Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-12-2025

21st December, 2025

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See Inside No.108022

GDF enhances reach, responsiveness, operational flexibility SEE PAGE

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--with commissioning of new Bell helicopters

Stabroek Square opens with vibrant Christmas Concert SEE PAGE

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Region Six Contractors residents laud pledge on-time President Ali’s completion of long-term road works initiatives SEE PAGE

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---say they cannot live on handouts

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and other government officials on Saturday commissioned two new Bell helicopters — the Bell 407 and Bell 429 — at the Guyana Defence Force’s Hangar at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (Photos: Office of the Prime Minister)

Historic clock at Stabroek Market finally in Stewartville working again SEE PAGE

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SEE PAGE

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Labour Minister highlights job creation, skills training at Gas-to-Energy job fair SEE PAGE

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Island communities in Essequibo will have greater access to gov’t services

--President Ali assures residents, emphasises government’s commitment to investing in Guyanese regardless of where they live

By Feona Morrison

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured residents of Wakenaam Island in

Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) that they will not be left behind, as he outlined a wide range of investments, policy

initiatives and corrective measures aimed at improving services, infrastructure, livelihoods and quality of life on the island.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Addressing residents during a community meeting

on Thursday, President Ali first expressed gratitude for their political support, saying, “First of all, allow me, on behalf of the leadership of the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic, to express our gratitude for your support, for your love and your commitment in ensuring that the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic government was returned to office with a resounding majority.”

He commended residents for remaining loyal to the party, adding, “I want to compliment you and thank you for staying the course for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic.” The president noted that he would not repeat everything previously outlined in the party’s manifesto, but emphasised that the government’s focus remains firmly on people-centred development.

“You know that we are going to invest in you, the people,” President Ali said.

He stressed that all Guyanese, regardless of where they live, must have access to quality services, leadership and opportunities. “We want to ensure that the people of our country, regardless if you live in Wakenaam, Leguan, wherever you live, you must have access to good quality service.”

He further stated that citizens must have “good quality community leadership,” “a safe and secure community,” “developmental opportunities,” and “access to healthcare.” According to the President, these are not privileges but entitlements for every Guyanese.

Focusing specifically on Wakenaam, President Ali assured residents, “Here in Wakenaam, I want to assure you that you will not be left behind by the Peoples Progressive Party Civic government.” He pointed to tangible development over the past five years, saying, “We have shown you in the last five years how much we love you. Not by words, but by investment in leadership, in bringing real, tangible development to your island and every community.”

He cited examples including scholarships, improved academic performance and increased graduation rates among children. He also addressed rising land values, explaining that “the increase in land prices did not happen by accident,” but was driven by government investment and renewed confidence in the island’s economy.

President Ali also highlighted improvements to service delivery across Region Three, with the opening of a Government Service Centre.

He listed services including applications for birth, death and marriage certificates, passports, digital identification (ID) cards and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) services, as well as business and shop licences and renewals. “All of it will be delivered right at that Government Service Centre at the West Central Mall in Leonora,” he said. Turning to economic empowerment, President Ali referenced measures announced previously to boost prosperity and living standards. He noted that development would not be based on grants alone. “The cash grants, as I said, will come and will be part of the 2026 budget, and that’s the first installment,” he stated.

He placed strong emphasis on opportunities for farmers and young people, announcing plans for co-investment and financing support. “You will now have a government ready to co-invest with you in your business ventures,” he said, including the creation of “a special development bank that will give you $3 million interest-free and collateral-free [loans].”

Using rice farming as an example, President Ali explained how farmers could pool resources to access machinery and services. He also revealed that a commercial bank had agreed to leverage the government financing.

“They will lend up to $10 million at less than 3.5% interest rates,” he said, repeating, “Less than 3.5% interest rates.” He described these TURN TO PAGE 10

GDF enhances reach, responsiveness, --with commissioning operational flexibility of new Bell helicopters

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

By Feona Morrison

IN a ceremony underscoring Guyana’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity, Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips emphasised the country’s sovereign responsibilities during the commissioning of the Bell 407 and Bell 429 helicopters into the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) fleet.

“Guyana is a sovereign state.

With sovereignty comes responsibility,” the Prime Minister declared on Saturday. “The most solemn of these responsibilities is the obligation to safeguard our national sovereignty and to preserve, protect and defend our territorial integrity.

This duty is an ongoing obligation.

It is not simply a pledge or an aspiration, but must be backed by our willingness to invest in assets for our defence force.”

Highlighting the strategic importance of modernising the GDF, Prime Minister Phillips said, “Over the past five years, your government, a government that I am proud to be the Prime Minister of, has been deliberately and systematically investing and strengthening the aviation capabilities of the Guyana Defence Force.”

He added: “This forms part of a broader plan to recapitalise the force, enhance its assets and transform it into a more agile, responsive and capable institution. One fit for the demands of a modern Guyana.”

He outlined the defence priorities necessary to secure the nation, stressing, “These demands are not about bravado or belligerence but about vigilance, readiness and responsibility. Vigilance is the watchful eye of the nation, seeing threats before they arrive and denying them the space to grow.

“Readiness is the strength to act without hesitation because preparation has already done the hard work.

And responsibility is power guided by principle, ensuring that force

Prime Minister Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips addresses the gathering during commissioning of the Bell 407 and Bell 429 helicopters (Photos: Office of the Prime Minister)

is always exercised in defence of peace, never against it,” he noted.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the operational versatility of the new helicopters. “These helicopters enhance our reach, expand our responsiveness and significantly improve our operational flexibility.

They will support border patrols; surveillance missions; search-andrescue operations; medical evacuations; disaster response and logistical support to hinterland and riverine communities.”

Phillips reinforced the importance of sustained investment, noting that over the past five years, the government had increased the budgetary allocation to the GDF by more than three and a half times.

He added that the transformation in the force’s capital budget had been even more striking, having increased 20-fold.

“These matter, because capital investment is where modernisation lives. It is through capital investment that we acquire aircraft, vessels, vehicles, technology and infrastructure that fundamentally

Officials stand beside one of the newly commissioned Bell helicopters

alter what a defence force can do.”

According to him, technology, training, and integration are central to the government’s vision for the GDF. “Technology is a force multiplier. Advanced aviation assets, surveillance systems, communication platforms and data-driven intelligence tools allow the force to see farther, respond faster and act with greater precision.”

Prime Minister Phillips emphasised that acquiring advanced equipment is only part of the solution. “But technology alone requires investing in training. This is why it is equally important that technology must be embedded from the bottom up if a truly modern force is to be built.”

Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan echoed the Prime Minister’s focus on national security and capability enhancement, noting the strategic value of the new aircraft.

“This morning, as the rotors turn and lift is generated, we are reminded that air power is not about

Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan addresses the gathering during the commissioning ceremony for the helicopters

altitude alone. It is about access, speed and decisive presence. What we commission here this morning is not simply flight capability, but the ability to arrive first, see farther, respond faster and protect more effectively.”

He described the commissioning as a deliberate step in modernising the GDF. He stated: “This ceremony marks the deliberate elevation of the Guyana Defence Force’s operational envelope, where awareness is expanded, agility is accelerated and adaptability is tested and proven.

Today, we do not merely unveil machines of metal and rotor.

“We commission with intent, we activate capability, and we affirm clearly and confidently that Guyana’s security architecture is not waiting for the future, we are engineering it.”

Brigadier Khan also highlighted the broader vision of the force,” he added. According to him, the induction of the Bell 429 and Bell 407 represents far more than an expansion of our aviation fleet.

Brigadier Khan noted: “It signals the steady transformation of the Guyana Defence Force into a technology-enabled, agile and mission-ready force capable of operating across our vast landmass, extended maritime space and complex air domain.”

Highlighting the link between national development and security, he said: “The sustained investment we see today reflects a clear understanding that national development and national security are inseparable. Infrastructure, energy, commerce and prosperity cannot thrive alone unless they are protected timely, decisively and professionally. These aircraft strengthen that protection.

Khan explained that the new

helicopters enhance the GDF’s ability to conduct border surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuations, disaster response, and joint inter-agency operations.

He added that they reduce response times, extend operational reach, and multiply options—advantages that a modern defence force must possess.

Khan expressed that as the helicopters take to the skies, they should serve as a symbol of a defence force that remains alert to its responsibilities, agile in its response, and adaptable to whatever challenges the future may bring.

He emphasised that all members of the GDF must always stand ready to defend the nation’s sovereignty and protect its people.

Brigadier Khan concluded with a message of duty and professionalism: “These assets must be employed with professional excellence, strict discipline and uncompromising safety standards. Your conduct will determine not only operational success, but [also] public confidence in our defence force.”

The Bell 429, costing US$10.1 million, seats two crew and six passengers, carries 2,700 pounds, and can cruise at 150 knots, supporting surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and rapid response. The Bell 407, purchased for US$5.9 million, seats one crew and six passengers, carries 2,300 pounds, and reaches 133 knots, improving patrols, logistical support, and operations in remote areas.

Among those in attendance were Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar; Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; National Security Adviser to the President, Gerald Gouveia and Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, Lt Col (Ret’d) Egbert Field.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Putin vows no Imran Khan and wife given further jail terms after state gift fraud case more wars if West

(BBC) - Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to further jail terms following a fraud case involving state gifts. They were convicted of breaking Pakistan’s rules on gifts after Bibi was given a luxury jewellery set by Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman during a 2021 state visit.

The pair are already serving time in prison for earlier convictions, and the new sentences - 10 years for criminal breach of trust and seven years for criminal misconduct, and a fine - will reportedly run concurrently to their earlier terms.

Khan has described the charges as politically motivated and his lawyer told BBC News his team plan to challenge the verdict. Speaking to the BBC after the hearing, the former prime minister’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, said Khan’s legal team had only been informed about the sentencing late on Friday night, after normal

court hours.

They planned to mount a challenge to the verdict in the high court, Mr Safdar said.

This case is the latest in a series of charges laid against the cricket star-turned-politi-

against him.

The jewellery case, referred to as Toshakhana 2 in Pakistan, concerns a Bulgari jewellery set given to Bushra Bibi by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Moham-

cian, who has been detained since August 2023. In January, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison over a separate corruption case.

He has faced charges in more than 100 cases, ranging from leaking state secrets to selling state gifts. The BBC has been unable to confirm the exact number brought

med bin Salman during a state visit in 2021, according to court documents.

Under Pakistan’s rules on state gifts, these items go to Pakistan’s Toshakana department (state treasury), but politicians are able to purchase the items back. Khan is alleged to have asked a private firm to undervalue the jewellery set, before purchasing it back at a significantly reduced price.

In addition to their jail terms, the pair were handed a fine of over 16 million Pakistani rupees (£42,600). Khan was also convicted in an earlier, different Toshakhana case - but he challenged

that conviction, meaning his sentence is suspended until the outcome of his appeal.

He also has other cases outstanding against him. These include terrorism charges relating to violent protests that took place on 9 May 2023, when he was previously arrested.

Khan was Pakistan’s prime minister until April 2022 when he was ousted in a vote of no confidence.

Although he has not been seen in public, his social media accounts have continued to operate with messages attributed to him on X often appearing after jail visits.

These have been highly critical of Pakistan’s current government and its politically powerful army Chief Field Marshall Asim Munir, including posts calling him a tyrannical dictator. In November, he was denied any visitors for nearly a month.

After campaigning by his family and party, his sister was allowed to visit in early December; a few hours after she saw him, his account posted a comment credited to Khan calling the Field Marshall Asim Munir a “mentally unstable person”. Khan has not been allowed any family visits since. The judgement states the judge was lenient in sentencing because of Khan’s “old age”.

treats Russia with respect

(BBC) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has said there will be no more wars after Ukraine, if Russia is treated with respect and dismissed claims that Moscow is planning to attack European countries as “nonsense”. In a televised event lasting almost four and a half hours, he was asked by the BBC’s Steve Rosenberg whether there would be new “special military operations” - Putin’s term for the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

“There won’t be any operations if you treat us with respect, if you respect our interests just as we’ve always tried to respect yours,” he asserted. Earlier this month, Putin said Russia was not planning to go to war with Europe, but was ready “right now” if Europeans wanted to.

Answering a question from the BBC Russia editor on Friday, Putin also added the condition that there would be no further Russian invasions “if you don’t cheat us like you cheated us with Nato’s eastward expansion”.

He has long accused Nato of going back on an alleged 1990 Western promise to then-Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev before the fall of the Soviet Union. Gorbachev later denied the remark had been made.

The “Direct Line” marathon combined questions from the public at large and journalists from across Russia in a Moscow hall, with Putin sitting beneath an enormous map of Russia that encompassed occupied areas of Ukraine, including Crimea, which it annexed in 2014.

Russian state TV claimed more than three million questions had been submitted.

Just hours after the televised marathon, Ukrainian officials said seven people were killed and a further 15 injured in a Russian missile

strike on Ukraine’s southern Odesa region. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. Although the “Direct Line” was largely choreographed, some critical comments from the public appeared on a big screen, including one that referred to the event as a “circus”, another bemoaning internet outages and one that highlighted poor-quality tap water. Mobile internet outages have been blamed by authorities on Ukrainian drone attacks.

Putin also addressed Russia’s faltering economy, with prices rising, growth on the slide and VAT going up from 20 to 22% on 1 January. One message to the president read: “Stop the crazy rise in prices on everything!”

The Kremlin regularly uses the end-of-year event to highlight the resilience of the economy and, as Putin spoke, Russia’s central bank announced it was lowering interest rates to 16%.

Foreign policy issues were mixed with musings about the motherland, praise for local businesses, fish prices and the importance of looking after veterans.

But the issue of almost four years of full-scale war in Ukraine was never far away and it was often in the background of many of the questions. Putin again claimed to be “ready and willing” to end the war in Ukraine “peacefully” but offered little sign of compromise.

He repeated his insistence on principles he had outlined in a June 2024 speech, when he demanded that Ukrainian forces leave four regions Russia partially occupies and that Kyiv gives up its efforts to join Nato. Chief among Russia’s demands is full control of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas, including about 23% of Donetsk region which Russia has not been able to occupy.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

US denies visas to Honduran electoral officials amid election chaos

US seizes vessel off Venezuela’s coast, officials say

(BBC) - The US has seized a vessel in international waters off the coast of Venezuela, US officials have told BBC News partner CBS. It is the second time this month that the US has seized a ship off the country’s coast.

The move comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he was ordering a “blockade” of sanc-

presence in the Caribbean Sea and has carried out deadly strikes on alleged Venezuelan drug-smuggling boats, killing around 100 people.

