Guyana to operationalise world’s first national biodiversity monitoring system by 2030 –– President Ali
–– highlights several initiatives already implemented by the PPP/C; ideas announced at recent consultation, Moruca meeting
Education Minister Priya Manickchand on Thursday commissioned a $95M Sixth Form block and administrative building at the Diamond Secondary School, paving the way for the introduction of Sixth Form studies (CAPE) for the very first time on the East Bank of Demerara. In addition to offering 16 CAPE subjects, students will have access to six spacious classrooms, a recreational area and modern washroom facilities. There is also a fully equipped library, an Information Technology lab, and dedicated office space for administrative operations, (MoE photo)
CAPE subjects to become available at Diamond Secondary –– following commissioning of Sixth Form block, administrative building Scurrying from media scrutiny, Mohamed claims U.S. support –– offers no explanation ‘Opposition’s hatred of the PPP is more important than the future of the country’ –– Dr Jagdeo says; cautions Guyanese of ‘master plan’ by the opposition to force PPP/C into minority gov’t
In a heart-warming message on her Facebook page, First Lady Mrs Arya Ali reminded Guyanese that there is only ONE Guyana. She said her mission is to bridge every gap until that truth is undeniable. “My clothes don’t define my heart, and my office doesn’t distance me from our people’s struggles. I wear my role with purpose, not privilege. The work continues’ (Photo: First Lady/Facebook)
evaded by U.S.-sanctioned Mohamed add up to 275 years of presidential salaries
––Dr Jagdeo says, brands his promise of donating such earnings as ‘nonsense’
‘Dishonest and Shameless’ for opposition to criticise LCDS after shelving it in 2015 - Dr. Jagdeo
AFTER sabotaging the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) during their time in office, the opposition has now, ahead of the upcoming polls, vowed to increase the carbon credit funds allocated to Amerindian villages.
Branding this as “shameless” and “dishonest,” People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a Thursday news conference, slammed the opposition’s opportunistic interest in the
well-being of Amerindians.
A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) Juretha Fernandes, recently promised 50 per cent, as opposed to the current figure, of the carbon credit proceeds being allocated directly to Indigenous communities.
Dr. Jagdeo when asked about these statements said:
“It's amazing how dishonest and shameless people could be. They were touting that Granger had this great plan, the green state strategy. They didn't earn a
cent for the country. It was going nowhere. We had to spend the money to develop it, money that we left from the early LCDS, that they were opposed to.”
Upon assuming office in 2020, the PPP/C was forced to pick up where it left off in 2015, in the areas of environmental sustainability and economic growth, since the previous APNU+AFC administration was unable to execute an effective strategy.
The APNU+AFC coalition
had replaced the LCDS with the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS), which took five years and millions of dollars to develop, but had no serious implementable deliverable and no one was clear on what it was about.
Guyana did not earn a cent in revenue for environmental services while APNU+AFC was in government, nor was a new agreement with Norway established.
Dr. Jagdeo while speaking
on how the LCDS has brought forth transformation for the Indigenous community said: “So we made it clear that 15 per cent of those (carbon) funds will go to the Amerindian communities. So far, they've been getting over 20 per cent of the funds from the first three years. Fourteen billion went to the villages. The villages have to decide on their own how to spend the money. We don't tell them to do that.
“Now, the rest of the money is going now to safeguard the coast of Guyana from Region Two all the way to Region Six, the entire coast. We're spending on adaptation measures to safeguard our villages, our communities against flooding, etc, and opening up more lands for farmers and other people along the coast. That's where we're spending the money back in the country,” he added.
The PPP General Secretary attributed the opposition’s sudden concern for Amerindian communities as an attempt to do damage control following the “disastrous” turnout at the recent APNU rally in Bartica.
Taxes evaded by U.S.- sanctioned Mohamed add up to 275 years of presidential salaries
- Dr. Jagdeo says; brands his promise of donating such earnings as ‘nonsense’
THE promise by embattled businessman Azruddin Mohamed to donate his presidential salary to charity if elected to office, was on Thursday rubbished by People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who pointed out the irony of that pledge coming from a man who is facing allegations of tax evasion and gold smuggling.
Mohamed made the declaration at a recent public meeting in Parfait Harmonie, telling supporters he will forego any pay if he leads the country and give it to charity instead.
Dr Jagdeo during his weekly press conference at Freedom House said that without spending a day in office, Mohamed is already talking about collecting a salary.
“He evaded in five years, $11 billion in taxes… He hasn’t even served a single day, and he's collected the salary equivalent to 275 years…,” Jagdeo said.
Branding the so-called promise as “nonsense,” Dr Jagdeo pointed to the numerous allegations of egregious financial crimes being levelled against Mohamed and the irony of him now presenting himself as a pristine choice for leadership.
“He says he’ll fight corruption when he’s under
U.S. sanctions for goldsmuggling. He’s also been implicated in torture and trafficking of people,” the PPP General Secretary said.
He further said: “The most corrupt individual in the country talking about corruption… You can’t have any [bank] account anywhere in the world.”
The controversial businessman along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11, 2024, were sanctioned by U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which oversees sanctions against individuals and entities tied to illicit activities and hostile foreign governments.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports, and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
PPP General
Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (File photo)
Guyana to operationalise world’s first national biodiversity monitoring system by 2030
–– President Ali announces
PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced that Guyana will become the first country in the world to implement a fully standardised, border-to-border national biodiversity monitoring system by 2030.
The National Biodiversity Information System (NBIS), launched at the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, will collect and analyse data on the country’s plants, animals, and ecosystems and help guide decisions and policies that support sustainable development and conservation.
President Ali stated that the initiative shows Guyana’s commitment to protecting the environment and will create a new global standard for biodiversity accountability at
the national level.
“Guyana is taking a bold step in being the first globally to adopt such a system, the development of the National Biodiversity Information System to serve as a digital backbone for conservation finance and policy,” the Head of State said while delivering closing remarks at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) at the Global Biodiversity Alliance (GBA) Summit.
The NBIS positions Guyana as a global leader in biodiversity stewardship and will serve as a roadmap to meet the 30×30 biodiversity goal – protecting 30 per cent of land and sea by the year 2030.
This is just one of the many outcomes from the GBA summit, which will bring practical solutions to
WIN’s Manifesto ‘woefully
address biodiversity loss.
“You now have before you a practical path to halt biodiversity loss and finance a nature-positive future. This summit marked not just admiration, but a turning point for our planet,” he noted.
This robust digital infrastructure will unify biodiversity data collection, analysis, and decision-making across Guyana. The strategy will be developed and led by an interagency coalition of government, local and indigenous peoples, academic institutions, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), building on decades of Guyanese-led conservation.
The Head of State called on wealthier nations and private companies to step up and provide more funding to support countries like Guyana that are taking action.
He welcomed the launch of a new fund, Tropical Forest Forever (TFF), at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, aimed at helping countries preserve their forests with long-term support.
“To this end, we support the expansion of high-integrity markets for jurisdictional approaches, and we also encourage potential investor countries to announce ambitious contributions to TFF.
Further, we call on international organisations, NGOs and civil society to support the TFF worldwide.” (DPI)
“We’re also hoping that we can have our own museum, because we have enough history and enough of an ecosystem to support such a museum and the development of an intensive park to showcase the richness of our biodiversity,” President Ali said.
short on originality; full of copied ideas’
– Ashni Singh
–– highlights several initiatives already implemented by the PPP/C, ideas announced at
DR. Ashni Singh, Guyana’s Finance Minister, has dismissed the Manifesto released by the We Invest in
Nationhood (WIN) party as one that is completely lacking in originality, describing it as “short on original-
ity, and full of plagiarized, copied and recycled ideas”.
“Predictably, it was striking for its complete lack of originality, and the extent to which it either plagiarised or recycled initiatives that the PPP/C is already implementing, or has long committed to implement in the public domain,” Dr. Singh told the News Room on Thursday night.
Dr. Singh pointed out several examples from the Manifesto, which he said the PPP has been executing already or explicitly committed to in their recent Manifesto consultation that drew a large crowd at the Princess Hotel on the East Bank of Demerara.
For example, the finance minister said the PPP has already publicly promised a new development bank which will finance small and medium-sized enterprises using State funds.
WIN, he pointed out, says it will establish a similar bank for these enterprises, providing loans with flexible terms, and offering startup capital, seed funding, and microloans.
He also pointed out
WIN’s plan to establish business incubators, which will offer free training, brand development, and mentorship to entrepreneurs and SMEs. However, Dr. Singh said the PPP has already been doing this, and plans to expand such ventures once re-elected.
WIN’s plans to amend the 2021 Local Content Act so that other sectors are catered for, Dr. Singh said, have also been committed to the PPP.
But it’s not only about business development. Dr. Singh said, as the promises from housing expansion ventures to increased cash incentives have been made and delivered on by the PPP since taking office in 2020, and will continue in the years ahead.
Dr. Singh also pointed out that it was only on Saturday, while in Moruca, that President Ali said the cost of hinterland travel will be reduced, as the PPP will remove taxes on ATVs and boat engines. These were also promises unveiled on Thursday by the WIN party.
“So this Manifesto is,
recent consultation,
unsurprisingly, a huge disappointment that is woefully short on originality, and recycles ideas from much that the PPP has already said publicly,” Dr. Singh contended.
Moruca meeting
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service
Dr. Ashni Singh
WIN launched its Manifesto on Thursday at the party’s head office in Providence, East Bank Demerara. (News Room)
President Ali delivers closing remarks at the end of day two of the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit on Thursday (DPI photo)
The cover of the WIN Manifesto which was launched on Thursday, and which is being called ‘deficient and unrealistic’
Jagdeo agrees U.S.-Guyana relations will be at risk if Mohamed gets into parliament
THE mounting concerns from the United States (US) over what could happen to Guyana’s economic prospects and international partnerships if sanctioned presidential hopeful, Azruddin Mohamed gets into parliament, should not be downplayed, according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
During a news conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown, the General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President, highlighted the US Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot’s firm statements that the US Government, particularly the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), views any elevation of Mohamed, the leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, as problematic.
