Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-05-2025

Significant strides made in hinterland education system – President

says 83 per cent of teachers ‘fully’ trained compared to less than 43 per cent in 2020

President, Dr Irfaan Ali met with the organisers of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast at State House on Thursday to outline significant plans for the tournament’s third year, which will see a substantial expansion in scope and participation. The upcoming edition is set to feature a remarkable 80 teams, a considerable increase designed to broaden the competition’s reach across the nation. Matches are scheduled to commence on June 28 in Berbice, marking the start of a series of fixtures to be held in each county. The tournament will culminate in a grand finale at the National Stadium, Providence, on August 3. During the meeting, President Ali reaffirmed his strong support for the tournament and expressed his pleasure at the organisers’ response to his call for greater community involvement in the event. Beyond the on-field action, this year’s tournament will also feature a dedicated initiative to raise funds for charity, with a drive planned to coincide with the final. In a symbolic gesture, Leon Johnson, captain of the reigning champion Titans All-Stars, gifted President Ali the specially handcrafted trophy made from six different species of wood (Photos: President Ali/Facebook)

Gov’t to unveil blueprint for massive, broad-based economic expansion, inclusive growth

Significant strides made in hinterland education system – President Ali

–– says 83 per cent of teachers ‘fully’ trained compared to less than 43 per cent in 2020

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan

Ali has highlighted the significant strides in education development across Guyana’s hinterland regions, emphasising a transformative journey that has empowered local communities.

He made this known while addressing the National Toshaos Council Conference earlier this week, during which he noted that over 83 per cent of teachers across hinterland regions have been trained.

“As of December 2024, 83 per cent of all teachers across Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine were fully trained, a significant increase from less than 43 per cent in

2020,” President Ali said, underscoring the role of teacher training and capacity building.

With this, he also highlighted that there has been a surge in new recruits, with more than a 31 per cent increase in trained teachers joining hinterland communities.

To this end, he stated that the number of hinterland teachers currently stands at 2,435, most of whom he notes come directly from their own villages and communities.

President Ali credited these achievements to governmental facilitation, noting, “We are happy that as a government, we are able to facilitate such a massive transformation,

but at the end of the day, it is your accomplishments.”

President Ali further encouraged communities to celebrate these accomplishments and acknowledge their role in the journey towards educational empowerment.

He further added, “We must remember who facilitated the transformation; we must remember who we can trust to continue such transformation.”

Meanwhile, turning attention to student-transportation enhancement, the president pointed out the government’s commitment to this.

“We handed over nearly 100 transport facilities directly to villages to ensure children can reach

school,” he affirmed.

This, he said, is outside of the transportation allowances and the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, which was reinstated by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration when they took office in 2020.

Further, he said, there are high attendance records in schools across the hinterland.

This, he noted, has been part of the government’s ongoing thrust to ensure there is complete access to all levels of education in hinterland communities, along with other moves such as the construction of schools in communities.

NTC has grown in prestige, substance

–– Jagdeo

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General

Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday discussed the National Toshao Council (NTC) Conference and the government’s engagement with Indigenous communities, highlighting its growth and legislative enshrinement since 1995.

Dr. Jagdeo emphasised the government’s consistent engagement, contrasting it with the opposition’s election-year tactics.

“We are extremely pleased that this conference has grown in prestige, in substance, in depth, and in size over the many years since it started,” the general secretary said during a Freedom House news conference.

Over the past three days, Indigenous leaders (Toshaos) from across the country have engaged in a series of discussions about

the development of their respective communities.

“What is taking place now this year is not new, and it’s not because it’s election year. I’ve seen some frenzied activities on the part of the opposition, because it’s election year now, that they suddenly are issuing statements about what plans they have for Indigenous Peoples, and who is attending and who’s

not attending, and who was excluded and who was not excluded,” Jagdeo said.

Highlighting the distinction between the current PPP/C-led administration and the now People’s National Congress-led opposition, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to key achievements, such as increased employment, infrastructure improvements, and land titling.

The previous government, he noted, spent $5.8 billion on capital projects across four regions over a five-year period.

In contrast, the PPP/C government, according to Dr. Jagdeo, invested $6.5 billion in a single initiative; the cash-grant distribution programme. This amount, he emphasised, surpassed what the previous administration spent on key infrastructural development in hinterland communities.

“That’s the magnitude of the difference. We spend on capital now; we spend in a single year more than what they have spent the five years in some of the regions,” he said.

Further, he said the government is currently constructing four secondary schools in the hinterland areas, including places like Kwebana, Hosororo, and Karassabai.

The combined investment in just these four schools surpasses the total capital budget allocated across all sectors over the

past five years.

That, according to Dr. Jagdeo, gives a sense of the scale of development happening in these regions. And that’s not even considering other infrastructure, such as the roadworks in communities like Maburuma Settlement leading to Hosororo, or development in the Moruca area and beyond.

This level of investment reflects a strong commitment to accountability, and highlights the scale of our efforts. In addition to this, $1.5 billion is being invested in housing.

Approximately $32 billion has been invested through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs alone, excluding spending on health and education.

This funding was channelled through initiatives such as the Amerindian Development Fund, the presidential grant, and support programmes for youth and women’s development in these communities. This figure does not include the

additional infrastructure work, such as roads already completed in these areas.

The Hinterland Scholarship Programme by itself accounted for over $400 million.

Jagdeo further pointed to a key initiative that exists today because of the innovation and leadership of the PPP government: The Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 (LCDS 2030).

Over the past three years, Amerindian communities have received substantial funding through this programme, US$22.7 million (or G$4.7 billion) in the first year, US$23.27 million (around G$4.8 billion) in the second year, and another US$22.7 million (about G$4.73 billion) this year.

Altogether, this adds up to more than $14 billion in support, enabling these communities to carry out nearly 4,000 projects aimed at local development.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo engaging with a Toshao earlier this week on the sidelines of the NTC annual conference being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal

By Naomi Parris

Gov’t to unveil blueprint for massive, broad-based economic expansion, inclusive growth

–– Jagdeo announces,

says ambitious

homeownership, improvement

By Naomi Parris

IN keeping with a policy of inclusive national celebrations, President, Dr Irfaan Ali will address the nation from Albion, Region Six, as Guyana commemorates 59 years of independence on Monday.

The government has promised that this year’s anniversary will be marked by both festivities and a clear outline of its development agenda.

“Every independence celebration is an important milestone in our country’s relatively short independent history, and it allows us an opportunity to speak to the people of our country, not only about past challenges, but also about where our country is headed,” Vice-President and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said during his Thursday news conference.

In outlining the upcoming themes of the President’s address and other ministerial engagements across the country, Dr Jagdeo said the

goals will target

of all aspects of citizens’ lives

public can expect to hear bold plans for comprehensive and inclusive growth.

“As we approach these independence celebrations, you’re going to hear about our vision to support a massive economic expansion in the future, but not just economic expansion: broadbased economic expansion that will then yield the benefits that would allow us to support the development needs of our people,” he explained.

He added that the ad -

type of information as they plan their lives and their future, and we’re very proud in the PPP that we’ve been one of the only parties that have been able to consistently lay out that sort of vision, a positive vision for the future.”

Every Guyanese will be given tools necessary for self-development

–– Senior Finance Minister says

SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Thursday participated and engaged several Toshaos and village representatives at the 2025 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference.

ministration’s development agenda also includes ambitious goals for homeownership and improving quality of life, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare and social welfare.

“You’re going to hear about our plans for the near term, about creating a worldclass education and healthcare for the people of this country—for children, but also for the adults. You’re going to hear about our plans for the expansion of benefits and welfare to the children of the country, to the elderly and disabled—not just in the President’s speech, but in a lot of the other speeches that you will hear from ministers as they go around the country.”

He added: “The citizens of the country deserve that

Guyana’s 59th Independence anniversary comes at a time of rapid transformation for Guyana, buoyed by recent economic growth and expanding infrastructural development. This year’s celebrations are expected to draw large crowds, with cultural performances, fireworks and community events scheduled throughout the weekend and into Monday.

As the nation reflects on nearly six decades of independence, Jagdeo urged citizens to look ahead with optimism and shared purpose.

“I want to in advance, wish all our people a happy Independence Anniversary, and I hope that they use the opportunity for introspection.

It’s not just cliche, because often people talk about it in a cliche manner, but just to really dig into the substance of how far we have come, and the difficult path that we walked in these short years, or relatively short years as a newly independent country,” Dr Jagdeo said.

In a Facebook post, the minister said that during a presentation to the council on the wide range of government scholarships and training opportunities available countrywide, he reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring that every single person in every community is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed in order to improve their own well-being and participate fully in the modern Guyana underway.

Further, he re-emphasised that the PPP/C Government, led by His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali, is fully committed to ensuring that people’s standard of living and their economic opportunities continue to improve in every single village and community across the length and breadth of Guyana.

“Lastly, [he] assured the council that the PPP/C Government will continue to manage the economy in a way that it will continue to grow and generate economic and job opportunities for all of the citizens of Guyana,” he added.

Randy Jagdeo on $350, 000 bail after denying ‘Inciting Persons to Commit Treason’ charge

RANDY Jagdeo, a 39-year-old of Lot 159 Third Street, Alexander Village, was arrested by a Detective on 21 May, 2025 and charged on Thursday for allegedly Inciting Persons to Commit Treason, Contrary to Section 314 of the Criminal Law Offences Act, Chapter 8:01.

The accused appeared at the Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrate’s Court before His Worship Mr. Bess, where the charge was read to him, and he was not required to plead.

The prosecutor objected to bail. However, the magistrate later granted bail in the sum of $350,000, and instructed that as a condition of bail, he is to report on the third Friday of every month to the head of the Police Cyber Crimes Unit at Eve Leary.

Jagdeo is also to refrain from making any posts via Social Media platforms, and he has to lodge his passport with the court.

The matter was adjourned to June 16, 2025.

