President Ali outlines massive developmental plans for Reg.
President Ali outlines massive developmental plans for Reg. 2
- Another ferry by September
- State-of-the-art storage facilities
By Trina Williams
THE ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is not short on ideas, as it continues to drive its development agenda forward, with Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) set to benefit from a comprehensive wave of development initiatives.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali unveiled a wave of fresh projects during his address to a mammoth crowd on Saturday night at the party’s Mega Concert at the Anna Region car park. These plans include a new ferry, state-of-the-art rice storage facilities and investment vehicles.
According to the Head of State, a few days ago, a contract was signed for a new ferry to service Essequibo and this will be in place by September.
Once sidelined in national development efforts, the agriculture sector has seen renewed focus under President Ali, who, since taking office in 2020, has laid out a clear blueprint for its growth and continues to build on that momentum. He told Essequibo rice farmers that the government has already
designed the project that will bring two more state-of-theart- art rice storage facilities.
President Ali also announced plans to establish a rice stabilisation mechanism aimed at ensuring farmers receive a guaranteed minimum price, along with the creation of business investment funds to support agricultural producers.
“We will be setting up a special fund, a special co-investment fund to help businesses, to help farmers, to help industries, to help manufacturing, because we know the potential of Essequibo. We have to invest here in processing facilities, and when we come back in the coming days and weeks, we will outline, with great clarity, our plans for this beautiful region of Essequibo.”
As he continued to lay out the packed development agenda for Region Two, President Ali also spoke about the strides being made in the education and health sectors.
“The future for this region is extraordinary, not only the free university education and the GOAL scholarship and a new hospital, but we are establishing a nursing school, and we have made
- Rice stabilisation measures for farmers
-
Establishment of a nursing school
it very clear that we must have a medical school with a branch here in Essequibo, so your children can dream the best of dreams and have it realized here,” he said.
Taking aim at political opponents seeking to woo
Political heavyweight Jermaine Figueira resigns from PNCR
THE Opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has been hit with another blow; the resignation of one of its strongest members, Jermaine Figueira.
Figueira, a Member of Parliament, emailed his very brief resignation on Saturday night to the Leader of the party, Aubrey Norton, and said it took “immediate effect”.
He resigned from the ‘Central Executive and Membership’ of the PNCR, and as a Representative of the party in the National Assembly.
“With respect to the above caption, I, the undersigned, hereby tender my resignation with immediate effect,” Figueira wrote, offering no other details as to
what prompted this decision.
In the space of two weeks, the PNCR has been hit with three resignations: Amanza Walton-Desir, Natasha Singh-Lewis, and now Figueira. A son of Linden, Region 10, a PNC stronghold, Figueira fully represented the party during his time, and worked closely with the youths.
But in early 2024, he was stripped of the shadow portfolio for Culture, Youth and Sport. The PNCR has been hit with a string of resignations since Norton took over as leader. Others who have resigned include Thandi McAllister, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Daniel Seeram, and Samuel Sandy.
voters with promises, President Ali reminded citizens that the PPP/C has already delivered tangible results — including improved salaries, increased pensions, enhanced access to quality education, and a higher children’s grant, among other benefits. While highlighting only a few of his administration’s achievements, President Ali underscored that his government is focused on delivery, not rhetoric, with measures al-
ready in place that have tangibly improved the lives of citizens.
He also cautioned residents about those who are attempting to buy their votes and stomping on their dignity and Guyana’s democracy.
Although the PPP/C’s official election campaign is yet to be launched, Dr. Ali left no doubt that his party is ready to rally the nation with his detailed development plans for all Guyanese. His bold
and energetic address before the thousands of Guyanese that gathered was clear: the PPP/C is building, expanding and securing Guyana.
“We are ready to push the gears into overdrive as we confront the next five years. And if you think you have seen development, you have not seen anything yet. Wait until the next five years, and you will see what Guyana will be,” the President said.
Jermaine Figueira
President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed a mammoth crowd at the Anna Regina Car Park, Essequibo Coast, on Saturday night as he outlined major developmental plans for Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) once the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) is re-elected at the September 1 polls
President Ali unveils five-year development plan for Region Nine
By Feona Morrison
IN a stirring address at the commissioning of the St. Ignatius Practical Instruction Department on Friday last, President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined an ambitious development agenda for Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), highlighting a series of transformative investments by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government.
Speaking directly to learners, elders, professionals, and regional leaders, President Ali described Region Nine as a vital pillar in Guyana’s national growth.
“When you grow, Guyana grows. When you advance, Guyana advances,” the Head of State declared, reinforcing the PPP/C's commitment to the country’s Indigenous communities.
At the heart of the President’s message was the gov-
ernment’s deliberate push to invest in education—particularly technical and vocational training—as a means of closing opportunity gaps and empowering youths. He said that in 2019, there were no Indigenous fire service members stationed in Lethem. Today, as a result of expanded access to secondary education and targeted recruitment efforts, Dr. Ali revealed that there are 22 Amerindian fire officers.
According to him, the number of Indigenous police officers has also grown significantly from fewer than 40 in 2019 to over 370 at present, with 67 more currently in training.
“That did not happen by accident,” the President stated. “That happened because, for the first time under the PPP/C, you have a chance at secondary education.”
President Ali also revealed that 60 per cent of
the country’s current nursing intake comprises Amerindian students—a striking example, he said, of what happens when investment meets opportunity. “You're showing Guyana that once you have the opportunity, you can soar… you can be the best you can be.”
The Head of State emphasised the role of practical education in unlocking Guyana’s future potential. The St. Ignatius Practical Instruction Centre, he noted, is not just a school building—it’s a launchpad for careers in renewable energy, hospitality, engineering, and agro-processing.
“Education should not be exclusively about book knowledge,” President Ali declared. The second reason for encouraging practical education is that early exposure cultivates career passion.
With the introduction of technical instruction at the secondary level, he said, students will now graduate with both academic qualifications and marketable skills. “You
can finish your CXC in this school now, but also come out with a skill certificate at the same time.”
Highlighting future employment needs, the President said that renewable energy projects across the region would require at least 30 to 40 locally trained specialists in maintenance, engineering, and transmission.
“So, you don't have to go and find people from out of the region. That is what is linked. Those opportunities are linked to what we'll be doing here. This investment allows us to lay the foundation so students can graduate with certified skills,” he noted.
Economic Integration
Another key theme in the President’s address was economic integration. With the Linden-Lethem Road nearing completion and feasibility studies for a deep-water port in Brazil underway, Region Nine is poised to become a major trading hub connecting Guyana, northern Brazil, and
the wider Caribbean.
President Ali disclosed that his government is actively exploring the acquisition of cargo planes to transport regional produce to markets across the Caribbean.
“Already, I have a technical team looking at cargo planes — cargo and passenger planes — that will take produce out of here and Roraima, Brazil, to supply the rest of the Caribbean. So,
for that to happen, we have to build a Regional Municipal Airport at Lethem, and in the next five years, we are building a regional municipal airport so you can fly here from Lethem on international flights, and we're going to create the infrastructure around this airport.”
Dr. Ali said the government wants to co-invest to support small and Turn to page 7
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
‘Not fit to lead!’
--Azruddin’s uncles say he lacks education, knowledge & qualities to lead Guyana --accuse him of running his father’s charity like a ‘political circus’ --endorse President Ali to take the nation forward
UNITED STATES
(U.S.)-sanctioned businessman, Azruddin Mohamed’s presidential dreams took a brutal hit from his own family, as two of his uncles, Mohamed Yusuf and Mohamed Haseeb Yusuf, have publicly declared that he is not capable of leading Guyana.
The two highly respected Muslim men have since endorsed President, Dr. Irfaan Ali for a second term in office, describing him as the man capable of taking charge of Guyana’s further development.
Both men are the brothers of Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed, a well-known businessman in Guyana.
“My nephew, Azruddin Mohamed, he does not understand politics, he does not understand geo-politics, he is a political [novice]…I don’t think he has that ability, and he is not that educated…that is my main reason.
If he had those qualities, I would have been the first to endorse him, but he doesn’t have leadership qualities. So that is why I just dismiss him,” Mohamed Yusuf said in a video recording posted on Facebook on Saturday.
Mr. Yusuf did not mince his words as he called out his nephew for turning his father’s 30 years of quiet but meaningful charity into a “political circus” to fuel his own “narcissistic” ambitions.
“He hijacked his father’s charity and he is going about now and turn it into a political circus.
He is going to the people and show them that he is such a charitable man and he deserves to lead them. But this guy is not fit, and
someone at the helm who is “competent,” branding President Ali as the man for the job and he encouraged his fellow Guyanese to do the same.
In 2024, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced that it sanctioned Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, several of their companies, and a Guyanese Government official, Mae Thomas, for their roles in alleged public corruption in Guyana.
he and his sister, Hannah Mohamed, they just wake up one morning and decide to form a political party because Azruddin has some social media standing and has a lot of followers. These people are just social media freaks,” Mr Yusuf said.
He expressed his disagreement with the way in which Azruddin and his sister are campaigning, noting that his nephew is not ‘fit and proper’ to lead Guyana.
“I totally disagree with this, they do not have the ability…they are two narcissists, they only think about themselves, they do not care about the people. They are pretending they have this quality.
“Azruddin Mohamed is not fit and proper to lead this country and it is for this reason I am encouraging the people not to pay him much mind.”
Mr. Yusuf openly threw his support behind President Ali and urged Guyanese voters to reject his nephew’s political games and stay the course.
“I proudly endorse President Irfaan Ali for re-election [at] the September 1 General and Regional Elections.
“My fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters, do not gamble with your future and the future of your children and your country. Vote proudly for President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C on the 1st September 2025.”
According to Mr. Yusuf, President Ali is capable of leading Guyana, given his level of intelligence and vision for Guyana.
Meanwhile, the other brother of Nazar, Haseeb Yusuf, who is a former leader of the Guyana Islamic Trust, also openly endorsed President Ali for a second term, describing him as the only Presidential Candidate who can lead Guyana into a “new era of development.”
“I have examined most of the candidates who are vying for leadership, for the highest office of this country and I have recognised that
there is only one person, one candidate that has all of the prerequisites, to lead this country into the new era of development, the one who has the credentials, the vision, the competence, the empathy and the integrity, that goes with the office.