Dr. Jagdeo said: “As usual, Azruddin Mohamed and his trolls and a number of people in their camp, tried to distort what the ambassador said…”
However, he explained that the sanctions are not just
visa revocations, but they entail serious implications for not only the Mohameds but the country.
He once again emphasised that the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said that people are prohibited from dealing with sanctioned individuals.
Further explaining the seriousness of the sanctions, the Vice-President highlighted that even American oil giant, ExxonMobil had to pull out of the consortium with the Mohameds because of the sanction regulations.
Dr. Jagdeo said: “Exxon had to leave that consortium because Exxon could not do business with the Mohameds.”
He further pointed out that the way the US views governance includes all armslegislative, executive and judiciary, and according to Dr. Jagdeo: “If you have a transgression in the judiciary or in the legislature, guess who answers for it, the executive; we have to answer for that.”
He also said: “US companies, based on what is the position of OFAC or the trea-
sury, would have great difficulty in doing business with him (Mohamed) or maybe with Guyana. It’s a statement of fact”.
Speaking candidly with reporters on Wednesday, Ambassador Theriot shared the views of the US Government, particularly the OFAC, concerning Mohamed.
“Yes, we are concerned anytime an OFAC-sanctioned individual has the potential to become a member of government, it’s problematic in multiple ways… We have to be very careful if that person is involved. Let’s say we were on a certain committee; we would have to be very careful in working with that committee. We have to make sure that we didn’t work with him specifically,” Theriot stated.
The Ambassador elaborated that US law strictly limits engagement with individuals under OFAC sanctions, making Mohamed’s potential entry into Parliament, whether in government or opposition, an issue of regulatory and reputational risk for both diplomatic missions and private sector interests.
“He would still be a
member of government, so that would be a concern for us,” Theriot said when asked whether Mohamed’s presence in the opposition would still raise alarm. But the Ambassador did not stop at government engagement.
She raised a more urgent concern, such as the ripple effects on US investment and business confidence in Guyana.
“When you see an OFAC-sanctioned individual become a part of an official within a government, it sends concern through the private sector of the United States. So, you see, US companies
are often rethinking their relationships in the country. We’ve seen it in Afghanistan and other countries’ companies … they look to de-risk or even cut ties. And we’re in such a beautiful position right now. All these US companies want to come to Guyana. I don’t want that to change,” Theriot explained.
Azruddin, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11 2024, were sanctioned by OFAC, which oversees sanctions against individuals and entities tied
to illicit activities and hostile foreign governments.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports, and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
Guyana’s Bid to Monetise Nature
THE Global Biodiversity Summit has arrived with a hard-won credential: Guyana’s rainforests generate US15.2 billion in annual ecosystem services without a single tree felled.
Rich with 8,000 plant species, 1,200 birds, and 225 mammals, this tiny republic now argues—convincingly—that conservation can out-earn extraction.
President Irfaan Ali’s message is refreshingly blunt: biodiversity is infrastructure and must be financed as rigorously as roads or ports.
The numbers back him. Guyana still shelters 85 per cent of its territory under intact canopy, locking away 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and absorbing 153 million tonnes every year.
Its forest carbon credits, sold to Hess for US$750 million, already funnel revenues to Indigenous communities while proving that “standing trees” can pay the bills.
The Global Biodiversity Alliance promises to scale that experiment, trading new biodiversity credits, green bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps so that rare orchids and river otters become revenue lines, not collateral damage.
Yet admiration alone will not secure the Amazonian fringe. The world loses 10 million hectares of forest annually, and only 15 per cent of the global finance needed to reverse that slide is on the table.
If Wall Street can raise trillions for
oil exploration, it can surely underwrite a few billion for biodiversity—especially when Guyana has already built the monitoring systems, legal frameworks, and Indigenous-led governance investors demand.
Rich nations that applauded the Low Carbon Development Strategy in 2009 still owe on their rhetoric; now they must purchase the biodiversity credits they once encouraged Guyana to create. There is also a moral calculus. Guyana emits a fraction of the carbon produced by the countries that fly in to praise its green credentials, yet it shoulders the cost of guarding a forest that cools their summers and steadies their floodplains.
Paying for those services is not charity; it is overdue rent on a planetary asset increasingly priced in catastrophe.
Hosting the Global Biodiversity Alliance secretariat in Georgetown cements the nation’s leadership, but leadership without liquidity will not keep poachers out or miners at bay.
The summit must close with cheques, not communiqué clauses.
When the ledger finally recognises that its biodiversity is worth more than a gold bracelet, Guyana’s bold stand will have become the world’s new business model—and we will all be shareholders in the safest bluechip investment left on Earth: nature itself.
The sanctioned friends of Azruddin Mohamed
THERE is no psychological explanation why intelligent or educated or mature or experienced persons would see Azruddin Mohamed as a political prospect, much less a presidential prospect.
The more I think of who Mohamed has been, and what he is, the more I am convinced that those who endorse or support or socialise politically with Mohamed are psychologically problematic folks.
I would not say mentally flawed, because the mental and the psychological have different nuances, with the mental horizon being deeper than the psychological terrain. Something has to be wrong with a human in Guyana that sees political substance in Mohamed. This does not mean there cannot be a political future for him.
There is a political future for all of us in all countries, but we have to work for it. We must establish ourselves in some form of endeavour, spend some years in it, then break out into politics. Mohamed missed that route. His endeavour was being a man spending billions he never worked a day in his life for, and that his escapades led to the Main Street incident, which is a ghost that will never leave him.
My problem as an experienced academic, media practitioner, and social activist is not with Mohamed. How is Mohamed my problem? He is not. Any fool has the right to contest their country’s presidency. My dilemma is with the people who see this man as eligible to be the president of Guyana.
Do we have such people in Guyana? Well, it looks like we do. And that is a troubling sign. People have actually joined his nomination list, and now they have to
face the consequences. In other words, they will be brought to their senses not by their own volition, but by the commercial banks of Guyana.
The people who joined Mohamed are naïve. Not versed in finance and business, they probably do not understand the depth of Mohamed’s quicksand. Mr. Mohamed is under wide-ranging sanctions, and those sanctions have complex sections that Mohamed’s political sycophants do not understand.
They will understand now, because the commercial banks have forced them to comprehend what they are facing with their association with Mohamed. More banks will follow the direction of Demerara Bank, and Mohamed’s associates will face financial devastation. The explanation is simple. Demerara Bank has closed their accounts. It means that they have to take the money in cash.
If they are given a manager’s check, the other banks may not accept the cheque. These people then will end up having to take home their millions in cash. What have they learnt from the Odessa Primus incident? The rumour is that Primus’ visa was revoked because of an association with Mohamed. Primus said she was not a victim of visa sanction, but that she went up to the US to surrender her visa.
While for the sake of libel we cannot say that Primus’ visa was cancelled, we retain the right to disbelieve her. Vice-President Jagdeo made a mockery of the visa surrender explanation. He said at his press conference that all Ms. Primus had to do was to walk into the U.S. Embassy and cancel the thing herself. He mockingly said
that it is stupid to travel to the U.S. while you can do the cancellation right here.
We are going to see more banks closing the accounts of the close political intimates of Mohamed. But how can one feel sorry for them when so much has been written about the far-reaching consequences of having relationships with Mohamed?
What Guyana is facing is a possibility of internecine economic hardship if the US withdraws its financial and economic relation with Guyana because of Mohamed’s entry into Parliament. The US Ambassador did not use subtle references. She said in unambiguous grammar that the presence of Mohamed in Parliament could affect US trade with Guyana.
The reality of the post-colonial West Indies is that we have maintained an intricate network of financial, economic and trade relations after Independence with the U.S. and the West. What has to be learnt from what the U.S. Ambassador has said is that
if the U.S. moves against Guyana, then obviously the Western countries will follow.
The EU and Canada are not going to continue economic and financial connections with Guyana if the US halts American investments.
This country can be likened to an individual who grew up in a massive property and then an opportunity came for them to have a future. Just 20 years ago, our future was uncertain. We have a shining future because we export oil that brings in a substantial income, and that brings with it prodigious investments.
A political charlatan like Azruddin Mohamed must not be allowed to jeopardise the future of this country.
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.
16 CAPE subjects to become available at Diamond Secondary
- following commissioning of Sixth Form block, administrative building
IN a landmark moment for education on the East Bank of Demerara, the Honourable Minister of Education Priya Manickchand on Thursday commissioned a new $95 million Sixth Form block and administrative building at the Diamond Secondary School, paving the way for the
introduction of Sixth Form studies (CAPE) for the very first time on the East Bank of Demerara.
The Sixth Form block at Diamond Secondary was constructed by Simcon Engineering Inc. over a 10-month period. This new facility offers 16 CAPE subjects, and features six spacious classrooms, a
recreational area, modern washroom facilities, and an office for the Deputy Headteacher.
Adjacent to it, the newly built administrative block houses a fully equipped library, an Information Technology ‘lab’, and dedicated office space for administrative operations, providing the support
structure needed for a thriving academic environment.
This milestone marks a significant expansion in access to advanced secondary education, allowing students on the East Bank to pursue post-CSEC qualifications closer to home. The newly-commissioned facilities are modern, spacious, and
purpose-built to support this important academic offering.
Major investments are also underway across the East Bank corridor. Construction is ongoing for brandnew secondary schools at both Kaneville and Prospect. Additionally, existing schools at Yarrowkabra, Dora, and Soesdyke are being ex-
panded, and the Houston Secondary School is currently being rebuilt.
These projects reflect a deep and tangible commitment to improving educational access and quality for all students through the Ministry of Education and Government of Guyana. (MoE)
For the first time, CAPE studies will be offered to public school students on the East Bank of Demerara following the commissioning of a Sixth Form Block and administrative building at Diamond Secondary. In the new school year, students will have an opportunity to choose from 16 subjects (MoE photos)
No bank will risk their relationship with the U.S. – Jagdeo
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday defended Demerara Bank, which has decided to sever ties with those associated with U.S.-sanctioned presidential hopeful, Azruddin Mohamed, stressing that they have taken the necessary action to avoid collapse, and global access being restricted.
During a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown, he said: “The fact is that [if] the banks in Guyana …lose two things [including] access to the SWIFT, they are at serious risk of being shut out of the global financial system.”
