Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 31-12-2025

WEDNESDAY 31st December, 2025

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUSIVE

No. 108030

‘A grand homecoming’

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- Guyana’s 60th Independence celebrations to encapsulate greater support for creatives, tourism expansion, entertainment hubs, President Ali says

Gov’t to foster youth entrepreneurship, creation of consortiums

- with new secondary school programme geared at shaping next generation of innovators, President Ali highlights

President Dr. Irfaan Ali engaging five women journalists and students during an interview at the Lamaha Street railway courtyard on Tuesday

Guyana will support Enhancement of GPL’s transmission, distribution every action to eradicate transnational crime network continues

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- with steady progress record despite remaining shortcomings, President Ali says

- President Ali says, reaffirms commitment to regional fight against drug trafficking, smuggling

Nandlall says Mohameds’ ‘stay application’ a delay tactic SEE PAGE

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- as lawyers clash over extradition

All systems fully operational to address Black Bush Polder flooding

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Guyana will support every action to eradicate transnational crime

- President Ali says, reaffirms commitment to regional fight against drug trafficking, smuggling PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s full support for regional and international efforts to eradicate drug trafficking, gold smuggling and other forms of illicit activities, describing these crimes as major threats to democracy and social stability.

In an engagement with women journalists and students on Tuesday, he stressed that such criminal activities fuel corruption and weaken democratic institutions across the region.

The President highlighted the devastating human cost of organised crime, noting the loss of tens of thousands of lives and the displacement and long-term harm suffered by families and communities.

He said these criminal networks destroy societies and undermine freedom, making collective and de-

cisive action essential.

“I support, completely, every action taken to eradicate drug trafficking, terrorism, gold smuggling within this region,” the President said.

Dr Ali emphasised that Guyana remains committed to working with regional partners to confront and dismantle these networks, while promoting security, good governance and sustainable development.

The Head of State said: “It undermines democracy, it undermines freedom, it supports corruption, it destroys society, what about the tens of thousands of persons who lost their lives, families displaced and damaged because of these people, these criminals who operate.”

With regard to drug trafficking and any form of drug smuggling, the government, he said, maintains strong collabo-

ration with partners in the United States of America and other international stakeholders to curb these transnational crimes.

“The US has a solid partner in Guyana in the fight against those forms of criminalities,” the President stressed.

According to the United States Department of State’s 2025 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR), published earlier this year, Guyana has demonstrated a commitment to working with international partners to address drug trafficking.

The report disclosed that several government agencies in Guyana, including the Ministries of Home Affairs (Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit and Guyana Police Force), Education, Health, and Human Services and Social Security, are involved in addressing drug-related crimes.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali It also highlighted the September 2024 launch of the National Defence Institute, aimed at building expertise through collaboration with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and United States security and defence institutions.

Additionally, the report noted that Guyana collaborated with the United

States to increase drug seizures in 2024, particularly cocaine.

That year, Guyana seized more than four tonnes of cocaine, in co-operation with US law enforcement at an airstrip near the border with Venezuela, and also interdicted a semi-submersible vessel off Guyana’s coast carry-

ing 2.3 tonnes of cocaine.

The report further stated that Guyana’s National Drug Strategy 2022–2026 outlines strategic programmes to guide the country’s drug-control efforts, with a focus on interdiction, prevention, treatment and anti-money laundering measures.

‘A grand homecoming’

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

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- Guyana’s 60th Independence celebrations to encapsulate greater support for creatives, tourism expansion, entertainment hubs, President Ali says

By Naomi Parris GUYANA'S 60th Independence Anniversary set to be more than a ceremonial milestone, as President Dr. Irfaan Ali announces plans to integrate bold new initiatives cementing the foundation of the country’s budding orange economy.

Speaking with reporters and students during an engagement on Tuesday, President Ali revealed that a calendar of grand celebrations will usher in the country’s 60th commemoration as an independent nation in 2026.

These celebrations, he said, will see greater support for creatives, tourism expansion, and the creation of entertainment and cultural hubs being placed at the core.

“We're going to invest heavily in the orange economy, and our 60th anniversary gives us an enormous opportunity to kickstart that investment,” the President said.

To achieve this, the government, he said, will place emphasis on the country’s talent at a mag-

nitude never seen before, deploying every aspect of the country’s rich tapestry and artistic talent.

A cornerstone of this strategy is the creation of a film industry and entertainment hubs, designed to give local artists a structured form of income.

The private sector has been urged to channel social expenditure into this creative push, aligning corporate social support with national cultural development.

Tourism, too, is being reimagined. Plans are underway to attract major cruise lines, and expand the country’s tourism offerings, from developing the entire seawall and a ‘green’ ecosystem with a walking trail across Georgetown to enhancing day-tour experiences such as Essequibo Island tours.

The Head of State said: “We are going to invest heavily in creating a film industry here to create entertainment hubs where our local artists can have structured forms of income.

"We are working to expand our tourism product, and, importantly, trying to

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

get major cruise lines to come to Guyana.”

He went on to say: “Our 60th anniversary will be a grand homecoming.

It’s an event-packed year in which we want all our Guyanese brothers and sisters coming back home to visit and spend time, but that has to be driven by events.”

GENERATIONAL PROJECTS At this juncture, Pres-

ident Ali said the 60th Independence anniversary will also mark the launch of a new era of long-term, transformational development, anchored in technology, infrastructure, and inclusive investments.

“I want our 60th Anniversary to be remembered as that moment in history when mindset met transformation, transformation met people, and people met technology,

[and] technology created systems for a new Guyana that will be one to boast of efficiency, transparency, and accountability, and one in which every Guyanese must aspire to own things the right way,” President Ali said.

The Head of State further encouraged Guyanese to take advantage of the expanding economic landscape by investing confidently in their future.

“I encourage every Guyanese to take your loans and invest. I want to see every Guyanese becoming better off than they are today, owning new, more beautiful houses and buildings, and doing it the right way. Let us pay our taxes and build a strong, beautiful economy that all of us can be proud of,” he said.

He further pointed to a series of large-scale, generational projects that will define the country’s development trajectory well beyond its 60th anniversary.

He noted that these initiatives will create new revenue streams, expand national capacity, and un-

lock opportunities across multiple regions.

“The 60th Anniversary will also unleash the next 100 years of generational projects for Guyana, because we will have the full ecosystem for Wales, the new airport at Rose Hall and Lethem, upgrades to all the hinterland airstrips, we will have gas-to-energy projects in Berbice, creating a new wave of generational wealth and revenue streams; that is fertiliser plants, glass factories, data centres, energy powerhouses, LNG facilities, all creating infrastructure and a logistics hub to drive opportunities.”

Collectively, the President said these investments will position Guyana as a regional logistics and infrastructure hub, creating sustained employment, fostering innovation and driving shared prosperity.

He said the government’s focus remains firmly on ensuring that growth is inclusive, forward-looking and beneficial to present and future generations of Guyanese.

Gov’t to foster youth entrepreneurship, creation of consortiums - with new secondary school programme geared at shaping next generation of innovators, President Ali highlights

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has outlined plans to use the Guyana Development Bank as a tool to nurture entrepreneurship among young people, with a particular focus on students in sixth form and those preparing to leave school.

During an engagement with women journalists and students, on Tuesday, he said that the initiative would introduce youths to the concept of working in consortiums, encouraging collective thinking and collaboration at an early stage of life.

“One of the things that we want to do now that we have the Development Bank is to go into the schools and teach the children in sixth form, those leaving sixth form or fifth form as to how they can come together in consortium. So, building the mentality of consortium at a very early stage in their life, and then see what business ideas they can come up with and help them through the development bank to finance those business ideas up to the limit of that bank,” the President said.

Under this approach,

students would be guided to develop business ideas in groups and receive support through the Development Bank to finance those ideas, without the traditional barriers of collateral or interest requirements.

The President highlighted that this model would especially benefit young people and enable them to pursue innovative ventures together. “[So] if you have these young people 15-20 of them and [they] say we have this great business idea…now what that does, it creates a

society that is innovative in its thinking, analytic in its thinking. It places a next generation of young people who will be forward thinkers, who will be looking to apply themselves in what?

Wealth creation, a productive activity,” President Ali said.

Back in November, the President had announced that the Development Bank will be capitalised with a minimum of US$200 million and is expected to become operational before the end of the first quarter of 2026.

He noted that the bank will operate in close integration with commercial banks, with the goal of unlocking greater access to capital.

A special incentive regime will be introduced to encourage commercial banks to expand lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), mirroring the incentives offered to banks in the housing sector.

In return, commercial banks will be required to lower interest rates to below four per cent and reduce collateral requirements for SME borrowers.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) will be able to access up to $3 million in zero-collateral loans through the Guyana Development Bank, and with a further $7 million which will be made available through co-financing with commercial banks at preferential rates.

Those SMEs will also benefit from mentorship, training and the support needed to turn ideas into thriving businesses, he said. The bank is set to be fully operational before the end of the first quarter of 2026.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Two containers of Guyana’s agro-processed goods headed to Caribbean markets - President Ali

TWO containers of locally-produced agro processed goods are destined for Caribbean markets, in what President Dr Irfaan Ali describes as a concrete step in turning farm output into export driven wealth for households and communities.

