rapid pace, making it difficult for her to follow or see the numbers being projected onto the bedsheet.

“It was very blurry, and it was going way too quickly. So, I was unable to compare them with my SoPs. I objected because that was not in compliance with the Chief Justice’s order. You could not tabulate and verify from that,” the witness said.

Despite her objections, she said February continued with the process in that manner.

According to her, the tabulation and verification for the general elections concluded around 7 p.m., after which the process moved on to the regional elections.

She noted that the verification for the regional ballots was conducted in a similarly rushed manner.

Minister Parag added that she left the GECOM headquarters sometime between

09:30hrs and 22:00hrs, with the process still incomplete.

However, before midnight, she observed a declaration form for District Four had been posted on GECOM’s website, bearing the signatures of Smith-Joseph and Mingo.

PPP/C VICTORY

She stated that on March 14, 2020, she accompanied Charles Ramson—now Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, who was then a counting agent for the PPP/C—to serve a formal request on Mingo for a recount.

She noted that several legal proceedings followed concerning the validity of the District Four results. Eventually, in May 2020, she deposed that a national recount of the general and regional elections was conducted, with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) serving as the interlocutor.

Minister Parag noted that she was actively involved in the entire 33-day national recount process.

“Upon completion of the recount, it showed that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) had the majority of votes for the General and Regional Elections held on March 2, 2020,” she said.

The trial resumes at 09:30hrs today with testimony from Kian Jabour of ANUG. Minister Parag is scheduled to continue her testimony on Thursday.

May/June rainy season: All pumps fully operational, sluices and outfalls being manned, monitored

WITH the rainy season already upon us, unusual heavy rainfall has been recorded for the past few weeks resulting in water

accumulation in some parts of the country.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has since said that mea-

sures have been put in place to mitigate flooding and to prevent the negative impacts usually associated with such a

situation.

During an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday, he explained that in Georgetown alone there are 15 pump stations, all of which are fully operable and are manned at all times.

Further, he said that there are pumps in the different regions that are working to minimise heavy flooding.

Minister Mustapha added that the outfalls and sluices across Guy -

ana are being monitored on a 24-hour basis to deal with emergencies during this rainy season when extreme rainfall and unusual weather patterns are expected.

The agriculture minister further said that there have been reports of water accumulation in some areas, but no major flooding has been recorded as yet.

He noted that all drainage systems and networks are active and if needed, additional

pumps will be deployed to help mitigate widespread flooding during this rainy season which is expected to last beyond the regular twomonth period.

The minister also disclosed that officials are keeping up to date with weather patterns and are monitoring the flooding situation.

He said too that the country’s flood prevention infrastructure is intact at this time.

The water pumps at Kitty roundabout and Liliendaal are fully operational (Delano Williams photos)

NTC 2025: More efforts underway to enhance security in every community –– says Minister Benn

ON the second day of the 2025 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, addressed pressing matters of national security, community safety, and inclusive development, reaffirming the government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in all communities across Guyana.

In a powerful presen -

tation, Minister Benn emphasised the importance of building a more diverse and community-aligned security sector. He highlighted the recent recruitment of Indigenous men and women into the Guyana Police Force as a progressive step toward fostering greater empathy, understanding, and representation in policing.

“Effective law enforcement must reflect the communities it serves,” Minister

Benn told the gathering of toshaos and stakeholders, noting that such inclusion is vital for national unity and public trust.

He also spoke on the government’s continuing expansion of Community Policing Groups (CPGs) and the integration of technology and intelligence to enhance national sovereignty and public safety. Particular attention was given to recent efforts to equip interior com-

Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn

munities with vital firefighting and emergency-response tools, a move designed to strengthen resilience in hardto-reach areas.

Minister Benn further acknowledged the challenges faced by remote communities, especially regarding domestic violence and substance abuse. He outlined

plans to improve support systems for victims of violence and stressed the importance of holistic interventions to counter social isolation.

On the economic front, the minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering sustainable livelihoods through access to education, skills training, and the development of micro-industries. He also announced plans for a new youth training centre to prepare Indigenous youth for employment in emerging sectors.

In a significant announcement for agricultural communities, Minister Benn revealed that a team is present at the NTC conference to facilitate the application process for shotgun licences. These licences aim to assist farmers in protecting

their crops and livestock, thereby strengthening local food security. He encouraged all toshaos to guide their communities with environmental awareness and responsibility.

Minister Benn concluded with a call for unity in the pursuit of national development:

“Development will not be optimised without security. We must all work together to improve safety, ensure opportunity, and increase peace in Guyana.”

The NTC Conference continues to serve as a platform for open dialogue between Indigenous leaders and government officials, shaping policies that promote equitable and sustainable development across Guyana’s hinterland and Indigenous communities.

GTA names Motie new tourism brand ambassador

KNOWN for his impressive cricket skills and grounded connection to his roots, West Indies star, Gudakesh Motie will lend his voice and influence to promote Guyana as a leading sustainable tourism destination at home and abroad, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has said.

“Gudakesh Motie represents the spirit of Guyana: proud, determined, and grounded in community and culture,” Director of the Guy-

ana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh said.

He added: “We are honoured to partner with him to showcase Guyana’s diverse and authentic tourism experiences. His growing profile in cricket and his strong Guyanese identity make him a powerful advocate for sustainable tourism and national pride.”

As Tourism Brand Ambassador, Motie will take part in a range of destination marketing campaigns, in -

Investigations into Saturday’s explosions ongoing

RANKS of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are yet to make an arrest as it relates to the recent explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) Mandela Avenue substation.

Sleuths are in possession of footage from the close circuit television (CCTV) camera mounted just outside the police outpost. However, it is not clear what the cameras may have captured. It is believed that the two incidents are connected.

