President Dr Irfaan Ali met with Dan Amman, President of ExxonMobil’s Upstream Company, along with Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, and Matthew Scharf, ExxonMobil Guyana’s Public and Government Affairs Manager in New York. President Ali was joined by Ministers Vickram Bharrat and Dr Frank Anthony, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, and other senior officials. (Office of the President)
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who performing the functions of President, joined Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang and other officials in celebration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, at Marriott Hotel, on Friday evening
Region Six set to unlock vast economic potential - Dr. Ashni Singh
– outlines PPP/C govt’s plan to transform Berbice into industrial hub
WITH the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) having commenced its second term in office this month, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh explained to Berbicians recently that during the period 2025-2030, the government will implement policies and plans that aim to unleash the vast economic potential of Region Six.
He said these plans were clearly outlined by President Irfaan Ali and the Party’s General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
Speaking during the launch of the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair this week in the Region, Dr. Singh reminded Berbicians that this vision was outlined with
great clarity for both the Region and the country in contrast with the other aspirants in the political landscape.
In its 2025 Manifesto, the PPP/C has included as part of its development plans for Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), making it the industrial capital of the Caribbean, monetising the gas reserves found offshore, constructing a deep-water harbour, a new bridge across the Berbice River, a highway to Georgetown, a road and possible rail connections to northern Brazil, as well as the highway along the Corentyne Coast, a bridge across the Corentyne River, an all-weather road to Orealla and Siparuta, and upgraded overland connectivity to Kwakwani.
In addition, private cap-
ital could be mobilised for such activities as oil refining, alumina refining, fertilizer manufacturing and a new petro-chemical industry. The government plans as well to establish the Guyana Cultural Market at Palmyra.
“I wish to reiterate to you that over the course of the next five years, we have outlined plans that promise a very exciting future for Region Six in particular, and for Guyana more generally.
Over the course of the next five years, we will see Region Six connected now with Region Five and therefore with the rest of Guyana, and through the road to Brazil to northern Brazil, we will see a new fourlane-bridge,” the Minister
See page 4
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh speaking during the launch of the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair
UN Secretary-General acknowledges Guyana’s robust, principled contributions in Security Council
UNITED Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has commended Guyana on its robust and principled contribution in the Security Council.
Guyana is currently serving a two-year term (2024–2025) as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
The nation was elected to the Council in June 2023 by the UN General Assembly, and its term began on January 1, 2024. The country’s service will come to an
end in December of this year.
Secretary-General Guterres extended the commendations directly to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali during an engagement on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
The Secretary-General also congratulated President Ali on his recent election for a second term and wished him continued success in the fantastic progress happening in Guyana.
During the discus -
sion, they addressed developments in the region, including in the South Caribbean Sea. They also exchanged views on artificial intelligence, gender equality and Guyana’s initiatives for forest and biodiversity conservation.
President Ali updated the Secretary General on the situation with Venezuela, in particular, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) case on the border controversy which is expected to be heard in the a few months.
AFC says providing mentorship to WIN at regional, parliamentary level
Also
met with APNU’s Campbell ahead of the formation of 13th parliament
AFTER a dismal performance at the 2025 polls and not capturing enough votes for parliamentary seats, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has said it has been approached for mentorship by the new main opposition at the regional level.
This was disclosed by party executives on Friday during their press conference.
According to Khemraj Ramjattan, despite poor performance at the polls, this
does not mean the party will walk away from the political landscape.
He said, “We have quite a number of people to mentor, and quite frankly, if I may say this, even those who are parliamentarians have been asking for mentorship.”
This, he said, has been requested of himself and at least in relation to many other senior leaders of the party.
Meanwhile, AFC Chairman and interim leader, David Patterson, said that sev-
eral of the party’s members have been contacted primarily by members of the political newcomer, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, for mentorship at the regional level, as many are first-time regional councillors.
“The party… has given them the go-ahead to meet and assist in any way possible because obviously we would like effective opposition representation,” he said.
He said that in at least four regions, they have held
AFC’s 2025 defeat ‘clearly a rejection
of my leadership’ – Hughes
FORMER Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader, Nigel Hughes has admitted that the party’s crushing defeat at the 2025 General and Regional Elections was a direct repudiation of his stewardship, and says that is why he resigned.
Hughes made the blunt assessment during a press conference on Friday when asked by reporters about the factors that influenced his decision to step down.
“The answer is a simple one,” Hughes told the media. “If you’re the captain of the ship and the ship sinks, you’re responsible.”
He continued, “You don’t barely lose a match; you either lose a match or win it. In the legal profession, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. At the end of the day, the responsibility is mine.”
The attorney-at-law
stressed that the party’s complete shutout from Parliament, its first time without a single seat, could only be seen for what it was.
“It clearly was a rejection of my leadership, so that is the factor. It’s pure responsibility,” Hughes declared.
FROM PROMISE TO COLLAPSE
Hughes, who took up the leadership in June 2024 with promises to revitalise the floundering party, tendered his resignation last week in a letter seen by this publication. In it, he accepted full responsibility for what was one of the worst electoral performances in the AFC’s 19-year history.
The party managed to scrape together just over 3,000 votes across all ten electoral districts; a humiliating outcome for a party
that once boasted kingmaker status in Guyanese politics.
The road to the 2025 elections was already littered with defections, as several executive members abandoned the AFC to align with the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
meetings with members from that party to share whatever experience the AFC has gained over its time in the regional councils.
Meanwhile, at the parliamentary level, Patterson told reporters that he has met with the leader of the parliamentary team of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Terrence Campbell and has had discussions about drafting bills that they would like to see come up in parliament, among other
things.
Ahead of the 2025 polls the AFC did not coalesce with any other parties that were in the running, but leader at the time, Nigel Hughes, had said that the party was looking to forge alliances with like-minded individuals.
Though no official partnership was announced, the AFC has been accused of secretly working with WIN over the campaign and election season.
At the end of March, reports surfaced of secret meetings between members of “Team Mohamed” and members of the AFC, with former AFC activists supposedly leading the effort.
Earlier that same month then AFC leader, Nigel Hughes, was reported to have met with WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed.
Many current and former AFC activists had also campaigned for WIN.
Former AFC Leader, Nigel Hughes
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres
Region Six set to unlock vast...
highlighted, adding that this bridge is necessary despite there already being a bridge across the Berbice River, since there are weight limitations on the current bridge.
“We have explained, and you know that the current bridge, though it has served an incredible useful purpose, it was built in another period when we faced constraints. Those of you who are in
business know that there are weight limitations and heavy goods that cannot be brought across the bridge have to be brought by barge etc. Of course, if you want major industrial development, you
need to be able to move containerized cargo smoothly and efficiently across that river, both in terms of input and industry, and the production in Region Six,” the Senior Minister explained.
He noted that the intention of the government is to have major industrial development in the Region, and therefore it is why there are plans to develop a deep-water harbour and an industrial park similar to what is being done at Wales to utilise additional gas resources in Region Six, which holds the potential to be used in industries such as the manufacture of fertilisers for agriculture, and also potentially to be used for the production of additional electricity for the processing of bauxite resources in the Region.
“We want in the next five years to be able to produce right here in a competitive manner, valued-added globally-competitive agro-processed goods for export, using the deep-water harbour right here in Region Six,” Minister Singh told businesspersons and other residents
gathered at the event.
He added that government’s plans are not confined because recognising the vast potential of the agriculture sector in Region Six, government is investing heavily as well in improved drainage and irrigation structures such as the Hope-like Canals, and an embankment along the Canje Creek to reduce the risk of flooding and to improve water management for irrigation purposes so that farmers will face a significantly reduced risk of flooding.
Dr. Singh highlighted other development projects that will take place in the Region including the bridge across the Corentyne River to link Guyana with Suriname.
The Minister reminded Berbicians that President Ali and the new President of Suriname already met to discuss the realization of the bridge and further for Berbice to be linked by road overland to Suriname in the east, to Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica), then through Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) with northern Brazil through road construction.
“Then there are the developments taking place in so many other sectors, including the stadium at Palmyra, and imagine that we are mere months away from a time when people will traverse
from the rest of Guyana to come to look at international cricket,” the finance minister posited.
