Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 22-05-2025

Guyana 'unshakeable, unbreakable'

–– President Ali affirms nation’s position amidst Venezuela’s aggression

–– says ‘not a square inch’ of Guyana’s territory will be ceded

By Naomi Parris

IN the wake of Venezuela’s planned elections over Guyana’s Essequibo region and a recent border attack involving Guyanese troops, President Dr. Irfaan Ali issued a firm and passionate declaration, underscoring Guyana’s unyielding stance on its territorial sovereignty.

Speaking to reporters at the sidelines of an event on Wednesday, the Head of State made it clear that Guyana remains united and resolute in the face of its western neighbour’s blatant disregard for international norms.

“We are 83,000 square miles proud and strong — unshakeable, unbreakable — and that is how it’s going to be,” the President stated emphatically.

Venezuela is set to hold elections for the so-called Guayana ‘Esequiba’ state during its upcoming regional polls on May 25, 2025—just one day before Guyana marks its 59th independence anniversary.

This has been widely condemned as an aggressive and illegitimate move.

The development has heightened regional tensions, further exacerbated by a reported border attack involving Guyanese troops.

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

between Eteringbang and Makapa.

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

President Ali called on citizens to hold firm in their national identity and pride:

“We continue to ask all residents to be proud of your heritage, fly your Golden Arrowhead very high, knowing that not a square inch will be ceded.”

In outlining Guyana’s strategy for defending its territorial integrity, the President

identified three central pillars: diplomacy, defence, and international collaboration.

“There are three branches on which we have always defended our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said. “First and foremost is diplomacy. We have always pursued diplomatic efforts with our neighbours, regional leaders, and the entire CELAC [Community of Latin American and Caribbean States].

President Ali emphasised the importance of maintaining and strengthening the country’s defence capabilities

as a second line of assurance: “Diplomacy is an important plank on which we work.”

The second issue of course is ensuring that we have the best capability in protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

The third element, he noted, is sustained engagement with the international community and the relevant stakeholders. “We continue to work with the international community…We have been discussing of course, getting feedback from our embassy there [Venezuela], and our instructions to the ambassa-

dor and the embassy are clear —is to ensure that Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and our position are well known to all stakeholders.”

On May 1, 2025, the ICJ ordered the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to refrain from holding or preparing for any elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region, pending a final ruling on the ongoing border controversy. The decision comes in response to a request by Guyana following Venezuela’s January 2025 announcement of plans to elect a governor and legislative council

for what it claims to be the “Guayana Esequiba State.”

In its ruling, the World Court reaffirmed the provisional measures granted on December 1, 2023, and introduced a new, binding directive.

The court in its December 1, 2023 order, stated: “Pending a final decision in the case, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute for which the Cooperative Republic of Guyana administers and exercises control over that area; and both parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

The new measure explicitly states that, pending a final decision, Venezuela “shall refrain from conducting elections, or preparing to conduct elections, in the territory in dispute, which the Co-operative Republic of Guyana currently administers and over which it exercises control.”

This latest directive was adopted by 12 votes to three by the judges of the ICJ in The Hague, Netherlands.

The December 2023 order had already instructed Venezuela to avoid taking any actions that would alter the status quo of the territory under Guyana’s control and called on both nations to refrain from aggravating the situation.

Toshaos urged to produce more value-added products

WITH the majority of Amerindians residing in forested areas, village leaders have been urged to move away from traditional forestry activities and venture into more value-added production to earn more revenue.

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat made the appeal as he addressed the more than 240 toshaos during the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Wednesday.

Minister Bharrat explained that Guyana’s forest contains over 1,000 tree

species and there is a need to add value to these resources rather than exporting them in their raw form.

The minister noted that villages could tap into value-added industries such as furniture making, craft, and construction materials using local wood. These initiatives would create jobs and retain more economic benefits to the country.

“We will help you to do that, like we will be doing in some communities. Let us make value-added products. It will create more opportunities in terms of jobs, and it is far more profitable for the community,” the

Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat addresses the NTC Conference on Wednesday

minister added.

Minister Bharrat also reminded leaders that the

government has training opportunities available that are designed to equip youths with skills in furniture and jewellery making.

He appealed to the leaders that “If you have young people in your community that want to engage in jewellery making, please let us know because we can bring them to Georgetown to be trained.”

Minister Bharrat also spoke about mining, highlighting the need for safe and sustainable mining in communities. He wants those involved to move away from mercury use and adopt better recovery

technologies to increase profitability and sustainability.

Leaders were also encouraged to seek technical support from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to ensure compliance with established mining regulations.

“There are many villages here who are considering or planning to engage in mining activities and we want to encourage you to do it, but we have to do it in partnership to ensure it is done in a responsible and a sustainable manner,” the natural resources minister stated.

He added that the government is updating its mineral mapping to better allocate resources and avoid environmental harm.

For context, mineral mapping involves using techniques, often including hyperspectral remote sensing and satellite imagery, to identify and map the location and distribution of minerals within a region.

Minister Bharrat made it clear that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration is focused on inclusive development, using oil revenues to uplift all communities. (DPI)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

President Ali swears in largest appellate bench ever

By Naomi Parris

GUYANA recorded a historic first on Wednesday as five Justices of Appeal were sworn in simultaneously — the largest such appointment in the nation’s history.

Describing it as a “vital step” in strengthening the administration of justice, President Dr. Irfaan Ali presided over the historic swearing-in of five Justices of Appeal.

“This event constitutes not only a significant moment in the professional lives of the appointees,” President Ali stated, “but also a vital step in strengthening the institutional framework of the administration of justice in our country.”

The appointments come at a time when the demand for efficient and timely judicial review is increasingly pressing.

President Ali emphasised the critical role of the Court of Appeal in ensuring justice is administered with fairness and consistency.

“The Court of Appeal, the Court of Appeals serves its pivotal role in reviewing appeals from decisions and orders of the High Court and ensuring that the law is applied consistently, judiciously and equitably. In so doing, it contributes indispensably to the preservation of the rule of law, the protection of fundamental rights and the maintenance of constitutional order.”

The judicial Service Commission recommended seven judges to be appointed, five have now officially taken their oaths: Justices Jo Ann Barlow, Navindra Singh, Priya Sewnarine-Be

harry, Nareshwhar Harnanan, and Dr Joycelin

Kyte-Thomas.

At a later date Justice Damone Younge and Mr Rafiq Khan, SC will take their oaths.

The President noted that the appointment of these five individuals, made on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission, reflects the continuing fortification of our judicial architecture.

“Their elevation comes at a time when the demand for efficient

and expeditious appellate review is greater than ever. The efficacy of any legal system is closely tied to the timeliness with which it dispenses justice. In this regard, the expansion of the compliment of the pellet judges is both timely and necessary, it will facilitate more efficient management of the pellet caseload and allow for a speedier resolution of matters, thereby enhancing public confidence in the judicial process,” the President explained.

The expanded bench is expected to improve the pace and efficiency of appellate rulings, a longstanding issue.

The Head of State was also keen to point out 60 per cent of the Judges who

were sworn in on Wednesday were women.

“That’s not just progress—it’s powerfully symbolic of the role women play in shaping our future.”

President Ali further highlighted that the larger panel of appellate justices would help reduce backlogs and accelerate the delivery of decisions, thereby enhancing public trust in the judiciary.

He added: “As justices of appeal you will be called upon to be arbiters in many matters of legal significance. Your pronouncements will shape jurisprudence, guide future adjudication, and influence the manner in which justice is experienced and upheld in our republic.”

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Wednesday presided over the historic swearing-in of five Justices of Appeal. In photo, President Ali (fourth from left) flanked by Justices Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Nareshwhar Harnanan, Jo Ann Barlow, Navindra Singh and Dr Joycelin Kyte-Thomas (Office of the President Photo)

Gov’t, Afrieximbank launch US$1 billion financing facility

–– as Finance Minister encourages bank to work closely with local business sector to facilitate real transactions

THE African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) at the Marriott Hotel, on Wednesday, launched a US $1 billion oil services financing facility to support local businesses in the oil and gas sector.

The two-day road-show event, held in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, will see attendance from a number of local business and government officials and is being held under the theme, ‘Empowering Local Content Participation for Sustainable Prosperity through the Implementation of Afreximbank Mandate.’

Its objective is to strengthen economic trade and partnerships between Caribbean countries and Africa and the initiative follows bilateral discussions between His Excellency President Irfaan Ali and the Bank’s President, Mr Benedict O Oramah, earlier this year.

It can be recalled that

in February 2025, President Oramah, during the opening of Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, declared the Bank’s intention to launch the financing facility in Guyana.

Speaking at the event,

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, emphasised that, “There is a really deep and profound tie between the African continent and the Caribbean, that is rooted primarily first and foremost, in its people and culture. But there are also remarkable economic opportunities that have remained untapped and undertapped for far too long, and we need, in this generation, to move the relationship beyond historic, cultural and emotional times, and instead, capitalise and leverage resources to realise the vast economic and commercial opportunities that exist be-

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh and Afreximbank’s Regional Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Okechukwu Ihejirika at the Afreximbank Guyana Roadshow, held in collaboration with the Government of Guyana at the Marriott Hotel

tween our economies.”

Dr Singh also expressed appreciation to the bank’s

leadership on behalf of the Government of Guyana for establishing the facility and

convening the event to introduce the Guyanese private sector to the various financial products and encouraged the Bank to work closely with the sector to facilitate real transactions. He then urged the private sector to interrogate and analyse in detail, the products offered by the Bank, to fully understand their potential and benefits and to take advantage of the opportunities they present.

The minister further used the opportunity to call on other international and regional agencies to do more with the Guyanese private sector, given the vast opportunities and exponential economic growth in the country today.

“We are committed as a government to providing all of the support that we possibly can to facilitate and encourage easier and more competitively priced access to financing,” Dr Singh assured.

During his presentation at the forum, Afreximbank’s Regional Chief Operating Officer Mr Okechukwu Ihejirika pointed out that the launch was not just a promise.