According to a police statement, the first incident occurred at approximately 01:00 hours. on May 17, 2025, at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, located at Vlissengen Square and East Front Road.

The report said a loud explosion, originating from the southern side of the outpost, rocked the compound. A police constable on duty at the time heard two distinct blasts followed by debris impacting nearby rooftops.

On inspection, it was discovered that the southern wall of the concrete structure had been significantly damaged.

The Crime Scene Unit later confirmed that the metal gate on the southern perimeter was completely blown away, and other parts of the outpost sustained structural damage.

The second site under investigation is the GPL substation at Mandela Avenue, which also experienced damage around the same time that the police outpost was targetted.

“Authorities are examining the possibility of a coordinated effort between both incidents,” police said.

The police added: “Eyewitnesses in the area have provided valuable accounts, and forensic teams are actively analysing all available evidence. The individuals contacted by police remain key to understanding the full scope of the events.”

The Guyana Police Force has reassured the public that it is taking these matters seriously and that all efforts are being made to ensure public safety and to bring those responsible to justice.

cluding digital content features, community outreach, fan engagement, and media appearances.

He will also embark on a series of guided tours to immerse himself in Guyana’s natural, cultural, and adventure tourism experiences and share those experiences with regional and international

audiences, the GTA said. The partnership is part of the authority’s broader initiative to align sports, culture, and tourism and to leverage high-profile personalities to help tell the story of Guyana as an eco-conscious, vibrant, and welcoming travel destination.

Gov’t addresses Linden truckers’ concerns over ‘unfair practices’

THE government has taken steps to address concerns amid ongoing protests by truckers over job losses and unfair competition, reassuring the affected operators that a level playing field will govern the trade.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, met with truckers in Linden, Region 10, on Tuesday morning and firmly rejected claims that Chinese quarry investors were granted duty-free trucks under investment agreements.

He explained that the only duty-free concessions granted to Chinese investors in the quarry sector were strictly limited to operational equipment used within the quarry sites.

“The Chinese have received no duty-free trucks,” he clarified. “What is happening here now is competition on the market in terms of price.”

Several truckers have voiced concerns that they are being displaced by lower-cost Chinese services, and claim they are being treated unfairly during stone-loading at the Arisaru quarry.

In response, Minister Edghill said the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) had intervened and facilitated an agreement with the quarry’s operators.

Going forward, two separate loading lines will be established, one for Guyanese and one for Chinese operators, to eliminate discrimination and promote fairness.

He encouraged truckers to continue operations at the quarry and assured them that if the agreed-upon changes are not implemented, the government would take decisive action.

“If you go to Arasari and you meet the same conditions and you are not loaded, then there are measures the government can take, because that would be a total violation of what is correct,” Minister Edghill emphasised.

Minister Edghill also addressed the issue of unregistered trucks operating with

trade plates, a practice he said breaches traffic laws.

He warned that such vehicles would be seized.

“I would expect that from as early as today, this issue of trucks operating with trade plates will come to an end. Any truck that is operating with a trade plate should be taken off the road. We cannot allow this.”

He explained that while the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) may issue temporary permits for trucks to be moved off the wharf to alleviate congestion, this does not exempt operators from registering their vehicles punctually.

On the issue of declining haulage rates, Minister Edghill acknowledged the truckers’ concerns but remarked that the government cannot directly set prices in a competitive market.

However, he indicated that if there is evidence of deliberate price manipulation, the matter would be referred to the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) for investigation.

“If there is price gouging, we will have to look at that, and we will do that because we can’t have a mafia in the place. A mafia means that they are controlling everything, and nobody else can do anything,” Minister Edghill said.

Minister Edghill expressed empathy with the truckers and committed to ensuring that their concerns are properly addressed.

He said, “These truckers deserve the dignity to go home with money to their wife, children, to maintain their families, and we [government] will ensure that that happens.”

Meanwhile, Minister Edghill also advised the truckers to desist from blocking the roadway, with the minister warning that such actions could lead to consequences if they move beyond peaceful protest.

The government has taken steps to address concerns amid ongoing protests by truckers over job losses and unfair competition, reassuring the affected operators that a level playing field will govern the trade

GuySuCo highlights climate impact, labour issues in first-crop output

–– says misguided criticism undermines reform

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) has issued a robust response to a letter published in another section of the media on May 19, 2025, written by Mr. Emily Lorrimer, which raised concerns about the performance of the 2025 first crop, but also launched personal criticisms against the corporation’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul Cheong.

In its statement, GuySuCo acknowledged that public scrutiny and accountability are vital but emphasised that criticism must be “grounded in fact and fairness, not conjecture and personal attacks.”

While confirming that the first crop yielded 15,980

metric tonnes of sugar, the corporation pointed out that this outcome must be viewed within the context of extraordinary rainfall and climate-related challenges.

According to GuySuCo, Berbice estates experienced 212 per cent of the long-term mean rainfall and Demerara 160 per cent, with 53 per cent of the days during the period classified as wet. These conditions disrupted field access, harvesting schedules, and factory efficiency. “This isn’t playing politics, it’s a reality of increasingly erratic climatic conditions impacting agriculture globally,” the statement noted.

The corporation defended the decision to continue harvesting ripened cane at

Albion as a necessary move to reduce losses, stating that the TC/TS ratio at Albion fell as low as 11.38 on favourable days. Factory downtime also fell by 22 per cent compared to the same period in 2024, and cane yields saw an 11 per cent improvement across the industry.

Responding to allegations that CEO Cheong misrepresented the use of a G$13 billion allocation, GuySuCo called such claims “unfounded,” asserting that public spending is subject to audits and parliamentary scrutiny. The corporation stated that only a portion of the allocation had been used, countering the letter’s claim of G$9 billion.

The statement also ad -

dressed broader industry issues, such as labour shortages and mechanisation.

