Narine,
From left: Acting Chancellor Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire, outgoing Chancellor Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Acting Chief Justice Justice Navindra Singh
Essequibo Agro and Trade Fair opens with call to strengthen public-private collaboration
— PM Phillips highlights government’s ongoing
investment in Region Two
by Indrawattie Natram
THE Essequibo Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) officially opened its 19th Annual Agro and Trade Fair on Friday evening, marking another milestone in fostering business growth and collaboration across Region Two.
The event, themed “Empowering Local Business Growth: Celebrating Innovation, Connectivity, and Sustainability,” provides a major platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products, exchange knowledge and explore new partnerships.
The opening ceremony was graced by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Anthony Phillips, who delivered the feature address.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister commended the ECCI for bringing together over 120 exhibitors under one roof, describing the event as a “practical demonstration of what co-operation can achieve.”
He highlighted that the trade fair offers a unique space for networking, learning, and sharing innovative ideas — all of which strengthen the ties between the public and private sectors.
He noted that both large and small enterprises rely on partnerships to grow and succeed and lauded the Chamber’s efforts as a valuable service to the region.
Reflecting on the nation’s development, Prime Minister Phillips said Guyana continues to experience rapid progress across all sectors, with growth that is “visible and measurable.”
He pointed out that
increased production has enabled the government to invest in critical areas nationwide. He also highlighted the Local Content Act of 2021, which continues to create new opportunities for Guyanese businesses to provide goods and services within the expanding economy.
The Prime Minister further mentioned transformative projects such as the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge and the upcoming four-lane highway for Essequibo, both of which will improve connectivity and enhance economic activity.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that “Guyana’s development benefits all its people.”
Conveying greetings from President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Cabinet members, Prime Minister Phillips reiterated the administration’s continued focus on investing in Region Two and creating a policy environment that stimulates sustained growth.
He said that the gov-
ernment is working to provide more energy for the region through the Solar Farms, which will reduce electricity costs for Essequibians.
The Expo, held at the Anna Regina Secondary School grounds, featured more than 100 exhibitors across various sectors, reflecting ECCI’s vision of “moving businesses forward.
ECCI representative Rawl Pearce expressed pride in hosting the 19th edition of the event, noting the participation of over 120 companies and an anticipated turnout of 20,000 patrons.
He commended ECCI President Ganesh Jaigobin and his team for their tireless work in organising the expo and reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting the local business community through stronger private-public sector collaboration.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan praised the level of participation and reaffirmed the close partnership between the Re -
gional Democratic Council (RDC), ECCI, and the local business sector.
He emphasised the RDC’s dedication to transparency and collaborative governance, noting that the expo provides a valuable platform for networking and attracting new investors to the region.
Meanwhile, Director of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Kamrul Baksh, highlighted the growing tourism potential of the Essequibo Coast, mentioning the emergence of new eco-lodges such as one in Tapakuma, which further diversifies the region’s economy.
Among the notable exhibitors was Frank Sanichara, owner of Suri Trading and Sleepy Diapers Caribbean, who shared that the expo continues to serve as a vital opportunity to connect with Essequibians. His booths drew significant attention with giveaways and engaging displays.
Other standout participants included Bena Lall, CEO of SZZ Group of Companies, who high
The Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) also played a pivotal role, sponsoring five small businesses to showcase their products and services to local and international audiences.
See page 4
Photos and story
Prime Minister posting with Owner of Big Birds and Son Lallbacchan Narine at the first night of the ECCI
A local exhibitor, Chandanie Mangra of Cean’s Organic, who showcased locally made pepper sauces in unique flavours like pineapple, cucumber and bilimbi
Essequibo Agro and Trade Fair opens ...
lighted the company’s wide range of authentic imported home and beauty products and Chandanie Mangra of Cean’s Organic, who showcased locally made pepper sauces in unique flavours like pineapple, cucumber, and bilimbi.
Additionally, Aidemo Charles, CEO of Cashew Nature Guyana, proudly presented nine innovative awara-based sauces developed at the Anna Regina Agro-Processing Facility, describing the experience as “a valuable opportunity for small producers like myself to grow.”
With over 120 booths representing industries from agriculture and manufacturing to commerce and government, the ECCI Agro and Trade Fair continues to be a driving force for entrepreneurship, innovation and regional development across the Essequibo Coast.
Blairmont Estate remains operational following minor fire incident
— Minister Mustapha says production unaffected, safety protocols effective
THE Blairmont Estate remains fully operational following a minor fire that occurred on Friday on the gantry section of the facility.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, confirmed the incident and assured that the situation was swiftly brought under
control with no disruption to production.
“The estate remains in full operation,” Minister Mustapha told the Guyana Chronicle, emphasising that the management and workers acted promptly to contain the blaze and ensure the safety of everyone on site.
According to the Minister, the fire started while workers were conducting welding activities on the gantry, but was quickly extinguished before it could spread.
“It was very minor and there were no reported injuries,” he said.
Minister Mustapha
further noted that the Blairmont Estate, one of the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) key sugar-producing facilities, continues its operations uninterrupted. He confirmed that harvesting and processing activities are ongoing as scheduled.
One of the exhibitors at the trade fair
THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) remains one of the region’s most visionary achievements, a tangible expression of the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) aspirations for unity, independence, and self-determination.
Yet, more than two decades after its establishment, it continues to face a puzzling deficit of regional support.
This ongoing reluctance, as Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, rightly described this week, is an “enigma.”
Speaking on his programme Issues in the News, Nandlall renewed his call for CARICOM states to adopt the CCJ in its appellate jurisdiction, urging governments to demonstrate real commitment to regional integration, not merely in rhetoric, but through action.
His remarks followed the recent swearing-in of Justice Dr Christopher Arif Bulkan, the newest Guyanese appointed to the CCJ’s bench.
The ceremony, held at the Office of the
Subrian’s sermon collapses under its own contradictions Embracing CCJ
Dear Editor,
REFERENCE is drawn to a recent letter, “Jagdeo’s falsehoods about WIN’s leader’s visit to the Venezuelan Embassy strikes at the heart of public trust and national security,” authored by Mr Jonathan Subrian.
The letter comprises several sweeping statements aimed at the Vice President and the Government of Guyana, yet -ironically - reads as obfuscation prefaced upon untruth.
Subrian’s missive begins by asserting that the Venezuelan Ambassador “decried VP Bharrat Jagdeo’s pre-2025 election propaganda that was hell bent on painting the unpatriotic picture that the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party Leader Mr Azruddin Mohamed, is buddies with Maduro/ Venezuela and smacks clearly as an aberration of statesmanship on the VP’s part.”
He continues, moralising: “To hold one of the highest offices in the PPP-led government and openly lie to the Guyanese nation is a desecration of the office and abuse of Guyana’s taxpayers’ dollars.”
This is bizarre, as no record of such a statement from the VP even exists. Subrian’s
President and attended by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and CCJ President Justice Winston Anderson, was a proud moment for Guyana.
It also served as a timely reminder of how far the regional court has come, and how far it still has to go.
Since its inauguration in 2005, the CCJ has been tasked with two vital roles: exercising original jurisdiction over disputes arising from the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and serving as the final appellate court for those nations willing to replace the British Privy Council.
However, to date, only Guyana, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and Saint Lucia have taken that decisive step toward judicial independence.
Ironically, Trinidad and Tobago, the seat of the CCJ’s headquarters, remains outside the appellate framework, a symbolic contradiction that reflects the broader hesitation across the region.
Nandlall’s observation that this situation is both a “travesty” and an “oddity,” is dif-
ficult to dispute.
CARICOM has repeatedly championed ideals of unity, sovereignty, and economic integration — through initiatives such as the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), yet it continues to rely on a foreign court in London for final judicial review.