Speaking during an in depth end of year conversation with five female journalists and students at the Railway Courtyard on Tuesday, the president outlined an integrated economic and social model aimed at reducing poverty, expanding household wealth and building a diversified, resilient economy for all Guyanese.

“You are seeing it at the Christmas markets and across the country: single mothers and small

processors improving their products,” President Ali said. “Today, we have just negotiated two containers of agro processed goods going into the Caribbean.”

He stressed that this shipment is not a symbolic gesture but a practical outcome of policies designed to transform Guyana into a competitive, diversified economy that places families, farmers, young people and small businesses at the centre of national growth.

LINKING VILLAGES TO REGIONAL MARKETS President Ali said the agro processing breakthrough reflects deliberate policies to incentivise agriculture, empower small producers, particularly women, and link village

level production to regional and global markets.

Because Guyana is fast becoming an important food supplier in the Caribbean, he disclosed that discussions are underway to establish a commercial arm of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) that would integrate food production with the CARICOM market.

President Ali cited a recent discussion with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, “where a group of young Antiguans are investing in transport capabilities and are look-

ing to Guyana as a key supplier of food into their domestic system.”

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND MINDSET CHANGE Building on this, the President announced that the Guyana Development Bank will be used to introduce entrepreneurship education in schools, teaching students how to form consortia and develop bankable ideas from an early age. He emphasised that the development Guyana is experiencing demands a shift in the national mindset.

“Wealth creation is not accidental. It is planned at the national level through policies and programmes and felt at the community level,” he said, warning against attitudes that reduce productivity during this critical phase of development.

President Ali underscored that the shipment of agro-processed goods is not symbolic but a practical outcome of policies aimed at transforming Guyana into a competitive, diversified economy, one that places families, farmers, young people

and small businesses at the centre of national growth.

FOOD SECURITY AND INVESTOR CONFIDENCE Turning to food security, President Ali noted that while regional targets have been affected by hurricanes, climate shocks and post pandemic demand, Guyana has made tremendous strides. Poultry, livestock, egg, aquaculture, corn and soya production have all expanded, with exports to the wider Caribbean expected within two years.

He added that international investors are now actively pursuing opportunities in large scale livestock, swine production, sugar refining, ethanol, mega farms and hydroponics, reflecting growing confidence in Guyana’s policy environment.

“Guyana is now seen as a country with a serious policy agenda and a strong ecosystem that supports agriculture and food production,” President Ali said. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Rapid increase in vehicle registrations showcases enhanced spending power

- Minister Singh says, points to deliberate policies geared at improving lives of all Guyanese FOR the first time, thousands of Guyanese have finally been able to own their own car, with entire registration series being completed in just three months.

This has emphasised how the government’s policies are reshaping the lives of all, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said during a recent interview.

He highlighted how the speed of new registrations reflects how accessible vehicle ownership has become.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has issued a series of policies that target improving financing options, reducing value-added tax along with infrastructural investments.

Earlier this month, the new car registration series PAN commenced, just three months since the last car series started.

Minister Singh has observed this growth and said: “For the 1000s of people who now own a motor car, for the first time, motor

car registrations are being recorded at the fastest rate ever. Now we're completing an entire 9,999 series in just about three or four months, reflecting the fact that motor car ownership is more accessible now than any other thing… that's an improvement in quality of life.”

Earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali unveiled a sweeping five-year agenda for what he describes as “the most ambitious phase” of Guyana’s economic and social transformation, anchored in diversification, digitisation, and broadbased prosperity.

Dr Ali said his re-elected administration would “build on the historic achievements” of the past five years, with a sharpened focus on ensuring that growth is widely shared.

Notably, Dr Ali revealed a wide-ranging package of tax incentives aimed at deepening economic diversification, encouraging private investment, and easing the financial burden on households, small businesses, and vulnerable groups.

Central to this is the

creation of special development zones which will be detailed in the 2026 national budget.

These zones will operate under a tax-free incentive regime, targeting sectors that generate export earnings, or replace imports, with a particular emphasis on agricultural technology, agro processing, and non-oil economic activity.

In a bid to support both businesses and families that rely on ‘pick up’ vehicles, the government, he

said, will introduce a flat tax on double cab pick-ups, regardless of age.

Vehicles up to 2,000cc will attract a tax of $2 million, while those between 2,000cc and 2,500cc will face a $3 million tax.

Officials say this will make it easier to renew or upgrade transport capacity, especially for enterprises operating in agriculture, construction, and services.

With a clear intention of rewarding work, and encouraging formal employment, the administration has pledged to continue raising the income tax threshold over the next five years, with the goal of approaching levels seen in more developed economies.

At the same time, it will abolish net property tax on individuals; this is a move framed as an incentive for

citizens to build savings and assets.

“These plans represent a blueprint for transformation that can be tangible in your daily life, in the work you do, the wages to earn… with your trust and partnership will turn this moment into a movement, a momentum that carries growth in our homes,” the President said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Arresting Transnational Crimes

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali recently reaffirmed Guyana's commitment to ending drug trafficking, gold smuggling, and organised crime.

This is not just a government policy statement. It is a call to action for society's survival. His assertion that these crimes threaten our democracy, freedoms, and social fabric demands strong national action and firm collective determination.

The President highlighted a truth that many in our region overlook. Organised crime is not just a law-enforcement issue or an economic issue. It acts like a

corrosive acid, gradually weakening the democratic institutions that good governance relies on.

When criminal networks operate without punishment, they do more than traffic drugs or smuggle gold. They undermine the rule of law, corrupt officials at every level and take away the basic freedoms of ordinary Guyanese.

What makes the President's position particularly commendable is his clear rejection of the false choice between sovereignty and international co-operation.

Guyana's long-standing partnerships with the United

States, Brazil, Colombia, and Suriname have been essential in stopping drug trafficking and breaking up smuggling rings.

The government's seizure of over four tonnes of cocaine in 2024, achieved through collaboration with US law enforcement, marks a significant win against crime. However, we must not become complacent.

The rise of new synthetic drugs, the complexity of transnational criminal organisations and the monetary temptations for impoverished citizens to engage in smuggling, all require us to step up our enforcement

efforts.

Gold smuggling also needs our focus. One smuggler can cost Guyana over billions in lost revenue; this is money that could be used to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Establishing inter-agency task forces to tighten gold-export protocols and carrying out intelligence-led operations that result in arrests show effective governance.

These efforts must move faster. The urge to cut corners for profit in this sector cannot be ignored. Those who take government in-

centives but still engage in illegal exports must face consequences strong enough to deter others.

The President's stance also supports the idea that combating transnational crime and maintaining regional peace go hand in hand. Guyana does not have to choose between territorial sovereignty and working with international partners who want to disrupt criminal supply chains.

Instead, the country can be independent while also embracing strategic co-operation, demanding transparency, fairness, and respect for its sovereignty,

while ensuring that criminal networks cannot find safe havens.

Guyana is at a crucial point. With new oil wealth emerging, the nation faces a choice: will it let criminal networks hinder progress and distort its economy as in other parts of the region?

Or will it take a different road where democratic institutions, the rule of law, and good governance lay the groundwork for inclusive, sustainable growth?

The President's choice is clear. The real question now is whether all Guyanese will show the same determination.

Poverty reduction in Guyana

Dear Editor, THERE has been sustained public discussion about poverty in Guyana and the assertion that oil revenues are not reaching those most in need. I begin by acknowledging a basic and often overlooked fact, which is, poverty exists in Guyana, just as it exists in every country in the world, including advanced economies.

The appropriate policy question is not whether poverty exists, but whether the direction of public policy is reducing it, increasing it, or leaving it unchanged.

When poverty in Guyana is analysed over time, rather than through isolated snapshots or emotive claims, the empirical record shows a long-term decline.

The World Bank’s household survey data indicated that national poverty rates fell sharply from over 60 percent in the early 1990s to approximately the mid-30 percent range by the mid2010s (World Bank, 2017).

This improvement coincided with macroeconomic stabilisation, expanded access to education and health services and steady employment growth. This was clearly

because of the government’s focus on the issue and their fiscal and monetary policies.

More recent assessments reinforce this trend. Since 2020, the IMF, IDB, Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Bank of Guyana have all reported strong real GDP growth, falling unemployment, rising real wages, and expanded social spending, factors that are empirically associated with poverty reduction (IMF, 2023; IDB, 2024; CDB, 2023; Bank of Guyana, 2024).

None of these institutions reports a reversal in poverty trends; instead, they empha-

sise that growth has been accompanied by increased social transfers and improved access to basic services.

Second, poverty reduction over the past five years has been reinforced by deliberate, targeted policy choices by the government.

Among the most significant interventions implemented by the government are: (1) direct cash grants and cost-of-living support to households; (2) substantial increases in old-age pensions and public assistance; (3) VAT removal on electricity, water, and key food items; (4) expanded housing subsidies

and low-income home construction and (5), tuition-free education initiatives and school-feeding programmes.

Finally, extensive peer-reviewed research on low-income, resource-rich countries warns against relying exclusively on direct cash transfers. While transfers are essential for immediate relief, countries that neglect investment in infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, security, and youth development risk undermining longterm growth (Auty, 2001; Sachs & Warner, 2001). The consensus in the literature is clear that sustainable poverty

reduction requires a balanced approach.

G u y a n a ’s c h a l l e n g e , therefore, is not whether oil revenues are reaching people, but whether they are being deployed in a manner consistent with both immediate relief and long-term national development.