“Declining labour availability is a global agricultural trend,” GuySuCo said, adding that mechanisation efforts are aimed at both bridging that gap and im-

proving cost-efficiency.

Addressing criticisms about marketing and revenues, GuySuCo defended Mr Cheong’s leadership, highlighting efforts to diversify revenue streams, enhance branding, and increase market access.

“The current average price earned by the corporation is significantly greater than what was claimed in the letter,” it stated.

As the corporation prepares for the second crop, it is reviewing its operations and logistics to maximise productivity. GuySuCo reiterated that constructive criticism is welcome, but

cautioned that personal attacks only hinder progress.

“Mr Cheong is not ‘bubbling on the job’,” the corporation asserted. “He is leading structural reforms in a century-old institution amid unprecedented challenges—climate change, labour shortages, and market volatility, while laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability.”

The corporation called for a more united and constructive approach to rebuilding the sugar industry, urging stakeholders to engage in nation-building with transparency and shared resolve.

CARICOM, partners continue collaboration to understand state of Caribbean food security

THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) through its continuing partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, is conducting another round of data collection for the Caribbean Food Security and Livelihoods Survey. First introduced in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey collects data from respondents across the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean. As the region continues to address the impacts of environmental issues, global conflicts and economic shifts, there is an interest in understanding how external changes can impact access

to food across the region. In addition to looking at trends in access to food, the survey has focused on the impact of changing conditions in key sectors such as agriculture and fishing.

“The Caribbean cannot afford to slow down its efforts to upgrade the regional food system. Continued impacts from global factors are a constant reminder that the region is highly vulnerable.

As small, open economies, regional collaboration and co-operation, using innovative technology, will provide critical advances towards food sovereignty,” said Dr Wendell Samuel, Assistant Secretary-General, Economic Integration, Innovation and Development, CARICOM Secretariat.

Analysis for data collected from each of the previous seven rounds of the survey is publicly accessible through a dashboard. With the dashboard, the public can access country-specific findings with the option to look at the findings across different categories including gender, age and the main language spoken. In addition to data on food security, the data in the dashboard provides key insights into the impact of natural hazards and access to markets for shopping. The dashboard can be accessed here.

Speaking about the 2025 survey, WFP Representative and Country Director, Brian Bogart, stated: “We at the World Food Programme

are committed to supporting CARICOM’s work to enhance food security. The data from this survey consistently provides timely information to assist in designing programmes to reach those most in need before a crisis.”

The public is reminded that all survey responses are anonymous. The survey, accessible here, is open to

all Caribbean residents aged 18 years and older. To ensure accessibility, it is available in English, Spanish, French, and Dutch.

The survey is conducted through continuing partnerships with the Government of Canada, the European Union and other humanitarian partners and governments in the region.

BIT launches four technical training programmes at Beterverwagting PIC

–– empowering 70 youths

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) on Monday officially launched four new technical training programmes at the Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre (PIC), offering fresh opportunities for 70 young people—44 females and 26 males—from communities spanning Golden Grove to Plaisance.

The newly introduced programmes, Furniture Making, Information Technology, Agro-Processing, and Commercial Food Preparation, began on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, and will run for four months.

Designed to equip participants with practical skills, the training aims to boost employment prospects and foster entrepreneurship among the region’s youth.

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, delivered the feature address at the launch, emphasising the value of personal growth, discipline, and dedication in technical education.

He urged the trainees to seize the opportunity for self-improvement and to pursue multi-skilling as a strategy for success.

The minister also called for stronger gender inclusivity in technical fields, encouraging more women to pursue skills in areas historically dominated by men.

Also addressing the gathering was BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Richard Maughn, who underscored the transfor-

mative potential of skills training. “When you acquire a skill, it not only benefits you but also your household, your community and ultimately the nation,” he stated. Maughn urged trainees to remain focused and committed to their development.

Ms Celeste Cummings, Headmistress of the Beterverwagting PIC, expressed heartfelt thanks to BIT and its partners for making the training initiatives a reality. She encouraged the

trainees to take full advantage of the programmes and the resources made available to them.

Other attendees at the event included BIT Technical Officer Ms. Quinola Legall and several officials from the education and

labour sectors.

BIT also announced plans to expand its training portfolio at the Beterverwagting PIC in the near future, with courses such as General Building Construction and Electrical Installation slated for rollout.

The launch marks a significant step in Guyana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its technical workforce and support community-based development through practical, inclusive education.

BIT officially launched four new technical training programmes at the Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton

‘Unfair’ domestic airfares could be countered by commercial arm of GDF

–– to support hinterland communities, Jagdeo says

ADDRESSING more than 200 Indigenous leaders, Vice-President Bharat Jagdeo on Tuesday said that the government is prepared to invest in an airline service, should local commercial operators continue to ‘unfairly’ increase the cost of domestic flights.

The Vice-President, in his address at the ongoing National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference being held in Georgetown this week, acknowledged that the cost to transport both citizens and goods into hinterland communities has increased, placing a burden on village economies.

This has been a recurring concern for Toshaos (Indigenous village leaders).

The village leaders had said that while the infrastructure to facilitate air traffic was in place, there had not been many frequent flights during that period.

Some hinterland communities can only be accessed by air.

“It seems as though, before every NTC, these aircraft operators raise the rate; it seems like they just wait before the NTC to raise the rates again,” the Vice-President acknowledged. According to Jagdeo, the government has engaged operators who have claimed that “middlemen” would charter flights and then charge higher rates for persons and goods to be transported.

Back in 2022, several Toshaos had highlighted that the high airfares are contributing to a significant increase in the price of basic commodities.

The Vice-President said: “If they can’t be reasonable about these rates, then the government will invest in a commercial arm of the GDF [Guyana Defence Force] to compete with them so that we can keep these freight rates down.”