Randy Jagdeo

The controversial businessman has received wide public criticism over a provocative Facebook comment which stated that Essequibo belongs to Venezuela, a grossly misleading sentiment, given the fact that Essequibo belongs to Guyana.

Also, a sign displayed at his ‘Thousand Dollar Store’ on the East Bank of Demerara, features the ‘One Guyana’ logo alongside a map of Guyana that excluded the entire Essequibo region.

Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh addressing Toshaos and village representatives at the 2025 National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference (Photo: Ashni Singh/Facebook)

PPP/C General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Gov’t acceded to every request from Younge family - Jagdeo

THE Government of Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency in the Adriana Younge case, with PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo stating that the administration has fully supported the family’s requests throughout the investigation.

Speaking at a Thursday news conference, Dr. Jagdeo made it clear that the police remain the appropriate authority to provide official updates on the case.

“It’s best if the update comes from the police. When the politician speaks about this, they say, why aren’t the

MNR provides update on status of

police giving the update? I think the update should come from the police themselves,” he said while responding to questions surrounding an update on the investigations.

Jagdeo acknowledged that investigations have been ongoing and extensive, involving multiple interviews.

Stabroek

Block

cost recovery and verification of profit-oil audits

Below is the full statement that was issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR):

“THE Ministry of Natural Resources wishes to provide the public with an update on the status of three audits of Stabroek Block expenses.

These audits were contracted [out] by the Government of Guyana as part of its cost-recovery verification process, which is provided for under the Petroleum Agreement with the Stabroek Block co-venturers — ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC.

“The first audit, covering the period 1999 to 2017, was conducted by IHS Markit. The government, in keeping with its findings, has disputed approximately US$214 million in costs submitted by the co-venturers.

“This was communicated to ExxonMobil and its partners, and both government and the co-venturers have agreed to activate the provision for a sole expert, as enshrined in the Production Sharing Agreement. The government has submitted multiple nominees for the sole expert. The sole expert is an established dispute-resolution mechanism, which can resolve disagreements over the cost-recovery claims. ExxonMobil, acting on behalf of the co-venturers, has until May 31, 2025, to provide its response.

“The second audit, which examined costs incurred between 2018 and 2020, reviewed US$7.2 billion in declared expenses. Of this amount, US$65.1 million was not accepted by the government. This was communicated to the co-venturers

and they have since provided updated submissions, which are under review by the government.

“As previously reported, both of the final reports for the first and second audits are available on the website of the Petroleum Management Programme via this link: http://petroleum.gov.gy/

“The third audit, covering the period 2021 to 2023, was completed and submitted to the government. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), which plays a key role in the government’s efforts on the three audits, is reviewing the initial report.

“The Ministry of Natural Resources reaffirms its commitment to the prudent management of Guyana’s oil and gas sector and will continue to keep the public informed of its work in this regard.”

However, he criticised what he described as misinformation being circulated by some individuals.

The PPP General Secretary also questioned the credibility of commentary from the opposition on the matter.

Dr. Jagdeo stressed that despite political efforts to distort the facts, the government has acted in good faith throughout the process.

“The president, we have gone overboard in meeting the requests of the family, especially at the beginning there. We’ve criticised the police for how it acted in

misleading statements from the government by the police. We have publicly been critical of them.”

He added: “Secondly, we acceded to the family’s request to bring in own pathologies, which they did. We hired two other pathologists to come in to work along with their pathologists. They got their family doctor, their family lawyer, several other people to witness it.”

Adriana was found dead on April 24, 2025, in the swimming pool of the Double Day Hotel. She had visited the hotel the previous day

with family members.

Adriana, a pupil of the Parika Salem Primary School, had recently completed the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), and was eagerly awaiting her results, which are scheduled for release in June.

Following the discovery of her body at the hotel, the building was set afire before being looted. The home of the hotel’s proprietor was also torched. Adriana’s death had sparked fiery protests across the country.

Three internationally respected forensic pathologists unanimously concluded that the child died by drowning. Samples from her body were sent for testing at both Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and the National Medical Services Laboratory in the United States of America (USA).

Her family maintains that while the autopsy confirmed drowning as the cause of death, it did not determine the manner of death—leaving open the possibility of murder by forced drowning.

The family suspects foul play. Adriana is yet to be buried.

Adriana Younge

Guyana Will Stand Tall

VENEZUELA’S mounting hostility towards Guyana is a portentous assault on the very foundations of international law and regional security.

As our nation stands ready to celebrate the 59th Anniversary of Independence, we are confronted by a neighbour whose actions are increasingly irresponsible and whose disrespect for established principles of law threatens the peace of our entire region.

Venezuela’s May 25, 2025, elections, deliberately scheduled one day before Guyana’s independence anniversary, is a deliberate provocation aimed at challenging the sovereignty of Guyana at our most symbolically momentous time.

The recent attacks on Guyana Defence Force members from May 13 to 15, 2025, when armed civilians fired on our men from the opposite side of the river from the Venezuelan border at Eteringbang and Makapa, represent a dangerous escalation that will not be tolerated.

These attacks, following similar attacks only three months prior that left GDF soldiers wounded, demonstrate a trend of Venezuelan aggression that mocks global standards and threatens regional stability.

That these attackers were wearing civilian clothes when they made military-style attacks says a lot about the cowardly nature of Venezuela’s policy—afraid to engage through the proper diplomatic and legal channels, but happy to shed blood in the pursuit of their illegitimate territorial ambitions.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s firm response—announcing Guyana “83,000 square miles proud and strong — unshakeable, unbreakable”— is not only presidential determination but that of our people.

His diplomacy, defence, and global partnership framework is a holistic strategy for addressing Venezuelan aggression, while staying on the course of peaceful resolution.

However, diplomacy is only effective if both sides are willing, and Ven-

ezuela’s consistent refusal to obey International Court of Justice rulings demonstrates their absolute unwillingness to behave in good faith.

The ICJ’s strong position, instructing Venezuela not to have elections within the Essequibo area by a vote of 12 to three, constitutes an absolute validation of the legal position of Guyana.

The court’s orders, originally issued on December 1, 2023, and again in May 2025, unequivocally forbid Venezuela from taking any step that would change the current territorial configuration. Venezuela’s foreign minister’s announcement of their intention to proceed with these fake elections is an indication of their disdain for international law and judicial authority.

What is particularly odious in Venezuela’s conduct is their violation of their own previous commitments. Having submitted counter-memorials to the ICJ in 2024, Venezuela cannot now contend that the court has no jurisdiction while simultaneously disre-

specting its unequivocal orders.

This is not merely legal inconsistency but the very essence of bad faith, which is beyond any expectation of settlement by peaceful means by orderly international processes.

Guyana must remain vigilant and unite against this aggression. President Ali’s call to citizens to “fly your Golden Arrowhead very high, knowing that not a square inch will be ceded,” ought to resonate with all Guyanese.

Our sovereignty is non-negotiable, our territorial integrity inviolable, and our commitment to international law unshakeable.

Venezuela’s aggression will ultimately fail because it is pitted against the strength of international law, regional unity, and the unyielding will of the Guyanese nation.

History will record this moment as having been a time when a small country stood firmly against aggression and was strengthened by the test.

It’s a time of reflection, gratitude

Dear Editor,

DURING an elegant reception at the Jamaica Arts Center in Queens, New York, held in honour of Guyana’s 59th independence anniversary, the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity were underscored.

The ongoing concern regarding Venezuela’s claim to over two-thirds (Essequibo) of Guyana was addressed by several speakers.

The diverse audience was welcomed with popular Guyanese folk songs and music, while typical Guyanese finger foods, such as fried snapper and cassava balls, were served alongside refreshments.

Ambassador Michael Brotherson, Guyana’s Consul General in New York, conveyed greetings from President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Government, and the people of Guyana.

Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd also sent his regards to the audience and the Guyanese diaspora. Brotherson highlighted Guyana’s progress as a developing and respected nation and emphasised the importance of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Guyana’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, delivered the keynote address, outlining the significant economic and social developments taking place in Guyana.

She stated that this is a time for reflection and gratitude, emphasising the importance of peace and unity to the country.

She mentioned, “the nation currently faces a significant threat to its sovereignty and territorial integrity from a neighbouring country claiming two-thirds of its territory.”

The ambassador firmly stated: “Essequibo

is Guyana’s, it is ours and it always will be. It will not become part of any other country.”

‘Diaspora and Investment Officer’ Joe Yussuff, along with the CARICOM diplomatic corps in New York, extended their best wishes to the Government and people of Guyana on the nation’s 59th birthday.

The focus on Guyana’s territorial controversy should not overshadow the rapid and positive development of our country, led by our energetic and forward-thinking President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and supported by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, noted Ambassador Rodrigues.

“Our government is enacting policies and programmes to benefit every Guyanese in every sector -- education, health, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism,” she continued. She

also listed numerous poverty-alleviation initiatives, such as allocating $100,000 to each Guyanese above 18 years and $100,000 to each newborn baby in 2025.

Ambassador Rodrigues Birkett discussed climate change and requested Guyanese at home and abroad to support the armed forces in maintaining law and order and in protecting Guyana’s territorial integrity.t

On Friday, May 23, a flag-raising ceremony will be held at Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan, and on May 26, the Guyana flag will be displayed over selected areas of New York City.

Guyana’s 59th independence anniversary is a “time for reflection and gratitude.”

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

2020 election fraud trial…

Minister Parag: Urgency drove PPP/C to seek injunctions

recounts raising 21 objections to the use of spreadsheets during Region Four vote tabulation on March 4, 2020

By Feona Morrison

AN election petition is the lawful and appropriate method for challenging election results, according to testimony given on Thursday by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag.

However, she said the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) was compelled to seek urgent court interventions through injunctions amid the chaotic aftermath of Guyana’s March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

This was part of Minister Parag’s testimony during the

ongoing election fraud trial before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Those charged include 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 Election Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Keith Lowenfield; former

Deputy CEO at GECOM, Roxanne Myers and former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo.