The US has provided no public evidence that these vessels were carrying drugs, and the military has come under increasing scrutiny from Congress over the strikes.

The US has accused Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro

home to the world’s largest proven oil reserves - is highly dependent on revenues from its oil exports to finance its government spending.

Trump’s announcement of a “blockade” came less than a week after the US seized an oil tanker believed to be part of the “ghost fleet” off the coast of Venezuela, which allegedly used various strategies to conceal its work.

Marlon Ochoa, Secretary of the Honduran electoral body, addresses the media during a press conference in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, December 4, 2025. (Photo: REUTERS)

(AP) — The Trump administration restricted visas for two leftist Honduran election officials, citing interference in the Central American country’s special vote count.

The U.S. State Department said in a statement Friday it revoked the visa of Mario Morazán, a magistrate of the Electoral Justice Tribunal, and denied a visa application from Marlon Ochoa, a member of the National Electoral Council.

Both belong to the leftist ruling LIBRE, or Liberty and Refoundation, party.

“The United States will not tolerate actions that undermine our national security and our region’s stability,” the statement said.

“We will consider all appropriate measures to deter those impeding the vote count in Honduras.” Nearly 20 days after the elections were held, Hondurans still do not know the results of

the presidential race. Due to the narrow margin between the two leading candidates, electoral officials have carried out a special revision of 2,792 ballot boxes that show alleged inconsistencies and errors. Officials began the special vote count on Thursday after more than a week of the count being paralyzed.

With 99.85% of the vote counted so far, conservative candidate Nasry Asfura of the National Party — whom U.S. President Donald Trump had backed in the lead-up to the election, fueling accusations of election intervention by his opponents — is narrowly leading with 40.24% of the vote. Fellow conservative Salvador Nasralla of the Liberal Party followed with 39.64%.

In a distant third place is the ruling party’s candidate, Rixi Moncada of Liberty and Refoundation, with 19.12% of the vote. Moncada has not

recognized the results. This is the latest example of the Trump administration weighing in on Honduran affairs throughout the election.

Over the past year in office, it has wielded its power in Latin America more aggressively than most U.S. governments in recent history. Trump has openly offered support and funds to rightwing allies, while applying punishing pressure to adversaries, often on the left.

Trump had also pardoned former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, sentenced last year to 45 years in prison for his role in a drug trafficking operation by a U.S. court.

US President, Donald Trump and President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro

tioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.

Venezuela has not yet responded to the latest US seizure, but has previously accused Washington of seeking to steal its oil resources.

The BBC has contacted the White House for comment.

The operation was led by the US Coast Guard, similar to the operation earlier this month, CBS reports.

The ship was boarded by a specialised tactical team. In recent weeks, the US has been building up its military

of leading a designated-terrorist organisation called Cartel de los Soles, which he denies.

The Trump administration accuses him of and the group of using “stolen” oil to “finance themselves, Drug Terrorism, Human Trafficking, Murder, and Kidnapping”. Venezuela - which is

The White House said the vessel in question, called the Skipper, had been involved in “illicit oil shipping” and would be taken to a US port. Venezuela’s government decried the move, with Maduro saying the US “kidnapped the crew” and “stole” the ship.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Breaking the chains of exploitation

FOR too long, the story of the Guyanese farmer has been one of hard work with minimal reward.

Recent comments from Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during a government outreach at Hague Village, Region Three, highlight the ongoing exploitation of farmers by middlemen.

The minister’s example - a farmer selling peppers for $100 only to see them resold for $500 reflects a daily challenge faced by those who support our food secu-

rity. The difference is clear. While farmers take on the risks of weather changes, pests, and labour costs, middlemen often take most of the profits with much less effort. However, the government’s stronger focus on value-added agriculture and agro-processing could help change this unfair system.

Minister Mustapha’s statement that Region Three and other regions will work to reduce this issue through value-added production is both timely and strategic.

By turning raw produce into packaged goods – such as pepper sauces, jams, or dried seasonings -- farmers can avoid the pressure to sell perishable items at low prices.

Agro-processing increases shelf life, widens market opportunities, and, importantly, keeps the profits with the producers.

This initiative is part of a wider effort to transform Region Three into a hub of industry and economy. The upcoming gas-to-energy project and the new Demerara Riv-

er Bridge will provide the affordable energy and logistics needed for modern processing facilities.

The promise to enhance this area over the next five years indicates a real policy change rather than a short-term solution.

In addition, recent efforts to secure regional markets, including partnerships to place Guyanese agro-products on shelves throughout the Caribbean, show that demand is there. If our farmers can shift from just growing crops to

processing them, they will not only feed the nation but also drive an export boom. The time has come to end the era of middlemen exploiting farmers.

Farmers must stop underselling themselves by just selling raw products. The government’s commitment to developing an agro-processing sector is not just an economic strategy. It is a moral necessity to restore dignity and fair payment to those who feed us.

Christmas is not about cash grants or political opportunism

Dear Editor,

IT is most disappointing that political parties, namely, WIN and APNU are weaponising the cash grant at a time when the season of joy and goodwill is upon us. This is no surprise since these parties are still sore and sour after being soundly kicked by the Guyanese masses at the last General and Regional Elections.

Let me make it clear from the inception, a cash grant before Christmas was never promised by the President, the Prime Minister or the Vice President. It was an expectation based on what transpired in 2024, statements misconstrued during the election campaign and what the WIN political party fuelled in the minds of people.

The WIN leader is now hopelessly arguing that what the President said on the campaign trail is tantamount to a ‘moral contract.’ What is Mr

Azruddin’s ’moral contract’ as a Member of Parliament who is pending extradition to face federal charges for a massive gold-smuggling and money-laundering scheme, including wire fraud, conspiracy, and tax evasion totalling millions in the US? He should have done the honourable thing and resigned.

Those who truly understand how government expenditures are done will know that monies for such expenditures must have budgetary allocation and approval by Parliament. It is not money which can be doled out as if from one’s personal purse.

WIN, and its leader, believe that a country should be run on cash grants and handouts and not sound socio-economic policies and feel that it is easier to attack the government by fuelling this false expectation. This is hardly surprising. The WIN leader wants to impose his hedonistic life on his sup-

porters and exact his pound of flesh.

Christmas is not about seeking maximum pleasure by partying and vulgarity, but by exemplifying the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Over the years, we have moved very far from this.

The questions are: what was Christmas like before the cash grant? How did Guyanese celebrate the holidays during the PNC’s dark era?

How did they celebrate from 2015 to 2020 when Guyanese were burdened with onerous taxation, meagre wage increases and wage freezes in some cases? Some Guyanese tend to forget the times when putting food on the table was a criminal activity.

Today, Guyanese do not need a cash grant to celebrate this festive season. We have been given an abundance of measures by successive PPP/C governments, which have pushed us far away from the poverty line, especially our vulnerable ones

and Guyanese are living a higher standard of living than ever before. Just try crossing the roads. Supermarkets are strewn all over the place and are never empty.

Holiday shopping is increasing in intensity more than ever before. Restaurants and other food outlets are packed rum shops too.

Renovations of homes and the purchasing of household furniture and appliances are happening all over and the list goes on. All these are not happening because of the cash grant.

The government has ensured that people’s disposable incomes keep increasing all the time.

There is never a moment when some assistance is not given to people across the country to better their lives, emanating from government outreaches. In addition, people normally save for this season and we must never forget that this is a season of sharing and giving to the less

fortunate.

We do not need a cash grant to enjoy the season.

The President has, in his speech, made it clear that a cash grant of $100,000 will be given in the New Year, with many more to follow.

This money should be seen as savings and not as money to be splurged and wasted. This money should be saved and utilised in a manner which will add meaningful value to our lives.

Many times, I have seen that retroactive pay and bonuses do more harm than good for some people who feel that excessive imbibing and immoral activities are what make the holiday enjoyable.

It is time we change this bad approach for this season.

Instead of sitting around a bottle of rum, sit with your family in the home in a sober manner and enjoy some ginger beer and black cake and reflect on the positives.

Spend your money wisely,

and give some charity to the less fortunate. Visit your place of worship and pray for a better year ahead.

Our President has outlined a slew of strong measures that will bring sustainable social and economic relief and further propel our country into more progress and prosperity and we should take all the opportunities available to enrich our personal lives. Guyana is now a land of many opportunities, and it is time we think higher than cash grants and handouts.

In conclusion, Muhammad Ali, the greatest boxer who ever lived, gave us good advice when he said that, ‘When you ask God for a gift, be thankful when he does not send diamonds, pearls or riches.’ And as the Good Book says: Man shall not live by bread alone….

Merry Christmas to All. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Irfaan Ali will create history in 2026

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

IN the 2025 general election, 195,969 persons did not give their ballots to presidential candidate Irfaan Ali. We will never know why people vote. The variables are too varied.

Race, charisma, rural solidarity, gender bias, intellectual achievements, religion, business accomplishments, etc.

A person likes presidential candidate Sunil Singh because of his professional accomplishments, but he feels that he has to give his vote to Suraj Persaud, the candidate who came from his village because they were at primary school together.

A voter likes candidate Mike Brown but chose to give his ballot to Harry Black, a person who was once his professor. In the case of Singh and Brown, sentiments counted, though they believed in candidates

Persaud and Black.

There are countless reasons why people vote. I am contending that out of those 195,969 voters, a majority liked President Ali, thought he was a good man, saw him as the better leader Guyana and the Caribbean produced and would have opted for him if it wasn’t for the particular reason that they voted for the person of their choice.

The enigma of Irfaan Ali in Guyana is that across the political divide and ethnic fences, Guyanese like and appreciate him in a way that such sentiments have never been expressed about a president before in our history. I think Indians adored Cheddi Jagan, and Africans felt touched by Burnham’s personality. But the cross-over sentiments for each man were never substantial.

In the case of Jagan, there was a deep, Freudian fond-

ness among Africans for Jagan. They had a fascination with him because he was an exception in politics that they appreciated. Jagan was way, way beyond corruption, way, way beyond the idea or yearning for the trappings of the la dolce vita.

Jagan carried a sincerity about him that Africans detected and admired, but there was always that psychic barrier that the politics of Guyana created, which made Africans unwilling to vote for Jagan. If Burnham had fallen and been replaced by a brand new African leader who came from outside the PNC, in an election contest, Jagan would have won against that gentleman. I guess Guyana would never be able to measure Africans’ sentimental touch for Jagan.

In the case of Irfaan Ai, we may be able to measure the instinct of African em-

brace for him in the local government election next year. For the first time in the history of British Guiana and independent Guyana, the PPP as a political party will win the Georgetown municipality election. For the first time in the history of the country, both colony and sovereign state, Guyana will have a mayor that comes from the PPP slate.

It will be a historic occasion, and it will catapult Dr Ali into the history books.

Of course, it will simply be part of his general legacy.

What I keep turning over in my mind is whether Dr Ali knows the extent to which he is appreciated by the general population. I walk the streets of Georgetown. I buy my stuff at Bourda Market.

So yesterday, I had two encounters with African Guyanese about Dr Ali. I bought mangoes from this African

woman, whose husband had a stand next to her. He engaged me and kept pounding away about when the legalisation of marijuana would come.

He raised his voice and said that if they do not legalise marijuana, he will not vote.

I asked: “So yuh din vote de last time?’ He answered, “No, no, no, I din vote de last time, I ain’t voting for none of them.” Then he paused momentarily and, in a softer tone, said: “But I like Ali.” That exclamation is pregnant with analysis of how this country sees Ali. There is a Freudian fondness for him that is there among African Guyanese, and depending on the shape of Dr Ali’s promises and deliveries, he will become a phenomenon in Guyana, and I am speaking in the context of race relations.

I bought ochro from an African gentleman, who called out to me and said

he knew me from my mother-in-law’s supermarket in Wortmanville/Werk-en-Rust.

Here is what he said to me: “Maan, Freddie (they never call me Mr. Kissoon; it is always Freddie, a name I hate), deh should pay duh cash grant, prezzy is a good man, he should pay it.”

Just analyse the statement, and again you see the Freudian underpinning there.

In both cases, there is an apperception of Dr Ali that he is a good man. I do the rounds in Georgetown, and I can tell Mohamed Irfaan Ali, greatness and history are waiting for him. Go for it, Mr President!

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.

Contractors pledge on-time completion of road works in Stewartville

By Shaniya Harding

RESIDENTS of Stewartville on the West Coast of Demerara are expected to see outstanding road works accelerated and completed ahead of the holiday season, following a community engagement with Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill.

On Friday, the minister, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Public Works, met with residents and community leaders in the Sarah Lodge area of Stewartville during a walkabout to assess ongoing road works and address infrastructure concerns affecting daily life.

The visit formed part of the government’s ongoing outreach across Guyana and included inspections of roads, entrances, and footpaths, as well as direct engagement with residents impacted by uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and restricted access during periods of rainfall.

During the engagement, issues surrounding disrupted entrances to homes, raised

Minister Edghill inspects road shoulders and entrances in Stewartville

or uneven footpaths and uncleared road shoulders were highlighted as key challenges. Residents explained that these problems have made it difficult to move around safely and, in some cases, have prevented vehicles from accessing their homes. Minister Edghill assured residents that immediate interventions would be implemented to address the concerns raised. He indicated that all entrances affected by the road works

would be restored and that adjustments would be made to correct footpath elevation where needed.

According to the minister, the government’s approach is to improve conditions in communities, including improved access, better roads and safer walkways, stating, “We are going to restore all the entrances that have been interrupted, including getting this footpath elevation fixed.

A team with a bobcat and

a mini excavator will come into the area in a couple of hours or tomorrow latest and start clearing the shoulders and help to do some drainage work as well.” He added, “Our government does not come to an area and leave it the way we met it.”

Kishan Jaisingh, an engineering technician attached to the Ministry of Public Works, who accompanied the minister on the walkabout, said that works highlighted will

Minister Edghill engages Stewartville resident Bibi Haniff as she highlights drainage and access issues affecting daily life in the community

be completed ahead of the holiday season. Jaisingh noted that several matters were identified during the visit, including approximately 300 metres of roadway which remains to be completed, an issue which was raised with Minister Edghill. Notably, Jaisingh said the ministry and contractors have committed to ensuring that key aspects of the road works are completed in time for Christmas.

“There are some outstanding roads here. For the

Sarah Lodge Road network itself, we have 300-meter roads outstanding. It did come up, and we have to ensure that certain aspects of the road finish by time Christmas and we will make it happen,” Jaisingh said.

