Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 23-12-2025

Tuesday 23rd December, 2025

No. 108024

Major legislative, justice reforms on the cards to tackle inequality, foster accountability SEE PAGE

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Critical transformers installed as Gas-to-Energy project progresses

The First Family joined hundreds of patrons on the final night of the First Lady’s Christmas Market— an initiative that focuses on providing a platform for small businesses (NCN photo)

Work on the Gas-to-Energy Project continues to progress steadily, with the recent transportation and installation of two major transformers at the project site in Wales.

The equipment includes the GT3 40 MVA (megavolt-amperes) transformer, weighing 65 tonnes, and the GT4 54 MVA transformer, weighing 63 tonnes—both critical components for power generation. This milestone follows the recent mobilisation and installation of two gas turbines at the site, further underscoring the steady advancement of the Gas-to-Energy project (Office of the Vice-President)

CID recognises excellence, professionalism at Annual Awards Ceremony 9 SEE PAGE

Commonwealth observers commend peaceful, transparent 2025 elections Measures in place to minimise price gouging by middlemen

SEE PAGE

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SEE PAGE

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Air Transat route seen as catalyst for Guyana–Canada economic links

SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Major legislative, justice reforms on the cards to tackle inequality, foster accountability

WITH plans to continue fostering equal access to justice, greater accountability and improved efficiency, the government is pursuing major legislative and justice reforms to enhance public trust in the justice system.

Vice President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a recent press conference, supported President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s push for eroding unfair treatment by

the courts.

Last Wednesday, President Ali said that his government is committed to building a system that is fair, predictable and efficient.

It is to this end that there will be a series of implementations to ensure this happens, coupled with evidence-based data management across all levels of the court system.

The President also said case disposal and clearance rate standards will be introduced.

“The use of technology for all court operations, case management, human resources, maintenance of stores and a payment of maintenance, bail and fines electronically will be the main areas of focus over the next five years,” Dr. Ali said.

President Ali also emphasised the need for legislative changes in order to make judges, magistrates, as well as legal practitioners more accountable, and these will

include robust disciplinary processes to ensure timely delivery of decisions in compliance with existing legislation, as well as the maintenance of high ethical and professional standards.

“Our citizens deserve no less. The case management system for the magistrates’ court is ongoing. The system is being developed in collaboration with the National Centre for State Courts of the United States Department of Justice. It is hoped that the system will be operational by mid-2026.

“The High Court does not have a backlog of civil cases any longer. And a paperless system is in place, allows for great efficiency in assignment of cases, eliminate dependence on the movement of case files, and permit access to files for cases 24 hours a day,” he said.

President Ali also noted that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is expected to fill key vacancies in the High Court and Magistrate Court, increasing the complement of commissioners of title in support of their rendering of timely decisions, and appointing more judicial research assistants who will be integral.

This, according to President Ali, will all strengthen the capacity of the courts to deal with cases more efficiently.

Within one month, he said the government will be launching the revised edition of the laws of Guyana. They will also be launching the law reports of Guyana from 2008 to 2021.

This is all part of the modernisation of the legal sector, President Ali said, noting that these initiatives will make Guyana’s laws easily accessible and more

user-friendly to all citizens.

The law reports will ensure judges and members of the legal profession have available and accessible important decided cases to guide them in ensuring an improved quality of justice.

“Precedents are there for a reason. I want to repeat that.

Precedence is there, for a reason. Matters are concluded at the highest level of a court and those decisions are recorded for a reason— so that justice is not delayed [and] so that important decisions are not delayed,” he said.

PREDICTABLE & FAIR Vice President Jagdeo stressed that the reform is not about political interference but about restoring public confidence in the justice system. “...If two men, persons go before the court and they both take my coffee here and take a sip of it and it’s illegal, and one will walk off with a sentence of a hundred years and the other one who is a little wealthier he could get off for free, so that sort of thing,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo emphasised the importance of having the courts follow legal precedence and authorities, and highlighted the grave public concern that the wealthy often receive more lenient treatment compared to others.

“We have to make the sector more accountable, and we have to provide not just access by more courts across the country but to poor people too, that’s why [I] spoke of the expansion of legal aid,” he said, adding: “We don’t want a sycophantic judiciary. We don’t want that. We want a judiciary that acts responsibly and accountably and predictably too.”

Commonwealth observers commend peaceful, transparent 2025 elections

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

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--Election Day marked by professionalism, improved procedures, increased citizen engagement, says Observer Group

THE 2025 General and Regional Elections in Guyana were largely peaceful, transparent, and professionally managed, according to the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG).

The 10-member team, deployed following a pre-election assessment mission in July, observed the elections held on September 1, 2025.

During its presence in Guyana from August 23 to September 7, the group engaged with political leaders, electoral authorities, civil society, media, and international partners, while observing campaign activities and election operations across seven regions.

In its final report, the Observer Group praised the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for its organisation and transparency, noting significant improvements since previous polls.

“GECOM’s updates to electoral manuals and decentralisation of counting represented major improvements since the previous elections,” the report stated.

The COG also praised the polling staff for demonstrating professionalism, courtesy, and preparedness, noting that information desks, signage, and voter materials were effectively deployed to assist voters. Observers also highlighted the well-coordinated security arrangements, which helped maintain a peaceful electoral environment.

Guyana’s legal and institutional framework was highlighted as a strong foundation for democratic governance, anchored in constitutional and international principles.

The Group lauded recent legislative improvements, including the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, Act 25 of 2022, and the National Registration (Amendment) Act, Act 26 of 2022, which clarified and modernised electoral processes.

However, the COG highlighted that persistent challenges at GECOM continued to undermine public confidence.

As such, it suggested that

strengthening institutional independence, transparency, and inclusivity is essential to consolidating electoral integrity ahead of future polls.

The Group also urged Guyana to implement recommendations to improve electoral credibility and transparency. According to the COG report, campaigning ahead of the elections was active yet largely peaceful. Six political parties — the Peoples Progressive Party/

economic development.”

The Group also noted that “the fundamental rights of candidates, political parties, and their supporters to assemble and campaign appear to have been largely observed.”

Technological advancements were central to the 2025 elections.

With an estimated 96% of Guyanese online, social media provided platforms for participation, partic-

two female presidential candidates and three female prime ministerial candidates.

Women now occupy over onethird of parliamentary seats, fulfilling the legal requirements under the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act (2000).

However, youth, persons with disabilities, Amerindian peoples, and civil society remain underrepresented, and the Observer

tinued implementation of prior observer mission recommendations, strengthening institutional independence, and creating a post-electoral domestic mechanism to ensure future elections remain credible, inclusive, and transparent.

The COG for the Guyana 2025 elections, chaired by Fekitamoeloa Katoa ‘Utoikamanu, included 10 experts from various countries, who observed the electoral process

The Commonwealth Observer Group (Commonwealth photo)

Civic (PPP/C), the Alliance for Change (AFC), the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) — contested the polls.

Observers noted that “parties used a mix of traditional mobilisation and policy-driven messaging, focusing on transparency in oil revenue management; anticorruption; constitutional reform and equitable

ularly for smaller parties, although observers warned about the spread of misinformation and disinformation.

The COG recommended strengthening media independence and transparency, institutionalising issue-based campaigning, and building digital resilience through monitoring, regulation, and civic education.

Significant progress was noted in political inclusion. Women’s participation advanced notably, with

Group urged improvements in data transparency, inclusive policy enforcement, and civic engagement to support equitable participation in future elections.

Overall, the Commonwealth Observer Group concluded that the 2025 elections reflected a maturing electoral process in Guyana.

“Voting, counting, and tabulation processes were peaceful, transparent, and generally well-managed,” the report noted.

The Group recommended con-

across seven regions.

The 2025 Guyana General and Regional Elections, held on September 1, marked a historic moment in the nation’s political landscape.

Incumbent President Dr. Irfaan Ali of the PPP/C was re-elected, while his party secured a majority in the 65-seat National Assembly with 36 seats. WIN emerged as the official opposition with 16 seats, followed by APNU with 12 seats and FGM with one seat.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Minister Ally urges Wakenaam residents to upskill, embrace digital services --as gov’t accelerates transformation

MINISTER of the Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, has called on residents of Wakenaam Island to take full advantage of government-led education, digitisation and financial inclusion initiatives.

He said that opportunities created under President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision must be matched by citizens’ active participation.

Addressing the community during a recent outreach event, Minister Ally noted that while he is new to many residents, he intends to return soon to continue engagement.

“I know that I’m new to many of you, but we want to change that, because I’ll be back here very soon,” he said.

Ally said that he has been in the cabinet for the past three months, working closely with President Ali and visiting communities across Guyana.

“We’ve been visiting communities, and I’ve been listening to our citizens all over the country,” he re-

marked.

Ally commended the progress achieved over the past five years under President Ali, highlighting that fewer issues are being raised because prior challenges have largely been addressed.

“One thing I’ve seen is that there have not been a lot of issues raised, and that is because His Excellency, over the past five years, has worked very hard with his cabinet and his previous team to fix those issues and challenges that you had,” Ally said.

He observed that citizens have shifted from requesting basic services to following up on existing applications, which he described as a positive development. Turning to the future, Minister Ally emphasised President Ali’s inclusive vision.

“The President has said very clearly in this vision and in this future, he does not want any Guyanese to be left behind. No Guyanese, no matter how old you are, should be left behind with the

vision and the country that the President is building,” he stated.

The minister highlighted digitisation initiatives aimed at streamlining government services and increasing transparency, but stressed that these efforts require citizen engagement.

“We’re not going to get there just by the government doing the work. We have to get there with your participation as well. You have to be trained, you have to keep up with what’s happening, and you have to upscale yourselves as well,” he said.

Minister Ally encouraged residents to use the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) and the international platform Coursera, both made available free of charge

by the government.

“The problem I have is that I’m not seeing you signing up on these platforms.

I’m not seeing you take advantage of all of these opportunities to help you,” he said, urging them to prepare for the investment and development expected in the region.

He also announced plans to return to Wakenaam with his team to assist residents in signing up for these programmes and opening bank accounts.

“I will bring the banks so that you can open your bank accounts, and everyone who is of age should open a bank account… We want to put this [the cash grant] straight into your bank account,” he said.

Ally highlighted that re-

Minister of the Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally

quirements for bank accounts have been simplified and that accounts can now be opened online. In addition, he said

he would return with services related to the national electronic ID card (E-ID), which will consolidate personal information and facilitate access to services.

“I want to report to His Excellency that in Wakenaam, everyone has a bank account, has a card, they have their passport, they sign up, they’re studying, they’re learning new trades.

All of this I want to report to the President in the next six months,” he said.

Minister Ally concluded by reaffirming his commitment to continuous engagement.