Dr. Singh added that the Region will have international hotels, and a modern mall, and cricketing fans will not only be coming to watch cricket but will also shop in Berbice, eat in restaurants and stay in Berbice hotels. It was also noted that there will be a Guyana National Cultural Market and a major housing and commercial development, all within the Palmyra area.
He also touched on the four-lane highway being built along the Corentyne Coast, the transformation of Port Mourant into the technical and vocational capital of the Caribbean, with the Guyana Technical Training College under construction and already operating and graduating students.
Dr. Singh concluded, in his address to Berbicians that ‘You have in President Irfaan Ali’s government a government that has not an abstract or theoretical idea about what we might be doing in Region Six, but a government that has a crystal-clear plan with concrete initiatives and projects within a framework that aims to unleash the vast economic potential of Region Six, and improve the lives of all of the People of Region Six’.
The stadium at Palmyra, which is currently under construction
Election fraud trial…
Video recording shows Miller also remained silent during police interview
THE high-profile election fraud trial continued on Friday before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where the prosecution presented video footage of a police interview with former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) staffer Michelle Miller.
Miller, who is among several former GECOM officials and political figures facing charges linked to the disputed March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections, repeatedly invoked her right to remain silent during questioning by police investigators.
At the start of the interview, a police rank explained the purpose of her presence, “[This is] a further interview in relation to an allegation of conspiracy to defraud contrary to common law in relation to the March 2 General and Regional Elections.
“It is alleged that on March 13, 2020, at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Headquarters, you conspired with Clairmont Mingo and others to give a fraudulent account of votes by calling out numbers from a spreadsheet instead of using a Statement of Poll, which resulted in A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) gaining inflated votes and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) votes were deflating.”
The officer then cautioned her, “You are not obliged to say anything unless you wish to do so but anything you say may be put into writing and given in evidence.”
When asked whether she had anything to say in relation to the allegation, Miller responded: “I reserve my right to remain silent.” Her silence continued throughout the exchange.
To questions about her whereabouts on March 13, whether she was employed with GECOM at the time, her functions at the headquarters, or whether she had received instructions from then Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo or former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, Miller’s answers remained consistent: “I reserve the right to remain silent.”
Investigators also told Miller that witness Sasenarine Singh had given a statement indicating that he
saw her calling out numbers from a spreadsheet rather than from Statements of Poll (SoPs). To this, she again responded: “I request the right to remain silent.”
The interview ended with the police rank thanking Miller for her co-operation.
The trial will continue on October 21.
Miller is one of several defendants facing trial in relation to alleged efforts to manipulate the 2020 election results.
Those charged include former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; former Health Minister Volda Lawrence; People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph; and former GECOM staffers Michelle Miller, Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, and Denise Babb-Cummings.
Together, they face 19 charges ranging from conspiracy to defraud to misconduct in public office. All have pleaded not guilty and remain out on bail.
The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, has argued that the defendants each played a “critical role” in attempts to inflate votes in favour of the then-incumbent APNU+AFC coalition while reducing votes for the PPP/C.
Initial results announced by Lowenfield had declared an APNU+AFC victory, with 171,825 votes against the PPP/C’s 166,343. However, after five months of litigation and a Caribbean Community (CARICOM)-supervised recount, the PPP/C was declared the winner with 233,336 votes to APNU+AFC’s 217,920, paving the way for Dr. Irfaan Ali’s swearing-in as presi-
dent on August 2, 2020.
The fallout from the election controversy led to the termination of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo’s contracts at GECOM in August 2021.
The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections have found that there were
collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU+AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.
Chairman Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey
Smith made these findings based on evidence from the many witnesses who testified along with the reports of the international observers.
“…our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for
the counting, ascertaining and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election,” they said in their report.
Volda Lawrence
Keith Lowenfield
Carol Smith-Joseph
Clairmont Mingo
Acting Chief Magistrate
Faith Mc Gusty
Roxanne Myers
Enrique Livan (NCN photo)
Michelle Miller
Denise Babb-Cummings
Strengthening Democracy Through Accountability
THE presentation of the Auditor General’s 2024 report to the National Assembly marks not just a statutory obligation fulfilled, but a milestone in Guyana’s democratic journey.
At a time when government operations have expanded exponentially and our nation has weathered the trials of a global pandemic, two elections, and a historic flood, the timely submission of this report is nothing short of remarkable.
It reflects professionalism, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to public accountability.
The Auditor General’s Office deserves our highest commendation. To complete such a complex task under immense challenges and still meet the statutory deadline is an achievement that underscores the strength of our institutions.
In fact, the report does more than assess accounts, it holds a mirror to government stewardship, measuring transparency, accountability, and credibility in the eyes of the people.
For this government, the Auditor General’s report is not a mere formality. It is a vital instrument of trust between state and citizen.
Where weaknesses are identified, the administration has embraced the recommendations and worked to address shortcomings.
This has led to a tangible reduction in the number and severity of breaches cited; a testament to the government’s commitment to good governance and institutional integrity.
Equally commendable is the progress within the Audit Office itself.
From performance audits and training
in procurement oversight to building competence in the oil and gas sector, the Office is not standing still.
It is modernising, strengthening its expertise, and ensuring that overpayments are no longer brushed aside but recovered, safeguarding taxpayers’ dollars.
Such vigilance is critical in a rapidly growing economy like ours.
Moreover, the collaboration between the Auditor General, the Finance Secretary, budget agencies, and international partners signals a maturing governance culture.
The emphasis on real-time audits, professional development, and strengthening oversight in new sectors such as oil and gas shows a forward-looking approach that will only serve Guyana better in the years ahead.
We must also recognise the larger democratic value of this process. As Speaker
Manzoor Nadir reminded, the Auditor General’s responsibility extends to every dollar of taxpayer resources.
That responsibility, executed with diligence, positions Guyana as a leader in public financial accountability not only in CARICOM but across the Commonwealth.
In the end, the Auditor General’s report is a tool of excellence. It strengthens democracy, deepens public trust, and reaffirms the values of transparency and accountability that Guyanese hold dear.
With each passing year, as our institutions grow stronger, we edge closer to building a culture of governance that we can all be proud of.
The 2024 report is more than numbers on paper, it is a testament to resilience, progress, and the promise of a brighter, more accountable future.
Georgetown residents welcome Gov’t ‘Rescue Georgetown’ plan to restore Garden City status
CITIZENS of Georgetown
are voicing strong support for Government’s ambitious ‘Rescue Georgetown’ revival plan, which forms part of the National Urban Plan launched earlier this month by President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The initiative aims to restore the capital city to its historic reputation as the “Garden City,” while advancing sustainable urban development.
The plan outlines 15 landmark demonstration projects that will focus on green infrastructure, climate resilience, and the celebration of cultural heritage. Among the proposals are the transformation of the historic transport building and train station into a museum and training centre, the creation of walking trails throughout
the city, immediate upgrades to the Stabroek waterfront, and improvements to key shopping areas.
For many residents, the initiative is both timely and inspiring. Katisha McIntosh, a city resident, said the plan holds great promise, particularly for educating the younger generation about Georgetown’s history.
“And not only for the little kids. We as adults, we kind of lack on those areas, so I think it’s a great idea to start implementing back those stuff to the nation,” she said. McIntosh also encouraged the Government to include the Georgetown Zoo in its restoration efforts, recalling the excitement of visiting the facility as a child.
Raymond Stephens, who recently returned to Guy -
ana after nine years abroad, praised the country’s rapid transformation, especially the development of new roads. However, he noted that more attention should be paid to the city’s drainage system, particularly around Stabroek Market.
“The drainage got to get cleaning up in the city… so when rain fall water mustn’t flood up the city,” Stephens said, while still commending the restoration project as beneficial for all Guyanese.
Meanwhile, Makeda Cornette highlighted the initiative’s potential to boost the tourism sector, saying the revitalisation of Georgetown will showcase Guyana’s cultural and architectural heritage to the world.
“It plays a major role in Guyana because it then
shows the world what we have to offer… If I were you, I’d want to see the very things continue in our beautiful country,” she remarked.
The ‘Rescue Georgetown’ plan is part of Government’s broader strategy to modernise infrastructure, preserve the nation’s history, and create a vibrant, resilient capital city that inspires national pride and attracts global recognition.
