–President Ali promises full transparency in probe –Region Three Commander sent on ‘admin’ leave –Hotel owner, employees, police ranks in custody
No 24-hour waiting period to act on reports of missing children, persons $500M to be injected into East Bank Berbice to boost agricultural development ‘Hands-on training crucial for youths excelling in the job market’
-VP Jagdeo says; urges UG to place more emphasis on skills training, pledges gov’t support
President, Dr Irfaan Ali in a heartfelt meeting with the grieving family of Adrianna Younge (Office of the President photo)
Oil & Gas companies, gov’t ministries join forces for women in energy job fair
By Shaniya Harding
SOME of Guyana’s biggest oil and gas players have partnered with government ministries to be part of the Women in Energy Job Fair. Hosted at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, the event was spearheaded by Women in Energy, a group dedicated to empowering women in the energy industry through networking, mentorship, and education.
The event provided young men and women with an up-close and personal experience, interacting with representatives from 14 companies and ministries to have their questions answered and learn more about Guyana’s growing oil and gas industry.
In a short interview with the Sunday Chronicle at the fair on Saturday, Filisha Duke, Vice President of Women in Energy, emphasised the organisation’s mission to foster greater inclusion, skill development and career guidance.
“Women in Energy is an organisation that is specifically focused on creating opportunities for women in the energy space, encouraging more inclusion of women within that space. As you know, that’s a male-dom -
offering advice to visitors trained in other fields on making the change to the oil and gas sector.
inated space,” Duke explained.
The job fair featured participation from major staffing agencies and companies operating within the oil and gas industry. Energy
giants like Saipem, Halliburton, Greenstate Oil and Gas, Guyana Logistics and Support Services, SBM Offshore, as well as government entities such as the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of
Labour, and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning.
The Ministry of Education’s career guidance unit and training institutions focused on upskilling initiatives and opportunities,
“We wanted to add a touch as well as it relates to skill sets and upscaling, because within the energy space, you have to have certain skill sets, especially if you’re going offshore,” Duke said, adding, “ We have some career guidance happening in this role; we have the Ministry of Education, which is very important. A lot of these things start from secondary school, then go to university, so you’re prepping them to make their way into that space.”
One of the highlights of the fair was the access job seekers had to immediate opportunities and firsthand information, with many young people and students taking the opportunity to learn more about Guyana’s energy sector and the role they can play.
“It was a strategic position where young professionals or job seekers could come in and have access to information,” Duke said. “The good thing is, a lot of the agencies are actively hiring,” she added.
Duke acknowledged that many Guyanese are eager to participate in the country’s growing oil and gas sector but often lack clarity on how to transition into the field.
“One of the things that the young professionals were asked was, ‘So I’m a teacher, how do I transition the skills I would have acquired as a teacher to get an opportunity to work with media agencies?’
“More and more, you’re seeing Guyanese have a desire; they want to be a part of the boom and what’s happening,” she stated.
Duke, who has been an active figure within the Women in Energy movement, noted that the organisation already has ambitious plans for future growth.
“Every year, I can guarantee you it’s going to get bigger,” Duke said.
“Next year, we’re going to push this bigger, and I know our goal for next year will be to go into the other regions, at least the major ones, like Linden, New Amsterdam, you know, the major ones, to take it to them because it’s difficult sometimes for them to come to us,” she stated.
Filisha Duke, Vice President of Women in Energy, emphasised the organisation’s mission to foster greater inclusion, upskilling, and career guidance
The event provided young men and women with an up-close and personal experience
Mount Sinai pathologist to join team conducting PME on Adrianna Younge
–President Ali promises full transparency in probe –Region Three Commander sent on ‘admin’ leave –Hotel owner, employees, police ranks in custody
By Feona Morrison
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has reiterated his government’s commitment to full transparency, and pledged unwavering support to the family of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, whose death, suspected to involve foul play, has gripped the nation.
Speaking directly with family members, including the girl’s mother, outside their home on Saturday morning, President Ali promised that every effort would be made to uncover the truth.
“All of us want the truth; we all want justice,” the President said, assuring the grieving relatives that the administration will honour all their requests related to the investigation and upcoming post-mortem examination (PME).
The Head of State added, “All of us want the truth. That is the only thing I’m interested in; ensuring the truth leads to [justice]. Whatever action has to be taken, will be taken,” Dr. Ali reiterated during his second visit to the family.
Adrianna’s body was discovered on the morning of April 24, 2025 in a pool at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, Region
Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara), hours after she was reported missing, the day prior,
following a visit to the hotel with family members.
The pool was searched several times with no sign of the young child, so when her body mysteriously appeared, it triggered public outrage, and sparked nationwide protest actions, as the family suspected she was murdered and then dumped there.
Citing a lack of trust in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to properly investigate Adrianna’s death, the Younge family requested that an independent pathologist perform the autopsy.
HIGHLY-QUALIFIED TEAM OF PATHOLOGISTS
Their request led President Ali to bring in Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul from Barbados, who has significant experience in forensic and legal medicine.
Dr. Paul has over 23 years of experience in forensic pathology, covering thousands of autopsy examinations, crime scene analyses, and forensic reports.
Notably, Dr. Paul previously supported local forensic teams in identifying the victims of the tragic Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire in May 2023, which claimed the lives of 20 children.
Not satisfied, the family asked to fly in their own independent pathologist from North
America to observe the autopsy at the expense of the State, and the President agreed.
Nevertheless, Dr. Ali stated, “We don’t have any issue with any other pathologist,” assuring the family that they were free to bring their own doctor to observe the PME.
To ensure transparency, President Ali disclosed that he has instructed the police to fully video-record the autopsy process.
"I’ve asked the police to make sure everything is videoed; no missteps. Everything must be observed. As many witnesses as the family wants in there [for the post-mortem], that is medically permissible. All of their requests, in terms of this post-mortem, must be honoured as far as possible," President Ali told local journalist Gordon Moseley shortly after meeting with the grieving family on Saturday.
The family’s pathologist has been identified as Dr. Gary Collins, the Chief Medical Examiner for the U.S. State of Delaware. He is expected to arrive here today, Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Sunday Chronicle has confirmed that the government has since engaged the services of a third pathologist. When contacted by this publication on Saturday evening, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony confirmed that one Dr. Glenn
Rudner, a Clinical Professor in the Department of Pathology at the New York-based Mount Sinai Hospital and School of Medicine, will be joining the two doctors mentioned earlier.
Dr. Rudner, a board-certified pathologist based in New York, earned his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine, and has over 20 years of experience in the field. Dr. Rudner is scheduled to arrive in Guyana this evening.
The Health Minister confirmed that both Dr. Paul and Dr. Rudner are certified to practise in Guyana, with their qualifications having been assessed and approved by the Guyana Medical Council (GMC).
“The two doctors, Dr. Paul and Dr. Rudner, whom the government has invited, are both licensed by the Medical Council,” Dr. Anthony said.
He clarified that for Dr. Collins to practise in Guyana, he must first be registered with the GMC, a process that involves assessing the individual’s qualifications before approval is granted.
Local Attorney-at-Law Darren Wade, on behalf of the child’s family, has already forwarded Dr. Collins’ qualifications to the Guyana Medical Council for review.
SHAKE-UP
On Saturday, Police Com-
missioner Clifton Hicken announced that Assistant Commissioner Khalid Mandall, Commander of Regional Division 3, has been placed on administrative leave. He was first transferred to Division 4B, before he was sent on leave. Assistant Commissioner Mahindra Siewnarine has since been posted to oversee the division of Region Three. Mandall has come in for severe criticism over the way he handled the case when Adrianna was first reported missing.
According to Hicken, several other police ranks are also under close arrest as investigations continue. President Ali also confirmed that the owner of the hotel and staff remain in police custody, while the Top Cop revealed that interviews are ongoing, with several individuals who may aid in the investigation.
President Ali on Saturday encouraged the family to engage in peaceful protest, and promised to visit them again to provide updates, and check on their well-being. "I will continue to be here to update you; to listen to you," he promised.
The Head of State had previously emphasised that no effort or resource will be spared in uncovering the full truth. The police have promised to provide updates as the investigation unfolds.
BACKGROUND
Adrianna's body was pulled from the hotel’s pool by her
father, Subrian Younge. According to initial police reports, she was last seen at the hotel on Wednesday afternoon, where she had gone swimming with her siblings, under the supervision of her grandmother.
The police initially said that surveillance footage showed Adrianna leaving the hotel and entering a red-and-black Toyota Raum motorcar, PSS 4684, which was said to be heading in the direction of Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
The police said the vehicle was rented to a man they only identified as Orlando. At that point, the case was being treated as a suspected abduction. Although extensive searches were conducted on Wednesday, Adrianna was not located.
Police said the hotel’s management claimed its surveillance cameras were not working, further complicating the investigation. However, it remains unclear whether police officers independently verified the status of the cameras. Public outrage intensified on Thursday following the gruesome discovery of Adrianna’s body in the pool.
Calls mounted for the release of the video showing her entering the vehicle, and citizens questioned the thoroughness of the initial investigation. In a subsequent statement, the police admitted that elements of its earlier communication regarding the alleged abduction were inaccurate. They stated that preliminary investigations revealed discrepancies in the initial report, prompting an internal review of the communication processes that led to its release.
The police have reassured the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway, not only into Adrianna’s death but also into the missteps in communication.
Adrianna had recently completed the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), and was eagerly awaiting her results, which are scheduled for release in June.
Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul of Barbados
Dr. Gary Collins, the independent pathologist chosen by the family
Dr. Glenn Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital
Assistant Commissioner Khalid Mandall has been sent on administrative leave
President Ali meeting with the grieving family on Saturday
Adrianna Younge
Thousands line streets of Rome as Pope Francis laid to rest after Vatican funeral
(BBC) - Pope Francis has been buried in Rome after a funeral ceremony and procession attended by hundreds of thousands of people and many heads of state. The first South American pontiff passed away on Monday aged 88, marking the end of a 12-year pontificate. As the Italian capital woke up to a hazy morning, teenage pilgrims, nuns and priests of all denominations filed silently down the streets leading to the Vatican.
Many of the streets around St Peter's Basilica were closed - both to allow the flow of visitors and for security reasons, as more than a hundred foreign dignitaries were expected to join the funeral mass. More than 8,000 Italian police of different branches were out in force, as well as firefighters, medics, canine unit handlers, volunteers, members of the armed forces and even park guards.
Many had been called in from all sides of Italy to be in Rome today - resulting in a rather joyous blend of accents
from across the country, from the Sicilian to the Milanese. By 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) much of the square was already full.
As heads of state and foreign dignitaries took their places to the right of the altar, hundreds of photographers in the press area on the roof of the colonnade snapped their cameras furiously, hoping to capture a candid image of US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose last meeting in February gave rise to a combative exchange in the Oval Office.
But soon after, as a striking photo of the two men sitting on two chairs inside St Peter's began to circulate, it emerged that they had
already met for around 15 minutes before the service began. Later, Zelensky said the meeting "had potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results". Photos showed that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump, Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron had also all met in the Vatican.
From the bright red of the clergy's habits to the muted grey and blue of nuns' veils to the rainbow sun hats worn by pilgrims, all morning St Peter's Square was a riot of colours glistening in the sun.
Hymns played out on giant speakers, occasionally drowned out by the sound of helicopters flying overhead, as drones and seagulls crisscrossed over Michelangelo's dome. Yet the voice of 91-year-old Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re rang loud and clear as he presided over the mass.
The service's structure was very similar to that of any Catholic funeral mass, although the readings were done in many different languages and all hymns were sung in Latin. Outside St Peter's, a crowd the Vatican later said numbered 200,000 applauded as large screens showed Zelensky take his seat. There was also applause when the Pope's simple wooden coffin was brought out.
The crowd's applause marked some other salient moments - such as when Cardinal Re, as part of his homily, remembered the Pope's commitment to migrants and peace.bHe mentioned that the Pope's first trip had been to the Italian island of Lampedusa, the port of arrival in Europe for many migrants who make the perilous journey across the Mediterranean, and recalled the mass the Pope celebrated at the US-Mexico border.
"War, he said, results in the death of people and the destruction of homes, hospitals and schools. War always leaves the world worse than it was before: it is always a painful and tragic defeat for everyone."
The cardinal emphasised that Pope Francis had repeatedly urged the world to "build bridges, not walls". During communion, a procession of white-clad priests made its way down St Peter's Square, carrying golden chalices full of wafers for communion, as many in the large crowd moved forward to receive the hosts. Soon after, Cardinal Re blessed the Pope's coffin with holy water, before burning incense in a thurible - a symbol of cleansing - and the basilica's bells tolled three times after the blessing of the coffin was carried out.
After some brief mingling, world leaders started making their way out of the basilica. Their motorcades then filed out of the Vatican. Within an hour Trump was reported to be back on Air Force One, while other leaders held various informal meetings in Rome. Meanwhile, the Pope's coffin was carried through Rome in a slow procession to the church of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.
Authorities said 140,000 had lined the streets, clapping and waving as the hearse – a repurposed white popemobile – crossed the Tiber river and drove past some of Rome's
most recognisable sights: the Colosseum, the Forum and the Altare della Patria national monument on Piazza Venezia. Once the coffin reached Santa Maria Maggiore, it was taken inside and the live broadcast ceased.
Pope Francis was buried in the righthand side of the church, near a beloved icon of the Virgin Mary, at around 15:00. Visitors, pilgrims and the clergy vacated St Peter's Square quickly. Many could be seen minutes later in the numerous cafes, restaurants and pizzerias of the historic Borgo Pio neighbourhood nearby.
Officials said the day had unfolded without any major incidents. "Four hundred thousand people shared a historic and emotional moment, and thanks to everyone's commitment the day took place in a solemn and serene way, without critical issues," said the head of the Civil Protection, Fabio Ciciliano.
The city of Rome and the Catholics of the world will now be preparing for the next momentous event - the conclave, which will select the next Pope. A date has not yet been set but it is thought it could start as early as 5 or 6 May, after the Novemdiales - the mandatory nine days of mourning - are over. With 135 cardinals set to attend, it will be the largest conclave in modern history and one of the most unpredictable.
No 24-hour waiting period to act on reports of missing children, persons – ‘Top Cop’
THE Guyana Police Force on Saturday released a new Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling reports of missing children and persons.
A press release from the Office of the Commissioner of Police noted that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) remains “unwavering in its commitment to the protection and welfare of all citizens, with special emphasis on our most vulnerable groups.”
In this regard, the GPF has outlined procedures for the effective handling of reports involving missing children and persons. These procedures ensure a standardised and coordinated response across all divisions, police stations, outposts, and the Missing Children/Persons Unit (MCPU).
It mandates that all reports be treated with the highest level of seriousness, sensitivity and professionalism, in keeping with best practices and the human rights framework.
Among the key provisions of the SOP are the following:
Immediate Response: All missing-person reports must be acted upon without delay. There is no mandatory 24-hour waiting period.
Activation of Red
- Police Force releases new SOPs
Alerts: A Red Alert will be immediately issued for any report involving a missing child, triggering a national coordinated response.
Risk Classification:
Special attention will be given to children, elderly individuals, and persons with disabilities or vulnerabilities, who will be classified as high-risk, warranting immediate deployment of additional resources.
Interagency Coordination: The Force will continue to work collaboratively with the Child Care and Protection Agency, Immigration Department, health institutions, shelters, and other critical partners to ensure a comprehensive and effective response.
Public Awareness:
The Corporate Communications Unit (CCU) will disseminate timely and accurate public notices regarding missing persons, upon authorisation from
the Office of the Commissioner.
Senior Oversight and Accountability: Divisional Commanders and the Missing Children/Persons Unit (MCPU) will maintain daily oversight of all active investigations and provide regular updates until each case is resolved. Additionally, the Heads of Services — including the
Chief of Defence Staff, Chief Fire Officer, and Director of Prisons — will be notified promptly by the Commissioner of Police in all cases involving missing children or vulnerable individuals.
According to the Police Commissioner’s office, all officers of the Guyana Police Force are reminded that failure to
comply with the provisions of this SOP, without lawful justification, will result in administrative review and disciplinary action as prescribed by the Standing Orders of the Force and the Police (Discipline) Act, Chapter 17:01.
“The Guyana Police Force takes its responsibility to protect life and ensure public safety with the utmost seriousness. The implementation of this SOP underscores our
renewed commitment to act swiftly, lawfully, and compassionately when a person is reported missing.
“We urge members of the public to work with us by providing timely information to aid in the safe recovery of missing persons. The Guyana Police Force remains dedicated to serving with professionalism, integrity, and vigilance,” the press release concluded.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken
THE tragedy of 11-yearold Adrianna Younge's death at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, has shaken Guyana to its core, exposing cracks in systems that were meant to protect our children and uphold public confidence.
With the probe still underway, a senior police official suspended and others detained, the nation remains shocked and outraged.
From the start, the Guyana Police Force's handling of Adrianna's disappearance and death has been clouded by vagueness and contradiction. Initial police accounts, now recognised as having been false, reported abduction, and referred to surveillance footage not yet made public.
The pleas of the family for the hotel to be closed down were ignored, and the inexplicable delay in finding Adrianna's body, even after numerous searches,
leaves sobering questions regarding the thoroughness and honesty of the initial police response.
The decision to send Assistant Commander Mandall on administrative leave, and the arrest of several officers are necessary steps. The people of Guyana deserve answers, accountability, and reform.
President Irfaan Ali’s swift call for a special investigative team, and the involvement of an independent international pathol-
ogist were commendable moves towards transparency.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo's "no rest" until the facts are known encapsulates the country's mood: There must be sanctions at all levels if there is a cover-up or wrongdoing.
Adrianna's family's loss is incalculable, and their call for justice is a call to battle for the country at large. As the bereaved fathers put it, "I want justice for my
daughter!"
Their tragedy is compounded because they know that stronger police action could have made the difference between saving her life. This is not just a personal tragedy; it's a national crisis requiring systemic change.
This is a moment that must be a turning point.
The Guyana Police Force must reform its internal communications, evidence procedures, and response protocols, especially in
child cases. The public must not only witness justice being served, but witness it being served transparently, expeditiously, and equitably.
The death of Adrianna cannot be undone, but justice must be delivered. Her memory should spur us to work towards a better society where no parent dreads for their child's life, and where those who have the public's trust to protect it are worthy of it.
Facts not fiction: Defending the ministry’s work on the ground! Justice and reforms
Dear Editor,
I WRITE in response to the letter titled, “Ministry failed to make preparations for bumper rice crop” in the April 24, 2025 edition of the Stabroek News, and another titled "State of the rice industry" in the April 24, 2025 edition of the Kaieteur News.
A passionate critique that regrettably misrepresents the facts surrounding the Ministry of Agriculture's performance under Honourable Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.
To allege that Minister Mustapha has done “very little intellectually, strategically, and policy-wise” is not only inaccurate, but dismissive of the forward-thinking, hands-on leadership he has demonstrated.
Over the past four years, the Ministry has steered the agricultural sector through global disruptions, from pandemics to climate shocks while increasing productivity, resilience, and diversification.
Agriculture is not governed by ideal conditions, but by responsive, adaptive policymaking, precisely what Minister Mustapha and President Irfaan Ali have championed.
The Ministry’s record includes improvements in seed paddy production, the introduction of climate-resilient varieties, new drying facilities, and expanded water infrastructure, all contributing to a clear upward trajectory.
Let the facts speak! Rice production reached record
levels in multiple quarters, and new markets have been secured in Latin America and the Caribbean. The suggestion that the Ministry failed to plan for a bumper crop disregards months of groundwork and engagement. Since January 2024, the Minister and Vice-President have held continuous consultations with millers and farmers, particularly in Region Two. Millers assured the Government that they had sufficient capacity to take in all the paddy produced along the coast.
Despite these assurances, the Government did not remain idle. As an additional safeguard, it secured markets outside of Region Two, enabling farmers to now sell their paddy to mills in Regions Three and Four.
Furthermore, in response to payment delays and capacity strains, as I am aware that the government has directly intervened. Farmers are now guaranteed to get a minimum of $4000 per bag of paddy from the millers, with the government's contribution, through subsidization, at a rate of $300 per bag, and activating a buying facility at Hampton Court. This initiative has been progressing well, and has been warmly welcomed by farmers.
The Government will be purchasing 100,000 bags of paddy, and GRDB staff are currently stationed at all mills to oversee and support transparent purchasing operations. This is not a secret! As for delays at the
mills, these are not due to negligence. They result from a combination of increased acreage and higher yields, adverse weather conditions, rollover stocks, and the temporary closure of some mills affected by the loss of the Venezuela market, and delayed payments from Panama. These are complex challenges, and, in my opinion, the Ministry’s response has been comprehensive, measured, and deeply consultative.
In the sugar industry, we must also be honest. Minister Mustapha inherited a broken system. The $13 billion invested has not “vanished”; it has paid wages, rehabilitated facilities, and sustained rural economies. Stabilisation and recovery take time, but the Minister
has laid the groundwork. It’s easy to criticise from the sidelines. Far harder is the work of rebuilding an industry, restoring confidence, and fostering innovation. Minister Mustapha has not micromanaged; he has led with vision. His focus remains steadfast on empowering small farmers, opening new markets, modernising agriculture, and building a food-secure Guyana. Criticism has its place, but it must be rooted in facts, not political convenience. Let’s engage constructively. Let’s build, not tear down, what is being shaped with patience, persistence, and purpose.
Sincerely, Kimberly Ann Dowrige Agricultural Development Advocate
Death of an 11-year-old girl, the FBI and the West Indian inferiority complex
I DOUBT whether there is a more comical moment in Caribbean state leadership to rival the exclamation of Keith Rowley, when, in his final address to his party on demitting office as Prime Minister, he went into an emotional paroxysm about the urgency of Trinidad leaving the Privy Council.
Rowley’s antics were clownish. In fact, he was the clown on stage. Here was a man who was Prime Minister of his country, not for nine months but nine years and rejected the transition of the Privy Council to the Caribbean Court of Justice. Please see my column of Wednesday, March 19, 2025, “Keith Rowley: Black skin, white mask.”
Jamaica is the home of the music of Bob Marley, the Rastafari religion, and the genius of Usain Bolt. But you cannot get the descendants of the Mulatto/ Creole Class (MCC) in Jamaica to dump the Privy Council. It is a deep-seated inferiority complex of the MCC in the Caribbean that sees Western culture as its standard bearer. Once the ruling classes and their parties are from the MCC, Jamaica will
not remove the Privy Council and will never pursue deeper CARICOM integration.
So, the opposition parties and the Guyana Human Rights Association, the Stabroek News and the MCC wanted a foreign forensic team to investigate the double murders of the Henry Cousins in Cotton Tree in September 2020. Nigel Hughes openly advocates for the rejection of the Regional Security Team (RSS) to conduct the investigation of recent police killings in Linden. He wants people from outside the region.
The mother of the 11-year-old girl whose death is being investigated has rejected the pathologist from Barbados. The family wants the FBI to send a pathologist. Is the mother being advised by MCC and opposition elements about the inferiority and inabilities of Caribbean pathologists?
The Barbados pathologist is a highly respected Caribbean professional who worked for the UK government for more than a decade. But we don’t want him because, as in the case of Nigel Hughes and the Linden investigation, there is a question of trust.
So, let’s operation-
alise how the conspiracy will work with the Caribbean specialists and the Government of Guyana. The RSS investigators and the Barbados pathologist are expected to compromise their work. And using my imagination, it is supposed to go like this: the RSS team and the Barbados pathologist are approached by top power-wielders in government and simply ask the people to compromise their integrity, and they will do it because the Guyana Government asked them to do so.
This is the extent to which Caribbean professionals and scientists are disrespected by their own society. So, the Caribbean specialists will alter their findings to please the Guyana Government, but not the pathologist from the FBI. The FBI’s pathologist will not compromise himself for one reason only. And that reason lies in the psyche of the Caribbean citizen who has an inferiority complex. The complex works in the simplest way for any school kid to understand. The FBI man is not from the Caribbean, so he has to be a superior person that the Guyana Government cannot influence.
A few words about
the FBI. The man who currently heads it is named Kashyap Pramod Patel, a dark-skin, East Indian who is a practising Hindu. Mr. Patel wrote a devastating book critical of the nature and work of the FBI. In his book, Mr. Patel made the most shocking accusations against the FBI, which include using its office for political purposes, including targeting American establishment politicians for their political advocacy. President Trump appointed Patel because Mr. Trump claimed that the FBI was used as a weapon against him. The same FBI investigated Mr. Trump based on a dossier which ac-
cused the Russians of having compromising material on Trump, thus he may be blackmailed by the Russians. The dossier initiated during the Obama presidency and continued by Biden turned out to be a booklet whose fiction was not only poor but boring.
Let’s entertain a thought in the opposite direction before we end. Since the MCC and some sections of Guyanese society think that Caribbean specialists cannot be trusted and their integrity is open to question, what about the foreign companies in Guyana who have local law firms advising them? What if these foreign investors
accept the theory of Caribbean inferiority complex? Should they rely on such local firms to litigate in court for them? Can the foreign companies trust Caribbean professionals who see themselves as inferior to Western people? Why a pathologist from the FBI and not Brazil, not India, not China? The answer is simple. Read Franz Fanon or listen to Bob Marley.
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.
ExxonMobil’s expansion of gas supply to shore is a boon for Guyana’s economy
AT the recently concluded Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, ExxonMobil’s J. Hunter Farris, Senior Vice President - Deepwater, made a groundbreaking announcement that is set to boost Guyana's energy security and earning power.
Sp eaking at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, Farris revealed that Exxon has identified additional gas resources that will more than double gas supply through the Gas-to-Energy pipeline, increasing from 50 million cubic feet per day to approximately 120 million cubic feet per day.
The Gas-to-Energy project is already set to transform Guyana’s power sector. The first phase, now expected
to begin operations in 2026, will deliver 50 million cubic feet of gas daily from the Liza field offshore to the onshore Wales integrated facility.
This facility will include a 300-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant and a natural gas liquids (NGL) separation plant. Together, these plants will provide a more stable and reliable power supply, reducing the country’s dependence on heavy fuel oil. With frequent power outages affecting businesses and residents, the project is expected to facilitate cutting electricity costs by half, making Guyana a more attractive destination for investment and industrial development.
Farris’ announcement is particularly im-
portant as it aligns with Guyana’s broader ambitions to expand energy security. The second phase of the Gas-to-Energy project will see the construction of an additional 300-megawatt power plant and a second NGL plant, by a contractor to be hired by the government, to make use of the additional gas.
This will not only double electricity generation from gas but also boost natural gas liquids production to approximately 9,800 barrels per day (b/d). The expanded power to be generated is crucial, given delays in the Amaila Falls hydropower project, which was initially being pursued to start operation in 2027 but has struggled to secure a development partner. The additional gas supply from Exxon
will bridge the gap left by the delayed hydro project, ensuring that Guyana can meet its growing energy needs.
A key component of this expansion in gas supply is Exxon’s Hammerhead development, which is likely to be the primary source of the additional gas. Hammerhead, expected to begin production by 2029, once approved by government, is designed to produce up to 95 million cubic feet of natural gas per day alongside 180,000 barrels of crude oil.
While some of this gas will be used for fueling offshore operations and enhancing oil recovery at the Liza Unity FPSO site, a significant portion will be directed to the Gas-to-Energy pipeline. Exxon plans to install
a pipeline connecting the Hammerhead FPSO to the Gas-to-Energy pipeline. This supply is critical for achieving the targeted 120-125 million cubic feet per day supply, as outlined by Farris.
This expansion will have considerable economic and environmental benefits. By shifting from imported heavy fuel oil to domestically produced natural gas, Guyana will reduce its carbon footprint while saving billions in fuel costs.
The country will also become more energy independent, reducing its reliance on volatile global energy markets. Additionally, with an anticipated surplus of natural gas liquids, Guyana can export more than 80 per cent of this production,
while ensuring a stable and cheap domestic supply.
The Guyana Energy Conference, where Farris' announcement was made, serves as a crucial platform for fostering discussions on investment, energy diversification, and economic growth. The annual event brings together government representatives, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to explore opportunities in and beyond oil and gas.
(Originally published on February 27, 2025)
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.
Tech She Can: Women leading digital transformation
AS Guyana continues its acceleration towards digital transformation, the contributions of women in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) are becoming increasingly vital. Across the globe, women are leading innovation, building infrastructure and driving our digital future, yet their representation in the sector remains low.
According to a Forbes report, as of 2024, women comprise approximately 25 per cent of the workforce in large global technology firms, marking a modest increase from previous years. Supporting this, the World Bank also reports that women account for less than a third of the global workforce in technology-related fields. These statistics reinforce the ongoing need for initiatives that promote gender diversity in the tech industry.
At the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), we firmly believe that women must not only occupy space in this sector but also actively create opportunities for others. Our commitment is unwavering in ensuring that experienced and qual-
ified women fill key leadership positions. Notably, two of our most critical divisions, Cybersecurity and e-Services have exemplary, skilled and highly qualified women in senior leadership positions:
Cybersecurity Director Muriana McPherson and e-Services Manager Nkasi Nedd.
Their leadership has been instrumental, showcased in their involvement in several national ICT projects, including Guyana’s Digital Readiness Programme, the formulation of comprehensive cybersecurity policies for the whole of government, and the launch of several critical eService applications, making essential government service access more readily available.
Conjointly with female leadership, we continue to support and promote the role of women within the Authority.
Currently, 36 per cent of our employees are female, many of whom hold critical positions such as Directors, Managers, Programmers, Engineers, Product Owners, and Team Leads as we continue to strategically undertake projects that not only foster the growth of
Guyana’s ICT sector but also the impact of women in the sector. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace. In 2024, Guyana received a Recognition Award at the Eighth Digital Government Ministerial Meeting of the Americas (held in Brazil) for our programmes, such as our Girls in ICT Day Initiative.
This initiative saw women engineers from the eServices department capture the interest of the young girls of Wakapoa Secondary in Region 2 and ignite the flame of ICT career possibilities. In addition, our workshops, led by the Cybersecurity team, benefitted female students of Grades 9 and 10 from four Georgetown schools, providing invaluable resources to women and girls aspiring to join this dynamic sector.
Further, Government-sponsored initiatives like the Guyanese Girls Code Programme have empowered hundreds of young women with coding and programming skills, nurturing a passion for innovation and technology from an early age. These initiatives were designed to bridge the gender gap and place the baton firmly
in the hands of the next generation of female tech leaders.
The Government of Guyana has demonstrated a robust commitment to investing in initiatives that support girls in ICT. President Dr. Irfaan Ali has emphasised the integral role of women in Guyana’s digital development. In his message on International Women’s Day 2023, President Ali stated, “Guyana shares and supports the aspirations of the international community in reducing gender inequality within the digital sector.” This commitment is further
evidenced by substantial investments aimed at empowering women across various sectors.
As of March 2025, the government has invested approximately $156 billion in various initiatives supporting women’s empowerment in Guyana including the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN). At NDMA, our vision is clear: a future where women are not only included in technology but where they thrive, shape and lead it. By celebrating the achievements of female leaders, expanding access to ICT education
for girls and aligning with national policy initiatives, we are working towards a more equitable and dynamic tech landscape in Guyana.
For more information on this and other trending tech topics and on the work of the NDMA visit our website at ndma.gov. gy.
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.
Let the chips fall where they may
Thousands of Guyanese are outraged at the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge, and justifiably so. The anger and disbelief expressed by her parents, family members, and friends are understandable and valid. The circumstances leading up to the child’s gruesome discovery must be fully investigated and publicly ventilated.
President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has done the right thing by immediately offering his condolences to the child's parents and promising to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has also urged the Guyana Police Force to show the footage which they said showed the child leaving the hotel and entering a vehicle and heading in the direction of Vreed-en-oop as this will clear the air of all
suspicions of an attempt to mislead the public, and the involvement of the police force in a cover-up. Like President Ali, the Vice President was clear that there should be no cover-up and anyone found culpable would face the full brunt of the law.
The government had Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand and the Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud, on the ground, expressing concern over the incident, seeking to keep the public calm and then offering their condolences to the family. This underscored the importance and seriousness with which the government treats issues such as these that involve Guyanese, particularly children.
Firstly, the government needs to look into the relationship that exists between the police in Region
Three and the owners of the hotel.
This incident is not normal, and while the Guyana Police Force acknowledged that there were “inaccuracies” in its initial release to the public, something is still amiss. It may involve big names of people right at the helm of policing in the region. And, the government must be comfortable with knowing that it has the full support of all Guyanese in getting down to the bottom of the matter.
Not to beat down the general police force, but any senior politician or ordinary person would know that the force does not usually make these mistakes with how it dispenses it communication responsibilities to the public. And if so, not in the way it did. There are a whole lot of questions that exist even with this discovery, and the government must ensure
that they are answered sufficiently and honestly.
Secondly, heads must roll after the probe is done professionally. The command centre for policing in Region Three must be examined carefully. The truth is the incident could have been handled differently and the public’s outrage could have been simmered. The police missed the opportunity, late platitudes aside, to show more empathy and concern over such an incident.
Therefore, the government must demonstrate their oversight capabilities, and must be seen standing on the side of residents of Tuschen, and all Guyanese, as we not only seek answers but take action too. This incident must not be allowed to take place again in modern Guyana. We must do everything that can be done to protect our children, families and all Guyanese.
The government must take a careful look at the wider police force. Recently, the government has been forced to put out the fires which they did not start in the first place. The government will need to seek out constant reforms and new policies that should be implemented within the police force. The government must treat with the police more carefully and sternly in rooting out corruption and rogue elements in the force, as it has demonstrated as of late with charges against Calvin Brutus.
The government must demand higher levels of transparency and accountability of the Guyana Police Force, regardless of which division, rank of officers and incident. The force’s Communications Unit has to demonstrate more tact, responsibility and accuracy with the data it gives to the public. It is unacceptable to issue the statement and then have to do a 360. The police involved need to have better media training and reforms.
It is disrespectful to the government, family, and Guyanese to have to hear
a professional Force say, “is currently reviewing the internal communication processes that led to the release of that statement”. We expect the force to apologise, point blank, and to do better after overhauling the entire internal communication process because the police are attempting to make the PPP government look bad.
Thirdly, there were the usual political bottom feeders, vultures, and bloodsuckers who swooped down on the community, trying to prey on the parents, family and residents of Tuschen, all for political gain. They know themselves and what they were up to. Skilled manoeuvring by the government ministers and officials ensured that the opposition did not succeed with the plan.
And, the other usual suspects have come out from hiding to play with people’s emotions. The Guyana Human Rights Association cannot be serious with its statement on the incident which occurred on Friday, where it took a swipe at the government’s appointment of the current police commissioner.
Let’s be clear: The government’s appointment of Commissioner Clifton Hicken is both legal and constitutional. There is no proof that the GPF is treated as an adjunct to the government in power. There is no low morale and disintegration of professional standards. Has the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), that is asleep and doing its bidding of its many opposition bosses, done a recent study or empirical research? Or is this position based on the perception of Michael McCormack and a few others? Or is the GHRA being selective and political because this is an election year?
How did it arrive at the President's statement to the family being “weak and convincing”? The President has already engaged the commissioner and a special pathologist is already in the country, and the probe he promised is
already underway. That is what an effective leader does! President Ali did so with every tragedy involving the police and politics, including the recent incident at Linden. He doesn’t sweep things under the carpet or demonstrate weaknesses because he is fair and empathetic. The President believes in due process and will not yield to doing things on the basis of perception as opposed to facts.
Fourthly, the other police officers who responded to the angry protests were very professional and did not provoke the crowd. They were simply following instructions from the hierarchy of the police force. No one was injured or harmed unlawfully. No one felt threatened by the presence of the police, who were focused on keeping the peace and putting out the fires.
Those police officers should be commended because they did not seek to escalate the issue. That means that regardless of how we are feeling in the moment, we know that there are still good, empathetic and honest people in the police force.
It is unfortunate that the hotel, where the crime scene was established, was largely destroyed by fire. It was unfortunate to see the looting and destruction of other properties that took place. Again, the wide-scale probe should address this too. Finally, this investigation must be fully supported by all sides of the political divide. The chips must be allowed to fall where they may. Justice is a must in this case. Action is a requirement of the process, and reforming the Region Three policing division must be given serious thought. The 11-year-old did not have to die.
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.
Biopiracy and Guyana
THIS is a bizarre story about a highly unusual smuggling operation, one that I believe readers will want to hear about. It doesn’t involve the usual everyday trafficking in artefacts, people, illegal drugs, gold, or even rare gems. Officials in Africa refer to it as ‘biopiracy’ and describe it as a type of scientific colonialism.
Enforcement agencies tasked with preventing biopiracy are seeing a spike in organised syndicates in advanced countries using human mules to exploit genetic resources or naturally occurring biochemicals from farms and indigenous communities.
Earlier this month, the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KWS) and members of Kenya’s armed forces conducted a poaching bust, which got some media coverage in Europe and North America. However, the story caught my attention, and I believe we should be aware and alert because Guyana, renowned for its rich biodiversity, with thousands of plant species, fish, amphibians, birds, reptiles, and mammals, is already fertile ground for biopiracy.
Two Belgian teenagers were arrested in the Kenyan bust, and last week they pleaded guilty to
biopiracy. Kenyan prosecutors say that the two 19-year-olds were about to smuggle over five thousand caged animals that turned out to be giant queen African harvester ants stuffed in a mixture of test tubes and syringes containing cotton woolenvironments that were designed to keep the insects alive for weeks.
The local Kenyan market value was a paltry 1.2 million Kenyan shillings or US$9,300. However, in Europe, depending on the number and variety of each species in the cache, it could be worth as much as 1 million Euros, far exceeding the street value for cocaine.
Although many of the insects would have died before they could be sold to one of many thriving exotic pet retailers in Europe, experts say that the average cost of a single giant queen African harvester ant retails in Britain for around US$233. The number of queens in that single Kenyan bust was estimated to be roughly 5,440. Do the math and you’ll hear a cash register go off in your head.
While ants are difficult to detect, they fetch a hefty profit; not surprisingly, the global ant trade has been booming. If the shift in the trafficking trend - from larger exotic
mammals to the creepy crawly insects - is baffling, you’re missing the bigger picture.
In the underworld of trafficking, giant queen ants are referred to as “ecologically critical species,” and collecting them, experts say, is a hobby that has been booming over the past decade. Some species of red African harvester ants can grow to about 20-24mm long, and on websites like “Ants R Us”, they are referred to as a “dream species” and sell for well over US$100 per colony.
Those who buy them, and sales volumes have been climbing every year, do so for their unique behaviours and complex colony-building skills. In exotic pet circles, online forums and chat groups, ant-keeping shows are frequently advertised. At these shows, ant enthusiasts meet to compare colonies and discuss details that they consider to be a form of therapy from the hustle and bustle of their techno-driven world.
As children growing up in Guyana, we might recall how fascinating ants were until we got bitten. In a 2023 research paper tracking the ant trade across China, scientists worry about what might happen when ants are released into a differ-
ent ecosystem from their native ones. The fear is that they could potentially become invasive, with dire environmental and economic consequences.
Two years ago, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) caught and fined several individuals who were attempting to smuggle song birds out of Guyana in contravention of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2016). In all, six individuals were fined a total of several million dollars for trying to smuggle over 50 song birds from Guyana
to Canada and the United States. The commission said the birds were concealed in a cruel manner that could have resulted in a very high mortality rate.
Biopiracy often inflicts profound and sometimes irreversible harm on ecosystems, disrupting delicate natural balances. Consider the role of a large harvester ant colony: each year, these ants gather several kilograms of seeds from various grass species, simultaneously dispersing them across grasslands and enriching the soil.
In doing so, they not only facilitate germi -
nation but also sustain countless other species that rely on this cycle. It is worth noting that when farmers resort to pesticides to boost yields and protect crops, they may unintentionally degrade soil health and trigger cascading damage throughout the entire ecosystem.
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.
Nandlall slams Hughes for ‘inflammatory, reckless’ comments on Linden shootings
– reiterates AFC leader’s remarks prove he is unfit for role in government
ATTORNEY -General and Minister of Legal Affairs
Anil Nandlall, SC, has strongly rebuked Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes for making what he described as “reckless, irresponsible, and inflammatory” statements concerning the fatal shootings of two young men in Linden.
The recent deaths of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters and 32-year-old Keon Fogenay, also known as "Dan", allegedly at the hands of the police, have sparked widespread public outrage and protests in the mining town.
Nandlall said Hughes’ comments directly undermine the credibility of the independent investigations into the killings, and threaten to erode public trust in lawful institutions.
Speaking on Tuesday last during his weekly programme, Issues in the News,
Nandlall reminded the public that President Dr. Irfaan Ali had personally intervened in the matters.
He also reminded his audience that the Head of State has assured the victims’ families and the wider nation that a transparent, professional probe would be conducted, with justice pursued against anyone found culpable.
The AFC leader had urged citizens to distrust both the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Regional Security System (RSS), the regional body assisting GPF’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) in the investigation.
Hughes, instead, called for international forensic experts to be brought in, a move AG Nandlall sharply criticised as an attempt to discredit credible institutions.
In response to Hughes’ criticisms, the Attorney-General clarified that proper legal procedures were followed in the investigations, emphasising the constitutional structure that governs such matters.
He explained that following the RSS and OPR’s probe of Peters’ case, “The file didn’t come to the Attorney-General's Chambers or the Office of the Commissioner of Police. It went to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
"That is how it is done in a Constitutional structure like Guyana. There are 55 countries in the world, part of the Commonwealth, that have a system similar to ours,” Nandlall noted.
He stated that a similar process will be followed in Fogenay's case.
“Nigel Hughes is a lawyer; he knows all of this. Yet, he is quoted in the press as making the most reckless, irresponsible, and inflamma-
tory statements,” Nandlall stressed.
The Senior Counsel emphasised that Hughes has consistently shown a proclivity for publishing such statements.
“He is telling the country to disregard the law enforcement agency of Guyana. He is telling the country to disregard the RSS, the regional law enforcement agency’; a Caribbean mechanism,” he said.
“On what basis is he making such a conclusion? Who does he propose should conduct the investigation instead? the AG questioned.
The probe into Peters’ killing has since concluded, with the DPP advising that Police Sergeant Philbert Kendall be charged for the capital offence of murder.
Sergeant Kendall was brought before a magistrate on Friday last and subsequently remanded to prison until May 9, 2025.
The RSS continues to investigate the shooting death of Fogenay. Nandlall also highlighted Hughes' controversial past, recalling the 2012 Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the fatal shootings at Linden.
He reminded the public that Hughes had brought in a foreign forensic expert, whose testimony ultimately supported the findings of the Guyana Police Force.
“Hughes was very embarrassed. He walked out of the Commission of Inquiry," Nandlall recalled.
"Now, he's repeating the
same reckless behaviour," he highlighted. In response to Hughes' calls for immediate financial compensation for Peters’ and Fogenay's families, the AG emphasised that while the government is open to the idea of compensation, the proper investigative process must be completed first.
"The government is not ruling out any form of compensation, but things have to be done in a proper way; in an orderly way. You must have an investigation; there must be some findings, and then certain eventualities will flow. A government has to act on empirical evidence and recommendations that are studied and produced from an investigation," he explained.
In closing, the Attorney-General cautioned that Hughes' rhetoric and behaviour demonstrate a troubling disregard for the qualities expected of national leaders.
"Every time this guy speaks, and everything he demonstrates, without a shadow of a doubt, shows that he cannot be anywhere close to government," Nandlall said.
Peters was reportedly shot while fleeing from police officers. The incident occurred on April 7, 2025, in the mining town, where Sergeant Kendall, then in plainclothes, pursued Peters, who was wanted for questioning in relation to a child rape investigation. Fogenay was killed the following day during protests sparked by Peters’ killing.
Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, SC AFC Leader Nigel Hughes
Ronaldo Peters Keon Fogenay
Philbert Kendall
Brand YOUth Global recognises rising leaders at 2025 awards
IN a night filled with inspiration and pride, Brand YOUth Global hosted its 2025 Entrepreneurial Awards on Friday evening at the Pegasus Hotel’s Exhibition Centre. In a press release, Brand YOUth Global said the evening sought to celebrate 12 of Guyana’s most promising young leaders for their outstanding contributions to national development.
The prestigious event welcomed a distinguished audience, including Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George; Shadow Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Nima Flue-Bess; Brigadier General (Retired) Edward Collins; University of Guyana Vice Chancellor, Dr Paloma Mohamed, and Adrienne Galanek, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy. Their presence underscored the national and international significance of recognising youth leadership and its role in shaping Guyana’s future.
Brand YOUth Global proudly honoured the NextGen 12 awardees, namely Sade Barrow-Browne, Dr. Anna Collins, Yonnick Da -
Brand YOUth Global hosted the 2025 Entrepreneurial Awards on Friday evening at the Pegasus Hotel’s Exhibition Centre, celebrating 12 of Guyana’s rising stars and future leaders
vid, Sophia Dolphin, Crystal Lam, Richard Leo, Abbigaile Loncke, Dason Anthony, Urica Primus, Sheena Scipio, Pritipaul Singh, and Garfield Southwell; all pioneers and visionaries in their own fields. Adding to the evening’s atmosphere of inspiration, several previous honourees from the renowned 40 Under 40 Awards were in attendance, including Eldon Marks, Vishnu Doerga, Rosh Khan, Evie Gurchuran, John Housty, Aggrey Marsh, Louanna Southwell, and Astell Collins, among others. Their
support served as a powerful bridge between past and present, highlighting the growing legacy of entrepreneurial excellence emerging from Guyana’s youth.
The success of the evening was credited to the leadership of Selwyn Collins, Founder and CEO of Brand YOUth Global. In the release, Collins was praised for his belief in the potential of young people to create a platform where talent, dedication, and service are celebrated.
"For me, it was never about what was in
it for me. It was about giving my best self to develop young minds who can one day de -
velop our country. I believed, and still believe that impact doesn’t require wealth, just a willingness to give because you can," Collins said. "Brand YOUth Global began by encouraging young people with potential, showing them that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when they dare to believe and take action,” the press release quoted Collins as saying.
Gratitude was also expressed to members of the Brand YOUth Global team, Randy Puran, Aliyah Abel, Yaphet Jackman, and Events Coordinator Jenel Roberts.
$12.5M spent to upgrade Aranaputa Health Post
- to provide improved health services to over 600 residents
OVER 600 residents from Aranaputa in Region Nine are now enjoying improved access to health services at the community’s reconstructed health post valued at around $12.5 million.
The new facility was commissioned by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, on Friday. Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock, Regional Health Officer, Dr Cerdel McWatt and other representatives from the ministry and region were also in attendance.
Services being offered at the upgraded facility include antenatal healthcare, chronic diseases, infant and preschool healthcare, family planning, home visits and outpatient. Chairperson of Aranaputa Community Development Council, Gillian Rodrigues, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that she welcomed the improvements that were recently conducted to upgrade the facility.
Before this intervention, she said that villagers used to
frequent Annai Health Centre to receive medical treatment, while major health issues used to be referred to Lethem Regional Hospital.
“[For a long time], Aranaputa had requested an upgrade of the health post. We are thankful to the government for the newly established health post in our community. Now, with the upgrade of the new district hospital [at Annai], we can transfer our patients there. So, they no longer have to go to Lethem [Regional Hospi-
tal],” she added.
Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony highlighted that the government is undertaking a massive infrastructural programme to improve the region’s healthcare system. The region currently boasts about 62 health facilities.
found that they needed to do major rehabilitation,” Minister Anthony said.
And so, Dr. Anthony added that almost $10 million was spent to upgrade the entire facility and $2.5 million more was invested to furnish the facility.
“More importantly, the
that nurses will soon benefit from several specialised training courses, including critical care nursing and cardiac care.
The residents were encouraged to utilise all the health services that are available, such as the universal healthcare voucher, cervi -
The upgraded Aranaputa Health Post was commissioned by Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony
“We’ve set aside monies from our budget to make sure we can improve infrastructure across the region. We do not want any infrastructure to be left undone where people can feel uncomfortable…
This particular post was a very old one. They started to try to repair it, but eventually
people who utilise the services here would be in a comfortable space,” he further stated. The government is also decentralising training opportunities in the health sector to individuals in the region to improve the level of care being delivered.
Minister Anthony said
cal screening voucher and eye testing and spectacles voucher.
“Work with us so that you can stay healthy and live longer…We have a plan to improve the prosperity of every person in Guyana,” he further emphasised.
$54M in ambulances handed over to Karasabai, Sand Creek & Yupukari
….to bolster emergency medical services
IN a significant move to enhance transportation for medical services, three brand-new ambulances were handed over to Karasabai, Sand Creek and Yupukari in Region Nine Friday last.
The timely donation of the ambulances will help to strengthen the response time and provide efficient medical care to patients. The ambulances are fully equipped with emergency equipment.
Toshao of Karasabai, David Albert, thanked the government for the provision of the ambulance, adding that it will benefit Karasabai Hospital as well as the residents from the other communities in the South Pakaraimas.
“We will ensure that we take good care of it,” he said.
Alan St Hill, a community health worker (CHW) of Sand Creek, said that the ambulance would provide immense relief to the com-
munity and the sub-district at large.
“It has been some years since we have been having some challenges in terms of emergency cases, referring pregnant mothers’ cases, accidents and injuries. I really want to thank the government for this great opportunity to have an ambulance,” St Hill said.
Toshao of Yupukari, Russian Dorrick, said that the ambulance fulfils a promise that was made by the minister that will benefit Kwaimatta, Semonie, Katoka, Yupukari, Fly Hill, Kaicumbay and Quatata. He added, “We have about nine communities that will benefit from the ambulance …There will be no delays now that we have the ambulance. We are thankful [for this].”
During the simple handing-over ceremony at the Lethem Regional Hospital, Minister of Health Dr
Frank Anthony said that the ambulances would be of great assistance to the residents from the various communities relating to transportation and medical care.
Recently, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and an $18 million ambulance were handed over to the Annai District Hospital to improve its capacity. The government continues to ensure that the region has a robust healthcare sector by ensuring the necessary investments are made in health infrastructure, medical services, medical professionals, medications and transportation.
The investments aim to bridge the divide in healthcare access between the hinterland and the coastland, ensuring everyone benefits from quality healthcare services. (DPI)
Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony handed over three brand-new ambulances to the authorities in Karasabai, Sand Creek and Yupukari in Region Nine
President Ali to lead task force to deal with garbage pile-up in Georgetown
THE central government will once again intervene to revive the capital city, Georgetown, which has been neglected by the Opposition-controlled Mayor and City Council (M&CC), according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
The age-old issue of garbage collection, which has been overlooked by the council, is being taken into President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s hands, Dr. Jagdeo stated at a press conference on Thursday last at Freedom House. Dr. Jagdeo said, “We can't allow the city to deteriorate.” He said the President will lead a task force that will comprise public sector, civil society
and private sector members.
“We have to do it even if they don't collaborate,” the General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice President, said. Dr. Jagdeo said that the M&CC is ignoring the pile-up of garbage in order to pin the blame on the government. The central government has taken
the burden of M&CC’s responsibilities by creating recreational facilities, fixing and building roads, cleaning drains and building a dump site, leaving the organisation with one responsibility- to collect garbage.
“The only thing they were supposed to do is to pick up the garbage, and take it to the dumpster, because nothing else they
don't focus on,” Jagdeo said.
He lambasted the opposition-led City Hall for leaving residents underserved and frustrated and noted that the government’s efforts to improve the city’s landscape and citizens’ quality of life will not be hindered by political obstruction.
“You have the PNCR/AFC running
City Hall. They’re a failure. They’ve been a failure at the national level. They're a failure there, too. They complain about everything. They're not accountable. They don't focus on the citizens, and had it not been for the central government's massive injection into the city, this would have been a very different place.”
A section of Albouystown (Photo taken from a Facebook Live by Akash Persaud)
‘Hands-on training crucial for youths excelling in the job market’
- VP Jagdeo says; urges UG to place more emphasis on skills training, pledges gov’t support
By Trina Williams
EQUIPPING the leaders of tomorrow with the necessary skillset to excel in the job market is crucial, according to Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who noted that this effort can be bolstered through government support.
Dr. Jagdeo, while engaging dozens of youths at an engagement at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday, stressed the importance of getting hands-on training and not just being taught theories. He noted that while the government is already providing free education for its people, he is hoping the University of Guyana (UG) can now focus on other areas, such as addressing age-old issues and building capacity.
Many youths raised the issue that the job market is calling for experience, but the university is focusing more on teaching theories.
The Vice President shared with the students: “When I was Minister of Finance, I made an offer to UG. At
that time, I said to them, ‘Why don't you allow students to come, particularly final year students, and be seconded to the office of the budget debt management, the Bank of Guyana, the Accountant General's department, all of these places; so when they come out of UG, they come out [with the] idea what the
practical world of work looks like…’
“The offer was never taken off, and so I don't see a problem with us trying to move back to something like that to get people exposed, and it could become part of the curriculum, so they have to get a report and maybe part of the testing system in university.”
He agreed with the students that the university should do more and pledged that the government would ensure it is facilitated.
“We expect the people to come out ready for their job market, and the internship should be a routine part; the university is, in a way, I don’t want to be too
critical…it's become like routine. They just try to get through programmes. Sometimes it's not the quality of the output that matters anymore,” he said.
The Vice President also highlighted that the government's job is to give its people an education and the opportunities, stating:
“That's why I'm saying if
what you train on must be appropriate, you've got to make decisions. That's how it operates around the world. So, mindset changes have to take place at every level, not only at the government, but even the people requiring training.”
Guyana has turned a transformative page in its educational journey: tuition at the University of Guyana is now officially free. This landmark move by the Government of Guyana, fulfilling a key promise of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), marks a bold and visionary leap toward educational equity and national development.
Beyond UG, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) continues to widen the horizon, awarding scholarships to nearly 30,000 citizens for online studies — both locally and internationally. Together, these initiatives signify not just access, but advancement—breaking the cycles of poverty and unlocking human potential on a national scale.
$14M drug bond commissioned in Region Nine
THE Ministry of Health, on Friday last, commissioned a $14 million drug bond in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Situated in Lethem, the new drug bond is centrally located to serve as the primary distribution hub for medical supplies across
Region Nine, including remotely-sparsed hinterland communities.
The facility boasts modern storage solutions, including climate-controlled environments, to maintain the efficacy of temperature-sensitive medications. With its advanced logistics systems, the drug
bond will streamline the supply chai n, reducing delays and ensuring that health centres are consistently stocked with necessary pharmaceuticals.
The commissioning of this drug bond aligns with ongoing efforts to upgrade healthcare facilities in Region 9, including the es-
tablishment of new health centres and the expansion of existing ones.
While in the region on Friday, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, disclosed that the new drug bond forms part of a broader $450 million regional initiative to upgrade healthcare infrastructure
throughout Region Nine. He emphasised the government's commitment to equitable healthcare access, stating, "This new drug bond is a testament to our dedication to providing quality healthcare services to all regions, especially those in remote areas."
Meanwhile, Dr Cerdel Mc Watt, Regional Health Officer for Region Nine, said the building was constructed to improve healthcare delivery in the region, ensuring timely access to essential medications and medical supplies for residents.
The new drug bond in Lethem was commissioned by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, engaging some youths at the forum on Friday last
FAO launches AIM4NatuRe to improve monitoring of ecosystem restoration
(FAO/Rome) - The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today on Earth Day launched Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration (AIM4NatuRe), a new initiative with GBP 7 million from the United Kingdom to improve monitoring and reporting of global ecosystem restoration efforts.
“AIM4NatuRe will provide a new dynamic input for global restoration efforts,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. “By providing countries with technical expertise and solutions, and ensuring they have the resources they need to monitor their progress accurately, we can ensure that our collective efforts translate restoration commitments into real and lasting impacts for people and the planet during this UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and beyond.”
“AIM4NatuRe is an innovative initiative that will leverage technology and data to enhance nature restoration, building on the success of the high-performing AIM4Forests programme. The UK has a leading role in protecting and restoring forests while empowering the communities that depend on them, and we’re proud to
work with partners such as the FAO to support countries across the globe,” said United Kingdom Minister for Climate Kerry McCarthy.
AIM4NatuRe will complement the FAO’s existing AIM4Forests programme and enable the creation of a global dataset on nature restoration progress. Countries will receive support to build capacity and use the latest technology to monitor and report their progress towards target two of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which aims to restore at least 30 percent of degrad-
ed ecosystems by 2030.
The initiative prioritises a comprehensive approach to ecosystem restoration, encompassing a wide range of activities, from reforestation, restoration of degraded agricultural lands and wetland rehabilitation to the recovery of grasslands and marine ecosystems.
Ecosystem restoration is a powerful nature-based solution to address biodiversity loss, climate change and land degradation. Globally, around one billion hectares of land has been committed for restoration, with the potential to contribute one-third
of the total climate mitigation needed to limit warming to below 2°C by 2030, while contributing to food security and livelihoods.
However, many countries lack the technical solutions and capacity to effectively track and report their progress in restoring degraded ecosystems. In a recent capacity needs assessment survey by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat, 80 percent of countries responding said they were unable to collect data to report national restoration progress.
Cutting-edge technology
At the recent Resumed Session of the CBD Sixteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) in Rome, Parties acknowledged the need for increased support in implementing Target 2 and invited FAO to lead the effort.
AIM4NatuRe will address this challenge by providing countries with access to cutting-edge technology, and capacity development, working toward a unified global dataset for areas under restoration. This will empower nations to move beyond broad commitments and generate verifiable data on the effectiveness of their restoration work, fostering transparency and ownership.
To ensure seamless data sharing and analysis, AIM4NatuRe will prioritise data interoperability. This will involve establishing standardised data formats and protocols that facilitate the harmonisation and aggregation of data collected at national levels into a global reporting framework. This will enhance transparency and comparability while reducing the reporting burden for countries. AIM4NatuRe will also develop practical guidance documents and technical solutions, namely the Framework for Ecosys-
tem Restoration Monitoring (FERM), to support countries in data collection, analysis, and reporting, ensuring that information is readily available and usable.
Notably, the initiative will support Indigenous Peoples in the monitoring of biocentric nature restoration, a holistic approach that prioritises the well-being of all living things within an ecosystem. A pilot with FAO's Indigenous Peoples unit will take place in Brazil and Peru.
At a virtual event in Rome today, the FAO also launched a new publication titled, Enabling consistent reporting and monitoring for freshwater (inland waters) restoration under Target 2 to support countries in achieving GBF Target 2.
AIM4NatuRe expands on AIM4Forests, also funded by the UK, which leverages advanced technology for forest monitoring and has trained people across 14 countries. AIM4NatuRe broadens this work to all ecosystems, offering a holistic approach to monitoring restoration progress. Its capacity-development initiatives include the Forest Monitoring for Climate Action e-learning curriculum with 15,748 web learners engaged.
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Jagdeo says, affirms that gov’t aims to empower NGOs to tackle social issues within communities
‘We will support you to do work in the community’
By Trina Williams
DELIVERING lasting change within communities and tackling social issues, such as animal cruelty are among the objectives of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has highlighted, while noting that the government’s job is to empower them.
The Vice President, during a youth engagement on Friday last at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre outlined that both the government and the NGOs must clearly define its role and stick to its core functions. He also noted that a space must be created for NGOS and faith-based groups to execute their roles and address social challenges.
The Vice President pointed to the increased subvention for NGOs to tackle certain pivotal issues such as child abuse. Child Link is one such beneficiary; it was noted that the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA), had a subvention of only $700,000 per year but now, it has been increased to $15 million.
“So definitely more support, like we want to work more with people living with disabilities; the NGO’s will get the support of the government to ensure that a lot of the services we have can be spread right across our country. That's the approach we want to take,” the Vice President said.
As it pertains to faithbased organisations, Jagdeo said the government continues to pledge its support but it expects work to be done.
“I keep saying to the faith-based organisations, the churches, the temples, the mosque, your job is to
work. We will support you to do work in the community. So when the young man in a village faces a crossroad or a young woman too, and they have to make a crucial decision in life, they're confronted with some criminal temptation because the guy on the street trying to get them to sell drugs for him; the faith-based leaders, because in every community we have either a church, a temple or mosque, or all of them, they should be here, and we're prepared to support their outreach, not to get that government worker to go here often.”
Dr. Jagdeo then outlined the government’s approach to the people, noting that feedback in the communities help policymakers address issues such as drainage, street lighting, etc, more effectively.
He said: “When I go on an outreach I understand what level of services, if I depend on the NDC or
the RDC to send me a report on what's happening in Nabaclis or Enmore or somewhere else, they will sterilise the report to make themselves look good. When I go on the ground and I hear directly from people, and they sit here, then there's no filter, and then I can address the question. So, it's a feedback
mechanism for policy makers. It allows you to keep your ear on the ground. Why do you take in our manifesto for the next five years we already can talk a bit about it, openly, about the ideas, because we know we've been on the ground. We know what concerns people the most.”
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
DEMTOCO applauds PSC for strategic action against illicit trade
AS Demerara Tobacco Company Limited (DEMTOCO) celebrates its 90th anniversary, the company has singled out the positive efforts of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) of Guyana and the decisive steps taken in combatting illicit trade through the establishment of the Illicit Trade Desk initiative. At its 91st Annual Gen -
eral Meeting, DEMTOCO's Managing Director, Mr. Vijay Singh, thanked the PSC for its commitment to protecting the integrity of the local business environment.
“The establishment of the Illicit Trade Desk in 2024 marked a pivotal moment for the private sector. It demonstrated strategic leadership, uniting stakeholders across in-
dustries to address smuggling, counterfeiting, and unfair trade practices. We are proud to support such an initiative,” Mr. Singh was quoted as saying in a press release.
According to DEMTOCO, illicit trade remains a significant challenge across several sectors in Guyana, posing threats not only to legitimate businesses but also to public
health and government revenue. DEMTOCO estimates that illicit tobacco products could cost the government over G$1 billion in lost tax revenue annually.
“DEMTOCO remains a corporate leader in responsible trade practices. The company continues through advocacy and collaboration with various authorities, to drive greater enforcement and awareness. The recent Illicit Trade Seminar—hosted by the Private Sector Commission and attended by senior government
officials—is one such example of the cross-sectoral coordination needed to stamp out this issue,” the press release noted.
According to the release, beyond regulatory advocacy, DEMTOCO's strategic direction remains anchored on four core pillars: Growth, Productivity, Sustainability, and building a Winning Organisation.
It was noted that in 2024, DEMTOCO recorded an impressive G$2.47 billion in profit after tax, reflecting an 8.6% year-over-year increase.
Revenue grew by 4.2% to G$8.41 billion, an achievement underscored by a dynamic and strong portfolio of brands- Dunhill, Lucky Strike and Pall Mall as well as a consumer-focused strategy.
The company noted that this financial achievement is especially symbolic in a year that marked nine decades of excellence.
“Our 90th anniversary is not only a celebration of our legacy, but a reaffirmation of our purpose,” said Singh. “From our early beginnings to today, we have evolved with our consumers, our stakeholders, and the changing business landscape—anchored always by integrity, innovation, and a passion to win.”
As Guyana continues its trajectory of rapid economic expansion, DEMTOCO reaffirmed its commitment to contributing meaningfully to national development.
“We are proud of our legacy and the role we continue to play in shaping a sustainable, transparent business environment in Guyana,” said Singh.
DEMTOCO’s Managing Director, Vijay Singh
Works on Paramakatoi airstrip to begin on May 1
ACCESS to the Amerindian community of Paramakatoi will become easier as the government injects $799 million for the reconstruction of its airstrip. The upgraded airstrip will span 2,500 feet in length and 50 feet in width. The structure will be fortified using six inches of rigid, paved concrete, BRC mesh and steel joints to ensure durability and efficient load transfer between slabs.
In addition to the main runway, a 100 by 100 ft tarmac serves as a designated parking area for aircraft. While spearheading the engagement alongside engineers on Monday last, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, said the contract was signed in November last year, and the contractor has since engaged the community.
However, he asserted
that works would not commence until several criteria are met. The minister stated that the road linking Paramakatoi to Kato had to first be improved to ensure swift medical evacuations via Kato airstrip in the event of an emergency.
Second, all construction materials, including cement and steel, had to be on site before any work began. “You can’t
start the airstrip, open up the airstrip, and then say you can’t bring in cement or steel because the bridge bruk down,” the minister explained.
The minister continued, “We have to get the materials in, so once we start, we keep moving.” The casting of the airstrip is expected to take approximately six weeks; however, the project is expected to be completed within two
months.
Preliminary works, including the construction of a bond to store materials, have already been completed with full-scale work on the airstrip scheduled to start on May 1. Residents from the village will be employed to assist in the timely execution of the project.
Moreover, Minister Edghill cautioned res-
idents and businesses from using the temporary closure of the airstrip as a reason to increase the cost of transportation and goods. Once completed, the airstrip is expected to improve air connectivity and safety in the North Pakaraimas, offering enhanced access for both emergency and regular flights. (DPI)
The Paramakatoi airstrip
135 solar home systems distributed in Region 2
Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Madanlall Ramraj and Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, distributed some of the items in the Pomeroon River
DEMONSTRATING
decisive action and an unrelenting commitment to national development, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Madanlall Ramraj, together with Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, Agriculture Coordinator, Tamesh Ramnauth, and their dedicated team, spearheaded the successful distribution of 135 solar home energy systems to residents of Charity, St. Monica, and Karawab in Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
This proactive initiative reflects the Government of Guyana’s drive to rapidly bridge the development divide between the coast and hinterland regions. By delivering critical energy solutions directly to rural households, the government continues to prioritise investments that enhance infrastructure, uplift living standards, and foster sustainable growth across all communities.
During his remarks, Director General Ramraj underscored that energy access is not a privilege but a right for every Guyanese. He reaffirmed the administration’s relentless commitment to
accelerating projects that bring clean, renewable energy to the nation’s most remote areas, ensuring no community is left behind.
The solar home systems distributed are part of a larger national push to expand renewable energy solutions countrywide. Each system was carefully designed to meet the daily needs of families, enhancing their comfort, connectivity, and resilience. Every package includes a 160watt solar photovoltaic panel, a charge controller unit, a 48 ampere-hour lithium-ion battery, two 9-watt LED lamps, one 12-watt desk fan and two USB ports for charging mobile and portable devices
Residents warmly welcomed the distribution, expressing deep gratitude and vowing to properly maintain the systems provided. This project powerfully demonstrates the government’s forward-looking agenda — one that is firmly anchored in equity, sustainability, and real results for every citizen of Guyana.
“We are very thankful for such distribution, and it will assist family and children to study”, a resident said.
Sherod Duncan faces backlash after attacking former opposition supporter now backing PPP/C
ALLIANCE
For Change (AFC) executive Sherod Duncan is under fire after a controversial Facebook post attacking singer Mark Ferdinand, a former supporter of A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), who has now endorsed the governing People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).
Ferdinand, a familiar voice on the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) campaign trail, said he made the decision to switch allegiance because of the "visible development happening in Guyana under the PPP/C", and not for personal gain.
Duncan, however, sharply criticised Ferdinand’s decision in a Facebook post last week, highlighting his past legal troubles; the post attracted 192 reactions, 167 comments, and 89 shares.
The post sparked swift backlash, Online, with commentators accusing Duncan of hypocrisy, and pointing to his own alleged scandals during APNU+AFC’s term in government, when he served as General Manager of the Stateowned Guyana Chronicle, and was accused of misappropriating funds.
“Well, if the AFC
could attract one big patwah fish that fraud [Guyana Chronicle] of $5M and nobody didn't see nothing wrong with that, it’s like pot telling pot his bottom black,” one user, Kevin Lorrimer, commented.
He added: “Y’all didn’t know that all the time when he sang in y’all favour, but now the man sees y’all as useless, he becomes a target.”
Others questioned why Ferdinand’s history only became an issue after he switched sides.
“So, Wednesday, he is a PNC supporter — good man, solid human being, made mistakes. Thursday, he joins PPP… he issa criminal, he issa lowlife, etc.,” wrote Don Singh, a PPP/C councillor on the Georgetown Mayor and City Council.
“Do you PNC/AFC guys see what you are doing?” Singh asked.
Another Facebook user, Osafa Anderson, bluntly suggested Duncan should “come over [to the PPP/C]” given his own controversies.
“Sherod, you should come over [to the PPP/C] too… You are in the criminal category; you stole money from [Guyana] Chronicle, about $5M.”
Patrick Narain also reminded Duncan of his past endorsements.
AFC’s Sherod Duncan
Mark Ferdinand
Sherod Duncan faces backlash after...
PAGE 25
“You’re a hypocrite; you endorsed the Mohameds, who were sanctioned by the U.S. government for stealing Guyana’s gold, yet you’re condemning this
man simply because he supports the PPP.” OUTLIVED HIS USEFULNESS
Another Facebook user, David DeCook, responded: “Smh [shaking my head]...Sherod
Duncan. When the man was singing for his supper for APNU, he wasn't a druggie. The thing is, the plate was empty under the PNC-APNUAFC… now the man recognises who's doing
better for Guyana…”
A number of former APNU+AFC supporters have recently voiced support for the PPP/C, citing the government’s focus on infrastructure, social support programmes, and inclusive policymaking. Several of these individuals have gone as far as appearing at PPP/C rallies and events, publicly endorsing a second term for President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
So far this year, high-profile figures like attorney-at-Law James Bond, a former PNC heavyweight, and Thandi McAllister, a former PNCR Central Committee member, have also thrown their support behind the ruling party.
“President Ali is one person who has always remembered me. Since he was a minister, he has always remembered me. He has always been a friend to me, and I am giving you a second term,” Bond said, addressing President Ali directly during a public meeting at Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, in January 2025.
Standing beside the President at a mid-morning public meeting in Belle West, Canal #2, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), earlier this month, McAllister emphasised the significance of the upcoming elections, calling them pivotal for the future of the country.
“These elections that are upcoming will determine the future of our country,” she said, adding, “I want to encourage you to stay the course with my friend and brother.”
The attorney, who has known President Ali for many years, spoke passionately about the strides the country has made under his leadership.
“You have seen firsthand the development from 2020 to date. Imagine what he will do with another term. I trust his vision; I trust his word. His
word is his bond, and I have proven that. I have known him for many years, and I am saying to you to trust him with another term; trust him with Guyana’s future.
“He has demonstrated that he is a man for all seasons. He has demonstrated that he is a President of the people, by the people, and for the people, and for Region Three. In these elections, your votes are critical,” McAllister said to the gathering.
In announcing his support for the PPP/C, Ferdinand said, “I have been supporting the APNU-PNC for years, but all I can see is that they have no vision.”
In contrast, he praised the PPP/C for its consistent leadership and outreach, not just to its base but to the wider population.
“They support their supporters; and there’s nothing wrong with that,” Ferdinand said, adding; “But they also support the entire country. Just look around you."
Meanwhile, the opposition remains fractured. Coalition talks between the PNC/R and AFC have collapsed, and the PNC/R has faced a string of high-profile resignations, including long-serving General Secretary Amna Ally, and former parliamentarian Vanessa Kissoon.
Ally cited disrespect towards women in leadership as a key reason for her departure after 54 years in the party. The PPP/C administration has expressed strong confidence in securing a landslide victory at this year’s elections, citing widespread support for its development agenda across the country.
$500M to be injected into East Bank Berbice to boost agricultural development
farmers
opment in the area.
THE East Bank of Berbice is set to undergo further transformation as the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, will be investing an additional $500 million into the sector over the next three months to boost agricultural devel-
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha made the announcement during a series of community engagements on Saturday in the area, where he outlined the government's plans to continue the momentum of agricultural revitalisation. According to Minister Mustapha,
the funds will be used to execute critical drainage and land-clearing projects, which are essential to improving cultivation conditions, and mitigating the persistent risks of flooding there. Approximately 250 farmers are expected to benefit directly from the projects.
TURN TO PAGE 28
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha meeting with
in Plegt Anker and Sisters Village, East Bank Berbice
Bebi Shafeah Oosman
$500M to be...
Highlighting the significant efforts made over the past four years, Minister Mustapha noted that the East Bank of Berbice has received more per capita investment than any other area in the country. He emphasised that this focused approach is intended to restore the East Bank to its once-prominent position as one of Guyana’s most productive agricultural areas
“We have done a lot of work already, but there’s still much more to be done,” Mustapha told residents in Plegt Anker. He outlined the government’s strategy, which includes placing several canals under a maintenance programme to ensure sustainability. Notably, farmers will be awarded contracts to maintain the canals they benefit from, thereby promoting community responsibility and upkeep.
Addressing concerns about project execution, Minister Mustapha revealed that some contractors had
been found delivering substandard work under the five-acre land distribution initiative. He instructed that these works be overhauled before any payments are made.
Additionally, the minister criticised the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) for underperformance, particularly in servicing cattle farmers. He stressed the need for accountability, and warned against "drawing money under false pretence".
Meanwhile, major works are expected to commence shortly in several villages, including Sisters, Brothers, Friends, Providence, Enfield and other areas along the East Bank Berbice corridor. Within two weeks, residents will see a new round of drainage canal projects being rolled out.
According to the Agriculture Minister, a local committee will be established to work alongside technical officers to ensure that resources are allocated fairly and effi-
ciently. Further expansion of the Black Belly Sheep programme is also on the horizon, with plans to extend the initiative into Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), se as to help boost livestock farming, he told farmers in PlegtAnker.
To aid land preparation and internal drainage works, a mini excavator will be made available to the community next week as well. Additionally, the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) has been tasked with identifying new markets for farmers’ produce, further supporting agricultural development. Minister Mustapha concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to consistent investment in agriculture across the country.
“When you look at what is happening now in our country, in all the areas, we have seen an increase; in the agriculture sector, we have seen massive expenditure, and that will continue,” he stated.
FROM PAGE 27
Rain washes out KKR chase of Punjab score
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Punjab Kings had to settle with just one point despite scoring 201 on a slow pitch as late-evening thunders showers washed out the chase in Kolkata. They will be disappointed for they had done the hard work on a pitch whose consensus reading was “very, very slow”. The one point moved PBKS to No. 4 on the points table while the lagging Kolkata Knight Riders rose to No. 7 with seven points from nine matches.
Outside the frustration of not getting the win, PBKS will be pleased with their openers, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, whose half-centuries took them to the daunting total in tough conditions. Especially how they scored the runs. They were almost obsessed with not over-hitting, holding
SUNDAY,
their shape and relying more on their timing, adding 120
for the first wicket, PBKS’ only century stand this IPL.
Arya scored 69 off 35, Prabhsimran 83 off 49, and even
Prabhsimran Singh goes for the switch hit •Apr 26, 2025•Getty Images
APRIL 27, 2025
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though the last six overs produced only 42, PBKS were confident they had scored an above-par total.
On the slow track with grip available for those bowling into the pitch, PBKS took 74 off the eight overs of spin between Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine Even Harshit Rana, KKR’s slower-ball specialist, was allowed to bowl only two overs for 27 runs.
Arya, in particular, was clever in his targeting of the bowlers. He took 50 off 20 balls of pace, and just 19 off 15 balls of spin. Prabhsimran took the spinners on, taking 41 off 22 balls bowled by them. Both of them were measured in the first couple of overs, getting used to the pace in the pitch, before targeting the pace bowlers.
Arya preferred timing - his first four fours were driven
between mid-off and cover - and Prabshimran struggled early, getting to only 34 off 32 at one point.
With an audacious switch-hit six off Narine, Prabhsimran turned his innings around, in the process consigning Narine to a 22run over. His worst has been 23 in all T20 cricket. Prabhsimran scored 49 off the last 17 balls he faced; Shreyas Iyer managed only five in a 40-run stand with him.
That the death overs were not easy to hit only encouraged PBKS. Andre Russell managed reverse-swing , Narine and Varun conceded just 13 in their final overs, and Vaibhav Arora drew purchase when he bowled slower balls. PBKS were confident there wouldn’t be much dew either , but we never could find out.
Kounde helps Barca beat Real to Copa Del Rey title
(BBC) - Jules Kounde lashed in an extra-time screamer as Barcelona beat Real Madrid to win the Copa del Rey in a remarkable Clasico in Seville.
After a 2-2 draw in 90 minutes and with penalties appearing inevitable, the Barcelona defender took possession of the ball 22 yards out and drilled a fine effort into the bottom
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corner.
Barca had been by far the better side in the first half and led through Pedri’s fantastic first-time strike from outside the box after Lamine Yamal’s cut-back
Real improved dramatically after Kylian Mbappe came on as a substitute, and he curled a free-kick, which he had won, into the bottom corner via the inside of the post.
Aurelien Tchouameni then headed Real ahead from Arda Guler’s corner.
But Barcelona levelled when Ferran Torres ran onto Yamal’s long ball and rounded goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois before slotting in.
Hansi Flick’s side thought they had a chance to win it in injury time when they were awarded a penalty for a Raul Asencio tackle on Raphinha but the decision was overturned after a long video assistant referee check.
That meant the game went to extra time, when Kounde’s fourth goal of the season was the difference.
The build-up to the game had been dominated by scrutiny of the match officials - and it finished with Antonio Rudiger and Lucas Vazquez being shown straight red cards from the Real bench.
That was the last meaningful act of a first Clasico final in a major tournament since 2014, when Gareth Bale scored a fantastic late winner for Real in a 2-1 victory.
Referee takes centre stage as Real rage again
The pre-match buildup had focused on referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and Real Madrid
Real’s TV channel published a video criticising the referee in various aspects, as they have done with other officials , and he talked about the impact that had on him at an emotional news conference on Friday.
The club distributed highly critical press releases that evening, but denied reports they could pull out of the game.
That backdrop meant every decision the referee
made was going to be under scrutiny, but to neutral observers there were none too controversial.
Both teams had goals ruled out for clear offsides - and Mbappe was denied a penalty for another clear offside in the build-up.
But the major talking point came in the 96th minute with the game at 2-2.
Asencio slid in on Raphinha, and De Burgos Bengoetxea pointed to the spot. But after a check of over three minutes he came back and booked Raphinha for diving before overturning the decision
Right at the end of the 120 minutes, it all boiled over. As Mbappe tried to shrug an opponent off, the referee gave a free-kick against him.
The Real bench were furious. Several players ran onto the pitch and Rudiger appeared to throw something at the official.
Rudiger, who had to be held back by several team-mates, and Vazquez were dismissed, and moments later the final whistle went to confirm Barcelona’s win.
Shallow, Dehring represents CWI at Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment programme
CRICKET West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow and Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring represented the organisation at the 25th Annual Citizenship by Investment and Investment Migration Conference (CIS25), held this week in Antigua and Barbuda.
The prestigious event convened global investors, policymakers, and development leaders—including the Honourable Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda; Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia; the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit,
Prime Minister of Dominica; and the Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada.
Chairman of the CCG, Ricky Skerritt, and Nelicea Yeates, General Manager, completed the CWI delegation at the conference, with CWI using the platform to present its evolving vision for cricket as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth across the Caribbean. CEO Chris Dehring participated in a high-level panel discussion on sport and sustainable investment, where he shared insights into cricket’s global commercial growth and the critical role of regional infra-
Berbice crush GCB’s X1 by 178 runs
By Sean Devers
IN sweltering heat at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, Berbice produced a dominant performance to maul a sub-standard GCB’s Select XI.
National U-17 all-rounder Matthew Pottaya contributed with both bat and ball as Berbice demolished the Select XI by an emphatic 178 runs.
Berbice were bowled out for 214 in 48.3 overs before dismantling the GCB’s Select XI for an inept 36 in just 16.4 overs
Pottaya led Berbice’s batting with an entertaining 40 from 44 balls, decorated by two fours and three sixes, while five other batters failed to capitalise on good starts and none reached 25.
Rampersaud Ramnauth, who hit four fours in his 23, Ari Kadir (22), Damion Cecil (20), Ramesh Bharrat (18) and Kamar Deopersaud (18 not out) never showed the skill set and mental fortitude to build an innings to a substantial score.
Parmeshwar Ram removed the Rampersaud siblings (Rampertab and Rampersaud), Kevin
structure.
Dehring said, “Cricket has always been more than just a game in the Caribbean – it’s an identity, a brand and a global asset. But now it represents also a significant platform to attract regional investment where there is untapped potential, especially in East Asian and North American markets where there is vibrant interest in the sport. By engaging high net worth fans more deliberately through cricket, we can attract capital that not only enhances our cricketing infrastructure but also drives broader economic growth.”
The redevelopment of
Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua was showcased as a flagship opportunity—envisioned as a vibrant, multi-use complex that merges sport, culture, entertainment, and innovation. CWI is actively exploring how this project can be enhanced by the region’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) framework to attract strategic, long-term investment. The global reach of West Indies cricket can in turn benefit the sustainability of the CBI programme.
Chris Dehring said, “Our aim is to turn Coolidge into more than a cricket venue –we see it as a dynamic, multiuse development hub that
brings together sport, culture, and commerce. With the right partnerships, this project can be a blueprint for how sport can drive meaningful investment. In addition, every year we broadcast cricket from the region to millions of viewers worldwide, many of whom the CBI programme could be of interest.”
Dr. Kishore Shallow, President, Cricket West Indies said, “The Citizenship by Investment programme offers a valuable pathway for attracting meaningful investment into cricket and other areas of regional development. It provides an opportunity to connect global
capital with our ambitions to grow the game and strengthen the Caribbean’s economic landscape.”
He further added, “ The level of engagement from regional leaders at CIS25 reflects a shared commitment to progress. With this kind of unified interest, we can consolidate our efforts and create greater economic opportunities for all Caribbean people.”
CWI’s participation at CIS25 reinforced its commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and harnessing the full economic potential of cricket as a regional asse.
Guyana’s lone athlete Lewis makes PB at CARFITA swimming Championship
Kirsten, Bharrat and Sanjay Algoo on his way to 5-37.
Dave Mohabir supported with 2-45.
Romario Ramdeholl and Budhram were dismissed by Salim Khan while Kishon Silas (0) and Ram (4) were dismissed by Algoo, the Select X1 were 15-4.
When Saheed Baksh fell to Khan for a duck, the Select X1 was wobbling on the ropes at 16-5.
Johnaton Mentour (13) and Adil Ali (0) departed in the space of a run to leave the score 27-7 before their last three wickets tumbled for two runs with 33.2 overs remaining in the game.
Khan had 4-15, Pottaya took 3-4 and Algoo had 2-18
In the other game in Essequibo, the standard of the batters at this was even worse.
Defending Champions Demerara were bowled out for 96 in 24.3 overs with Golcharran Chulai taking 5-18.
He had support from Rajendra Ramballi. Essequibo were dismissed for 73 in 37.1 overs. Neeran Bani captured 4-16 and Jaden Dowlin had 3-9 for Demerara.
GUYANA’S Shareefah Lewis made some waves at the just concluded CARFITA 2025 Aquatic Championship at the National Aquatic Centre in Trinidad and Tobago.
Lewis, the country’s one representative at the games, competed in four events in the girls 15-17 category and while failing to medal, collected personal best times in her events.
In her 100 metre freestyle she placed 25th with a new personal best time of 1 minute 03.75 seconds after going into the race with an entry time of 1 minute 04.68 seconds.
The 50 metre freestyle saw her also improving on her time swimming 31.35 seconds after entering the race with a best of 31.83 seconds.
The 50 metre backstroke she swam 33.34 seconds which is better than her previous personal best time of 34.59 seconds for 19th place.
The only race she did improve in was the 50 metre freestyle where she has a best of 28.03 seconds finishing in 28.19 seconds for 20th place.
She was coached by Shyka Gonslaves at the CARFITA championship.
Meanwhile, the Bahamas dominate the regional pool once again claiming a seventh consecutive CARIFTA Swimming Championships title after four days.
They ended the meet with a commanding 74-medal haul — including 27 gold, 23 silver, and 24 bronze, ahead of host nation Trinidad and Tobago, who had 23 gold, 17 silver and 17 bronze in their 57-medal haul, and perennial rivals Jamaica, who had 56, including 21 gold, 19 silver, and 16 bonze.
Shareefah Lewis with her coach Shyka Gonslaves
Independence Cup softball tournament set for next month
THE Demerara Softball Cricket Association (DSCA) will stage a grand three-day softball tournament next month in honour of Guyana’s 59th attainment of independence.
According to organiser Samuel Kingston, the tournament, which will feature three categories – Open All Stars, Masters Over-40 and Legends Over-50, is set for May 24-26 and will be held at venues around Georgetown, including Queen’s College, Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), YMCA
and Police Sports Club. The three-day extravaganza is being held in conjunction with the DSCA and Cloud Nine Inc.
Entrance fee in each category is $50, 000 with the winners guaranteed $200, 000 and the winners trophy. The second-placed team will also receive a trophy, while there are incentive trophies for the Most Valuable Players (MVPs), the best bowler and best batsman in each category.
Interested teams are asked to contact Kingston on 619-5103. Registration closes on Monday, May 12.
Permaul; Anderson deny ball-tampering charges
- Approaches high court of Guyana to clear their names
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has publicly expressed its full support for players Veerasammy Permaul and Kevlon Anderson, who have approached the High Court of Guyana in a bid to clear their names following a controversial incident during the recent Cricket West Indies (CWI ) Regional 4-Day Tournament fixture between Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago played at the Queens Park Oval in Trinidad.
The match, which effectively served as the tournament final, was of great significance, with the championship title at stake. However, events on
and off the field have cast a cloud over what should have been a celebration of West Indies cricket at its highest domestic level.
Both Permaul and Anderson were charged under the CWI Code of Conduct and, based on the documents filed in the High Court, were allegedly pressured into accepting a guilty plea by the Trinidadian Match Referee, Mr Michael Ragoonath. They were reportedly given two options.
Plead guilty and accept a fine or Insist on a hearing / trial and the Referee will impose a fine of 100 per cent of the match fee and a ban.
Faced with this representation from the Referee,
the two players formed the opinion that they had no choice but to plead guilty to the charge, despite previously submitting written denial to the Referee, and in the case of Permaul, maintaining his innocence at the hearing. Anderson was not afforded a hearing.
This lack of due process and the absence of a fair and transparent hearing is deeply troubling.
The GCB considers the actions of the match officials (which includes the on-field umpires) to be unprofessional, unethical, and a serious breach of procedural fairness.
The Guyana Cricket Board is profoundly disappointed by the handling of this matter in
Trinidad and expected a much higher standard of governance, particularly in CWI’s premier domestic tournaments.
In light of these events, both players have taken the bold and commendable step of seeking justice through the High Court, aiming to restore their reputations and ensure such incidents do not recur.
The GCB stands firmly in support of justice, fair play, and the rights of its players, and will continue to advocate for good governance, transparency and accountability at all levels of the sport.
This application was filed by Attorney-at-law Arudranauth Gossai.
MD Auto Imports Supports Essequibo Is We Own Softball Cricket Cup
THE management of MD Auto Imports of Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast has given its support towards the inaugural “Essequibo Is We Own Softball Cricket Cup”, which is slated for 3rd and 4th May, 2025 at various venues to be named in region 2.
The tournament is being organised by the newly formed RS Sports in association with Roraima Community Developers and the Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ESCL).
Mr. Maheepa Dharie, Director of MD Auto Imports, said that he is very pleased to support the twoday event that will involve softball teams in the region and afar. He went on to say that the game of softball cricket is what helps to encourage youths to be part of the game and be active in positive things that will shape their future.
Mr. Maheepa Dharie further said that softball cricket is known to be competitive and brings out positive vibes amongst the players that put their all into winning, and not the vibes in the players alone, but also in the spectators that is supporting their village team.
He said the management of MD Auto Imports wishes all the teams the very best and looks forward to the players playing the game under the rules that govern the games to ensure fairness.
On the other hand Mr. Basil Persaud, one of the coordinators of the tournament thank Mr. Maheepa Dharie and his entity for supporting this inaugural “Essequibo Is We Own Softball Cricket Cup,” which is integral in
developing young cricketers towards a brighter future in the sport and, most importantly, brings the people together through sports.
According to the organisers, the event is being organised to show support, by sending a message of solidarity through sports that Essequibo Belongs to Guyana, and we all stand by it in ensuring everyone plays their part in standing up.
The two-day limited-overs tournament will be played in three categories: open male, female, and over 40, with round-arm and risk bowling, in a one-game knock format. The teams will be battling for bragging rights, while over 1 million in cash incentives and trophies will be up for grabs by the winner, runner-up, MVP, player of the final, best bowler, best batsman, and player of the match in all the games in the various categories
DBL Group Inc., U. Balgobin Electrical and Construction Services, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Shi-Oil, International Imports and Supplies, and Roraima Developers are also supporting the tournament
Interested teams are asked to contact the competition coordinators on the following numbers: Das 6043212, Wakeel (ESCL) 6288030, Basil 610-0842, Brian 651-0358, or RS Sports on 657-2022. Registration closes on 1st May 2025.
According to the organisers, plans are being put in place for a grand party-like atmosphere during the playoffs, and spectators can expect many side attractions as we show solidarity as “ONE GUYANA”.
Mr. Basil Persaud (Left) receiving sponsorship from Mr. Maheepa Dharie, Director of MD Auto Imports
Cayman Islands were in full control against Guyana
Cayman Islands dominate
Guyana 48-17 in Rugby 15s
CAYMAN Islands recorded a dominant 48-17 victory over Guyana in their Rugby Americas North (RAN) 15s encounter at the National Park on Saturday.
Inaugural Toucan Mall Linden Golden Mile on this morning
SEVERAL athletes from across Region 10 Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice are expected to converge at the Toucan Mall this morning (Sunday) to compete in the inaugural Linden Golden Mile.
The race starts at 8:00 hours.
Promoted by United Statesbased Lindener , Curtis Chance, owner of the Toucan Mall, the Linden Golden Mile Race is one which is open to various categories of athletes namely ages 8-13, 14-15, 16-18 and 18 and Over and Seniors. Medals and cash in -
centives will be handed to top finishers in the different age categories according to Chance. The race starts and ends at the Toucan Mall in Amelia’s Ward and has the blessings of the Athletics Association of Guyana and the contact persons are athletic coach Johnny Gravesande 6026506 and Noel ‘Bruner’ Campbell 630-8639. Chance promised that the Linden Golden Mile Race will be an annual event especially during the Linden Town Week period of anniversary celebrations.
Guyana’s defence struggled throughout the match, and they also lacked a clinical edge in attack, which contributed to the defeat.
Cayman Islands started strongly, with Doran Bryce scoring a try in the ninth minute, though Alexander Claybourn missed the conversion.
Cayman Islands continued to build pressure, and Zachary Brooks scored another try in the 15th minute, which Claybourn converted.
Desbert Robinson scored a try for Guyana, but the home side went into
halftime trailing 31-3. Guyana showed some improvement in the second half, but it was not enough to overcome the dominant Cayman Islands team.
Guyana’s next match is against Barbados on May 17th in Barbados.
Dolphin storm into final while Chase Academy edge Waramuri
…Massy/Milo School U18 Football Championship
ON Thursday at the Ministry of Education ground saw high octave action as the Petra Organisation staged the semifinal of the Massy Milo Schools Football Championship.
Defending champions Chase Academy and top challenger Dolphin emerged as winners to put themselves within touching distance of the 2025 title.
The semis kicked off with the first semifinal on Thursday evening at the Carfesta Avenue Ground.
Dolphin Secondary still searching for their first title, clashed with West Ruimveldt Secondary and earned a 3-1 victory.
Dolphin Secondary’s Collin Frank David
opened their account with a 60th minute strike before Ezekiel Frank David added to their advantage with his first in the 64th before adding a second in the 81st to register a double to make it 3-nil.
West Ruimveldt Secondary Jeremiah Griffith soon responded a minute later to pull back the lead but that was their only goal in the match as Dolphin tightened their defence to hold onto their 3-1 lead for the win.
Next the featured semis saw Waramuri Secondary meeting multiple times champion , Chase Academic Foundation.
It was a ding dong affair, Chase’s top scorer Bryan Wharton wasted little time as he hit the
back of the net 2 minutes after the opening whistle.
His teammate, Isaiah Ifill doubled the lead in the 14th as they went into the break, up 2-nil.
Waramuri Secondary came roaring back in the second half with Rondell Peters scoring in the 51st followed by an Eldon Lewis strike in the 77th minute of the contest for the equaliser.
Peters then returned to give them the lead for the first time in the clash with his second.
Chase’ Academic Foundation’s Ifill tied up the game with his second goal in the 89th.
After regulation and extra time failed to produce a winner, the game went to penalty kicks with Chase emerging
winner 7-6
Chase will have to produce an even better showing to defend their title with a player down after top striker, Brayan Wharton, got a red card in the semis and will miss the final.
The tournament started with 24 schools in March with Round Robin games also played at the Queen’s College Ground.
The top school sides are playing for bragging rights, championship trophy and the 300,000-dollar cash prize which will be used for a school project of their choice with 200,000 and 100,000 for the second and third place schools respectively.
Maraj secures pole as GMR&SC Round One looms today
NYRON Maraj secured the inaugural Vitz cup pole ahead of today’s opening round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club Circuit championship.
The newly created class which features factory edition Toyota Vitz will see its first race today at the South Dakota Circuit Timehri.
Maraj created history, securing the first pole with a time of 1:35.299, some sixtenths of the second placed Shan Seejattan (1:35.990) in the Vitz Cup A Class.
In the B class, Darryl Akeung (1:35.617) secured pole with Ravin Ramotaur 1.4 seconds away in second and Bishram Rajaram third.
In the Street Tuner Class, Naresh Alves (1:31.265) qualified ahead of Jad Rahaman (1:35.180) and Jorge Ramirez (1:36.477) while there was Sport Tuner pole for Azad Hassan (1:28.72) ahead
of Ryan Rahaman (1:29.396) and Adrian Fernandes (1:29.739).
In group two, Seejattan (1:25.475) qualified ahead of Christopher Lall (1:26.660) and Ryan Rahaman.
In group three Stefan Jeffrey (1:21.325) qualified ahead of Denzil Hopkinson (1:21.974) and Danny Persaud while in group four, Mohan Ranagasammy finished qualified ahead of Andrew King and Gavin Gayadin.
There were no qualifying for the Starlet Cup but the Lottery system (Hand in bag) with Anand Ramchand starting ahead of Afraz Allie.
The same method was used for the Bikes and Super Stock A will see Matthew Vieira starting ahead of Dylan Singh and Kevin Persaud for the A Class, with Fitzpatrick Agustus, Jamal Osbourne and Akeem Miller as the top three starters for the Street Bike Class.
Veerasammy Permaul Attorney-at-law Arudranauth Gossai Match Referee Michael Ragoonauth