The available data suggests that the current policy mix are targeted transfers alongside major public investment and is broadly aligned with international best practice.

Sincerely, Dr Tilokie Depoo, Economist

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Animals will die tonight in the corridor of death

TONIGHT, some animals will die. Some will be seriously injured. The reason is that dangerous squibs, firecrackers and fireworks banned by the state will be used, not surreptitiously, not by some mischievous little boys but by grown up people who will display these things openly for everyone to see.

Actually, there are fireworks that do not make that reverberating sound that kill the animals. But the crazy people who will use them tonight do not buy that type.

And so, you ask yourself where are the police.

I once noted if you smoke a joint any day at Bourda Market or at Stabroek Square, the police will travel faster than light to get there. But if you spread a sheet on the roadway and sell dangerous squibs and fireworks, you will be successful because the police will never show.

I live on a roadway that has become perhaps one of the busiest pathways in the entire country and on a roadway where some of the country’s important places sit. From Sherriff Street to the Ogle Roundabout, on the Railway Embankment, here are the places you can find: DSL Supermarket CARICOM head office The American School Rama Krishna School EXXON temporary head office Aquatic Centre Giftland Mall Movie Towne Massy Supermarket ISKCON of Guyana Hare Krishna Study Centre Of course there are many more like a few construction companies, a dentist surgery, five Chinese supermarkets etc.

Count the blocks from Sherriff Street to the Ogle Roundabout.

There are three- Conversation Tree, UG Road, Industry Public Road. This is a place where police vehicles could be seen several times in a day.

Yet this corridor from Sherriff Street to Ogle is

a huge ocean of noise nuisance each night, especially from a car-wash place; guess where? Opposite CARICOM Secretariat.

And from Movie Towne car park.

Here is something that you ought not to dismiss lest you be accused of human bestiality. The mother-in-law of the owner of one of the most known companies in Guyana lives right next to my home.

This lady is 86 years of age. One evening the noise was too much for her. She threw up. I swear on my family (though I am not a religious person) that this information is truthful.

The noise from that c a r- w a s h a n d M o v i e Towne is louder than any pop concert anywhere in the world. Yet, for all the years I lived there, the ubiquitous police force has never intervened even though that area is so busy and important, the police are always driving up and down that corridor. But they hear the noise but never stop.

So, tonight, the animals will die (I wish I was a firearm licence holder but I am not going to expand on that statement; it is for you to read between the lines) because the sound of the firecrackers in Pattensen, Turkeyen, Cummings Lodge and Industry will kill them.

And there will be no police patrol to be seen.

The police station that has jurisdiction for the corridor between Sherriff Street and UG Road is the Turkeyen Police Station behind UG in Sophia.

The ranks in the police station will hear the firecrackers but they never intervene. The noisy fireworks go on from 23:30 hours onwards way past the uncivilised hours of the morning. I have seen this, year after year where I live, and I can tell you those firecrackers really hurt those animals, both cats and dogs.

I know my country.

It is going to happen tonight and the police will not intervene. The next morning, we will read on

Facebook about how many pets have died. Then there will be a repeat in 2026, then again in 2027. When will it stop? I don’t think it ever will. If you go to the markets throughout Guyana this morning, you will find the firecrackers and squibs being openly sold I hope you dance the night away this evening with the one you love. If you are young, then, let the exuberance of youth run wild and free. Youth must be enjoyed because when the sweet bird of youth flies away, it never returns. Youth is like a rose. Its life is destined to fade.

So please enjoy yourself and the music. Each Old Year’s Night, I yearn

to dance one particular song which no other song can replace in my heart.

It is the instrumental brilliance of Barry White titled, “Love’s Theme.” The nostalgic, romantic, ethereal, eternal strings in that song make you fall in love with the person you are dancing with. Here are the lyrics of Love’s Theme: Play our love's theme tonight My love's here, it's no dream tonight It's been so long Since we've danced to our love song

I know the melody that made her mine will be The melody that keeps her close to me Play our love's theme once more Make her feel, like she felt before While the lights are low Please, let the music flow I know that the melody that made her mine will be The melody that keeps her close to me Ooh, play our love's

theme again Touch her heart, touch her soul and then As we sip the wine Her lips will come to mine I know that the melody that made her mine will be The melody that keeps her close to me.

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.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

‘We are building accountability within the system itself’

- President Ali says, warns of imminent terminations as gov’t cracks down on those bypassing vehicular licensing system PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday warned that dismissals are imminent following an internal review of the country’s vehicular licensing process, as the government moves to strengthen accountability and eliminate irregularities within the system.

In his response to questions during an engagement with local women journalists and students, the President said the administration has completed an examination of licensing records at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), comparing the number of licences issued with the number of applicants who passed the required theoretical and practical examinations.

He described the findings as deeply concerning.

“We are building accountability within the system itself,” President Ali said, warning that action would be taken swiftly, adding: “Early in January, you will see a lot of people being sent home; we have just completed examining the records of all the licence [sic] issued at GRA versus how many persons passed the theoretical test and how many persons passed the practical test and I can tell you, the results are alarming.”

Under the established procedure, applicants must successfully complete the theoretical

examination before being allowed to proceed to the practical test. According to the President, this requirement has been routinely bypassed.

“You can’t go on to the practical if you can’t pass the theory,” he said.

As part of the government’s response, the examination process has now been digitised in an effort to reduce opportunities for manipulation and human bias.

“The exams are now digitised, so you write the exams electronically and the results is [sic] done electronically.

It’s reducing that human bias,” President Ali said.

Earlier this month, the President announced that the government would publish the names of individuals who ob-

tained practical driving certificates without ever passing the mandatory theoretical examination, unless they voluntarily surrender and restart the process within six weeks.

He had revealed then that the GRA, the Ministry of the Public Service, the Ministry of Government Efficiency and Implementation and the Ministry of Home Affairs, have uncovered wide-scale irregularities in the licensing system.

President Ali had noted too that the deployment of technology has now made it possible to “triangulate” every step of the licensing chain, from theoretical testing to practical certification and finally to the issuance of licences by GRA.

Enhancement of GPL’s transmission, distribution network continues - with steady progress record despite remaining shortcomings, President Ali says

WHILE acknowledging that there have been improvements and lapses in relation to power generation in the country, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said that major investments are underway to transform the Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) transmission and distribution network.

The Head of State made this known during an interview on Tuesday when he was asked about the performance of GPL. Dr Ali said: “I can’t sit here and say that I have not recognised improvement also in GPL; it is not where we want it to be as yet.”

He went on to note that technical expertise has been brought in, but the reason that it is not where it should be is that the entire transmission network has to be done, and that is currently underway.

This, he noted, is an investment of close to some US$600 million to have this done. It is essentially the complete overhaul of a system where there was no real maintenance prior to 2020.

The Head of State, however, said: “We’re doing it at the same time whilst the growth in consumption and demand is

moving at an exponential pace.”

To this end, Dr Ali said that the government has a plan to address production, transmission and even distribution.

“The tens of thousands of new homes that are coming on every two – three years to the grid on the same system… we now have to move at a rapid pace to have the cable across the Demerara River completed,” he said.

Dr Ali reiterated that on the power side, there have been improvements, but it is still not where they want it to be.

There are still weaknesses in the management that are being addressed and challenges from distribution to production.

Th Head of State further noted that the government hopes

that by the last quarter of 2026, the Gas-to-Energy project would be in a position to deliver, but that too would be a problem if the transmission and distribution are not completed, and as such, work will continue to progress on that.

“We are fixing and reinvesting in the entire infrastructure in energy while we have to keep the power on,” President Ali said.

In assuring citizens of the government’s commitment, he said: “I can say with great clarity that there is a massive investment in infrastructure, human development, capacity building, institutional changes that is onstream to give us a safe, efficient and highly reliable network.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Guyana’s economic growth a tool to deliver more opportunities, social services - Minister Singh says

AS Guyana’s economy continues to expand at one of the fastest rates in the world, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh has said that economic growth is not an end in itself but instead, he emphasised that it is a tool to give citizens better jobs, improved social services and expanded opportunities.

The minister made these remarks during a recent interview, aired on his Facebook page, where he reflected on President Dr Irfaan Ali’s previous address to the nation which outlined the government’s national development agenda for the next five

years.

At the end of the first half of the year, it is estimated that Guyana’s overall economy grew by 7.5 per cent, and the non-oil economy by an estimated 13.8 per cent, representing the fifth successive year of expansion in the non-oil economy at the half-year, following the contraction in 2020.

Dr Singh said: “This is the objective of economic policy makers all over the world, but it is also important that growth translates into improved well-being for the citizens whom you serve, that is itself. Growth is not an end. It's really a means to a bigger end, which is the improvement of the circumstances and

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh lives of people.”

The minister said that President Ali’s grand vision, which he described as “reassuring, inspiring, and exciting,” puts citizens in the centre.

Dr Singh said: “It provided an important bridge between the manifesto,

on the basis of which we were elected, and the successive budgets that will be tabled, debated and approved in the National Assembly in due course, year after year, as we roll out our party’s agenda, our government's agenda, as reflected in the mani-

Bank of Baroda, CCWU sign three-year pact - delivering major salary, allowance, bonus gains to employees

THE Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc. and the Clerical & Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) have sealed a new threeyear collective agreement that delivers substantial salary, allowance, and bonus benefits to unionised staff.

Signed on December 29, 2025, the pact is being hailed as a significant milestone in the long-standing relationship between the Bank and the union.

The December 29 signing formalised a fresh collective labour agreement covering full-time permanent employees within the CCWU bargaining unit at Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc. It builds on a history of multi-year agreements between the parties that have traditionally focused on wage improvements and better conditions of work.

Under the new agreement, workers will receive a cumulative 28 per cent salary increase spread over the next three years, enhancing income security in a period of rising living costs.

In addition, all allowances payable to covered employees will be increased by 10 per cent, strengthen-

The Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc. and the Clerical & Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) have sealed a new three-year collective agreement that delivers substantial salary, allowance, and bonus benefits to unionised staff ing the overall compensation package beyond basic wages.

The agreement preserves the existing leave passage allowance, which entitles each full-time permanent employee in the bargaining unit to a payment equal to one month’s basic pay once every two years.

This benefit is intended to support periodic rest and travel, reinforcing well-being and work–life balance

for staff.

A standout feature of the new pact is the provision for two Christmas bonuses for all full-time permanent employees in the bargaining unit.

These bonuses, paid during the holiday season, are designed both to recognise employees’ annual contributions and to provide additional financial support at a high-expense time of year.

By locking in structured, multi-year improvements to salaries, allowances and bonuses, the agreement signals a deepening of trust and cooperation between Bank of Baroda and the CCWU. It also reflects the continuing role of collective bargaining in Guyana’s financial sector as a mechanism for balancing competitiveness with fair rewards for workers.

festo over the course of the next five years.”

This laser focus, he said, will continue to be reflected in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s deliberate and strategic policies, which seek to build a Guyana where citizens can “live, work, earn, save and invest retire comfortably.”

Minister Singh also disclosed that Guyana has attracted more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) than any other point in its history.

He said: “We have seen more, and this is reflected in FDI inflows and in the establishment of new companies and new businesses that are

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foreign owned, that have come to Guyana, that have either set up operations or entered into partnerships with Guyanese companies and set up operation and you see them.

“They're everywhere.

This is reflected in the growth in domestic private investment. And here again, you see new Guyanese businesses and new Guyanese companies being set up everywhere, in every single sector and subsector of the economy.”

The minister also said that credit to the private sector has grown at “astronomical” rates, over the last five years than at any other time in the country's history.

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Vendors voluntarily relocate inside Parika Market

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

- in accordance with prior agreement, Minister Manickchand says

FOLLOWING an agreement made earlier this month, Parika Market vendors fully relocated inside the market on Monday evening.

This was according to Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, following a visit to the market.

In a video posted on the

ministry’s Facebook page, Manickchand said that she was pleased as the agreement, which was made earlier in December for vendors who previously vended alongside the road in Parika, to move into the Market before midnight on December 29, saw the vendors moving voluntarily.

“I'm extremely pleased,

like very, very pleased, because we had an agreement with the vendors of the Parika market.

Well, the Parika vendors who vended alongside the road, and have done that for many years, who were themselves uncomfortable because they flooded out often. They were exposed to weather. They were obstructing traffic and free flow Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand (right), interacts with vendors as they were moving into the market of traffic and pedestrians who were coming on the boat and going on the boat,” she said.

Manickchand related that as the vendors moved voluntarily, the process of moving and breaking the stalls was also done voluntarily.

Manickchand said: “This

going to be allowed, either by the vendors here or by authorities.”

Earlier in December, the ministry noted that an agreement was secured following constructive and consultative engagement with vendors who operated along the roadway to

The morning after vendors relocated inside Parika Market is a model for how we can take this forward to every market and every area where we cooperate, government, market committees, vendors cooperate to bring some order to our Guyana – the Guyana we all want to see, a beautiful free spacious orderly Guyana where people get to make a living but it is not unsafe for them as they make a living nor does it obstruct other people and become a nuisance to other people.”

She noted that while all vendors in the area have moved, it is not an invitation for other vendors to start up on the road in that space.

The minister warned: “So any new person who believes that’s a free space you can vend in, please know now that’s not

move inside the market before midnight on December 29.

This move was set to restore order and improve safety around Region Three’s busiest commercial hubs.

In a release, the ministry noted that the move was part of a broader push to enhance public safety, reduce traffic obstructions, and elevate the overall shopping experience at Parika.

“This decision aims to clear the roadway currently used for vending, creating a safer environment for motorists and pedestrians, while also ensuring a more orderly, comfortable, and enjoyable market experience for shoppers,” the statement outlined.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Five years of massive development to come - Amerindian Affairs Minister says

WITH a visionary plan set for implementation across all sectors, including policies that will drive enhancement, ensuring that Guyanese live and thrive in a society that amplifies their best interests, the Government of Guyana is focused on the upliftment of all.

This was indicated by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne-Shadeek, who spoke on these plans for a better, brighter future, especially for the Amerindian community.

In reflecting on these plans, the minister noted that while the Amerindian people are set to benefit from every sector, the announcements by President Dr. Irfaan Ali earlier this month, outlined specific benefits for them as well as those living in the hinterland.

The plans also include investments in hinterland roads such as the one connecting Orealla to Corriverton, connecting Regions Eight to Nine, and the Lethem Road, all of which aim to propel development in our hinterland regions.

The minister pointed out that from 2020-2025, the government invested a total of $11.7 billion in village and community projects under the Amerindian Development Fund, while 253 villages with a total population of 107,622, benefitted from projects under the presidential grant.

Further, she underscored that what is important, and what the government strongly supports, is villages deciding how these resources will be used.

“Whether it's in agriculture, ecotourism, small business development, craft production, or food security projects, we trust our people to chart their own path. We continue to invest in training, entrepreneurship and skills development, especially for Indigenous youth, because economic independence is key to long-term resilience,” the minister said.

In terms of Amerindian Land Titling, she said the government understands the importance of land tenure for Indigenous people and is leading the way regionally and internationally in this regard, continuing to advance the Amerindian land titling programme, addressing long-standing claims, granting extensions, and working transparently with village councils and Toshaos.

Minister Browne-Shadeek noted that from August 2020

to date, some 15 villages have been demarcated. Of these, 10 have received their certificates of title. This amounts to an additional 16,174 Amerindians having legal title to their land during the period 2020-2024.

“The Amerindian land titling project, from inception to date, has benefitted a total of 33,241 Amerindians with over 33,363 square miles of title land. Amerindian villages continue to receive direct financial resources, including presidential grants and funds from the national budget,” she shared.

Speaking on the Low Carbon Development Fund, the minister said that through the Low carbon Development Strategy, Amerindian villages are able to directly benefit from carbon credit revenues.

These are regarded as a recognition of the Amerindians’ role in protecting one of the world’s most important forest ecosystems.

On its return to office in 2020, the government expanded the LCDS initiative. To date, $14.5 billion has been disbursed over the past three years with a disbursement of 15 per cent, 26.5 per cent, and 20 per cent respectively from the carbon credit earnings under the low-carbon development strategy, now benefitting 248 Amerindian villages.

The minister noted that the government remains committed to ensuring that these resources support sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, and village-led development, while at the same time preserves the environment for future generations.

Education, another powerful tool for transformation, is being expanded in Amerindian communities, expanding access to quality education in hinterland villages. This includes improved school facilities, trained teachers, and learning resources that strengthen scholarship programmes, student dormitories and transportation.

Additionally, as it relates to Community Service Officers (CSOs), the government rehired 2,000 persons and included an additional 759 persons. According to the minister, they have seen CSOs rise in leadership as mayors, deputy mayors and toshaos. They have also used training opportunities to open businesses and become young professionals, such as healthcare workers and teachers.

Investments continue to be made in the healthcare sector with much focus being placed on health centres, trained medical personnel, emergency transport, and, of course, telemedicine.

Over the next five years, the government will continue

investing in a world-class healthcare, with regional hospitals built in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine and special attention being given to maternal and child health, mental wellness, and preventative care, the minister said.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne-Shadeek (Photo: Ministry of Amerindian Affairs/Facebook)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Charity Hospital gets Digital X-Ray Machine

By: Indrawattie Natram

CHARITY Oscar Joseph Hospital has taken another major step toward improving healthcare delivery with the commissioning of a new digital X-ray machine, significantly enhancing diagnostic and patient-care services for residents of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The state-of-the-art equipment is expected to improve efficiency, accuracy, and turn-around time for diagnostic imaging, benefitting both patients and healthcare professionals.

The machine was commissioned on Tuesday

by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who said the upgrade will re-

duce the need for referrals outside the region while strengthening in-house diagnostic capabilities.

Dr. Anthony noted that, in previous years, Charity Hospital operated with analog equipment, but the

Ministry of Health has since transitioned to modern digital systems.

He pointed out that less than five years ago, the facility did not have an X-ray machine, and under the PPP/C Administration,

The digital X-Ray machine

analog machines nationwide have been replaced with digital technology.

The first digital X-ray machine was commissioned at the Suddie Public Hospital.

“We at the Ministry have decided to source only top brands when procuring medical equipment,” Dr. Anthony stated.

He emphasised the Government’s focus on decentralising healthcare services, ensuring that critical diagnostic tools are available at regional hospitals. “No region should be left behind. You now have your digital machine, and we did not stop there—just recently we opened the Lima Regional Hospital,” he said.

According to the Health Minister, most

scans can now be done within the region, reducing costs and travel for

historic for the region and its riverain communities, highlighting the Ministry

The cutting of the ribbon was done by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, assisted by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj and staff members at Charity

patients, particularly those from riverain communities.

He explained that digital X-ray machines use less radiation and produce high-quality images, leading to better diagnoses.

Dr. Anthony also revealed that the Ministry was working toward integrating artificial intelligence into diagnostic services, allowing X-rays to be analysed within seconds to determine whether results are normal or abnormal.

He added that millions of dollars were invested to rehabilitate the hospital and install reliable generator systems to improve patient experience.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, described the commissioning as a major boost for the region. He said the investment reflects the Government’s commitment to improving service delivery and transforming lives through development.

“Every investment made in this region is testimony to the level of development taking place.

This is transformation through service to the people,” Minister Ramraj said, noting widespread improvements across Region Two. Regional Health Officer Dr Ranjeev Singh described the occasion as

of Health’s heavy investment in strengthening regional healthcare services.

He said many residents along the Pomeroon River will directly benefit.

Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan, also welcomed the development, noting the massive transformation taking place in the health sector. He said the investments demonstrate a government that listens to the concerns of the people and is committed to uplifting the lives of citizens across the region.

Residents have praised the initiative, calling it timely and much needed.

Pomeroon River residents noted that they previously had to travel to Suddie for X-ray services, but with decentralisation and modernisation, more essential services are now available at Charity Hospital.

This upgrade forms part of the Government’s ongoing investment in the public health sector, aimed at modernising facilities, improving service delivery, and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens.

The cutting of the ribbon was done by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, assisted by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj and staff members at Charity.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Nandlall says Mohameds’ ‘stay application’ a delay tactic - as lawyers clash over extradition

Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin appeared at the High Court in Demerara on Tuesday (Delano Williams photo) ARGUMENTS over an application to halt extradition proceedings involving businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, were sharply contested on Tuesday before Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh at the High Court in Demerara.

The Mohameds are requesting that the extradition proceedings be stayed until the judge resolves the constitutional issues raised in their case.

Attorneys-at-law in the case offered starkly different interpretations of the law in comments to reporters following the hearing.

Speaking after the hearing, Attorney General and Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall said his submissions focused on what he described as the settled legal framework governing extradition in Guyana.

Nandlall placed significant reliance on key judicial decisions, particularly Justice JoAnn Barlow’s ruling in Marvin Williams (aka Troy Thomas) v The Commissioner of Police, The Director of Public Prosecutions and The Attorney General.

He highlighted that the decision in this case echoed the Court of Appeal’s earlier findings in King v The Director of Prisons et al.

According to the Attorney General, extradition in Guyana is governed by an existing treaty and the Fugitive Offenders (Amendment) Act, which “sets out in detail the procedure to be followed when an extradition request is made.”

He said the applicants are challenging aspects of the extradition framework, issues which he noted were already raised and rejected before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman.

Magistrate Latchman is conducting the extradition proceedings pursuant to an Authority to Proceed (ATP) issued by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond.

“They have repeated the very issues before this court,” Nandlall said, adding that the policy underpinning extradition law is that it is meant to be “a swift international process between two governments.”

He stressed that extradition proceedings, by design, are not intended to be bogged down by prolonged litigation.

“Extradition process, by its very nature, is not intended to be embroiled in legal process-

es,” he said, noting that Guyana’s law, like that of “almost every country,” sets out specific avenues for challenges.

Nandlall outlined that once a magistrate conducts the committal hearing, the law provides remedies depending on the outcome.

“If the magistrate discharges the accused persons, the State has a right to challenge that ruling, and then the State has a right to appeal,” he explained.

Conversely, he added that if the magistrate orders committal, the affected persons may challenge the decision through habeas corpus, followed by an appeal, during which the law itself provides an automatic stay on extradition.

SIDE SHOWS “Clearly, the policy of the law and the intent of the process is not to entertain these side shows and these collateral challenges,” Nandlall said, describing the present application for a stay as “an abuse of the process.”

He further asserted that the law does not contemplate appeals against a magistrate’s refusal to entertain constitutional arguments at that stage.

“Once the magistrate rejects those arguments, the next step is for the magistrate to be allowed to proceed, not to come back to the High Court,” he said.

The Attorney General also took issue with what he described as the Mohameds’ stated intention to delay proceedings.

“It is the express intention of one of the applicants [Azruddin] that the process will be delayed for five years…,” he said, characterising the arguments raised as “frivolous and vexatious.”

Nandlall told reporters that for a stay to be granted, applicants must demonstrate serious and meritorious issues.

He said he examined each of the challenges raised to the 2009 amendments to the extradition law, walking the court through them “word for word” to demonstrate what he described as misinterpretation.

“The truth of the matter is that they will get that opportunity at the end of the magistrate’s court’s ruling,” he said, adding that the applicants would not suffer prejudice since extradition cannot occur until all statutory remedies are

Roysdale Forde, SC exhausted.

He questioned the urgency of staying the magistrate’s proceedings, noting that the substantive constitutional matter is expected to be heard shortly.

“They are not going to be put on a plane tomorrow or the next day,” he said.

Nandlall argued that the greater prejudice would be suffered by the State if proceedings are delayed.

“It is the State of Guyana that will be frustrated in exercising its right to reciprocate at the international level,” he said, pointing to treaty obligations and the doctrine of comity among nations.

He warned that allowing court processes to be used to delay extradition would undermine the system entirely.

“If Guyana is not able to extradite efficiently, and if the court system will be used as an obstacle and as a mechanism for delay,” he said, the country itself would suffer.

The Attorney General also criticised parallel proceedings alleging governmental bias, warning of the implications if such claims were allowed to halt extradition.

“It means that once a person enters into politics, they can’t be extradited anymore,” he said, calling that outcome untenable.

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, who represents the Mohameds, in his response to the Attorney General’s arguments, said the defence relied on a substantial body of case law to support its position that challenges need not wait until the end of committal proceedings.

“There is a significant body of law dealing with the fact that you do not have to wait until the end of a committal process to be able to challenge them,” he said, citing cases from Trinidad and Belize.

Forde argued that the 2009 amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Act are unconstitutional because they confer excessive power on the Minister of Home Affairs, undermine judicial independence by directing courts toward predetermined conclusions, and bar extraditees from challenging illegalities in the extradition arrangements, thereby infringing fundamental rights.

These constitutional challenges, including objections to Sections 8(3)(a) and 8(3)(b) and concerns over re-extradi-

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC tion safeguards, were rejected

by Magistrate Latchman, who ruled that the 2009 amendments are constitutional and that the issues raised had already been settled by local judicial decisions.

She further held that the arguments did not warrant referral to the High Court at the committal stage and did not impede the continuation of the extradition proceedings.

Forde warned of the prejudice his clients could face if proceedings continue. “My clients would have gone through a process… being in prison and go through all sorts of indignities,” he said, particularly if the legislation is later ruled unconstitutional.

Pointing to systemic delays in extradition matters, Forde questioned what he described as the urgency surrounding this case.

“What is the peculiar excitement and urgency to deny them a fair judicial process to have these matters ventilated?” he asked, expressing confidence that the court would ultimately rule in his clients’ favour.

Apart from seeking a stay, the Mohameds are challenging the Authority to Proceed that initiated their extradition, arguing it is void, legally null, and violates the rule of natural justice.

They are also seeking to have the Authority to Proceed quashed, a declaration that Ministers Walrond and Nandlall cannot take part in its issuance, and an order preventing the Ministers from any further involvement in their extradition on the grounds of both presumed and apparent bias.

The Acting Chief Justice is expected to rule on the application for a stay after considering the competing submissions. The ruling is scheduled for Monday.

Magistrate Latchman had previously set January 6 and 7, 2026, to begin hearing evidence in the extradition proceedings.

In dismissing the Mohamed’s referral request: Magistrate Latchman had declared: “This court is not about to resurrect what has been put to rest.

Having judiciously examined all the issues leveled by the defence and the request for a referral to be triggered, this court sees no basis to activate the referral article [Article 153(3) of the Constitution], since it is guided by the principles of stare decisis…”

The Mohameds—owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise—remain

Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh

on $150,000 bail each, have surrendered their passports, and must report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station as the extradition proceedings continue. They were taken into custody on October 31 following a United States request for their extradition.

U.S. prosecutors have accused the father and son of running an international criminal network with alleged links to high offices in Venezuela and the Middle East, claims Forde has rejected.

The pair face 11 criminal counts in the U.S. Southern District of Florida involving alleged wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and customs violations tied to

what authorities describe as a massive US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme.

The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both men in June 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and public corruption.

The U.S. investigation dates back to the mid-2010s and involved multiple agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Department of Homeland Security.

Azruddin heads We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), the party that finished as the runner-up in the 2025 general and regional elections.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

All systems fully operational to address Black Bush Polder flooding - water steadily receding, Regional Chairman says

Regional Chairman of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Junior Basant, has assured residents and farmers that decisive interventions implemented by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, to address flooding in the region are yielding positive results

REGIONAL Chairman of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Junior Basant, has assured residents and farmers that decisive interventions implemented by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, to address flooding in the region are yielding positive results, with all systems now fully operational and water levels steadily receding.

Several sections of the residential and farming areas in Black Bush Polder are no longer flooded, following immediate relief measures that were put in place by the ministry's National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to assist affected farmers and residents.

Eight excavators were deployed to carry out immediate drainage works in Yakusari, Johanna, and Mibicuri.

Additionally, small mechanical pumps have been placed in affected residential areas, while an 80 cubic-feet-per-second drainage pump is being transported for installation at the Number 43 Village outfall to supplement existing pumps.

Engineers from NDIA continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure timely and effective interventions.

According to Basant, a comprehensive drainage plan has been successfully executed following recent

flooding, with seven pumps currently operating across key locations including 43, Eversham and Lesbeholden.

These pumps are actively draining excess water from farmlands and surrounding communities, significantly easing the impact of prolonged rainfall.

“So far, 100 per cent of those plans have been implemented. In total, eight pumps are operating at 43, Eversham and Lesbeholden head, draining the lands here and taking the water out,” Basant said.

He highlighted: “Those plans are active, all the pumps are functional, and all the kokers are functional as well.”

The Regional Chairman commended the timely interventions spearheaded by Minister Mustapha, noting that the government has remained proactive in responding to the needs of affected communities.

“These interventions are working,” Basant stressed, adding: “As a government, we do not sit idly by and let things go. We come on the ground and get the job done, and we have always been doing that.”

Basant further disclosed that he continued on-theground engagement with farmers and residents on Monday and Tuesday, following Minister Mustapha’s visit to the affected areas on Sunday.

During those engagements, residents reported

noticeable improvements in the flooding situation, with water levels gradually subsiding and access to farmlands being restored.

“The residents are very thankful for the swift intervention,” Basant said, adding: “They are also thankful that we are on the ground monitoring the situation, continuously interacting with them. What we said would happen has happened and is continuing to happen.”

He emphasised that regional and ministerial teams remain actively involved in overseeing drainage operations to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Continuous monitoring, Basant noted, is key to preventing further disruptions to agricultural production and daily life.

“We are ensuring that the work is being done, that the water is coming off people’s farms, and that drainage is running smoothly,” he said, noting: “everything should be back to normal.”

The ongoing interventions form part of the government’s broader commitment to safeguarding agricultural communities and protecting livelihoods, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Authorities have assured residents that all systems will remain on standby and under close supervision to respond swiftly should conditions change.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

105 graduate in first-ever Patient Care Assistants, Community Health Workers programme in Region Two

By Indrawattie Natram THE Ministry of Health, on Tuesday, graduated 105 persons from the Patient Care Assistants (PCA) and Community Health Workers (CHW) programmes at the Suddie Healthcare Training Institute, marking a historic milestone in decentralised health education in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The graduation ceremony, held in the auditorium of the Anna Regina Secondary School, was attended

by Minister of Health,

Dr Frank Anthony, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Madanlall Ramraj, along with regional and health officials.

Of the total graduates, 46 completed the Patient Care Assistants programme, while 59 graduated from the Community Health Workers programme.

CREATING CAREER PATHWAYS Delivering the feature address, the Min-

Best Graduating student of the CHW programme, Melody Griffith, being presented with her trophy

by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony

ister of Health, congratulated the graduates, noting that their hard work and dedication had paid off. He emphasised that the Ministry of Health is actively creating clear career pathways within the health sector, allowing individuals to advance to higher professional levels.

Dr Anthony explained that the Ministry now offers hybrid programmes, enabling students to complete theoretical components online while

gaining practical experience within their communities.

He disclosed that close to 800 persons are currently being trained as registered nurses, many of whom are able to study without leaving their homes.

“The Ministry is providing the learning environment and continuous medical education. Once the opportunities are there, persons must take advantage of them,” he urged.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

GPHC Chairman remembers Michael Khan’s instrumental contributions to the hospital

The following is the full text of a statement from the Chairman of GPHC’s Board of Directors, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy: “On behalf of myself and on behalf of the GPHC Board of Directors, we offer our profound condolences to the family and friends of Michael Khan, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Michael Khan served the GPHC at a time when resources

were scarce, but it was during that period when the GPHC made tremendous progress and set the stage for propelling the GPHC as a leader for healthcare in Guyana, and now striving to be one of the best hospitals in the Caribbean.

For the GPHC, Michael Khan will be a lead figure in the GPHC’s Hall of Fame when it is established in 2026.

With the passing of Michael Khan, Guyana lost one of its best hospital administrators

and a dedicated public servant and I lost a friend. For me, the news of Mike’s passing was devastating. For the past decade I watched as Mike emotionally deteriorated, never being able to recover from the termination of his contract as the CEO of the GPHC. The Mike who people met for the last decade was not the same Mike that served as GPHC’s CEO for more than 16 years and who served the health sector in Guyana for almost 30

years. For the last decade of his life, he was a broken man.

The country that he had served with dedication and distinction broke him, caused him to fall to pieces.

In 1994, soon after the restoration of democracy in Guyana in October 1992, Mike returned to Guyana, leaving a lucrative job as a health procurement officer in the Middle East and after serving in the hospital system in the US. He served initially as the

The late Michael Khan deputy administrator at GPHC under Dr Vibert Shury who served as hospital administrator between 1993 and 1998, having been appointed under the Cheddi Jagan-led Government.

In 1997, Mike resigned from the GPHC to take up a position as the CEO at St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital. When I became Minister of Health, Mike returned to the GPHC as its first CEO, under the Bharat Jagdeo-led Government.

Under his leadership, GPHC successfully transitioned from a hospital administered by the Ministry of Health to a semi-autonomous institution, one with its own budget and in control of its own staff, procurement and infrastructural improvement. It was a monumental task transitioning from a pure public service institution to a semi-autonomous, self-managing institution.

It was under his leadership that the hospital working with the MOH and UG and with international partners established the post-graduate programmes that today represent the major source of specialist doctors in Guyana. Without the leadership provided by Mike Khan, together with the then-Director of Medical and Professional Services, Dr. Madan Rambaran, it would have been very difficult for Guyana to today stand as one of the major specialist training institutions in developing countries.

Many of the advance medical services that the GPHC today continue to build on were started under his tenure as CEO. The cardiac services that offer diagnostic testing such as angiography, and treatments such as angioplasty, stent and openheart surgery was established during Mike’s tenure as CEO. The kidney transplant programme and dialysis were also among the many programmes started. Many of the partnerships we have today, although different in character, started when Mike was CEO. Partnerships in heart surgery for children, knee and hip replacement surgeries, the Smile Programme for Cleft Palate, etc. are among the programmes.

But outside of his technical and administrative contributions, Mike’s professionalism and his humility served the GPHC the best. He worked to

support the staff and also with patients and their families.

When I was Minister and even after I left the Ministry of Health, Mike was supportive.

He was always available when I called for the hospital to help with patients and their families.

No matter who I had called for, Mike immediately responded and helped. Whether the person was a poor person or a person with political and other connections did not matter. It was this willingness to immediately respond that made him a successful administrator. I cannot recall a single occasion when I called that Mike did not immediately respond and ensured that any patient-related matter was not resolved.

When the Government changed in 2015, Mike continued to serve for a short while.

Towards the end of 2015, Mike Khan was sent on administrative leave by the then APNU/ AFC Government when they announced that an audit for financial mismanagement would be conducted.

The audit was conducted by Christopher Ram with no findings of any financial mismanagement. Still, Mike’s contract was terminated without explanation. Mike was never the same person.

It was not the humiliation of termination that affected Mike. It was the separation from GPHC which had become his family.

Mike lived for the GPHC and even though Mike was offered a position as the CEO of the New Amsterdam Hospital in 2020, he was never the same man he was at GPHC. His love and commitment to GPHC never waned and the separation from GPHC in 2016 killed him emotionally.

He was my friend. I will forever have a place in my heart for Mike Khan. Mike Khan served the GPHC with distinction and the GPHC Board is saddened with his passing.

“The new GPHC that the government, the board and the management have been building since 2020 is a continuation of the work that was started by the government and under the then management of Mike Khan. The Board salutes his contribution to the GPHC and to the health sector. May his soul rest in peace.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Three suspects in Canje robbery-murder of businessman Chen Yongping to be charged

POLICE investigators say three men have been arrested and have confessed to their roles in the robbery and fatal stabbing of Chinese businessman Chen Yongping in Canje, Region Six (East Berbice–Corentyne), an attack that also left another man injured.

According to police, the latest breakthrough came on Monday, December 18, 2025, when 17-year-old Renaldo Doodnauth of Bun Bush Dam, Canje, was contacted based on intelligence received.

He was interviewed between 18:00hrs and 23:30hrs in the presence of his mother by senior detectives, including Detective Assistant Superintendent J. Henry. After being cautioned, the teenager reportedly admitted his involvement.

Reports indicate that in a video-recorded statement, Doodnauth told investigators that he was approached the day before the attack by Colwin Morris, called “Screech,” and Peter Baker, both 29 and of Lot 207 Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme.

He said they informed him of a robbery planned for the following morning and asked him to participate, to which he agreed.

Doodnauth stated that around 05:30hrs on the day of the incident, Baker picked him up from a friend’s home where he had spent the night.

The group travelled by car to the Canje Public Road, walked back towards the Chinese nationals’ residence, and were later picked up by Morris, who drove them close to the scene.

