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WEDNESDAY 4th November, 2026

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No. 1081958

‘We continue to have conversations without delivering action’ SEE PAGE

- President Ali calls for stronger Commonwealth partnerships to advance biodiversity conservation

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday morning, joined Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, for a breakfast engagement on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The meeting, attended by other CARICOM Heads, provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen friendships and deepen co-operation between Canada and the region (Office of the President)

King Charles acknowledges ‘shameful chapter’ of transatlantic slave trade

SEE PAGE

- urges modern Commonwealth partnerships to address past wrongs, support access to education, climate resilience, opportunities

750 kVA generator to strengthen water supply at West Watooka – Minister Indar directs backup power systems for all Linden water treatment plants

Mounting charges fuel renewed bid by US to 15 revoke Opposition Leader’s bail in extradition case SEE PAGE

- Attorney representing US signals intention to seek judicial review of Chief Magistrate’s decision to maintain bail - insists compelling evidence supports murder charge over ‘Paper Shorts’ killing

SEE PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

750 kVA generator to strengthen water supply at West Watooka – Minister Indar directs backup power systems for all Linden water treatment plants

A 750 kilovolt-ampere (kVA) generator is to be deployed to the West Watooka Water Treatment Plant in Linden, replacing the existing generator as the government moves to strengthen the reliability of water supply amid ongoing electricity disruptions in the mining town A 750 KILOVOLT-ampere (kVA) generator is to be deployed to the West Watooka Water Treatment Plant in Linden, replacing the existing generator as the government moves to strengthen the reliability of water supply amid ongoing electricity disruptions in the mining town. The intervention forms part of a broader directive by Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, to ensure that all water treatment plants across Linden are equipped with backup power systems to minimise disruptions to water production and distribution. According to the Ministry of Public Utilities and

Aviation, the arrangements were advanced on Tuesday by Director General Alfonso De Armas, following engagements with regional officials and electricity service providers to address challenges affecting essential services in the town. Speaking on the intervention, De Armas reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing residents’ concerns and ensuring that critical services remain accessible. “The Government continues to ensure that the concerns and well-being of Linden residents remain a priority. This new 750kVA generator gives the West Watooka Water Treatment

Plant added backup, so families, schools and businesses can count on a more reliable water supply. We have heard the concerns from residents and we are acting on them.” The Director General, acting on Minister Indar’s instructions, oversaw arrangements for the replacement generator, which is intended to strengthen the treatment plant’s ability to maintain operations during electricity interruptions. Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Executive Director of Projects, Marlon Daniels, and Director of Operations, Jawaharlal Ramjug, were also on the ground overseeing arrangements for the replacement and coordi-

Director General of the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Alfonso De Armas, engages regional officials and representatives of electricity service providers in Linden on Tuesday to address ongoing power supply challenges and strengthen the reliability of essential water services in the mining town nating the technical support required. Beyond West Watooka, the Ministry said De Armas was working closely with GWI, an agency under its oversight, to advance the Minister’s directive for backup power systems at all water treatment plants in Linden. The initiative is intended to reduce the vulnerability of water treatment facilities to electricity disruptions, which can affect water production and distribution to households, schools and businesses. Tuesday’s engagement also involved Region 10 Regional Executive Officer, Dr Gregory Harris, along with management and technical

representatives of the Linden Electricity Company Incorporated (LECI), which serves Mackenzie, and the Linden Utility Services Co-operative Society Limited (LUSCSL), which serves Wismar. The Ministry indicated that coordination among the relevant agencies and electricity service providers will continue as efforts are made to address power supply challenges and safeguard essential water services for Linden residents. The Government of Guyana has been proactive in preparing for the community's energy needs. GPL is also constructing three solar farms totalling 15 MW in Linden and a new substation at Kuru

Kururu. Bosai is constructing an additional 10 MW solar farm in Region 10, which is expected to add further capacity by 2028. Additionally, six (6) one-megawatt generators are set to be relocated and installed along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, with the 6 MW power plant expected to become operational soon. Together, these investments will expand generation capacity, diversify the energy mix and deliver a stronger and more reliable electricity supply to customers in Linden, Region 10 and along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

‘We continue to have conversations without delivering action’

- President Ali calls for stronger Commonwealth partnerships to advance biodiversity conservation PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has called on Commonwealth countries to connect nature conservation with economic development and mobilise funding to protect biodiversity. Speaking at the launch of the King Charles III-led Commonwealth Nature Initiative on the margins of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, Dr. Ali said conservation should create opportunities for people and economies. He praised the King’s longstanding leadership on conservation finance, biodiversity and indigenous communities, and urged Commonwealth leaders to make nature a central part of development discussions linking it to jobs, livelihoods and economic growth. President Ali said the Global Biodiversity Alliance, which recently met in Georgetown, Guyana, had brought together more than 146 members. Its challenge, he said, was to move from commitments such as the “30 by 2030” goal to practical implementation. “Overwhelmingly, there is a consensus that without financing at scale, we will continue to have conversations after conservations without delivering the action our planet needs.” The alliance is working with the private sector, philanthropic organisations and scientists to develop ways

to recognise the value of biodiversity and compensate countries that protect globally important ecosystems. An investment and finance forum is planned for June next year, likely in London, to advance those mechanisms. “How do we ensure nature biodiversity is taken in that broader development conversation, where it is linked to economy, people, jobs, and opportunities?” Dr. Ali pointed to Guyana’s partnership with Norway and its low-carbon development strategy as an example of conservation and development working together. He said the country had mobilised more than US$500 million through partnerships and carbon credits. He also highlighted an agreement between Guyana and the Commonwealth Secretariat to establish a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence for biodiversity science, knowledge-sharing and innovative finance. He said the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub could extend its work with a stronger focus on nature. “That is why we engage the private sector, philanthropy, and scientists to develop and advance new mechanisms that recognise the value of biodiversity services and compensate countries that protect ecosystems of global importance.” Dr. Ali described the centre, the Global Biodiversity

President Dr Irfaan Ali during his address at the launch of the King Charles III-led environmental conservation effort – the Commonwealth Nature Initiative (CNI) – held on the margins of the current Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), in Antigua and Barbuda (Office of the President photo) Alliance and the new Commonwealth Nature Initiative as complementary efforts and invited Commonwealth partners to join in tackling biodiversity loss. He warned that the loss of nature threatens food security, economies and climate resilience, as well as the prospects of future generations. Last week, King Charles III had praised Guyana’s efforts to protect its forests and urged countries to restore biodiversity. The monarch while

speaking on the sidelines of the second Global Biodiversity Alliance Conference and Financing Forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, said Guyana offered an important example of how forest protection and national development could be pursued together. “It’s wonderful for me to come back after 26 years to Guyana, particularly also my role as a patron of Iwokrama, which I see is still going strong,” King Charles III said.

The King recalled his earlier involvement in supporting Guyana’s low-carbon development approach, and said he hoped its experience would be replicated elsewhere. He called for urgent action to restore nature, including on degraded land, and highlighted agroforestry and mixed approaches to land management. “Here in Guyana, you have the most wonderful example of really special treasure of natural species.

You have managed to keep an enormous percentage of your forest. That is an incredible achievement,” the King said, adding: “I admire what is happening here in Guyana, and I look forward so much to seeing how the balance can be struck between development and conservation.” He also reflected on the difficulty of assigning nature a monetary value, noting that its worth cannot be captured simply in financial terms.

Biodiversity investment, finance forum to be held in June 2027 – President Ali AS a key follow-up initiative from the second Global Biodiversity Alliance Conference recently held in Georgetown, Guyana, plans are being explored to convene an Investment and Finance Forum in June 2027, potentially in London, United Kingdom. The forum will seek to mobilise new and innovative sources of financing for biodiversity conservation and advance practical mechanisms to reward and

compensate countries for protecting ecosystems of global significance. President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced the planned forum while addressing the Commonwealth Nature Initiative in Antigua and Barbuda, on the sidelines of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). He stressed that biodiversity protection must be integrated into broader

development plans, creating economic opportunities, jobs and benefits for communities. “His Majesty’s vision is not simply about protecting nature but about creating opportunities for people and economies. And I think this should be the central purpose of our discussion,” he said, while recognising King Charles III’s longstanding leadership in conservation, forest protection, biodiversity and Indigenous

development. President Ali pointed to Guyana’s experience under its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and partnership with Norway as evidence that conservation can generate tangible economic returns. He noted that the country has mobilised more than US$500 million through forest partnerships and carbon credits, demonstrating that protecting nature and advancing national

development can go hand in hand. The Head of State also highlighted Guyana’s partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat to establish a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence focused on biodiversity science, knowledge sharing and innovative financing. He said the centre, the Global Biodiversity Alliance and the Commonwealth Nature Initiative would serve as complemen-

tary platforms to strengthen international co-operation. President Ali urged Commonwealth countries to combine their biodiversity, financial resources and scientific expertise to address the growing threat of biodiversity loss. He warned that the loss of biodiversity threatens food security, economies, climate resilience and the wellbeing of future generations. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

King Charles acknowledges ‘shameful chapter’ of transatlantic slave trade - urges modern Commonwealth partnerships to address past wrongs, support access to education, climate resilience, opportunities

King Charles III By Naomi Parris KING Charles III has said the transatlantic slave trade continues to cast a shadow over Commonwealth nations, urging members to build modern partnerships that address past wrongs through practical action. Addressing the opening ceremony of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda on Tuesday, the King described the history

Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali is among several Caribbean leaders who are in Antigua and Barbuda for the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting of enslavement as a “shameful chapter” that filled him with profound sorrow. “We cannot change the actions of those who came before us. We can, however, learn from the past,” he said. The King said history included both the achievements and failures of earlier generations, and that its consequences remained rel-

evant today. “The more I have furthered my own understanding of the issues through listening, learning, and looking, the more committed I have become to finding ways for us to work in modern partnership to address the wrongs of the past with action for the future, through improving access to education, investing in jobs and opportunities, encouraging intra-commonwealth trade, and inspiring vital climate resilience measures across the world,” the monarch told world leaders. He also pointed to the role of courage and deter-

mination in overcoming injustice, including efforts to end the international trade in enslaved people in which the Royal Navy had played a leading role. The King called for a “modern partnership” focused on the future. Prior to the King’s visit to the region, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali had called for “mature” discussions on reparations that addresses the lasting development inequalities caused by slavery, noting that the issue should not be treated as a demand for “payback” or charity. King Charles had ar-

rived in Guyana Thursday last, before departing for Antigua and Barbuda for the Commonwealth HoG meeting. Speaking to ITV News presenter Robert Moore ahead of King Charles III’s visit to Guyana, Dr. Ali said the King would be welcomed warmly, citing Guyanese hospitality and the monarch’s longstanding relationship with the country. “As a country, we will continue to champion the issue of reparation because slavery was the worst indignity to humankind,” Dr. Ali said during the interview, which was aired on Monday night. Asked about calls for an apology for Britain’s colonial past, Dr. Ali said an apology would help create “an environment of having free-flowing discussions”. He cautioned, however, that an apology should not be seen as an end in itself. The president said reparations should not be based on assigning a monetary value to the injustice of slavery. Instead, he argued, discussions should identify development gaps and inequalities resulting from the region’s history of exploitation and underdevelopment. “That is a very important question that we need to settle in the conversation, not only about an apology, but also about how do we define reparation? Some would say it is through a valuation system, but in my humble opinion, you cannot

ever value the type of injustice that took place, and you can never, you know, create a monetary mechanism to address that,” he said. Possible measures, he said, could include debt relief and new forms of concessional financing for education, healthcare and mental health, as well as climate adaptation and mitigation. “But what you can do is to identify the development gaps, the development inequality, the underdevelopment that took place as a result of slavery,” he pointed out. Dr Ali rejected the suggestion that reparations amounted to “payback,” saying: “This is not payback. It is not charity.” He called for a solution that recognises the suffering and consequences of slavery while supporting a development model to address them. The interview also touched on the contrast between countries that, Dr Ali said, benefited materially from slavery and those left facing its long-term effects. H e a rg u e d t h a t t h e wealth generated through exploitation had helped some countries build systems better able to withstand economic shocks. “You who benefited tremendously from the darkest days of human history, benefited materially and financially, are now telling me that you don’t have enough financing to match your needs,” the Head of State quizzed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

UG geology students gain practical gold prospecting experience in Region Seven

UNIVERSITY of Guyana students pursuing the Applied and Exploration Geology Programme have gained hands-on experience in gold prospecting and mineral exploration techniques during a practical field exercise in Karrau, Region Seven. The one-day exercise, held on November 2, 2026, was organised by the Guyana Mining School and Training Centre Inc. (GMSTCI) as part of its ongoing short course in Map Reading and Navigation using GPS, QGIS and Prospecting. The training exposed students to essential geological fieldwork, including soil augering, stream sediment sampling, gold prospecting and panning, as well as water-quality testing through turbidity measurements.

Participants also benefited from a demonstration of the Gold Cube gravity concentration system, which introduced them to improved techniques for recovering gold from mineral-bearing materials. The exercise provided an opportunity for the students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, operate specialised field equipment and develop a better understanding of the techniques and processes involved in mineral exploration and mining operations in Guyana. The initiative is being undertaken in keeping with the directive of Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat to strengthen technical education and expand practical training opportunities for young people entering

The training exposed students to essential geological fieldwork, including soil augering, stream sediment sampling, gold prospecting and panning, as well as water-quality testing through turbidity measurements

the natural resources sector. The programme is also intended to equip prospective geologists with the technical competencies and field experience needed to contribute to Guyana's growing mining and mineral exploration industries.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Facts Over Fury

THE scenes outside the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and across Stabroek on Monday were not a spontaneous outpouring of grief. Missiles were hurled at police ranks, barricades were charged, and fires were set along roadways. The morning demonstration was largely orderly. It deteriorated only as police prepared to return Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed to Lusignan Prison, where he is on remand under the Cybercrime Act. This was not a flareup. Just a day earlier, a livestream featuring Melissa Atwell, Bradly Sampson and Michael Williams called for violent resistance, threatened police, and urged support-

ers to target ExxonMobil’s local office. Atwell, who is wanted over cybercrime and libel matters, said she was prepared for an uproar. Within 24 hours, the rhetoric became reality. Add the illegal demonstration near State House led by the Mohamed family/WIN, and the pattern is one of escalation, not accident. Yet WIN officials and the Mohamed family insisted that the protest was peaceful, even as cameras captured the aggression. Guyanese should be cognisant of this habit of denying what the public can see for itself, because it is the same habit that sustains WIN’s central claim that the extradition of Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed is political per-

secution. The record says otherwise. US Ambassador Nicole Theriot has said the case rests on strong, prosecutable evidence, not politics, and that the Government of Guyana did not indict the Mohameds. The United States formally submitted its extradition request on October 30, 2025, which started proceedings under Guyana’s Fugitive Offenders Act. The alleged offences include wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering and customs-related violations linked to the Mohameds’ gold-trading operations. The Ambassador added that even if the request fails in court, the Mohameds will remain under US sanctions. That is not

how a local political vendetta behaves. It is Washington pursuing its own indictment. The courts have also heard these arguments. The Mohameds sought to overturn earlier decisions by both the High Court and the Court of Appeal, which had dismissed their claims. On Monday, Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman refused to revoke Mr. Mohamed’s bail in the extradition matter, ruling that separate pending charges were insufficient grounds. A judiciary that rules against the State’s position is hardly a tool of persecution. Mr. Mohamed is also entitled to the presumption of innocence on the separate Cybercrime Act charge, to which he has

pleaded not guilty. Police allege that a constable supplied him with surveillance footage related to the October 12 shooting in exchange for payment. Those allegations belong in a courtroom, not on the streets of Stabroek. The persecution story survives only because it is repeated loudly and tested rarely. Neither Mr. Mohamed, his family, nor WIN has mounted any serious rebuttal to the 11-count Florida indictment, while repeatedly calling the extradition politically motivated. Slogans are not a defence, and a burning barricade is not an argument. Guyanese are entitled to dissent, to assemble peacefully, and to criticise

the government. Those rights are not what is at issue. What is at issue is whether a family’s legal troubles can be dressed up as a national grievance and used to justify attacks on police officers and calls to burn buildings. The people who urged violence must answer for it, and the police deserve credit for restraint under provocation. To those tempted to follow WIN’s narrative, ask who is actually seeking this extradition, and ask why those who claim persecution are so quick to threaten, and so slow to answer the charges. The facts point to the United States, to the courts, and to due process. They do not point to persecution.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

The ERC says it is racist to call a dark-skinned Indian a monkey

Last week, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) met a wide cross section of the Guyanese society, during which they distributed a glossary of racist terminologies that Guyanese are advised not to use. Under the rubric, “Racist terms associated with people of East Indian descent,” the booklet noted: “This term (monkey) has been used to disparage Indian Guyanese of dark complexion (including people of Madrasi descent) or any other dark-complexioned Indo-Guyanese.” I am a Madrasi Indian. My father was purely Madrasi. One of the discomforts I have with the ERC is their methodology of investigating racist usage. My understanding is that someone has to file a complaint with the ERC, then the machinery is set in motion. But that is not how the police function. If a police officer sees you undressing in public in front of someone’s gate, he does not need a complaint from the resident to lay a charge. He saw the act of public nudity. It should be the same approach with the ERC. There is a media monitoring unit (MMU) which researches the print and electronic media and social media. If while monitoring the output from people, a familiar name, like a politician, a journalist, a lawyer, doctor, university lecturer utters something racist then the investigating arm of the ERC should be given the document and the investigation should begin. One example should suffice. John Jones is a famous politician that does a weekly podcast. Jones is monitored by the ERC’s MMU. If the MMU sees

and hears Jones openly saying that purple people are inferior creatures then why do you need a complaint from a citizen about what Jones said? I don’t know if after he called me a monkey, politician Nigel London, was contacted by the ERC’s investigative arm. But it should not take a complaint from me to investigate London. He said it openly. Once charged, I now come into the picture to be asked if I want to be the virtual complainant or let the matter drop. But even If I decide to do let the scandal be forgotten, London should still be publicly remanded because his violation did not occur in private. It was a public emanation. As we are on the topic of monkey and London, I haven’t heard a word from any civil society organisation, opposition parties and the private media about their reaction to London referring to a Madrasi Guyanese as a monkey, even though I did a column on London’s atrocity. In remaining silent, these entities are opening themselves to be racially abused by extremist minds. There are social media lunatics out there waiting to refer to personalities in the opposition parties as monkeys. If that should happen, they have no space to complain because people are going to say if it is alright to call Frederick Kissoon a monkey, then why I can’t call John Jones a monkey too. This is the evil with the total anti-government school in Guyana. They have selectively decided who could do wrong and who cannot do wrong. If someone is connected to the government, then they must face accountability

for words or actions that are unpleasant. And these government connected people are hounded and hunted down. If the perpetrator is anti-government then they have immunity. I found it incredible that there was absolutely no outpouring of denouncing when, the TUC General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis was charged for physically assaulting a woman. That incident never reached the eyes and ears of the women groups in

Guyana. But a security rank on the premises of the former Chancelor, Justice Carl Singh accused his son of verbal abuse. The women groups, Guyana Human Rights Association, and their acolytes hounded down that young man. These hypocrites want the government to take them seriously in the daily outpouring of demands for governmental accountability and governmental transparency yet they put their double standards on full display for the world

to see. Nigel London is the co-leader of an opposition party, Forward Guyana, whose leader is parliamentarian, Amanza Wanton. No one in the opposition and civil society has so far chastised London for a remark that the ERC says is racist. And the reason for that is because London offended someone that these people say support the Ali presidency, meaning people like us can have anything said about us. I know this country and

you can bet your life that there are people out there waiting to use the monkey word against these hypocrites. I don’t think they should but if and when they do, I don’t think I can prevent an intestinal smile on my face. 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.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

US$100M investment to advance housing infrastructure in Regions Three, Six THE government is advancing housing infrastructural development in Regions Three and Six through a US$100 million investment supported by the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), with plans to construct approximately 90 kilometres of roads, alongside drainage and related infrastructure. The Ministry of Housing, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), has invited bids for infrastructural development works at Wales, West Bank Demerara, Region Three, and Moleson Creek, Corentyne, and Over-

winning, East Bank Berbice, Region Six. The works will include approximately 28.1 kilometres of aggregate surface roads at Wales, 39.3 kilometres at Moleson Creek and 22.7 kilometres at Overwinning. In addition to road construction, the projects will include earthen drains, reinforced concrete culverts and bridges to support improved access, drainage and housing development in the communities. The works form part of the Infrastructural Development Works for the Housing Sector Project, which is being financed through

Completed farm to market road at No.58 Village, Region Six

a US$100 million loan from the Saudi Fund for Development.

The procurement notices, issued on October 22, 2026, state

that the contracts will be awarded through International Competitive

Bidding, in keeping with the SFD’s procurement guidelines. Interested contractors are invited to submit bids for the Wales project by 09:00 hrs on Thursday, January 7, 2027, while bids for Moleson Creek and Overwinning are due by 09:00 hrs on Wednesday, January 6, 2027. The projects form part of the governm e n t ’s c o n t i n u e d investment in infrastructure to support housing development, improve access and d rain age, an d en hance living conditions for communities across the country. (DPI)

ERC expands Harmony Clubs to three more schools in Region Six

The ERC expanded its Harmony Club initiative to three more Region Six schools THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), in continued collaboration with the Ministry of Education, on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, launched three new Harmony Clubs at Corriverton Primary, Rose Hall Town Primary and All Saints Primary Schools in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). The launches extend the initiative’s reach to 18 primary schools across seven administrative regions. The ERC delegation was led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack and included Commissioners Ras Khafra, Reverend Alphonso Porter, and Chief Executive Officer (ag) Ms. Oma Devi Sukhu. District

Education Officers represented the Ministry of Education, whose support remains central to the programme’s implementation in schools. Addressing pupils, Chairman Hack underscored that harmony must first be practised at home and then carried into schools and communities. He encouraged children to respect their parents and elders and to recognise that differences need not prevent people from working together. Using the fingers of one hand as an example, he reminded pupils that although each finger is different, all are needed to accomplish a common purpose.

At Corriverton Primary, Commissioner Porter urged pupils to make harmony a lasting commitment as they progress through school and into adulthood. He reminded them that each child has a role in creating a peaceful school and, ultimately, a more united country. Commissioner Khafra reinforced the importance of friendship and respect, cautioning that bullying and conflict can cause real harm and leave children fearful and unsafe in their learning environments. At the afternoon launch at All Saints Primary, Chairman Hack reiterated that no child should be bullied or treated unfair-

ly because of their differences. Commissioner Porter called on pupils to become ambassadors of harmony, explaining that the Commission depends on young people to help promote good relations in their schools and communities. Commissioner Khafra highlighted Guyana’s diversity and encouraged pupils to appreciate different cultures and belief systems by learning more about one another. The Ministry of Education also affirmed its support for the initiative. At Rose Hall Town Primary, Headteacher Ms. Rosmaree Lester welcomed the launch, describing it as timely and emphasising the

importance of nurturing children from an early age to become ambassadors of unity and respect. Education Officer Ms. Shenellie Jafarally noted that early engagement helps instil values of love and respect among children from different backgrounds. Senior Welfare Officer Mr. Dineshwar Jaiprashad encouraged pupils to promote love, unity and peace in their schools and communities, and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the programme. The Harmony Clubs provide pupils with a structured and interactive space to learn about Guyana’s cultural diversity, develop empathy, strengthen coop-

eration, and manage disagreements constructively. Through club activities, children are encouraged to practise kindness and mutual respect, while recognising and rejecting bullying, prejudice, and religious intolerance. The ERC’s Harmony Clubs initiative forms part of its wider public education programme to foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen relationships among Guyana’s diverse communities. The Commission will continue working with the Ministry of Education to expand the initiative and encourage young people to become active ambassadors of harmony. (ERC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Panamanian Environment Minister praises Guyana’s biodiversity leadership, calls for continued action over talk

- says political will, strong leadership, practical conservation projects critical to protecting biodiversity GUYANA’S growing efforts to protect its natural resources are setting an example for other countries, but meaningful progress in conserving biodiversity will depend on governments moving beyond discussions and committing to practical action. This is according to Panama’s Minister of the Environment, Juan

Carlos Navarro, who reinforced this fact during an interview on the Starting Point podcast on the opening day of the Global Biodiversity Alliance conference. Speaking on the practial biodiversity conservation effort Guyana has made, Navarro praised President Dr Irfaan Ali’s leadership and the country’s commitment to exPresident Dr Irfaan Ali alongside Minister of the Environment, Juan Carlos Navarro (Global Biodiversity Allianace photo)

panding protected areas. Nararro also emphasied the impact of political will, citing capable people and well-developed projects as vital aspects in securing conservation financing. Moreover, he also highlighted Panama’s efforts to protect the forests surrounding its canal, and plans to establish a US$100 million long-term conservation fund. His remarks came as Panama formally joined the Global Biodiversity Alliance as a founding member, reeinfocing steps to develop international cooperation and placing greater value on the world’s biodiversity. Further, Navarro said Panama’s decision to join the alliance followed a meeting between Guyana’s President Ali and Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino, during which the Guyanese Head of State outlined areas in which the two countries could collaborate. He said that when the proposal to join the biodiversity initiative was raised, he immediately sought and received authorisation from his

President to participate as a founding member. A formal diplomatic note was sent to Guyana the following day, completing the process. Navarro described the decision as an example of what could be achieved when governments share a commitment to advancing their countries while protecting biodversity. “That is how we do things when both governments have the will to do better for our people. So, we love to be part of this alliance and to work for the conservation of biodiversity with Guyana,” Navarro said. Highlighting the importance of turning international commitments into tangible results, Navarro was keen to note that financing is not always the greatest obstacle facing biodiversity conservation, but rather cited lack of leadership and political commitment as main challenges in getting projects off the ground. Sharing insight from more than four decades of experience in conservation, including establishing the National Association for the Con-

servation of Nature in Panama 41 years ago, Navarro said that governments must first demonstrate a willingness to protect natural areas and then build the institutions required to sustain those efforts. “In my experience, the problem is never the financing. This may sound out…but I have been doing conservation work for over four decades,” he said adding, “The challenge is having good people, good leadership, good projects, and at least common of the senses, common sense. If you have that, the financing will follow.” Navarro was particularly critical of the trend of international environmental discussions being primarily lengthy speeches without creating action on the ground. He argued that governments must demonstrate their commitment through measurable conservation efforts. Referencing Guyana’s decision to expand its protected areas by one million hectares, Navarro described the initiative as the kind of leadership needed to safeguard bioTURN TO PAGE 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Panamanian Environment Minister praises... FROM PAGE 10

diversity, adding, “We have a bunch of people going to COPs, politicians full of hot air and beautiful speeches.” He emphaisesd that “By creating new national parks, just like President Ali is doing, [creating] a million hectares of new protected areas. That is how you protect biodiversity, not by talking about it.” Beyond immediate conservation measures, Navarro said countries must also establish sustainable financial arrangements in funding biodiveristy conservation efforts. He noted that nations must create financing frameowrks that are capable of supporting biodiversity protection over the long term, rather than depending entirely

on individual projects or short-term funding inatiatives. He disclosed that Panama was working with a consortium of United States foundations and organisations such as the World Wildlife Fund and The Nature Conservancy. This initiative is expected to establish a US$100 million trust fund under a Project Finance for Permanence arrangement. PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY Explaining how Panama is seeking to balance economic development with environmental protection, Navarro pointed to the forests surrounding the Panama Canal as an example of the direct relationship between healthy ecosystems and national economic security. He said the primary

forests, much of which are protected within national parks, are not only rich in biodiversity but also form the watershed responsible for supplying drinking water to approximately half of Panama’s population, or approximaely two million people, while providing the water needed to operate the canal, which is central to the country's economy. However, Navarro said the importance of protecting those ecosystems has become even more apparent as Panama experiences the growing effects of climate change, particularly through changing rainfall patterns and the El Niño phenomenon. He recalled that during the 2023 El Niño event, Panama lost almost US$1billion in revenue due to low water levels

restricting the number of ships that could transit the canal. With another strong El Niño expected, the country is now pursuing a major reservoir project, investing billions of dollars towards strengthening its water security. The project is intended to guarantee water supplies for the two million people who depend on the canal watershed for drinking water, while also ensuring sufficient water for the canal's continued operation. “We are building a new reservoir, a big project for Panama, billions of dollars of investment to guarantee the water supply to Panamanians, two million of us, half our population,” Navarro said. In warning of the wider consequences of

failing to protect biodiversity, Navarro said environmental degradation is affecting countries regardless of their individual conservation efforts or contribution to global emissions. He noted that Panama is a carbon-negative country, yet continues to experience the effects of climate change driven by emissions from elsewhere. Citing figures he said were discussed among scientists and researchers at the recent COP17 biodiversity conference, Navarro warned that wildlife populations has declined by 79 per cent over the past 20 to 30 years. “This continued destruction of natural habitats, he noted, threatens wildlife and the ecosystems on which countries depend for drinking water, agri-

culture and economic activity. “Make no mistake, we are destroying the planet. We are destroying biodiversity,” he said. Despite the scale of the challenge, Navarro maintained that countries could expand their economies while safeguarding their natural heritage. Pointing to Panama's ongoing efforts, he said the country was pursuing both objectives, encouraging other nations to demonstrate the same determination. “In Panama, we are doing it. Growing our economy and also protecting nature simultaneously under the leadership of President Molino. We have to, we can do it. We have to do it elsewhere. It takes willpower, good projects, capable people,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

First-generation UG graduates break barriers, inspire families and communities

FOR a growing number of University of Guyana (UG) graduates, crossing the graduation stage in 2026 will represent more than the achievement of a university degree; it will mark a breakthrough for families and communities where higher education was once considered beyond reach. Among the Class of 2026 are students from farming communities, Indigenous villages, riverain settlements and working-class neighbourhoods who have overcome financial hardship, unreliable internet access, family responsibilities and personal loss to become the first members of their families to earn university degrees. Their achievements reflect not only individual determination but also the sacrifices of parents, relatives and loved ones who supported their journeys, often without having experienced university education themselves. For Vanisha Ramnauth-Pegues, the journey was driven by her desire to secure a better future for her son. Originally from Nevis, she returned to Guyana with renewed purpose after becoming a mother and subsequently pursued teacher training before advancing to the University of Guyana. She will graduate with distinction from the Berbice Campus with a Bachelor of Education in English, becoming the youngest among her siblings and the first in her family to complete a university degree. Her parents played important roles in her success, with her father financing her first semester and her mother helping to care for her son while she pursued her studies. She had previously been recognised as the Best Overall Graduate in English at the Cyril Potter College of Education.

Vanisha Ramnauth-Pegues will graduate with a Bachelor of Education (English)

Zhane David will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Education (Mathematics)

Rachel Leacock will graduate with a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education (General)

Shenel Barnes will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Management

Another graduate whose achievement reflects the challenges of balancing education and motherhood is Zhane David, a mathematics teacher and mother of two. David will earn a Bachelor of Science in Education (Mathematics), becoming the first in her family to obtain a university degree. Her university journey was postponed twice because of pregnancy and family responsibilities, and she eventually had to balance teaching, childcare and online classes that sometimes extended late into the evening. Despite moments when she considered giving up, she remained determined to finish what she had started, recognising the example her achievement would set for her children. Similarly, 32-year-old Teesha Ellis of Toka, Region Nine, overcame considerable challenges to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. The mother of three,

who previously completed teacher training at the Cyril Potter College of Education, grew up as the second of seven children in a farming household. Studying from the Rupununi meant dealing with unreliable internet access, while pregnancy, morning sickness and childbirth added to the demands of her academic journey. Now the first in her family to graduate from university, Ellis is encouraging young people in hinterland communities not to allow geographical isolation to limit their educational ambitions. Rachel Leacock, 25, of Sand Hills in the Upper Berbice River, will also graduate with distinction in Primary Education. Growing up as the second-youngest of 12 children, she wanted to challenge the perception that university education was beyond the reach of young people from communities with limited resources. Poor internet connectivity, sleepless nights and

Teesha Ellis will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Deochand Bridgemohan will graduate with a Bachelor of Education (Primary Education)

hospitalisation tested her resolve, but she remained committed to demonstrating what was possible through determination and hard work. For Shenel Barnes of Haslington, East Coast De-

merara, her achievement carries a deeply personal meaning. After initially choosing employment over higher education, she reconsidered her decision following the death of her father, who had repeatedly

encouraged her to pursue a university degree. She will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Management from the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation. Despite working full-time and having no immediate family experience of university to guide her, Barnes successfully navigated the demands of higher education with encouragement from her mother, sister and aunt. She hopes to pursue a career in procurement and eventually complete a master’s degree in Procurement Management, while encouraging others to recognise that being the first in a family does not mean having to be the last. The determination to overcome personal setbacks is also reflected in the experience of Deochand Bridgemohan of Eccles, East Bank Demerara, who will earn a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education. As the youngest of four children, he was the only one in his family to advance beyond secondary

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

First-generation UG graduates break...

Royston Fraser will graduate with a Bachelor of Education (Agricultural Science)

education to the tertiary level. The death of a sibling during one of his semesters nearly derailed his studies, but encouragement from relatives and support from lecturers helped him complete outstanding examinations and assignments. He is now urging other

Lateisha Williams will graduate with a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) in Business Studies

students to remain focused and persevere through difficult periods. Royston Fraser of Union, West Coast Berbice, also set out to change the educational trajectory of his family. Growing up as one of seven children, he witnessed his older siblings leave school before

Kathyanna Gomez will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Management

completing their education. Determined to break that pattern, he balanced employment and personal responsibilities with his studies and will graduate with distinction in Agricultural Science. Meanwhile, Lateisha Williams, a Business Stud-

Talesha Hudson will graduate with an Associate Degree in Applied Exploration Geology

ies teacher at Houston Secondary School, will graduate with distinction in Secondary Education after balancing teaching, university studies and motherhood. Becoming pregnant during her first year at UG presented additional challenges, but support from her mother and colleagues helped her maintain strong academic performance. Her achievement as the first in her family to earn a bachelor's degree is one she hopes will create greater opportunities for her daughter and inspire other women pursuing education while raising families. Kathyanna Gomez of Grant Success in the Lower Pomeroon River also overcame academic and financial obstacles to earn a Bachelor of Science in Management. After initially failing Mathematics at CSEC and subsequently failing the university's mathematics entrance examination, she persevered and passed on her second attempt. The introduction of free tuition at UG later eased the financial burden on her parents, although unreliable internet access continued to affect her studies when she

Ryan Pearson will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations

returned to the Pomeroon for her final two years. Another graduate from the Pomeroon, 27-year-old Talesha Hudson, will earn an Associate Degree in Applied Exploration Geology, becoming the first among her four siblings to obtain a university qualification. Coming from a community where farming and gold mining are familiar livelihoods, Hudson pursued higher education to broaden her employment opportunities and improve her ability to support her parents. However, travelling between the Pomeroon and Georgetown, with oneway transportation costing more than $20,000, and securing accommodation presented significant challenges. The deaths of her grandmother and sister in February also added to her personal struggles. For Ryan Pearson, 21, of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, the journey to university began with a school trip to a career fair when he was in Form Three. The third of five children of farming parents, Pearson will graduate with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations, becoming the first in his family to earn a university

degree. His mother's efforts to support the family's education, including selling clothing and barbecue to meet school expenses and transportation costs, helped sustain his ambitions. He also overcame the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, financial difficulties and the death of an aunt during his third year. Another graduate from the Class of 2026, Lateisha's fellow first-generation achievers, are demonstrating that university education can be attained regardless of one's background or starting point. The University of Guyana, in congratulating the graduates and the wider Class of 2026, has highlighted their stories as examples of perseverance, family sacrifice and the transformative power of education. Beyond the certificates and distinctions, their accomplishments represent new possibilities for younger siblings, children and entire communities, proving that one person's decision to pursue higher education can change the expectations of generations to come.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Mounting charges fuel renewed bid by US to revoke opposition leader’s bail in extradition case - Attorney signals intention to seek judicial review of Chief Magistrate’s decision to maintain bail - insists compelling evidence supports murder charge over ‘Paper Shorts’ killing

Attorney-at-law Glenn Hanoman

ATTORNEY representing the United States, Glenn Hanoman, has renewed efforts to have Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed’s bail in the ongoing extradition proceedings revoked, arguing that compelling evidence exists to support a possible murder charge against him over the 2021 execution-style killing of gold dealer Ricardo “Paper Shorts” Fagundes. During lengthy submissions on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Hanoman argued that Mohamed had engaged in further offences and interfered with a prosecution witness, Senior Superintendent of Police Prem Narine, head of the Special Branch Unit. He also argued that a d d i t i o n a l c h a rg e s could be brought against Mohamed arising from the alleged unauthorised acquisition, release and manipulation of footage from the Safe Country surveillance system. Of particular significance was Hanoman’s assertion that there was compelling evidence to support a murder charge against Mohamed in connection

Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman

with Fagundes’ killing. “I happen to note that there is strong and compelling evidence that supports a murder charge against [Mohamed],” Hanoman submitted, before adding that statements from an alleged co-conspirator had already been obtained. Fagundes was gunned down outside Palm Court on Main Street, Georgetown, on March 21, 2021, in an execution-style attack. The attorney also relied on what he described as Mohamed’s conduct outside the United States Embassy, stating that it occurred within hours of bail conditions being imposed by another court, including a condition prohibiting contact with prosecution witnesses. According to Hanoman, Mohamed appeared outside the embassy and publicly targeted Narine, describing him as a murderer and an assassin, while calling for his deportation and the revocation of his visa. Hanoman told the court that Mohamed had also declared that he would no longer be able to hold people back if the demands were not met. The prosecution interpreted the remark as

a threat, arguing that Mohamed was suggesting he could no longer restrain his supporters if their demands were not met. “He should be charged with murder,” Hanoman quoted Mohamed as stating in reference to the witness. The attorney argued that the public statements amounted to a threat against public order and demonstrated disregard for the conditions of bail imposed by the court. He further argued that the incident demonstrated a pattern of conduct in which Mohamed disregarded the conditions attached to his release. Hanoman also raised concerns about the circumstances under which Mohamed allegedly obtained CCTV footage from the Police Command Centre, arguing that he had facilitated its release by police ranks and was therefore not absolved of responsibility simply because he was the recipient. The attorney alleged that the footage was subsequently distributed and manipulated, with portions slowed down and clipped to create what he described as a false narrative about the events TURN TO PAGE 16

Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed

Nazar Mohamed

Mounting charges fuel renewed...

FROM PAGE 15

captured in the recordings. According to Hanoman, the alleged conduct could attract several additional charges, including offences relating to the unauthorised release and possession of the footage,

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

as well as the manipulation of evidence and obstruction of justice. “More charges are [to be] brought against the defendant,” he submitted, while referring to provisions of the law concerning persons who facilitate offences committed by others.

H o w e v e r, C h i e f Magistrate Latchman ultimately refused the prosecution’s application to revoke Mohamed’s bail, ruling that the existence of multiple charges against him was insufficient, without more, to establish that he had committed

further offences or was likely to do so. “Charges by themselves without more do not satisfy the court that Mr. Mohamed has committed an offence or is likely to commit an offence,” Latchman ruled. She added, “There must be something substantial that elevates a charge to satisfy the court that the defendant has committed an offence or is likely to commit an offence.” The magistrate also found that the alleged breaches of bail conditions had not been established and that there was no evidence that Mohamed was a flight risk. “Breaches must be proven. Breaches have not been established,” she said. “There is no evidence that Mr. Azruddin Mohamed is a flight risk,” she said, adding that there was also no solid evidence that he did not reside at the address he had provided to the court or had supplied a false address. The prosecution has since indicated that it intended to pursue a judicial review of the Chief Magistrate’s decision. Azruddin and his father, Nazar Mohamed, were each granted $150,000 bail on October 31, 2025, following their arrest on a United States extradition request. The bail conditions required them to surrender their passports and report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station. While on extradition bail, Azruddin became embroiled in additional criminal proceedings in Guyana. On October 16, he was charged alongside his driver, Eugene Thorne, and videographer, Mario Mohamed, with un-

lawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and attempting to obstruct the course of justice, arising from an October 12 incident outside the residence of Narine. All three pleaded not guilty and were granted $750,000 bail each. On October 30, Azruddin was again charged, this time jointly with Police Constable Ryan Greene, over the alleged unauthorised transfer of Safe Country surveillance footage in exchange for $800,000. Both were remanded to prison. Another police rank, Ashton Chappelle, was later charged in connection with the alleged unauthorised obtaining and distribution of the CCTV footage. He, too, was remanded. BAD PRECEDENT Speaking to reporters after the ruling, Hanoman criticised the Chief Magistrate's decision, stating it set a “bad precedent,” and could send the wrong message about the consequences of breaching bail conditions. “The message being sent is that it doesn't matter what you do after you are granted bail. It doesn't matter how many times you are charged for other offences.” Hanoman maintained that, in his interpretation of the law, interfering with witnesses and being charged with serious offences while already on bail constituted “classic grounds” for revocation. Hanoman maintained that the prosecution had been prepared to present evidence supporting its application to revoke Mohamed’s bail, but the Chief Magistrate declined to receive it. He further contended that the ruling should

be subjected to scrutiny by a higher court, maintaining that there were sufficient grounds for judicial review. This marks the second application the Chief Magistrate has refused this week. The first, seeking to revoke Mohamed’s bail in the extradition proceedings, was made on Monday by another attorney representing the United States, Jamaican King’s Counsel Terrence Williams. The extradition proceedings against Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, stem from an 11-count US indictment following sanctions imposed on the two men by the US Department of the Treasury in June 2024 over allegations of corruption and their involvement in a gold-export scheme. The United States is seeking their extradition to face charges of conspiracy to evade more than US$50 million in taxes and royalties through the under-declaration of gold exports. Azruddin is also implicated in a separate US indictment concerning the importation of a luxury Lamborghini from Miami. Prosecutors alleged that he used an undervalued invoice to import the vehicle, resulting in the alleged evasion of more than US$1 million in taxes. The United States is seeking to have both men surrendered to face the charges before its courts in Florida. Both men deny the allegations. The extradition proceedings, which commenced on January 6, have now been ongoing for nearly 10 months, but only two prosecution witnesses have testified so far.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Home Affairs Minister urges sensibility, peace during protests

MINISTER of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, recently made a direct appeal to all members of the public to understand that the right to a peaceful protest should not encourage people to incite violence. Speaking following calls for nationwide protests following the remand of Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed, the minister emphasised that everyone has a right to express

fore decisions on his possible sentencing are made to avoid these penalties. Mohamed’s remand followed charges under Guyana’s Cybercrime Act for allegedly obtaining and disclosing government surveillance footage without lawful authorisation. As attorneys of Mr. Mohamed seek legal remedies, these proceedings are to take their course before public opinion is digested. Persons

Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond

their opinions and to protest peacefully. She stressed that those rights must and will be respected. However, the lines between peaceful protests and violence have become blurred as persons including Mohamed’s family members, recently gathered in groups on multiple occasions to oppose his remand. Violence, incitement of violence, destruction of property, intimidation and attacks on other citizens are discouraged, with the minister warning that violators can face penalties for their disturbances. The minister advised the public that Azruddin Mohamed’s matter is currently before the court and persons must desist from acting be-

are urged to remain calm and to not allow themselves to be used or engage in criminal conduct, regardless of political differences. “We are all Guyanese. We have a shared responsibility to protect the peace, safety and stability of our country,” Minister Waldron said. The security services will continue to maintain law and order in Guyana and citizens will continue to have the right to a peaceful and respectful protest. Members of the public are advised that Mohamed is entitled to the presumption of innocence, as the charges are currently unresolved and that no person is above the law, regardless of social status.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Govt pushes digital old-age pension payments to ease lines, improve access for seniors - bank deposits, MMG offer safer, more convenient options, Minister Persaud says LONG queues, monthly trips to the post office and the risks that come with carrying cash are among the challenges the government is seeking to eliminate as it encourages more pensioners and persons living with permanent disabilities to receive their benefits through digital payment platforms. Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, made the appeal whike highlighting intensifying efforts to have beneficiaries shift towards bank deposits and Mobile Money Guyana (MMG). The initiative, which supports efforts being made to digitise the ministry's operations and establish a national beneficiary management register, includes absorbing transaction fees, providing hands-on assistance to beneficiaries, expanding digital literacy programmes through Golden Generation Hubs and making payment services available through thousands of locations countrywide. Speaking during an interview on GoMoseley Radio on Monday, Minister Persaud explained that the digitisation process has been part of a wider effort to modernise the ministry's services and improve how benefits are delivered to people across Guyana. She said the ministry has developed a beneficiary management register which captures information on recipients of old-age pensions and permanent disability benefits, allowing it to better manage the delivery of those services while introducing alternative payment arrangements. Under the current system, beneficiaries can choose to have their money deposited directly into a bank account or receive it through almost 2,000 MMG locations, without having to visit a post office or wait in long queues. “We have spent the last three years working on digitising the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. We have created a database or what we call

a beneficiary management register and with that we are able to capture the beneficiaries across the country for both old age pension and people living with permanent disabilities,” she said. Recognising that unfamiliarity with new technology remains a major hurdle for some older persons, Dr Persaud said education and continuous engagements are central to encouraging participation. She explained that the ministry has been organising camps at its offices across the country, where MMG representatives demonstrate how to establish accounts and use the service. She said the MMG wallet provides additional flexibility because beneficiaries can use it to make their own payments, while also reducing the risks associated with carrying cash or keeping a physical pension booklet that could be misplaced. Importantly, she said, beneficiaries who prefer to withdraw their entire pension at once can continue to do so, as this was one of the safeguards she insisted upon when the arrangement was being developed. “One of the things when we were setting it up that I ensured was that the seniors could withdraw all their money at one time if they want to do it,” Persaud said. Through the introduction of alternative payment options, including SurePay and Western Union, recipients have more flexibility in deciding where and when to access their money. Dr Persaud said the ministry wants beneficiaries to understand that the digital options are intended to give them greater control over their finances rather than force them into a system they are uncomfortable using. She acknowledged that some older persons may be reluctant to abandon the traditional arrangements and the social interactions that come with visiting the post office. This is why the ministry is taking a gradual approach, placing greater emphasis on younger pensioners and persons who are newly registering for old-

age pensions or permanent disability benefits. “So, we are looking more at people who are just starting their pension or their permanent disability benefits and people perhaps between the ages of 65 to 75 to use this technology,” she explained. To further prepare older persons for the transition, the ministry is expanding its Golden Generation Hubs, which provide opportunities for social engagement while introducing seniors to basic digital skills. The hubs, which have been implemneded in a few communities and are slated to be introduced to others, allow seniors to participate in activities such as Tai Chi, yoga, health and wellness discussions and recreational activities, alongside lessons in using mobile phones, applications and online forms. Dr Persaud noted “A big part of that is digital literacy. So we are going to be teaching them how to use their cell phones, how to use the apps, how to use online forms, things like that. Simple things that make you a lot more digitally inclined,” she said. The minister also issued a clear warning to payment agents against attempting to charge pensioners additional fees to access their benefits, stressing that all transactions under the arrangement must remain free to beneficiaries. She said the ministry has agreements with the companies providing the services and is already absorbing the associated costs. Persons who encounter agents demanding additional payments can report the matter through the ministry's established hotlines, which are available on its Facebook page. “I want to say very clearly that agents should not be taking advantage of our seniors because we have had an agreement with the companies that provide these services that these services will be free because we are absorbing the cost. So, no one should be paying anything at all,” she said.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, engaged 101 year old Mahabir Dhanwatie, lovingly known as “Aunty Gallo” of Better Hope

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

GGMC warns miners, shop operators of enforcement action for regulatory breaches

THE Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has warned miners, mining shop operators and other industry stakeholders that failure to comply with mining laws and regulatory requirements could result in the immediate suspension of their operations. In a notice issued to the sector, the Commission stressed that all miners, licence holders, permit holders and shop operators must maintain valid licences, permits, authorisations and other relevant documents at their respective operations and make them available for inspection by authorised officers of the GGMC and the Ministry of

Natural Resources. The Commission said failure to produce the required documentation upon request would result in the suspension of the affected mining or shop operations until the documents are presented and verified. Stakeholders have therefore been urged to ensure that all relevant documents are current, valid and readily accessible at all times. The GGMC also reiterated that miners are legally required to sell gold produced from their operations through authorised channels, namely the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), licensed gold traders or licensed gold dealers. The requirement, it

explained, is intended to strengthen transparency and accountability in the sector by ensuring that applicable taxes and statutory

deductions are made and that accurate records of gold production and sales are maintained by the relevant authorities. Miners have also been reminded of the importance of keeping verifiable production records and evidence of gold sales, which are essential for regulatory monitoring and determining whether operators are complying with the conditions attached to their licences and permits. With the next licence renewal period approaching in January 2027, the Commission is urging miners to review their records and ensure that all production and sales documenta-

tion is complete, accurate and up to date. It warned that failure to satisfy the applicable requirements could affect the processing and renewal of mining licences and other authorisations. The GGMC further emphasised that all mining activities must be conducted in accordance with the Mining Act, applicable Mining Regulations, relevant legislation, licence conditions, permits and lawful directives. It said breaches identified during inspections or enforcement exercises would attract appropriate sanctions, which could include the suspension of op-

erations and other penalties provided for under the law. The Commission has called on miners, shop operators and other stakeholders to review their operations, regularise any outstanding documentation, maintain accurate records and ensure full compliance with the regulatory framework. Reaffirming its commitment to a transparent, accountable and responsible mining industry, the GGMC said it would continue to exercise its regulatory and enforcement responsibilities in the interest of the sector and the wider population.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Region Five students gain hands-on agro-processing experience through GMC initiative

STUDENTS of four secondary schools in Region Five gained practical experience in agro-processing after accessing the Fort Wellington Agro-Processing Facility (FWAPF) to transform locally grown sweet peppers into a range of value-added products as part of the Ministry of Education’s inaugural Secondary Sector TVET Agricultural Science Student-led Value Addition Symposium 2026. The symposium, held at Royal Mall under the theme, “From Farm to Market: Students Adding Value to Agriculture”, brought together secondary school students from across Guyana to showcase their agricultural skills, creativity and entrepreneurial potential. Among the participating schools, Mahaicony Secondary secured third place, while Bushlot Secondary placed fourth in the competition. With support from the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), the four Region Five schools utilised the Fort Wellington facility to produce several sweet pepper-based products, including pepper sauce, pepper jelly, pepper flakes, pepper powder, pepper wine, pepper pickles, pepper achar and

pepper seasoning. The initiative provided students with practical exposure to the agro-processing industry, allowing them to experience the various stages of production, from sourcing raw agricultural materials and processing them into flakes and powders to packaging and labelling finished products for the marketplace. The hands-on exercise also introduced the students to commercial agro-processing techniques employed by established local businesses, including D&S Products, Exotic Bites, Nature’s Secret and Lally’s. As part of its support, the GMC assisted Bushlot Secondary with the development of product labels. The school earned the highest points for originality and compliance with established labelling requirements, demonstrating the importance of attractive and appropriate packaging in marketing value-added products. The GMC said it was proud to support initiatives that promote innovation, entrepreneurship and agricultural development among young people, noting the importance of equipping students with practical skills that could encourage them to explore opportunities within

Pepper wine, one of the products made which was quite interesting

the agro-processing sector. The students, meanwhile, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to utilise the facility, describing the experience as valuable in expanding their knowledge and understanding of the processes involved in transforming agricultural produce into marketable goods. The GMC is encouraging other secondary schools, aspiring agro-processors and members of the public to take advantage of the Fort Wellington Agro-Processing

Facility, which is available free of charge to support the development and production of value-added agricultural products. The initiative highlights the potential of agro-processing to create entrepreneurial opportunities, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the link between agricultural production and commercial markets, while encouraging greater youth participation in Guyana’s expanding agriculture sector.

Sweet pepper sauce made from scratch by students

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Fire Service officers gain forest fire investigation expertise in Italy

TWO Guyana Fire Service Officers have completed specialised training in forest fire and crime scene investigation in Italy, equipping them to better determine how vegetation fires start and to support prevention efforts across the country. Acting Divisional Officer Suresh Persaud and Station Officer Javid Mohamed attended the Basic and Advanced Course in Forest Fire and Crime Scene Investigation at the Carabinieri Forestry School CoEEP in Sabaudia from October 4 to 16, 2026. The two-week programme focused on the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to locate where a forest fire began, establish its probable cause and pre-

serve evidence for further investigation. Participants were trained in fire behaviour, examining how vegetation, fuel availability, wind, temperature, humidity and terrain shape the development and spread of a blaze. Investigators use these factors to interpret conditions at a scene and pinpoint possible points of origin. The officers also strengthened their skills in systematic fire scene examination. The course stressed careful observation, accurate documentation and assessment of physical evidence in determining whether a fire resulted from accidental ignition, negligence or deliberate action. Crime scene management formed another major

component. Instruction covered securing and preserving scenes, recognising potential evidence and protecting its integrity during collection and handling. Participants were reminded to minimise unnecessary disturbance, particularly where criminal activity is suspected. The programme additionally addressed investigative reporting, with emphasis on clear, factual reports that separate observations, witness information and technical interpretations from conclusions supported by evidence. Such discipline is essential to producing findings that can withstand administrative or legal scrutiny. For the Guyana Fire Service, the training has direct relevance to incidents in

Acting Divisional Officer Suresh Persaud and Station Officer Javid Mohamed of the Guyana Fire Service have completed specialised training in forest fire and crime scene investigation in Italy, strengthening their ability to investigate vegetation fires and support fire prevention efforts in Guyana

forests, grasslands, agricultural lands and other heavily vegetated areas. The knowledge gained can help identify recurring causes of fires and inform public education and prevention measures.

The course also underscored the value of co-operation among fire services, forestry authorities, police investigators and environmental agencies. Persaud and Mohamed

attended alongside Deputy Commissioner Tasreef Khan of the Guyana Forestry Commission, offering an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the two agencies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

ENGLISH RACING TIPS CHEPSTOW 08:20hrs Gingerbread 08:51hrs Red Acres Max 09:25hrs St James Finest 09:58hrs A Sight To Sea 10:30hrs Rula Bula 11:05hrs Mr McWhinny 11:40hrs Corner Forward 12:10hrs Smoke And Fire NOTTINGHAM 08:15hrs Chevere 08:45hrs Vincr L'amour 09:20hrs Hello Friend 09:50hrs Salver 10:20hrs Lady Hornblower 10:53hrs Salvezza 11:23hrs Thunder Roar 11:55hrs Just Queen High KEMPTON 10:25hrs Mythical Composer 11:00hrs Snooker McCrew 11:30hrs Red Curry 12:00hrs Light Of The Stars 12:30hrs Unerring 13:00hrs Valvano 13:30hrs Amelia's Joy 14:00hrs The Coffee Pod 14:30hrs Pseudonym SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE 09:07hrs Task Force 09:45hrs Queen Of Denmark 10:20hrs Showgirl 10:55hrs Uzwano 11:30hrs Clair De Lune 12:05hrs Navajo Dancer 12:40hrs Targaryen Knight 13:15hrs What A Classic IRISH RACING TIPS DUNDALK 12:05hrs Apache Outlaw 12:40hrs Always Magic 13:15hrs Caffu Zafeen 13:45hrs Elmakaya 14:15hrs Littlepacer 14:45hrs Carrigans Grove 15:15hrs Dancing Steve AMERICAN RACING TIPS CHURCHILL DOWNS Race 1 Divine Truth Race 2 Thea Race 3 Mr All In Race 4 Belle Of the Dance Race 5 Jackie 's Player Race 6 Lithos Race 7 Comprehensive

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Australia omit star pace trio for England series Australia's star pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc will not feature in the upcoming white-ball series against England. The veteran seamers played all three Tests in the recent 2-1 series defeat by South Africa and have been rested for the three-match ODI series that starts in Perth on 13 November. Cummins and Hazlewood have also been left out for the five-match T20 series that begins on 21 November, while Starc, 36, has already retired from the format. Fast bowler Mahli Beardman, 21, has been named in both squads and could make his international debut in ODIs, while uncapped wicketkeepers Sam Harper and Lachlan Shaw have been included for the T20s.

Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis and Matt Renshaw, who also played in the South Africa Tests, are included for the ODIs but do not feature in the T20 squad. Although Cummins, 33, formally remains the ODI captain, he has only played one 50-over fixture since November 2024 and Mitchell Marsh, his frequent deputy and Australia's T20 skipper, will step in again for the longer format. Seamer Nathan Ellis, a white-ball regular, is only included in the T20 squad after suffering a side strain on the September ODI tour of South Africa and Zimbabwe, while fellow pacer Jack Edwards is named in both squads after making his one-day debut on that trip. All-rounder Liam Scott,

Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc won the 2023 ODI World Cup with Australia

who played one 50-over match against Bangladesh in June, is recalled to the ODI squad, while spinners Nikhil

Chaudhary and Joel Davies, who both made their only international appearances on the T20 leg of the same tour,

are selected for the 20-over fixtures. Top-order batters Jake Fraser-McGurk and Mitch-

ell Owen return to the T20 squads after not featuring in recent series, while middle-order finisher Tim David is only selected for the shorter format despite recently returning to 50-over domestic cricket after an absence of four years. Australia squads for England tour ODI and T20 squads: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Jack Edwards, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa ODI squad only: Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Ollie Peake, Matt Renshaw, Liam Scott T20 squad only: Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sam Harper, Mitchell Owen, Lachlan Shaw

No India ‘A’ games for Pant, but New Zealand Glenn Maxwell retires from international Tests remain a distinct possibility cricket RISHABH Pant is virtually ruled out of the third unofficial Test between India ‘A’ and New Zealand ‘A’, scheduled to be played in Lincoln from November 7 to 10. The wicketkeeper-batter is due to undergo an assessment around November 9-10 and, if cleared, is expected to fly to New Zealand to join the Indian squad ahead of the Test series. Sources indicate that Pant is optimistic about being available for the series, which is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The first Test begins on November 19 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, with the second scheduled to be played in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1. Pant, 29, has been out of international action since

the second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo in late August. He subsequently led Rest of India in the Irani Cup but could not complete the engagement due to fitness issues. He has since been at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, recovering from a side strain. He remains an important member of the Indian Test side, having scored three half-centuries in his last three Tests. He was also among India’s leading performers on their last Test tour outside the subcontinent, in England last year, scoring 479 runs across four Tests. According to sources, no fitness tests have been conducted recently, and none is scheduled in the coming days. If he joins the Test squad as expected, he will do so without having played a warm-up

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday, November 4, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Ramnaresh Sarwan-119 (Dhaka, 2002) (2) Habibul Bashar-113 (St. Lucia, 2004) Today’s Quiz: (1) What has been the result of the first Test of the current WI/BANG series? (2) Who was declared Man-of-the-Match? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Rishabh Pant has not been in action in international cricket since the SL series

game ahead of the series. Most of his teammates, meanwhile, would have had some game time before the two five-day red-ball matches. He was initially named in the India ‘A’ squad for the three four-day matches, with the BCCI making his participation subject to fitness. A formal clearance has evidently not come through yet. Sources, however, indicate that there is optimism around his recovery, with the player hoping to travel to New Zealand around November 10-11. He will need clearance from the CoE medical team before making the trip. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be available for the third India ‘A’ game and is expected to join the squad in time for the third four-day game in Lincoln, beginning November 7. (Cricbuzz)

GLENN Maxwell has retired from international cricket. The 38-year-old Australian batter, who stepped away from ODIs in June last year, has now bid farewell to T20Is as well as List A and first-class cricket. He will continue to play in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars, who have him under contract until the end of the 2027-28 season. Maxwell finishes with 2,897 runs in 130 T20Is, the third-most for Australia in the format, at a strike rate of over 154. He has also scored five centuries, a world record he shares with Rohit Sharma. Maxwell said the conversations about his future had been ongoing for a while. “We probably had numerous discussions before and after the T20 World Cup,” Maxwell said on The Final Word podcast. “And it was pretty open-ended. There wasn’t any pressure from [Australia team management] and we decided to sort of leave the door open. There was a couple of series that were coming up [in which] they were going to look to the future, and we saw that in Bangladesh with guys getting their opportunity and performing really well.” England’s upcoming white-ball tour includes a T20I in Melbourne, and

Glenn Maxwell had retired from ODIs in June 2025

Maxwell said a farewell game at his home stadium had indeed crossed his mind. “[There was, I] suppose, a small hope or discussion that I might have been able to potentially get a send-off game at the MCG. But [I] can completely understand the direction they’re going with this squad. There’s going to be a lot of change, I suppose, over the next 12 to 24 months with the Olympics coming up [in 2028], and they’ve got to make sure that they get their eyeballs on a few young guys coming through and making sure that they’re getting exposed to international pressure that you probably can’t always get from a BBL fixture. “So probably just the small fairy tale that you sort of see these, your heroes and idols, sort of go through. You start to sort of let your mind drift towards that, and probably no other format I probably would have asked for it, except for this one,

where I feel like it’s been, it’s almost felt like home over the last 15 years. “The option was there, but I was sort of ready to push the button on getting an injection on my knee to make sure I was ready for the BBL. So there was sort of a positive either way. And as soon as that door was shut, I was able to start to put some time back into my body. Eight weeks of solid rehab again to make sure I’m strong and ready for the BBL coming up. “It’s probably a time where I need to spend a little bit more time investing in the body to make sure I can get through the remaining couple of tournaments I’ve got in my career.” Maxwell’s final international appearance turned out to be against Oman in February, in the last of Australia’s matches at a T20 World Cup from which they exited in the group stage. (Cricbuzz)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

New Era Entertainment thanks Fireside Grill for Futsal sponsorship NEW Era Entertainment has expressed sincere gratitude to Fireside Grill and Chill for its continued confidence, loyalty and support for its 2026 ExxonMobil futsal tournament currently being staged at the retrieve Hard Court in Linden. The organisers also extended appreciation to all sponsors and community partners whose contributions help make the tournament possible. In a release yesterday New Era Entertainment noted: “We are truly grateful for the love and support Fireside Grill and Chill has shown New Era Entertainment over the years. Having them come on board once again means a great deal to us We value the confidence they continue to place in our work and recognise that the tournament’s impact is strengthened by partners who believe in investing in our youths and community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fireside and to every partner who continues to stand with us.” In making this announcement the New Era Entertainment related being pleased to announce Fireside Grill and Chill as a sponsor of the

New Era Entertainment’s Director, Andrew Major, at left, collects sponsorship cheque from Ms. Shabaka Reid on behalf of Fireside Grill

ExxonMobil Guyana Futsal Tournament, renewing a valued partnership that continues to support sport, youth development and community engagement in Region 10. Fireside Grill and Chill has partnered with New Era Entertainment over the years and is thrilled to come on board once again for this year’s tournament. The business has expressed confidence in New Era Entertainment’s vision and in the positive impact the competition can have on

the community, including providing young people with opportunities to display their talent, build discipline and teamwork, and participate in a positive sporting environment. New Era Entertainment stated that the continued backing of returning partners such as Fireside Grill and Chill helps strengthen the tournament and sustain its contribution to the development of young people in Linden and the wider Region 10 community.

Vice-President Jagdeo visits ‘Home of legends’ DURING last Sunday night’s staging of the finals of the third edition of the Vice-president T20 Softball Cup, organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL), Patron, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, paid a courtesy visit to the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) where he intermingled with the players, sponsors and spectators. The vice-president also took a guided tour of the upstairs of the “Home of Legends” by Club Captain, Dennis Squires and promised follow up visits to assist in any tangible way to upgrade the facility.

Tenerife striker De Miguel dies after on-field collision TENERIFE striker Jesus de Miguel has died after the 30-year-old suffered a serious injury during a Spanish second-division match. The forward suffered head and chest injuries during a match against FC Andorra on Monday in a heavy collision with goalkeeper Jesus Owono, who was sent off for his challenge. De Miguel’s condition was described as ‘stable but serious’ on Monday but his health deteriorated on Tuesday morning, with the Spaniard dying at 07:00 GMT. Reuters reported on Tuesday that police in Spain have opened an investigation for possible involuntary manslaughter following De Miguel’s death. Under Spanish law, any death that is deemed non-natural automatically triggers a judicial inquiry. “Heartbroken, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe this is true” Tenerife said. “There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can lessen this overwhelming sadness. We stand with his grieving family, with his loved ones, with all of Tenerife who mourn this cruel loss today.” ‘There are no words’ Tenerife and Andorra were drawing 2-2 seven minutes into stoppage time when the incident occurred. Owono ran towards the centre circle to clear a long ball when his knee appeared to collide with De Miguel. The striker lay motionless on the pitch as medical staff treated him before he was taken by ambulance from Tenerife’s Estadio Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez to hospital. Players from both teams were visibly distressed by

Jesus de Miguel joined Tenerife in 2025 on a three-year deal

the incident, with a number of De Miguel’s team-mates in tears. The referee showed Owono a straight red card before abandoning the match. The goalkeeper, who had over 30,000 followers on Instagram on Tuesday morning, has since deactivated his account. Spanish media, including Marca, reported De Miguel suffered a cardiac arrest in the ambulance and was resuscitated by paramedics on the way to hospital. Tenerife’s President, Felipe Minambres, says the club’s players will need “professional assistance” to help deal with the ordeal of one of their team-mates dying. “We are all feeling vulnerable and deeply saddened right now. It’s hard to even believe what has happened,” said Minambres. “We know, especially the players and the players’ partners, that we will need support. We’ve already begun receiving offers of help today, and that support will continue. “We will need professional assistance, but we also need the support of all our fans, because they are likely feeling the same way we are today.” Minambres added it had

been a “truly unbelievable situation” and “an enormous tragedy that we have had to endure”. Andorra, Tenerife’s opponents on Monday, issued a statement later on Tuesday which spoke of the club’s shock and expressed condolences to De Miguel’s family, club “and all those who were close to him”. “We are deeply affected by what has happened and we share the pain that the club is experiencing,” it continued. “From the very beginning we have maintained contact with them and we are at their disposal for anything they may need. “What has happened has had a huge emotional impact on our players, the coaching staff and everyone at FC Andorra. These are particularly difficult times for everyone and we want to make sure that no one has to face them alone. That is why the club is providing psychological support to anyone who needs it.” Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, who co-owns Andorra, said: “I am sorry with all my soul. Rest in peace, Jesus.” De Miguel’s former club, Castellon, said: “It’s hard to find words when reality strikes in such an unfair way. “We join with all our affection in the grief of his family and loved ones, whom we embrace in these terribly difficult moments and to whom we extend our most heartfelt condolences.” Javier Tebas, President of La Liga, said: “Today, we all share the terrible pain of an irreparable loss. “My deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, team-mates and the whole club.”

Reifer impressed with batters’... (From back page) well again. “This next game starts from zero, so we still have to go through all the pro-

cesses that we went through in terms of how we start an innings, how we build an innings, understanding when

we’re in control and build on it. So, for me it’s consistency in how they approach batting again,” Reifer said.

MVP Sports launches 10th Girls... (From back page)

Here, Vice-President Jagdeo is seen in informal discussions with Squires during the visit

speaking at the company’s Giftland Mall location, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to creating sporting opportunities for young girls. “For us, the main focus is not really the fluff around it, but being able to do as much as we can with our limited resources and make an impact. That is why we have

committed over the years to supporting this.” Ramdeo also commended parents for encouraging young athletes, noting that their involvement has contributed to the growth of the tournament and the development of football. This year’s competition will feature 24 school

teams, including 12 from Georgetown, four from Region Seven, two each from Regions One, Three and Six, and one each from Regions Four and Ten. Waramuri Primary School enter as defending champions, having defeated Marian Academy 3–0 on penalties in last year’s final.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

England Lions overcome West Indies ‘A’ to claim T20 series BASSETERRE, St Kitts, ( CMC )– England Lions emerged victorious for the second straight match to claim their T20 series against West Indies ‘A’ with a match to spare. The home side put up a better fight this time around but still went down by 17 runs at Conaree Sports Club to give the Lions an unassailable 2-0 advantage in their three-match series. After sending England into bat, the Windies would have been disappointed England got up to 151 in 18.5 overs after reducing them to 120 for eight at one stage. Despite knocks of 49 from Shadrack Descarte and 43 from captain Alick Athanaze, West Indies

could only muster 134 for seven in their 20 overs. For the second time in the series, pacer Jakeem Pollard gave the Windies a dream start by dismissing Ben McKinney for a duck in the first over. After being hit for three fours in his second over, Pollard rebounded by having England’s skipper Thomas Rew caught for 11 to leave the score 23 for two at the end of three overs. Rehan Ahmed and James Rew put the home side on the backfoot during a 49-run partnership for the third wicket that saw them progress to 72 for three in the eight over. But once Descarte claimed Ahmed’s wicket

for 31 off 21 balls, England suffered a collapse that saw them lose six wickets for 48 runs. Leg-spinner Zishan Motara and wrist spinner Vitel Lawes were the main reasons behind the collapse, accounting for four wickets between them. However, from 120 for eight in the 16th over, England was boosted by an unbeaten 22 from Liam Patterson-White and Eddie Jack, who blasted 21 off 13 balls batting at number nine. Pollard ended with 4-20, while Lawes took 2-25 and Motara 2-27. West Indies openers Kamil Pooran and Zachary Carter were stifled early on by England’s opening bowl-

Scott Currie took three wickets to bowl England Lions to victory over West Indies ‘A’

ing pair of Naavya Sharma and Eddie Jack.

They managed to get up to 26 in the fourth over before pacer Scott Currie had Pooran caught at long on for 18 off 15 balls. Jewel Andrew drove Eddie Jack to the boundary but two balls later he was caught at backward point for four as West Indies slipped to 31 for two after five overs. Carter’s nightmare stay at the crease came to an end when he was dismissed by leg-spinner Calvin Harrison for a pedestrian six off 19 balls, and he also had Karima Gore caught and bowled to reduce the Windies to 59 for four in the 12th over. Athanaze and Descarte tried their best to repair the damage during a 57-run

partnership for the fifth wicket, but the required run rate continued to spiral out of control. When Currie bowled Athanaze for 43 off 30 balls to leave the score 116 for five in the 18th over, the West Indies still required 36 runs from 13 balls. Currie then essentially finalised the result by bowling Quentin Sampson with the next delivery to finish with 3-17 from his four overs, while Harrison took 2-27. Descarte was run out off the last ball of the match for 49 off 33 balls, inclusive of three sixes and two fours. The third and final T20 is today at the same venue.

Cricket Writers’ Awards for Robinson, Sharma & Bamber Cunha seals memorable Man FAST bowlers dominated at the annual Cricket Writers’ Club awards as Ollie Robinson and two other England aspirants, Naavya Sharma and Ethan Bamber, were among the prize winners. Robinson, 32, was named England’s cricketer of the year following his remarkable return to Test cricket this summer after two years out in the cold. The Sussex paceman took 28 wickets in four Tests at an average of just 9.30, lifting him into the International Cricket Council Test bowling rankings top five. He becomes the fifth winner of the Bob Willis Trophy since it was reallocated in 2022. Warwickshire spearhead Bamber, 27, who took 69 wickets in 16 matches in the Bears’ stunning ninth title triumph, was the County Championship player of the year. He claimed 32 of them from late August onwards as the Bears won five of their last six games to win the title for the first time since 2021. Middlesex’s England Lions fast bowler Sharma became the 77th winner of the Young Cricketer of the Year Award. The 21-year-old followed Fred Trueman, Geoffrey Boycott, Ian Botham, David Gower, Mike Gatting, Andrew Flintoff, James Anderson, Ian Bell, Jonny

United Euro fightback

Matheus Cunha celebrates his matchwinner England’s Ollie Robinson (left) has competition for places from Naavya Sharma (centre) and another international aspirant Ethan Bamber

Bairstow, Joe Root and Ben Stokes in winning the accolade. Sharma, who is already very much on England’s radar, took 35 wickets in just nine County Championship matches at an average of 21, as well as helping Middlesex to win the One-Day Cup. He could not attend the annual lunch at Lord’s as he is representing England Lions in St Kitts. England youngster Tilly Corteen-Coleman, who turned 19 in August, was voted by the 450-strong membership as Women’s Young Cricketer of the Year. She starred for Surrey and Southern Brave, made her England debut in both white-ball formats, and was

part of the T20 World Cup squad that lost in the final to Australia at Lord’s. Scotland’s Kirstie Gordon wins the Women’s Cricket Award. As well as representing Scotland at the T20 World Cup, she captained the Nottingham-based Blaze to a domestic treble of Blast, County Cup and OneDay Cup. Other winners at the annual lunch included England mixed disability cricketer Angus Brown, who was named Disability Cricketer of the Year. He hit a 43-ball hundred against India, England’s first in the mixed disability format, and also made the fastest-ever century, from 45 balls, in the Disability

Premier League. The full list of winners NV Play Men’s Young Cricketer of the Year Naavya Sharma Women’s Young Cricketer of the Year, supported by Vitality - Tilly Corteen-Coleman County Championship Player of the Year, in association with The Borders Distillery - Ethan Bamber Bob Willis Trophy for England Player of the Year, supported by Vitality - Ollie Robinson Women’s Cricket Award, in association with JM Finn Kirstie Gordon Disability Cricketer of the Year, in association with MCC - Angus Brown. (BBC Sport)

MANCHESTER United dragged themselves up off the canvas to come from two goals down to record a sensational Champions League victory against Roma at Old Trafford. United seemed finished and head coach Michael Carrick destined for the sack as Roma scored twice in six first-half minutes, through Matias Soule and a Donyell Malan penalty. The goals turned the atmosphere inside Old Trafford venomous. Green tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch as a further sign of protest against the club’s ownership. Green and gold balloons were released as the teams came out and songs were chanted against the Glazer family, minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Director of Football Jason Wilcox.

United’s evening got even worse when £70m midfielder Carlos Baleba suffered a hamstring injury that looks set to keep him out for a period of time. But from the depths of despair, United rallied. Skipper Bruno Fernandes kept his nerve to drive home a twice-taken penalty after a Roma player entered the area. Then, after a Bryan Mbeumo shot had hit both posts, Matheus Cunha capitalised on Leonardo Balerdi’s error to equalise, before the Brazilian drilled home a shot from an acute angle four minutes from time. Cunha was sent off for a second booking as the game entered stoppage time but in front of a frenzied crowd, United survived to end their nine-game wait for a victory. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Crandon claims double honours at Masters World Cup

Royston Crandon (left) receives his Player- of-the-Tournament award from Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport Steven Jacobs

The IMC Masters Over-40s World Cup winner, Pakistan, poses for a group photo with Ministers Charles Ramson Jr. and Steven Jacobs

CANADA’S Royston Crandon emerged as the leading individual award winner at the 2026 IMC Over40s Cricket World Cup in Guyana, taking the highest run scorer and Most Valuable Player honours as the tournament concluded on Saturday last. Pakistan’s Waseem Ali finished as the highest wicket taker, while West Indies’ Randy Thomas was named Best Wicketkeeper. The individual honours accompanied the close of two weeks of cricket across

Pakistan’s pursuit of 282 before Syed Fariduddin’s unbeaten 24 from 16 balls helped carry them to 282 for nine in 44.5 overs. Fariduddin completed a strong all-round performance, having earlier claimed four for 40 as Australia made 281 for six from their 45 overs. Greg Hunt scored 103 and captain Steve Paulsen added 70 for Australia, but their efforts were ultimately overtaken in a tense finish that delivered the World Cup title to Pakistan.

Guyana’s three counties. The International Masters Cricket Association tournament ended with a closing ceremony at the Police Officers Mess, Eve Leary, on Saturday night. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. and Minister within the Ministry, Steven Jacobs, were in attendance and delivered remarks. Thomas also played a central role in West Indies’ final match, scoring a century to help secure a 45-run victory over India in the fifth-place Shield final at the

Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda, on October 31. His innings laid the foundation for 309 for six. India began the demanding chase promisingly, but were bowled out for 264 in 44.4 overs, leaving West Indies with the Shield title. The main championship went to Pakistan, who recovered from 36 for four to edge Australia by one wicket with one ball to spare at the National Stadium, Providence. Adnan Akmal’s 83 and Jawad Mansoor’s 62 revived

West Indies vice-captain, Lawrence Farnum, receives the Shield trophy on behalf of his teammates

Ariel/Trophy Stall Masters continue winning ways in VP T20 Softball Cup ARIEL/Trophy Stall Masters continued their dominance in the Masters Over40 category with another clinical win over archrivals Regal Masters to claim top honours in the Vice-president T20 Softball Cup, organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL), which ended at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown, Georgetown on Sunday. Led by a majestic 84 from Richard Latif, popularly known in softball circuit as “Mr. Cricket” and an equally brilliant 63 from Chien Gittens, the eventual champions comfortably chased down the required 216 for nine made by Regal Masters after skipper Samuel Kingston inserted the Campbellville-based side to take first strike. In reply, Regal Masters tasted success in the very first over, with Balram Roo-

Ariel/Trophy Stall Masters skipper collects the winning trophy and cash from Lakhram Singh of Lakhram Singh’s Contracting Services of Number 63 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. GSCL President, Ian John is at left

pnarine sending back Samuel Kingston, the lone centurion in the category, bowled for two. Regal’s celebrations were however short-lived as Latif joined Gittens, who recently returned from a remarkable stint in Canada, the two put-

ting on a masterful display in batsmanship, adding 90 for the second wicket. Gittens, in particular, was adept in both the conventional and reverse sweeps, the latter eventually causing his demise after he struck 10 fours and one six as Ariel/

Ramesh Sunich, proprietor of Trophy Stall, hands over the man-of-the-match trophy to Richard Latif

Trophy Stall reached 98 for two in the 10th over. Undaunted by the dismissal of his partner, Latif went into over-drive as he dominated an 80-run third wicket partnership with Sheldon Adams before perishing to Balram. His 84 was decorated with 11 fours and three sixes off 40 balls.

Despite a few jitters, Adams with an unbeaten 29, with three fours and a six and Harrynarine Dilchand with 23 not out, which included two sixes, saw their team home in 18.3 overs. Balram ended with two for 30. Earlier, Regal Masters suffered in the very first over, losing the key scalps of Pat-

rick Rooplall (5) and Nicholas Chase (0) while Lennox Mark (11) went in the third as they slipped to 23 for three. Essequibian Vishan Lall held the middle-order together with a defiant 47 from 32 balls which included three fours and three sixes while Lincoln Leander spanked two fours and four sixes in a top score of 48, batting at number eight as Regal Masters reached 215 for nine when their 20 overs expired. Shawin Hubbard and Kingston claimed two wickets each for 43 runs. Ariel/Trophy Stall Masters took home $300,000 and the winner’s trophy while Regal Masters got $100,000 and the runner-up trophy. Latiff took the coveted manof-the-match trophy. All trophies for the entire tournament were donated by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall. (Frederick Halley).

Sir Viv named King’s sustainability ambassador as Antigua celebrates Independence ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) — Cricket icon Sir Vivian Richards has been announced as a global ambassador for the King’s Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI), as King Charles and Queen Camilla joined celebrations marking the

45th anniversary of Antigua and Barbuda’s independence. The former West Indies captain accepted the invitation to become an ambassador for the King’s SMI scheme, saying: “I can’t tell you what an immense privilege it is to

be asked, and I have gladly accepted. I am delighted to help my country, and these islands raise the profile in any way I can.” Sir Viv was one of four West Indies Cricketing Knights, alongside Sir Richie Richardson, Sir Andy Rob-

erts and Sir Curtly Ambrose, who met the King and Queen when they joined the independence celebrations at a cricket stadium named after Sir Viv. The King is visiting Antigua and Barbuda where he opened the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meet-

Sir Vivian Richards has accepted King Charles’ invitation

ing (CHOGM) on Tuesday, an event overshadowed by debate over the issue of a slavery apology and potential reparations from Britain. Charles’ SMI was founded in 2020 when he was Prince of Wales to help the world transition to a sustain-

able future. It is involved in several events during CHOGM, including the Commonwealth Business Forum later, where the King will meet participants at the Commonwealth Leaders and CEOs Summit.

Reifer impressed with batters’ MVP Sports launches 10th Girls U-11 Football Tournament approach to spin SYLHET, Bangladesh, (CMC) – West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer has lauded the team’s batters for the manner in which they negotiated Bangladesh’s spinners in the opening Test. The regional side nullified the home side’s spinning trio of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan on their way to registering a convincing eight-wicket win at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. In their second innings, Brandon King scored an unbeaten 81, while John Campbell made 49 in an opening partnership of 112 that propelled the visitors to 170 for two and victory inside four days. “…The most pleasing thing was the way in which we chased down the total, the confidence that we showed, the ability that we showed to play spin. We showed that we are really an improved

West Indies batting coach, Floyd Reifer

group of batters versus spin bowling.” The batting performance was particularly impressive considering the West Indies’ well documented vulnerability to spin. Speaking ahead of the second Test on Wednesday, Reifer said he was impressed by the positive intent shown

by the batters against spin. “I thought the batting performance was brilliant. Coming to Bangladesh and playing in Dhaka from history the pitches turn a lot. It had some things in the seamer from the beginning, but mainly it is a spinning deck. “I am very pleased in terms of how the guys batted the spin. We were confident in our defence, rotated the strike very well, and as you saw in the second innings, we took our boundary options chasing down that 170 runs,” Reifer said. With the Windies holding a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series, Reifer said he was looking forward to another consistent performance from their batters in the final match. “It’s important that we be consistent with peak performances. Yes, we played well in Dhaka, but it’s important that we come here and play (Turn to page 33)

MVP Sports Proprietor Ian Ramdeo presents the sponsorship cheque to Petra Assistant Secretary Nareeza Latif (centre). Also pictured are Petra Director Troy Mendonca (left) and consultant Troy Peters (right)

THE Petra Organisation has once again partnered with MVP Sports to launch the 10th edition of the Girls Under-11 Football Tournament, reaffirming its commitment to developing girls football at the grassroots level. Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca says the longstanding partnership has created more opportunities for young female footballers,

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with efforts underway to increase participation. “This year again, the wish is to see more teams participate in the tournament, and we are working very hard on getting that done. It provides another opportunity for these young girls to compete, and as you know, in the development of sports, competition plays a very important role. And so,

we are happy once again to thank Ian for his unwavering support of girls and football, particularly the MVP Sports Girls U-11 Tournament.” Mendonca also praised MVP Sports for its continued investment in youth development, noting that its support extends to other sporting competitions. Meanwhile, MVP Sports Proprietor Ian Ramdeo, (Turn to page 33)

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2026