“It is something we mean to implement… about getting deals done. We’re here to listen, to engage, and to start implementation.”

Mr Iherjirika also noted that it is imperative that not just international oil firms, but local businesses also benefit from Guyana’s oil wealth.

The Afreximbank, an international financial institution, was launched in 1993 with a mission “to stimulate a consistent expansion, diversification and development of African trade, while operating as a first-class, profit-oriented, socially responsible financial institution and a centre of excellence in African trade matters.”

Linden to lead Guyana’s clean-energy transition with largest solar farm

IN a major leap towards a sustainable energy future, the town of Linden is set to become the national leader in renewable energy development following the official signing of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for a 15-megawatt (MW) solar farm under the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Photovoltaic (GUYSOL) programme.

The signing ceremony on Wednesday marked the commencement of the largest solar farm project to be constructed under the GUYSOL initiative, a flagship programme of the Gov-

ernment of Guyana that is financed through US$83.3 million earned under the Guyana-Norway forest climate services partnership.

The initiative is being jointly implemented by the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

The Linden solar farm, expected to be completed by 2026, is poised to serve as a cornerstone of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility and climate resilience. It will be constructed by a joint

venture between SUMEC Engineering and XJ Group Corporation, at a cost of US$22.58 million.

Once operational, the facility will generate approximately 20,210 megawatt-hours of clean energy annually, reducing over 17,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year for the next two decades. In addition, the solar farm is projected to save the government an estimated GY$1.2 billion annually in electricity subsidies currently paid to support energy generation in Linden.

A notable feature of the project is the integration

–– US$22.5M solar project marks milestone in energy independence

of a state-of-the-art battery energy storage system with a 22-megawatt-hour (MWh) capacity. This will ensure a stable and continuous electricity supply by storing excess solar energy during the day and releasing it during periods of low sunlight. The project also includes a full digital transformation of Linden’s electrical grid, transitioning from manual analog systems to a real-time automated monitoring and control platform.

Speaking at the contract signing ceremony, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasized the significance of the project as a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusive national development.

“This government made a promise to improve the livelihoods of all Guyanese, and this solar farm is a testimony to our commitment to the people of Linden and Guyana as a whole,” the Prime Minister stated. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining low electricity rates in Linden and pledged to continue exploring ways to further reduce energy costs for residents.

Prime Minister Phillips also provided historical context, noting that under a previous People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) administration, Guyana had secured US$220.8 million through its partnership with Norway for renewable energy projects,

including the now-shelved Amaila Falls Hydro Project.

“Had we gone ahead with that project, we would have had 165 megawatts of renewable energy by 2017,” Phillips remarked, expressing confidence that with the current momentum, Linden will benefit significantly in the coming years.

Looking ahead to the 2026–2030 development cycle, the Prime Minister announced plans for a transmission line connecting Linden to the Berbice-Demerara Interconnected System. This link will allow Linden to benefit from multiple electricity sources: the solar farm, the anticipated Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, and the Gas-to-Energy project currently under development.

Beyond clean energy generation, the project is expected to bring social benefits by creating opportunities for women and youth, who will be trained to operate and maintain the facilities.

“As we earn more revenue from oil and gas and other sources, you will see more and more investment of this nature,” Prime Minister Phillips concluded.

Once completed, Linden’s solar farm will not only be the largest of its kind in the country, but will also make a significant contribution to Guyana’s goal of generating nearly one-fifth of its electricity from renewable sources— marking a critical step toward energy independence, lower electricity costs, and a reduced carbon footprint.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips

(From left) GPL Executive Management Team Leader, Kesh Nandlall, successfully signs contract with SUMEC Engineering and XJ Group Corporation (Delano Williams photo)

An Informed Citizenry

IN the recent weeks, our nation has witnessed an alarming increase in Venezuelan propaganda meant to create discord, unease and confusion regarding our territorial integrity.

The Government of Guyana has well condemned these “unpatriotic and constant attempts” by some individuals who spread Venezuelan propaganda on social media, most of which is either obsolete, irrelevant to Guyana, or entirely fabricated.

This disturbing trend deserves our country’s notice and attention as Guyanese citizens who value sovereignty and truth very highly.

The Essequibo region has been a target of Venezuela’s unfounded claims since colonial times.

Despite clear historical and legal precedents in support of Guyana’s sovereignty, Venezuela continues its vicious campaign of

misinformation. December of 2023 witnessed President Maduro’s sham referendum to annex our Essequibo region into Venezuelan territory.

Venezuela now plans to hold an election allegedly in Guyana’s Essequibo region this Sunday, but again, there is no doubt that the Maduro regime will try to create confusion and fear with intense propaganda.

These actions are a calculated effort to shape global opinion and create domestic unrest within our citizens.

Most alarming is likely the high-tech capability of Venezuela’s propaganda apparatus. Their campaign now includes manipulated fake news videos, manipulated AI-generated photos, and large-scale disinformation promoted through social media platforms by accounts associated with pro-Venezuelan interests.

We’ve also seen blatant lies, such as the false claim that Venezuelans

had swapped their flag for that of Guyana –promptly denied by both President Irfaan Ali and the Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force.

Such blatant attempts at deception show why caution and critical thinking are essential.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is appropriately cautioning citizens to have sole trust in official government announcements regarding issues related to the border controversy.

This caution must be heeded by all in Guyana who are genuinely interested in national security and social harmony. Such individuals who disseminate unverified facts – either through ignorance or malice – are inadvertently serving as vehicles for foreign propaganda designed to subvert our resolute stand on territorial integrity.

Our resource is in oneness and enlight-

ened citizenship. Each Guyanese has an obligation to vet information prior to posting, to study credible sources, and remain steadfast against hate speech that serves only the interests of those who erode our sovereignty.

The historical fact very clearly supports the case of Guyana in this border controversy, which is why Venezuela is reduced to lying rather than pursuing its unfounded claims.

As we continue to resolve this controversy judicially, let us demonstrate to the world that Guyana is one, steadfast and resistant to propaganda. Our territorial integrity is non-negotiable, and our commitment to the truth is unwavering.

In this era of information warfare, an informed citizenry is our best defence against those who would attempt to advance their claims to territory by means of deceptions at Guyana’s expense.

Examination of sugar must consider industry’s condition before PPP/C’s election to office in 2020

Dear Editor,

RECENTLY, the print media was dominated with letters and commentaries on sugar production under the PPP/C Government post 2020. Of interest, one letter written on May 16, 2025, contends that:

“The PPP/C government will come and tell the people of this country during this year’s elections campaign that the sugar industry produced poorly in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 because the APNU+AFC government closed sugar estates during the reorganisation of the sugar industry.”

However, the question must be asked, how is it that despite the reorganisation process, the industry still produced two to three times more sugar from 2016 to 2020, earned over US$200 million more and with less resources?

Well, it is always very easy to destroy things, but very difficult, costly and time-consuming to build and rebuild things. Before I demonstrate with statistical facts, it would be remiss of me not to remind readers and the critics that the APNU+AFC government had completely disregarded its own advice not to close any of the sugar estates, vis-à-vis, the Commission of Inquiry (COI) report on the sugar industry.

Now for the facts. The APNU+AFC gov-

ernment closed four sugar estates, namely: Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore and Wales.

When the PPP/C government resumed office in 2020, work began to reopen only two of those estates: Rose Hall and Skeldon.

As of 2022, according to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) annual report, the reopened estates were not yet accounting for total production, which is understandable. It took a considerable amount of time and resources to put back those estates into production. It was not an easy task then, and it is still not an easy task now.

As shown in the table, total hectares (ha) harvested was 42,784, which generated 206,618 metric tonnes (MT) of sugar, with an average yield/ha of 4.8 mt in 2015. Conversely, as of 2022, a total of 15,686 ha were harvested, which generated a total of 47,049 mt of sugar, with an average yield/ha of three mt.

In other words, in 2022, almost three times less sugar cane was harvested, and 4.4x less sugar was produced owing to a lower average yield per ha.

In 2024, readers would recall that the Government of Guyana (GoG) had reported on the efforts being made to increase production by way of cultivating an additional 5,000+ ha of land through the Skeldon estate.

With this in mind, the hard fact of the matter is that the sugar industry is in this

current state, producing 4.4x less sugar than it did in 2015, largely because of the closure of the four estates by the APNU+AFC government in the 2015-2020 period.

And the PPP/C government could have practically reopened only two of those estates. Although work began by the PPP/C government almost immediately to reopen these two estates, Rose Hall and Skeldon,

they did not start producing until post 2022/23 in the case of Rose Hall and post 2023/24 in the case of Skeldon.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Journalistic freedom in Guyana

IMAGINE taking your friend to the local hardware store, where on display is a plethora of screwdrivers.

You then tell your friend they must leave because the store doesn’t sell screwdrivers. Here in Guyana, every year when World Press Freedom Day arrives, the Western embassies issue statements on the occasion but I have never seen a press release from these embassies advising media entities that their professionalism needs to be improved and that Guyana enjoys a huge latitude in press freedom.

I don’t have any contacts with the officials of the British, Canadian, American and EU diplomats (ABCEU). I have eschewed the company of those people since I became a recognisable name in Guyana and that was since 1974, when I became a determined voice for democracy as a left-wing student at UG.

Since 1974, I have not attended a function put on by the ABCEU mission. Since 1974 there have been sporadic encounters with some Western diplomats, with the highest point being dinner with one of them at his request at the Pegasus. He wanted to talk about politics.

There are three reasons for this posture. One is I have always shunned those events because it hurts my psyche to see how learned, important Guyanese would gravitate toward those diplomats in a sycophantic way as if they are inferior humans to these Western diplomats. Yet when these diplomats leave, they become obscure figures of no national importance in their own countries, while the Guyanese of substance still remain people of worth in their own country.

Secondly, I think those diplomats are very condescending in their attitude to the Guyanese who seek their company. I remember Moses Nagamootoo autographed a copy of his first autobiography for the Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in 2019. The gentleman gave away the book when he was leaving and it ended up in my hand.