“I have examined all of the candidates, including my nephew, Azruddin Mohamed, and I have only seen one person that outshines all the others…I hereby endorse Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali as President for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana for a second term,” the religious leader, educator, and social activist said in a video recording posted on Facebook.
Haseeb pointed to the development that has taken place under President Ali.
“Over the past years, we have all witnessed his unprecedented commitment and relentless hard work to the advancement and transformative development of Guyana in almost every sector of our
society.
“Dr Irfaan [Ali] has distinguished himself as very capable and prominent leader of Guyana. And we have all observed that. It’s very difficult for anybody to deny his accomplishments.”
Given Guyana’s unprecedented development, the distinguished Islamic Leader said that the country needs
According to a statement from OFAC, this is related to the evasion of taxes on gold exports, noting that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms (kg) of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.
Azruddin Mohamed
Mohamed Yusuf and Mohamed Haseeb Yusuf, brothers of Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed and uncles of presidential hopeful, Azruddin Mohamed
Substance Over Spectacle
AS Guyana nears the elections on September 1, 2025, the nation faces a crucial moment that will shape its path for the next five years. The differences between the parties and individuals, in some cases, have never been more apparent, offering voters a clear choice between real development and empty promises.
One particular presidential hopeful is on a campaign tour that focuses on alleged grievances rather than real policies. Instead of laying out specific policies to tackle Guyana's issues, he has been visiting communities, spreading unfounded claims of personal persecution and injustice by the government.
Yet, he fails to provide credible evidence to back these serious claims. His approach shows a troubling trend of misinformation that has faced criticism from several sec-
tions of society. His habit of making "reckless" statements without any facts, as President Ali pointed out, reveals a leadership style focused more on stirring trouble and discord than on effective governance.
Most interesting, too, is the major opposition's ongoing failure to offer a clear policy platform just months before the election.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has noted that the APNU+AFC "has no plan, just a list of promises", with no details on how these pledges would be funded or put into action. Their campaign materials promise everything from subsidised food and rent to guarantees of household income. This echoes the same empty "Good Life for Everyone" slogan that fell flat during their administration from 2015 to 2020.
In stark contrast, the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has
consistently shown its commitment to open governance through tangible achievements. Since taking office in August 2020, the PPP/C has fulfilled over 90% of its manifesto commitments, creating over 60,000 jobs and providing house lots to over 50,000 families.
The party's ambitious infrastructure plans speak volumes about its vision for national growth, including the new Demerara River Bridge and a comprehensive road network of 140 kilometers of four-lane highways and over 400 bridges. The PPP/C's methodical approach to healthcare improvement is evident in the building of 12 new state-ofthe-art hospitals across all regions.
This reflects a level of long-term planning that the opposition has yet to match. The party's commitment to education is clear through scholarships for 50,000 individuals and
the reinstatement of the 'Because We Care' cash grant.
This shows a focus on developing human capital that goes beyond election cycles. Furthermore, the PPP/C has managed the nation's oil resources wisely through the Natural Resource Fund, while reversing over 200 taxes and fees from the previous administration.
This indicates responsible economic leadership. The government's debt-to-GDP ratio remains healthy at 24.3%, even while promoting significant infrastructure development.
This balance requires sound financial discipline and a clear vision.
Defections from Norton's party, including prominent figures like Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and several regional leaders, highlight rising dissatisfaction with the PNCR's direction. These exits, along with internal criticism, contradict Nor-
ton's claims of a "strong base" and suggest that the party is declining rather than prepared to lead. As Guyanese get ready to vote, they should consider a critical question: Do they want a government that builds bridges, both literally and metaphorically, or one that burns them with divisive language?
The choice between the PPP/C's proven record of development and the opposition's pattern of unfounded grievances is unmistakable.
The country deserves leaders who offer real solutions instead of conspiracy theories, who bring people together rather than create divisions, and who construct rather than destroy. On September 1, 2025, Guyanese have the chance to favour ongoing progress over political drama. The stakes are high for the nation’s future and democratic stability.
Equal representation for all
Dear Editor,
DR. CHEDDI Jagan sat on the third ‘step’ of the stairway leading upstairs from the modestly furnished living room of his home. His bare feet resting on the first ‘step.’ Apparently, he loved sitting there whenever we met, which occurred at least twice a month between mid-1977-78.
During this period, sugar workers were on strike, foodstuffs were scarce due to import bans, and members of questionable state-sanctioned organisations such as the House of Israel were terrorising opposition supporters at publicly held meetings. Electrical blackouts were commonplace, and Burnham was orchestrating a constitutional referendum that would enable him to retain power and continue his authoritarian dominance over the country. Under these circumstances, Dr. Jagan and I discussed various approaches to counter Burnham’s oppressive actions and policies.
Being the opposition leader at the time, Dr. Jagan had proposed the formation of a coalition government,
which Burnham rejected. As Dr. Jagan explained, Burnham’s rejection led to his conceptualisation of a National Front Government. Upon engaging me in discussions of his ideas, he asked if I could prepare a paper on the subject, part of which appeared in the Sunday’s publication of the Mirror.
In sum, as Dr. Jagan envisioned, the NFG would be a coalition government constituted of all progressive political parties. Dr. Jagan believed that such governmental formation would result in the creation of a racially mixed political structure with equal representation and distribution of power. And, with such a representative government in place, policies would be promulgated to develop all population and economic sectors, eventually resulting in the social transformation of a united Guyana in which all races become equally represented and empowered.
In our private conversations, while I supported Dr. Jagan’s premise of a National Front Government, I respectfully expressed to him my apprehension. This, I did, given
Guyana’s colonial history of divide and control whereby racial segmentation, ethnic rivalries and disharmonies were ingeniously crafted to facilitate and ensure colonisers prolonged authoritarian domination.
I also politely voiced doubts of a multiparty coalition NFG, and the structure and relations of power sharing, especially as these pertain to such factors as: (i) Leadership styles; (ii) Equitable distribution of governmental powers; (iii) Internal rivalries and rifts; (iv) Ideological differences; (v) Resolution of entrenched political partisanship based on some politicians historical political appeals to racial and ethnic indifferences; and that (vi) The stability and continuation of a multiparty coalition NFG presupposes the reelection of participating politicians which no one could guarantee.
Aware of my educational background as a social scientist, Dr. Jagan looked at me and smiled; so, I assumed. Or, perhaps, it was due to my youth and political inexperience. As to the reason he
smiled, I will never know.
Ever since my discussions with Dr. Jagan, I often wondered about the primacy of a National Front Government, but not as conceptualised by Dr. Jagan. My lingering doubts with Dr. Jagan’s conceptualisation, rest on the above stated reasons, followed by the consequential debacles of Guyana’s PNC-UF, and APNU-AFC coalition governments. I firmly believe that a National Front Government can be constituted by a singular political party whose (a) representatives reflect the structure and relations of the Guyanese society, with (b) a shared dedication and commitment to the development of the country and the socio-economic upliftment of all citizens.
Today, Guyanese can objectively observe for themselves that the current PPPC administration exemplifies the essence of a National Front Government. President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, along with the political and racial composition of government
ministers, administrators, and ambassadors, all confirm with the hallmarks of a formidable and unique National Front Government.
The PPPC’s promulgation and articulation of developmental policies cater to the well-being and advancement of all Guyanese, irrespective of race, ethnicity, or traditional political loyalties. Moreover, President Ali, Vice President Jagdeo, and Prime Minister Mark Phillips have all demonstrated their unyielding commitment to the achievement of a One Guyanese unity.
This, they regularly demonstrate by their community outreach campaigns, addressing local concerns brought to their attention, and instituting infrastructural changes to improve health, education, safety, and welfare of citizens in every sector of the country.
It would be disingenuous to overlook, or underplay that Guyana is a racially segmented society, one designed by Colonials who implemented policies that fostered enduring racial and ethnic disharmonies, rivalries, and
distrusts between Africans and Indians. And, as the Guyanese reality attests, while Indians and African happen to reside in close proximity to one another, their social-cultural worlds, and modes of existence, remained relatively autonomous.
However, since 2020, with the coming to power of the PPPC, a true National Front Government began to reveal itself in its equal representation of all, and in orchestrating the continuous erosion of racial and ethnic separatism that has augmented the production of a One Guyanese unity.
The totality of such unity does not evince overnight, or in a few years, but gradually emerges from the avowed commitment and dedication of a racially and ethnically diverse cadre of policy makers which the PPPC already exemplifies. In such PPPC’s accomplishments, Dr. Jagan’s dreams of a Guyanese unity increasingly manifest itself daily in plain sight.
Regards,
Narayan Persaud, PhD Professor Emeritus
When I was serving my country, Campbell was making money
TERRENCE Campbell, the man the AFC proposed to be the consensus candidate if there was a PNC-AFC coalition for the 2025 election, said publicly that if approved, he would have accepted the offer. This meant Campbell wanted to be President of Guyana.
Campbell also made another public announcement. He reminded the nation that he has been a successful businessman for 40 years. When you consider that Campbell is in his early sixties, it means Campbell spent the greater part of his life making money. Then there are two public cynical outputs from Campbell, laughing at the fact that I did not complete my doctorate.
I will now explain to Campbell why I did not complete my PhD at the University of Toronto and in so doing I will compare my life with that of Campbell’s and let the Guyanese nation in and out of the land decide if between Campbell and I who is more a Caribbean man and a Guyanese nationalist.
After completing the compulsory two years of doctoral preparation with the achievement of certification, I now had to submit my thesis, which was almost complete. But I got an offer of a lifetime. The Prime Minister
of Grenada, Maurice Bishop, a former boyfriend of my sister in Barbados, agreed to my sister’s request for me to work with him.
I travelled to Grenada in 1983 and worked closely with Bishop in a very confidential way without interfacing with the rest of the Cabinet except the Foreign Minister, Unison Whiteman. This was a memorable experience I will never forget. Maurice Bishop was a unique human who, if he had lived, would have transformed the CARICOM family of nations in phenomenal ways.
Honestly, since the time of Maurice Bishop, I haven’t seen a leader across the independent CARICOM nations who matches his uniqueness, except for Irfaan Ali of Guyana. I am getting on in age, but maybe in Ali’s second term, I may work for him in the way I worked for Bishop.
The Grenada Revolution imploded, a tragedy that perhaps has set back the Caribbean by maybe a hundred years, and I returned to Guyana. Professors, Clive Thomas, Harold Lutchman and Rudy James (Rudy is deceased and will remain one of my favourite Guyanese) organised a lecture job for me at UG but President Burnham atavistically reverted to his demonic self when
President Ali unveils...
From page 4 medium-sized enterprises. He noted that the administration is currently reviewing a proposal to establish a fuel and liquefied gas farm in Lethem, which will supply northern Brazil. These, he emphasised, are the kinds of big ideas being discussed— initiatives that will generate vast opportunities for the region. As the region’s economic potential grows, President Ali warned residents not to sell their land to predatory investors. “Do not be tempted by short-sightedness. The value of your land is going to increase tremendously.”
The President credited the successes in Region Nine to the daily presence of ministers, councillors, and regional leaders, contrasting it with previous administrations. “When we came in 2019, many of you said you hadn’t seen any Cabinet Ministers for the last five years. Almost every day,
in 1979 I graduated with the President’s Medal and he prevented my employment in my own country.
Burnham died, President Hoyte lifted Burnham’s fatwa on me, and I taught for 26 years at UG until President Donald Ramotar terminated my contract. When I started teaching at UG, I got residence status in two countries, but I refused to leave UG. I could not believe what I was seeing at UG.
My students had never heard of Sigmund Freud or the Holocaust. That’s when I decided to stay in Guyana and teach philosophy to local students. I introduced them to every great philosopher since Socrates in ancient Athens. UG was in a terrible mess. No building in UG was of a modern standard. UG has no facilities that you would find in the 21st century.
When my contract was terminated in 2011, I was earning $169,000 monthly. In that time, Campbell, by his own admission, was a successful businessman. Maybe I am wrong, but what I earned for 26 years at UG, Campbell earned in one month. I wrote two Chronicle columns about
my disapproval of having to pay $960 for an ice cream cone at Campbell’s business, Burger King.
I stated with unambiguous grammar that I could not afford to buy a cone for $960. That, of course, is an amount that Campbell probably gives to the roadside mendicants each day. Let me explain this to you, Terrence—after 26 years at UG, there was simply no room to save. That’s why I can’t afford a $960 cone.
You should tell us, Terrence, how much you saved in those 40 years you said you were a successful businessman. Ravi Dev has publicly said, Terrence that you are a billionaire.
So, Terrence Campbell, that is the story of my lost doctorate. I chose to serve Grenada and Guyana while the doctorate languished. I did ask UG while I was a lecturer there to fund my travel to the University of Toronto to submit the thesis, because it was almost complete. But Vice-Chancellor James Rose said UG didn’t have that kind of money to spend on an ir-
relevant (his word, not mine) airline ticket.
I have no regrets putting Grenada and UG in front of the doctorate. I left UG knowing that thousands of students of mine now knew who Sigmund Freud is and what philosophy is all about. I still meet a few who remind
me of the philosophers I taught them.
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.
a Cabinet Minister is in a different community across this country.
In closing, President Ali reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to Region Nine’s growth.
“We are not seasonal in our love. We are not seasonal in our values. We are not seasonal in our respect. We are not seasonal in the honour we place on you. We are your servants whom you can trust. That is what the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic represents.
“Together, we will build stronger. Together, we will grow faster. Together with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, we will lead the next five years of our development. Thank you very much. God bless all of you, and I ask all of you to always remember to be thankful and grateful to God, and then to be grateful to those who lead and serve,” President Ali added.
Courtrooms aren’t campaign stops for attorneys with political aspirations
IF you were to pass by the noisy and congested corner of Avenue of the Republic and Brickdam one day last week, you might have heard a lot of loud insults coming from inside the Magistrates’ Court and wondered what in the world was going on. The most strident and bellicose voice in Magistrate Faith McGusty’s courtroom on the second floor was that of attorney Eusi Anderson. He has been defending senior GECOM officials, among others, who are ac-
cused of cooking the votes of the 2020 elections to give APNU+AFC a victory when the glaring evidence was that the PPP/C had won the elections. Although he is only one of a chorus of defence attorneys, there is no doubt that Anderson and Nigel Hughes are the ones steering the direction of the cross-examination of the first six witnesses who have taken the stand thus far.
Those witnesses have given riveting eyewitness testimony of what they saw and heard from Keith Lowen-
field, Clairmont Mingo and Roxanne Myers (by now, readers should be familiar with their names and their roles in GECOM) and political operatives with the PNCR and AFC, in the tabulation room of Ashmin’s Building in Georgetown. And so far, after hours and days of cross-examination, there has been zero attempt to challenge the evidence they’ve presented.
Defence attorneys have a range of strategies at their disposal to challenge evidence presented by prosecutors. They could choose to pursue inconsistencies in testimony, contradictory evidence, an alibi or memory loss.
Even a witness's criminal record or history of dishonesty is all fair game. But this is not what Anderson, Hughes, Darren Wade and Dr. Dexter Todd are determined to win this case on.
In simple terms, their game, and they’ve got no game really, but I am being generous, is to poke repeatedly at every witness in a desperate attempt to prove that because they support President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C it means, therefore, that they are unreliable witnesses at best, and liars, sycophants, toadies, yes-men and women, at worse. Is it working on Magistrate McGusty? Impossible for me to say at this point. She has been mostly spot-on so far, unlike her predecessor, who was assigned to this trial before personal health circumstances caused her to step aside.
But what about the substantive evidence presented in court? Anderson and Hughes are unfazed. They’ve cashed in their chips and are putting their bets on a onetrick pony. Just last week, they went after Kit Nascimento, a 93-year-old man of letters. Despite his advanced age, he was no pushover. During the 2020 elections, Nascimento was an independent observer with the Private Sector Commission, which gave him a front row seat at the Ashmin’s Building.
Nascimento testified that he objected repeatedly when the accused set aside the Statements of Poll (SOPs) in contravention of the laws and instead, invented a spreadsheet, which you might have heard, was displayed on a bedsheet at one point. When the tabulations weren’t matching the SOPs, alarm bells could be heard ricocheting across Guyana and the blue Caribbean waters. International observers and members of the diplomatic corps began sending dispatches to Washington D.C., Ottawa, London and the capital cities of CARICOM nations. “Democracy was beginning to slip away in oil-rich Guyana.”
Nascimento was livid, and he voiced his concerns and wrote letters. He wasn’t shy about who he thought was responsible for the entire charade.
Anderson asked Nascimento whether he had compared former President David Granger to Idi Amin,
a question that holds no relevance to his testimony. The magistrate warned Anderson repeatedly to refrain from bringing up former President Granger, who had filed a lawsuit against Nascimento, a matter still before the courts.
“No,” Nascimento replied, though he did criticise Granger’s security arrangements at the time, calling them reminiscent of authoritarian regimes. Had he ever written similarly about President Irfaan Ali or Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo? Anderson shouted. “No,” Nascimento said. Anderson used every opportunity to mock and ridicule Nascimento. There was something cruel about the exchanges, and Magistrate McGusty tried several times to wrestle back control of her courtroom from Anderson, with little to no luck.
Nascimento was asked for his legal opinion of the Granger government following the December 2018 no-confidence vote. He responded, “I am not a legal expert.” Anderson asked him for his opinion as to whether the Granger’s administration was “squatting in office” when it refused to immediately call for an election.
Nascimento asked him to define what he meant by “squatting.”
Back and forth it went between Anderson and Nascimento, and whenever Nascimento would exhaust Anderson, Hughes would chime in to bail him out. It was a tag team wrestling match in the courtroom. How could Nascimento be impartial and tell the truth if he were an agent of the PPP/C? Nascimento’s response: “That is totally offensive and insulting.” Courtrooms aren’t supposed to be campaign stops for attorneys with political aspirations. Courtrooms exist to dispense justice, not allow lawyers to indulge in theatrics. Magistrate McGusty might do well to haul the young, brash Anderson and the presidential aspirant, Hughes, into her chamber and inform them that she will not tolerate them using her courtroom to campaign for their political party.
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.
Spotlight
FORMER British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher said in the late 1980s that “one of the great problems of our age is that we are governed by people who care more about feelings than they do about thoughts and ideas”.
She said people did not prioritise the values of thinkers who had bold visions, plans or ideas. Thatcher seemed to suggest that they were only concerned about what they were faced with in the present and not listening or thinking about the future. They only cared about how they were “feeling” in the moment.
She urged the people of Britain to look to leaders who had ideas and plans, and undoubtedly a clear vision about the future. She did not discount the value of their feelings, but urged them to become intrigued by the minds and thoughts of others who are running for office. They must, she said, always listen attentively to what they say and do, as this was critical to making up their minds about who should lead the country, and who had the better vision.
Thatcher was right then, and her advice is still relevant today. As the September 1 polls are approaching, the public needs to hear the ideas, plans and policies that are being proposed by every political party vying to replace the ruling People’s Progressive Party. They need
to sound their voices and plans to stimulate debates and conversations in the public domain. This will, in turn, create interest in politics and public policy, because people will feel the need to ensure that their candidates are successful at the polls. The public would identify with the policy positions of the candidates that they trust and believe.
When politicians speak, the public does not want to hear their promises alone. The public deserves to hear the politician’s assessment of the country's past and present. They want to hear what the political parties would do differently if they were given the chance to lead this country. They must have a plan for the future. The public loathes politicians who only complain and cannot say, in absolute terms, how they would change the situation for the better.
Too many politicians get away with playing with the goodwill and trust of the public. Too many politicians believe that their appearance is all that matters, and they could toy with the fragile emotions of the people. No. Guyanese must begin to show the politicians that they are listening to their plans when the politicians come to share their vision of the future. They must take a politician’s money and other donations, but must only be interested in what the politicians say, and do. They must
consider the politician's track record or background. They must know what is the modus operandi. T
hey must ask the right and difficult interrogative questions. They must not let the politicians talk crap, and lie. The public must be armed with the facts about development and the challenges they are facing.
This brings Azruddin Mohamed into the spotlight. For months, he has been meeting with people, seemingly out of concern about their varying situations. He has been paired up with known and discarded people from both PPP and the opposition groups. He has finally declared his candidacy in the upcoming elections.
Mr. Mohamed is yet to avail himself to have an unscripted interview and press conference with the media about his plans and vision for Guyana. He is yet to answer tough questions about his checkered past. He is yet to provide insight into how he came to be sanctioned by the United States Government, and the public does not want to hear it is the government’s fault, because they know it is not true.
The public wants to know these things, and he must come out of his comfort zone and camp to answer. For instance, Mr. Mohamed is yet to publicly state who is the man or woman behind his campaign. If they are not ghosts, who are the faces
that are bold enough to stand by the millionaire’s side in public? What are the policies and plans, and manifesto promises he will unveil to the public? Can Mr. Mohamed say who his running mate is for the polls? What is his preoccupation with the PPP/C?
Mr. Mohamed must get serious, or at least try to be. He must hold a press conference like Bharrat Jagdeo, Aubrey Norton, Nigel Hughes, Amanza Walton-Desir; he must face the fire. Dressing up in fancy and designer clothes and shaking people’s hands is only part of being presidential. The other part is being transparent and accountable for what is said to the public when the media
is not looking. It would appear that Mr. Mohamed has a whole whisper campaign with lies and misrepresentations against the PPP/C.
The media, strangely, is allowing this to fly and is coy about calling it out. They are not fact-checking the things he says to the groups he meets on the ground. This shady and questionable practice ought to catch the attention of the media and gatekeeping society.
Finally, all politicians running for the presidency must be more transparent, accountable, and open with the public. They must share their blueprint for Guyana’s future, and speak boldly about the past and present.
They must hold their party meetings in public, where everyone could see and hear them speak, so the public debate could begin on whose vision resonates with the public.
These leaders must tackle the difficult issues and questions from the media and social groups. If they are serious, they would not hide from the spotlight. They would embrace it.
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.
Jobs in the oil and gas industry and how Guyanese can tap in
GUYANA’S rapidly expanding oil and gas sector continues to create significant employment opportunities across a range of fields. With over 6,500 Guyanese already directly employed in the industry, the sector is proving to be a major driver of local workforce development. Multinational company Baker Hughes has reported that 55 per cent of its local workforce is Guyanese, signalling a strong and growing local presence within this global industry.
The industry is like a well-oiled machine. It requires a diverse range of people to keep things running smoothly. Think offshore and onshore technicians, welders, mechanics, safety officers, and even office-based roles in human resources, finance, logistics, and communications.
The industry also requires cooks, cleaners, drivers, domestic workers, and accommodation providers. It’s an all-hands-on-deck
opportunity, and that deck has plenty of room for more Guyanese. With the sector being interconnected with nearly every major service industry, it requires collaboration and support from a broad base of the local economy.
To meet growing workforce demand for skilled professionals in the sector, local institutions continue to expand and strengthen their training and certification offerings.
The Government Technical Institute (GTI) and Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC) provide technical and vocational programmes in areas such as Electrical Installation, Welding and Fabrication, and Mechanical Engineering. These practical, skills-based programmes equip individuals with the competencies required to enter the industry as technicians and support personnel, who play a critical role alongside engineers in maintaining and operating energy infrastructure.
The University of Guyana (UG) also offers a wide range of academic qualifications that align with the sector's needs.
These include degrees in Petroleum Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Geological Engineering.
Additionally, UG offers a Master of Science in Oil and Gas and Renewable Energy, providing advanced knowledge for those seeking leadership and specialist roles in the industry. These certifications and degrees are directly linked to employment opportunities within oil and gas companies, which continue to see a growing demand for engineers and technically trained professionals to support both onshore and offshore operations.
One of the critical certifications for offshore employment is the Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET). The BOSIET training, equipped with hands-on
learning facilities, including welding shops, lifting and rigging stations, technology suites, and 14-foot-deep survival pools, has enabled practical, skills-based learning that prepares individuals for real-world oil and gas environments. These efforts are helping to build national capacity and support Guyana’s goal of becoming increasingly self-reliant in providing skilled labour to the sector.
The sector has also made room for students and early-career professionals. Companies operating locally have introduced internship and apprenticeship programmes designed to build early exposure and develop technical expertise. ExxonMobil Guyana, for example, has supported student engagement through internship programmes, which are transitioning into permanent jobs. In addition, SBM Offshore Guyana recently launched an Education Support Programme, targeting women in Science, Technol-
Difficult adolescence
THE group which is perhaps most guilty of the raucous behaviour, indecent language and violent altercations we see on our streets are the adolescents. This is what many refer to as the 'touchy' period in a child's life. It is also a time when parents are at a loss to know how to connect with their offspring, who may seem difficult, moody, antisocial, or distant.
In this country, where parents either show little tolerance for young people at this stage of their lives or pay scant attention to them, the problems loom large. Neither of these approaches is effective.
Resorting to physical force, particularly when it is excessive, only exacerbates the problem. It may also
have no real effect, as I have heard children say, 'licks does bun an cool'.
On the other hand, allowing a child ' free rein' with little or no parental monitoring can lead to the kind of mayhem we sometimes witness on our streets.
Then you hear comments like: "Dey runnin wile", “Nobody cyaan control dem", “I doan know since when young people behavin suh!".
The experts tell us, "Adolescence is the period of transition between childhood and adulthood." Some say this period begins as early as age 10 and ends at age 19, but all agree that it can extend even longer, as the process may vary from person to person. It involves physical as well as emotional and social change, caused
by the release of certain hormones. During physical change, the sexual organs mature, and growth spurts may occur. There may also be an increase in body hair, stronger body odour, and a flare-up of acne.
Psychologically, a child "begins to observe, measure and manage their emotions." Children also become more independent, more self-aware and more aware of the feelings of others. They are also developing socially, which particularly involves the search for identity.
During this period of upheaval in their lives, children tend to be more impulsive and more susceptible to peer pressure and the influence of social media, such as cyberbullying. It is at this stage, too, that they
may display what is termed "teenage rebellion" - engaging in acts that " can be of concern to adults."
So, in a sense, young people have always been 'behavin suh', because this is all a part of puberty and adolescence.
However, it seems that in this country, and indeed worldwide, adolescent issues are becoming more problematic, with children 'acting out' in ways not seen in an earlier age and parents often in denial of their child's behaviour. In Guyana, we hear comments like, "Is not me chile", "Me chile would never do duh."
The reasons for this upsurge in anti-social action are many and varied, as the world becomes more complex with the advent of social media, which exerts
ogy, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) who pursue or plan on pursuing studies at UG, GTI, or the GITC. These initiatives reflect the sector’s commitment to inclusive workforce development.
Additionally, several platforms have been established to facilitate access to jobs and procurement opportunities within the industry. The Local Content Secretariat, which oversees compliance and access, offers a registration system for individuals and businesses seeking involvement in the sector.
The Local Content App provides real-time updates on job vacancies, training opportunities, and procurement notices, helping users stay informed and responsive to industry needs.
The Centre for Local Business Development plays a key role in supporting local engagement. Its website and Facebook page regularly post job listings, training sessions, and procurement opportunities, while also
offering capacity-building programmes aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of local enterprises. Further information on job opportunities is also available via local newspapers, company websites, and social media platforms.
Guyana’s oil and gas sector represents a critical engine for national development. As more Guyanese become trained, certified, and integrated into the sector, the benefits of this transformation will continue to be widely shared.
Continued investment in education, vocational training, and awareness will be essential to ensure that the local workforce remains at the centre of this rapidly evolving industry.
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.
greater influence, along with movies and television programmes. In this changing climate, parental guidance is even more important and centres around adequate and meaningful communication, not physical force or minimal monitoring.
As the Cleveland Clinic in the US states, "Instead of having a 'helicopter parent' who swoops in and saves the day, or a 'snowplough parent' who moves all challenges out of their child's way, adolescents benefit
most from a parent who's a 'lighthouse'.
This kind of parent keeps their child in bounds whenever it's a matter of safety or ethics, while allowing them to explore their own decision-making."
So, parents, take note, the responsibility for guiding children through this difficult period rests with you. There is no perfect solution to all your adolescent's problems, but you can take definite steps in the right direction.
‘Tech. Park’ on the horizon as VP Jagdeo
outlines plans for a digital-driven economy
IN the next five years, Guyana will be transformed into an advanced digital economy with data centres and innovation hubs. The government services will be integrated into a digital platform.
This will allow Guyanese, including those in the hinterland and remote areas, to access important government services at their fingertips. Not only will it address bureaucracy, but it will also create an enabling, convenient service access for citizens. The country’s Vice President and General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said these are well-mappedout strategies.
“We don’t farm out to an individual to generate our plan, or it’s not AI-generated plans for the future,” he told reporters at Freedom House in Georgetown on Thursday last.
Harnessing cheap electricity from the 300 megawatt (MW) Gas-to-Energy plant in Wales, Dr Jagdeo said the government aims to create an Innovation Village that would host a range of tech
Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
sectors like FinTech, AI, and software development. He recalled that during his presidency, talks were initiated with India to establish a tech park.
“At that time, AI wasn’t such a big thing, but now we may be able to advance the concept of the Tech Park into an innovation village, where the government invests in basic infrastructure like we are doing. Like we’re spending now $6 billion at Foulis on the East Coast Demerara to build the roads and the park…for manufacturing and
other things. We can easily do that for tech services,” he highlighted.
According to him, once this village is established, foreign and local companies could train Guyanese workers to support the digital transformation efforts. He stressed, “That’s going to be in our manifesto too. I didn’t see the others talking about it, but we are putting that in our manifesto. That’s a major thing for those who want to go into the advanced technology sector.”
Notably, the vice presi-
banks to adopt modern tools that provide easy access to financing, reduce in-person visits, and streamline banking. “Just imagine people from the hinterland or anyone on the coast, you don’t have to go into banks and all of that. It’s something that I am anxiously waiting for us to roll out. We have been planning for it,” he said.
dent said, he is eager for the rollout of mobile banking and simplified financial services, especially in rural and hinterland communities. The Central Bank-led reforms will encourage commercial
Steps are already being taken to support paperless airports, with immigration forms now available to travellers. The government is also aiming to establish world-class scanners at all ports of entry, as part of its digitisation of immigration services.
Importantly, it will provide enhanced support for the army and police to safeguard natural resources and territorial integrity. AI will also play a critical role in transforming social services, as online platforms will enable personalised education for students and enhance modern healthcare delivery.
The vice president underscored that, “we are not looking at the society of the future in a static way.” (DPI)
There will also be surveillance and facial recognition in policing and online government services (e.g., police records, birth certificates). In the area of National Security and Sovereignty Protection, he mentioned that the government will invest heavily in tech-enabled security, including drone technology to patrol borders, maritime zones, and real-time surveillance for illegal mining, logging, drug trafficking, and fishing.
Minister Bharrat distributes hampers, engines to flood-hit miners
MINISTER of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, recently traversed the riverine mining communities of Middle Mazaruni in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) where he spearheaded the distribution of food hampers, cleaning supplies, engines, and other equipment to miners and residents impacted by persistent heavy rainfall.
The outreach initiative was aimed at providing immediate relief to affected communities, while also strengthening smallscale mining operations through the provision of critical equipment.
One of the first stops on the minister’s route was Tamakay Landing, where miners and residents gathered to receive food hampers and cleaning supplies. The assistance is part of the government’s continued response to communities grappling with flooding and related challenges caused by the ongoing rainy season.
Minister Bharrat was accompanied by the Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Mr. Newell Dennison; senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and its agencies; Mr. Brian Tiwarie of the BK Group of Companies; Member of Parliament Mr. Alistair Charlie; and Mayor of Bartica, Mr. Anthony Murray.
Following the stop at Tamakay, the minister and his team
visited Papishow and Martin Landing, also in Region Seven. Similar to other locations, the focus was on distributing essential items to miners and residents whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the flooding. The team engaged directly with affected individuals to better understand the challenges they face and to ensure their concerns are integrated into the ministry’s ongoing support strategy for the mining sector.
Continuing along the river, the next stop was Issano Landing, where relief efforts extended to residents of both Issano and Tassawene Villages. Dozens of hampers and cleaning kits were handed out to help offset the rising cost of supplies and the difficulties posed by flooding in these remote areas.
Throughout the exercise, Minister Bharrat reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing consistent support to stakeholders in the natural resources sector, particularly those working in challenging environments. In addition to emergency relief, the ministry, in collaboration with the Small Miners Association (SMA), is also working to empower small miners through the distribution of engines, solar units, and other essential items.
In the village of Karrau, Minister Bharrat officially handed over a number of these items to local miners. This intervention is expected to significantly improve operational efficiency, support
Minister Bharrat handed over relief supplies to residents of Issano Landing and Tassawene Villages
During an engine distribution exercise in Karrau, Region 7, on Saturday, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram
increased gold production, and enhance overall economic output from the area. David Daniels of the Small Miners Association was present during the handover, alongside the minister and his team, who reiterated that the initiative was part of a wider effort to support sustainable mining practices across the hinterland.
The final leg of the day's outreach saw the team in Batavia, where additional engines, solar units, and tools were distributed to small miners.
The gesture was welcomed by residents, many of whom expressed gratitude for the government’s ongoing engagement with
remote mining communities. Like in Karrau, the equipment provided is expected to strengthen mining operations and build community resilience.
The SMA, in partnership with the ministry, continues to advocate for practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by small miners.
Minister Bharrat and his delegation will continue their outreach in the coming days, as part of a wider strategy to ensure equitable access to resources, technical support, and development opportunities across Guyana’s extractive sectors.
Bharrat, interacted with the children of the community
One of the first stops on the Minister’s route was Tamakay Landing, where miners and residents gathered to receive food hampers and cleaning supplies
Pensioner dies in Le Ressouvenir accident
POLICE are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before midnight on Friday, June 27, along the Le Ressouvenir Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The incident claimed the life of 71-year-old Ramroop Sadaram, a pensioner of Lot 273 Success Housing Scheme, ECD.
The accident occurred around 11:45 p.m. and involved a motorcar, a motorcycle, and the deceased pedestrian. According to police reports, motorcar PAB 9943 was being driven by a 48-yearold businessman from Good Hope, ECD, while the motorcycle CN 8838 was being ridden by a 27-year-old construction worker from Bachelor’s Adventure, ECD.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the car was heading east along the northern driving lane when the driver reportedly heard a loud sound. He said he glanced in his wing mirror and then felt a sudden impact on both the front and rear of his vehicle.
Upon stopping, the driver observed two injured individuals lying on the road, a man later identified as Sadaram, and the motorcyclist. Emergency Medical Technicians were called to the scene and pronounced Sadaram dead. The conscious motorcyclist was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital for treatment.
The driver of the car was taken into police custody and is assisting with the ongoing investigation. A breathalyser test was administered and returned readings of 0.017% and 0.019%.
Over 27,000 residents to benefit from new water treatment plant in La Parfaite Harmonie
WITH the upcoming commissioning of a modern water treatment facility at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, access to safe and reliable water will soon become a reality for more than 27,000 residents in Region Three.
The plant will also serve residents from Lust en Rust, Recht Door Zee, Onderneeming, Westminster, Schoonord, Bagotsville, Nismes and Canal Number One.
“In one week, you will get treated water coming through your lines,” President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced on Thursday last during a community engagement at Crane along the West Coast of Demer-
The President said, “While the pressure is not what we would like it to be as yet, we are now putting in the new pump. The new well at Pouderoyen will help to ensure that the pressure continues to increase. For the first couple of days, we will have to flush the lines, then you will be able to sip your water directly from the pipe.”
Residents from other communities will also benefit from clean water as work progresses on treatment plants at Parika and Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo. Over 16,000 residents are now able to access clean water ever since the treatment plant in Wales on the West Bank of De -
merara was commissioned in March 2025.
A total of $7.6 billion has been injected into Region Three’s water sector over the last four and a half years, benefitting 89,000 residents.
During this same period, a total of nine wells have been drilled across the region. More than $65 billion has been invested in Guyana’s water sector since 2020 to increase access and quality. As a result of these interventions, 98.3 per cent of Guyanese now have access to safe water.
This reflects a pivotal step in the government’s goal of ensuring the coastland has 90 per cent treated water access by the end of 2025. (DPI)
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali attended a commissioning ceremony of the water treatment facility at Wales in March 2025
Efforts underway to relocate Ruby squatters
INFORMAL settlers at Ruby backlands, East Bank Essequibo, are being actively engaged as part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to transition them into safer, more sustainable housing through its structured relocation and resettlement programme.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, met with the households on Saturday to advance the structured relocation process.
Also present was Mr. Gladwin Charles, Director of the Community Development Department (CDD) within the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CH&PA), along with staff who assisted with the processing and verification of residents’ documentation. The ongoing engagement follows recent commitments by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
A press release from the Ministry of Housing and Water noted that approximately 54 households are occupying the reserve at Ruby backlands. The community consists mainly of Guyanese, with a small number of Venezuelan migrants. Residents were reminded that, in accordance with the national housing policy, only Guyanese citizens are eligible for CH&PA's housing programme.
“The CH&PA, through its CDD, has been working with the community for over a year to support a humane and
organised relocation process.
Several residents have already received pre-qualification letters for turnkey homes, and efforts are ongoing to complete the processing of the remaining households for turnkey houses or land in the coming days,” the press release stated.
“For those who have already pre-qualified, once you finalise the process with the bank, we will work to move you immediately,” Minister Croal assured the gathering, according to the release.
He further reminded residents of the illegality of squatting and emphasised that no new structures erected on the reserve would be recognised.
Residents were urged to cooperate with the housing authority and to ensure that their documents are in order.
Sharing similar sentiments, Minister Indar cautioned against further construction and occupation by persons not presently on the reserve.
“Do not continue to build and do not continue to occupy the reserve,” he stated. “If you continue to build, it will complicate this entire process.”
“The Ministry of Housing and Water remains committed to providing sustainable housing solutions and improving the quality of life for families transitioning from informal settlements to structured communities equipped with essential infrastructure and public utilities,” the release concluded.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, met with the squatters on Saturday
Fisherman charged with 2016 murder of Albion man after nearly a decade on the run
AFTER some nine years on the run, 28-year-old Dave Ramnauth, also known as “Shandy”, has been charged with the murder of Albion, Corentyne resident Surendra Nauth.
Ramnauth, a fisherman of Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, Corentyne, was arrested on June 22, 2025, and formally charged on June 26, 2025.
The charge relates to the fatal stabbing of 29-yearold Nauth, which occurred between January 16 and 17, 2016, during a violent altercation at Williamsburg, Corentyne.
The accused appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on June 26, 2025, where he was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge of murder. He was subsequently remanded to prison.
The matter has been adjourned to July 15, 2025, and is expected to continue at the Albion Magistrate’s
Court for the presentation of reports and statements.
The incident that led to 29-year-old Nauth’s death took place shortly after midnight, and stemmed from a dispute over a slashed tyre.
Nauth and his brother-inlaw, Totaram Bhola, 25, had reportedly confronted Ramnauth, whom they suspected had damaged their vehicle.
According to police reports at the time, the con-
Lima Sands man found dead after night of drinking --friend in custody
POLICE in Region Two (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) are investigating the murder of 46-yearold Gary Melville, a labourer of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, who was found dead early Saturday morning.
A 23-year-old farmer, also of Lima Sands and known to be a friend of the deceased, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The fatal incident reportedly took place sometime between 21:00 hrs on Friday, June 27, and 05:30hrs on Saturday, June 28.
According to the police, the two men were seen drinking together at a local shop in Lima Sands on Friday night. A female shopkeeper told investigators that both men had been consuming alcohol; Melville was drinking 592 beers, while the suspect drank from a bottle of High Wine. She said the two were seated at the same table when an altercation broke out after the suspect accused Melville of burning him with a cigarette.
A scuffle ensued, during which the suspect was seen bleeding from the head,
frontation escalated into violence when the suspect allegedly attacked the two men with a knife.
Nauth sustained a fatal stab wound to his abdomen, while Bhola was injured in the forehead. Both men
while Melville fell to the ground. Another woman at the shop intervened and separated the men. Melville reportedly walked away heading north on foot, and about ten minutes later, the suspect left in the same direction on his motorcycle.
At around 05:30hrs on Saturday, a 48-year-old woman from the area discovered Melville's motionless body on the eastern side of the Lima Sands Public Road. She raised an alarm, and police were called to the scene.
Upon arrival, investigators observed injuries to Melville’s body, including wounds to the back of both hands, his knee, feet, and face. He was taken to the Suddie Hospital, where a doctor pronounced him dead. The body has since been transferred to the Suddie Hospital Mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is pending.
