Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 28-04-2026

VP Jagdeo engages with ‘King’s Foundation’ on skills, sustainable development, delivery

President Bharrat Jagdeo engaged with The King’s Foundation during his visit to Scotland.

The Vice President, according to a press release, toured a range of the Foundation’s programmes at Dumfries House, focused on sustainable urban development, training and supporting individuals and communities who may otherwise be left behind.

These initiatives span construction, sustainable agriculture, heritage and traditional crafts, STEM education, health and wellbeing, and skills development, bringing together training, enterprise, and community support to create real pathways into employment.

Discussions also focused on the Foundation’s expanding international work, including its collaboration with Guyana to advance sustainable urban development.

This partnership is in response to the vision set out by President Irfaan Ali to ensure that Guyana’s rapid urban growth is matched by strong planning, high-quality design, and a focus on liveability and long-term resilience. He also interacted with international students

participating in the Foundation’s programmes, including from Antigua and Barbuda, gaining insight into training in areas such as sustainable construction and the development of practical skills for modern, climate-resilient economies.

Speaking after his visit, the Vice President highlighted how Guyana has made major progress in delivering the fundamentals of development, with the past five years seeing unprecedented

investment in infrastructure, including new roads, bridges, housing, and drainage systems, alongside expanded access to services and economic opportunities across the country.

He emphasised that as Guyana continues to grow, the focus is now on improving the quality, integration, and sustainability of this development, ensuring that growth translates into better living standards for all citizens.

Cabinet team visits

‘One Guyana’ FPSO

The ministerial delegation included Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat; Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar; Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith; and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Hilton Todd

THE Ministry of Natural Resources, in collaboration with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, facilitated an offshore visit for a team of Cabinet members to the ONE GUYANA Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel on April 17, 2026.

The ONE GUYANA FPSO is the fourth and largest vessel in the Stabroek Block; it forms part of the

Yellowtail Development.

The ministerial delegation included Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat; Minister of Home Affair Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar; Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith; and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Hilton Todd.

The government officials were given a comprehensive

tour of the FPSO, where they observed key operational processes, including offloading activities.

They also engaged directly with the technical team responsible for the vessel’s performance.

The delegation also met with members of the local workforce, gaining valuable insight into their experiences and perspectives on work

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VICE

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo engaged with The King’s Foundation during his visit to Scotland

Sweeping reforms imminent as Guyana moves to digitise courts, policing, licensing systems –AG

–– Canadian consultant to support development of national traffic offenders registry

ATTORNEY General

Anil Nandlall, SC, has outlined an expansive programme of reforms aimed at modernising Guyana’s criminal justice system, warning that crime across the Caribbean is now being treated as a “public health hazard” requiring urgent and coordinated action.

During his address at the opening of the Partnership of the Caribbean and the European Union on Justice (PACE Justice) programme on Monday, Nandlall said the initiative aligns closely with the government’s broader push to transform the justice sector through legislative reform, digitalisation and institutional strengthening.

He credited the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) for supporting reforms through the PACE Justice Project, which targets long-standing inefficiencies in the system.

“The PACE Justice Project is one of the key projects which aligns with the Government of Guyana’s objective to modernise the criminal justice sector,” he said.

According to the Attorney General, persistent

backlogs in criminal cases stem from systemic weaknesses, including poor data capture, paper-based processes and limited digital integration across agencies. These issues, he noted, have slowed the work of investigators, prosecutors and the courts.

To address this, government agencies have begun benefitting from new digital tools.

“The hardware will ensure swift preparation of documents for cases… and the software will facilitate the recording of testimony in Magistrates’ Courts and faster communication between agencies,” he said.

Nandlall also pointed to legislative progress stemming from earlier justice reform initiatives, including the introduction of the Restorative Justice Act and the abolition of preliminary inquiries, with the introduction of the Criminal Law Procedure (Paper Committals) Act.

These measures, he said, are already improving efficiency and reducing delays. At the regional level, he emphasised that crime has taken on new urgency.

“At the level of the Heads of Government of CARICOM, crime is now accepted as a public health

Preparations

hazard in the Caribbean,” he stated.

Guyana, he added, is playing a leading role in restorative justice, with offices already established in six regions and plans to expand nationwide by year-end.

The Attorney General also detailed a suite of upcoming legislative reforms, including amendments to the Sexual Offences Act to introduce a sex offenders registry, and a new Evidence Bill designed to accommodate modern technological realities.

Guyana continues to

underway for highly anticipated Int’l

Building Expo 2026

–– over 300 exhibitors to highlight event

THE planning committee for the International Building Expo 2026, led by Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, conducted

site visit at the National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara

(EBD). According to the Ministry of Housing, Permanent Secretary, Bishram Kuppen; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Dr. Martin Pertab; and senior management were also

present.

Set for June 25–28, 2026, under the theme “Guyana at 60: Building Strong Foundations for a Sustainable Future,” this year’s expo will feature over 300 exhibitors, including regional and international companies.

operate under the archaic Evidence Act 1893, a colonial-era law that has long been criticised for being outdated and ill-suited to modern evidentiary standards.

“We have a new bill now… that will embrace all the modern technological advances… and allow for the easy admission into evidence of computer-generated documents,” he said.

Further, he highlighted efforts to digitise law enforcement systems, including the creation of a traffic offenders registry that will allow magistrates

to access prior convictions in real-time when making decisions.

He explained that government is developing a centralised digital registry of traffic offenders, beginning with data input from the Guyana Police Force, supported by a Canadian consultant. The system will compile comprehensive records of traffic violations so that repeat offenders can be easily identified.

He said the system will enable sentencing and licensing decisions to be made with access to a full record of an offender’s history.

He gave a practical example. Currently, a person may appear before a court with multiple prior convictions, but the magistrate may not have access to that full record. With the new system, that gap will be closed.

“The magistrate will type in the name and make a more informed decision in accordance with the law,” he explained, noting that the system is intended to strengthen consistency in penalties and improve road safety enforcement.

He also linked the initiative to wider reforms in licensing, including provisions that allow for suspension or revocation

of driving licences for repeat offences of specific types.

Looking ahead, Nandlall warned of emerging threats such as cybercrime, noting that Guyana is actively involved at the international level in shaping new legal frameworks.

“The world is facing that massive challenge… and we are borrowing from experiences in more advanced countries,” he said, referencing work underway at the United Nations to develop a global cybercrime treaty.

He also revealed plans for updated anti-money laundering legislation ahead of Guyana’s next evaluation by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) in 2027.

Despite the breadth of reforms, Nandlall stressed that capacity building remains essential.

Since taking office in 2020, the PPP/C Government has advanced an extensive legislative agenda focused on modernising Guyana’s legal and institutional framework, with reforms spanning criminal justice, digitalisation of public services, and strengthened regulatory systems to improve efficiency, accountability, and access to justice.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

a

The planning committee for the International Building Expo 2026, led by Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, conducted a site visit at the National Stadium

Rupununi communities engaged to shape tourism growth

–– focus on jobs, training, sustainable development in Region Nine

–– regional chairwoman says

By Shaniya Harding

THE South and Deep South Rupununi are set to undergo a major tourism transformation with a significant focus on community-led development, job creation, and cultural preservation.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle following recent engagements, Regional Chairwoman, Vania Albert has highlighted ambitious plans aimed at positioning the region as a leading eco-tourism destination while ensuring that indigenous communities remain at the centre of growth and decision-making.

The meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to support sustainable tourism development in the South Rupununi, following recent engagements between His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and village lead-

ers on advancing economic opportunities for hinterland communities.

Explaining how tourism packages will be developed at the community level, Regional Chairman Vania Albert said discussions with Toshao leaders focused on identifying what each village can offer to visitors. “We spoke about what kind of activities or what package the communities would have, and they can offer, you know, to the tourists or to the entire world and what they can venture into. So, they have a lot of potentials, a lot of opportunities and what they can offer,” Albert shared.

Highlighting the immediate next steps, Albert said the implementation of the tourism strategy will begin shortly, with teams returning to communities to work directly with residents to shape their tourism products and

ensure they are market-ready. She explained that a key focus will be on differentiating each village’s unique offering to create a diverse range of experiences for visitors. “Next two weeks, we will be going back to the villages and start helping them to craft whatever they wanted to offer. And at the same time, we will have to look at how we are developing their product, especially when it comes to marketing,” she said.

As Albert explained, sustainable tourism in the region will have a profound impact

on the economy of the region. She explained that successful tourism ventures will create jobs, ensure communities are self-sustainable and bolster all development in the region.

Explaining the economic importance of tourism to the region, Albert shared, “Once they have this tourism business within their communities, it will help them for job opportunities, job creation within the communities. And also, it will bring an income when the day comes, where the families or residents of each village can benefit from

she shared.

Moreover, Albert explained that sustainability will remain a key pillar of the region’s tourism development, with deliberate efforts being made to balance economic expansion with the protection of the environment and indigenous heritage. She noted that regional bodies and local stakeholders are already working together to ensure that tourism initiatives are carefully designed in a way that benefits communities without compromising their natural and cultural assets. According to her, the region is not starting from scratch, as there is already a base of trained individuals who can contribute to the sector’s holistic growth.

“We have a lot of persons who have already trained, and they can take advantage of those things. That is where they have human resources as well,” she said.

Building on this foundation, Albert pointed to the importance of collaboration with communities that already have experience in tourism, noting that knowledge-sharing will be critical in helping newer villages establish themselves in the sector.

She said partnerships will allow residents to better understand both the opportunities and the challenges that come with developing tourism ventures, while also benefiting from practical, real-world experience. “We want to partner with other established tourism businesses as well, to have training and share their ideas and the experience. And also what they have been through, what

challenges they face, when they were now going into the tourism sector,” she said.

Expanding on the broader vision for Region Nine, Albert stressed that tourism development will not be limited to a few communities but will instead be spread across the entire region, ensuring inclusive growth and widespread benefits.

She emphasised that the approach being taken is one that prioritises people, particularly young persons, by creating sustainable employment and new economic pathways within their own communities. “To transform region nine, it is not just in one village, but across our entire region. When we invest in sustainable tourism, we are not only attracting visitors. We are creating jobs that can actually be creating jobs for our people, opening new opportunities, especially for our youth,” she said.