He told police that he was

dropped off about 75 yards from the premises and instructed to act as a lookout while Morris and Baker entered the yard. From his position, he claimed he saw Baker stab the deceased several times and take two cellular phones and cash.

The men then fled in the vehicle, and Doodnauth was later dropped off at his home.

The teenager further alleged that he burned the clothes he wore during the incident under the Canje Bridge later that night and that Baker returned the next day and gave him $30,000 as his share of the proceeds.

Police subsequently contacted Morris, who was cautioned and interviewed. Investigators said Morris admitted his involvement, stating that Baker originated the plan. Morris reportedly told police that he transported the group to the scene and entered the yard with Baker, while Doodnauth remained on lookout. He said Baker stabbed both victims and took phones and cash, after which Baker gave him one of the phones and a share of the money.

Morris further stated that while travelling towards Georgetown, and before reaching Weldaad Police Station, he threw the phone out of the vehicle because he feared it was being traced.

Baker was later arrested, cautioned, and interviewed.

Police said he admitted that he contacted both Doodnauth and Morris to assist with the robbery. He acknowledged entering the yard armed with a knife, inflicting the injuries on Chen Yongping and his son, and

Repeat offender sentenced to 58 months for $3.2M car theft A WEST Bank Berbice man, with a prior conviction for vehicle theft, has been sentenced to 58 months’ imprisonment for the simple larceny of a motor car valued at $3.2 million.

Dinesh Persaud was sentenced on Monday by Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at Blairmont Magistrate’s Court, after trial.

Persaud was charged with the simple larceny of a Toyota Fielder wagon, licence plate PAG 8827, which he was accused of stealing on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice.

The vehicle was valued at $3.2 million.

According to police reports, the stolen vehicle was recovered on New Year’s Day at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, where it was

Dinesh Persaud [News Room photo] found in Persaud’s possession following investigations.

The court also heard that Persaud, who resides at Lot 69 Blairmont #1 Settlement, West Bank Berbice, is not a first-time offender.

In 2021, he was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for larceny of a motor car.

stealing cash and two cellular phones. He also admitted sharing the proceeds with Morris after dropping Doodnauth off.

All three suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.

The arrests follow a violent robbery earlier this month in Canje that claimed the life of 61-year-old Chen Yongping, a businessman of Lot 21 Cumberland Village, East Canje Berbice. Another businessman, 32-year-old Cheng Dongrong, was injured and hospitalised but has since been discharged.

Police said the two men

operated a food business at the site of the attack, where they produced and packaged various types of chips. Investigators were told that around 03:00hrs, the victims left their home to purchase cassava at the Port Mourant Market. They returned about 05:00hrs and were attacked as they entered their yard and parked their bus.

According to Dongrong, two men armed with knives rushed into the yard. The victims shouted in alarm but struggled to understand the assailants, as they did not speak English fluently. During the

attack, Yongping was stabbed once in the lower right abdomen and twice in the inner thigh, while Dongrong was struck to the head. The attackers escaped with two iPhone 12 Pro Max cellular phones and $150,000 cash.

Both victims were taken to the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital, where Yongping later

died from his injuries. His body remains at Persaud Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Police have also obtained CCTV footage from a nearby business, which remains under review. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing as they prepare files for legal proceedings.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

DPP Chambers reports 310 criminal cases disposed of in 2025 - expanded judiciary helps reduce criminal case backlog, DPP says

THE Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mrs. Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, has reported significant progress in the disposal of criminal cases during the 2025 Criminal Assizes, citing expanded judicial capacity and more efficient court scheduling as key factors in reducing delays within Guyana’s criminal justice system.

In its October 2025 Criminal Assizes and Year-End 2025 press release, issued on December 30, the DPP’s Chambers stated that a total of 310 criminal cases were

guilty pleas, while others were acquitted after jury verdicts or when the State offered no further evidence. The Essequibo Assizes are scheduled to continue until February 17, 2026.

The Berbice October Assizes began on October 21, also with 65 cases listed. By year-end, 12 matters had been completed, including murder and sexual offence trials. Several accused pleaded guilty to lesser charges, while others were convicted by unanimous jury verdicts. Sentencing hearings in several matters are

disposed of during the year.

Of these, 200 matters were heard and determined in the High Courts of Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo, while 110 were discontinued through nolle prosequi, largely due to unavailable witnesses or insufficient evidence to sustain prosecutions.

The Demerara October 2025 Criminal Assizes commenced on October 7 with 143 cases listed before acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh and Justices Gino Persaud, Damone Younge and Jacqueline Josiah-Graham.

During the Assizes, the State disposed of 36 cases, including murder, manslaughter, attempted murder and sexual offence matters.

Outcomes included 16 guilty pleas, three convictions after trial, several acquittals by jury, and formal not-guilty verdicts following no-case submissions. In some instances, murder charges were reduced to manslaughter after guilty pleas, resulting in sentences ranging from fixed terms of imprisonment to life sentences with eligibility for parole.

The report also detailed that several matters were discontinued after complainants declined to testify or could not be located, a recurring challenge identified by the prosecution in sexual offence and violent crime cases.

In Essequibo, the October Assizes opened on October 28 with 65 cases listed, of which 26 were disposed of by the end of December. These included murder, manslaughter, sexual offences and attempted murder matters.

Some accused were sentenced to lengthy prison terms following

scheduled for early January 2026, and the Berbice Assizes will continue until February 3.

For the year overall, the DPP’s Chambers reported handling 100 murder cases, 59 sexual offence matters, 19 attempted murder cases and 16 manslaughter matters in the High Courts.

The outcomes included 94 guilty pleas, 29 convictions after trial, 39 jury acquittals, 44 formal verdicts of not guilty, two hung juries and one aborted trial. A total of 218 accused persons stood trial during 2025.

Beyond the Assizes, prosecutors appeared in 43 matters before the Court of Appeal during the year, including cases involving murder, sexual offences, narcotics trafficking and other serious crimes. The Chambers also addressed matters before the Full Court and the Caribbean Court of Justice, where one sexual offence appeal remains ongoing.

In reviewing the year, the DPP’s Chambers attributed the improved case disposal rate to the appointment of 10 new puisne judges in 2024, which allowed four judges to sit simultaneously during the Demerara Assizes in 2025.

The increase in judicial capacity, the Chambers said, has reduced backlogs and enabled cases to be heard more quickly, in keeping with regional standards for timely justice.

The courts are expected to continue this pace into 2026, with the January Criminal Assizes scheduled to open in Demerara on January 13, followed by ongoing sittings in Berbice and Essequibo.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Former SL Under-19 player Fernando dies after being in coma for years

(ESPNCRICNFO) - FORMER Sri Lanka Under-19 cricketer, Akshu Fernando, died on December 30, after having been in a coma for several years.

Fernando had been crossing an unprotected railway track in the southern Colombo suburb of Mount Lavinia following a training session on the beach, when he was struck by a train on December 28, 2018. Having been critically injured in the accident, he had been on life support for much of the time since.

A bright right-handed batter, Fernando’s domestic career seemed to just be taking off when he was hit by the train at age 27. He had scored his maiden first-class hundred for Ragama Cricket Club in the weeks before the accident, and had also been developing his offspin at the time. All told, he had seven

50-plus scores at the senior level. In a nine-year domestic career, he had played for Colts Cricket Club, Panadura Sports Club, and Chilaw Marians Sports Club, among others.

International commentator and one of Ragama Cricket Club’s most senior administrators, Roshan Abeysinghe, paid tribute to Fernando following the news of his death.

“He was truly a wonderful young man whose promising career was cut short by a cruel accident,” Abeysinghe said. “A quality player for his school and his final club Ragama, it’s a sad day for all of us who knew him. A cheerful, friendly and thorough gentleman was he. We will miss you Akshu and remember you for the rest of our life. Rest in peace sweet prince.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday December 31, 2025)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kemar Roach-5/78 (First Test) (2) Jacob Duffy-5/34 (First Test) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which WI bowler had the best match figures in the recent Test series versus NZ? (2) Which NZ bowler had the best match figures?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Rossouw 42, Subrayen three-for guide Super Kings home in low-scoring encounter (ESPNCRICINFO) - On a slow surface, favouring spinners who held their pace and lengths back, Joburg Super Kings emerged victorious in a low-scoring encounter against Durban’s Super Giants. Prenelan Subrayen’s 3 for 16 featured 15 dot balls, and made all the difference as Super Giants were bowled out for 86.

Super Kings read the pitch early, and began with a two-pronged spin attack in the powerplay: Subrayen and Akeal Hosein combined to keep a tight grip on the opening overs.

The fielding restrictions were made almost irrelevant with batters

struggling to time anything off a good length, as the ball lost pace and dipped in their trajectory once they landed on the pitch more often than not. Subrayen took out Devon Conway (4) in his first over, Kane Williamson (2) in his second, and Jos Buttler (12) in his third.

Super Giants ended the powerplay on 23 for 3, and the going only got worse for them thereon.

Aiden Markram provided the most significant resistance through the middle overs, scoring 22 off 27 in an innings where the fluency never kicked in.

Just as he might have shifted gears, Faf du Plessis took the first

of two agile catches: he intercepted a skewed shot off Markram’s bat from wide long off in the 12th over, falling over in his follow-through.

In the next over, Ethan Bosch edged a ball off Hosein, and du Plessis was at short cover to complete the catch once again. Super Giants were reduced to 62 for 6.

Richard Gleeson came into the attack, scalping up two wickets in the 16th over, and Noor Ahmad’s cut to backward point helped him finish with figures of 3 for 2 in the 18th, to wrap up the innings. All of Super Giants’ ten wickets had fallen via catches.

In response, Simon Harmer

extracted equally prodigious turn with the new ball for Super Giants.

He prised out Wiaan Mulder with a leading edge off the bottom of his bat, and went for just nine runs in his three powerplay overs. Super Kings ended on 26 for 3 after their first six overs, and the game looked poised for a close finish.

However, Rilee Rossouw read the lines and lengths on a deceptive pitch more astutely than any other batter on the day, aided by Super Giants’ reliance on pace more than their counterparts through the middle overs.

He mostly stood deep in his crease and swung through the line

in an industrious innings of 43 off 32.

There were edges, and a full-blooded French cut, but he had mowed down almost half their target in an innings that featured five fours and one six.

He especially took a liking to Noor Ahmad - also the fastest spinner of the night, which played against him on a surface that favoured slowing the ball down to get it stuck in the surface and spin more. With Shubham Ranjane, he took Ahmad for 16 runs in the 9th over. From there, Super Kings’ chase seemed inevitable.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

India completes 5-0 series sweep

(ESPNCRICINFO) -INDIA completed a dominant series sweep over Sri Lanka, clinching the fifth and final T20I in Thiruvananthapuram by 15 runs. Posting 175 for 7, thanks to a commanding 68 from Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s bowlers then restricted Sri Lanka to 160 for 7 despite fighting half-centuries from Hasini Perera and Imesha Dulani, sealing a comprehensive victory.

During the course of the match, Deepti Sharma became the leading wicket-taker in women’s T20Is with 152 scalps, surpassing Australia’s Megan Schutt.

This was India’s third 5-0 sweep in T20Is, following similar clean sweeps against West Indies in 2019 and Bangladesh in 2024. India and England are the only teams with three whitewashes of five-match series in women’s T20Is. Sri Lanka strike early with the ball Unlike the fourth match, when India raced to 61 without loss in the powerplay, Sri Lanka struck early on Tuesday despite little help for spinners from the pitch.

Shafali Verma, coming off a hat-trick of half-centuries, was dismissed for 5 by leftarm spinner Nimisha Meepage once again, from around the wicket, lofting a catch

to long-on. Debutant G Kamalini, who replaced Smriti Mandhana, was trapped lbw after mistiming a sweep off Kavisha Dilhari’s first ball.

With 40 for 2, India posted their lowest powerplay score in this series.

Soon after, the No.3 Harleen Deol was bowled by Rashmika Sewwandi. Two overs later, Richa Ghosh n i c k e d o n e b e h i n d o ff Chamari Athapaththu’s offspin, leaving India 64 for 4 in the ninth over. Athapaththu struck again soon after, deceiving Deepti with her pace and flight as the left-hander top-edged a sweep to short fine leg, reducing India to 77 for 5.

Harmanpreet takes off Harmanpreet arrived with India 24 for 2 in the fifth over and anchored the innings even as wickets fell around her, steering India to a competitive total. The India captain combined caution with intent to bring up her first T20I fifty since October 2024, reaching the milestone in 35 balls after moving from 10 off 9 with a flurry of boundaries.

She dominated the key contest against left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera, scoring 31 off 17 balls, including four fours and a six, with 94% control.

It was a well-paced innings, marked by smart

footwork against spin, as she took the game deep and scored all around the ground. Her innings ended with Dilhari’s clever arm ball that produced an inside edge and rattled the stumps. India was 142 for 7 in the 18th over.

Harmanpreet Kaur rescued India with her half-century • BCCI

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Malinga to become bowling consultant for SL

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Lasith Malinga has once more been retained as consultant bowling coach for Sri Lanka’s men’s team, as they prepare for the T20 World Cup they are due to co-host from early February.

Although this is only a 40-day appointment, running from December 15 to January 25, it is essentially a continuation of Malinga’s work with key bowlers in the national set-up. Malinga has worked officially as a fast-bowling consultant at least twice before, but has also worked

unofficially with top bowlers over the years, and has been advising the coaching team led by Sanath Jayasuriya, over the past two years.

With round-arm bowlers Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara both in Sri Lanka’s preliminary squad for the T20 World Cup, and likely to make the final 15, Malinga will be especially well placed to assist.

“Sri Lanka Cricket aims to leverage Malinga’s vast international experience and renowned expertise in death bowling, particularly in the

shortest format of the game to strengthen Sri Lanka’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup,” the board release said.

Sri Lanka are set to cohost their first men’s global tournament since 2012, from February 7. Three Sri Lankan venues will be used - Khettarama and SSC in Colombo, and Pallekele.

The T20 World Cup will run from February 7 to March 8. Sri Lanka are in Group B along with Australia, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe.

Lasith Malinga chats with Matheesha Pathirana • AFP

ICC gives ‘satisfactory’ rating to Eden Gardens pitch for India-South Africa Test

Uneven bounce was a constant feature of the Kolkata Test • Getty Images

(ESPNCRICINFO) - The Kolkata pitch on which South Africa beat India inside three days last month has received a “satisfactory” rating from ICC match referee Richie Richardson.

The rating means Eden Gardens avoids any sanction for a pitch that attracted widespread censure.

“Satisfactory” is the second level of the ICC’s four-tier pitch-rating system, between “very good” and “unsatisfactory”, with “unfit” slotting in at the lowest level.

These ratings have been a topic of much interest this week, after the MCG pitch received an “unsatisfactory” rating and a demerit point

following the Boxing Day Ashes Test that ended in two days.

Uneven bounce was a feature of the Kolkata Test right from its first over, and sharp turn became more and more frequent as the match went on.

The pitch weaponised both seamers and spinners, with offspinner Simon Harmer and left-arm quick Marco Jansen playing key roles in South Africa’s win and India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah picking up a five-wicket haul on the first day.

Neither team passed 200 even once, and India, chasing a fourth-innings target of 124, were bowled out for 93.

The pitch was a source

of debate right through the match and its aftermath.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir said it was “exactly the pitch we were looking for” in his postmatch press conference, only for batting coach Sitanshu Kotak to contradict him before the second Test in Guwahati.

Gambhir, Kotak said, had only made that claim to protect the Eden Gardens curator Sujan Mukherjee, and suggested that India were surprised by the uneven bounce, and had certainly not asked for it.

The Guwahati Test was played on a far truer pitch, and South Africa won again to seal a 2-0 series scoreline.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Queensway Group of Companies and Bakewell chip in

One Guyana/K&S/ President’s Futsal Championship...

WITH the championship matches set to take place this Friday, January 2, 2026 at the Clif Anderson Sports Hall, two more companies have chipped in with support for the 3rd edition of the One Guyana / Kashif & Shanghai / President’s Futsal Championship.

Long time supporters, Queensway group of Companies and Bakewell presented their contribu-

tions to Co-Directors of the coordinating group, Kashif and Shanghai Organisation MS. Mohamed Hussein, Manager of the Queensway Group of Companies (QGoC) said that they were pleased to play a part in this historic championship which has seen a schoolboys’ tournament for the first time.

Hussein also noted that young

CWI releases fixtures for CG United Super 50, Blaze T20

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) on Tuesday released fixtures for the women’s segment of the CG United Super 50 and T20 Blaze competitions set for 2026.

The T20 Blaze begins on January 10 with the teams arriving in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; the following two days are slated for practice.

The first round of matches is set for January 13 and will see the Windward Islands playing Guyana in the opening fixture followed by Jamaica and the Leeward Islands and then Trinidad and

Tobago facing Barbados.

The following day features a practice session with the remaining four rounds and set between January 15 and 23; the finals are set for January 24.

Meanwhile the CG Super 50 will begin on January 27 with Trinidad against the Windward Islands at Sion Hill in the first game, Barbados meeting the Leeward Islands at Park Hill and Cumberland hosting the Guyana versus Jamaica match.

All matches begin at 09:30.

players are the bedrock of the game and it is plausible to see a solid foundation being laid for this format of the game which can see Guyana making waves at the regional and international levels once there is consistency in playing.

Shannan Ganga, General Manager of Bakewell, another longtime supporter of football and sport in Guyana overs the years through the

Founder/Owner, the late Naeem Naseer, noted that it is an absolute pleasure for Bakewell to continue a great legacy and partnership with the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation.

“We see our partnership with Kashif & Shanghai as a pivotal part of the development of football in Guyana. This is a relationship that dates back decades, and we have

seen what such collaborations bring for our athletes and the nation. So, we are happy to continue something we see as one of our social responsibilities.”

Both Co-Directors expressed gratitude to Mohamed Hussein and Shannan Ganga for their companies continued and unwavering support for the game whilst wishing them both a Blessed 2026.

Queensway Group of Companies and Bakewell chip in

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One Guyana/K&S/ President’s Futsal Championship...

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, December 31, 2025

SEE PAGE

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CWI

Shannan Ganga, General Manager of Bakewell, hands over cheque to Aubrey Major

Kashif Muhammad receives contribution from QGoC Manager, Mohamed Hussein, in the presence of Aubrey Major

releases fixtures for CG United Super 50, Blaze T20

SEE PAGE

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Guyana’s women are defending Blaze Champions

| WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2025