SWIFT, which stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, is a messaging system that financial institutions use to securely send and receive information, such as payment instructions, about international transactions. A SWIFT code, also known as a Bank Identifier Code (BIC), is a unique code that identifies a specific bank or financial institution.
The General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President, said: “If you lose access to that (SWIFT), you might as well shut down the bank; you can’t function.”
Dr. Jagdeo also slammed Mohamed for
downplaying the seriousness of his sanctions and its consequences.
On Tuesday, WIN candidates Natasha Singh-Lewis and Duarte Hetsberger disclosed during a press conference that Demerara Bank recently moved to close their accounts.
The move followed their formal association with the WIN party, led by Mohamed, who, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed, was sanctioned by OFAC on June 11, 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and tax evasion.
Though WIN maintains that its candidates have no financial ties to the Mohamed family or their businesses, compli-
–– defends local bank cutting ties with those associated with sanctioned Mohameds
ance analysts suggest that their appearance on the party list automatically flags them as affiliated with a sanctioned entity.
“You’re part of an organisation called WIIN, headed by a man who is sanctioned. So, you’re subjected to enhanced scrutiny. No bank will want to risk that relationship with the U.S,” Dr. Jagdeo had said.
Dr. Jagdeo also noted that other banking institutions will follow suit to protect their interests.
Mohamed and former Permanent Secretary Mae Thomas were both sanctioned by the US last year for alleged involvement in gold smuggling and corruption.
Thomas had her bank
accounts closed when she was sanctioned, Dr. Jagdeo said.
In August last year, the Bank of Guyana confirmed that all banks in Guyana have closed accounts they had with the Mohamed family and their businesses following U.S. sanctions for their alleged roles in public corruption.
Azruddin, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11 2024, were sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which oversees sanc -
tions against individuals and entities tied to illicit activities and hostile foreign governments.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports, and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations, and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
WIN promises big spending with no clear plan to fund it
WE Invest in Nationhood (WIN), the political party led by U.S.-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, has unveiled an ambitious manifesto promising sweeping economic reforms, major public investments, and increased social spending. However, the party has failed to present a clear or realistic plan on how it intends to fund these promises.
The Providence, East Bank Demerara launch event held on Thursday, was crowded with heckling party candi-
dates/supporters and featured a slew of bold pledges. Mohamed presented the party’s manifesto as a commitment to improving lives through bold policies, reducing living costs, boosting local manufacturing, and investing in youth.
Yet when pressed by journalists, WIN representatives offered few details on how these programmes would be financed.
The businessman was joined by former A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance for Change (AP -
NU+AFC) parliamentarians, Natasha Singh-Lewis, Dawn Hastings-Williams and Tabitha Sarabo- Halley and former Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Agriculture Director, Vishnu Panday. Mohamed revealed that should his party be elected to office, public assistance will be increased from $22,000 to $50,000, public assistance for individuals living with HIV and cancer will move from $14,000 to $30,000, old-age pension will increase from $41,000 to $100,000, PAYE will be reduced, the
income tax threshold will be increased from $130,000 to $200,000, public servant salaries will go up by up to 50 per cent while the private sector will be engaged on increasing their minimum wage, and value added tax (VAT) will be reduced from 14 per cent to 10 per cent.
However, when asked by the media to elaborate on his plans for the country and how he and his party intend to financially fulfil those promises, the businessman offered no clear answer but offered commentary on this year’s
fiscal package, citing instances of “wasteful spending”.
“We went through the 2025 budget. I saw so much of wasteful spending… So, all these monies that are being spent goes behind corruption, wasteful spending and corruption. So, we have the money, and we will invest the money in the right place,” the businessman said, but still offered no explanation on where the money will come from.
During the formal question and answers segment of the manifesto launch, journalists were met with heck-
ling from candidates and supporters of the party, who watched on from the back of conference room where the launch was held.
The party’s General Secretary, Odessa Primus indicated that members of the press would be able to extensively engage Mr. Mohamed on other matters following the launch. However, he swiftly exited the conference room, after being approached for follow-up questions.
Primus offered no explanation for his abrupt departure.
The U.S.-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed with former Partnership for National Unity +Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) parliamentarians, Natasha Singh-Lewis, Dawn Hastings-Williams and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, the party’s General Secretary Odessa Primus and former Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Agriculture Director, Vishnu Panday at the WIN manifesto launch on Thursday (Delano Williams photo)
‘Opposition’s hatred of the PPP is more important than the future of the country’
Dr Jagdeo says; cautions Guyanese of ‘master plan’ by the opposition to force PPP/C into minority gov’t
FUELLED by what he brands as a “pathological hatred” for the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the party’s General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has opined that the covert alliance among opposition factions is not aimed at advancing Guyana, but rather bonding over their dislike for the government, even if it means dragging the country into chaos
Dr. Jagdeo on Thursday during a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown, said based on certain occurrences within the public domain, there is a “master plan” by the opposition and presidential hopeful United States (U.S.)-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed to attempt to force the PPP/C into a minority government as was done in 2011.
There were clear indications that the opposition
is hoping to pressure the PPP/C’s strongholds, but instead, according to critics, it has laid bare the desperation within the opposition camp, all while the PPP/C maintains its strength.
Dr. Jagdeo pointed to recent comments made by a number of opposition members that subtly embrace the US sanctioned businessman, Mohamed’s political party- We Invest in Nationhood (WIN).
The PPP General Secretary highlighted Alliance For Change’s (AFC) executive David Patterson’s recent statements, who, at his party’s recent press conference confirmed that “discussions are always ongoing and will continue until the final decision is made.”
Dr. Jagdeo contended that the opposition is willing to “collaborate with the devil,” himself once it is not the incumbent government- even if it involved
PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
working with individuals sanctioned by the U.S or others that pose a threat to Guyana’s national security or are working against national interests. He said: “They don’t mind collaborating with an individual who is sanctioned by the United States
of America and poses a severe risk to our country, our future, our well-being, our jobs, everything else, they don’t mind collaborating. Anyone but the PPP. This is the pathological hatred of the PPP... They will destroy the country, but not PPP. They don’t want PPP. They will ignore every progress our country has made.”
Aside from the AFC, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to the Opposition Leader, last week, dismissing questions regarding the allegations that Mohamed is paying the electorate for their votes
“It shows they don’t care about the risks Mohamed poses…All they care about is unseating the PPP at any cost,” he said.
The PPP General Sec-
retary later stated: “The hatred of the PPP is more important than the future of the country. That is what we’re getting from the opposition.”
Dr. Jagdeo cemented his sentiments by pointing that under President Donald Ramotar where the APNU+AFC wielded the one-seat majority, they used this to stifle national development.
The PPP General Secretary pointed to the series of budget cuts and the blockage of key development initiatives by the APNU+AFC led National Assembly.
He said: “The country suffered. We had gridlock. Nothing moved. You couldn’t move anything in Parliament….
The pettiness that went on in Parliament, the country practically got to a standstill in that period.”
Dr. Jagdeo also stated: “They want to take this country back to the days of minority government — like in 2011 when the PPP had the presidency but couldn’t get anything done. That’s their hope.”
Further, the PPP General Secretary called out sections of the local media that are also attempting to cast a dark shadow on the party’s growing support.
He said: “Some sections of the media are complicit; They magnify opposition sideshows but downplay the overwhelming support the PPP has earned on the ground.”
‘Opposition making wild promises that have no basis in economic reality’
–– Dr. Jagdeo says; points out that PPP’s promises are grounded in reality
THE opposition’s desperate bid to fool the electorate with its grandiose promises, which include billion-dollar handouts, has not escaped the attention of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who has slammed officials for resorting to reckless populism to pull votes.
He made these remarks during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown as he called out the opposition for just spewing whatever sounds good, while ignoring whether their promises are economically sane.
For the past week, opposition factions have beefed up their churning out of pledges, and according to Dr. Jagdeo, political parties can put anything on paper.
He emphasised that the A Partnership for National Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) placed unrealistic plans in its 2015 Manifesto, and reminded Guyanese of the glossy plans which included a 100-day plan that turned into five years of job losses, sectoral collapses, and over 300 taxes for the citizens.
Now, with fresh elections on the horizon, the General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s vice-president, has highlighted that the opposition is once again reaching for the sky, with no economic ladder to even climb.
“They can make extravagant promises that have no basis in economic reality. But this is happening, and they’re putting this out. APNU has put out a
PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
series of things that they plan to do. We dealt with that before, that there is no macro-economic framework in which to situate the promises, there is no sustainable framework to situate the promises in,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
“They have not defined
their taxation policy, the fiscal policy, the monetary policy. They just make these wild promises, and often the promises are based on how much more they can offer than the PPP,” he added.
Unlike the opposition, he said, the PPP’s promises
are grounded in reality. The evidence is not conjured from slogans, but etched in the daily realities of thousands of Guyanese families.
Over 60,000 new jobs have been created since 2020, reversing the painful job losses of the previous administration. Public servants have seen their wages rise, old-age pensions have doubled, and more than 40,000 families now hold the keys to house lots that were once out of reach.
Students and young professionals have benefitted enormously, too, with nearly 30,000 Guyanese having been awarded fully-funded GOAL scholarships, while free university education has become a reality for many. From less taxes to the continued expansion in education, health and socio-economic programmes, the PPP/C’s 2025-2030 Manifesto has laid out the backbone of a transformational second term; one built on continued performance, and not hollow promises.
The party’s consultation for its Manifesto sends a clear hit to its challengers: What do you stand for besides slogans?
President Dr. Irfaan Ali and PPP General Secretary Dr. Jagdeo are thinking beyond mere extraction and expenditure, and instead, are focused on building on the country’s already diversified economy during their next term in office.
Fuelling further economic growth, further job creation, and improving the livelihoods of citizens even more are among some of the plans laid out in the summary of the PPP/C’s 2025-2030 Manifesto.
The PPP/C has pledged to introduce a special financing window for women and persons with disabilities through the Development Bank.
The government has also promised to create job opportunities for persons with disabilities and expand education and home-based healthcare services.
Establishing a Development Bank to finance Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), opening up 100,000 acres of arable land for cultivation, constructing and upgrading farm-to-market roads and expanding the drainage and irrigation systems are some of the plans the PPP/C has
in store for its next term in office.