Looking ahead, Albert is very optimistic to see the Rupununi positioned as a recognised eco-tourism destination on the global stage. She explained that the goal is to ensure visitors have a seamless and enriching experience, supported by community-run services and authentic cultural interactions.

“We wanted to expand in the way where our tourists can feel, when they visit the Rupununi, they must not have like a doubt of what they’re going to see,” she said. She added, “We want the Rupununi to become a recognised ecotourism destination, attracting visitors from across the world who are seeking nature and culture,” she said.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues accompanied by Regional Chairwoman, Vania Albert (left) and Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh (right) during recent engagements in the South Rupununi (Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce photos) that,”

Judicial training key to tackling crime & case backlog – Nandlall

--ongoing judicial education critical to upholding rule of law, says Chancellor

By Feona Morrison

“TRAINING can never be a wasteful exercise,” Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, declared as he delivered the feature address at the opening ceremony of the Partnership for Caribbean and European Union on Justice (PACE Justice) judicial training, held at the Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown, on Monday.

The training targets newly appointed High Court judges and justices of appeal and focuses on criminal trials

broader effort to address the root causes of inefficiencies in the justice system, particularly delays in criminal cases.

He said that similar initiatives have already been rolled out for a wide range of stakeholders, including police prosecutors, judicial officers and forensic investigators.

“These training include restorative justice, criminal mediation… artificial intelligence and digital transformation in criminal justice,” he outlined.

Nandlall stressed that ongoing education will soon become a formal requirement

sure regular and high-quality training delivery.

Beyond technical knowledge, the Attorney General highlighted the evolving nature of crime as a key reason for continuous learning. With emerging threats such as cybercrime and organised

collaboration as a major benefit of such programmes, noting that Caribbean states are increasingly working together to confront shared challenges in criminal justice.

Importantly, he underscored that training is not limited to newcomers in the

and criminal appeals—areas Nandlall described as increasingly complex in today’s legal environment.

“These trainings are very, very crucial. They’re very timely, and we have to continue to do so,” he said.

The Attorney General noted that the four-day programme forms part of a

within the legal profession. He disclosed that amendments are being planned to make continuing legal education mandatory.

“We will amend the Legal Practitioners Act to insert continuing education as a mandatory obligation,” he revealed, adding that systems must be put in place to en-

financial crime, he said legal professionals must remain equipped to respond effectively.

“We have to also prepare for what the new challenges are. The new challenges mainly will emanate from the cyberspace,” he warned.

Nandlall also pointed to regional and international

field but is necessary at all levels of experience.

“Training can never be a wasteful exercise… no matter how bright we think we are… training is always crucial for us to continue to enhance our ability,” he said.

Nandlall expressed confidence that the sessions will strengthen the judiciary’s capacity and ultimately contribute to a more efficient and responsive justice system.

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Roxane George, SC, also underscored the importance of judicial education in maintaining high standards within Guyana’s justice system, noting that ongoing training is essential to ensuring efficiency and upholding the rule of law.

Delivering remarks at the opening of the training programme, Justice George said the judiciary’s recent membership in the International Consortium for Court Excel-

lence places a responsibility on the courts to remain at the forefront of best practices.

“Judicial education programmes such as this will keep us on the cutting edge, so that we maintain the high standards of education and judicial conduct,” she stated.

She emphasised that the initiative aligns with established codes governing judicial officers in Guyana, as well as international standards, ensuring that the judiciary continues to function effectively and professionally.

Justice George also expressed gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the European Union, and the PACE Justice Project for their continued support, along with the Government of Guyana for its commitment to strengthening the judiciary.

Looking ahead, she said TURN TO PAGE 12

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni

Acting Chancellor the Judiciary Roxane George, SC

Judicial Officers engage in sessions during the PACE Justice judicial training programme at Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown

Inclusion through technology

GUYANA’S quiet digital revolution is happening right now and it is changing how citizens engage with their government for the better.

The administration’s effort to digitise and decentralise important services is one of a plethora of people-focused reforms in recent years, and it deserves clear recognition and ongoing support.

For too long, obtaining a birth certificate, passport, or completing a tax transaction meant waiting in long lines in Georgetown, losing work hours, and a system that unintentionally disadvantaged those living far from the capital.

This model is now being dismantled. The government’s “Digital Guyana” agenda, allows people to apply for passports, birth certificates, and even an e-ID at centres close to them, reducing costs, wait times, and bureaucracy.

This is a real redesign of the state prior-

itising citizens’ time and dignity.

Importantly, digitisation is paired with decentralisation to ensure that technology reaches beyond Region Four.

New integrated service centres in Regions Two, Three, and Five already enable residents to access passport services, Guyana Revenue Authority assistance, birth certificates, police clearances, and digital ID registration without needing to travel to Georgetown.

More centres are planned for Regions Six and Nine. This decision to set up modern service hubs in rural and remote communities sends a powerful message that national development must include all geographic areas, not just cities.

The digital ID initiative is another significant step. By allowing quick and secure verification across health, banking, and government transactions, the e-ID is set to provide services in a fast, effective,

efficient, and transparent manner, as highlighted by the Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation.

When combined with AI-powered virtual assistants, queue-management apps like GovConnect, and platforms for citizens to file complaints and track responses, this creates a public service culture that is more responsive, accountable, and transparent.

This is exactly the kind of systemic reform that advocates for good governance have long called for.

Sceptics may rightly point out challenges, such as gaps in digital literacy, connectivity issues, and the risk of leaving some citizens behind. However, the state is aware of these realities. Investments through the National Data Management Authority and the ICT Access and eServices for Hinterland, Poor, and Remote Communities

Project have improved internet connectivity, created ICT hubs, and increased digital skills, especially in remote areas. These efforts demonstrate that the pursuit of efficiency is balanced with a commitment to fairness.

Ultimately, a government should be judged not just by its words, but by whether it makes everyday life easier, fairer, and more dignified.

Guyana’s digital and decentralised service agenda is achieving that, bringing the state closer to its people, bridging the coast-hinterland divide, and affirming that every citizen, regardless of location, has a right to modern, and efficient public services.

The goal now is not to question whether this transformation is needed, but to ensure that it continues at a steady pace and that its benefits are safeguarded.

Adriana Younge: When tragedy becomes a political farce

WHEN this accidental death turned into a political farce will be the subject of research 50 years from now, this column would have recorded the following conclusions.

1- Adriana Younge died by accidental drowning due to two forms of neglect. Lack of adequate family supervision and lack of the immediate instinctive reaction of people to dive into the pool and search it once she could not have been found.

2

– Had the search begun immediately, her body would have been found.

3

– The ugly and nasty dimension of this accidental death is that the family was insulting to the President of Guyana. Her parents owe President Ali an apology which is long overdue.

4 - Despite the parents’ grief and confusion, the parents and family members allowed political intrusion to cloud the entire tragedy.

5- The political manipulation of the girl’s death was so crass and malignant that the girl’s family members had to see it.

6 - After the second post-mortem done by the expert chosen by the family, it should have ended there, and the family should have come to the definitive conclusion that no brutal murder took place.

7- The unsavoury political manipulation of the tragedy continued after the second postmortem and it stands there at the moment –conspirators say the girl was murdered.

8- I firmly believe with unshakeable tenacity that Adriana Younge died by drowning when she was in the pool. No one pushed her in; no one suffocated her while in the pool.

9- The political exploitation of this young girl’s accidental death is one of the most sordid and dishonourable episodes involving opposition politics in the history of the CARICOM region.

10 – I feel deeply in my mind based on research that Azruddin Mohamed had a huge role to play in how things panned out.

11 – I believe Mohamed and not so much the PNC was behind the April 28, 2025, rampage after the release of the post-mortem.

The anniversary of the child’s accidental death is here, and the mindset of the Younge family members has not changed since April last year. The mindset of opposition elements has not changed. But on this death anniversary, candid comments have to be made in relation to the parents.

The mother wants to know what actually happened and hopes the inquest would tell Guyana exactly that. But will she accept the inquest functionalism or accept the opposition’s position on the inquest?

This question must be put to the parents. If the parents are not under undue political influence, then they must be held accountable to arrive at moral decisions.

The parents of Adriana Younge must be asked frontally if they would accept the selection of the coroner or the coroner must be selected by them and/or the opposition? The Younge family cannot be that naïve to know that the opposition will not accept the coroner unless they choose him/her.

That has to be unacceptable to the state. Why in an inquiry into an accidental death in which the state was not involved, the opposi-

tion must select the coroner? What does the inquest have to do with opposition politics?

The Younge family cannot be so naïve to tell Guyanese that the opposition is not involved in the continuation of the attempt to turn the tragedy into a political circus. If any family member of Adriana Younge openly says that there is no opposition involvement, I am telling them that they are untruthful.

It is one year since this girl drowned and the family must display accountability and level with the Guyanese people.

Why is the family silent for one year now on the revelation by their lawyer, Dexter Todd that he facilitated an international group of forensic investigators to come to Guyana to conduct an independent investigation?

The story of this team is yet to be told and on the girl’s death anniversary, Mr. Todd spoke to the press (an APNU press conference) and barefacedly avoided any mention

of his forensic group. Not one journalist asked him about his team.

There is a question to be put to Adriana Younge’s parents. Does she accept that as an opposition Member of Parliament, Mr. Todd’s presence as the family’s lawyer, is a conflict of interest in that he may not accept facts about the case that are not synchronised with his party’s position?

For too long, this country has babied the Adriana Younge family, and that was expected because they lost their child. But no child or adult citizen is bigger than Guyana. Guyana’s interest must always come first. The Adriana Younge family must be pressed by this nation to come clean.

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.

Tourism industry’s progress stimulates growth across sectors –– President Ali

GUYANA’S growing tourism and hospitality sector plays a critical role in the country’s long-term development, with President Dr. Irfaan Ali describing the sector as a key driver of job creation, economic linkages, and economic diversification.

The Head of State, in his address at a recent event, highlighted that the hospitality industry is among the most inclusive sectors capable of creating opportunities across a wide cross-section of the population.

“Hospitality creates jobs quickly and widely for young people entering the workforce, for experienced professionals, for skilled tradesmen, and for entrepreneurs,” he said.

The President stated that the sector’s inclusive nature makes it central to expanding economic participation, while also pointing to the government’s efforts to

OP-ED

By Kemraj Parsram

build a skilled workforce to support its growth.

“That is why we’re investing in [an] International School of Hospitality, spending tremendous resources to bring that school alive very soon,” President Ali said.

Along with employment, the President emphasised that hospitality stimulates a wide range of other industries, noting that its impact extends far beyond hotels themselves.

“A hotel does not stand alone; it depends on agriculture, fisheries, transport, entertainment, construction, finance, security, technology, laundry services, maintenance and retail,” he said.

This interconnectedness, the Head of State related, ensures that growth in tourism drives activity across multiple sectors, creating opportunities for local producers and service providers.

President Ali further highlighted the role of hospitality in shaping Guyana’s international reputation, noting that visitor experiences influence how the country is perceived globally.

“The experience visitors have in our hotels shapes how they view Guyana; every satisfied guest becomes an ambassador for Guyana,” he said.

The President stressed that service quality, safety and efficiency are critical components of the country’s national brand, adding that the visitor experience begins even before arrival.

“That is why we have commenced work on the new terminal which will allow us to move from processing 800 passengers per hour to 3,200 passengers per hour, seamlessly,” the President disclosed.

Against this backdrop, the Head of State framed

The fundamental principle of the slogan:

‘Nah dutty the place man, starts with us’

EVERY Guyanese has voiced complaints about litter, yet not everyone is willing to acknowledge their own contribution to the problem.

For years, littering has been an ingrained part of our daily lives. It’s visible along our roadways, in our markets, at the seawall, and in our drains. Its prevalence has led many of us to accept it as normal. But it is neither normal nor acceptable.

Let me speak candidly, not just as the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, but as a fellow Guyanese: The issue is not solely systemic. The issue lies with us. We take pride in our homes, keeping our yards clean. However, too often, once we step beyond our gates, that sense of responsibility vanishes.

A bottle is tossed from a car window. A food container is abandoned on a bench or discarded in the grass, drains, rivers, and

creeks. Then, when the rains come and the waters rise, we question why flooding worsens. We point fingers and demand action. Yet, many of those same

EPA Executive Director Kemraj Parsram

drains are clogged by the very waste we carelessly discard. This is why the message, “Nah Dutty the Place, Man” is significant. It is not merely a slogan; it is a call to personal responsibility. Every Guyanese has a duty to care, to hold onto waste until it can be properly disposed of, to

tourism and hospitality as essential to the country’s economic future, specifically as Guyana moves further towards economic diversification.

“Tourism and hospitality provide sustainable long-term opportunities to create income streams beyond traditional sectors, and strengthen resilience,” he said.

To this end, he stated that improvements in infrastructure and service delivery are already supporting the massive growth taking place in the sector, while positioning the country to attract more visitors and even business and travel events.

The President maintained that continued investment in hospitality will be key to sustaining this momentum and ensuring the sector delivers broad-based benefits across the economy.

use bins where available, and to lead by example, especially for our children. Because children learn, not from what we say, but from what we do.

The Government of Guyana continues to enhance solid waste management systems by improving collection services, expanding infrastructure, and enforcing regulations. These efforts are ongoing and essential. However, no matter how robust the system is, it will not succeed without public cooperation. Real change will occur when individual responsibility aligns with improved systems.

When citizens take ownership of their actions, and the government ensures the structures are in place to support proper waste management, we will begin to see a cleaner, healthier Guyana. The next time you hold a bottle or a wrapper, pause. Consider where it belongs, and what message your action conveys. Because this country is not separate from us. It is us.

Nah dutty the place, man! Start with yourself.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Consultation covers possible reforms that could reduce shipping costs

THE Government of Guyana has moved to further address rising shipping costs and inefficiencies within the maritime sector, as stakeholders gathered for a high-level consultation on demurrage and laytime issues.

The public consultation, which was organised by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) under

the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, brought together representatives from shipping lines, brokerage firms, agents and other industry players at Duke Lodge in Kingston on Monday.

According to Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, the consultation was prompted by a directive from Cabinet to gather wider input on key

reforms aimed at easing cost pressures.

During the consultation, the authorities had presented three major proposals for frank discussions to improve the situation in the sector.

Among the measures is a proposal for demurrage charges to begin only after 21 days of a vessel being alongside the wharf; this is a shift stakeholders believe

could significantly reduce costs passed on to importers and, ultimately, consumers.

A second proposal focuses on tightening conditions within charter party agreements. Minister Indar stressed that while such agreements are private, they must not conflict with national policy.

“The charter party agreement… cannot be one that is detrimental to the sector,” he added.

The third proposal under discussion is the elimination of advanced demurrage, a practice stakeholders have identified as burdensome.

The consultation examined operational inefficiencies, cargo handling delays, and the broader impact of demurrage on freight charges. Participants highlighted growing concerns about these issues and their effect on vessels calling to Guyana.

Legal Officer Tiffany Ho-

henkirk also presented industry-backed proposals, noting that while the measures could bring relief, they represent a significant departure from established commercial norms.

Against this backdrop, the minister noted that the government remains committed to reducing shipping costs and improving efficiency, noting that continued dialogue with stakeholders will be critical to achieving sustainable reforms in the sector.

Guyana Civil Aviation Training School secures ICAO ‘Gold Standard’ accreditation

THE Civil Aviation Training School (CATS) has achieved Gold Standard under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) TRAINAIR PLUS Programme, advancing from Bronze.

This status elevation was officially conferred on April 16, 2026, on the sidelines of the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS), which was recently held in Marrakesh, Morocco, marking a defining moment for aviation training in the region.

The ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Gold Standard accreditation is among the most prestigious designations in the Global Aviation Training community.

It certifies that CATS delivers training programmes that fully meet

and exceed internationally recognised aviation standards, qualifying the institution to develop and offer new ICAO-approved courses to aviation professionals in Guyana and internationally.

“This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of our instructors and staff to deliver worldclass aviation training,” said Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field, A.A., Director General of the GCAA.

He added: “Attaining Gold Standard status is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and underscores Guyana’s growing influence on the global aviation stage.”

The new status positions Guyana as an emerging regional aviation training hub, enabling CATS to

attract students and aviation professionals from across the Caribbean, South America, and the world.

The School has already trained students from Guyana, Suriname, Barbados, The Bahamas, The Cayman Islands and St. Lucia, both in person and virtually since attaining its TrainAir Plus accreditation.

The school’s enhanced standing is expected to drive increased enrollment, foster international partnerships, and contribute to the development of a highly skilled aviation workforce in the region.

ICAO’s TRAINAIR PLUS Programme is a global network of aviation training organisations committed to harmonising training quality and standards worldwide.

The Civil Aviation Training School (CATS) has achieved Gold Standard under the International Civil Aviation Organisation

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar

Stakeholders in the shipping sector gathered for a public consultation on Monday (Delano Williams photos)

Quality assurance being spread across all areas of education - CANQATE launch highlights

THE National Accreditation Council of Guyana (NAC-G) recently hosted the launch of the Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE) Guyana Chapter, under the theme, ‘Assuring Quality in a Time of Expansion: Access, Equity, and Standards for a Growing Tertiary Sector.’

The CANQATE launch signalled the start of a twoday conference focused on advancing quality tertiary education in Guyana, which is

infrastructural development and education.

This means more than the construction of buildings, but also ensuring that opportunities are created, along with access to those opportunities.

She noted that while all of this has been done, the future of education is based on quality and improving the quality of education across Guyana, whether at a nursey, primary, secondary or tertiary level.

The minister remarked further that when we are looking to accredit an institution, we must not only look at

aligned with a few objectives: to unite Guyanese stakeholders around the shared vision of quality in higher education and training, support the development of internal quality cultures across institutions, strengthen the role of accreditation as a national trust mechanism, and the launch of the Guyana Chapter of CANQATE as a platform for continued capacity building.

Additionally, this also positions Guyana as a credible and standards-driven participant in the regional quality assurance landscape. The timing of CANQATE’s launch is intentional as Guyana builds and transforms its tertiary education landscape.

Delivering a featured address, Minister of Education Sonia Parag said that over the last five years, the government has invested heavily in

skills, how do we make them globally competitive?”

Minister Parag pointed out that curriculum reform is very important to improving the quality of education, along with technology.

The minister mentioned the Guyana Digital School, which was rolled out within the first 100 days of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s second term. She stated that the school not only provides secondary students with their curriculum and content through this platform, but the Digital School ensures that in event there

the academic quality, but also what they bring to our social development as well.

She told attendees that as stakeholders that are integrally involved in the development of education, they need to ask how they can make higher education, and the quality of higher education improve.

She asked, “You have to look at when you are going to accredit an institution, how is it going to align to your developmental agenda in your country? How is it going to align in what exists now, but also what will exist 10 years from now, 20 years from now, 30 years from now? What are the skills that we will need? What is the quality of the education that we need to improve on? And how do we make our people, while they are gaining their

Cabinet team visits

force development.

The engagement provided a meaningful perspective on the scale and complexity of offshore production, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintaining strong oversight of the sector.

Minister Bharrat also underscored the importance of the FPSO to Guyana’s development trajectory.

“The ONE GUYANA FPSO is a clear representation of sustainable oil management as it continues to safely produce over 250,000 barrels of oil per day. It not only demonstrates technical excellence and operational discipline, but it is also representative of what is possible when the government and oil majors work together to

ty becomes uncertain and achievement becomes questionable, he said, adding that the work before us is moral, intellectual, and deeply national.

“Guyana stands at the

is another pandemic, like COVID-19, there is a system in place already for distance learning to take place.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of the NAC-G, Dr Marcel Hutson said that if left unattended, the growth being experienced does not guarantee progress.

He stated that this is not a question of whether we are growing, but if our growth is grounded in integrity, guided on purpose, and reflected in quality.

In his remarks, he noted that quality assurance must be understood not as a bureaucratic exercise, but as a national ethic.

Dr Hutson described it as quite a force that gives meaning to access, credibility, certification, and confidence in the public.

Without it, opportuni -

‘One... FROM PAGE 2

deliver value for citizens,” the natural resources minister said.

He also underscored that the Government of Guyana remains committed to transparency and accountability within the sector, and will continue to ensure Guyanese benefit from the nation’s natural patrimony.

threshold of becoming a significant educational presence within the Caribbean and beyond.

Our investment in government scholarships, technical education, and emerging sectors signal ambition. But ambition must be matched with discipline. Access must be matched with standards; and inclusion must be matched with excellence,” he said.

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag (Elton John photos)

Executive Director of the National Accreditation Council of Guyana, Dr Marcel Hutson

‘We are the best partner for development’

–– Minister McCoy tells EBD residents

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy reaffirmed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is the best partner for progress, during Monday’s Government in Action Community Public Day series at Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Member of Parliament Sanjeev Datadin thanked the residents for their time, and stressed the impor tance of the government’s commitment to continuous engagement to track and re solve community concerns.

At Monday’s community meeting in Herstelling

Minister McCoy high lighted the importance of government–community partnerships, stressing that

MPs and ministers share the responsibility of engaging citizens, and listening to their concerns.

He praised the Pres ident’s people‑centered leadership, and outlined goals for socio‑economic development: Creating jobs, upskilling, education, and empowering youth.

He also emphasised the importance of transparency and vigilance in contractor work.

Meanwhile, the minis ter took the opportunity to sensitise those gathered on new digital services like e‑Health appointments,

Citizen Connect, Online cash‑grant signups, fast er payments, and e‑wallet systems.

Residents were encour aged to take advantage of Online services and, where necessary, open bank ac counts to access pensions and transfers.

Support for small entre preneurs was underscored through a new development bank that will offer seed capital of up to G$3M, in terest‑and collateral‑free,

with business‑plan support.

Present at the meeting were representatives from surrounding NDCs and the Little Diamond/Herstelling NDC Chairman Puneet Jai gopaul, as well as represen tatives from the Ministry of Public Works. Support was given immediately to those who raised concerns. Plans and meetings were made, community problems were addressed, and personal matters were dealt with.

PSC slams Venezuela’s Essequibo provocation in Barbados

–– calls on CARICOM to take a stand

GUYANA’S Private Sector Commission (PSC) has strongly condemned what it described as a “deliberate and provocative display of imagery” by a senior Venezuelan official during a recent high-level regional engagement in Barbados, warning that silence from Caribbean partners risks emboldening further escalation of Venezuela’s longstanding claim to Guyana’s Essequibo territory.

The statement from the PSC was prompted by the State visit of Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Ro dríguez to Barbados on April 26 and 27, during which imagery depicting Guyana’s Essequibo region as part of Venezuela was reportedly displayed in the presence of Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

The high-profile visit, the second such regional engage ment by Rodríguez follow ing a similarly controversial trip to Grenada earlier this month, where she was seen wearing a brooch depicting Venezuela’s map inclusive of the Essequibo, drew immedi ate backlash from Guyana’s private sector.

“This act is neither inci dental nor benign,” the PSC stated, characterising the gesture as a form of “sym bolic aggression” intended to influence regional percep tions, shape narratives, and test international resolve.

The Commission argued that such provocations are particularly unacceptable and risk undermining regional stability, eroding trust, and weakening the principles of peaceful dispute resolution.

The PSC reaffirmed Guy ana’s unequivocal position on the matter, saying: “Es sequibo is Guyana’s.” The Commission stressed that the

territory is administered by Guyana, populated by Guy anese citizens, and protected under international law.

It further condemned Venezuela’s broader pattern of provocation, including the creation of a so called “Guayana Esequiba State”, a move that defies both orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the commitments outlined in the Argyle Declaration.

The tensions come amid a broader escalation of Ven ezuela’s claims in recent years. The ICJ had ordered Venezuela not to take any action to alter Guyana’s con trol of the area, pending the court’s final ruling on the border controversy matter.

Despite this, Venezuela has pressed on, with its National Assembly pass ing legislation formally adding Guyana’s sover eign territory to Venezue la’s maps.

The Barbados visit ap peared to continue a pattern of Venezuelan officials using diplomatic forums to pro mote the annexation claim.

Venezuela’s acting pres ident has been particularly active regionally since Nico las Maduro’s removal from office, with her Grenada trip on April 9 sparking out rage when she wore a map brooch including Essequibo as Venezuelan territory at a press conference alongside Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell.

Critics argued that Mitchell’s warm reception of Rodríguez implicitly lent legitimacy to Venezuela’s territorial posturing.

In its statement, the PSC called specifically on the Government of Barbados, “a valued CARICOM partner and long standing friend of Guyana”, to stand firm

ly in defence of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Commission also extended its appeal to all CARICOM member states and regional and interna tional partners, urging them to remain “vigilant and un equivocal” in their support for the Rule of Law.

“Silence or inaction in the face of such deliberate provocation risks embolden ing further escalation,” the PSC warned.

The call mirrors senti ments expressed by CAR ICOM heads of government, who, at their July 2025 summit in Montego Bay, Jamaica, reaffirmed their “unwavering support” for Guyana’s sovereignty, and urged Venezuela to comply with the ICJ process, calling Caracas’ unilateral claims “baseless”.

The ICJ case, which cen tres on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award estab lishing the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela, is expected to advance to oral hearings in May 2026.

Closing its statement with a firm declaration, the PSC said that Guyana’s eco nomic stability, investment climate, and national devel opment depend on the invi olability of its borders and respect for international law.

The Commission concluded with the defiant declaration that has become a rallying chant for Guyanese across all sectors: “Essequibo belongs to Guyana.

Women empowerment takes centre stage at BYG Women’s Forum Series 2026

BRAND Youth Global (BYG), in collaboration with the Institute of Gender Studies at the University of Guyana, hosted the BYG Women’s Forum Series 2026 on Sunday at the University’s Education Lecture Theatre, Turkeyen Campus.

Brand Youth Global is a community of purpose-driven entrepreneurs who deliver value, individually, through ventures and collectively through transformative movements. It was founded by Mr. Selwyn Collins less than 10 years ago.

The event was hosted under the theme, ‘From Tradition to Transformation: Moving Beyond Barriers, Shaping the Future of Women’, and served as an opportunity for women to be engaged in important conversations surrounding women’s leadership, influence, entrepreneurship, and transformation across local, national and global spaces.

The forum featured two panels of women and asked the questions: What do we keep? What must we break? And What do we become? engaging women leading in different sectors across Guyana.

One of the panels featured President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce

and Industry (GCCI), and Vice-Chairperson of the Private Sector Commission, Ms. Kathy Smith.

She shared that as women we have to navigate those male-dominated spaces. These may seem unfair, but she expressed that some 100 years ago, women had no interest in the corporate world, and were comfortable taking care of their loved ones.

“I don’t want women to think that if you say you have to navigate the space, it means that you’re doing something very technical. The space wasn’t designed for you.

So, what you got to do now, you got to go into the room. You got to navigate the space. You got to fix the space for you,” she expressed.

Ms. Smith related that she takes her role as the first woman President of the GCCI with honour and privilege. She told the audience, which included men, that they should not try to undervalue being called the first.

While noting that she knows she was not the only eligible woman, Smith said, “me being the first, heavy scrutiny, the quiet resistance…the ability to prove myself were some of the things that women did not want to do.

“The space given as a woman, the first of anything, male-dominated space, you have to go into that room and redecorate it. The space wasn’t designed for us.”

The GCCI President underscored that men aren’t the enemy. Women must ensure they know their purpose, why they were placed in a certain role, and what it is that they want to achieve.

Communications Specialist Debra Francis mentioned that there are challenges in this field, as well as areas to celebrate.

Reflecting on her time as a Public Relations Officer, Ms. Francis shared that while she had no technical knowledge of the area of focus, she emphasised her strengths in communications, and how to navigate that space she

was in.

At present, as a woman in media, there are many biases in that field, she said.

“So many perceptions, misconceptions, and it’s a space where we have to, again, be very conscious of our purpose.”

“If you go into a space and you just want to be visible, coming back to this question of visibility…visibility could mean different things to different people. And oftentimes, people think visibility is just about showing up, and people don’t want to know who you are, but it’s really an intentional, a very strategic action,” she shared.

In offering advice to women, Ms. Francis said if they truly want to be visible, they have to know their purpose, why they want to be visible and what they hope to achieve from said visibility.

THE Ministry of Home Affairs has launched an investigation into a video circulating on social media that allegedly contains threats against Director of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, warning that any attempt to intimidate law enforcement officials will be met with the full force of the law.

In a statement, the Ministry confirmed that law enforcement agencies are actively working to determine the origin, authenticity, and intent of the video, while simultaneously implementing measures to ensure the safety and security of those targeted.

Authorities stressed that threats against the life of a public official constitute a serious criminal offence and will be treated as such.

The development comes amid heightened anti-narcot-

ics operations across Guyana. During the first quarter of 2026, CANU reported the seizure of more than 371 kilograms of narcotics and the dismantling of several trafficking networks through sustained, intelligence-driven enforcement efforts.

While the timing of the threat coincides with these intensified operations, officials cautioned that the investigation remains ongoing and no conclusions have been drawn regarding any direct connection.

The Government has underscored its zero-tolerance stance on attacks against law enforcement personnel, making it clear that efforts to undermine national security will not succeed. It reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks, both locally and internationally, through coordinated and sustained action.

“No individual or group will be allowed to threaten those tasked with upholding the rule of law,” the Ministry stated, reiterating that Guyana’s security agencies remain resolute in their mandate to protect the public and enforce the law.

Communications Specialist Debra Francis GCCI President Kathy Smith

CANU Director, James Singh

Guyana has to be a model for education in Caribbean region

MINISTER of Education

Sonia Parag recently stated that Guyana has to be that country that every other country in the Caribbean region is looking to as the model for education, asserting that in every sector, education and skills training play a vital role.

She also announced that, in another five years, there will be an unlimited number

of scholarships being offered to Guyanese through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) platform. These announcements were made on Monday, as the Minister highlighted advancements in education locally.

