PRESIDENT, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, on Tuesday, held discussions in New York on deepening bilateral relations between the two countries.
According to information from the Office of the President, President Ali and Secretary Rubio highlighted the importance of the existing strategic partnership in advancing regional security, especially to support regional efforts in the fight against narco-terrorism and transnational crimes.
The meeting also saw an exchange of views on issues facing the hemisphere, including the situations in Haiti and Cuba. It was also highlighted that the United States remains an important trade ally for Guyana.
Both sides recognised the need to work closely to realise the full benefits of bilateral trade relations.
Discussion also examined progress on the ongoing bilateral trade talks and the efforts aimed at ensuring a mutually beneficial agreement is reached.
Guyana and the USA are also committed to continuing close coordination at various multilateral fora to address many global challenges.
President Ali’s delegation included Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd; Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Burkett; Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud; and Director of Presidential Affairs, Marcia Nadir-Sharma.
IN defence of Guyana’s sovereignty on the world stage, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali told the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that Venezuela’s continued threats of annexation are a direct assault on international law and the very principles that uphold global order.
“Guyana is a small and peaceful state; we have endured repeated threats and aggression from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” the Guyanese Head of State told hundreds of World leaders.
He reminded the Assembly that the border controversy is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has twice reaffirmed its jurisdiction.
In 2023, the ICJ issued provisional measures ordering Venezuela to refrain from altering the status quo, however, “Venezuela persists with unilateral laws and threats of annexation, flagrantly violating international law, the UN Charter, and the very principles that sustain global order.”
On March 1, 2025, a Venezuelan Coast Guard ship had entered Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near oil production equipment,
specifically close to the FPSO PROSPERITY.
The Venezuelan vessel claimed the area was “disputed international waters” and made threatening radio communications to FPSOs operating there. This incursion was a serious breach of international law and has heightened regional tensions.
The incident drew widespread condemnation from the international community, including the Organization of American States (OAS), CARICOM, the United States, France, and other partners.
Those partners have reaffirmed their support for Guyana’s sovereignty, and condemned Venezuela’s actions as illegal and provocative. Specifically, the US has warned of consequences for Venezuela if provocations continue.
The President posed a sobering question to the international community, asking, “If the rights of a small state are to be trampled upon and legally binding orders ignored, what protection remains for any nation under international law?”
Despite the aggression, Ali was resolute that Guyana would continue to rely on the rule of law and international solidarity.
“For us, the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference are non-negotiable. We will not cower to coercion, intimidation or unilateral action.
We thank our international partners and allies for their solidarity,” he affirmed.
Back in August, the ICJ) had notified the Government of Guyana that Venezuela had filed its rejoinder in the ongoing case concerning the validity of the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899.
The filing, made on Mon-
day, August 11, 2025, came within the deadline set by the court’s order of June 14, 2024. The rejoinder responds to Guyana’s reply, which was submitted in December 2024, and marked the conclusion of the written phase of the proceedings. This was welcomed by the Guyana government.
According to Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the ICJ will, upon its return from summer recess, schedule oral hearings on the merits of the case.
These hearings will be followed by the court’s deliberations and the delivery of its final judgment. The decision, once issued, will be binding on both Guyana and Venezuela under international law.
The case before the ICJ concerns Venezuela’s contention that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between the two countries, is null and void. Guyana has maintained that the award is a valid and binding legal instrument that settled the border over a century ago.
In accordance with the Geneva Agreement, Guyana and Venezuela engaged in over two decades of Good Offices efforts on the border controversy under United Nations’ (UN) Secretaries-General auspices, in an attempt to find a peaceful diplomatic resolution.
However, on January 30, 2018, after the process failed to produce meaningful progress, the then UN Secretary-General concluded that the Good Offices initiative had run its course.
In accordance with Article IV (2) of the Geneva Agreement, he exercised his authority and selected judicial settlement by the ICJ as the next method of resolution.
Guyana, in accordance with the Secretary-General’s decision, filed an application with the ICJ on March 29, 2018, seeking a ruling on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and the boundary it had established.
Venezuela, rather than co-operating, challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the Geneva Agreement did not allow for judicial proceedings.
After receiving extensive written submissions from both parties and holding oral hearings in June 2020, the court issued its judgment on jurisdiction on December 18, 2020.
The court found that “Guyana and Venezuela mutually conferred upon the Secretary-General the authority to choose the means of settlement of the controversy, and on 30th January, 2018, the Secretary-General exercised this authority by choosing judicial settlement before the Court.”
The court affirmed its jurisdiction to hear Guyana’s application regarding the validity of the Arbitral Award and the related issue of the definitive settlement of the land-boundary controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.
AS the Election Fraud Trial continued on Wednesday, video recordings of former Chief Elections Officer of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph being interviewed by the police were presented in court. This was shown before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, as the prosecution brought expert witnesses to present the footage recorded by ranks of the Guyana Po-
lice Force.
One of the videos presented was continued evidence from Smith-Joseph in the presence of her attorney, Nigel Hughes in October 2020, following an earlier interview that was conducted in September 2020.
During this interview, officers questioned her about a document which was purported to be a declaration made by Clairmont Mingo on March 13, 2020, at GECOM’s Kingston headquarters, to which she ex -
ercised her right to remain silent after being shown the document.
During another interview on a later date in 2020, Smith-Joseph was questioned about a declaration form and a signature affixed to the bottom, to which she chose not to answer.
While questioning continued from officers, Smith-Joseph further exercised her right to remain silent.
Meanwhile, in the video
PRIME MINISTER, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Wednesday, commissioned the Batavia Village Solar Grid in Region Seven, a landmark G$300 million initiative that will deliver 24-hour renewable electricity to the Cuyuni-Mazaruni community for the first time.
The project, launched in 2021 and executed by CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, in partnership with the Government of Guyana, fulfills a key promise to ex-
pand clean energy access in hinterland and Indigenous communities.
“Today, we celebrate both the completion of an energy project and the dawn of a new chapter in the lives of this community. It is a milestone marked by light, opportunity, and sustainable progress,” Prime Minister Phillips declared.
The system replaces diesel generators with renewable energy solutions and consists of three main components: an 81-kilowatt micro-grid at
Greenfield, a 24.2-kilowatt system at Arian Island, and 51 solar home systems rated at 2.2 kilowatts each for remote households. Together, the installations power more than 125 households, ensuring every family in Batavia now has reliable electricity.
The Prime Minister highlighted that schools, health facilities, and homes will all benefit from the roundthe-clock power.
“Reliable 24-hour electricity will transform daily life. Teachers and students can utilise modern
tools, health services are now fully powered, and families will have the dignity and security of stable power,” he said.
The project was praised as a successful collaboration between the Government, private sector, and Indigenous leadership. Phillips commended CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited for its corporate social responsibility and alignment with the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. He also credited the
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, on Wednesday, commissioned the Batavia Village Solar Grid in Region Seven, a landmark G$300 million initiative that will deliver 24-hour renewable electricity to the Cuyuni-Mazaruni community for the first time. The project, launched in 2021 and executed by CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited in partnership with the Government of Guyana, fulfills a key promise to expand clean energy access in hinterland and Indigenous communities
technical support of the Hinterland Electrification Company Inc. and the Guyana Energy Agency.
“This project exemplifies what can be achieved when the Government, the private sector, and Indigenous communities work together. CNOOC’s contribution has transformed Batavia, and I commend them for investing in clean energy that uplifts our hinterland communities,”
the Prime Minister stated.
The commissioning came during Amerindian Heritage Month, a period Phillips described as symbolic for the occasion. “It is especially fitting that we not only honour heritage in words but also advance it in deeds. This solar project is living proof of our Government’s commitment to ensuring Amerindian communities are central to national development.”
The Batavia grid is the second solar installation of its kind in Region Seven, following the commissioning of the 1.5-megawatt solar farm in Bartica. These developments form part of a wider renewable energy strategy that will see 41 solar projects
installed across nine administrative regions by 2026.
Looking ahead, Phillips outlined how electrification will support every sector of community life, from education and healthcare to cultural preservation and local enterprise. “This initiative transcends electricity; it is about dignity, empowerment, and opening doors to new opportunities. It is a model we will replicate in other villages as we continue to build a Guyana where no community is left behind,” he said.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government’s focus on Indigenous development, citing improved land titling, allocation of 15% of carbon credit revenues to Amerindian communities, modern educational and healthcare investments, and expanded support for agriculture, agro-processing, and tourism.
“Batavia’s electrification is not just about power—it is about progress. With clean energy as the foundation, communities will be better equipped to shape their own future,” Phillips affirmed.
The system replaces diesel generators with renewable energy solutions and consists of three main components: an 81-kilowatt micro-grid at Greenfield, a 24.2-kilowatt system at Arian Island, and 51 solar home systems rated at 2.2 kilowatts each for remote households. Together, the installations power more than 125 households, ensuring every family in Batavia now has reliable electricity
GUYANA has signed an agreement with Northwell Health to manage its emergency medical services, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced.
The Head of State made the revelation at a diaspora engagement on Tuesday evening in New York on the
Guyana is undergoing a significant transformation marked by major infrastructure projects, rapid growth in oil production, and progressive health and education policies.
and ultrasounds.
There is a strong push for decentralising healthcare with training for 10,000 healthcare workers, investment in telemedicine, digital patient records, and advanced emergency response systems.
Six new regional hospitals were commissioned
margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
“We signed another agreement with Northwell, who will be implementing our emergency services, emergency medical services in Guyana, and they will be managing that service while we build the capacity over the next three years,” the President said.
We’ve already commissioned regional hospitals in Berbice, Essequibo, East Coast, East Bank and West Demerara, and we’re upgrading facilities across all 10 regions,” the President said.
He highlighted the government’s focus on improving health services nationwide, including renovated facilities with additional rooms and Wi-Fi, improved availability of medication, enhanced ambulance services, and expansion of diagnostic services like CT scans
recently, with plans already underway to build more stateof-the-art facilities.
“We are building a worldclass healthcare system. We are partnering with the best in the world, including Mount Sinai Hospital, Northwell Health. We’re building 12 new state-of-the-art hospitals.
Guyana’s partnership with Northwell Health and Mount Sinai Health System is focused on transforming and modernising the country’s healthcare system through collaborations in nursing support, telemedicine, emergency healthcare, oncology, and training programmes.
Northwell Health, a major US healthcare provider based in New York, has had
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recording of an interview with the former CEO Lowenfield, he was the holder of a Guyanese passport, to which he declined to answer.
He was subsequently told by officers that, as part of their investigation, they had secured his application form for a passport, and again, he did not answer.
Lowenfield, however, asked to make a statement for the record, during which he noted that he believed the process was ‘ultra vires’ and unlawful and further quoted Article 163(1)(b)(i) of the constitution, which he said gives
the high court exclusive jurisdiction to determine whether an election has been lawfully conducted, among other things.
The case is expected to continue today, with other witnesses set to take the stand.
Charged with electoral fraud are People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph and former Health Minister under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence.
Also facing charges are Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers,
and Mingo.
Former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller are also charged; collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges.
The matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail.
It is the prosecution’s case that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the willful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the PPP/C.
In the weeks that fol-
lowed the March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The initial election results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
a formal relationship with Guyana since 2021.
After taking office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic government launched an ambitious programme to revamp healthcare delivery across the country.
This saw the building of 12 new hospitals, to which six have already been commissioned at Lima Sands (Region two), De Kinderen (Region Three), Diamond (Region four), Enmore (Region four), Bath (Region five) and No. 75 (Region six), all equipped to provide 24-hour emergency services, modern laborato -
ries, advanced imaging suites, and fully-equipped operating theaters.
A teaching hospital is also being constructed at New Amsterdam in Region Six, while a Paediatric and Maternal Hospital is under construction at Goedverwagting on the East Coast of Demerara.