The government, he noted, will also look at purchasing additional aircraft to address the growing concern.

Jagdeo said: “That’s a big concern of ours, because we on the coast, we have sought to tackle [the] cost of living by subsidising electricity and water and transportation… now so every gallon of gas you buy in Guyana or diesel, there’s a 500 to 600 Guyana dollars subsidy for the gas, because we wanted to keep the price down. But in [the] hinterland, the biggest concern

The view from an aircraft preparing to land in Lethem, Region Nine (Guyana

has been the cost of moving people and goods into some communities.”

In 2024, the government had forgone approximately $80 billion in taxes by eliminating a 50 per cent excise tax on diesel and gasoline. This measure is aimed at stabilising the cost of pro-

duction and transportation in Guyana, despite global increases in fuel prices.

Jagdeo noted that the government will also look to further expand several airstrips across the hinterland regions, allowing for the accommodation of larger aircraft.

He said: “We plan to also

upgrade and expand a lot of these airships so that bigger aircraft can go, and then, especially in areas they can’t go. And then, if you have another service, we’re going to operate a government-owned service if we can’t solve this problem of gouging.”

Further, in addition to works being done to upgrade community roads, major contracts to enhance regional travel is also on the cards.

This will be a multimillion-dollar investment connecting Regions Eight (Potaro- Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Jagdeo said: “Ultimately, we have to connect all of the communities in Region Eight to Region Nine through a proper road, and we will continue to allocate contracts to those communities so that they can, they can build [connecting] roads.”

Chronicle Archive)

Cheddi Jagan’s enduring legacy in education…

A personal reflection on his stellar contributions to the birth of UG

By Professor Emeritus Clement K. Sankat

AS we recently commemorated the birth anniversary of Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan— Guyanese patriot, former Premier and President, and our Champion for Independence from British colonial rule, I felt it necessary, not only as an educator but as a Guyanese son of the soil, to offer a reflection on one of his most enduring legacies: his unshakable commitment to education for all and the establishment of the University of Guyana (UG).

Dr. Jagan was not just a political leader. He was a visionary who understood that national liberation was incomplete without intellectual liberation. He believed that education was the cornerstone of building a free, progressive, and prosperous nation—and he proved that through action.

His passion for education went far beyond increasing access; it was about dignity, empowerment, and creating equal opportunity for every citizen. His work began as Premier of then colonial

British Guiana (1953-64) and then continued on his return to power as President in 1992 until his passing in 1997. I speak from personal experience. I was born in No. 64 Village, Corentyne, and received my early education at Leeds Government School (Number 51 Village, Corentyne) before moving on to Queen’s College in Georgetown (1962-69). It

was Dr Jagan’s reforms in the 1950s and early 1960s that made it possible for students like me—rural, very humble in origin—to access elite institutions once reserved for the privileged few. His expansion of scholarship opportunities with meritocracy at the centre, teacher training programmes (both pre-service and in-service), and primary and secondary

schools’ rehabilitation and expansion marked a revolutionary time in Guyana’s educational history under Cheddi’s leadership— creating education for all.

Yet, his greatest educational gift to the nation remains the University of Guyana. Founded in 1963 amidst the terrible political turbulence of that time, UG began with just 179 students in borrowed classrooms at Queen’s College, on October 2, 1963.

Dismissed by some at the time as “Jagan’s night school,” the institution has since grown into Guyana’s national university, educating tens of thousands and serving as a pillar of social mobility and nation-building.

As one who has led major academic institutions in the Caribbean—most notably as Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus—I can attest to the boldness and determination of Dr. Jagan’s vision.

In establishing UG, he broke from the colonial model of dependence on the regional University of the West Indies, then The University College of the West Indies (UCWI). He dared at that time to imagine a national university—homegrown, accessible, affordable and rooted in the needs of Guyanese society.

Even more remarkable was the breadth of his vision. Though trained as a Dentist, Cheddi Jagan was a liberal thinker who also pursued studies in political science, economics, philosophy and sociology.

He knew education had to be more than just technical training—it had to nurture civic responsibility, critical thinking, and national consciousness. This belief guided every step of his work in transforming Guyana’s educational landscape and his thoughts with respect to the creation of the University of Guyana.

The liberal education that he experienced in the USA appealed to him much more than the rigid colonial education of the UK and imbibed by the UCWI. This educational philosophy of Cheddi Jagan ought to be seriously considered by our education planners of today.

The creation of the University of Guyana demon -

strated a very determined characteristic of Cheddi Jagan when he held on to a particular vision.

In 1963, despite the successive interventions of Prime Minister Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago and Premier Errol Barrow of Barbados into Guyana so as to persuade Cheddi Jagan not to exit the regional UWI as a full, contributing member, Cheddi listened politely, but pursued his goal of creating UG with personal vigour. Interestingly, Cheddi and his PPP government were removed from power in 1964, one year after UG’s establishment.

Notwithstanding its ups and downs since then, UG to its credit has continued on its path of contributing to the human-resource development of Guyana. Cheddi, in 1963, created the first national university in the English-speaking West Indies with for example, The University of Trinidad & Tobago created in 2004, 41 years later!

Successive Presidents, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and now Dr Irfaan Ali, have expanded UG’s mission. The opening of the Tain Berbice Campus in 2000 by Dr Jagdeo and recent plans announced by President Irfaan Ali to launch new programmes in engineering, medical sciences, and oil and gas, etc, at the Berbice Campus are all in keeping with the foundation laid by Dr Jagan— bringing education for all. It brings me great joy to see this growth and to witness the continued commitment to “One Guyana”—a dream Cheddi held long before it became our current

national slogan.

As I now lead the development of the Guyana Technical Training College in Port Mourant, Berbice, under the watch of President Irfaan Ali and with the commitment of ExxonMobil and their partners, I carry forward that same philosophy: that education is the most powerful tool for national transformation.