“I’ll be here, you will see me often, you will see me with my team, and we’re going to work together,” he said, encouraging residents to take proactive steps to benefit from the government’s initiatives.

Emotional, mental, physical well-being take centre stage --at Indian High Commission, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center’s World Meditation Day event

THE High Commission and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center Georgetown, in association with Brahma Kumaris Guyana, on December 21, celebrated World Meditation Day, underlining benefits of meditation for emotional, mental and physical well-being.

According to a press release, the event was attended by members of the Indian community and diaspora comprising Yoga and meditation enthusiasts.

The event included an introductory message by Sister Mohini from Brahmakumaris followed by a brief meditation session conducted by Sister Kinnari.

In his brief remarks, High Commissioner Dr Amit Telang highlighted the relevance of meditation in training and relaxation of mind and, in context of the World Mediation Day being observed by the United Nations, underscored mediation’s utility in promoting global peace and harmony.

Rooted in India’s ancient wisdom of meditation and

inner awakening, the UN General Assembly’s decla-

ration on December 6, 2024 of December 21 as World

Meditation Day marked a global acknowledgment of mindfulness as a powerful path toward peace, well-being, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The day is celebrated across the globe to recall the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

The High Commission and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center Georgetown, in association with Brahma Kumaris Guyana, on December 21, celebrated World Meditation Day, underlining benefits of meditation for emotional, mental and physical well-being

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Guyanese in NY ‘Care economy’ initiative to include seeking assistance persons already providing care of consulate to services in communities, households invest, work here

GUYANESE abroad are constantly being encouraged to be active participants in Guyana’s rapid transformation.

The Consul General of Guyana in New York, Ambassador Micheal Brotherson, has made it a point to note that while his office is not directly involved in employing Guyanese, they do connect them to the competent and relevant agencies that do so.

Ambassador Brotherson shared that persons have approached them for various reasons, including their interest in going back to serve in Guyana. The Ambassador noted that the government has a deliberate policy of facilitating Guyanese nationals, providing them with information, and pointing them in the right direction to access certain services.

“We point them in the right direction, we appoint them, we have them connected to the competent and relevant agencies and so on,” he said. The main objective of the consulate is to contribute to the economic and social development of Guyana by promoting its trade and investment potential and servicing the needs of the Diaspora through courteous and efficient service.

Speaking to the reasons persons may want to do this, the Ambassador said, “You can look at association, one wanting to be associated with one’s hometown. You can look at one wanting to

give back. You can look at, as I said, the freshness of the opportunities there now in our country because of the development trajectory, the quality of life.”

These persons are more than welcomed to return home and invest in Guyana, to actively participate in the building out of a new, improved Guyana. As government continues to rollout initiatives to modernise our country’s infrastructure and improve the lives of all Guyanese, these plans not only include building out bridges

Consul General of Guyana in New York, Ambassador Micheal Brotherson

and roads, but hospitals for modern, advanced healthcare provision, free higher education, skills training in technical and vocational education and STEM promotion, proper housing, with affordable electricity and gas prices thanks to the Gas to Energy Project, opportunities for businesses to grow, and several other opportunities that place Guyanese first. This rapid, yet necessary transformation is what makes Guyana’s economy one of the fastest growing ones in the world.

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud said the ‘care economy,’ which was announced in November by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, will include persons in communities who are already involved in the provision of care services.

This will allow them to transform how they offer care, turning it into something that is financially beneficial.

From the ministry’s standpoint, Minister Persaud said they are encouraging persons to take courses such as care for the elderly, care for children including special needs education, and early childhood development, all of which are offered by the community, and be part of community or even home-based care which attracts support through several government initiatives.

“If you have a space and you need infrastructural support, you have furniture and equipment that you need to create that environment to facilitate the care of children or the elderly, this is going to make the difference because it does a lot of things,” she said.

Dr. Persaud said this initiative creates avenues for entrepreneurship and for employment before explaining that it could be consortium-based, where a group of persons collabo-

empowerment and productivity of individuals and families, especially the most vulnerable.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali had explained that the ‘care economy’ would be realised through a multi-faceted investment package focusing on infrastructure and support services at the household and community levels.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (Photo: Ministry of Human Services and Social Security/ Facebook)

rate to provide safe care for children and empower more parents to go into the world of work.

The minister pointed out that, Guyana, with the level of development being undertaken, has many parents who are going out to work and will need somewhere safe for their children on a daily basis.

It was previously reported that a care economy is a social and economic structure where resources, infrastructure and programmes are specifically designed to nurture the well-being,

Dr. Ali announced the establishment of specific centres within Region Six, each tailored to empower distinct segments of the population.

Facilities dedicated to the empowerment of men and women, mental health support, and the advancement of persons living with disabilities were highlighted as key priorities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Modern Financial Architecture

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s recent statement that the Bank of Guyana will move from its traditional passivity to a proactive, data-driven approach marks a turning point in our economic history. For too long, people viewed central banking in the region mainly as a defensive shield, a way to just hold the line.

By signalling a move toward a modern, forward-looking institution that can effectively manage liquidity and inflation, the Head of State is not just adjusting policy; he is establishing the necessary financial framework for a global

powerhouse. This kind of institutional growth earns respect from investors and is required for sustainable development.

The foundation of this change is the strong push for financial inclusion, which has progressed from mere talk to real achievements.

The fact that more than 600,000 Guyanese are now part of the formal financial system—with over 65,000 new bank accounts opened since 2020—shows that the government’s strategy of simplifying bureaucratic processes is working.

By removing the obstacles that once made opening a bank account incredibly difficult, the administration has empowered thousands of citizens, readying them to receive social cash transfers digitally and participate fully in the economy.

With online banking now available at four local commercial banks, it’s clear that the digital age has finally reached our financial landscape, extending even to the remote areas.

One of the most ambitious elements of this plan is the establishment of a “junior stock exchange.”

This initiative addresses a key is-

The transparency cul-de-sac in Guyana

POLICY Forum (PF) replied to me to say it is not in receipt of funds from the EU Embassy in Guyana.

This is in response to an observation of mine that it does receive funds. I have sent the Chronicle original documents of the embassy’s disbursement of funds to certain civil society groups.

PF does not directly receive funds from the embassy but it benefits through an umbrella under the category of Civil Society Forum. It is through this canopy that PF receives the generosity of others.

These documents show that EU funds went to two organisations under the broad category of Civil Society Forum. In May 2024, the EU disbursed 467,777 Euros (114,605,555 million Guyana dollars) to this umbrella. The recipient of this money was a certain famous NGO and the Roman Catholic Church.

I don’t expect Bishop Alleyne to deny this information. I don’t think anyone in the world would expect

the Bishop to make such a denial. In one of the original documents sent to the publication, the Bishop’s signature is on it.

Do EU funds to the Catholic Church go to other civil society entities? May I remind readers that PF consists of the TUC, Guyana Human Rights Association and the Roman Catholic Church.

Republic Bank is the serving financial institution.

PF is one of the most relentless elements in Guyana calling for governmental transparency and accountability.

Since PF issued a press release on my work in the Guyana Chronicle, I would expect a second release based on my question.

Can PF tell us its source of funds? If political parties should be compelled to disclose their election funding why shouldn’t NGO too? There was supposed to be legislation earlier this year to compel NGOs to be transparent in their financial arrangements.

When that legislation comes into existence and NGOs have to be audited, there will be shocking information on how the EU embassy here gives away money and to whom. This information never reaches the EU Commission or the individual 27 governments that make up the EU. Do readers know that a certain LGBTQ organisation over the past 10 years received millions of Guyana dollars from the EU? Remember a million Euros is roughly 242 million Guyana dollars.

Anti-government critics demand transparency from the elected government. The ruling party that leads the government is elected. But who elected these people whose organisational behaviour is shrouded in secrecy?

I will bet anyone that PF will not reply and answer my question. PF can publicly accuse me of making misleading information on it but will ignore my question. But

sue for local entrepreneurs: access to funding.

By allowing smaller and emerging companies to raise money under regulations suited to their size, rather than the strict requirements of the senior exchange, the government is making investment opportunities more accessible.

Alongside the upcoming Guyana Development Bank, promising zero-collateral loans for small and medium-sized enterprises, this creates a strong environment where capital supports broad innovation rather than just serving the elite.

Critics often confuse caution

there is a way out. I apologise in saying that PF gets money directly from the EU Embassy. Can PF now answer my question?

In this country, transparency is a one-way street. The Guyana Government must be transparent but that does not apply to other powerful bodies. Everyone on Planet Earth holds to the opinion that the media community is very powerful in all democratic countries. But in Guyana, powerful media outfits refuse to be transparent.

No one knows who has the majority shares in Stabroek News (SN). I asked Kit Nascimento and he seems to think it is the family of the deceased owner, David DeCaires.

But I have been told that the Editor-in-Chief, Anand Persaud, may have more shares than the DeCaires family. Mr. Persaud belongs to one of Guyana’s wealthiest industrial families.

with stability, but in a fast-growing economy, passivity is risky.

President Ali’s insistence that the Central Bank must act with urgency, intelligence, and credibility is the directive our financial leaders need.

A modern payment system, a stable exchange rate, and a lively capital market are essential, not optional; they are the driving forces of a first-world economy.

With these reforms, Guyana is not just becoming wealthy; it is maturing and securing a financial future that is both inclusive and strong.

So, who owns majority shares in SN? Are Guyanese entitled to that information, if no why not? In democratic countries, the ownership of the media and business companies is open information.

What reason the SN has for not disclosing its ownership? I asked SN’s editor-in-chief, Mr. Persaud to name SN’s board members and he refused.

But those who want the government to be open, transparent and accountable and are gargantuan fans of SN, never ask the question as part of the comments they put daily to the letter section of the online edition of SN. People who support the Government of Guyana are called soup-drinkers, and other deriding names. But what do you call the sycophants of political parties, anti-government NGOs and the privately owned media houses who refuse to ask them for transparency too and

accountability.

Mr. Gerald Perreia, is the leader of a political party named organisation for the Victory of the People.

Mr. Perreira is one of the Caribbean’s most enduring, Pan-Africanists. He told me SN does not carry his letters.

There is a senior person at the Department of Public Information who is also a weekly Guyana Chronicle columnist.

This gentleman, Nazim Baksh, had an illustrious career as a journalistic investigator with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

Mr. Baksh, said not one of his letters to SN was published.

That is transparency for you!

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.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Agriculture Ministry rolls out first phase of dairy stock distribution

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Monday, distributed dairy stock to farmers as part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand the country’s dairy industry.

Some 19 farmers benefitted from the first phase of the initiative, according to a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Minister Mustapha highlighted that over the past five years the government has made significant advancements across the livestock sector.

He urged farmers to move away from a “tunnel vision” approach, and instead adopt integrated production systems to maximise efficiency and sustainability.

Mustapha disclosed that more than $110 million has been expended to facilitate some 300 embryo transplants aimed at boosting dairy production and improving genetics nationwide.

The minister also informed farmers that the De-

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Monday, distributed dairy stock to farmers as part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand the country’s dairy industry (MoA photos)

merara Distillers Limited is partnering with an international company to establish a modern dairy processing plant at Moblissa, noting that the facility is approximately 90 per cent complete.

“When we give you these animals and you continue breeding through the embryo transplant programme,

you will be able to produce additional heifers for dairy production,” Minister Mustapha said.

In addition to the dairy stock, farmers also received seed stock and soilage to support improved feeding systems and sustainable production.

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Gold, silver hit records as investors hunt for safety

THE gold price has hit another record high, trading above $4,400 (£3,275) an ounce for the first time.

The price of the precious metal has risen on expectations the US central bank will cut interest rates further next year, analysts said.

Gold started the year worth $2,600 an ounce, but geopolitical tensions, the Trump tariffs and expectations of rate cuts have added to investor demand for safe haven assets, such as gold and other commodities.

The prices of other precious metals also rose on Monday, with silver hitting a

record high as well.

The gold price has risen more than 68% this year, the highest increase since 1979, according to Adrian Ash, director of research at gold bullion marketplace BullionVault. 2025 has seen “slow-burning trends around interest rates, around war and trade tensions”, Mr Ash said, which have helped to push up the price of gold.

“The precious metals market says that President Trump has really triggered something – and gold has gone crazy this year.

“You’ve got the trade war, the attacks on the US

Federal Reserve and you’ve got geopolitical tensions, all of those provocations come from Trump,” he said.

After passing the $4,400 an ounce mark on Monday, the spot price of gold hit a high of $4,426.66.

Lower interest rate expectations typically mean lower returns for investments such as bonds, so investors look to commodities such as gold and silver to get a return, but also diversify their portfolios.

The consensus among analysts currently is that the US will lower interest rates twice in 2026.

Another factor adding to

demand is that central banks globally are expanding their own physical holdings of gold as a way to counter economic turbulence, reduce reliance on the US dollar, and diversify their own portfolios, according to analysis from Goldman Sachs, which predicted the pattern would continue in 2026.

The steady increase in the price of gold across the year could be because it is seen as a way for traders to help shield themselves from the threat of inflation and economic turmoil, Anita Wright, chartered financial planner at Ribble Wealth Management, said.

“When confidence in financial assets and policy stability starts to wobble, gold tends to respond first as the primary monetary metal,”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Wright said.

A weaker US dollar has also helped push gold prices higher by making the metal cheaper for overseas buyers.

Other precious metals have also had record years.

The price of silver also hit a record of $69.44 an ounce on Monday.

For 2025 so far, silver is up 138% year-to-date and platinum is at a 17-year high, vastly outperforming gold, underpinned by strong and supply constraints, according to analysts. Unlike gold,

the other precious metals are also used widely in industrial manufacturing which helps stoke demand.

Separately, oil prices rose on Monday, after the US ordered a “blockade” last week of sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.

The price of Brent crude rose $1.31 to $61.78 a barrel, while US oil was up $1.25 at $57.77. However, both measures look set to end 2025 at prices lower than where they started the year. (BBC)

Sarwan Three Hearts Foundation hosts Christmas dinner, movie night for children

THE Sarwan Three Hearts Foundation hosted a Christmas Dinner and Movie Night on Thursday, December 18, creating an unforgettable holiday experience for children from three local orphanages: Prabhu Sharan, Ruimveldt Children’s Home, and Joshua House Children Center.

The evening began at Caribbean Cinemas, where the children enjoyed a special screening of Zootopia 2.

For many of the attendees, the outing represented more than entertainment; it was a rare opportunity for escape, excitement, and, for some, their very first cinema experience.

Following the movie, the celebration continued at RS53 Etkezo Restaurant, where the children were welcomed into a warm and festive setting.

A hearty Christmas dinner was served by the Foundation’s dedicated volunteer team, dressed as cheerful elves, alongside a special appearance by Santa Claus.

Each child also received a Christmas gift, adding to the excitement and ensuring the evening ended with smiles and lasting memories.

The event reflected the core mission of the Sarwans’ Three Hearts Foundation: to uplift, support, and bring joy

The Sarwan Three Hearts Foundation, on Thursday last, hosted a Christmas Dinner and Movie Night

to vulnerable children within the community.

The smiles on the children’s faces served as a

powerful reminder of the importance of this work and the reason the foundation was established.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

CID recognises excellence, professionalism at Annual Awards Ceremony - Woman Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredericks named CID Headquarters Best Cop

THE Guyana Police Force’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), on Monday, hosted its Annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, recognising outstanding performance, dedication and professionalism among detectives and other ranks.

The event brought together CID officers, senior police officials, stakeholders and invited guests, and served as both a recognition ceremony and a forum for reflection on the Department’s achievements and challenges over the past year.

The CID Headquarters Best Cop award was presented to Woman Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredericks, while the runner-up was Lance Corporal Ravindra Beepat, who was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on the same day by Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken.

Addressing the gathering, Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, underscored the importance of professionalism, integrity and community partnership in modern policing.

He reminded ranks that public trust depends heavily on individual conduct, particularly during the Christmas season when police visibility and responsibility increase.

“Professionalism begins with the individual officer,” Commissioner Hicken said, noting that the actions of both junior and senior ranks shape the public’s perception of the Force.

He emphasised that there must be no tolerance for misconduct, abuse of authority or behaviour that undermines confidence in law enforcement.

The Commissioner also highlighted education and personal development as central to the ongoing transformation of the Guyana Police Force.

He encouraged ranks to take advantage of academic and professional opportunities, stressing that advancement must be based on competence, discipline and learning rather than favouritism.

Policing today, he noted, requires more than routine patrols and arrests. “It demands analytical thinking, proper documentation and the

CID Headquarters Best Cop award was presented to Woman Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredericks by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken (Delano Williams photo)

Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken

CID Best Cop runner-up, Sergeant Ravindra Beepat, receives his award from Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement), Wendell Blanhum (Delano Williams photo)

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement), Wendell Blanhum

ability to withstand scrutiny in court and public forums,” he said, while also cautioning against unethical behaviour, including the acceptance of gifts or favours.

Commissioner Hicken further addressed the role of detectives, stressing the need for thorough, lawful and professional investigations.

He also pointed to the modernisation of the Force, including the introduction of digital systems, and made it clear that technological competence is now a requirement rather than an option.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law Enforcement), Wendell Blanhum, in his address, congratulated award recipients and commended CID ranks for their commitment to duty and service to the nation. He said the ceremony was intended not only to recognise excellence but also to motivate all ranks

to maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity.

The awards, he explained, symbolised performance beyond the normal call of duty and reflected the tireless efforts of detectives in preventing and detecting crime.

He reminded ranks that policing is a collective effort and encouraged those who were not recognised to remain motivated and focused.

Deputy Commissioner Blanhum also highlighted the growing contributions of female ranks within the CID, noting that their work continues to strengthen investigative capacity and overall service delivery.

He commended Commissioner Hicken’s leadership, pointing to the peaceful conduct of recent electoral processes as evidence of disciplined and professional policing.

He further emphasised

the importance of collaboration and partnership, noting that throughout 2025 the CID worked closely with national, regional and international law enforcement agencies to disrupt criminal networks and address transnational crime.

Such co-operation, he said, has improved investigative

outcomes while ensuring adherence to the law and due process.

Training and professional development were also identified as key priorities, with detectives benefitting from local and overseas programmes aimed at strengthening investigative, leadership and analytical skills.

Deputy Commissioner Blanhum expressed pride in ranks who excelled academically and encouraged continued pursuit of education as a means of personal and institutional growth.

In closing, he thanked sponsors and partners who supported the event, acknowledged the work of CID offices across the country, and extended Christmas greetings and best wishes for a peaceful and productive New Year to ranks, their families and stakeholders.

The annual ceremony reaffirmed the Criminal Investigation Department’s focus on accountability, professional excellence and continuous improvement as it prepares for the year ahead.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Craig flays Lall for silence on gold-smuggling contradictions, credential untruths

FORMER Chair of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), Gabriel “GHK” Lall’s silence has been flagged following the mounting unanswered questions regarding the account of events regarding gold smuggling

by US-indicted Mohameds, and equal concerns about key elements of his academic and professional back-

ground.

Former APNU+AFC official Leonard Craig, in a column in Monday’s edition of the Guyana Chronicle, highlighted the deafening silence

by Lall who is monotonous when churning out aggressive commentary against the current government.

Craig wrote: “While Lall is out there casting asper-

sions, he is yet to properly defend potent allegations of links to, and actions taken to facilitate gold-smuggling by the embattled Mohameds, while he (Lall) was the head of the Gold Board.

“Further, GHK Lall has not uttered a word to clarify accusations of not only embellishing his accomplishments, but outrightly

concocting an academic and professional profile that does not exist in the real world, an unflinching, audacious liar in full ‘superfluousity.’

It would, therefore, not be difficult to associate Lall with terms such as diddle, chicanery and pseudo-intellectual flimflam.”

Questions surrounding Lall’s credibility have inten-

Former Chair of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), Gabriel ‘GHK’ Lall

sified following the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioning and indictment by federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida of businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar Mohamed. The duo was charged with multiple counts of fraud, money laundering, and related offences.

In October, Lall, during a press conference, publicly denied that the father-andduo were ever on the radar for gold smuggling while he was chairman.

In fact, he said the dossier provided by the US Embassy did not include the names of then gold exporters Azruddin and his father Nazar as suspected gold smugglers.

However, shortly after, the former Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, confirmed that the US authorities shared dossiers with the-then APNU+AFC government that included the Mohamed’s names in relation to suspected gold smuggling.

“A number of gold dealers were on the list, including the Mohameds, but the focus did not appear to be the Mohameds. At least, not at that time,” Trotman is quoted as saying in a Demerara Waves Online News article.

As highlighted by Craig, much is left unanswered regarding what took place: “Lall denied the existence of a document containing the names of the Mohameds in relation to suspected goldsmuggling during his tenure on the Gold Board.

Within hours, he ‘get skin up’ by Raphael Trotman.

Trotman admitted that as minister, he was aware of a dossier from the US Government, shared with the Gold Board, that contained the names of the Mohameds.

“Lall is still faced with

Former APNU+AFC official Leonard Craig

a myriad of conspiracy theories, for which no plausible body of information is available to extricate him from allegations that, at the very least, he turned a blind eye to prolific levels of gold trans-shipment and smuggling, which occurred under his tenure.

I guess Lall thinks that by washing his mouth daily on every conceivable government policy, we will somehow forget his record of debasement.

“Lall has no moral rectitude to lecture anyone on the virtues of governance.

Shakespeare has a question concerning ‘the state of Denmark’ and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson might ask, ‘can you smell what Lall is cooking?’ In comes Volda Lawrence with an apt answer, ‘sink a fish.”

Craig then criticised Lall’s appointment as Chair of the GGB and wrote: “The simple question is, what has Lall contributed politically or administratively to the Gold Board that any of the displaced younger and more vibrant politically immersed people could not have? There is enough on the public record directly from Lall that can be termed as barefaced lies that exposes the totality of his outpourings snugly under the classification, ‘incredible.”

Craig has publicly challenged Alliance For Change (AFC)’s former leader Nigel Hughes and other members including: Cathy Hughes, Trotman, David Patterson or Khemraj Ramjattan to offer the name of just one person (young or otherwise) that they, either individually or together mentored or exposed to leadership that eventually gained any form of national recognition, or that produced any form of political dividend which the AFC can cash in on today.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Evolve Business Solutions Inc. utilising AI, --to redefine business systems, GNBS Certification excellence in Guyana FOR Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Evolve Business Solutions Inc., Avia Maria Lindie, a quality management system is essential for any business.

With an extensive background in leadership, inventory control, document reproduction, and stationery, the company’s CEO, Lindie, is a strategist in utilising technology for business solutions with a vision to establish her own company. “... I had this vision...I wrote the core values and some ideas about things that I wanted to do, and then I just left them there. I said, “You know what, I’ll just go ahead and maybe incorporate a company, because I was always thinking about sustainability and scaling, longevity and legacy, because I’m also a mom of four...”” she said.

In 2020, the COVID-19 epidemic solidified her entrepreneurial path when she envisioned a company dedicated to nurturing talent, recognising greatness and helping businesses work smarter, not harder. That vision gave birth to Evolve Business Solutions Inc. As the pandemic eased, Evolve came to life, addressing the growing need for structured, technology-enabled business support in Guyana’s evolving economy.

Today, this technology-driven business consultancy uses digital technologies, organised procedures, and continuous improvement to help businesses operate more efficiently.

This strategy was reinforced by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) certification, which the company received at the recent National Quality Awards ceremony.

In November 2024, Evolve decided to pursue the GYS 901:2024 – Quality Management System for medium, small and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs), recognising that certification would not only strengthen its own operations but also enhance credibility and trust with its clients.

The CEO further explained, “If you’re a solopreneur, it’s important for you to have systems. Otherwise, you are the business, and every-

thing revolves around you.

And if that’s the case, then you won’t be able to scale or enter partnerships, because you don’t have any systems.”

Through the GNBS’ certification programme, Evolve formalised its workflows, monitoring processes and

efficiency that comes from having strong management systems in place.

With plans to expand regionally, Evolve sees GNBS certification as the foundation of its growth and a key enabler for MSMEs seeking to compete locally, region-

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the Honourable Susan Rodrigues, presents the GYS 901 certificate to Avia Maria Lindie at NQA 2025

quality controls; tools that it now applies directly in helping other businesses strengthen their operations.

Evolve’s CEO describes the GNBS certification process as professional and supportive, noting that the guidance and monitoring helped her company apply the quality management principles in real time.

“I was happy that the GNBS certification actually helped me even in managing the product project [Silvie AI] and also being able to meet those requirements...It was so surreal that this certification programme aligned perfectly when I landed a major project, and I was able to see in real-time how effective and how useful it was.

It’s not just something that you’re saying that you have, but you’re actually using it in real time. I thought that was like really profound and useful”, Lindie added.

Silvie AI, which is Silvie’s Industrial Solutions’ virtual assistant, replaced a long-standing employee who held most of the inventory knowledge. The project was completed in half the estimated time, underscoring the

ally and globally. Evolve joins GNBS in encouraging businesses to view standards and certification as tools for empowerment rather than obstacles.

“I’m really impressed that with their [GNBS] focus on helping MSMEs to grow and develop so that we can compete with the rest of the

world,” Lindie emphasised.

While encouraging other businesses to pursue GNBS certification, Lindie emphasised, “This is something that I think all companies in Guyana should not sleep on - the services offered by the GNBS. I think our country needs it.”

Evolve believes that certification, systems, and

standards are not barriers; they are enablers of excellence, noting, “The GNBS will definitely be one of my strongest recommendations to any size company to get on board, to get one of these certifications, to get the quality management systems, and they’ll tell me better [and] thank me later.”

Businesses thinking

about applying for the 901 certification or any other GNBS Certification can contact the GNBS’s Certification Services Department. The application forms, along with detailed requirements, can be found on the GNBS website https://gnbsgy.org/certification/ (Guyana National Bureau of Standards)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

How China’s initiatives are paving a new path to a better world (XINHUA) When future historians look back on the once-in-a-century global transformation and trace the underlying logic of evolving international relations, they will surely recognize Sept. 1, 2025 as a pivotal moment -- when Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Governance Initiative (GGI).

Prior to this, Beijing had put forward a series of major global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative (GDI) in 2021, the Global Security Initiative (GSI) in 2022, and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) in 2023. Together with the GGI, they constitute a holistic framework for jointly building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Each initiative addresses a fundamental pillar of global cooperation: the GDI seeks to lay the material foundation, the GSI is designed to

safeguard stability, the GCI tries to foster shared understanding, and the GGI intends to provide the institutional architecture. As noted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the four global initiatives proposed by China “are totally compatible with the UN Charter.” Many countries also view them as pragmatic and constructive solutions to contemporary global challenges.

Yet the world remains fractured amid a rising tide of uncertainty and turbulence. While some advocate dialogue and cooperation, others cling to unilateralism and bloc politics, compounding long-standing crises and creating new risks.

Global development remains fragile, characterized by widening North-South disparities and compounded by overlapping energy and food crises. Around the world, more than 1 billion people continue to live in

extreme poverty. Security is deteriorating, with armed conflicts reaching post-war highs, rising displacement, and increased reliance on sanctions and bullying by certain country.

Meanwhile, the discourse of “a clash of civilizations” appears to overshadow exchanges between them, while global governance is eroded by withdrawals from international treaties, practices of decoupling, and the expansion of barriers that undermine fairness and equality, especially for the Global South.

The grim reality underscores the relevance and timeliness of the four global initiatives, further highlighting the need to build international consensus and strengthen solidarity.

A CALL FOR SHARED DEVELOPMENT As Xi has noted, development holds the master key

to solving all problems. The Global Development Initiative focuses on the shared development needs of humanity, closely aligns with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and directly addresses the real challenges in the field of global development. This initiative contributes Chi-

technological blockades and trade barriers continue to widen the development gap.

Meanwhile, multilateral cooperation mechanisms are increasingly weakened by unilateral actions, leading to a severe shortage of global public goods and a lack of coordinated international responses.

Actors showcase traditional Chinese attires during an art performance at the UN headquarters in New York, June 9, 2025 (Xinhua/Li Rui)

nese wisdom and solutions to jointly advancing global development toward a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive growth.

Ten years on, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has stalled. Of its 169 specific targets, only about 35 percent are on track, while nearly half are progressing too slowly and 18 percent have regressed.

Globally, development is reversing in key areas. Extreme poverty has risen for the first time in two decades, with the poorest half of humanity holding just 2 percent of global wealth. Some 2.6 billion people still lack internet access, and the funding gap for developing countries to adapt to climate change is continuously widening.

Moreover, wars and conflicts have pushed 140 million people into acute food insecurity, while unilateral sanctions continue to severely impact the livelihoods of billions.

These alarming facts expose fundamental flaws in global development. Some developed countries have prioritized geopolitical interests over cooperation, exploiting development resources through sanctions, decoupling and aid cuts. In so doing, they have betrayed the universal consensus that the right to development is an inalienable human right.

An imbalanced global governance structure has long left developing nations at a disadvantage in shaping international rules, while

These issues have not only raised the risk of the 2030 Agenda’s failure, but highlighted the urgent need for targeted measures to address global development challenges.

The GDI, proposed at this crucial time, has gained tremendous global appeal by breaking away from the outdated paradigm in which major powers dominate and smaller nations are forced to depend on them. The initiative also promotes collective action with an attitude of equality and a systematic approach, ensuring that every participant becomes a beneficiary of development.

As a proactive champion of the initiative, China has always been guided by the “Six Principles” and relies on platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the New Development Bank to empower international development cooperation.

The China-Africa Agricultural Technology Demonstration Center implements the “teach a man to fish” model, leading to an average increase in local crop yields of 30-60 percent. It has benefited over a million farmers, serving as a tangible manifestation of the priority development concept.

The China-Laos Railway has turned Laos from landlocked into a land-linked hub, cutting logistics costs by over 30 percent and creating more

than 100,000 jobs. Meanwhile, China-Brazil joint technology innovation centers have enhanced ecological protection and expanded clean energy access to remote communities, promoting inclusive, innovation-driven growth and harmony between people and nature.

Beyond giving robust impetus to the 2030 Agenda, the GDI is revolutionizing and reshaping global development concepts. Its theoretical breakthrough lies in breaking free from the dependence on conventional Western development models, putting first the common interests of humanity and laying a solid foundation for building a community with a shared future for humanity.

For development dividends to reach more people equitably across the globe, nations should move beyond narrow self-interest, embrace historical trends, champion common development, uphold fairness and justice, and fully commit to mutually beneficial cooperation.

A NEW PATH TO LASTING PEACE AND SECURITY The world today is experiencing its most profound turbulence and transformation since the end of the Cold War. With growing deficits in peace and security, global security governance faces severe challenges. The international community urgently needs security visions and approaches that are in tune with the spirit of the times.

The Global Security Initiative has emerged in response to the current situation, aligning with the shifting international landscape through the concept of unity, and addressing security challenges with a win-win approach. It is dedicated to eliminating the root causes of international conflicts and improving global security governance.

Looking back at the course of human development, the pursuit of absolute security through strength and the creation of an exclusive security framework is, at its core, a form of the “law of the jungle.” History has repeatedly proven its dangers.

The horrific devastations of the two World Wars, as well as regional instability caused by hegemonic competition, all stemmed from the obsessive pursuit of absolute security and the brutal

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

application of the law of the jungle. Nations that exploit others and bully the weak ultimately face either a vicious cycle of security dilemmas or are swept away by the tides of history.

Looking at the present, this rigid security doctrine based on the law of the jungle is already out of step with the trends of the times.

In today’s world, economic globalization is deepening, with the interests of countries closely intertwined and their fates shared. The interconnectedness, transnational nature, and complexity of security issues are becoming increasingly evident, and no country can remain isolated.

Attempts to violate the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, disregard the collective will of the international community, and unilaterally pursue absolute security are movements against the tide of history.

As Xi has noted, the Cold War mentality would only wreck the global peace framework, hegemonism and power politics would only endanger world peace, and bloc confrontation would only exacerbate security challenges in the 21st century. This important observation offers profound insights on the root causes of the global security predicament.

The GSI is underpinned by “six commitments,” specifically, commitment to the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security; respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries; abiding by the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter; taking the legitimate security concerns of all countries seriously; peacefully resolving differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation; and maintaining security in both traditional and nontraditional domains.

In the traditional security domain, China has actively promoted the political settlement of hotspot issues and is the largest contributor of peacekeeping personnel among the permanent members of the UN Security Council.

In non-traditional security domains, China has participated in and often led multilateral cooperation on counter-terrorism, drug control and public health security. It has also carried out numerous humanitarian assistance programs, addressing emerging global threats through collaboration.

In regional security co-

operation, China has leveraged platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia to steadily contribute to regional stability.

Committed to building a more balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture, China, together with other countries, is pursuing a new path of security based on dialogue rather than confrontation, partnership rather than alliances, and win-win cooperation rather than zero-sum outcomes.

When multilateralism becomes the defining feature of global security governance and consultation on an equal footing becomes the shared choice of all countries to address security concerns, humanity will surely embark on a bright path toward lasting peace and universal security. The tide of peace and development is destined to surge forward.

A NOD TO CIVILISATIONAL DIVERSITY At present, some countries pursue unilateralism and protectionism, clinging to theories of the “clash of civilisations” and “civilisational superiority.”

When estrangement between civilizations, cultural friction and confrontations over values fuel tensions and conflicts between nations, a range of issues usually break out -- ranging from widening development gaps and weakened international rules to growing disorder in global governance.

In response to these pressing challenges, the Global Civilization Initiative offers a shared cultural foundation for countries to address their common struggles.

“The world we live in is diverse and colorful. Diversity makes human civilization what it is, and provides a constant source of vitality and driving force for world development,” Xi has said.

This important statement provides guidance for answering the questions of how different civilisations should coexist and where human civilisation is headed.

The GCI can be summarised with four common advocacies: to respect the diversity of civilisations, to uphold the common values of humanity, to attach importance to inheritance and innovation of civilisations, and to strengthen international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation.

While this initiative confronts misconceptions and prejudices, it promotes equality, mutual learning, dialogue and mutual accommodation between civilizations. It also opposes cultural arrogance, and seeks to create platforms for equal dialogues, enabling different civilizations to deepen their understanding of one another and advance through mutual exchanges and learning.

China holds deep respect for civilizational diversi-

ty and has been advancing deeper, more substantive exchanges among civilizations.

The country has initiated and supported multilateral dialogue platforms, including the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations, the Liangzhu Forum, the World Conference of Classics, and the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting.

Additionally, China helped build consensus at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly to establish the In-

ternational Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. In June 2025, China successfully hosted the first global event marking the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

China has also expanded dialogue on governance and development through mechanisms such as the Communist Party of China in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting, the High-level Dialogue on Global Development, the

China-EU Human Rights Dialogue, and the China-Latin America Human Rights Roundtable.

In addition, China has signed cooperation agreements with more than 100 countries in areas such as culture, cultural heritage and tourism, and has advanced cooperation in joint archaeology, world heritage protection and the mutual translation of classical works, safeguarding its own cultural TURN TO PAGE 16

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Air Transat route seen as catalyst for Guyana–Canada economic links

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

- says acting High Commissioner to Canada

By Frederick Halley

GUYANA’S acting High Commissioner to Canada, Cindy Sauers, is of the view that Guyana’s quest to become an aviation hub to promote connectivity is not only a desired objective

to facilitate the movement of people, notably the significant Guyanese diaspora community residing in Canada, but also the movement of goods and services to promote economic and commercial relations between Guyana and Canada

and even beyond.

Speaking at the milestone occasion of Air Transat’s inaugural direct flight from Toronto to Georgetown recently, the High Commissioner (ag) said the occasion marks a new chapter, a new relationship, a new era of

Guyana’s acting High Commissioner to Canada, Cindy Sauers, clips the ceremonial ribbon, flanked by Honorary Consul Mani Singh (on her right) and Air Transat’s officials

international travel between Guyana and Air Transat, but more so strengthened bilateral relations between Guyana and Canada.

According to Sauers, Air Transat’s commitment has not gone unnoticed and the Government of Guyana welcomes this initiative/action.

“Please be assured that the Government of Guyana is doing its part, and has established reliable navigation services and is spearheading efforts to develop infrastructure, security framework and related services and facilities to accommodate the needs of a growing and progressive aviation sector in Guyana.

“I wish to underscore the facilitatory role and the importance of Guyana’s strategic geographic location in South America in influencing/promoting greater connectivity on that continent, but also across the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe and even beyond. Having noted Air Transat’s current inroads in South America, this is an area worth further dialogue amongst stakeholders to capitalise on the untapped opportunities.”

The High Commissioner (ag) pointed out that she is pleased to convey that the Government of Guyana welcomes air services/airlines such as Air Transat in coming on board and joining in the journey towards contributing to Guyana’s progressive aviation sector.

“As we may all be aware, in recent years Guyana’s economy has been, and continues to be on a development trajectory, as it is known as the fastest-growing economy in the world in recent years – according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), between 2022-2024, real GDP grew by an average of 47 per cent per year, not only because of an increase in oil production, but also in non-oil output and large-scale public infrastructure projects.

“In 2025, overall GDP is projected to increase by approximately 10.25 per cent, with a forecast of an average

continuous annual growth of 14 per cent over the next five years. “To you, my friends at Air Transat, I wish to say that through the launch of this inaugural flight, thousands will be connected, thousands will benefit, and I am sure that Air Transat will not regret its investment and the confidence in introducing this new Toronto-Georgetown route to its network.

“As Guyana’s tourism sector continues to gain momentum and as visitor arrivals continue to increase, the demand increases for ease of travel, more choices/options through the introduction of additional airlines on the market, with competitive rates and prices (which is at the top of the minds of each consumer). As of early June 2025, there has been a 15 per cent increase in passenger arrivals in Guyana (over 1 million) when compared to 2024. Ladies and gentlemen, you can therefore imagine the impact and contribution Air Transat’s investment will make. Guyana is as much of a viable route as it is a viable destination and attraction.”

Sauers conveyed greetings, congratulatory sentiments and best wishes to the Management and Staff of Air Transat, on behalf of His Excellency Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Government and People of Guyana.

This pre-flight gathering of distinguished guests included Mr Manichand Singh, Guyana’s Honorary Consul in Toronto; Mr Howard Liebman, Vice President, Government Relations, Air Transat; Mr Bernard Côté, Senior Director of Brand Communications, Air Transat; Mr Sean O’Donnell, Associate Director, Air Service and Cargo Development, Greater Toronto Airports Authority; other officials/ representatives of Air Transat, executives/representatives; Toronto-Pearson International Airport, crew members and passengers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Measures in place to minimise price gouging by middlemen --Agriculture Minister says prices for eggs, other poultry products to remain stable as festive season continues

AS shoppers and patrons speed up their preparations for Christmas, the Ministry of Agriculture has put in place systems to ensure no price surge of high-demand commodities like eggs and other poultry.

In most Guyanese households, Christmas celebrations are steeped in tradition, with families indulging in beloved staples such as black and fruit cakes, alongside savoury favourites like pepper pot and an assortment of meat dishes, including garlic pork.

As poultry products form a core component of many of these festive dishes, demand typically rises during this period, often resulting in price fluctuations or price gouging across the market.

“This holiday, I met with all the egg producers. They undertook that they will not increase the price for eggs,” Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, said in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

Last week, prices for eggs began to fluctuate ranging from $1,500 to $2,500, but according to Mustapha, this was as a result of middlemen operations.

In response to this, the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) is offering competitive pricing with eggs being sold at $1,300 per tray.

He noted too that some producers have committed to sell directly at the local markets, offering more affordable prices.

“So, I’m putting some system in place now. GMC will break the stronghold the middlemen have, [as] some

of those same producers, they will sell directly at the market.

“So, I’m hoping that we can maintain it between $1,300 to $1,500 because it stands now, GMC selling for $1,300, and we’ll try as much as possible to increase the outlets across the country so we can regulate back the prices,” Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha noted similar arrangements are in place for other high-demand commodities during the festive season, noting that there is no shortage of eggs or other poultry products on the local market.

“There’s enough eggs in the country not to increase it [the price],” he said.

It was previously reported that Guyana is looking to boost its production of hatching eggs, as the country has set its sights on, and is tapping into, Caribbean markets to expand its local reach in not only becoming self-sufficient but meeting the demands of the region.

Construction has already begun to clear lands in Pakuri Village in Region Four (previously known as St Cuthbert’s Mission) to facilitate tunnel houses. This project would be one of the largest of its kind in the country and will satisfy the demands of the local market and the local poultry producers.

In 2024, Guyana had tripled its hatching eggs production. Guyana had imported nearly 53 million eggs annually at a cost of over $350 million.

To reduce this dependency, the country launched

a hatching egg production programme in 2023 with a private partnership, resulting in the production of 27,000 eggs last year at the broiler breeder facility on the East Bank corridor.

Demand typically rises during the Christmas period, often resulting in price fluctuations or price gouging across the market (Sachin Persaud photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Chinese businessman murdered in Cumberland during robbery

THE police in Berbice are investigating an alleged robbery and murder that occurred during the early hours of Monday, December 22, 2025, at Lot 21, Cumberland Village, East Canje, resulting in the death of a Chinese businessman and injuries to another.

The deceased has been identified as 61-year-old businessman Chen Yong-

ping, residing at Cumberland Village. The injured victim is Chen Dongrong, a 32-yearold businessman of the same address.

Preliminary investigations indicate that, at about 03:00 hours, the two men left their home and travelled to the Port Mourant Market, Corentyne.

Upon their return, at approximately 05:00 hours, they were reportedly attacked

by two identifiable males, both armed with knives.

During the attack, the suspects allegedly robbed the victims of several items.

Chen Yongping was robbed of an iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at $322,000, along with an undetermined sum of cash. Chen Dongrong was relieved of $150,000 in cash and an iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at $342,000.

Both men sustained mul-

The crime scene tiple stab wounds and injuries and were taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital for medical treatment.

Yo n g p i n g l a t e r s u ccumbed to his injuries while receiving care.

Dongrong, who was ad-

mitted to Ward 8 with a fractured skull, was later discharged.

The body of Yongping is currently at a funeral par-

lour awaiting a post-mortem examination. Police are actively pursuing the suspects as investigations continue.

Taxi driver gunned down in Sophia

POLICE are investigating a fatal shooting at Mercy Wing, Plum Park, Sophia, which claimed the life of a 27-year-old taxi driver.

Dead is Xavier Fraser of Plum Park, who was shot around 22:36 hours on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Fraser was at the location when he sustained gunshot injuries under circumstances that remain unclear.

Fraser was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.

Police said a 19-year-old male, also of Plum Park, who sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, was admitted to the hospital and is currently listed in stable condition.

DEAD Xavier Fraser

Fraser’s body is at the hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the area as efforts continue to determine the motive and identify those responsible for the shooting.

How China’s initiatives... roots while contributing to the preservation of humanity’s shared heritage.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the coexistence, exchanges and mutual learning among civilisations are vital for advancing global modernisation and enriching a diverse tapestry of world civilisation. The GCI offers a framework for countries to pursue modernization paths that are grounded in their own traditions while being open to the shared wisdom of humanity.

A BOLD EXPERIMENT FOR BETTER GLOBAL GOVERNANCE Some countries remain entrenched in the outdated belief that “might makes right.”

Their hegemonic mindset and practices have stalled the reform of global rules, weakening the world’s collective capacity to act in the face of an ineffective global governance system.

New challenges, such as the exploration of deep-sea resources, the commercial use of polar shipping routes, the definition of outer space re-

FROM PAGE 13

source rights, and cross-border data flows, are emerging rapidly, yet corresponding international rules remain largely absent or fragmented.

At the same time, some Western countries, leveraging long-established advantages, dominate major multilateral institutions in global economic and financial governance.

By contrast, Global South countries, which account for more than 80 percent of the world’s population and over 40 percent of global economic output, remain underrepresented in international organisations, with their legitimate concerns ineffectively addressed. Moreover, some countries bypass or coerce multilateral mechanisms, resorting to withdrawals and sanctions, further fragmenting global governance.

This continuous weakening of governance effectiveness has caused insufficient provision of global public goods, leaving responses to many global challenges mired in prolonged deliberation without decision, and decisions without implementation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Miner sentenced to 11½ years over 2021 killing at Potaro Backdam

T H I R T Y- Y E A R - O L D Francisco Sampson, also known as “Junior,” formerly of Lot 35, Seventh Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), was sentenced to 11 years and six months’ imprisonment by Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the High Court in Essequibo.

The sentence relates to the killing of 38-year-old Eon Anthony Ramnarine, a father of three, at Obanna Backdam, Kurubrong, Potaro, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

In handing down the sentence, Justice Chandra-Hanif ordered that the time Sampson has already spent in custody be deducted from the overall term.

The judge further directed prison authorities to ensure that Sampson is enrolled in and successfully completes conflict-resolution and rehabilitation programmes, as well as psychological counselling, before the completion of his sentence.

Sampson was initially indicted for the capital offence of murder. However, the state accepted a plea to the lesser count of manslaughter.

The prosecution was conducted by State Counsel Caressa Henry and State Counsel Fenton Budhram, while Sampson was represented by attorney L. N. Dindayal.

In handing down her decision, Justice Chandra-Hanif underscored the seriousness of violent crime and the need for accountability, while balancing the mitigating considerations raised by the defence against the aggravating factors presented by the prosecution.

The defence highlighted the offender’s age, his expression of remorse, his previously good character and his co-operation with the police as mitigating factors.

Conversely, the prosecution stressed the gravity of the offence, the use of excessive violence with a deadly weapon, namely a knife, the enduring impact of the killing on Ramnarine’s family, and the wider prevalence of such violent offences in society.

Ewart Austin, in a victim-impact statement, told the court that his son, Ramnarine, was a great provider to his children.

He said his son was a great person in every sense and that his untimely passing has taken a toll on him both emotionally and physically.

In his statement, the convict said, “I am really sorry for what happened — I didn’t expect it to happen like this.

A life has been taken, and I want the family [of Ram-

narine] to give me some forgiveness.”

The prosecution’s case detailed the circumstances surrounding the death of Ramnarine, also known as “Anthony,” of Obanna Backdam.

Evidence presented to the court showed that the men were acquainted, as both of them worked and lived in close proximity at neighbouring mining camps in the Potaro area.

On October 4, 2021, around 11:45hrs, police at the Mahdia Police Station received a report of an alleged murder at Obanna Backdam.

Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif

Acting on the information, police ranks proceeded to the location to carry out investigations.

Upon reaching the area, the officers were taken to the mining camp of Francisco Sampson Snr., the convict’s father, where they encountered both the elder Sampson and the convict.

During the interaction with police, the younger Sampson handed over a black-handled knife and told the officers that it was the weapon he used to stab Ramnarine.

He subsequently led the ranks to a nearby bushy area where the body of Ramnarine was discovered lying motionless on the ground, partially covered with a bed sheet.

The body was positioned on its back, dressed in short, dark-coloured pants, with visible blood stains on the clothing and surrounding ground. A piece of wood bearing what appeared to be blood stains was also found near the body.

A police detective cautioned Sampson at the scene in relation to the allegation that he had murdered Ramnarine by stabbing him several times. In response, Sampson claimed that Ramnarine

had struck him with a piece of wood and that he used a knife, which he had for mechanical work, to stab him.

He was informed of his rights, arrested, and escorted from the scene along with the body, the knife and the piece of wood. These items were transported to the Mahdia Police Station.

On the following day, October 5, 2021, Sampson and the body of the deceased were taken to the Mahdia Regional Hospital. There,

Sampson was examined and treated, while Ramnarine was pronounced dead.

Later that same day, Sampson was interviewed at the Mahdia Police Station. After being cautioned and informed of his rights, he elected to give a written statement in which he admitted stabbing Ramnarine, claiming that he was acting in self-defence after being struck with a piece of wood.

A post-mortem examination conducted on October

8, 2021, revealed a total of 11 incised wounds on the deceased’s body, including multiple stab wounds to the chest that penetrated the heart and lung. The cause of death was determined to be perforation of the heart and lung due to stab wounds.

Sampson was later committed by Magistrate Sunil Scarce on October 17, 2023, at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court to stand trial at the High Court for the offence of murder.

Dead: Eon Anthony Ramnarine

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Duffy bowls New Zealand to series victory as Windies collapse for 138 MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand, (CMC)- A devastating spell of fast bowling from Jacob Duffy, who claimed a career-best match haul of 9 for 128, powered New Zealand to a crushing 323-run victory over the West Indies in the third Test here on Monday, clinching the series 2-0.

Set an improbable 462 for victory, the West Indies’ resistance, which had been stoic for the first session on the final day, evaporated in a spectacular collapse from 87 for one, to 138 all out in the final session.

The tourists had begun the day with disciplined intent.

Openers Brandon King and John Campbell survived the first hour, with King in particular looking assured on his way to a fluent 67. The pair took the score to 87 without loss, suggesting a long day of toil for the hosts.

The breakthrough, however, triggered a catastrophic chain reaction. Duffy, extracting awkward bounce, forced King to glove to gully.

From there, the innings unravelled at dizzying speed.

Spinner Ajaz Patel, claiming his best home figures (3-23 & 6-136), removed Campbell (16) and Kavem Hodge (0) in quick succession, the latter to a spectacular reflex catch by Rachin Ravindra at short leg.

Duffy then took centre stage, running through the middle order with a master-

SCOREBOARD

NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 575-8 dec’d WEST INDIES 1st innings (overnight 381 for six) John Campbell c Latham b Duffy 45 Brandon King b Duffy 63 Kavem Hodge not out 123 +Tevin Imlach c +Blundell b Rae 27 Alick Athanaze b Patel 45 Justin Greaves lbw b Mitchell 43 *Roston Chase lbw b Patel 2 Anderson Phillip c +Blundell b Duffy 17 Shai Hope c Foulkes b Duffy 4 Jayden Seales b Patel 15 Kemar Roach c +Blundell b Rae 0

Extras (b1, lb12, nb2, w21) 36 TOTAL (all out; 128.2 overs) 420 Fall of wickets: 1-111, 2-140, 3-206, 4-267, 5-348, 6-351, 7-386, 8-390, 9-419, 10-420.

Bowling: Duffy 35-8-86-4, Foulkes 20-482-0, Rae 21.2-1-89-2, Patel 41-5-113-3, Phillips 8-0-28-0, Mitchell 3-1-9-1.

NEW ZEALAND 2nd innings *Tom Latham c Seales b Hodge Devon Conway c Seales b Hodge Kane Williamson not out Rachin Ravindra not out

101 100 40 46

Extras (b1, lb8, nb5, w5) 19 TOTAL (two wickets; 54 overs) 306 dec’d

class in hostile seam bowling.

Alick Athanaze (2) and Justin Greaves (0) fell to edges behind, and when Duffy removed captain Roston Chase for 5 with a sharp bouncer after lunch, the West Indies had slumped to 104-6 The resistance of Shai Hope, who absorbed 78 balls for just three runs, was ended

by Patel via DRS, and the tail offered only fleeting defiance.

Did not bat: Daryl Mitchell, +Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Zak Foulkes, Ajaz Patel, Jacob Duffy, Michael Rae. Fall of wickets: 1-192, 2-234.

Bowling: Seales 9-0-36-0, Phillip 9-0-570, Greaves 6-0-18-0, Chase 13-0-106-0, Hodge 17-1-80-2.

WEST INDIES 2nd innings John Campbell c Phillips b Patel Brandon King c Phillips b Duffy Kavem Hodge c Ravindra b Patel Shai Hope lbw Patel Alick Athanaze c +Blundell b Duffy Justin Greaves c Mitchell b Duffy Roston Chase c Latham b Duffy Tevin Imlach not out Kemar Roach b Phillips Anderson Phillip lbw Ravindra Jayden Seales b Duffy

16 67 0 3 3 0 5 15 4 10 0

Extras (b12, lb1, w3) 16 TOTAL (all out; 80.3 overs) 138 Bowling: Duffy 22.3-10-42-5, Foulkes 5-020-0, Patel 32-21-23-3, Rae 14-6-26-0, Phillips 5-2-14-1, Ravindra 2-2-0-1 Player of the match: Devon Conway Result: New Zealand won by 323 runs Series result: New Zealand won the match series 2-0 Player of the series: Jacob Duffy

Duffy returned with the new ball to clean bowl Jayden Sealed and complete his five-wicket haul (5-42), sealing the match and the series.

The victory was built on a mammoth first-innings total of 575 for 8 declared, founded on a historic opening stand.

Devon Conway (227) and Tom Latham (137) became the first-ever opening pair to score centuries in both innings

of a Test, a record-breaking platform that ultimately gave New Zealand’s bowlers an insurmountable advantage to attack with.

For the West Indies, a morning of promise dissolved into familiar fragility, their final nine wickets adding just 51 runs to hand New Zealand a comprehensive and commanding series win.

GDF retains Best Gym title... (From page 23) Colin Lewis, in a clinical exhibition of classy glove work and excellent use of the ring, defeated RHJ’s Jamal Eastman, who missed most of his shots.

In a slug fest among the ‘big boys’ GDF’s Orlando Norton inflicted a vicious pounding on Carsol Goodchild in the 75-80Kgs, but survived the three rounds.

Norton took championship honours.

GDF’s Akeio Best defeat-

ed Aqueney Harvey in the 86Kg division. Harvey was the only boxer from the Police Boxing Gym to qualify for a final.

Heavyweight Emmanuel Pompey (FYF) beat GDF’s

Zedan Wray won in the 92Kgs division, while female Heavyweight Abiola Jackman beat her much smaller sister Alesha to take Best female boxer award.

In the schoolboys’ finals

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday, December 23, 2025) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) BJ Watling-205 (vs ENG, Mount Maunganni, 2019) (2) BJ Watling-265 dismissals (257/8) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the first NZ batsman to hit centuries in each innings of a Test?

(2) Who is the first WI batsman to do so?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

ALG’s Imhotep Vanderstoop beat Josh Persaud fighting out of the New Amsterdam Boxing Gym (NABG) in Guyana’s first town when the referee stopped the contest in the third round.

Itavius Vanderstoop beat Isai Chester in the other schoolboys contest while NABG’s Mahase beat Isiah Nurse in the Junior division.

In the Youth division Curtis McDonald beat Ken Harvey in an all ALG affair.

In the Elite 54Kg Julius Kesney beat his GDF stable mate Lincon Murray; Septon Barton defeated Seon Griffth in an all FYF match up; Jamal Williamson (RHJ) beat FYF’s Patrick Harvey, while Mark Crawford lost to his FYF Gym mate Shaquian James.

GDF’s Wanye July beat Aqueney Harvey in the 8692 weight class.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Brunson scores season-high 47 points as Knicks overcome Miami Heat JALEN Brunson scored a season-high 47 points and the New York Knicks overcame Karl-Anthony Towns’ quiet night to beat the Miami Heat 132-125 on Sunday.

While Towns had just two points and six rebounds in 29 minutes, Mikal Bridges scored 24 points on 6 of 7 3-point shooting, Josh Hart added 13 points and 10 re-

Jalen Brunson, centre, in action on Sunday night

bounds and OG Anunoby scored all 18 of his points all in the second half. The Knicks improved to 20-8 overall and 14-2 at home.

Kel’el Ware had 28 points and 19 rebounds for Miami. The Heat has lost seven of eight to fall to 1514.

With Towns held scoreless over the first 25:02, and posting his fewest

points since joining the Knicks, Brunson, Bridges and Anunoby picked up the slack, especially in the second half.

Ware made his fifth 3-pointer, then Jaime Jaquez Jr. hit a pair of free throws that cut New York’s lead to 120-118 with 3:12 left. But the Knicks answered with an 8-0 run, keyed by Bridges’ 3-pointer and three free

throws from Brunson after a flagrant foul.

Brunson and Bridges combined for 45 of New York’s 66 first-half points, with Bridges scoring 18 points. The duo made 9 of 13 first-half 3-pointers, including Brunson’s 3-pointer with 0.8 seconds left in the second quarter that put New York up by four at halftime. (Yahoo Sports)

Pakistan unveil squad for U19 World Cup McCullum wants to NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD middle-order batter Farhan Yousaf will remain at the helm of Pakistan’s U19 after a 15-member squad was confirmed for the upcoming tri-series in Zimbabwe and the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, scheduled to take place across Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6.

There is just one change from the squad named for the Asia Cup, with right-arm fast bowler Umar Zaib coming in for left-arm spinner Mohammad Huzaifa for both the tri-series and the U19 World Cup. Right-arm pacer Ali Raza, who shone at the 2024 edition of the tournament,

stay as England coach

has been named in the squad for the upcoming tournament too. Just 15 at the time, Raza’s 4 for 34 against Australia in the semi-final almost carried Pakistan to a famous win. The pacer had picked up nine wickets in just three games at the tournament.

The tri-series, involving Afghanistan, Pakistan and hosts Zimbabwe, will be played from December 25 to January 6 and will act as key preparation for the 50-over U19 World Cup. Pakistan U19 squad: Farhan Yousaf (captain), Usman Khan (vice-captain), Abdul Subhan, Ahmed Hussain, Ali Hasan Baloch, Ali Raza, Daniyal Ali Khan, Hamza Za-

England head coach Brendon McCullum Pakistan will be led by Farhan Yousaf

hoor (wk), Huzaifa Ahsan, Momin Qamar, Mohammad Sayyam, Mohammad Shayan (wk), Niqab Shafiq, Sameer Minhas, Umar Zaib

| Non-travelling reserves: Abdul Qadir, Farhanullah, Hassan Khan, Ibtisam Azhar, Mohammad Huzaifa. (ICC Media)

I doubt I'll be playing in Melbourne... (From page 22) might be a sense of job's done and let's kind of reassess the risk. We'll work it out over the next couple of days. I doubt I'll be playing Melbourne and then we'll have a chat about Sydney.

"Certainly before the series, it was while the series is alive let’s take on the risk and have a crack at it. Now that it’s done, I think we'll need to have a chat about it," he added.

Cummins also admitted that things don't look great for Lyon, who pulled his right hamstring while fielding in the first session on day five, and eventually limped off the field. Lyon was also seen leaving the ground before the lunch

break to visit the hospital for a scan. Later, following Australia's victory, he was seen in crutches celebrating with his teammates. In Lyon's absence, Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann and the uncapped Corey Rocchiccioli are some of the options Australia could turn to.

"It doesn't look great.

Don't know yet, but seeing someone on crutches doesn't really bode well for someone with a Test match a week away," said Cummins about Lyon. "It's going to be hard to replace him, but we have some guys who have already had a taste of international cricket around the traps."

Meanwhile, Smith could return for the fourth Test

having missed the Adelaide game. The batter experienced vertigo-like symptoms, triggering a late reshuffle in Australia's XI and opening the door for Usman Khawaja's recall.

Khawaja responded with a crucial 82 in the first innings and is set to retain his spot in the XI, and might have to move down to No. 5 to accommodate Smith at No.4, with Josh Inglis likely to make way.

Among the pacers, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland have played all three Tests so far but could feature in the fourth game as well, despite the short turnaround between Adelaide and MCG. "At the start of the se-

ries, you always anticipate that you're going to have [to] chop and change a little bit. Brendan Doggett and Nes [Michael Neser] were the two spare bowlers here.

Jhye [Richardson] has been bowling in the nets and a few other guys who are playing in the Big Bash are keeping their workloads up, ready, in case they're needed.

"Like always, give it 48 hours. See how everyone pulls up. But at the moment they both seem good.

Good luck to anyone telling Starcy or even Scotty that they're going to miss a Boxing Day Test if they're fully fit," Cummins said.

(Cricbuzz)

HEAD coach Brendon McCullum says he wants to remain in charge of England but admits a decision on his future will be out of his hands.

McCullum has presided over an Ashes defeat in Australia inside three Tests, a series he previously said would "define" his team.

The New Zealander is contracted to England through to the end of the 50-over World Cup in 2027, a period that includes the

next home Ashes in the same year.

"It's a pretty good gig.

It's good fun," said McCullum. "You travel the world with the lads and try to play some exciting cricket and try to achieve some things.

"You want to try to get the best out of people. I don't do anything to protect the job. It's a matter of trying to just get the very best out of the people and try to achieve what you can with them." (BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Starc urges ICC to act after Snicko goof-ups AUSTRALIAN fast bowler Mitchell Starc has put pressure on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take responsibility for the Decision Review System (DRS), insisting that inconsistency in technology use is undermining confidence in the system. There were a couple of questionable decisions involving Real Time Snicko in the Adelaide Test, and the left-arm pacer urged the cricket governing body to step in.

Speaking after Australia secured an 82-run victory that gave them a 3-0 lead in the Ashes, Starc questioned the current system's structure and funding. Starc added that the debate is not limited to players, noting that fans, officials and broadcasters alike have expressed frustration with the current setup.

"I'm sure it's frustrating for everyone, viewers, officials, and broadcasters, no

doubt. One thing I will say ... I'm only going to speak for myself here, the officials use it, right? So why doesn't the ICC pay for it?" questioned Starc.

"And why is it not just one [provider] across the board? Why don't we use the same technology in all different series, that's going to perhaps create less confusion, less frustration? So that's where I'll leave that."

The comments come amid mounting frustration over controversial DRS decisions, especially moments when the Snicko edge-detection system produced puzzling results during the third Test in Adelaide. During play, Starc was even heard on the stump mic calling for the technology to be removed, branding it the "worst technology" and saying "Snicko needs to be sacked."

Two edge-detection sys-

tems are currently approved by the ICC, with UltraEdge being the other. While Snicko is used in Australia and New Zealand, countries such as India, England and South Africa rely on UltraEdge.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting had said during the third Test that Snicko was unreliable and the umpires do not trust it.

"This technology that we are using here is simply not as good as technology that's used in other countries," he told Channel 7. "You talk to the umpires, they'll tell you the same thing. They can't trust it.

"They've got a third umpire sitting up in there that's got to make decisions based on what he's seeing that the technology is providing, and sometimes they have a gut feel that it's not right. That can't happen. You've got to be able to trust the technol-

So why doesn't the ICC pay for it?" Starc questioned with regard to the umpiring technology

ogy that's in place," Ponting had said.

Pat Cummins, the Australia captain, also noted that the Snicko technology differed from UltraEdge. "The one here seems a little bit

different to sometimes what you get overseas. There's always a few murmurs.

“You're hoping that it matches up if you're the bowling team. Sometimes you kind of just making

sure that it's all okay if you're batting, even though you feel like you haven't hit it. It sometimes doesn't feel super consistent, but you just crack on whatever the umpire says." (Cricbuzz)

Pakistan show U19 World Cup I doubt I'll be playing in Melbourne: credentials with Asia Cup title Pat Cummins PAKISTAN put on a dominant show with the bat and ball against India in the final to take home their second U19 Asia Cup title ahead of the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia next month.

With the U19 World Cup set to begin on January 15, Pakistan have much-needed momentum on their side heading into the marquee event after clinching the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai with a whopping 191-run victory over their arch-rivals.

Opening batter Sameer Minhas’ stunning 172 off just 113 balls did the damage to the Indian bowlers as Pakistan put up a daunting 347 on the board.

Deepesh Devendran grabbed three wickets to his name but the Pakistan batters following heroics from Minhas and a vital half-century from Ahmed Hussain (56) proved too much for the Indians who were all out for 156 in reply.

Sameer Minhas slammed 172 off just 113 balls Pat Cummins embraces with Nathan Lyon (in crutches) after the Test

Vaibhav Suryavanshi gave India a fast start, smashing 26 off just 10 balls, but wickets started tumbling out of nowhere and the game was half-done by the 10th over mark by the Pakistan pacers, with India losing five wickets inside 70 runs.

Ali Raza led the pace attack with 4-42, while Mohammad Sayyam, Abdul Subhan and Huzaifa Ahsan getting two each as India

were bundled out for 156 in 26.2 overs, after some fireworks from India’s lower-order batter Devendran (36 off 16), who ended up India’s highest scorer with the willow.

In the group stage outing between the two sides earlier in the tournament, India defended 240 runs by a 90-run margin to head into the semis unbeaten.

(ICC Media)

HAVING retained the Ashes, Australia might have to ring in some changes for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Skipper Pat Cummins is unlikely to feature in it while veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is also doubtful for the fourth Test, having picked up a hamstring injury on day five of the Adelaide Test.

Cummins, who missed the first two Tests with lower-back issues, was deemed

fit for the third game. He played an important role in Australia taking a 3-0 lead, bagging three wickets apiece in both innings.

However, with the series now secure, the Australian captain might opt for a rest in the fourth game to mitigate any risks before taking a call for the New Year Test at the SCG. "First of all, I felt great.

Just like a normal Test match. Bowling mid 30s overs, if anything, because

I came into this Test match quite fresh, I feel my legs are still decent. Sometimes you're hanging on to some residual soreness from previous games. So, feeling really good. As for the rest of the series, we'll see," said Cummins after the game.

"We had a pretty aggressive build up knowing that there's an Ashes there to be won, and we thought that was worth it. Now that the series has been won, there (Turn to page 21)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, December 23, 2025

GBA’s National Open Championships

GDF retains Best Gym title; FYF is runner-up

By Sean Devers THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) maintained its supremacy in local boxing when they emerged as Champion Gym when the curtain came down on the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA’s) two-day 2025 National Open Championships at the National Gymnasium in the wee hours of Monday morning.

Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) copped the runner-up spot while Rosehall Jammers finished in the third position.

The Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym took the fourth spot, while the Police Boxing Gym, which conceded four walkovers on the opening night, finished in the cellar position with just a single point.

The army won eight of the nine finals in which they competed, ending with 16 points, while FYF finished with 14.

Imhotep Vanderstoop was adjudged the Best Schoolboy; Cort Mahase was the best

GDF again dominated the GBA’s National Open Championships. (Sean Devers photos)

Junior; Emmanuel Pompey won the best elite boxer and Abiola Jackman took home the trophy for the best female boxer.

There were 17 finals on Sunday night, while the presentation ceremony concluded at 01:32hrs Monday

morning. Smalta brand Ambassador, Olympian Keevin Allicock, presented a case of Smalta to Vanderstoop, Jackman and Travis Inverary for the ‘guts’ he showed in his bout with Desmond Amsterdam.

Allicock, who recently

Dilon Heyliger gives back to young cricketers in South Essequibo IN the international cricket landscape, Dilon Heyliger is a pillar of Canada’s T20I attack. But in the South Essequibo region of Guyana, he is simply the "local boy" who never forgot where he learned to bowl his first outswinger.

Over the weekend, Heyliger completed a personal mission that hit closer to home than any international wicket: delivering five fully equipped cricket gear bags to the next generation of Essequibian talent.

The donation drive began during the recent bilateral series against Barbados, where Heyliger presented the first kit bag to Aaron DeCosta, a rising star in the national Under-13 setup. Following the conclusion of his international duties, Heyliger returned to his childhood home to personally hand over the remaining four bags.

For a young cricketer in rural Guyana, the cost of a complete kit—including bats, pads, gloves, and helmets— can often be the deciding factor between pursuing the

Dilon Heyliger donates to the younger generation of talents in South Essequibo

dream or leaving the game entirely.

“It is crucial for us, as cricketers who have had the chance to play internationally, to remember where we started,” Heyliger said during the handover.

“Essequibo is my home, and I know how much a fully equipped bag means to a young player who is serious about the game. This is just

a small way to ensure these lads have one less barrier to pursuing their dreams.”

Benefitting from the final leg of the donation were Naveed Fredricks, Ravid Fredricks, Mark Obermollar, and Nathan McPherson—all names that local scouts have identified as promising prospects in the South Essequibo youth system.

turned pro, also presented the boxers with trophies on behalf of Jai Signs and MVP Sports.

The small turnout included Shondell Alfred, Guyana’s second female to win a World Title at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in 2009, when she defeated Corinne Van ryk DeGroot.

Also among the sparse crowd was Guyana’s only Olympic Medalist, Mike Parris, who won Bronze at the 1980 games in Moscow.

Notably absent were the GDF drummers, who were a regular feature at local boxing tournaments involving the soldiers.

In the ring, most of the bouts were competitive, with the encounters in the Elite Division providing the most entertainment.

One of the most entertaining fights was the Elite 43-51Kgs between Richard Sabarmati (FYF) and GDF’s Renaldo Sutton.

The pair traded punches with the taller Sabarmati, boxing out of a south paw stance using his right jabs, while the diminutive Sutton showed great improvement with his technical skill.

Sutton kept moving forward with good shots to Sabarmati’s body and head in an entertaining opening round.

Both boxers went toe to toe, with punches and counter punches, with Sabarmati being the ‘boxer’ and Sutton the fighter.

The final round saw plen-

Best Schoolboy Imhotep Vanderstoop is presented with his prize by Keevin Allicock

Best Elite boxer Emmanuel Pompey receives his trophy from GBA’s Secretary Stacy Correia

ty of holding as the pair began to tire, but the GDF pugilist had done enough to take the fight.

Another action-packed fight was the Elite 75Kgs battle between experienced soldier Desmond Amsterdam and the talented and gutsy Travis Inverary.

Inverery, the smaller of the two boxers, made Amsterdam, who began in attacking mode, miss most of his big shots with excellent evasive tactics and cut Amsterdam just above his left eye with a straight right in the hectic opening round.

In a gruelling fight, Amsterdam stepped up the intensity with a flurry of cruel three-punch combinations that hurt Inverery.

But Inverary, from the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Boxing Gym (ALG) in Al-

bouystown, counterpunched, aiming right hooks to Amsterdam’s head to reopen the cut, resulting in the referee halting the fast-paced duel for the powerful Amsterdam to have his injury checked by the ringside doctor.

In the third stanza, there were shots galore from ultra- aggressive Amsterdam as he hammered away with crunching body shots and combinations to the head, but Inverary weathered the storm and refused to go down, demonstrating plenty of intestinal fortitude.

When the final bell sounded, the small gathering rose to its feet with lusty applause for both boxers with Amsterdam, who dominated the contest, being declared the winner.

In the 63-67 Kgs, GDF’s (Turn to page 20)

Duffy bowls New Zealand to series victory as Windies collapse for 138

Pacer Jacob Duffy took 5-42 against the West Indies to seal the series win for New Zealand

PAGE

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Slingerz FC cruises to victory in President’s outreach showcase

Chase’s Academic Foundation survives shootout drama to retain KFC International School football title

The successful Chase's Academic Foundation celebrates another title win President Dr. Irfaan Ali (right) and Prime Minister Mark Phillips hand over the trophy to Slingerz FC’s Quincy Adams (PHOTO: Slingerz FC)

ELITE League champions, Slingerz FC, underscored their dominance on and off the pitch recently, securing a clinical 5-0 victory over a West Demerara All-Star team.

The fixture, held at the National Track and Field Centre, formed the centrepiece of President Irfaan Ali’s Cabinet Outreach programme, designed to use sport as a catalyst for community engagement in the West Demerara region.

Despite the festive atmosphere in the stands, Slingerz showed little mercy on the turf. Guest player Omari Glasgow was the standout performer, reminding spec-

tators of his pedigree with a sharp, well-taken hat-trick.

The scoring was rounded out by Elite League MVP Darron Niles, whose double ensured the "West Side" giants walked away with both the celebratory trophy and the evening's cash prize.

While the margin of victory was wide, the occasion served a dual purpose for the champions. Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz viewed the match as essential conditioning for the club’s highstakes Boxing Day fixture in the GFF Super 16 tournament.

Beyond the final whistle, the event highlighted a growing partnership be-

tween the club and the Guyanese government.

Slingerz FC officials expressed their support for President Ali’s recent infrastructure proposals for West Demerara, aimed at transforming the region into a footballing stronghold.

"Football is a powerful tool for engagement," the club said in a statement, noting that such initiatives are vital for grassroots growth and national unity.

With the Super 16 on the horizon, Slingerz appear to be hitting their stride at exactly the right time, both as a competitive force and a community pillar.

CHASE’S Academic Foundation has made history as the first team to successfully defend the KFC International Under-18 School Football title, overcoming both a waterlogged pitch and old rivals, St Benedict’s College, in a dramatic penalty shootout.

On a night where heavy tropical showers threatened to dampen the spectacle at the Ministry of Education Ground, the Guyanese champions demonstrated superior nerve to win 5-4 from the spot after a gruelling, scoreless encounter.

The final was a near-perfect mirror of the 2024 championship clash, reinforcing the intense "Guyana versus Trinidad" rivalry that has become the cornerstone of this regional tournament.

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Chase’s captain, Bryan Wharton—the tournament's Golden Boot winner with 11 goals—came closest to breaking the deadlock in regulation time, rattling the crossbar with a ferocious free-kick.

While the team celebrated a US$2,500 first prize, defender Malcolm Hendricks walked away with the ultimate individual prize.

Named the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his commanding defensive displays, Hendricks has been awarded a three-month training scholarship with a Brazilian professional Club.

Other individual honours saw Flavio LaRose retain his title as the tournament’s best goalkeeper, a crucial component in Chase’s clean-sheet performance in the final.

Earlier in the evening, Kingston College of Jamaica secured third place and US$1,000 with a clinical 4-1 dismantling of Suriname’s Nikiere Technical School.

Jusiri Hussey was the standout performer, netting a clinical hat-trick (12’, 26’, 63’), while Nthanda Scott added a fourth. Jonathan Gomes was the only Surinamese respondent to receive US$500 for their efforts.

Coordinated by the Petra Organisation, this year’s edition featured an eight-team field, with the other four teams being Annai Secondary, West Ruimveldt Secondary, Anglican Central Education Authority (Bahamas) and Jose Veira de Sales Guerra (Brazil).

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2025