The aim of this G$31.9 billion investment is to enhance healthcare outcomes for women and children, featuring a 256-bed, Level-Five facility designed for highrisk mothers and newborns.
Other facilities such as community health centres and specialised clinics have seen massive upgrades too.
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy’s thoughtful address at the Navratri Satsang at Grove’s Shri Satya Mandir reminds us of what true national development should involve.
While Guyana is experiencing significant economic change, the minister emphasises self-reflection, spiritual renewal, and inner harmony as the foundation for lasting prosperity.
McCoy’s message during Navratri, a nine-day Hindu observance, is particularly relevant. As devotees focus on spiritual cleansing and letting go of “hate, greed, and lust” in favour of “love, contentment, respect, and harmony”, he rightly identified these inner changes as crucial to building a strong society.
This understanding shows a mature acknowledgment that infrastructure and
material gains, while important, cannot sustain a thriving nation on their own.
Guyana’s success as a multicultural society supports McCoy’s argument. The country’s ability to maintain peace among Christians, Hindus, Muslims, and other faith groups shows how spiritual values lead to practical social benefits.
The constitutional guarantee of religious freedom, backed by institutions like the Ethnic Relations Commission, fosters an environment where diverse communities can contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Minister’s call for citizens to support “the less fortunate, persons living with disabilities, and everyone who seeks our compassion, love, and understanding” resonates with Guyana’s history.
This vision of development goes
beyond GDP growth, and seeks genuine social cohesion, helping Guyana avoid the religious conflicts that affect many other regions.
President Ali’s “One Guyana” idea fits seamlessly with McCoy’s interfaith message. When religious observances like Navratri, Ramadan, and Easter overlap, as they did earlier this year, they create strong opportunities for national unity. These moments show that spiritual development and national progress are not in competition; they are connected.
McCoy’s point that Hinduism, like other religions, promotes “tolerance, understanding, and unity” reflects a strong grasp of how spiritual principles can influence policy.
His call for all citizens to form “lasting bonds to multiculturalism and interfaith harmony” recognises that
sustainable development requires more than just economic figures; it relies on communities bonded by mutual respect and shared values.
As Guyana navigates its oil wealth and rapid modernisation, McCoy’s message offers a vital counter to purely materialistic development approaches. The Minister’s vision of “a highly respectful, tolerant society” provides a guide to ensuring that prosperity strengthens rather than divides the social fabric that makes Guyana special.
The way forward involves embracing both material progress and spiritual growth.
True national development happens when citizens pledge to support one another across all differences.
This represents “the formula for lasting peace and unity, and the example for the rest of the world”.
WITHIN less than a month of grabbing a seat in the National Assembly after the September 1 general and regional elections, there seems to be growing animosity in the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM)/ Vigilant Political Action Committee (V-PAC) camp over who will be the voice in parliament.
The new parties, which came together under the banner of a “coalition of consensus”, are now facing troubles over who will occupy the parliamentary seat that was
won. Walton-Desir, who was adamant during a live broadcast that she would be the representative in parliament, has revealed that she was threatened by someone in the V-PAC camp.
Without naming the individual, Walton-Desir said: “A line has been crossed; I will not tolerate threats… To the young man who sent me a WhatsApp message [saying]: ‘I am giving you one last chance to reconcile with V-PAC or else,’ I do not take threats and bullying.”
Despite the ultimatum, Walton-Desir said she will not be sidetracked in achieving her and her party’s goals, including being the represen-
tative in parliament. Her position was supported by Nigel London, her running mate for the election, who had joined the
live broadcast on Tuesday to share his views.
In his defence of Walton-Desir, London hinted that this was not the first time she was faced with this from persons within the coalition.
Although there was no direct talk about a squabble over the seat, Chairman of V-PAC, Dorwain Bess, in a video posted on his party’s Facebook page on September 21, seemed confident that he would be the representative in parliament.
The caption of the video was: “Life is an interesting
journey. I’ve stumbled; I’ve risen. From Belladrum to Parliament, my story is proof that falling isn’t the end; rising is.”
In the video, Bess said he would be a voice in the new parliament; this is a reality which is unlikely given Walton-Desir’s position. In a subsequent post on the party’s page, he said: “Coalition politics is not about silencing differences, it is about ensuring that disagreement does not descend
BY the time the vendors make their delivery rounds, Mr. Rene van Nes, the EU Ambassador would have departed Guyana (I think he left this morning).
Mr. van Nes has been one of the most interesting Western envoys to have been stationed in Guyana.
One of the mysteries of van Nes’s tenure is the inaction of the Government of Guyana in lodging a complaint with Brussels over his overt political activities. Two things need mentioning before we go on to describe the “diplomacy” of Mr. van Nes.
One is a supposed attempt to broker an arrangement with the PNC and AFC for the purpose of the 2025 election.
A meeting was held at his home. If I am wrong, I hope that Mr. Nigel Hughes and Mr. Aubrey Norton would tell the nation that I was wrong; they never met with van Nes at his home. I hope Mr. Mervyn Williams and Mr. David Patterson could confirm for me if they were there.
The second one is the choice for liaison officer to the EU Election Observer Mission. I thought a more neutral person should have been appointed. Someone close to the Embassy had to recommend to the mission, a female social media influencer who lives abroad and does not know anything about political analysis but known for her cuss-down
style. What questions the Observer Mission put to her? Why did the mission speak to her in the first place?
Mr. Van Nes has left to return to Holland for retirement. He has reached 67. I have been told that his request for another year was denied by Brussels because of age. He will be replaced by an Italian of 52 years of age. Someone told me Mr. Van Nes was interested in post-retirement business in Guyana in the area of property development, so we may see him again.
Under Mr. van Nes’ term, the EU Embassy poured money into several civil society bodies that without exception were and have always been hostile to the PPP government in the past and at present. I don’t want to get into libel waters since I will not be able to access EU’s records to prove my case.
What I will do is skirt around it so I meet my obligation to the Guyanese people about giving them knowledge about what goes on in their country. One of these groups’ main interests is homosexual rights. Another is headed by someone who purports to have a human rights entity but does not do any human rights work in Guyana. Another is concerned with children. Another of these groups deals with Amerindian rights.
The EU Embassy has dished out billions of Guyanese dollars over a ten-year period to
THE University of Guyana’s (UG)’s School of Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation (SEBI) has entered a strategic partnership with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the World Bank to introduce two pivotal educational programmes: an Associate Degree in Oil & Gas Accounting/Taxation/Audit and a Graduate Executive Diploma in Oil & Gas Accounting/Taxation/Audit.
In response to the growing need for diversified skills within the country, UG has
developed these programmes at the behest of the GRA, and the regional demand for professionals in this field.
The Associate Degree is a comprehensive two-year, 72-credit programme designed to meet high global industry standards.
It features a rigorous curriculum covering technical communication, an introduction to the local and global industry, fiscal regimes, and other essential areas of accounting, taxation, and auditing. Participants will also gain practical experience through attachments with the GRA and other agencies involved in the Oil & Gas sector.
The Graduate Executive Diploma, a oneyear, 45-credit programme, aims to enhance the skills of GRA employees. It includes modules on analytics, risk management, Oil & Gas Law, and the core areas of accounting, taxation, and auditing.
Prof. Leyland Lucas, Dean of SEBI, highlighted the importance of these programmes in addressing the gap in monitoring
several civil society organisations known for their implacable dislike for the PPP. At the rate of 240 Euros to one Guyana dollar, these entities have enjoyed billions of dollars with no accountability. Without exception all of these groups’ requests are always more than a million Euros.
One lady known for her insane anti-oil rampage got $42 million to do work in the Amerindian villages and never delivered even a one-page report. Recently, the Embassy fell out with the children group over a massive amount that cannot be accounted for. The peoples of Europe and the Guyanese nation will never know who in Guyana got billions because of the opaque line item on donations by the EU.
The line item is for the entire Caribbean without specifics. So, no one knows which group got what. The EU tirelessly lectures the Third World about accountability when their governance has not an ounce of accountability.
ultra-aristocratic fashion.
That is none of my business. What irks me is how the rich and famous in Guyana and the crème de la crème in Guyana seek out these diplomats who return to their homelands and live very obscure lives without even an ounce of the aristocracy they enjoyed in Guyana.
The former UN envoy for refugees was my neighbour in my compound. Her rent was three million monthly in a luxurious structure that now that she has returned to Europe will never see a house like that again.
One of the richest women in Guyana got smitten by a tenth-rate European diplomat and married him. She married him for his ephemeral status in Guyana which is gone from him, both in Europe and Guyana. He married her for her money, of course. Goodbye, Mr. van Nes. Be careful! Holland was carved out of the sea.
Hope the sea does not reclaim it.
revenue flows.
He noted that while the GRA has been striving to manage the sector, the rapid expansion of the industry and recruitment efforts by other agencies have underscored the need for these educational initiatives.
With the support of GRA and International Monetary Fund (IMF) personnel, SEBI has developed these rigorous programmes to meet both immediate and long-term needs.
Prof. Lucas emphasised that participants will be trained by top-tier faculty, including experts from the IMF and the GRA. To ensure sustainability, local faculty will also be involved, building their knowledge and reducing dependence on international experts.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Paloma Mohamed expressed her appreciation for the collaboration, describing it as a critical response to the growing sophisticated training needs of the country and region. She lauded the efforts of the development team at SEBI, the World Bank, and the GRA in developing and introducing this ground-breaking opportunity.
The GRA also commented on the significance of these programmes for the Authority and Guyana, underscoring their potential to build the human capital necessary to tackle the challenges in the Oil & Gas sector.
The Associate Degree in Oil & Gas Accounting/Taxation/Audit programme, which commences in the new Academic Year, is open to qualified individuals who have either graduated from an accredited tertiary institution or have completed their secondary education and meet the entry requirements.
The Graduate Executive Diploma in Oil & Gas Accounting/Taxation/Audit, which also begins in the new Academic Year, is primarily open to individuals either currently or interested in entering this sector, with experience in the areas of Accounting/Taxation/Audit.
Mr. Van Nes’ retirement in the very tiny kingdom of Holland reminds me of one of the themes I have dwelled on. These Western diplomats come to Guyana and live in an
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.
–– lobbies support for Haiti, Gaza, advocates for the lifting of the US embargo on Cuba
By Naomi Parris
GUYANA’S President Dr. Irfaan Ali has issued a strong appeal to the international community to take immediate and decisive action in response to the worsening humanitarian crises and war crimes globally.
The Head of State, in his address during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, highlighted the deepening humanitarian emergency caused by rampant gang violence, widespread displacement, and critical shortages of essential supplies, including food and medicine, in the sister Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation, Haiti.
“Restoring security is the foremost priority, requiring strict enforcement of the arms embargo and robust support for an UN-authorised mission,” Dr. Ali told world leaders.
He, however, cautioned that military or policing solutions alone would not resolve
the crisis. Sustainable stability, he argued, hinges on urgent humanitarian funding, a genuinely Haitian-led political process, and confronting the historical injustices that have long hindered the country’s development. He said: “I emphasise that without urgent humanitarian funding and a Haitian-led and owned political process, stability will remain elusive.”
Dr. Ali emphasised that examining the root causes, among which is the financial burden placed on Haiti following its independence, undermining its economic prospects, will need to be acknowledged.
President Ali’s remarks on Haiti were part of a broader address that painted a grim picture of the global landscape. He pointed to several simultaneous crises, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, and the persecution of women in Afghanistan.
Regarding the Middle
East, President Ali condemned the recent attacks by Hamas, but said the scale and nature of Israel’s military response could not be justified as self-defence.
“Israel’s actions have long shattered any pretense of legitimate self-defence. What we are witnessing is not warfare, but mass extermination; a systematic slaughter and displacement of Palestinian men, women, and children.
Those who escape the bombs and bullets are condemned to die slowly, starved of food, water, and hope. This is a war crime,” President Ali said.