I cannot detect the whole name because of the way Nagamootoo wrote it. But I think the first name was Mark. Give me the Indian and Chinese diplomats any day. The third reason is that I have never had a strong socialisation

instinct, which died as I grew older.

The ABCEU diplomats are very close to the anti-government media and the embassies are very generous to them. For example, six months after arriving in Guyana, the current EU head gave the editor of the Stabroek News, the Embassy’s Annual Human Rights Award. I was drinking coffee when I read it and the split substance burned my legs. Could that ambassador tell Guyanese what Mr. Persaud did in the area of human rights to earn that accolade?

Here is a second example. When globally known media houses go down to Third World countries to do research, they normally would contact the local embassy of their country. So when the BBC did a HardTalk episode on oil in Guyana, it was the British High Commission that facilitated Vanda Radzik as an interviewee. It was the American embassy that selected a man named Bailey (can’t remember his first name; either he is not known in Guyana or I am getting Alzheimer’s) for CNN to interview on Guyana’s oil. It was the British High Commission that recommended Stabroek News editor to be a panelist on Guyana on the BBC World Questions programme. Today, journalistic freedom takes in the irony of ironies. Newspapers are openly anti- government, throwing their independent instinct into the gutter. Today, two private newspapers -Kaieteur News and Stabroek News – appear in the eyes of the Guyanese people as opposition parties rather than media houses.

There is more anti-government venom in these two newspapers than in the major opposition parties. Several people have said to me that the Stabroek News carry the fight to the government more than the PNC. To say that Guyana hasn’t got a climate of journalistic freeness is tantamount to saying there isn’t a president in the US named Donald Trump. Here is one graphic example where press freedom in Guyana is being abused.

The Stabroek News ran a letter by Mr. Lincoln Lewis in its Monday edition with the head line: “Guyana’s territorial integrity cannot be defended by a population who feel excluded from its prosperity.” This is dangerous anti-government propaganda that no newspaper should highlight when a country

Construction to begin on 111 hinterland houses

THE Hinterland Housing Programme continues to impact the livelihoods of residents from Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine by providing a safe and secure living environment.

The housing initiative is targeting 300 vulnerable families in these regions.

A total of 111 will be completed across the hinterland regions this year.

Of this amount, 10 houses each will be built at Imbotero, Arakaka, and Baramita in Region One; Tassarene, Kangaruma, Quenenang, Omenaik in Region Seven; Karisparu, Muruwau and Kaibarupai in Region Eight.

Six houses will also be constructed at Tuseneng in Region Eight, two at Sand Creek and three at Shea in Region Nine.

Speaking at the National Toshaos Council Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference on Wednesday, Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal said the housing project is giving families a stable environment and generating additional economic benefits for the local economy.

is facing invasion.

In times of outside aggression from another country, the media draws a line which holds free speech to be responsible. Who says Guyana’s territorial integrity cannot be defended by Guyanese? Who

does Mr. Lewis speak for? Who tells Mr. Lewis that Guyanese do not share in its oil wealth? Why was there no editorial note asking Mr. Lewis for his statistics? The Stabroek News and Mr. Lewis are enemies at the gate.

A total of 163 houses have already been completed at Kokerite, Warapoka, Haimaruni, Tiger Pond, Lethem, Yakarinta, Smith Creek, Blackwater Savannah, Nappi, Shiriri, Crashwater, Quatata, Rupunau and Yurong Paru.

The selection of the beneficiaries is conducted transparently at a general meeting where two-thirds of the majority must agree. (DPI)

He stated that building materials such as timber, clay bricks, sand and stone are sourced directly from the regions.

Demerara Bank slashes mortgage rate in major boost for homeownership

– offers five per cent for loans up to $30M

IN a significant boost for aspiring homeowners, Demerara Bank Limited has

announced a major reduction in its residential mortgage interest rate to

just five per cent for loans up to G$30 million, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to national development and easing the financial burden on Guyanese families.

The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s administration to make homeownership more affordable and accessible across the country. The President recently revealed that the government is in active discussions with the New Building Society (NBS) to increase its mortgage ceiling from G$20 million to G$30 million with a guaranteed interest rate not exceeding five per cent, mirroring Demerara Bank’s latest move.

“At 9:45 am, I instructed the Minister of Finance to write to the New Building Society and to increase their loan limit to $30 million,” President Ali disclosed, emphasising that this measure aligns with the PPP/C government’s broader agenda to uplift families and improve quality of life through hous-

ing access.

Demerara Bank’s updated mortgage package goes even further by eliminating several key upfront fees, including: 50% discount on attorneys fees; No processing fees; and the waiving of site-inspection fees.

These concessions significantly lower the initial costs associated with homeownership and pave the way for smoother financial planning.

“We recognise that owning a home is one of the most

important milestones in a person’s life,” said Mr. Dowlat Parbhu, Chief Executive Officer of Demerara Bank Limited. “By lowering rates and removing several key costs, we’re not just offering financial products — we’re offering real support to the people of Guyana.”

This move, he noted, reflects the bank’s long-standing tradition of “community-first” banking, rooted in trust, stability, and social responsibility.

Applicants can begin the process online through Demerara Bank’s website and benefit from same-day loan approvals, making the path to homeownership faster and more efficient.

President Ali has repeatedly underscored his government’s commitment to housing equity, referencing

successful collaborations with financial institutions and land-distribution drives under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government.

With both the public and private sectors aligned on making homeownership a reality for more Guyanese, the latest initiatives signal renewed momentum in Guyana’s housing sector — one that’s poised to uplift families and drive longterm national development.

“We are unshakeable, unbreakable,” President Ali said during a separate address, tying the housing drive to the broader vision of a resilient and united nation — not only defending its borders, but also securing homes for its people.

Education Ministry takes firm action following bullying incident at Ann’s Grove Secondary School

THE Ministry of Education has responded swiftly and decisively to a disturbing incident of bullying at Ann’s Grove Secondary School, which involved a special-needs student being physically assaulted and verbally abused by classmates, an act captured in a video that circulated widely on social media.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, was first informed of the incident by a relative of the injured student during a visit to the child’s home in Victoria Village. In response, the ministry dispatched a high-level delegation to the school on Monday to engage directly with students, teachers, and parents.

The delegation, led by Deputy Chief Education Officer for Administration, Ms. Tiffany Favorite-Harvey, included Assistant Chief Education Officer for Secondary Education, Mr. Sherwyn Blackman; Regional Edu-

cation Officer for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Ms. Keane Adams; Assistant Chief Education Officer for Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Dr. Keon Cheong; among other senior officials.

According to the ministry, the discussions held at the school were extensive and aimed at understanding the scope of the issue and formulating appropriate responses. As a result of the investigation, disciplinary action has been taken against the students found to be involved in the bullying incident. The measures vary depending on the level of each student’s involvement and include mandatory counselling, psychological evaluations, transfers to other schools and close monitoring.

In a statement, the ministry expressed “deep concern and disappointment” over the handling of the incident within the school’s internal system

and has launched a full investigation to determine where procedural failures may have occurred.

“This system must work,” the ministry stated firmly, noting that school counsellors have been placed in nearly all secondary schools since around 2021/2022. There are currently more than 133 counsellors deployed across the country’s 117 secondary schools, including Ann’s Grove Secondary, which has its own dedicated counsellor.

The ministry emphasised that once the ongoing review is complete, appropriate action will be taken to address any shortcomings and ensure a safer, more responsive learning environment for all students.

The case has reignited calls for greater attention to the mental health and safety of special-needs students, as well as the need for stronger anti-bullying protocols across schools in Guyana.

Elections Fraud Trial: Jabour recounts questionable actions surrounding Region Four tabulation

FORMER Executive Member of A New and United Guyana (ANUG), Kian Jabour, on Wednesday, took the stand and recounted questionable actions that took place during the March 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Jabour was brought as the first witness yesterday as part of the long-awaited 2020 election fraud trial currently underway before Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

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

Jabour recalled March 5, 2020, which he noted was supposed to be the tabulation day for Region Four at the Ashmin Building in Georgetown.

According to him, when he arrived there, there wasn’t much going on as he and other party agents were waiting in the common area of the building.

He recalled some commotion started as he saw Clairmont Mingo, standing above on the balcony of the first floor.

Jabour stated that while he was there at Ashmin building, he would not be able to say what, if any tabulation occurred.

However, at that point, he indicated that there was shouting and commotion that drowned out anything that he could have heard. At that time, he stated that people were shouting, “You’re a liar,” and “That’s incorrect,” among other things.

This, he said, occurred as Mingo was holding a piece of paper, and he saw his mouth moving and did not hear exactly what he was saying.

Subsequent to this, he noted that Mingo left, and he

was unsure which direction he went in.

According to Jabour, he, along with others, had discussions about not being able to hear or know what was being said by Mingo and were trying to seek clarity from GECOM Chair, Justice Ret’d Claudette Singh. He told the court that, from his understanding, Singh was in the building, and he and others made an attempt to get to her in the building to seek clarity on what Mingo had said.

Jabour stated that they got to the second floor of the building and were then told they would not be able to go further; however, they made an attempt and were able to get past the officers there.

Upon arriving at the third floor, he noted there was a room which was adjoining another, and he then attempted to get in there, and they were again stopped by officers.

The witness said that after an altercation and some back-and-forth discussion, access to the secondary room was achieved. He entered the room briefly but was soon met by an increased police

presence.

He noted that he was then asked to leave and was escorted back to the ground floor. The witness stated that he could not confirm how many people were in the room, apart from two persons, those being Singh and Myers.

About 30 minutes to an hour later, he recalled that he witnessed Claudette Singh leaving the building through the back entrance, accompanied, he believed, by a police escort.

Later, Jabour stated he was asked to go to the Sleep Inn Hotel for a press conference. On the way out, one of his party’s agents, Jonathan Yearwood, informed him that there were documents in the tabulation room at the Ashmin Building that were believed to be Statements of Poll (SOPs) for Region Four.