‘National Urban Plan’, launched by President Dr. Irfaan Ali earlier this month, the ‘Rescue Georgetown’ revival plan for sustainable urban development is aimed at restoring the capital city to its status as a source of national pride (John Green photo)
OP-ED
By India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Amit Telang
RECENTLY, an Indian businessman visiting Guyana after nearly two decades summarized his impressions about Georgetown as a sleepy town metamorphosed into a vibrant city.
Once the proverbial ‘Garden City of the Caribbean’ with beautiful colonial architecture, Georgetown has given way, at least partially, to concrete buildings with glass facades- the very epitome of development in our modern parlance.
Traffic snarls with heaving commuters in this quaint geography was completely unknown to him. It was like bemoaning and being bewitched at the same time. A price to pay for modernity and development - a familiar trope in any fast-developing city in the Global South. Balancing people’s aspirations with government’s capacity to respond to a city’s developmental challenges, and that too at a commensurate pace, has never been an enviable task.
Figuratively, it reminds one of a teenager outgrowing all outfits much faster than the parents could afford to buy him. But no one complains as they want to see a dashing young man- dynamic and attractive- even if it means a little bit of tantrums with lot of patience and persuasion.
Georgetown would soon have a voracious appetite like a rapidly growing teenager for civic architecture and basic amenities as Guyana leapfrogs into a developed country bracket. If it goes according to the new government’s plans, Georgetown would soon have all the features of an upcoming global city, attracting fresh investments reminding of the times of ‘the gold rush’. Civic architecture would need upgradation in a Mission mode to realize this dream of Georgetown’s emergence as an important business, hospitality and education hub- not only in South America but in the entire Western hemisphere.
The signals are highly encouraging. The new government under President Ali has all the right intentions and matching plans that would feed into their efforts towards presenting Georgetown as one of the emerging global cities.
But it would take a lot of planning, some difficult decisions and probably some consternation as developing civic architecture in a densely populated city has never been an easy task. It would require determination and attention to detail. Planning for the foreseeable future also needs to be factored in.
In his second term, President Ali’s focus on infrastructure, governance and digitization has immediately caught global attention. It was certainly not an entirely new proposition, since the groundwork for this transformation had ensued in his first
Georgetown: soul of a city
term itself.
As newer, broader streets and bridges and immaculate public spaces started dotting Georgetown’s landscape, the signal was unambiguous. It is in this context that President Ali’s announcement to rescue Georgetown came like a fresh breeze of salty air with undoubtedly a sigh of relief.
But there lies the catch. The devil is always in the detail, as they say. The city has an old-world charm, especially with its colonial style architecture, green spaces (unfortunately not so well-maintained sidewalks and lawns that look like overgrown bushes) and well laid out streets with impressive and unmistakable symmetry in parts of the old town.
Even though modern buildings have appeared like some jarring notes in a beautiful Caribbean song, most of us tend to agree that modern architecture and city’s historical soul need to co-exist. No, they are not discordant. This balance can be achieved with some planning and deliberate effort.
Guyana also has achieved global reputation with her work in environmental conservation. The recently held Biodiversity Summit stands as testimony to the importance Guyana attaches to balancing ecology with economy.
I am sure there are plans for conserving Georgetown’s impressive canal system (its indispensable role in controlling floods need not be overemphasized), its flora and fauna and beautiful landscaping stand as its soul. When the city is rescued from the vicissitudes of burgeoning population pressure, this soul will have to be preserved.
Fortunately, Guyana has a lot of land and considerable breathing space to shift new civic infrastructure a few miles away from the ‘Old Town’ so that both history and modernity can co-exist with ease and efficiency. Projects like the Silica City and plans for other modern communities with excellent civic infrastructure are surely steps in the positive direction. Does Guyana need a new modern capital complex which
will reduce pressure on the old town? A question worth pondering.
Similarly, Guyana would need a modern mass rapid transport system to decongest the city and allow the old town to move at its own leisurely pace while business moves swiftly in modern business districts.
President Ali’s experience and expertise in town planning and his vision to transform Guyana would be crucial in realizing this dream.
But preservation of the historical town – its beating heart- will need a lot of meticulous planning and persuasion to save the soul of the city. Lest the rescue might result into a city without its soul.
A youth gone wayward. The manatees in the national park, the Stabroek market, the Sea-wall and the canal systems and several historical buildings are all heartbeats of this beautiful city. Every wooden building in the old town has a story to tell.
These stories should continue to be told down the generations- inspiring them
and reminding them about their origin and a beautiful journey- tracing history, preserving traditions and pursuing modernity in a synchronized symphony. Guyana’s multi-ethnic culture and beauty of this land of waters should continue to inspire new generations- preserving and protecting Guyana’s soul.
I am confident that every tourist visiting this beautiful city will be pleasantly surprised to see modernity and history coexisting, blending culture and community spirit as we witness this phenomenal transformation. More grease to President Ali and his government’s elbow in their plans not only to rescue but also to nurture the soul of this fabulous city.
As a long-time friend and well-wisher, Delhi sees Georgetown as a partner and a fellow-traveller, willing to walk along in our collective developmental journey, sharing experiences and cheering each other as Georgetown begins a fascinating journey. Georgetown, we love you!
India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Amit Telang
President Trump confronts the deep state
MY piece for Tuesday, February 26, 2025 is captioned, “Every Guyanese must understand what the “Deep State is.” I quote from a section of that article about the suicide of Jeffrey Epstein.
“He tried to commit suicide and was put on 24 hours surveillance. Yet, despite that water-proof system, he still took his life. When journalists and academics theorise that Epstein may have been murdered, they are accused of conspiracy theory. Thirdly, very few people believe that a lone gunman killed President Kennedy. Those who believe it was a Deep-State conspiracy are deemed conspiracy theorists.”
Here are two dimensions of the Epstein suicide. The cell mate of Epstein was removed the night he committed suicide. Secondly, the surveillanc’se camera failed that night. Yet, despite these two powerfully compelling facts, those who see Epstein’s death as a murder are labeled conspiracy theorists. Those who believe Epstein was murdered point to the tentacle of the invincible, powerful, Deep State.
I was a mere lad in short pants when I heard people talking about an invisible government that is the real government that runs the show in the US. It was Marx-
ist and anti-colonial scholars and anti-imperialist activists, particularly the Black Civil Rights movement in the US and Cheddi Jagan in Guyana that popularised the term, “invisible government”, which President Trump recast as the Deep State.
Before Trump’s discovery of the Deep State, scholars used the term, the military-industrial complex.
From the 1960s onwards, the theory of the Deep State did not receive universal recognition, simply for three reasons. One was the fantastic global reach of the US that had replaced Europe as the dominant force in international relations because of the demise of European power after World War 2.
Secondly, the US became the number one attraction for people around the world wanting to have a meaningful life.
The US was simply phenomenally rich, and it motivated people to migrate there either to become rich or have a sound economic future. The pull of America obsessed people around the world, and because the US provided for them, at the psychic level America was a heaven, and thus they were not interested in knowing about the dark side of the US, both its domestic structure of a cruel, dog-eat-dog
nature, and its foreign policy whereby the US removed governments around the world that it could not control.
Thirdly, the global penetration of the American journalism and culture made people think that the US was a paragon of pure democracy. The peoples of the world at the subliminal level accepted that the US was the freest country in the world, therefore it was unthinkable to think that the real power in the US was in the hands a cabal of powerfully-invisible men that Third World and Marxist scholars referred to as the military-industrial complex.
A majority of people around the world after 1945 and maybe up to the tenure of President Jimmy Carter were not disposed to accepting that the real power of the US government was not the elected president, his Cabinet and Congress. There were episodic moments of discovery of the hidden hands that control the US. Four of these were the Vietnam War, the Watergate scandal, the CIA overthrow of President Allende of Chile, and the continued harassment of the Castro Government.
Perhaps the strongest evidence that the US was a country dominated by the omnipotence of the intelligence/security/military people was the exposure by Afro-American organisations, including Martin Luther King, the NAACP, people like Malcolm X and the Black Panther Party. Their exposure of the Deep State was
limited because mainstream journalism shut them out.
The changing attitude to American democracy with its inherent flaws began to catch the eyes of the American people with the assumption to power of an ultra-right, conservative government of Ronald Reagan, a 10th-rate Hollywood actor that became president.