He characterised the situation in Gaza as one of mass extermination, and called for international efforts to halt the suffering, secure the release of hostages, and urgently work towards a twostate solution.
“The international community must not remain paralysed while an entire people
is annihilated. Impunity must never triumph over justice; we must take urgent action to halt the genocide, return the hostages, and accelerate our efforts towards the Two-State Solution. We urge Qatar, Egypt and the United States to continue their efforts in this regard,” he added.
Turning to Europe, he reiterated Guyana’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and called for an end to ongoing war.
He said: “Further, the situation in Ukraine remains of utmost concern. Guyana reiterates its call for an end to the Russia-Ukraine War, and reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
The President also used the platform to renew calls for the lifting of the United States’ long-standing embargo on Cuba. He urged a re-evaluation of Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism, arguing that such steps were essential for unlocking the country’s potential, and improving the lives of its citizens.
Guyana is currently serving a two-year term (2024–2025) as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
Guyana was elected to the Council in June 2023 by the UN General Assembly, and its term began on January 1, 2024. The country’s
service will come to an end in December of this year.
President Ali stressed that it is in the face of horrific realities that the international community must come together to uphold the principles of the UN Charter and the rule of international law.
“At present, a dark shadow looms over this 80th Session of the General Assembly; Genocide in Palestine, annexation of Ukrainian territory, persecution of women in Afghanistan, humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, brutal gang violence in Haiti, increased transnational organised crime, trafficking and illegal migration,” he said.
into disunion.
Some politicians change their party for the sake of their principles, while others change their principles for the sake of their party.
“Guyana cannot afford leaders who mistake stubbornness for strength, or ego for vision. What is required now is collective political will across the aisle, especially on the divisive issues that have too often paralysed our progress. This demands courage, humility, and a willingness to compromise, not for ourselves, but for the greater good of the Guyanese people.”
Walton-Desir formed FGM, and joined forces with V-PAC after leaving the Aubrey Norton-led People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) ahead of the election.
Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, met with engineers from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to discuss strategies aimed at improving the agency’s operational efficiency and enhancing project outcomes across the country.
He stressed that the agency must function at the highest standards to ensure that ongoing and future works deliver maximum value to farmers, residents, and other key stakeholders.
Minister Mustapha reiterated that all projects must be informed by the needs and
According to a press release, during the meeting, Minister Mustapha highlighted the NDIA’s critical role as the primary body responsible for delivering drainage, irrigation, and other essential infrastructure services nationwide.
concerns of local communities, particularly farming populations, to ensure they are both relevant and impactful.
Present at Wednesday’s meeting was the Ministry of Agriculture’s Director General, Dhaneshwar Deonarine; NDIA Chairman, Lionel Wordsworth, and NDIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) (ag), Timothy Innis. It was recently announced that every pump and sluice
THE Guyana Association of Women Judges (GAWJ) launched its first magazine titled “Justice” at the Cara Lodge Hotel, last Thursday. According to a press release, the event was small, intimate, and saw members and special invitees come together to celebrate the launch of the magazine, which chronicles the history and work of women in Guyana’s judiciary, and shares resources for use in the fight for equity and access to justice for all.
According to its Editor-in-Chief, Justice Nicola Pierre, the magazine is prompted by the need to record the histo-
ry and work of women in the judiciary, to recognise that the fight for women’s equality, equity, and safety, in all spheres continues, and to bring together the community and resources to advocate for equality and equity. During her remarks, Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif, President of Guyana Association of Women Judges, said that ‘‘Justice’ is not just a magazine. It is a platform for reflection, for education, for inspiration. It will highlight not only the voices of women judges, but also the issues that affect women, children, families,
and communities across Guyana. It will encourage dialogue, promote mentorship, and showcase the humanity behind the robe.’
This first issue chronicles the presence and contributions of women to Guyana’s Judiciary, and the important work Guyana’s women judges have been involved in outside of the courtroom, including public education, engaging and liaising with judicial sisters regionally and internationally, and teaching and mentoring the next generation of local legal minds through internships, mooting, and debate competitions.
The magazine contains
would be brought online and connected directly to a single electronic platform within one month.
This will allow the NDIA to monitor operations in real time, view the status of stations, and speak directly with operators on duty.
Officials will also be able to check on sluices at any time, ensuring round-theclock monitoring. Once fully online, the electronic platform will eliminate the need
for constant phone calls and manual reporting.
The use of technology in monitoring aspects of drainage and irrigation aims to strengthen the government’s operations and provide a higher quality of service Guyanese receive from public institutions.
Some $73.2 billion has been set aside for the upgrade and expansion of the national drainage and irrigation (D&I) network this year.
Of that sum, over $15 billion has been budgeted to complete works on Hope-like canal structures in Region Six, advance works in Region Five and commence works in Region Three.
The allocation will also target the completion of pump stations and advance other critical D&l canals and structures, including areas such as Adams Creek, Canefield, Good Hope and Mabaruma.
Members of the GAWJ, and special invitees at Cara Lodge during the launch of “Justice”
articles on trusts in matrimonial property law in Guyana, on the implementation of the Equality Article 29 of the Constitution of Guyana, on judicial activism in domestic violence cases, and spotlights two groundbreaking cases - Tot Lampkin v A.G which deals with the State’s duty to protect domestic violence victims, and the CCJ case of Nicholson and Nicholson which sets out a methodology for using a gender-based lens in statutory interpretation. These stories and learnings are important, and they must be told. Persons could access the digital magazine via this link: https://heyzine.com/flipbook/5d8d0d5291.html
AGRICULTURE Minister
Zulfikar Mustapha, along with a team of senior officers from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), met with millers to continue engagements as paddy prices for the second crop continue to fluctuate across the country.
With the second crop of the year ongoing, which is expected to yield over 800,000 tonnes, farmers continue to seek the government’s intervention to secure higher prices for their paddy.
During the meeting, Minister Mustapha said that the GRDB has been monitoring the global rice production and market trends.
He also said that it was in the best interest of the sector for farmers to benefit from best prices and that the government is actively working to reduce the cost of production, adding that approximately $2 billion was expended to procure fertiliser for farmers for 2025.
While acknowledging that global prices vary, the millers noted that global
markets are becoming fewer and more competitive with large producers of rice like India having huge quantities of rice on the market. India’s exports account for around 40% of global rice exports, and is expected to export 22.5 million tonnes this year.
According to Reuters, India’s rice stocks in government warehouses climbed over 14% from a year earlier to a record high for early September with state reserves of rice, including unmilled paddy, totalling a record 48.2 million tonnes as of September 1, far exceeding the government’s target of 13.5 million tonnes for July 1.
Additionally, as of September 1, the Filipino Government implemented a 60day import halt on rice, adding to woes of global rice exporters. The Philippines is the world’s largest rice importer.
Minister Mustapha said that the government has been investing in research, inputs and critical infrastructure to support rice production in Guyana. He said
while there are challenges globally as it relates to prices, farmers should be able to benefit from better prices.
Some millers said that they were losing given the current world market prices because of their cost of production. While offers were made for the GRDB to work along with millers to assess the cost of production, some millers maintained that the cost of production cannot be the determining factor when determining the price farmers receive for paddy.
One miller also said while one price is set in a contract, those prices change based on the current market price at the time the rice is sold, and in order to maintain that market, those prices have to be accepted.
Minister Mustapha said that the government will continue to work with stakeholders to come up with immediate and long-term solutions to all issues faced in the sector.
Last week, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali met with rice farmers from the Corentyne Coast, reminding them that while government investments have boost -
producers like India, have pushed down rice prices.
In response, the Head of State said that the government will move to establish modern storage facilities across all
rice-producing regions to strengthen resilience and give farmers greater flexibility in storing their paddy over a longer period of time. (Ministry of Agriculture)
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, along with a team of senior officers from the GRDB, met with millers to continue engagements as paddy prices for the second crop continue to fluctuate across the country ed the sector through new high-yielding varieties and critical infrastructure, external pressures remain. He explained that global market conditions, particularly surpluses from major
THE Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) has extended its congratulations to ExxonMobil Guyana following the government’s approval and final investment decision for the Hammerhead project, the seventh major offshore development on the Stabroek Block.
The Hammerhead project, representing an additional US$6.8 billion investment, is expected to begin production in 2029, adding approximately 150,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) to Guyana’s total output. This expansion will bring the installed production capacity across the Stabroek Block’s
seven developments to 1.5 million bopd, reinforcing Guyana’s position as a rising global energy player.
“This landmark decision underscores the continued confidence and remarkable pace of development in Guyana’s energy sector,” GOGEC said in a statement.
Since production began in 2019, over US$7.8 billion has been paid into Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund, and more than US$2.9 billion has been spent with local suppliers since 2015. Current
production is approximately 650,000 bopd and is expected to exceed 900,000 bopd by the end of the year.
GOGEC lauded ExxonMobil Guyana for setting a “world-class standard” in project execution and local content development. The Hammerhead project is expected to create new jobs, expand local supplier capacity, and generate significant revenue for national development.
“The Hammerhead project
is not just another FPSO; it is a testament to a decade of successful partnership and a powerful engine for Guyana’s continued economic growth,” GOGEC said, highlighting the company’s role as a premier member of the chamber.
As Guyana’s energy landscape continues to expand rapidly, developments like Hammerhead are seen as critical drivers of the nation’s economic transformation and long-term prosperity.
THE region’s manufacturers’ associations are working on medium to long-term growth strategies that target an increase of up to 30 percent in that sector’s contribution to economic growth in their respective countries.
The countries that are members of the Caribbean Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) - Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia and Dominica - anticipate a sizeable increase in jobs once the sector expands exports to regional and international markets.
“A realistic medium-term goal is to grow this contribution to 5-10% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and in the longer term, through sustained policy support and diversification efforts, to achieve 10-20% of GDP,” said Ramsay Ali, immediate past President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and current CMA President.
For potential investors considering a project in the region, Ali stressed that the Caribbean is no longer just a market for consumption, but is a strategic location for production.
He said: “We have the raw materials, access to duty-free trade through CARICOM, the EU, and beyond, and an increasingly skilled workforce.
“As President of the CMA, I welcome investors to partner with our manufacturers. whether in agro-processing, construction inputs, light manufacturing, or renewable energy equipment. We’re ready and we’re open for business.”
The Manufacturing Sector Report in the 2025 edition of Caribbean Business & Travel features the Presidents of the six manufac-
Amy Cervantes, Membership and Sales Manager at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce in Orlando, Florida (at left) displays the 2025 business publication with Editor, Sandra Ann Baptiste
turers’ associations in the region. It identifies investment opportunities in manufacturing in each of the CMA member countries.
“Given the challenging and rapidly changing global trading environment, we decided it was time to throw the spotlight, once again, on the vast potential of the region’s manufacturing sector and the scope for much-needed new investment. We also feature CARICOM’s regional and international trade agreements,” said Editor Sandra Ann Baptiste, who is the Chief Executive Consultant of Caribbean Signature, a Flor-
ida-based consulting, communications and training group.
Ali, who is also Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sterling Products Limited, had said: “Guyana’s manufacturing companies are positioning themselves to scale up and supply critical inputs to the country’s expanding infrastructure, housing, and logistics sectors. This creates new opportunities for both local and foreign investors to partner in building out the industrial supply chain that supports national development.”
TTMA President Dale Parson, the CEO of Kaleidoscope Paints, said the association has outlined a bold, multipronged strategy to grow Trinidad and Tobago’s non-energy exports from TT$6.2 billion to TT$10.6 billion by 2030.
Parson said: “The TTMA believes that ideally, the manufacturing sector would aim for 25-30% GDP contribution in the medium term, especially with continued government incentives and regional trade expansion.”
President of the Barbados Manufacturers Association (BMA), Rakeesh Bernard, said the association wants to see the sector increase its contribution to the country’s GDP from close to 6% to between 7% to 15%.