Also charged are GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.

Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are represented by a robust defence team.

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

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

While being cross-examined during her testimony in the ongoing election-related legal proceedings, Minister Parag, who served as a Candidate of Poll for the PPP/C in the 2020 elections, highlighted the legal process for challenging election results.

She acknowledged that Guyana’s Constitution pro-

vides an election petition as the sole, lawful avenue for contesting election outcomes.

However, she cited the extraordinary circumstances that arose during the tabulation and verification process for Region Four as justification for the party’s decision to file multiple, urgent High Court applications, to which she had sworn affidavits.

When defence counsel Nigel Hughes asked, “You were aware at the time that the process for challenging electoral results was by way of an [election] petition?”, Minister Parag, an attorney-at-law, responded, “Yes, yes.”

Hughes further questioned the minister: “Aggrieved parties had a specified process to follow if they wanted to challenge the results of an election?”

She responded, “Yes. But I cannot tell you in detail what that is.”

Hughes then pointed out to Minister Parag that her party did not wait to file an election petition, but instead went directly to the court before Justice Navindra Singh who granted an injunction on March 5, 2020.

That injunction barred GECOM and its officials from declaring the total vote count unless the tabulation

and verification of votes cast in Region Four fully complied with the law.

The minister explained that the move was made out of a “matter of urgency,” acknowledging that what was filed with the High Court was not an election petition.

The defence lawyer suggested that the PPP/C had not followed the proper process for challenging the Region Four results. In response, the minister stated, “I don’t agree with that.”

This portion of her testimony expands on her evidence in chief from Tuesday regarding the contentious Region Four vote tabulation and verification.

According to her, the process was marred by allegations of inflating votes for the APNU+AFC; deducting votes for the PPP/C; disregarding statutory procedures and court orders and multiple attempts to rig the March 2, 2020 elections in favour of the APNU+AFC.

The conduct of Mingo, Lowenfield, Smith-Joseph, Miller, Livan, the other defendants and a female GECOM employee known only as Bowman has come under intense scrutiny during Parag’s testimony.

She referenced national and international observers

See page 11

Volda Lawrence Clairmont Mingo Carol Smith-Joseph

Keith Lowenfield Roxanne Myers

Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty

Sonia Parag

How does Norton fit Hinds into the equation?

DAVID Hinds on the Freddie Kissoon Show described Geeta Chandan, PNC (not APNU) parliamentarian) as a slave-catcher and advised her not to put her mouth into “Black people business.”

What did Ms. Chandan do to invoke the wrath of Mr. Hinds? At a public meeting, a female WPA speaker made derogatory remarks about Indian Guyanese people in general.

The defined attitude of Hinds as can be deduced from the Chandan drama is that non-Africans or maybe Indian people specifically should not pronounce on anything that essentially relates to the African people of Guyana. Now it is of innocuous consequences if Mr. Hinds is a loner who is happy to be a loose cannon.

But he is not. He has announced that there are talks ongoing with the PNC to have his tiny party, the WPA coalesce with the PNC for the 2025 election. This puts Aubrey Norton in a terrible situation for which you have to feel sorry for him. If the PNC unites with Hinds, unlimited questions will follow. Let’s look at some of these curiosities.

Before we do so some emphasis is required. Chandan accused the African woman of insulting Indians. Hinds said that is tantamount to slave-catching and that as an Indian she should not be commenting on Black Guyanese in general. It is important to note that Chandan did not put her mouth in a private matter involving African Guyanese. Chandan did not support an action by a non-African person against an African-Guyanese.

All Chandan did was to object to deroga-

tory remarks made about the nature of Indian people. All Chandan was saying is that, as a member of the Indian race in Guyana, she rejects such a cultural and ethnic slur against Indian Guyanese. Now for argument’s sake, if the PNC wins the next election, obviously, Hinds as the leader of the WPA will have a state role.

Is an Indian employee allowed to object to a culturally and racially insensitive remark against Indian people by her Afro Guyanese boss? Let’s offer a hypothetical example. The African boss walks into the office and tells the office-attendant -- “Don’t order lunch for the staff from Narine’s restaurant because Indian people don’t know how to cook.”

If an Indian employee objects to that as an insult to the Indian people of Guyana is that tantamount to slave catching and is the Indian subordinate putting his/her mouth in “Black people’s affairs?” The answer is no, but according to Hinds, it has to be a resounding yes.

So we move to another question. If this is Hinds’ anthropological belief system, what value does he bring to a government of the PNC in multi-racial Guyana? Let’s move to question number three.

If an Indian cannot reject an insult made against his/her race in Guyana because in doing so the Indian is putting his/her mouth into “Black people’s business” then is it not true to say that an Indian voting for an Afro Guyanese man from the PNC to lead Guyana, is in fact putting their mouth into “Black people’s business?”

If you as an Indian cannot complain against African Guyanese insulting the Indian race then why should you vote for an organisation of which David Hinds is a part?

A vote for a coalition that includes Hinds is a vote to put Hinds into state office, and once Hinds is in state office, the Indian employees in his office cannot say anything at all about any incident of racial sprouting from African members of the office because Hinds would tell them that as a non-African is none of their business to talk about Black people.

For the long time I have known Norton, he always publicises his ability to analyse politics. Well, let him analyse the Hinds factor in the election campaign. Nigel Hughes does not have to worry about the ghost of David Hinds haunting the AFC’s election prospects. Hughes and Hinds will not be in the same outfit for the 2025 election.

But Norton and Hinds will be in the same organisation for the 2025 campaign

(if the PNC teams up with the WPA), and Norton needs to explain how with Hinds as his coalition partner will bring in votes from Indian people who constitute 39 percent of the population.

Does Norton believe that Indian people will vote for his coalition given the horrible, racially charged temperament of Hinds?

Hinds just vilified Indian culture by defending Baby Skello’s vulgar and degenerate assault on the Hindu religion. I think the most pressing curiosity for all (if not all, then, most) Guyanese is if Aubrey is going to accept Hinds as his coalition partner.

But then again, Aubrey may not be too far from David -- if you know what I mean.

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

Independence at 59: Jagdeo calls for unity, remembrance, resolve

By Vanessa Narine

AS Guyana prepares to celebrate its 59th year of independence on May 26, Guyanese are being called on to reflect on the nation’s turbulent history and the strides made in recent decades.

In a wide-ranging comment, on Thursday, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), urged Guyanese to safeguard the country’s hardwon progress and “commit themselves to ensuring Guyana never returns to dark days again.”

Speaking at a press conference at Freedom House in Georgetown, Dr. Jagdeo described the anniversary as “another important milestone in Guyana’s history,” and emphasised the importance of using the occasion to engage with citizens about both past challenges and the nation’s aspirations.

“It allows us an opportunity to speak to the people of our country — not only about past challenges, but about where our country is headed,” he said. “We believe it is important to paint that picture for the people of the country, to lay out the vision for the future, to support that vision with well laid out plans and programmes, because the citizens of the country deserve that type of information, that type of clarity, as they plan their lives and their futures.”

Dr. Jagdeo credited successive PPP/C administrations for consistently articulating a forward-looking vision focused on the needs of ordinary Guyanese. “It is not a vision that is based on criticisms of others, inane criticisms, of others. It is a vision that is focused on the needs of the people,” he added.

He outlined a sweeping economic and social agenda for the years ahead, promising broad-based economic expansion coupled with investments in education, healthcare, housing, digital infrastructure, welfare services, and job creation.

“As we approach these

independence celebrations, you’re going to hear about our vision to support a massive economic expansion in the future — but not just economic expansion, broadbased economic expansion that will yield the benefits that would allow us to support the development needs of our people,” Dr. Jagdeo said. “We are the only Party in the country that has laid out detailed plans for economic development — whether it is in mining or agriculture or the hospitality sector or the other industries.”

The PPP leader emphasised plans for world-class education and healthcare, expanded homeownership, improved welfare for children, seniors, and people with disabilities, and the advancement of a digital society.

“You will hear about the financial empowerment of our people and expanded economic opportunities for them. You will hear about the expansion of security for our people. You will hear about job creation, etc.… all of this is part of the vision for the future,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo further stressed the need for national unity in the face of Guyana’s complex history of racial, political, and economic divisions. “These are important things that matter to our people,” he noted.

A TROUBLED PAST

The PPP General Secretary’s remarks also served as a reminder of the difficult road Guyana has travelled since its independence from Britain in 1966, including what he described as over three decades of mismanagement.

He acknowledged that the PPP’s tenure — which spans approximately 28 of the country’s 59 years of independence — has not been without challenges but argued that progress under successive PPP-led governments has been undeniable.

“In the post-independence period, what did we have? We saw our country become an international pa-

PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

riah because undemocratic, rigged elections,” he said. “Guyana was characterised as having massive economic decline and a mass exodus of our people, who were looking for jobs and welfare in different countries across the world…. the Party, the PNC flag, flew over the supreme court… these things were part of our history.”

During the years 1964 to 1992, Guyana endured nearly three decades of authoritarian rule, severe economic hardship, and international isolation. By 1990, some 87 per cent of the population lived below the poverty line, and the country was ranked by a Commonwealth mission led by former CARICOM Secretary General Alister McIntyre as the poorest in the Western Hemisphere — even trailing Haiti.

Economic mismanagement and heavy-handed control over private enterprise drove emigration and deepened poverty. By the late 1980s, Guyana’s external debt had ballooned to $1.7 billion, six times the country’s GDP, with the government increasingly unable to meet its obligations.

RECENT POLITICAL TURMOIL

Dr. Jagdeo also criticised the opposition APNU+AFC Coalition for what he described as obstructionism and harmful policies during its time in government from 2015 to 2020.

