Indigenous art, local craft to be showcased at new Four Points by Sheraton Hotel – President Ali
–– construction on track for August completion
By Naomi Parris
SET for completion in August, the modern 172-room Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, which is being constructed in Houston on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), will be a hub for local talent and Indigenous craft, attracting scores of tourists.
This was revealed during a site visit by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who was informed by hotel officials that Indigenous women from Santa Aratak have been engaged to produce local craft to be showcased.
The President noted that this will be a key aspect of the design.
“This is fantastic; having that indigenous artistic identity! They [would] also have an entire section of the building dedicated to Guyanese
work, arts and culture, and of course everything Guyana,” he declared.
Once completed, the new hotel will be outfitted with a restaurant, bars, an outdoor pool, as well as 16,000-square feet of meeting space, and 25,000-square feet of retail area.
The investment, according to President Ali, will add to an already buzzing skyline of the capital city and the East Bank corridor.
“This entire area, you’re going to [see] a massive investment in the next year in a drainage system from here going all the way back to Georgetown,” he said. He noted that the government will be creating hubs to attract tourists, promoting local shops and small businesses.
There is also a key focus on building sustainable in-
frastructure to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the city.
“We’ll have all the infrastructure,” President Ali said. “We’ve done the roads, paves, and then we’ll have a concrete drainage system covering the entire city. And we’ll be creating little hubs for all the local shops, so they can be in areas that are touristic. So that is the plan over the next year. So, as we build a new city in the next five years, this city is going to be enhanced into a real botanical city with a drainage system. And, of course, doing a lot of public education and cleanliness, and keeping the city nice, neat, and clean.”
These plans, he noted, will be rolled out in the immediate future; however, there are also plans for new housing schemes, and the possibility of constructing
an arena.
These plans. he reiterated, are all aimed at breathing new life into the country’s landscape not only to attract visitors but to enhance the livelihoods and well-being of Guyanese.
Works had commenced on the hotel back in 2022, just after the four-lane Mandela-Eccles Road was opened to the public.
The new hotel is strategically located 15 minutes from the Ogle International Airport on the east-side lane of a new
road bypass between Eccles and Mandela Avenue.
The project is led by Tama Investments LLC, and has an estimated cost of US$33.3 million, which will be financed by 50 per cent Debt/Equity, including an approximate US$12 million senior loan, with a 12-year tenor from IDB Invest.
The hotel’s operator will be the EuroBuilding Hotel Group, an established hotel operator with several properties around the region.
Four Points represents an upper-midscale brand within the Marriott International umbrella, and will seek EDGE Certification highlighting many sustainability features.
Back in 2020, expressions of interest were sent out for internationally-branded hotels to be built in the country.
Since then, Guyana has welcomed new players into its market, and constructions are ongoing for a number of new hotels.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali during a tour of the soon-to-be-completed 172-room Four Points by Sheraton Hotel (Office of the President photo)
President Ali outlines comprehensive vision for Guyana’s agricultural future
- modern storage and drying facilities, integrated farming, special funding among plans
DURING an engagement with cash-crop farmers, rice farmers, sugar workers and fisherfolk, President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday emphasised that his government has a strategic and well-structured plan in place.
“In every [one] of these categories we have a clearly defined plan as to what we want to achieve,” he told the large gathering at the Albion Sports Complex, later highlighting the administration's focused approach to agriculture and related industries.
Looking toward the future, President Ali addressed the perception surrounding the rice industry, pushing back against narratives from the previous administration. He was clear in asserting that his government has never considered rice merely a private business. Rather, he encouraged Guyanese to evaluate the underlying values that guide his administration’s decisions.
He asked the public to reflect on leadership and accountability, posing the questions: “Who can you trust to do what they promised to do? Who will take responsibility?”
President Ali emphasised that despite the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, his government remains committed to confronting and resolving issues rather than avoiding them.
“We do not shy away from issues, but rather, take responsibility and address these issues,” he said.
Among the key issues the President discussed was the reduction of input costs, including the cost of fuel,
workers, fisherfolk and rice farmers at the Albion Sports Complex on Thursday
drainage, irrigation, and land preparation.
He noted a major fiscal initiative by the government, stating, “Government in the last five years has collected zero tax on fuel.”
He also laid out plans to modernise rice production through the reduction of spoilage. This would be achieved by investing in advanced drying and storage facilities, which would enable farmers to store their paddy for longer periods without the risk of infestation.
Productivity improvements are a critical part of the government’s agricultural strategy.
President Ali proposed integrating high-value crops into existing farms.
“It’s important to look at a system of integrated farms, meaning for every 10 acres, we use one acre of high, valuable commodity, thus reducing the risk and diversify.” he explained.
The President further detailed the government’s plans to co-invest in modern storage
Soldier missing after falling into Cuyuni River
THE Guyana Defence Force troops stationed at Eteringbang and Makapa on the Guyana-Venezuela Border are currently engaged in efforts to locate one of its ranks, Lance Corporal Stefon Tudor, who was part of a Riverine Patrol in the Cuyuni River, Region Seven.
Reportedly, Lance Corporal Tudor fell into the river in the vicinity of the Makapa rapids between 1400 and 1500 hours on
Thursday.
The Guyana Defence Force will spare no resources to continue its efforts, and has since communicated with the family of Lance Corporal Tudor.
The Guyana Defence Force remains committed to the operational safety of all its officers and ranks.
A Board of Inquiry has been convened to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. (GDF)
and drying facilities, increased crop yields, and provide the technology and support needed to start integrated farms.
To further support agricultural development, President Ali revealed plans to establish a Special Development Fund. This fund would allow the government to invest directly with farmers, reduce interest rates, and expand the fiscal and taxation framework to mitigate risks in the sector.
He stressed the government's commitment to transformation through innovation and infrastructure, as he pointed to the importance of expanding market access.
“How do we ensure that we build markets and create greater value for the rice that
Part of the massive gathering at the Albion Sports Complex, where President Ali and other officials discussed the future of the country’s agricultural sector
we will produce here?” he asked before pointing to market penetration and infrastructural development as critical next steps.
This includes the continuation of the opening of new lands for agriculture, increasing resources for drainage and irrigation, and supporting farmers in land preparation. One approach being considered is enabling access to agricultural machinery through farmer groups.
Addressing the needs of cash-crop farmers, President Ali highlighted the importance of distributing high-quality seeds and fertiliser.
He emphasised the need for cold-storage facilities to extend the shelf life of produce and make it viable for export,
particularly to Caribbean markets.
He also spoke of looking at new legislative support to boost local produce visibility.
“We have to bring specific legislation that mandates supermarkets operating in Guyana to carry special shelves with agricultural produce and other agro-processing produce here in Guyana,” he stated.
With these strategies, President Ali reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming agriculture into a modern, integrated, and sustainable sector that not only supports farmers, but continues to contribute significantly to national development.
Meanwhile, in a new announcement, Ali said farmers
with 30 acres and below now have the option of receiving the cash value for the fertiliser which government is distributing per acre. Additionally, farmers with half acre will receive a full bag. He noted that it was farmers from Regions Six and Two who pitched him the idea. With 3,000 cash-crop farmers in the region, President Ali stated that this is one proposal that is before the government for consideration and implementation.
He also made a commitment to look at the sustainability of the industry and create mechanisms whereby farmers will have fewer delays in receiving their payments.
Story and photos by Bebi Shafeah Oosman
President Ali and other officials at a meeting with cash-crop farmers, sugar
‘Sterile opposition has no plan’ –– Dr. Jagdeo
By Trina Williams
AS members continue to walk away from the People’s National Congress Reform/A Partnership for National Unity (PNCR/ APNU), the party continues to roll out lofty plans to the electorate, some of which have already been implemented by the current government.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo ripped into those lofty promises on Thursday at his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street.
This year’s General and Regional Elections is expected to be held on September 1, marking five years since there was an attempt to subvert the will of the electorate by opposition figures.
Branding their plans as “childish and infantile”, Dr. Jagdeo said that the opposition is out of touch with the country’s economic and financial reality.
“It is like a person sends an idea to them, and they think that they must immedi-
says, highlights copy-and-paste promises
ately convert that into policy without looking at the longterm indication for the country. They’re [Opposition] so sterile…Mr. Norton just recently promised to make UG free, when any sensible person in this country knows that university education is free now,” he said.
Ahead of the election, the PNCR has promised free tertiary education if re-elected to office.
However, the PPP government made tertiary education free from January 1, 2025.
The PNC, on its website, noted that during its first 100 days in office, there will be “no more university fees with immediate effect”.
Under this administration, tuition is free for all new and continuing Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
Further, the PPP General Secretary pointed to the dismal track record of the Opposition, noting that while in office from 2015-2020, the party placed hardships on the backs of citizens, especially workers and children,
through the implementation of hefty taxes, and the retraction of the schoolchildren’s grant.
Further, he stated that the upcoming election will be about the competition of ideas and competency.
Even in light of the recycled and copy-and-paste promises by the Opposition, Dr. Jagdeo wishes them well.
Dr. Jagdeo also highlighted how the PPP has stuck by people’s side and continues to foster development at all levels.
He said: “You will see that we’ve gone way beyond what we promised;
way beyond what we put in our Manifesto. We’re not a party of underachievers; that is why so many people are joining the People’s Progressive Party.
They see this as a party of progress, development, and a party of unity that is bringing all the people of our country together. And so, we will campaign on our record, and it gives a phenomenal record of transformation.”
HAEMORRHAGING
Since PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton has taken the reigns, the party contin-
ues to haemorrhage, with members leaving almost every day.
James Bond, who has been a key figure in the PNCR, has thrown his support behind President Dr. Irfaan Ali, signalling backing him for a second term.
The late Amna Ally, former General Secretary, had also walked away after exposing numerous instabilities within the party.
After more than 54 years of service to the party, Ally resigned.
Earlier this week, Chairman of Region Four and PNCR member, Daniel Seeram announced, via Face-
book, that he was throwing his support behind President Ali and Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo ahead of the upcoming General and Regional Elections. Meanwhile, during his press conference, Dr. Jagdeo noted that many opposition members have been calling Freedom House and meeting him, expressing total dissatisfaction with the leadership in both the PNCR and the Alliance For Change (AFC).
These very members believe that the opposition cannot even manage their own internal affairs, much less an entire country.
‘Release the evidence’ ––
Dr. Jagdeo challenges
EMBATTLED United States-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed’s credibility continues to erode, with him now facing pressure to substantiate the ‘wild’ allegations he has made against President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday, during his weekly press conference at the party’s headquarters, Freedom House, called on the embattled businessman to present the evidence he has linking President Ali to tax waiver
U.S.-sanctioned businessman
for an undervalued Lamborghini.
The General Secretary, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President, questioned the motives and integrity of the sanctioned businessman.
“Let him release the evidence that President Ali told him to submit a false invoice to the GRA… (It is) a fake invoice, because no such thing happened,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
What can be seen as an attempt to discredit the President’s reputation has faced rejection by Dr. Ali, who has also challenged the businessman
to provide proof that he presented the true invoice of the luxury vehicle to the Office of the President.
President Ali has dismissed the claims that he authorised any tax waiver related to the luxury vehicle as “ridiculous”.
Both the son and father, Nazar, already sanctioned by the United States for their alleged crimes, have become figures of ridicule for their failure to back up their claims.
The Mohameds’ most recent accusations have been deemed by some as a calculated smear campaign aimed at distracting from
their own legal troubles.
Many, on social media, have even deemed their latest antics as a transparent attempt to weaponise the media, and tarnish the government’s reputation while evading accountability for their own actions.
Azruddin was released on $500,000 bail on Thursday after pleading not guilty to customs fraud and tax evasion involving the said luxury Lamborghini which was imported in 2020.
If proven, he would be liable for substantial back payments and other penalties.
Gov’t committed to sugar industry, exploring income diversification with sugar workers – President Ali
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday at Albion once again reaffirmed his government’s steadfast commitment to revitalising and expanding the sugar industry in Guyana.
Addressing sugar workers at the Albion Estate, President Ali said that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) stands by its word and will continue to deliver on its promises.
“One thing is for sure; when the PPP/C commit to the people, they see it through,” he declared. “If we tell you that we will invest to keep sugar and expand sugar, we will keep sugar and expand sugar.”
His visit to Region Six was part of a broader effort to engage directly with sugar workers, listen to their ideas and discuss the way forward for the sugar industry.
President Ali expressed his interest in fostering collaboration and innovation within the sector, with a focus on improving livelihoods and enhancing value creation.
He stated that he wanted to meet with workers not only to hear their concerns, but also to understand how the government can continue to improve the industry and “create value for the sugar workers and the sugar industry itself.”
A key theme during the engagement was income diversification for sugar workers.
The President said this is an area that must be examined carefully. “How do we diversify your income base?” he asked, highlighting the need for strategic planning to improve the economic resilience of sugar workers.
“We are now looking at the sectors itself and how we can work to improve,”
President Ali added.
He further revealed that among the ongoing discussions is the concept of promoting greater ownership within the industry. He acknowledged the challenges posed by a labour shortage, but said the government is actively moving toward mechanisation.
An innovative proposal was then introduced involving worker participation in this process.
President Ali spoke about workers coming together and the government outsourcing the planting and reaping of the cane to them, allowing for the use of both manual and mechanised labour.”
According to the President, such an approach would likely enhance productivity, allowing the crop to be harvested faster and more efficiently, with increased resource utilisation.
President Ali also outlined additional opportu-
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
nities within the broader ecosystem of the sugar industry. He emphasised the need to get workers more involved in other operational areas, such as canal cleaning, drainage, and irrigation.
“We also have to look at other areas in terms of the whole ecosystem of the sugar onsite—how we get you more involved in the cleaning of the canal, the drainage and irrigation and the diversification that is taking place,” he added.
He pointed to new possibilities in agriculture, noting that technology-driven farming could be introduced to the backlands where sugar workers operate.
The President stressed the importance of helping workers expand their in-
come base and providing them with more opportunities. He questioned how government can help farmers or work with them to expand their income base.
In concluding his remarks, President Ali underscored the significance of future planning and joint investments between government and workers. He expressed confidence that such partnerships could significantly improve financial stability for families in the industry.
“It is important to look ahead to the things that can be done and worked on together with government and workers co-investing…so that we can build stronger income base so that we can sup-
port more disposal [sic] income coming to your pockets,” he said.
SUBSTANTIAL INVESTMENTS
Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, in his address to the sugar workers emphasised their critical role in the industry and the government's ongoing commitment to revitalising the sector through substantial investments.
He stated that the government remains focused on modernising Guyana’s sugar industry with a clear strategy to improve efficiency and output.
Minister Mustapha pointed to the significant steps being taken to mechanise operations across the sugar estates, noting that progress is well underway. “GuySuCo has so far mechanised 40 per cent of the industry,” he said, highlighting the shift towards greater efficiency and sustainability in production processes.
He also spoke of the strides made in employment restoration. More than 2,000 workers have been re-employed as part of the broader effort to rebuild the industry and provide economic opportunities to those communities historically dependent on sugar.
This re-employment comes alongside what he described as tremendous investment in the sugar
industry, signalling the administration’s dedication to restoring GuySuCo's viability and competitiveness.
Despite these efforts, Minister Mustapha acknowledged the ongoing challenge of low production levels and later expressed his optimism about ongoing improvements across the estates.
“More generally, we are improving the factories, we are trying to improve the infrastructure in the estates, we are procuring the machinery…” he said, outlining the government's multi-pronged approach to revitalising the sector.
These investments and developments, he noted, are not just about boosting production, but also about ensuring long-term sustainability for the industry and continuing to improve the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
He added that the government remains committed to turning the tide for sugar, with a forward-looking approach that integrates technology, infrastructural upgrades, and workforce support.
Thursday’s engagement reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that Guyana’s sugar industry remains viable, productive, and inclusive—positioning it as a pillar for both economic development and community empowerment.
Exercise Vigilance
WITH Guyana preparing for its September 1, 2025 general election, citizens are faced with a juncture that necessitates unprecedented scrutiny of candidates contesting the nation’s top seat.
The emergence of controversial candidates, even one listed under sanctions by a foreign government, underlines the need for voters to sift through promises, and reflect on the character, integrity, and international standing of presidential aspirants.
Guyana’s democracy has been tested and tried previously, most notably during the tumultuous 2020 elections when the APNU+AFC was said to have attempted to “subvert the will of Guyanese” for a painful five months, through “threats, intimidation, interruption of recount, and litigation”.
The electoral process finally withstood this assault, having demonstrated itself robust, but the experience is a stark reminder that democracy requires vigilance from its
citizens.
Citizens must also equally recognise their responsibility to scrutinise candidates’ background, business endeavours, and international reputation prior to voting.
That businessman Azruddin Mohamed has entered the ring as a presidential candidate while facing US Treasury sanctions should be a reason for sober reflection on the standard we hold our politicians to.
The ramifications of an election for a sanctioned president internationally cannot be overthought.
The US Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control blacklisted Mohamed and his cohorts in June 2024 for alleged participation in “public corruption”, including allegations that he “left out 10,000 kilograms of gold on import and export declarations”, possibly referring to evading “around $50 million in duty taxes”.
These are not technicalities; they are se-
Azruddin Mohamed’s Original Sin
Dear Editor,
IN his video declaration on Facebook announcing his run for the presidency, Azruddin Mohamed made a vain attempt to be above politics, above the fray, so to speak. He did this by equating Cheddi Jagan with Forbes Burnham, stating that they did everything to uplift the people and help fulfil their dreams.
The truth though, as every Guyanese knows, is that LFS Burnham and the PNC did everything to destroy dreams.
Under Burnham and PNC leadership, elections were
rigged, the economy was driven into the ground, the state, assisted by party hooligans, targeted political opponents, many of whom were beaten up and others were killed. What dreams did Burnham and the PNC foster and bring to reality Azruddin? Name them. Azruddin Mohamed has begun his campaign with an Original Sin by lying about the record of Burnham and the PNC.
That is unforgivable, and that is why his campaign will implode in ignominy.
Sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud
rious charges of undermining State revenue and corrupt conduct.
A sanctioned president would face immediate diplomatic and economic restraint.
American firms would be barred from dealing with the administration, potentially isolating Guyana from vital international partnerships and sources of investment.
Given Guyana’s young oil-producing economy and need for foreign capital and technical expertise, such isolation would prove economically disastrous.
Moral legitimacy of the presidency would also be lost at inception.
How can a leader fight corruption and ensure good governance when he is being penalised for allegedly corrupt conduct? The paradox is stark and menacing to the democratic ethos.
The 2020 elections demonstrated that Guyana’s “electoral machinery as administered by the Guyana Elections Commission is most excellent”.
Excellent electoral machinery is, however, of little use if voters are unable to exercise sound judgement.
The new law providing “stronger and harsher punishments for any repeat effort to manipulate an election” addresses procedural integrity but cannot replace voter judgment.
Democracy functions when citizens anticipate excellence, integrity, and responsibility from leadership.
The elections ahead offer a chance to prove that Guyana’s democracy has evolved beyond just participation to espouse responsible citizenship with a focus on national interest in preference to personality or party affiliation.
The option is the people’s, but the option must be an informed, considered, and reflective one with an awareness of its long-term implications.
Adriana Younge case: GPF responds to misinformation spewed by Paul Slowe
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has responded to “misinformation’ attributed to retired policeman Paul Slowe about the Adriana Younge investigation, which was published in the Thursday edition of the Kaieteur News.
According to the publication, Slowe said there were key pieces of evidence that suggest that the 11-year-old girl did not drown in the pool of the Double Day Hotel.
The Police Force in a press release rubbished this opinion emphasising that it has relied on facts, evidence and expert/professional opinions which have all confirmed that the girl died by drowning and that there was no foul play involved in her death.
The following is the full statement issued by the GPF rebutting Slowe’s comments:
“THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has taken note of the misguided, ill-informed
and seemingly calculated utterances of former Assistant Commissioner Paul Slowe during his latest vitriolic attack on the Police Force, this time with regards to discrediting the final post-mortem report submitted by the three internationally renowned Pathologists to investigators.
Slowe, in an article in today’s (Thursday) Kaieteur News, criticised the credibility of the GPF’s final autopsy report on the death of 11-year-old Adriana Younge, calling it ‘the biggest cover-up in the recent history of the Guyana Police Force.’
The Police Force would like to point out that its report, released on May 27th, 2025 under the caption: “PATHOLOGISTS WHO CONDUCTED AUTOPSY FIND ‘NO SIGNS OF FOUL PLAY’ IN DROWNING IS 11-YEAR-OLD ADRIANA YOUNGE –Final Post-Mortem Report submitted to Police”,
was a tangible reflection of the GPF’s unwavering commitment to providing the media and public with a timely update on the findings of the PME. It is apt to note that the GPF reported the findings of the final PME report on the very day that the report was submitted.
The certified findings from the autopsy confirmed that Adriana’s death was consistent with drowning, and no evidence of trauma, assault, or any other criminal activity was found.
The KN article stated that Slowe ‘strongly disagreed’ with the conclusions and timing of the report from the three international pathologists: Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul (Barbados), Dr. Gary Collins (Delaware, USA), and Dr. Glenn Rudner (Mount Sinai Hospital, USA).
According to Slowe, key pieces of evidence suggest that Adriana did not drown
in the pool where her body was found.
Persons like Slowe, Clinton Conway, et al, have the unbridled freedom and luxury to jump on social media platforms and spew whatever misinformation or agenda they have, many times on matters that are beyond their realm of professional expertise, much less comprehension. On the other hand, the Guyana Police Force - now in its 184th year - does not insinuate or speculate; the GPF deals strictly with facts, evidence and expert/professional opinions.
Upon learning of the incident, the Guyana Police Force launched a thorough investigation.
The child’s family raised several concerns, citing her ability to swim and alleging the possibility of sexual assault, forced drowning elsewhere, and
First autopsy was thorough, competently done
–– no signs of trauma in second autopsy; body has lost forensic value, is compromised, medical examiner contracted by family says
IN an explosive revelation, the second autopsy performed on the body of 11-year-old Adriana Younge by a US pathologist hired by the family has confirmed the findings of the initial post-mortem conducted in Guyana.
Dr. Terry, the Chief Medical Examiner at the Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia, conducted the autopsy on Thursday after Adriana’s body was flown out of Georgetown earlier in the week.
Speaking to journalist Travis Chase immediately after completing the procedure, Dr. Terry emphasised that she did not find any evidence of trauma on Adriana’s body, a key observation also recorded by the original autopsy conducted by a team of three internationally-recognised pathologists in Guyana.
“There is no trauma that
has been overlooked in the first examination. The first autopsy was conducted thoroughly. There were some minor differences in technique, but, technically, from what I can see, it was very competently done,” Dr. Terry said.
She stated that her role was essentially to provide quality control on the original post-mortem, and verify whether that initial autopsy was properly conducted.
The findings from the first post-mortem were submitted earlier this week to Guyanese investigators, and confirmed that Adriana died by drowning.
The first autopsy was conducted at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) earlier this month by: Dr. Glenn A. Rudner of Mount Sinai Hospital, New York; Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul, a government-appointed pathologist from Barba-
The autopsy found no signs of sexual assault, blunt force trauma, restraint, or other forms of foul play.
Toxicology results also showed no drugs or substances in her system, aside from ethanol levels consistent with post-mortem decomposition.
Adriana Younge case: GPF responds ...
From page 6
ritualistic activity.
These concerns were taken seriously and fully explored in collaboration with forensic experts.
Also, with regards to the final PME report, there is absolutely ‘no coverup’ by the Police Force, as erroneously insinuated by Paul Slowe, who is accused of two counts of sexual assault against a member of the Guyana Police Force. How could Slowe accuse the GPF of a cover-up when the release was merely stating the findings of the three pathologists? Has the definition of cover-up escaped his mind?
For the record, we would like to reiterate the key findings of the comprehensive postmortem examination, including toxicology and DNA testing, which include:
No signs of acute injury or trauma were present.
Toxicology results showed ethanol levels consistent with postmortem decomposition.
Sexual assault kit and DNA analysis for potential suspects were negative.
Skin and airway changes
were in line with prolonged submersion and drowning. There was no evidence of restraint, struggle, removal, and return of the body.
The Pathologists concluded that Adriana Younge drowned, likely sank to the bottom of the pool, and later surfaced due to natural decomposition processes common in tropical climates.
Moreover, the above findings support an earlier report submitted by Mr. Leonard McCoshan (retired) Royal Canadian
Mounted Police investigator who concluded that there is “no evidence of foul play by persons named or unnamed during the investigation.”
The detectives are currently preparing the investigative case file for submission to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for her perusal and legal opinion.
Once again, the Guyana Police Force extends heartfelt condolences to the Younge family and remains committed to transparency and justice.
thologist, Dr. Carol A. Terry, had recommended a thorough criminal investigation into the matter.
Adriana’s body was found floating in the pool of the Double Day International Hotel.
Family members had raised several concerns, including allegations of sexual assault, forced drowning elsewhere, and even ritualistic activity.
These results were aligned with a separate investigative review conducted by retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police investigator, Leonard McCoshan, who also concluded there was “no evidence of foul play by persons named or unnamed”. While affirming that the first autopsy was technically sound, the U.S.-based pa -
All these claims were investigated and ruled out in the original autopsy and police investigation.
Still, she reiterated: “There was no trauma; that’s significant.”
While she did not rule out drowning, she noted that other cause of deaths would have to be ruled out before drowning could be determined as the cause of death.
The Guyana Police Force has said it will be submitting its complete investigative file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal guidance.
In its statement, the Force had previously acknowledged the concerns raised by Adriana’s family, and reiterated its “commitment to transparency and justice”.
On whether Adriana’s body had lost forensic value due to being embalmed and previously examined, Dr. Terry admitted, “Yes, the examination that I had opportunity to do is compromised; again, it’s a second autopsy. So, we have issues of artifacts that are introduced by the first autopsy; we’ve got decomposition that has taken place, and we’ve got embalming.”
dos; and Dr. Gary L. Collins, Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Delaware, who was chosen by Adriana’s family.
Anyone who thinks GECOM isn’t ready is foolish
WHY the PNC did not support the position of the three Opposition GECOM commissioners that GECOM is not ready and prepared to hold the 2025 General and Regional Elections?
The election is three months away, Guyana, thus is the middle of an election campaign period in which what political parties say and do can cost them.
Let’s look at the scenarios. If Mr. Norton had agreed with the three commissioners, then, it dents the credibility of the PNC.
This entire country knew two years ago that elections will not be beyond November 2025. GECOM knew this, and had to be in preparatory mode. For a political party to say that GECOM isn’t ready it can only be seen as a position of backing out.
It had to bring ridicule to the PNC, because Guyanese know that the election was going to be somewhere near the fourth quarter of the year, and for the PNC to agree that GECOM isn’t ready can only cause people to say that it is the PNC that isn’t ready.
So, what Norton logically did was to announce that the PNC was always ready, and in doing, so he has made his supporters confident.
What was the disadvantage in acknowledging that GECOM will be holding a general election that it is not fully equipped to
conduct?
Your supporters will ask that you boycott the poll. You can’t expect them to sustain their faith in you when you are shouting from the rooftop that GECOM is in a shambolic state, yet it is conducting the election, and then you enter the contest.
The PNC never, even at the remotest level, had any intention of boycotting 2025. To boycott a legitimate election where the world can attest to its valid preparation is tantamount to self-erasure from politics. If the PNC boycotts the 2025 election, it will die a natural death.
So why did the three Opposition make the comical and absurd claim that GECOM isn’t ready? Because, without consulting the opposition parties, but particularly the PNC, the gang-of-three thought that they were handing the PNC something to fight with; make a fuss in the country that GECOM isn’t being straightforward, and you have a stratagem to create instability.
It did not work, because the gang-of-three provided the PNC with a flawed strategy. The PNC’s acceptance of participating in the election has left the gang-of-three in a complete state of confusion. The big question that was on the minds of Guyanese was what are the three commissioners going to do now?
It was the hope that whatever Vincent
Alexander, Charles Corbin, and Desmond Thomas came up with in GECOM was not silly like the lack-of-preparation excuse that was tossed aside.
All Guyanese were just waiting to hear what the next move is of these three men. Persons were curious if they would create episodic mischief in the three months to come, but it will not affect the integrity of GECOM’s work.
This election is going to be characterised by two colossal features: It will be monitored by a substantial amount of foreign observers, and every aspect of the election is going to be shaped meticulously, so as to appear transparent.
It is going to be a circus if any opposition party finds fault with GECOM’s operations. People are going to laugh at them and say that they can’t get votes, so they go on a sour-grapes cry.
Now, interestingly, the PNC and AFC the past two months have not behaved as if they detect anything wrong with GECOM. The past two months, all the PNC and AFC have been consumed with is the coalition configuration between themselves and the choice of a consensus candidate.
Surely, if two months ago, the PNC and AFC had detected that things were going astray with GECOM, the commonsensical thing was to concentrate on GECOM, because a flawed GECOM renders useless any discussion of coalition politics, because you have to fix GECOM first before you can have an election.
But since 2024, when Nigel Hughes became leader and the AFC popularised Hughes then Terrence Campbell as the consensus candidate, the talk between these two parties have been about the choice of the presidential man.
How come, all of a sudden the election we all expected is upon us, and the three opposition commissioners were talking lack of preparation? I think the gang-of-three is so embarrassed that the nation may not hear from them before September.
This analysis was done before the GECOM decision to approve the work plan for the September 1 election.
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.
Undervalued Lamborghini… Azruddin Mohamed released on $500,000 bail on fraud, tax evasion charges
UNITED States-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed has been released on $500,000 bail after pleading not guilty to two charges of customs fraud and tax evasion involving a luxury Lamborghini imported in 2020.
Mohamed appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
The first charge which the magistrate put to Mohamed alleged that he falsely declared the purchase price of a Lamborghini Roadster SVJ at US$75,300 when the value of the vehicle was reportedly US$695,000.
The second charge alleged that Mohamed made the false declaration on or about December 7, 2020, at the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Camp Street office, which resulted in the evasion of taxes to the tune of $383,383,345.
He was granted $250,000 bail on each charge, and the matter has been adjourned to June 26, 2025.
Represented by attorneys Damian Da Silva, Siand Dhurjon, and Darren Wade, Mohamed pleaded not guilty to both charges. His lawyers questioned the timing of the charges, noting that the vehicle has been in use since 2020, but GRA only acted in March 2025.
Da Silva described the move as GRA “flexing bureaucratic muscles” and stressed that Mohamed is not a flight risk, citing his status as a public figure and running as a candidate in the upcoming general and regional elections.
As such, he asked that his client be released on his own recognisance.
However, GRA’s attorney, Sanjeev Datadin, countered the attorney’s submission stating that the authority followed due process.
He told the court that official correspondence was dispatched to Mohamed, indicating that there had been a reassessment which the revenue authority is entitled by law to do.
It was explained that Mohamed was given 14 days to respond and provide information, failing which, the reassessment would take place.
Mohamed, instead, sought more information without cooperating fully with the process.
Datadin added, “The revenue authority’s letter was very clear that you’re given 14 days to provide the information; if you do not provide, this will be the new assessed value. So, you’re given the opportunity to have your hearing.”
He maintained that the GRA is statutorily empowered to investigate and prosecute fraudulent declarations.
“The inference that this is somehow or the linking of charges is somehow special is not so. The Guyana Revenue Authority is entitled, by statute, to collect taxes. And if you have declared falsely and the revenue authority has reason to believe that it is fraudulent, then the revenue authority is empowered, by statute, to act; it has done so,” Datadin told the court. Further, he noted that it
stantial back payments and other penalties.
Meanwhile, the GRA has initiated legal proceedings in the Demerara High Court against Mohamed and several of his family members, alleging that multiple luxury vehicles were grossly undervalued at the time of importation.
According to the tax agency, this caused the family to pay significantly less taxes than legally mandated.
As a result, the GRA is seeking a court order requiring the Mohamed family to pay an additional $1.2 billion in taxes on the under-declared luxury vehi-
is a criminal process and, as such, asked that bail be fixed in the matter.
After listening to both sides, the magistrate set bail in the sum of $250,000 for each charge and adjourned the matter to June 26.
Previously, complaints were officially lodged by GRA Commissioner-General Godfrey Statia after the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) reportedly provided damning evidence, including the original invoice from the American dealership that sold the vehicle.
Authorities say the Lamborghini, which features a 6,500cc engine and bears Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ZHWUN6ZDILLA09394, was imported using documentation that did not reflect its true value.
That case against Mohamed also includes wire transfer records obtained from the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), allegedly showing payments made from his account to the U.S. seller that align with the higher value.
According to the GRA, the significantly undervalued declaration resulted in the non-payment of applicable duties and taxes, a matter now also under scrutiny in the High Court.
If proven, Mohamed could be liable for sub -
cles, which include a Toyota Land Cruiser PAB 3000, a Toyota Land Cruiser PAB 4000, a Lamborghini PZZ 4000, and a Ferrari 488 PAD 5000.
The Full Court of Demerara had refused an application by the GRA to overturn an existing injunction. The Bench comprised Chief Justice (ag) Roxane GeorgeWiltshire, SC and High Court Judge Nareshwar Harnanan.
The injunction, granted in April 2025 by Justice Gino Persaud, bars the GRA from seizing the luxury vehicles while the tax evasion case against the Mohameds remains pending.
The GRA’s High Court
legal team is headed by Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, former Senator and Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, and includes Senior Counsel Robin Stoby, along with attorneys Maritha Halley, Judy Stuart-Adonis, Jason Moore, Fiona Hamilton, Ornise Gordon, and Nicklin Belgrave.
Following the Full Court’s ruling, the vehicles will remain in the Mohameds’ possession pending the outcome of the substantive case before Justice Persaud, who is expected to deliver his decision on September 12, 2025.
US-sanctioned Guyanese businessmen, Azruddin Mohamed following his court appearance on Thursday (Delano Williams photo)
EMC launches book for World Otter Day 2025
–– PM Phillips says gov’t committed to protecting ‘critical’ wildlife habitats, investing in environmental awareness
By Faith Greene
THE Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) Foundation earlier this week launched another book in honour of World Otter Day 2025, titled, ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventure’, with the aim of promoting the protection of our environment, and education.
The book follows the
journey of a curious Giant River Otter named Ollie, who lives in the Mahaica River. He travels from St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Pakuri Village), past Little Biaboo, to the mouth of the Mahaica River in Unity Village. There, he meets other wildlife, and people, and learns about the environment and its inhabitants.
Guyana is home to the Giant River Otter, the larg-
est otter species and one of the largest carnivores in the South American region. Guyana is also one of the last strongholds in the world for this animal thanks to the pioneering conservation efforts by the late Diane McTurk, at the Karanambu Lodge in the North Rupununi.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips who attended the event, posited that the
launch celebrates storytelling, through which we can transform meaningful information into knowledge that students can connect with and take forward.
The Prime Minister remarked that by embedding the story of Ollie into our educational system, we are giving our ecosystems a voice and connecting the survival of species to the choices we make as communities and
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips receives a copy of ‘Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures’ from EMC’s Founder and Director, Shyam Nokta (OPM photo)
individuals.
PM Phillips stated that this is all part of finding interesting/new ways to embed biodiversity and sustainability into narratives that aim to mobilise our people towards positive action.
“Ollie the Otter’s River Adventures speaks to Guyana’s rich biodiversity by capturing the magic of our forests and the voices of our wildlife. But more importantly, it reminds us of the responsibility we carry to ensure that these stories do not end with us,” the PM said.
The PM spoke extensively about Guyana’s sustainability efforts, saying that since August 2020, the Government of Guyana has been executing a bold vision, rooted in progress and sustainability, the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030.
He said that today, Guyana stands proudly as a global leader in climate and environmental sustainability through the LCDS 2030, which is in alignment with Guyana’s economic growth with climate resilience and the protection of biodiversity.
According to PM Phillips, the LCDS recognises the intrinsic value of Guyana’s ecosystems and places strong emphasis on community-led conservation in environmental education, and the creation of sustainable livelihoods.
He highlighted that one of our country’s most ecologically significant areas, the Mahaica watershed, which is home to rich biodiversity, including the iconic Giant River Otter, while also supporting farming and riverine communities.
The PM said, “The government, our government, is committed to protecting
such critical habitats through strong partnerships with civil society, local communities, and international partners.”
Furthermore, it was mentioned that Guyana is set to host the inaugural Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, which unites global efforts in biodiversity protection through initiatives such as biodiversity credits, green bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps.
At the same time, it champions the global 30 by 30 goal, to conserve at least 30 percent of the world’s land and oceans by 2030.
The PM affirmed that Guyana’s continued investment in environmental awareness, youth empowerment, and conservation efforts demonstrate the nation’s commitment to enhancing our reputation as a biodiversity-rich and environmentally responsible nation.
“We are seizing the opportunity to take responsibility and care for our planet, because a planet cared for means that our children will grow up learning about nature and living in harmony with it,” he remarked.
Ollie the Otter’s River Adventure is authored by EMC Foundation’s Shyam Nokta and Stella Madete. Illustrations were done by Guyanese artist Roberto Teekah, and graphic designer Sheridan Frank.
For more details about the book, persons can visit EMC Foundation on Facebook, and visit its website: https://www emcfoundation gy / ollie - the - otters - river- adventures/
To learn more about conservation efforts led by Karanambu, persons can visit https://karanambu.gy/ conservation/.
Judge dismisses Cathy Hughes’ ‘low-life’ defamation suit against VP Jagdeo
–– orders her to pay over $4M in costs
IN a significant ruling, Alliance For Change (AFC) executive member Catherine ‘Cathy’ Hughes suffered a major legal setback—one that has cost her millions of dollars.
The Demerara High Court recently dismissed her defamation lawsuit against Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who also serves as the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).
The court also ordered the opposition parliamentarian to pay more than $4M in costs.
Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif ruled that Jagdeo’s description of Hughes as “a low-life” during a November 2023 party press conference did not amount to defamation under Guyanese law.
Jagdeo’s attorney, Sanjeev Datadin, welcomed the ruling on Thursday, emphasising that it confirmed the Vice-President’s conduct was legally appropriate. “The Vice-President did nothing wrong as far as the law is concerned,” he emphasised.
He stated that during the press conference, Jagdeo played an audio clip in which Hughes accused him of proposing to give Venezuela a maritime channel in the Atlantic Ocean amid the ongoing border controversy—an allegation Hughes later admitted in court was untrue.
Datadin clarified that the idea of a maritime channel dated back to 1989 and was never Jagdeo’s proposal but rather, it originated from then-diplomat Dr Barton Scotland—long before Jagdeo’s time in office.
He emphasised that Jagdeo invoked this historical context to challenge Hughes’ false narrative. The attorney added that the court found it
misleading and unfair for Hughes to label Jagdeo as unpatriotic, particularly during a period of heightened tensions between Guyana and Venezuela.
The ruling also concluded that Jagdeo’s comments related to issues of public interest and political accountability, focusing on Hughes’ conduct during her tenure as a government minister in the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration.
Datadin explained that the court interpreted the term “low-life” as referring to disreputable behaviour, specifically citing Hughes’ awarding of government contracts to her own media company, Videomega, while she held public office.
According to the court, public officers must show unselfish and undivided loyalty to the public they serve.
The conduct of awarding contracts to one’s own company, the ruling noted, could potentially amount to malfeasance in public office.
Datadin explained that when such actions are exposed by a political opponent, it qualifies as fair comment rather than defamation.
He stressed that the court made it clear the law does not shield public officials from criticism when their conduct falls below acceptable standards.
Therefore, the VP had the right to defend himself against Hughes’ remarks.
The court further clarified that Jagdeo’s comments were not based on Hughes’ race, gender, or social status, as she had claimed, but were focused solely on her official conduct.
Ultimately, Justice Chandra-Hanif dismissed
Hughes’ Statement of Claim and ordered her to pay $4,099,999 in costs to Jagdeo.
“Vice-President Jagdeo has been vindicated 100 per cent. He acted, which the court considered reasonably. He has been awarded costs in accordance with the High Court rules. There was no wrongdoing on the part of the Vice President. The Vice President was entitled to defend himself,” Datadin pointed out.
Hughes had initially sought over $50 million in damages, alleging that Jagdeo’s remarks damaged her reputation and caused psychological trauma.
During earlier proceedings, Hughes had admitted that her claim about the maritime “channel” was inaccurate, acknowledging that it was first suggested in 1989 by Dr Scotland.
She also admitted that Jagdeo’s claims about her company receiving government contracts were “true to some extent” and acknowledged that she did not pursue legal action to challenge those statements, as he had supporting documents to back them up.
Hughes was represented by her husband, attorney and AFC leader Nigel Hughes.
Commenting on the ruling, Nigel said this was the highest cost award ever granted against a claimant in the High Court.
He explained that Justice Chandra-Hanif found the description of his wife as a “low-life” to be fair and reasonable.
Nigel pointed out that the judgment seems to set a precedent for public discourse ahead of the upcoming national elections.
He also noted that the full decision will be appealed.
Opposition Parliamentarian Catherine Hughes Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif
GECOM approves work plan for September 1 elections – Gunraj
–– says opposition commissioners asked ‘plethora of questions’
OUTLINING all the necessary tasks for the September 1 General and Regional Elections, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Thursday approved its workplan.
This was confirmed by People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)-nominated GECOM Commis-
sioner Sase Gunraj during an invited comment, following a meeting with officials from the electoral body and the nominated commissioners from both sides.
“It was well interrogated by the commissioners from the other side as well. They asked a plethora of questions and so and even-
tually it was approved,” Gunraj told the Guyana Chronicle.
He explained that the workplan sets out a list of tasks which has to be executed between now and elections, including the holding of elections.
Some of these tasks he said, would be related to preparing of ballot papers, publishing notices, etc.
Each of these tasks he explained, has a time ascribed to it.
On Tuesday, a meeting was held with commissioners following President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement that General and Regional Elections will be held on September 1, 2025.
Gunraj had told members of the press that Tuesday’s meeting was the first since that announcement, and that they had all received a work plan from the Chief Elections Officer, Vishnu Persaud earlier
in the day and were set to discuss same.
As Tuesday’s meeting got underway, the opposition-nominated commissioners, Vincent Alexander, Charles Corbin, and Desmond Trotman, staged a walkout.
Gunraj noted that while he cannot predict that there will be such a reccurrence from those commissioners, his team remains committed to ensuring that the deliverables are met in time for the polls.
“We are committed to ensuring that the deliverables for holding the elections are met and that whatever presence etc that is necessary to ensure that is done and whatever work that is necessary to ensure that is done, will be done.”
He added: “Importantly and thankfully, they are safeguards in the law that cater for that kind of behaviour from them.”
People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)-nominated GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj
September 1 elections: ‘President Ali’s announcement is lawful and in order’
–– Dr. Jagdeo says, urges all parties to embrace a transparent, democratic electoral process
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan
Ali’s announcement of this year’s General and Regional Elections was “lawful and in order”, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has emphasised, supporting the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)’s official statement about its readiness.
His comments come as a response to the opposition-nominated GECOM commissioners who are claiming that the body is not ready for this year’s elections.
The General Secretary on Thursday highlighted how baseless these claims were, during his weekly press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street.
While the three opposition commissioners claimed that they were blindsided by the President’s announcement, People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) Leader Aubrey Norton stated that the timing of the polls align with the party’s expectations.
This statement by Norton to another news outlet contradicts his commissioners’ statements.
Dr. Jagdeo has pointed out that the two contradicting views show that the party is not in a state of readiness.
He then pointed out the elections in other states such as Canada and Trinidad and Tobago, which are held a short while after the announcement of the date.
“Why are we so different? It’s the same process you have to go through. We have continuous registration… They would extract a preliminary voters list, hopefully, and then we’ll have a valid list. We’ll go through nomination day, and then you have the election,” he said.
The General Secretary contended that the opposition-nominated commissioners will undertake an obstructionist view of these elections and preparation for it, especially given their history.
Dr. Jagdeo also expressed hope that all political parties will embrace a transparent and democratic electoral process ahead of the September 1, 2025 General and
Regional Elections.
He said he is optimistic that “good sense will prevail”, and that the parties, including the main opposition PNC-R and the Alliance For Change (AFC), will participate in a mature and responsible manner.
“If they support democracy, they will support an open, transparent process,” Jagdeo said, pointing out that the government has already invited international observers to monitor the election.
He also used the opportunity to call on the opposition to move away from what he described as a history of unfounded claims and election-related controversies.
He noted that this is an opportunity for the PNCR and AFC to “shake the stig-
ma” of rigged elections associated with them—both historically and during the last general elections in 2020.
Meanwhile, he criticised recent statements by opposition leaders suggesting that Venezuelan migrants would be allowed to vote, calling such claims baseless and irresponsible.
“You remember when the media asked Norton about evidence of Venezuelans registering? He didn’t have a shred of evidence; not even one name,” he said.
He also took aim at AFC leader Nigel Hughes for repeating similar allegations, accusing both parties of resorting to scare tactics rather than facing the electorate with concrete policies.
“These are senseless ex-
cuses; they need to grow up,” the General Secretary said.
He added that if the opposition loses in a free and fair election, they should be mature enough to accept the results without undermining the democratic process.
He further stressed that any future collaboration between political parties must be grounded in respect for democracy and inclusive governance.
“I’ve laid out some of the prerequisites,” he said, adding, “One is an acceptance that democracy and respect for the vote for every citizen of this country is crucial.
The second is a policy that doesn’t see people by race, but sees them as Guyanese.”
Guyana Embassy in Qatar hosts Independence Day reception
WITH the Torch Hotel and the Sheraton Hotel lit with the colours of the Golden Arrowhead, the Embassy of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana celebrated Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary in what was a magnificent display of the kaleidoscopic nature and beauty of Guyana.
According to a press release, among those in attendance were the Qatar’s Minister of Labour, Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Samikh Al Marri, Director of MOFA Protocol Department, HE Ibrahim Yousif Fakhroo, Director of the Americas Department in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, H.E Jassim al Asmakh along with other Qatari nationals, members of the business community, the diplomatic corps and the Guyanese diaspora.
The programme included welcoming re -
marks from HE Ambassador Safraaz Ahmad Shadood, who also introduced the main speaker, President Ali.
The release said that Ambassador Shadood described His Excellency, the President as a leader from the people, of the people for the people.
“Already recognised as one of the most dynamic and visionary global leaders especially in Qatar following his BBC Hard Talk interview, His Excellency, the President spoke about Independence and what it truly means, the aspirations that fuel the nation’s struggle for its freedom.
He added that Independence is building one nation from many backgrounds and forging one purpose from many experiences,” the release said adding that this was followed by a cultural artistic presentation by Ivan
Rockdrigo who donned the costume of a Jaguar in an acrobatic display.
The event concluded with the traditional cake cutting ceremony with the dignitaries.
The vote of thanks was done by the event coordinator Dr. Julia Theresa Kanhai, who paid tribute to the Government of the State of Qatar who has been magnificent hosts, the hardworking staff of the Embassy, the CEO of Newton Group of schools, Hessa Al-Noaimi, the principals , teachers and students, artistes Charlotte Lavelle and Danica Hernandez, Acrobat Ivan Rockdrigo Garcia, graphic artiste, Hasif Rasheed, the staff of Office of the President, General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC), Teshawna Lall and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
International Cooperation of Guyana.
Guests also enjoyed a culinary journey tasting samples of mauby and sorrel drink and indulg-
ing Guyana’s National Dish ‘Pepper pot’, the release said noting that the event also featured a live performance by an artiste, who gifted multiple pieces of her work to the Qatari Government, Guyanese Government and other guests to honour the bilateral ties between the two nations.
‘Guyana needs a visionary leader’
–– Former PNCR central executive member Van-West Charles endorses President Ali for second term
FORMER PNCR central executive member and government minister, Dr Richard Van-West Charles, has endorsed President Dr Irfaan Ali for a second term.
The ambassador to Venezuela and son-in-law of former President Forbes Burnham, in a video message posted on President Ali’s Facebook pages on Thursday, stated that Guyana is at a critical juncture in its development and requires a leader with a vision, understanding of national unity and the ability to deliver.
“The leadership at this juncture of our country becomes very critical, a leader who has a vision, a leader who understands the import of national unity and a leader who can deliver; so those
Former PNCR central executive member and son-in-law of former President Forbes Burnham, Dr Richard VanWest Charles
are the three characteristics that we should be focusing on,” the ambassador said. He noted that the up -
coming national election will be a pivotal moment for Guyana’s development, as there will be a focus on national unity and resource distribution to foster wealth creation, while stressing the need for national unity.
Dr Van-West Charles asserted that with his over 35-40 years of experience in politics, both nationally and internally and despite previous political affiliations, he believes Dr Ali will be the best fit for the continuum of development.
Last weekend, President Ali after a consultation with the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), retired Justice Claudette Singh, announced September 1 as the date for the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
A scene from the Independence Day reception hosted by the Guyana Embassy in Qatar
Registration opens for Innovation Challenge 2025
THE Office of the Prime Minister- Industry and Innovation Unit has opened registration for this year’s Innovation Challenge which is slated for July 4 -6.
Under the theme, ‘Transitioning through Innovation’, the Innovation Challenge (Hackathon) 2025 is a coding/ programming event to promote ICT, innovation in Guyana.
Teams of three persons will be involved in consecutive coding or programming to develop unique Information Technology solutions that can address social and economic issues facing Guyanese.
In addition to having three people in each team (this includes the team leader), the teams must own the copyright or have expressed permission in writing to all
pictures, sounds and assets used in the creation of the submission. All software used must be licensed copies. Worth noting, participants accept liability for any copyright infringement. The teams must apply under a decided group name and submit a list of names along with the identified team leader, and details of the individuals within the group on the registration form.
Innovation Challenge encourages creativity and innovation, allowing participants to explore uncharted territories and develop solutions with the potential to make a significant impact. The Challenge offers valuable opportunities for participants to enhance their problem-solving skills by addressing real-world
challenges within a limited timeframe, and encourages adaptability and critical thinking, allowing participants to refine their solutions based on feedback and team dynamics.
Last year’s challenge was centred around the development of an app to help users track and find transportation services throughout Guyana.
This ran from August 30 to September 1, 2024, and featured 14 teams competing for a large cash prize.
Persons interested in participating can visit the Industry and Innovation Unit on Facebook where the registration form can be viewed.
For more details, the unit can be contacted on 2252880 (WhatsApp included), or innovation.gov.gy
Registration closes on June 30, 2025.
Electoral fraud trial…
ANUG’s former executive member testifies to ‘suspicious activity’ by GECOM IT officer
By Feona Morrison
THE trial surrounding alleged electoral fraud in the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, continued on Thursday before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
Those charged include People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph and former Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence.
Also facing charges are former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers and former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo.
Also charged are former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings and Michelle Miller.
Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are being represented by a large defence team.
As a result of the charges arising from the same set of circumstances, the matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail.
It is the prosecution’s case that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the wilful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
Jonathan Yearwood, a former executive member of the political party A New and United Guyana (ANUG), took the stand as the latest witness.
Yearwood, who served as ANUG’s appointed counting agent for Region Five before moving to Region Four, was led in his testimony by state prosecutor, attorney-at-law Madana Rampersaud.
He detailed a sequence of events that occurred on March 4, 2020, when he went to the Ashmins Building— the designated tabulation and verification centre for Region Four—around 18:30hrs.
The site was also serving as GECOM’s Command
Centre.
According to Yearwood, ANUG had another agent, Alex D’Aguiar, stationed at the location for two days, but he called to say he was exhausted. As a senior member of the party, Yearwood went to relieve him. Upon arriving at the Ashmins Building, Yearwood said he entered the verification room where he met with other counting agents from various political parties.
He testified that shortly after 19:00hrs, then CEO Lowenfield entered the room
and introduced two individuals: Deputy Returning Officer Babb-Cummings and a GECOM clerk identified as Alexandra Bowman.
The witness recalled that Lowenfield informed those present that these two officials would be assuming responsibility for the tabulation and verification of results from that point forward.
Yearwood noted the presence of other political representatives during this critical moment, including Lenox Shuman of the Liberty and
Justice Party (LJP), Rondha-Ann Lam from The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) and Asha Kissoon of The New Movement (TNM).
He also observed representatives from the two major political parties—PPP/C and APNU+AFC.
Among those also present were Sasenarine Singh—now Guyana’s Ambassador to Belgium—and Sonia Parag, who currently serves as Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, both representing the PPP/C. Lawrence represented the
PNCR, the principal party within the APNU coalition.
Yearwood also shared that, prior to this event, he had held several discussions with Lowenfield regarding the general conduct of the elections, given his senior role within ANUG.
Sometime afterwards, he recalled that the GECOM officials began reviewing the Statements of Poll (SoPs) and announcing the figures.
He explained that, at the time, he did not have his own copies of the SoPs to verify the numbers being
announced.
However, he was seated next to Singh, who had his laptop open, and Singh allowed him to compare the announced figures with those displayed on the screen.
DISCREPANCIES
Yearwood testified, “Some of the figures they were calling out were not in line with what I was seeing on Singh’s laptop. Some of the political agents and others were trying to draw that to the attention of [Bowman
and Babb-Cummings]. At that point, the process was new to me, so I just looked on and observed what was taking place.”
When asked who was trying to draw attention to the discrepancies in the figures, the witness said, “It came mainly from the PPP/C personnel—Singh and Parag. They, along with the APNU+AFC representatives, were the only ones I believe had Statements of Poll. I don’t think any of the smaller political parties had observers in the polling stations, so
they wouldn’t have collected SoPs.”
Yearwood said that while they objected, Bowman and Babb-Cummings did not take any notice of it and simply continued calling out the figures and recording them.
“Miss Babb-Cummings was calling out the figures, and Miss Bowman was working the laptop. As she called out the figures, Miss Bowman was inputting them into the laptop. The data was being displayed on a large screen, so we saw the figures being inputted on the screen.”
Around 21:00hrs, Yearwood said Bowman and Babb-Cummings expressed that they were tired and hungry, and requested permission to take a break for dinner.
The witness added that those present at the location agreed to the break.
According to him, they returned about 15 to 20 minutes later, but by around 21:30hrs, they stated they were still tired and announced the suspension of the tabulation and verification process.
“We [all of the party representatives] objected to that. When Lowenfield introduced the ladies to us, he said that we would work throughout the night to complete Region Four. These ladies were now saying that they were closing it off until the next morning at 9 a.m. I don’t recall any objections from the APNU+AFC representatives. There may have been, but I would not be able to say if they did,” Yearwood recounted.
Yearwood testified that everyone objected loudly to the suspension, prompt -
ing Lowenfield to enter and explain that the ladies were tired and the process would be suspended.
He said they reminded Lowenfield of his promise to continue throughout the night, after which Lowenfield assured them that he would find staff members to continue the process.
SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY
According to Yearwood, GECOM’s Information Technology Officer Enrique Livan and another young man, whose name he could not recall, then replaced the two women.
Yearwood said that during the tabulation process for Region Four, Guyana’s most populous electoral district, Livan was specifically accused of altering the figures stored on a flash drive.
Yearwood added: “The young man, whose name I don’t know, worked the computer. Mr Livan was calling out the figures from the SoPs. Those figures were once again not correct, according to the laptop that I was looking into. And once again, the objections at this point were much louder, and they only managed to do four SoPs. All four of those SoPs had wrong figures being called.”
Yearwood testified that those who raised objections included Singh and Parag of the PPP/C, himself, and representatives from several other political parties.
He recalled that after a short while, Livan and the other young man assisting with the tabulation said they were tired and would suspend the process until the following morning.
According to him, they objected to this decision, reminding them of Lowenfield’s earlier promise to work through the night. He emphasised, “Remember, Region Four was the only region that had not submitted results. The whole nation was waiting for Region Four to be completed. So, it was important to get it done as early as possible.”
Yearwood testified that despite their objections, Livan and his colleague began packing up to leave. He recalled that Livan removed the flash drive from the laptop, while the other
Volda Lawrence
Clairmont Mingo Carol Smith-Joseph Keith Lowenfield
Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty
Roxanne Myers
Jonathan Yearwood
Jagdeo says PPP will campaign on ‘track record of transformation’
–– affirms party’s readiness for September 1 election, reminds citizens not to gamble with their future
By Trina Williams
NO other political party can stand on a firm track record like the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the party’s General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has firmly stated, while emphasising that they are ready to lay out the facts for this year’s general and regional elections.
Speaking at the party’s
weekly press conference at Freedom House, Robb Street, on Thursday, he said that this year’s election is not about taking risks.
“We are going to campaign on our track record and what the PPP leadership in this country has meant to the development of our country and its people,” he said.
Against this backdrop, he highlighted President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s phenomenal lead-
ership, which has been lauded on the national, regional and international stages.
Dr. Jagdeo said: “We are led by the right person… As President [Irfaan Ali] he has led the transformation from the front. He has grown in stature internationally. He is recognised now as an international statesman. He represents this country at major forums around the world with distinction, and
he is knowledgeable of every aspect of government, and he can speak fluently to every plan that we have laid out, plans for economic transformation as well as social with an ease.”
Very few politicians can do what the President does, the General Secretary said while stressing that this is the type of leadership Guyana needs.
He also noted that this
year’s election is not about gambling with one’s future or the state’s future.
Citizens must recognise that only a leader, supported by a solid team which has demonstrated competency and achievement can lead the country into that glorious, prosperous future, he said.
“And if you’re an unbiased person in this country, you will see that there’s only one political party that has leadership that operates on the basis of achievement for the people of our country, that is consistently taking the most pressing concerns of our people and translated those into policy making, whether it’s in the health sector, education, housing, job creation, security or recreation.
“We have listened to the people, and we have crafted plans in each of those areas for the transformation of our country.”
Dr. Jagdeo said he does not need to recap the extensive history of how the PPP has constantly been the sole fighter for freedom in Guyana.
“That track record could be supported by clear evidence as to the change in the socio-economic status of our country and the well-being of our people,” he said.
From 2020 to now, after the strenuous fight to uphold democracy in Guyana owing to the attempts at the time to hijack it, Dr. Jagdeo said that the citizens can conclude for themselves that there is no other political party that could have led these achievements for Guyana.
Ahead of the September 1 polls, a number of political aspirants have already presented a flurry of lofty promises to the electorate, pledging policies which have already been executed by the ruling PPP.
‘Venezuela’s election was a failure by any standard’ –– Dr. Jagdeo says
VENEZUELA’S “desperation and fakeness” was called out by governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who rejected the regime’s circulation of a misleading video claiming that there were elections in Guyana’s Essequibo Region.
During a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Robb Street, Dr. Jagdeo said: “Those elections were a failure by any standard.”
In an attempt to deliberately spread misinformation, Venezuela’s Vice-President, Delcy Rodríguez was among those who circulated a misleading video falsely claiming that people were crossing the Essequibo River to participate in the illegal process.
However, in reality, the footage showed passengers boarding a boat in Georgetown, en route to Vreed-enHoop, with the recognisable Stabroek Market clearly visible in the background.
This appeared to be another attempt by Venezuela to use misinformation to incite fear among the Guyanese population, and undermine the country’s sovereignty.
“Nobody crossed; it’s a rejection. Nobody wants to be part of Venezuela,” Dr. Jagdeo said, adding:
“The people of Guyana, they know, instinctively, genetically, that every bit of the 83,000 square miles of
our territory belongs to us.”
He also conveyed his pride in those Guyanese citizens, especially in border communities, for upholding Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Jagdeo used the opportunity to lambast the parliamentary opposition for refusing to back a recent motion aimed at reaffirming the country’s sovereignty over its internationally recognised territory.
Guyana’s territorial sovereignty remains unshaken, as residents in border communities reported no indication of Venezuela’s sham elections, which the Bolivarian Republic had said would be used to elect a governor and legislative council for Guyana’s Essequibo region.
The 1899 Award was the culmination of arbitral proceedings during which the respective territorial claims of Great Britain and Venezuela were addressed at great length and in detail by distinguished legal counsel representing the two states.
For more than six decades, Venezuela treated the Award as a final settlement of the matter. The Spanish-speaking nation then reversed its position, asserting a claim to the Essequibo region, which accounts for two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and is rich in natural resources.
Guyana has since approached the World Court for a final settlement to the ongoing border controversy.
ANUG’s former executive member ...
From page 17
young man packed up the SoPs.
“We were objecting to it because we wanted the process to continue. We were prepared to work throughout the night… All of the party agents were objecting at this point. They did not respond to our objections. They just did what they had to do and left,” he told the court.
Yearwood recounted that sometime later, one of the party agents noticed Livan inside a nearby room with a laptop, appearing to work on something.
“We all rushed over to see what he was doing,” he told the court. “When I got into the room, I saw Mr Livan sitting at a desk with a flash drive on the table next to the laptop. There were two young ladies in the room as well, along with about 20 other people—party agents, local observers, and other political representatives.”
The witness told the court that while he did not personally see Livan doing anything with the flash drive, others at the scene told him that Livan had been working with it.
He stated that Livan strongly denied altering any figures on the flash drive, which sparked a heated exchange between him and those present.
“After a while, Livan got quiet and just rested his head on the desk,” he recalled. He said it was sometime later that then Regional Division Four ‘A’ Commander, Senior Superintendent of Police Edgar Thomas—now an Assistant Commissioner—arrived at the location.
“He [Thomas] told us that if he took the flash drive, the counting process would have to stop until the police investigation was concluded. So, Mr Lowenfield suggested that he take the flash drive and put it into the laptop to see where we were at.”
“When Mr Lowenfield plugged the flash drive into the verification laptop, Mr Livan opened a screen and it came up with South Georgetown area—East Ruimveldt… which he had not started to do as yet, and there were already figures inputted into that. That area had not been verified as yet, so there should not have been any figures on that. He [Livan] tried to shut it off quickly, and then he opened up the East Bank area, which we
were working.”
Yearwood said that after the screen displaying the East Ruimveldt data was quickly closed, he and several other party representatives insisted that Livan reopen it.
Yearwood said that initially Livan claimed he could not return to the screen, but with assistance offered by the PPP/C’s IT personnel, Livan was able to reopen it. Once the screen was restored, Yearwood said he took photographs of the data being displayed.
The witness stated that he imagined this must have been a very embarrassing moment for Livan. He recalled that Lowenfield then announced the suspension of the process until 09:00hrs the next morning.
He recalled that at that point, the party agents requested Lowenfield to provide a printout of all the areas that had been completed, and Lowenfield complied.
The trial continues this morning with further testimony from Minister Parag, while Yearwood is scheduled to complete his testimony at a later date.
BACKGROUND
In the weeks that followed the March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.
The initial elections results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.
Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.
GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.
Local Legends in the Making: Stehigh, Original Lyrics share stage with Vybz Kartel
By Faith Greene
NO one does it quite like Hits and Jams (HJ) Entertainment. Last weekend, the Guyana National Stadium at Providence was jam-packed with thousands of exhilarated fans for what has been lauded as one of the biggest and most electrifying events in Guyana’s entertainment history.
But while dancehall icon Vybz Kartel head -
his inaugural performance in the country.
The rising stars stepped confidently onto the grand stage last weekend, not just as opening acts but as worthy performers sharing the limelight with one of dancehall’s biggest names. Their performances were nothing short of sensational, each bringing raw energy, lyrical prowess, and a distinctly Guyanese flavour.
Kartel, alongside international heavyweights
nomenal dancehall artiste.
Just last year, the young star performed on the same stage as international recording artiste Burna Boy at ENET’s ‘Unforgettable’ concert. He was also nominated for ‘Best Male Dancehall Artiste of the year’ for the Demroc Music Awards last year.
In an invited comment, following his epic performance alongside the ‘World Boss’, the artiste said, “Wow, well, what can I say; it has been the most
lined the highly anticipated Baderation Concert, appearing alongside the dancehall idol was two of Guyana’s own who stole a share of the spotlight: Stehigh and Original Lyrics.
Fulfilling his commitment to supporting the growth of Guyana’s music scene, Vybz Kartel, during a visit to Guyana ahead of the concert, pledged to feature local artistes during
like Spice, MC Nuffy, and Mafi, ensured the night delivered on every promise.
But for many in the audience, witnessing Stehigh and Original Lyrics stand tall in such a massive spotlight was the most unforgettable part of the night.
WHO IS STEHIGH?
Although it has been a few years, Stehigh, born Stephon Corbin, is continuing to rise as a phe -
electrifying three to five minutes of my entire career thus far... I had done quite a few stage performances, with a longer allotted time but none was more breathtaking than being beside the boss himself on stage doing what we do best.”
He told the Buzz Magazine: ‘’ It was clearly my biggest achievement as an artiste.” Persons can follow Stehigh on all social
media platforms, including YouTube and TikTok by searching for: Stehigh Official.
WHO IS ORIGINAL LYRICS?
Known by his stage name Original Lyrics, Relon Sumner is a visually impaired musician hailing from Blueberry Hill Linden, Region Ten.
Over the past few years, Sumner has been shaping his musical identity, placing himself and his community on the map. Through determination, and support the Dancehall/ soca artiste has been taking the local music scene by storm.
The Baderation concert
was not this Lindener’s first big stage.
In fact, both Roel and his brother rose to fame in 2019, following the recording of their first song, which happened to be the theme song for the Linden Town Week that year. In 2020, the persistent musician secured the title of junior calypso monarch, and placed in the top five of the senior soca monarch competition.
Describing this moment as a great experience for him, the dancehall artiste said, “It’s kinda like a dream come true. Growing up, listening to Vybz Kartel, and then be able to get an opportunity to perform
on a stage with Vybz Kartel, is a dream come true.”
Alongside his brother, Roel Sumner known as Shatta Youth, Original Lyrics has made hit songs such as Wild Out, Life is Precious, Pray, and Heart ah Cry. On his own however, the rising star dropped bangers such as Everything, Dream, Soca Heaven, 21 Gun Salute, and most recently, Scrape Head.
When asked about new music, Original Lyrics stated, “It’s non-stop work…with the new push that we get, a lot of people tuning in right now; so yeah, you can look out for new music.”
Stehigh on stage with Vybz Kartel (Photo credit: News Room)
Original Lyrics on stage with Vybz Kartel
Skillibeng earns 2nd Billboard Hot 100 entry with Shake it to the Max
SHAKE it to the max continues to dominate charts globally and the song has now entered the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 chart in America at #91.
This is the second entry on the Hot 100 chart for Skillibeng. In 2021, a remix of Crocodile Teeth featuring Nicki Minaj topped out at #100.
Meanwhile, Shake it to the Max (Fly) remix is the first credited Hot 100 chart entry for Shenseea. In 2021 she provided uncredited vocals on two Hot 100 charting titles, Ok Ok Pt 2 (#12) and Pure Souls (#52) by Kanye West.
Shenseea is the 12th female artiste from Jamaica to have earned an entry on the Billboard Hot 100 chart to date.
Here’s a quick recap of the list of Jamaican female artistes who have made it onto the Billboard Hot 100: Millie Small got the ball rolling in 1962 with My Boy Lollipop, which peaked at #2; while in 1989 Marcia Griffiths took a remix of her 1983 hit Electric Boogie to #52.
Chevelle Franklin was credited as featured act on Beenie Man’s 1997 #90 peak of Dancehall Queen, while Diana King logged four entries, with Shy Guy, her biggest, rising to #13 in 1995.
Nadine Sutherland teamed with Terror Fabulous for Action, which rose to #43 in November 1994; Patra charted four entries with Worker Man placing the highest at #53 in the summer of 1994.
Singer Cherine Anderson received credit on her collaboration Say Hey (I Love You) with American singer Michael Franti, which sold double platinum and stalled at #18 in 2008.
In June 2004 Beenie Man got a little help from Miss Thing on their hit Dude, which got as far as #26, while Lady Saw teamed up with No Doubt for the Sly and Robbie-produced Underneath it All, that stalled at #3 in 2002.
Brick and Lace singer, Nyla, is featured and credited on Light it Up (remix) by Major Lazer and Fuse ODG. That song got as far as #73 in 2016 and it has been certified
for sales exceeding 2.5 million units globally.
Tessanne Chin scored three chart entries between late 2013 and 2014, with her cover of Whitney Houston’s I Have Nothing peaking the highest at #51 in January 2024.
And still on Shake it to the Max (Fly), the song moves up to #27 in its 5th week on Billboard’s Global 200, while over on Global 200 Excluding US chart it darts from #35 to #16 in its 6th week.
On the Billboard Cana-
dian Hot 100, the song steps up to #46, while stepping up to #21 on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip Hop chart. It is #22 on Hot R&B/HipHop Airplay and #20 in its 5th week on Rhythmic Top 40 Airplay.
In Europe, the song is #14 on the UK Singles chart, #48 in Ireland, #8 in Greece, #23 in Czech Republic, #26 in Austria, #24 in Netherlands, #39 in New Zealand, #90 in Russia, #43 in Slovakia, and #27 in Switzerland.
Meanwhile, Bob Marley and the Wailers continue to dominate the #1 spot on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart as
Legend clocks 280 non-consecutive weeks in pole position.
Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection re-enters at #2, so too Dutty Classics Collection by Sean Paul at #3.
World on Fire by Stick Figure dips to #4, while Greatest Hits by UB40 remains at #5.
Welcome to Jamrock by Damian Marley is firm at #10.
Moving now to regional charts, Life is the Thing by The Human Rights continues to lead the Rebel Vibez Top 10 Canadian Reggae chart.
The top 5 also includes at #2 Changes by Zantelly, while Jamaican-born SkyStar is at #3 with Karma. Your Eyes and Mine by Mirian Katrib is #4, and Deemo Matthews — who is of Jamaican heritage and who is also the leader singer of Canadisn reggae band Reggaddiction — is at #5 with his cover of the Percy Sledge classic Warm and Tender Love.
Wife and Sweetheart by Christopher Martin takes over the #1 spot on the New York Reggae chart.
Left with a Broken Heart by Sampalue is new at #28, while Smile by Rod Spence enters at #30.
In the meantime, singer Terry Linen spends a third week at #1 on the South Florida Reggae chart with Praise You.
Sean Paul’s Dutty Rock is steady at #6, Wisdom and Set in Stone by Stick Figure are at #7 and #8, while Exodus by Bob Marley and the Wailers is #9.
Cassie Ventura needed stitches after Diddy beating, trial hears
SEAN "Diddy" Combs once beat ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura so badly she needed stiches on her forehead, the music mogul's former stylist has testified at his trial.
Deonte Nash, who styled both Mr. Combs and Ms. Ventura, told the court there were times when he witnessed his boss attacking his then-girlfriend and others.
He also testified he saw Mr. Combs threaten to release sex tapes of Ms. Ventura in drug-fuelled "freak-offs" with male prostitutes.
The testimony came as it emerged Ms. Ventura had given birth to her third child, a son, with her fitness instructor husband. Mr. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to racketeer-
ing, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Mr. Nash was one of three witnesses to take the stand on Wednesday in the third week of the trial.
A close friend of Ms. Ventura, Mr. Nash said he saw her almost every day while working as her stylist.
He told the jury he witnessed Mr. Combs abusing
He said several times he did not want to be in court - he was summoned to testify through a subpoena.
Ms. Ventura on several occasions.
Asked what names Mr. Combs would call Ms. Ventura, Mr. Nash said he
would refer to her as "slut" and "ho", among other derogatory terms.
The stylist told the court Ms. Ventura had confided in him that she did not want to participate in the sex parties.
In one incident, Mr. Nash testified that Mr. Combs showed up at Ms. Ventura's Los Angeles apartment while she was asleep on a sofa.
Mr. Combs shouted at her and grabbed her by the hair and started beating her, the court heard.
Mr. Nash testified that he and Ms. Ventura and an assistant to Mr. Combs, named in court only as "Mia", tried to run into a bedroom and close the door, but Mr. Combs managed to get in.
The hip-hop mogul
continued beating Ms. Ventura until she hit her head on a bedframe and was bleeding profusely, the court heard.
Mr. Nash said he and "Mia" tried to stop Mr. Combs by jumping on his back.
The stylist also said he tried to call emergency services, but Mr. Combs told him a member of his security would take Ms. Ventura to a plastic surgeon for treatment.
Mr. Nash said he saw her on a video call the next day with stitches in her eyebrow.
Having started as an intern with Mr. Combs' record label Bad Boy, Mr. Nash said he became a stylist when he met Ms. Ventura in 2008 and still
remains close friends with her.
When a defence attorney asked about the last time they spoke, he said: "Yesterday after she had the baby."
Mr. Nash also insisted the defence lawyer refer to Ms Ventura as "Mrs Fine", since she was married to personal trainer Alex Fine in 2019.
Ms. Ventura, who testified for four days during the first week of trial, was heavily pregnant while on the stand. Media reports said she had given birth in a New York hospital on Tuesday.
Mr. Nash said he also advised the R&B singer what outfits she should wear while testifying.
(Refurbished from BBC)
Stylist Deonte Nash leaves the Manhattan court after testifying
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Friday May 30, 2025)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) PBKS & RCB
(2) Gujurat Titans & Mumbai Indians
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who compiled most runs in the preliminary phase of IPL 2025?
(2) Who claimed most wickets?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
England steamroll West Indies by 238 Runs
CMC – England delivered a dominant performance to thrash the West Indies by 238 runs in the opening One-Day International here at Edgbaston on Thursday.
The comprehensive victory snapped a seven-match losing streak in the format and handed new captain Harry Brook a dream start to his full-time leadership tenure.
Sent in to bat, England posted a mammoth 400-8, their highest-ever ODI total
at home against the West Indies, thanks to explosive half-centuries from Jacob Bethell, who scored 82 off 53 balls, Ben Duckett 60, Joe Root 57, and Brook 58.
The visitors’ bowling attack struggled throughout, as the seamers found it hard to hit a length, and the spinners could not slow down the free-scoring English batters
Only Jayden Seales with a workmanlike 4-84 managed notable success amid the onslaught.
The West Indies’ chase never gained momentum, collapsing to 162 all out in just 32.5 overs.
Only Keacy Carty, 22 and captain Shai Hope, 25, offered brief resistance before a late, entertaining 29 not out from Seales spared the Windies further embarrassment.
England’s seamers Saqib Mahmood 3-28 and Jamie Overton 3-41 wreaked havoc, while Brook took five catches in a commanding fielding display.
The victory marked England’s second-largest win by runs in ODIs, just behind their 242-run demolition of Australia in 2018. Bethell, the 21-year-old all-rounder, was named Player of the Match for his blistering knock and a crucial 44-ball, 98-run seventh-wicket stand with Will Jacks, who made 39.
England’s innings set the tone early, with Duckett and Jamie Smith 37, racing to 59 in the first six overs.
Despite two spectacular
catches from Brandon King dismissing Smith and Roston Chase removing Duckett, England’s middle order piled on the runs.
Bethell’s brutal hitting, including eight fours and five sixes, stole the show before he fell short of a maiden century.
The West Indies’ reply faltered immediately, losing openers Justin Greaves for four and King 10, inside four overs.
Mahmood and Overton dismantled the middle order
as the regional side found themselves at one stage in a spot of bother at 66 for four in the 12th over.
The Barbadian-born Bethell also chipped in with the ball, sending back Jewel Andrew for 8 to cap off a fine performance. Seales’ late fireworks were mere consolation as England sealed a crushing win to go 1-0 up in the three-match series.
The second ODI takes place at Trent Bridge on Sunday.
RCB through to first IPL Final
(ESPNCRICINFO)
-
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) waltzed their way into their first IPL final since 2016 as they blew Punjab Kings (PBKS) away for 101 on a surface with seam and extra bounce. Batting didn't get any easier in the second innings, but Phil Salt broke the back of the small chase in the powerplay that went for 61 despite a wicket-maiden in it.
The RCB fast bowlers kept bashing the hard lengths as PBKS refused to dial down the aggression on the challenging surface, taking seven wickets between them.
The legspinner Suyash Sharma was the beneficiary of some reckless sweeping; the PBKS batters didn't pick any of the wrong'uns, losing three wickets to him.
The ball bounced and moved more in the second innings than the first, just the time for Salt to unleash his quickest fifty in the IPL - off just 23 ballsto take RCB home with a whole ten overs to spare. RCB quicks all over PBKS
Even before the nature of the pitch made itself apparent to the outside eye, Priyansh Arya failed to keep a drive down. It wasn't as much failing to keep it down but not
even going up and over.
Prabhsimran Singh, the other part of the dynamic opening partnership, charged Bhuvneshwar Kumar twice and hit two fours. At the third time of asking, Bhuvneshwar
the fourth over that it became clear it was a difficult track. Shreyas Iyer, only 25 runs to his name in four innings in New Chandigarh, tried to pull Hazlewood in front of square and
shortened the length, the ball seamed, and took the edge.
It was when the returning Josh Hazlewood took the ball in
edged him to the keeper. Josh Inglis tried a more regulation pull in Hazlewood's next, and the extra bounce took the top edge.
Rajat Patidar and Phil Salt wrapped the chase up • May 29, 2025 • Getty Images
Khan Confident of winning 2025 Chess Title
- other finalists hopeful of impressive performances
DEFENDING National Chess
Champion Taffin Khan is confident of steamrolling his way to win the National Chess Title for the third consecutive time.
From invited comments given to the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) by all the finalists, Khan was firm on defeating his opponents and retaining the title.
“After finishing my games, I hope to get some rating points and win the Championship three times in a row,” he declared.
The GCF sponsored 2025 National Open Chess Championship began on Saturday May 24, 2025 at School of the Nations, Georgetown. Nine top players are engaged in fierce over-the-board battles with the defending champion in a single round-robin contest to win the holy grail of local chess.
However, top Junior player Kyle Couchman has upped the ante for the title. “I expect to play strong, focused chess and challenge every opponent I face. My goal is to win the title and prove that I’m ready to lead the next generation of Guyanese chess,” he said in a show of confidence.
His Junior counterpart, Sachin Pitamber also had high hopes. “I know I’m about to face strong preparation from each player, and after everything, I’m expecting myself to grasp one of the top positions. I’m filled with determination to win this year,” he positively exclaimed.
Championship finalist
Rolex Alexander also gave a thumbs up to his own performance. “Having qualified at the bottom of the table, I’m entering this championship with nothing to lose and everything to prove. My goal is to give my best performance, disrupt expectations, and cut down giants—one move at a time. I’m coming for the crown, whether it’s worn by a king or a champion,” he warned.
Aditi Joshi, reigning National Women’s Champion, and lone female contender hoped for more female participation in the Nationals. “This is my first time qualifying for the open nationals. Seeing the competitors in this tournament, I can only conclude that every match will be a tough one. I hope I can use the experience and strategies I’ve garnered from my previous tour-
naments to win my games and play to the best of my ability. I will train as much as possible to place high in the open championships. Subsequently, I hope I can inspire more females to play chess at a competitive level here in Guyana,” she appealed.
Veteran player Ronuel Greenidge feels that chess players have improved and humorously attributed losing to being an addition to a preserved animal trophy collection. “I am privileged to be part of this great chess move, where the quality and level of play is continually on the increase.
I am happy to do battle with this generation of players where the will to win is very high and they will happily add you to their taxidermy collection,” he cautioned.
Keron Sandiford, former National Junior Champion pledged to do his utmost. “I expect to give my best in every game and adapt to each challenge as it comes. Win or lose, I’ll play with focus, discipline, and respect for every opponent. I’m here to compete seriously and make every match count,”
he affirmed.
Junior player Alexander Zhang felt his performance would be of a high standard in the tournament. “After facing all my opponents in this championship, I expect my performance to reflect both my preparation and adaptability. I’ve prepared thoroughly and analysed my opponents’ styles, so I expect to perform strongly. My goal is to be among the top contenders, and I believe I have what it takes to achieve that,” he concluded.
Ricardo Narine, reigning National Junior Champion was moderate in his sentiments. “I expect my performance to reflect both my preparation and growth as a player, and I’m looking forward to creating interesting positions on the board and having some dynamic battles,” he commented.
Joshua Gopaul, 2018 National Junior Champion has made a comeback into the 2025 Nationals with mixed feelings.
“As a casual chess player, I don’t really have any sort of expectations regarding my performance against my opponents; I do however plan on having
Guyana guaranteed women’s double medal at South American Squash Championship
GUYANESE pair Ashley Khalil and Kirsten Gomes are assured of at least a silver medal in the women's doubles at the ongoing South American Senior Squash Championships in Brazil.
The duo secured their spot in the final after defeating Ecuador's Darlyn Sandoval and Tabita Gaitan 9-11, 11-9, 11-8 on Thursday morning.
They face Paraguay's Ana Maria Pinto and Giselle Delgado in the gold medal match.
In the men's doubles, Jason-Ray Khalil and Samuel Ince-Carvalhal were eliminated in the quarter-finals, losing to Chileans Agustín Carranza and Matias Lacroix 4-11, 8-11.
The mixed doubles also saw Guyanese representation fall at the quarter-final stage, with Michael Alphonso Jr. and Gabrielle Fraser going
down 4-11, 1-11 to Brazilians Murilo Pentea and Bruna Marchesi.
In the women's singles, Kirsten Gomes won her opening match against Nicole Krauch of Paraguay (11-3, 11-6, 11-7) but was defeated in the round-of-16 by Brazil's Juliana Pereira (4-11, 4-11, 10-12). Ashley Khalil also advanced past Tabita Gaitan of Guatemala (11-7, 8-11, 13-11, 15-13) before losing her roundof-32 tie to Argentina's Antonella Falcione (8-11, 9-11, 4-11).
Both Guyanese men in the singles competition, Michael Alphonso Jr. and Jason-Ray Khalil, lost their round-of-32 matches. Alphonso Jr. was defeated by Damian Casarino of Paraguay (3-11, 3-11, 4-11), and Jason-Ray Khalil went down to Argentina's Francisco Alfonso (11-8, 4-11, 5-11, 5-11).
some fun over the board playing my style of chess,” he offered.
The predominantly young players, some of whom have already worn other national
chess titles are participating in the closed event which is expected to wrap up by Sunday June 1, 2025.
Over 50 entries for 1320 heat 2025 drag racing this weekend
OVER 50 entries have been fielded for this weekend’s Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) 1320
Heat Drag race event.
Set for Sunday at the South Dakota Circuit, the event is expected to be the last small event before the club’s international invitational in August.
And according to the club, more than 50 cars have been registered for the event as drivers get their final taste of local competition before the grand hurrah.
“We are seeing that there are close to sixty registered and paid competitors for this event and it is heartening to see this large a response from the local contingent,” a club spokesman said.
“So far, we have been able to put all the necessary systems in place for a good weekend. We have
coordinated and posted out or track closure notices so that residents of the area are not disturbed. We have also contacted and gotten permission from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to host the event as well and we’ve made that public, so all in all things are looking well.”
The spokesman continued, “We have been able to secure all the necessary safety services as well; ambulances will be on station to ensure that the competitors are safe as well as the Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Police Force for their respective jobs. We also have private security to ensure that persons are not in areas where they should not be.”
Sunday’s event begins at 09:00 hours. Admission is $2000 for Adults and $1000 for kids.
Taffin Khan
Kirsten Gomes (left) and Ashley Khalil
Golden Jaguars begin Costa Rica camp for World Cup Qualifiers
GUYANA’S senior men's national football team, the Golden Jaguars, has commenced a crucial preparation camp in Costa Rica as they gear up for two pivotal fixtures in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign.
The team is set to face Nicaragua in an away match on June 6, followed by a 'home' encounter against Montserrat on June 10.
The match against Montserrat could be played in Barbados, based on recent patterns.
Currently based in Costa Rica, the Golden Jaguars have their full complement of players and technical staff on hand to conduct high-intensity training sessions.
Golden Jaguars going through their paces in Costa Rica
The preparation camp, which began on Wednesday, has started positively, and is expected to continue efficiently until the team departs for Nicaragua on June 4. In addition to rigorous
‘One
Guyana’ King and Queen of the Sand Football
training, the team is tentatively scheduled to play a friendly match against one of Costa Rica’s professional club sides.
Head Coach Wayne Dover has expressed optimism regarding the team's readiness, and the benefits of the training environment in Costa Rica.
"The preparation camp will provide us with the ideal atmosphere to focus on the tactical and physical components necessary for success," Dover stated. "The players are responding well, and we are confident in our ability to compete strongly in both upcoming fixtures."
The Golden Jaguars are heading into a critical phase of their qualifying campaign. With two matches remaining in the second round of CONCACAF qualifiers, securing maximum points is essential if they hope to keep their dream
alive of advancing to the final stage of the Confederation’s qualification process.
The team, led by head coach Wayne Dover, will travel to Managua to take on group leaders Nicaragua on Friday, June 6, at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium.
This Group ‘D’ clash is pivotal, as the Central Americans remain unbeaten, having comfortably dispatched Montserrat (4–1) and Belize (4–0).
Guyana, currently third in the group, began their campaign with a 2–0 defeat away to Panama at the Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez in Panama City. Despite the loss, the team rebounded with a strong performance in their fixture against Belize, played at the Wildey Turf in Barbados.
Following the Nicaragua
encounter, Guyana will return to face Montserrat on Monday, June 10.
Nothing short of six points from these two fixtures will be enough to challenge for one of the group’s top spots, realistically.
Only the group winners advance to the final round of Concacaf qualifiers, where they will join the three lowest-ranked teams from CONCACAF’S Nations League A and B champions, vying for three automatic spots at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
This edition of the tournament will be historic, as it expands to 48 teams, and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The final roster for the upcoming matches is expected to be announced in the coming days.
The battle for spots in the next round continues Friday and Saturday
FOLLOWING a very colourful official opening ceremony and march past where Hon. Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Anthony Phillips declared open the third edition on Independence night, battles in the group stages of the ‘One Guyana’ King and Queen of the Sand Football championships will continue on Friday and Saturday night at the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Linden office ground.
Racking up full points
on the opening night were Iconic Strikers in the queen’s segment, with Avacado Ballers and Hururu drawing their match, Rockstone losing. In the king’s competition, there were four winners from the four matches, Bomberz, HH Ballers, Rockstone and Team Mineral. Losing were YMCA, Avacado Ballers, Hardball Management and Swan. On Friday night, May 30, the two female queen’s matches will see Hururu taking on Circuitville from
18:00hrs followed by defending champions Speightland opposing Fearless.
King’s action will commence from 19:40hrs with Foundation Family tackling Lil Ballers. Rockstone will match skills with Bomberz from 20:30hrs; One Syde will then come up against Turf President from 21:20hrs; Speightland will face Team Mineral in the penultimate clash of the night with the main event between Young Gunners and UDK Victors.
On Saturday night, sev-
‘One Guyana’ King and Queen of the Sand Football action continues tonight and tomorrow
en more matches would be played. Queen’s action from 18:00hrs features Iconic Strikers and Fearless followed by GDF against Avacado Ballers. King’s play will see Avacado Ballers playing One Syde, Swan FC tackling Speightland, Goal IQ will square off against Rockstone, LA Ballers will engage Fearless with the main attraction between Spaniards and Foundation Family.
Sixth ExxonMobil U14 boys and girls football launched
THE sixth edition of the ExxonMobil boys and girls
U-14 schools football tournament is set to kick off on June 14, promising a month of intense youth football action culminating on July 12 at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue.
This highly anticipated event remains a cornerstone for youth development in Guyanese football.
At Thursday's official launch, held at Cara Lodge, Troy Mendonca, Co-Director of the coordinating body,
Petra Organisation, outlined the tournament's ambitious scale.
The main draw will feature 32 male and 24 female teams, competing initially in a group format before advancing to knockout rounds. Mendonca revealed that a staggering 56 male teams and 36 female teams have already expressed interest, necessitating preliminary matches to narrow down the field.
He reiterated Petra's commitment to ensuring the tournament's resounding
success, providing a crucial platform for young talents to showcase their skills.
Oil giant ExxonMobil has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to youth sports, sponsoring the tournament to the tune of GY$20.9 million.
Okeme Beaton, Commercial Advisor for ExxonMobil Guyana, highlighted the consistent growth observed in the young athletes.
"Every year we see growth in tale nt, sportsmanship and vigour," Beaton stated, emphasising the
company's core focus on supporting communities and their firm belief in sport as a vital pillar for youth development.
Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, challenged the organisers to expand the tournament's reach, urging them to capture teams from all regions, noting that only regions eight and nine are currently unrepresented.
Ninvalle affirmed the National Sports Commission's (NSC) willingness to assist in bridging this geographical gap, further indicating the
NSC's commitment to sponsoring an additional prize for the Most Promising Player, an incentive aimed at further nurturing emerging talent.
Some players, he indicated, should feature in the Inter-Guiana Games set for December 5-7 in Guyana.
The tournament offers a compelling array of individual and team prizes, designed to benefit both the athletes and their schools. Individual accolades include: Most Valuable Player: GY$60,000 in school supplies, a trophy, and a pair of football boots;
Highest School Goal Scorers: GY$60,000 in school supplies, a trophy, and a pair of football boots and Best Goalkeeper: GY$60,000 in school supplies, a trophy, and football gloves. Additionally, the top four teams in both the boys' and girls' categories will receive substantial prizes: GY$400,000 (first), GY$200,000 (second), GY$100,000 (third), and GY$75,000 (fourth). Crucially, all team prize money is allocated towards school projects.
England steamroll steamroll West Indies by 238 Runs
Okeme Beaton of ExxonMobil Guyana hands over the ceremonial cheque to a representative from Petra Organisation alongside Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle (far right); Co-Director, Troy Mendonca (second from left), and Nicholas Fraser of Allied Arts Division (Japhet Savory Photo)
Jacob Bethell cut loose at the back end of the innings•May 29