Also, the new PPP/C government will ease the tax burden, and among some of its plans is the lowering of taxes for four-door pickups.
Additional cash grants for families and individuals will be granted in the PPP/C’s next term.
Since assuming office in 2020, the PPP/C government has taken the agricultural sector off the backburners of development and in its 2025-2030 manifesto they are promising to continue on this investment and expand the support.
Continuing direct support to farmers, whether it be through planting material, breeding stock or fertiliser has been outlined by the PPP/C along with co-investing in agro-processing hubs and making more land available to small and medium-scale miners.
Further, in its next term, the party says it will maintain a favourable fiscal regime, and impose no increases in royalties, no tributors tax, and no Value-Added Tax (VAT) on heavy machinery. Community-based businesses and jobs will also be created under new PPP/C government.
On the entertainment side, the PPP/C in the new term will give cash grants to artistes to improve their skills.
There will also soon be a law to guide importation of foreign workers amid the current labour shortage.
There will also be the continuation of land titling and demarcation along with increased support for Amerindian village development, the PPP/C has outlined, adding that more Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hubs will be introduced.
Creating greater opportunities for participation by youths in government and private sector, ensuring full access to education and skills training and expanding investments in sports and recreational facilities are among the PPP/C’s plans.
While youth empowerment has been a subject matter that has been talked up by many parties, the PPP/C’s track record has backed up its promises to the youth as the opportunities for the leaders of tomorrow have been increased.
‘We delivered!’
–– Senior Finance Minister tells Belvedere residents, showcases real gains made for Guyanese
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, during an address to residents at a community meeting in Belvedere on Thursday afternoon, outlined the government’s tangible delivery on promises made to the people of Guyana.
He emphasised the administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting families, expanding education, and creating careerready training opportunities for young people.
“They claim that they love people,” Dr. Singh said, referencing past leadership. However, he then pointed to the government’s ‘Because We Care’ cash grant. He noted that not only did the PPP/C government return the grant to the people, but it was also increased during the course of the administration’s term.
He added that the government had gone beyond that promise of $50, 000.
“Today, we are giving parents a cash grant of $55,000. If you have two children at school, you are guaranteed a grant of $110,000 for those two children… Not like a promise where you have to hope for the best, you are getting right now.”
Dr. Singh went on to announce that the government is working to introduce a transportation support initiative in the upcoming school term to ease the burden on families.
He highlighted further investments in the education sector “We have put back textbooks into the school. We have introduced and expanded the school feeding programme because we want every single child to be able to complete nursery, primary, and secondary education.”
He declared emphatically, “In Irfaan Ali’s Guyana, every single child must be able to complete their secondary education.”
While the state provides the infrastructure
and resources, the minister stressed the importance of parental involvement.
“We can build the school, we can employ the teachers, we can buy the textbooks, but that part you have to help us. I’m begging you please make sure that your children take advantage of the opportunities.”
In one of the most notable comments of the evening, Dr. Singh reiterated that the University of Guyana is now tuition-free “We have made the University of Guyana completely free. That is not something we are promising and we might or might not deliver. We have delivered it. It is free right now.”
He added that students can now pursue any diploma or a programme of their choice without cost.
“If your children come out of school, once they come out of school, whatever subject they want to start, they can study it and get a diploma for free.”
The minister acknowledged that not every young person is seeking a traditional university degree.
“Some may say I want a skill… I want to go to Port Mourant Training School, or I want to go to TI in New Amsterdam, or I want to become a heavy equipment operator.”
He pointed to the countrywide shortage of skilled operators and cited examples from the private sector “Tony (businessman) is here. He can tell you how many pieces of equipment he has parked up …[He] can’t deploy them because he can’t get operators. It’s not true, Tony? Kevin Abdullah can tell you he cannot find operators… Heavy equipment operators today are earning more than university graduates.”
To meet this demand, the government has launched free heavy equipment operator training across the country. “Last year, I did three training programmes, one in New Amsterdam, one right here at the Hampshire Community Centr e , and one in Upper Corentyne at the technical institute. In total, we trained about 300
heavy equipment operators, and we held a job fair. As soon as they graduated, there were people ready to recruit them.”
He emphasi s ed, “There’s no reason why any young person should be saying, ‘I’m looking for a job and I cannot get one,’ because we are providing this training for free.”
The government is also preparing the youth for lucrative opportunities in the oil and gas sector. “We have said we want our young people to be able to get qualifications to enter the oil and gas industry. And to achieve this, we have established the Guyana Technical Training College in Port Mourant a super training school. It’s a brand-new oil and gas institute that we have built right here in Port Mourant to train people for the oil and gas sector.”
He added that two batches of students, a few of whom came from Region Six, and others drawn from elsewhere in Guyana will be walking straight into a well-paying oil sector job.
The community meeting in Belvedere served not only as a reaffirmation of promises kept but as a direct call to action for parents, youth, and the wider public to make use of the unprecedented resources and support now available across Guyana.
Meanwhile, Majid Khan Mohamed, of Toopoo, Corentyne, one of the PPP/C regional candidates, made an empathic call for residents to vote solidly for the PPP/C come September, 1.
Khan said that as a young boy growing up he faced a lot of hardships under the PNC administration ; however, he has been lucky enough to work under an Irfaan Ali-led administration where he has seen massive development in every single street in his community.
He reminded residents of the hardships as he made a plea for them to ensure they turn out in their numbers on election day and return the PPP/C to a second term in office.
Belvedere residents at Thursday’s community meeting
Scurrying from media scrutiny, Mohamed claims U.S. support
– offers no explanation
UNITED STATES-sanctioned businessman and presidential hopeful Azruddin Mohamed appears unfazed by the shadow of financial sanctions as he eyes the presidency under his We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party. Mohamed, sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of United States Department of the Treasury, is confident the US will not only lift his sanctions but will also part-
ner with him if he is elected to office.
“When we take office, the second of September, the United States of America will work with us,” he declared after launching his party’s manifesto on Thurs-
day. He gave no further rationale or evidence to support this claim.
Bizarrely, Mohamed went on to compare himself to former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whose country was under U.S. sanctions for decades until recently when most were
lifted by President Donald Trump.
Pressed further on how the U.S. sanctions might impact Guyana should he take power or become a parliamentarian, Mohamed abruptly shut down the line of questioning.
“…and with the U.S. I don’t want to comment on that anymore. We will comment on that at a later time,” he told reporters, dodging the implications for Guyana’s diplomatic standing.
His comments come just one day after U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, spoke about the potential inclusion of a U.S.sanctioned individual in government, calling it “concerning” and alluding to possible diplomatic and economic fallout.
Speaking candidly with reporters on Wednesday, Ambassador Theriot made it clear that the OFAC views any elevation of Mohamed, currently the leader of the WIN party, as problematic.
“Yes, we are concerned anytime an OFAC-sanctioned individual has the potential to become a member of government…It’s problematic in multiple ways… We have to be very careful if that person is involved. Let’s say we were on a certain committee; we would have to be very careful in working with that committee. We have to make sure that we didn’t work with him specifically,” Ambassador Theriot stated.
She elaborated that U.S. law strictly limits engagement with individuals under OFAC sanctions, making Mohamed’s potential entry into Parliament, whether in government or opposition, an issue of regulatory and
reputational risk for both diplomatic missions and private sector interests.
“He would still be a member of government. So that would be a concern for us,” Theriot said when asked whether Mohamed’s presence in the opposition would still raise alarm. But the Ambassador did not stop at government engagement.
She raised a more urgent concern, such as the ripple effects on U.S. investment and business confidence in Guyana.
“When you see an OFAC-sanctioned individual become a part of an official within a government, it sends concern through the private sector of the United States. So, you see US companies are often rethinking their relationships in the country. We’ve seen it in Afghanistan and other countries’ companies … they look to de-risk or even cut ties. And we’re in such a beautiful position right now. All these US companies want to come to Guyana. I don’t want that to change,” Theriot explained.
On Tuesday, WIN candidates Natasha Singh-Lewis and Duarte Hetsberger, disclosed that Demerara Bank recently informed them of their intention to close their accounts. The move followed their formal association with the WIN party, led by Mohamed, who, along with his father Nazar Mohamed were sanctioned by OFAC on June 11, 2024, for alleged gold smuggling and corruption.
WIN is one of six political parties contesting Guyana’s General and Regional Elections slated for September 1, 2025.
WIN’s leader Azruddin Mohamed (Delano Williams photo)
Mini-excavator handed over to support Pomeroon farmers
IN a significant move aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting rural livelihoods, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, officially handed over a brand-new miniexcavator to the farming communities of Siriki Sands and New Heaven in the Pomeroon.
The simple yet impactful ceremony was held on Thursday and was led by the Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, who was accompanied by Regional Vice-Chairman Mr. Humace Oodit. The intervention followed a direct appeal from residents who had expressed the urgent need for equipment to assist in land preparation and drainage.
Agriculture remains the
backbone of the Pomeroon economy, and residents rely heavily on farming as their primary source of income. However, recurring challenges such as poor drainage and limited access to modern equipment have hindered their productivity.
The new machinery is expected to significantly improve conditions by facilitating land development, clearing blocked drains, and preparing farmland for cultivation, especially as the region approaches its next planting cycle.
Minister Persaud, in his address to the gathering, emphasised the government’s commitment to listening to the people and delivering tangible solutions.
“This is your machine. It belongs to the community and will be used to make farming more efficient and productive. We are here because your voices were
heard. This is how development should happen—by engaging with citizens and responding swiftly to their needs,” the minister stated.
Residents in attendance expressed profound gratitude to His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration for their proactive governance and people-centred approach.
One farmer remarked, “This machine is a blessing. It will help us open up new lands, keep our drains clear, and make our work easier. We thank the President and the government for thinking about us.”
Meanwhile, Oodit echoed similar sentiments, noting that the delivery of the machine was more than a gesture—it was a promise fulfilled.
“This is what partnership
Region Two police youth groups members recognised for outstanding NGSA performance
SEVERAL members of the police youth groups in Regional Police Division #2 were honoured for their exceptional performance at the 2025 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).
