Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 25-06-2025

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Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo met with sugar workers on Tuesday at the Albion Sports Complex, where he outlined the Government’s vision for the sugar industry and reminded those in attendance of the transformation that has taken place in the sector over the years (Regional Democratic Council photos)

PPC hosts contract management training to strengthen procurement practices

THE Public Procurement Commission (PPC) hosted a contract management training on Tuesday for representa-

tives of various agencies, focusing on building capacity and strengthening public procurement practices.

The training, which was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, brought together senior representatives from

ministries, agencies and departments and provided critical information in relation to Guyana’s procurement legislation, among other things.

As part of the presen-

proposed amendments to parts of the legislative structure to bring further improvement to the procurement system.

tations, Attorney-at-Law attached to the PPC, Esther Osborne, told representatives gathered that the commission exists to safeguard the system and contributes by directly managing or influencing public trust, reduction of corruption and efficient public service delivery.

Against this backdrop, she indicated that the PPC accounts for a significant portion of national expenditure and indicated that it influences everything from road construction to the procurement of textbooks.

As such, she stated that a sound procurement system is not just a legal obligation but also a developmental imperative.

Further to this, she told the senior representatives that the PPC has drafted

“The Public Procurement Commission has drafted proposed amendments as is part of our functions, to the procurement act and other parts of the legislative structure to see enhancement in the procurement processes… Hopefully, soon we will see a revamping of the legislative framework and by extension an improvement in the overall procurement system,” Osborne added.

The attorney went on to add that the commission stands as a guardian of transparency, equity and accountability to ensure that public funds are spent in a responsible manner.

Meanwhile, representatives present at the one-day training also benefitted from insightful presentations on other critical topics in relation to contract management.

Attorney-at-Law attached to the PPC, Esther Osborne
A section of the gathering at the one-day training (Delano Williams photos)

‘Do not risk our safety, stability’

–– President Ali appeals to electorate, warns of jeopardising progress made

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has made a clarion call for continued stability and responsible leadership as Guyana approaches its next general election.

Speaking during a Tuesday morning broadcast, the Head of State drew a pointed comparison between the well-known fable of the Ant and the Grasshopper and the current political landscape, framing the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) as the prudent ant and opposition parties as the frivolous grasshopper.

“We have brought you economic growth. We brought you widespread development. We are building a social safety net, and we are doing so responsibly and stably,” Dr. Ali said.

He continued, “Those many groups that we are running against are like the grasshopper; they are promising you all kind of things, irresponsible things to make you happy now.”

The government, he pointed out, has built thousands of kilometres of new roads, hundreds of bridges, increased scholarship opportunities.

In his remarks, President Ali defended the PPP/C’s track record on

economic management and social development, referencing tangible improvements across communities.

“We’ve enhanced the experience of communities with beautification projects, new parks, investment in community centres, recreational facilities, creating safe spaces for families to grow and enjoy and live together,” he stated.

EDUCATION REVOLUTION

Zeroing on the government policy and investments in the Education sector, President Ali noted that the government has made significant investments in the human capital of the country, ensuring that all Guyanese have access to tertiary education.

“We graduated over 30,000 with certificate, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degree and even doctorate degree. UG (University of Guyana) is now free for every Guyanese to pursue their dreams. The Education Revolution is one that we have ushered in.”

Furthermore, educators have also experienced salary increases, he noted.

WORLD CLASS HEALTHCARE

President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his Tuesday morning address

The government, he reminded, is building out ‘safety nets’ for citizens to have access to the necessary services required for a prosperous life.

To this end, he reminded of the investments made to build and upgrade health facilities across the country.

“We have built hundreds of hospitals, clinics and facilities, some either open or under construction,” he said.

He pointed to the ongoing partnership with

Mount Sinai and Northwell to bring specialist doctors and nurses to Guyana.

Aside from this, the government has introduced various health grants to support those who may require special test, scans and treatments to ease the financial burden.

Some of these include grants for eye examination, cervical cancer screening and dialysis treatment.

Dr. Ali warned against

complacency or being swayed by populist promises, urging the electorate to consider the importance of steady governance. “Now is not the time to tear it apart. Now is not the time to risk it.

This is a time for strong, trusted, stable, competent, visionary leadership, and that is what the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic offers.”

The President also sought to temper expectations around Guyana’s burgeoning oil economy, cautioning that wealth creation depends on more than resource extraction.

“Oil alone does not translate into wealth,” he said.

“The choices we make, the policies we pursue, the ambitions we have for our people, the investments we make, the way in which we invest in our people, and the choices in which we give them, the way in which we grow wealth and grow opportunities, expand businesses, diversified economy and support job creation, the way in which we approach taxation, all of this backed by democratic credentials are important for us to have a strong, stable and viable country.”

Speaking candidly about his political opponents, President Ali noted

that citizens are rightfully concerned about their security and national security, adding that his Government has been investing in the security architecture to make citizens safe, while working with the international partners, like the United States of America to secure Guyana’s borders.

““We must understand that one of our greatest threats is Venezuela. And to fight this threat, it requires diplomacy. It requires partnership. And one of our greatest partners is the United States. We can’t risk our relationship with the United States, who have already said to us that they have serious national security concerns about individuals. One such individual believes that he can sacrifice the safety and security of an entire country for his self-interest.”

He noted too the opposing parties have failed to highlight plans and programmes aimed at building a sustainable future but are simply offering promises.

To this end, he reminded of the failures of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) during their tenure in office.

Sugar industry an engine of growth

–– VP Jagdeo

VICE President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Wednesday met with sugar workers at the Albion Sports Complex, where he reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to the revitalisation and transformation of Guyana’s sugar industry—a sector that has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economy and rural livelihoods.

Joined by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha; and other senior government officials, the Vice President addressed the gathering of workers, union representatives, and community members. He

outlined the government’s vision for a modernised and sustainable sugar industry, while highlighting the significant strides already made to bring the sector back from the brink of collapse.

Dr. Jagdeo reminded attendees of the devastation caused by the closure of several estates under the previous administration, which resulted in thousands of workers being displaced and communities economically destabilised.

He pointed to the current administration’s efforts since 2020 to reopen shuttered estates, rehire workers, and invest in new machinery and infrastructure.

The Albion Estate, one of Guyana’s largest and most productive sugar estates,

continues to serve as a focal point in the government’s recovery strategy. Investments in factory upgrades, field equipment, and worker training have helped improve productivity and stabilise operations at the estate, which supports thousands of families in Region Six.

The meeting provided a platform for workers to raise concerns and receive assurances directly from top officials. Among the issues discussed were wage negotiations, pension benefits, and improved working conditions.

As Guyana experiences rapid economic growth due to its burgeoning oil sector, the administration has repeatedly emphasised the importance of balancing modernisation with the preservation and revitalisation of traditional industries that remain vital to rural communities.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo met with sugar workers at the Albion Sports Complex. During the meeting, he reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to revitalising and transforming Guyana’s sugar industry

PNC/R’s Coretta McDonald is new GTU President

PEOPLE’S National Congress Reform (PNC/R)

Member and Parliamentarian, Coretta McDonald, was elected the new President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) during the union’s triennial elections and ballot counting exercise at the Headquarters of the GTU, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Based on the ballot count, Mariska Williams is the First Vice President; Karl Vanier Second Vice President; Collis Nicholson, General Secretary; Heathcliff Peters, Deputy General Secretary; Rarlene

Phillips, Treasurer; Mehalai McAlmonth, Regional Vice President- Berbice; Regional Vice President- Demerara, Randy Mingo; Regional Vice President- Essequibo, Thakurdeen Durga.

McDonald had recently faced accusations of holding her previous position of GTU General Secretary in contravention of the union’s rule book, which is essentially the constitution of the union.

Concerns were also previously raised about the way the union was being managed. It was reported that ap-

proximately $2 billion collected from teachers by the

GTU was unaccounted for, according to the Auditor General’s Office.

The Auditor General’s Office had issued a statement, saying: “The last Financial Statement submitted by the Guyana Teachers’ Union to the Audit Office of Guyana for audit was 1989.”

Notably, the Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority had also issued a statement, which revealed that the GTU last filed its financial returns 20 years ago.

According to a brief statement from the registry, it received queries from

the media about the audited financial statements of the GTU, and upon examining the records, it found that “Annual Returns required by Section 35 of the Trade Unions Act, Cap. 98:03 to be filed annually by registered trade unions was last filed by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) for the Year ending 31st of December, 2004 on the 31st of March, 2005.”

Under this Act, unions are required to submit a “general statement of the receipts, funds, effects, and expenditure to the Registrar before the 1st May in every

year, and shall show fully its assets and liabilities at the date…”

The Act states that every trade union which “fails to comply with or acts in contravention of this section, and also every officer of the union so failing, shall each be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine of seventy-five dollars for each offence.”

Owing to concerns over financial management, the government had stopped automatic deductions of union dues from the salaries of teachers.

Guyana, Turkey to explore collaboration in manufacturing, biomedicine –new Turkish envoy accredited

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, accepted the Letters of Credence from Her Excellency Ayşe Selcan Şanli, the newly accredited Non-Resident Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye (Turkey) to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. The formal ceremony took place at the Office of the President.

During brief but productive discussions, President Ali expressed

his commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Guyana and the transcontinental nation, which spans both Asia and Europe.

He underscored the importance of expanding co-operation in key sectors, particularly manufacturing, biomedicine, and pharmaceuticals.

The Head of State noted that these areas hold significant potential for mutual benefit and rep-

resent promising avenues for future collaboration.

Also present at the accreditation were Hugh Todd, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation; Guyana’s Honorary Consul to Türkiye, Mohamed Qualander; and Ambassador Ivan Evelyn.

President Ali conveyed best wishes to Ambassador Şanli on her tenure and reaffirmed Guyana’s openness to stronger diplomatic and economic ties with Türkiye.

Coretta McDonald
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, accepted the Letters of Credence from Her Excellency Ayşe Selcan Şanli, the newly accredited Non-Resident Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye (Turkey)

From destruction to reconstruction

THE recent exchange between former Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) serves as a stark reminder of the devastating legacy left by the APNU+AFC coalition, and the remarkable transformation underway under President Dr. Irfaan Ali's leadership.

While Nagamootoo tries to change history with selective views, and convenient omissions, the current administration's overall effort to revitalise the sugar industry shows what real commitment and vision can accomplish.

Nagamootoo's recent comments on social media reveal a clear hypocrisy. This is a man who, along with his coalition colleagues, promised in 2015 that "there was no question of government scaling down or abandoning

the industry", only to oversee the steady decline of four major sugar estates.

The closure of Wales, Rose Hall, Skeldon, and Enmore Estates from 2015 to 2020 left over 7,000 direct employees without jobs, and impacted around 40,000 others indirectly.

These numbers were not just figures on a government report; they represented families torn apart, communities devastated, and generations of skill thrown away.

The coalition's failure to conduct proper socio-economic impact studies before these closures showed their lack of concern for the human cost of their politically motivated choices.

GAWU's strong response to Nagamootoo's narrative is both valid and necessary.

The Union points out that the former Prime Minister conveniently overlooks

the thousands of temporary workers who received no compensation, and were left to struggle on their own.

The coalition government's failure to plan for redundancy payments, later acknowledged by then-Finance Minister Winston Jordan, revealed their callous attitude towards legal obligations and basic decency. Workers had to take legal action to get their rightful pay; a shameful episode that no amount of spin can erase.

In sharp contrast, President Ali's administration has shown a strong commitment to not just restoring but transforming Guyana's sugar industry.

Since taking office in 2020, the PPP/C government has invested significantly in the industry.

This is more than just financial backing; it represents a clear vision for change. The

government has successfully re-employed over 4,500 people, and reopened the Rose Hall Estate in September 2023, with plans to gradually reopen other estates.

Most importantly, President Ali's vision goes beyond traditional sugar production; it also includes worker empowerment and ownership.

His ground-breaking idea to give sugar workers part-ownership roles in the industry marks a significant change that views workers not just as employees, but as key players in their industry's future.

This innovative plan would let workers form groups and become part-owners of mechanised operations, promising to improve conditions while boosting productivity and worker income.

The modernisation efforts under Ali's leadership are impressive as well. Almost

40 per cent of sugar estates have been mechanised, with plans to convert an additional 3,000 hectares soon.

The government is also focused on infrastructure, with over 17 kilometers of all-weather roads planned across the industry. These investments reflect a complete approach to revitalising the industry that tackles both immediate needs and long-term sustainability.

The difference between the two administrations is striking. While the APNU+AFC coalition saw only burdens and opted for retreat, the PPP/C government sees opportunities and seeks progress.

The current administration recognises that a thriving sugar industry needs not just financial support, but real partnerships with workers and their communities.

GAWU's final advice to

Nagamootoo that he should start any future writings on sugar with "once upon a time" perfectly captures the essence of this debate.

Nagamootoo's attempts to reshape the coalition's damaging legacy into a story of good governance deceive no one, least of all the sugar workers and communities which experienced the harsh effects of his policies.

Meanwhile, President Ali's transformative vision continues to craft a new chapter in Guyana's sugar narrative; one focused on worker empowerment, technological progress, and a genuine commitment to the industry's future.

The sugar workers of Guyana deserve leadership that is honest and future-oriented; one that acknowledges their worth and invests in their well-being.

Azruddin’s political aspirations driven by revenge, not reform

Dear Editor,

IT’S elections time once again in Guyana and every five years new political parties are birthed, offering the Guyanese public new visions for socio-economic development. However, one common thread can be discerned and that is the compelling desire to get rid of the PPP at any and all costs, and this takes precedence over all the other ‘visions.’

Another common characteristic is that these parties are more willing to coalesce or support the PNC rather than the PPP. Why?

When the PPPP and the PNC are compared, it’s like comparing ‘chalk with cheese,’ since the differences are overwhelming. The PNC, in various shapes and forms, has continuously destroyed the social and economic fabric of this country: hunger from extreme poverty, mendicancy, prostitution, immorality, banditry and murder and loss of family values, unemployment, rising prices and high cost of living and daily

erosion of living standards, poor roads and falling infrastructures, increased taxes, school dropouts and falling education standards, poor health services and dilapidated and ill-equipped hospitals, massive government bribery and corruption and squandering of public funds -- the list goes on.

These atrocities and human degradation are well documented and not a figment of one’s imagination, imagined, invented or fabricated. These are real and any Guyanese who have lived through these periods have had first-hand experience. Even those born from 1992 would have witnessed the difference in governance by the PPP/C and the PNC, especially the period 2015 to 2020 under the PNC and its partners and from the latter part of 2020 to now. These comparisons have now enabled Guyanese to make informed decisions about whom to vote for and the answer is obvious. The worst period was from 1964 to 1992 and after 23 years of rebuilding

by the PPP/C, the PNC and its partners continued where they left off in 1992 from 2015 to 2020.

The PPP has remained resilient and increasingly progressive, engaging daily in nation-building, whilst the other parties are more interested in sharing the number of seats. What is amusing is that whilst the ‘dead meat’ AFC and the dying PNC are busy fighting over ‘imaginary’ seats, their executive members are busy defecting and even forming a new political party, which claims to ‘Forward Guyana’ having failed to condemn the attempted rigging of her former party and the riggings from 1968 to 1985. It would seem that even if the AFC and the PNC had coalesced, they would have had very little to share.

What about the party which claims, ‘We Invest in Nationhood’? This party is so presumptuous that its acronym suggests ‘WIN.’ When the top ‘WIN’ officials are analysed, it is conclusive that they came whence they

made little or no contribution and were more interested in what post would be given to them. But what is disgraceful is that they collected all that the PPP/C had to offer them and then packed their luggage and unceremoniously departed, cursing that same party. If a genealogical test is done, it would probably indicate nomadic qualities, so we cannot blame them. It’s just who they are. I know that one for sure is more interested in stirring controversies to be in the limelight -- he just loves publicity. Unfortunately, this party is founded on the need for vengeance on the PPP/C government, whom the founder feels has been instrumental in getting him sanctioned by the US, or has abandoned him, having been close to that party at one point in time. Similar to Nagamootoo and Ramjattan, he too has his little axe to grind and the country is not a priority. When will these petty political aspirants learn that country comes first over personal hate and ambition?

Mr Azruddin is cognisant that he does not stand a chance of winning the presidency, but he will be willing to gamble on getting a seat or two, which he can use to extract his pound of flesh. However, this is wishful thinking, since the PPP/C from all indications is heading for a massive landslide victory and this would leave Mr Azruddin a bitter person for the rest of his life. Why would a patriot who believes in ‘investing in nationhood’ be carried away by the lust for revenge? This is not how we invest in nationhood.

Everyone, including Mr Azruddin, knows that the PPP/C is the only party which has been consistent and serious about improving the lives of all Guyanese, both socially and economically, through its micro and macro policies. Every other party, old and new, has miserably failed the Guyanese people; and the AFC was only successful in getting the PNC again into power in 2015 (not unlike the UF in 1964) and then became the PNC before being discard-

ed and dumped. What will Mr Azruddin offer? Free houses, cars, land, big cash grants and other freebies? What will happen to the economy when he has created a country of dependents? Having a seat or two would hardly provide these, but can leave the door open for other grave possibilities which can actually ‘disinvest in nationhood.’

In conclusion, third parties have failed Guyanese miserably and have only contributed to the devastation of this country and have only given strength to the PNC and allowed them to get back in power. It is time for Guyanese to do a reality check. Guyanese made a bad choice in 2015 and the damage was repaired by the PPP/C under the leadership of Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, but beware that in 2025 a bad choice may be irreparable and may take longer than 28 years to resolve, as what had happened from 1964 to 1992.

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

McAllister on me, Campbell on me

FOR a small population, this country has a lot of psychiatrists. A few months ago, the ACDA point man, Eric Philips, wrote publicly that I was of unsound mind. I did not know Philips was a psychiatrist, but I was told he was one of them, only that he failed a majority of his psychiatric courses that prevented graduation.

The latest addition to register with the Guyana Medical Council is businessman Terrance Campbell. He has followed closely in Phillips’ shoes: Failed courses; no graduation.

Yet Campbell has publicly proclaimed that I have a psychotic mind. I will devote a column to Campbell’s interest in why I did not complete my doctorate. In doing so, I will leave the young generation of this country to judge our respective contributions to Guyana and the Caribbean. More on that very topic shortly.

For now, let’s look at another description of me that, together with the insanity appellation, have followed me since I was a radical, anti-Burnham UG student in 1974. This week, former PNC parliamentarian and current backer of Aubrey Norton’s leadership, James McAllister referred to me as pseudo-intellectual.

In a letter in the Kaieteur News last Monday, McAllister went on a long political rampage to disprove the identity of his action against the PNC leader, Robert Corbin, with that of the current anti-Corbin critics who have recently left the PNC’s leadership.

McAllister is referring to my last Friday’s column. My contention in that item was that what Amanda Walton-Desir (AMD) and Roysdale Forde did to the current PNC leader was what McAllister, Vincent Alexander and Aubrey Norton did to the then PNC leader, Robert Corbin.

What is in my Friday piece that has so upset McAlister? In his epistle, McAllister takes issue with time and place; not my essential point. Let me repeat my crucial argument: McAllister, Alexander and Norton openly challenged Corbin to have him replaced as leader.

McAllister went into details of how he and others supported Corbin when he became leader, and worked closely with him. Therefore, I am incorrect to say that on assuming the leader position, Corbin faced internal strife.

McAlister holds onto that factor, and it determines his entire position on my pseudo-intellectualism.

If I got names and dates wrongly about who challenged Corbin so he can be replaced, that does not weaken my solid contention that McAlister is in no position to criticise Norton’s challengers, because he did the same to Corbin. What McAllister neatly avoided (And I am not going to be diplomatic; I am saying he was deliberate), is the viciousness of Norton’s confrontation against Corbin that we did not see in Forde, AWD and others.

Corbin, the leader of the PNC, and Norton, ended up in the High Court. AWD and Forde, after the Congress in which manipulation and conspiracy combined to deny them the leadership position, the two persons never went public with any criticism of Norton.

To date, AWD and Forde have not pursued a confrontation with the PNC leader. There is nothing in the public domain of AWD and Forde bad-mouthing Norton. The opposite occurred when Corbin and Norton squared off. Corbin sued Norton for public libelous statements made against him.

The point is, there was more bad blood and animosity between Corbin and Norton than Norton and AWD and Forde. The situation was so bad that Corbin removed McAllister from parliament, and requested that Alexander resign from the position he held in GECOM because his nomination was done through the PNC.

What people in this country do not know is that there are five GECOM commissioners representing their respective political parties in observation of the constitution in which the six commissioners are nominated by the two political giants: PPP and PNC.

Vincent Alexander is squatting at GECOM because he has resigned from the PNC more than 15 years ago, and the PNC has not rescinded Corbin’s recall of Alexander. On Alexander refusing to resign, Corbin did not pursue the controversy. The next leader of the PNC, David Granger, did no t pay attention to Alexander’s untenable position at GECOM.

Alexander’s role at GECOM is a violation of the Carter/Price formula of the

Constitution. The six commissioners must come from their respective parties. Which political party Alexander represents in GECOM? Sorry for this long diversion from the MacAllister response.

I mentioned Alexander because I thought it is controversies like that McAllister and Campbell should be concerned with rather than

the intellectual emptiness and mental breakdown of Frederick Kissoon. I close by asserting that Alexander, McAllister and Norton accused Corbin of not having a clean election at

Congress, and history repeated itself when Norton did the same last year.

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

Guyana has multi‑agency response to Venezuelan migrant influx

GDF Chief, says Essequibo claims more ‘political theatre’, than military threat, as Guyana balances compassion with security

THE Guyana Defence Force is managing the influx of Venezuelan migrants with a multi-agency approach, balancing compassion and security.

This is according to Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, who, during a Tuesday broadcast of a new programme “Safeguarding the Nation” noted that strong measures are implemented to ensure that Venezuelan migrants entering Guyana are intercepted, screened and documented.

In recent years, Guyana has seen an influx of migrants fleeing Venezuela due to the political and economic crisis.

“Guyana, [is] receiving thousands of Venezuelan migrants, but countries like Colombia and Brazil, they are in the millions. It tells about the political and socio-economic conditions in Venezuela.”

“This is disheartening, but while Guyana is approaching this with com -

“In the execution of my duties and my visits to border communities, I have personally witnessed Venezuelan migrants and the embarrassment, the shame, the almost loss of dignity of families, women, children, babies, fathers, seeking refuge in a foreign land,” the Army Chief said.

passion, we are committed to safe borders,” Khan stressed.

Guyana’s multipronged approach sees collaboration among the ministry of health, the local police, and other regional and government authorities.

“We have implemented strong security measures on vetting, processing, documenting all Venezuelan migrants. And this is another example in which not only the Guyana Defence Force is involved, but as a multi-agency approach, again, the police force, the Ministry of Health, the local government authorities, the regional authorities, everyone is on board whenever we have the interception of Venezuelan migrants.”

BORDER CONTROVERSY: POLITICAL THEATRE RATHER THAN MILITARY

Meanwhile, responding to questions on the ongoing border controversy, Brigadier Khan noted that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) remains resolute in protecting Guyana’s border.

He explained that the GDF continues to be cautious and is operating within its defence strategy, Diplomacy, Information, Military, and Economic (DIME).

He remarked that Venezuela’s continued assertion of sovereignty over Guyana’s Essequibo region is better characterised as political maneuvering than a military threat.

Nevertheless, the GDF, remains cognisant and investments are being made in ‘smart’ technology not only to secure the country’s borders but promote safety country wide.

“We are operating on the military strategy to build, deploy and operate a smart, modern and resilient force, not only to defend Guyana, but also to contribute to economic development.”

Recently, Venezuela had failed at its attempt to host elections over Guyana’s Essequibo region.

The Nicolás Maduro administration had held a national vote in May to support illegal claims over Essequibo, on Guyana’s 59TH Independence anniversary

despite the matter being before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has cautioned Venezuela against taking any unilateral actions that would alter the status quo.

There were no reports of unauthorised activities in bordering communities across the country.

On May 1, 2025, the ICJ ordered the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to refrain from holding or preparing for any elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region, pending a final ruling on the ongoing border controversy.

The decision comes in response to a request by Guyana following Venezuela’s January 2025 announcement of plans to elect a governor and legislative council for what it claims to be the “Guayana Esequiba State.”

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

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

The border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela was settled by the 1899 Arbitral Agreement.

However, during the early 1960s, Venezuela’s claims to the Essequibo region resurged, and the country threatened physical invasion.

Guyana has maintained that its terrestrial boundary is 83,000 square miles, in addition to the internationally known maritime allocation.

“Military conflict is not in anyone’s interest. The claim by Venezuela is political and should remain there, and the process at the ICJ should be followed,” the Chief of Defence Staff reminded.

Guyana’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan

Crude supply from Guyana integral to Petrotrin refinery restart

TRINIDAD

and Tobago plans to refine oil from Guyana when the stateowned Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Petrotrin) refinery restarts operations, Energy Minister, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, told Parliament on Monday, as part of a broader push to deepen energy ties with Guyana and Suriname.

The twin-island republic, he said, is actively engaging with regional partners to secure crude supplies for the refinery, including discussions with Guyanese officials, including the Oil and Gas Energy Chamber.

“We are in touch with the Oil and Gas Energy Chamber in Georgetown that has pledged to give their support to companies in Trinidad and Tobago to work,” Dr. Moonilal said.

“We are also in discussions with government officials to ensure that we have some commonality there, so that we can source the important inputs for the refinery from Suriname, from Guyana, and from elsewhere where we have always sourced oil.”

He noted that although Trinidad and Tobago has had the longest-standing energy footprint in the Caribbean for over 100 years, supported by extensive infrastructure and expertise, the country has had virtually no commercial presence in Guyana or Suriname, two rapidly emerging energy markets.

This lack of presence, he emphasised, represents a missed opportunity for revenue generation and job creation.

Dr. Moonilal stated that as Trinidad and Toba-

go prepares to restart the Petrotrin refinery, securing crude from Guyana is a key element of the country’s regional energy strategy aimed at positioning itself as the Caribbean’s energy hub.

Additionally, Dr. Moonilal revealed that Phoenix Park Gas Processors Limited (PPGPL)—a state-owned company—is actively bidding to establish a natural gas processing facility in Guyana.

“Today, we have another activity taking place where, I believe, Phoenix Gas is involved in a bid to assist with developing a gas processing plant in Guyana, as well. We are hoping that that bid goes well,” he stated.

He emphasised that Trinidad and Tobago’s goal is not to outproduce Guyana, but to maintain relevance by offering critical energy services, infrastructure, and investment.

“We will not become the hub by outproducing Guyana—we can’t do that. But it is critical that the state enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago establish themselves

as serious investing entities in Suriname, Guyana, and later Grenada,” he added.

Moreover, Moonilal said discussions were held with the American company Fulcrum LNG, which is involved in Guyana’s major gas exploration and production venture alongside ExxonMobil, and the government intends to follow up on those engagements.

Fulcrum LNG has been chosen by the Government of Guyana to design, finance, build, and operate a gas project aimed at devel-

oping and commercialising the country’s untapped natural gas reserves.

With sanctions once again restricting access to Venezuelan gas, the new Trinidadian administration appears to be actively seeking alternative sources to secure its energy future.

The United National Congress (UNC), which secured victory in Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025 general elections, had made the reopening of the Petrotrin refinery a key campaign promise.

The facility has remained idle since it was shut down by the former People’s National Movement (PNM) government in November 2018.

According to Energy

Minister Moonilal, before the refinery can resume operations, a series of critical evaluations must be undertaken.

These include technical, scientific, commercial, economic, and contractual assessments to ensure the viability and sustainability of the restart.

In the meantime, he revealed that a committee comprising experts with a collective 500 years of experience in refinery operations is expected to be appointed to oversee the reopening of the Petrotrin

–– says T&T Minister

refinery at Pointe-a-Pierre.

He also disclosed that a contractor is currently being paid TT$400,000 per month to maintain the refinery.

Since the initial discovery in 2015, three major projects—Liza 1, Liza 2, and Payara—are collectively producing over 600,000 barrels of oil per day in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana.

This production is supported by three Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels: Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, and Prosperity. The prolific

Stabroek Block has solidified Guyana’s position as a major player in the global oil industry and the fastest-growing economy in the world.

Three other development projects in this block—Yellowtail, Uaru and Whiptail—are set to begin production in 2025, 2026, and 2027, respectively.

Each project is estimated to generate 250,000 barrels per day, bringing the total offshore oil output in Guyana to more than 1.3 million barrels per day.

T&T’s Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal

24 symbols submitted by political parties ahead of elections

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), on Tuesday, noted that some 24 political parties seeking to contest the upcoming General and Regional Elections have submitted symbols for the approval of the commission.

This was disclosed in a

press release in which it was noted, the submissions were made in response to a notice inviting potential contestants to submit their respective symbols no later than June 23.

Against this backdrop, it was noted that the commission is scheduled to consider and approve symbols

that were received on July 1, 2025.

“Immediately thereafter, the parties will be informed about the outcome of the commission’s considerations regarding their respective submissions,” the release said.

Further to this, the po -

litical parties are required to submit their respective list of candidates on nomination day set for July 14, 2025, along with a copy of the pre-approved symbol to the Chief Elections Officer.

This process forms part of the official recognition process for political parties

contesting the polls.

In a previous report, regarding symbol submissions, Deputy Chief Election Officer, Aneal Giddings, clarified that while symbols are rarely disqualified, similarity between them can cause concern. “If a party submits a symbol similar to one already received, they are usually asked to make adjustments.”

Cricket legend Marlon Samuels invests in TAJ DIAMOND

- Guyana’s new luxury community

TAJ DIAMOND, an ambitious and upscale planned community redefining urban living in Guyana, has attracted the attention of global cricket icon and twotime Cricket World Cup champion Marlon Nathaniel Samuels.

The former West Indies batsman has officially joined the project as both a resident and investor.

Samuels has secured a total of seven homes in the development, one for personal use and six as part of a broader rental investment strategy.

His involvement signals growing international confidence in Guyana’s booming real estate sector, particularly along the rap-

idly developing East Bank corridor between Diamond and Buzz Bee Dam.

“I’ve travelled the world thanks to cricket, and I can say with confi dence that Guyana is poised for something big,”

Samuels stated. “After decades of playing cricket, my favourite hotel in the world is the Taj Mahal in India. So after learning about the TAJ DIAMOND project, I truly believe it showcases Guyana’s beauty and excellence… it’s iconic!”

The development, spearheaded by U.S.based real estate firm

Coastal Rim Properties, was officially launched earlier this month with an initial early-bird price of

US$250,000 per home.

Due to strong market demand and rapid progress—including completed land-clearing and mobilisation—prices have since been increased to US$300,000. Construction of infrastructure and buildings is expected to begin shortly, with the first batch of homes scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2025. Already, over 10 per cent of the community has been reserved.

TAJ DIAMOND is set to feature 249 three-storey luxury homes, each with a private two-car garage, in a gated community equipped with 24/7 armed security.

The project also boasts

resort-style amenities such as a clubhouse, pool, cinema, and fitness centre, as well as 40,000 square feet of premium retail and dining options. Anchor tenants include Morton’s The Steakhouse and other high-end brands.

Additionally, the project offers investors a fixed 14% yield leaseback pro-

gramme, providing passive income opportunities with full-service management.

Lead developer Nicola Mola welcomed Samuels’ involvement, stating, “We're very pleased that Marlon Samuels, THE ICON, has chosen TAJ DIAMOND, as both a resident and investor. His involvement adds energy,

visibility, and validation to what’s quickly becoming one of Guyana’s most transformative communities. Stay tuned—more exciting announcements are on the way!” TAJ DIAMOND has also engaged ACE Consulting Group for business-development services.

From left to right: Nicola Mola, lead developer; Marlon Samuels, former cricketer; Rosh Khan, consultant; Giovanni Mola, developer
‘It’s

an exciting time for agriculture’

- Dr. Jagdeo says, highlights policies, investments aimed at transforming sector

GUYANA’S agriculture sector is reaching new heights, according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who pushed back against critics and emphasised that the sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s diversified growth and food security agenda.

In a recent press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown, the Vice President said that exciting opportunities are emerging from the agriculture sector, which was once on the backburners of development under the previous coalition government.

He also pointed to Guyana’s leadership role in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)’s “25 by 2025” regional goal, which is an ambitious target set out to transform the region’s food system by reducing import dependence and enhancing food security.

In spite of the constant, what he termed as “nitpicking,” the government has been laying the groundwork to reach this target.

While underscoring that Guyana has been moving aggressively with both policy and investment to achieve the target, he pointed to the evident progress that has already been taking place.

“This is an exciting period for agriculture,” Dr. Jagdeo said.

Guyana’s strategy to transform its agriculture is rooted in investment, skill diversification and rural development, the Vice President underscored.

The development of agriculture is more than just food production, he explained, but the government is focused on developing a modern and resilient economy that offers opportunities for all, especially young people. GROWTH ENGINE

Agriculture is an important pillar in Guyana’s growth spur and all industries serve as an integral element in this light, the Vice President explained.

That being said, Dr. Jagdeo said that sugar is not a burden and the plans that were previously touted by President Dr. Irfaan Ali positions it as a growth engine.

The Vice President rejected the notion that the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is a financial drag and firmly stated that the industry is a key hub in rural development and diversification.

“…They always like to create this fiction that this sugar industry has become a burden to Guyana. When we were in opposition, we said to them (APNU+AFC government), look at the multi-dimensional nature of the sugar industry. And that’s why they did a financial feasibility study for Guysuco and then came up with, we need to close all these estates. And by now, all of the estates would have been closed, not the ones that they closed alone. Albion would have been gone, Blairmont would have been terminated too. All of these would have by now been closed, had APNU stayed in power.”

Pointing to the economic linkages and the employment opportu -

tural sector, Dr. Jagdeo emphasised that the sector is no longer being viewed through a narrow

lens, like under the previous government.

Agriculture, in Guyana, is about food secu-

nities, the Vice President branded the sugar industry as a driver of diversified growth and community stability.

While under the previous A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration, the sugar industry was battered, limiting the country’s development potential, the current PPP government has resurrected the sector.

Further, Guyana is far from being reliant on a single crop, the Vice President explained while pointing to the expansions taking place in other high-potential industries within the agriculture sector.

Turmeric, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, onion, cassava, corn, soya, coconuts, and other crops are seeing growth in their production.

Some crops have even reached record-breaking outputs, signalling success of the government’s diversification push.

This growth, according to the Vice President, is being strategically supported by the government through initiatives such as investments in farmto-market roads, drainage and irrigation, zero Value-Added Tax (VAT) incentives on agricultural equipment and support to farmers through other means.

As Guyana continues to transform its agricul-

rity, export growth, job creation, technological advancement, and prosperity.

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

‘We are focused on shared prosperity and bringing development’ – PM Phillips tells Dartmouth residents

PRIME MINISTER, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to inclusive development and shared prosperity during a community meeting held on Tuesday at the Dartmouth Neighbourhood Democratic Council

(NDC)

compound in

Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).

Accompanied by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, and Member of Parliament, Dr. Tandika Simone Smith, the Prime Minister, addressed residents on the Government’s development agenda and its people-centred approach to governance.

“We are focused on shared prosperity, bringing development to every corner of Guyana regardless of geographic location,” the Prime Minister told the gathering. He noted that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government continues to deliver on its promises despite global challenges.

The outreach formed part of a wider initiative to interact directly with citizens, listen to their concerns, and ensure that development reaches every community.

“Our approach to governance is one that uses politics and administration to deliver for the people,” PM Phillips explained. “This Government remains committed to engaging citizens, staying connected, and listening—because the people are at the centre of all that we do.”

Two. “To date, over $8 billion has been invested through the Ministry of Public Works in this region,” Minister Indar stated.

He reminded residents of the history of service and delivery by the PPP/C

He acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and assured that the

since assuming office in 1992, emphasising that the party has always prioritised promises made in its manifesto and has maintained close relationships with communities at both the central and NDC levels.

Referencing the challenges faced since taking office amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister commended the resilience of the administration in maintaining its development trajectory.

He also highlighted the reintroduction of the Because We Care cash grant, which has brought financial relief to thousands of families. “We will continue to implement policies and programmes that ease the burden on citizens,” he assured.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments and spoke about the significant investment made in Region

Government is committed to resolving them. “Every name of a village brings a sense of nostalgia. We’re trying to fix everything that needs fixing, to build what needs to be built, and to do so with humility and purpose,” he said.

Minister Indar emphasised that the PPP/C Government is committed to uplifting the most vulnerable and remains focused on lifting citizens out of poverty through targeted investments and inclusive policies.

Residents expressed appreciation for the Government’s presence and continued engagement, noting that such outreach helps bridge the gap between the people and policy-makers.

“We are happy to have such engagements and we thanked the Prime Minister and Minister Deodat for visiting our community” Randolph Williams said.

Prime Minister Mark Phillips listens to residents’ concerns
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, reaching with residents at Darthmouth

PM Phillips reaffirms Gov’t commitment to powering every household in Region Two

PRIME

Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring every household in Region Two is connected to the national electricity grid.

Speaking at a community meeting held in Dartmouth on Tuesday, the Prime Minister said that expanding electricity access is a key priority for the administration.

“We are working to ensure that every resident in Region Two has access to electricity; there are still communities without power. That is why we are identifying these areas and taking action,” Prime Minister Phillips stated.

He explained that consultations are ongoing with regional officials to pinpoint locations that remain without power. The government, he said, is working closely with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) to implement solutions and accelerate connections.

“Our government is about improving lives— step by step, little by little. Whether it’s electricity, roads, or water, we are

committed to delivering,” he added.

Responding to concerns raised by resident Lionel Budhram about parts of Lima Sands still being without electricity, the Prime Minister assured that the matter is receiving attention. “We’ve taken note of that, and I’ve already asked that it be addressed as a matter of urgency,” he said.

PM Phillips emphasised that electricity is not just a basic utility, but a

catalyst for development.

“It powers homes, businesses, schools, and health facilities. Connecting every household is part of our mission to raise the standard of living and ensure no one is left behind.”

Residents welcomed the opportunity to voice their concerns directly and expressed gratitude for the government’s commitment to delivering essential services. Many applauded the efforts already made and said they are hopeful for

continued improvements.

Prime Minister Phillips concluded by reiterating that oil revenues are being responsibly used to bring lasting development to every region. “No matter where you live—coastland or hinterland—you deserve the same opportunities. We are working to make that a reality.”

Residents said that they anticipate the interventions and the promises that were made during the meeting. Residents said that they have recognised that the People’s Progressive Party officials are reaching out and also trying to fix the issues in their communities.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, speaking to the gathering at the community meeting held in Dartmouth (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

Women in diplomacy celebrated for bridging cultures, advancing peace

- Guyana joins global observance of International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2025

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation has joined the global community in observing the International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2025, reaffirming its commitment to advancing gender equality and celebrating the vital role women play in shaping global diplomacy.

Under this year’s theme, “Eliminating Structural Barriers to Women’s Leadership in Diplomacy,” the Ministry highlighted the urgent need to dismantle persistent inequalities that continue to limit women's full participation in international affairs.

In its statement, the Ministry recognised the significant contributions of women diplomats around the world—past and present—who have helped build bridges across cultures, advanced international co-operation, negotiated peace agreements, and defended human rights. These

women, the Ministry noted, have displayed “unwavering commitment, strategic acumen, and moral clarity,” leaving a lasting mark on global diplomacy.

“While women remain underrepresented in many diplomatic spheres, their role as architects of peace, stewards of cooperation, and champions of multilateralism is increasingly being recognised and celebrated,” the statement read.

The Ministry further emphasised the importance of trans -

forming diplomatic institutions to become more inclusive, and committed to supporting initiatives that empower women to lead at all levels of international affairs.

“As we look to the future, we commit to continuing our work to promote their participation, which is essential to building a more just, peaceful, and equitable world,” it said.

The Ministry also used the occasion to celebrate the contributions of Guyanese women in the Foreign Service, who continue to play a key role in promoting Guyana’s interests and diplomacy on the global stage in the 21st century.

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy was established to honour the achievements and resilience of women in Foreign Service and to advocate for gender parity across all areas of diplomacy.

Traffic ranks trained on election offences, preparedness

Attorney-at-Law and Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser, delivers comprehensive insights into the legal framework that governs elections in Guyana to the traffic ranks during the session held at Officers’ Training Centre in Eve Leary

IN a proactive move to ensure the integrity of Guyana’s upcoming electoral process, Attorney-at-Law and Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser, conducted an in-depth training session on Saturday, June 21, 2025, focusing on Election Offences and Preparedness with ranks of the Traffic Department.

The session was held at the Officers' Training Centre in Eve Leary and forms part of wider efforts to equip law enforcement officers with the legal knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively carry out their duties during the electoral period.

Superintendent Fraser delivered comprehensive insights into the legal framework that governs elections in Guyana, drawing on key legislation including the Representation of the People Act (Chapter 1:03) and the

National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act (Chapter 1:04). Participants also reviewed provisions under additional statutes such as the Public Order Act, Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Summary Jurisdiction Act, Local Authorities (Elections) Act, and the Racial Hostility Act. The training featured ten core modules, covering topics such as: The constitutional basis and timing of elections under Articles 23, 60(1), and 159; The function and importance of elections in a democratic society; Guyana’s electoral system as outlined in Section 11(c) of the Representation of the People Act; The critical role of the Police Force before, during, and after elections; Conduct at electoral meetings, including police demeanor, procedures for notices, and ensuring security; General principles of police conduct at elections, including crowd

control, use of non-lethal force, and adherence to a strict code of ethics; Identification and categorisation of electoral offences across the various laws; Drafting charges for electoral offences, with ranks participating in a practical drafting exercise; and operational protocols for dispersing prohibited gatherings and managing proclaimed areas. Superintendent Fraser emphasised the need for impartiality, professionalism, and adherence to the chain of command, stressing that the Police Force plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing free, fair, and transparent elections.

The session concluded with a review of standard procedures for documenting and responding to election-related incidents, reinforcing the importance of the police in safeguarding democratic processes.

The ‘four-point proposal’ injects stabilising force into the crisis in the Middle East

ON Thursday afternoon, Chinese President Xi Jinping held phone talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two leaders exchanged views regarding the situation in the Middle East.

President Xi put forward a four-point proposal that ceasefire must be an urgent priority, ensuring civilian safety must be a top priority, dialogue and negotiation are the fundamental solutions, and the international community's peacemaking efforts are indispensable. This conversation took place at a critical moment as the Israel-Iran conflict continues to escalate. The coordination of positions between the Chinese and Russian leaders not only reflects the depth of strategic co-operation between the two countries, but also sends a clear message to the international community: a call to de-escalate tensions and safeguard regional peace.

The current crisis in the Middle East has gone far beyond the scope of a conventional conflict. In a new round of airstrikes on Thursday, Israel targeted three of Iran's nuclear facilities, while a missile launched by Iran was reported to have hit a hospital in Israel. Both sides have vowed retaliation, and the situation is at serious risk of spiraling out of control.

Meanwhile, as a major power with special influence over Israel, the US, has not played a constructive role. Instead, it has continued to fan the flames, even signalling a willingness to "get directly involved," which seriously under-

mines the international community's expectations for a soft landing to the crisis. With the conflict now reaching a point where "nothing can be ruled out," the window of opportunity is extremely narrow.

Once the situation spirals out of control, it will be far more difficult to reverse course. At this critical juncture, China has put forward a comprehensive and forward-looking proposal - one that addresses both immediate needs and long-term solutions. Among major powers, it is the first to do so, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility.

The "four-point proposal" is highly targeted and addresses the core of the current issues. For example, it calls on the parties involved in the conflict, especially Israel, to halt military operations as soon as possible, to avoid harming innocent civilians, to firmly support a political solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, and urges the international community, especially major countries that have a special influence on parties to the conflict, to make efforts to cool down the situation. These are all key points where significant changes could occur under the current circumstances.

Problem-oriented in nature, the "four-point proposal" not only identifies the fundamental solutions to the crisis but also outlines effective paths to conflict mitigation. It focuses on lasting peace and collective security while upholding international order and fairness. It reflects China's accurate assessment of the situation and aligns with the widespread calls from the international community. This is a comprehensive

crisis-resolution framework that is both feasible and actionable.

China has always been a builder of peace and a promoter of stability in the Middle East, as demonstrated through concrete actions. From promoting the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran to supporting Syria's return to the Arab League; from advocating the just cause of restoring the Palestinian people's legitimate national rights to pushing for peace in Gaza and unity within Palestine; from fulfilling regional peacekeeping duties to providing humanitarian aid, China consistently acts on the basis of the rights and wrongs of each issue and the fundamental interests of the people in the Middle East. It actively promotes a new vision of security that is common, comprehensive, co-operative, and sustainable.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia and Iran reached the Beijing Agreement and the Palestinian factions signed the Beijing Declaration -- these reflect the region's trust in China's fair stance and its welcome of China's new security concept. President Xi's latest "four-point proposal" regarding the Israel-Iran conflict is consistent with China's moral position for peace in the Middle East.

With instability in the Middle East, achieving global peace is difficult. Efforts by all parties to promote a ceasefire and negotiations are not only necessary for the Middle East, but also essential for global peace and stability. This requires coordination and consensus among major powers. The recent phone call between

River collision claims life of young boat builder in Pomeroon

POLICE are investigating a fatal river mishap that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Damion “Smirf” Fredericks on Monday, June 23, in the Lower Pomeroon River.

Fredericks, a boat builder, was involved in a collision with another vessel reportedly operated by 24-year-old Joseph Melville, also a boat builder from Jacklow, Upper Pomeroon. According to reports, the two men, along with Shane Narine, had been drinking at bars in Charity earlier that evening before departing separately on their boats.

Melville told police that after retrieving his boat from a relative, he was crossing the river when his vessel was struck, causing it to capsize.

An eyewitness, who heard the collision from his

home and responded by boat, found Fredericks and Narine with head and facial injuries. Fredericks was unresponsive, while Narine was conscious.

The eyewitness immediately transported Narine to Charity Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Fredericks was pronounced dead on arrival at

President Xi and President Putin exemplifies the close communication and coordination between China and Russia on major international hotspot issues. As major world powers and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and Russia work closely together on the international stage, jointly playing a "stabilising" role for global and regional peace. This not only highlights the positive role of emerging powers in global governance, but also demonstrates the correct way for major powers to coexist.

The situation in the Middle

East confirms that the world has entered a "new period of turmoil and transformation," and the "four-point proposal" reflects China's consistent security perspective. From the Russia-Ukraine conflict to the Israel-Palestine issue, it's evident that China's suggestions are forward-looking and are increasingly accepted by more countries. In the current context of clouds hanging over

the Middle East, hopefully the international community will take action as soon as possible and align with China's "fourpoint proposal." China is willing to continue strengthening communication and coordination with all parties, building consensus, advocating for justice, and playing a constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)

Charity Hospital. His body was subsequently transferred to the Suddie Public Hospital mortuary, pending a post-mortem examination.

Melville sustained minor injuries and was treated at the hospital before being taken into police custody. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Dead: Damion Fredericks

New ‘rehab’ resources aim to support vulnerable, underserved communities

- mobile app, handbooks to transform ‘rehab’ landscape in Guyana - over 3,000 wheelchairs to be distributed free in 2025

THE Ministry of Health has officially launched Rehab Week 2025 with the unveiling of a range of innovative tools and expanded services aimed at transforming rehabilitation care across the country.

The launch ceremony, held recently in the Ministry’s Boardroom, was led by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony.

In his keynote address, Minister Anthony introduced three ground-breaking resources poised to modernise rehabilitation services in Guyana: The Guyana Rehab App – A user-friendly mobile platform that enables patients to access personalised ex-

ercise plans, track rehabilitation progress, book appointments, and connect with rehabilitation services nationwide; The Stroke Handbook – A comprehensive guide created for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. It focuses on early stroke recognition, recovery strategies, and reintegration into daily life; The Amputee Handbook – The first national resource of its kind, providing a stepby-step guide to support individuals with limb loss, from pre-operative care to prosthetic rehabilitation and long-term recovery.

“These initiatives are designed to improve accessibility, consistency,

and the overall effectiveness of rehabilitation services, especially for vulnerable and underserved communities,” Dr. Anthony stated. “If we manage this as a continuum, we can address the root causes and prevent more people from needing rehabilitation in the first place.”

The Health Minister also highlighted the growing link between chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, and stroke, and rehabilitation needs. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing chronic disease management to reduce the long-term impacts that lead to disability.

As part of the Min -

istry’s push to increase access to assistive devices, Dr. Anthony noted th at nearly 1,000 wheelchairs were distributed free of charge last year, with an additional 3,000 procured for free distribution in 2025.

Director of Rehabilitation and Disability Services, Dr. Ariana Mangar, described rehabilitation

as a core component of Guyana’s modernising healthcare system. She pointed to ongoing sectoral transformations powered by digital tools, broader service delivery, and a stronger emphasis on quality care and patient empowerment.

Also attending the launch were Dr. Ertenisa Hamilton, Director of Pri-

‘Your concerns will be addressed’

mary Healthcare Services; Malkia Ida, Principal Assistant Secretary; and other senior Ministry officials and staff members.

The launch marks a significant step in the government’s long-term vision of ensuring inclusive, equitable, and modern rehabilitation services for all Gu yanese.

- Minister Indar engages Dartmouth community

- bridge, improved drainage and agricultural support on the cards

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, has assured residents of Dartmouth, Region Two, that their concerns will be addressed promptly.

The Minister made this commitment during a community engagement held on Tuesday, where he listened to a range of issues raised by residents of Darthmouth.

One of the major concerns highlighted was the urgent need for a new bridge to provide access to rice fields. A resident explained that, currently, farmers are

forced to swim across a canal to reach their farmlands, posing serious risks to their safety and livelihood.

Minister Indar immediately instructed the Region’s engineer to conduct an on-site assessment. National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) engineer, Nanram Narine, estimated the construction of the bridge to cost approximately $36 million. Minister Indar noted that the matter will be taken up with both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Public Works to ensure collaboration and funding. Additionally, residents requested the

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, listened to a range of issues raised by residents of Darthmouth (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

deployment of a long boom excavator to clear major drainage channels within the community. Minister Indar approved the request on the spot, promising that the machinery would be dispatched shortly. Another resident called attention to a clogged trench, to which the Minister responded that

an assessment will also be carried out.

Concerns were also raised regarding persistent flooding and the impact on livestock and cash crop farming.

Minister Indar requested that a detailed assessment be conducted to document the extent of the damage and assist affected farmers.

He noted that the Government remains committed to supporting the agriculture sector and that similar issues raised by farmers in other regions have already received intervention.

The Minister also addressed the issue of the deteriorated sluice doors in Dartmouth. He assured residents that assessments would be carried out to determine the need for replacement, as proper drainage infrastructure remains vital for protecting farmland and residences.

Another proposal made by the community was the construction of a cross dam to aid in farming activities. Minister Indar emphasised the importance of accountability in public spending, stating, “Whenever money is

spent, it must benefit the people directly.” He added that several ministries will coordinate efforts to address the issues raised.

Minister Indar reminded the gathering that the Government of Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to serve the people and to develop communities across the country.

“We are here to listen, assess, and act. Your concerns matter, and they will be addressed,” he said. Residents expressed appreciation for the government’s engagement. “We are happy that our concerns are being addressed, and it will be done in a timely manner. Our community needs this, and we want it to happen,” said one resident.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, delivers the feature address at the launch of Rehab Week 2025

Verdict looms in Dartmouth fatal shooting trial

A VERDICT is expected today in the manslaughter trial of Constable Sherwin Peters of the Guyana Police Force’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit.

He is accused of fatally shooting Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast businessman Orin Boston, during a police raid in September 2021.

On Tuesday morning, closing addresses were made, bringing the trial to a critical stage.

The presiding judge, Sandil Kissoon, is set to sum up the evidence to the jury today, after which the case will be handed over for deliberation on a verdict.

The trial is being heard at the High Court in Essequibo.

Constable Adrian Moore, a key prosecution witness and a member of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), took the stand when the trial commenced last week Tuesday to provide a detailed account of the operation that led to Boston’s death.

At the time of the incident, Moore was a member of the SWAT unit.

According to Moore, on September 14, 2021, he and approximately 10 other SWAT ranks received instructions from Assistant Superintendent of Police

(ASP) Gordon that they were to head to the Essequibo Coast for an anti-crime operation. He said the team was fully armed.

The CANU rank told the court that he was issued a primary weapon—an AR15 with a torchlight attachment—and a secondary weapon, a Glock pistol.

According to him, the

School in Suddie.

Upon arrival, Moore said ASP Gordon instructed them to remain “battle prepped” until further orders. The following day, he recalled instructions were given for raids to be conducted in multiple locations. Officers, Moore noted, were briefed on their rules of engagement.

officers departed from SWAT Unit at Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown to Parika, then on to Supenaam, and eventually arrived at the Guyana Police Force Training

September 15, 2021, the team arrived at a property in Dartmouth with two houses in one yard. The unit was split into Alpha and Bravo teams. Moore, who was in the Alpha team along with Peters, was ordered to “break down” the doors and search the houses.

“I used a ram to breach the first door. After the door

“We were told of the firing orders—that you can only fire if you’re in serious danger and unable to defend yourself by any other means,” Moore testified.

Around 04:00 hours on

Moore said he and Constable Lewis entered the first room, where they found two children. “I shouted ‘Police! Police! Get on the ground!’ I then instructed the children to go outside,” he recounted.

Moments later, he heard a loud explosion.

“I went to the second room and saw a male of African descent. He was big built and had what appeared to be blood coming from his shoulders. His upper body was on the bed, and his legs were on the ground,” Moore said.

According to him, Constable Peters (the accused), Constable Millington, and Lance Corporal Grenville were in the room with the injured man.

“Peters was trying to assist him,” Moore recalled.

was breached, the team flooded the house where several females were. Nothing was found, so we moved to the second house,” Moore said.

In the second building,

He testified that the man, later identified as 29-year-old Orin Boston, was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital. Following the raid, Moore recalled that the team went back to the Police training school where

he subsequently learned that Boston had died.

Moore emphasised in his testimony that Peters was among those who tried to help Boston and that the victim sustained no additional injuries during transport for medical attention.

In a statement, the police had said that SWAT unit officers conducted the operation in the wee morning hours, during which they went to Boston’s home to carry out a search.

According to the police, a “confrontation” occurred between Boston and the officers, resulting in him being shot—an account disputed by his wife.

While the police claimed there was a “confrontation” between Boston and the officers, his wife has publicly disputed that account. Peters, 34, is unrepresented by legal counsel and has been on $1 million bail pending the outcome of the trial. The prosecution is being led by State Counsel Latifah Elliot.

Sherwin Peters Orin Boston
Justice Sandil Kissoon

Children’s rights, dignity at forefront in Ministry’s care homes review session

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Monday afternoon, held a crucial meeting with members of the Children’s Visiting Committee to address key issues affecting the well-being of children residing in both stateowned and privately operated care homes across Guyana.

The meeting focused on several priority areas, including the safety and structural soundness of facilities, timely access to nutritious meals, availability of clean water and proper sanitation, and the overall physical and mental health of children in care. The forum also reviewed how complaints and concerns raised by children are addressed by house parents and admin-

- Minister Persaud meets with Children’s Visiting Committee to strengthen standards

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud (centre), flanked by members of the Children’s Visiting Committee after discussing key issues affecting the well-being of children residing in both state-owned and privately- operated care homes across Guyana

istrative staff.

Minister Persaud emphasised the importance of training for caregivers, noting that those respon-

sible for children must be equipped to offer the highest quality of support and protection.

Other areas of discus-

sion included the introduction of extracurricular programmes such as agricultural activities, and strategies to support the

The meeting also allowed members of the Visiting Committee to share firsthand observations, submit recommendations, and highlight areas requiring urgent intervention, thereby guiding the Ministry’s policy and operational response.

Also in attendance were Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency, Ms. Levine Gouveia, and Manager (ag) of Care Services, Mr. Orette Francois.

successful re-integration of children into society upon reaching adulthood.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing improvements within the childcare system to ensure every child in institutional care is given the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive environment.

Two businesspersons charged with double murder in Baramita

KIZZIAN BAIRD, 30, a businesswoman, and Junior Richmond, 40, a businessman, were formally charged on Tuesday with the offence of murder in connection with the deaths of Mark Thomas and Wendy James. The alleged double homicide occurred on June 16, 2025, at New Star Backdam in Baramita, located in the North West District.

The accused appeared before His Worship Magistrate Rabindranaught Singh at the Port Kaituma Magistrate’s Court via Zoom.

Following the arraignment, the accused were remanded to prison pending further court proceedings. They are scheduled to return to court on August 14, 2025, when the prosecution is expected to disclose the evidence against them.

The victims, Mark Thomas and Wendy James, were residents of Barama River, Baramita, Region One. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

During the hearing, neither Baird nor Richmond was required to enter a plea. Both defendants were represented by Attorney-at-Law Pamela De Santos.

Junior Richmond Kizzian Baird

Andrew Lewis National Novice Championships return July 25 – 27

THE bell will toll once again for Guyana’s next generation of ring-side warriors as the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) stages its 2025 National Novice Championship from July 25–27 at the National Gymnasium.

The three-night tournament, seen as the launching pad for future champions, will not only feature emerging talent from across the country, but also mark the much-anticipated return of the Republican Boxing Gym, now under the stewardship of seasoned coach Wincell Thomas.

The Republican Gym’s re-entry into the national fold adds an exciting dynamic to an already competitive field, as they look to re-establish their dominance among Guyana’s storied boxing clubs.

Held in honour of the late World Champion, Andrew “Six-Head” Lewis, the tournament, often referred to as the GBA’s “talent cradle”, the National Novice Championship serves as the first official stepping stone for young fighters transitioning into the amateur ranks.

The event also plays a pivotal role in identifying and grooming athletes for the national programme.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle underscored the championship’s significance,

…Republican Gym makes comeback under new leadership

adding that, “The Novice Championship remains one of the most important events on the GBA calendar. It is here that we discover the raw talent that goes on to represent Guyana on the international stage.

Without this tournament, our talent pipeline would be severely compromised.” Last year’s edition saw the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Boxing Gym reaffirm their dominance, walking away with the Best Overall Team title.

The spotlight also shone

brightly on Jagwan Milo, who was named Best Novice Boxer, while Ryan Rogers of the Forgotten Youth Foundation Gym took home the Best Schoolboy Boxer award.

The Best Female Boxer accolade was awarded to Kenisha Plass, a rising star in the women’s division.

This year’s tournament is expected to draw boxers from across Guyana’s ten administrative regions, promising three action-packed nights, all in the name of boxing development.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday June 25, 2025) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 1 catch (2) 3 (1 catch/2 stumpings)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI struck most sixes in the recent T20 series against England? (2) Which Englishman struck most sixes? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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Duckett 149 lays the foundation as England hunt down 371 at Headingley

(ESPNCRICINFO) -

Headingley has become the home of the run chase, and England hauled in a target of 371 to prove it. Set up by Ben Duckett's dazzling 149, and sealed with a six by Jamie Smith, they romped home in just 82 overs to seal a sixth consecutive win in Leeds - all while bowling first - and to take a 1-0 lead in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

It left Ben Stokes to breathe a sigh of relief after his decision to field first on Friday morning, and India to dwell on the countless opportunities they missed to take control of this Test. They hit five centuries to England's two, but lower-order collapses of 7 for 41 and 6 for 31 proved costly - as did their six dropped catches.

This was a chastening way to start a new era for India, with Shubman Gill's sparkling first-innings century long forgotten as he reflected on a heavy defeat in his first Test as captain. After series losses against New Zealand and Australia, India have now lost seven of their last nine Tests, and may only have Jasprit Bumrah available for two of the next four on the England tour.

Bumrah was borderline

unplayable in Australia, taking 32 wickets in the series, but was unusually ineffective after his first-innings five-for at Headingley.

He went wicketless in England's run chase, and was seen off by Duckett and Zak Crawley, whose partnership of 188 in 42.2 overs laid the foundations for a victory cruise despite the lingering threat of rain.

Duckett was sublime, starting his innings slowly before accelerating against India's weaker links. He was particularly severe on Ravindra Jadeja, whom he reverse swept into submission, and Prasidh Krishna, whose five wickets in the match could not disguise an eye-watering economy rate of 6.28, the most expensive in India's Test history.

England wobbled in the afternoon against Prasidh and Shardul Thakur, but Smith and Joe Root saw them across the line with 14 overs remaining in the final hour. Root was characteristically cool in his unbeaten 53, while Smith took Jadeja for 18 runs in an over, including sixes over square leg and mid-on, to see his team across the line.

Duckett and Crawley had

reached the lunch break unscathed, battling through probing early spells from Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj before tucking into India's change bowlers. Duckett cut and pulled with total control until his hundred was a shot away: on 97, he offered a chance when he pulled Siraj to deep square leg on 97, but Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped his third catch of the match.

Siraj was furious, and made no effort to hide it. He had drawn Duckett into a verbal battle after drawing an outside edge which skewed away through a gap in the slip cordon soon after lunch, and could only watch in frustration as Duckett reverse swept Jadeja for four to reach three figures, his sixth Test century and his first in the second innings of a match.

Duckett punched the air to celebrate and then got back to work, milking Jadeja for off-side runs as he packed his leg-side field. But Prasidh prised the game open from the other end, first drawing an edge from Crawley which flew to first slip, and then nipping one back off the seam to induce a chop-on from Ollie Pope, England's first-innings centurion.

GMR&SC Circuit Racing Championship Round 2 All to play for at Sports Tuner Level

WITH the second round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) Circuit Racing Championship rapidly approaching, its all to play for in the Sports Tuner Class.

After the first round, Azzad Hassan has the lead of the championship with 68 points after two wins and one second place but that position is under clear threat.

As Hassan saw with the last race, there are no prisoners in the group and former group two champion Ryan Rahaman is hot on his heels.

Rahaman sits second in the championship with 61 points, a mere seven-point difference

separating the two top contenders.

The duo’s ding-dong battle throughout the day in round one will surely set the stage for the fireworks to come in round two.

Endurance racing king Adrian Fernandes is third with 45 points, still in with a chance should the two front runners slip up.

His consistent podium finishes have kept him in the running and he will surely be looking to climb the steps of the podium come July 6.

Shayne Seebaran (43) and Kemal Rahaman (12) make up the other point scorers in the class that is expected to be action packed when the flag drops.

Ben Duckett scored an attacking century • Getty Images

CPL announces trophy tour

THE Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 CPL Trophy Tour—a dynamic, region-wide celebration that will bring the excitement of the CPL directly to fans across the Caribbean.

This year’s tour offers a unique opportunity for supporters to interact with the iconic CPL trophy and take part in a vibrant lineup of fan-focused activities.

The Trophy Tour will kick off in Antigua & Barbuda on 27 June, before continuing through Saint Lucia,

Barbados, and St. Kitts & Nevis. Each stop will build anticipation ahead of the CPL season, which officially gets underway on 14 August. What to Expect at Each Stop

Fans attending the Trophy Tour can look forward to a festive and immersive

experience, including Trophy Display & Photo Opportunities – Snap unforgettable photos with the CPL Trophy, Live Music – Enjoy high-energy performances by some of the Caribbean’s top DJs and local artists, Sponsor Activation Zones – Engage with fun interactive experiences,

games, and giveaways from CPL partners, Community Appearances – Meet cricket legends and local heroes, take selfies, and collect autographs and Ticket Sales Booths – Purchase CPL tickets on-site and take advantage of exclusive promotions.

Pete Russell, CEO of

the CPL, said: “The CPL trophy always creates excitement from our fans and we wanted to give fans from across the region a chance to interact with this iconic trophy and to have a chance to get their hands on tickets and merch from the CPL and its franchises.”

No Imlach, Anderson as West Indies prepare to face Australia

The prevailing northeast trade winds are a constant in beautiful Barbados but the winds of change have swept through both the West Indies team and Australia as they begin a new World Test Championship cycle in Bridgetown. West Indies have not played Test cricket since January in Pakistan and begin the cycle under a new captain in Roston Chase after Kraigg Brathwaite stepped down. Extraordinarily, Chase has not played

a Test match since March 2023, having not played in West Indies' last 13.

He lea ds a new-look squad which, for the opening Test, sees a debut for Brandon King and returns for John Campbell and Shai Hope - the latter as wicketkeeper - for the first time since 2022 and 2021 respectively.

Meanwhile, veteran Kemar Roach was left out of the squad entirely despite playing in each of West Indies' last three series. Joshua

da Silva could not earn a recall either on account of his Gabba heroics against Australia and a recent run spree in the West Indies Championship, with selectors holding firm after dropping him in Pakistan. There are only three survivors from West Indies' previous Test: Brathwaite, Justin Greaves and Jomel Warrican.

Australia's "reset" is not quite as extreme following the disappointment of the WTC final loss to South Africa just two weeks ago,

but it is significant by their standards. For the first time since December 2018, they will field an XI without either Marnus Labuschagne or Steven Smith on the team sheet.

The selectors finally lost patience with Labuschagne and he has been dropped for first time in s ix years having been a mainstay of Australia's top three for 53 consecutive Tests. Smith had played 51 in a row before his gruesome finger injury ruled him out of the

Stabroek Eagles stumped with...

From page 31

Best-of-Three series.

Meanwhile, Kobras opened their series with a 62-57 points victory over defending champion, Ravens.

Ravens looked good from the onset as they held a slim advantage at the end of the first period, 15-11; they also led at the half-way point, 29-23. However, a third-quarter surge from Kobras saw them rebounding to overtake the lead by one point, 40-39,

over Ravens. They then improved in their fourth quarter with their offence game to eclipse Ravens altogether for a 5-point victory, 62-57.

The win in the First-of-the-Series gives Kobras the edge, with Ravens’ next game being a ‘must win’ game to stay alive and advance to the finals.

The League is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and the National Sports Commission.

The League’s regular season featured 22 teams evenly split in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for a place in the playoffs with the top team from both conferences advancing.

The winner of the overall One Guyana Title will have bragging rights, a million dollars, and the coveted national club league trophy.

first Test of this series. He is a chance to return for the second.

It means Australia do not have a single batter in the squad remaining from the last Test Australia played in the Caribbean in 2015, when Smith made 199 and 54 not out. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon are the only others to have played Test cricket in the Caribbean.

Australia confirmed five days out that Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis will play in Barbados to change the age profile of the side. But they will still only field two players under 30.

Australia rarely undertake full-scale reboots, and it is understandable they have not made sweeping changes following Lord's given they have lost just one of their past seven Tests and did not lose a multiTest series during the previous WTC cycle. But they cannot afford a slow start to the new cycle with an

inexperienced top six and an aging attack, given they have away tours to South Africa and India in this WTC schedule as well as an Ashes series later in the year.

West Indies: 1 Kriagg Brathwaite, 2 John Campbell, 3 Keacy Carty, 4 Brandon King, 5 Roston Chase (capt), 6 Shai Hope (wk), 7 Justin Greaves, 8 Jomel Warrican, 9 Alzarri Joseph, 10 Shamar Joseph, 11 Jayden Seales Australia opted to retain their traditional balance of three frontline quicks and a spinner supplemented by Beau Webster who can provide medium pace and offspin. Josh Inglis will cover for Smith at No. 4. Australia: 1 Usman Khawaja, 2 Sam Konstas, 3 Cameron Green, 4 Josh Inglis, 5 Travis Head, 6 Beau Webster, 7 Alex Carey (wk), 8 Pat Cummins (capt), 9 Mitchell Starc, 10 Nathan Lyon, 11 Josh Hazlewood

The CPL Trophy

Lucky fan to ride away with motorcycle at Kares One Guyana T10 final

ONE lucky spectator attending the grand finale of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast is set to win a brand-new motorcycle, courtesy of Banks DIH, through their GT Beer brand.

The final is scheduled for Sunday, August 3, at the National Stadium, Providence, following the preliminary rounds.

The tournament action commences in Berbice on June 28 with matches at the #48 Ground and the Rose Hall/Canje Ground (Welfare Ground) on Saturday.

The Berbice zone final will then be held under lights at the Albion Sports Complex on Sunday, with play commencing at 09:30hrs (local time) on both days.

Spectator entry is free across all venues.

The tournament will

subsequently move to other zones: East Bank and West Demerara (July 5-6), Georgetown/East Coast (July 19-20), and Essequibo (July 26-27), before culminating in the national finals.

GT Beer Brand Manager, Dwain Bristol announced the exciting giveaway and other

fan engagement initiatives at Thirst Park on Tuesday.

Cricket fans will have multiple opportunities to win, with chances to enter a draw for the motorcycle with every purchase of a GT Beer or GT Beer Lights bucket.

Additional prizes will be awarded for catches and

Stabroek Eagles stumped with first defeat of season

FORMER Club champions

Bounty Colts showed they still possess the skillset to perform at a high level, as they gave Stabroek Eagles only their second loss in the last two seasons of the One Guyana Basketball Premier League Playoffs. Their match took place on Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Eagles, who played undefeated last season before losing the final against North Ruimveldt Ravens, have

picked up where they left off and played flawlessly through-out the regular season before their loss to Bounty Colts.

Colts, on the other hand, have been average over the past two seasons, but threw a wrench in Eagles wheels to achieve an 87-80 victory in their Best-of -hree semifinal playoff series.

It was Colts who stepped on the gas from the onset, leading by 2 points after the first quarter, 14-12, which

they extended to 43-33 to be up by 10 points at the half.

Shelroy Thomas put in a vintage showing to drop 19 points, Evan Johnson and Dominte Rankin also finished with 11 points, each, as they dominated the third period, 67-51, before completing the win in the fourth, 87-80.

Eagles skipper Travis Belgrave finished with 26 points in a losing effort as they go behind, 1-0, in the Turn to page 30

other activities during the matches, aiming to enhance the overall fan experience.

Beyond the motorcycle, substantial cash prizes are up for grabs. The Berbice zone champion will pocket $300,000 and a trophy, with

an opportunity to compete for a further $1.7 million in the national finals.

The Berbice runner-up will receive $100,000.

The national finals promises even bigger rewards, with the runner-up taking home $700,000, a trophy, and medals. Each losing semi-finalist will also receive $300,000.

Individual performances will be recognised throughout the tournament with attractive prizes: MVP ($150,000 + motorcycle), Most Runs ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Most Wickets ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Man-of-theNational Final ($75,000 + trophy + TV), Highest Strike Rate ($35,000), and Best Economy ($35,000).

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has gar-

nered support from: Kares Engineering Inc, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, KFC Guyana, Star Rentals, Banks DIH, ENet, Guyana Lottery Company, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Impressions, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal, Shawn’s Mini Mart, Giftland Group of Companies, Kris Jagdeo Construction Company, Montra Restaurant & Lounge, Windsor Estates, The New Doctor’s Clinic, GuyOil, ANSA McAL, SuperBet Guyana, Digital Technology, Camille’s Academy, Navin Construction, Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, Continental Transportation, and Environmental & Technical Solutions.

Tertiary Basketball League III Champs LTI and UG Trojans pick up latest win

DEFENDING champions

Linden Technical Institute and University of Guyana Trojans grabbed huge wins on Sunday when the Tertiary Basketball League of Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) continued at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Linden Technical Institute battled Guyana School of Agriculture in the opening match-up before taking a 5027 point’s victory.

LTI’s Rasheed Hinds led them with 25 points coupled with support from Leron Joseph who had 14 points.

While on the defensive end, Stephen George held

GSA at bay with 15 rebounds and solid defending.

GSA was led by Dexter Quintin 16 points, and 10 rebounds albeit in a losing effort. Meanwhile University of Guyana thrashed top rivals Government Technical Institute 72-16.

It was lopsided affair as UG’s Alafin Joseph proved too much to handle with 19 points 6 assists and 5 rebounds.

UG’s Peter Langevine also came well with 13 points and 14 rebounds in a good all-round display.

Chris Perez with 15 points, 8 steals and Ronako

Vaughn with 15 points, 6 rebounds also stepped up as UG overwhelmed their tertiary counterparts in an awesome showing.

The Tertiary Basketball League will continue next Sunday, June 22, from 16:00 hours (4:00pm).

The winning side will pocket $125,000 compliment of G-boat Guyana with $75,000 for second place compliments of Enet and $50,000 compliment of Halliburton Guyana for third.

The competition is sponsored by G-Boats Inc, ENET, Halliburton, and Fireside Grill and Chill.

Champs LTI’s Rasheed Hinds going for a basket
Stabroek Eagles and Bounty Colts in battle
One fan will ride away on a motorcycle on August 3
One Guyana Basketball Premier League Playoffs…

No Imlach, Anderson

as West Indies prepare to face Australia

Azzad Hassan leads Ryan Rahaman
Pat Cummins and Roston Chase with the Frank Worrell Trophy • Getty Images, AFP

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