The world finally accepted that there was a powerful Deep State in the US when that invisible power tried to prevent Donald Trump from becoming president, and in his first term tried to derail his tenure by invoking treasonable action by Trump through his relationship with President Putin. The Deep State began his conspiracy against Trump during Obama’s tenure and it reached its pinnacle under President Biden.
Mr. Trump saw the working of the Deep State and what it did to him. The charge against the former FBI chief, James Comey is the beginning of Mr. Trump’s determination to get at the Deep State.
I have no hesitation in believing that the CIA and FBI and other state intelligence agencies wanted to stop Mr. Trump from being elected, and when he was elected, tried to remove him.
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.
Minister Benn calls on contractors to deliver quality projects on time
AS Guyana holds its place as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Minister within the Ministry of Housing Vanessa Benn is urging local contractors to treat housing projects with the same level of care as their own homes.
Having surpassed its target of delivering 50,000 house lots, the Ministry of Housing is now tasked with building 40,000 homes over the next five years, in keeping with the government’s 2025 Manifesto promise.
Against this backdrop, Minister Benn has emphasised the need for timely completion and high-quality work to ensure citizens benefit fully from the government’s housing drive.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn
When asked about her rallying call on the Starting Point podcast, Benn urged contractors to “take pride in the work that you’re doing; think of the building that you are making, the home that
you’re making, think of it as if it’s your own home”.
She pointed out that contractors should view quality work as a path to expanding their businesses, creating opportunities and strengthening livelihoods in their respective communities.
“Think of how much your own personal income and the livelihoods of so many other people can be enhanced if you do it, and you do it properly,” the minister stressed.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has allocated over 53,000 house lots, exceeding the target in Manifesto 2020, and invested $300 billion in the sector. (DPI)
President Ali touts agro-business development hub to position Guyana as regional powerhouse
–– Pledges continued support to farms as gov’t eyes 100,000 hectares of land to be converted into large-scale mega farms
GUYANA is moving assiduously to cement its role as a regional food production and logistics powerhouse, as President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently announced plans to establish a major agro-business development hub.
President Ali made this announcement at a recent press conference, reemphasising his government’s commitment to food security, agricultural innovation, and regional integration.
Not only will the project capitalise on the broader commitment to food security and infrastructural development, but it will also provide a platform to strengthen Caribbean self-sufficiency.
The President explained that agro-business development is not a policy priority, but it stands as a growth pool that could drive international partnerships and spark investors’ interests.
“We have to create, through the infrastructure we invest in and through the type of partnerships we build, this ecosystem to support the business and economic opportunities out of the Agro Business Development Hub,” he said.
Dr. Ali further underscored his government’s vision to link the South American agriculture ecosystem to meet the Caribbean region’s demand, and central to this is partnering with northern Brazil in Roraima and the Dominican Republic.
He also disclosed that a local team was composed to work with the northern Brazil state of Roraima, on technology transfer and co-investment opportunities as Guyana builds out this ecosystem to support the Agro-Business Development Hub.
President Ali then pointed to the project United States (US) giant Blumberg Grain and Logistics to develop a landmark regional food hub. Earlier this year, the Government of Guyana signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the renowned US-based
company, Blumberg Grain and Logistics.
The agreement paved the way for the establishment of a state-of-the-art regional food hub at Yarrowkabra, along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
The Yarrowkabra food hub, once completed, is expected to significantly boost Guyana’s export capabilities, reduce post-harvest losses to as low as 5 per cent, and provide new manufacturing and processing facilities.
It is also expected to serve as the base from which Guyana can strengthen trade across CARICOM and South America, while laying the foundation for entry into US and international markets.
The commencement of Phase One of the project took place in 2023, accompanied by an investment totalling $187 million.
Also essential to the plans to position Guyana as a major food exporter within the region is the acceleration of production.
So, how does the President envision supporting both food security and the growth of agro-processing industries that add value to raw products before export?
President Ali stated that the government is seeking to work with megafarms and co-invest with megafarms in the local agricultural sector.
“We’re looking at 100,000 hectares of land to be converted into largescale mega farms, looking at corn, soybean, coconut, spices and cocoa.
All of this we have been able to advance,” he said.
The government has already assembled a working group comprising private sector leaders, agriculture stakeholders, investment bankers, and government ministries to shape the hub’s operations and financing.
The agriculture sector has experienced rapid transformations in recent years through expansion, diversification and modernisation to improve its resilience and competitiveness.
These developments are being bolstered by government support to farmers, especially to add value to crop, livestock, dairy and fisheries industries.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Agriculture reported that Guyana has surpassed regional expectations for agricultural production, achieving approximately 88 per cent of production targets one year ahead of schedule.
In 2022, Guyana produced nearly 899,000 metric tonnes of food. By the end of 2024, that number climbed to 1.26 metric tonnes.
This increase was supported by the skyrocketing of rice yield, brackish water shrimp (which recorded a more than 1,000 per cent increase), corn and soya, and prawns.
Guyana’s ambitions are closely tied to the Caribbean Community’s Agri-Food Systems Agenda through “Vision 2030”, a strategy aimed at boosting food production, ending hunger and strengthening food security across the region.
Out of 186 countries, only Guyana produces enough food to feed all its citizens without foreign imports, according to a recent study published in Nature Food.
Nature food had investigated how well each country could feed its populations in seven food groups: fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, meat, plant-based protein and starchy staples.
Worldwide, the study found that 65 per cent of countries were overproducing meat and dairy, compared to their own populations’ dietary needs.
It also found that Guyana was the only country that could boast total self-sufficiency, while China and Vietnam were close behind, being able to produce enough food in six out of seven food groups.
Just one in seven of the tested countries was judged self-sufficient in five or more categories.
President Irfaan Ali at one of NAREI’s shade houses
Nandlall leads delegation as US$100M arbitration case opens in Paris
ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, is leading a delegation from Guyana, including witnesses, to testify in the arbitration proceedings in the matter of Smart City Solutions Holdings Inc. v The Co-operative Republic of Guyana (aka The Parking Meter Case).
The matter is scheduled to be heard before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) in Paris, France, from Monday, September 29, to Saturday, October 4.
Guyana is being sued for damages of US $100 million arising from a contract executed by the former A Partnership for National
Unity+ Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition government for the implementation of the Georgetown parking meter project, which was ultimately abandoned following strong public opposition.
The witnesses scheduled to testify for and on behalf of Guyana are former Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan, and former Georgetown Mayor and City Council councillors Malcolm Ferreira and Bishram Kuppen. In addition, a former Chancellor of the Judiciary will also testify as an expert witness.
The case was registered with ICSID on December 22, 2021. A tribunal to hear the matter was constituted on September 20, 2022, com-
FLASHBACK: Protest action in Georgetown against the parking meter
prising Dr. Campbell Alan McLachlan, KC, of New Zealand as President, with arbitrators Stephan Schill of Germany, appointed by the
Claimant, and Marcelo Kohen of Argentina, appointed by the Respondent.
Guyana is represented in the proceedings by the
Washington-based law firm, Foley Hoag, and the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
In 2016, the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), under then-Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen and then-Town Clerk Royston King, signed a contract with Smart City Solutions Holdings to implement a parking meter system in Georgetown while the APNU+AFC David Granger-led coalition government was in office.
Installations were happening throughout the capital city, as well as staff training for the new parking meter regime. However, the initiative faced immediate backlash, and saw massive protests against its implementation.
Citizens contended then that the fees were too high and placed an undue financial burden on the populace. Others argued that the awarding of the contract lacked transparency. Public pressure forced a suspension of the project.
Throughout the process, however, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), while in opposition, argued against the awarding of the contract and rolling out of the parking meter system.
Smart City Solutions Holdings subsequently sued the government of Guyana for millions of dollars in damages for the non-implementation of the project.
Students could move into New Nismes Secondary by next week
CONSTRUCTION of the new Nismes Secondary School, a $1.3 billion stateof-the-art facility on the West Bank of Demerara, is being accelerated to be fully ready by the new school term in January.
According to a release from the Ministry of Education, with the majority of the project completed, Minister of Education Sonia Parag has confirmed that students could start moving into their new classrooms from as early as next week.
“But what we are doing is consulting the parents first,” Minister Parag said following a site visit on Friday afternoon.
“We thought that we would make a site visit because construction isn’t
completed as yet, and we would really like the complex to be completed so students can move into the new buildings,” Minister Parag said.
She indicated that with three of the buildings in the compound slated for completion over the weekend, 11 very spacious classrooms would be available to accommodate students.
“We will now be able to move students from the old building at the school to the new complex while we finish the construction on the dome and other buildings,” Minister Parag explained.
These “other” buildings include the admin office, a library, a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) wing, sci-
Minister of Education Sonia Parag interacting with contractors during Friday’s site visit
ence laboratories, etc.
Minister Parag instructed the contractors that the entire project must be completed by the end of December.
“...So that the new term, we will have this entire complex completed and ready for more intake,” the
Minister added.
She believes that the three initial buildings “can comfortably house the students that we have,” providing them with a long-awaited move to an improved environment.
To ensure this deadline is met, Minister Parag has
mandated close supervision.
“I will be having the consultant, every day, coming to this site, or every other day to monitor and make sure that the progress is happening day-by-day,” the Education Minister asserted.
She encouraged the contractors to double their manpower and extend working hours where necessary to ensure early completion.
“They need to do what they have to do to be able to make that happen within three months,” she stressed.
The construction of the Nismes Secondary School is part of the government’s wider commitment to improving education delivery all across the country.
“We’ve ensured that we, as a government, invested
heavily in the last five years in education,” the Minister noted.
Minister Parag said that while the sector has made significant strides under the guidance of President Irfaan Ali, there are still a few delayed commitments.
“...and we would really like to bring them to a completion; and this is one of those schools where we want to be able to do that.”
The spanking new Nismes Secondary School is designed to accommodate approximately 800 students, and will feature over 20 classrooms, science labs, a TVET wing, and other necessary amenities to support the goal of achieving Universal Secondary Education.
Propa Local Wines and Teas earns GNBS
recertification –– celebrating local flavours and craftsmanship
PROPA Local Wines and Teas was officially recertified with the prestigious Made in Guyana mark on Thursday, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to quality and compliance with standards set by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).
The milestone was achieved under the leadership of entrepreneur Abigale John, of Buxton, Middle Walk, East Coast Demerara.
Operating under the
easy feat, but it reflects our dedication to producing quality products that showcase the best of local ingredients,” she said.
Trevor Bassoo, Executive Director of GNBS, highlighted the significance of the recertification.
“Propa Local Wines and Teas was first certified in August 2024 after meeting all requirements of the Made in Guyana programme. Today, we are proud to extend this certification, recognising the
of the Made in Guyana programme, including increased visibility, market access, and national pride.
He also acknowledged the broader work of the GNBS in supporting local businesses through certification, technical assistance, training, and standards development.
He highlighted recent initiatives, including the launch of the Brand Guyana Gondola at Massy, which features over 50 Made in Guyana certified products, including
A display of some of the products
trademark “A true Guyanese celebration of local fruit flavours and craftsmanship”, John expressed pride in reaching such a high standard within a year of launching her wines, followed by teas just six months later. “It was no
business’s ongoing commitment to quality and excellence,” he said.
Bassoo commended the wide range of beverages produced by the company, noting that the recertification demonstrates the benefits
The ceremony also featured remarks from Govindra Raghubansi, Executive Director of the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association; Kevin Macklingam, Guyana Shop Manager; and Mitra Rajkumar, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).
Propa Local Wines and Teas, showcasing excellent packaging and consumer appeal.
Bassoo also congratulated John for her innovation and for transforming local raw materials into products that boost the local economy and
CH&PA halts illegal supermarket construction on Brickdam
THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), operating under the Ministry of Housing and Water, on Friday, moved swiftly to clamp down on unauthorised construction works for a proposed supermarket at Lot 72 Brickdam Street and Brummel Place, Georgetown.
According to the Authority, its Enforcement and Compliance Department carried out an inspection which revealed that construction had commenced at the site without the requisite planning permission or approval from CH&PA or any other relevant regulatory body. Further checks
confirmed that no application had been submitted for review or consideration.
As a result, the proprietor of the building was formally served with a Notice of Contravention under the Town and Country Planning Act, Cap. 20:01, ordering the immediate cessation of all unauthorised works.
Officials stated that the notice was delivered directly to the proprietor’s residence and an additional copy was affixed at the construction site to ensure full compliance.
In a statement, CH&PA reminded businesses, developers, and property owners that the Authority is the statutory first point
of engagement for all construction and commercial development permits.
The agency stressed that adherence to zoning laws and planning regulations is not optional but mandatory, as they are designed to safeguard sustainable and orderly urban growth.
“The Authority reiterates its commitment to supporting legitimate investment and projects that align with national planning standards, uplift communities, and contribute positively to urban development, while taking uncompromising action against any attempt to circumvent the law,” the statement read.
A LOCAL SUCCESS STORY
Propa Local Wines and Teas is the creation of 38-year-old Abigale John, who has quickly established herself in Guyana’s agro-processing sector.
Her brand produces herbal teas, fruit-flavoured vinegars, and wines using locally sourced fruits and plants. Hailing from a long line of farmers and agro-processors, John’s family has been farming in Guyana for four generations, with her brother currently operating the family farm at Canal #1 Polder, West Bank Demerara. Originally running a small t-shirt printing business, John pivoted to wine-making during the COVID-19 pandemic under the guidance of her uncle, Aubrey John, a skilled winemaker. She initially promoted her uncle’s GG Wines before launching her own label.
Expanding beyond wines, John introduced fruit-flavoured vinegars starting with pineapple vinegar, which quickly became popular for marinades and salads. Her product range now includes anti-desma and mango varieties, further solidifying Propa Local as a household name in Guyana’s culinary and beverage industry.
Propa Local Wines and Teas’ recertification under the GNBS Made in Guyana programme not only recognises quality and craftsmanship but also reinforces the growing pride in locally made products. (Credit: Michelle Outridge)
The supermarket at Lot 72
and Brummel
Georgetown where unauthorised construction works was ongoing
consumer choice.
Abigale John poses with her new certificate awarded by GNBS (Japheth Savory photo)
Brickdam Street
Place,
Deputy Commissioner Budhram commends GPF’s Marine Unit at World Maritime Day Exhibition
DEPUTY Commissioner of Police (Administration), Ravindradat Budhram, on Thursday led a team of senior officers to the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, where they visited the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Marine Unit display at the ongoing World Maritime Day exhibition.
The annual event, being hosted under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity”, features several state agencies and private maritime organisations showcasing their contributions to safeguarding Guyana’s waterways.
Deputy Commissioner Budhram was accompanied by Finance Officer, Senior Superintendent Bharat Persaud, and Head of the Strategic Planning and Implementation Unit for Police Reform, Woman Senior Superintendent Nicola Kendall.
The officers were guided through the Marine Unit’s booth by Officer-in-Charge, Assistant Superintendent Garfield Campbell, who highlighted the specialised equipment and techniques used by ranks in their daily operations.
The Marine Unit, recognised as one of the Force’s most vital enforcement arms, is tasked with policing Guyana’s extensive network of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Its responsibilities range from routine river and coastal patrols to tackling smuggling, piracy, and other illegal activities, while also serving as first responders during maritime emergencies and accidents.
Over the years, the Unit has evolved into a highly specialised department, equipped with advanced technology such as DGS Pro 26 MONSTER vessels pow-
ered by twin 300HP Mercury engines, as well as smaller patrol boats deployed across regions. Its ranks, who are trained coxswains, possess expertise in seamanship, navigation, law enforcement, and rescue operations.
Beyond policing, the Marine Unit plays a critical role in enforcing fisheries, customs, and environmental regulations. The Unit also provides tactical support during major national events, high-risk operations, and natural disasters.
A career in the GPF’s Marine Unit, the Force emphasised, is not just a job but a calling to safeguard the nation’s lifeline—its waterways. Aspiring officers can expect specialised training, opportunities for growth, and the chance to be part of elite operations that protect Guyana’s national security.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), Ravindradat Budhram (second from left) led a team of senior officers to the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, where they visited the GPF Marine Unit display at the World Maritime Day exhibition
Scenes from the World Maritime Day exhibition
Georgetown Rotary Club donates computers to support literacy at Children’s Homes
THE Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) has strengthened its commitment to education and literacy with the donation of three new computers and accessories, valued at over $350,000, to the Children and Family Centre in Sophia, Georgetown.
The handover took place on Thursday as part of the Club’s observance of Education Month and in alignment with World Literacy Day 2025 under the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”
Speaking at the ceremony, RCGC President, Lloyd David, highlighted the importance of providing children with the tools needed to succeed academically.
“These internet-ready computers will go a far way
in providing access to the students who are required daily to do homework and research to advance their learning. Additionally, the devices, including a printer, will enable the printing of assignments and access to online literacy programmes that can motivate the youths to read and write,” he said.
He emphasised that the initiative was intended to give underprivileged children a chance to use education as a pathway to future success.
Service Project Chair of the Club, Keisha Cheung, noted that supporting education was one of Rotary’s key areas of focus.
“Rotary is all about helping individuals and communities to create positive change. The donation of these computers is one of the ways we contribute to improving the livelihoods of young people,” she said.
The donation builds on RCGC’s recent outreach efforts. In August, with Tropical Shipping as its main sponsor for Education and Literacy initiatives, the Club distributed 150 school-ready backpacks to students in Kimbia, Moblissa, and those attending afternoon classes under its West Ruimveldt Literacy Programme.
To further enhance learning at the West Ruimveldt centre, a smart television was also donated.
Marissa Bujan, Operations Supervisor of Tropical Shipping, reaffirmed her company’s support for initiatives that empower youth through education.
“Rotary focuses a lot on education and youth empowerment; Tropical Shipping understands and shares those same values, and we are proud to support efforts that help young people grow and
thrive,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Manager of the Children and Family Centre, Orette Francois, expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as more than just a gift of equipment.
“This is not just a donation of equipment, it is an investment in the future of the children at the Centre,” he said, noting that the resources will benefit 34 children currently housed there, as well as others at two additional Centres.
RCGC, one of six Rotary clubs in Guyana and part of a global network of 45,000 clubs, continues to play an active role in advancing education, promoting peace, improving health, and supporting sustainable development.
The Club has indicated that several related projects are in the pipeline for execution during this Rotary year.
Housing Ministry, NDMA advancing ‘single window’ system
THE Ministry of Housing is pressing ahead with a digital ‘single window’ system to speed up the delivery of important housing services to citizens.
Speaking on the recent edition of the Starting Point programme, Minister of Housing, Venessa Benn, said that families applying for land or housing have had to shuffle between agencies for multiple stamps, signatures, and site visits.
Even as the ministry surpassed its goal of 50,000 allocations, the system was facing a bottleneck of unresolved applications.
In 2024, the government launched the Electronic Planning and Development Single Window system to reduce wait times.
However, Minister Benn said the platform was not performing at its optimum. “Whilst the ministry has worked very well with… the National Data Management Authority, to establish
this system, it also includes other agencies, all part of government, but not nested under the Ministry of Housing,” Benn explained.
For instance, she explained that current applications are still processed through bulky paper plans that require the relevant stamps and signatures for approval from various agencies like the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and municipalities, among others.
These agencies must be equipped with the relevant equipment, reliable internet, and legal authority for electronic approvals before the digital platform can function to its fullest.
“This morning, Minister Croal and I had a meeting with Minister Priya Manickhand, who is now our Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, to see how we can address that together,” Benn said.
The ministers also met with the team from the
NDMA to address related issues and “it’s a work in progress, but I anticipate that very soon the system will become a lot more efficient.”
When fully onstream, this change could mean an end to wasted hours, yet according to Minister Benn, many applicants are unaware that they can check their status online.
“Sometimes people make the application and then wait, expecting an update, but they don’t realise they can log in and see the status themselves. We need to tailor public awareness to address that,” she said.
This is part of a holistic vision of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government to digitise all government services to improve efficiency, reliability and remove human bias.
The Single Window System is a move towards a country with quicker services. (DPI)
RCGC President, Lloyd David, with Manager of Children and Family Centre, Qrette Francois with the donated computers and accessories on the table
Minister Persaud urges students to speak out against bullying and violence
IN observance of Child Protection Week 2025, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Thursday, led an engaging awareness session with students of Fort Wellington Secondary School, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), focusing on the theme “Every Child Safe.”
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Persaud reminded students that one of the most fundamental human rights is the right to safety. For children, she explained, this means being protected and cared for in environments
people,” she urged, adding that kindness and awareness are essential in tackling bullying.
Speaking directly to victims, Dr. Persaud encouraged students to speak out, stressing that reporting bullying does not make them “a snitch” but is instead an act of self-protection. She urged teachers to take every report seriously and revealed that the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) was working to compile a national database of bullying and violence reports in schools.
The Ministry will also roll out new tools to encour-
free from violence and abuse.
“Children have issues that they deal with every day, and notable among them are the things you identified— peer pressure, violence, bullying,” the Minister said, stressing that these challenges can leave long-lasting physical and emotional scars.
She pointed out that bullying is often learned behaviour, noting one student’s response that children exposed to violence at home may be more likely to repeat those actions with others.
“Whenever there is abuse and violence at home, people or children see that, and then they are more likely to do things like that. Engage in violent behaviour, engage in bullying, and engage in abuse,” Dr. Persaud explained.
The Minister cautioned that while violence may happen around them, young people should not allow it to shape who they become.
“There is no need for you to become violent and abusive
age reporting, including a QR Code system accessible via Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Students were reminded of the 24-hour toll-free hotline 914, which allows them to report any form of violence or abuse directly. “Once reports are made, it will go to the CPA, and the school’s welfare and guidance counsellor, for action to be taken,” Dr. Persaud assured.
Beyond the anti-bullying initiatives, Dr. Persaud also highlighted opportunities for self-development through the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), the M-Power Programme, and the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), which offer free training to men and women nationwide.
The Minister’s outreach formed part of a broader Child Protection Week agenda aimed at ensuring children across Guyana are empowered, protected, and supported in safe learning environments.
Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud engages residents in Region Five during her visit
Region Three Private Sector urges pedestrian opening of new Demerara River Bridge before vehicular launch
HEAD of the Region
Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), Halim Khan, has called on the government to give citizens a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk across the new Demerara River Bridge (DHB) before it is officially opened to vehicular traffic.
Khan proposed that the bridge be temporarily opened for foot traffic, allowing people to take photographs, host cultural activities, and even create lasting memories such as weddings on the landmark structure.
all adopted this approach, giving people a sense of ownership and pride in landmark projects.
He stressed that offering Guyanese a similar opportunity would make the inauguration of the bridge not just a historic achievement in infrastructure, but also a shared national experience that unites communities across the country.
erated confidence that the bridge will be commissioned soon.
Once in operation, the
Demerara River Bridge is expected to transform Guyana’s transportation landscape, boosting
connectivity, trade, and quality of life. Yet Khan maintains that before vehicles take ownership
of the lanes, the bridge should first belong to the people, even if just for a day.
“This would allow citizens to experience the bridge firsthand and celebrate its significance in a personal way,” Khan said.
The highly anticipated Demerara River Bridge entered its final phase of load testing on Thursday, with a series of rigorous assessments carried out on the state-of-the-art cable-stay structure, signalling that the project is
now nearing completion.
He further suggested that it would be historic to see President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his team join citizens in walking across the bridge for the first time, while inviting people from all regions of Guyana to take part in the milestone event.
Khan pointed out that this practice is common internationally, where new bridges are opened for community walks, charity marathons, or symbolic ceremonies before vehicles are permitted to cross.
Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and China have
The US$260 million bridge, built by China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, stretches 2.6 kilometres and links Nandy Park on the East Bank Demerara to the West Bank Demerara.
The toll-free, four-lane structure is designed to operate continuously, accommodate vehicles of all sizes, and facilitate travel at speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour. With a lifespan of 100 years, the DHB is expected to serve over 50,000 commuters daily and generate annual savings of approximately $3.5 billion.
As anticipation builds ahead of its official opening, President Ali has reit-
THE Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL), publishers of the Daily and Sunday Chronicle, on Friday hosted its fifth annual Back-to-School Gadget and School Supplies Drive, rewarding 22 learners from across the coun-
try with essential learning tools.
The presentation ceremony, held at the company’s Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park headquarters, saw excited winners receiving items such as tablets, printers, and vouchers.