He accused the Coalition of “a series of anti-people measures,” including mass

layoffs, tax hikes, and the closure of major sugar estates, which he said disproportionately affected the nation’s most vulnerable.

The PPP leader also alleged attempts at undermining democracy and public institutions. “We nearly became [an international pariah] again in 2020 with their (PNCR/APNU/AFC) attempt to steal the elections,” Dr. Jagdeo claimed.

He condemned budgetary cuts to key agencies and social programmes during the Coalition’s control of Parliament from 2011 to 2015, particularly blocking infrastructure projects like the Amaila Falls Hydropower project

and the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) initiatives.

A NEW ERA OF GROWTH

Since returning to office in 2020, Dr. Jagdeo contended, the PPP has presided over an economic turnaround, buoyed by the discovery and exploitation of offshore oil reserves.

Guyana now boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with debt-toGDP ratios among the lowest in the Western Hemisphere.

“We have come a long way from the period when we had a very different experience, and it is important

that people remember that history and commit themselves to ensuring that we never go down that route again,” he said. “We cannot pursue unsustainable economic plans and we must defend our freedoms.”

The PPP General Secretary in extending Independence Day greetings to all Guyanese, called for introspection. “Look at how far we have come and the difficult path that we walked in these short years, relatively short years, as a newly independent country,” he urged.

Guyana marks its 59th anniversary of independence from Britain on May 26, 2025

Essequibo parents grateful for $55, 000 education grant

AS the Ministry of Education’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant distribution continues across the Essequibo Coast, parents from all walks of life are expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Guyana for the initiative, which they say is making a real difference in their children’s lives.

From Charity to Supenaam and Anna Regina to Queenstown, parents are lining up at schools to collect the $50,000 cash grant and the $5,000 uniform voucher, which

many have described as timely and impactful.

The initiative which provides financial support to assist with the educational needs of schoolaged children is a beacon of hope for many families as they begin preparations for a new school year.

“We are so thankful to the government for this initiative,” said Nayan Persaud, a mother of three from Lima.

“It’s not just about the money — it’s the message that the government is standing with us and supporting our children’s

education. I was able to buy exercise books, uniforms, and a new pair of shoes for my youngest. It took a big burden off my shoulders.” Oniel Williams a single father expressed.

Other parents echoed similar sentiments, noting how the funds are helping them manage the rising cost of school supplies. For some, the education grant is also serving as a cushion for saving.

“I’m using part of it to buy what my child needs right now, and the rest I’ll save in case anything

else comes up during the term,” explained Fredericks (only name given), a single father from Capoey.

Aside from the financial relief, many parents have commended the efficiency of the distribution process this year. Unlike previous years, the current system has been streamlined, leading to shorter waiting times and less confusion. They therefore commended the Regional Education Officer, Shondelle Hercules, for the smooth distribution process.

“It was very smooth,” said Lalita Samsundar from Reliance. “I walked in, signed for the grant, and walked out within minutes.

The staff were courteous, and everything was well organised. It shows that when things are planned properly, it works.”

The ‘Because We Care’ initiative, which forms part of the government’s wider commitment to educational access and support, has not only eased the burden on parents but it has

reinforced the value of partnership between communities and the State.

As the distribution continues, the voices of Essequibo parents reflect a growing sense of appreciation, stability, and hope for a brighter academic future — one where every child has what they need to succeed.

This year, 12,844 learners across Region Two will benefit from the education grant.

A total of $706,420,000 will be distributed throughout the region.

Minister Parag: Urgency drove...

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who at the time denounced the tabulation of votes as lacking transparency and credibility.

Minister Parag testified to discovering declaration forms on GECOM’s website, signed by Mingo, which showed a purported result for Region Four.

As a result, she said the PPP/C’s General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo filed a Fixed Date Application against GECOM and several officials, including Mingo.

She explained that three injunctions were granted, one of which was issued by Chief Justice Roxane George, SC. This injunction, she noted, specifically barred Mingo from declaring the Region Four results until he had complied with Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA).

She testified that the court order mandated that Mingo complete the vote tabulation and verification by 11:00hrs on March 12, using proper procedures, specifically the Statements of Poll (SoPs), rather than spreadsheets.

21 OBJECTIONS

During continued questioning by Hughes on Thursday, Parag recounted her visit to GECOM’s Command Centre on March 4, 2020, where she encountered Myers, Miller, and Bowman.

She related that Miller and Bowman were actively involved in the tabulation and verification process for District Four.

Minister Parag recalled raising objections during the Region Four tabulation process, stating that the figures being announced did not match the numbers reflected on her SoPs.

“A decision was not made by the person I made the objection to. I made an objection to Miller and Bowman. My objection was that the numbers she was calling were not [corresponding] with the numbers I had on my SoPs,” Minister Parag recalled.

Parag testified that while Miller and Bowman appeared to listen to her concerns, they proceeded with the tabulation process nonetheless.

Hughes then asked whether she agreed that the staff had the authority to decide whether to stop or continue the process. Parag disagreed, stating, “I don’t agree with that.”

He followed up by asking whether she believed that GECOM staff were obligated to halt the process simply because she raised an objection. Parag responded, “Because of my objections, they should have stopped— because of what the objection was.”

The minister added that she reported her objections—21 in total—to her party.

Despite raising 21 objections, she testified that the tabulation process continued uninterrupted, prompting her party to initiate court proceedings the following day.

When asked by Hughes whether she had brought her party’s SoPs to court, Minister Parag responded that she had not, but added, “I can make the Statements of Poll available.”

Lead prosecutor, King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, objected to the line of questioning, arguing that it was unfair for the witness to answer.

He argued that decisions regarding how the case is prosecuted are not for the witness to make, but rather for the prosecution and the police who conducted the investigation.

He added that, in any event, if the defence is seeking disclosure of the PPP’s SoPs, the prosecution is prepared to provide them. In response, Hughes maintained that his question was a matter of fact, not an attempt to influence the prosecution’s conduct of the case.

UNCERTAIN OF ORIGIN, AUTHENTICITY OF SPREADSHEETS

Under cross-examination by defence counsel Dexter Todd, Minister Parag said she could not confirm whether Miller, Livan, February, Babb-Cummings, or any of the other defendants were responsible for preparing the spreadsheets. She added that she was unsure whether the spreadsheets were official GECOM doc-

uments.

Minister Parag testified that the Chief Elections Officer had indicated that the spreadsheets were generated by GECOM. In response, Todd pointed out that GECOM is a large organisation with over 100 employees, and as such, it is not the institution itself that is brought before the court, but specific individuals. “You would agree with that?” Todd asked.

Parag responded affirmatively.

BACKGROUND

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

The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a

delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing in of President, Dr Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.

The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.

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

The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report. Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.

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

Toshaos highlight commendable healthcare transformation in their communities under PPP/C gov’t

THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Health, has been taking steps to fulfil its manifesto commitment to providing enhanced health services for all Guyanese.

Part of that commitment to the health sector includes plans to improve conditions of service and remuneration for healthcare workers, technicians, nurses and doctors, as well as plans to upgrade health facilities countrywide, including the expansion of diagnostic services such as CIT Scans, ultrasound and echocardiogram, at key regional hospitals, and improve ambulance services. Improving access to healthcare services in remote parts of Guyana, also form part of government’s plans.

On the sidelines of the 2025 National Toshaos Council Conference, Chairwoman of the Saxacalli Community Development Council (CDC) in Region Three, Helen Williams, said that her community’s health post was recently renovated.

She said an extra room has been added to the Health Post, providing a more comfortable environment to both staff and patients and the waiting area was tiled. The health facility also now has Wi-Fi access in place.

Williams stated, “Concerning visitation, we get a monthly doctor visiting from Region Three. Not only doctors [but] we get mid-wife, we get dentist, and so on.”

She pointed out that the availability of medication has improved significantly and instances of a shortage is a thing of the past. The health facility also facilitates malaria testing, she said in a short video that was posted on the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page.

“That’s one for the river; and I believe that’s the only Health Post in the river that do malaria testing,’ she said. They also received a river ambulance from the Ministry of Health that would aid in the transportation of patients

to the hospital, and supplies.

Also speaking was Toshao of Wiruni in Region Ten, Rohan Fredericks.

“Quite recently, the health centre was upgraded. We have three health workers presently, now. We’re doing the telemedicine presently,” he said in the video which is also on the health ministry’s Facebook page.

Fredericks said in Wiruni, healthcare vouchers have been distributed, providing persons there with the opportunity to receive spectacles and other health services they may require.

“I’d like to encourage the government to continue investing in the health sector so that each and every person could benefit,” he said.

Another Toshao, Marsha Williams of Mainstay Village, endorsed the transformative healthcare enhancements in her village.

“Across my village, the health is improving I must say…we’ve recently had an extension to our health

post, where we have now our pharmacy room, or our drug room which we’ll call it. And I know our pharmacists will feel more comfortable, and not be mixed with our midwife…she can be able to do her work more effectively,” Marsha stated is a video that is on the ministry’s Facebook page.

Additionally, the heath post has an oxygen plant, and a new nursing assistant to work along with the midwife.

An application for Community Health Workers (CHWs) has also been sent out by Williams.

She acknowledged that change is coming rapidly to her village, and underscored that with the recently issued medical vouchers, most of the residents have opted to use them to improve their healthcare.

She said a number of residents (children and the elderly) have been able to utilise the eye-testing voucher.

Wendy Francis, the Toshao of Capoey Village,

Guyana’s health sector is undergoing commendable transformation under the PPP/C government (MoH photo)

also in Region Two, said her village has undergone tremendous development in the health sector. These changes include an increase in number of persons checking on their health.

Jagdeo says no quarry or sand permits issued to Chinese nationals

GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has firmly rejected claims in the public domain that quarry and sand permits have been granted to

Chinese nationals, stating that such assertions are misleading and politically motivated.

Speaking at a Thursday news conference, Dr. Jagdeo addressed concerns that

Toshaos highlight commendable...

From page 12

the community, Toshao Francis said adding that the residents would make good use of the services offered.

“Our community, sometimes, when you go to the doctor at Suddie, you take time, but now most of the time they are going for the rescue of the people. They’re going in there so we could have everything. We don’t have to leave on the road,” she added as she sought to explain how greatly access to healthcare has improved in her community.

Francis expressed a heartfelt thanks to the Government of Guyana for the tremendous work being done in Amerindian villages. “We haven’t got access to that (medical teams) before, and now it’s coming into our community.”

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, in April this year, attended the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII24), where she mentioned the increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure, and telemedicine in Amerindian villages.

have surfaced in relation to Chinese nationals getting preferential treatment over local truckers.

“It’s a fallacy,” he said, highlighting that from 2020 to 2024, the number of quarries which are in operation has moved from six to 16.

None of the licences for the 10 additional operating quarries were granted to Chinese nationals, Dr. Jagdeo stated.

All of these licences were issued to Guyanese companies, which may have contracted Chinese firms to operate the quarries, but the ownership and control of the licences remain entirely local, he clarified.

He acknowledged that some individuals are attempting to use the struggles of local truckers for political mileage ahead of elections, but, he emphasised, the facts tell a different story.

Highlighting the rapid expansion of the quarrying sector, Jagdeo cited data presented earlier this year by the Minister of Finance during the National Budget debates. In 2020, Guyana had six operational quarries producing less than 740,000 tonnes of stone. By 2024, this number surged to 16 quarries, with

production exceeding 3.3 million tonnes. An additional three quarries are expected to become operational later this year.

At one point, a tonne of stone cost $18,000 due to high demand.

Today, because of greater competition, you can get it for about $8,200 per tonne. That’s lower than the 2020 prices, Dr. Jagdeo explained.

He noted that while both truckers and quarry operators are now seeing slimmer profit margins compared to the peak pricing period, the country, as a whole, is ben-

efitting. “It’s consistent with what we said we will do; we’ll expand production. That is one way of lowering costs, because people are complaining about cost of living. You remember, we were concerned about the price of stone on building private buildings,” he said.

He further addressed misconceptions about Chinese dominance in the local resources sector, turning attention to the sand industry.

“In sand production, 2024 saw 67 permit holders across the country producing over

12 million tonnes. This marks a dramatic increase from 2020, when only 18 operations were active, yielding less than 700,000 tonnes. So, we have moved from 700,00 tonnes of sand now to 12 million tons of sand. And 49 new permit holders in the country.”

The general secretary clarified that Chinese contractors are mainly involved in private developments, such as hotels, and stressed that all Chinese nationals operating in Guyana must abide by national laws and regulations.

Indigenous communities benefitting from increase in infrastructural works

– Minister Edghill tells NTC Conference

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill , on Thursday delivered an extensive presentation at the2025 National Toshaos Council Conference, currently being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre under the theme, “Robust Governance for Sustainable Village Development.”

According to his ministry, Minister Edghill highlighted the recent and ongoing infrastructural works in Indigenous communities across Guyana, underscoring plans for future developments to further enhance these areas. These works include several new roads, bridges and airstrips that have been constructed to international standards. Because the river-ways are used to transport people and goods daily in

these communities, river transport has also been upgraded with a number of new ferries, speedboats and the recently launched online booking app- Ferry Pass. Bridges which are an essential part of hinterland transport have also been

erected. A total of 32 bridges are being built along the Kurupukari–Lethem corridor at a cost of $4.1 billion. Other projects have been completed in Matthews Ridge, Yurong Paru, Central Rupununi, Tiger Creek, and Orealla/Siparuta, among others. Work has also begun on a bridge over the Corentyne River.

Figures compiled by the government show that spending on roads in the hinterland rose from $1.5 billion in 2020 to $9 billion in 2025.

This most recent sum allows for the rehabilitation and further expansion of key routes which will aid in improving emergency access across the board, and help residents, businesses, and tourists in the long run.

This publication recently highlighted several road-improvement works for several far-flung regions.

For Region One, $305M is being expended for road upgrades from Kwebanna to Kumaka and San Jose; more than $1.5 billion will collectively be invested in Mabaruma, Port Kaituma, Matthews Ridge, Wauna and Rincon; $224.6M will be invested in road rehabilitation in Heaven Hill, Hell Hill, and Station Street at Matthews Ridge, which will directly benefit more than 2,000 residents; and $51.1M was expended to upgrade Wauna’s main access road.

Some $932M has been allocated for road upgrades at Bartica, Dagg Point, Kaburi and Issano in Region Seven. $1.3 billion will be used for 17 contracts to enhance more than 27 kilometres of internal roads. Further, for Region Seven, there will be upgrades to Bartica/Potaro, Dagg Point, Issano and Mora Point roads. $70 million was provided for road works in Karrau, one of the largest infrastructural investments in the Amerindian village to

date; and $52.2 million has been set aside for continued works on the Bartica-Potaro Road, from the Denham Bridge to Cassandra Crossing.

For Region Eight, $689 million was spent for roads at Mahdia, Princeville, Tiger Hill, Muruwa, Konawaruk, and Stone Hill to Konawaruk Junction; $60.5 million for a 350-metre rigid concrete pavement road in Danjah Hill; $108.6 million for Phase two of Mahdia’s main access road; and $64.6 million to upgrade 10 km of roads in Muruwa.

Additionally, for Region Nine, $339.1 million is available for road works from Lethem’s Beverly Hills Drive and Cenotaph Boulevard; and more than $746 million for projects in St Ignatius, Deep/ South/North Rupununi, and the South Pakaraimas.

Finally, for Region 10, $14.8 million has been set aside to upgrade the Wisroc to Rockstone Road, along with $420.1 million for road upgrades in Kwakwani and Coomacka.

Airstrips located at Lethem, Eteringbang, Ekereku Bottom, Karisparu, Baramita, and Kaieteur were upgraded, with further works to be done at Paramakatoi, Kwakwani, Aishalton, and Matthews Ridge. These improvements have reportedly increased flight frequency and safety, and reduced travel time for essential services.

Accompanying the minister at the conference were Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar; Permanent Secretary Vladim Persaud and technical staff from the ministry.

Together, they engaged directly with village leaders to provide updates and offer practical solutions to concerns raised during the forum.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill (MPW photo)

Labour Ministry hosts seminar for private security officials

THE Ministry of Labour recently hosted a pivotal seminar, which brought together stakeholders from the private security sector in a continued effort to strengthen awareness of labour legislation and address persistent challenges in the industry.

Chief Labour Officer (CLO) Dhaneshwar Deonarine, in brief remarks welcomed participants and thanked them for accepting the ministry’s invitation, stating “We are very pleased

Deonarine stated: “This is why today’s engagement is so important. 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.”

The Chief Labour Officer also highlighted that many issues reported to the ministry could be resolved internally. He used the opportunity to encourage companies to utilise their human resource

with your response. This session is not just about compliance -- it’s about partnership and open dialogue.”

The CLO emphasised the importance of active participation and urged attendees to use the platform to seek clarifications, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Additionally, he highlighted the ministry’s outreach efforts, sharing that since 2021, more than 1,400 businesses across Guyana have participated in similar seminars.

These engagements would have contributed to a notable reduction in labour-related complaints, down 25 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023. The CLO, however, pointed out that the security sector remains an area of concern, contributing to 25 per cent of all complaints received by the ministry, with only a marginal one per cent decline in the past year.

departments more effectively before escalating matters.

Further, he cautioned that persistent non-compliance could lead to further action, including referrals to oversight bodies such as the Ministry of Finance or the National Tender Board.

He clarified, “Let me be clear- we do not want to antagonise anyone. We want to collaborate. 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 efforts to promote decent work, foster industrial harmony, and improve labour relations within high-complaint sectors.

The Ministry of Labour remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure compliance and protection of the rights of workers across Guyana.

Chief Labour Officer, Dhaneshwar Deonarine (MoL photo)

Brazilian businessman arrested after SOCU seizes over $17M in cash, gold

IN a major intelligence-driven joint operation on Wednesday, officers from the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU)—a branch of the Guyana Police Force (GPF)—carried out an operation in Central Mahdia.

The operation resulted in the arrest of Brazilian national Osmil Da Silva at his busi-

ness place, Filhao Shop, Lot 111 Mile, Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight).

A substantial quantity of raw gold, equipment, documents and over $17 million in cash were seized during the operation. Da Silva is in police custody assisting with the investigation.

According to Deputy Commissioner Fazil Ka -

rimbaksh, Head of SOCU, officers successfully intercepted an alleged illegal gold smuggling operation before the gold could be transported across the border.

The Unit stated that this operation is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the illicit gold trade and protect Guyana’s mineral resources.

“The outcome of yesterday operation reinforces the seriousness with which national security agencies are responding to illegal mining and smuggling activities. This incident also adds to a growing list of cases involving Brazilian nationals operating unlawfully within Guyana’s gold-mining regions,” SOCU stated in a

release issued on Thursday. SOCU reminded that in March 2025, two Brazilian nationals were arrested in Lethem, Region Nine during an operation that led to the seizure of a large quantity of gold and over $26 million in cash.

In a separate operation in April 2025, the Unit recalled that two more Brazilians national, along with a Cuban and a Guyanese, were taken into custody after authorities confiscated more than $30 million in gold and $31 million in cash.

The law enforcement agency emphasised that increasing frequency of these incidents has raised serious concerns about the scale and

organisation of transnational gold smuggling networks operating within Guyana’s borders.

The Government of Guyana has revealed plans to implement stricter penalties and sanctions for individuals found smuggling significant quantities of gold.

This move comes in the wake of a United States investigation detailing gold smuggling, tax evasion, and corruption involving wealthy Guyanese businessmen Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed, as well as former government official Mae Thomas—all of whom are currently under U.S. sanctions.

The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed for engaging in public corruption, including the alleged defrauding of the Guyanese government of over US$50 million in unpaid duty taxes.

Mae Thomas, the former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Labour, was also sanctioned for allegedly accepting bribes in exchange for facilitating the awarding of government contracts to the Mohameds.

Osmil Da Silva

Human Services Ministry issues bids for five projects

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is inviting sealed bids from suitably qualified service providers for the execution of five services.

The first four concern bids for the construction of a security hut and waiting area

smaller envelope and properly affixed to the hardcopy submission.

Additionally, the bid submission must not identify the bidder in any way and the works being tendered for should be clearly marked on the top left-hand corner

at the ministry’s Cornhill Street location, the rehabilitation of the Children and Family Care Centre Building in Georgetown, electrical upgrades to Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute (GWLI) building at Cove and John on the East Coast of Demerara, and the renovation of the Garment Lab at the GWLI.

The bidders for these projects are required to submit one hardcopy (original) and two electronic copies (flash drive only) with an exact PDF version of the hardcopy tender. They must ensure the envelope containing the hard copy and electronic copy are identically labelled. The electronic copies (flash drive) should be placed in a

Bids must be delivered to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, Ministry of Finance, Lot 49 Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, by May 29, 2025, at 09:00 hrs.

Each bid must be accompanied by valid Business Registration and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) certificates of Compliance in the name of the said business.

Interested bidders can uplift the bidding documents from the Accounts Department of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security at Lot 357 Lamaha and East Street, Georgetown

from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs, Monday to Friday, with a non-refundable payment of $2,500 each (cash only).

Bids will be opened by the NPTAB in the presence of bidders’ representatives. All late bids will be rejected. The fifth bid invitation is for the construction of a new Care Centre for the Elderly at Enmore, on the East Coast of Demerara.

Following a similar procedure, bidders for this project must not be identifiable in any way, and the works being bid for must be clearly marked on the top left-hand corner of the envelope containing the necessary documents.

Bids for this project must be delivered to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration

Board, Ministry of Finance, Lot 49 Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, by June 05, 2025 at 09:00hrs.

Moreover, suppliers and contractors of all types must be registered in the register of bidders at least seven days before participating in any procurement proceedings at the link located on the National Procurement and Tender

Administration Board’s (NPTA) website ( https :// bidders npta gov gy/registration).

For bid clarifications and examinations, bidders can visit or contact the Procurement Department of the Ministry of Human Services at its Lamaha Street address, or on telephone numbers 226-1013 or 2311179.

Guyana is the only country that produces all the food it needs, study finds

–– others are vulnerable to the effects of war, natural disasters and trade disputes on their food supplies

By Hatty Willmoth

OUT of 186 countries, only Guyana produces enough food to self-sufficiently feed all its citizens without foreign imports, according to new research.

The study, published in Nature Food, investigated how well each country could feed their populations in seven food groups: fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, plant-based protein and starchy staples.

Worldwide, the study found that 65 per cent of countries were overproducing meat and dairy, compared to their own populations’ dietary needs.

It also found that Guyana, located in South America, was the only country that could boast total self-sufficiency, while China and Vietnam were close behind, being able to produce enough food in six out of seven food groups.

Just one in seven of the tested countries was judged self-sufficient in five or more categories.

At the same time, there was a global shortfall in nutrient-dense plants, with less than half of countries involved in the study producing enough plant-based protein – such as beans, chickpeas, lentils, nuts and seeds – or starchy carbs, and only 24 per cent growing enough vegetables.

Europe and South America were generally closer to being self-sufficient than other countries.

But small island states, countries on the Arabian Peninsula and low-income countries were more likely to rely on foreign imports for food.

And six countries –Afghanistan, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Macao, Qatar and Yemen – did not produce enough of any food group to be considered self-sufficient in that category.

“Low self-sufficiency

is not inherently bad,” Dr Jonas Stehl – researcher at Göttingen and first author of the study – told BBC Science Focus. “There are valid and often beneficial reasons why a country may not produce the majority of the food it needs.”

For instance, a country might not have enough rain, good-quality soil or stable temperatures to grow enough food for its population.

Stehl said it could be cost-effective, too, to import food from regions bet-

ter suited to producing it.

“However, low levels of self-sufficiency can reduce a country’s capability to respond to sudden global food supply shocks such as droughts, wars or export bans,” he said.

To find this out, a team at the University of Göttingen, Germany and the University of Edinburgh, UK, measured how much food each country produced.

Then they compared this to what was needed to meet their citizens’ nutritional requirements,

according to the World Wildlife Fund’s Livewell diet.

The Livewell diet describes itself as “a flexible diet that involves rebalancing our protein consumption toward plants, eating more vegetables, pulses and wholegrains, and fewer foods high in fat, salt and sugar.”

Debates about the advantages of self-sufficiency have risen in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic or the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, when

instability disrupted the reliable supply of food to importing countries.

Stehl added that the “resurgence in interest” in national food self-sufficiency might also reflect broader political shifts, “including growing nationalism and a desire among some to reduce dependence on foreign countries.”

Stehl said: “Building resilient food-supply chains is imperative for ensuring public health.” (BBC)

Maduro deflecting from Venezuela’s economic decline with sham elections – GS Jagdeo

GUYANA must be cautious about its actions regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy, ensuring that its decisions are not as “irrational” as Venezuela’s.

This was the position taken by the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, on Thursday.

“We cannot go by their playbook, that every time they sabre rattle we need to run around the place like headless chickens,” he posited.

Dr Jagdeo said Vene-

zuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, has already been isolated by the international community.

The general secretary maintained that any attempts to hastily respond to his baseless allegations against Guyana will only give him relevance.

“We have the support of the [International Court of Justice], we have the support of the entire international community… and we as a nation need to stand together against this fraudulent regime and their fraudulent elections [for] the Essequibo region,” the general secretary asserted.

In support of earlier

pronouncements made by the Guyana Defence Force’s Chief-of-Defence Staff, Dr Jagdeo reiterated that any Venezuelan living in Guyana who attempts to participate in the May 25 sham elections will be promptly deported.

Also, any Guyanese who participates will face the full brunt of the law.

The general secretary, who also performs the function of vice-president, urged Guyanese to be wary of circulating Venezuelan propaganda on the border controversy.

“I want to urge these political commentators, some of them from the opposition, to stop spreading

Venezuelan fake news and propaganda,” he noted.

Dr Jagdeo reiterated the government’s firm stance – that all 83,000 square miles belong to Guyana.

“We control the entire 83,000 square miles of the sovereign state of Guyana,” he said.

On October 30, 2023, Guyana filed a request for the indication of provisional measures due to its concern over the Government of Venezuela’s stated intention to hold a so-called “Consultative Referendum” on December 3, 2023, regarding the purported creation of the State of “Guayana Esequiba” within Venezuela, comprising the territory at issue in the current proceedings.

In its Order of December 1, 2023, the ICJ stated that, in view of the strong tension that has characterised relations between the parties, it considered that the conduct of Venezuela — in organising such a referendum and asserting that it would take concrete action on the basis of the results of that referendum — presented a serious risk of Venezuela acquiring and exercising control and administration of the territory in dispute.

The court further instructed both parties to refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute or make it more difficult to resolve.

The ICJ doubled down on this position on the 1st of May when Guyana made the court aware of the sham elections slated to be held on May 25 for the Essequibo region. (DPI)

The court therefore directed Venezuela to refrain from taking any action, pending a final decision in the case, which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby Guyana administers and exercises control over that area.

Joel Browne: The Visionary Behind Your Favourite Hits

By Faith Greene

BEHIND some of Guyana’s most infectious music lies the creative genius, producer and visionary Joel Browne, better known as ‘Joey2Kool’.

More than just a beatmaker, Joel is a devoted husband, father, and qualified commercial pilot; an inspiring

The father of two recalled a pivotal moment during a trip to Mabaruma with his father.

“We went by plane, and he was like, ‘Hey, what do you think about planes and so on and so forth.’ I was like, man, I always liked it, but schooling might be expensive. And he encouraged me to go check it out,’’ Joel recounted. He did! And the rest is

example of passion and perseverance in action.

Joel’s love for music began at the tender age of 11, when his father gifted him a keyboard. Music, however, already ran in his blood; his grandfather was a Gospel musician who played the organ in churches. That keyboard marked the beginning of a lifelong journey into the competitive world of music production.

In an exclusive interview with Buzz Magazine, Joel shared insights into his dynamic life. After graduating high school and migrating to the United States, he began exploring music production in earnest. However, another passion soon took flight; literally.

history. Joel pursued aviation studies, and earned his FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) commercial pilot licence. He went on to serve for five to six years as a pilot and military officer in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Despite a demanding career in aviation, Joel never abandoned music.

"Music is very jealous; like a jealous woman," he quipped, “It takes a lot of your time, and it provides little time to those who you love, if you really love it as much as me. So, you have to find that balance.”

To aspiring musicians, Joel offers a sobering but motivating message: Success doesn’t happen overnight.

“Like, you know, it doesn't happen right away; and there will be sacrifices that will need to be made in order for success to be had,” Browne said.

Joel pointed to artistes like this year’s Calypso Monarch, EGO (Quincy Lacon), as well as Kwasi Ace, and 2025 Dancehall Monarch Carlvin Burnett, as examples of musicians who put in the work, and invest in their craft, financially and otherwise.

As a producer, Joel is constantly evolving.

“So, the older I got, I became more of a minimalist. Minimalist meaning I use less sounds. Because I played so many instruments when I was making music, I'd put on like 10 instruments, 15, 20, 60 instruments all over the place; left, right, and centre, because it showed how creative I could be.”

He emphasised that staying updated with new technology and tools is key to staying inspired and working efficiently. From virtual instruments to cutting-edge production gear, Joel is always exploring what's next.

He posited, “But then I realised, over the years, that, you know, you need to leave space for the artists; you're supporting and accompanying the artists. You are not on show; it's not about you. It's about giving the artists a chance to express their ideas and thoughts so people can grasp what it is that they're trying to, I don't want to say sell, but what they're trying to see.’’

Joel said that is one of the things he has learned over the years. In addition, he learnt that investing in your craft can also bring new inspiration, and gives you the tools that can allow the process to be faster. In this regard, the producer noted that he is always on the lookout for new stuff, whether it be technology, virtual instruments, equipment, and much more.

Beyond music and aviation, Joel is a self-professed sports enthusiast. He spends his weekends shooting hoops, and cherishing time with his children. His biggest fans, however, are right at home:

His wife, Dr. Judy Bentley-Browne, and their kids.

“I also want to shout out to my mom, who is my Day One. And my loving sisters and so on. And my church family.”

Currently, Joel is deeply involved in preparations for Guyana’s 59th Independence Celebrations. As the ‘technical guy’, his role is crucial: Overseeing the production of music and visuals, ensuring flawless timing, and maintaining the flow of the programme.

“So, it's usually a long

process, because we usually get the concept, and then it takes time to get the concept from infancy stage to actually being an adult, I would say. So, there's rehearsals for choreography; there’s rehearsals for timing of the music and how it fits with all the parts that are moving, because some shows on average are about 30 to 40 minutes.

Having 70 to 80 people come in at different times to sing and dance and do different things. It's a lot of work, but it's always challenging and rewarding when you see the

work come together and people appreciate it.”

Joel has collaborated with a host of acclaimed artists, including Jamaican Dancehall star, Dexta Daps, Teanna Bianca, international recording artist Sanctuary Vibez, and many others across the region.

You can find Joel’s work on YouTube at @joey2kooltv, Instagram @mrjoey2kool, and Facebook Joey2kool Productions. For a peek into his family life, check out @TheBrownes and @mrjoey2kool on TikTok.

Music Producer Joel Browne (Photo courtesy Joel Browne)

Kid Cudi’s message to the jury:

‘I wanted to fight Diddy’

RAPPER Scott Mescudi, known by his stage name, ‘Kid Cudi’, told a New York jury that he "wanted to fight" Sean Combs after he suspected the music mogul of breaking into his Los Angeles home.

Kid Cudi took the stand for around two hours Thursday, answering questions about his relationship with Combs' ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, the prosecution's star witness who testified last week.

The two dated for a few months in 2011, after Combs asked Kid Cudi to record music with Ventura.

He told the court about two key incidents he says happened during and after his relationship with the R&B singer. Both have already been mentioned by others multiple times over the course of this trial so far: A break-in at his home, and the bombing of his Porsche with a Molotov cocktail.

As the day wrapped up in court, the jury also heard from makeup artist Mylah Morales, who testified she "feared for her life" after witnessing Ventura with a black eye and a split lip, and Frederic Zemmour, who said his hotel always had to allot extra time for cleaning after Combs stayed there.

There is no court for the next few days, as a holiday weekend begins in the US. When proceedings pick up Tuesday, we're expecting to see Capricorn Clark, whom prosecutors say was forced to accompany Combs on his alleged break-in at Kid Cudi's house.

SUMMARY

Rapper Kid Cudi testifies a Molotov cocktail was thrown in his Porsche, and claims Sean "Diddy" Combs broke into his home after finding out about his relationship with Cassie Ventura.

The testimony in Combs' sex-trafficking trial comes after Ventura told the court that Combs had threatened her and Kid Cudi.

Combs' ex-girlfriend, Ventura, has also testified that she endured abuse at the hands of Combs, including during socalled "freak-offs", encounters in which the R&B singer had sex with male escorts while Combs directed them.

Combs faces charges of racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.

The 55-year-old denies all charges. If found guilty, he could spend the rest of his life in prison. (BBC)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday May 23, 2025)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Virat Kohli-973 runs (RCB)

(2) Bhuvneshwar Kumar - 23 wickets (SRH)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who cracked the most runs in IPL 2017?

(2) Who bagged the most wickets?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

CWI announces academy series against Sri Lanka

CRICKET West Indies is pleased to announce the upcoming Academy home series between the West Indies and Sri Lanka from 7 June to 26 June 2025. The tour will feature two fourday first-class matches and three 50-over matches to be played in Antigua at the Coolidge Cricket Ground and the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, respectively. This series is part of the long-term strategic plan for CWI to create a pathway for the region’s brightest

talent to develop while being exposed to international competition. These matches are at an opportune time for the Academy players who recently took part in the 2025 West Indies Championship.

Director of Cricket Miles

Bascombe sees the increased value in having competitive cricket for the Academy team.

“These matches serve as a critical component in the development of our emerging players. There is a strategic plan in terms of bridging

the gap between the junior and senior levels and the games against Sri Lanka will be used to continue sharpening and equipping our best prospects for the next level.”

Head coach Ramesh Subasinghe is excited at the prospects of the players putting their skills on show.

“The West Indies Academy remains committed to learning, development, and long-term growth. Over the past seven months, our players have made steady progress both on and off the

field, growing as cricketers and as young men. This series against the Sri Lankan Emerging Players is an important opportunity for us to test our skills against an international team, identify

MATCH SCHEDULE

areas we can develop, and continue building for the future of West Indies cricket.”

All matches in this series will be free to the public. Antiguans are encouraged to come out in their numbers to support the West Indies Academy team, take in the live action, and enjoy a unique opportunity to see the region’s brightest talent compete at a high level.

7-10 June: 1st four-day match at CCG at 10am AST/9am in Jamaica

14-17 June: 2nd four-day match at CCG at 10am AST/9am in Jamaica

21 June: 1st 50-Over match at SVRS 9:30am AST/8:30am in Jamaica

24 June: 2nd 50-Over match at SVRS 9:30am AST/8:30am in Jamaica

26 June: 3rd 50-Over match at SVRS 9:30am AST/8:30am in Jamaica

Marsh maiden IPL hundred helps LSG beat Titans

(ESPNCRICINFO)

Mitchell Marsh scored his maiden IPL hundred, and his second in all T20 cricket, to set the platform for Lucknow Super Giants' (LSG) 33-run consolation win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad.

Sent in to bat, LSG rode on Marsh's 117 off 64 balls and Nicholas Pooran's unbeaten 56 off 27 to post a mammoth 235 for 2 on a high-scoring black-soil surface.

In reply, GT lost Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan and Jos Buttler in 9.3 overs - the earliest that has happened in IPL 2025 - but their largely untested middle order gave LSG a tough fight. Sherfane Rutherford and Shahrukh Khan added 86 in just 40 balls for the fourth wicket.

GT needed 54 in the last four overs with six wickets in hand. But after Will O'Rourke dismissed Rutherford with the first ball of the 17th, the chase petered out. The last four overs produced only 20 and not a

single boundary.

The defeat also hurt GT's chances of a toptwo finish.

GT's slippery start

GT had a slippery start after they won the toss and put LSG in. Arshad Khan slipped twice

in his delivery stride in the second over of the innings. Apparently, there was too much grass around the landing area.

Two overs later, the ball slipped out of Kagiso Rabada's hands. Aiden Markram took evasive

action but Hawk-Eye deemed it to be a legal delivery. It showed the ball would have been 1.11 metres high at the batting crease, 2cm below Markram's waist standing upright. In between, Marsh and Markram had a few mishits and also found some boundaries. By the end of the powerplay, LSG had reached 53 for no loss.

Marsh, Pooran annihilate GT

With two righthanders in the middle, Gill introduced R Sai Kishore into the attack before Rashid Khan. Marsh hit two sixes off his first eight balls but the spinner broke the 91run opening stand soon after with Markram's wicket.

That brought to the crease Pooran and more

carnage. He and Marsh added 121 runs in just 52 balls. Rashid came to bowl the 12th over. Before this game, Marsh had scored only 31 off 33 balls against him. Tonight, he went 6, 4, 6, 4, 4, 1 in his first over. With Pooran in the middle, Gill took the gamble of giving Sai Kishore another over. It did not come off as Pooran farmed the strike and hit the spinner for one six and one four in four balls.

Marsh had taken 33 balls for his first fifty. For his second, he needed only 23. Pooran's fifty also came in 23 balls. In the final over, Rishabh Pant gave a glimpse of what-if as he hit Rabada for two sixes to finish unbeaten on 16 off six balls.

OLD Fort’s High Fliers girls are the team to beat in the Guyana Hockey board Kellogg’s U-14 hockey league currently underway.

High Fliers have played unbeaten in their three encounters to be on top with nine points after three outright wins.

Saints Slayers are second with six points after two wins in as many clashes with GCC Her-ricanes third (three points) after one win and a loss in the 5-team girls’ points table.

Over on the men’s groups, GCC Pit Bulls also have a flawless record

of three wins in as many games, followed by Old Fort Warriors who are on six points after two wins in three matches.

Old Fort Gladiators complete the top three with one win and a loss for three points in group A

In the boys Group B standing, Multi, Old Fort

Show Stoppers and Saints Scorpions are on three points each.

The Scorpions team is the only one that has played two games.

The youth league slugged-off on May 9th and is played every Friday with 14 school teams battling over 7 weeks at Mar-

ian Academy auditorium.

The league continues its action today with five more games.

In the girl’s category, Old Fort High Fliers will meet Saints Slayers, followed by GCC Her-ricanes taking on Saints Sensations.

For the boys GCC Pit

Stoppers. The other game days are May 30th and June 6th with the final set for June 13th.

bulls tackle Saint’s Sigma, with Hiker’s Hatchets playing Old Fort Gladiators and then finally Multi facing off against Old Fort Show

head coach Darren Sammy delivered a scathing assessment of his team’s performance after a crushing 124-run loss to Ireland in the first One-Day International here at Castle Avenue on Wednesday.

The former captain did not hold back in criticising his players for their lack of intent, particularly with the bat, as the Caribbean side collapsed to 179 all out in reply to Ireland’s command-

ing 303-6.

Sammy pointed to his team’s timid body language and failure to adapt as key reasons for the defeat.

“I thought we were quite timid, both with the ball and bat. Our body language, especially from my batters, didn’t look confident. Ireland’s opening bowlers challenged us with the new ball, but that’s nothing we haven’t faced before. We just didn’t respond with enough belief.”

He urged his players to

back themselves more, as he knows the potential of the players who are capable of putting in world-class performances on any given day.”I need my men to work with more confidence. They are good enough to impact the game and win.”

Ireland, led by Andy Balbirnie’s superb 112, along with half-centuries from Harry Tector and captain Paul Stirling, took full advantage of a lacklustre West Indies bowling attack. Despite the

pitch offering early assistance, the visitors failed to capitalise, allowing Ireland to post a strong total.

Sammy admitted his side’s bowling plans were not executed well. “We didn’t maximise the new ball, and though their openers batted well, we didn’t bowl in the right areas consistently. Still, we thought 300 was chaseable, until we lost five wickets in the powerplay.”

The West Indies’ chase

was in tatters early at 31-5, with only Roston Chase with 55 and debutant Matthew Forde 38 offering resistance in a 98-run partnership.

Sammy, who has emphasised an aggressive brand of cricket since taking charge, was particularly frustrated by his batters’ passive approach.

“I hate to see my batsmen in survival mode. We should always be looking to score, not just block. Rotating strike and absorbing pressure is key, but we also

need to put pressure back on the opposition; we didn’t do that today.”

With the second ODI set for Friday and the final match on Sunday, Sammy will demand a drastic improvement as the West Indies look to salvage the series.

“Cricket is about performing on both sides. We didn’t start well in either innings, and that cost us. There’s a lot to work on before the next game.”

Sammy lambasts West Indies batting after loss to Ireland KFC

KFC Guyana has reaffirmed its strong support for the nation's Blind Cricket team as they gear up for the 11th Regional Blind Cricket Tournament in Barbados, which gets underway today and runs until May 28.

Through its Chief Executive Officer, Paul Subryan, the fast-food chain hosted the national squad for lunch on Wednesday, offering a morale boost ahead of the week-long competition.

Subryan lauded the team's unwavering spirit and dedication in a statement released after the event.

"This incredible team continues to inspire us with their unwavering determination, resilience, and passion for the game," he said. "They remind us that true vision isn’t just about what we see, but what we believe, strive for, and achieve. We are proud to stand behind these athletes as they break barriers and make Guyana proud. Wishing them all the best on and off the field!"

The Guyana Blind Cricket Association (GuyBCA) has selected a 17-member squad, blending experienced campaigners with

exciting new talent. The team will compete in a 40over round-robin format, and a T20 championship.

Experienced West Indies

blind cricketer Kevin Douglas will captain the side. His fellow West Indies representatives, Ganesh Singh and Leroy Phillips, will support him, bringing valuable international experience to the squad.

In a significant step towards inclusivity, the squad also features four West Indies female blind cricketers: Rosemarie Ramitt, Robecka Edinboro, Ackila Smith, and Crystal Aulder. This highlights the growing strength and diversity within Guyana's blind cricket setup.

The team will be guided by a management team comprising Coach Travis Mohamed, Team Manager Mahendra Algu, and Physiotherapist Shaniyah English.

YOUNG and experienced athletes will compete this Saturday at the National Track and Field Facility as the Guyana Overseas-Based Sports Association stages its annual track and field meet, which kicks off at 09:30 hours local time.

The event aims to champion young athletic talent and foster community spirit within Guyana through sport. Competition will occur

across four age groups: Under-12, Under-15, Under-18, and an open category for those aged 18 and over.

Organisers have put up a range of prizes to motivate participants. The top performers in the Under-12 and Under-15 divisions will be awarded medals.

Under-18 athletes will compete for cash vouchers and electronic gifts, including tablets. In the open division, cash prizes are on

offer, with the top three finishers set to receive $30,000, $25,000, and $20,000, respectively.

Details of the meet were announced on Thursday at a press conference held at the National Racquet Centre. Representatives from the association and the Athletics Association of Guyana highlighted the event's significance.

The 110m hurdles for men and the 100m hurdles

for women have been added to this year's programme. This comes after a recent training camp led by former Olympic champion Felix Sanchez.

Mark Scott, First Vice-President of the Athletics Association of Guyana, said the hurdles races would "showcase the country’s emerging sprint hurdling talent and add excitement to the meet’s lineup."

The training camp, part

The GuyBCA has expressed gratitude to various corporate entities and private citizens for their contributions, with special acknowledgement given to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for their consistent support. Guyana will join other regional teams in Barbados, all vying for the coveted titles in both game formats.

of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s Elite Training programme, has been focused on preparing athletes for international events and inspiring local talent. Its success has generated considerable enthusiasm for the upcoming meet.

So far, 286 athletes have registered for the event. The entry list includes promising young athletes and more established competitors, including returning Guyanese

GUYANA SQUAD: Kevin Douglas (captain), Ganesh Singh, Leroy Phillips, Anthony Robinson, Roell Sumner, Musa Haynes, Robecka Edinboro, Rosemarie Ramitt, Crystal Aulder, Ackila Smith, Robindra Ramnauth, Patrick Howard, Seon Mitchell, Teshawn Rodney, Asif Khan, Dimitry Waldron, and Joshua Augustin. Management Team: Travis Mohamed (coach), Mahendra A lgu (manager), Shaniyah English (physiotherapist).

athletes

The event is designed to promote the overall development of athletes. It rewards effort and dedication while stressing the importance of balancing academic achievements with sporting pursuits. The aim is to encourage discipline, perseverance, and pride among young athletes.

CMC – West Indies

scholarship

based in the United States, such as Ravon Williams and Cassie Smalls.

The team at lunch on Wednesday

Guyana to compete in CFU

Girls’

U-14 Challenge Series

GUYANA’S national team will compete in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Girls' Under-14 Challenge Series, hosted in Trinidad and Tobago from August 15-24.

The tournament will feature 23 Member Associations divided into two

tiers. Guyana has been placed in Tier II, Group C, alongside Cayman Islands, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, and Turks & Caicos Islands.

Tier II will comprise three groups of five teams, playing a round-robin format.

The three group win -

ners will advance to the semi-finals, joined by the best second-placed team across all groups.

Tier I, featuring eight teams, will begin on August 16, a day after Tier II kicks off on August 15.

The CFU will confirm the full match schedule at a later date.

King to join Royals, McCoy, Cornwall head to Falcons

THE Antigua & Barbuda Falcons and the Barbados Royals have completed the transfer of three players ahead of the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Obed McCoy and Rahkeem Cornwall will move from the Royals to the Falcons, while Brandon King will make the switch in the opposite

direction, joining the Royals for the upcoming season. In accordance with CPL regulations, franchises are allowed to negotiate transfers prior to the official player draft, which is scheduled for next month. This latest deal sees two dynamic talents bolster the Falcons’ roster, while the Royals acquire one of the

league’s most consistent performers.

Brandon King joins the Royals with an impressive CPL resume. With 1,837 career runs, King was the tournament’s leading run scorer in 2019 and has surpassed 400 runs in a season on two occasions. Most notably, he was named Player of the Tournament in

2022, when his outstanding performances helped guide the Jamaica Tallawahs to the CPL title.

Rahkeem Cornwall returns to his home franchise after three seasons with the Royals. Known for his explosive batting and effective off-spin, Cornwall has amassed 1,347 CPL runs at a re-

markable strike rate of over 150. He also has 35 wickets to his name and famously scored a scintillating century at Kensington Oval in 2023.

Left-arm pacer

Obed McCoy joins his third CPL team, having previously played for the Royals and the Saint Lucia Kings. A consistent wick -

et-taker, McCoy has claimed 56 wickets in 52 CPL matches. His standout season came in 2022, when he bagged 15 wickets for the Royals. With these high-profile moves, both franchises have made bold statements ahead of the 2025 campaign, setting the stage for another exciting CPL season.

Matthews century falls short as England beat West Indies

CMC – Despite a valiant century from captain Hayley Matthews, the West Indies women’s team fell short against England in the opening T20I here on Wednesday.

Matthews’ unbeaten 100 off 67 balls was the backbone of the visitors’ innings, but a lack of support from the middle order left the team with a below-par total of 146 for 7.

England chased down the target comfortably, losing two wickets, but West Indies coach Shane De-

itz lauded Matthews’ brilliance while acknowledging areas for improvement.

“Hayley Matthews again stamped her authority on the game.

Scoring 100 not out in a team total of 146 just proves once again she’s among the top players in the world and an absolute superstar. She played a fantastic knock and carried the team, but we were probably 20 or 30 runs short of where we wanted to be.”

The West Indies’ bowling effort started promisingly, with

young spinner Zaida

James making the first breakthrough.

However, wayward bowling and England’s dominant powerplay performance sealed the game for the hosts.

“Zaida started well, took a wicket, and we had a chance in the first over. But we bowled too many four-balls, and they destroyed us in the powerplay. After that, we were always playing catch-up.”

Despite the loss, Deitz found positives in Matthews’ leadership and James’ newball spell, as well as a

cameo from Mandy Mangru.

The coach confirmed varied training sessions ahead of Friday’s second T20 in Hove, with some players undergoing heavy workouts and others taking lighter sessions.

“We’ll also have to adapt better to the cold conditions,” Deitz added, hinting at the chilly challenge awaiting the Caribbean side. With Matthews in sublime touch, the West Indies will hope for a stronger all-round performance to level the series.

late

The Guyana U-14 female football team will gear up for action in August

A valiant century from captain Hayley Matthews could not help the West Indies win

Sammy lambasts West Indies batting after loss to Ireland

West Indies coach Darren Sammy

GHB Kellogg’s U-14 League action