“This can be done by increasing the agro-processing aspect, improving value-added food and beverage manufacturing, as well as cosmetics, and advancing export diversification by engaging and expanding into new markets, and adopting digital trade and technological platforms,” said Bernard, Managing Director of Roberts Manufacturing.
Immediate Past President of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) Sydney Thwaites said investment opportunities in Jamaica’s manufacturing
sector continues to grow, particularly in areas that support import substitution for items such as basic food products, packaging materials, cleaning agents and household products.
All of the Caribbean Manufacturer associations identified increasing trade missions and exploring regional and non-traditional markets, such as Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica, as a key strategy to drive exports.
“The three recent Jamaican trade missions to Georgetown were far from symbolic,” said Thwaites who is the CEO of Jamaica Lubricating Specialties.
Thwaites added: “The results have been both immediate and promising. Several Jamaican firms have already secured contracts, particularly in the construction and technology sectors, where Guyana’s infrastructure boom is generating strong demand for materials and services.”
The President of The Saint Lucia Manufacturers’ Association (SLMA), Marguerite Desir, who is the Chief Operating Officer of Harris Paints International, wants to see the manufacturing sector increase its contribution to GDP from 6% currently to 10%.
The Dominica Manufacturers Association President, John Robin, who is Managing Director of Benjo’s Seamoss and Agro Processing, said his association is drawing on the extensive experience of Trinidadian manufacturers in its drive to significantly increase production, including for bottled water, condiments, furniture and craft items.
The 2025 edition of the business publication also features a wide-ranging interview with the President if the Caribbean Development Bank, (CDB) Daniel M. Best.
IN a major step to strengthen Guyana’s fight against coastal erosion, the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), in partnership with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), has engaged international engineering firm, Haskoning, to design an innovative greengrey infrastructure solution for a heavily eroded section of the country’s shoreline at Dantzig and De Hoop, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
Green-grey infrastructure blends traditional engineered defences, such as seawalls and concrete dams, with nature-based solutions like mangrove and seagrass restoration. The approach is expected to accelerate coastal regeneration while safeguarding vulnerable communities against rising sea levels, erosion, and flooding.
According to a release from GGGI, Haskoning will lead the engineering design and technical support for the project, working alongside Deltares and local firm SRKN’gineering. Together, the team will support the restoration of approximately 120 hectares of shoreline in Region Five.
The initiative, funded by the Korea Forest Service (KFS), forms part of Guyana’s broader Coastal Resilience and Mangrove Restoration Project. Once the designs are finalised, GGGI
and NAREI will begin implementing the hybrid coastal defence system, which is projected to: Directly benefit 500 residents in the Dantzig and De Hoop area; Protect 1,000 hectares of agricultural land from sea level rise; and contribute to the reduction of 1.12 million tons of CO₂ emissions over 25 years.
MANGROVES AS NATURAL DEFENCES
Kene Mosely, Coordinator of NAREI’s Mangrove Department, emphasised the importance of the project:
“Mangroves are not just trees, they are natural coastal defence systems, carbon sinks, and nurseries for marine life. Losing them means losing protection for our communities, biodiversity,
and livelihoods,” Mosely said.
He noted that combining targeted mangrove restoration with green-grey engineering will deliver stronger coastal protection.
“By integrating world-class technical expertise from Haskoning, Deltares, and SRKN’gineering with our local experience, this project is expected to deliver interventions that enhance coastal resilience for vulnerable communities,” he added.
SUPPORTING CLIMATE
ADAPTATION GOALS
The project aligns with Guyana’s National Mangrove Action Plan 2022–2032, the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, and national climate adaptation targets.
Daniel Munoz-Smith, GG-
GI’s Caribbean Representative, underscored the global significance of mangrove ecosystems: “Mangroves are critical for preserving biodiversity, supporting coastal livelihoods, and building resilience to climate change. This project supports GGGI’s ongoing collaborations to pilot and scale nature-based approaches that can promote
green sustainable economic growth. We are honoured to partner with NAREI and to support Guyana’s efforts on restoring and protecting these vital ecosystems,” he said.
As part of the preparatory phase, the partners will conduct a scoping exercise, field surveys, and stakeholder consultations with government agencies, civil
society organisations, and local communities. An induction workshop will also be held to ensure all partners are aligned on project objectives, technical scope, methodology, and timelines.
More information about the project can be accessed at: https://gggi.org/project/coastal resilience-project-in-guyana
- Minister Benn emphasises
EXPANDING access to affordable housing and clearing the backlog of housing applications will be the top priorities of newly-appointed Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn.
She said this is the focus as the ministry moves towards digitisation and more efficient service delivery.
In an interview on the show ‘Beyond the Title,’ the minister outlined her plans for a modern ministry that is also “greener.”
She pleaded with citizens to have patience as they continue to work to meet the growing housing demands.
Benn said that her priority is ensuring that Guyana’s housing drive also integrates environmental safeguards while simultaneously targeting citizens’ immediate needs.
Minister Benn also spoke about her recent visits to some of the areas that have been targeted for housing and where work is ongoing, such as Silica City, which she described as a flagship project that “all Guyanese should be proud of.”
Plans for the second
phase of Silica City, along the Soesdyke-Linden highway are now taking shape, with a specific focus on creating modern housing options.
alternative to the homes currently under construction in the first phase.
Construction under phase one continues with 110 homes in various stages of completion. The current phase features four architectural designs, and allocation of the houses has already begun.
Soon, selected beneficiaries will be able to sign agreements of sale as part of the final processing stage.
Speaking on her intentions to contribute to the massive housing drive that is in moving full speed ahead, Minister Benn added: “It is my intention as well to see how we can integrate the as-
pects more of looking at how we have green infrastructure, how we're mindful of protecting our biodiversity. How do we integrate these kinds of things?”
Giving an example, she said the young professionals housing scheme is not just about house lot allocations, but also about the integration of green spaces and cultural aspects into the natural environment.
Already, the minister has been active in distributing core homes and engaging with citizens and according to her, she hopes to continue “helping our country to transform and to thrive.”
Benn also assured resi -
dents that there is much more coming out of the Ministry of Housing to become more efficient.
“There's quite a backlog, we acknowledge, and there's a lot of work that is coming on stream to be able to clear that backlog. So, I appeal to the public, the diaspora, who have plans and applications for house lots in place that have been waiting a while just give us a bit more time, as we address that and clear the backlog. We are committed to seeing that cleared and to be able to deliver in a more efficient manner,” she said.
This upcoming phase is being designed to include condominiums and townhouses, offering a distinct MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., along with Minister within the Ministry, Steven Jacobs, and senior leadership of the Culture Department, recently met with a group of theatre stakeholders to review and plan the next phase of the “Write to Stage” Theatre Support Programme.
The initiative, launched in 2023 by Minister Ramson, has already produced and staged eight Guyana Prize-winning plays, marking a revival of local theatre and providing unprecedented opportunities for actors, directors, and production teams.
According to the Ministry, “Write to Stage” was designed to bring award-winning literary works to life while improving the quality of plays on Guyana’s stage. The programme has also served as a financial lifeline for theatre professionals, enabling productions that would not have been feasible under normal market conditions.
“In the last two years, producers and performers have earned a higher rate of income from the theatre than they had ever earned in the history of theatre in Guyana,” the Ministry reported.
The stakeholder gathering included veteran and emerging actors, who praised the improved quality of productions under the programme. All participants committed to continuing their collaboration to sustain and grow Guyana’s theatre industry despite ongoing market challenges.
Since its inception, the programme has staged the following plays: Sauda by Mosa Telford, Makantali by
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, and his team met with theatre stakeholder groups on “Write to Stage” theatre support programme. This was created in 2023, under Minister Ramson’s leadership
Harold Bascom, Last of the Redmen by Michael Gilkes, Father of the Man by Paloma Mohamed, Children of Baby by Mosa Telford, Requiem for the Living by Jamal La Rose, A Pleasant Career by Michael Gilkes and Don’t Ask Me Why by Rae Wiltshire.
The Ministry announced that the third production for 2025 will be staged in November, with plans already underway to expand the repertoire. Looking ahead, patrons can anticipate a rich tapestry of performances featuring poetry and non-fiction works from the Guyana Prize in 2026.
CULTURE AND ARTS
INVESTMENT
The Government has also reaffirmed its commitment to cultural preservation and
development under the theme “A Secure, Prosperous, and Sustainable Guyana.”
The 2025 National Budget allocated $3.6 billion for the continuous development of arts and culture, including $800 million earmarked for a cultural market at Palmyra, Berbice (Region Six). This hub is expected to serve as an educational and cultural showcase, celebrating the diversity and unity of Guyana’s people while providing families with a space to engage with the nation’s heritage. With sustained investment and the success of initiatives like “Write to Stage,” the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport says it is confident that Guyana’s theatre industry is entering its most dynamic phase yet.
MINISTER of Housing, Collin Croal, has announced that works are expected to commence shortly on the second phase of Silica City, Guyana’s first smart and sustainable urban development.
The new phase represents a significant
Phase Two will introduce condominiums and townhouses, broadening the range of housing options to meet evolving demands. Applications will follow the same process as other national housing programmes, with eligibility based on being Guyanese and a first-time homeowner
expansion of the visionary project, which is designed to integrate modern living, sustainability, and international connectivity into Guyana’s urban development agenda.
Minister Croal highlighted that Phase Two will place particular emphasis on attracting Guyana’s diaspora community, many of whom have already expressed interest in returning and investing in a modern residential environment.
“Many persons from the diaspora have expressed interest. They want to return, and they are looking for this particular type of area. So here is an opportunity for us to engage with them,” the Minister explained.
While Phase One focused on individual housing units, Phase Two will introduce condominiums and townhouses, broadening the range of housing options to meet evolving demands. Applications will follow the same process as other national housing programmes, with eligibility based on being Guyanese and a first-time homeowner.
WORLD-CLASS COMMUNITY AMENITIES
Beyond housing, Phase Two promises a host of community and
recreational amenities built to international standards for sustainable urban living. These include: multi-purpose green fields, a golf course, walking and cycling trails, and nature play areas.
Supporting infrastructure such as restrooms, storage kiosks, recycling bins, bike racks, and water fountains will also be installed.
According to the Ministry, these features are designed to promote healthy, community-centred living while making Silica City a model of eco-friendly and innovative development.
Situated north of the Linden–Soesdyke Highway, Silica City is located just 40 kilometers from Georgetown, 45 kilometers from Linden, and a short distance from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
The city aims to be a climate-resilient, investment-friendly urban hub that harmonises Guyana’s natural environment with modern infrastructure, sustainable practices, and smart technologies.
By doing so, it is expected to attract private sector investment while positioning Guyana as a regional leader in future urban development.
AMIDST growing challenges in agriculture, Barbados’ Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Nutrition Security, Indar Weir, has said that Guyana's Muhammad Ibrahim has the vision and leadership necessary to lead the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and strengthen the response to those challenges.
Weir affirmed that the region plays a key role in global food and environmental security, but cautioned that IICA's technical co-operation is irreplaceable in strengthening the protection of natural resources and promoting access to new technologies, an area in which many countries in the region need assistance.
“Cooperation is essential to continue our path of improvement; for some of our countries, it is the only way out. We are very fortunate to be able to look to the future together with IICA. Next November, we will elect a new Director General for the 2026-30 term, and I want to express my deep conviction that my colleague, Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim of Guyana, is the person with the kind of vision and leadership that will be needed in this new and challenging era,” Weir wrote in an article published in The Barbados Daily Nation, the Caribbean nation's leading newspaper.
Ibrahim is a scientist with more than 30 years of management experience in the international agricultural and rural development sectors, who has been nominated for the position of Director General of IICA by Guyanese President Irfaan Ali.
The other candidates to lead the hemispheric organisation are Fernando Mattos of Uruguay and Laura Suazo of Guyana. The selection will be made by the region's ministers during the sessions of the Inter-American Board of Agriculture (IABA), which will take place from November 3 to 5 in Brasilia.