How can the Caribbean credibly speak of decolonisation while retaining the Privy Council as the ultimate arbiter of its justice? The persistence of this colonial vestige not only undermines the region’s sovereignty, but also conveys a lack of confidence in its own institutions.
The CCJ, by contrast, has consistently proven its competence, fairness, and integrity. In Guyana, the court’s judgments have strengthened the rule of law and bolstered confidence in judicial independence.
The court has demonstrated its ability to interpret complex constitutional issues, maintain impartiality, and deliver reasoned rulings that align with democratic principles.
Opponents often argue that the CCJ is too young or politically vulnerable to replace the centuries-old Privy Council.
Yet, these concerns overlook the fundamental truth that every enduring institution was once new. The strength of the CCJ will only grow with use, through the trust and participation of the very nations that created it.
Regional leaders must therefore move beyond hesitation and symbolism. The Caribbean cannot fully claim to be self-governing while outsourcing its highest judicial authority.
Supporting the CCJ in its appellate jurisdiction is not simply a matter of legal reform; it is an act of regional affirmation.
As Justice Bulkan takes his place on the bench, his appointment should serve as both a celebration of Guyanese excellence and a call to collective responsibility.
If the Caribbean is serious about charting its own destiny, then it must embrace its own court, and, with it, its own justice.
rhetoric, albeit sanctimonious, is therefore built upon disinformation.
He builds upon this, calling on the citizenry to distrust any further statements from the Government of Guyana regarding the border situation. Disinformation aside, this lofty call for sensitivity on border-related issues rings hollow when contrasted with his public and political association with WIN’s leader, Azruddin Mohamed who, alongside his father, was sanctioned under the far-reaching Magnitsky Act for gold smuggling. Gold, which, according to Reuters, came from Venezuela. Subrian has been extremely vocal over a fabrication of the Vice President’s comments.
On August 14, Jagdeo raised concern over Mr Nazar Mohamed’s visits to the Venezuelan Embassy, a claim upon which he staked his entire political career.
A claim corroborated by widely circulated footage in the media, on August 29, confirms the visits. We are less apprised of Subrian’s views or concerns on this video. Moreover, the WIN campaign, which comprised both Subrian and Dr Mark France, formerly from ANUG, has yet to comment on the video circulating altogether. Why?
Moreover, the entire missive relies upon comments made by the Venezuelan Ambassador to the Stabroek News. SN’s reportage, intended as the pièce de résistance in his attack on Jagdeo, was quickly clarified by the publication to be an error, stating that the ambassador was only asked whether Azruddin visited the Embassy.
This confirms that Subrian’s entire sermon was built upon falsehood.
Further, in the interest of “public trust” -as Subrian eloquently puts - yet to be known is commentary from Subrian, or any of the former ANUG cohort, on the indictments of Azruddin Mohamed by a U.S. Grand Jury - with whom he is politically and publicly associated, and whose reputation he is passionately defending over an “erroneously” reported news story.
In addition, currently unknown is any disclosure from anyone in the WIN camp on said party’s campaign financing. On Nomination Day, Azruddin Mohamed told the press that his campaign would be run using his “life savings,” yet failed to situate said savings within the context of the OFAC sanctions.
In August, the WIN campaign published
correspondence within an OFAC compliance hotline where they admitted that the candidates’ bank accounts closures were impacting their ability to campaign. Perhaps Mr Subrian could shed some long overdue light on these gaps.
Finally, it is imperative for Mr Subrian to clarify the capacity within which he writes. Is he writing as a spokesperson for WIN? Or is he writing as General Secretary of ANUG? Mr Subrian’s signature bears the title of “Esquire.”
Yet upon a cursory search, Mr Subrian doesn’t appear to be registered with the Bar in Guyana, New York, nor any other jurisdiction. Neither could one find a single reference to any semblance of legal qualification on the public record. Furthermore, his GECOM voter registration information, in Region Three, lists him as a Photographer.
It is imperative that truth and patriotism form the basis of our contributions, over vacuous platitudes. The Guyanese public deserves nothing less.
Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar.
GHK Lall: Portrait of Guyana’s enduring political disease
FOR the long, long time I have been ensconced in social activism and journalism, I have pontificated on the political disease that has entrenched itself in the psychology of Guyana.
My perennial point is if you are going to criticise power as undemocratic, then you will lose the battle, the war and even yourself if you do not fight from a position of principled steadfastness.
The undemocratic power you criticise will not go away but win over converts to its side because undemocratic power is going to use your double standards to tell the nation that you have no moral compass to criticise anyone anywhere. I have seen the ubiquity of this political disease all my life.
I was part of the WPA, and it was in that era (the 1970s) that I saw how critics of power can be shockingly hypocritical, and they played into the hands of the Burnham regime. My mind goes back to the early 1970s when I was a freshman at UG. I was active in the WPA when a big quarrel broke out inside the WPA.
It centred on Clive Thomas, who was seen playing lawn tennis in the courtyard of Prime Minister Forbes Burnham’s residence. At the time, Thomas was one of the most crucial critics of the Burnham regime. What Thomas was accused of became child’s play in the WPA after Rupert Roopnarine became the worst example of political double standards.
Three very strategically placed Burnhamites liked me, for reasons I knew, but still remained mysterious to me and will until I die. They were Elvin Mc David, Burnham’s most trusted political and ideological lieutenant and Oliver Hinckson. But the third one was special, former Commissioner of Police and Burnham’s most trusted intelligence chief, Laurie Lewis.
I learnt from them about people who appeared as the world’s purest democrats, willing to remove the PNC, but whose shadows had swallowed their souls and they knew not a damn thing about principles, morality, much less democracy. I have seen degeneracy in most of the people who criticised the Burnham, Hotye, Jagdeo, Granger and Ali governments.
Before space runs out, let’s move to the essence of this column – the double standards of GHK Lall. This gentleman operates with the delusion or illusion that, as a critic of power, he has no obligation to answer criticism of his own activism. He takes the high ground that he is operating on sacrosanct grounds, which makes him special.
It is a delusion of grandeur which has been abruptly shattered over his Gold Board controversy. But that has not brought Mr. Lall down to reality. He still feels comfortable in his majestic understanding that he is special. Because he feels he is special (a title bestowed on him by Glen Lall of the Kaieteur News, Anand Persaud of the Stabroek News and Denis Chabrol of Demerara Waves), Lall is more entrenched in the belief that he does not have any obligation to respond to people who exposed his fragile claim to righteousness.
Mr. Lall held a contorted press conference in which only his patrons, Stabroek News and Demerara Waves, were present and he told them that in the document on gold smugglers in Guyana that the Americans sent to him, the Mohameds were not on the list. But Lall’s boss contradicted Lall’s press conference delivery. Then Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, said that the very document contained the names of Mohamed.
Trotman also denied as Lall stated in his press conference, that he, Lall, forwarded the American document to him as Minister. Here are the words of Trotman: “I don’t have any recollection of receiving any document from GHK Lall.” Now Trotman made these two statements on Wednesday. The next day, Thursday and the day after, Friday (yesterday), Lall published two columns in Kaieteur News and chose not to provide answers to Trotman’s position.
Lall only spoke about his time as chairman of the Gold Board when Guyanese Critic called him out. For the two years that the Mohameds were under OFAC sanctions, Lall never said a word. Why? Because Lall did not feel, in those two years, that he had an obligation to talk about it. And when he did last week, he chose Travis Chase and the Stabroek News to report to, not the general media community in Guyana.
The Vice-President, Mr. Jagdeo asserted that Lall, when as Gold Board chairman, facilitated a mining licence for Travis Chase. Secondly, how did Lall become head of the Gold Board in 2017? Thirdly, does he have majority financing in Demerara Waves and fourthly, Lall’s profession on the electoral roll is listed as lawyer.