The GTTCI is opening up doors for Guyanese to enter the new oil and gas industry and interestingly, it is being built in Port Mourant, near Cheddi’s birthplace. I owe much of my career to the early doors Cheddi Jagan opened for me and so many others, though not a UG graduate but rather one from the UWI, St. Augustine, Trinidad in Engineering.

On this anniversary, let us not only remember Dr. Jagan but renew our commitment to the ideals of education which he championed. Let us ensure that the University of Guyana continues to be strengthened and supported, so that the dreams of rural children in particular, for secondary and tertiary education, are never out of reach.

Thank you, Cheddi, for building an education system and institution (UG) that changed lives—and changed a nation!

[Professor Emeritus Clement K. Sankat is the Director, Guyana Technical Training College Inc. (GTTCI) and former Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal, UWI St. Augustine. This article was condensed from a speech made at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC) on March 21, 2025.]

Professor Emeritus Clement K Sankat

Former President of Guyana, Dr Cheddi B Jagan

FAO drives regional agenda to strengthen the role of cooperatives in productive, territorial development

AS part of the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives, stakeholders from Latin America and the Caribbean gathered at a regional event to discuss the role of cooperatives in agri-food systems.

The event promoted the exchange of experiences and strategies to enhance their contributions to the region’s productive and territorial development.

May 19, 2025. Santiago, Chile- The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Cooperatives of the Americas—the regional branch of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)—and the Chilean Institute of Associations and Cooperatives (INAC), hosted the first regional meeting as part of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025 activities. Titled “The Role of Cooperatives in Transforming Agri-food Systems in Latin America and the Caribbean,” the event brought together representatives from governments, international organizations, and cooperatives across the region.

The event brought together representatives from governments, international organizations, and cooperatives across the region. The opening session featured remarks by Máximo Torero, Chief Economist, Assistant Director-General, and Acting Regional Representative of FAO for Latin America and the Caribbean; Danilo Salerno, Regional Director of Cooperatives of the Americas; Marco Llinás, Director of the Division of Productive and Business Development at ECLAC; and María Ignacia Fernández, Chile’s Undersecretary of Agriculture.

The event promoted the exchange of experiences and best practices, strengthened alliances among cooperatives, governments, the private sector, financial institutions, and international organizations, and identified challenges and opportunities to reinforce the role of cooperatives in productive and territorial development.

Máximo Torero emphasised that “the transformation of agri-food systems should not only be about producing more with less, but also about achieving better distribution. In this process, cooperatives can accelerate changes that would otherwise be ineffective or unattainable.”

He added, “Cooperatives allow family farmers and small-scale producers to access economies of scale, facilitating access to financing, technology, precision agriculture, and markets. At the FAO, we are generating concrete evidence on how

the cooperative sector can integrate small producers into national and regional value chains, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and sustainability.”

Ignacia Fernández emphasised that “promoting cooperativism with a gender focus is not only a social demand but also a prerequisite for justice and sustainability within the cooperative sector and agri-food systems as a whole.”

Danilo Salerno added, “Collaboration is reflected in the added value we provide, securing markets for products, incorporating innovation and transformation, and ensuring quality-all of which help reduce the cost of diets.” He also underscored the potential of FAO-led methodologies, such as the Hand-in-Hand initiative, to strengthen cooperative development.

In response to the structural challenges facing agrifood systems in the region, participants emphasized the need to strengthen public policies, improve infrastructure, and update regulatory frameworks that recognize the strategic value of cooperatives.

To achieve this, they proposed expanding technical and financial support, integrating cooperatives into productive development programs, and promoting intersectoral collaboration.

They also called for progress in implementing the Model Cooperative Law and encouraging the active participation of family farmers, women, and youth.

REGIONAL DATA

As part of the collaboration between Cooperatives of the Americas, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), a detailed mapping of agri-food cooperatives in the region is underway. Preliminary findings indicate that there are 14,758 agricultural and food cooperatives across the Americas.

These cooperatives bring together over 3.6 million members and directly employ approximately 1.2 million people, demonstrating their significance in agri-food systems and the rural social economy.

MODEL COOPERATIVE LAW

During the event, participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting the Model Cooperative Law, which was approved by the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament

(PARLATINO) in December 2024. Participants also highlighted the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding with the Interna-

tional Cooperative Alliance (ICA), which renews the cooperation agreement to strengthen cooperatives in Latin America and the Caribbean.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday May 21, 2025)

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Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Robin Uthappa-660 runs (KKR) (2) Mohit Sharma-23 wickets (CSK) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored most runs in IPL 2015? (2) Who took most wickets? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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West Indies expectations high ahead of first ODI

CMC – West Indies white-ball captain Shai Hope says the team is upbeat and looking forward to the opening One Day International against Ireland here on Wednesday.

Speaking in a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Hope said expectations were still high even without the services of Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd for the three-match ODI series.

John Campbell has been named as a replacement for Rutherford, while Jediah Blades will

join the team for the succeeding England tour as a replacement for Shepherd.

It will be no cakewalk for the visitors, who at ninth in the world are three spots higher than the home side, as the last time the two sides met in January 2022 in the Caribbean, Ireland emerged victorious 2-1 in that three-match series.

Hope said the weather was much warmer than the kind experienced on their last tour to Ireland six years ago, and it had helped the team to acclimatise

easily.

“I think the boys are sweating in this 13-degree weather in comparison to the threes that we had back in 2019, and the boys are acclimatising pretty well.

“I think the few days leading up to the series are certainly doing us well. I think whenever you come to these parts of the world an extra couple of days will always be beneficial to the team and the guys are settling in well and we’re ready to go tomorrow,” Hope said.

“…This is a continuation

from what we did over the last few months as a squad, especially the backend of 2024, and we still have the same goal in mind.

“The few guys who have been in as replacements, they have been around the setup for a little while as well. Even if they weren’t named in the squad they have been around the team, so they have an understanding of what we’re trying to achieve going forward. We’re all on the same page, everyone is ready to jump on that same train and get on that 2027 World Cup,” he

maintained.

Hope admitted that he was pleased with the direction the team was headed.

He said they had addressed several areas of concern and were much closer to playing the brand of cricket they had identified.

“I think that we’ve shown glimpses of the brand that we’re trying to play. The last few series that we have been involved in the guys have really shown that we are one of the teams to be reckoned with going forward,” Hope said.

“We just have to ensure that we understand what’s in front of us every single time we go out to play, understand the conditions quickly.

“But it’s more of a take the first punch mentality I would say, instead of waiting back and allowing the opposition to get on top of us. So we’ve been showing great signs of that and the preparations that we have been doing over the last couple of weeks, last couple of months have always been geared towards that,” he added.

SuperBet back in support of Kares One Guyana T10

SuperBet Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to community cricket, supporting the third edition of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.

The popular tapeball tournament is set to 'blast off' on June 28 in Berbice.

In a Tuesday presentation to FL Sport organisers, SuperBet solidified its position as a key partner by securing title rights for the live stream of select matches.

Representatives from SuperBet expressed their delight in continuing to support the tournament, highlighting its reach into communities and families.

They emphasised the tournament's "bottom-up approach" to fostering cricket development in a fun and innovative manner.

Beyond their corporate social responsibility, the companies noted their consistent impression of the tournament's quality over the past two seasons.

John Ramsingh of FL Sport expressed his grati -

tude to SuperBet Guyana for their continued support and acknowledged the product's immense value to all corporate partners.

Ramsingh further elaborated on the tournament's expanded reach, noting that its spread across all counties, divided into four zones, will guarantee a massive audience

both in person and through online platforms.

Meanwhile, registration for the third edition is underway, and based on the enthusiastic response, FL Sport anticipates reaching its target of 80 participating teams soon.

The registration fee is GY$ 30,000.

Prospective teams and

individuals seeking further information can contact Akeem Greene via WhatsApp at +5926352235 or visit the tournament’s official social media pages under “One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.”

The tournament schedule is poised to unfold across the country throughout June and July, culminating in the grand

Tournament Schedule:

• Berbice Zone: June 28-29

• East Bank/West Demerara Zone: July 5-6

• Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone: July 19-20

• Essequibo Zone: July 26-27

The team limit for each zone, except for the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara zone, is 16.

Some zones may be extended beyond 16.

The Georgetown/East Coast Demerara zone can accommodate up to 32 teams.

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast boasts a lucrative prize structure to reward zonal success and national championship aspirations.

The winning team from each zone will pocket GY$300,000 and earn automatic qualification for the national finals.

The ultimate national

champion will be awarded a staggering GY$1.7 million, while the national runners-up will receive GY$700,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will each receive GY$300,000, and the losing finalists at the zonal level will also receive GY$100,000 each.

Individual player performances are also significantly incentivized with attractive cash prizes and awards.

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) will receive GY$ 150,000 and a motorcycle while Prizes of GY$ 100,000 are designated for the players with the Most Runs and Most Wickets.

The Player-of-the-Final at the Nationals will earn GY$ 75,000 while GY$ 35,000 will go to the Super Striker and the player with the Best Economy rate.

Some of these impressive prizes will also include custom-made trophies and televisions, adding to the prestige of individual achievements.

Drayton wins inaugural chess 960 freestyle tournament

After nine intense rounds of a thrilling variation of classical chess that promotes creativity and innovation, FM Anthony Drayton emerged victorious in the inaugural 960 Freestyle Chess Tournament hosted by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) and sponsored by Brava Solutions.

The event was held on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, at the Exhibition Centre, Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, Kingston, Georgetown, compliments of the Guyana Pegasus Hotel.

Drayton, no stranger to first place podium, played unbeaten, claiming first place with an impressive eight and a half points. His draw came in a matchup

against long-time teammate CM Taffin Khan. Khan, the defending champion in the upcoming National Open Championships, secured second place with seven and a half points. His draw was against Drayton, and his sole defeat came from current Junior Champion Ricardo Narine.

Fourteen-year-old CM Sachin Pitamber secured third place with 7 points, further solidifying his position as one of the country's most talented junior chess players. His only losses were to Drayton and Khan.

Fifteen-year-old Kyle Couchman secured fourth place with six points after losing to Drayton, Khan, and Pitamber.

Kyle's tenacity and passion for chess are unmistakable as he continues to establish himself in local competition.

Ricardo Narine, not one to be left behind, finished fifth with six points after suffering three losses. One of his notable wins was against Khan in the sixth round. Narine has proven that his growing skills are paving the way for excellence in his rise to the top. The twenty-year-old losses were against Pitamber, Drayton and Couchman.

Woman Candidate Master Jessica Callender won the best female prize after finishing with 5 points after four losses. Callender continues to challenge herself to grow

and develop, making her one of the most successful young women within the local chess community.

The tournament saw notable performances from Alek Ubaldo-Singh, a young upcoming player, who also gained six points. Matthew Persaud, a newcomer to the scene, gained five and a half points, while Joshua Gopaul, and Kishan Puran rounded up the top ten with five points each.

Top five winners were presented with cash prizes sponsored by Brava Solutions and were presented by Mr. Lloyd Harmon. Speaking to the chess players, Harmon congratulated

them and indicated his support to the development of young minds, for which chess serves as an ideal platform. The GCF wishes to thank Brava Solutions for their kind support and looks forward to a continued partnership in chess.