Weir noted in his article that the countries that make up the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)—14 countries that are also members of IICA—have already publicly supported Ibrahim due to the technical and leadership skills the candidate has demonstrated throughout his career. Ibrahim is the only one of the three candidates to have received unanimous support from the countries in his region.
In this regard, the Barbadian minister considered that now "it is necessary to work with the rest of the region to reach a unanimous decision, with the entire American continent, including its island nations, working together to strengthen their capacity to produce food, boost trade, and generate employment and development opportunities."
“It is the time of agriculture; it is the time of the Caribbean,” is the title of Weir's article, which outlined what, in his opinion, are the main needs of the sector in the region: “We must improve production and efficiency, forest and soil conservation, animal and plant pest and disease control, scientific and technical research and extension, the improvement and sustainability of the livestock industry, and other aspects of long-term agricultural growth as a basis for improving rural life and the contributions of agriculture to the economic and social development of our countries and our peoples.”
In this regard, Weir maintained that, since its creation more than 80 years ago, IICA has carried out fundamental technical co-operation work in the countries. Furthermore, in recent years, the organisation has played a leading role in building consensus on strategic issues related to agriculture that are discussed in international forums.
Ibrahim, Weir concluded, has the right credentials to further IICA's work in support of agricultural development and rural well-being on the continent: "His scientific and technical training, demonstrated by more than 30 years of work in agricultural and rural development throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, clearly supports this perception."
YOUTH and women entrepreneurs in agriculture will benefit from Massy Stores’ recent donation of $1 million worth of Algas Organic Total Plant Tonic Concentrate to the Agricultural Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP).
According to a press release from the company, this natural supplement made from nutrient-rich seaweed, enhances crop health and resilience, offering a sustainable alternative to heavy chemical inputs.
security, creating jobs, and fostering economic resilience in both rural and urban communities.
The donation is part of an ongoing collaboration between Massy Stores, the
The donation, Massy Stores said, aims to strengthen local agricultural practices while empowering entrepreneurs to innovate and thrive in the sector.
Ministry of Agriculture, and the AIEP, aimed at empowering those at the heart of Guyana's food systems.
The delegation met with Colonel General Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, MSM, along with GDF Branch Heads, for talks that focused on enhancing operational capabilities and expanding avenues of collaboration
THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Monday, September 22, hosted a high-level delegation from the United States Senate Select Committee on Intelligence at Base Camp Ayanganna, where discussions centred on strengthening co-operation to address national and regional security challenges.
The visiting team included Mr. Nathan Heiman, Mr. Steve Smith, Ms. Valli Sanmugalingam, Mr. Peter Metzger, and Commander Brad Crocker (Military Aide). They were accompanied by rep-
resentatives of the U.S. Embassy Security Cooperation Office—Commander Christopher Bernotavicius and Lieutenant Colonel David Garcia.
The delegation met with Colonel General Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, MSM, along with GDF Branch Heads, for talks that focused on enhancing operational capabilities and expanding avenues of collaboration.
Colonel Roberts emphasised the value of the longstanding partnership between Guyana and the United States, noting that the GDF is committed to
modernisation and adapting to the evolving security landscape. He highlighted that the support received through the partnership has been vital to the Force’s growth and effectiveness.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working closely to bolster national security while contributing to wider regional stability.
The GDF expressed appreciation for the sustained co-operation and said it looks forward to deepening engagements that strengthen readiness and resilience in the face of emerging threats.
By improving access to sustainable and modern agricultural resources, the initiative directly contributes to enhancing food
“At Massy Stores, we are committed to supporting the government’s food security initiative by making wholesome, locally produced foods more accessible to our communities. Our stores serve as the avenue through which families can find and enjoy these nutritious options, reinforcing our dedication to building a healthier Guyana,” Assistant Vice President, Massy Group, Christpen BobbSemple, said.
Reacting to the donation, Teesha Mangra, Chief Executive Offi -
cer of AIEP, said, “The Agricultural Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme extends its sincere appreciation to Massy Stores for their generous donation of agrochemicals. This contribution will enhance the capacity of our young farmers and directly support national efforts to advance innovation, productivity, and sustainability in agriculture.”
Established by the Ministry of Agriculture, the AIEP offers mentorship, training, and tools to young entrepreneurs and farmers. This helps them discover innovative methods for success in agri-business.
NEXTECH INC., a leading technology retailer and authorised Epson reseller, hosted its highly anticipated Epson Floor Day on Wednesday, attracting customers eager to explore the latest innovations in Epson’s printing and projection technology.
The event featured exclusive discounts on popular Epson products, including EcoTank print-
ers and Epson bottle inks, making it a major draw for both home and business users.
Attendees also had the opportunity to engage directly with an Epson representative, who provided expert insights into the full range of Epson printers and projectors.
“As an authorised Epson reseller, Nextech guarantees access to genuine Epson products backed
by the manufacturer’s warranty,” a company spokesperson highlighted. “Events like Epson Floor Day allow us to connect with our customers, showcase cutting-edge solutions, and reinforce our commitment to quality and service.”
The company reaffirmed its role in supporting Guyana’s growing demand for reliable printing and projection technology,
offering a carefully curated selection of Epson products designed to meet both personal and professional needs.
Nextech noted that the success of the event underscored its dedication to bridging global technology with local solutions, ensuring customers continue to benefit from trusted, high-quality products and after-sales support.
Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has issued a strong call for collective action in observance of Child Protection Week 2025, which is being commemorated under the theme “Every Child Safe.”
In a virtual statement, Dr. Persaud reminded the nation that “every child deserves love, care, and protection. No child should live in fear and no child should ever feel alone.”
The Minister noted that too many children continue to face abuse, neglect, bullying, and even violence— often in spaces where they should feel safest.
“This is something we cannot ignore,” Dr. Persaud asserted, adding that the Government is committed to strengthening child protection systems and ensuring that children’s safety remains a top priority.
She stressed that protecting children is not just about laws and policies but also about community responsibility: “It is about each of us stepping up to notice, listen, and act when a child is in need.”
The Minister highlighted several initiatives already underway, including parenting programmes that equip families with the tools to raise children with love, patience, and understanding.
“Children don’t need violence to learn; they need guidance, respect, and encouragement,” she emphasised.
She also announced the expansion of juvenile and teen support programmes across more regions, ensuring that struggling young people have safe spaces for counselling, mentorship, and opportunities. This year alone, 10 youth-friendly spaces are
being opened, with facilities already established in Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, and Ten.
Dr. Persaud underscored the importance of including children in shaping the policies and initiatives that affect them. She pointed to the Ministry’s first-ever children’s conference, where children spoke directly to officials about their hopes, fears, and vision for the future.
“Their message was clear. They want to feel safe, respected, and valued. And we are listening,” she said.
The Minister urged citizens to recognise that child protection is not solely the job of the Government, but a shared responsibility of
every parent, teacher, leader, and community member.
“A safe child is a happy child, and a happy child grows into a strong adult who will build a better nation,” she remarked.
Dr. Persaud also extended an invitation for citizens to join the Child Advocacy Network (CAN), a volunteer initiative that will train individuals to support child protection efforts. As part of a nationwide campaign, “See it, Say it, Stop it,” she called on all Guyanese to use their voices to report abuse and help keep every child safe.
“Join me in your communities. Let us keep all of Guyana’s children safe,” the Minister appealed.
SIX persons living with disabilities, on Wednesday, received loans totalling $3 million, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support small businesses.
The cheques were handed over by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues and Permanent Secretary, Roger Rogers at the Small Business Bureau.
The loans were secured through a revolving fund specifically designed to support entrepreneurs living with disabilities, providing them with access to loans of up to G Y$500,000 with zero collateral, zero interest, and a repayment period of up to four years.
es inclusivity regardless of race, gender, geography, or physical ability.
The initiative, which is supported by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, reflects the government’s ‘One Guyana’ philosophy, which prioritis-
“At its core, this fund is about ensuring that every citizen, regardless of ability or disability, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
The minister commended the diversity of ventures among the new beneficiaries, which include business-
es in cellphone and accessories, landscaping, catering, and retail. She emphasised that sustainability and accountability are critical to the fund’s continued success.
Rodrigues said: “This revolving fund creates a cycle of empowerment, where each success story contributes to the empowerment of others, thereby creating a self-sustaining engine of progress.”
She further assured re-
cipients that the ministry’s monitoring and evaluation team will follow up to track their progress and provide ongoing support.
“We must map your progress and provide the additional support needed along the way, so that these businesses are not only established, but positioned for growth,” she said.
Since its inception in 2023, the fund has disbursed 41 loans valued at more than GY$20 million. For 2025
alone, 14 loans totalling GY$7 million have already been issued.
Minister Rodrigues urged beneficiaries to make the best use of this opportunity, noting: “I encourage you to utilise these funds wisely and for their intended purpose. I look forward to hearing your success stories and to seeing the sustaine d growth of this fund, so that many more can benefit in the years ahead.”
- with 180 booths, thousands of participants
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
THE highly anticipated Berbice Expo and Trade Fair is set to open on October 31 and run to November 3, at the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground, with organisers promising an even bigger showcase of business innovation, investment opportunities, and community development for Region Six and beyond.
At the official launch on Wednesday, Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, in delivering the feature address, said that the development in Berbice is unprecedented with more in store under the renewed PPP/C government.
He highlighted that citizens will travel from around the country to participate in the expo, and will witness the development in Region Six.
He said: “The future is very exciting and the opportunities cut across every sector…This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase entrepreneurship.”
He told those gathered from the business community in Region Six that they have in President Irfaan Ali’s government, a government with a “crystal clear plan.”
“You have seen the pace at which President Irfaan Ali has deployed his government,” Dr. Singh said.
In highlighting the plethora of projects slated for Region Six, he referenced the construction of a new highspan Berbice River Bridge, the bridging of the Corentyne River, the expansion of the four-lane highway, a new deep-water port, and new commercial businesses.
Dr. Singh said: “We want in these five years, to be able to produce right here
in Region Six in a competitive manner, to produce value-added products which are globally competitive.”
In recognising the vast potential of the agriculture sector, Singh said that heavy investment is being made in improved drainage and irrigation.
“You have seen the unleash of the pace of development, if you are not careful you will get dizzy…,” Dr. Singh said.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, David Armogan, highlighted the significance of the event, noting that the expo continues to attract thousands of patrons annually.
“This year there is a lot more excitement as to what is happening in the region,” Armogan said, adding that businesses from various sectors are expected to participate. Armogan commended
the consistency of the event, which has been held for two decades, noting: “No doubt, this is not an easy task and to be able to withstand and sustain it for 20 years is a remarkable achievement.”
He underscored that exhibitions of this nature provide a major boost to the region, creating opportunities for growth within the private sector.
“This is not only an opportune time for businesses to showcase their products, but it is also an opportune time for people of the region to see what is available and make informed decisions in their purchases,” Armogan said.
He also pointed to exponential growth in key areas such as infrastructure, housing, education, local gover-
nance, and agriculture.
According to the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC), this year’s expo will feature approximately 180 booths, with 75 being housed in the main tent.
President of the CCCC, Poonai Bhiroog, emphasised the expo’s role as the premier business event in the region.
“Berbice Expo is the largest event in Berbice where over 30,000 people pass through,” Bhiroog said.
He noted that the transformation currently unfolding in Guyana makes the expo an even more valuable platform for businesses to showcase their products and services.
The proceeds from the event will be directed toward community development projects as has been done in the previous years, ensuring that the impact of the expo extends well beyond the exhibition ground.
UAE or Australia is no longer a dilemma for Ravichandran Ashwin. It now looks like a double dosetwin assignments - rather than having to choose between the ILT20 and the Big Bash League (BBL). The veteran spinner, who would have otherwise been forced to pick one because of overlapping schedules in the year-end, will almost certainly end up playing in both.
Cricbuzz can confirm that Ashwin, one of India's greatest spinners, has registered for the ILT20 auction and, in all likelihood, will also feature in the BBL in Australia. He has had offers from multiple franchisesboth the Sydney sides (Six- ers and Thunder), as well as Ricky Ponting's Hobart Hurricanes and Tim Paine's Adelaide Strikers. He will, of course, have to choose one of them.
Ashwin, who announced his retirement from the IPL in August, is now eligible to play in overseas leagues - a privilege not available to players still involved in Indian tournaments under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)and is making the most of this liberty. He has been in negotiations with ILT20 organisers for quite some time and has finally registered for the October 1 auction.
In the BBL, he has also been in talks with a few franchises and is expected to formally sign up with one of the four sides mentioned above.
The big challenge will be managing the schedule of the back-to-back tournaments, with some fixtures of the tournaments clashing. The ILT20 runs from December 2 to January 4, while the BBL kicks off on
December 14 and concludes on January 25. As things stand, Ashwin will start with the ILT20 and then fly to Australia for the BBL, where his availability will be limited this year.
A direct entry was not possible this year in the ILT20 as all six franchises have completed their direct signings. "I have registered for the auction. Hopefully, one of the six franchises will be interested in bidding for me," Ashwin said, confirming his enrollment for the auction, which is being held for the first time in four seasons in the UAE league.
Ashwin did not comment on the BBL developments, but indications are that something will be finalised in a few days.
As for other overseas leagues, Ashwin is likely to feature in either Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA or The Hundred in the UK. There is, of course, still time to complete the formalities for those tournaments.
(Cricbuzz)
(Thursday, September 25, 2025)
GUYANA’S seven-member team, on Wednesday, departed for St Lucia via the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to compete in the annual Central America and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship.
The team comprises Melitha Anderson, Sabita Stephenson, Linden Burnett, Jonathan Jeffrey, Antowyn Bailey, Romelton Siland and a former CAC medalist Rawle Greene who will strut their stuff at the competition from September 26 to 28
Meanwhile, president of the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, Roger Callender, said it is a strong squad.
“We have seasoned athletes and we have one new and upcoming rising star in Antowyn Bailey who is going to be competing in the junior category and open category. This year at CAC we are expected to go up against a lot of athletes and we are looking to bring home a lot of medals; we are going to have athletes competing in different categories; so we are looking to
(From page 24)
in the know. It is likely he will miss the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai in the upcoming season. Iyer has played 14 Tests so far and featured in 70 first-class games, mostly for Mumbai.
Iyer, however, intends to continue his white-ball career. He should be an automatic choice for the ODI series in Australia, and it may not even be a surprise if he is picked for the T20I squad as well. India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between October 19 and November 8. (Cricbuzz)
strike up a good number of medals.”
He was loud in his praise for the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports which provided tremendous financial support for the team’s engagement.
“They had to take it to cabinet and it was approved and we got our funds to go
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
NEWMARKET
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NEWCASTLE
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15:30hrs Asadjumeirah
and compete and represent Guyana at this year’s CAC and all the athletes were grateful and excited. It means a lot to us that the ministry came through for us in this way”
Callender said he looks forward to continuing working with the Ministry in the push for the growth and de-
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
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08:25hrs Seventh Fleet
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velopment of sports.
In 2024 when Guyana hosted the event for the second time in 20 years, the team captured 27 medals including 11 gold, 9 silver and 7 bronze.
The highlight of Guyana’s campaign at the National Cultural Centre stage was when serial winner and top physique athlete, Emmerson Campbell, gained his professional card.
ENGLAND have given a surprise recall to Will Jacks as the back-up spinner for the Ashes, with Harry Brook replacing Ollie Pope as vice-captain.
Jacks played his two Tests in 2022 and leapfrogs Rehan Ahmed, Liam Dawson and Jack Leach to provide cover for Shoaib Bashir.
Brook's elevation is significant in that it will once again ignite the debate over the security of Pope's place at number three.
Pope has been Ben Stokes' regular vice-captain, stepping up to lead England on five occasions, but Brook has impressed since being named white-ball captain at the beginning of the summer.
With Brook now stepping up as Stokes' deputy, Pope could be more vulnerable to the challenge of Jacob Bethell.
In a 16-man party, Mark Wood is named in a stacked pace-bowling department despite not playing a Test since August 2024 because of elbow and knee injuries.
With Matthew Potts taking the final specialist pace-bowling slot, Wood also joins Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Josh Tongue as England call on a group capable of producing the pace and bounce they believe is necessary to deliver success in Australia.
Chris Woakes, who bravely batted with a dislocated shoulder on the final day of the home Test summer against India, was not consid-
ered on fitness grounds.
The pace pack will be supported by Stokes, who England will hope can survive the five Tests down under. The 34-year-old all-rounder is still recovering from the shoulder injury that kept him out of the final Test against India, but is believed to be on track to play the Ashes opener in Perth on 21 November.
England's Ashes squad: Ben Stokes (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (vice-captain), Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Josh Tongue, Mark Wood.
Under Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, England have shown loyalty and continuity in their selection.
New Zealander McCullum previously said the Ashes selection meeting would be "short", with only the identity of the second spinner up for debate.
Leg-spinner Ahmed was thought to be in pole position, but Surrey's Jacks is given the nod despite taking only five wickets in 74.1 overs in first-class cricket this year.
Primarily a batter, the 26-year-old gives England a degree of flexibility, while there is a theory that tall off-spinners are best suited to Australian conditions. An England white-ball regular, Jacks is recovering from a
broken little finger and will be fit in time for the Ashes. McCullum also foreshadowed the change in vice-captain by describing Brook as an "emerging leader within English cricket".
In truth, Brook is most likely to succeed Stokes as Test captain, yet the immediate context surrounds the battle for the number-three position.
Pope, England's longterm number three, was preferred to Bethell in the home summer, only for Bethell to make his maiden professional century in a one-day international against South Africa. Bethell will have further chances to impress in whiteball matches in New Zealand that precede the Ashes, while further clues will come in England's only warm-up match in Australia, against a Lions team in Perth.
Bar a decision between
DEFENDING champions
India booked their spot in the Asia Cup final with a 41-run victory over Bangladesh.
The win moves India, who are yet to lose a match, two points clear at the top of the table while also eliminating Sri Lanka, who lost their first two matches in the Super Fours.
Pakistan and Bangladesh, level on two points, face each other in the penultimate group match today, with the result determining who will join India in the final.
Batting first in Dubai, opener Abhishek Sharma scored his second half-century in as many matches to kickstart India's innings.
He dominated an explosive first-wicket stand with Shub-
His dismissal - India's third - sparked a mini collapse as they lost 3-17 in 3.3 overs before all-rounder Hardik Pandya steadied the ship with 38 (29) to set Bangladesh a target of 169.
Bangladesh opener Saif Hassan posted a brisk half-century of his own, top-scoring with 69 (51), including five sixes.
However, he lacked support, with Parvez Hossain Emon (21 off 19) the only other player to reach double figures.
Kuldeep Yadav picked up 3-18 and Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy shared two wickets apiece as Bangladesh was bowled out for 127 in the final over.
the only two bowlers in England's squad to have played a Test in Australia before.
Wood, 35, has a chequered injury history, though England's fastest bowler changed the course of the last Ashes series in the UK in 2023, when the home side came back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2.
lia. However, injuries have limited him to five first-class matches in two years and he has opted to pause his red-ball career. Overton will be in Australia playing in the Big Bash for Adelaide Strikers.
being run out in the 12th over.
(BBC sport)
Pope and Bethell, the batting line-up is settled and England's strength. Zak Crawley has received long-term backing with Australia in mind and will open alongside Ben Duckett. They join Joe Root, Brook and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. There is no specialist wicketkeeping cover, with Pope able to provide back-up.
For one of the most-anticipated Ashes series in years, and probably England's best chance of winning away since they last triumphed in Australia in 2010-11, they will now hope they can keep their players fit across the five Tests.
Of most importance will be Stokes, who has not completed any of England's past four Test series. His heavy workload in the India series resulted in the shoulder injury.
Stokes and Wood are
He initially suffered an elbow injury in the summer of 2024. When he made his comeback to play in the Champions Trophy earlier this year, he suffered a knee injury that required surgery. Wood initially targeted the end of the India series to return, only for that to gradually be pushed back. By the time of the Ashes opener, Wood will not have played a Test for 15 months.
Wood's Durham teammate Potts comes back in after not playing a Test this year. The 26-year-old benefits from the injury to Woakes and the red-ball retirement of Jamie Overton.
Even before the injury, it was not a given that Woakes would be included given his previous poor record in Australia. He opted against surgery and a lengthy rehab period on his left shoulder in a bid to be fit for the Ashes, but is not being risked. At 36, he seems likely to miss out on a new central contract and could have made his last England appearance.
Overton played in the final Test against India and his hit-the-deck style of bowling was seen as suited to Austra-
The tour of New Zealand begins on 18 October, with three T20s followed by three one-day internationals.
Crawley is named in the T20 squad and could make his international debut in that format. Brook, Bethell and Carse are the only other members of the Test squad in the T20 party, with Duckett, Smith and Archer rested.
The one-day squad is full strength, with call-ups given to Dawson, Sam Curran and Luke Wood.
A Lions squad to shadow the senior group in Australia will be announced at a later date.
England ODI squad to play New Zealand: Harry Brook (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Luke Wood. England T20 squad to play New Zealand: Harry Brook (capt), Rehan Ahmed,, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Luke Wood. (BBC Sport)
SHREYAS Iyer wants to take some time off from Test and first-class cricket. The India middle-order batter has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to allow him to pause his red-ball career for a brief period so that he can reset his fitness regimen.
The development comes on the back of his withdrawal from the four-day match against Australia A, first reported by Cricbuzz, for which he had been named captain. After playing the first game in Lucknow last week, he submitted a request to the BCCI and also spoke with chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
The trigger for the decision was the discomfort he felt during the Duleep Trophy, where he represented West Zone earlier this month.
He experienced similar unease during the India AAustralia A game last week. Immediately after that match, he spoke to the BCCI physios and India A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar, and he wrote to the BCCI before leaving Lucknow for Mumbai.
Iyer, who underwent back surgery in 2023, is not calling time on his Test career as yet though. "He is only seeking a break. After working on his fitness, he will reset his red-ball career and come back stronger," said a source
(Turn to page 23)
are within 300 runs of securing the County Championship crown after bowling out Warwickshire for 258 on Day One at Trent Bridge.
Needing to secure a maximum of 10 points from the final round of matches to lift the title for the first time since 2010 after their victory over holders Surrey last week, Notts fulfilled their first requirement by taking all three bowling bonus points, led by Brett Hutton's 4-46 and Mohammad Abbas's 3-33.
And Surrey's failure to take any of the five batting bonus points potentially up for grabs against Hampshire at Southampton, means they require just two more points in this match to be certain of becoming champions.
If they can muster anything above 300 with the bat within 110 overs in their first innings, the title will be theirs even if they were to lose and Surrey win.
They might have been on the field in pursuit of those runs already if Dan Mousley had not defied difficult batting conditions by scoring 74 to drive Warwickshire's recovery from 127-5.
Mousley shared a 117run sixth-wicket partnership with Ed Barnard, who exactly matched Will Young earlier in making 48 from 104 deliveries.
After choosing to bowl first, Nottinghamshire presumably would have hoped to send Warwickshire to lunch in a more precarious
position than 70-1.
As it was, in an opening session limited to 25 overs after a wholly unforecast stoppage for rain, the visitors lost only Alex Davies, who was leg before to the 10th ball of the match as Hutton found some early movement through the air.
Abbas, returning from a minor back issue, bowled seven overs that on another day might have generated two or three wickets. Young and Rob Yates played and missed several times and edged other deliveries past the slips.
More rain delayed the afternoon session by 50 minutes but it began with another early wicket, Yates well held at second slip by Freddie McCann in Abbas's second over.
Though the sky cleared, batting remained a challenge, although patience and some nifty footwork appeared to be paying off for Young.
Having saved himself on 35, managing to kick the ball away a sa delivery from Dillon Pennington squirmed under his bat towards the stumps, he was nearing a half-century against his former county, but he then he unexpectedly wafted at a ball from Hutton outside off stump and paid the price.
With Surrey already dismissed by Hampshire for just 147, a first bowling point for Nottinghamshire was enthusiastically applauded by the home crowd.
Two more wickets followed before tea as Sam Hain and Zen Malik were caught behind in consecutive overs,
Lioness achieved the target in 13.1 overs.
The victory was also sweet revenge for 4 R Lioness who were booted out at the semi-final stage by the same opponents in the Prime Minister’s T20 Cup softball tournament, the previous month, after they were seeking a third consecutive title, having won in 2022 and 2023.
Meanwhile, the three men’s categories – Open All Stars, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50 commence
the latter from a ball from Lyndon James that moved late to find the edge of his defensive bat.
The middle session thus belonged to Nottinghamshire, yet Mousley and Barnard resisted and then fought back in the final session, Mousley becoming more confident and aggressive as the partnership grew, accelerating to a half-century from 62 balls, which he celebrated by going down the pitch to hit James back over his head for six.
In the final half-hour, though, the pendulum swung back to Nottinghamshire, left-arm spinner Liam Patterson-White claiming the second bowling point with a caughtand-bowled to remove Barnard before Abbas, bowling fast and straight with second new ball in hand, dismissed Michael Booth and Ethan Bamber in consecutive deliveries.
Hutton wrapped things up by bowling Tazeem Ali before Mousley holed out to long off, leaving Nottinghamshire within touching distance of the prize. (BBC Sport)
(From back page)
tomorrow with a total of 20 teams participating – eight in the Open All Stars and six each in the Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50.
The Open All Stars category is being contested at the Lusignan and LBI Sports Clubs, the Masters Over-40 at Better Hope and Ogle Sports Clubs and the Legends Over50 at the Police Sports Club ground.
Apart from Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, the other main
sponsors on board include Ramesh Sunich’s Trophy Stall which will once again donate all the trophies and medals, General Marine, Price Shopper Variety, Chung’s Global, ARD Youtuber (Danny Persaud), Crown Mining Supplies, Ansy and Amrit Furniture Store, INS Trading, Ofimak Office & Furnishings (Panama), HL Latinoamerica Furnishings (Panama) and May’s Shopping Centre (Panama).
and William Osula both scored twice as holders Newcastle United started their defence of the Carabao Cup with a comfortable win against Bradford City.
Eddie Howe's side ended a 70-year wait for major domestic silverware by lifting the trophy at Wembley last season with victory over Liverpool.
And they took control of this third-round tie against the League One leaders with two goals in as many firsthalf minutes at St James'
Park.
Joelinton pounced on a loose ball inside the area to score the first in the 17th minute - ending a ninemonth goal drought - after Anthony Gordon saw an initial effort blocked.
Striker Osula doubled Newcastle's lead just two minutes later after he latched on to Bruno Guimaraes' wonderful throughball and coolly finished past Bradford goalkeeper Sam Walker.
The hosts had more opportunities to extend their
Substitute Andy Cook pulled one back for Bradford late on after the boyhood Newcastle fan unleashed a venomous effort in off the underside of the bar from the edge of the area.
But Osula restored the hosts' three-goal advantage with a close-range finish as Howe's side booked their place in the last 16.
(BBC Sport)
PHIL Foden scored one and provided the assist for the second to help Manchester City battle past League One Huddersfield Town and reach the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
Pep Guardiola's side are on a run of six games in the space of 18 days in three different competitions and required the contributions of England international Foden to advance in the competition.
Foden broke the deadlock on 18 minutes by drilling an unerring finish low into the corner following a quick give-and-go with teenage debutant Divine Mukasa.
The 25-year-old was full of confidence, spraying delightful passes around the pitch, and could have doubled his tally but curled a 25-yard free-kick over the crossbar.
The hosts had openings in the first half when the ball dropped nicely for Zepiqueno Redmond on the edge of the area, but the on-loan Aston
Villa forward blazed his effort over, while captain Ben Wiles dragged wide from a promising position. But City continued to patiently work openings in the second half and got their reward 16 minutes from time when Foden squeezed out a pass to Savinho, who smashed home a finish via the underside of the crossbar.
Town could have pulled a goal back late on, but Cameron Ashia's sublime curling effort rattled the inside of the post, allowing City goalkeeper James Trafford to maintain a clean sheet on his return to the side.
City have been drawn away at Championship side Swansea in the fourth round.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – High Court judge, Justice Karen Reid, Tuesday said that the former Vice-President of the International Football Federation (FIFA), Austin Jack Warner was subjected to a “flawed” process when the United States sought his extradition to face several fraud related charges in the North American country.
“Ordinarily, civil courts are slow to make any decision, the effect of which is to thwart the conduct of criminal prosecutions, as the public interest is usually best served by having those prosecutions determined on their merits.
“When it comes to the handing over of citizens for extra-territorial prosecution, the Extradition Act provides a manner in which this is to be done, and the protections that are required to be put in place for the protection of our citizens,” Justice Reid said.
Warner, 81, faces 29 charges from US authorities for fraud, racketeering, and illegal wire transfers that allegedly took place in the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, and other countries between 1990 and June 2011. He was arrested on a provisional warrant under the extradition request and later released on TT$2.5 million (One TT dollar=US$0.16 cents) bail. Warner is one of several senior FIFA officials
indicted following a 2015 US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice probe into corruption in international football.
In August this year, Attorney General John Jeremie launched an internal investigation into how the State handled Warner’s extradition case, after serious allegations emerged regarding misrepresentation and misconduct tied to a 2015 agreement with the United States.
Former Chief Magistrate Maria Busby Earle-Caddle had in June 2023 said that there was no formal written agreement between Trinidad and Tobago and the US authorising Warner’s extradition.
When the matter came up for hearing last Friday, Justice Reid was told that the Office of the Attorney General has since conceded that a key document supporting the extradition request is non-existent, and as a result, the legal proceedings against him should be stopped.
But the judge said that she was not immediately prepared to quash the proceedings and directed that further written submissions be filed for her consideration.
British King’s Counsel, Robert Strang, representing the Attorney General’s Office, told the court that there was no existing “specialty” arrangement between the two countries that supported the certificate used to proceed
with Warner’s extradition.
“Given that at present the claimant is under continuing legal restraints on his liberty, the court should order that the ATP be set aside and that any continuing restraints on the claimant’s liberty be set aside. And, I agree that that is open to the court based on the admitted breaches of the Constitution that the Attorney General set out in his written submissions…” Strang told the judge.
His extradition proceedings had been mired in legal challenges — notably over what’s called the “specialty principle,” which requires that a person extradited can be prosecuted only for the offences listed in the extradition request.
In her ruling, the judge said that one of the protections afforded to citizens is that the rule of specialty, designed them from being prosecuted for offences other than those for which they are being extradited.
“A few things have become obvious. It is not in dispute that the only arrangement existing between the requesting state and Trinidad and Tobago is the treaty.”
The judge made reference to the London-based Privy Council, the country’s highest and final court in its rulings on the treaty provisions in relation to the specialty rule, noting that the alternative of relying on the requesting state’s laws to
But she noted that in Warner’s case, the arrangement the local and apex courts were led to believe existed was a fiction.
afford such protection would lead to uncertain results owing to differences in statutory interpretation or changes in the law.
Justice Reid said that the Privy Council had noted that because of the differences, Trinidad and Tobago’s Extradition (Commonwealth and Foreign Territories) Act “provided for specialty arrangements to be made to secure the protection of the rights of our citizens who are being extradited”
She said the Privy Council “accepted the assumption that the requesting state was acting in good faith and that even absent an agreement, the United States usually applied the specialty rule.
“And finally, the board found that the certificate of the attorney general disclosed a specialty arrangement which complied with the law.”
TOKYO, Japan, (CMC) –
In a significant recognition of her standing among her peers, Dominica’s world champion triple jumper Thea LaFond has been elected to the World Athletics Athletes’ Commission.
The election results were announced during the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25, with LaFond earning 1,293 votes to secure one of the six available seats for the 2025-2029 term.
Her appointment highlights the high regard and respect she commands from
fellow athletes worldwide.
The news adds to a triumphant week for LaFond, who recently won a silver medal in Tokyo, powerfully signalling her return to top form after surgery last year.
The importance of LaFond’s new role was immediately underscored by Billy Doctrove, President of the Dominica Olympic Association.
“I want to first congratulate Thea on her silver medal performance, which shows that she is well on her way back,” Doctrove said. “I also would like to con-
gratulate her on her election as a member of the Athletes’ Commission of World Athletics. I think it’s a major appointment for Thea and Dominica.”
The Athletes’ Commission is a crucial body within World Athletics, ensuring that competitors’ voices are directly heard in the sport’s governance.
Since 2019, the Commission’s Chair and one other member have held full voting rights on the World Athletics Council, the sport’s primary decision-making body.
LaFond was elected
alongside five other athletes: Andreas Almgren (SWE), Lia Apostolovski (SLO), re-elected member Lisanne de Witte (NED), re-elected member Anna Ryzhykova (UKR), and Gia Trevisan (ITA).
The election saw a record participation rate of 95.5% from accredited athletes.
For LaFond, this appointment positions her as a key representative for athletes globally as she continues to excel on the world stage, with expectations high for her performance at the Los Angeles 2028.
“This breach is more significant when the court considers the change in administration of the requesting state since the delivery of the board’s decision in 2022 and notwithstanding the references therein to the board’s acceptance that the requesting state will act in good faith and on its international obligations, the new administration has very publicly and quite vocally articulated and in fact demonstrated that when it comes to the rights of non-citizens, it is unburdened by considerations of procedural due process and the rule of law.
“As such, it was imperative that, as the board noted in its judgment, in order to ensure that the required statutory protection regarding specialty was being afforded to the claimant, an arrangement that expressly accorded with the requirements of Section 8.3 of the act was required to have been made between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.”
Justice Reid said that while more specific findings will be made in respect of the facts alleged by both parties and in relation to whether any of the several rights claimed that the claimants are alleged to have been breached by the defendant
were in fact breached, ”I find it is sufficient for today’s purposes to confine myself to the consideration just outlined that the conduct of the defendant breached the claimant’s right to the protection of the law as conceded by the defendant.”
In an immediate reaction to the High Court ruling, Warner, who also served as a senior government minister here, expressed his relief at the decision.
“I feel relived, but I want you to understand that this took 10 years of my life and I want to especially thank my legal team,” Warner said, after High Court Judge, Justice Karen Reid ruled against extraditing the former FIFA senior official.
“For me, it is a big event, a red letter day and all I could say I thank God and I also thank my family for standing with me through these difficult times,” he said, adding that he believes that the extradition matter against him “was a political witch-hunt.
“It has to be ….this happen to me at a time when I was serving this country at one of the highest levels in Parliament…so I consider it to be a witch-hunt, a political witch-hunt.
“But most importantly what happens after this. I want to say I want to serve the country once again,” Warner said, hinting at a return to football.
THE son of Dickie Bird's closest lifelong friend has paid tribute to the iconic former cricket umpire following his death aged 92.
Mike Parkinson, son of journalist and broadcaster Sir Michael Parkinson, said Dickie "inspired love, and my father loved him".
The pair, who used to open the batting for Barnsley Cricket Club as teenagers, were "very similar people" in that they "couldn't quite believe where they had come from", he said.
Dickie, whose real name was Harold, became one of the most famous faces in the game despite his playing career being cut short by injury.
He officiated in 66 Tests and 76 one-day internationals, including three World Cup finals, between 1973 and 1996. "If you think about those two young men sitting together at the end of play, there's no way they could've imagined where they would
end up," Mr Parkinson added.