Marketing Manager of GNNL, Beverly Roberts, noted that the initiative, which began as a small vision in 2021, has grown into a nationwide effort, touching lives in every region of Guyana.
“Each year, with the in-
valuable support of our sponsors and partners, we have been able to place essential tools into the hands of learners, empowering them to pursue their education with confidence,” Roberts said.
This year’s winners came from schools including Win-
supplies. Completed entries were submitted at the Chronicle’s head office. The initiative was made possible through support from corporate sponsors such as Nextech, DevCon Inc., S. Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc., Sears Vision Centre, Viscom Electronics, Riaz Computer, Green State Oil and Gas Services Inc., and the Green State Business and Technology Institute.
Roberts emphasized that the drive was more than just a distribution exercise. “Today
fer Gardens Primary, School of the Nations, Tutorial High, Good Hope Secondary, Bartica Secondary, Hyde Park Mahaicony, Harmony Secondary in Linden, and Green Acres Nursery, among others.
To participate, learners were required to fill out coupons published in the Chronicle’s daily and Sunday editions by August 31, 2025. The coupons included quiz questions designed to promote educational engagement while giving learners an opportunity to win valuable
is not just about distributing items—it’s about opening doors of opportunity, building brighter futures, and reminding every child that their dreams matter,” she said.
Now in its fifth year, the Back-to-School Drive has become a hallmark of the Chronicle’s commitment to youth development, providing learners with critical resources while demonstrating how businesses can positively impact communities.
OFFICERS of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), on Thursday, September 25, 2025, intercepted a significant quantity of cocaine during an intelligence-led operation in Charity, Essequibo Coast.
According to CANU, ranks, acting on information received, conducted a search at a location in the community, where they discovered 13 brick-like parcels suspected to be cocaine. One individual was arrested at the scene and escorted to CANU Headquarters in Georgetown, along with the narcotics.
At CANU Headquarters, the parcels were weighed in
the presence of the suspect and officers, amounting to 14.836 kilograms of cocaine. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
Marketing Manager at GNNL, Beverly Roberts
A few of the 2025 Back-to-School Gadget and School Supplies Drive winners (Japheth Savory photo)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday September 27, 2025)
CUMMINGS
ELECTRICAL
COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)GAW (2) Gudakesh Motie (GAW)
Today’s Quiz: (1) Who won Qualifier 2 in CPL 2025?
(2) Who was Man of the Match?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
HAYDOCK
09:05 hrs Blue Storm
09:40 hrs Woven
10:15 hrs First Ambition
10:50 hrs Saxophonic
11:25 hrs Nada Two
12:00 hrs Real Man 12:35 hrs Steel Tiger
NEWMARKET
08:50 Bow Echo
09:25 hrs Beautify
10:00 hrs The Publican’s Son
10:40 hrs Port George
11:15 hrs Gwen John 11:45 hrs Act Of Kindne
12:20 hrs Ottoman Express
SOUTHWELL
11:19 hrs Havin A Flyer 11:50 hrs Siouxpersonic
12:25 hrs Aajej
13:00 hrs Spirit Lead Me
13:30 hrs One More Dream
14:00 hrs Hierarchy
14:30 hrs Irish Dancer
15:00 hrs Tazaman
25:40 hrs Kint Bury
IRISH RACING TIPS
CURRAGH
08:25 hrs Savile Row
09:00 hrs Nezeeh
09:35 hrs Geryon
10:10 hrs Genuine
Article
1045 hrs Composing
11:20 hrs Collecting Coin
11:55 hrs Duvessa
12:30 hrs Subsonic
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
DURBANVILLE
08:25 hrs Voorlooperjie
09:00 hrs Princess Of Gaul
09:35 hrs Cafe Culture
10:10 hrs Beneath T he Clouds 10:45 hrs Royal Lytham
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
BELMONT
Race 1 Igniter
Race 2 Turbo
Race 3 Hurricane Nelson
Race 4 Acoustic Ave
Race 5 Rebel’s Romance
Race 6 Locked
Race 7 Factory Settings
Race 8 R Disastet
Griffith eagerly looking forward to WI Performance
CMC – WEST Indies head coach for the tour of Nepal, Rayon Griffith says he is eagerly looking forward to the performances of the team’s young players during the three-match T20I series, which bowls off on Saturday.
Griffith, who is leading the team in the absence of Daren Sammy, said the regional side was loaded with young and exciting talent who were keen to make their mark on the international stage.
Furthermore, with the Men’s T20 World Cup slated to be held in early 2026, he said it was the perfect opportunity for those upcoming players to send a strong message to the selectors.
“It always excites me when it comes to young players. You know what you’re going to get from young players, you know the eagerness, the willingness from them and
they’re hungry so it’s going to be a very interesting series and I’m looking forward to work with these young, exciting players.
“They have a couple players such as [Navin] Bidaisee, you have Zishan [Motara], and we have also Jewel Andrew in that setup. [Amir] Jangoo who has been playing for the West Indies, he’s another young player to look out for,” Griffith said.
“…There is a World Cup coming up very soon and the opportunity is there for the players to showcase themselves. The more they can perform they would put that pressure on the selectors and give themselves an opportunity to play for the West Indies.”
Griffith said a West Indies ‘A’ side visited Nepal in May, 2024, where they emerged victorious 3-2 in their five-match series.
He said while this series only comprises three matches, he expected it to still be competitive.
“We were in Nepal about 18 months ago and it was a good series against them. It was competitive, and they played some good cricket and we did play some good cricket as well and came out on top of the series.
“This is a short series. We only got in a couple days ago and we didn’t hit the ground running in terms of prep, but most of our players who just finished the CPL means they have some cricket under their belt and that’s a good sign for us,” Griffith said.
SQUAD
WEST INDIES: Akeal Hosein (captain), Fabian Allen, Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Navin Bidaisse, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Karima Gore, Jason Holder, Amir Jangoo, Kyle Mayers, Obed McCoy, Zishan Motara, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer.
Schedule
1st T20I: September 27, Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
2nd T20I: September 29, Sharjah Cricket Stadium. 3rd T20I: September 30, Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
West Indies captain Akeal Hosein (left) leads players during a training session on Friday (Photo courtesy CWI Media)
Olympian Edghill
a ‘maybe’ as Senior National Championship serves off today
THE Guyana Table Tennis Association will serve off their long awaited Senior National Table Tennis Championships on Saturday at the National Gymnasium Auditorium.
The tournament will feature men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, mixed doubles, and open events.
Two-time Olympian and defending national singles champion Chelsea Edghill says she would love to defend her national crown against all comers but her participation is still a maybe because of niggling injuries.
Chelsea is also defending women doubles champions with Natalie Cummings and has the mix doubles crown with Shemar Britton which was won in 2022.
“At this time I’m not sure if I will be defending my title but I would really love to,” she told Chronicle Sport.
She says while the past two years has seen her take on a more administrative role with her Edge Sports Management and chairperson of the Athletes Commission, she is still at the top of her game.
She added, “Honestly speaking I won’t say I’m very motivated, it’s just a matter of playing at home and playing in front of home crowd and having people come out and support the sport but reminding person of who I am and what I would have accomplished, it does not really affect me that much, it’s just the chance to give persons the opportunity to see me play and if it is I do decide to play this weekend it would be to have fun and enjoy the sport.”
Her biggest threat will come from former national champion Natalie Cummings along with rising stars Thuraia Thomas and Jasmine Billingy.
Meanwhile the competition is returning after a twoyear hiatus.
The tournament is expected to see the likes of former Caribbean Junior champion Shemar Britton amongst a host of other top players set to duel it out when the championships commences.
Five-time national men’s champion Christopher Franklin has opted out of this year’s competition meaning a new champion will be crowned.
The front runner will be the country’s highest rated player Britton followed by the likes of rising star Jonathan Van Lange, Niran Bissu and Elishaba Johnson among others.
The top players will earn automatic qualification to represent Guyana at the upcoming regional and international competitions, including the 2026 CAC Games and 2025 Islamic Games.
The action serves off at 13 hours today with doubles action with the men’s singles final set for Sunday while the women, B & C class is set for October 4th.