The recognition cere -
when the new school term begins on September 8, Ranjeev Persaud of Lima Sands Police Youth Group who secured a place at the Charity Secondary School, Ethan Hughes of the Onderneeming Sandpit Police Youth Group
between government and citizens looks like. When we work together, real change happens,” he said.
This initiative forms part of the government’s broader plan to revitalise rural economies, strengthen food security, and ensuring that
The new mini-excavator
no community is left behind.
It also aligns with President Ali’s vision for transforming the agriculture sector through infrastructure development, mechanisation, and support for small- and medium-scale farmers.
As the machine begins
Secondary School.
Commander Shivbaran, along with his ranks, extended congratulations to the students and encouraged them to maintain their focus and discipline as they transition into an important stage of
mony was held on Thursday and was led by Regional Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Khemraj Shivbaran.
Those recognised are Isabella Doney of the Aurora Police Youth Group who secured a place at Abrams Zuil Secondary School, Trishana Joseph of the Lima Sands Police Youth Group who will be heading to the Anna Regina Secondary School
who was placed at the Aurora Secondary School, Johan Careno of the Onderneeming Sandpit Police Youth Group who was placed at the Aurora Secondary School, Leandro Khayum of Onderneeming Sandpit Police Youth Group who secured a place at the Johanna Cecilia Secondary School and Doodnauth Phagoo of Lima Sands Police Youth Group who will be heading to the Cotton Field
their academic journey.
He noted that their success reflects not only personal dedication but also the positive influence of the police youth groups in shaping disciplined and goal-oriented young citizens.
The parents of the children commended the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for the efforts in recognising the children’s effort.
operations in the coming days, the people of Siriki Sands and New Heaven are optimistic that this intervention will lead to increased production, better livelihoods, and renewed hope for their farming future.
Regional Commander Khemraj Shivbaran, other ranks and the members of the various Region Two police youth groups who were recognised for their outstanding NGSA performance
33 new species of fish discovered in Guyana’s remote forest
THIRTY-THREE new species of fish were discovered in the Acarai-Corentyne corridor in Guyana, a country already rich in biodiversity, during a rapid inventory by a team of experts in 2024.
Among the newly discovered fish species are the Potamotrygon boesemani, Microglanis sp, Bryconops sp, Eigenmannia macuxi, Myleus pacu, Cichla ocellaris, Leporinus cf. fasciatus, Metaloricaria nijsseni, Pseudoplatystoma cf. reticulatum, Phractocephalus hemioliopterus, Pseudacanthicus fordii and Sternopygus astrabes.
Senior Conservation Ecologist at the Chicago Field Museum (CFM), Dr Lesley de Souza, highlighted the findings during a panel
discussion at the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit on Thursday.
“Most of them [fish] are known locally. Because this area had been poorly explored and was new to scientific research, we were able to add 40 new records of fishes to the fish list of Guyana. I have never seen piranhas as big as I saw in this area,” Dr de Souza said.
Dr de Souza explained that 50 per cent of the birds in Guyana were found within the border, adding that, “There was a new record of a bird [Speckled Spinetail] in Guyana.”
She further revealed that 10 million emergent trees were collected, while two new species of amphibians were also discovered during
the expedition.
“[A total of] 400 jaguars are estimated to be in this corridor. This is a very important place for mammals…The highlight for me was working with the local experts on collecting the fish we collected. They worked with all the teams,” she revealed.
In 2024, a team of over 50 experts that included Dr de Souza embarked on a month-long expedition in one of the world’s most remote forests, located in the south-eastern part of Guyana, to conduct a rapid inventory.
The expedition was a partnership between the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), the Field Museum of Natural History, the University of Guyana and other
local institutions. The team included experts in geology, botany, zoology, soils, and local ecology.
The expedition’s findings support the government’s plan to sustain ecosystem services, increase climate resilience and create replicable conservation models.
The Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Kemraj Parsram chaired the session, which explored cutting-edge scientific and digital tools for tracking and measuring biodiversity and evaluating the impact of conservation.
During the panel discussion, Scientist Engineer at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Dr Sudhakar Chintala and Head of Partnerships at Yale Centre for Biodiversity and Global Change Dr Claire Hoffmann, highlighted how data-driven methods are transforming biodiversity tracking into useful information for practitioners and decision-makers to meet the 30 by 30 biodiversity goal. (DPI)
‘Concrete Man’
remanded for murder of Linden teacher
SHAKA Phillips, known as “Concrete Man,” was remanded to prison on Thursday after he was charged with the murder of 26-year-old teacher Jenel Pollydore, who was gunned down at a wedding reception in Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden, on July 19.
Phillips, a 21-year-old labourer of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, appeared virtually before Senior Magistrate Rondel Weever at the Linden Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable charge was read to him. He was not required to plead to the charge.
The matter was later adjourned to August 28, 2025, for disclosure.
The shocking incident occurred around 21:20 hours, while Pollydore, a mother of three, was at the R&R Hotel.
According to police, she was approached by Phillips—the father of her youngest child—who questioned her about not answering her phone. An argument ensued,
Jenel Pollydore
during which he allegedly drew a handgun and fired a shot at her.
Pollydore attempted to flee into the hotel’s pool area, but Phillips gave chase and discharged two more rounds. He then fled the scene in an unknown direction.
Responding police officers found Pollydore motionless by the poolside, bearing a gunshot wound to the right side of her face and another to the back of her head.
Police later revealed that Pollydore had ended her relationship with Phillips and had previously secured a restraining order against him following repeated incidents of domestic abuse. Phillips was arrested the day after the shooting and remained in custody until his court appearance on Thursday.
Two 9mm spent shells were recovered at the scene. She was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Shaka Phillips
Some of the new species of fish that were discovered in Guyana
Gov’t ministers highlight promises fulfilled by PPP/C administration
TRUST and the fulfilment of promises seemed to be the theme of the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) public meeting held at Turning Point, South Georgetown, on Tuesday.
The meeting, which was attended by supporters and government representatives, highlighted a number of accomplishments of the party in its five years in office.
Underscoring the flourishing housing sector which has surpassed its goal of delivering 50,000 house lots, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, said the government has worked tirelessly in the last five years to deliver growth and development for every community across Guyana, whether they voted for the PPP/C or not.
“Everything under the PPP only goes up,” she said, “We don’t take away benefits. We give benefits.”
Speaking on the housing sector, Minister Rodrigues voiced that no other party has been able to deliver the housing programme on the scale that this administration has been able to do.
“Nobody or no other party in this country has been able to deliver the housing programme on the scale that we have done it, and with the vision, with the long-term vision, paying dividends to our people for years and decades to come,” the minister added.
She added that they will continue to improve and increase the subsidies that have been given to citizens, further helping them with their steel, cement and other materials needed to start the construction.
Minister Rodrigues during the meeting said the party remains confident that they will be re-elected, as they have remained respectful to those persons who elected them, by fulfilling those promises/commitments they had made before entering office.
She stated that people have seen their hearts, seen delivery, witnessed prosperity, and have seen the
undeniable transformation taking place in Guyana.
Recalling the life of the average Guyanese under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition government, the minister expressed that if they lacked the competence to deliver on their commitments and fail to understand how a country needs to be run, “who will believe them.”
hands” under the PPP/C.
Alongside this, Minister Edghill admitted, “Yes. The PPP makes mistakes; and we will never deny it.”
Adding to this, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill told supporters that he is not surprised at the turn out at the meeting, stating, “We didn’t come here by accident or by chance. It is intentional. It is purpose driven.” Continuing his address, he said “The PPP/C has delivered development without discrimination in Guyana.”
Minister Edghill in his remarks said September 1 is about leadership, moving Guyana from where we have brought it from 2020 to 2025, to carry it to 2030 and beyond. He boldly told Guyanese that they are in “safe
However, he continued to highlight that despite these mistakes, and with negative remarks on the unprecedented development happening, there are more than 5,000 community roads that have been built in the last five years. He mentioned the budding health care sector, with several hospitals enhanced, or rebuilt or built from scratch, the thriving education sector that has seen a number of schools rebuilt with modern amenities, the school feeding programmes, among other projects and initiatives.
“The PPP/C has made it possible for the improvement of families: education, health care, housing and opportunities to develop yourself. [We] will continue to do, as a team, with President Irfaan Ali at the top. We have made it possible for Guyanese to have money in their pockets,” he emphasised.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues (Photos: Bishop Juan Edghill/ Facebook)
GECOM urges public scrutiny of Voters’ List to identify errors
– says one discrepancy was identified, reversed
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) welcomes the identification of a discrepancy in the Revised List of Electors (RLE) that is currently on display across the country to provide all stakeholders with the opportunity to check it for accuracy.
With specific reference to the concern that has been raised in the public domain in relation to the regrettable existence of an irregular registration transaction, GECOM is thankful to
have the opportunity to take the remedial action which is statutorily permissible during the prescribed 21 days period for the display of the RLE.
Immediately upon being notified of the incorrectness, the GECOM Secretariat launched an internal investigation which revealed that the occurrence was due to non-compliance with established procedures at the level of the concerned registration offices, which involved accepting applications for a replacement ID
Card and change of address, by a random person, using the registration particulars of a genuine registrant/ elector.
Having recognised by way of internal queries, that the registration records of a legitimate registrant/elector was altered without his involvement, the Chief Election Officer instructed that the unlawful transactions be reversed. This was done. The replacement ID card that was prepared is still in the Commission’s possession.
The card will be destroyed. An in-person discussion was held with the concerned registration officials as a result of which it was determined that (i) there was a breach of the standard operating procedures by registration staff throughout the system, and (ii) the staff who interacted with the person who visited the office to make the applications could not provide logical explanations for his actions in the matter. Consequently, the Police was invited to carry out investigations to deter-
mine whether the actions of the concerned registration officials amount to a criminal offence.
GECOM takes this opportunity to publicly acknowledge that two erroneous transactions were conducted at one of its registration offices and in the same breath wish to assure all stakeholders, especially the bona fide registrant who was affected, that had the established registration procedures been followed the incorrectness would not have occurred.
Insofar as the breach of procedures is concerned, the Commission is currently conducting an internal investigation to ensure that there is no recurrence.
Meanwhile, GECOM takes this opportunity to remind all concerned that the RLE is still on public display for scrutiny and urges all concerned to check it to ensure that their particulars are accurate.