Moreover, ministry representatives emphasised that these works are part of an ongoing coordinated effort to ensure that residents can safely and comfortably access their homes, with some 1.2 TURN TO PAGE 16

8

Guyana enters its golden years of development

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

ON Wednesday last, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali stood before hundreds of Guyanese and other non-residents to declare his socioeconomic plan and political vision for Guyana over the next five years.

The President shared his government’s areas of primary focus and legislative agenda for development, growth and wealth creation, signalling prosperity for all Guyanese.

In the address, the President outlined how his government will create real socioeconomic growth and change for the people, touching every individual, family, household, community and town.

President Ali said that the plan caters for the needs of vulnerable groups such as people living with disabilities, pensioners, women, men and children with a commitment to providing tax cuts, tax breaks, salary increases, cash transfers, policy shifts, measures and programmes.

Through the menu of programmes and policies, resources would be distributed to the people who need them the most. He was convinced that if they were distributed more fairly and equally, then there could be a further dent in the poverty levels, which have no doubt gone down, in society. According to the

President, Guyanese could expect more financial and other resources to flow directly to small and medium-scale businesses and the private sector. He announced that an additional $200 million will provide zero-interest, zero-collateral loans via the new Guyana Development Bank.

The Guyanese head of state, dressed in white, told the public that aside from the conditional cash transfers to the people, his government will continue with the industrialisation of the economy, which is marked by sustained infrastructural development, the integration of AI and the use of more technologies, and social welfare services.

President Ali said too that, “all of this can be lost if we don’t change our mindset and build a more caring and value-based society. Not a society of want, but a society of needs, not a society of convenience, but a society of structured, deliberate strategies to uphold, uplift, and promote each other. Fellow Guyanese, my government’s vision for success does not rest solely on economic progress and our wealth accumulation, it also hinges on something far more profound. That is a fundamental shift in our national mindset and the values we embrace as a society.”

Explaining that this trans-

formation starts at an individual level, the Guyanese leader said it is essential for building a future that is prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable.

“Our vision of success necessitates unity, discipline, and the proactive engagement of every Guyanese. It is a vision that requires every citizen to be respectful of the environment, compassionate to their fellow Guyanese, protective of the most vulnerable citizens and mindful of all forms of life, human, animal, and ecological…,” he said.

Firstly, President Ali’s address to the nation was appropriate and timely. It was very politically bold, futuristic and visionary. At every point throughout the address, it caused people to stop and think about the new Guyana that is possible over the next five years if they believe and stay the course with sustainable development.

Armed with financial figures and estimates, the President set the stage for what he and his government will tackle in the upcoming budget 2026. It provided a hint of measures and plans contained in the upcoming budget, and laid the foundation for greater conversations and dialogues to take place, which could contribute to meaningful efforts to expand and modernise Guyana.

Secondly, there was little that the opposition and the naysayers could say at the end because the President’s presentation touched on every spot in a detailed context and measures. The opposition parties, WIN and its political cousin APNU, predictably rolled out their lacklustre criticisms, peddling nonsense about an alleged promise by the President that was neither made nor broken. They also complained about not being formally invited to attend. Yet even if they had been invited, would they have participated in good faith, or would they have simply attempted to upstage the event, as they so often do? Given their recent conduct, the answer to that question is anyone’s guess.

As for the first argument, the President addressed the matter ably and reasonably, acknowledging public expectations for cash transfers or grants at this time of year.

He explained that such support has been provided for in the January budget, ensuring that citizens will still receive funds to spend. However, he cautioned against an overreliance on transfers alone, urging people instead to take advantage of the many opportunities available for job creation and economic empowerment as a means of building lasting wealth.

The opposition PR machinery is working overtime to convince the public-unsuccessfully-that they have been wronged. They have not delivered any sound analysis yet of what the President had said in his speech. They have not analysed or asked anything interesting or intelligent about the masterclass on politics, public administration and policy delivered by the President. And, the public must not expect anything that resembles sense or constructive arguments from the opposition at this time.

The elections are over, but the opposition is still caught up in playing a game of politics and grandstanding.

The President played chess and checked the opposition parties with his big, beautiful speech, and now they are clamouring to respond.

It would be a different ball game if the opposition were to admit that Guyana is on the right path, pinpointing aspects of the president’s speech which were welcome and accepted. But they are like ‘sourpusses’ and sour wine that would rather be deliberate obstructionists to the path of rapid modernisation, development and progress.

Thirdly, it is often said and believed that a country’s golden years of development refer to periods of

rapid, sustained economic growth, rising living standards, low unemployment, and social progress. This term is often used to describe well-known periods such as the post–World War II era (1945–1973) in industrialised nations, commonly referred to as the “Golden Age of Capitalism.” It can also apply to specific transformative eras, such as ancient China’s Tang and Song dynasties, or to a country’s own period of economic and social boom, typically marked by innovation, strong institutions, and an improved quality of life.

Now, with the President’s announcement of his bold vision and socioeconomic plan over the next five years, it seems likely that Guyana will now enter its golden years of development and change. These years will be marked by significant economic expansion and growth, leading to industrialisation and increasing productivity. It will also see improved standards of living marked by better wages, more leisure time, higher literacy, increased life expectancy, and reduced poverty. President Ali addressed all of these themes on Wednesday, while also laying a solid foundation for the strengthening of social safety nets and the expansion of education through the TURN TO PAGE 9

AS across the globe people of all faiths come together to celebrate the Christian holiday marking the birth of Christ, I am reminded of these words from German composer Handel’s magnificent ‘Messiah.’ “ Unto us a child is born, Unto us a child is born, Unto us a Son is given, And the government shall be upon his shoulders...”

This is not the government of men, but of the man whose name shall be called, “Conqueror, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace...* And while there is disagreement over whether Christ was actually born on December 25, it remains the

most widely celebrated holiday of all, if only because of its symbolism as a time of giving and sharing. What has happened increasingly over the years is that Christmas has become heavily commercialised. It is often recorded as a time when people all over the world spend the most.

Here in Guyana, each year sales records top the previous one. People ‘shop till they drop’ and money is spent profusely on everything from fabulous gifts to home furnishings and appliances.

There is a shopping frenzy that sees traffic blocking our streets, pedestrians crowding our pavements and stores filled to overflowing.

And, of course, in wonderfully decorated homes throughout the country, we prepare pepperpot, black cake, garlic pork, ham, a variety of wines and drinks and all the other delicacies traditionally a part of our Christmas fare. My deceased mother, who lived in the United States, but would visit at this time of year, often said that she missed the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas in Guyana, And each year, thousands of overseas-based Guyanese and foreigners come to join in the festivities of a uniquely Guyanese Christmas, where masquerade bands still parade the streets, collecting monetary gifts from pass-

ersby.

But nutritionists warn that while we celebrate, we must remain mindful of what we eat and how much we eat. Undoubtedly, there is a tendency to both overeat and overimbibe alcohol, doing our stomachs no good and driving up the accident rate on our streets.

Those suffering from diabetes and hypertension, the two greatest ‘killers’ in Guyana, know only too well the need to control their diets, which is strict notwithstanding the Christmas season.

However, the rest of us would do well to eat and drink in moderation and ensure that, along with all the meat we consume at this time, we

also eat plenty of vegetables and fruit.

I urge all Guyanese to reduce the cooking time of vegetables and the amount of oil used. Eat them raw whenever possible and refrain from drinking and driving.

Also, as we celebrate, let us remember ‘ the reason for the season,’ honouring the birth of Christ, sharing with the less fortunate in our midst and caring for those who may

be facing mental health challenges at this time.

I wish all Guyanese a blessed Christmas and a bright, prosperous and productive New Year.

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.

And a Merry Christmas to all

Two days, one region, a new Guyana

9

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali delivered a comprehensive address last Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, the kind of speech students of political science and international development will be unpacking for semesters to come. His words should silence the naysayers, though that is, admittedly, highly unlikely.

Those who were listening only for the “magical words” eventually got them, just not in time for the holidays. With clearer heads in 2026, a cash grant, recognising it’s not an economic magic wand, coupled with the promise of more to come over the next five years, will help bolster consumer confidence and help ease the pain of a global epidemic of high inflation.

It is virtually impossible to track consumer spending in Guyana with precision, but anecdotal evidence suggests that many Guyanese are likely to enjoy a better Christmas and New Year this year than they have had in a long time.

That, to me, signals an administration confident in its economic roadmap and Guyana’s development trajectory. I am not privy to the government’s private deliberations, but it would be sheer buffoonery to imagine that the achievements of the last five years and the promises outlined in the 2025 manifesto will simply fall from the

sky like December rain.

Set aside the five years from 2020 to 2025 and consider just two days - last Thursday and Friday - when President Ali, his ministers and MPs shifted the gears of government from Georgetown to Region Three. What I witnessed left me scrambling for words to describe a framework.

The Ali administration is quietly altering the paradigm of governance in Guyana, one inherited from independence: just as he has taken the presidency out of the office and the State House and located it among the people, so too has he relocated the machinery of government.

The aim is to decentralise the delivery of services, a project that depends on altering the dynamics of relationships and accountability up and down the delivery chain.

Two examples come to mind from the outreach. On Friday, the president and Minister Zulfikar Ally opened an office at the West Demerara Mall where Region Three residents can renew passports, apply for driver’s licences and access multiple services without ever setting foot in Georgetown.

Earlier that day, the president stopped at the Leonora Cottage Hospital with Dr Frank Anthony to commission a new X‑ray system to replace an analogue machine

decommissioned in 2024.

For persons with disabilities and for parents of children in emergencies, such a “small” change is a lifesaver.

Friday ended with a different type of service delivery, the commissioning of the MV Komawaruk 1899, a five-year-old ferry that will boost commerce and connectivity between Regions Two and Three. In the rhythmic beat of the Tassa drummers at Supenaam that came out to welcome the ship’s maiden voyage, you could feel the excitement today of the new tomorrow that President Ali promised.

Decentralisation is already reshaping relationships of accountability, altering how Guyanese see their representatives and what they can reasonably demand of them. I witnessed a president deliberately empowering local policymakers and, in doing so, changing the relationship between citizens and elected officials. There was Minister Kwame McCoy, arriving in the middle of the morning and returning in the blistering afternoon heat to attend bottom‑house meetings, not on a vote‑hunting expedition, but to listen and solve immediate problems.

Minister Oneidge Walrond, too, sat with elders, sometimes in their bedrooms, as if they were the only people who mattered

Guyana enters its...

University of Guyana, the GOAL programme, the Digital School, and other institutions. He further outlined the technological leap Guyana is expected to undertake over the next five years, alongside the preservation of institutional stability, the deepening of international co-operation, and the implementation of strong domestic policies that stimulate demand.

If countries such as China, Mexico, India, Germany, the United States, Japan, and Western Europe were able to navigate their golden periods of development, Guyana can do the same, with effective leadership, good governance, sound policymaking and responsible resource management. The government and President Ali must remain focused on the long-term

impact and consequences that may threaten to stop or pause the transformation expected from such a remarkable plan, such as economic shocks in the form of oil crises and financial market instability, and the systemic changes which can lead to a collapse of monetary systems.

They must be aware of the policy shifts which can lead to higher inflation or inequality.

Finally, we must acknowledge that there are many brighter days ahead for Guyanese, and Budget 2026 is just the beginning. With President Ali at the helm of government, we will see the forward movement of Guyana into the age of unprecedented growth and the industrialisation era.

This is a powerful political move by the president, who

FROM PAGE 8

said many more things about using our resources properly and wisely to develop and transform our lives.

Let’s be clear and pellucid. Guyana is entering its phase of the golden years of development, but some forces threaten to hold us still and roll back all of the development, modernisation and improvements that will come our way eventually. Will you let those forces prevail? The opposition must come to the front of the class and get its act together! They will get it right, today…

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.

in her world. One bedridden woman said she was excited to have two ministers visit her. She declared that she had no problems, and in her kind and affectionate words, I heard the voice of my own elderly mother. This is what decentralisation looks and feels like at the grassroots.

Decentralisation is shaping service‑delivery outcomes while putting clear responsibility on those tasked with delivering them. In this regard, President Ali leads by example. After addressing the nation on Wednesday, he arrived early Thursday morning for a Cabinet meeting, not at some four‑star resort, but at the sparse Leonora Track and Field facility.

As his ministers fanned out across communities, he flew to Base Camp Stephenson at Timehri to announce a month’s tax‑free bonus for

the Disciplined Services and to help serve lunch, an annual tradition. Then on to Leguan, followed by a stop in Wakenaam, meeting hundreds of residents before returning to Leonora as the sun was setting. Joined by Keoma Griffith, his Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, along with the Prime Minister and a dozen other ministers, he walked toward a job fair where hundreds had gathered to apply for positions at the soon‑to‑open Wales gas‑to‑energy plant.

He sat through the entertainment and mustered enough energy to deliver a 22‑minute address, announcing 300 sustainable, well‑paying jobs for the region and noting that, in a single day, he and his team had engaged with 10,000 residents of Region Three. Exhausted, I assumed the day had finally

ended. I saw a sizable crowd streaming toward the football stadium. I followed, only to discover that it was not for a football final but to watch the president take over the giant karahis, stirring a massive pot of cook‑up rice that, from all reports, tasted as good as the aroma suggested.

That was one day in one region. As I watched, a thought crossed my mind: Azruddin Mohamed had disappeared from the rear‑view mirror of the PPP/C administration, and, one hopes, of the nation. At that moment, I breathed a long, overdue sigh of relief.

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.

10

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

A Year in Review:

Guyana’s oil & gas sector

THIS year marked a decisive shift for Guyana’s oil and gas sector, from rapid growth to sustained scale.

Month by month, new infrastructure, policy tools, and production milestones reinforced the country’s position as a serious global energy producer while deepening local content participation and private sector capability.

The year began with a focus on access and inclusion.

In February, the government launched the Local Content App at the Guyana Energy Conference, providing Guyanese businesses and job seekers with a digital platform to access opportunities and updates under the Local Content Act. This move signalled a more transparent and streamlined approach to local participation.

Momentum accelerated in April with the arrival of the ONE GUYANA FPSO in Guyana waters. As the fourth and largest FPSO deployed offshore, its arrival marked a visible step towards a new

production era.

By mid-year, the effects of local content enforcement were increasingly measurable. Local businesses expanded their operations to support multiple FPSOs. Major service categories such as catering, transportation, logistics, waste management and security saw increasing participation from Guyanese companies.

The head of the Local Content Secretariat reported that Guyanese businesses earned approximately US$350 million in the first half of 2025 alone, reflecting growth in procurement activity across the 40 service areas outlined in the Local Content Act. ExxonMobil Guyana also reported spending G$87 billion with 1,800 local vendors and maintaining a workforce that is 70 per cent Guyanese, representing more than 6,200 nationals. Additionally, the local content register continued to expand, with some 1,250 certified local companies, demonstrating strong

private-sector confidence in the industry’s longevity. Industry updates later revealed growing levels of in-country fabrication and shore-based activity.

A defining moment came in August when the ONE GUYANA FPSO achieved first oil under the Yellowtail development. With an initial average production of 250,000 barrels per day, its start-up pushed Guyana’s total production capacity to more than 900,000 barrels per day. Operating alongside Liza Destiny, Liza Unity and Prosperity, Guyana entered the ranks of the world’s fastest-growing oil producers just a few years after first oil.

In September, the government approved the Hammerhead development, securing the next phase of offshore expansion beyond existing FPSOs. The approval underscored investor confidence and sent a clear signal that Guyana’s production growth is set to continue well into the next decade.

The Guyana Technical

Training College Inc. (GTTCI) also launched its full 18-month oil and gas training programme in October, marking a landmark moment in Guyana’s workforce development and regional energy landscape.

One of the Caribbean’s first industry-aligned, in-country oil and gas diploma programmes, GTTCI delivers internationally benchmarked technical and safety training across core disciplines.

Its launch signalled a decisive shift from short-term certification to structured, long-term skills development, strengthening Guyana’s pipeline of skilled local talent and positioning the country as a regional hub for oil and gas training as production continues to scale.

Progress was not limited to oil alone. Throughout the year, the Gas-to-Energy project advanced steadily, reinforcing its role as a national priority aimed at lowering electricity costs, improving energy security, and support-

ing industrial diversification.

With key infrastructure development underway and production milestones on track, the project is set to remain one of the major initiatives to watch in 2026, promising tangible benefits for households, businesses, and the broader economy.

Regulatory oversight also kept pace, with government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency strengthening environmental and safety monitoring as offshore activity intensified.

In November, attention turned beyond the Stabroek Block when the government signed a new Production Sharing Agreement for Block S4 with a consortium led

by TotalEnergies alongside QatarEnergy and PETRONAS, highlighting efforts to diversify exploration and attract new investment across Guyana’s broader offshore acreage.

Building on efforts to diversify offshore exploration, Guyana’s oil sector expanded in December with a Produc-

tion Sharing Agreement for Block S7 with Ghana‑based Cybele Energy Ltd. The deal makes Cybele the first African-led operator in Guyana, and signals continued investor confidence while creating new opportunities for local suppliers and employment.

Taken together, each month contributed to a year defined by execution. A new FPSO came online, production reached historic levels, local content moved from compliance to capability, and policy decisions provided stability amid rapid expansion.

As Guyana looks ahead, the momentum built this year has laid a solid foundation, not only for higher output but for deeper national participation and lasting economic transformation.

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.

Island communities in Essequibo will have greater...

FROM PAGE 2

initiatives as empowerment and transformation, noting that agricultural policy announcements had already prompted discussions aimed at reducing food costs. “That is how policies work. That is how strategic thinking works and operates,” he said.

Addressing concerns about project implementa-

tion, President Ali acknowledged shortcomings in delivery timelines. “I am not satisfied with the speed at which some of the projects are being completed,” he told residents, while committing to improvements from 2026.

He announced that a senior technician would be assigned to develop a master

plan for completing the island’s main road and bridges.

“That project that we started will be completed,” he assured. He further warned that underperforming contractors would face termination.

“Where the contractors are not performing, those projects will be terminated.”

Drainage was also ad-

dressed, with President Ali stating that a comprehensive island drainage plan would be developed and publicly shared. “The island will see every drain, every trench, every canal, every secondary drain that must be completed.

And will be completed,” he said.

In health care, the President said investments were ongoing, announcing, “By the end of January 2026, you will have at least one ambulance to service the island.”

He also outlined plans for agricultural extension services supported by digital and AI-enabled systems within six months.

On energy, President Ali said the solar farm contractor had until the end of January 2026 to complete works, after which electricity costs would

begin to decrease. He also spoke about improvements to ferry services, stating, “It is unacceptable that a schedule is not in place. The Transport and Harbours Department must publish a schedule for the ferry service for this island and ensure that that schedule is met.”

He reiterated the government’s approach to governance, stating, “This is not a government that hides from issues. We are a government that confronts and deals with issues because you know we have your back.”

Additional commitments included a landfill site, street lighting, a safe country camera system, and continued increases to pensions and worker thresholds. Dr Ali encouraged collective effort, urging farmers to form

groups to expand livestock and other ventures.

Between 2020 and 2025, he said, more than 9,200 issues were raised with his office in Region Three, with over 8,000 resolved. “That team is here again today,” he told residents, inviting them to raise personal concerns directly with members of his Cabinet.

Concluding, the Guyanese leader reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Wakenaam, emphasising the strategy for fixing outstanding issues would be implemented “in the coming weeks.” He described this as the government’s commitment to building “a stronger island,” “a more prosperous island,” and “an island that puts people first.”

11

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Region Six residents laud President Ali’s long-term initiatives ---say they cannot live on handouts

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

RESIDENTS of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) have expressed strong support for President Irfaan Ali’s long-term development initiatives, noting that while short-term assistance provides relief, sustainable programmes and investments are key to building self-reliance, creating opportunities, and securing lasting progress for communities.

Small business owner Narine of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, welcomed the suite of initiatives announced

by President Ali, describing them as timely measures that will bring long-term benefits to families, communities, and the country as a whole.

“Based on what the President said, the initiatives that he has outlined were bright. I feel great as a young person; his ideas are on par, and they are very good.”

The young man said, “We cannot only be living on handouts. We are Guyanese, yes, everyone would like to have a cash grant, but the measures he spoke about, the initiatives he spoke about are very good, and they will benefit us in the long term; they will benefit the country.”

Touching specifically on the availability of the $3 million interest-free loan for small businesses, Narine said, “as a small business owner, I will take advantage of that great initiative when it comes on board and the Because We Care cash grant will help a lot of families to offset a lot of expenses, single-parent families.”

“So I feel great about his initiatives, and I think it will help us as Guyanese; as young entrepreneurs, it will help us a lot.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by residents from several communities across East Canje Berbice and New Amsterdam, who pointed to visible improvements and renewed confidence in the present administration. Latchmie Balraj of Gangaram Village, East Canje Berbice, said she is proud of the current government, noting that “they will make us better.”

Also from Gangaram Village, Kishan highlighted improvements to community infrastructure, particularly the ballfield. He said, “They look after it good from how it went before, they doing good and then President talk about

street, do all thing, the road been so bad you had to walk out; car never come in, we get a lot of developnment.”

From Adelphi Village, East Canje Berbice, Mahesh

Allan Richard Mapowan

Franklyn of Islington Village

Narine, of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam

a lot of things that will happen, we na wait on handouts, these things will happen and the country will continue to be better.”

Manniram Pooran also of Gangaram, reflected on the dramatic transformation of his area, recalling past challenges with poor access and infrastructure. He stated, “The development, President Ali do a lot of things because abbie been a walk from mud here, they come in make

Chetram expressed strong confidence in the President’s leadership and vision.

“Yes, the President doing a very good job so far, and everything he say we believe

will happen, and I wish he could get a third chance,” he said. Meanwhile, Ramoutar of Canefield, East Canje Berbice, spoke of the importance of the reopening of the Rose

Hall Estate, noting its positive impact on employment and livelihoods. He added that his community has also benefitted from upgrades TURN TO PAGE 17

12

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Labour Minister highlights job creation, skills training at Gas-to-Energy job fair

BETWEEN 2015 and 2020, approximately 35,000 jobs were lost across Guyana as a direct result of the actions of the former APNU+AFC government, but since assuming office in 2020, the PPP/C government has moved to not only restore those jobs but also create new opportunities for the citizenry.

Speaking at the Gas-to-Energy job fair held at the Leonora Track and Field Stadium in Region Three on Thursday last, Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, described the achievement as historic. The minister explained that the event was more than a traditional job fair, noting that it represented a tangible expression of the government’s vision for a modern, prosperous, and sustainable future for all Guyanese.

He emphasised that the Gas-to-Energy project is central to this vision and represents a transformative ini-

tiative that will significantly reshape Guyana’s economic landscape by providing lowcost electricity to support national development. The project, he noted, also marks an important step toward ensuring that Guyanese, particularly young people, are equipped with the skills, opportunities, and clear pathways needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy.

“Our government made a clear promise to modernise infrastructure, enhance technical and vocational education, and ensure that no region is left behind in Guyana’s transformative economy,” the minister said. “What we are witnessing here in Region Three is that promise in action.”

The Labour Minister stated that Region Three is no longer merely a transit zone but has emerged as a strategic industrial and energy corridor. With the Gas to Energy project underway, the region is now positioned at the centre of national energy

security, industrial expansion, manufacturing growth, and logistics and infrastructure development. He added that the job fair was intentionally planned to align people, skills, and projects, noting that more than one thousand persons are expected to be employed throughout the life cycle of the Gas-to-Energy project.

“Hundreds of workers are required immediately, with more opportunities becoming available as the project advances,” he said. “The skills needed are specific and practical, ranging from labourers and masons to carpenters and instrumentation technicians.”

He stressed that these are skilled and sustainable jobs that Guyanese are capable of filling, adding that the government has been preparing Region Three for this moment through consistent leadership and planning. The minister further noted that through institutions such as the Board of Industrial Training, more than 1,700 resi-

Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith

dents of Region Three have received technical and vocational training between 2020 and 2025. This represents an investment of millions of dollars in the region.

The training programmes included electrical installation, welding and fabrication, heavy-duty equipment operation, masonry, carpentry, plumbing, information technology, and mechanical trades. According to the minister, this approach

reflects deliberate workforce planning rather than coincidence. He explained that the job fair exemplifies a new development model in which the government sets policy direction, the private sector leads execution, workers gain skills and employment, regions advance, and citizens experience tangible transformation. He reaffirmed the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning’s commitment to building a skilled,

competitive, and future-ready workforce capable of meeting the demands of the Gas to Energy sector.

Encouraging young people in the region to prepare for the expanding opportunities within Guyana’s evolving economy, the minister urged employers, training institutions, and job seekers to engage, collaborate, and take advantage of the opportunities available.

“Let us work together with renewed determination to convert our national energy ambitions into meaningful job creation and position Guyana as a global leader in the energy sector,” he said.

“This government will continue to expand access to technical and vocational training because skills remain the foundation of industrial development.

Region Three is ready to work, ready to build, and ready to help shape Guyana’s future. This job fair clearly demonstrates that Guyana’s development is people-centred, regionally balanced, and focused on the future.”

FAO Food Price Index declines in November for third consecutive month (FAO) WORLD food commodity prices declined in November, led by lower international quotations for all major staple foods except cereals, according to the benchmark measure released Friday by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a basket of globally-traded food commodities, averaged 125.1 points in November, down 1.2 percent from its revised October level. The index has now declined for three consecutive months, standing 2.1 percent

Raising poultry in Mauritania

below its November 2024 level and 21.9 percent lower than its peak in March 2022.

The FAO Cereal Price Index increased by 1.3 percent during the month. Despite a generally comfortable global supply outlook and reports of good harvests in Argentina and Australia, global wheat TURN TO PAGE 16

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Stretched Out Magazine and No Big Ting return this Christmas

By Shaniya Harding

THERE is truly nothing like a Guyanese Christmas. With its unique blend of culture, tradition, and performances, the season is shaped just a little differently every year. The famed shows Stretched Out Magazine and No Big Ting, productions long spearheaded

by Guyanese theatre legends, have become staples of the festive period.

One of the most influential voices behind these

explained that several elements set this year’s productions apart. In addition to featuring Ron Robinson’s voice and introducing new faces, the productions will also enjoy significantly increased screen time.

“I have booked a lot more airings than what Ron used to do,” she said. “I think before it would just run at NCN, but I have taken it to about seven TV stations throughout the Christmas season and on the New Year’s weekend,” she said. Though both pro-

Gem Madhoo-Nascimento, producer and director of Guyana’s Christmas comedy classics Stretched Out Magazine and No Big Ting

productions was the late Ron Robinson, whose creative vision helped cement their place in Guyana’s cultural calendar. This year, another bold figure in theatre, Gem Madhoo-Nascimento, has taken up the mantle. Now spearheading the production of both shows, Madhoo-Nascimento said they have become an integral part of Guyanese Christmas tradition, and that this year’s offerings are even more significant as they pay tribute to Robinson’s legacy with more airings and a greater reach.

Madhoo-Nascimento is no stranger to the creative arts. As the driving force behind GEMS Theatre Productions, she has been bringing shows to Guyanese for years.

Both Stretched Out Magazine and No Big Ting are produced by GEMS Theatre Productions and directed by Madhoo-Nascimento, with assistance from Rovindra Persaud, Mark Luke-Edwards, and Paul Budnah. While the two shows are well-known Guyanese classics, Madhoo

ductions are annual features, Madhoo-Nascimento noted that they have been part of Guyanese Christmas for decades, with No Big Ting first airing more than 40 years ago and Stretched Out Magazine being introduced to audiences over 20 years ago. The satirical comedies highlight Guyanese life, challenges, and authenticity, a formula that has kept them relevant year after year.

“The shows are satirical comedy, where you poke fun at situations and main political figures,” she explained.

“It has been said that if you do not appear in any of these, just like The Link Show that we used to do, it means that you are not doing anything.”

She added, however, that the satire is handled responsibly. “Sometimes the shows make fun of it in a good way, where you’re actually saying to the person involved that something should be done, and this is how it’s looked at by the public.” This year’s productions feature a wide ensemble cast drawn from

across Guyana’s theatre community. While the shows have gained support from the business sector and continue to attract strong audience interest, Madhoo-Nascimento admitted there were still significant hurdles in bringing both productions to life. “I nearly quit about three times, because it is a mammoth task to take on two shows and do it to the extent that I want to do it, and not just put it on one TV station,” she said. Expanding Stretched Out Magazine across seven television

stations added to the pressure, as it required securing additional sponsors, coordinating with multiple media houses, managing scheduling, and, most critically, completing the scripts on time.

Despite these challenges, Stretched Out Magazine will air throughout the Christmas and New Year period on multiple television platforms, including Ignite Channel 6 and ENet 6 from December 25 to 28 and January 1 to 4 at 10:00 a.m.; ENet 1 on December 25 and January 3 at 7:00 p.m.;

TVG Channel 28 on December 26 and January 1 at 7:00 p.m.; NTN 69 and ENet 5 on December 25 and January 1 at 12:30 p.m.; MTV 69 on December 26 and January 3; NCN Channel 11 on December 25 and January 4 at 10:00 a.m.; and HJ Channel 74 on December 28 and January 3 at 11:00 a.m.

Meanwhile, the radio production No Big Ting will be broadcast on VOG 102.5 FM on December 25, 26, and 27 at 11:00 a.m., December 28 and January 1 at 11:30

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a.m., and on 104.1 FM on December 25, 26, 27, January 1, and January 3 at 12:00 noon.

As Guyanese families gather to celebrate the season, these productions once again promise laughter, reflection, and familiar humour. For Madhoo-Nascimento, continuing the shows is both a challenge and an honour, one that ensures the spirit of Guyanese theatre and comedy, shaped by legends like Ron Robinson, continues to thrive for generations to come.

From rice fields to cattle pastures:

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Seenarine Nandram’s vision for Leguan Island

By Michel Outridge

LEGUAN Island, cradled in the Essequibo River, has long been celebrated for its fertile soil and rich history of rice cultivation.

For generations, families worked tirelessly in paddies that stretched across the landscape, feeding communities and sustaining livelihoods.

Among them is Seenarine Nandram who comes from generations of agriculturalists. Though a civil engineer by profession, farming runs deep in his family heritage.

“I always felt I was a cattle farmer at heart,” Nandram reflects. With land at his disposal and a lifelong connection to agriculture, he saw an opportunity to develop a pasture-based cattle farm that could meet the growing

demand for quality breeding stock.

What began as a smallscale subsistence operation soon evolved into a structured enterprise, guided by mentorship from experienced farmers and the support of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

Initially, Nandram faced a challenge common to new farmers: despite excellent animal husbandry practices, including proper feeding, his cattle were not gaining sufficient weight.

“The issue was the quality of the genetics,” he explains. The slow growth affected production costs and profitability, prompting him to import his pedigree Brahman bulls to improve the herd’s genetics.

He envisions that with

these improvements, he can produce offspring that can be offered to the local industry, thereby raising the standard of livestock across the country. He is now remodelling Nandram Cattle Company as a local breeding facility to support this vision.

Recognising the need for cattle breeds better suited to Guyana’s climate, Nandram decided to import Brahman cattle from Alabama, USA. Despite being new to animal importation, he is grateful for the exceptional support provided by GLDA, including Dr Walrond, CEO; Dr Tihul, DCEO and Head of the Quarantine Unit; and GLDA’s Region 3 extension team, especially Uncle Prakash, his area Livestock Officer, who all continue to provide guidance and hands-

Aiyush Nandram shares a light moment with his favourite cow on the ranch

Cattle farmer, Seenarine Nandram

on support.

“My experience importing animals was seamless because of the technical support from GLDA,” Nandram says. He encourages anyone interested in the importation or exportation of animals and animal products to fully utilise the services of GLDA. The importation process, including permits, transportation, and quarantine, was seamless and carefully managed. The quarantine stage, in particular, was critical in ensuring that the animals were healthy, free of disease, and acclimatised to local conditions before joining the herd, safeguarding both his farm and the broader livestock sector.

Today, ‘Nandram Cattle Company’ is home to seven registered Brahman cows, two pedigree bulls, and an additional seventy Zebu cows. The farm benefits from regular visits by GLDA ex-

tension officers, who provide veterinary advice, monitor welfare, and offer practical guidance on animal health and husbandry.

Nandram himself has received hands-on training in administering medications and is prepared to adopt artificial insemination techniques to improve breeding outcomes.

Farming on Leguan Island comes with its challenges. Traditionally, both crop and livestock production were vulnerable to the island’s low-lying terrain and seasonal flooding.

Pastures could quickly turn into waterlogged fields during high tides, threatening the health of livestock.

“Whenever the waters rise, I move the cows to roofed sheds on higher ground to keep them safe and healthy,” Nandram explains.

Thanks to government initiatives dredging water-

Aiyush Nandram can be found among the cows on the ranch at any given time

ways, reinforcing sea defences, and maintaining kokers, farmers like Nandram now have greater confidence to protect their herds and expansion plans.

Nandram’s approach to cattle management is both practical and sustainable.

His animals are primarily pasture-grazed, with minimal supplemental feeding. Cows are reared carefully, and once they reach approximately 15 months to two years old, they are sold as quality bulls and heifers.

With improved genetics and animal husbandry, he sees Leguan’s lush pastures as ideal for the fattening stage, making the island a highly lucrative zone for livestock production in Region Three.

For Nandram, cattle farming is also a family affair. His young son has developed a natural affinity for the TURN TO PAGE 20

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

From Miami to Kaieteur Falls: ‘David’s Been Here’ falls in love with Guyana

By Faith Greene

PROMOTING products, destinations and accommodations that he believes in, David Hoffmann, the man behind the David’s Been Here brand, is expressing his love for Guyana, stating that he looks forward to exploring more of Guyana in his next visit.

His first video in Guyana was released in 2022, when he partnered with Visit Guyana to explore the South American country. His travels included visits to the bustling Bourda Market and Backyard Café, sampling street food along Sheriff Street in Georgetown, and sharing a home-cooked meal prepared

by President Dr Irfaan Ali, who invited him to join Eid celebrations that year.

In an exclusive interview with the Sunday Chronicle, the travel host and entrepreneur spoke firsthand about his experiences and time

spent in Guyana on two separate visits. Reflecting on his background, David shared that he was born and raised in Miami, Florida, to a Hungarian father and an Italian mother. Offering further insight into his personal life, the 40-year-old travel vlogger also noted that he is a father of two children.

He has been building his YouTube platform, David’s Been Here, since 2007, marking nearly two decades of continuous travel across different countries focused on exploration, learning, and personal growth. David recalled that as a teen, he would visit The Bahamas many times with his best friend, and the remarkable opportunity to go to Europe for the first time at age 15. Spending five weeks in Spain with his sister and brother-in-law was the key that opened the door in his mind to travel “That started everything for me. It opened up my

mind, and then it’s always been like travel, travel, travel, learn, learn, learn. There’s an adrenaline aspect to it, and especially when you’re travelling once a month indefinitely for over 20 years, it’s more like if I don’t have a trip set up, I’m antsy,” David shared.

His first solo trip was to Poland in 2006. Since launching the digital media company (David’s Been Here), he has hosted over 2,000 travel episodes that highlight unique destinations globally. He was also named one of the Top Ten Best Travel Videographers by USA Today and Top Ten Travel Video Sites by OOAworld.

In 2020, David also won the 2020 Travel Video Alliance Award for Best Culinary Video and the Top Travel Blog award from CrowdsourcedExplorer.

While many will know that he has a YouTube channel, David’s website: David’s Been Here - Leave Your Mark On The World is almost TURN TO PAGE 20

David Hoffman during his time in Guyana

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Stabroek Square opens with vibrant Christmas Concert

DESPITE rainfall on Saturday evening, Stabroek Square came alive with lights, music and energy as the Office of the First Lady, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, officially launched the Stabroek Market Square with a vibrant concert.

The event featured performances from some of Guyana’s most talented musicians and entertainers, drawing hundreds of Guyanese who gathered to celebrate the opening.

U n d e t e r re d b y t h e weather, patrons filled the

square, enjoying the performances and marking the transformation of the historic space into a renewed community hub.

First Lady, Arya Ali, at the opening of the Stabroek Market Square during Saturday evening’s Christmas concert (Sachin Persaud Photos)

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand at the launch of the Stabroek Market Square

Members of the public gather at Stabroek Square to enjoy the Christmas concert despite rainy conditions

Contractors pledge on-time...

kilometres of road already having been completed and plans already in place for works in 2026.

Residents also expressed appreciation for the minister’s presence and the opportunity to voice their concerns.

Stewartville resident Bibi Haniff shared her experience with drainage problems and poor road conditions, explaining how these issues have affected her mobility and access to transportation. She said the road works

initiative is especially important for elderly residents, as improved roads would prevent people from having to walk through mud and would allow taxis to enter the area more easily. According to Haniff, when roads are in poor condition, taxis often refuse to travel into the community, leaving older residents at a disadvantage when trying to move around or attend to daily needs.

“This is a good initiative because it saves us from hav-

ing to walk in mud, and taxis will now bring us home and take us back. Because if the road is bad, the taxi will not bring us, and people like me, old people, need our taxis so that we could move around,” she added, “I compliment the government on what they are doing, they are doing a very good job for us.”

The Stewartville walkabout reflects the government’s broader focus on community engagement, with officials using on-the-ground

tober level. Global poultry meat prices decreased amid abundant exportable supplies and heightened global competition, partly reflecting Brazil’s efforts to regain market share following the lifting of high-pathogenicity avian influenza-related trade bans by key importers.

Pig meat prices also declined, largely due to ample supplies in the European Union and subdued demand from China after the introduction of import duties.

International bovine meat quotations remained broadly stable, while ovine meat prices increased.

The FAO Dairy Price Index declined by 3.1 percent in November, led by lower quotations for butter and whole milk powder. The decrease reflected rising milk production and abundant export supplies in major producing regions. The FAO Sugar Price Index declined

by 5.9 percent from October, driven by expectations of ample global supplies in the current season and strong production trends in Brazil, India and Thailand.

World cereal output to pass record threshold in 2025 FAO also released updated forecasts for world cereal markets in 2025. Thanks to larger-than-expected wheat harvests, especially in Argentina, global cereal output is now foreseen to surpass three billion tonnes for the first time ever, rising 4.9 percent to 3.003 billion tonnes.

Coarse grain and rice outputs are both expected to increase from the previous year, with world rice output projected to grow by 1.6 percent, led by Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India and Indonesia.

The new Cereal Supply and Demand Brief also offers preliminary updates

FROM PAGE 7

assessments to guide remedial actions and ensure that infrastructure projects meet the practical needs of residents.

Wi t h c o m m i t m e n t s from engineers and contractors to complete outstanding works ahead of Christmas, and with drainage and access issues set to be addressed in the coming days, residents are hopeful that the improvements will bring lasting relief and safer, more reliable road conditions to the community.

FAO Food Price Index declines... prices rose by 2.5 percent in November, supported by potential Chinese interest in supplies from the United States of America, continuing hostilities in the Black Sea region, and expectations of reduced plantings for the 2026 harvest in the Russian Federation. International maize prices also rose, underpinned by firm demand for Brazilian supplies, while the FAO All Rice Price Index declined amid subdued import demand for Indica and fragrant rice varieties.

T h e FA O Ve g e t a b l e Oil Price Index fell by 2.6 percent from October, as declines in palm, rapeseed and sunflower oil quotations more than offset a modest increase in soyoil prices, which were supported by strong demand from the biodiesel sector, particularly in Brazil. The FAO Meat Price Index edged down 0.8 percent from its revised Oc-

Local artistes took to the stage as part of the Stabroek Market Square opening concert

FROM PAGE 12

on trends in the ongoing winter wheat season in the northern hemisphere and coarse grain plantings in the southern hemisphere.

World cereal utilization in 2025/26 is now expected to increase by 2.1 percent from the previous year. Based on the updated forecasts, global cereal stocks are predicted to expand by 6.5 percent to a record high of 925.5 million tonnes, while the new forecast for world trade in cereals in 2025/26 points to a 3.3 percent increase to 500.6 million tonnes.

The Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), hosted by FAO, also published its monthly Market Monitor on Friday.

In addition to the regular market updates, the report examines the history and prospects of International Commodity Agreements (ICAs) in managing markets and price volatility.

Cocaine find: Parika farmer, wife arrested

POLICE have arrested a 39-year-old farmer and his 37-year-old wife following the discovery of a quantity of suspected cocaine on December 19, 2025 about 21:30 hours at a grocery shop located in Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

According to a press release from Police Headquarters, ranks, acting on information received, went to the location where they met the farmer and his wife.

A search was conducted at the location in the presence

of both individuals, during which a quantity of whitish rock-like substance suspected to be cocaine was found in a plastic bag.

Both individuals were arrested and escorted to the Parika Police Station, where the suspected substance was weighed in their presence and amounted to 102.1 grams.

The suspected cocaine was lodged and both individuals were placed into custody as investigations continue.

The cocaine found by the police

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

‘We’ve been putting systems in place to bring immediate relief to the people of this country’ – Min. Mustapha

AS part of a two-day Cabinet outreach to the Essequibo Islands – West Demerara region, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, on Friday, met with farmers and residents from Belle West and other surrounding communities in Canal No. 2 Polder, as well as Hague, Blankenburg, and other neighbouring communities in that area.

While addressing residents, Minister Mustapha said that the government has, over the last five

reach efforts is to ensure that residents have direct engagement with their government and that issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

When we went to the electorate in 2020, we presented a manifesto.

“I am happy to report that at the end of that term, this PPP/C government was able to fulfill every commitment made in that manifesto. We are now working aggressively to achieve every commitment made in the 2025 manifesto. If you listened to the President’s address a few days

lic-Private-Partnership within the agriculture sector.

He told residents that a contract was recently signed with an Indian company for the construction of a sugar refinery at the Wales Estate, which was closed under the former APNU+AFC administration. Once operational, Minister Mustapha said that the project will create new opportunities for people in the region.

Addressing drainage and irrigation challenges affecting the residents in Hague and other sur-

of-the-art Level Five hospital. He added that the gas-to-shore project is expected to come on stream next year, bringing significant reductions in electricity and cooking gas costs.

With this, he noted that the establishment of a fertiliser plant is also in the pipeline, which, once operational, will further reduce costs and strengthen food production.

Highlighting the country’s economic performance, the Minister noted that agriculture, fisheries, and forestry grew by a combined 13 per

agro-processing, agencies like the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute and the New Guyana Marketing Corporation will work directly with you to guide what crops to cultivate, based on soil type and market demand,” Minister Mustapha explained.

Farmers were also encouraged to utilise the facilities that will be offered when the Guyana Development Bank is established next year to expand their operations.

“This government, your gov-

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, meets with residents on the West Coast of Demerara

years, deliberately put systems in place to deliver long-term development to communities and improve the lives of Guyanese across the country.

He emphasised that the government has spent the last five years building systems designed to bring immediate relief to citizens across the country, adding that the Ali-led PPP/C administration has fulfilled all of the promises made in its 2020 campaign manifesto.

“Over the last five years, we have been putting systems in place so that we can bring immediate relief to the people of this country.

The primary purpose of these out-

ago when he outlined the government’s policy agenda for economic growth and social development for the next five years, you’d know that we have to do about 15 years’ work in the next five years.

That is how aggressive we will be working for you because we want this country to continue to develop rapidly,” Minister Mustapha said.

With the region now becoming one of the most productive regions in the country, Minister Mustapha also disclosed that the government has been engaging major private sector players, both locally and internationally, to develop Pub-

rounding areas, the Minister assured residents that a machine will soon be assigned to execute the necessary works to mitigate flooding.

“We will be assigning a machine to address the drainage and irrigation issues in this area, and those works will commence soon. Some community drains are already being developed, and once the revetment works are completed, we will move in to excavate the drains to improve water flow,” he said.

Minister Mustapha also said that the government is currently engaged in major national investments that will benefit the region, including the construction of another state-

cent in the first half of 2025.

Minister Mustapha also said that the government was working to further expand the country’s agro-processing sector. This, he explained, includes the establishment of a cassava processing facility at Parika that will soon commence production of cassava flour.

“In the next five years, we will build a strong agro-processing sector here. At Parika, we are setting up a cassava processing plant. We’ve engaged NAMILCO, and they have expressed interest in incorporating cassava flour into wheat flour blends, opening new markets for farmers. In terms of other areas in

ernment, continues to implement policies targeting small- and medium-scale farmers. Next year, when the Guyana Development Bank is launched, you should take full advantage of those facilities. It will be a game changer for the sector because you will be able to benefit from zero-interest loans to expand your businesses and operations,” he noted.

Minister Mustapha was accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Daun Ellis, Director General, Dhaneshwar Deonarine, and other agency heads and technical officers from the ministry. (Ministry of Agriculture press release)

Region Six residents laud President...

FROM PAGE 11

to the community ground, roads, and the installation of streetlights.

Collectively, residents across the region said the ongoing development, coupled with forward-looking economic initiatives, has strengthened their confidence in the government’s commitment to improving lives and creating opportunities for

present and future generations.

Franklyn of Islington, New Amsterdam, noted, “He (President Irfaan Ali) promise and he fulfill his promise and we are grateful to have someone like that in there and now he talk about other things, he give a full plan and we believe he will fulfill it too. The developnment is

happening all over, we have a new bridge here, the ballfield develop, and we have to be grateful for what the govenrment is doing.”

Jennifer Haul, also of Islington, Greater New Amsterdam, said her mother moved to the village in the 1940s and she was born there, “and I feel great about the development.”

Allan Richard Mapowan, also of Islington, said, “In our community I can see there are a lot of developnment, because we had a play ground which was neglected for a number of years and then the PPP come back and we spoke to one of the officials and in a minute time things start happening; now if you

can see our ground it is completed actually and now our cmmmunity can benefit from that.”

He added, “Islington, Overwinning and Gay Park, we have a lot of young people and they can use this particular ground and they can occupy themselves, it’s a facility that people need.”

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Historic clock at Stabroek Market finally working again

THE historic clock atop Stabroek Market in Georgetown, Guyana, is finally functioning again after a period of disrepair. The iconic clock, a prominent feature of one of Georgetown’s most recognisable landmarks, had not been working for several years, leaving many residents and visitors unable to enjoy its hourly chimes.

The four-faced clock has long been a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The restoration of the timepiece

ensures that it now keeps accurate time and continues to serve as a functional and cultural landmark for locals and tourists alike.

The clock is placed 18 metres (60 feet) above the ground in the tower of the market. Three of the clock faces are aligned to face Croal and Water (facing both north and south) Streets respectively and the fourth faces the Demerara River, providing the time to the ships and vessels that were docked at the market’s western façade.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025 The iconic clock at the Stabroek Market captured the time on Saturday

GNIC awarded ‘Runner-Up – Terminal of the Year 2025’ …at Guyana Shipping Association Annual Awards Ceremony

THE Guyana National Industrial Company Incorporated (GNIC) is proud to announce that it was recognised as “Runner-Up – Terminal of the Year 2025” at the Guyana Shipping Association’s Annual Awards Ceremony, held on December 16, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel. The company deemed this to be a moment that underscores its continued focus on safe,

unwavering commitment to quality service within Guyana’s Maritime and Logistics sector.

“Achievements like this reflect the hard work behind the scenes, long hours, disciplined operations and a shared dedication to continuous improvement. Well done to the entire GNIC family.

Continue to raise the bar and set standards of excellence for the industry.”

CEO of GNIC, Gobind Persaud (left), accepts the award from Vice Chairman of the Shipping Association of Guyana, Allan Newark

efficient and customer-centred terminal operations.

Notably, this recognition reflects GNIC’s ongoing investments in operational discipline, HSSE performance, equipment readiness, and people development, all of which are cornerstones that support the company’s role in Guyana’s Maritime and Logistics ecosystem and its broader national development trajectory.

A press release noted that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GNIC, Gobin Persaud, welcomed the award as an affirmation of the team’s culture of excellence. In his remarks, Mr Persaud said, “I wish to offer congratulations to the management and staff of GNIC on being awarded Runner-up - Terminal of the Year 2025 by the Shipping Association of Guyana. This recognition is a clear testament to the team’s professionalism, operational excellence, teamwork and

According to the release, GNIC’s work spans critical services that support national commerce and industry, including terminal and stevedoring operations as well as shipbuilding, ship repairs and engineering support.

These capabilities have long positioned the company as a trusted partner for local and regional stakeholders.

“As GNIC celebrates this award, the company acknowledges the dedication of its employees and the valued relationships with customers, regulatory partners, shipping agents, and the wider maritime community who help drive higher standards across the sector. GNIC remains firmly committed to serving its customers with dignity and unwavering commitment, delivering consistent value through reliable operations, safe execution, and responsive service,” the release noted.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Three years jail for Essequibo man convicted of wounding

A THREE-YEAR prison sentence has been imposed on 32-year-old Stephen Rodrigues of New Found Out Village, Essequibo River, Region Seven. The sentence follows his conviction for felonious wounding in connection with a violent 2022 attack that left boat captain George Braithwaite permanently injured and unable to work.

The sentence was handed down last week at the High Court in Essequibo by Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif, who also ordered that the time Rodrigues already spent in custody be deducted from the term.

In addition, the court directed prison authorities to ensure that Rodrigues is enrolled in and completes both an alcohol-rehabilitation programme and an anger-management programme before the end of his incarceration.

Rodrigues had previously been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for the offence of felonious wounding, with Braithwaite’s wife, Lynette, as the victim. George, now 62 years old and of New Found Out Village, Essequibo River, addressed the court through information presented during the proceedings. He outlined the long-term physical, emotional and economic impact the attack has had on his life and that of his family.

The prosecution was led

by Caressa Henry, while Rodrigues was represented by attorney L. N. Dindayal.

According to facts presented to the court, the incident occurred on December 20, 2022, at Foul Mouth, Essequibo River. During what was described as a misunderstanding, Rodrigues brutally chopped Lynette and her husband about their bodies.

At the time, George was working as a boat captain.

Both victims were initially rushed to the Bartica Regional Hospital, but due to the severity of their injuries, they were later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for further medical treatment.

Following the attack, Rodrigues went into hiding and remained on the run for several weeks. He was eventually captured by police in January 2023.

Rodrigues was later arrested and charged in relation to wounding the couple. The trial before Justice Chandra-Hanif centred on an attempted murder charge against Rodrigues.

However, a jury ultimately found him guilty of the lesser offence of felonious wounding.

In an emotional statement made to the court prior to sentencing, Rodrigues expressed remorse for his actions and pleaded for leniency. He told the court that he is “very sorry for everything” and said he deeply regretted how the events unfolded.

“I know it was my mistake. I am a changed person today,” Rodrigues said, adding that the two years he had already spent in prison had transformed his life. He claimed that while incarcerated at the Camp Street Prison, he gave his life to Christ and served as a pastor during his time there.

Rodrigues also told the court that he is the father of three young children, aged seven, three and one year old, and asked the judge for mercy.

He said he had sought forgiveness from the Braithwaite family by attending the same church and apologising to them. “I would never make that mistake again,” he stated.

Despite the apology, the court heard sobering details about the lasting consequences of the attack on George.

At the time of the incident, Braithwaite was an active boat captain, but he revealed that since the attack, his mobility has been significantly compromised. He no longer has the capacity to lift weights and is currently unemployed as a result of his injuries.

To survive, Braithwaite explained that he occasionally engages in fishing and cash-crop farming to provide for himself and his spouse.

The court was also told that Lynette remains partially incapacitated due to the injuries she sustained during the same incident, further compounding the family’s hardship.

Notably, George told the court that he did not have any unfavourable relationship with Rodrigues before the attack and does not harbour hatred towards him. However, he expressed a sense of relief that Rodrigues was brought before the court to answer for his actions.

In delivering her ruling, Justice Chandra-Hanif emphasised the gravity of violent offences and the importance of accountability, while carefully weighing the mitigating factors advanced by the defence against the aggravating circumstances

outlined by the prosecution.

The defence pointed to Rodrigues’ relatively young age, his expressed remorse, previous good character and co-operation with the police investigation as mitigating factors.

On the other hand, the prosecution highlighted the serious nature of the offence, the use of gratuitous violence and a deadly weapon, namely

a cutlass, the age and vulnerability of the victim, the lasting impact of the attack on George, and the prevalence of such offences in society.

The sentence, the judge indicated, was intended not only as punishment but also as an opportunity for rehabilitation.

In this regard, the court ordered Rodrigues to mandatorily attend Alcoholics

Anonymous programmes to curb his alcohol consumption, which a probation report identified as the root cause of his involvement in the attack on the couple.

He was also directed to participate in anger-management sessions to help him better regulate his emotions and interact responsibly within society in the future.

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Stephen Rodrigues

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Gold miner arrested following cannabis find From rice

POLICE in Regional Division #3 have arrested a gold miner in connection with the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis on Friday last about 16:30 hours at Parika Foreshore, East Bank Essequibo.

In custody is a 39-year-old man of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara. A press release from Police Headquarters revealed that ranks were on foot patrol duties in the area and, acting on information received, made contact with the suspect who was at a boat house and a search was conducted on him and his belongings. During the search, a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was discovered inside a bag belonging to him, the police release noted. The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Parika Police Station along with the suspected cannabis which was weighed in his presence and amounted to five kilograms.

The suspected cannabis was lodged, after which the suspect was placed into custody pending charges as investigations continue.

fields to...

FROM PAGE 14

The cannabis discovered by the police

animals, often found gently patting the large Brahman cows. “Passing down traditions and involving the next generation is important,” he says. It is this blend of family, heritage, and dedication that defines Nandram Cattle Company.

The farm also reflects a larger trend on Leguan Island: the gradual shift from rice cultivation to livestock production. Nandram has converted 80 acres of prime rice land into pastures, recognising the potential of cattle farming to contribute to both food security and economic resilience.

He believes in the PPP/C government’s vision for agriculture under President Dr Irfaan Ali, which seeks to modernise the sector and create opportunities for farmers across Guyana.

Central to this vision is the establishment of the Agriculture Development Bank, which promises to provide no-collateral loans and critical financial support to smalland medium-scale farmers.

“With access to funding and the right infrastructure, cattle farming and agriculture more broadly can become a viable and profitable enterprise,” Nandram explains.

“The demand for beef, quality breeding stock, and other agricultural products is growing, and initiatives like

the Agriculture Development Bank will catapult livestock and other sectors to new heights, unlocking their full potential.”

Nandram also sees significant market expansion on the horizon with the establishment of the National Abattoir at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice. He acknowledged that the new facility will be equipped with modern, hygienic, and internationally certified equipment, allowing farmers to produce premium cuts of meat while meeting global standards.

Coupled with improved animal genetics and husbandry, Leguan Island has the potential to become the livestock hub of Region Three, producing high-quality beef for both local and regional markets.

Seenarine Nandram’s journey from rice fields to cattle pastures is a story of vision, resilience, and adaptation.

Rooted in a family legacy of agriculture, guided by the expertise of GLDA and its dedicated team, and grounded in sustainable practices, he is helping to shape a future where livestock farming strengthens food security, drives economic opportunity, and passes down a meaningful legacy to the next generation.

From Miami...

FROM PAGE 15

like a postcard that highlights each place he has visited, with travel guides and important details that travellers should know about each destination. This includes our very own Guyana.

Speaking more about this, David said he was always interested in visiting The Three Guianas- Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. He first heard about Guyana around a decade ago and was finally able to come here in 2022.

Asked about his first impression, David recalled that the green in our capital city is what has always stuck with him, along with a local musthave, pepperpot.

“In terms of like destination, I mean, I think for me the place that, I guess, is always with me is Kaieteur Falls. I went to Kaieteur Falls and it was mind-blowing to get that close to that waterfall. Just something amazing.

I love waterfalls, I’ve been dying to do all the major ones in the world.”

Probably one of the videos that stuck out to Guya-

nese more is the one of his time spent with our visionary leader, President Ali. Commenting on this, David described it as a surreal experience.

“When you think of presidents, you put them up there, like almost untalkable. Like, you can’t even talk to them, right? And then, I met him, and he’s just like super humble, a real person.

If he didn’t tell me he was a president, I would never know,” he stated, adding that the discussions were focused on food, country and national pride.

“One of those experiences that changes your life, you know, definitely feel it forever,” David said.

In his final remarks, David said he loves Guyana and is looking forward to exploring more of our 83,000 square miles in his next visit; whether it’s to the Rupununi or down the Essequibo River, he’s ready for new adventures and experiences in destination Guyana.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Hodge’s dogged century leads Windies resistance...

FROM BACK PAGE

untroubled during his innings of 43, combining with Hodge to add 81 crucial runs for the fifth wicket.

In search of a bowler to break the partnership, New Zealand captain Tom Latham turned to part-time spinner Daryl Mitchell, and he re-

sponded by trapping Greaves lbw with a full, straight delivery that the batsman played all around.

And when skipper Roston Chase’s nightmare tour continued when he was trapped lbw by Patel for just two, the West Indies were in danger of not avoiding the follow on at 351 for six.

Hodge who survived some nervous moments in the 90s, including being hit in the groin and having to seek medical attention, eventually reached three figures with an audacious pull of Rae for four.

His unbroken 30-run partnership with Phillip took the Windies past the follow-on score of 375, but they will be hoping for much more come Sunday, including the services of Hope and Roach to carry on the fight.

Hodge has so far faced 254 balls and hit 14 boundaries in his unbeaten knock.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS FAKENHAM 08:15 hrs Hello sweèty 08:45 hrs Zenato 09:15 hrs I Am The Moon 09:45 hrs Kilbakanto 10:15 hrs Bolsover Bill 10:45 hrs To Be Sure 11:15 hrs Isabel De Clare LINGFIELD 08:30 hrs Makingplansfor 09:00 hrs Aqua Blue 09:30 hrs Oh Clare 10:00 hrs Harmony Heights 10:30 hrs Diplomatic Ash 11:00 hrs No Tackle 11:30 hrs No Expectation SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS KENILWORTH 08:20 hrs Count Of Rouen 08:55 hrs Future Free 09:35 hrs Golden Destiny 10:10 hrs Ozark 10:43 hrs Tanneron 11:20 hrs Shegotclass

SCOREBOARD

NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 575-8 dec’d

WEST INDIES 1st innings (overnight 110 without loss) John Campbell c Latham b Duffy Brandon King b Duffy Kavem Hodge not out +Tevin Imlach c +Blundell b Rae Alick Athanaze b Patel Justin Greaves lbw b Mitchell *Roston Chase lbw b Patel Anderson Phillip not out Extras (lb12, nb2, w21)

45 63 109 27 45 43 2 12 35

TOTAL (six wickets; 113 overs) 381 Yet to bat: Shai Hope, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales.

Fall of wickets: 1-111, 2-140, 3-206, 4-267, 5-348, 6-351.

Bowling: Duffy 31-7-79-2, Foulkes 20-4-82-0, Rae 21-188-1, Patel 33-5-94-2, Phillips 5-0-17-0, Mitchell 3-1-9-1.

Toss: New Zealand elected to bat first.

Position: West Indies trail New Zealand by 194 runs with four wickets remaining.

GFF hosts high-level...

and embedding inclusive governance practices in line with FIFA standards.”

The session was facilitated by Commissioner Cole, a Constitutional Commissioner sitting on both the Women & Gender Equality Commission and the Rights of the Child Commission.

Also in attendance were Andre Gonzales, CEO of the Rights of the Child Commission, and Brian Joseph, Technical Director of the GFF, highlighting strong collaboration between football development, national safeguarding institutions, and policy leadership.

The GFF pointed out that

FROM BACK PAGE

the workshop reflected its broader strategic approach under FIFA Forward 3.0 to not only invest in infrastructure and competitions, but also to build strong institutions, ethical leadership, and safe environments that protect participants and grow the game sustainably.

The GFF pointed out that it extends sincere appreciation to the Rights of the Child Commission and the participating EDFA and GFA executives for their leadership and commitment to shaping a more equitable, inclusive, and rights-based future for Guyanese football.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday December 21, 2025)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kane Williamson-33 centuries (2) Sir Richard Hadlee-15/123 (vs AUST, Brisbane, 1985) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who has played most Tests for NZ to date?

(2) Who has led NZ in most Test matches to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

27

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Thunder take their third loss in thriller vs. T-Wolves …Remain on pace for 73 wins

THE Oklahoma City Thunder won 24 of their first 25 games of the season.

They’ve now lost two of their past three.

The NBA’s top team took its third loss of the season in a thriller against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, falling 112-107. Their record is

12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks.

OKC built a 12-point lead in the first and second quarters, but Minnesota stayed within striking distance, then pounced after halftime. The Timberwolves led for most of the second half, though the Thunder came close to steal-

Warriors’ 73-win season was still a tall order.

Reaching even 70 wins in a season means off nights basically can’t happen with any sort of regularity, and that’s what the Thunder got with a 34-for-92 shooting performance (37%) while going 11 of 39 from 3-point

It was a rough night for the Thunder as Anthony Edwards, left, challenges Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

25-3, which still puts them on pace for an NBA record-tying 73 wins, but there’s still a lot of games to go.

Anthony Edwards was the one who put it away for the Timberwolves, hitting a go-ahead 3-pointer with 39 seconds left, then registering a block and a steal on reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the next two possessions.

“I receive a lot of criticism because I never go for the tie,” Edwards said after the game. “I’m going for the game, every time.”

Edwards finished with 26 points on 9-of-20 shooting,

ing the game with a mini-run led by Gilgeous-Alexander, who had 35 points and seven assists.

The Timberwolves also played most of the game without their head coach, as Chris Finch was ejected five-and-a-half minutes into the first quarter for going ballistic on the officials. They held on through physicality, outrebounding the Thunder 71-60.

Games like this are why, even when the Thunder were winning 16 straight games and seemed unbeatable with Jalen Williams healthy again, matching the Golden State

range (28.2%).

Gilgeous-Alexander once again went off, but Williams shot 6 of 16 from the field for 17 points with four turnovers, and Chet Holmgren was limited to 14 points and five rebounds. The Timberwolves are a good team who were playing with a night of rest, while OKC was on the second leg of a back-to-back.

The Thunder will now get two days off before a more favourable matchup against the 13-14 Memphis Grizzlies at home, then they have two straight games against the San Antonio Spurs. (Yahoo Sports)

28

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Tom Jones to lead an Sixers prevail in Sydney experienced New Zealand Smash to open account squad at U-19 World Cup

SYDNEY Sixers came up with an all-round performance to prevail in the Sydney Smash and open their account in BBL 2025-26.

Having lost their opening two games, Sixers picked up a comfortable 47-run win to make sure their rivals Sydney Thunder remain the only winless team in the new campaign.

Daniel Hughes got going for Sixers in the powerplay, but Babar Azam made a sedate start, scoring just 7 off 11 balls in the phase. But once Hughes was deceived by a slower ball from Reece Topley, Babar had to step up alongside Josh Philippe. The Australian broke the shackles with a six and then took on Shadab Khan for another six and a four as Sixers positioned themselves at 92/1 at the halfway point.

In an eventful start to the chase, Todd Murphy opened the bowling and conceded three successive boundaries

..Five members of the squad have domestic caps; three, including Jones, were part of the last Under-19 World Cup

Josh Philippe hit 96 in Sixers’ first win of the season

before finally getting his man out stumped. David Warner made a scratchy start and didn’t get an opportunity to make amends as Jack Edwards stunned the opposition with two wickets in his first over including that of the veteran Australian. At 17/3, Thunder needed a partnership to stabilise things but they kept losing wickets regularly.

Sam Billings and Shadab Khan made handy contri-

butions but Thunder were always behind the required rate.

Edwards continued to run through the lineup with regular strikes and eventually finished with a five-wicket haul. After Billings departed for a half-century, Shadab managed to score 41 that just reduced the margin of defeat for Thunder. (Cricbuzz)

TOM Jones, the Otago opener, will lead a fairly experienced New Zealand side at the 2026 Men’s Under-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Five of the 15 squad members have domestic caps, and three, including Jones, had participated at the 2024 edition of the tournament.

Last month, Jones scored a hundred on his first-class debut against Wellington.

Others with domestic experience are batter Snehith Reddy, wicketkeeper Aryan Mann, fast bowler Mason Clarke, and bowling-allrounder Jaskaran Sandhu.

Reddy and Clarke made their List A debuts earlier this year. Like Jones, they had also participated in the last edition in South Africa.

Reddy had brought up the highest score of the tournament (147*) against Nepal, and Clarke had taken 4 for 62 against runners-up India.

Hugo Bogue, Brandon Matzopoulous, Marco Alpe and Jacob Cotter have been picked after their impressive performance with the bat at the national U-19 tournament in Lincoln last week.

Allrounders Harry Burns and Flynn Morey will bolster the seam-bowling attack; both took a five-wicket haul each at the tournament and ended up on ten wickets overall.

For players to be eligible for the tournament, they must be under 19 years of age on August 31 2026. The squad will leave for Africa on January 2. They will have a training camp in Bulawayo before

the tournament’s warm-up period begins on January 9. New Zealand are in Group B, and start their tournament against USA on January 18. India and Bangladesh are the other two teams in their group.

Former New Zealand batter Anton Devcich will be the head coach, with NZC High Performance coaches Paul Wiseman and Graeme Aldridge supporting him.

New Zealand squad for Men’s Under-19 World Cup Tom Jones (capt), Marco Alpe, Hugo Bogue, Harry Burns, Mason Clarke, Jacob Cotter, Aryan Mann, Brandon Matzopoulos, Flynn Morey, Snehith Reddy, Callum Samson, Jaskaran Sandhu, Selwin Sanjay, Hunter Shore, Harry Waite.

(ESPN Cricinfo).

Haaland scores twice, Manchester City moves to the top

ERLING Haaland scored twice to help Manchester City beat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth straight Premier League victory which moved them top of the table.

City are one point clear of Arsenal, but Mikel Arteta’s side can reclaim top spot later on Saturday if they win at Everton (kick-off 20:00 GMT).

Nuno Espirito Santo’s West Ham needed a positive start to take anything from their game at Etihad Stadium, but that went out of the window inside five minutes when Haaland converted at the second attempt after his initial effort was saved by Alphonse Areola.

The Hammers were cut open all too easily

and, shortly after scoring, Norway striker Haaland somehow sent a free header wide from close range, while Tijjani Reijnders forced Areola into a sharp save low down.

The Dutch midfielder did get on the scoresheet seven minutes before half-time, collecting Haaland’s pass before jinking forward and hammering a finish into the roof of the net.

West Ham tried to claw something back in the second half, but Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting from an acute angle and dragged another shot wide.

Haaland’s second goal then ensured a joyless Christmas for the Hammers who are anchored inside the relegation zone.

(BBC Sport).

Erling Haaland scored his 18th and 19th league goals of the season for Manchester City

Tom Jones was part of the last Under-19 World Cup as well • ICC via Getty Images

Afcon to be held every four years from 2028

THE Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) will be held every four years from 2028, Confederation of African Football president, Patrice Motsepe, has announced.

The tournament has taken place every two years since 1968, with a one-year gap between the 2012 and 2013 editions.

But it will switch to a four-year cycle after the 2027 Afcon in East Africa and a 2028 edition.

Motsepe has instead announced the creation of an African Nations League which will take place annually from 2029.

“We have the most excit-

ing new structure for African football,” Motsepe said.

“I do what is in the interests of Africa. The global

calendar has to be significantly more synchronised and harmonised.”(BBC Sport).

Ivory Coast won the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil after a dramatic run to the final which included sacking their manager mid-tournament

29

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Liverpool hold on for chaotic Gill left out of India’s T20 World Cup squad; Rinku, win at nine-man Spurs Kishan make comeback …Jitesh Sharma also misses out; Axar Patel named vice-captain

Alexander Isak got injured as he opened the scoring for Liverpool

ALEXANDER Isak came off the bench to score for Liverpool but was forced off with injury as the Reds won a chaotic Premier League match at nine-man Tottenham.

Isak broke the deadlock in the 56th minute but was injured in the act of scoring, before Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool’s lead 10 minutes later. Spurs substitute Richarlison pulled a goal back, but Liverpool held on to inflict further pain on Thomas Frank, whose side had Xavi Simons and Cristian Romero sent off and have now won just one of their past eight league games.

After a cagey start, Simons was sent off for a foul on Virgil van Dijk in the 33rd minute following a VAR review.

Referee John Brooks was sent to the pitchside monitor and ruled it was “serious foul play” after Simons raked his studs down the calf of Van

Dijk - his captain for the Netherlands.

With the game there for the taking, Slot sent Isak on at half-time after Conor Bradley suffered a knock - and the £125m British record signing finished coolly past Guglielmo Vicario after being fed by Florian Wirtz for his first Premier League assist.

However, as Isak got his shot away he was floored by Micky van de Ven and was unable to celebrate his goal.

The Sweden forward looked in serious pain, and he was replaced by Jeremie Frimpong just 15 minutes after coming on.

Spurs came close to equalising when Randal Kolo Muani’s deflected effort hit the bar, but Liverpool doubled their advantage in the 66th minute.

Frimpong’s deflected cross was met by France forward Ekitike, who headed in his fifth goal in his past three

league games.

Spurs were furious that the goal was allowed to stand, claiming Ekitike had fouled Romero - with the Tottenham captain subsequently booked for his protests.

Frank introduced Richarlison for Kolo Muani in the 80th minute and three minutes later, the Brazil attacker was on hand to finish past Alisson in a crowded penalty box after Liverpool failed to clear their lines.

The visitors looked nervy as 10-man Tottenham hunted for an equaliser late on, but the hosts had another player sent off when Romero was given a second yellow card in injury time for lashing out at Ibrahima Konate after Spurs won a free-kick.

Liverpool managed to hold on for a victory which moves them up to fifth in the league - and they are now unbeaten in their past six after a run of nine defeats in 12.(BBC Sport)

INDIA has left out vice-captain Shubman Gill from its squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who topped the charts in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 517 runs at nearly two a ball, replaces Gill in the top order, allowing India to squeeze in Rinku Singh, who has not been part of recent T20I squads.

The late change in strategy meant Jitesh Sharma, the No. 1 wicketkeeper in recent series, had to miss out.

I n G i l l ’s a b s e n c e , Axar Patel was named the vice-captain of the 15-man squad. The rest of the selection went along expected lines.

Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana were the three frontline fast bowlers with two of them expected to make it to the final XI. Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav were the two frontline spinners, joined by Axar and Washington Sundar as the spin allrounders.

Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube were the seam-bowling allrounders to go with a power-packed middle order of captain Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma and Rinku. Opener Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson and Kishan rounded up the 15.

The same squad will play the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.

Ajit Agarkar, chair of the

Mbappe equals Ronaldo’s record of 59 goals in a calendar year

Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid from Paris St-Germain in 2024

KYLIAN Mbappe equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 59 goals in a calendar year for Real Madrid in a hard-fought win over Sevilla which kept up the pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Real took the lead seven minutes before the break when Jude Bellingham leaped above Lucien Agoume and glanced a header from a Rodrygo freekick into the top corner of the net. Sevilla had opportunities to equalise, although Real’s

task was made easier after the break when Marcao was shown a second yellow card for a rash foul on Bellingham. Mbappe then converted from the penalty spot in the 86th minute after Rodrygo was clumsily fouled

by Juanlu Sanchez to equal Ronaldo’s record from 2013.

The result moved second-placed Real within one point of table-topping Barcelona, although Xabi Alonson’s side have played a game more.

(BBC Sport).

selection committee, attributed the late pivot from Gill to the team management’s preference for a wicketkeeper to open the innings. “It’s more to do with the combination that we want to play, or what the team management is comfortable with playing,” Agarkar said.

“Their thoughts are... who’s going to bat at the top?

Abhishek, obviously, has

22 in his absence. Suryakumar, who has himself gone the whole year without a half-century, said Gill’s form was not the issue here.

“It’s not about his form or anything,” Suryakumar said.

“It’s just about the combination right now. We wanted to have a keeper at the top.

We wanted to have someone like Rinku Singh or maybe a Washington Sundar later

India has left out vice-captain Shubman Gill from the squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup

done what he has done over the last year.

And we felt the keeper at the top at this point gives us a lot more solidity than anywhere else in the team to play different combinations.

There are only 15 that we could have picked.

Someone has to miss out.

It’s him. It’s not because he’s not a good player. Again, Jitesh hasn’t done too much wrong. These are the combinations that the team management is looking for.”

Gill, who replaced Samson in the XI when named the vice-captain of the side, has not scored a single half-century in the 15 innings at the top. He has scored 291 runs at a strike rate of 137.26. He missed the last T20i against South Africa with a foot injury; Samson scored 37 off

on, to have a different combination. So that’s why we brought in that extra wicketkeeper at the top.

“And he’s a terrific player. And there’s no question about that. The only thing is that the situation is such that we need a keeper at the top of the order to have two-three good combinations which can win us the World Cup.” India’s squad for NZ T20Is and T20 World Cup Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-capt), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan (wk).

(ESPN cricinfo)

30

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Brilliant Lyon puts Australia on brink of Ashes series win

ENGLAND is on the brink of an Ashes series defeat after Australia’s Nathan Lyon broke their resistance late on the fourth day of the third Test in Adelaide.

Off-spinner Lyon removed a reverse-sweeping Harry Brook, bowled Ben Stokes and, crucially, had Zak Crawley stumped to move the home side within touching distance of the urn.

Crawley compiled an impressive 85, but when he was seduced by a delirious Lyon, England were left 194-6 in pursuit of a notional target of 435.

Australia will return on

Sunday needing four more wickets to go 3-0 up after three Tests, retain the Ashes after only 11 days of cricket and win a fourth consecutive home series against England.

Lyon’s intervention- England lost three wickets for 17 runs in six overs- came after the tourists finally showed a willingness to adapt their Bazballing ways.

It was the recognition of the situation and a realisation that some players- Crawley included- are fighting for their futures and reputations.

After Stokes returned to bowling with seven overs from the start of play, the

tourists took the last six Australia wickets for 38 runs to dismiss the hosts for 349 in their second innings.

Travis Head was eventually out for 170 and Alex Carey 72. Josh Tongue ended with 4-70 and Brydon Carse 3-80.

A four-day finish felt probable when Ben Duckett was out in the first over of England’s chase and Ollie Pope is in huge danger of being dropped for the fourth Test after falling for 17.

Then came Crawley’s show of defiance, ended by the genius of Lyon. (BBC Sport)

BACIF Managing Director, Peter Pompey (right), hands over the Super 16 trophy to GFF Technical Director, Bryan Joseph (GFF photo)

Nathan Lyon celebrates after snaring Harry Brook • (Getty Images)

BACIF restores the Super 16 Cup Trophy

THE Super 16 Cup trophy was officially restored and enhanced by Brass Aluminium & Cast Iron Foundry Ltd. (BACIF) and handed over on Wednesday at BACIF’s headquarters, as part of the company’s support for Guyana football.

During the handover ceremony, BACIF Managing Director, Peter Pompey, formally presented the trophy to Bryan Joseph, Technical Director of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), who received it on behalf of the Federation.

The enhanced trophy will stand at the

heart of the Super 16 Cup, where clubs compete not only for a title, but for a place in Guyana football history.

BACIF is one of Guyana’s leading manufacturing companies, with a proud legacy of engineering excellence and national contribution.

The Super 16 Cup is Guyana’s premier year-end knockout football tournament, bringing together top clubs, passionate supporters, and communities from across the country in celebration of the beautiful game.

(GFF release)

Crawley not aware of Stokes’ ‘weak men’ comments

OPENER Zak Crawley suggested he was not aware of comments made by Ben Stokes when the England captain said his dressing room is “not a place for weak men.”

Stokes made the statement in multiple interviews following England’s defeat in the second Ashes Test against Australia earlier this month.

In the run-up to the third Test, in which England are set to be beaten to lose the series at the earliest opportunity, Stokes said he had let his message “drift around” his players.

“I’ve done all the talking over the past two days that I needed to have done,” said the all-rounder.

But after Crawley made 85 on the fourth day of the third Test in Adelaide, he said: “I didn’t see that.

“I didn’t see and wasn’t really looking out for it. We take everything that is said in the media with a pinch of salt.” Stokes made the “weak men” comment after England were beaten in Brisbane to go 2-0 down. The England squad subsequently went on holiday to Noosa between the second and third Tests.

Before this match in Adelaide, Stokes said his team had held “raw” conversations. The captain also asked his players to “show a bit of dog” in their battle to remain in the series.

B u t K e n t ’s C r a w l e y

stated the messaging from Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum had remained consistent with their previous three years in charge.

“It’s been very positive, the same as always,” said Crawley. “[It’s] just trying to be optimistic, play our way, with lots of freedom. It felt like we could do something special going into this game.

Crawley’s dismissal late on Saturday was part of a crucial triple-strike by Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon.

Lyon’s three wickets in 20 deliveries – he also bowled Harry Brook and Ben Stokes – left England 207-6 chasing a notional target of 435.(BBC Sporrt)

Zak Crawley not aware of Stokes’ ‘weak men’ comments – (Yahoo Sports)

31

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Anthony Joshua bides time, knocks out Jake Paul in sixth round

MIAMI -- Jake Paul found out the hard way that there are levels in boxing, and former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua operates in a different stratosphere.

In an ugly bout that lasted much longer than many predicted, Joshua knocked out Paul in the sixth round of their scheduled eight-round main event Saturday night at Kaseya Center. Joshua scored four knockdowns -- twice in the fifth round and twice in the sixth -- with the finish coming at the 1:31 mark.

Paul, a social media influencer-turned-professional boxer, circled away from Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) for the first half of the fight as jeers rained down in the arena. Paul’s reluctance to engage ensured his survival early, but his conditioning betrayed him as the hulking Brit caught up to his tiring opponent and ended the fight with a scintillating straight right hand as chants of “knock him out” rang out.

“It wasn’t the best performance,” Joshua said while giving Paul his respect for showing up to fight. “It took a bit longer than expected, but the right hand finally found its destination.”

Joshua landed 48 of 146 punches (32.9%), with 31 of those punches landing in Rounds 5 and 6. Paul landed 16 of 56 punches (28.6%), including none in the sixth round.

After his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, Joshua returned to action after a 15-month layoff for a fight that few predicted would happen.

However, when Paul’s scheduled fight in November against Gervonta “Tank” Davis was cancelled after the WBA lightweight champion’s recent legal issues, Paul was determined to find a new opponent before the end of the year.

Paul (12-2, 7 KOs) always wanted to fight Joshua, and it came together quickly for the two to meet in a sanctioned heavyweight boxing match.

Many questioned whether Joshua would take Paul seriously as an opponent, but the 2012 Olympic gold medallist was steadfast that he wouldn’t underestimate Paul, regardless of his inexperience.

Their differences came to a head inside the ring Friday night, as Joshua was focused on scoring a knockout while Paul tried to survive.

Joshua entered the ring with Philadelphia rapper Freeway per-

Anthony Joshua floored Jake Paul four times -- twice in the fifth round and twice in the sixth -- and afterward called out former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury for a potential all-British showdown

forming “What We Do,” while Paul, adorned in Hulk Hogan-inspired ring attire, walked out with older brother Logan by his side and controversial rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine performing “Billy.” Once the fight started, the two engaged in a game

of cat and mouse.

There was a significant size difference between the two, with Paul weighing in at 216.6 pounds, the second heaviest of his pro career, and Joshua at 243.4 pounds, under the contracted weight limit of 245

pounds.

But it was Joshua’s advantages of 5 inches in height and 6 inches in reach, not to mention his years of championship experience, that would be too much for Paul to overcome. (ESPN)

Ngarava named Zimbabwe’s ‘A little fairytale’ - Lyon overtakes ODI and Test captain

FAST bowler Richard Ngarava has been named appointed as Zimbabwe’s new Test and ODI captain, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed on Saturday. The appointment was made following ZC Board’s fourth quarter meeting in Harare.

Brian Bennett, the 22-year-old who made his Test and ODI debut only last year, has been named vice-captain. The changes were necessitated after veteran Craig Ervine stepped down as the skipper.

Ngarava, who made his debut in 2017, is the leader of the Zimbabwe attack alongside Blessing Muzarabani.

He was the first Zimbabwean to take 100 T20I wickets and has played over 150 matches in international cricket across formats. Bennett on the other hand has had a rapid rise ever since he played his first T20I in December 2023.

The 22-year-old already has centuries in all three formats of the game at the international level, including the fastest Test hundred by a

McGrath in Test wicket-taker list

Richard Ngarava made his international debut in 2017.

Zimbabwean.

“Ngarava has shown remarkable growth as a player and leader over the years,” ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said.

“He commands respect within the dressing room and has consistently delivered for Zimbabwe across all formats.

We believe he is ready to lead the team into its next chapter.

“Brian’s appointment

as vice-captain reflects our confidence in his cricketing intelligence, maturity and long-term leadership potential. He represents the future of Zimbabwean cricket.

Craig Ervine led with professionalism, resilience and dignity during a challenging period. ZC is deeply grateful for his contribution to the team’s stability and progress.” (Cricbuzz)

AUSTRALIA off-spinner Nathan Lyon has overtaken legendary compatriot Glenn McGrath to move to sixth in the all-time list of Test wicket-takers.

Lyon, 38, needed two wickets at the start of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide to overhaul seamer McGrath’s tally of 563.

He moved level by having England’s Ollie Pope caught at mid-wicket with his third ball of the game, before claiming his 564th Test scalp by bowling Ben Duckett three balls later.

Lyon is now the second-highest Australian Test wicket-taker behind the late legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne, who took 708.

He is also the highest active player in the rankings and fourth-highest spinner, behind former Sri Lanka off-spinner Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Warne and ex-India leg-spinner Anil Kumble (619).

Retired England greats

Nathan Lyon is now the second-highest Australian Test wicket-taker behind the late legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne, who took 708.

Sir James Anderson (third on 704) and Stuart Broad (fifth on 604) are the only two pace bowlers ahead of Lyon.

“What a bowler. Nathan Lyon deserves to get that,” said McGrath on BBC Test Match Special.

“You wondered what impact Nathan Lyon was going to have in this game. First over, and that was a gem of a ball [to remove Ben

Duckett].

“He has been brilliant for Australia. He will go down as one of the greatest Australia spin bowlers behind Shane Warne.

“Lyon is the greatest off-spin bowler for Australia, he knows the craft so well. He has been part of that big four for Australia for such a long time.(BBC Sport).

Chase and St. Benedict’s Hodge’s dogged College to battle for Caribbean century leads supremacy in KFC School Football Windies resistance against New Zealand

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MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand, (CMC) – Kavem Hodge scored a resilient, unbeaten century as West Indies made New Zealand toil for the entire day in a rare show of commitment by their batsmen, to leave the third Test interestingly poised after three days.

Hodge ended the day on 109 not out, his second Test century and first in over 17 months, to help propel the visitors to 381 for six at the

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 21, 2025

Seales remains.

Luckily for the Windies, Hodge’s efforts along with those of the top and middle order, ensured they avoided the follow-on, although they will be hoping to make further inroads when play resumes on today’s fourth day.

Despite their commendable performance with the bat thus far, several West Indies batsmen would have been disappointed not to have pushed on after getting promising starts.

raced away to the midwicket boundary in the blink of an eye.

He brought up his half century just before lunch, and together with Tevin Imlach, shared a 66-run partnership to take the score to 206 for two at the break.

But as has been the case throughout the entire series, the West Indies lost a wicket almost immediately after the restart, with Imlach being caught behind chasing a wide delivery from Rae to be out

THE stage is set for an explosive conclusion to the KFC Goodwill International School Football Tournament as Guyana’s powerhouse, Chase Academic Foundation, prepares to defend home turf against Trinidad and Tobago’s elite, St. Benedict’s College at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue from 20:00h today.

Chase Academic Foundation enters today’s final with a point to prove.

Throughout the tournament, the Guyanese champions have displayed a clinical blend of tactical discipline and explosive speed.

The visitors from the “Southerners” of Trinidad have been the talk of the tournament. St. Benedict’s brings a level of technical sophistication and ball retention that is rarely seen at the school level. Both teams have shown they can score in bunches, but in a final of this magnitude, the first goal will

KFC Guyana’s CEO, Paul Subryan, along with the captains of the two finalists

be worth its weight in gold.

The preceding match will be Jamaica’s Kingston

College against Suriname Nikiere Technical from 18:00h.

GFF hosts high-level FIFA Forward 3.0 Workshop with national associations

Kavem Hodge celebrates after scoring a century against New Zealand in the third Test

Bay Oval, still some 194 runs in arrears of New Zealand’s massive first innings total of 575 for eight declared.

However, what is worrisome for the Windies is the fact that they may be without the services of both the inspirational Shai Hope and Kemar Roach.

There has been no sign of Hope yet, their best batter, who is reportedly unwell and holed up in the team’s hotel since Friday, while Roach’s availability for the remainder of the match is questionable after he suffered a hamstring injury on the opening day while bowling.

If they are unable to bat, it would mean only Jayden

Resuming the day in a strong position of 110 without loss, New Zealand struck early when pacer Jacob Duffy had John Campbell caught at second slip in the day’s third over, with the left-hander failing to add to his overnight score of 45. Hodge joined Brandon King at the crease, and the pair looked comfortable until Duffy bowled the latter off his pads with an inswinger for 63 to reduce the visitors to 140 for two.

Hodge, who started nervously, began to find his rhythm and when pacer Michael Rae served up three poor deliveries, he was hit for three successive boundaries, the last, a crunching pull that

for 27.

Alick Athanaze looked in superb nick in his knock of 45 off 57 balls, dominating a 61-run stand for the fourth wicket with Hodge.

However, with a half century imminent, Athanaze was unlucky to be bowled by spinner Ajaz Patel by a wide delivery down the leg side that ricocheted off his leg and onto the stumps, to leave the score 267 for four.

Hodge all the while continued to trudge on, and by the tea interval he had reached 83, with the Windies 310 for four.

Similar to Athanaze, Justin Greaves looked TURN TO PAGE 26

Commissioner Cole addresses participants

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), yesterday, hosted a high-level leadership workshop at the GFF Boardroom, as part of its ongoing implementation of FIFA Forward Programme 3.0, FIFA’s flagship development framework aimed

at strengthening governance, inclusivity, and sustainability within national football associations.

According to a GFF Facebook post, “the workshop was led by the Rights of the Child Commission and engaged regional execu-

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tives from the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) and the Georgetown Football Association (GFA). Discussions centred on advancing gender equality in football leadership, strengthening child protection mechanisms, TURN TO PAGE 26

| SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2025