Police later located the suspect, who had visible injuries to his hand, head, and knee. He was arrested and taken to the Oscar Joseph District Hospital for medical attention before being returned to police custody.
were rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where Nauth later succumbed to his injuries. Bhola survived the attack, and was treated for his wounds.
At the time of the incident, Ramnauth had only
recently been released from prison after serving a sentence for wounding. He fled the scene and remained at large for nearly a decade, eluding law enforcement efforts until his recent capture.
Dave Ramnauth
Surendra Nauth
Mental Health Court critical to reducing repeat offenders — Asst. Chief Probation Officer
THE newly-launched Mental Health Court is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing recidivism (repeat offenders) by focusing on rehabilitation over punishment, according to Assistant Chief Probation and Social Services Officer (ag) Trenetta Elliot.
Speaking at last Thursday’s official launch of the court in Georgetown and Bartica, Elliot said the establishment of the specialised court “is an innovative idea which has as its primary focus the rehabilitation, rather than punishment, of individuals who appear before the court”.
She explained that the court would help enforce the legislative framework that governs how the justice system responds to mental illness. “It speaks to a commitment by our government not only to crafting and tabling legislation in Parliament, but to ensure a framework exists to advance its implemen-
tation,” she said.
The Mental Health Court aims to support individuals charged with offences who are assessed as having mental health challenges. According to Elliot, “The court seeks, through the provision of psychosocial support and other services, to create an enabling environment for persons who have been charged for an offence but who have been assessed as experiencing mental health challenges.”
Citing global statistics to underscore the need for such an intervention, she noted that “the most prevalent condition among people in prison was mental health disorders, which affected 32 per cent of the prison population,” according to the World Health Organisation’s status report on prison health in the WHO European Region.
Elliot pointed out the challenges faced by people with mental illnesses once incarcerat-
ed. “It has been noted that once incarcerated, people with serious mental illnesses are at a higher risk of victimisation and spending more time in custody compared to people without mental health illness.”
She stressed the importance of treating rather than punishing those suffering from mental disorders. Elliot also highlighted the essential role of family support in aiding recovery and preventing relapse, which, in turn, helps reduce reoffending. “Family members can provide a sense of stability, safety, and encouragement, which can help individuals facing mental health issues stay motivated in their recovery journey,” she said.
“Family support can help them to develop high self-esteem, confidence and hope, which are essential elements of mental health recovery,” she added, noting that such support can also “reduce feelings of isolation and helplessness, which in many instances are common experiences for persons diagnosed with mental illnesses”.
She explained that the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, via its Social Services Department, will collaborate closely with the multidisciplinary team of the Mental Health Court.
“The social services department will work with the multidisciplinary team of the mental health court to provide essential resources and support to persons navigating the justice system due to mental health conditions,” Elliot said. “These services help in assessment, treatment, planning and ongoing support — ultimately ensuring recovery and reducing recidivism,” she concluded.
The Mental Health Court will begin operations in Georgetown at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and in Bartica at
the Bartica Magistrate’s Court as one of the government’s newest initiatives aimed at addressing mental health through a therapeutic and rehabilitative approach.
The judiciary plans to establish similar courts in every administrative region. To raise public awareness about this initiative, a campaign will soon be launched by the judiciary.
The Mental Health Court is the judiciary’s second specialised treatment court, following the establishment of the Drug Treatment Court in 2019. Guyana’s recidivism rate of 14 per cent, calculated based on the current prison population, is significantly lower than the averages reported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for Australia, the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America, where rates exceed 25 per cent.
As of January 2024, the prison system of Guyana incarcerates 2,240 males and over 60 female inmates.
Assistant Chief Probation and Social Services Officer (ag) Trenetta Elliot
GMRSC Circuit Racing Championship round two
Early days but confidence
still high for Ryan Rahaman
WITH the time swiftly counting down to the second round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s Circuit Racing championship, battle lines are being drawn.
One such line is one of cautious confidence from current Sport Tuner group leader Ryan Rahaman.
Rahaman, who leads the class championship with his Toyota Vitz over Azas Hassan and his Toyota Levin spoke to GMR&SC Media
recently ahead of the upcoming second round.
“Rain might be a big factor in the race meet and that will add a twist to the whole standings but consistency is the main thing. Between Adrian (Fernandes), myself and Azad, we are always the three front runners and I would want to say it’s a good rivalry between us. We all go out to win, nobody goes out to get second, it’s always to win.”
Speaking about his preparation, he sounded a warning to his competitors, saying, “I’m very happy with the way the Vitz is working and they all have to look out for that little black pocket rocket in the mirror.”
He also encouraged fans
to come out to witness the event at the South Dakota Circuit on July 5&6.
“I hope the fans will come out to see this rivalry. This is a rivalry that has been going on for about three years now. I won the last championship, Azad won the year before that so it’s one of the most keenly contested groups on the programme. We have always had close racing and the fans know that.”
The second round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s Circuit Racing Championship is sponsored by GUYOIL, Tropical Shipping, ENET, Shaw Construction, XL Engineering, Prem’s Electrical.
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
CARTMEL 09:10 hrs Getaway Frankie 09:40 hrs City Derby 10:15 hrs Dickens 10:50 hrs Mighty Tom 11:30 hrs Charlie Uberalles 12:05 hrs King Of May 12:40 hrs Eksel Du Perche FFOS LAS 09:20 hrs Tenzi 09:50 hrs Tralee Girl 10:25 hrs Medway Queen 11:00 hrs Synergism 11:40 hrs Me Tarzan 12:15 hrs Beaming Light 12:50 hrs Echo Of Glory UTTOXETER 08:30 hrs Twist Of Fatecatch 09:00 hrs Coco Mademoiselle
Mandhana stars as India inflict record loss on England
SMRITI Mandhana scored a stunning century as India inflicted England’s heaviest T20 defeat by runs with a comprehensive 97-run triumph at Trent Bridge.
The opener blitzed 112 from 62 balls for her maiden T20 international hundred as India posted 210-5 on a flat surface in the series opener.
It was the second-highest total England have conceded in the format and they had no answer to the class of Mandhana, who struck 15 fours and three sixes in a remarkable innings.
The 28-year-old left-hander put England under pressure from the off and, with number three Harleen Deol contributing a rapid 43 from 23 balls, helped India post their second-highest T20I total.
First T20, Trent Bridge
India 210-5 (20 overs): Mandhana 112 (62), Deol 43 (23); Bell 3-27
England 113 all out (14.5 overs): Sciver-Brunt 66 (42); Charani 4-12
India won by 97 runs
It was a stark reminder of the work England still have to do following the encouraging T20 and one-day international series sweeps of the West Indies to kickoff the new era under coach Charlotte Edwards.
That feeling was only amplified as the home side lost four wickets in the first seven overs of the chase, captain Nat Sciver-Brunt providing the only re-
‘Brilliant innings’ -Smriti Mandhana makes superb century off 51 balls
sistance.
The game was long gone by the time Sciver-Brunt was eventually dismissed for 66 off 42 balls as England slumped to 113 all out with India left-arm spinner Shree Charani taking 4-12 on debut.
A five-match series gives England plenty of time to try and put things right but there is plenty to be addressed before Tuesday’s second T20 at Bristol.
England’s heaviest T20I defeats by runs
97 runs v India, Nottingham, 2025
93 runs v Australia, Chelmsford 2019
72 runs v Australia, Adelaide 2025
57 runs v Australia, Brabourne 2018
57 runs v Australia, Sydney 2025
It was clear Mandhana was in the mood from the moment she effortlessly sent her first ball back down the ground for four.
She had added two more boundaries before top-edging a pull shot off Em Arlott in the second over.
The ball looped into the leg side but landed safely as Alice Capsey misjudged it, took her eye off the ball assuming it was going well over her head, only for it to drop just past her left shoulder onto the turf.
By the next time Mandhana offered England a chance, she had reached three figures.
After a productive powerplay, the
India star then welcomed Sophie Ecclestone back to international cricket by slog-sweeping the left-arm spinner’s first ball into the stands for six.
Another followed three balls later as 19 came from the over and while Ecclestone eventually dismissed Mandhana in the last over of the innings, there was no suggestion of the England bowler - who finished with figures of 1-43 from three overs - having the last laugh.
In between, Mandhana continued to play a knock of the very highest order. Her strike-rate was 180 but there was no slogging, just a succession of classical cricket shots executed to near-perfection.
Sumptuous drives both down the ground and through the covers, masterful sweeps and some crunching pull shots - whatever England threw at her, Mandhana had the answer.
A false shot percentage of only 10 per cent does not necessarily mean the other 90 per cent came slap bang out of the middle of the bat but it felt that way as ball after ball raced towards the boundary. It came as something of a shock when she was caught with four balls left in the innings, having scored a run fewer than England’s XI managed combined, but the damage had been done.
Just one game into the series and the world’s leading batter has made her mark. (BBC Sport)
Several changes made to ICC Playing Conditions
A MOVE back to one ball per innings in the last 16 overs in a One Day International, a new ruling pertaining to boundary catches and the use of stop clocks introduced in Test matches headline a range of changes in the updated ICC (International Cricket Council) Playing Conditions.
The new playing conditions also include changes to concussion replacement processes, the DRS wicket zone and deliberate short runs.
The changes were recommended by the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, headed by Sourav Ganguly and including playing participation in over 2000 international matches across its members.
PLAYING CONDITIONS CHANGES STOP CLOCK
After a successful introduction in whiteball cricket, Test cricket will also see a stop clock, with the bowling team needing to be ready to bowl the first ball of their next over within 60 seconds of the previous over being completed.
Failure to do so for the third time in an innings (following two warnings) will result in a five-run penalty imposed against the fielding team on each occasion.
Two warning sanctions will be reset to
zero after 80 overs have passed, in line with a new ball becoming available, and again after any future blocks of 80 overs in that innings.
Number of balls per ODI innings
Two new balls will be used for the first 34 overs of an ODI innings, after which the fielding team will choose one of the balls for the remaining overs.
BOUNDARY CATCHES
Changes to the playing conditions now require a fielder who makes airborne contact with the ball beyond the boundary to then land and remain inside the boundary.
A fielder, after making their first contact with the ball subsequently leaves the field of play, can only make contact with the ball once more while airborne beyond the boundary. Having done so, they must land and remain wholly within the boundary. This applies even if another player completes the fielding. This change will be implemented in international cricket before it is included in the MCC Laws of Cricket next year.
DELIBERATE
SHORT RUNS
Adding to the present five-run penalty for a deliberate short run, the fielding team will also choose which of the two batters takes strike for the next delivery.
DRS wicket zone
The wicket zone will now be the actual outline of the stumps and bails.
CONCUSSION PROTOCOLS
There are two changes to the concussion protocols.
Teams will now be required to nominate their designated concussion replacements for the match. This curbs the advantage previously held by home teams, who have typically been able to choose from a larger pool of potential replacements.
A player diagnosed with a concussion during a match must observe a minimum stand-down period of a minimum of seven days before returning to play. This change has been recommended by the ICC Medical Advisory Committee to support players’ safety and well-being.
Further playing conditions to be trialled by Full Members.
From October 2025 and for an initial sixmonth period, there are additional changes. Replacement players (domestic first-class cricket)
A player who suffers a serious injury on the field of play at any time after the match has started (including any pre-match warm-up period) may be replaced for the remainder of the match by a fully participating like-for-like player.
Wide Ball Trial (ODI and T20I cricket)
In an effort to provide leniency for a bowler who sees the batter moving around prior or during a delivery, a new wide ball rule will be trialled.
As part of the changes, the position of the batter’s legs at the point of delivery will now be used as the reference point for a wide, even if the batter subsequently moves across to the off side.
The trial will see a ball that passes the popping crease between the leg stump and the protected area marker not being called a Wide. To help with this, the protected area marker line will be extended to the popping crease and act as a guide for the umpires.
Any leg side delivery that passes behind the batter’s legs and outside of the line at the time the ball reaches the popping crease may still be called a Wide.
Previously, a wide had been called for a delivery that would not have been called wide if the batter had retained their normal batting position.
Starting dates for new international playing conditions
The new playing conditions commenced with the first match of the new World Test Championship on the 17 June, played between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Jayasuriya five-fer
helps SL clinch series
SRI Lanka completed a dominant victory over Bangladesh in the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club, winning by an innings and 78 runs to wrap up the two-match series 1-0.
The hosts needed just 33 balls on the fourth morning to take the final four Bangladesh wickets and put the finishing touches on a convincing win.
Having conceded a daunting 211-run lead, Bangladesh folded for 133 in their second innings, with Prabath Jayasuriya leading the way once again. The left-arm spinner picked up 5 for 56 to register his sixth five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He removed three batters on the final morning, including the stubborn Litton Das who fell to an outside edge.
Tharindu Ratnayake claimed the final wicket by trapping Ebadot Hossain lbw. The debutant Sonal Dinusha also impressed earlier in the match with a vital contribution on debut, while Asitha Fernando’s incisive first-innings burst had helped set the tone.
The foundation of Sri Lanka’s win was however laid by their batters. After bowling Bangladesh out for 247 on Day 1, the home side responded strongly. Pathum Nissanka led the way with a sparkling 158 while Dinesh Chandimal (93) and Kusal Mendis (84) ensured the lead swelled beyond 200.
From there, it was a matter of time. Bangladesh never looked in control in their second innings, and after a flurry of wickets on Day 3, the end came swiftly on the fourth morning. Litton’s dismissal triggered the final collapse, with Nayeem Hasan falling to a smart stumping, Taijul Islam chipping one back to Jayasuriya and Ebadot’s review against a plumb lbw doing little to delay the inevitable.
Hetmyer leads Orcas to first MLC win in epic chase against MI New York
SHIMRON Hetmyer was all heart and hammer, as he dragged a bruised Seattle Orcas to their first win of the Major League Cricket (MLC) season with a sensational unbeaten 97 off 40 balls, which sealed a dramatic three-wicket victory over MI New York with a six off the final ball at Grand Prairie Stadium on Friday night.
It was a clash for the ages, one that had towering sixes, momentum swings, and a healthy dose of Caribbean brilliance. But at the centre of it all was Hetmyer, who hobbled between the wickets as he refused to give in.
With the Orcas chasing 238, the highest target of the tournament so far, the left-hander walked in with the scoreboard reading 107-4 in the eighth over and a mountain ahead. What followed was a calculated assault—five fours and nine sixes, the last of which soared over midwicket as Hetmyer celebrated.
Earlier, MI New York looked untouchable after a brutal exhibition of power hitting from captain Nicholas Pooran and Tajinder Singh. The pair added 158 runs in just over 11 overs, as Pooran smashed 108 not out off 60 and Tajinder blazing a stunning 95 off 35, both littered with boundaries—15 fours and 16 sixes between them.
Their onslaught lifted MI New York to 237-4, a total that seemed well beyond reach for a struggling Orcas unit that had lost five straight
games. Gerald Coetzee (2-46) and Kyle Mayers (2-34) were the pick of the Orcas bowlers.
The chase began shakily for the Orcas, who lost both openers inside four overs. But Kyle Mayers, with 37 off 20, and captain Sikandar Raza, with a nine-ball 30, reignited belief with a 53-run blitz in under three overs.
Even so, at 138-5, the game appeared to tilt back in MI’s favour. That is when Hetmyer decided to write his own script. He absorbed the early pressure, then turned the final five overs into a six-hitting festival, as he launched Delano Potgieter, Kieron
Pollard, and Ehsan Adil with disdain.
Even as wickets fell around him, the Guyanese big-hitter held his nerve, as eight was required off the last two balls in a dramatic over bowled by Pollard. Hetmyer hit the penultimate ball down the ground and limped between the wickets for two, as the equation became six from the final ball, which he launched over the rope as his teammates stormed the pitch.
Trent Boult (3-31) and Potgieter (2-46) led MI New York’s bowling.
Both teams now sit on two points from six games, with net run rate becoming critical in the fight for playoff survival. (Sportsmax)
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce books Worlds spot and bids farewell to National Stadium
SHELLY-Ann Fraser-Pryce stood at the edge of the track under the bright lights of the National Stadium in Kingston, soaking in the love of a grateful nation.
After securing a third-place finish in the women’s 100m final on Friday night — her time of 10.91 enough to book a spot on Jamaica’s team to the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo — the legendary sprinter didn’t talk about medals or times. She talked about faith, purpose, and the power of dreams.
“I am really grateful to be here. I want to give God all the glory tonight because it is His promises that we stand on and what we believe in,” she said, voice steady but full of emotion.
“This evening it was just about making the team for me. It’s really about the celebration of this journey and what you guys have done for me — your support, your love, your dedication and your commitment to years of service.”
The 38-year-old, already a five-time 100m world champion and three-time Olympic gold medallist, had just secured her place on her ninth World Championships team.
But the bigger moment came afterward, when the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA), the Government of Jamaica, and thousands of fans gave her a fitting send-off at the same venue where she first competed as a little girl from Waterhouse.
“It’s not goodbye — because I will see you in Tokyo,” she said with a smile. “It has been a privilege and a real joy to represent this country.
It has been my pleasure to be in this National Stadium for one last time.
I remember the first time I ran in this stadium — I was in primary school, 1997 — and tonight, just standing here for one last time, I hope I leave a legacy of inspiration to every single girl that’s here tonight who decides to dream and decides that they want more.
The world is yours. Continue to chase your dreams and let no one take your dreams and hopes from you. God is good, all the time.”
Shortly before the grand send-off, Tina Clayton, a two-time World U20 champion, delivered a lifetime best of 10.81 to win the final, ahead of defending national champion Shericka Jackson,
who clocked 10.88.
Fraser-Pryce’s third-place finish was enough to secure her spot for Tokyo. The race, however, ended in heartbreak for 2024 Paris Olympic finalist, Tia Clayton, who suffered an injury mid-race and fell late into the race.
The crowd’s attention quickly turned to Fraser-Pryce, whose illustrious career was celebrated in an emotional on-track ceremony hosted by former sports administrator, Ian Andrews. She was presented with a custom painting by JAAA President, Garth Gayle and a giant bouquet by JAAA Director, Ian Forbes, in a gesture of gratitude for her two decades of service to Jamaica.
“Ladies and gentlemen, it has been over two
decades that this young Wolmerian has treated us with so much joy — and we love her,” Gayle declared. “We want her to know that all Jamaica loves her.”
Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange, recalling the start of Fraser-Pryce’s career, added with pride:
“She little but she Tallawah. I was there in Beijing and I could not believe. Shelly-Ann, I was sure there were the doubting Thomases...” Ian Andrews captured the national sentiment with flair:
“From 2007 and in 2008, you remember… the stone that the builder refuses became the head stone. We all remember what happened in 2008 when she came second in the Women’s 100m finals and people were saying ‘Shelly-Ann who?’ Shelly-Ann went on to win the Olympic gold in Beijing — and she has not looked back since.”
“This is a bittersweet moment for me,” he added. “Because this is the final time we will see Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce running at the championships.”
With nine World Championships appearances, seven Olympic medals, and a global legacy beyond the medals, Fraser-Pryce has long secured her place among the greatest athletes of all time
But on Friday night, standing on the track where her journey first began, she reminded everyone that greatness isn’t just about how fast you run — it’s about how deeply you inspire. (Sportsmax)
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce with Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange
Shimron Hetmyer is mobbed by his teammates following his heroics
Regal Legends ensure semi-final place with two crushing wins
By Frederick Halley in New York
AFTER suffering an unprecedented exit on the opening day of last year’s 19th edition of the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Independence Cup, Regal Legends turned their fortunes around on Friday with two crushing wins when the 2025 version of the tournament got underway in wintry like conditions.
Playing at the Seaview Park in Canarsie, Brooklyn, the Campbellville-based team registered emphatic wins over Trophy Stall Lions in their opening fixture before making light work of Tri State in the afternoon, thereby qualifying for Saturday afternoon’s semi-finals.
Led by a brilliant undefeated 117-run second wicket partnership between Lloyd Ruplall (55 not out) and former Guyana Under-19 player Troy Gobin (53 not out), Regal Legends romped to an impressive 150 for one in 16.2 overs after limiting Trophy Stall Lions to 145 for six in their allotted 20 overs.
The two came together in the third over following the dismissal of skipper Uniss Yusuf (24) and proceeded to delight the sparse crowd and supporters with Ruplall spanking
two fours and four sixes and Gobin counting seven fours in an elegant display.
Earlier, Trophy Stall Lions were indebted to Seeraj Bhimsain who hit an undefeated 31 with five fours and a six while skipper Anand Persaud (20) and Sydney Jackman (20) lend support but the top order failed to accelerate after promising starts. Roy Persaud took two for 17 while Gobin crowned a fine all-round performance with two for 30.
Electing to bat first in the afternoon game, Regal Legends were bowled out for 181 in 19 overs after they were riding high at the half way stage at 113 for one. They however lost their last nine wickets for 68 runs after Tri State had the better of the second half.
Yusuf rushed to a quick-fire 52, laced with four fours and five sixes while Gobin was again among the runs with 37 (five fours) and Rudolph Baker (27 with one four and two sixes). Asgar Khan took three for 34.
In reply, Tri State could only muster 85 all out in 17.5 overs with Sukhraj Rampaul top-scoring with 23 (two fours and a six).
12.
Meanwhile, Trophy Stall who drew a bye in the afternoon session, still had an excellent chance of qualifying for the semi-finals which were due to be played yesterday afternoon. A win in their morning fixture versus Tri State would have guaranteed them a semi-final place in the three-team group.
NYSCL Legends were also assured of a semi-final place following two wins in the other group which also comprises Parika Legends from Guyana. While no scores are available, reports indicated that Parika’s Oswald “Papa” Chandla, on his maiden tournament out of Guyana, blasted a boundary-studded 109 in Friday afternoon’s encounter versus Marine Legends.
The tournament climaxes today with all three finals set for Baisley Park, 150 Rockaway Boulevard, Queens, New York.
Sammy fined for breaching Code of Conduct against Australia
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) –West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has been fined 15 per cent of his match fee for openly criticising a match official in the recently concluded opening Test match against Australia at Kensington Oval.
Sammy was deemed to have breached Level 1 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct during the second day of the match, which Australia went on to win by 159 runs on Friday.
The sanction relates to comments made by Sammy during a media interaction at the end
Kishane
ON a night when Jamaica’s finest speed merchants squared off under the glare of the National Stadium lights, Kishane Thompson delivered a performance for the ages when he stormed to 9.75 seconds to defend his national 100m title on day two of the JAAA/Puma National Senior Championships on Friday.
With the air heavy with anticipation and a slight delay caused by Oblique Seville’s tight hamstring in warm-up, Thompson kept his composure, blasted out of the blocks, and never looked back, as he shattered his previous best of 9.77s set at last year’s edition of the championships.
The MVP Track Club standout’s blistering run not only earned him a massive personal best but also etched his name into the history books, as it also equalled the National Stadium record.
of day 2, where he criticised one of the match officials in reference to multiple incidents throughout the day’s play.
Sammy was found to have violated Article 2.7 of the Code, which pertains to “public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an international match or any player, player support personnel, match official or team participating in any international match.”
As a result, one demerit point has also been added to his disciplinary record, his first
offence in a 24-month period. Sammy admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Javagal Srinath of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, after the charge was levelled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Nitin Menon, third umpire Adrian Holdstock, and fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite.
Level 1 offences carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum of a 50 per cent match fee fine, along with one or two demerit points.
In what was arguably the deepest national 100m final in recent memory, Seville, who overcame pre-race hamstring concerns, clocked a brilliant 9.83 for second, as he backed up his determination with another burst of world-class speed to confirm his ticket to the World Championships.
Ackeem Blake, who continues to mature into a global contender, was third in 9.88, making it three Jamaican sprinters under 9.90 in one race, which represents a stunning showcase of the island’s sprinting depth. In fact, it was a repeat of last year’s top three finish.
Ryiem Forde also dipped under the 10-second barrier at 9.98, while Rohan Watson (10.04s), Kadrian Goldson (10.07s), Bouwahjgie Nkrumie (10.09s), and Bryan Levell (10.43s), who pulled up at the end, rounded out the highly competitive final. (Sportsmax)
Mahendranauth “Bobby” Parasnauth bagged three for nine from his four overs, Saheed Mohamed three for 11 and Laurie Singh two for
Toy Gobin (left) and Lloyd Ruplall
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy
Kishane Thompson blazes to victory
Pretorius becomes SA’s youngest Test centurion
LHUAN-DRE Pretorius became the youngest centurion in South Africa’s Test history as he made a brilliant 153 on debut at the age of 19 years and 93 days.
The left-handed batter made a hundred off 112 balls on day one of the first Test against Zimbabwe which helped the Proteas reach 4189 at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Pretorius eclipsed a record which had stood since December 1963 when Graeme Pollock made 120 against Australia in Sydney aged 19 years and 318 days.
The wicketkeeper-batter became the 10th youngest Test centurion of all time in a list headed by Mohammad Ashraful of Bangladesh, who was 17 years and 61 days old when he made a hundred against Sri Lanka in 2001. He is the fourth-youngest to do so on debut.
He is the youngest player to score 150 in Tests, better-
ing Javed Miandad, who was 19 years and 119 days old when he scored 163 against New Zealand in 1976.
Pretorius came to the crease with South Africa, who are playing their first match since winning the World Test Championship earlier this month, in a bit of trouble at 23-3 but signalled his intent when he hit the fourth ball he faced for six.
He brought up his century shortly before tea with a clip to square leg off Hamilton Masakadza.
Pretorius was eventually dismissed - after getting lives on 30, 54, 55 and 127 - when he pulled a short ball from Tanaka Chivanga, who took 4-83, into the hands of Masakadza at mid-on.
His knock of 153 off 160 balls included 11 fours and four sixes and was also his highest score in first-class cricket.
“It was amazing. I was quite nervous as 23-3 but
it’s been a dream come true. I don’t think it’s sunk it yet.
I’m glad today is over,” Pretorius said.
“I just love batting, fortunately it worked out for me today. It’s a real dream come true, and for my parents and
family to be here, it tops it off.”
All-rounder Corbin Bosch also brought up his
maiden Test hundred off 124 balls and will resume unbeaten on 100 on day two. (BBC Sport)
Chase rues questionable calls, poor fielding in opening Test defeat
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) –West Indies Test captain Roston Chase believes the result in the opening Test match against Australia could have been different if several contentious calls had gone in their favour and if their fielding had been much better.
The home side went down by 159 runs in the first Test at Kensington Oval on Friday after an enthralling three days of cricket.
However, speaking during a post-match press conference following the defeat, Chase, who was leading the regional side in his first game as captain, said dubious decisions against himself and Shai Hope in their first innings changed the outcome of the match.
“This game is a frustrating one for me and for the team as well, because we bowled out Australia for a relatively low score. We were very happy with that, but there were so many questionable calls in the game and none of them went our way.
“As a player you’re out there giving your all, fighting, and then nothing is going your way, it could be heartbreaking and breaking a lot of momentum,” Chase said.
He said the decisions occurred at a critical time in the match, when he and Hope were
GMRSC Circuit Racing Championship round two Early days but confidence
putting together a partnership.
“I mean you see what set batters can do on the wicket. The wicket is one that once you get in you can get runs, but the hardest part is to get in.
“Me and Shai Hope were going well and then obviously we had some questionable calls and that really set us back in terms of creating a big lead on the total that Australia set,” Chase said.
“…I think it was a big factor in the game…because me and Hope were going well and then we just had some calls that went against us and we even had a catch that went against us in the first innings when we were bowling, so you never know what the score could have been, but I don’t want to harp on it.”
Chase said he felt officials needed to be held accountable for their actions.
“On the officiating, it’s frustrating because when we as players mess up, when we get out of line we’re penalised harshly. Sometimes we’re even banned or handed a monetary fine, but the officials, nothing ever happens to them. They just have a wrong decision, or a questionable decision and life just goes on.
“You’re talking about guys’ careers. One
bad decision could make or break a guy’s career, so I just think that it should be an even playing ground in terms of when players step out of line and they’re penalised, I think that some penalty should be put in place when you have blatant decisions going against you,” the skipper said.
However, Chase also admitted that the West Indies produced a shoddy performance in the field, where they dropped no fewer than seven catches.
He said it was an area they would definitely have to improve on going forward.
“It’s not nice when bowlers are putting in all the effort and you’re not holding the
chances. There is nothing I can say to justify the guys dropping the catches.
“I mean we’ve been working hard on the slip catches, every day we try to take at least 30 to 40 catches, but practice and in the game is a big difference,” Chase admitted.
“The ball comes off the bat differently with a genuine edge than when we are practicing, but I think it’s more of a belief and you always have to have that belief when you are in the slips, because when one goes down, I think guys tend to get a bit nervous and second guess their catching ability and sometimes it can throw you off.”
Borussia Dortmund to establish Football Academy in the Caribbean
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC ) –Borussia Dortmund (BVB), one of the best football clubs in the world, is set to open a Caribbean Youth Football Academy within the next month.
The German club will officially launch the BVB International Academy – Caribbean on July 25 at the Kapok Hotel in Maraval, Trinidad.
BVB is globally recognised for its worldclass youth development system, having produced world-class players such as Marco Reus, Jude Bellingham, Mario Götze, Jadon Sancho, Youssoufa Moukoko, and Erling Haaland, with its youth system globally acclaimed for its focus on technical excellence, mental discipline and tactical intelligence.
The Academy will offer a holistic programme for young aspiring footballers, including 360-degree coaching programmes, strength and conditioning training, health and lifestyle development programmes, goal-setting strategies and team and leadership training.
In a media release, the Borussia Dortmund described the move as a “paradigm
shift”.
“The BVB International Academy – Caribbean, represents a paradigm shift in how youth football development is nurtured, blending German methodology with Caribbean talent and potential.
“The establishment of this academy will provide young Caribbean footballers with direct access to elite-level coaching methodologies using the BVB model,” it stated.
Chief executive officer of BVB International Academy – Caribbean, Andre Lawrence said the initiative would provide additional opportunities for footballers in the region.
“Our region is blessed with natural athleticism, evident in the many sporting disciplines in which we excel on the global stage.
“The Caribbean is being presented with an opportunity where an internationally proven model that nurtures promising young footballers is now available,” Lawrence said.
“It will provide young student athletes with a comprehensive development programme that prepares them for a successful career in professional football.”
West Indies Test captain Roston Chase speaking to members of the media following their 159-run defeat to Australia in the first Test at Kensington Oval