The witness said two of his party’s agents were asked to remain in the building while he attended the press conference.

He described those documents as being critical, saying they would have reflected what had occurred at the actual polling stations.

According to him, the information on the Statements of Poll would have been the same data tabulated at the stations. At that time, he

added, there was confusion over whether the numbers GECOM had were consistent with those recorded by party observers.

Subsequently, while at

the press conference, he indicated that he was informed that the police had removed everyone who remained at the Ashmin building.

was subsequently cross-examined with his testimony, and further cross-examination was deferred to a later date.

Jabour

Clairmont Mingo Roxanne Myers Volda Lawrence

Carol Smith-Joseph

Keith Lowenfield

Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty

Former ANUG executive member, Kian Jabour

CCJ dismisses appeal in US$300,000 debt case

THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, dismissed the appeal brought by Hardat Singh in the civil matter GY/A/CV2024/002

Hardat Singh v Ann Narine, upholding the rulings of the Guyanese courts and lifting a stay that had temporarily blocked the sale of Singh’s Queenstown property.

The ruling clears the path for the enforcement of a money judgement in favour of Ms. Ann Narine, who claimed that Singh had agreed to repay her US $300,000 under a written document she believed to be a promissory note.

Although Guyana’s Chief Justice (Ag), Madam Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire, ruled the document did not qualify as a promissory note in the legal sense, she accepted it as a binding contract. On April 20, 2021, the High

Court awarded judgement in Narine’s favour after Singh failed to appear or file a defence.

Singh subsequently challenged the ruling in multiple courts, filing appeals with the Full Court and the Court of Appeal in Guyana—both of which upheld the original decision. He then took the matter to the CCJ, listing 21 grounds of appeal in his attempt to overturn the judgement.

However, the CCJ found that Singh had failed to follow the correct legal procedure by not applying to set aside the original judgement under Rule 39.07 of the Civil Procedure Rules. Instead of seeking a rehearing based on his absence, Singh pursued appeals at each judicial level, which the CCJ considered an abuse of process.

Delivering the Court’s decision, the panel—comprising Justices Anderson,

Rajnauth-Lee, Barrow, Jamadar, and Ononaiwu—emphasised that Singh’s actions appeared to be a deliberate attempt to avoid giving a valid explanation under oath for his absence at trial.

“By choosing to appeal rather than applying to set aside, the appellant avoided the filing of evidence on oath and cross-examination as to his non-attendance at trial, and the truth of what happened to the documents that unarguably were served at his foreign address,” the Court stated.

Singh’s legal team, led by attorney Devindra Kissoon, argued that he had not received the court documents, claiming they were mistakenly served at his New York residence and signed for by someone listed as “N Singh,” who he said was not related to him. The Court found this claim to lack credibility, particularly since it was raised for the

first time during a second appeal, and without adequate supporting evidence.

The Court concluded that Singh had not been forthright in his conduct and found his procedural approach to be “an abuse of process.” As a result, the

stay of execution that was previously granted in December 2024—temporarily halting the sale of Singh’s Queenstown property—was lifted, allowing enforcement of the judgment to proceed.

Legal costs were awarded to Ms. Narine, who was represented by attorney Sanjeev J. Datadin. In a comment following the ruling, Datadin stated that the decision affirmed the importance of procedural fairness in civil litigation.

The ruling brings closure to a legal battle that began in November 2020 when Narine filed a Fixed Date Application in the High Court for repayment of the US $300,000. With the CCJ’s dismissal of Singh’s appeal, the judgement stands as final, and the long-delayed property sale may now proceed.

In an invited comment to this publication, Ms Ann Narine stated that “it’s been

a grinding battle, but in the end I prevailed. The CCJ ruled in my favour! These past years tested my resolve to see justice done. There were times when I felt drained and exhausted, but I never gave up. I wish to extend a special note of gratitude to Sanjeev Datadin and his entire legal team for their tireless legal work.

Also, sending a big Thank you, to everyone who gave moral support throughout this ordeal.”

Ann Narine

Agriculture Ministry takes action to safeguard Black Bush Polder amid ongoing rains

- implements urgent relief measures

IN the wake of persistent heavy rainfall that triggered flooding in parts of Johanna and Yakusari, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, visited Black Bush Polder to assess the situation and initiate swift relief efforts to support affected farmers and residents.

Accompanied by senior technical officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and representatives from key agencies, Minister Mustapha conducted on-site assessments in Yakusari, Johanna, Mibicuri, and Lesbeholden, meeting directly with residents impacted by the floodwaters.

Residents expressed concern over rising water levels, especially in Johanna and Yakusari, which suffered the brunt of the inundation.

work ing closely with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to ensure that all systems are functioning. Currently, three pumps are operational, along with the Number 43 sluice, which is working around the clock,” the Minister stated during his visit.

He further noted that over four to five inches of rain fell in less than twelve hours, according to data from the Hydrometeorological Office.

In response, engi -

machinery be deployed to vulnerable sections of the polders to empolder areas at risk.

“The machines should arrive by Thursday to help reinforce our flood defences,” he added.

A troubling issue raised during the visit was the deliberate tampering of drainage and irrigation infrastructure. Residents reported that some individuals had cut dams, exacerbating the flooding. Minister Mustapha responded immediately, ordering repairs and

Minister Mustapha assured the community that a full damage assessment will be conducted through the Ministry's agencies to determine the extent of losses, particularly to agricultural lands.

“In Yakusari and Johanna, the water levels are higher, but the situation in Mibicuri and Lesbeholden is more manageable. I’ve been

neers from the NDIA have been deployed to implement urgent drainage measures, including enhanced pump operations and the activation of additional drainage systems. These efforts have already resulted in a noticeable reduction in floodwaters across affected areas.

The Minister also directed that additional

strengthening security measures to prevent further tampering.

Despite the challenges, Minister Mustapha confirmed that there have been no significant reports of rice crop losses. He emphasised that agencies such as the NDIA, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the Guyana Livestock

Development Authority (GLDA), and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) are actively monitoring the situation and submitting regular updates.

The Ministry of Agriculture remains on high alert as the rainy season continues and reiterated its commitment to protecting the livelihoods of farmers and residents in the Black Bush Polder area.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, speaks to the affected farmers and residents

Three Linden men granted bail on robbery under arms charges

MUHAMAD Bakker, 19, a welder from Powiese Crescent, Amelia’s Ward, along with Javon LaFleur, 28, a labourer from Self Help, Amelia’s Ward, and Elijah Gilkes, 19, a labourer from South Amelia’s Ward, have been granted bail following their arrest on May 17 in connection with a robbery under arms.

The three men appeared on Wednesday at the Linden Magistrate’s Court to answer

charges related to a robbery that occurred at Gang

The accused were not required to enter a plea during the court session. Each was placed on bail set at $350,000, with the condition that they report to the Mackenzie Police Station twice monthly.

The case has been adjourned until June 27th, 2025, for further proceedings.

Xing, Central Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Linden.

Javon La Fleur

Elijah Gilkes

Muhamed Bakker

PM Phillips engages Revealed Word Christian Center on community development partnerships

PRIME MINISTER,

Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips, recently held a cordial meeting with representatives of the Revealed Word Christian Center at his Camp Street office, where discussions focused on collaboration for community empowerment and national development.

The visiting delegation was led by Apostle Alex Selorm and included Pastor Selase Selorm, Deacon Ronald Cameron, and Brother Ibeh Chibuike. The group expressed interest in working with the Government of Guyana on initiatives that would

benefit local communities through faithbased outreach and support services.

Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to engaging religious organisations as key partners in its ongoing efforts to promote social cohesion, strengthen communities, and uplift citizens across the country.

The meeting reflects the administration’s continued efforts to foster inclusive governance through collaboration with a broad cross-section of society, including religious groups, civil society, and the private sector.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, flanked by representatives of the Revealed Word Christian Center

PSC unveils new executive committee for 2025–2026

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has elected its new Executive Committee for the 2025–2026 term, following its 33rd Annual General Meeting held on Monday, May 20, 2025.

The leadership team will be tasked with advancing the PSC’s strategic priorities and representing the interests of Guyana’s business community both nationally and regionally.

Captain Gerald Gouveia Jr. has been elected as Chairman, leading a diverse and experienced team that includes: Vice Chairman – Ms. Kathy Smith;

Honorary Secretary – Dr. Clinton Urling; Treasurer – Mr. Imran Saccoor; and Corporate Coordinator – Mr. Manniram Prashad.

A historic milestone was also reached with the election of Ms. Kathy Smith as the Commission’s first female Vice Chairman, signalling the PSC’s commitment to gender inclusion and the promotion of diversity in leadership roles.

The newly elected committee is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the private sector’s contribution to national development. Priorities include

fostering sustainable business growth, enhancing public-private sector collaboration, and safeguarding democratic processes through initiatives like the PSC’s long-established Election Observer Mission.

In a statement, the PSC emphasised its commitment to good governance, economic resilience, and inclusive leadership, noting that the new committee reflects the broad representation of its membership, including key stakeholders from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Region 5 Chamber

of Commerce and Industry, and other major corporate entities.

The PSC also extended its gratitude to the outgoing Executive Committee for their

service and achievements over the past year, expressing confidence in the new leadership to build upon their legacy.

The 2025–2026 Executive

Committee now begins its mandate at a time of continued economic transformation and expanding private sector opportunity in Guyana.

Training course empowers persons with disabilities in sustainable agriculture

Approximately 24 participants are enrolled in the five-day course, which concludes on Friday

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Support Services for Persons with Disabilities (SSPD) Unit, has partnered with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Agriculture Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme to launch a transformative agricultural training programme in Region 10.

The "Sustainable Agriculture Level 1 Training Course" officially commenced on Monday at the Kwakwani Neighbourhood

Democratic Council (NDC) boardroom, specifically targeting persons living with disabilities. The initiative seeks to empower participants with critical knowledge and hands-on skills to enhance their livelihoods through sustainable farming.

Approximately 24 participants are enrolled in the five-day course, which concludes on Friday, May 23.

The comprehensive training covers a wide range of agricultural disciplines, including organic farming, agricultural business and marketing strategies, sustainable pest and disease management,

vertical and urban gardening, and harvesting indices. The course is designed to equip individuals with disabilities with the technical expertise needed to implement eco-friendly farming practices and explore entrepreneurial opportunities within the agriculture sector.

This initiative forms part of the government’s broader commitment to inclusivity and sustainable development, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in Guyana’s agricultural and economic transformation.

Minister Mustapha reaffirms support for hinterland agriculture at NTC Conference

ON Day Three of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, Agriculture

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha led a robust and interactive session with Amerindian leaders, reaffirming the government’s commitment to advancing agriculture and food security in hinterland and indigenous communities.

The session, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre under the theme “Robust

Governance for Sustainable Village Development,” brought together hundreds of Toshaos and village representatives from across Guyana for a two-hour engagement focused on agricultural priorities and developmental initiatives.

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, engaged Amerindian leaders in a dynamic and interactive session, reaffirming the government’s strong commitment to boosting agriculture and strengthening food security in hinterland and indigenous communities

Minister Mustapha emphasised the government’s strategic investment in hinterland agriculture, noting that the Ministry of Agriculture will continue to supply essential farming inputs—including planting materials and Acoushi ants bait— alongside offering critical support services such as land clearing.

“Our commitment is unwavering. We are ensuring that every hinterland community receives the tools and support they need to grow food, build resilience, and strengthen their local economies,” Minister Mustapha stated.

He highlighted that agriculture is central to the government’s vision of empowering indigenous communities and securing national food sustainability.

The Toshaos and

other community representatives expressed gratitude to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Minister Mustapha, and the wider government for the progress made in improving the quality of life in their villages through ongoing agricultural and infrastructural development.

The NTC Conference continues to serve as a vital forum for indigenous leaders to engage directly with government officials on key policy areas affecting their communities.

Toshaos and village representatives from across Guyana had a two-hour engagement focused on agricultural priorities and developmental initiatives

Electoral fraud trial... Former Commander testifies police were informed of purported attempt to tamper with flash-drive data

- officers determined bomb scare at GECOM Command Centre was a hoax

Former Police Division 4 ‘A’ Commander, Edgar Thomas, on Wednesday, took the stand in the ongoing election fraud trial, recounting an incident involving a flash drive at the Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) command centre during the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Thomas was the second witness on Wednesday's proceedings in the long-awaited 2020 election fraud trial currently underway before Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith Mc Gusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

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

Thomas noted that prior to the election, officers were informed of their main responsibility in relation to providing security for GECOM’s building and command centre at High and Hadfield Streets.

Thomas recounted that on March 5, 2020, while at his Brickdam office, he received a report from the operations room that raised serious alarms.

According to the report, someone involved in the tabulation process had been seen removing a flash drive, suspected to contain tabulation data, and entering a separate room within the Ashmins Building, where the GECOM Command Centre was located.

As a result of this, he noted that he, along with Divisional Detective Officer, Julius Wright and another inspector and a team from the Criminal Investigation Department,

Former Regional Division 4 ‘A’ Commander,

proceeded to the command centre.

Upon arrival, he indicated that several observers, both local and overseas, along with party representatives, echoed concerns about the flash drive from the tabulation room being removed.

Along with the group of observers and party agents, Thomas said he was taken to a room on the lower floor of the building.

Inside, he encountered a man who identified himself as Enrique Livan. To this end, he recalled that Livan admitted to removing the flash drive but claimed he was not tampering with any data as he noted he was just resting.

The allegation was formally put to Livan that he had removed the flash drive and was seen tampering with the tabulation data.

During the encounter, Thomas recalled hearing a voice he recognised as PPP representative Dr. Frank Anthony, who was “vociferous” in accusing Livan of tampering with the results.

Thomas said that the police team took custody of the flash drive while awaiting guidance from Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, who was not at the centre at the time.

Upon contact, Lowenfield reportedly responded, “problem again,” and was subsequently brought to the building by police vehicle.

What followed, according to Thomas, was a tense but collective decision-making process. Party representatives and both local and international ob-

servers agreed that the police should take possession of the laptop and that the contents of the flash drive should be displayed on a big screen at the command centre for transparency.

Thomas said the data was displayed, but people pointed out that there were discrepancies.

He noted that he heard Dr Anthony say, “How this reach here?” and there was a disagreement over what was shown on screen versus what was expected.

According to his account, two folders appeared during the projection of the flash drive’s contents. A hard copy of the data was also produced, and Dr. Anthony reportedly highlighted inconsistencies between the printout and the displayed information.

Despite the controversy, Thomas said the matter appeared to have been temporarily resolved, as political party representatives and observers agreed on a common starting point to resume tabulation.

Later that day, Thomas noted he received a call concerning a bomb being planted at the building, and upon arriving there, persons were told the vacate the premises.

Thomas said that Police standard operating procedures were followed, and upon a sweep of the building, it was discovered that the call in relation to the bomb threat was determined as a hoax.

Following Thomas’ testimony, the matter was adjourned, and will resume today.

Edgar Thomas

Labour Ministry hosts key seminar to address challenges in private security sector

Chief Labour Officer, Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine, delivers the opening remarks, expressing appreciation to participants for their engagement

THE Ministry of Labour, on Wednesday, convened a pivotal seminar aimed at strengthening awareness of labour laws and tackling ongoing challenges within Guyana’s private security sector. Held at the ministry’s boardroom, the session brought together stakeholders for an open and solution-focused dialogue.

Chief Labour Officer, Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine, delivered the opening remarks, expressing appreciation to participants for their engagement. “This session is not just about compliance—it’s about partnership and open dialogue,” he noted, encouraging active participation and meaningful discussions.

Mr. Deonarine highlighted that since 2021, more than 1,400 businesses across Guyana have benefitted from similar outreach initiatives. These efforts have contributed to a 25 per cent reduction in labour complaints in 2024 compared to 2023. However, he acknowledged that the private security industry remains a major concern, accounting for 25 per cent of all labour-related complaints, with only a marginal one per cent improvement over the past year.

“This is why today’s engagement is so important,” he stated. “The

security sector continues to generate a disproportionate number of complaints. Our goal is to work with you, not against you, to ensure better outcomes for both employers and employees.”

Emphasising collaboration, Mr. Deonarine urged companies to strengthen the role of their Human Resource departments in resolving disputes before escalating them to the Ministry. He also cautioned that persistent non-compliance could result in referrals to agencies such as the Ministry of Finance or the National Tender Board.

“We do not want to antagonise anyone. We want to collaborate,” he stressed. “When workers understand their rights and employers understand their responsibilities, the result is a more productive and fair workplace.”

The seminar forms part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to promote decent work, enhance industrial harmony, and improve labour relations, particularly in sectors with high levels of complaints. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside stakeholders to uphold labour standards and safeguard workers’ rights across the country.

Minister Benn, DC Budhram engage Mahaica residents on security, development plans

MINISTER of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn, on Tuesday afternoon, led a high-level outreach to communities along the East Coast of Demerara, engaging with residents of Unity, Lancaster, and Mosquito Hall to address public safety concerns and discuss the Government’s ongoing plans for security sector development.

The interactive session, held between 16:45 and 19:35 hrs, saw the participation of Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Police (Administration) Mr. Ravindradat Budhram, Regional Division 4C Commander, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, and Administrator of the Community Policing Groups (CPG) Mr. Rishi Das.

Minister Benn emphasised the importance of building strong, cooperative relationships between the police and the public. He encouraged young people to explore careers in the Joint Services—including the Police Force, Fire Service, Prison Service, and Guyana Defence Force—and urged them to pursue academic and professional development.

The Minister also took the opportunity to outline the Government’s broader vision for community upliftment and security enhancement, noting that strategic investments are being made to strengthen law enforcement across the country.

He concluded his remarks by reinforcing Guyana’s unwavering claim to Essequibo, reminding residents that “Essequibo belongs to Guyana.”

During the engagement, residents raised several community-level concerns, including blocked drainage systems, noisy motorcycles, and derelict vehicles ob -

structing roadways. Minister Benn assured those gathered that these issues would be addressed through a coordinated approach involving various government agencies.

Deputy Commissioner Budhram announced plans to establish a multi-million-dollar, state-of-the-art Police Station and a new Outpost in the Mahaica area to boost public safety and improve service delivery. Two potential sites for the Outpost are currently under assessment.

Additionally, Deputy Commissioner Budhram outlined a community-focused crime prevention strategy, which includes the installation of CCTV cameras at key locations to enhance surveillance and response to criminal activity.

"We understand the importance of ensuring residents feel safe and heard. The proposed Outpost and state-of-the-art Police Station are not just buildings— they represent a renewed commitment to faster response times and more proactive community policing,” DC Budhram noted. "The future of community safety lies with our youth. We encourage them to consider careers in the Joint Services—not only to serve their country, but to become role models and agents of change within their villages and towns."

Residents welcomed the outreach and expressed appreciation for the leadership’s willingness to engage directly with communities on the ground. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to continue such consultations in other regions as part of its commitment to participatory governance and responsive public safety measures.

From left: Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn, on the sidelines of the meeting with residents, in discussion with Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Budhram, Regional Division Commander, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, and other officials

Protecting breastfeeding means protecting maternal, child health

GUYANA, on Wednesday, joined the international community in commemorating World Breastfeeding Protection Day 2025 under the theme: "Protect Breastfeeding: For My Rights, No Misleading Digital Marketing."

The observance was marked by a strong message from Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who emphasised the importance of safeguarding breastfeeding practices from the growing threat of digital misinformation and aggressive marketing of breast-milk substitutes.

In his statement, Dr. Anthony reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting breastfeeding as a public health priority and a cornerstone of child survival, maternal well-being, and national development.

“Breastfeeding is not only a personal choice but

a public health priority,” Dr. Anthony declared. “The evidence is clear—breastfed babies receive the best start in life. It is a natural intervention that supports the survival of children, strengthens maternal health, and contributes to national development.”

Despite these benefits, breastfeeding rates globally—and in Guyana—remain below optimal levels. Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, Dr. Anthony noted that only 54% of infants are

breastfed within the first hour of birth, 43% are exclusively breastfed during the first six months, and only 43% continue to be breastfed by age two.

A significant factor contributing to these low figures is the misleading marketing of infant formula and other breast-milk substitutes, especially through digital platforms. Dr. Anthony warned that these tactics not only distort public perception but can severely undermine maternal confidence and informed decision-making during critical periods of infant care.

To combat this, Guyana remains a committed signatory to the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, adopted by the World Health Assembly in 1991. While the Code does not ban the sale or use of substitutes, it sets firm boundaries on promotional practices that

- says Health Minister on World Breastfeeding Protection Day 2025 - highlights link between breastfeeding and public health

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony

could mislead parents or discourage breastfeeding.

“As we commemorate this important day,” Dr. Anthony said, “I urge all stakeholders—health work-

ers, parents, caregivers, policy-makers, and media personnel—to recognise that breastfeeding is everyone’s business.”

He called on all sectors

of society to support breastfeeding mothers, ensure they are protected from misleading advertising, and uphold their right to make informed choices free of commercial influence.

“Let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rights of mothers and children by ensuring they are given the best possible start in life,” Dr. Anthony concluded, “free from misleading marketing, and surrounded by the support they need to breastfeed confidently and successfully.”

World Breastfeeding Protection Day is part of broader global efforts to achieve optimal infant and young child nutrition, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals on health, equity, and human rights.

NTC slams Kaieteur News for ‘Malicious’ misrepresentation of Chairman’s remarks

THE National Toshaos Council (NTC) has issued a strong condemnation of Kaieteur News, accusing the newspaper of publishing a “malicious, sensationalist and dangerously irresponsible” article in its May 19 edition under the headline, “Toshaos’ head criticises media, citizens who protest for justice for Adriana Younge.”

In a statement released on Tuesday, the NTC described the article as a “deliberate and calculated distortion of the truth,” saying it was intended to smear the character of NTC Chairman, Derrick John and discredit the work of the Council.

“The headline represents a gross and unforgivable betrayal of the basic principles of journalistic integrity,” the Council said. “It demonstrates an alarming willingness by Kaieteur News to weaponise tragedy for political mischief.”

The NTC clarified that the speech in question, delivered by Chairman John during the opening of the NTC Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, was publicly streamed and entirely devoid of any mention of the late Adriana Younge, whose tragic case

has sparked national protests.

Instead, the Council noted, the Chairman’s remarks were “measured and thoughtful,” calling for respect for law and order, and highlighting the disproportionate impact that national unrest has on Indigenous communities.

“To convert these statements into a supposed attack on grieving citizens or justice advocates is wildly dishonest and despicable,” the NTC stated.

The Council further pointed out the irony that Kaieteur News sought to attack the Chairman using a speech that actually called for more responsible and accurate reporting by the media. “At no point did the Chairman reference the tragic and sensitive case of Adriana Younge,” the NTC emphasised. “To suggest otherwise is a cruel manipulation of public sentiment aimed at stoking confusion, division, and hostility.”

According to the Council, the article amounted to a targeted media assault not only on the Chairman but on Indigenous leadership as a whole. “This is an affront to every elected Toshao, every Indigenous community, and every citizen who values truth, fairness, and responsible democratic engagement,” the statement read.

The NTC has called on Kaieteur News to immediately retract the article, issue a full and public apology, and recommit itself to ethical journalism.

Reaffirming its support for Chairman John, the Council concluded:

“We will not be intimidated by malicious media spin or political sabotage. This Council will continue to represent and advocate for the rights, dignity, and well-being of Guyana’s First Peoples.”

Gov’t launches house-to-house health outreach in Region Two

- to bring services directly to citizens

IN a landmark move aimed at making healthcare more accessible, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Health, has officially launched a house-tohouse health outreach initiative in Region Two. This people-focused programme is bringing essential medical services directly to residents' doorsteps, particularly targeting the most vulnerable members of society.

The initiative was rolled out earlier this week and is being executed by teams of trained healthcare professionals who are moving from home to home, providing a comprehensive suite of health services. These include eye screenings, spectacle vouchers for those in need of corrective lenses, HPV screening vouchers to aid in the prevention of cervical cancer, and Universal

Our teams are trained to collect blood samples and conduct screenings right in the comfort of their homes.”

The initiative supports the Ministry’s broader vision of achieving Universal Health Coverage—ensuring that all citizens can access quality healthcare witho ut suffering finan -

atically covering the entire region. Dr. Singh has encouraged residents to cooperate with visiting health teams, have their documents readily available, and take full advantage of the free services.

“The programme is not just about medical care—it’s about building trust, promoting health

Health Vouchers (UHV) that give residents access to a broader range of public healthcare services.

Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr. Ranjeev Singh, who is spearheading the rollout, said the outreach began on Monday and has already had a noticeable impact across several communities.

“We want to ensure that everyone—regardless of age, income, or geographic location—has equal access to healthcare,” Dr. Singh stated. “This includes shut-in patients who cannot travel.

cial hardship. By taking services directly into homes, the Ministry is also tackling long-standing challenges related to healthcare accessibility in rural and hinterland communities.

Early beneficiaries of the programme include elderly residents, single mothers, and persons with disabilities. Many have expressed appreciation for the personalised attention and convenience provided by the outreach teams.

The health outreach will continue in phases, with the goal of system-

education, and empowering communities to take control of their well-being,” Dr. Singh added.

The Ministry of Health will closely monitor the implementation of the initiative, gather valuable data to enhance future services, and ensure that follow-up care is provided where necessary.

As the outreach progresses, it marks a significant step forward in the government’s mission to bring healthcare to every corner of Guyana, leaving no one behind.

A resident accesses spectacles

A resident collects her health voucher

Shai Hope still wants to...

cently turned down an offer by Cricket West Indies (CWI) to be interviewed for the role of Test captain, saying he preferred to focus on his roles as white-ball captain.

However, speaking during a pre-match press conference on Tuesday ahead of the West Indies’ opening ODI against Ireland, Hope said while he would not delve into the reason behind his decision, he was

(From page 27)

still very interested in playing Test cricket again.

“There’s nothing to share there, so I wouldn’t really go too far in depth with this one, but I’m certainly looking forward to playing some white clothes cricket and if the opportunity arises again, I’d be happy to take it,” Hope said. His comments come just two months after West Indies head coach Daren Sammy said he would like to see the region’s best T20 and ODI players bolster the Test team.

Mumbai reach IPL playoffs...

(From page 26)

as the first five wickets were shared one apiece by five Mumbai bowlers.

Rizvi put on a 38-run partnership with Ashutosh Sharma (18), but both batters were dismissed by Santner in the 15th over and from there Delhi slid to a big defeat, losing their last five wickets for 18 runs.

Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings in the knockout stages.

The play-off places are now decided, with Mumbai joining Gujarat Titans, Royal

Balbirnie, McCarthy lead...

off 131 balls with a single off fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, much to the delight of the large crowd on hand.

Joseph led a West Indies fightback in the latter stages by having Balbirnie caught at deep extra cover for 112 after facing 138 balls to leave Ireland 249 for three.

He struck nine fours and four sixes in his over twoand-a-half-hour innings.

His departure helped the West Indies restrict Ireland, even though Tector scored 56 from 51 balls, as they only managed 38 runs from the last five overs, while losing three wickets.

Forde was the Windies’ best bowler with 3-68 while Alzarri Joseph took 2-51.

The West Indies’ run chase was over almost as soon as it began with McCarthy tearing through the top order.

With just three runs on the board Evin Lewis was run out by a direct throw at the non-striker’s end by Tector, McCarthy followed up by having Keacy Carty caught at mid-on for six, Brandon King caught behind for 19 and then trapped Amir Jangoo plumb in front for a two-ball duck, as West Indies slumped to 29 for four.

Skipper Shai Hope was then bowled by an absolute beauty from pacer Thomas Mayes for two to leave the innings in tatters at 31 for five.

Justin Greaves and Roston Chase put on 40 runs to give hope of a possible fightback, until the former was caught at slip for 35 off the bowling of pacer Josh Little.

West Indies then had their best partnership, a 98run stand between Chase and Matthew Forde, as they tried to revive the chase.

Chase got to his sixth ODI half century by sweep-

ing spinner Andy McBrine to the boundary for four, but was deceived by an arm ball by spinner George Dockrell to be bowled for 55 off 76 balls with four fours and two sixes.

The end came swiftly thereafter, with Dockrell

Delhi can now finish no higher than fifth, with one game in their season remaining. (BBC Sport)

(From back page)

cleaning up the tail by accounting for the wickets of Alzarri Joseph for a duck and Gudakesh Motie for eight, while McCarthy dismissed Forde for 38.

McCarthy finished with figures of 4-32 while Dockrell ended with 3-21.

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Archer ruled out of Windies ODIs through injury

SEAMER

Jofra Archer has been ruled out of England's one-day international series against West Indies with a right thumb injury.

Archer will miss the series, which starts on 29 May, having sustained the injury while with Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.

England said he will be "reassessed over the next fortnight to determine when he may return to action".

The 30-year-old had been left out of the squad for the following three-match T20 series in order to play for England Lions against India A.

Those four-day matches take place from May 30 and June 6 so Archer is set to miss at least the first of those games, which would have been his first red-ball cricket in four years.

He has been hampered with back and elbow injuries since he last played Test cricket for England in February 2021.

Speaking to Sky Sports, managing director of England men's cricket, Rob Key, said: "It is a couple of weeks - he's not going to be far off bowling.

"We wanted to get fourday bowling in him. He'll probably miss the Lions

Jofra Archer has taken 54 wickets in 31 one-day internationals

game we had him down to play but then he'll probably play Championship cricket for Sussex.

"We'll get some red-ball bowling into him and then he'll be ready - we thought around the second Test [against India] but it may be the third Test now. We'll wait and see but it is nothing too serious.

Lancashire's left-arm seamer, Luke Wood, has replaced Archer in the ODI squad, having already been part of the T20 group.

Wood has played two ODIs but is yet to take a

wicket. The 29-year-old has claimed eight wickets in five T20s.

The one-day series against West Indies is significant as Harry Brook's first as England's new white-ball captain.

It could also have longterm implications around England's qualification for the 2027 World Cup.

The top eight teams in the world rankings as of March 2027 will advance directly. England and the West Indies are currently eighth and ninth respectively. (BBC Sport)

Gilgeous-Alexander helps Thunder rally past Timberwolves

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Oklahoma City Thunder's fightback from a "rusty" start to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves and win the first game of their NBA Western Conference finals series.

With Julius Randle pouring in 20 first-half points, Minnesota were on course for an upset against the top seeds after taking a 48-44 lead into half-time.

But the Thunder rallied in the final two quarters, with Gilgeous-Alexander

scoring 20 of his 31 points to help his side to a 114-88 victory.

"Honestly we were a bit rusty in the first half but we shouldn't be," Gilgeous-Alexander told ESPN in an on-court interview.

"We were missing layups, free throws. We just needed to keep being aggressive and trust our work."

MVP candidate Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 30 or more points for a fourth consecutive game, also finished with five

Champions Trophy 2025 sets new broadcast records

THE ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 was the most viewed Champions Trophy ever, and included the most watched Champions Trophy match ever.

The 2025 edition, played in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, saw 368 billion global viewing minutes, a remarkable 19 percent increase from the previous tournament held in England and Wales in 2017.

The premium event that featured eight international teams drew 308 million global viewing minutes per over, the most ever for an ICC event.

Under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, India won the trophy on the back of an unbeaten run throughout the tournament.

They beat the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup champions Australia in the semi-final before defeating New Zealand in the grand finale.

The final against the Black Caps on March 9 was the most-watched Champions Trophy fixture ever, with 65.3 billion live viewing minutes globally, overtaking the record set during the 2017 final by a whopping 52.1 percent.

It was also the third most-watched game in any ICC event globally by live

rebounds and a game-high nine assists.

"Game ones are feel-out games. In game two they're going to make adjustments and we're going to have adjustments. It's a series and it's best-of-seven, not first to one," Gilgeous-Alexander added.

"It's a good start but there's a lot more work to do."

Game two of the series takes place in Oklahoma City on Friday (01:30 BST). (BBC Sport)

watch time. In India too, it was the third most-watched ICC game ever, sitting behind the 2023 Cricket World Cup semi-final and final, both of which featured India.

ICC Chair, Jay Shah, regarded the Champions Trophy’s success as a marker of the game’s global growth.

“We are delighted to share that the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has achieved record-breaking global viewership,” Shah said.

“Making it the mostwatched edition of the tournament to date.

“These remarkable numbers reflect the growing global appeal of the game and the strength of our partnerships.

The tournament also broke broadcast records in prominent cricketing territories, including Australia, India and Pakistan, and also made waves in up-and-coming markets.

“We are especially grateful for the continued innovation and investment by the JioStar network in India which delivered live coverage across 29 unique broadcast feeds in nine languages, an effort that played a significant role in reaching new audiences and deepening fan engagement,” Shah said regarding the coverage in India.

With the return of the award-winning Indian Sign Language feed and Audio Descriptive Commentary, coverage in India across the JioStar network featured a range of inclusive innovations designed to ensure all fans could enjoy the unrivalled drama of the Champions Trophy, culminating in it becoming the most-watched Champions Trophy ever in the country.

The tournament became the most-watched Champions Trophy in Australia too, with the overall viewing hours going up by 65 percent compared to the previous edition.

With enhanced coverage featuring the introduction of a Hindi language feed, Amazon Prime Video witnessed the highest viewership of any ICC event shown exclusively on the platform.

Despite the fact that tournament co-hosts, Pakistan, fell short of repeating their 2017 heroics, viewing hours for the 2025 event in the nation rose by 24 percent.

And in the USA, fans defied less favourable match timings to record a notable growth in live viewership as compared with the 2017 event. (ICC Media)

Matthews century in vain as Windies Women falter...

sistance in the innings.

All the while, Matthews stood tall in an innings, which was a masterclass in anchoring and acceleration, as she kept her composure while wickets tumbled around her. It was the kind of knock that deserved a competitive total, but with no batter reaching even 20, Matthews was left carrying the innings alone.

(From back page)

In reply, England started at a brisk pace, though the West Indies missed an opportunity as Jannillea Glasgow, at short third, dropped Danni Wyatt-Hodge in the opening over. However, the opener was eventually dismissed for 17 by Zaida James.

Afy Fletcher then removed Nat Sciver-Brunt (zero), but Dunkley’s

elegant stroke play and Knight’s authoritative presence nullified any pressure. The pair rotated the strike fluently and punished anything loose, denying the West Indies any hope of a comeback. Dunkley's 56-ball had 12 boundaries, while Knight had six boundaries in her 27-ball knock. (Sportsmax)

Champions India celebrate their victory over New Zealand

Yorke determined to overcome Gold Cup group stage barrier

WHILE Trinidad and Tobago have historically struggled to escape the group stage of the Concacaf Gold Cup, head coach Dwight Yorke is determined to rewrite that narrative this summer.

The former Manchester United star and his Soca Warriors are embracing their underdog status as they target a breakthrough performance in the upcoming edition of the region’s premier football tournament scheduled for June 14 to July 6.

"We are delighted to be a part of this prestigious competition. I’m very excited, not just for myself but for the whole country and the team, and we are looking forward to it. We have played in this competition various numbers of times, and we haven’t really done great.

The last time we got out of the group stages was in

2000. So, that’s something we will try to improve on," Yorke said during Concacaf's virtual press conference on Tuesday.

Though Yorke’s ambition is clear, the road ahead is daunting. Trinidad and Tobago have been drawn in Group D alongside tournament hosts and seven-time champions USA, as well as Saudi Arabia and Haiti—two sides with a history of outplaying the Caribbean team in recent meetings.

The Soca Warriors begin their Gold Cup campaign on June 15 against the United States, a team that thrashed them 6-0 at the last Gold Cup and later knocked them out in the Concacaf Nations League quarter-finals. Still, Yorke believes those past lessons have shaped a team ready to fight.

“We know that we have our work cut out. We are clearly the underdogs, espe-

cially in a group with America and Saudi Arabia ahead of us. But we feel we have a really good chance in this competition. Ultimately it's about results, and hopefully we can get the results that help us progress through to the next round," Yorke said.

The tactician, who took over the national programme just five months ago, succeeding Angus Eve and interim coach Derek King, believes the rebuilding process is already showing signs of promise.

"We have built a team now where we can compete. We would like to play on the front foot, but we have to know our limitations. But we are trying to introduce a new era of Trinidad and Tobago football. We’ve done a lot, but there’s still plenty of work to do. It’s an exciting time for us," Yorke noted.

The Gold Cup marks the tail end of a busy stretch for

Matthew Nandu slams brilliant unbeaten 155 on return to Canada

FRESH from success with the Guyana national team in the 2025 Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional four-day tournament, opener Matthew Nandu blasted an unbeaten 155 to singlehandedly lead Kaieteur International ‘A’ to victory over Naseeb Cricket Club when the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) Elite Division continued in Toronto, Canada, last weekend.

Chasing Naseeb’s 237 for seven in 46 overs in the second week of the season at the Ellesmere South ground in Scarborough, Kaieteur International ‘A’ achieved the winning target in 47.3 overs, in the 50-over affair, with the left-handed Nandu slamming 10 fours and six sixes in his brilliant knock.

Nandu, the son of former Guyana and West Indies Under-19 leg-spinner Arjune Nandu, shared in several useful partnerships, including 75 for the second wicket with Kumar Debidayal (29) and an unbeaten 86 with Arjuna Sukhu. So dominant was the

Arjune Nandu following his match-winning knock

latter, Sukhu’s contribution was 15 as Nandu belted Naseeb’s attack to all parts of the Ellesmere ground. Sarfarz Bhua was Naseeb’s best bowler with three for 43 from 7.3 overs.

Earlier, Naseeb were indebted to middle-order

the Soca Warriors. They will first test their mettle in the Unity Cup in London, where they will face Jamaica and either Nigeria or Ghana on May 27 and 31, respectively. That will be followed by two FIFA World Cup qualifiers against St Kitts & Nevis and Costa Rica in early June before turning their attention fully to the Gold Cup.

"Ultimately the goal is to gain some experience. We have two important games coming up in the World Cup qualifiers, and we want to advance to the next round of the World Cup qualifiers, but our main aim for this Gold Cup is to advance from the group stage," Yorke declared.

Despite losing 3-1 to Saudi Arabia in a friendly late last year in his first match in charge, Yorke is not backing down from the challenge of their West Asian opponents or Carib-

bean rivals Haiti, for that matter.

"The Americans have home advantage and are favourites, so we know what they can do. But if they take their eye off the ball, we are ready to pounce. Saudi Arabia is a phenomenal team. They’ve

shown quality in recent World Cups, and we know they are a tough opponent. We haven’t played Haiti in some time, but we respect every opposition and will do our utmost to study them and match them in every aspect," he ended.

(Sportsmax)

Mumbai reach IPL playoffs with win

over Delhi

MUMBAI Indians secured a place in the Indian Premier League playoffs at the expense of opponents Delhi Capitals with a 59-run win.

batsman Saeed Sidyot who struck five fours and four sixes in a top score of 68 while Mahammed Sidyot supported with 43 which included two fours and three sixes as Sukhu finished with four for 44 in his 10-over spell.

Chasing 181, Delhi failed to find their feet, slipping to 66-5 at the half-way stage.

Sameer Rizvi offered some resistance with 39, but was bowled by Mitchell Santner, who took 3-11, and Delhi were all out for 121 with 10 balls to spare.

Mumbai struggled in their innings, grinding to 132-5 at the end of the 18th over, having scored just 78 runs in the 12 overs since the powerplay.

However Suryakumar Yadav and Naman Dhir struck 48 from the last 12 balls, closing the Mumbai innings with an unbroken 57-run partnership. Suryakumar hit a 43-ball 73 that featured seven fours

and four sixes, while Dhir scored 24 from eight balls, as Mumbai finished on 181-5.

Delhi's reply started poorly, with captain Faf du Plessis (6) finding Mitchell Santner at long-on in the second over, while the in-form KL Rahul was caught behind for 11 off Trent Boult.

Abishek Porel (6), Vipraj Nigam (20) and Tristan Stubbs (2) also fell cheaply

(Turn to page 24)

Trinidad and Tobago head coach Dwight Yorke

Mumbai Indians celebrate

Apex, CWI renew sponsorship of West Indies men’s teams

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Apex Group Ltd will continue to sponsor the West Indies men’s teams for at least the next few months following the renewal of its partnership with Cricket West Indies (CWI).

In a release issued on Wednesday, CWI announced that the partnership had been extended from May 21 to June 5, which will see the Apex brand feature prominently on the front of the “Men in Maroon” team shirts as they compete in six One Day Internationals and six T20 Internationals across Ireland and England.

Beyond brand visibility, the partnership also includes exciting fan and employee engagement initiatives.

Selected Apex employ-

ees will enjoy exclusive access to team training sessions in Dublin and London, offering a behind-the-scenes experience with the West Indies squad.

Additionally, CWI and Apex will collaborate on the development of innovative digital content, spotlighting player performance and unique moments from the tour.

This creative partnership aims to deepen fan engagement and amplify the reach of West Indies cricket across digital platforms.

Chris Dehring, CWI’s chief executive officer, welcomed the continued alliance, highlighting Apex’s enduring commitment to West Indies cricket since the partnership began in 2021.

“Apex has proven to be an outstanding and con-

sistent partner, aligning its global brand with the strength, passion, and legacy

of West Indies cricket. “Their continued investment reflects confidence in

CANOC in support of CWI’S stance on Olympic Cricket Qualifiers

PRESIDENT of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), Keith Joseph, has come out strongly in support of Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) position regarding the proposed qualification format for cricket’s return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028.

Joseph described the current proposal by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which could see Caribbean nations competing as individual countries rather than as the traditional West Indies team, as deeply concerning and a misunderstanding of the region’s sporting identity.

In a statement backing CWI’s stance, Joseph said:

"It is most unfortunate that the ICC and indeed the IOC appear not to understand the history of the West Indies as a cricket team in international competitions over several decades."

He noted that the West Indies cricket team has long served as a symbol of regional unity and excellence, with athletes from across the Caribbean coming to -

gether under a single flag to compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport.

Joseph continued: "The decision to use national rankings to determine qualification for the Olympic Games in 2028 clearly denies the reality that is West Indies cricket. The West Indies is not a member of the IOC and therefore cannot be invited to participate. The countries that comprise the West Indies cricket team are all members of the IOC but not of the ICC."

Highlighting the admin-

istrative and representational complexities, Joseph further argued:

"This is where the problem lies. The ICC and IOC have not worked out a formula that respects the reality that is West Indies cricket. The players represent the West Indies and not their individual countries. It would therefore be wholly inappropriate for individual countries to be asked to participate in the qualification process or in the Olympic Games were the West Indies to qualify."

Calling for immediate action, the CANOC president urged governing bodies to reassess the proposed framework:

"CANOC supports the position of CWI in this matter and urges the ICC, IOC and LA28 Organising Committee to address this issue urgently, respectfully and meaningfully."

Joseph's comments underscore growing frustration within the Caribbean sporting community that the current Olympic qualification model risks undermining decades of regional sporting tradition. CWI has already voiced concerns that Caribbean athletes could be denied the opportunity to represent the West Indies as a unified team—something they’ve done across generations and formats.

With cricket set to make its long-awaited return to the Olympic programme in 2028, CANOC’s support strengthens CWI’s push for a solution that reflects the unique geopolitical and cultural makeup of West Indies cricket. (Sportsmax)

our team and our regional brand. With the Apex logo once again front and centre,

we anticipate significant global visibility and mutual value,” Dehring said.

Meanwhile, Apex Group’s founder and CEO, Peter Hughes said he was also pleased to continue partnering with CWI.

“We’re pleased to renew our partnership with the West Indies cricket team, an iconic presence in global sport.

“This collaboration offers a unique opportunity to connect with diverse audiences internationally and celebrate our shared values of performance and resilience, while also supporting the Caribbean’s next generation of talent,” Hughes said.

“We look forward to some exciting matches and supporting the team throughout the upcoming tours.”

Shai Hope still wants to play Test cricket

DUBLIN, Ireland, (CMC

)– Despite having not played a Test match for the West Indies in almost four years, West Indies whiteball captain Shai Hope is still eager to face the red ball once again.

The 31-year-old Hope last played a Test match for the regional side in November 2021, when they faced Sri Lanka at home in Galle.

Since then, he has featured prominently in the Windies’ One Day International (ODI) and T20I teams and was recently elevated to the post of T20I captain.

However, Hope said he had not ruled out the possibility of returning to the Test team, where he has played 38 matches and scored 1726 runs at an average of 25.01, inclusive of two hundreds and five 50s.

Back in 2017, he announced himself on the international stage by becoming the first man to score centuries in both innings of a first-class match at Headingley, which helped West Indies to a historic Test victory over England. Interestingly, Hope re -

to page 24)

The Apex brand will continue to feature prominently on the gear of the West Indies men’s teams

CANOC President Keith Joseph

Shai Hope last played a Test match for the West Indies in 2021 (Turn

Balbirnie, McCarthy lead Ireland to dominant win over Windies in first ODI

DUBLIN, Ireland, (CMC)

– OPENER Andy Balbirnie and pacer Barry McCarthy rocked West Indies in the opening One Day International to set up Ireland’s comfortable 124-run victory here at Clontarf on Wednesday.

Player-of-the-Match Balbirnie cracked his ninth ODI

century to help propel the home side to 303 for six off their 50 overs after they were sent in to bat by the visitors. Ireland was given a perfect start by Balbirnie and captain Paul Stirling, who scored a half century, with the pair putting on 109 runs in their opening partnership. They started cautiously,

Matthews century in

gathering just 21 runs from the first six overs, but by the end of the 10th over they had progressed to 54-0 with little alarm.

Stirling brought up a significant milestone seven overs later, when he guided left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie down to long-on for a single to bring up his 10,000

vain as Windies Women falter against ruthless England

HAYLEY Matthews again etched her name into the history books with a sensational unbeaten century, her third in T20 Internationals and the first ever by a West Indian woman against England, but her brilliance proved in vain as they slumped to an eight-wicket defeat in the opening T20I in Canterbury on Wednesday.

On a sun-kissed evening at the St Lawrence Ground, Matthews, as is often the case, was a lone beacon of resistance in the West Indies lineup, as she produced a dazzling 100 not out off just 67 deliveries, laced with 16 crisp fours and a solitary six.

It was a captain’s knock brimming with timing, touch, and temperament, but the lack of meaningful support from the rest of the batting cast left West Indies with a modest 146-7 from their 20 overs.

England, in contrast, made light work of the chase, as they reached the target at 150-2 with 21 balls to spare. Sophia Dunkley was imperious with a stroke-filled 81 not out, while Heather Knight added a brisk, unbeaten 43. The pair's unbroken 91-run stand for the third wicket swept the hosts to victory at a canter.

Having won the toss and opting to field, England were immediately on top with the ball. Lauren Bell struck early, removing

Hayley Matthews accepts her Player of the Match award (Photo: CWI)

international runs in all formats.

He then romped to his 32nd ODI half century off 61 balls by dispatching Motie to the backward point boundary, as Ireland cruised to 108-0.

But one run later Chase got the breakthrough by having Stirling caught at deep backward square for 54 off 64

balls, inclusive of six fours and two sixes.

Balbirnie brought up his half century off 88 balls soon after and together with debutant Cade Carmichael added 42 runs for the second wicket.

Carmichael looked good for his 16 before he nicked pacer Matthew Forde behind

Player-of-the-Match, Andy Balbirnie, cracked his ninth ODI century

to the wicketkeeper to leave Ireland 151-2 in the 30th over.

His dismissal brought Harry Tector to the crease, and together with Balbirnie they frustrated the West Indies bowlers in a 98-run partnership for the third wicket.

During that time, Balbirnie reached three figures

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins first NBA MVP Award

SHAI Gilgeous-Alexander has been named NBA MVP for the first time.The Oklahoma City Thunder guard beat out fellow finalists Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo to win the award.

Gilgeous-Alexander finished runner-up in 2024 behind Jokic and finished fifth in 2023. ESPN's Shams Charania was the first to report the news.

The 26-year-old led the NBA in scoring during the 2024–25 season, averaging a career-best 32.7 points per game. He added 5.0 rebounds and a career-best 6.4 assists per game, while shooting 51.9per cent from the field and a career-high 37.5 per cent from threepoint range.

NBA's best regular season record (68–14) and the budding superstar has led his team to the Western Conference finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Thunder acquired

(Turn to page 25)

Qiana Joseph (two) and Zaida James (zero) cheaply, while the West Indies' top and middle order crumbled under tight lines and poor shot selection. Only wicketkeeper Mandy Mangru (17) and Shabika Gajnabi (11) offered little re-

Gilgeous-Alexander's Thunder finished with the

Gilgeous-Alexander along with Danilo Gallinari, five

first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Paul George on July 10, 2019. It was an incredible trade for Oklahoma City, as SGA has become a legitimate superstar. (Sports Illustrated)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander