Sea of Red: Mammoth crowd floods Tarla Dam as PPP/C’s Meten-Meer-Zorg public meeting ignites momentum ahead of 2025 poll
‘This is not a monopoly game’
–– President Ali reminds of PPP/C’s ‘all-weather’ track record
–– points to gov’t policies, programmes to cut taxes, increase disposable income, generate wealth
FROM paper to reality, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) can proudly boast a track record of not only formulating policies and programmes but implementing them, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.
The Head of State was on Friday evening addressing a mammoth gathering of Party supporters at Industry, East Coast Demerara.
“If you can’t apply the formula, and if you can’t apply the theory, and if you can’t apply the substance, then how can you resolve the problem?” President Ali said, taking a dig at the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) opposition and the newly-formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party headed by United States-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed.
Urging supporters to reflect on APNU’s track record, which was marred by rhetoric, empty promises, and deceptions, and not be fooled by a party that has no clear vision or track record to build upon, President Ali said:
“It is not only about copying ideas, but also about having the capacity, the leadership, and, of course, the team to implement those ideas and to transform those ideas from paper to reality.”
Noting also that many lack the capacity to apply the necessary formulas, theories and substance to solve problems and create strategies to support development, he said:
“It is a matter of philosophy, and not a simple matter where you write a series of words or sentences on paper.
Everybody can shout ‘oil money’,” but one needs to look beyond those who may come with lofty promises.
“But let me educate them once again, only 37 per cent of the budget is financed from resources and revenue from oil and gas.
And oil and gas is not wealth; it is revenue. It is our ability to take that revenue and create growth, development, opportunities, jobs and transformation that takes the country forward.”
‘Not true’
—VP Jagdeo dismisses suspiciously timed claim that several gov’t ministers will be sanctioned
VICE-PRESIDENT, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has strongly dismissed the baseless and suspiciously timed claim that several government ministers will be hit by sanctions and instead branded the claim as an attempt to deflect from the implosion of United States (U.S.) sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed’s political party.
Speaking at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) public meeting at Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara, on Friday, the Vice President said that the allegation came in the wake of Mohamed’s political
party’s- We Invest in Nationhood (WIN)- “disaster” of a manifesto launch on Thursday.
Dr Jagdeo’s comments came after a local journalist, whom Jagdeo said is allegedly affiliated with Mohamed’s circle, posted claims that several officials would be among the targets of U.S. sanctions.
“He [Mohamed] then repeated it on the team Mohamed site to make it look, ‘oh, we’re all in this…together,” Dr. Jagdeo said, while rejecting the claim, adding that, “It’s not true.”
Also, the Vice President said that Mohamed and his social media operatives are
continuing to deliberately dilute the seriousness of the U.S. sanctions against him and what repercussions lie in place for those affiliated with sanctioned individuals.
“It’s a selfish enterprise. So, you need to understand what is at stake here. We can’t put the future of this country at risk,” the Vice President told the mammoth crowd.
In fact, Mohamed, on Thursday, appeared unfazed by the shadow of financial sanctions as he eyes the presidency under his WIN party.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot, stated that the
DELIVERED
He reminded that the PPP/C administration has provided across-the-board increases to the public sector, amounting to a whopping 46 per cent from 2021 to 2025.
The government had also implemented polices that have seen freight charges being maintained at a level, saving consumers just about $6 billion annually. Taxes that were implemented by the previous government
were also slashed, putting billions back into the pockets of citizens.
President Ali also pointed out that the income tax threshold was increased from $65,000 to $130,000, increasing disposable income for workers to $18 billion, while removing some 60,000 persons from the tax net.
Aside from the foregoing measures, he also drew attention to the social policies to ensure that the elderly are supported and given a life of dignity.
Against this backdrop, he announced the coming of a new digital payment system meant to make pension payments much easier.
The president explained that with the aid of this new system, pensioners will be able to stay in their homes and no longer have to visit their local post offices to withdraw their money.
The PPP/C government, he noted, is not pursuing “a sterile vision, but a very comprehensive and wellthought-out strategy” to grow wealth and improve the lives of citizens.
In a bid to rally support
VICE- President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
U.S. Government, particularly the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), views any elevation of Mohamed, the leader of the WIN party, as problematic.
Dr Jagdeo on Thursday stressed the seriousness of the statements by the U.S. Ambassador and explained that the sanctions are not just visa revocations, but they
entail serious implications for not only the Mohameds, but also for the country.
He once again emphasised that the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said that people are prohibited from dealing with sanctioned individuals.
Further explaining the seriousness of the sanctions, the Vice-President highlight-
for continued investments and progress, the president candidly called on supporters to not allow hesitation and indecision to “creep” into the momentum that has been built.
“We are not done yet,” he said. “We will not be done until every family is lifted out of insecurity, of poverty, until all our people rise in glory, rise in prosperity, rise in strength, all our people have access to good healthcare, good education, good recreational facilities in which our parents, our grandparents can live their old age in dignity, honour and pride.”
He stressed that elections are a serious matter, and cautioned citizens against compromising their dignity by being easily influenced. He underscored the PPP/C’s track record of delivering tangible results and implementing policies aimed at improving the lives of the people.
He also thanked supporters for standing by the party and remaining committed to its philosophy and vision for national development.
ed that even the American oil giant, ExxonMobil, had to pull out of the consortium with the Mohameds because of the sanction regulations. Speaking candidly with reporters on Wednesday, Ambassador Theriot shared the views of the U.S. Government, particularly the OFAC, concerning Mohamed.
“Yes, we are concerned anytime an OFAC-sanctioned individual has the potential to become a member of government, it’s problematic in multiple ways… We have to be very careful if that person is involved. Let’s say we were on a certain committee; we would have to be very careful in working with that committee. We have to make sure that we didn’t work with him specifically,” Theriot stated.
The Ambassador elaborated that U.S. law strictly limits engagement with individuals under OFAC sanctions, making Mohamed’s potential entry
President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the massive crowd at Industry, East Coast Demerara
First Lady launches new phase of orphanage support initiative
–– over $100M invested to date
By Feona Morrison
FIRST LADY Arya Ali, on Friday, launched Phase Four of the Adopt an Orphanage Initiative, marking another milestone in a programme she began in 2021 to provide long-term, sustainable support to children in care homes across Guyana.
In a heartfelt address at the launch event at State House, the First Lady revealed that the initiative has seen a total investment of over $100 million since its inception, an average of $25 million annually. This funding has been made possible through partnerships with the private sector, which has played a critical role in helping to transform the lives of children in residential care.
Ali explained that the programme was born out of a request from a single orphanage for more support. She said she envisioned a model that went beyond short-term donations and instead focused on sustainability and meaningful impact. Now entering its fifth year, the initia
tive will continue to support homes across the country for another 12 months through corporate sponsorships, which will cover essential expenses such as utilities and other operational costs.
Reflecting on the past three years, the First Lady said the investment has gone far beyond monthly bills. It has included major repairs and maintenance, provision
dwelling for our children, but we create homes for them. We’re not just offering financial support; we’re inspiring dreams. We don’t just give care—we share love,” Ali emphasised.
She commended the private sector for its consistent support, describing the partnerships as a demonstration of belief in the potential of Guyana’s most vulnerable children.
She added, “The sponsorship you have made over the last five years is a testament to our belief in these children’s potential and our dedication to their success.”
of health services such as eye tests and dental care, educational support like school supplies, and recreational activities that promote emotional and social development. These efforts, she noted, are intended to not only improve living conditions but also to foster a true sense of home, love, and belonging for the children. “We not only improve the place of
She also emphasised the power of small, compassionate acts to create ripples of change and inspire transformation. Ali assured that government support will continue alongside private sponsorships.
She revealed plans to expand annual subventions and provide additional infrastructure and facilities to care homes. In a significant development, her office is also collaborating with the government to include caregivers in the part-time job programme, enabling them to supplement their incomes
and continue providing quality care.
Looking ahead, she urged stakeholders and the wider public to remain committed to the initiative and to the children who depend on it. She praised the caregivers and staff of these homes for their dedication, compassion, and selfless service, acknowledging the critical role they play in shaping the lives of young people.
“Together, we are building a future where every child in Guyana knows their value, is cherished, and is capable of achieving great things. That is the One Guyana we are all building,” Ali declared.
The 11 homes are: Sanctuary Children’s Home, Bless the Children Home, Hauraruni Girls’ Home, Hope Children’s Home, Joshua House Children Centre, Prabhu Sharan Orphanage, Red Cross Children’s Convalescent Home, Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre, Shaheed’s Girls Orphanage and the Shaheed’s Boys Orphanage.
This represents an increase of two orphanages compared to the previous year.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, highlighted the need for safe spaces and unconditional love for Guyana’s children.
“If we see children as beings that we love, and we must always love unconditionally, then our giving and our generosity must be unconditional,” Minister Persaud said as she explained that the Child Care and Protection Agency is making significant progress in safeguarding children.
The agency is actively registering and licensing care homes, while also providing training and financial support. So far, it has trained 1,500 caregivers and launched both a parenting programme and a day-night care centre.
She noted that the agency is also focusing on early childhood development and support for children with disabilities, with several conferences and policy initiatives expected in the coming months.
According to her, the
First Lady Arya Ali
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud
Scenes from the launch of Phase Four of the Adopt an Orphanage Initiative
Gov’t to introduce Port Act, establish independent authority to modernise sector
– President Ali says shipping must move from pavilion to centre field
WITH Guyana’s marine traffic quadrupling since 2020 and port infrastructure under increasing pressure, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced the crafting of a new Port Act and the establishment of an Independent Port Authority, both geared towards reshaping the country’s maritime future.
The President made the announcement during his feature address at the Shipping Association of Guyana’s Networking and Business Mixer, held last Tuesday at the Marriott Hotel, where he stressed that shipping is not a side player in the economy, but a central pillar to Guyana’s prosperity and ambitions.
“We want our ports to be competitive, reliable and future-ready.
That is why we are designing a modern Port Act… It will govern the development, regulation and oversight of port operations in Guyana. It will ensure safety, efficiency and transparency in the maritime sector,” the President said.
PROFESSIONAL
OVERSIGHT, MODERN LEGISLATION
President Ali explained
Irfaan Ali has announced plans for a new Port Act and Independent Port Authority as part of efforts to modernise Guyana’s maritime sector and boost trade competitiveness
that the Independent Port Authority will provide professional, impartial oversight, ensuring the sector operates at a standard that reflects a growing, globally connected economy.
“The goal is to ensure that oversight, regulation and operations are managed professionally, independently, and in the best interest of the country,” he said, adding that the legislation and regulations supporting the Authority will be aligned with international best practices.
Noting that the shipping sector has long played from the sidelines, President Ali encouraged the Association to take a more active role in shaping national development.
“For too long, the Shipping Association has played in the pavilion. It’s time you play at the centre of the field, and you can be assured that I will support you in doing just that,” he told stakeholders.
He also challenged shipping magnates like John
Fernandes Limited and Muneshwers Limited, two major Guyanese companies, to form a joint venture called Cranes Guyana Inc., to lead the charge in public awareness and investment collaboration while urging others to follow suit.
The two shipping rivals merged earlier this year to leverage their expertise and capital together to create Cranes Guyana, a joint cargo and freight company to meet the growing demands of Guyana’s development. The
First Lady launches ...
overall goal is to ensure the safety, care, and well-being of every child.
The heads of the care homes expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support, noting that the initiative has brought meaningful improvements to the lives of the children in their care.
entire project cost US$14 million.
The two moguls are working to build a $285 million port facility in Berbice, which is set to create some 1,000 jobs.
Speaking to the room full of shipping stakeholders, President Ali was candid in addressing the structural and operational constraints currently affecting the sector, including shallow harbours, inefficient port operations, marine congestion, and outdated regulations.
“Our ports cannot accommodate the large vessels that would reduce freight costs and increase trade volumes. We’re already addressing dredging—but deeper ports alone aren’t enough. We need system-wide reinvestment, especially in private ports, to prevent collapse and improve capacity,” he said.
On the issue of port efficiency, he was equally direct, “We cannot talk about becoming a competitive nation without addressing inefficiencies in our ports,” he said, pointing to the need for digitised systems, improved customs processing, and faster vessel turnaround.
Among the transformational projects outlined, President Ali highlighted plans for a deep-water port in Berbice, which he said
will serve as a trade gateway connecting Guyana to Brazil, the Caribbean and broader South American markets.
“This facility will reduce export costs, create jobs and transform Berbice into a major international trade corridor,” he said, noting that work is ongoing with Bechtel and co-funded by Hess Corporation to finalise designs and supporting infrastructure.
The Head of State also flagged major opportunities in regional shipping, particularly in Regions One and Two, where access to Caribbean markets for seafood, fruits, spices and other products remains stifled by poor logistics.
To support these efforts, President Ali said legislation is only one part of the puzzle, revealing that infrastructure, private sector partnerships and government-led investments will be key to positioning Guyana as a maritime powerhouse.
“We’re committed to building a shipping and port infrastructure that matches the ambitions of our nation…Together, we can ensure that Guyana is not just a dot on a map, but a hub of trade, a gateway to the continent and a model for the Caribbean,” President Ali said.
The launch was attended by representatives of corporate sponsors, government officials, heads of care institutions, and children from the homes.
The First Lady had previously stated that the initiative was born out of a conversation with Guyanese American rapper, SAINt JHN, during his visit to State House in October 2020.
Also, the sponsors expressed their pride in being part of the initiative, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the well-being and development of children in care through sustained partnership and compassion.
She noted that during their meeting, she and the artiste spoke of their mutual care for orphanages and discussed several ways of enriching the lives of the children in those homes.
Following the discussion, Ali said she and her team came up with the idea for an initiative that would best benefit the children and their needs to grow and have access to resources that would allow for a better quality of life.
President Dr.
Plagiarised Promises and Sanctioned Leadership
IN the heat of Guyana’s election season, promises are plentiful but substance is scarce.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in the recent unveiling of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party’s manifesto, a document Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh rightly dismissed as “predictably short on originality” and suspiciously long on recycled pledges already in motion under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.
From new development banks to business incubators and Local Content Act amendments, the WIN party’s platform reads like a carbon copy of existing PPP commitments, and in some cases, ongoing projects.
When a party’s grand plan is built on appropriated ideas, it begs the question: what, if anything, does WIN offer that is new or credible?
This would be worrying enough on its own, but the situation spirals into farce when one considers the man at WIN’s helm. Azruddin Mohamed, the party’s presidential
hopeful, sits under a cloud of serious allegations and financial sanctions imposed by the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Mohamed, whose companies allegedly evaded Guyana’s taxes on gold exports by under-declaring more than 10,000 kilogrammes of gold and defrauding the state of over US$50 million, wants Guyanese to believe that if elected, he will donate his presidential salary to charity.
As Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo pointed out, the irony is as thick as it is insulting: A man accused of evading billions in taxes now touts his charitable spirit with money he should arguably never have pocketed in the first place.
More troubling than the hypocrisy is the real danger his candidacy poses to Guyana’s international standing.
The US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, has been clear: “Having an OFAC-sanctioned individual in government is ‘problematic in multiple ways,’ not least because it triggers regulatory hurdles and reputational risks that threaten the flow of
foreign investment.”
The Ambassador’s warnings are not idle diplomatic chatter. They are reminders of the harsh realities of international finance: Major investors and partners, including giants such as ExxonMobil, will not, and legally cannot, risk entanglements with sanctioned individuals. The withdrawal of Exxon from a consortium with Mohamed’s businesses is living proof.
Guyana’s current economic boom is not invincible.
It is fuelled by delicate partnerships, confidence in governance, and a reputation for political and fiscal stability. These gains can evaporate overnight if the country appears willing to reward alleged financial wrongdoing with the highest office in the land.
Yet WIN supporters jeer and heckle journalists for asking the tough but necessary questions: How will these promises be funded? What is the plan for governance when their leader’s presence alone may deter foreign banks from doing business? The silence that follows these questions is
US sanctions should not
louder than any slogan.
Guyanese voters must not be distracted by hollow rhetoric or headline-grabbing promises of salary donations. They must demand accountability, transparency and originality.
The stakes are far too high for Guyana to gamble its reputation and prosperity on a party that cannot chart its own path, and on a candidate who, far from being a solution to corruption, stands accused of embodying it.
Elections are more than manifestos and rallies. They are a test of our collective judgment about who is fit to lead this nation through an era of unprecedented growth and opportunity.
Voters must ask themselves: Do we risk it all on promises plagiarised and funds unexplained? Or do we protect what we have built by rejecting sanctioned opportunism and empty mimicry?
Guyana’s bright future demands leadership that is credible, transparent and original, not promises bought with borrowed words and overshadowed by international disgrace.
be taken
lightly, grave consequences for Guyana if ignored
Dear Editor,
ON 11 June 2024, the US Homeland Security Investigations joined the US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to announce sanctions against Nazar Mohamed, his son, Azruddin Mohamed, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing Team, for what was described as “their roles in public corruption in Guyana.”
According to an announcement from the US Department of State, “Mohamed’s Enterprise, between 2019 and 2023, omitted more than ten thousand kilogrammes of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than (US) $50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana. To per-
petuate and conceal this scheme, Mohamed’s Enterprise engaged in extensive bribery of (Guyana) government officials and that this activity served to enrich the corrupt actors involved, undermine Guyanese institutions, and deprive the people of Guyana of important revenues.”
Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian E. Nelson, said that: “today’s action underscores our commitment to holding accountable those who seek to exploit Guyana’s underdeveloped gold sector for personal gain”. Treasury, he said “in close coordination with our partners in U.S. law enforcement, will continue to take action to safeguard the U.S. financial system from abuse by corrupt actors.”
Long ago, Forbes Burnham, for very
different reasons, under very different circumstances, when I was a member of his Cabinet, poked his finger into the eyes of Uncle Sam and Mr. Henry Kissenger, then Secretary of State of the US Government, made him and the people of Guyana pay the price by ensuring the economic collapse of Mr. Burnham’s government, when all that Mr. Burnham had done was to seek to defy the imposition of American and Soviet imperialism as a nonaligned country. We learned a bitter lesson then and we should be much wiser now.
Mr. Azruddin Mohamed is now contesting in our General and Regional Elections to be the future President of Guyana as the leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party.
Accosted by our media at the Global Biodiversity Summit and reported by Denis
Chabrol on Demerara Waves, the United States Ambassador, Nicole Theriot, on 23rd July 2025, in answering a pointed question put by Chabrol about Mr. Mohamed being the presidential candidate and possibly being elected a parliamentarian, had every right to state her government’s position: “We’re such a beautiful position. All these US companies want to come to Guyana and Guyana is welcoming, and, I don’t want, if he were to become a member of the government, that to change, so that’s a real concern”. The Ambassador went on to explain that if Mr. Mohamed were to be elected, having been sanctioned by OFAC, it could “send jitters down US private sector and
Poverty reduction measures and other economic initiatives have resulted in sharp decline of poverty
THE extent of poverty in Guyana is a subject of ongoing discussion.
The World Bank reported a poverty rate of 48.4 per cent in 2019, using a threshold of US$5.50 per person per day.
In 2023, this threshold was updated to US$6.85 following Guyana’s classification as an upper middle-income country. The new benchmark is based on the monetary value assigned to a bundle of basic food and nonfood items needed to define the poverty line. Reducing poverty is a central economic goal for the country.
Why was Guyana labelled an upper middle-income country by the World Bank when they implied that half its population lives in poverty? Mr. Elton Bollers cites the IDB’s higher poverty rate figure of 58 per cent (over 400,000 people). Where are these poor people? Business Consultant Mr. J.C. Bhagwandin has argued, through extrapolation of several economic indicators, that the existing poverty level is below 20 per
cent, and fieldwork, focused interviews with business leaders, and qualitative information point in this direction.
Furthermore, the illustrations that follow support the plausibility of a poverty level below 20 per cent.
GAICO Construction CEO Komal Singh notes that store salespeople and some other groups earn below the poverty line, while lower-level workers in construction, mining, financial services, and transport make over US$30 per day — enough to support a four-person household above the poverty level. GMSA President Rafeek Khan adds that each forestry sector worker (totalling a workforce of 25,000) earns between US$40–50 daily, sufficient to keep a five-person household above the poverty line.
Mr. Bhagwandin says that domestic helpers earn an average of US$761 per month.
The attached table uses only wage data to estimate poverty thresholds and poverty levels for households of varying sizes.
At a daily threshold of US$6.85 per person, one worker needs to have at least US$206 monthly income to rise above the poverty line in a single-person household.
For households of up to three people, a single domestic helper’s income is sufficient to keep the household above the poverty level; however, in a four-person household, the US$761 monthly income falls short of the US$824 poverty line. If there are two earners, then their income would be above the poverty line for a household size of four or five. It is noted that the average household size is 3.6 persons.
As the COVID-19 pandemic eased in 2021 and oil revenues rose, the economy grew rapidly, with GDP averaging 37.4 per cent growth between 2022 to 2025 and over 50,000 new jobs created.
Public sector salaries increased by 35 per cent in this period, with minimum wages set at G$100,000 (US$476) for public employees and G$60,000 (US$286) for private sector workers, though most private workers earn much more than the minimum wage. Those still facing poverty include store sales staff, unskilled workers, a segment of self-employed workers (including street
vendors), some Amerindian groups, segments of the unemployed, and existing squatters (N=17 areas).
Poverty remains higher in hinterland areas than on the coast. The poverty rate among Amerindian communities fell from 78.6 per cent in 2006 to less than half due to several poverty reduction measures, including carbon credit grants (US$23.2 million in 2024, US$19 million in 2025), child education annual grants, free higher and technical education, free healthcare, housing subsidies, and farming equipment support.
Poverty is shaped by job earnings (including multiple jobs), unearned income, in-kind benefits (like healthcare and education), skill sets, and work motivation. Together, these factors have cut the poverty rate by over half since 2019.
The 2022 census should help confirm this; if not, a focused “Household Income and Expenditure” survey may be needed. Guyana aims to lower poverty to single digits.
Sincerely Dr. Tara Singh
US sanctions should not be taken ...
affect Guyana’s investment climate such as had happened in Afghanistan”.
According to Mr. Chabrol, the US Ambassador went on to assert that if Mr. Mohamed is elected to the National Assembly it’s worrying for the US. “It’s problematic in multiple ways” she said, “because the way, we at the US government interact with the government. We have to be very careful and if that person is involved.”
Special Agent-in-Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York, Ivan J. Arvelo, emphasised that “these sanctions are a significant first step in bringing the Mohameds’ alleged corrupt practices to bear and holding them accountable for their yearslong abuse of power,” and Mr. Mohamed at his press conference, introducing his Manifesto on Thursday (24th July), is reported to be confident that the OFAC sanctions against him will be lifted. He must be joking.
I have seen letters in Friday’s Stabroek News (25 th July 2025) attacking the US Ambassador, from Mr. Lancelot Hyman and GHK Lall, both accusing the American Ambassador of “seeking to meddle in our internal affairs” and giving “short thrift to the will of the Guyanese people.” They clearly do not live in the real world.
Hyman and Lall conveniently forget that, many years ago, it was the intervention of Former US President, Jimmy Carter, in our internal affairs that forced, then President, Desmond Hoyte, to change our electoral system, causing the results of the election to be
publicly displayed at every polling place to safeguard against the rigging of our elections.
It was the publication of exactly these Statements of Poll which exposed the minions of the Granger led government’s attempt to rig the last elections and who are now before the courts.
We believe that we are an independent country and we are. We are not, however, independent of the world in which we live, and we live in that part of the world which is, so to speak, in the backyard of the United States of America.
We may love or hate America and Americans, but we cannot ignore the US and the US Government, or we do so at our peril as a people and a country.
It’s now all over the media that several of the candidates declared on the WIN list have had their accounts closed by Demerara Bank. Other Banks are likely to follow, and it should be of no surprise to anyone. No Bank in Guyana can function if cut off by its corresponding US bank, and that is exactly what will happen to any bank which does business with a sanctioned individual and those directly engaged with such an individual.
Our economic wellbeing and development are wholly dependent on our good relationship with the US. The discovery and exploitation of our oil and gas from which we benefit hugely, albeit we should benefit much more, results from an American company called ExxonMobil, along with a host of other US companies being imbedded in the devel-
opment of our country. Without them our oil would remain under the ocean.
Mr. Maduro’s regime has not crossed the border to take possession of the Essequibo for which they claim to have established a Governor to administer, because of the fact that Guyana enjoys what the US Ambassador enthusiastically described as a “beautiful relationship” with the US government.
It has become obvious to me that those who, either out of ignorance or greed or both, are attracted to the massive wealth that Mr. Mohamed is said to own and dispense freely and have, therefore, become his acolytes, know not what they do, nor what will result from what they do, so let me help them. They need only to access Google to find out some of the direct consequences of engaging with a person specifically sanctioned by the US government.
According to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement announcement issued on 12th June 2024, “financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services from any such person.”
Being sanctioned by the US government carries severe consequences. These sanctions
can involve blocking assets, prohibiting transactions with designated individuals and entities and imposing significant civil and criminal penalties for violations. And, yes, when you engage with Mr. Mohamed you are exposed to exactly those risks.
US sanctions can also significantly impact the economies of targeted countries and if, for instance, by some miracle of chance Mr. Mohamed were to become the President of Guyana, then, as the American Ambassador’s remarks have subtly warned, Guyana would become a targeted country with all the consequences attached to a sanctioned individual. Trade, investments and economic growth tied to the US would come to a grinding halt. Access to international financial systems, access to secure loans and participation in global markets would be severely restricted. The reputation and credibility of the country and the ability to conduct business and attract investment would be severely damaged. ExxonMobil would be forced to pack up and go home, our Banks would close down, our diplomatic relations with the United Staes would freeze and Mr. Maduro would happily take possession of the Essequibo without a problem.
Let me repeat, those who tie bundle with Azruddin Mohamed know not what they do, nor what will result from what they do.
Did Macron have an affair when he was 14?
I AM still reeling from anger over what Kian Jabour said about accountability in Western countries. I wouldn’t have minded if an uneducated person who reads nothing about the world had said that. But I believe Jabour went to college and is a businessman. He ought to know better, thus, his ignorance is malignant.
But if you think Jabour is a silly man, there is Henry Jeffrey, who is 40 years older than Jabour and was a lecturer at the University of Guyana. Jeffrey is a display of unadulterated ignorance of the colonial mind. He wrote that in Guyana and Africa there is a democratic outlay comparable to that in the Western world.
Jabour and Jeffrey are in the company of Stabroek News (SN), which recently wrote, “This is an election year. More advanced democracies recognise the need for a level playing field and to circumscribe the natural inclination of the governing party to go into overdrive.”
Jabour, Jeffrey and SN are pathetic examples of a psychological theory about colonial effects on non-White people. The theory argues that the most dangerous aspect of colonial domination wasn’t the extraction of resources but rather the damage done to the psyche of the colonial subject. For me, the best elaboration of this theory is by the late Palestinian scholar
Edward Said. With due respect to Frantz Fanon and C.L.R. James, both of the West Indies, I find Said’s analysis offers more subtle philosophical variations on the theme of colonial psychological subjugation than Fanon and CLR. But Fanon will remain one of the minds I will always deeply respect.
There is no accountability in Western countries that Jabour, Jeffrey, and SN believe. We accept that there is only because they have brainwashed us into believing they practise it. Post-colonial societies don’t have it; therefore, we must look up to them for their political and bureaucratic systems are supposedly superior to ours.
But where is the accountability in Switzerland, a country whose entire financial existence is built on income from global rogue money? The West tolerates Switzerland’s rogue status because it is White.
Blood money from Third World dictators is in the Western banks. Properties worth trillions of dollars, acquired by dictators, are located in Western capitals. The new money launderers come from the Asian countries of the former USSR. The dictators of Azerbaijan have their money in Western capitals. So where is this accountability in the very Western system that insists former colonies must embody democratic values? Do you know that
Tony Blair, the former UK Prime Minister, was a consultant to the autocratic Azerbaijani government?
The hypocrisy of the West is on display at the moment, and it involves one of the most known personalities in the US, a Black woman named Candace Owens. This is a lady that speaks her mind and does not hold back. A few days ago, President Macron of France sued Owens for libel by the assertion of Owens that Macron’s wife is genetically a man.
Owens has insisted that both Macron and his wife might have violated French laws because she (while being his teacher) allegedly had an affair with Macron when he was 14.
The French president and his wife insisted that Macron was 15 at the time, which is the age of consent in France. She was 24 years his senior. The matter ended there and there was no global rejection of the Macron’s explanation.
Just stop and think if an Asian or African leader was reported to have an affair at 14 with his teacher, what the Western media would have done with that information. It would not have gone away.
It would have stayed with that leader for the rest of his life. The French said Ma-
cron was 15 at the time and that was the end of that. Not so in the Third World, the Western media would not have accepted that explanation because they disrespect Third World leaders and believe that the post-colonial world is inferior to the West.
Ms. Owens is not someone to be easily intimidated. She said she will fight the case. And she will bring up the 14-year-old thing as against the 15-year-old explanation when the case reaches the court.
One suspects that the Macrons are not familiar with the American legal system. Ms. Owen is going to have her lawyers go after both Macron and his wife in very brutal ways. They will have to testify and answer some heavy-hitting questions many of which the world may find salacious. Maybe the Macrons just want to shut Owen up.
I doubt the Macrons will testify in the US about an identical libel that they lost in France itself. Ms. Owens will have the last laugh.
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.
MOE shuts down WIN candidate’s
‘reckless’ NGSA remarks
– defends integrity of exam results, slams political interference in children’s education
THE Ministry of Education (MOE) has shut down what it described as an “irresponsible and reckless” statement made by We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) candidate Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, who questioned the credibility of the 2025 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) results.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Ministry rebuffed Halley’s suggestion
it clear that there is nothing abnormal about the current level of review submissions.
The Ministry also pushed back against what it called an “ignorant claim” from Halley’s party leader that this year’s NGSA results reflect a decline in student performance, noting instead that Guyana has recorded its best-ever performance at the NGSA in 2025.
The Ministry reported
that the number of requests for reviews indicates that something is amiss, dismissing the claim as both ignorant and misleading.
The Ministry noted that requests for reviews are a standard feature of any responsible examination system, and that such requests have remained relatively consistent over the past five years.
According to the Ministry, the number of review applications has shown little fluctuation, 258 in 2020, 261 in 2021, 241 in 2022, 185 in 2023, 267 in 2024, and 257 this year, making
that 64 per cent of the pupils achieved 50 per cent or more in all subjects, compared to 49 per cent in 2020, with every subject trending upwards nationally.
This performance, the Ministry stressed, did not happen by chance, as it credited the improved results to deliberate government investments in the education sector, including school construction, teacher training, provision of textbooks, school feeding programmes, the “Because We Care” cash grant, and expanded access to educational content via the Guy-
Private security guards removed over misconduct at regional hospital – MOH
The following is the full text of a statement from the Ministry of Health on the matter at reference:
“THE Ministry of Health wishes to address a recent incident that occurred at one of our regional hospitals involving two individuals engaged in inappropriate conduct on the premises.
“We wish to clarify that the individuals involved are not employees of the Ministry of Health. They were employed by a private security and general services firm, respectively, that are contracted to provide services at the facility.
“Following the incident, both individuals have been released from their positions, and are no longer assigned to duties at the hospital.
The Ministry has also engaged with the contracted companies to review its oversight protocols, and ensure that professional standards are upheld at all times.”
ana Learning Channel.
The NGSA is set, managed, and marked by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), and the Ministry warned that attempts to sow doubt about the exam’s credibility not only reflect a lack of understanding of the system but also risk undermining the qualifications of all students who pass through it.
As such, the Ministry cautioned that such unfounded criticisms could have serious consequences for the country’s young people as they seek jobs or further their education both locally and internationally.
Calling on political parties and their candidates to exercise greater responsibility, the Ministry is urging public figures to avoid jeopardizing the future of children for the sake of political point-scoring.
Laura George is AFC’s PM Candidate
THE Alliance For Change (AFC) has named Indigenous rights advocate and educator Laura George as its Prime Ministerial candidate for the upcoming September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections.
The announcement came on Friday evening following what the party described as an “intense” but transparent process during a special meeting of its National Executive Committee (NEC).
In a release, the party said the deliberations, which lasted four hours, were conducted in an atmosphere of “camaraderie and fairness,” with each candidate subjected to thorough vetting and open questioning by NEC members.
AFC Presidential Candidate Nigel Hughes described the process as a proud mo-
“The AFC has done itself proud tonight. It had a process, it was transparent, everyone was allowed to question the candidates and this all augers well for the future of our Party,” Hughes said.
AFC’s Prime Ministerial candidate, Laura George ment for the party.
George, a former teacher with over two decades of experience, is widely known both locally and internationally for her advocacy on behalf of Indigenous communities and the promotion of Indigenous rights in Guyana.
The party noted that the selection of George aligns with its broader vision for a more inclusive and progressive Guyana.
“The Alliance For Change has over the last week released several of its progressive development policies that will create a new and prosperous republic if elected to government,” the statement noted.
‘Not true’
From page 3
into Parliament, whether in government or opposition, an issue of regulatory and reputational risk for both diplomatic missions and private sector interests.
“He would still be a member of government, so that would be a concern for us,” Theriot said when asked whether Mohamed’s presence in the opposition would still raise alarm.
But the Ambassador did not stop at government engagement.
She raised a more urgent concern, such as the ripple effects on US investment and business confidence in Guyana.
“When you see an OFAC-sanctioned individual become a part of an official within a government, it sends concern through the private sector of the United States. So, you see, US companies are often rethinking their relationships in the country.
We’ve seen it in Afghanistan and other countries’ companies … they look to de-risk or even cut ties. And we’re
in such a beautiful position right now. All these U.S. companies want to come to Guyana. I don’t want that to change,” Theriot explained. Azruddin, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11, 2024, were sanctioned by OFAC, which oversees sanctions against individuals and entities tied to illicit activities and hostile foreign governments.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities.
“Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.”
A section of the crowd at the PPP/C public meeting at Tarla Dam, Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara
Contemporary significance of China’s three global initiatives
By Zheng Tao (People’s Daily)
11:20, July 24, 2025
SINCE 2021, China has introduced three major global frameworks: Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).
These proposals represent China’s contribution to addressing transnational challenges through multilateral cooperation.
Amid persistent global instability, these initiatives offer stabilising influence and forward momentum. Their significance lies in responding to critical contemporary pressures: the COVID-19 pandemic and protectionism have widened the development gap, significantly hindering progress on the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
At the same time, certain nations’ pursuit of absolute security at others’ expense has fuelled geopolitical tensions, while narratives framing global politics as a binary clash between so-called “democracy and autocracy” exacerbate fears of civilizational conflict.
Against this backdrop, the unstoppable rise of the “Global South” and the irreversible momentum toward peace, development, and co-operation underscore humanity’s universal desire for stability and progress. The three initiatives offer both immediate pathways to tackle urgent global problems and a strategic vision for a shared future.
The GDI advocates prioritising development, adopting a people-cantred approach, promoting inclusive and mutually beneficial co-operation, fostering innovation-driven development, advocating harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature, and encouraging action-oriented co-operation to jointly advance the global development agenda.
The GSI, meanwhile, embraces a vision of common, comprehensive, co-operative, and sustainable security, and calls for creating a new path to security featuring dialogue
over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and winwin over zero-sum.
The GCI advocates a vision of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, and promotes the shared values of all humanity to make the garden of world civilizations colourful and vibrant.
These initiatives draw on China’s cultural heritage, including the pursuit of universal harmony and international amity. They crystallise the core principles of Chinese diplomacy - peaceful coexistence and seeking common ground while reserving differences.
Rooted in the global vision of the Communist Party of China and a strong sense of internationalism, these initiatives reflect China’s strong sense of responsibility as the world’s largest developing country.
Anchored in the historical trend of human progress, the initiatives address the critical questions of our time - “what is happening to our world” and “How should we respond,” - providing public goods for improving global governance while illuminating the pathways to resolve the world’s pressing challenges.
Since their inception, the initiatives have gained recognition and support from more than 100 countries and international organisations. What began as Chinese proposals has steadily evolved into shared global commitments, moving from common visions to tangible actions.
Together, China and the international community are forging a new chapter in building a community with a shared future for humankind.
PROMOTING SHARED DEVELOPMENT THROUGH GDI
The GDI has significantly energised efforts toward inclusive and sustainable development.
In terms of mechanism building, China has hosted the High-Level Dialogue on Global Development and established the Group of Friends of the GDI, now joined by over 80 member
states. It has signed co-operation documents with more than 50 partners and supported the establishment of a dedicated working group
within the United Nations to advance the initiative.
In terms of resource mobilisation, China has committed nearly $20 billion in
development funds, established over 30 co-operation platforms, and launched the Global Development Promotion Center.
As for project implementation, over 1,100 development projects have See page 12
Ministry of Heath advances emergency care with training of 15 doctors
THE Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Northwell Emergency Medicine specialists and Local Emergency Medicine Specialists, recently concluded a Basic Emergency Medicine training in Berbice.
Fifteen doctors who
work in that region benefitted from the training. This initiative aims to strengthen emergency response and patient care by equipping healthcare workers and first responders with essential skills in trauma management, resuscitation, and urgent care protocols.
The participants were engaged in five days of rigorous in-person lectures and practical training, delivered by emergency medicine specialists from Northwell and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
It will prepare doctors
in the Accident and Emergency Department to be equipped with the basic skills to provide standard emergency care.
Meanwhile, the ministry said the training forms part of its nationwide strategy to modernise healthcare and ensure that no region is left
behind where life-saving interventions are involved.
Similar sessions are expected to reach all regions where regional hospitals are present. (DPI)
From page 11
been carried out under the GDI framework, with more than 600 currently active.
Additionally, over 60,000 professionals from developing countries have received training through capacity-building programmes. China has also given all the least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines.
SAFEGUARDING GLOBAL PEACE AND STABILITY THROUGH GSI
In the realm of global security, China has advanced the GSI by publishing its Concept Paper, outlining 20 key areas for co-operation, and put forward the Global AI Governance Initiative.
It actively promotes political solutions to major international issues - including mediation in the Ukraine crisis, Israeli Palestinian conflict, and Afghanistan situation. Notably, China facilitated the Saudi Arabia-Iran reconciliation agreement, fostered intra-Palestinian dialogue, supported Myanmar peace talks, and proposed the Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa.
Meanwhile, China has deepened security dialogues through platforms such as the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, the China-Africa Peace and Security Forum, and the Middle East Security Forum.
FOSTERING MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING THROUGH GCI
The GCI advances cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.
In June 2024, the United Nations officially designated June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.
China has taken the lead in launching and participating in forums such as the Ancient Civilizations Forum and the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations, contributing new momentum to global cultural engagement.
In addition, China has hosted the inaugural General Assembly of the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia, co-organised exhibitions of cultural relics with multiple countries, and actively promoted heritage preservation and innovation.
Through partnerships with ASEAN, Greece, and others, China has launched a range of cultural and tourism-themed years and festivals, taking people-to-people exchanges and co-operation to new heights.
Amid growing global complexities, China maintains its commitment to peaceful development. Guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, China will continue to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and win-win co-operation.
By working hand in hand with all countries to implement the three initiatives, China aims to contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind and usher in a more peaceful, secure, prosperous and inclusive future.
Kitty gets state-of-the-art police station
THE newly rebuilt Kitty Police Station was officially commissioned on Friday as part of the government’s nationwide effort to modernise police infrastructure and enhance citizen-safety, with the upgraded outpost boasting a suite of new amenities tailored to support modern policing and community responsiveness.
Located along the Railway Embankment, the new facility was completed at a cost just under the original contract sum of G$191.9 million, includes male, female, and juvenile lockups; a CID department, witness and ID parade room; armoury and evidence room; a traffic unit; Integrated Crime Information System (ICIS) support and upgraded living quarters for officers.
Notably, the station includes purpose-built, child-friendly spaces and domestic violence interview and waiting areas, part of a broader push to create more humane, service-oriented environments for vulnerable populations.
Commissioning the station, Minister of Home Af-
‘They
fairs, Robeson Benn, emphasised that the initiative is part of a holistic effort to improve police performance, professionalism, and public trust, going beyond brick and mortar.
“This police station, like many others commissioned across the country, represents more than just infrastructure; it reflects our unwavering commitment to national safety, community trust, and responsible governance,” Minister Benn said.
In a symbolic gesture under the ministry’s “Do the Right Thing” campaign, Minister Benn and Permanent Secretary Andre Ally also handed over protective helmets for motorcyclists, reinforcing the government’s efforts to stem the rise in road fatalities, especially among young people.
To further the ministry’s community policing efforts, the officials also distributed sports gear to local youth, reiterating the government’s drive to promote positive alternatives for young people as part of a broader crime-prevention strategy.
The Kitty Police Station
is one of several modernised outposts rolled out under the government’s infrastructural overhaul for the Guyana Police Force, aimed at equipping officers with better resources, creating safer community environments and ensuring timely, accountable law-enforcement services.
“We have delivered on time and within budget, and now we must deliver performance, professionalism, and empathy. As Guyanese, it is our collective responsibility to build a safer nation, not just with buildings and vehicles, but by transforming our behaviours, supporting our youth, and working hand in hand to ensure that every citizen feels secure, respected, and heard. Crime-fighting is not just a police matter, it is a whole-of-society effort and our progress as a nation depends on it,” Benn said.
Minister Benn said more upgrades and new commissions are on the horizon as Guyana continues to invest heavily in security, technology and proactive policing as part of its national development framework.
stole our ideas’
—Dr. Jagdeo blasts opposition parties for recycling PPP’s policy agenda
THE poorly disguised replica of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C)’s ideas by the opposition has been called out by PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who has exposed the brazen theft as evidence of these factions being bankrupt of ideas.
During a public meeting at Meten-Meer-Zorg on Friday, the Vice President highlighted how the PPP/C administration, since taking office in 2020, has not only created thousands of jobs but also rid Guyanese of the hardships that were placed on their backs by the APNU+AFC government.
As Guyanese head to the upcoming polls, the party has already provided an extensive summary on how it aims to continue Guyana on its rapid development trajectory.
“We kept every promise we made. So, when we go to these elections, we go with a great deal of credibility. We are a trustworthy party…We do what we say. No other political party can claim
that. You see, all of them, now with manifestos, they’re stealing our ideas.
“They don’t even have the original thought to come up with ideas of their own and the promise that they make is not worth the toilet paper that you go to the toilet with,” Jagdeo said.
On Thursday, the opposition’s desperate bid to fool the electorate with its grandiose promises, which include billion-dollar handouts, has not escaped the attention of Dr. Jagdeo, who has slammed officials for resorting to reckless populism to pull votes.
He made these remarks during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown, as he called out the opposition for just spewing whatever sounds good, while ignoring whether their promises are economically sane.
For the past week, opposition factions have beefed up their churning out of pledges, and according to Dr. Jagdeo, political parties can put anything on paper.
With fresh elections on the horizon, the Vice-President highlighted that the
opposition is once again reaching for the sky, with no economic ladder to even climb.
He specifically pointed to the “We Invest in Nationhood” (WIN) party, led by US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, whose manifesto launch, on Thursday, was met with a mix of scepticism and scrutiny.
Jagdeo derided the party’s promotional materials, claiming, “Azruddin plagiarised our flyer and called it a manifesto.”
Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh has dismissed the Manifesto released by the WIN party as one that is completely lacking in originality, describing it as “short on originality, and full of plagiarised, copied and recycled ideas.”
Dr. Singh had pointed out several examples from the Manifesto, which he said the PPP has been executing already or explicitly committed to in their recent Manifesto consultation that drew a large crowd at the Princess Hotel on the East Bank of Demerara.
From right : Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn and Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally hand over protective motorcycle helmets during commissioning of the Kitty Police Station.
141 trained through BIT-GPF partnership to power Guyana’s Workforce
–– $21M invested to upskill youth in heavy-duty operations and fibre-optic installation
A TOTAL of 141 young men and women graduated on Friday from the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programmes, hosted in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF), under the Rehoboth Workforce Development Centre initiative.
The graduation ceremony, held at the GPF Training Centre in Eve Leary, marked the conclusion of the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment, a flagship initiative designed to equip
young people and ranks of the GPF with industry-relevant skills.
Delivering the feature address, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BIT, Richard Maughn, explained that the three programmes came at a cost of G$21 million. However, he emphasised that the focus was not on the cost, but rather on the value of investing in people so they can contribute meaningfully to national development.
He urged the graduands to enter the workforce with dignity and confidence, re-
minding them of the sacrifices made and the confidence that had been placed in them through the training opportunity.
Maughn highlighted that the heavy-duty equipment operator and fibre-optic installer courses are essential to Guyana’s ongoing transformation. As the country continues to expand its infrastructure and develop its regions, these skill sets are becoming increasingly critical.
“We will not be able to grow as rapidly as we intend
to with machinery, so the skill that you have is essential to our transformation.
“This accomplishment was not an accident; it was built on your effort, your resilience and most importantly, your habits. I am sure, for each and every one of you who were on training, it took sacrifice and resilience for you to stay on course,” Maughn said.
He noted that despite the setbacks faced, participants pushed forward and committed themselves to fulfilling the purpose of learning. With their new skill sets, he said, the quality of their lives could improve once they embrace the opportunities before them.
He encouraged them to let go of outdated ambitions and trust their abilities to shape stronger communities and better futures. He also urged them to work with excellence, lead with integrity, and believe in their own potential.
“When you show up to work, give it your best for full productivity, excel in what you do, and lead in whatever the work requires of you, in the quality of your work and achieve your
dreams because we believe in you and you must also believe in yourself,” he said.
Technical Officer of BIT, Rohan Bishop, also addressed the gathering, explaining that the event was a celebration of the efforts made by the trainees to retool and upskill themselves.
As Guyana continues to evolve, he said, skilled individuals are increasingly in demand to support the country’s development trajectory.
He pointed out that skills are wealth, and that collaboration was key to the successful delivery of the training.
Bishop outlined that the first course began on April 7, 2025, with 41 ranks from the GPF, and although only 40 completed the programme, it recorded a 98 per cent pass rate.
The second programme, which began on March 13, 2025, saw 86 participants enrolled and closed on July 24, 2025,
See page 15
He explained that the fibre-optic installer, heavy-duty equipment operator and general equipment training programmes were all designed to ensure participants are prepared to meet the needs of a modern and rapidly growing Guyana.
CEO of BIT, Richard Maughn and one of the graduates
Traffic Chief, Mahendra Singh makes remarks at the ceremony
One of the graduands receiving his certificate by ASP Henry
Some of the graduates from the Guyana Police Force during Friday’s graduation ceremony after completing technical training programmes in fibre-optic installation and heavy-duty equipment operations under the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training. (Japheth Savory photos)
Guyana’s positioned at forefront to lead biodiversity, climate conservation efforts
as country solidifies global biodiversity alliance
By Naomi Parris
WITH bold commitments and a call for global unity, Guyana has positioned itself at the forefront of international biodiversity and climate efforts, as President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined a roadmap to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP30), during the closing of the Global Biodiversity Alliance summit in Georgetown.
“Our objective is to bring everyone around the table and to find a comprehensive solution based on science, facts, market mechanisms, livelihoods, and a sustainable future,” President Ali told the room full of international environmental leaders, civil society groups, and Indigenous representatives at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre while he reiterated his government’s resolve to lead by example in environmental stewardship.
Guyana’s biodiversity strategy centred on technology, data transparency and sustainable development will underpin its official guide toward the COP30 climate summit, to be hosted in Brazil later this year.
“We believe the only way we can win is by creating space for every voice and every sector. We have to let every sector feel a part of the solution,” President Ali said, underlining the importance of inclusive, cross-sectoral participation in tackling the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Marking the summit as a turning point, the President affirmed, “The work begins now. Let this stand as a bold signal of Guyana’s unwavering commitment to nature, climate and our shared future.”
In a bid to set global benchmarks, Guyana also committed to a full-scale audit of its biodiversity resources.
“We have committed to a full assessment and documentation of our biodiversity assets, so that we can demonstrate, from the outset, our commitment to transparency and accountability. We’re hoping to be one of the first countries to have a full audit and baseline data,” President Ali declared.
The Global Biodiversity Alliance summit hosted in Guyana for the first time has been hailed as a significant milestone in galvanising regional and international co-operation on nature conservation and sustainable development.
Meanwhile President of the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP30), Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, has declared that the upcoming COP30 in Belém, Brazil, will be “extremely dynamic” as he urged that biodiversity to be given equal weight alongside climate action.
Ambassador do Lago described the forum as a crucial platform to ensure biodiversity ecosystems take their “rightful place” in the international climate conversation.
“The action agenda is going to be extremely dynamic and will be very much focused for the wider participation of this, local governments, of private sector, academia, etc.,” he stated, signalling a strong emphasis on inclusivity and multisectoral collaboration at this year’s COP30, slated to be held in Brazil.
Ambassador do Lago stressed that addressing the biodiversity crisis requires more than just the engagement of national governments.
“We know that we have little time and that we have to organise the information and the science, because we also have enough science and enough experience and enough good examples of things that are working,” he said.
In a call for collective and coordinated efforts, he highlighted the need to involve all segments of society including civil society, subnational governments, academic institutions and the private sector in what he described as a shared global fight for biodiversity and climate resilience.
On the topic of forest restoration, Ambassador do Lago made a passionate case for strengthening carbon markets.
“So, for restoration of forests, I completely agree that we need to have the most dynamic and efficient carbon market possible, because the credits from carbon rescue, from forest restoration are, by definition, much better credits than any other credits, because they are the only ones that captured CO2.”
Guyana is also aiming to make a case for generating credits specifically tied to biodiversity, with several world leaders and experts already formalising the new biodiversity alliance. The initiative is expected to complement existing efforts under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
President Ali announced that a comprehensive outline capturing the summit’s key outcomes, findings, and international agreements will be formally presented at COP30 in Brazil later this year, advancing efforts to place biodiversity at the top of the global agenda.
The alliance is expected to enable new initiatives, and foster the development of innovative, inclusive and scalable solutions to address biodiversity loss.
It will be an active community of nations, businesses, corporations, organisations, communities, territories, academia and individuals committed to the shared vision working to securing biodiversity.
141 trained through BIT-GPF partnership to power ...
with two dropouts but a similarly strong pass rate.
The third course, conducted between January 21 and February 13, 2025, recorded an 85 per cent pass rate despite a few dropouts.
Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh, in his remarks, emphasised that development, both of the country and its people, is never achieved in isolation.
He noted that the growth of organisations depends on both individual and collective performance.
Acknowledging the role of the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, and his team, Singh said the initiative was timely and important, especially as Guyana positions itself on the regional and international stages. He explained that policing today requires more than managing traffic; officers must be equipped to contribute across multiple sectors.
“Our ranks are now positioned and given an
From page 14
opportunity to perform in other areas merited as every other person, we are giving ourselves now a chance to grow as our country is, as we should without being left behind,” Singh said.
He further noted that the course has provided a solid platform for capacity-building within the GPF and has helped position officers for future advancement through skills-based development.
Norton refuses to engage President Ali on appointments of CJ, Chancellor
EVEN though the highest positions in Guyana’s judiciary, Chancellor and Chief Justice, are crucial to the functioning of the nation’s justice system, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has flatly refused to engage in constitutionally mandated consultations on the appointments.
The appointments of an acting Chancellor and acting Chief Justice are intended to make way for the current acting Chancellor, Yonette Cummings, to proceed on just over two months of accumulated leave.
Despite having publicly
called for the confirmation of the Chancellor and Chief Justice, Norton dismissed President Dr Irfaan Ali’s invitation letter for meaningful consultation as a “waste of time.”
“I thought it would be a waste of time, and if I became involved in it, it would
come over as if I allowed meaningful consultation when I know meaningful consultation wouldn’t occur. And so, I thought from a pure strategic standpoint, I should not engage on it at this time,” Norton said during a virtual press conference on Friday.
President Ali had writ -
ten to Norton, who is the People’s National Congress (PNC) leader and presidential candidate of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), on July 4, requesting a response by July 18. However, no response was received.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, earlier this week, disclosed that Chief Justice (Ag.) Roxane George is set to step up and perform the functions of Chancellor of the Judiciary.
The Attorney General said that President Ali had “meaningfully consulted” the Opposition Leader on filling the posts but received no response within the legally required timeframe.
He firmly stated that President Ali had fulfilled his constitutional mandate, which requires consultation, and that silence from the Opposition Leader does not amount to a veto.
“A leadership vacuum in an important institution such as the judiciary for such a protracted period of time, the President indicated to the Leader of the Opposition that he is considering appointing to act in that position, the Honourable Roxane George. The President made reference to Article 127(2) of the Constitution… and indicated to the Leader of the Opposition his desire to appoint Chief Justice George to act as Chancellor,” Nandlall explained.
This latest move means Justice George, already the country’s longest-serving acting Chief Justice since 2017, will now also function in the top judicial role of Chancellor.
Guyana’s highest positions in the judiciary — Chancellor and Chief Justice — have remained substantively vacant for over two decades due to the constitutional requirement for agreement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition.
Since the tenure of the last confirmed Chief Justice, the late Désirée Bernard, from 1996 to 2001, the position has remained in an acting capacity. Similarly, following the tenure of the last confirmed Chancellor, also the late Désirée Bernard, from 2001 to 2005, that position has also remained in an acting capacity.
Following Justice Bernard’s elevation to the Carib-
bean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Carl Singh served as acting Chancellor from 2005 to 2017. From 2001 to 2015, Ian Chang served as acting Chief Justice. Following his retirement in 2015, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards was appointed acting Chief Justice from 2015 to 2017. In 2017, she was elevated to the position of acting Chancellor, while Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire was appointed acting Chief Justice.
Since the 2001 constitutional changes, there has never been an agreement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition on these appointments.
From 2001 to 2005, then President Bharrat Jagdeo made multiple efforts to secure agreement from Opposition Leaders Desmond Hoyte and Robert Corbin to substantiate Justice Singh’s appointment, but these attempts were unsuccessful.
Nandlall has previously noted that repeated efforts by Presidents Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar to confirm these acting appointments were obstructed by opposition leaders who failed to give their consent.
He also recalled the term of President David Granger, who led the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition government from 2015 to 2020.
Nandlall further criticised Granger’s administration for not confirming Justice Cummings-Edwards as Chancellor, despite efforts in 2018 to seek agreement from then Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to appoint former Chief Justice of Belize, Kenneth Benjamin, as Chancellor of Guyana.
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton
Saturday, July 26th, 2025
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Roston Chase-60 (2) Cameron Green-51
Today’s Quiz:
Azam, Afridi named in Pakistan squad for West Indies tour
CMC -Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi have all been recalled by Pakistan for their upcoming tour of the West Indies.
Pakistan will face off against the West Indies in three T20Is starting on July 31 in Lauderhill, Florida, before moving to Trinidad and Tobago where they will play three ODIs.
Following their T20I series loss against Bangladesh, Pakistan have strengthened their bowling line-up by going back to the experience of Afridi, Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali.
Faheem Ashraf, who impressed in the final T20I match against Bangladesh, retains his spot while Salman
Mirza misses out.
Salman Ali Agha will continue to lead the T20I side.
Meanwhile, for the ODI series that will begin on August 8, Pakistan have gone with a fully experienced squad led by Mohammad Rizwan, with Hasan Nawaz being the only uncapped player.
The 22-year-old Nawaz has had an eventful, contrasting start to his international career, scoring consecutive ducks in his first two T20Is against New Zealand in March, but followed it up with the fastest T20I hundred by a Pakistani in his third international outing.
TEAMS
PAKISTAN T20I SQUAD: Salman
Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.
PAKISTAN ODI SQUAD: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Salman Ali Agha, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.
Fan craze in Essequibo ahead of ‘Super Sunday’ in Kares T10
LOVERS of cricket on the Essequibo Coast are highly anticipating witnessing matches in the third Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, with ‘Super Sunday’ set for July 27.
The Managing Director for FL Sport, John Ramsingh, has been on the ground since Wednesday.
According to him, the excitement is high as fans can witness the thrills of the ‘Blast’ in person after following it online for the previous two editions.
“The atmosphere in Essequibo is amazing; they are truly looking forward to the matches, especially given some West Indies players have indicated their availability to play for teams. The three previous zones have produced nothing short of phenomenal cricket, and I am confident, Essequibo will be no different.”
West Indies players Shamar Joseph, Kyle Mayers and Ronsford Beaton are among a fleet of talented cricketers to feature.
He added, “We have complimentary tickets for the national finals, tickets that fans use to win prizes, and they are going fast.”
Matches in Essequibo will be held at Pomona Ground, Richmond Ballfield, Hampton Court, and Anna Regina Ground, with the finals held under lights.
Montra Jaguars (Berbice), Eccles All-Stars (East Bank Demerara/West Demerara), and Titans All-Stars (East Coast/ Georgetown) are the three-zone champions, and attention is now on who will fill the final spot.
The participating teams for the Essequibo zone are: Aurora Knight Riders, Team Evolution, Team Royals, Renegades Cricket Club, The United Crew, Mahdia (Movements Family), Matarkai CPG, Bartica Royals, Moruca Super Strikers, Queenstown (Ariel XI), Inevitable XI, Avinash All-Stars, and Essequibo Jaguars.
Adding to the excitement, admission to all venues throughout the tournament is free, and matches commence at 09:00 hours.
Beyond the bragging rights, significant financial rewards are also on offer. The zone champion will receive a handsome $300,000, while the runner-up will receive $100,000.
However, the stakes get even higher at the national final, where teams will vie for an additional $1.7 million grand prize.
The national runner-up will pocket $700,000 along with a trophy and medals, and even the losing semi-finalists will be rewarded with $300,000 each.
The national finals will be on Sunday, August 3, at the National Stadium, Providence.
Individual brilliance won’t go unnoticed either, with a host of prizes up for grabs, including MVP ($150,000 + motorcycle), Most Runs ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Most Wickets ($100,000 + trophy + TV), Man-of-the-National Final ($75,000 + trophy + TV), Highest Strike Rate ($35,000), and Best Economy ($35,000).
The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has garnered support from: Kares Engineering Inc, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, KFC Guyana, Star Rentals, Banks DIH, ENet, Guyana Lottery Company, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Impressions, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal, Shawn’s Mini Mart, Giftland Group of Companies, Kris Jagdeo Construction Company, Montra Restaurant & Lounge, Windsor Estates, The New Doctor’s Clinic, GuyOil, ANSA McAL, SuperBet Guyana, Digital Technology, Camille’s Academy, Navin Construction, Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, Continental Transportation, and Environmental & Technical Solutions.
Hasan Nawaz scored the fastest T20I hundred by a Pakistani in his third international outing
• Associated Press
One Guyana Basketball Premier league Victory Valley Royals take series opener against Champions
LINDEN’S Victory Valley Royals took first blood on Thursday evening when One Guyana Premier Basketball League final opened at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Royals are battling Defending champions North Ruimveldt Ravens in a best of three series to determine the 2025 National Basketball Club Champions.
The Guyana Basketball Foundation organised league saw Royals led by national player Harold Adams, drop 29 points in an awesome display to take game one, 74-70. Adams worked both ends of the court to perfection as his side played a good all-round game to make their intention in the series clear.
The first quarter was evenly matched with the champions taking the early lead 16-15. Ravens were led in offence by Nikkoloi Smith, Alroy Nurse and Terrence Daniels.
Smith was the best of the lot with 17 points as they sought to stay in the contest at the end of the half down by 5 points 37-32. Daniels also chipped in with 11 and 14 from Nurse as they desperately tried to stamp out Royals momentum.
Royals’ Yannick Tappin dropped 13 buckets with 14 from Orlan Glasgow as they piled
on pressure by shooting their way to 10-point lead at the end of the third 57-47.
Nurse with his 13 points and Daniels with 11 points pushed the envelope hard in the fourth quarter to bring them within distance of Royals but they still fell miserly short by four points to lose 74-70.
The two teams will take to the courts again this evening with Royals hoping to close out the series by winning game 2 and dethroning the champions, while Ravens known for their never-say-die attitude will
Domino Federation praises Government for unprecedented support to World Championship
GODFREY Samuels, president of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF), is heaping praise on the Government of Guyana following full backing from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for Guyana’s participation in the 20th World Domino Championships in Antigua and Barbuda.
Samuels, along with GNDF Executive Member Wayne Griffith, received $5.9 million in funding on Friday from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, a sum that fully covers the expenses for 28 players and two officials for the championship, scheduled for August 10–18.
“We want to thank President Irfaan Ali,” said Samuels, noting that although the GNDF had formally written to the Ministry of Sport requesting assistance, it was during a People’s Progressive Party/Civic manifesto consultation that they had the opportunity to directly engage the President.
“After we explained to President Ali the significance of Guyana's participation at this year’s championship, he made a commitment to support us. It’s the first time ever we’ve received this level of support. They’re covering the full budget we submitted. We’re extremely grateful,” Samuels added.
During Friday’s presentation, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting all disciplines, including dominoes, which he described as one of Guyana’s most popular pastimes.
Director of Sport (L) presenting Government of Guyana cheque of $5,9M to GNDF president, Godfrey Samuels in the presence of Executive Member, Wayne Griffith
“Dominoes is more than a leisure game in Guyana. At the competitive level, we’ve seen tremendous growth over the years, more structured tournaments, more clubs, and more representation,” Ninvalle said.
In 2023, Guyana hosted the World Domino Championships at the Guyana National Stadium, with the Government playing a central role in facilitating the event.
This year, Guyana will be one of ten countries vying for over US$20,000 in cash prizes at the tournament, which will be hosted at the John E. Luce Building in St. John’s, Antigua. Teams will compete across multiple formats, including Four-Hand Team, ThreeHand Male Team, Three-Hand Female Team, Male Pairs, Mixed Pairs, King of Domino, and Queen of Domino categories.
be looking to script another great comeback story.
The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, and National Sports Commission.
The League’s regular season featured 22 teams evenly split in the Jaguars and Harpy
Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for a place in the playoffs with the top team from both conferences advancing.
The winner of the overall One Guyana Title will have bragging rights, a Million dollars and the coveted national club league trophy.
Ravens Nikkoloi Smith
CWI announces women’s squad to face USA
Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) is pleased to announce the 16-member squad that will contest a five-match T20 International series against the USA Cricket Under 19 Women's National Team, from 26 July to 3 August 2025, at the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground in St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
The squad will be led by Trinidadian off-spinner Samara Ramnath with 16-year-old Barbadian Theanny Herbert-Mayers as the vice-captain.
The West Indies squad was selected after the recently concluded Rising Stars Under 19 35-over Championships in Trinidad, which was won by Barbados under Herbert-Mayers’ leadership and features a squad bustling with young talent eager to impress.
There are some familiar names and faces including skipper Ramnath who led the team at the second-ever ICC Under 19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia earlier this year.
She will have some other previous regional representatives for company including Jamaican Abi-
gail Bryce, off spinning all-rounder NaiJanni Cumberbatch, who ended as leading wicket-taker in the Rising Stars Under 19 tournament, 16-year-old Amrita Ramtahal and 17-year-old Brianna Harricharan. Both teams appeared at this year’s ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup which took place in Malaysia and reached the Super 6 stage. The upcoming series will be the third such bi-lateral series between the two teams after successful outings in 2022 at the Central Broward Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida and 2024, also at the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground, in Trinidad.
The Head Coach is Merissa
Aguilleira, former West Indies Women’s captain, who coached Trinidad and Tobago to the CG United Women’s Super 50 title in March.
She will have former West Indies players Tremayne Smartt and Ryan Hinds as assistants, while former Windward Islands fast bowler and captain Yasmine St. Ange is the Team Manager.
Cricket West Indies CEO Chris Dehring said, “We are proud to welcome the USA Under-19 Women’s team and look forward to an exciting series that we hope will inspire even more young girls across the region to take up the sport.
Ramchand Auto Spares ‘batting’ with DCB for Independence T10 Cup
THE Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) Independence T10 Cup continues to attract corporate support with Ramchand Auto Spares confirming its alliance for the August 1 event at the LBI Ground, East Coast Demerara.
Located on Sheriff Street in Georgetown, Ramchand Auto Spares is a distributor of MONROE, WAGNER Brake Products, RANCHO Performance Suspension and Shocks, 555 and other leading global brands.
Proprietor Ramchand Ragbeer expressed his enthusiasm to be part of the fund-raising event, noting his company has been an avid supporter of cricket over the years.
He wished the DCB well in its pursuits to raise funds to aid the development of youth and female cricket in the county.
In accepting the sponsorship, DCB representatives Davteerth Anandjit and Anil Beharry both expressed gratitude to Ragbeer and urged the cricket fraternity to support his business.
Eight first division teams from the county of Demerara will compete for top honours, with the format being a one game knockout.
The teams are Better Hope, Enterprise, Helena One and Two,
Herstelling A, LBI, Lusignan, Meten-Meer-Zorg East and Transport Sports Club. Total cash prize of G$500,000 and trophies will be up grabs at the one day event.
While the teams will be represented by players within the respective associations, each team is allowed two guest players from other counties.
The champion team is guaranteed G$250,000 cash plus trophy; the runners-up G$150,000 and trophy, while the losing semi-finalists will be receive G$50,000 each.
On the individual side, Man-ofthe-Match in the semi-finals and final will receive a trophy.
Action will bowl off at 10:00 hours and conclude under floodlights, with patrons paying G$1,000
for admission to the venue. Apart from the on-field entertainment, fans can get lucky with several gate prizes to be won.
The tournament is sponsored by Survival Group Inc., Petama Enteprise, Premier Insurance, CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc., L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio, Office Express, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Anil Beharry Real Estate, Construction and General Business Services, Naven's Construction, Republic Bank (Guyana) Ltd, Ramchand Auto Spares, Mike's Pharmacy, Steve's Jewelry, 4R Bearings, Rid-O-Pes, Luke's General Contractor Ltd, Ariel Enterprise, Doctor's Clinic, Fullworks Party Rental, Anil Beharry Project for Cricket Gears and Ansa McAl Trading.
“This bilateral series reflects CWI’s strategic commitment to expanding competitive opportunities for young female cricketers, while also building meaningful partnerships to drive the growth of the game across the Americas.”
Cricket West Indies Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe shared the importance of the series for women’s cricket development in the region.
“Following what is expected to be a competitive series with the USA, development plans will be created to further the skill and holistic development of the players in the squad, with a view to giving
them the best chance to compete at the 2027 World Cup.”
All five matches will be held at the Sir Frank Worrell Cricket Ground from 10 am each day and live streaming will be provided on the Cricket West Indies YouTube channel.
West Indies Squad: Samara Ramnath (captain), Theanny Herbert-Mayers (vice-captain), Adanya Baugh, Eboni Brathwaite, Abigail Bryce, NaiJanni Cumberbatch, Kaela George, Brianna Harricharan, Zakiyah Harrilal, Sabriel Headley, Danellie Manns, Brianna Plummer, Amrita Ramtahal, Kristen Sutherland, Jaeda Tyrell, Aaliyah Weekes Team Management Unit: Merissa Aguilleira - Head Coach, Yasmine St. Ange – Manager, Tremayne Smartt - Assistant Coach, Ryan Hinds - Assistant Coach, Ashley Stephens – Physiotherapist, Yvonne ArthurStrength & Conditioning Coach. Match Schedule: 1st T20 –26 July 2025, 2nd T20 – 27 July 2025, 3rd T20 – 30 July 2025, 4th T20 – 1 August 2025, 5th T20 – 3 August 2025
Noel, Persaud in Singapore for World Aquatic Championships
THE country’s top swimmers Raekwon Noel and Aleka Persaud are already in the Singapore to represent Guyana in the 2025 World Aquatic Swimming Championships.
Noel, who is the first male Guyanese to qualify directly for the event, will suit up for the 100 and 200-metres butterfly events.
He will first dive into the pool next Tuesday in the 200 metres then the 100 metres on August 1.
Earlier this year, At the PANAM Aquatic Championships in Colombia, the 20-year-old Noel qualified for the World Aquatic Championships through the ‘B’ standard in the 200 metres freestyle event.
In the event he rewrote the history books with a new national record in the 200 metres butterfly, where he also picked up a gold medal.
The two minutes 02.52 seconds time eclipsed his old record of 2.05.65, set during the July 2023 World Championships in Japan.
Noel went on to capture a total of four gold medals in that class and resetting records in the 400 metres, 800 metres and 1500 metres freestyle events, as well as the 50 metres and 100 metres back-stroke events.
Fellow Olympian Persaud is set to compete in the 100 metres freestyle and 100 metres butterfly, the first of which is set for July 31 and
the second on July 27. The duo also represented Guyana at the Paris Olympics, while Persaud also featured at the Tokyo Games. The 19-year-old Persaud is the foremost female athlete in Guyana with national records in the women 50 metres and 100 metres butterfly and 200 medley. The team in Singapore is led by coach Sean Baksh.
The West Indies women’s team
In photo, Ramchand Ragbeer (centre) of Ramchand Auto Spares presents the sponsorship to Davteerth Anandjit in the presence of Anil Beharry
Raekwon Noel
Aleka Persaud
V-Net and Cricket Zone USA back rising star Quentin Sampson
HARD-HITTING all-rounder Quentin Sampson has received a significant boost ahead of his upcoming commitments, thanks to VNet Technologies Inc. and Cricket Zone USA.
The talented Guyanese player, recently drafted by the Guyana Amazon Warriors for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), has been gifted a brand-new cricket kit from the popular E4 brand.
Safraz Sheriffudeen, the CEO of VNet Technologies Inc., personally handed over the new equipment to Sampson.
Sheriffudeen lauded the all-rounder’s recent success in making the senior national teams and the CPL squad.
“Quentin is certainly filled with immense talent, just like many of the young cricketers we support,” said Sheriffudeen.
“We hope that even though some degree of success has come his way recently, he continues to work hard and even harder than before, and aims for the highest heights in the sport.”
In a statement, Sampson expressed his gratitude for the backing, calling the new gear “ideal” as he intensifies his preparations.
“This support from V-Net and Cricket Zone USA comes at a perfect time,” Sampson said. “It will undoubtedly help me as I ramp up my training for the upcoming season.”
Both V-Net and Cricket Zone USA have a long history of supporting young Guyanese cricketers.
Sampson now joins a growing list of athletes benefitting from the E4 brand.
His powerful batting and useful medium-pace bowling have marked him as one of the country’s most promising young talents.
All-rounder Quentin Sampson (left) and Safraz Sheriffudeen, the CEO of VNet Technologies Inc.
The tournament’s fan base has grown, and the expectation of strong crowd support in Essequibo is high Royals’ Harold Adams on the ball in the One Guyana Basketball Premier League