Reelection to CONSANAT shows representation for Guyana – GASA President
GUYANA Amateur Swimming Association (GASA)
President Yolema Philips says that her re-election in the South American Confederation will ensure she is able to effectively make representation for the country at the highest level of power in the sport for this hemisphere.
The GASA boss was speaking after her re-election to the CONSANAT committee as treasurer.
“This role allows me represent Guyana on a significant regional platform, promoting our nation across regional and international arenas, I my tenure, I’ve worked closely with finance professional at our South American base head office, ensuring transparency, accuracy and compliance in all financial operations, my responsibilities not only strength my financial acumen but also expanding cultural awareness as I engage with collogues from across south America.”
Phillips says she has even embarked on learning Spanish which will allow her to be even more effective in navigating the regional sport
world for her association’s benefit.
“Due to the strong relationship I’ve built with members counties and my commitment to sound financial governance, I was honoured, excited and elated to be re-elected during the most recent CONSANAT elections, this reaffirms the trust in me that my peers and my continued dedication to the advancement of swimming across the Americas.”
The newly elected South American Swimming Confederation, headed by Argentina’s Fernando Terrilli will meet for the first time and will present a long term plan for the sport according to Philips.
“We have already submitted 10-year plan to the general assembly on Tuesday that mirrors World Aquatics for our athletes coaches and officials, this includes more sponsorship, scholarship,
training facility and retirement plans,” she said.
The other executives are Luis Moreno of Venezuela who is 1 st Vice President, Jorge Remersaro 2 nd Vice President and Peru’s Roxana Ari Secretary.
Meanwhile Young Ariel Rodrigues put in a fine effort but was not enough to match or lower her personal best time as she finished 5th in the woman 50 metres freestyle at the South American Youth Swimming Championship on Friday morning in Brazil. Rodrigues entering the race with a blistering 27.83 seconds managed to stop the clock in 27.88 seconds which earned her the place as 1 st alternate for the final based on time.
She is the lone swimmer at the games and has already reset the national record in the woman 100 metres backstroke on Wednesday and set a new personal best in the women’s 50 meters freestyle 30.87 seconds on Thursday.
She is also set to compete in the 50 metres backstroke and 100 metres freestyle on Saturday.
She is accompanied by Coach Christol Thom.
Johann Layne to replace injured Shamar Joseph
FAST bowler Johann Layne is in line to make his senior debut for the West Indies after being named as a replacement for Shamar Joseph for next month’s two-Test series against India.
Joseph, who recently featured for the Guyana Amazon Warriors outfit that reached the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final, has been ruled out of the Test series due to injury.
In a release issued by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Friday, it said Joseph will be re-evaluated following the conclusion of the series.
“Johann Layne has replaced Shamar Joseph in the squad for the test series
against India.
“Joseph has been ruled out due to an injury and will
be re-evaluated ahead of the Bangladesh limited overs series,” the release stated.
“The squad arrived in
India on Wednesday morning and will stage their first training session on Saturday morning local time at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.”
The 22-year-old Layne was named in the West Indies’ 15-member squad that played three Tests against Australia, but did not feature in any of the matches.
The Barbadian will join Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph and Justin Greaves, to form the West Indies’ pace attack.
West Indies will face India in the opening Test on October 2 at Ahmedabad, with the second Test scheduled to bowl off on October 10 at Delhi.
Yolema Phillips after being re-elected to CONSANAT Excutive
Johann Layne
Shamar Joseph
GRFU President attends World Rugby General Assembly
PRESIDENT of the Guyana Rugby Football Union Ryan Dey is representing this country at the ongoing 17th World Rugby General Assembly in England.
Dey says that his goal at the assembly is to network and learn best practices for implementation in Guyana.
“Firstly, I’m looking to have as much conversation as I can with developed rugby nations when it comes to their ways of having a bigger and better women’s rugby programme and also ways in which I can help my union have women not only come to play but to stay when it comes to rugby because when it comes to women rugby, is growing all around the world and I don’t want Guyana to be left out of it and also when it comes to having a high performance men’s team as well what are the things I can implement in my country so we can
have that.”
Dey says that part of his sojourn in England will be to recruit talented players with Guyanese lineage to represent their country at the highest level.
“From the first day I came here I have met five players that are interested in seven’s rugby and hopefully as the time goes by I can get to meet up with more, so the ones that I met we are going to be going through rigorous fitness test with them and I will also have a chat with the coaches of these players.”
The assembly is being held on the sidelines of the tenth edition of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the quadrennial world championship for national rugby union teams, organized by World Rugby.
It is being held in England between 22 August and 27 September 2025.
Courts Optical pee wee football kicks off on Saturday at MOE
THE 12th edition of the Courts Optical under 11 pee wee Football Championship will kick off today with fourteen battles set to take part in round one.
The action gets underway with Batavia playing St Mary at 11:00 hours with St John the Baptiste tackling St Theressa at the same time on field 2.
The next set of matches features Potaro playing Winfer Gardens and former champions St Pius meeting Agatash Primary.
The tournament defending champions Santa Rosa will begin their defence against Goed Fortune followed by Charity Primary meeting Friendship.
Top primary school side Marian Academy will play Georgetown International Institute with another former winner West Ruimveldt taking on St Aloysius Primary.
Other clashes see Genesis locking horns with Ann’s Grove Primary and Clonbrook Primary taking on Leonora Primary.
The remaining matches pit Stella Marris against Tucville, Redeemer Primary playing Smith Memorial, Santa Rosa playing again against North Georgetown and two times champions St Stephens facing St Gabriel’s.
This year, 17 primary schools from Georgetown, four from the East Coast, four from Region Three, and others from Regions Two, Five, Six, Seven, and Ten are part of the competition.
The 32 sides are placed in 8 groups of four and will compete in a round robin format with the top two teams advancing to the round of 16 which is a straight knockout leading to the quarter, semi-final and finals.
Apart from the teams to advance the remaining teams will play for placement, this the organiser says is key because of the developmental drive of the competition and the need to have players play as much as possible.
The games will be played at the Ministry of Education Ground with awards for the top schools first to eight place which include trophies, medals, television, tablets etc.
One Guyana President’s Cup Squash 2025
Khalil siblings dominate in mixed doubles on night two
THE One Guyana President’s Cup Squash tournament 2025 saw the Kahlil siblings dominate in their mixed doubles match on Thursday evening, as the action continued.
Theirs was among five doubles matches on the international standard doubles courts at the National Racquet Centre (NRC) on Woolford Avenue.
The 32-year-old 2022 Caribbean Squash Champion, Ashley, and her brother, former U17 Caribbean champion Jason-Ray, teamed up to produce a dominant performance against Louis Da Silva and Avery Arjoon.
The siblings who won the 2019 Men’s and Women’s National titles, respectively, were too good for their opponents, beating them 11-6, 11-5 in the mixed doubles.
Arguably, the night’s biggest upset was when Sunny Seth and Kaylee Lowe defeated their higher-ranked opponents, Mary Fung-A-Fat and Alex Arjoon, 11-6, 11-10.
In the girls’ doubles, Emily Fung A Fat and Kaylee Lowe got the better of Zoey McDonald and Tehani Munroe 11-4, 11-2
In the girls doubles, 16-year-old Malia Maikoo paired up with Rylee Rodrigues to defeat Avery Arjoon and Tiana Gomes 11-9, 9-11, 11-8 in a very competitive match.
In the junior’s mixed doubles, Louis Da Silva and Kaylee Lowe beat Egan Bulkan and Rylee Rodrigues 11-6, 11-6.
In the juniors mixed doubles, Ethan Bulkan and Em-
Sunny
ily Fung-A-Fat beat Justin Ten Pow and Avery Arjoon 11-8, 8-11, 11-8.
After a break yesterday, the action in doubles concludes today from 09:00 hours. (Sean Devers)
GRFU president Ryan Dey at 17th World Rugby General Assembly in England
Seth plays off the glass as he and Kaylee Lowe beat the senior National pair of Mary FungA-Fat and Alex Arjoon at the NRC (Sean Devers photos)
Courts Optical pee wee football
Jason Ray Khalil, Louis Da Silva, and Ashley Khalil watch as Avery Arjoon prepares to play a forehand drive off the glass on
Cheslea Edghill is unsure of defending her title
Action in the 2024 edition of the COURTS Optical Pee Wee football tournament