Is he? The man is so pompous that he refuses to answer those four questions.
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.
Norton says supporters thought voting for another party would help APNU
— admits party facing ‘reality’ of internal misjudgments and voter confusion
CHAIRMAN of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Aubrey Norton has attributed the party’s devastating performance at the 2025 General and Regional Elections to its own supporters voting for another political party, believing that it would indirectly strengthen the APNU’s chances.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Norton said that while the party entered the elections confident in its manifesto and slate of candidates, widespread bribery and misguided decisions among its base played a major role in the outcome.
He added that this is the “reality” the party must now face, acknowledging that its traditional support base was fractured.
“In these elections, I won’t say which particular party, but they bribed Toshaos, they bribed persons who would normally support us. I can tell you in Linden, you could go and check the amount of motorcycles that were purchased for people,” he claimed.
Norton’s comments come in the wake of political parties suggesting that the APNU’s attempt to indirectly align with the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party backfired spectacularly.
PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, had previously noted that APNU’s silent support for WIN, in hopes of splitting the PPP/C’s voter base, ultimately backfired.
“In the election, like I said, we thought we had a good manifesto, we had interesting young candidates, etcetera, but bribery played a critical role. And I can give you examples of cases where persons who are supporters of the APNU were actually bribed, and now they say to you, they’re sorry they made a mistake, but they thought voting in that particular direction would help the opposition,” Norton said.
Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that while APNU stayed quiet on WIN’s criminal controversies, the new party positioned itself as a rival to both major political forces, often promoting misinformation and distancing itself from the previous APNU+AFC administration.
He highlighted that WIN, led by sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, even advanced false narratives, including claims that the current government was responsible for sanctions placed on the Mohamed family, while refraining from criticising the former coalition’s record.
There were clear indications that APNU was hoping WIN would pressure the PPP/C’s strongholds, but instead, according to critics, it has laid bare the desperation within the APNU camp, as prominent figures along with party supporters are abandoning ship, all while the PPP/C maintains its strength.
APNU had suffered a
massive blow at the 2025 General and Regional Elections, mustering only 12 seats in the National Assembly. The newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party is set to become Guyana’s main opposition.
In parliament, APNU will be led by businessman Dr. Terrence Campbell.
The other parliamentarians include Coretta McDonald, Ganesh Mahipaul, Nima Flue-Bess, Dr. David Hinds, Riaz Rupnarain, Sherod Duncan, Sharma Raheem Solomon, Dr. Dexter Todd, Saiku Andrews and Vinceroy Jordan.
Norton has confirmed that he will not return to Parliament, instead focusing on rebuilding the party from the ground up.
Further, Norton refrained from offering a justification as to why the slate is as is, particularly the exclusion of members such as the party’s former Chief Whip Christopher Jones.
Justice Cummings Edwards to proceed on pre-retirement leave
–– Justices George-Wiltshire and Singh to maintain acting positions
HIS Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced that he has accepted the request of Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, who has been acting as Chancellor of the Judiciary, to proceed on pre-retirement leave, followed by early retirement.
The Head of State made the announcement on Friday in a video message to the nation, confirming that Justice Cummings-Edwards’ leave will take effect from Monday, October 27.
“After due consideration, I acceded to this request,” President Ali stated.
He expressed gratitude to the outgoing Chancellor for her years of dedicated service to the judiciary and to the people of Guyana.
“I express my personal appreciation for her many years of public service, and I wish her God’s blessings and that of the people of Guyana,” the President said.
In light of Justice Cum-
ident Ali in July 2023.
Both Justices George-Wiltshire and Singh were initially appointed to act in their current positions in August, when Justice Cummings-Edwards first proceeded on leave. At that time, President Ali had said the decision was necessary to maintain continuity and operational efficiency within the judiciary.
mings-Edwards’ departure, President Ali disclosed that Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire will continue to act in the office of Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Navindra Singh will continue to serve in an acting capacity as Chief Justice.
He also noted that Justice Singh was, on Friday, sworn in as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) at State House. Singh will serve as a member of the JSC for three years. The Commission was reconstituted after six years by Pres-
President Ali reaffirmed that these acting appointments reflect his administration’s ongoing commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, which he described as pillars of Guyana’s democracy.
Justice Cummings-Edwards and Justice George-Wiltshire have both been serving in acting roles as Chief Justice and Chancellor, respectively, for more than five years.
The President had previously acknowledged the need to fill these positions substantively, reiterating his intention to find a lasting solution to strengthen the country’s judicial leadership.
Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards
Justice Navindra Singh
UN Day celebrated with open house and health fair in Georgetown
— Minister Teixeira reaffirms Guyana’s commitment to peace, democracy and global cooperation
By Faith Greene
AS the world marked United Nations (UN) Day on October 24, the United Nations in Guyana opened its doors to the public for a special UN House Open Day Exhibition and Health Fair, held at its Duke Street, Kingston headquarters.
The event, which was held on Friday, provided an opportunity for citizens to engage directly with various UN agencies operating in Guyana and to learn more about the organisation’s mission to promote peace, sustainable development, human rights, and global co-operation.
The exhibition featured booths from several UN bodies, highlighting their local and global contributions to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Delivering remarks, UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana, Jean Kamau, noted that this year’s observance carries special significance as the UN celebrates 80 years globally and 59 years in Guyana.
She remarked that the UN has grown in Guyana, in size, scope and the services it provides to Guyanese.
Representing the Government of Guyana, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, reaffirmed the country’s long-standing support for the principles of the UN
and its global peace agenda. She affirmed that Guyana stands very firmly with the UN on the issue of post-unilateralism, that we are for peace and security, and that we believe strongly that we cannot have development unless we have democracy and peace.
Minister Teixeira said, “And of course in the last few years, Guyana has taken the lead in the climate justice, climate action, and of course you know the Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, she represented the Guyana Government in creating the new youth office for UN, which was an important intervention in terms of recognising that the majority of the population in the world is young, and that they should have a voice at the UN.”
The Minister assured that Guyana remains a firm believer that the UN role,
after the Second World War, and even more so today, is more critical in terms of being the moral compass for the world. Minister Teixeira said we are here to support the UN and ensure that in this period, the UN is as effective as possible.
The UN has several agencies in Guyana, these are: the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), IFAD, the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organisation for Migration (IOM), International Trade Centre (ITC), the Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UN ECLAC), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), among several other entities.
Along with the Open
Day was a health fair, which was organised with the Ministry of Health to offer basic health screenings, wellness information, and tips for healthy living.
These included doctors’
consultations, vital checks, adolescent health, vaccines for yellow fever, HPV, eye testing, and other key areas.
General Practitioner (with a focus on Mental Health), Dr. Roshanna Edwards-Foster, who represented the Ministry of Health, said they distributed health vouchers from the Ministry, and also had a booth dedicated to vector control.
Minister Gail Texeira, along with UN Resident Coordinator Jean Kamau, interacts at the PAHO booth (Delano Williams photos)
Dr. Roshanna Edwards-Foster, General Practitioner
‘Hopelessly misconceived and woefully deficient’
–– AG slams FGM’s election petition
—says application being prepared to strike out filing at High Court
AFTER a string of costly defeats in two local courts, the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) is now preparing to challenge the legitimacy of the 2025 polls at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), a move Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall SC., has labelled a “colossal abuse of the process” and “hopelessly misconceived.”
Speaking during his weekly programme, Issues in the News, Nandlall confirmed that the Attorney-General’s Chambers is preparing to file an application to dismiss the petition challenging the validity of the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections.
“Our application will be filed as soon as possible and hopefully, we will get a hearing early to ventilate this legal proceeding,” Nandlall stated.
Earlier this month, the Court of Appeal unanimously dismissed an appeal brought by Krystal Fisher, a candidate of the FGM, against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
The appeal challenged
the exclusion of her party from ballots in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine in the recently concluded September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections.
Days before the elections, Fisher, an elector residing in Region Nine and a can -
didate on FGM’s national top-up list, had challenged GECOM’s omission of her party from the ballots in the three constituencies.
The decision was delivered by Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Roxane George, SC, who made it clear that the court found “no merit” in Fisher’s claims and reaffirmed the interpretation of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) and the Constitution of Guyana applied by Chief Justice (ag) Navindra Singh in the High Court in August.
Dissatisfied with the Appeal Court’s judgement, the FGM went to the CCJ – Guyana’s final appellate court, but as pointed out by the court, the party failed to follow the required procedures, leading to the CCJ striking
out the appeal.
Nandlall expressed frustration over the continued procedural missteps by the movement, noting that its leader, Amanza Walton-Desir, is herself an attorney-at-law.
A FLAWED PETITION
On October 14, in the name of Randolph Critchlow, FGM filed in the High Court an election petition, which challenges the validity of the September 1 elections.
According to the Attorney-General, however, the document fails to meet even the basic standards of an election petition.
“When you look at what an election petition looks like, it is not this,” Nandlall said. “They just titled it an
election petition and think that makes it one. They have violated almost every rule and procedural requirement surrounding the preparation and filing of an election petition.”
He stressed that any flaw, whether in the form, content, or procedure, is fatal in such cases and cannot be rectified later.
“There are many rules governing how this has to be done, and all of them have been violated.
The parties who ought to have been named were not even named. What I’m saying is that this petition is hopelessly misconceived and woefully deficient, and one can predict with almost virtual certainty that it will be dismissed,” the AG asserted.
Infrastructural development a catalyst for community growth — Minister Rodrigues — says
tourism expansion must empower communities while preserving Guyana’s heritage
MINISTER of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, has reaffirmed that the government’s massive infrastructural programme is not just about building roads and bridges, but about transforming lives and empowering communities across Guyana.
Speaking on Thursday during the launch of new tourism excursions in Regions Six and Nine, the minister said that building roads, bridges and other infrastructure goes far beyond construction; it’s about connection and community empowerment.
According to Minister Rodrigues, infrastructure is not just about the building of bridges but making connections and taking development to each community, while noting that improved access allows rural and hinterland areas to export products, attract visitors and showcase their unique offerings.
She explained that through the Village Councils and the autonomy of Amerindian communities to govern themselves, local leaders have leveraged ongoing infrastructural expansion to drive community-based development on their own terms.
Minister Rodrigues explained that tourism in Guyana is not solely about attracting visitors, but it
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, delivering remarks at the launch of new tourism experiences on Thursday (Delano Williams photo)
is also about equipping communities with the tools to thrive, while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.
She added that this vision is also about building a brand of tourism that authentically tells Guyana’s story on the world stage.
Guyana’s tourism sector continues to show strong growth. Between January and July 2025, the country recorded 242,655 visitor arrivals, an 18 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
“And we’ve shown the greatest increase also around the Caribbean re -
gion. We’ve been the country with the highest increase in visitors for this period,” Minister Rodrigues revealed.
She said the surge underscores the momentum behind Guyana’s tourism push and the importance of building tourism products that are sustainable, inclusive, and respectful of both people and the environment.
Minister Rodrigues encouraged all Guyanese to become storytellers for the nation, sharing not only its scenic beauty but also the everyday lives, cultures and aspirations of its people.
“Our pristine rainforests, expansive savannas, mountain ranges, waterfalls and rich cultural diversity make Guyana a top emerging destination for eco and adventure tourism. The Guyana Tourism Authority continues to lead the charge in promoting these assets, developing community-based tourism projects that ensure local people are at the centre of every visitor experience,” she expressed.
The minister reiterated that the government’s tourism strategy is about empowerment, inclusion, and long-term sustainability, ensuring that every community from the coast to the hinterland benefits from Guyana’s growing reputation as a global eco-tourism powerhouse.
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall SC
Min Edghill encourages truckers to take advantage of Guyana’s rise as a regional hub
─Guyana, Brazil international road agreement to be implemented before year’s end
MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, has said that Guyana’s emergence as a regional hub for trade and development is no accident, but is a result of the government’s visionary leadership.
One such initiative that will aid in placing Guyana as the epicentre of economic development and activity in this part of the world is the International Road Transport Agreement (IRTA) between Guyana and Brazil.
To ensure this partnership protects the interests and economic well-being of Guyanese, he met on Friday with truckers from Lethem, Region Nine, who operate along the Georgetown–Brazil route, to discuss the formalisation of cross-border travel and address their concerns.
During the engagement held at the Lethem Regional Democratic Council (RDC), the minister encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunities slated to come on stream as a result of this project.
“Our discussion today, aims for you to be more than just a man wanting a hustle. It must be how do we fix a system that allows you, oth-
ers, your children and your children’s children and us as a country to leapfrog into the next level of engagement and influence,” he said.
This partnership, which is set to be fully implemented before year’s end, will regulate the movement of passengers and cargo by road between the two countries, stimulating new tourism and investment opportunities.
Importantly, the initiative aims to streamline licensing, customs, and security processes to boost regional integration and trade.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Home Affairs will serve as Guyana’s implementing agency, while the National Land Transport Agency (ANTT) will serve as Brazil’s implementing agency.
Both agencies are responsible for registering transport companies and reviewing licensing applications for cross-border operations.
To qualify, operators must first be registered businesses and can provide key documentation, including tax identification numbers (TIN) and vehicle licences, among others.
Companies must also appoint a legal representative in Brazil to handle adminis-
trative and legal matters.
Once applications are approved, a document of competence, the official operating licence, will be issued. This will allow transport operators to move goods between Guyana and Brazil.
A supplemental licence issued through the ANTT must then be obtained within 120 days.
Meanwhile, as Guyana deepens its cross-border co-operation with Brazil, new infrastructure is being developed to support trade, security and logistics.
Minister Edghill revealed the government’s plans to establish air-conditioned containers and multi-agency facilities at strategic locations to house police, customs, immigration and anti-narcotics units.
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) will also install container scanners at border points such as the Takutu Bridge and Lethem crossing to enhance trade monitoring and security.
The minister added that plans for a deep-water harbour are advancing, and this is part of the government’s plan to position Guyana as a major player in regional shipping, logistics and trade. (DPI)
UK trade with Guyana tripled over last three years
— British High Commissioner
WITH Guyana already hailed as the United Kingdom’s largest trading partner in the Caribbean, British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, has revealed that UK trade into Guyana has tripled over the last three years.
Miller made the disclosure while speaking on a panel at the recently concluded International Business Conference (IBC), which focused on strategic partnerships for regional development.
The High Commissioner noted that the UK’s long-standing partnership with Guyana has centred on several priority areas, including business and trade, climate and environment, and democracy and governance.
says
“Over the last three years, we have tripled our trade from the UK into Guyana… why has it tripled? It’s been multiple things, obviously Guyana’s economic growth [and] the UK has had a long relationship with Guyana,”
she said.
Despite the historical ties, Miller emphasised that the UK has taken a proactive approach to strengthening its relationship with
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, engages truckers in Lethem on Friday, on the International Road Transport Agreement (IRTA) between Guyana and Brazil
British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller (Delano Williams photo)
Over 1,000 residential lots earmarked for Palmyra Housing Scheme
By Bebi Oosman
MINISTER of Housing, Collin Croal, has announced that more than 1,000 residential lots have been earmarked for development in the Palmyra Housing Scheme, designed to facilitate the construction of new homes and expand housing opportunities for families in Region Six.
“We have already started even before the recent manifesto. Behind me, we have 100 of the three-bedroom houses under construction,” Minister Croal stated during a visit, on Friday, to the area.
According to the Minister, the houses currently under construction are approximately 80 per cent complete. He expressed confidence that within another month, all works will be finalised, with
nearly half of the housing allocations already completed.
“We’re also pleased that with the allocation, those persons in the new week will be signing their agreement of sale,” he noted, explaining that once that process is completed, homeowners will be able to begin their mortgage arrangements with financial institutions.
The Palmyra Housing Project forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to provide affordable housing solutions and promote homeownership across Guyana, while simultaneously stimulating employment and economic growth in the construction sector.
“I am pleased now we are at this stage; you can see the evidence that we are going in with electricity being provided now. The internal
pipe network for the waters is already here; this system will be connected to the Sheet Anchor Treatment plan,” the Minister said.
He stressed that people who had received an alloca-
— Minister Croal says as 100 three-bedroom houses nearing completion
tion were eagerly awaiting the opportunity to take up residence in their homes.
“This is just a start… This is for young professionals; we have allocated another 100 young professional homes,” Minister Croal said while revealing that construction will soon start.
According to him, the focus this term under his ministry will be on complete home ownership, “this is where we want to push persons in the direction to have their homes and they don’t have to go through the hassle.”
Court regulars remanded over West Ruimveldt murder
TWO men were, on Friday, remanded to prison for the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Faynel Brewster, who was gunned down at her West Ruimveldt home last Sunday night.
Court regulars, 27-yearold Shaquile Wilburg and 28-year-old Akande Ross,
businessman near the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) on Brickdam. Meanwhile, in 2020, Ross was charged with robbery under arms in connection with an attack on a restaurant in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo.
Reports indicate that on the night of the shoot-
appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where they were charged with murder.
The charge alleged that, on October 19, 2025, at West Ruimveldt, the duo murdered Brewster. The men were not required to plead and were remanded to prison until November 18.
Investigators have since recovered the motorcycle allegedly used by the gunmen. According to police sources, CCTV footage from the area was instrumental in identifying the duo.
Both men are well known to law enforcement.
In 2018, Wilburg was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to an armed robbery involving $3.3 million, stolen from a
ing, Brewster’s 31-year-old brother, a businessman, had just returned home on his black XR motorcycle when he was confronted by two armed men who attempted to rob him of his motorcycle and gold chains. A struggle ensued, during which one of the gunmen opened fire. Brewster, who was standing nearby, was struck twice, once to the upper right arm and once to the left side of her chest.
She was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where she was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspects fled the scene on a black XR motorcycle without taking any property.
Crime Scene Unit investigators recovered a 9mm spent shell at the scene.
The houses which are currently under construction in Palmyra
Minister of Housing, Collin Croal
Norton calls for law to take its course in Sears case
CHAIRMAN of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton, has urged the public to allow the law to take its course in the case involving former APNU+AFC Parliamentarian Devin Sears, who was recently remanded for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
Norton, who is often vocal on issues of crime and corruption, made the appeal during a virtual press conference on Friday, when he cautioned against rushing to judgment.
“All I would say here is that, like every human being in this society, you should be presumed innocent until he’s proven guilty…We are saying the same thing when it comes to other crimes committed in society, that we seem to just want to make Devin Sears guilty.
“I hold no brief for
APNU Chairman
Aubrey Norton charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
him, but all I would say to you, he should be assumed innocent until proven guilty, and that should apply across the board,” Norton told reporters during a press conference on Friday.
Devin Sears was on Thursday remanded to prison after appearing before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Linden Magistrates’ Court,
UK trade with Guyana tripled over ...
From page 11
Guyana in recent years.
She highlighted a number of initiatives that have deepened collaboration between the two nations, such as visa-free travel for Guyanese to the UK, the establishment of direct flights and the creation of a British Chamber of Commerce to support bilateral business engagement.
Adding to these developments, the High Commissioner announced that the UK recently increased its export finance support to Guyana from £2.1 billion to £3 billion, reflecting growing confidence in the country’s economy.
“That amount is based on statistics, on Guyana’s economy… we would never increase our ceiling to a level the country couldn’t borrow from. So, it’s purely what we think is sustainable,” Miller explained.
The expansion of the UK Export Finance (UKEF) facility aligns with Guyana’s rapid economic growth and the government’s ongoing efforts to ramp up infrastructure projects and attract foreign investment.
The enhanced support is expected to enable greater collaboration in priority sectors identified by the Government of Guyana over the next five years. Trade between the two nations has been surging. As of last year, officials reported that UK-Guyana trade totalled £1.9 billion by the end of the first quarter, representing a 17.7 per cent increase and accounting for 34.3 per cent of all UK-CARIFORUM trade.
Sears, 39, pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded until November 11, 2025, for report and disclosure.
His co-defendant, Albert Sandy, a 69-year-old farmer of Tacama Waterfront, Upper Berbice River, pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.
Sandy took full responsibility for the 310.71 kilogrammes of marijuana found in the vehicle, but despite his admission, Magistrate Liverpool nonetheless remanded Sears pending further proceedings.
Sears is being represented by Attorneys-at-law Nigel Hughes and Bernard Da Silva.
The charges stem from a major drug ‘bust’ that occurred on Monday, Oc-
tober 20, in the vicinity of the old Bamia Police Checkpoint in Linden.
The police on mobile patrol stopped a dark blue Toyota Hiace minibus bearing registration number BAJ 4486, which is registered to the Region 10 Tourism Committee Inc.
According to the police report, Sears, who was driving the vehicle, began acting suspiciously and started “sweating profusely.”
When questioned, he allegedly told the officers he was transporting “tourism plants.”
A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered 22 bulky black plastic bags and four large brown canvas bags containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.
The narcotics, when weighed, amounted to 310.71 kilogrammes. Both men were arrested and cautioned. The police said
Sandy admitted that the drugs belonged to him and that he had paid Sears to transport him to Parika.
Following the incident, Sears, who also served as an educator and political activist, tendered his resignation to the Region 10 Tourism Committee.
In a statement, the committee distanced itself from his alleged actions, noting that they were “personal and unrelated to the organisation’s mission of promoting eco-tourism and regional development.”
Meanwhile, the Alliance For Change (AFC) said it would allow the judicial process to take its course, reiterating that all persons are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
The party further highlighted its commitment to integrity, accountability, and lawful conduct among its members.
President Ali welcomes more Chinese companies to invest in Guyana
— Eyes growth, development for Guyana
AS Guyana and China deepen collaboration, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has opened the door and is encouraging more Chinese companies to invest in Guyana and contribute to the nation’s rapid transformation.
The two sides exchanged views on bilateral relations and practical co-operation during a meeting on Wednesday.
“President Ali welcomed more Chinese companies to invest in Guyana to support the country’s development and transformation,” a statement published by the Chinese Embassy to Guyana read.
Ambassador Yang applauded Guyana’s firm commitment to China-Guyana Friendship and support for the four global initiatives proposed by China’s President Xi Jinping.
“China stands ready to strengthen synergy with Guyana to deliver more outcomes in Belt and Road co-operation for the benefit of the two countries and two peoples,” the statement read.
It stated that President Ali spoke highly of the Guyana-China partnership and pragmatic co-operation
and looked forward to deepening bilateral co-operation.
Guyana and China continue to strengthen their long-standing partnership, especially as the South American nation enters a new era of economic growth.
Bilateral trade between Guyana and China has expanded significantly in recent years, reaching an alltime high of approximately US$1.4 billion in 2024.
On infrastructure, the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge is the most
recent symbolic and literal project that summarises the deep and mutual relationship between the two nations.
The new bridge, constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, represents one of the most transformative infrastructural projects in Guyana’s modern history.
Spanning 2.6 kilometres, it links Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), providing round-the-clock, toll-
free access.
Also, six regional hospitals have been commissioned this year already, including Lima, De Kinderen, Enmore, Diamond, Bath and the No. 75 Regional Hospitals in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three, Four, Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), respectively.
The bilateral meeting between the two countries in the early 1990s when the first Chinese Medical Brigade supported Guyana by not only providing medical supplies, but also by carrying out critical outreaches across the country.
with the launch of the International Medical Training Partnership between the Ministry of Health and the Jiangsu Commission of Health.
All of these institutions have 24-hour Accident and Emergency, 24-hour ‘labs,’ a suite of imaging services, including ultrasound, digital X-Ray, and CT scans, along with operating theatres and more, thereby eliminating long hours of travelling to access quality care.
Further, recently, the 21st Chinese Medical Team arrived in Guyana.
This partnership began
Since then, several brigades have served in Guyana, thus contributing to various areas, such as at the GPHC, the Linden Public Hospital and other public healthcare facilities nationwide.
Today, the partnership continues to flourish, with recent donations such as US$50,000 worth of advanced ophthalmology equipment and a 4K Fluorescence Laparoscopy Surgical System, which improves precision in minimally invasive surgeries at the institution.
This growth in co-operation was further solidified
Through this programme, seven doctors, five from the GPHC and two from the West Demerara Regional Hospital are in China undergoing training through the China-Guyana Specialist (Jiangsu) Training Programme, which aims to enhance their clinical skills, while giving them exposure to advanced technologies.
Joint initiatives in renewable energy, smart agriculture, and digital technologies, which align with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), are advancing environmentally responsible growth.
Caribbean’s largest inflatable theme park to make splash in Guyana
FAMILIES and thrill-seekers across Guyana are in for an unforgettable adventure as Caribbean MegaBounce, the Caribbean’s largest inflatable theme park, makes its highly anticipated debut at the YMCA Grounds in Thomas Lands from Friday, October 31 to Monday, November 3, 2025.
The mega attraction, which has captivated crowds in Barbados, Jamaica, and Antigua, promises a fullscale entertainment experience like no other. Organised by the international Caribbean MegaBounce team in collaboration with Wildfire Entertainment, the event is expected to draw thousands over the four-day holiday weekend.
Founder of Wildfire Entertainment, Jonathan Beepat, described the event as more than just an enter-
tainment spectacle.
“This event isn’t just about fun—it’s about creating shared spaces where families and communities connect,” Beepat said. “Guyana’s vibrant and evolving entertainment scene makes it the perfect destination for an event of this scale.”
Spanning thousands of square feet, the inflatable park will feature a 15,000-square-foot main bounce house, a 600-foot four-lane obstacle course, a towering mega slide, and several themed installations.
A live DJ booth will keep the energy high throughout each session.
Beepat emphasised that Caribbean MegaBounce is designed for everyone:
“While kids will be in their element, adults are encouraged to join in too. Whether you’re challenging your teens on the
–– arrives in Georgetown October 31 for Halloween weekend
obstacle course or racing down the mega slide, it’s about families having fun together.”
HOURS AND TICKET INFORMATION
The fun kicks off on Friday, October 31, from 15:00 hours to 22:00 hours, with extended hours on Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2 from 11:00 hours to 22:00 hours, before wrapping up on Monday, November 3, from 15:00 hours to 22:00 hours.
Admission prices: Children (ages 2–11): $4,000; Adults: $5,000; and Family package (2 adults + 2 children): $16,000. Each ticket provides unlimited access to all attractions and same-day re-entry privileges, allowing guests to come and go freely throughout the day.
Event sponsors Beepats and Sterling Products will enhance the experience with exciting giveaways, including Santal juices, Goya cookies, and ice cream treats for kids.
All participants are required to wear socks while on the inflatables for safety reasons — “No socks, no bouncing,” Beepat reminded.
Tickets are available at: Beepats, Regent Street; Giftland OfficeMax Department Store, Giftland Mall, Turkeyen; Mattai’s The Food Mart, Water & Hope Streets; YMCA Grounds, Thomas Lands; and Bad Monkey Merch Stores at Amazonia Mall; Giftland Mall, Movietown Mall, and Leonora Mall With just days to go before opening, excitement is already mounting as Georgetown prepares to host what organisers are calling “the Caribbean’s biggest bounce party ever.”
President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and China’s Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang
Minister Manickchand meets with Region
Two’s RDC to strengthen local governance
— engagement part of national initiative to improve collaboration, service delivery
By Indrawattie Natram
MiINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, on Friday, met with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two) as part of her ongoing national initiative to engage directly with local democratic organs across Guyana.
The meeting, held in the RDC Boardroom, Anna Regina, forms part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to strengthen collaboration, enhance service delivery, and ensure that regional and local governance structures are effectively supported in fulfilling their mandates.
In attendance were Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan; Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit; Regional Executive Officer, Susanah Saywack and the newly sworn-in Councillors of the RDC.
Minister of Local Gov -
During the engagement, Minister Manickchand reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working in close partnership with the RDC to address key developmental priorities within the region. These include improvements to community infra-
structure, waste management, local economic development and the delivery of social services.
She emphasised that open dialogue and consistent collaboration between central and local government bodies were essential to ensuring that citizens benefit equitably from national development programmes.
The meeting was part of a series of planned engagements with all Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs), Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and Municipalities nationwide.
The goal is to strengthen coordination, identify challenges firsthand and provide the necessary guidance and resources to enhance governance and public service outcomes at the local level.
Minister Manickchand was accompanied by senior Ministry officials, including Josh Kanhai, Deputy Permanent
Secretary (Administration); Marcel Persaud, Technical Assistant & Administrator; Deolall Rooplall, Chief Regional Development Officer; Surendra Khayyam, Principal Region-
al Development Officer and Herolall Doodnauth, Engineer.
The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development remains steadfast in its commit-
ment to strengthening local government systems to better serve communities and to support Guyana’s continued growth and development.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, flanked by Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan; Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit; Regional Executive Officer, Susanah Saywack and the newly sworn-in Councillors of the RDC
ernment and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand
BRUSTER’S Real Ice Cream will, this Sunday, October 26, 2025, host the final warm-up event before the prestigious 2025 Brava Guyana Open Golf Championship at the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC).
The tournament will tee off at 08:00 hours sharp and is expected to feature a strong lineup of both local and international golfers eager to test their form ahead of the country’s most anticipated golfing event.
Serving as the final competitive tune-up before the two-day Guyana Open, scheduled for November 1st and 2nd, this weekend’s tournament is expected to deliver an engaging and high-level display of skill and sportsmanship.
The format will be medal play over 18 holes, allowing players to challenge themselves under conditions similar to those they will face at the championship.
Prizes will be awarded for Best Net (1st, 2nd, and 3rd places), Overall Best Gross, Nearest to the Flag (Hole #19), and Longest Drive (Hole #19).
These categories are designed to recognise outstanding performances across various levels of play, encouraging golfers of all skill ranges to compete at their best.
Bruster’s hosts final warm-up ahead of Guyana Open Eagles open against Scorpions in Super50
Director of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Guyana, Paton George, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the sport and fostering youth involvement. “We are proud of our partnership with the Lusignan Golf Club, now in its fifth uninterrupted year,” George said.
“As one of the main sponsors of the Easter Weekend tournaments and the children’s Drive, Chip & Putt competitions, Bruster’s has been and will continue to support the growth of golf in Guyana. Our commitment is to help grow the game through youth participation.”
He further emphasised that Bruster’s sponsorship reflects the company’s broader approach to corporate social responsibility.
“We look forward to hosting this weekend’s final warm-up tournament and continuing to support the sport through our Easter events and kids’ programmes in the years ahead,” he added.
As anticipation builds for the 2025 Brava Guyana Open, this Sunday’s tournament promises a day of competitive play, camaraderie, and preparation, highlighting Bruster’s enduring role in advancing the development of golf in Guyana.
THE Guyana Harpy Eagles will open their 2025 CG United Super 50 campaign against the Jamaica Scorpions on November 19 at Queens Park oval.
This was revealed as Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced the official fixtures for the 2025 Cup.
The 50-over rivalry returns with six regional squads squaring off from Wednesday 19 November to Saturday 29 November, with matches taking place at three venues across Trinidad – Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA), Queen’s Park Oval (QPO) and Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground (UWI SPEC).
Trinidad & Tobago Red Force (TTRF), Barbados Pride (BP), Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE), Jamaica Scorpions (JS), Leeward Islands Hurricanes (LIH) and Windward Islands Volcanoes (WIV) will all do battle for the top prize of US$100,000, with US$50,000 being awarded to the runner-up, while the 3rd and 4th placed teams will each take home US$25,000.
Entry to all matches will be free, with games at BLCA beginning at 2:00 PM AST / 1:00 PM Jamaica time, while matches at QPO and UWI SPEC will bowl off at 9:00 AM AST / 8:00 AM Jamaica time.
The Bruster’s Real Ice Cream tournament begins today at 08:00hrs
Brusches’ Classic returns tonight with double header at Retrieve Hard Court
The 2025 Brusches Basketball Foundation promotions return with the Brusches Basketball Classic tournament which begins tonight (Saturday) with a double header feature at the Retrieve Hard Court.
The first game will bounce off at 19:00 hours when Kwakwani take on West Demerara’s D-Up Academy while the second match brings together Re-
trieve Raiders and Central Mackenzie Kings at 21:00 hours.
Tomorrow (Sunday) another double header is planned for the same venue when from 19:00 hours Victory Valley Royals clash with the winner of the Raiders/ Kings match and following that game the Amelia’s Ward Jets face Block 22 Flames.
The tournament continues on Tues-
day with Georgetown clubs Ravens and the winner of the Kwakwani vs D-Up Academy match in one game at the other featuring Pacesetters and Eagles.
The semifinals are set for next Saturday and the final next Sunday.
Trophies and medals among other things are at stake in this year’s tournament.
Verstappen leads Leclerc in second Mexican free practice
(FORMULA 1) - RED Bull driver
Max Verstappen set the pace during second practice at the Mexico City Grand Prix, the Dutchman leading the way from the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli.
After a total of nine rookies were given an outing during Friday’s first practice hour – which was topped by Leclerc – the drivers that had sat out that session returned to action for FP2, which got underway in warm and dry conditions at 1600 local time.
As all 20 cars peeled out of the pit lane within a few minutes of the green light appearing – the majority sporting medium tyres – there was early trouble for Antonelli when the Mercedes driver reported an issue on his W16, with the initial instruction being to “limp home”. The Italian was able to continue running, before again having to return to the pits as the problem persisted.
Antonelli’s team mate George Russell – who was amongst those to miss FP1 – had a wide moment off track during the opening moments, while Le-
clerc had set the pace in the first quarter of the session. The Ferrari racer went quickest on a lap of 1m 18.353s, just over three-tenths clear of McLaren's Lando Norris and the other Scuderia car of Lewis Hamilton in second and third respectively.
Following a spell in the garage as the team worked on his car, Antonelli returned to the track to resume his programme. Alex Albon, meanwhile, tapped the wall out of Turn 16 with his Williams as he – and many others in the field – switched to the soft tyre as focus switched to flying laps.
As those flying runs came in, Leclerc looked to have held onto P1 by the halfway point of the session, with many of his rivals struggling to get close – but Verstappen proved to be the one to beat the Monegasque’s time by 0.153s after pumping in an effort of 1m 17.392s.
Hamilton had looked on course for a quick time, having matched Verstappen’s lap in the first sectors before losing time later on.
Elsewhere, the McLaren pair of Nor-
ris and Oscar Piastri were both around eight-tenths adrift in P7 and P8 respectively, the duo having been outpaced by the likes of Russell, Yuki Tsunoda, Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz.
Improvements followed as the session progressed, with Antonelli slotting into third on his slightly out-of-sync run plan from his team mate, while Norris moved up to fourth and Hamilton claimed fifth on his second attempt.
Verstappen, meanwhile, appeared satisfied with his soft-shod effort, having returned to the pits and bolted on a set of medium tyres before returning to the track for a race simulation run. In the other Red Bull, Tsunoda asked the team to check the floor of his car after taking quite a bit of kerb.
While the likes of Leclerc joined Verstappen in switching to the C4 medium compound, many remained on the C5 soft for their longer runs.
One of these to stay on the latter was Piastri, the Australian sitting down in P12 on the timesheets on a weekend where he will be looking to bounce back from some trickier outings of late.
Saturday, October 25th, 2025
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) BANG won by 74 runs (2) Rishad Hossain (BANG)
Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the second ODI in the recent WI/BANG series? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match? Answers in tomorrow’s issue.
Rain washes out Sri Lanka, Pakistan clash
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Sri Lanka's match with Pakistan in Colombo was called off at 8:06pm local time, with only 26 deliveries possible in the game. Play was called off prior to the scheduled cut-off, with the umpires deciding the outfield was too waterlogged for a timely restart.
The result means Sri Lanka will finish above Pakistan and Bangladesh with five points, regardless of results in the final set of games. For Pakistan, they end the tournament winless with three of their seven matches washed out.
On a day forecast to have rain throughout, it was little surprise that the toss was delayed by two hours and 45 minutes after an initial downpour that had begun minutes prior to the scheduled toss. When play eventually restarted, the match was reduced to 34 overs a side of which only 4.2 was possible before the rain brought an end to the game for good.
During the little play that was possible, Pakistan, who had been sent into bat, managed a circumspect start, scoring 18 runs and a solitary boundary. Malki Madara found early movement through the air, and was tight in her lines and lengths. Sugandika Dasanayake, however, struggled to grip an increasingly wet ball.
In terms of team news, Sri Lanka had made one change bringing in spin-bowling allrounder Dewmi Vihanga for seamer Udeshika Prabodani. Pakistan made two, with Sidra Nawaz and Diana Baig making way for Eyman Fatima and Syeda Aroob Shah.
The result will be a downer for two sides who between them have had five games washed out this tournament, and who crave more regular international cricket.
Fatima Sana and Chamari Athapaththu at the toss • ICC/Getty Images
Max Verstappen is on a winning streak
Guyana participating
GUYANA’S Archers are ready for action as the 7th Caribbean Development Championship Opens in Trinidad & Tobago on October 23, 2025 at the Marvin Lee Stadium.
Guyana proudly joined fellow Caribbean nations and WAA officials for the official practice session and opening ceremony today with the second largest contingent of the tournament. This is the second time being hosted by the twin island republic and Secretary General Mr. Sergio Font has given thanks on behalf of WAA to the Trinidad and Tobago Archery Federation for hosting the event comprising of some 232 Athletes.
Held under the auspices of World Archery Americas, the CDC brings together developing and competitive archers from across 11
countries to strengthen technical skills, build camaraderie, and foster growth in the sport.
The event runs from October 23–26, 2025, featuring a range of bow disciplines and categories. Technical Delegate and Chair of WAA Development Committee Mr Phil Graves noted in his remarks to the teams that this is known as a Teaching Tournament, and World Archery rules will be maintained.
Guyana’s delegation, comprising 31 athletes and 11 officials, represents one of the largest teams the country has ever fielded in the sport. The delegation is led by World Archery Level 2 and National Head Coach, Mr. Ryan McKinnon, who oversees the delegation’s performance, discipline, and adherence to international standards throughout the tournament.
Also present at the Championships is Continental Judge, Mr. Gamal Mohammed, and past President of Archery Guyana, who is serving in his official capacity as part of the event’s technical team, ensuring fair and professional officiating across all categories.
Archery Guyana extends sincere appreciation to its valued sponsors and partners whose contributions made this participation possible.
Guyana Beverages Inc. (GBI): for generously outfitting the entire delegation with branded team shirts, pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year with Archery Guyana; Massy Gas Products Inc.: for their sponsorship support toward the second team's shirt; and Guyana Olympic Association (GOA): for its contribution toward athletes’ registration fees for the Championships.
President of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, commended the team and expressed heartfelt thanks to sponsors: "We are proud to see our archers standing tall among their regional peers. Their participation at the CDC reflects the steady growth of the sport in Guyana, and we remain deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners for supporting our national development efforts.”
Team Guyana now prepares to compete with focus and determination as the Championships continue with Qualification round tomorrow and the finals over the weekend. The federation, along with all Guyanese supporters, extends best wishes to the delegation as they proudly fly the Golden Arrowhead high across the Caribbean Archery stage.
GDF continues winning ways
THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Women’s Football Club continued their winning ways on Wednesday evening, with another massive victory in the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Women’s Division One League; this time against Ann’s Grove United.
Sandra Johnson and Akeelah Vancooten led the charge for GDF, netting five goals each in the encounter.
Johnson opened the scores in the 3rd minute and went on to find the back of the net in the 9th, 29th, 31st and 50th minutes while Vancooten registered her glut in the 6th, 9th, 11th, 21st and 22nd minutes.
Zoruna Ali secured a brace in the 40th and 46th while Niomie Williams (18th), Abioce Heywood (24th), Glengie Lewis (22nd), Sarena Johnson (44th), Shanesa Cornelius (47th) and Sherrilyn Kingston (60th+1) all added one goal each to GDF’s tally while Ann’s Grove United failed to muster a response.
Meanwhile, the following game in the night’s doubleheader had the smattering of fans on the edge of their seats after Western Tigers and Mainstay Goldstars Stars FC drew 1-1.
After a goalless first half, Western Tigers took the lead through a wellexecuted freekick off the boots of Jada Young which sailed past the keeper’s
outstretched arms into the top left corner of the goal in the 45th minute. However, five minutes later, Mainstay’s Ashley Cozier equalised for her team almost identically; sending a set piece into the top right corner of the goal.
The Women’s League continues at the same venue on Friday evening with another doubleheader. At 18:00 hours, Ann’s Grove United will be back in action, taking on Monedderlust FC while at 19:30 hours, River’s View FC battle Fruta Conquerors FC.
The teams in the Women’s Division One League are competing for a $1M grand prize for the first time in Women’s Football history in Guyana.
GFF Women’s Division One League
Team
in the 2025 Caribbean Development Championships in Trinidad and Tobago
Action in the GFF Women’s Division One League
Courts Optical Boys Pee Wee Football
Quarterfinals kick off today
THE Petra Organisation has planned a double feature for grassroot football spectators later today at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue.
The Courts Optical-sponsored ‘Pee-Wee’ tournament, will see the best eight teams in the 2025 competition battling in the quarter and semifinal rounds.
The boys U-11 football competition is set to crown a new winner this year after the defending champion Santa Rosa was knocked out at the round of 16 segment.
Tucville, a former winner, will kick off the day’s matches against Leonora primary from 11:00 hours.
Next, the tournament's most prolific side this year, St John the
Baptiste will meet St Gabriels.
St Pius Primary, one of the competition's most storied teams with multiple titles will then take on giant slayers Redeemer which sent the 2024 winner packing.
West Ruimveldt will play the last quarter final fixture against the in-form Agatash primary who have proven to themselves to be a
One Guyana Inter-Region Ten10 Softball Cricket Cup
match winner on many an occasion this year.
The quarter finalist winners will not have to wait very long as following that round, the finalists for next Saturday’s ultimate game day, will be determined.
Apart from the teams to advance, the remaining teams will play for placement.
That, the organiser says, is key to the developmental drive of the competition and the need to have players play as much as possible. The games will be played at the Ministry of Education ground with awards for the top schools first to eighth places which include trophies, medals, television, tablets etc.
Over 4M up for grabs in second edition
SOFTBALL players across Guyana are set to be in action in what is considered to be the country’s biggest open softball cricket tournament as plans are moving apace for the 2nd “One Guyana Inter-Region Ten10 Softball Cricket Cup.”
The event is slated to take place from November 2 – 30, 2025 at various venues across the regions in both male and female categories with over 4 million dollars in cash and prizes up for grabs.
The inaugural tournament saw only male players in action, and the winner, Hype Park of Parika in Region Three, walked away with $300,000 and a trophy.
The winner of this year’s tournament walked away with 1 million dollars and a trophy while the runners up will get $250,000 and a trophy.
Prizes will be awarded to the MVP, best bowler, best batsman, and man of the final.
In the female category, the winning team will pocket $300,000 and a trophy, the runner-up $150,000 and a trophy, while prizes will be awarded to the MVP, best bowler, best batsman, and player of the final.
In both categories, prizes will be awarded to the player of the match in the semi-finals.
According to the organisers, in the regional games, the winning male team will be awarded $100,000 and a trophy, while the female winner is going to be awarded $50,000 and a trophy.
Prizes will be given to the runners-up, best batters, best bowlers, and players of those regional finals.
The winner of each region will then battle in the national playoffs on the 30th of November at a venue to be named.
The tournament bowls off from November 2 at the Zeeburg Ground in Region Three, Strathavon Ground
in Cane Grove, Mahaica in Region Four and in Region 10 at the Speighland Sports Ground.
All matches start at 9:00 hours, and are ten (10) overs per innings.
The tournament will continue to use supreme balls, and it’s a onegame knockout competition that will use round-arm bowling with extras in place.
It’s the true belief of the organisers that the tournament once again will bring our people together
across various villages/communities/regions in unity through sports and strengthen the game of softball cricket locally.
The organisers said that softball cricket is the grassroots of all forms of cricket, and it nurtures our youths to move on in playing all forms of the game at the very highest level, and it also brings families, friends, and communities together.
Supporting this second edition of the One Guyana Inter-Region
Tournament are Khan’s Construction and Transportation Services, KT Fabrication, N. Balgobin and Sons Contracting Service and Electrical Supplies, GMIN Ventures Guyana Inc., Bashir and Sons Construction Inc., and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports already indicated its support towards the tournament under its One Guyana brand. Interested teams across the country can register by contacting
Brian (Region Two) 651-0358, Sedik (Region 3) 698-6406, Darmin (Region Four) 668-2783 & Fazal 670-8114, Mahesh (Region Five) 668-9993, RS Sports (Region Six) 726-1386, Shavez Hendricks aka Apache (Region Nine), Rastaff (Region 10) 658-7354, Ms. Akaze 717-5577 and WhatsApp 726-1386. Registration for Regions Three, Four, and 10 closes on October 30th. While for the other regions, close on November 7th.
Ms. Akaze Thompson of RS Sports receiving sponsorship from Mr. Balgobin, CEO of N. Balgobin and Sons Contracting Service and Electrical Supplies while staff members look on
QUARTERS KICK OFF TODAY
This Japhet Savory photo shows round of sixteen action from last week at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue
The Guyana Harpy Eagles will open their CG United campaign against the Jamaica Scorpions