The top twelve boards were live-streamed, thanks to the skills of FIDE Arbiter John Lee, who continues to provide the federation with innovative and technological support. Thanks to the assistance of National Arbiter Kim ShingChong and support from Ethan Lee and Italy Ton-Chung.

President of the GCF, Mr. Anand Raghunauth, lauded the tournament as a success, noting its effectiveness in

prompting chess players challenged players to depart from their usual strategies and unconventional thinking from the initial stages of the game.

The GCF extends heartfelt thanks to the Guyana Pegasus Hotel for generously providing the tournament venue. Mr. Brandon Badal, the hotel's Managing Director and an avid chess player, championed the freestyle chess tournament, introducing players to a challenging twist of varied chess openings in every game.

Chess action continues with the National Open Chess Championships, set to begin on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, at the David Rose Special School.

finals at the National Stadium, Providence, on Sunday, August 3.

John Ramsingh (left) of FL Sport and Joshua Hussain, Marketing Representative for SuperBet Guyana

Gudakesh Motie named Guyana Tourism Ambassador

West Indies and Guyana's left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie, has been appointed the official Tourism Brand Ambassador by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), the organization announced on Tuesday.

The move sees the 29-year-old, known for his subtle bowling variations and strong Guyanese roots, stepping into a new role to promote his home nation as a leading sustainable tourism destination.

The partnership aims to leverage Motie's growing international profile and local identity to showcase Guyana's diverse and eco-friendly travel experiences to a global audience.

Kamrul Baksh, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. "Gudakesh Motie embodies the spirit of Guyana: proud, determined, and deeply rooted in community and culture," Baksh stated.

"We are privileged to partner with him to highlight Guyana’s authentic tourism offerings. His rising stature in cricket and his profound Guyanese identity make him a powerful advocate for sustainable tourism and national pride.”

In his new capacity, Motie will participate in various destination marketing campaigns, including creating digital content, engaging in community outreach, interacting with fans, and making

media appearances.

A significant aspect of his ambassadorship will involve embarking on guided tours to immerse himself in Guyana’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and adventure tourism options.

These personal experiences will then be shared with regional and international audiences to inspire travel to the South American country.

This strategic initiative by the GTA is part of

Concerts’

a broader effort to integrate sports, culture, and tourism.

The authority intends to utilize high-profile personalities like Motie to effectively tell Guyana's

story as a conscientious, dynamic, and welcoming travel destination, further solidifying its position on the global stage.

The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament is set to elevate its fan experience this year, integrating a series of "super concerts" featuring prominent regional and local Soca artists alongside the cricket action.

This initiative, highlighted by GSL Director James Stewart, aims to offer significant entertainment value for ticket holders.

Stewart announced on Tuesday that these concerts will take place during half-time breaks,

Fans can look forward to half-time shows at the Guyana Amazon Warriors matches this year

WIFBSC Championships Barbados 2025

as well as to open and close the tournament.

"The price of one ticket will get the champion teams of T20 from around the world, some of the best Soca artists from around the region and in Guyana, all for the price of one ticket," Stewart explained.

Notably, every Guyana Amazon Warriors match will feature a halftime performance.

The second edition of the GSL is scheduled from July 10 to July 18 at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence.

The tournament will

feature five top T20 franchises: Guyana Amazon Warriors, Dubai Capitals, Hobart Hurricanes, defending champions Rangpur Riders from Bangladesh, and Central Stags from New Zealand. All 11 matches will be played at the Providence venue.

Tickets for the ExxonMobil Guyana GSL are slated to go on sale next Tuesday, May 27.

Stewart confirmed that ticket prices will range from GYD 500 for the most affordable options to GYD 5,000 for the most expensive.

Team Guyana arrives aiming to retain Short and Long-Range titles

- aims for individual glory

The Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Team to the 2025 edition of the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Championships have arrived safe in the Land of the Flying Fish, Barbados.

The team which arrived on Sunday have set-

tled down and are in high spirits having completed satisfactory training over the last few weeks at the Timehri Rifle Ranges. Team Captain Dylan Fields shared that he is confident that his team is prepared and only now must deal with the conditions on the day, which includes lots of

rain in Barbados now.

The twelve-member team is made up of for the first time in 20-years, two female shooters, Kay-Ann Ghanie and Althea Alleyne. The other members of the team are Captain Dylan Fields, V ice-Captain Leo Romalho, Manager/Coach Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite, Ryan Sampson, Peter Per-

saud, Sherwin Felicien, Roberto Tewari and the two USA based riflemen, Sigmond Douglas and John Fraser.

The GuyanaNRA team’s journey has been made possible through the largesse of several donors namely: H.E. President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Army Chief Brigadier Omar Khan, Commission-

er of Police Clifton Hicken, Hon. Charles Ramson Jr. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, President of the Guyana Olympic Association Godfrey, Munroe, Mr. Ramsay Ali, CEO of Sterling Products, Queensway Security Ltd, Crown Mining, Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Guyana Police Force, Guyana Revenue Authority and

Caribbean Airlines. Participating countries this year are Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Jamaica, US Rifle Team, Canada, UK and the host nation. The Individual competition which will run for three days shot off on Tuesday morning, following the official opening ceremony.

Gudakesh Motie

Loss part of growing pains as team rebuilds, says GRFU Head RAN 15s Championship…

Fresh off their loss to Barbados at last weekend’s Rugby America North (RAN) 15’s match at the National Park, Guyana’s Green machine is undergoing a ‘rebuilding phase.’

This is the assessment of Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) president Ryan Dey, who told the media, that he understands this phase and what it means.

According to Dey, “[for] a lot of the guys, this is their first campaign when it comes to playing 15’s and it some growing pains but we have some committed guys and in the near future we will be back to the Guyana rugby team that the nation knows us to be on top of the Carib-

mistakes, some of the guys will not execute how they are supposed to and one of the main reasons is that we are not having enough club competition,” added Dey.

He said that players must also commit to playing rugby more frequently which can improve their personal growth in the game and fitness which will auger well for the team as a unit.

“Hopefully this couple of loses will drive home the point that’s it just not on the coaching or on the Union but also on the players themselves, its back to the drawing board for us, we will have a meeting this week to iron out our next plans as we shift to 7’s and look to host more 15’s

penalty for another 3 points before scoring a try and a conversion of his own to take the host up to a 17-nil lead.

After the break, Barbados’ Simon John scored another try to take the score up to 22 which Phillips’ then converted to make it 24-nil as the Guyanese found no answer for Barbados pace or aggression.

A Vallon Adams try in the 49th minute gave the ‘Green Machine’ their first score on the board, the offensive play giving them some defensive momentum as they held their rivals off for a good period of the clash after the initial burst.

However, the defensive momentum failed to translate to offensive form as they failed to put anymore tries on

bean.”

The country’s 15 squad had another forgettable outing over the weekend when they lost handsomely to host Barbados at the Garrison Savannah stadium in Bridgetown Barbados.

The GRFU boss also recognizes that a lack of competition by the GRFU is also hurting the team overtime.

“We are at that stage and we are going to make some

matches,” the GRFU President said.

Meanwhile in the game, the nation’s national ruggers were left empty handed with bruises after a tough encounter.

After the opening whistle Barbados’ Taureen Marshall got onto the score sheet with a try which was converted by D’Andre Phillip to move them to an early 7-point lead.

Phillip would convert a

the board.

When the local ran out of steam late in the clash, Barbados ran in two more tries both of which was convert to move the lead from 24-5 to 38-5 which they maintained for the victory 38-5.

The loss came less than 2 weeks after Guyana was humbled 48-17 hosting the Cayman Islands at the National Park Rugby Play Field.

Prime Minister’s Independence Dominoes Tournament…

Strike Force clinch victory

Prime Minister Brigadier retired Mark Phillips watches the competition in the Prime Minister’s Independence Dominoes Tournament

The fourth edition of the Prime Minister’s Dominoes Tournament concluded triumphantly yesterday in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, marking a historic milestone as the largest dominoes competition in Guyana’s history.

A record-breaking 33 teams from across the nation competed fiercely for nearly $2 million in cash and prizes, underscoring the tournament's growing prestige and national significance.

Hosted under the patronage of Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) the Honourable Mark Phillips, the tournament showcased the increasing popularity of dominoes as a unifying sport. Teams hailed from diverse regions, including Georgetown, Bartica, Mahdia, Yarrowkabra, and the host town of Linden, reflecting the widespread appeal and competitive spirit of the game.

This year’s participation surpassed previous editions, with 30 teams competing in the inaugural 2022 tournament and

31 teams in 2023. The competition featured nearly $1.8 million in cash and prizes, underscoring its prestige and the high level of play it attracts.

Strike Force secured the top spot, earning $800,000 and the championship trophy. Festival City claimed second place with a prize of $400,000 and a trophy. Third Place went to Swag Boss took who home $200,000 and a trophy for their performance. Hustlers rounded out the top four, receiving $100,000. Additionally, Mr. Ryan Rambalack received the MVP title and awarded a cash prize of $15,000.

The tournament's growth reflects the Prime Minister's commitment to fostering unity and camaraderie through sport. As the event continues to expand, organizers are considering the introduction of a parallel female tournament in 2026, complete with dedicated sponsorship and enhanced prizes, to promote inclusivity and further elevate the sport's profile nationwide.

The annual tournaments are coordinated by the Georgetown Dominoes Association and Mr. Aubrey “Shanghai” Major at the Shanghai residence in Amelia’s Ward. Mr. Aubrey “Shanghai” Major, co-organizer of the event, expressed his appreciation for the Prime Minister's support:

“The Prime Minister’s consistent support has been instrumental in elevating this tournament to a national spectacle. His presence and backing have not only increased participation but have also inspired communities across Guyana to engage more deeply with the sport. We are truly grateful for his commitment to the growth of dominoes in our country.”

The Prime Minister’s Dominoes Tournament stands as a testament to the unifying power of sport in Guyana and is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and national impact in the years to come.

Rutherford to join Barbados Royals

The Barbados Royals have secured the services of Sherfane Rutherford for the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), in a move that will see Jason Holder joining the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots. The two sides have also agreed for Alick Athanaze to move from the Royals

to the Patriots for the 2025 season. Rutherford, a dynamic middle-order batter and powerful striker, will be turning out for his third CPL franchise, having previously represented the Guyana Amazon Warriors and the Patriots. His addition brings further firepower to the Royals’ batting

line-up as they look to mount a strong campaign in 2025.

In a landmark move, Jason Holder departs his home franchise after a remarkable run with the Barbados-based team since the league’s inaugural season in 2013 and having been part of championship wins with the Royals in 2014 and 2019. The trans-

fer marks the end of an era for Holder, who has been a consistent leader and key figure for the Royals for over a decade.

Alick Athanaze will be joining the Patriots as part of these transfer moves. Athanaze was one of the standout performers for the Windward Islands Infernos

in the West Indies Breakout League. Athanaze’s addition adds depth and versatility to the Patriots’ squad as they continue to build for the future.

As per CPL regulations, teams are permitted to negotiate trades and transfers ahead of the official draft, which is set to take place next month.

The 2025 Republic Bank CPL will run from 14 August to 21 September, with matches scheduled across six Caribbean nations: Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago.

Guyana’s Ruggers battling Barbados in RAN’s 15s

ahead of first

Captains Shai Hope and Paul Stirling pose with the ODI trophy•May

Sherfane Rutherford played for the Gujarat Titans