Minister Parag said that there are now more than 26 universities from around the world and hundreds of

programmes that are on the GOAL platform. These, she said, range from technical skills to doctorate degrees, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees.

She disclosed that, in the last five years, there were limited funds and a limit on the number of scholarships offered. Highlighting the massive expansion of GOAL, the Minister recalled the

- Minister Parag says

promise made by the government to deliver 20,000 scholarships in the first term. This number was doubled, with 40,000 or 41,000 scholarships delivered in that time.

“It is now, in the next five years, going to be unlimited scholarships to guide these. An unlimited amount of scholarships, which is a fantastic thing,” she expressed.

Aside from this, the min-

ister mentioned the fact that many persons are working in an environment where artificial intelligence is an important component. “How do we produce critical thinkers, look at institutions that will be teaching our students, or look at STEM education?” she asked.

“How do we produce problem solvers in a world where AI is the first thing a student will go to when they want to answer a question?” she further asked adding, “It is all of these things that have to align.

For example, we are now talking with the Caribbean Examinations Council, or CXC as you know it, about AI checkers. How do we know that we are producing students that will be globally competitive, that will be analytical in thinking?”.

Additionally, she looked at a wider issue of how they improve technical and vocational skills that will place students who do not want to be academic in a position of sustainable development and growth within our communities.

Judicial training key to tackling crime...

the four-day training is expected to be highly engaging and impactful.

“We look forward to an engaging four days of learning as we strive to always ensure that we competently, efficiently and effectively carry out our judicial functions,” she said.

The Chancellor added that the goal remains improved access to justice and the consistent upholding of the rule of law. European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni, underscored the regional importance of the PACE Justice initiative, noting that criminal case backlogs remain a shared challenge across Caribbean states.

Reflecting on the programme’s development, he said that consultations with judicial stakeholders revealed widespread delays driven by issues such as case management and limited resources.

Pierantoni said the European Union funded the initiative to improve access to justice, which he described as fundamental to fair societies.

He also emphasised that tackling modern crime requires cross-border collab-

FROM PAGE 5

oration, noting that “transnational crime… knows no borders,” making international cooperation essential.

The PACE Justice Project is a criminal justice reform project funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Guyana in partnership with the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Legal Affairs.

The project aims to reduce the backlog of cases in Guyana’s criminal justice system by enhancing the institutional capacity of the country’s prosecutors, courts, police, and prisons through the deployment of technology and training.

The project is also being implemented in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago, and is supported by governments and key stakeholders in each jurisdiction, as well as regional justice bodies.

Valued at €10 million, the PACE Justice initiative spans nine countries across the region. In Guyana, the current programme is the first of several slated for 2026 and represents the fourth training conducted locally under the initiative.

Education Minister Sonia Parag (Elton John photo)

East Bank backlands to be transformed by power corridor, highway and substation work

- Nandlall says, unveils plans for transmission lines from Wales to Goedverwagting substation, new four-lane road expansion

A MAJOR stretch of Guyana’s backlands is being transformed through an extensive utility corridor and infrastructural programme linking the West Bank of Demerara to the East Coast and beyond.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, said the works form part of a wider national development push that many citizens may not be fully aware of due to the remote location of the projects that are bolstering the nation’s energy sector.

Giving insight into the project during a site visit on Monday, he highlighted the ongoing movement of high-voltage transmission lines from the gas-to-energy project area across the Demerara River and deep into the East Bank and East Coast corridors and which will eventually reach Berbice and Corentyne. He noted that what is now taking shape is a continuous network of transport infrastructure cutting through previously undeveloped lands.

Minister Nandlall also emphasised the scale of the transmission towers crossing the Demerara River, highlighting their height, positioning, and role in carrying electricity across regions. He pointed out that the infrastructure begins at Wales, crosses the river at Garden of Eden, and continues through the East Bank corridor before entering the backlands. He emphasised that the massive towers are designed to carry high-voltage lines across difficult terrain, forming a critical link in the national grid expansion beginning at the gas-to-energy project.

According to the Attorney General, the system is designed to ensure connectivity from the energy project at Wales to the East Coast and further into Berbice and the Corentyne region.

“The first tower on the West Bank brings the lines over to the second tower at Garden of Eden and I am standing in close proximity to that tower at Garden of Eden,” he said adding, “Then the lines move across from the Garden of Eden East Bank of the Demerara River straight over to the East Bank public road,” he said.

Looking at work happening deeper into the East Bank backlands, Minister Nandlall described how the transmission corridor stretches through the backlands of the East Bank and beyond, where dozens of towers are being installed. He said the infrastructure is far removed from the public road, with some sections only accessible deep inside what was once forest and farmland.

He stressed that the area is part of a much larger network that continues toward Goedverwagting and eventually connects into the national transmission system. As he shared, “This is the dam that brings in the towers with the transmission line from the Garden of Eden public road. There are a couple dozens of these towers bringing in the lines.”

The Attorney General also added that the same corridor is also hosting the construction of a new fourlane highway, which required additional land acquisition from former agricultural and forested areas.

“Coincidentally where I am standing is on another transformative or transformational project, the four-lane East Bank Highway that is under construction…the new four-lane East Bank Highway that is being constructed in what used to be forests or people’s farms,” he said. Moreover, Minister Nandlall highlighted the scale of both the energy and road infrastructure being developed deep in the backlands. He said the

area, once forested and sparsely used for farming, is now hosting major national projects including transmission lines, substations, and a new highway network.

Aerial view of the construction works for the new Buzz Bee Dam to Land of Canaan four-lane highway (Department of Public Information photos)

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC

Thousands nabbed in weekly traffic sweep

- DUI, Speeding among key targets in police traffic crackdown

In response to the continued violations, the Traffic Department has intensified its public education efforts, targeting both young road users and adult drivers through a series of outreach initiatives

THE Guyana Police Force has recorded more than 2,700 traffic violations in a single week, underscoring ongoing concerns about road safety and driver behaviour across the country.

According to the Force’s Traffic Department, a total of 2,743 cases were documented between April 19 and April 25, 2026, with speeding once again topping the list of offences. Authorities recorded 1,097 speeding violations during the period, accounting for a significant share of all cases.

Other major infractions included 113 cases of failure to wear safety helmets and 103 instances of motorists leaving their vehicles in dangerous positions.

Police also reported 81 seatbelt violations and 61 breaches related to prescribed fitness conditions for vehicles.

Driving under the influence remains a concern, with 32 cases recorded, while 49 motorists were cited for operating vehicles with illegal tinted windows. Additional offences included 47 unlicensed drivers, 55 unlighted vehicles at the rear, 35 unlighted vehicles at the front, and 21 breaches of traffic light signals.

Motorcyclists were also flagged for unsafe practices, with 18 cases of carrying pillion riders without helmets.

Ten cases of faulty packing were also noted.

In response to the continued violations, the Traffic Department has intensified its public education efforts, targeting both young road users and adult drivers through a series of outreach initiatives.

Between April 20 and April 24, officers conducted road safety lectures in sev-

eral schools across multiple regions, including All Saints Primary in Region Six, Calcutta Primary in Region Five, and the Academy of Intelligence Mind in Region Three. Sessions were also held at institutions in Regions One, Six and Seven, reaching students at both the primary and secondary levels.

Beyond the classroom, police carried out a wide range of community engagements from April 19 to April 25, visiting villages, public roads, police stations and commercial hubs.

Outreach activities were conducted along the Linden Highway, in communities on the West Bank of Demerara such as Westminster and Recht Door Zee, and in areas along the Essequibo Coast, including the Suddie Station District.

Officers also targeted high-traffic and nightlife areas, hosting engagements at several bars and entertainment spots, including popular establishments in Georgetown and along the East Bank Demerara corridor.

Additional sessions were held at taxi bases, construction sites, and transport routes, including operations involving minibus drivers travelling between the North Rupununi and Lethem.

The Guyana Police Force said the combination of enforcement and education remains central to its strategy to reduce road accidents and encourage safer practices among motorists and pedestrians alike.

Authorities continue to urge road users to comply with traffic laws, warning that reckless behaviour, particularly speeding and impaired driving, poses a serious risk to public safety.

Guyanese talent headlines Mother’s Day concert at NCC

- ‘A Treat For My Mother 9’ hits the stage

GEORGETOWN is gearing up for an evening of music, tribute and celebration as the National Cultural Centre (NCC) prepares to host the ninth edition of “A Treat For My Mother,” a show that has grown into a fixture on the local Mother’s Day calendar.

The production, presented by Purple Arts Productions and directed by Simone Dowding, is set for Sunday, May 10. Showtime is 20:00

Ronald Green. Organisers say the programme is designed to appeal across generations, offering something for longtime fans as well as younger audiences.

In addition to the performances, patrons will have the chance to win a range of door prizes. Among the top giveaways are a trip to New York and a trip to Kaieteur Falls, widely regarded as one of Guyana’s most iconic natural attractions. The evening will

hours and organisers say patrons can expect a polished, family-friendly concert anchored by a strong lineup of performers and a celebratory atmosphere befitting the occasion. Now in its ninth year, the event continues its focus on honouring mothers through live entertainment— an approach that has resonated with audiences looking for a meaningful yet lively way to observe Mother’s Day. Over time, the show has built a reputation for blending nostalgic favourites with contemporary Guyanese music, while creating space for both seasoned performers and newer voices.

This year’s lineup reflects that mix. Headlining acts include Charmaine Blackman and Sean Bhola, supported by a cast of wellknown local artistes such as Bonny Alves, Calvin Burnett, Sheron Cadogan, Barbara Lee, Eion Nelson and

also feature a “Best Dressed Mother in Purple” segment, adding a lighthearted and interactive element to the celebration.

Tickets are priced at $3,000 and $2,500, a structure promoters say is intended to keep the event accessible while maintaining a high standard of production.

The show is backed by several corporate partners, including Republic Bank, Voice FM 96.1, Muneshwers Travel Service, Essential Care Pharmacy, NDS, Jacob’s Jewellery & Pawn Shop, Ready Mix Concrete Ltd. and Banks DIH Ltd. With its blend of music, prizes and heartfelt tribute, “A Treat For My Mother 9” is expected to attract a strong turnout, continuing a tradition that places mothers at the centre of one of the country’s most cherished annual celebrations.

DUI convictions top 300 as police intensify crackdown on drunk driving

THE Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department has secured 331 convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) so far in 2026, collecting more than $21.8 million in fines, as authorities step up enforcement against what they describe as a major and persistent public safety threat.

The department said the figures reflect ongoing efforts to detect and prosecute offenders, warning that alcohol-impaired driving continues to contribute significantly to road traffic crashes, injuries and deaths across the country. Globally, road traffic injuries remain a leading cause of death among people aged 17 to 42, and officials noted that alcohol impairment is a major risk factor in a substantial proportion of these incidents. Driving under the influence, they emphasised, not only endangers the driver but also passengers, pedestrians and other road users.

Under Section 39A (1) of the law, it is an offence for any person to drive, attempt to drive, or be in charge of a motor vehicle with a breath or blood alcohol level exceeding the prescribed limit. Authorities stressed that impairment can begin well before reaching the legal threshold of 35 micrograms of alcohol.

Police outlined several dangers associated with

drinking and driving, including impaired judgement, reduced coordination and slower reaction times. These effects can lead to poor decision-making behind the wheel, such as distracted driving, failure to maintain proper lane discipline, and delayed responses to sudden hazards.

Alcohol consumption also affects vision, causing blurriness and reduced peripheral awareness, which are critical for judging distances and detecting movement on the road. This combination of factors significantly increases the likelihood of collisions.

The Traffic Department warned that repeat offenders face severe consequences, including permanent disqualification from driving if convicted three times for DUI offences. Authorities are urging motorists to make responsible choices, emphasising that the risks of driving under the influence far outweigh any perceived benefit. “Careful driving saves lives,” the department stressed, as it continues its campaign to reduce road fatalities and promote safer road use nationwide.

CANU seizes nearly 11kg of foreign marijuana at Tuschen - two Arrested

OFFICERS of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), on Saturday, intercepted a motor vehicle along the Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo, leading to the discovery of nearly 11 kilograms of suspected foreign marijuana and the arrest of two men.

According to CANU, the operation was intelligence-led and conducted on April 25, 2026. During the exercise, ranks stopped and searched a vehicle, uncovering ten brick-like parcels containing the illicit substance. The narcotics were subsequently weighed and amounted to 10.992 kilograms. Two individuals, 25-year-old Austin Jawahir of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo, and 22-year-old Jose Presilla, were taken into custody. They were escorted to CANU Headquarters along with the seized drugs.

Authorities have indicated that investigations into the matter are ongoing.

The narcotics weighed and amounted to 10.992 kilograms

Jose Presilla Austin Jawahir

Red Force, Pride strengthen positions at...

of Carty for 18 and Jewel Andrew for a duck, to slump to 63 for four.

Gore, though, finished

on 60 not out and along with captain Justin Greaves will carry the brunt of the responsibility of helping them avoid the follow on.

At Sabina Park in Jamaica: Spinners Roston Chase and Joshua Bishop shared nine wickets between them to put Barbados Pride in an excellent position to push for a crucial victory against the Jamaica Scorpions.

Resuming on their overnight score of 346 for five, the Pride would have been disappointed to only add an additional 93 more runs to be

bowled out for 439.

Chase added just two runs to his score of 82, while Leniko Boucher added a further 10 runs to reach an even half century, before losing their wickets to pacer Marquino Mindley.

All-rounder Shamar Springer scored an unbeaten 45 and last man Jediah Blades made 21, with the two sharing a 63-run partnership for the last wicket to give the Pride some much-needed runs.

Mindley (3-62) and Odean Smith (3-91) were the

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Scorpions’ best bowlers.

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Chase then returned to grab five wickets with his off spin, while left-arm spinner Bishop took four to bundle the home side out for 142 in 51 overs.

That total seemed unlikely when openers John Campbell and Kirk McKenzie were at the crease during a 61-run stand.

But once Chase ended the partnership by bowling Campbell for 36, the Scorpions’ innings unraveled in spectacular fashion.

Brandon King made just one before also being bowled by Chase and Blades dismissed McKenzie for 31.

Bishop then joined in the action by trapping Brad Barnes lbw for two and also accounting for the wicket of Javelle Glenn, with Chase also dismissing Abhijai Mansingh and Peat Salmon to see the Scorpions slide to 126 for seven.

The duo then wrapped up the tail in quick order to leave the Scorpions 297 runs short of the Pride’s total, with skipper Kraigg Brathwaite expectedly enforcing the follow on.

Chase finished with 5-28 while Bishop claimed 4-31.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

EPSOM

09:05hrs Runman

09:40hrs Saxon Street

10:15hrs Aurel

10:50hrs Topteam

11:23hrs Montague Menace

11:58hrs Tribal Rhythm

SOUTHWELL

09:20hrs Fistral Beach

09:55hrs Man On A Mission

10:30hrs Society Kiss

11:05hrs Jack Andrea

11:35hrs Sullivan Bay

12:10hrs Mount Ruapehu

12:42hrs Cill Mocheallog

LINGFIELD

11:43hrs Ancient State

12:18hrs Get This In

12:50hrs Rogue Messiah

13:20hrs Enter Sandman

13:50hrs Knights Charge

14:20hrs Penfolds Grange

14:50hrs Wild

The Scorpions then suffered a nightmare start when they lost Campbell to the third ball of the innings, bowled by Bishop for a duck.

They eventually laboured to 22 for one in their second innings, still needing a further 275 runs to make the Pride bat again.

At the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua: The contest between defending champions and table leaders Guyana Harpy Eagles and the Windward Islands Volcanoes is shaping up to be an exciting contest at the halfway stage.

The Volcanoes conceded a slender 19-run first innings lead to their opponents after they were dismissed for 223 in response to the Harpy Eagles’ 242.

They however, struck back to claim two late wickets as the Harpy Eagles ended day two on 44 for two, an overall lead of 63.

While the match is evenly balanced, the Volcanoes would no doubt be disappointed with their batting performance after they wasted a productive start from their top over.

Resuming on 22 for one, Stephan Pascal and Kavem

Thoughts

IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN

09:30hrs Willitgoahead

10:05hrs Almuhit

10:40hrs Murcia

11:15hrs El Cairos

11:50hrs Kitzbuhel

12:25hrs Huntin Boots

13:05hrs Marine Nationale

13:35hrs Pretty Fortunate

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

TURFFONTEIN

08:15hrs Olivia's Way

08:50hrs Fire Attack

09:25hrs Buffalo Storm Cloud

10:05hrs Chrome Tourmaline

10:40hrs Anchorage 11:15hrs Fire Storm

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

CHURCHILL DOWNS

Race 1 Danzig's Dora

Race 2 Booked Race 3 Spying

Race 4 Belle Of the Dance

Race 5 Joe's Candy

Race 6 Gene And Jude

Race 7 Comes A Time Race 8 Echo Again

Hodge carried their side to 95 for one during a 93-run partnership.

When Gudakesh Motie dismissed Pascal for 43, Johann Jeremiah and Hodge maintained the momentum to see them progress to 140 without further loss.

However, following the dismissal of Jeremiah for 16, the Volcanoes lost the wickets of Hodge for 74 off 115 balls and Shadrack Descarte in quick succession to crumble to 177 for five.

The Volcanoes only got up to their eventual total thanks to an unbeaten, even half century from Alick Athanaze, who scored 50 off 83 balls.

Despite his resistance, the Volcanoes lost their last five wickets for just 20 runs to meekly surrender first innings points.

Motie took 4-52, while Nial Smith (2-27) and Shamar Joseph (2-64), provided support.

The Harpy Eagles didn’t get off to the best of starts in their second innings, losing Matthew Nandu and Kevlon Anderson cheaply.

However, Tagenarine Chanderpaul and captain Tevin Imlach took them to the close of play with no further alarms.

Rockets start strong, didn’t let up to beat Lakers, stay alive in series

AMEN Thompson scored a game-high 23 points, Tari Eason added 20 and the Houston Rockets averted elimination with a 115-96 victory over the visiting Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night in Game 4 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series.

All five starters scored in double figures for the Rockets, who played without Kevin Durant (ankle) for the third time in the series.

Reed Sheppard chipped in 17 points on 4-for-7 3-point shooting while Alperen Sengun (19 points) and Jabari Smith Jr. (16 points) rounded out the balanced offensive attack. Eason and Smith grabbed eight rebounds apiece.

The Rockets made headway by forcing 24 turnovers that they converted into 30 points. Houston scored 23 fastbreak points and limited the Lakers to 5-for-22 3-point shooting (22.7%).

"We understand that if we want to win this series, we have to protect the ball," LeBron James said. "The turnovers obviously killed us from the start to the finish."

After dominating Game 3 and co-authoring the Lakers' overtime victory, James (10 points, nine assists) and Marcus Smart (nine, five) shot a combined 5 of 17 from the floor. Deandre Ayton finished with 19 points and 10 rebounds but was ejected with 5:41 re -

France striker, Mbappe, suffers hamstring injury ahead of World Cup

REAL Madrid forward, Kylian Mbappe, has suffered a hamstring injury, the LaLiga club said on Monday, weeks the start of the World Cup.

Spanish media reported that the 27-year-old France captain could miss the rest of Real's season after picking up the ⁠injury during the 1-1 draw at Real Betis on Friday.

"Following the tests carried out today on our player Kylian Mbappe by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the semitendi-

nosus muscle in his left leg. ⁠progress," the club said in a statement.

Real visit Espanyol on Sunday before travelling to Barcelona on May 10.

The record 15-times European champions ⁠are enduring a disappointing season, trailing Barcelona by 11 points after 33 LaLiga matches and eliminated from the ⁠Champions League at the quarter-final stage by Bayern Munich.

The World Cup, co-hosted ⁠by the U.S., Canada and Mexico, starts on June 11. (Reuters)

maining in the third quarter after elbowing Sengun in the neck and incurring a flagrant-2 foul.

The Lakers will carry a 3-1 series lead back to Los Angeles for 5 ⁠on Wednesday.

Houston seized an 18-17 lead on a Sengun dunk at the 3:19 mark of the first quarter and didn't look back. The Lakers shot 41.2% (7 of 17) in the first period, missed both of their 3-pointers and conceded eight points off eight turnovers. Sengun played the entire first period for the Rockets.

"This is a top-10 defense the entire season," Lakers coach JJ Redick said about the Rockets. "It's obviously very challenging without

your two leading scorers (Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves) to generate offence. We'll take ⁠a look at the process again on that end as well.

"Our points per shot and our expected points per shot were slightly below our season average, so to me, it goes back to the two keys: Take care of the ball. We'll look at that and how we can be better there."

The Rockets used a 16-4 run bridging ⁠the opening two periods to help extend to a 37-28 lead via a Sengun three-point play at the 6:35 mark of the second. When the Lakers sliced that deficit to three points, Josh Okogie keyed a 10-2 rally with a 3-pointer. Thompson added

a pull-up jumper and a threepoint play before ⁠Sheppard capped the run with a layup.

The Lakers shot 58.8% in the second quarter (10 of 17) but committed six turnovers in the frame and trailed 56-47 at the break.

Houston pulled away in the

third, opening the second half with a 12-4 burst before Eason drilled a corner 3 and Sengun completed another three-point play that pushed the lead to 76-55. The Rockets led by as many as 28 points. (Reuters)

India great concerned by team's consistency ahead of T20WC

INDIA great and ICC Hall of Famer Diana Edulji is hopeful her former side can turn their recent success at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup into a maiden title at the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

The Asian side took all before them to claim their inaugural 50-over World Cup title on home soil in November and will now look to do similar in the shortest format when the 10th edition of the T20 World Cup commences in England and Wales on June 12.

While India have shown their capabilities in 20-over cricket in the past and even defeated six-time T20 World Cup champions Australia during a recent T20I series Down Under earlier this year, Edulji - who played 54 matches for India last century before a lengthy period as an administrator that saw her earn a place in the ICC Hall of Fame - is concerned by the side's lack of consistency in

the shortest format.

“T20 is a different game altogether, and teams doing well depends on each player’s contribution, and I want big guns to fire, and a total of 170-180 will be challenging,” Edulji told Olympics.com.

“But we are good in the 50-over format, in T20 it is a different ball game.

“We do have young cricketers taking to this game. T20, I am not sure, I have witnessed in the last match against South Africa in Durban, which shows what our girls lack.”

That match that Edulji references was part of India's current T20I series against South Africa, a five-game series that the Proteas have dominated the majority of courtesy of victories in the first three contests.

India did claim the fourth match of the series partly due to the heroics of all-rounder Deepti Sharma and her five-wicket haul, though Edulji wonders if the

side is slightly off the pace in T20I cricket heading into the T20 World Cup.

“The odds are against our girls, and it will not take time for them to adapt," she added.

"I am sure that in the time to come, we will see them filling the gaps. We have proved a better side in ODI and consistency in

this shorter version (is key). Girls will prove to themselves that they are the best. Let us hope for the best.” India are drawn in Group A at the T20 World Cup, with the side scheduled to take on Australia, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Pakistan and South Africa ahead of the knockout stages. (ICC Media)

Norwegian FA chief, Klaveness, calls on... (From back

state leaders is challenged, and these prizes will typically be very political if you don't have real good instruments and experience to make them independent, with juries and criteria et cetera.

"That is full-time work, it's so sensitive, I think from

a resource angle, ⁠from a mandate angle, but most importantly from a governance angle I think it should be avoided also in the future," she said.

The 45-year-old lawyer said the NFF board would be writing a letter saying ⁠it

supported calls for an investigation into the awarding of the prize by non-profit organisation FairSquare, which has alleged that Infantino and FIFA may have breached their own ethical guidelines regarding political ⁠impartiality in awarding the prize.

page)

"There should be checks and balances on these issues and this complaint from FairSquare should be treated with a transparent timeline, and that the reasoning and the conclusion should be transparent," Klaveness said.

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson scored 23 points in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday in Houston

France and Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe

Diana Edulji is hopeful her former side can turn their recent success at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup

Joshua signs deal to fight Fury - Hearn

ANTHONY Joshua has signed a deal to fight fellow former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, Eddie Hearn has announced.

Joshua, who has not fought since he was a passenger in a fatal car crash in December, will first have a comeback fight against Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on July 25.

Fury and Joshua - both two-time world championshave carried British boxing on the global stage for more than a decade, yet despite years of negotiations and false starts, the fight has never materialised.

But promoter Hearn posted on social media on Monday that the long-awaited fight was "signed, sealed and delivered".

"As I said, the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain," Joshua said about the fight.

Joshua, 36, must first get past unknown 35-year-old Albanian Prenga - who boasts a record of 20 wins, all by stoppage, and one loss.

The British fighter's most

recent appearance in the ring was against Jake Paul in December.

Later that month Joshua's driver crashed in Nigeria, with two members of the boxer's team being killed.

"It's no secret I've taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring and today is the next step on that journey," Joshua said.

A date or venue for Joshua v Fury has not been announced. Hearn has previously suggested it could land in November on streaming

giant Netflix.

Joshua attended Fury's recent comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov and was called out by his British rival immediately after he secured a comfortable decision win. Fury, 37, attempted to goad Joshua into the ring, but he declined.

Afterwards, Team Fury said they had signed their part of the contract and were waiting on Joshua to do the same.

"I'm looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off," Joshua . (BBC Sport)

Man Utd beat Brentford to close in on Champions League return

Manchester United need just two more points to secure a Champions League return after first-half goals from Casemiro and Benjamin Sesko were enough for them to win an entertaining encounter with Brentford.

Casemiro nodded home from an acute angle after Harry Maguire had guided a header to the far post after 11 minutes.

Bruno Fernandes then claimed his 19th assist of the season, one short of equalling the Premier League record, when he teed up Sesko three minutes before the break.

Michael Carrick's side have four games left to complete the task set them by technical director Jason Wilcox in the immediate aftermath of Ruben Amorim's dismissal in January.

Yet they might have done it before they get to halftime in their game against Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday if Brighton and Bournemouth drop points in

Manchester united needed just two more points

their weekend games.

The result is a blow to Brentford's hopes of securing European qualification for the first time and extends their winless run to seven in all competitions.

Keith Andrews' side only had themselves to blame though. In the first half in particular they had four clear chances to score and Dango

Hridoy blitz at the heart of Bangladesh's 1-0 lead

BANGLADESH’S success in the ODI series spilled over to the T20Is as they took an early 1-0 lead against New Zealand in Chattogram.

Towhid Hridoy was at the heart of that result, scoring a 27-ball 51 - an innings laced with two fours and three sixes.

Parvez Hossain (28 off 14) and Shamim Hossain (31* off 13) also made vital contributions towards chasing down New Zealand's 182/6 with six wickets and two overs to spare.

New Zealand had two half-centurions and a flying start that saw them get 61 in the Powerplay and post 100 at the halfway stage.

Opener Katene Clarke made 51 off 37 and added 88 with no.3 batter, Dane Cleaver, who finished with an identical score. Captain Nick Kelly chipped in with a 27-ball 39 but New Zealand regressed in the second half. It took a cameo from Josh Clarkson - 27 off 14 - to push the visitors to 182/6 on what appeared to be a flat deck.

Bangladesh's start was

brisk and strokeful through openers Saif Hasan and Tanzid Tamim but Nathan Smith and Ish Sodhi ruffled a few feathers to pull the game back. Smith took out Hasan while Sodhi dismissed Tamim and No.3 batter Litton Das to reduce the hosts to 77/3 in 10.1 overs.

They were behind the eight-ball at this stage but were duly rescued by two fiery stands - Hridoy and Parvez Hossain hit 57 off just 28, after which Shamim entered the scene to add 49 off 19 with Hridoy.

Hridoy and Hossain quickly moved on from Litton's dismissal, smashing two sixes and a four in the same over. They upped the scoring rate over the

next four overs before Josh Clarkson broke the stand with Hossain's wicket. Bangladesh went into the death overs needing 48 off 30 balls, with New Zealand still clinging on.

Hridoy and Shamim eased the pressure by tonking a six each off Smith before fully turning the game around in the 17th over. Shamim led the way against Matthew Fisher, hitting three fours and a six in a 25-run over. Just like that, the equation was reduced to just five runs from three overs. In the 18th over from Ben Lister, Hridoy got to his half-century and then capped off the chase with the winning run. (Cricbuzz)

Santa Rosa Secondary and Chase Academic to contest U-18 Massy Schools final

Ouattara hit the post from inside the six-yard box in the second.

Mathias Jensen eventually scored with a thunderous effort three minutes from time but the equaliser would not come as Mikkel Damsgaard's late header went straight to United goalkeeper Senne Lammens. (BBC Sport)

ON Sunday Santa Rosa Secondary and Chase Academic Foundation separated themselves from their counterparts to earn a place in the 2026 finals of the Massy Distribution Schools U-18 football tournament played at the Ministry of Education ground.

Chase Academic Foundation, after a flawless run in the competition, went up against Charlestown Secondary in the semi-finals.

As they have done in every round of the competition, Chase had their way as their strikers scored at will to close the game 7-0.

Shaquan David led with a pair of goals, with the other goals coming from Malcolm Hendricks, Nyron Barrow, Mark Glasgow, Onasi Dunn and Jaden Christian.

West Ruimveldt then had a rumble of a clash against Santa Rosa Secondary in the second semi-final.

It was a ding-dong battle; Donovan Welcome scored 3 minutes after the opening whistle, but Santa Rosa’s Paul Thomas found the equaliser in the 21st minute.

Santa Rosa then got the go-ahead goal from Andell James before Welcome came back to make it 2-2. The

second half of regulation time went scoreless, forcing extra time as the score remained 2-2.

In extra time Shane James looked to finally settle the match-up in the 98th minute, but it was again Welcome who saved the day with his third goal to finish with a hat-trick to again level the scores.

After the final whistle with the scores unchanged at 3-3, penalty kicks were taken, with Santa Rosa Secondary narrowly winning it 8-7 to advance to the final against Chase Academic Foundation.

Anthony Joshua was ringside in London for Tyson Fury's recent comeback fight

Towhid Hridoy aced the chase with a 27-ball 51

Chase Academic Foundation goal scorers Shaquan David (2) Malcolm Hendricks (1) Nyron Barrow (1) Mark Glasgow (1) Onasi Dunn(1) Jaden Christian (1)

Farrell’s 200m gold and 4x400m bronze give Guyana seven medals at South American Youth Games

GUYANA’S Dequan Farrell etched his name into the history books on Saturday at the South American Youth Games in Panama, delivering a record-breaking performance in the 200m final.

Farrell stormed to the gold medal with a time of 21.18s, officially setting a new South American Youth Games record.

This feat surpassed the previous benchmark of 21.28s established by Argentina’s Tomás Mondino in 2022.

The competitive final saw Farrell hold off a strong challenge from Ecuador’s Mateus Mendez, who secured silver in 21.24s, and Brazil’s Pedro

Nunes, who took bronze with a time of 21.74s.

Guyana’s Gordon Thompson also featured in the final, narrowly missing the podium to finish fourth in 21.87s.

For Farrell, the 200m victory marks his second gold of the meet following his contribution to Guyana's 4x100m relay triumph on Friday.

Guyana’s success on the track continued into the afternoon during the Men’s 4x400m relay final. The Guyanese quartet, consisting of Ade Sealy, Dequan Farrell, Gordon Thompson, and anchor Ebo McNeil, secured a bronze medal with a time of 3:20.46.

Colombia won the race

in a season-best time of 3:16.39, followed by Chile in second place. Ecuador, despite crossing the line in a competitive position, was disqualified due to a lane infringement.

Following Saturday's events, Guyana’s total medal count has risen to seven.

The nation's haul includes gold medals from Ezekiel Millington in the 100m, Dequan Farrell in the 200m, and the Boys’ 4x100m relay team. Silver was claimed by Gordon Thompson in the 100m, while bronze medals have been earned by boxer Ken Harvey, Ebo McNeil in the 1500m, and the Men's 4x400m relay team.

Capitals dismissed for 75 as RCB romp to victory

DEFENDING champions

Royal Challengers Bengaluru dominated Delhi Capitals to strengthen their title credentials.

Delhi was blown away inside the first four overs of the match as RCB’s impressive bowling attack reduced them to 8-6.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar produced a sublime delivery to remove Sahil Parakh with the first ball of the game and Josh Hazlewood took two in two to leave the Capitals 2-3.

(Scores: Royal Challengers Bengaluru 77-1 in 6.3 overs (Padikkal 34*) beat Delhi Capitals 75 (Porel 30, Hazlewood 4-12, Bhuvneshwar 3-5) by nine wickets)

The wickets kept tumbling, with Bhuvneshwar taking 3-5 off his three overs and Hazlewood returning 4-12.

Substitute Abishek Porel restored some respectability with 30 off 33 balls as the stunned hosts limped to 75 all out.

England’s Jacob Bethell hit two towering sixes into the leg side in the RCB reply before Devdutt Padikkal

hammered 34 off 13 to seal a nine-wicket victory with more than 13 overs to spare.

Virat Kohli, the leading run-scorer in the tournament’s history, finished 23 not out for the visitors, scoring his 9,000th IPL run in the process. (BBC)

Kenya's Sabastian Sawe shatters two-hour marathon... (From back page)

making for the most remarkable men's marathon finish in history.

"I am feeling good, I am happy, it's a day to remember for me," Sawe told the BBC, holding up his shoe with "WR" and "sub-2" written on it in black marker pen.

"We started the race well. Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time and I was so excited. I think today shows me a lot the first (time) for everyone, and I am so happy for today. Coming to London for the second time was so important to me ⁠and that's why I prepared well for it."

Kiptum died in a car crash in 2024 in Kenya when he was just 24 years old.

Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia broke her own women's only world record en route to victory. The 29-year-old pulled away from Kenyans Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei down the home stretch to cross the finish line in 2:15.41 seconds, beating the record of 2:15.50 she set last year in London.

"I'm so happy to win again, I want to thank God for giving me this victory, to repeat my victory from last

year means even more. And so the happiness I feel is just welling up inside me," Assefa told the BBC.

Obiri was second in 2:15.53, while Jepkosgei took the bronze in 2:15.55.

Conditions were close to ideal for fast running, with mid - teen temperatures in London and winds light to create the platform for the record times.

The sub-two-hour marathon has been one of sport’s biggest obsessions for years, pursued through a series of highly engineered projects aimed at redefining human limits.

Nike’s Breaking2 attempt at Monza in 2017 just fell short though Kenyan great Eliud Kipchoge ran under two hours in INEOS’s 1:59 Challenge two years later. Yet those efforts fell outside the sport’s official record books.

Sawe's historic race on Sunday differed in its setting and its stakes, achieved in open competition on one of the world's biggest stages, turning an idea long tested in controlled conditions into a landmark moment.

"Nobody that a ⁠sub-twohour marathon under World Athletics conditions would be done in their lifetime," London Marathon race di -

rector Hugh Brasher told the BBC. "I never thought about it in my lifetime, and today we had two men do it. This is an unbelievable day for sport."

The remarkable feat comes despite the fact that Sawe was injured throughout the autumn and started training properly only in January before realising in February that he was going to be fit enough to defend his title in London.

Sawe, who was cheered on by an estimated million supporters lining the course that snaked along the River Thames before the finish line on The Mall against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace, had predicted a world record might be required to beat a fast field.

"Finally, what I had done for four months it has ⁠come today to be a good result," he said. "I want to thank the crowds for cheering us. I think they help a lot, because if it was not for them you don't feel like you are so loved.

"I think they help a lot because them calling make you feel so happy and strong and pushing. That is why I can say what comes for me today is not for me alone but all of us in London."

Delhi Capitals' Sahil Parakh was out for a duck on IPL debut (Photo: IPL)

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Barbados Pride both built on their advantages and are firmly in control of their third-round contests against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes and Jamaica Scorpions, respectively, in the West Indies Championship following the end of the second day’s play.

Skipper Joshua Da Sliva slammed a double century and pacer Anderson Phillip grabbed two wickets to put the Red Force in a good

position to earn a sizeable first innings lead over the Hurricanes.

Meanwhile, Roston Chase and Joshua Bishop spun a web around the Jamaica Scorpions that saw them being asked to follow on.

Elsewhere, the Guyana Harpy Eagles and Windward Islands Volcanoes are locked in an intriguing battle.

At the Antigua Recreation Ground in Antigua: A magnificent double century from captain Joshua Da Silva propeled his side to a mammoth first innings total

against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

Da Silva smashed a career-best 220 to lead his side to 522 for nine declared, their highest total of the tournament to date.

Fast bowler Anderson Phillip then took two early wickets to reduce the Hurricanes to 88 for four at the close of play, to leave them trailing by 434 runs.

The day belonged to Da Silva, who resumed on 72 not out with the score on 247 for three.

His partner Amir Jangoo

Norwegian FA chief, Klaveness, calls on FIFA to abolish peace prize

STOCKHOLM, (Reuters)

- FIFA should scrap its peace prize to avoid getting drawn into politics, Norwegian Football Association (NFF) President Lise Klaveness said on Monday, suggesting that the awarding of such prizes be left to the Nobel Institute in Oslo.

Led by Gianni Infantino, world soccer's governing body came under fire for awarding its inaugural peace prize to U.S. President Donald Trump in December at the draw for the 2026 World ⁠Cup.

The FIFA peace award was seen by many as a consolation prize for Trump, who has said on numerous occasions that he should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and whose country will co-host this year's World Cup with Canada and Mexico.

"We (the NFF) want to see it (the FIFA peace prize) abolished. We don't think it's

West Indies championship… Red Force, Pride strengthen positions at halfway stage

...Joshua Da Silva slams double century

added just 14 runs to his overnight total of 69 before he was dismissed by offspinner Rahkeem Cornwall.

Evin Lewis, who retired hurt on the opening day, was then run out two runs later to leave the Red Force 291 for five.

Da Silva arrived to his third first-class century in fortuitous circumstances, inside edging fast bowler Oshane Thomas to the fine leg boundary for four off his 183rd delivery.

He also shared a partnership of 132 with Terrance

Hinds for the sixth wicket, which tightened their grip on the contest.

Red Force lost the wickets of Hinds for 44, Khary Pierre for 14 and Joshua James for 15, but Da Silva found a capable partner in Phillip.

He reached his double century by dabbing Karima Gore behind point for a quick single and soon after he overtook his previous highest score of 218.

Gore eventually dismissed Da Silva, his marathon knock spanning just

over seven hours and saw him face 304 balls and hit 20 fours and two sixes, prompting a declaration from the Red Force.

Gore ended with 4-86 and Oshane Thomas 2-70.

The Hurricanes could not have envisioned a worse start, losing both openers Mikyle Louis and Kofi James for ducks without a run on the board.

Gore and Keacy Carty steadied the innings during a partnership of 62, but the Hurricanes lost the wickets

Kenya's Sabastian Sawe shatters two-hour marathon mark to win in London

LONDON, (Reuters) –KENYA’S Sabastian Sawe shattered one of athletics’ most elusive barriers on Sunday, becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in an official race as he stormed to victory at the London Marathon in one hour 59 minutes and 30 seconds.

After years of global obsession, lab - backed experiments and near-misses, the marathon’s ultimate barrier finally fell as Sawe obliterated the world record previously held by the late Kelvin Kiptum, who set a time of 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023.

part of FIFA's mandate to give such a prize; we think we have a Nobel Institute that does that job independently already," Klaveness told an online press briefing.

"We think it's important for football federations, confederations and also FIFA to ⁠to avoid situations where this arm's-length distance to

Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia stayed on Sawe's heels over much of the 42.195-kilometre course before fading down the final stretch to take second in his marathon debut with 1:59.41, while

in 2:00.28,

Joshua Da Silva scored a double century against the Leeward Islands Hurricanes

NFF President Lise Klaveness

Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda took the bronze

Sebastian Sawe from Kenya crosses the finish line to win the men's race at the London Marathon in London, Sunday (Turn