Best friends Michael Parkinson and Dickie Bird received honorary degrees from the University of Huddersfield in 2008 [PA] He said Dickie had lived "in a wonderland of his own creation, and he never lost that".
"As people get older, sometimes you can become
cynical and bitter about things - he had none of that," he added.
"Every day was a new day for him, which is why he was so infectious to be around."
He said Dickie would show up to "everything" relating to his father, including the unveiling of a blue plaque in his honour in Cudworth, Barnsley.
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) is pleased to announce the squads for our much- anticipated 2025 Inter-County Under-13 Boys’ Tournament.
The annual tournament will feature teams from Guyana’s three Counties.
Demerara, known as the Industrial County, Essequibo, the Cinderella County, and Berbice, the Ancient County and the GCB select XI.
DEMERARA Under-13
2025 Squad reads:
Lomar Seecharran (Captain), Nathaniel Ramkhelwan, Jaden David, Dashawn Ramnauth, Makai Dowlin (Vice-Captain), Caleb Bastian, Ajay Kissoon, Nathan Puran, Rakeeb Latif, Hezekiah Hoheknirk, Tyler Redd, Mario Singh, Jasane Craig, Afraz Khan, Ashton Collins, and Jaden Kissoon.
COACH: Latchman Yadram
MANAGER: Richie Looknauth
RESERVES: Jayden Emanuel, Tafari Softleigh, Jagdesh Latif, Andrew Narine, Ravindranauth Naikbarran, and Jamal Samuels.
ESSEQUIBO Under-13 Squad 2025 reads: Demarcus Thomas (Captain), Timothy Ramdat (Vice-Captain), Tufan Chatterpaul, Mark Anthony Obermull, Savir Narine, Aiden Sheriff, Garfield John, Rondel Nurse, Devraj Persaud, Feyad Baksh, David Soman, Justin Henry, Wade Ferrier, and Eshwar Tillak.
COACH: Clive Holder
MANAGER: Nankishore Andrews
RESERVES: Aron De’Costa, Yogesh Ramnarine, Harrod De’Mattos, Saif Hussain, Justin Burton, and Vidal Narine.
BERBICE Under-13 Squad 2025: Shaid Gajnabi (Captain), Jayden Ganpat (Vice-Captain), Ashton DeJonge, Dequan Lewis, Solomon Hercules, Donovan Newland, Asif Nabi, Afraz Ali, Khemraj Bharrat, Timothy Ramsaywack, Brandon Grimmond, Austin Bridgelall, Sumit Samaroo, Adrian Emmanuel, and Kelvin Henry.
MANAGER: Edward Lyken
COACH: Leslie Solomon
Mr Parkinson said after his efforts to pull the curtain led to the fixture falling off the wall, Dickie had told him, "don't mind lad, that normally happens to me".
"All through his life, he was so full of these terrible mishaps," he added.
He described Dickie as a "terrible worrier" who would bite his nails through his gloves before going up to bat. "One day, he was so nervous - he had managed to tie his pads together but got things wrong, so when he stood up, he fell over on his face," he said.
Another mishap saw him try to cut grapes from the vine but cause them to "explode off the bunch" at a private lunch with Queen Elizabeth II. "It hit the Queen and fell on the floor," Mr Parkinson said, "and [he] thought, 'that's it, I'm going to the tower'.
"But the Queen turned to Dickie and said, 'don't worry,
it's alright, the corgis will sort that out'.
"Lo and behold, the door opened, the corgis came in and Dickie watched as they ate the discarded grapes."
He said Dickie "shone" in the company of others and would turn up to any event where he could talk to new people.
Chris Barron, secretary of the Wombwell Cricket Lovers' Society of which Dickie was president, said he would be "missed immeasurably and is irreplaceable".
He came to present his Dickie Bird Award to the society's most promising youngster every year, right up until last March, Mr Barron said.
Cricketers from all over the world who came to speak at The Wombwell were often "delighted to find Dickie Bird sitting unassumingly among the audience", the society said.
His home county side
Yorkshire, for which he served as president, described him as a "national treasure, known not only for his umpiring excellence but also for his eccentricities and warmth".
"He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship, humility and joy," the club said.
Andy from Helmsley, who grew up in Barnsley, said he had the "privilege" as a youth of being umpired by Dickie.
"He had presence around the pavilion and the dressing rooms, you just knew he would go on an make a fantastic name for himself," he said.
He described him as an "icon, a legend, Barnsley through and through".
"Barnsley, yesterday, lost one of its finest ever gentleman," he added.
"There won't ever be another Dickie Bird. They don't make them like that anymore." (BBC News)
West Indies T20I series against Proteas in 2026 likely to be reduced
GCB Select XI: Aron De’Costa, Yogesh Ramnarine, Harrod De’Mattos, Saif Hussain, Vidal Narine, Andrew Narine, Tyler Nedd (Captain), Ravindranauth Naikbarran, Jayden Emanuel, Tafari Softfeig, Daniel Johnson, Nicolas Madramootto, Marvin Chappell, Afridi Khan Vice-Captain, Royston Crandon.
COACH: Assad Fudadin
MANAGER: Terry Newton
President of the GCB, Bissoondyal Singh said the tournament continues to be a vital part of the youth development pathway in Guyana.
“We are excited to see the next generation of talent on display in this tournament. These young players have the chance to learn, grow, and showcase their ability as they aspire to higher levels of the game,” he noted.
The dates for the tournament are September 27, 28 and 30.
The GCB wishes all participating squads the very best as they prepare to compete in this year’s tournament. (GCB press release)
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, (CMC) – Next year’s T20I series between hosts South Africa and the West Indies is expected to be shortened to avoid clashing with the ICC T20 World Cup.
The two sides had been scheduled to play five T20Is between January 27 and February 6, ahead of the World Cup which runs from February 7 to March 8 and is being co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
However, according to reports by ESPNcricinfo, the T20I series will most likely be reduced to allow both teams to travel to India and Sri Lanka on time, ahead of the World Cup.
On August 28, the ICC sent participating teams a member information pack, with information regarding warm-up matches.
The document, seen by ESPNcricinfo, states that the ICC’s support period – the time in which teams are expected to arrive in the host countries and play non-obligatory warm-up games – starts on January 31.
That has moved up from February 3, while Crick -
West Indies and South Africa may have to reduce their five-match T20I series in 2026
et South Africa (CSA) had drawn up their home fixtures with the understanding that South Africa would have enough time to travel to the T20 World Cup.
CSA is currently in discussions with Cricket West Indies (CWI) to see when West Indies want to arrive in the subcontinent and how many matches they want to play there.
Even if the West Indies opts not to play any warmup
games, CSA will still have to cull at least two of the five T20Is; the last two games are on February 3 and 6. The fixtures cannot be played any earlier with the SA20 ending on January 25.
CSA is currently deciding which venues should host the matches against West Indies – at present, the venues are likely to be Paarl, Newlands, Buffalo Park in East London, Centurion and Johannesburg.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Newly crowned Caribbean Premier League (CPL) champions, the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) will receive Trinidad and Tobago’s second highest national award, Chaconia Gold.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, two days after the Knight Riders romped to their fifth CPL title by de-
feating the Guyana Amazon Warriors by three wickets in the final at Providence Stadium.
Before making the declaration, the Prime Minister met with Knight Riders’ staff and players, along with World Championship gold medallist Keshorn Walcott and silver medallist Jereem Richards.
Persad-Bissessar said it was not an easy decision in deciding how to recognise the cricketers.
THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended USA Cricket's membership with immediate effect following what it termed "repeated and continued breaches" of its obligations as an ICC Member.
The decision, taken at the ICC Board meeting, comes after a year-long review and stakeholder engagement. USA Cricket's failure to implement a functional governance structure, make progress towards recognition as a National Governing Body by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and repeated actions causing "reputational damage" to the sport were cited as key reasons.
Despite the suspension, USA's national teams will remain eligible to compete in ICC events, including the build-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. To ensure continuity, the ICC and its appointed representatives will temporarily oversee the management of USA's national sides, with a focus on high-performance programmes and player development.
A Normalisation Committee, backed by ICC management, will define the reforms needed for USA Cricket to have its membership restored. This will include governance, operational, and structural changes, with the committee also tasked with monitoring and supporting the transition.
"The suspension is an unfortunate but necessary step to protect the long-term interests of the game," the ICC said, while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding players and growing the sport in the US. (Cricbuzz)
“How do we honour you? Because it is not one of you, it is so many of you…I am glad you won the watch in Guyana.
“After Cabinet discussions earlier today, many things came about, so to honour you as a team, we have proposed that you will be given the Chaconia Gold medal tomorrow [Wednesday] at the Republic Day awards ceremony,” Persad-Bissessar said.
“I don’t want to admit it,
but I am not a great cricket fan, but because of you guys I try not to miss a game.
“You have made us so proud. We want to thank you very much and you have done it at a time when we celebrate Republic Day,” she added.
For their achievements at the recently concluded World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, Walcott will get $500,000 for winning the men’s javelin as part of the National Rewards
and Incentives Framework sports policy, while Richards will earn $250,000 for his second-place finish in the men’s 400 metres.
Additionally, the Northeastern Multipurpose Sport Facility in Sangre Grande will be renamed the Keshorn Walcott Multipurpose Sport Facility.
Walcott and Richards were also named Sports Ambassadors, along with Knight Riders’ captain Nicholas Pooran and stal -
wart Kieron Pollard. Head coach Dwayne Bravo was named a Sports Ambassador earlier this month by Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, Phillip Watts.
An elated Pooran thanked the Prime Minister for rewarding the team.
“Thank you for inviting us and honouring us… Thank you on behalf of the TKR family. We do appreciate the government supporting us,” Pooran said.
By Frederick Halley
ACTION in the inaugural One Guyana Unification softball extravaganza bowls off today at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary with the women’s category taking centre stage, following an impressive launching at the Gandhi Youth Organisation ground on Tuesday.
The tournament, the brainchild of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) and title sponsors Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, also has the blessings of the Offices of The President, Vice-president, Prime Minister and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
…Women’s category takes centre stage at Police Sports Club ground
clash with Invaders, Elite oppose Rising Stars and 4R Lioness battle Arrowhead Strikers.
Following the three matches, one of the winners will automatically qualify by virtue of a bye for Sunday’s final, set for the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourda while the other two will face off for the other place in the knockout affair.
The six teams vying for supremacy are 4R Lioness, who were victorious in the second edition of the Vice-President Cup, played last October, Number 64 Knight Riders, Elite, Rising Stars, Invaders and Arrowhead Strikers.
The women’s category, which has been boosted by a further $100,000 from
New York-based Guyanese Reshma Mathura, will see the winners carting off $400,000 instead of the original $300,000 while runners-up collect $100,000. In addition, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) will take home a threepiece living room suite.
In today’s opening fixtures, set for 9:30 hours, Number 64 Knight Riders
Guyana and West Indies batter, Shabika Gajnabi, who played a major role in 4R Lioness victory over Linden’s Supreme Stars in the Vice-president tournament in October, is once again expected to play a pivotal role in her team’s quest for victory.
Gajnabi slammed a brilliant undefeated 105 in that final, upstaging Supreme Stars Annastacia Vanzuela who had earlier smashed 96 when Supreme Stars were asked to bat first. Set a challenging 168 for victory, after Supreme Stars reached 167 for four in their allotted 15 overs, 4 R
Officials of the GSCL and sponsors pose with the Toyota Vitz Car which will be won by the MVP of the Legends Over-50 category. From left are, Danny Persaud of ARD Youtuber, Tilesha Ousman, Secretary/Treasurer of the GSCL, Shurine Hardyal/Mahendra Hardyal of title sponsors, Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, GSCL President Ian John, Tournament Director John Ramsingh and Jitendra Singh of Rajiv Gandhi University (Turn to page 25)