The RLE is currently being displayed at two (2) prominent locations in every registration division and sub-divisions as well as on GECOM’s website for public scrutiny until the July 29, 2025.
Should there be the discovery of any concern a report must be made forthwith to the respective registration office.
GECOM is committed to a transparent registration process that adheres strictly to the legal provisions and one in which all registration transactions conducted are scrutinized by representatives of the parliamentary political parties.
Against this backdrop, the commission reassures all stakeholders that there are robust mechanisms in place to guard against errors and remains committed to ensuring that its operations are transparent, credible, free and fair and uphold the tenets of integrity and democracy.
(GECOM)
‘Next five years about creating wealth for your children’
— Nandlall tells Good Hope residents, says PNCR bankrupted Guyana, forcing thousands to flee in search of a better life
ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, declared that the focus for the next five years will be on creating wealth and securing the future of Guyanese families, as he urged citizens not to reverse the country’s progress by returning to the days of economic despair under the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), which is the largest member of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
Addressing a large crowd at a public meeting hosted by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Wednesday evening at Good Hope on the East Coast of Demerara, Nandlall said Guyana is experiencing historic economic
thing changed” under their administration.
Nandlall contrasted this history with what he described as the remarkable economic turnaround under successive PPP/C administrations, especially in the post-2020 era.
According to him, 30 years ago, part of Good Hope was a dam, but the PPP/C has since transformed it into a modern housing scheme with electricity, roads, potable water, an efficient drainage system, a nursery school, a secondary school, and a water treatment plant.
“You all have lived through the transformation,” he stated.
He also accused the PNCR of perpetuating racial division, stating, “Every day,
gas-to-energy project, which will slash energy costs and drive industrial growth, and the construction of a new Demerara River bridge to modernise transport infrastructure.
He added that the government is aggressively reclaiming Guyana’s title as the food basket of the Caribbean through expanded agricultural investment. The launch of the hemp industry, establishment of a Development Bank, and new gold mining operations are also expected to create jobs, diversify the economy, and increase national revenue.
All of these efforts, Nandlall emphasised, are positioning Guyana as “the most attractive business destination in the Western Hemisphere.”
growth—boasting a 47 per cent annual rate—and must not squander this momentum.
“The next five years are about creating wealth for your children and securing Guyana’s economy,” he said, adding that the rapid growth being recorded is not coincidental but a direct result of sound policies and responsible leadership by the PPP/C Government.
He warned that such progress should not be taken for granted, especially given the country’s painful past. Reflecting on that era, Nandlall reminded the gathering that the PNCR dragged Guyana into bankruptcy during its time in power, resulting in widespread poverty and mass migration.
“Look at the PNC. Twenty-eight years they spent in government, and what did they do? They reduced your country to a state of bankruptcy—broke the economy, chased half the country away, rigged elections, murdered political opponents, and created fear in this land,” he said to loud applause.
He told the energetic crowd that they had experienced the success of the PPP/C Government, emphasising that when the PNCR returned to power between 2015 and 2020, “hardly any-
they preach racism.”
He therefore urged supporters, “In this election, we must make it very clear to them that the days of ethnic and racial voting are over.”
He argued that in politics, there is something money cannot buy — access to political leaders and government ministers. “There is no political party in the history of this country that has been more accessible than the PPP/C. Just go back to the last five years when they were in government. Which APNU+AFC minister visited Good Hope? Which one of them?” he asked, as the crowd responded, “None!”
For the 2015 elections, a coalition was officially formed between two main entities —APNU and the Alliance For Change (AFC).
Nandlall pointed out: “This is why you must be proud to say that your party is the best representative of the people of Guyana, irrespective of race or political persuasion. What we have done in Good Hope, we have done in every single village in this country.”
He underscored several key national projects spearheaded by the current administration that he said are designed to secure long-term prosperity. These include the
“You think investors would come here if they didn’t see a future? You think they’d bring millions of US dollars and invest without confidence in our country’s direction?” he asked rhetorically, as the crowd responded with cheers.
Many residents in attendance, decked in party colours, expressed their continued support for the PPP/C and praised the visible developments in their community.
In closing, Nandlall urged voters not to “jeopardise” their future by backing the opposition. He specifically cautioned against supporting APNU, led by presidential candidate Aubrey Norton, or the newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, headed by US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed.
He stressed that the PPP/C Government has consistently delivered on its commitments across a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure, social services, housing, healthcare, education, and job creation.
The Good Hope meeting is part of a broader series of community engagements by the PPP/C, aimed at rallying support ahead of local and general elections scheduled for September 1.
Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall, SC, with supporters at the Good Hope public meeting held on Wednesday
Scenes from the PPP/C public meeting at Good Hope
COP30 to be ‘extremely dynamic’ as Guyana leads push to address biodiversity credits –– says int’l summit’s
By Naomi Parris
THE President of the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Confer -
ence (UNFCCC COP30), Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, has declared that the upcoming COP30 in Belém, Brazil,
President, Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago
will be “extremely dynamic” as he urged that biodiversity to be given equal weight alongside climate action.
Speaking on the second day of the Global Biodiversity Summit being held in Guyana, Ambassador do Lago described the forum as a crucial platform to ensure biodiversity ecosystems take their “rightful place” in the international climate conversation.
“The action agenda is going to be extremely dynamic and will be very much focused for the wider participation of this, local governments, of private sector, academia, etc.,” he stated, signalling a strong emphasis on inclusivity and multisectoral collaboration at this year’s COP30, slated to be held in Brazil.
Ambassador do Lago stressed that addressing the biodiversity crisis requires more than just the engagement of national governments.
“We know that we have little time and that we have to organise the information and the science, because we also have enough science and enough experience and enough good examples of things that are working,” he said.
In a call for collective and coordinated efforts, he highlighted the need to involve all segments of society including civil society, subnational governments, academic institutions and the private sector in what he described as a shared global fight for biodiversity and climate resilience.
On the topic of forest restoration, Ambassador do Lago made a passionate case for strengthening carbon markets.
“So, for restoration of forests, I completely agree that we need to have the most dynamic and efficient carbon market possible, because the credits from carbon rescue, from forest restoration are, by definition, much better credits than any other credits, because they are the only ones that captured CO2.”
He added that countries with significant forest resources have a responsibility to lead by example. “I think that it is our obligation as forest countries to prove that we can have extremely serious and verifiable credits from forest restoration. And so, I believe that there is a really impressive opportunity at
COP30 for us to show how we can strengthen the idea of carbon market, of forest restoration, for avoiding deforestation.”
Ending his address with a call for unity and clear purpose, Ambassador do Lago said: “We have to work together to agree that there are solutions and we need to have a common way of seeing how to deal with the forest, or we’re going to be strongly manipulated, and we definitely know that we can avoid that.”
COP30 will be held in Belém, in Brazil’s Amazon region, a location symbolically chosen to underscore the global significance of forest preservation and biodiversity protection.
After nearly a decade, world leaders at last year’s climate conference agreed on the final building blocks to set out how carbon markets will operate.
Though a notable achievement, there were still concerns about how forested countries such as Guyana will navigate the market.
Global Ambassador for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Chief Executive Officer for the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA), Racquel Moses, had highlighted the inequity in the assessment of carbon credits, whereby most assessors are from the global north, which also produces much of the carbon.
She is advocating for a global south entity funded
by the north to build capacity in assessing carbon credits fairly.
“We have to be vigilant; we have to be vigilant on the safeguards that are required to ensure that the carbon credits that are entering the market are quality credits,” Ms. Moses had told this publication.
BIODIVERSITY ALLIANCE
Guyana intends to make a case to generate credits for biodiversity.
Already, several leaders and experts have formally inked the biodiversity alliance which will serve as a collaborative space to complement and strengthen existing efforts under the UN’s Convention on Biological Diversity.
President Ali announced that a comprehensive paper capturing the summit’s key outcomes, findings, and international agreements will be formally presented at COP30 in Brazil later this year, advancing efforts to place biodiversity at the top of the global agenda.
The alliance is expected to enable new initiatives, and foster the development of innovative, inclusive and scalable solutions to address biodiversity loss.
It will be an active community of nations, businesses, corporations, organisations, communities, territories, academia and individuals committed to the shared vision working to securing biodiversity.
United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP30), Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago
Wendy’s to debut in Guyana next month
WENDY’S, one of the world’s most iconic and recognised quick-service restaurant brands, is set to make its debut in Guyana in August, with an expansion into Suriname already planned.
According to a press release, the Wendy’s brand has already signed a franchise agreement with WenKai Inc., to bring its craveable menu, such as its square hamburgers, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, chicken nuggets and Frosty treats to local customers.
Come August, Guyana’s flagship Wendy’s restaurant will be opened on Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, offering a modern and convenient dining experience, featuring drive-thru service, dine-in seating and delivery where customers can access Wendy’s full lineup of bold, signature flavours from breakfast to dinner, the release said.
It was also revealed that WenKai Inc., has plans to open three Wendy’s restaurants in Guyana by the end of 2025.
Part of a broader market
expansion, the agreement also includes plans to develop new Wendy’s restaurants in Suriname. This signals significant regional growth for the brand in northern South America.
Franchisee and Founder of WenKai Inc., Iman Khan-Cummings said, “This is a proud moment for us,” adding, “We’ve long admired Wendy’s for its commitment to quality, innovation, and hospitality. Bringing this beloved brand to Guyana- our home- is incredibly exciting. We look forward to serving fresh, made-to-order meals and building strong community relationships through this new venture.”
WenKai Inc., is a company that is focused on investing in the local economy, creating meaningful jobs, and raising the bar for foodservice standards in the region.
Khan-Cummings affirmed, “Wendy’s is entering a vibrant, fast-growing market, and we’re proud to be leading the way,” The franchisee noted as well that with an experienced team and a deep appreciation
for the brand, WenKai is confident in its ability to make Wendy’s a household name across Guyana, and soon, Suriname.
Meanwhile, Senior Vice-President, Managing Director, LAC at the Wendy’s Company, Carlos Ribas said, “Latin America is a stronghold for Wendy’s, and with experienced partners like WenKai Inc., we’re accelerating our momentum and expanding our presence across the region,”
Ribas continued, “The opening of the first Wendy’s restaurant in Guyana marks an exciting milestone in our journey to bring our fresh famous food to fans throughout Latin America, and it reflects our commitment to accelerate growth in high-potential markets while delivering exceptional hospitality to local consumers.”
Alongside this, the release also stated that staying true to Wendy’s global motto that ‘Quality is Our Recipe’, the Guyanese branch will offer made-to-order meals featuring fresh ingredients. It was reiterated that cus-
tomers can expect all-time favourites such as Wendy’s signature square hamburgers, chicken nuggets, bone-in chicken, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and the iconic cool, creamy Frosty dessert. This means that Wendy’s fans in Guyana will enjoy customisable options and bold, familiar flavors served in a welcoming, modern setting, designed with local tastes in mind.
This was emphasised by Dawn Ng See Quan, Head
of Operations, who said, “At WenKai, we’re committed to delivering excellence in every detail- from sourcing and operations to customer experience,” furthermore, Dawn stated:
“Wendy’s is a perfect match for today’s Guyanese consumer: fresh, flavourful, and fast- but never ordinary,” she said.
It was mentioned that Wendy’s expansion into Guyana aligns with the brand’s broader strategy to accel -
erate global growth, which includes the Latin America and the Caribbean region. Guyana’s increasing demand for high-quality international food brands, and innovative quick-service experiences makes it an ideal market for Wendy’s.
Additionally, other further announcements, including the details on new restaurant locations and the grand opening celebrations will be shared in the coming weeks.
Wendy’s will be bringing its craveable menu to Guyanese customers next month
Heads of diplomatic missions engage GECOM officials on elections preparation
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Thursday met with the heads of the diplomatic
missions of the USA, UK, Canada, EU and the UNDP to discuss its state of readiness for the conduct of the
upcoming elections.
According to a press release, the delegation was welcomed by GECOM Chairperson
Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, who thanked them for the assistance they have been providing for the upcoming elections by way of technical support through their individual and collective representation.
Further, the chairperson acknowledged that the contributions have bolstered the efforts of the Elections Commission in its commitment to conduct credible elections that meet all international standards.
She also took the opportunity to express GECOM’s appreciation for all International Observers and the expected benefits to be derived from their important contributions, especially their independent and collective pronouncement on the manner of conduct and the outcome of the elections.
The release added that the Deputy Chief Election Officer, Mr. Aneal Giddings provided an update on the status of GECOM’s opera -
tional activities and its state of preparedness for the conduct of the elections.
There was an interactive session during which the diplomats sought and received clarity on a range of pertinent issues much to their satisfaction.
The meeting concluded with the team being reassured that GECOM is adequately prepared to deliver free, fair, credible and transparent elections.
Heads of various diplomatic missions meeting with GECOM officials on Thursday ahead of Guyana’s Regional and General Elections (GECOM photo)
Police officials visit Youth Cricket Academy in East ...
From back page interactive session between the officers and the young male and female cricketers in training.
Topics discussed included the importance of discipline and training in avoiding drug use, encouraging young athletes to strive to reach their full potential, time management and punctuality for training sessions, respect for elders and positive behavior in the community and steering clear of peers involved in alcohol and drug use.
The officers emphasized the value of self-discipline, community respect, and healthy lifestyle choices, tying them into the discipline required in cricket and life.
In a show of support,
Deputy Superintendent Newland presented a donation to the Welfare Community Centre Club on behalf of Regional Commander No. 6, Assistant Commissioner of Police Shivpersaud Bacchus, and his administrative team.
The donation included two boxes of red and white cricket balls and two forearm guards. A total of 45 teenage cricketers were in attendance during the visit. Police officials reported no unusual incidents, noting that the district remains quiet and peaceful.
The visit was hailed as a positive and meaningful interaction with youth, reinforcing the importance of sports in community building and crime prevention.
Future stars set to shine at GBA’s Andrew Lewis Novice Championship this weekend
AFTER months of intense training and preparation, scores of young promising fighters will converge on the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from Friday, as the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) stages its most crucial event, the Andrew Lewis Novice Championship.
The tournament, which runs until Sunday, is the official proving ground for newcomers to the sport, and this year, the GBA has placed a strong emphasis on the development and exposure of its youth boxers.
According to GBA President Steve Ninvalle, the Novice Championship is “one of the most important competitions on our calendar,” adding that he’s personally paying keen attention to the young athletes stepping into the ring.
“These are the boxers who represent the very foundation of boxing in Guyana,” Ninvalle said. “Their growth, their development, and their journey all begin here. That’s why we commend the coaches and trainers who continue to nurture their talents and ensure the sport has a bright future.”
The GBA is using the Andrew Lewis Novice Championship as a critical scouting event to identify the next generation of national boxing talent.
Last year, the Guyana Defence Force
(GDF) Boxing Gym dominated the championship, claiming the Best Overall Gym title, a feat built on disciplined preparation and depth across divisions.
National Coach Lennox Daniels praised GDF’s efforts in 2024, noting their consistent display of elite preparation and performance.
However, Daniels is also welcoming the competition from other boxing gyms who are eager to challenge the reigning champions.
“GDF has set a high bar, no question,” Daniels said. “But the Novices is about hunger, raw talent, and proving you belong. There are several gyms out there with real potential to upset the order and that’s the beauty of this championship.”
Last year’s tournament saw standout performances that set the tone for what is to come. Jagwan Milo emerged as Best Novice Boxer, Ryan Rogers of the Forgotten Youth Foundation Gym earned Best Schoolboy Boxer, and Kenisha Plass announced herself as a force in the women’s division, walking away with the Best Female Boxer title.
With clubs from across the country fielding young, hungry boxers, and with national pride on the line, the ring at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall is sure to come alive with intensity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of boxing glory.
Edghill hails 2025 Edge series as resounding success
From page 35
made up of locals Elisheba Johnson, Malachi Moore and Niran Bissu along with Cuban Rosalba Aguilar.
In the semis WASA earned their place in the final after beating Guy-Cuba 3-2 and Queen Park whipped Quiet Storm 4-0. Guyanese number 1 ranked Shemar Britton who play for Queen Park Oval while studying law in the Twin Island Republic says they came to dominate.
‘Queen Park, we won the champions league in Trinidad and we wanted to come here in Guyana in my home as the captain of Queen Park and establish our dominance and we did that. It’s a lot of experience, the team is a very experienced team, we have played together for a while now and a lot of hard work behind the scenes, all these players are representing their respective national teams and they put in a lot of hard work, hard works shows.”
Britton encouraged more Caribbean players to join the high-quality competition.
“This was a spectacular event and it only gets bigger every year, so I don’t see why not a lot of players in the Caribbean always cry out for lack of exposure and we are here brining international quality to the English speaking Caribbean so I think they should come.”
Meanwhile principal of Edge Sports Management, Olympian Chelsea Edghill the organiser of the series says it was overwhelmingly successful.
“It was more than I expected, especially when it was in regards to the support that we got from the public, even from the collaborators, the Guyana Table Tennis Association, Guyana basketball federation and the Kietuer Attack Racing Cycling Club, they came in and did a splendid job of organising, putting things in order for the races, all the technical support.”
She also thanked the sponsors for the trust and partnership.
“Huge thank you to KFC, Republic Bank with their power to make a difference initiative and all out other sponsors SQ apparel, Dragon Fly Drones Solution, everybody that made it possible that came on board and supported something that is very new and very different, we want to thank all for their support and believing in us.”
The Table Tennis Tournament was hosted in collaboration with the Guyana Table Tennis Association.
This multi-sport series also featured 3x3 basketball and cycling which also concluded on Sunday.
Chess grandmaster Samy Shoker visits Guyana
GRANDMASTER Samy
Shoker is on a three-day visit to Guyana as part of a promotional tour from July 23rd to July 25th, 2025. He will be hosted by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) and will be putting his skills to the test in a Simultaneous Chess Exhibition against some of Guyana's best and strongest players.
This exciting event will take place at the Giftland Mall on July 24th, 2025. Grandmaster Samy will also hold a lecture for registered participants on Friday, July 25th, 2025.
Grandmaster Samy began his chess journey at the remarkable age of four. Born in France, he has since travelled extensively to promote the sport, even residing in Egypt for several years.
He has represented Egypt in numerous prestigious international events, including the Chess Olympiad.
He is widely respected for his dynamic playing style and his exceptional ability as a coach and educator, leveraging modern tools and a charismatic personality to promote chess globally.
Grandmaster Samy holds a Master's degree in French Literature from La Sorbonne University (France) and is a Member of the Texas Tech University team: Chess Program (US). He was a Primary school teacher in French Guiana, Egypt, and Uzbekistan, and taught History in High School in Noumea, New Caledonia.
The GCF welcomes Grandmaster Samy Shoker to Guyana and wishes him an exciting and enjoyable stay.
Special thanks to the Giftland Mall for graciously providing the venue for the Simul Chess event.
He's also a chessboxer, a true hybrid athlete. Chessboxing uniquely blends the intellectual strategy of chess with the physical intensity of boxing. In this sport, competitors alternate between rounds of a chess game and rounds in a boxing ring. A winner can be declared by checkmate or time forfeit in the chess portion, or by knockout in the boxing match.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Thursday July 24, 2025) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) AUST won by 3 wickets (2) Mitchell Owen (AUST)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What was the result of the second T20 Int’l of the current WI/AUST series?
(2) Who was voted Man of the Match? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
GM Samy Shoker with GCF President Mr. Anand Raghunauth
CWI extends congratulations to Sir Clive on stand renaming
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua –Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Thursday expressed immense pride and congratulations to Sir Clive Lloyd following the historic naming of a stand in his honour at Old Trafford Cricket Ground by Lancashire County Cricket Club.
The re-naming ceremony, held on Wednesday 23 July ahead of the start of the fourth Test match between England and India, also honoured former Lancashire and India wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer, Sir Clive’s teammate during the 1970s, in recognition of both players’ exceptional service to the club and international cricket.
The stand next to the club's media centre, known as the B Stand, will now bear Lloyd’s name on its upper tier and Engineer’s on the lower tier.
“Sir Clive Lloyd exem-
plifies the very best of West Indies cricket – excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the highest standards,” said CWI Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring.
“His achievements at both county and international level have inspired generations of Caribbean cricketers and continue to serve as a beacon for young players across our region.”
Sir Clive’s illustrious career included leading the West Indies to consecutive World Cup victories in 1975 and 1979, during an international career which spanned 110 Test matches and 87 One Day Internationals.
His 20-year association with Lancashire, beginning in 1968, saw him become a central figure of the club’s golden era.
Sir Clive scored 30 firstclass centuries for Lancashire and amassed 12,764 runs in 219 matches across
18 seasons, which helped secure multiple trophies including three successive Gillette Cup victories from 1970 to 1972.
This latest honour comes
a month after the legends of that famed first Cricket World Cup win in 1975 were celebrated and feted in Barbados by Cricket West Indies in commemoration of
the 50th anniversary of their victory.
Cricket West Indies joins the global cricket community in congratulating Sir Clive Lloyd on this latest and well-deserved recognition and expresses deep appreciation to the Lancashire County Cricket Club for honouring one of the game’s true legends.
Kyle Mayers and Shamar Joseph among headline picks in Essequibo zone for Kares T10
The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast 2025 is set for a blockbuster conclusion to its zonal phase, with three West Indies players set to feature in the highly anticipated Essequibo zone final.
All-rounders Kyle Mayers and Shamar Joseph, along with fast bowler Ronsford Beaton, will lead their respective sides in the 'Super Sunday' of action.
Initially scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, all the zonal matches will now be played on Sunday, July 27, at various venues across Essequibo. The winner will be the final team to book a spot in the national finals.
Ronsford Beaton, who has played two ODIs for the West Indies, will captain the Avinash AllStars. His side boasts a formidable line-up, including the powerful
Kyle Mayers, along with talented regional players such as Thaddeus Lovell, Carlos LaRose, Ashmead Nedd, and Steven Sankar. Their main competition is expected to come from Mahdia (Movements Family), the 2024 national semi-finalists, who have secured the services of West Indies pace sensation Shamar Joseph. Joseph was instrumental in the success of the inaugural champions, Eccles All-Stars, in 2023, and his presence adds significant firepower to Mahdia. He will be supported by experienced campaigners like Ricardo Adams, Ershaad Ali, Daniel Seegobin, and Suresh Dhanai.
While these two teams are the front-runners on paper, a quick look at the other 14 squads reveals a wealth of promising young talent from the region, including Jathaniel Nurse for the Essequibo Jaguars
and Ronaldo Jeffrey for the Bartica Royals.
The Fredricks brothers, Norwayne and Norman, will also be on display, with a strong softball unit, Ariel, fielding a team. The rising stars of Renegades Cricket Club are another side to watch, making this zone difficult to predict.
Matches will be held at Pomona Ground, Richmond Ballfield, Hampton Court, and Anna Regina Ground. The champion of the Essequibo zone will join Montra Jaguars (Berbice), Eccles AllStars (East Bank Demerara/West Demerara), and Titans All-Stars (East Coast/Georgetown) in the national finals.
Admission to all venues is free, with matches commence at 09:00 hours.
Beyond the bragging rights, the tournament offers substantial
financial rewards. The Essequibo zone winner will receive $300,000, while the runner-up takes home $100,000.
The stakes are even higher at the national final on Sunday, August 3, at the National Stadium, Providence. The national champion will secure a grand prize of $1.7 million, with the runner-up pocketing $700,000. Even the losing semi-finalists will not go home empty-handed, each receiving $300,000.
Individual brilliance won’t go unnoticed either, with a host of prizes up for grabs, including MVP ($150,000 + motorcycle), Most Runs ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Most Wickets ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Man-of-the-National Final ($75,000 + trophy + TV), Highest Strike Rate ($35,000), and Best Economy ($35,000).
The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has garnered 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.
Farokh Engineer (left) and Sir Clive Lloyd share a moment in front of the newly re-named stand.
Edghill hails 2025 Edge series as resounding success -
QUEENS Park Oval Table Tennis team emerged on top to claim the second annual Edge Series Table Tennis Championship on Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The 17 teams had to battle in the men singles, junior singles, mixed doubles and men doubles to claim wins.
Queen Park Club made up of Shemar Britton, Sekel McIntosh, Imani Edwards
Queen Park Oval captures Table Tennis C/ship
Taylor and Aaron Wilson played hard to overcome WASA Table Tennis Club in the finals 3 games to 1.
WASA featured Nigel Brayan, Ambika Sitram, Josiah Joseph and Curtis Humphrey.
In the singles Imani Taylor-Edwards easily got pass her country mate Sitram in
straight sets, while in the junior singles McIntosh won over Josiah Joseph 3 set to 1.
In the other men’s singles match-up, Aaron Wilson had to pull out all the stops to beat Curtis Humphrey 3-2.
The mixed doubles say the pair of Sitram and Humphrey taking a straight set win over Edwards-Taylor and
Wilson 3-0.
In the men doubles Shemar Britton teamed up with McIntosh to beat Joseph and Bryan 3-1 as they claim the final 3 matches to 1 to take the 2025 Edge Series team title.
Queen Park took home half a million dollars for the win with $300,000 for
WASA.
The third place saw Quiet Storm taking on Guyana–Cuba team.
Quiet Storm included Colin Wong, Thuraia Thomas, Krystian Sahadeo and Orin Hickerson, they went down 3-2 and $200,000 for third. Guyana-Cuba was Turn to page 33
MCYS successfully launches second lifeguard certification programme
THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission have successfully launched the second edition of their Lifeguard Certification Programme.
The initiative commenced yesterday at the National Racquet Centre in Georgetown, where more than 40 participants, drawn from various swim clubs across Guyana, took part in the classroom segment of the week-long training. The Canadian Lifesaving Society has been contracted to conduct the programme.
The sessions are being conducted by Sarah Newton and Tamara Wood of the Canadian Lifesaving Society. “This is a promise kept,” declared Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, referencing a commitment made by Minister Charles Ramson Jr. last year to not only continue the programme but also expand participation.
“We want to make sure that our waterways are safer in Guyana, and that is what we want. We want to make sure that our human capital is safe,” Ninvalle added, as he commended NSC Swim Coach Paul Mahaica for spearheading the Lifeguard Certification Programme.
Ninvalle emphasised that with Guyana’s ongoing development, particularly in the hospitality sector, the certification provides an opportunity for employment, especially within the growing hotel industry.
“If this was anywhere else in the Caribbean, you would’ve had to be paying to have a Lifeguard Certification. But the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has removed that
(paying registration), just like we removed registration for the 'Teach Them Young' programme,” he noted. He continued, “So, this is part of being caring, this is us investing in our human capital and wanting to see betterment, and we hope that you make sure that you become sponges.” Ninvalle also stated, “I am not the Minister, but I know how he thinks, and he will want to make
this a continuous programme.”
Meanwhile, NSC Swim Coach Paul Mahaica highlighted the importance of having a structured and sustainable lifeguard programme.
He also underscored the need for coaches, especially those involved in swimming, to possess standard first aid certification.
“We have over 40 people from the different clubs who are being
trained currently in first aid and emergency first aid in swimming, and those persons are going to be added to those who were trained last year,” Mahaica explained. The veteran coach also announced the relaunch of the National Lifeguard Association; an initiative aligned with the Ministry’s broader mission to enhance water safety across Guyana.
Some of the participants of the recently commenced second edition of the Lifeguard Certification Programme stand with Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle
Queen Park Table Tennis Club
Top three teams in the Edge Series Championship
CARICOM subcommittee calls for sweeping reform in West Indies cricket
CMC – The CARICOM Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee (PMSC) on Cricket has issued a strong call for sweeping reforms in West Indies cricket, expressing deep concern over the sport’s current state and demanding immediate action from Cricket West Indies (CWI).
The statement follows a virtual meeting of the CARICOM Bureau on July 21, chaired by Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness, alongside outgoing Chair Mia Mottley of Barbados and incoming Chair Dr. Terrance Drew of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Guyana’s President and PMSC Cricket Chair, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, led discussions on the critical state of West Indies cricket.
The PMSC emphasised cricket’s immense economic, cultural, and emo-
tional significance to the region, calling it a “public good” that has long elevated Caribbean nations on the global stage.
However, the committee voiced alarm over the sport’s decline, particularly in Test cricket, citing failures in youth development, governance, and long-term planning.
“The team’s recent performances are a wake-up call,” the statement read. “Every match our West Indies team plays carries weight far beyond the boundary ropes.”
CARICOM leaders highlighted years of inaction on major reform proposals, including the 2007 Patterson Report on governance, the 2015 Eudine Barriteau Report, and the 2020 Wehby Report on CWI restructuring.
“We are troubled by the lack of real progress,” the PMSC stated, urging
CWI to finally implement the overdue recommendations.
To break the cycle of stagnation, the PMSC will convene a special committee featuring cricket legends, private-sector leaders, and academics. This group will review past reports, consolidate key recommendations, and draft an action plan, with CWI and national associations invited to participate.
CARICOM reaffirmed its commitment to working with CWI and regional stakeholders to enact bold reforms, restore public trust, and return West Indies cricket to world dominance across all formats.
“The time for talk is over,” the statement concluded. “The Caribbean deserves a cricket team that reflects its passion and pride.”
Kyle Mayers and Shamar Joseph among headline picks in Essequibo zone for Kares T10
Police officials visit Youth Cricket Academy in East Canje, Berbice
Regional Commander No. 6, Assistant Commissioner of Police Shivpersaud Bacchus watches on as Deputy Superintendent Newland makes a point during the interaction with the students
In a continued effort to engage with youth and support positive community development, senior police officials from Regional Division #6 visited the Rose Hall Community Centre on Thursday morning, where the first session of a Youth Cricket Academy is currently underway.
The visit, which took place between 10:20 a.m. and 11:20 a.m., included Com-
mander of Regional Division #6, Deputy Superintendent M. Newland, Woman Assistant Superintendent C. Kelly, and Sergeant Benjamin. The academy caters to young cricketers in two age groups: 7–11 years and 14–19 years.
Head Coach Ameer Rahaman welcomed the visiting delegation and facilitated an Turn to page 32
Shemar Joseph
Kyle Mayers
Guyana’s President and PMSC Cricket Chair, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali
