Kaieteur News

Palestine advocates K NEWS praise NYC’s Mamdani for revoking pro-Israel decrees

Saturday Edition

AIETEUR

January 03, 2026 - Vol. 21 No. 01 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $100 readership yesterday, 31,584

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Foreign gold miners given 24 hours to up declarations - Pres. Ali p. 14

…illegal operators to face prosecution, expulsion …agencies to enforce declarations, Construction deregister non-compliant dredges worker first road fatality for 2026

Police crackdown on Norton, Mohamed vow to expose firearms on New Year’s Day Govt’s corruption, PAGE

12

mismanagement

The firearms that were lodged during New Year’s operation

GRA staff under probe for alleged Illegal transfer of Mohamed’s vehicles …AZ maintains all regulations were followed

NRF saw record ‘Journalism being choked US$683.5M in oil in Guyana’ revenue in last Govt. ...GPA says as tightens grip quarter of 2025 on information

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

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Norton, Mohamed vow to expose Govt’s corruption, mismanagement in 2026 ...APNU urges equitable oil wealth distribution Leaders of the political opposition have taken the PPP/C government to task, committing to hold the administration accountable, and ensuring all citizens lead quality lives. With over 11.6 billion barrels of oil in the Stabroek Block alone, Leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Chairman of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton in his New Year's message has underscored that too many Guyanese remain impoverished.

“Guyanese should have been easily looking forward to a happy new year.

Unfortunately, the resources from oil are not meeting a large percentage of the people of Guyana, more than 50 per cent of the Guyanese people live in poverty.

This is unacceptable and unfortunate in an oil rich Guyana. This must change,” Norton said.

He argued that a majority of the population is not feeling the impact of the country's petroleum wealth

and called on the government to reallocate Guyana's oil resources in 2026 to ensure broader benefits for citizens.

Norton underscored that the new year presents an opportunity to shift how oil revenues are distributed, contending that current allocations favour a small segment of the population.

“2026 offers us the opportunity to reallocate the resources from oil in a way that the people of Guyana benefit. In this regard, the government should change the pattern of allocation of resources from benefiting the few and making the rich richer and the poor poorer,” he stated.Norton said equitable distribution of oil revenues is achievable if there is sufficient political will, and stressed that all Guyanese should benefit from the country's natural resources.“The time is nigh when we must ensure that all Guyanese share in our God given wealth, if there is the political will to put people first, then this is easily

Leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Chairman of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Aubrey Norton accomplished,” he said.

Further, Norton outlined the role of the opposition going forward, saying it would continue to highlight governance failures.“The PNCR/ APNU wishes to urge the government to become people centered and put the people of Guyana first in 2026 it is the task of the opposition to continue exposing corruption, mismanagement, wastage and incompetence, with the aim of ensuring the resources of this society benefit the people of Guyana in 2026…” Norton said.

GGMC orders miners to update records, maintain local bank accounts or face suspension of licences, permits The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has instructed all miners and stakeholders, including traders, to update their personal records with the commission by January 31, 2026.

In a notice on Friday, the commission said the update applies to information such as mailing and email addresses, telephone contact numbers and banking details.

GGMC noted that it is the responsibility of each licence or permit holder to ensure their information is accurate and current.

mandatory condition for the processing, access or renewal of mining licences and permits.

Persons who have not previously submitted their banking information to the commission are required to do so by January 31, 2026. Those without a bank account must take immediate steps to regularise their status.

To support this process, the Ministry of Natural Resources will collaborate with the banking sector to conduct outreach exercises in Mahdia, Puruni and Matthew's Ridge. During these engagements,

Failure to comply by t h e deadline will result in the suspension of relevant licences and/or permits.

Further, GGMC also announced that all miners and stakeholders are required to maintain a local bank account as a

authorised banking representatives will assist miners and stakeholders with opening personal bank accounts.

GGMC warned that non-compliance with the local bank account requirement will affect the processing, issuance or renewal of licences and permits.

Leader of We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) and Member of Parliament (MP) Azruddin Mohamed

H e further encouraged citizens to be vocal on issues affecting their lives and standards of living, linking quality of life to democracy and the country's oil wealth.

“All Guyanese must realise a path forward to a quality of life synonymous with democracy and reflect

the tremendous oil wealth we possess. We wish to encourage all Guyanese to become advocates regarding issues that affect their lives and livelihood. If it is harmful to your peaceful existence or contrary to law, speak up, speak out…,” Norton added.

Moreover, leader of We

Invest in Nationhood (WIN) and Member of Parliament (MP) Azruddin Mohamed in his own New Year's message said that the party will continue to serve as a voice for the voiceless.

“We will continue to hold the government accountable in our call for transparency and justice, we will scrutinise public spending, we will highlight corruption wherever it exists and we will continue to stand on the side of the people of Guyana…” he noted.

Additionally, Mohamed stated, “Though we launched only three months before the election the people of Guyana stood with us, together we made history with 16 parliamentary seats WIN emerged as a strong and credible force and the main opposition party…”

Govt. to allocate $121B for new Versailles to Parika highway

T

he new four-lane highway which will stretch from Versailles on the West Bank of Demerara to Parika, East Bank Essequibo, Region Three, is estimated to cost $121 billion, according to figures from the government's engineer.

The project which is being executed through the Ministry of Housing - Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), was opened recently at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) where 73 contractors submitted bids.

The project is divided into 17 lots and the delivery/ construction period is 20 months.

According to information provided by NPTAB, the estimated price for each lot is as follow: Lot1 - $7,954,722,982; Lot2 $6,672,895,770; Lot3 - $6,699,850,198; Lot4 - $9,109,345,414; Lot5 $4,506,269,359; Lot6 - $7,326,291,447; Lot7 - $5,797,776,941; Lot8 $8,916,879,632; Lot9 - $8,622,795,570; L o t 1 0 - $ 7 , 5 2 7 , 2 6 4 , 6 8 8 ; L o t 11 $5,481,315,813; Lot12 - $8,710,211,975; Lot13 - $6,257,874,276; Lot14 $10,063,191,425; Lot15 - $8,243,701,177; Lot16- $4,980,929,581; and Lot17 $4,655,552,452. The estimated figures bring the overall total to $121,525,868,700.

Among the contractors who bid for the project are: Adamantium Holdings and Qingjian Group Company (Guyana) Inc. (joint venture); Guyamerica Construction Inc.; Manohar Services, JJ Mining & Construction, P r o co n s tr u ct S o lu tio n s , Tr in ity Property Developers Inc. & J&L Supplies Guyana Inc.; NABI /Dyrock

Construction Inc; China Railway First Group Co. Ltd; International Import & Supplies; Kallco Guyana Inc.; China Road and Bridge Corporation; K.P. Thomas and Sons contracting Inc; Hoosein-FHC-HLS (joint venture); Conecta Infraestructa S.A.S Constructora Rodsa S.A. and Excel Guyana EPC Inc. (in joint venture with) Dayuan International Engineering Co. Limited and

Latitude Geospatial Consulting Inc.; Urban Edge Builders Inc; and Plans 4 U Enterprise and Cornerstone Aggregates Inc. The other contractors who submitted bids can be found via the link: https://www.npta.gov.gy/wpcontent/uploads/Tender-Evaluation-DetailsDecember-22-2025.pdf Kaieteur News understands that the new highway project forms part of the Schoonord to Parika road link which is being built in phases.

CHPA had reported previously that the new four-lane thoroughfare is expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve connectivity, and support ongoing economic expansion across Region Three.

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Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

A country trying to be real Some developments in the oil and gas sector are so mindboggling that they send into a tailspin. Four years after an audit is completed, US$214M in findings continue to be a source of disagreement between the Guyana Government and US multinational ExxonMobil. The four years mentioned is not a misprint, an error in place of four months.

It has been four years since the first oil audit was completed, but resolution of the findings still can't be finalized. When an arrangement that is supposed to be a partnership of equals suffers from this lack of cooperation, then what is it that Guyanese really have in their oil and gas sector, their prized inheritance?

President Ali has made a living talking about “sanctity of contract”, and there is this four-year delay in settling this US$214M audit matter that reduces Guyana, a sovereign nation, to a beggar. The delay is due to getting Guyana and ExxonMobil on the same page relative to a “sole expert” to serve as the arbitrator tasked with bringing this matter to an end. Is the Government of Guyana and ExxonMobil serious, or is this part of a new kind of ruse at which both are now so skilled at fabricating and delivering? For a national government, a steward over rich oil resources, to be this lackadaisical and this impotent says quite a bit about Guyana's subservient role in this oil partnership. The fact that the government has the gall to highlight groundbreaking projects, while almost a quarter billion US dollars are unresolved for four years, points to leaders who have their heads in the wrong place, and are just lacking.

ExxonMobil is proud to instill the misleading in Guyanese, which is that it is a partner that can be trusted.

The IHS-Markit audit findings, however, showed how slick it can be when millions are involved.

By some special arrangement, probably originating in secret conversations with the right PPPC Government officials, the British audit findings were diminished from US$214M to US$3M by some accounting magic, and everyone made sure to keep their fingerprints from what looked like recklessness on a grand scale at best, or some type of sinister collusion (a fraud) at the other end of the range. Did that attempt at a costly con occur through a system generated glitch, or were there human minds and hands in the partnership working together for that US$3M outcome? And when ExxonMobil itself rushed forward to put in a kind word for the loyal worker who was made into a willing scapegoat for the attempted audit caper, there was certain sickly smell that came out of that development. It stained everyone in what has become too much of a cozy partnership.

From that attempted hijacking of Guyana's interests, the call for binding arbitration, as provided for in the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement, has floated around without any sense of urgency, the desire to get this matter over and done with. With the PPPC Government so wrapped up in ExxonMobil's treacherous embrace, and all but helpless, it doesn't surprise that the IHS-Markit findings have gone no place, after four years.

ExxonMobil's top man in Guyana, Alistair Routledge, in his recent press conference shared this piece: “We are working with the GRA on identifying a sole expert with whom both parties are comfortable. This is a process that takes a little bit of time, partly because it is the first time that we have done this together.” Things are getting better all the time in the oil and gas sector, for there was Routledge knowing that four years have elapsed since the findings, but he still calls it “a little bit of time.” ExxonMobil has that luxury, because it has a lock on Guyana's oil for a few more decades. For Guyanese, every dollar counts, particularly when so many are squeezed by ExxonMobil's lopsided contract. We think that putting that US$214M to a sole expert is taking a risk. Recall the mystery of the US$214M that hemorrhaged to US$3M, and there is a precedent that should not be repeated in a binding arbitration. It's better to have a panel of three experts to closeout this audit that has lingered so long.

New York's new Mayor and Guyanese Dear Editor, New York City has a new m a y o r, Z o r a n K w a m e Mamdani, a leftist, who was sworn in on New Year's Day in the presence of thousands from all ethnic groups from all walks of life, including many Guyanese, African, Indian, and others. Several Guyanese campaigned for him and over half voted for him. More Brooklynite Guyanese than Queensites voted for him. Mamdani campaigned all over the city, making several stops among Black Guyanese and other West Indians in Brooklyn and Indians in Queens and winning their hearts. The minority votes, supported by progressive democrats, handed him the victory.

Mamdani has made global news for being the first Muslim and first South Asian (Indian) elected as mayor of the world's most famous city, the global capital of the world. Global media followed the election

campaign for mayor in which Mamdani, an underdog long shot, upset the favored white Italian candidate Andrew Cuomo in the primary for the Democratic Party nomination in April and again in the general election; Cuomo ran as an independent in the general and was trounced by this young upstart. Mamdani, 34, is the youngest mayor in over a hundred years.

M a m d a n i w a s vehemently opposed by P r e s i d e n t Tr u m p a n d established figures in both the Republican and Democratic parties. Trump called him a communist, and he called Trump a fascist. Prominent Democrats did not endorse him although he won the Democratic nomination. But he persevered and prevailed in the general election last November.

President Trump invited him to the White House after his victory. Although Trump makes his home in Miami, he

is a New Yorker. He was born in and grew up as a child in Jamaica Estates where thousands of Indo Guyanese now reside. His family owned businesses in Wo o d h a v e n w h e r e thousands of Indo Guyanese also make their home. And he owns businesses in Greater Richmond Hill where thousands of Indo Guyanese also reside.

Hundreds of Guyanese of all ethnicities are employed at his senior health center in Jamaica. And several are also employed at his hotels in Manhattan.

The President cares about the wellbeing of New Yorkers and the city where he owns business properties including hotels valued at hundreds of millions and where his children were born and raised. Trump has committed to working with Mayor Mandani in the interests of the city.

Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda in 1991

and moved with his parents to USA in 1998. Tens of thousands of Indians were taken to Uganda in the late 1800s by the British to build railways and help govern the colony.

Their properties and cash were confiscated, and they were expelled by the racist dictator Idi Amin in the 1970s. They migrated to UK, USA, Canada, and other developed nations where they have continued their cultural tradition, entrepreneurial spirit, and education.

After Amin was driven from power in the 1980s, Indians were urged to return to Uganda to invest in their former homeland. Many returned with the Uganda government returning some properties but not the seized cash of tens of millions of dollars. Mamdani family chose to migrate to USA and became citizens. His father, a Muslim, was a Professor at (Continued on page 5)

The Village Cluster Model: A Modern Strategy for National Empowerment Dear Editor, As Guyana continues its historic ascent, the government has a unique opportunity to refine the architecture of our national development.

To ensure that our rising prosperity translates into tangible improvements for every citizen, whether on the coastland or in the hinterland, we should look toward a highly successful model of "Development from Below."

This strategy, which emphasizes village participation, can transform the state's role from a simple provider of infrastructure into a powerful facilitator of community life.

The intellectual roots of this approach lie in the One Vi l l a g e O n e P r o d u c t

(OVOP) movement from Japan, which was later scaled with immense success in Thailand as the OTOP project.

While these international examples often focused on commercial products, Guyana's path forward lies in adapting this logic to Village Cluster Projects. In this framework, neighboring villages are grouped into clusters to identify shared social and infrastructural needs. The project is not an "economic engine" designed for profit, but a social one designed to improve the collective quality of life.

The government's role in this partnership is essential and pro-active. Instead of a top-down approach where the center decides on a project and budget before

Credit to the President Dear Editor, Credit to President Ali for acting decisively with the Te a c h i n g S e r v i c e Commission because the appointments could not be delayed Is President Ali not also aware that the swearing in of the Leader of the Opposition is absolutely necessary to manage the country's affairs?

Perhaps President Ali will publicly explain why he has not given just importance to the Office of the Leader of the Opposition and use his executive powers to get the Speaker to do what is right.

B e w i l d e r e d , disappointed, disillusioned and embarrassed.

Regards Faiyaz Alli

seeking feedback, the government serves as the technical and financial backbone for the people's vision.

The state provides the necessary financing and deploys specialized extension workers to assist with project design, management, monitoring, and evaluation.

This ensures that while the community leads the way, they are supported by the highest professional standards to guarantee success.

We see the incredible efficacy of this "Community-Based Participation" (CBP) in the work of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). In complex environments such as the large-scale camps in Bangladesh, Uganda, and among displaced populations in Myanmar, CBP has been the gold standard.

By empowering residents to design and manage their own community improvement projects, the UNHCR has found that these initiatives are more sustainable, better maintained, and more deeply respected than those imposed by outside

agencies.

This model is not just for the interior; it is a blueprint for the entire country. A cluster of coastal villages might identify a need for a community-managed drainage system or a shared vocational hub, while a hinterland cluster might prioritize a regional resource center.

In every case, the government's extension workers provide the " s o f t w a r e " o f development—the tools for accountability and technical execution—while the "hardware" is the project the community actually wants.

This approach represents a sophisticated evolution in governance. It fosters a spirit of national ownership and active citizenship. When the government provides the resources and the technical scaffolding, but allows the village clusters to steer the direction, it creates a more resilient and inclusive Guyana.

It is time to move beyond the old "command-andcontrol" style of development and embrace a partnership that honors the local intelligence of our people.

Respectfully, Dr. Walter H. Persaud

Saturday January 03, 2026

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Is the targeting by American and Guyana governments of the Mohamed's Fair?

Dear Editor, The fairness of American sanction, indictment, and extradition of the Mohameds' is a subject of significant debate as most Guyanese believe such actions violate human rights and due process of an

accused. And they are not the only Guyanese accused of or under investigation for allegedly violating financial laws or committing the same crimes.

There are several officials exploiting their positions in various sectors

including gold mining, agriculture, housing, infrastructure, and petroleum for their own benefit. Several Ministers and other officials are allegedly involved in massive corruption. Also, it is widely known that law

New York's new Mayor and...

From page 4 Columbia University and his mother, a Hindu, a well known film maker of Mississippi Masala fame starring Denzel Washington.

Mamdani adopted the faith of his father.

Mamdani accepted American citizenship in 2018. He got elected to NY State Assembly four years ago from Astoria, a district with thousands of Indo Guyanese, and re-elected twice, one of the youngest member of the legislature.

He was sworn in as Mayor with the Koran, the first by a mayor of the city.

His speech after swearing in did not disappoint. He appealed to all groups — Whites, Jews, Black A m e r i c a n s a n d We s t Indians, South Asians, Africans, Hindus, Muslims, Christians.

He mentioned mandir, temple, church, synagogue, masjid in his speech. During the campaign, he visited Synagogues, Mandirs, Mosques, and Churches and joined prayers in all faiths.

His mayoral speech was one of the finest, offering hope. Mamdani is a gifted, soaring orator in the mold of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

He delivered a brilliant, heart warming, persuasive, and inspirational speech, of unity and inclusiveness. He connected with his large diverse audience, speaking simple easy-to-understand language that won cheers and admiration. He spoke of his commitment New Yorkers telling them they can trust him. And he also pledged to protecting their interests.

He stated he is a mayor of all and in so doing has gained wild cheers. He spoke of hope and change, pledging to labor on their behalf. He promised to reduce economic inequality and to consult with the public on governance. He also pledged not to fail to try to improve

their lives or to undertake d i ff i c u l t p o l i c i e s . H e promised to bring down the cost of living and to assist the poor.

He said he ran as democratic socialist and will govern as one. He came across as a true, genuine, sincere, caring, compassionate leftist ruler reminiscent of Cheddi Jagan unlike the fake communists in Guyana and elsewhere who exploit working class for self enrichment.

On the poor and media coverage of festivities on New Year, the broadcast media around the globe centered on the lavish parties and fireworks welcoming the New Year in developed country after country, the wealthy capital and other cities.

There were no coverages of the kind of low key celebrations that the poor or working or lower class had.

Even in Guyana, coverages of New Year's were on the big cities of the rich countries not on local celebrations. Also, in developing countries like Guyana, the poor are neglected or excluded from their ordinary festivities d u r i n g N e w Ye a r ' s celebrations as the emphasis was on lavish parties and expensive event of the rich and famous. The poor hardly got coverage on television on New Year's Eve of the kind of celebrations they had.

The poor and working class can't afford the huge amounts (a month's salary) to attend a lavish party where the rich tend to engage in debauchery and capture media attention.

Exclusive, extravagant parties or special dinners at restaurants cost hundreds of American dollars, making them inaccessible to the poor and the working class and low-income individuals.

Which politicians spent a few minutes with poor and the working class. Even the

communists blanked the working class and the poor.

A small percentage of population in every country, including Guyana, tend to enjoy material abundance while the poor had to make do with their limitations, staying in their corner, recognizing they can't imitate the rich. They are socially isolated due to their financial circumstances, anxious about how they w o u l d p a y f o r necessities—such rent or mortgage, food, utilities, medicine, and gifts for children instead of pay for extravagant parties. The rich don't worry about rent, food, utilities, medical benefits; those are assured. But the poor have to think about the daily struggle for survival.

The rich has every right to enjoy their wealth, spending it however they feel comfortable. The poor in every country is responsible for their own neglect and conditions. They don't hold their governments or the rich accountable.

The poor outnumber the wealthy or rich nine to one; and the poor generally work to enrich the rich or wealthy.

Yet the poor experience difficulties in meeting basic needs. Even the communists don't show much compassion or care about or f o r t h e p o o r. A l m o s t everyone, the bourgeois and the wealthy, the ruling class, uses the poor to empower themselves.

The poor allow themselves to be used and exploited. In short, the poor vote for the wealthy to abuse them. But being poor should not be the reason for limited coverage of their lifestyle at end of year season and for their overall economic neglect.

Mamdani may be the ruler to uplift the lives of the downtrodden, including poor Guyanese New Yorkers.

Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

enforcement officers and government officials provided a protective shield to several known gold and diamond smuggles to operate in Guyana and directed officers to facilitate their export, taking 'fees' in exchange for services. Yet the Mohamed's are the only ones targeted by the PPP government for prosecution and indicted in USA. The Mohamed's are not the only Guyanese business people to allegedly violate the monetary laws (Magnitsky, OFAC, etc.) of USA and of Guyana. Several business people with ties to this government have violated American and Guyanese laws and have been involved in money laundering, gold smuggling, and corruption. Guyanese politicians have also violated the same laws. In fact, in the Su video, a leading politician was accused of corruption, taking bribes. And the PS,

Mae Toussaint, of the Home Affairs Ministry was cosanctioned by USA. Yet only the Mohamed's were indicted in USA and facing extradition for trial. Why not the others who are more crooked than garbed wire and who have been involved in significant corruption?

Why isn't the VP moving with same zeal to investigate and prosecute Ministers and other officials accused of corruption?

It is no secret that the Mohamed's were attached at the hips with the PPP (both Irfaan and Jagdeo and very close to every leading party official). The duo funded the party with their business proceeds that were facilitated by PPP governments going back decades. The Mohamed's gave $20 million to the PPP in April 2024 for its Congress. Then Azruddin announced an interest in politics, to run for office.

That desire sealed the Mohamed's fate. It was a challenge to the party that Irfaan and Jagdeo could not tolerate. It was anathema to their political interests, a threat to their stint in office, over control of billions of American dollars in oil revenues.

Is it not factual that the Americans under Joe Biden were approached in a transactional proposal to remove the Azruddin threat by indicting the Mohamed's and removing them from Guyana? In exchange, was there a deal that mega business operations will not be audited or have their operations curtailed? Did American Lobbyists of mega business interests operating in Guyana convinced the Biden Administration to sanction the Mohamed's with the plan of ultimately indicting them and seeking their extradition? When (Continued on page 10)

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Saturday January 03, 2026

Upholding the Constitution and the Rule of Law Dear Editor, I write out of deep concern regarding the recent swearing-in of the sevenmember Teachers Service Commission by President Irfaan Ali in the absence of a constituted parliamentary opposition.

The Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana is clear in both spirit and intent: constitutional commissions are meant to reflect balance, inclusion, and shared authority.

The involvement of both government and opposition is not ceremonial—it is a safeguard designed to prevent unilateral control and to preserve public confidence in our

democratic institutions.

Proceeding with such appointments while Parliament remains incomplete and the opposition leader has not been duly sworn in raises serious constitutional questions.

More importantly, it risks setting a precedent where legality is reduced to convenience, rather than adherence to the rule of law.

Guyana is not governed by executive discretion alone. Our democracy rests on constitutional order, consultation, and respect for checks and balances.

Any action that appears to sidestep these principles weakens trust and fuels the perception of increasingly

authoritative governance.

Teachers, like all public servants, deserve a Service Commission whose legitimacy is beyond question—one formed through full constitutional compliance and broad-based participation.

This moment calls not for haste, but for restraint, respect, and recommitment to democratic norms.

The Constitution must not only be quoted when convenient; it must be u p h e l d c o n s i s t e n t l y, especially by those entrusted to defend it.

Yours Sincerely, Lorenzo Joseph United Workers Party (UWP) Region 10

The Architecture of Influence: The Quiet Redesign of the Caribbean Dear Editor, As the sun sets on 2025, reflecting on all that occurred ” hindsight would have led to a stunning revelation,” the Caribbean "Zone of Peace" is undergoing a structural transformation so profound it would be overlooked by the casual observer. While the headlines focus on the "largest armada in history" patrolling the waves to combat narcotics and blockade the movement of Venezuelan crude, a more nuanced reality is unfolding beneath the surface: “a masterclass in realpolitik that achieves through economic strangulation and strategic silence what once required an armed takeover.”

The Manufactured Economic Trap The current U.S. naval blockade of "sanctioned oil tankers" has moved beyond simple pressure on the Maduro administration, to an all encompassing regional agenda. By intercepting over a million barrels of crude at a time and restricting the flow of middle distillates like diesel, the policy has created a ripple effect across the region. In Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua, the lack of fuel is bringing internal economies to a halt, driving up the cost of basic goods and plunging millions into darkness.

However, the "trap" is not just for the adversaries.

T h e r e g i o n a l spillover—rising insurance premiums for shipping, extended transit timelines for cargo and spiking costs—creates a generalized economic anxiety. When the spiraling cost of living becomes unbearable, the arrival of U.S. "Humanitarian Corridors" and "Stabilization Packages" isn't viewed as an encroachment; it is welcomed as a rescue. This is the "Savior Mentality" in its purest form: creating the crisis that only the intervener can solve.

The Fracture of Regional Agency We are witnessing a "divide and rule" strategy tailored for the 2020s. On one hand, Trinidad and Tobago has already broken r an k , e n d o r s i n g U . S . military transit to secure its own energy infrastructure.

On the other, nations like Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica face "partial visa restrictions"—a disciplinary measure serving as a warning to those who dare to maintain diplomatic dissent, reinforcing the “silence is golden theory” Th e “ S i l e n c e ” o f Georgetown and the "Protection" Umbrella Perhaps most striking is the "deafening silence" from Georgetown. Despite a largely porous border and a looming humanitarian crisis, P r es id en t I r f aan A li' s administration has purposely avoided a clear,

concise public stance on the escalating U.S. presence. Is this silence a “surrender of agency?” or the sound of a high-stakes survival tactic: total alignment in exchange for total security The Socio-Economic Toll The most visceral impact of this realignment will be felt along the western frontier. Should Georgetown fully concede security control to Washington, the socio-economic fabric of Guyana faces a dual-edged sword. On one side, the "Savior" provides a shield against annexation; on the other, it introduces a permanent foreign military footprint that inevitably prioritizes the protection of offshore rigs over the integration of border residents. As the cost of living continues to climb, the influx of foreign security personnel and high—net worth oil industry contractors, risks accelerating a domestic "resource curse"—widening the gap between a wealthy urban elite and a frontier population caught in the crossfire of a humanitarian spillover.

The Endgame: The Energy Hegemon The "Rubio Doctrine" appears to be working toward a final objective: the consolidation of the Western Hemisphere's largest energy reserves—spanning Venezuela, Guyana, and Trinidad—under a single, (Continued on page 8)

Saturday January 03, 2026

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

Sir Ronald Sanders UG's 14th Chancellor

S

ir Ronald Sanders has been elected as the 14th Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG), according to a statement from the office of the president on Friday.

The release noted that Section 9 of the University of Guyana Act provides that the chancellor shall be elected by the university's council.

T h e o ff i c e b e c a m e vacant following the completion of the tenure of Professor John Edward Greene. On behalf of the Government of Guyana, President Irfaan Ali expressed appreciation to Professor Greene for his service to the university and his contribution to its development and standing.

To this end, President Ali stated, “I am pleased to note that the council of the University of Guyana has identified Sir Ronald Sanders as the prospective chancellor of the university.”

Sir Ronald is a former visiting fellow at the University of Oxford and holds a master's degree in International Relations from the University of Sussex.

He has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of the We s t I n d i e s a n d a n Honorary Doctor of Laws by the University of Guyana.

The statement further noted that Sir Ronald's record of scholarship, public service, and multilateral diplomacy aligns with the university's goals of academic excellence and greater global engagement.

“At a moment of major investment in human capital, his leadership would strengthen the university's role at the heart of Guyana's emerging knowledge economy. The Government of Guyana welcomes the appointment of Sir Ronald Sanders as chancellor of the University of Guyana,” the release further stated.

Sir Ronald Sanders new Chancellor of the University of Guyana UG in its statement Friday, noted that Sir Ronald's appointment follows the formal assent of the university council on January 2, 2026, marking a historic milestone for the university as it welcomes a diplomat of international stature to lead its highest governing body.

“As chancellor, he will act as a vital link between the institution, the government, and the international community.

Sir Ronald will be a major asset not only to the University of Guyana, but to the country as a whole, as we move forward with the modernisation and transformation of our economy and society,” the university noted.

A Life of Service and Intellectual Rigour Sir Ronald currently serves as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and to the Organization of American States (OAS), having previously served (twice) as High Commissioner to the UK, and Ambassador to the European Union and the World Trade Organization.

It was also noted that throughout his life of service, he has embodied the core ideals of Caribbean diplomacy: principled a d v o c a c y, i n t e l l e c t u a l rigour, and an unshakable belief in the value of regional and international cooperation.

His public career began in journalism and broadcasting in Guyana.

Rising swiftly to national

prominence, he helped shape the “golden era” of radio journalism, becoming the general manager of the Guyana Broadcasting Service (GBS) at the age of 25.

“Today, Sir Ronald is recognised as a leading intellectual voice in the hemisphere.

His syndicated commentaries, published weekly across the globe, continue to inform and challenge policymakers and citizens alike on issues of justice, governance, and the survival of small states in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape,” the university stated.

National and International Acclaim Sir Ronald has served as an elected member of the executive board of the United Nations, Educational, Scientific and C u l t u r a l O rg a n i s a t i o n (UNESCO), member and Rapporteur of the Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group whose report set the terms for urgent reform of Commonwealth, Chairman of the Caribbean Action Task Force against money laundering and terrorist financing (CFATF).

At the OAS, he achieved the unprecedented feat of chairing the permanent council three times. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating the institution through moments of intense hemispheric challenge, including political crises in Haiti and Guatemala.

Sir Ronald has also been an unyielding voice for democracy in Guyana. He has consistently defended the constitutional order and the sanctity of free elections. Through his prolific writings and diplomatic manoeuvres, he has affirmed the inviolability of Guyana's borders and the legitimacy of its territorial integrity, standing as a clear and courageous defender of the right of the Guyanese people to determine their own destiny.

The Architecture of Influence: The...

From page 6 U.S.-managed security and economic framework. By framing this as a fight against "narco-terrorism," the architects of this policy have masked a territorial and resource realignment that rivals the colonial era. As the

"Calvary" moves in to restore order, they don't just bring peace; they bring a new economic order where the winners are decided in Washington and the losers are the sovereign dreams of a unified Caribbean.

The world watches the

blockade, but it should be paying attention to the disquieting—silence .

In the Caribbean of 2025, what isn't being said is far more important than what is.

Sincerely Hemdutt Kumar

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

PAGE 09

Is the Integrity Commission a rubber stamp?

W

henever allegations of corruption swirl around officials of the PPP/C government, a familiar defence is rolled out with almost ritual precision: all officials declare their assets to the Integrity Commission. The implication is clear transparency has been satisfied, the law complied with, and therefore the accusations must be politically motivated or hollow.

But this defence rests on a dangerously shallow understanding of what integrity legislation is meant to achieve. The critical question is not whether declarations are filed, but whether anyone has the power—and the will—to test them against reality.

When one examines the Integrity Commission Act of 1 9 9 7 c l o s e l y, t h e uncomfortable possibility emerges that the Commission is structurally incapable of doing what the public assumes it does.

The Act’s core function appears, at first glance, robust.

Part III requires extensive declarations of income, assets, and liabilities by a wide category of “persons in public life.”

These disclosures are broad, covering assets held directly or indirectly, including those of spouses and children. On paper, this seems comprehensive. But disclosure, without meaningful verification, is merely an exercise in formfilling. Section 17 empowers the Commission or the President to “receive, examine and retain” declarations and to make enquiries “as it considers necessary” to verify their accuracy. This is often cited as evidence that the Commission can investigate.

Yet the Act never equips the Commission with the practical tools associated with serious financial investigation: no explicit power to conduct lifestyle audits, no automatic access to bank records, no authority to trace assets across borders, and no independent forensic capacity. The Commission may ask questions, but it cannot truly dig.

Even more troubling is that enforcement hinges almost entirely on the declarant’s cooperation.

Under section 18, the Commission may request “further particulars,” but compliance depends on the honesty of the very person

under scrutiny.

There is no mechanism allowing the Commission, on its own initiative, to compare declarations against tax records, land registries, or corporate filings in a systematic way.

The Act assumes good faith where skepticism is required.

The inquiry powers in sections 20 and 21 are also revealing. Formal inquiries are discretionary, rare, and procedurally cumbersome.

In the case of members of the Commission itself, the investigative function is removed entirely from the Commission and vested in a tribunal appointed by the President after consultation with the Minority Leader.

This arrangement raises obvious questions about independence and political insulation.

Then there is the fiveyear limitation. Both inquiries and prosecutions are barred after five years from the time a person ceases to be in public life.

Corruption, by its nature, is often slow to surface and complex to prove.

A statutory clock that runs out just as evidence matures serves more to protect wrongdoers than to promote accountability.

Perhaps the most glaring

DEM BOYS SEH

When the dead text back F

rom the very stroke of midnight on Old Year’s Night, my phone turn into Philharmonic Hall.

Ping! Ping! Ping! WhatsApp ringing like tassa drum, steel pan and church bell all beating one time.

By morning, the thing wasn’t a phone again—it was an orchestra pit, and I was the only miserable conductor without a baton.

Messages start pouring in from people I ain’t hear from since Burnham time. Some send long essays about “new beginnings” and “divine alignment.”

Others just fling emojis—fireworks, champagne, folded hands, hearts beating like they training for Mashramani. One brave soul send a three-minute video, holding a plastic cup, shouting “Blessed New Year!” over music loud enough to wake ancestors.

What really frighten me is the resurrection. People I assume had long crossed over to the Great Beyond suddenly reappear on WhatsApp, alive, typing, and very enthusiastic.

All year they didn’t know me. Didn’t see me when rain fall, sun hot, or cost of living climb tree.

But come New Year, a virus infect

them: Acute Greeting Syndrome.

Symptoms include sudden affection, recycled Bible verses, and forwarded messages promising riches if you “share with ten contacts.”

I panic and turn off the phone, thinking I smart. Big mistake.

When I turn it back on, is ambush.

Messages been lining up quietly like pensioners at NIS, waiting their turn. The phone vibrate so hard it nearly walk off the table. One message still arriving while I reading the previous one—efficiency Guyanese-style.

By afternoon, I so overwhelmed I start replying in bulk: “Same to you and family, all the best.” If Dem Boys Seh could see me, they would say I mass-producing blessings like factory goods.

Some people I reply twice; others I miss completely.

If you ain’t get one, don’t vex—assume I love you silently.

By nightfall, battery dead, patience gone, and phone sweating. New Year lesson learned: next December 31st, I changing my ringtone to funeral march.

Maybe then, some of the dead will go back to rest.

Talk half. Leff half.

weakness lies in what the Act does not say. Nowhere does it require the Commission to proactively investigate unexplained wealth unless prompted by a complaint or an obvious discrepancy.

Section 41 creates the offence of possession of unaccounted property, but enforcement is left to the criminal justice system, not driven by the Commission itself. The Commission cannot independently pursue wealth that is plainly disproportionate unless it already has cause—and cause is difficult to establish without investigative powers.

The Code of Conduct established under the Integrity Commission Act is strikingly limited, not so much in what it prohibits but in how it is enforced.

Its provisions largely restate basic ethical norms already covered by criminal and disciplinary law—conflicts of interest, bribery, misuse of public resources—without creating a proactive or preventive integrity regime.

Enforcement depends almost entirely on complaints being lodged, exposing complainants to penalties if deemed “frivolous,” a chilling provision that discourages

whistleblowing rather than encouraging it.

The Commission itself has no independent mandate to monitor conduct continuously or to initiate wide-ranging investigations absent a specific trigger.

In this context, the Integrity Commission risks becoming precisely what its critics allege: a rubber stamp. Filing a declaration becomes an end in itself, a box checked and brandished as proof of probity.

The political defence ”everything was declared”works only because the system rarely tests whether declarations reflect reality.

This raises a stark question. If the Commission cannot independently investigate, cannot routinely verify, and cannot compel disclosure beyond polite requests, what purpose does it truly serve?

An integrity framework that relies on voluntary honesty from those it regulates is not a safeguard; it is an honour system.

One could argue for reform—strengthening investigative powers, granting access to financial intelligence, mandating audits, and ensuring i n s t i t u t i o n a l

independence. But if such reforms remain politically inconvenient or indefinitely postponed, then honesty demands a harsher conclusion.

A t o o t h l e s s commission may be worse than none at all, because it creates the illusion of accountability while entrenching impunity.

If the Integrity Commission Act, as written and applied, cannot meaningfully test declarations or uncover undeclared assets, then it functions less as a guardian of integrity and more as a ceremonial shield.

In that case, the real integrity question is not whether officials declare—but whether Guyana is prepared to replace ritual compliance with genuine scrutiny, even if that means dissolving a commission that has outlived its usefulness.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Saturday 2026 MondayJanuary May 02,03, 2022

‘Journalism being choked in Guyana’ ...as govt. tightens grip on information ...GPA says press freedom is under assault As Guyana enters 2026, the Guyana Press Association (GPA) welcomes the New Ye a r w i t h r e n e w e d commitment, but also grave concern.

In a wide ranging press statement, the association warned that journalism is increasingly being suffocated by state-managed access, curated appearances, and deliberate information control that undermine the public's right to know.

W h i l e t h e G PA recommits to professional

development, ethical standards, and a robust Media Literacy Campaign to counter misinformation, these efforts are being blunted by official obstruction. Press conferences have devolved into stage-managed events, stripped of follow-up questions and populated by friendly interrogators.

Transparency has been replaced by performance.

The demise of postCabinet press briefings, silence from the Guyana Police Force, and the

dysfunction of the Access to Information regime signal a retreat from accountability.

T h e G PA w a r n s t h a t democracy cannot survive when journalism is reduced to a spectator sport and vows to resist this dangerous slide.

The GPA said their ultimate priority continues to be service to the public with quality journalistic content based on international recognised standards including ethics.

In this regard, the GPA plans to hold a number of

professional development sessions, "as we have done over the years. Practitioners from all private and Stateowned media are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities when the calls for participants are issued."

The GPA said it is also continuing plans to create greater public awareness about quality journalism and its importance to society through a Media Literacy Campaign.

These initiatives, the association said are all the more important if the practitioners of journalism are to produce and disseminate high quality news and current affairs content. "Our programme of work, in collaboration with regional and international partners, is now more than necessary to not only combat misinformation and disinformation.

In fact, journalists must now formulate new strategies and tactics to access information for the public good in an era of creeping information control by the Guyana government."

Additionally, the GPA said the veneer of press freedom is being presented as one in which there is media plurality and supposed access to officials. "The reality is vastly different, and it is one that adversely impacts ultimately on the public's right to fair, accurate and balanced reporting.

Journalism is today being suffocated by highly choreographed and curated pseudo press conferences," the GPA said.

At these events, the association added that journalists are virtually barred from or told in advance that there will be no follow-up questions. It noted that as recent as 30th December 2025, a so-called panel of pro-government questioners

Iva Wharton, President of the Guyana Press Association and students was put together to ask the president 'likeable' questions.

"Officialdom's only objective is to avoid as much as possible searching questions. A phone interview or face-to-face semi media scrum on the side-lines of a major event is no substitute for a free and unrestricted press conference that allows for a wide variety of subjects to be addressed. These are lame excuses for media access," the statement read.

Backsliding The key weekly feature of the People's Progressive Party Civic-led administration when it came to power in 1992 was its weekly post-cabinet press conference. This has died and with it a certain blow to transparency and public accountability. Guyana stands out as a sore thumb in the Caribbean Community when it comes to post-cabinet and Heads of Government press conferences.

According to the GPA, apparently, this has been substituted with a weekly (up to recently) diatribe, for the most part, by the General Secretary of the People's Progressive Party (PPP) at his political party's headquarters.

"As if it is now official government policy that is extended beyond the Cabinet, the Guyana Police ranging from the Commissioner of Police to his Deputies, the

Public Relations Officer and the Office of Professional Responsibility have now opted not to respond to questions from the media in the Joint Services media WhatsApp group. The incontrovertible evidence is there as solid proof. The result is a Guyana Police Force, most likely in complicity with or permission of the government. That is unaccountable to Guyanese whom the media serve because they are expected to provide accurate, timely and relevant information."

The GPA said when it comes to the governance of the State, particularly in the arena of information management and access, the PPPC administration appears to have devised a plan to use capitalism as the gateway to Stalinism.

"If the government believes this is accurate, then the GPA challenges the PPPC-led administration to remove Retired Justice Charles Ramson from the post of Information's Commissioner and allow the Access To Information mechanism to function effectively.

Sadly, there are elements in the private sector, who, either fought for democracy pre-1992 or are today beneficiaries of the largesse of the State one way or another, who actually are coconspirators against press freedom. In fact, one private sector actor is on record as offering to hatch a plan against the privately-owned Stabroek News newspaper.

He might have been better off advocating for the government to honour its debt to the newspaper whose company is a long-standing member of a private sector organisation," the statement read.

Penultimately, the GPA (Continued on page 18)

Is the targeting by American and...

From page 5 Azruddin won the most seats for the Opposition Leader position in last September elections, the government didn't want to make Azrudddin the Opp Leader.

Through its laid lobbyists, the government approached the Americans to expedite the indictment and extradition.

That has led to the matter now before the magistrate and a challenge to the extradition law.

The Acting Chief Justice, who Justice Juman Yassin insinuated (Dec 31) was

appointed to that position to facilitate a government plot, will deliver his ruling on the Mohamed's constitutional challenge to their extradition in Monday. Is anyone doubtful on the expected judgment?

And what will the magistrate do on Tuesday?

Parliament is likely to meet in mid-January for the new budget.

It seems that the government is doing everything to prevent the swearing in of Azruddin as Opposition Leader by having him committed while

judicial appeals occur. I appeal to President Trump to examine what's happening in Guyana, violation of constitutional rights, and to have his Attorney General review the selective indictment of the Mohamed's and the non-indictment of PPP officials and contractors who are deep in corruption violating the Magnitsky Act, OFAC, and other American laws. In fairness, the latter must also be indicted or the charges against the Mohamed's dropped.

Yours Truly, Nathan Barton

Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

NRF saw record US$683.5M in oil revenue in last quarter of 2025 The Natural Resource Fund (NRF) received record inflows of oil revenue totaling US $683,532,551 in the final quarter of 2025.

Receipts published by the Ministry of Finance in the official gazette, in accordance with the NRF Act of 2021, indicated that the fund was deposited into the account.

The revenue includes 10 payments of profit oil, one royalty payment relating to production from the third quarter and monies from the signing bonuses government

negotiated for two shallow water oil blocks, offshore Guyana.

According to the receipt, a US$15 million signing bonus was paid in three parts, while the third quarter royalty totaled US$83,221,024.

The fourth quarter earnings have pushed Guyana's total oil revenue received for the year to a w h o p p i n g US$2,473,718,141.

Notably, government initially projected to earn an estimated US$2.2 billion in

profit oil and US$340.6 million in royalties by the end of 2025.

It was reported that during the first quarter of this year, the fund received payments totaling US$605,462,893.

Meanwhile, in the second quarter of the year, another US$617,955,248 was deposited into the account, followed by US$565M in the third quarter of 2025.

Government anticipated that there would be 246 lifts of profit oil from the Stabroek Block in 2025-

Palestine advocates praise NYC's Mamdani for revoking pro-Israel decrees Israeli government hits out at newly sworn-in New York City mayor, falsely calling him a 'Muslim Brotherhood Islamist'.

(AL-JAZEERA) Palestinian rights advocates are praising New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for revoking pro-Israel municipal decrees within hours of his inauguration, a move that was promptly condemned by the Israeli government.

On Thursday, his first day in office, Mamdani wiped out all the executive orders his predecessor, Eric Adams, implemented after September 26, 2024, the day Adams was charged with bribery.

One of the orders restricted boycotts of Israel and prohibited mayoral appointees from issuing contracts “that discriminate against the State of Israel, Israeli citizens, or those associated” with the US ally.

It was signed by Adams less than a month ago and was seen by critics as an attempt to create controversy for the incoming Mamdani administration.

Another now-nixed decree adopted a controversial definition of anti-Semitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), which advocates say can be used to censor and penalise speech critical of Israel.Nasreen Issa, a member of the Palestine Youth Movement – NYC, said Israel and its supporters have long pushed for the

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani delivers a speech during his inauguration ceremony on January 1, 2026 [Kylie Cooper/Reuters]

“criminalisation of dissent”.

“So, Mamdani's rejection of this is a positive step towards protecting the rights of New Yorkers and the dignity of Palestinians,” Issa told Al Jazeera.

Afaf Nasher, the head of the New York chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), also applauded Mamdani for r e v o k i n g a n “unconstitutional order restricting the ability of New Yorkers to criticize the Israeli government's racism or boycott Israel's human rights abuses”.

“This unconstitutional, Israel First attack on free speech should have never been issued in the first place,” Nasher said in a statement.

Nasher further slammed the IHRA definition, saying that the “overly broad” guidelines frame disagreement with Zionism as anti-Semitic.

“The order would have also unconstitutionally

limited boycotts against only Israel,” Nasher said.

Palestinian rights supporters have long rejected the IHRA definition, which heavily focuses on Israel.

The definition provides 11 examples of anti-Semitism, six of which involve Israel.

They include “claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor” and “applying double standards” to Israel.

“I think it's wonderful that Mayor Mamdani took measures on day one to reinforce our rights to free speech, which included our right to criticize and oppose Israeli apartheid and genocide,” said YL AlSheikh, a PalestinianAmerican writer active in the Democratic Socialists of America.

“The IHRA being implemented as government policy isn't about combatting antisemitism but about stifling dissent and this should be something all Americans oppose.”

Finance Minister: Dr. Ashni Singh each lift is equivalent to one million barrels of oil. Within this, government projected to have 31 lifts of profit oil from the four Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels (FPSOs) currently operating offshore Guyana.

Be that as it may, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh tempered the expectation of Guyanese with regard to revenue flow from the s e c t o r. D u r i n g t h e

presentation of Budget 2025, he indicated that although Guyana's daily production is expected to climb, the country will see a decrease in earnings from the sector, as a result of a projected 10.9% decline in oil price.

He said, “Oil prices contracted by 2.3 percent to average US$80.7 per barrel in 2024, primarily due to slowing global demand, particularly in China.”

The minister noted that

this trend is expected to continue as “crude oil prices are forecasted to decline by a further 10.9 per cent to US$71.9 per barrel, with global supply expected to exceed demand.”

C o n s e q u e n t l y, h e explained that government's petroleum revenue deposits are projected to be 2.6 percent lower than in 2024.

Kaieteur News reported that in 2024, an average of 225.4 million barrels of crude oil was produced, with the sector recording 57.7% growth that year. At an average oil price of US$80.7 per barrel in 2024, Guyana earned US$2.6B from oil production.

In accordance with the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Guyana receives 2% of oil produced sold in the Stabroek Block. It also receives a profit share, equivalent to 12.5% after ExxonMobil deducts 75% monthly towards expenses and takes another 12.5% as its profit.

PAGE 12

Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

GRA staff under probe for alleged illegal transfer of Mohamed's vehicles …AZ maintains all regulations were followed Several employees of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) are being investigated by the agency for allegedly aiding and abetting businessman and leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Azruddin Mohamed's illegal transfers of several vehicles.

However, the businessman maintained his innocence stating that all regulations were properly followed.

The alleged transfers occurred between November 27, 2025 and December 5, 2025.

According to GRA, the vehicles were in breach of both regulations associated with the transfer of motor vehicles and Anti-Money

Laundering (AML) regulations.

According to GRA, “A perusal of the authority's records reveal that the identical employees were responsible for the off premises examination of the vehicles, lodgement, approval of the transfer documents, and the dispatch and receipt of payment to effect the said transfers, with many of the transferees residing at similar addresses in Republic Park and Atlantic Gardens, and Hill Top, Timehri, East Bank Demerara.”

So far, investigations have revealed 11 such transfers, including luxury vehicles.

The institution explained that all employees involved in such

illegal transfer will be arrested and prosecuted before the courts.

“Investigations are ongoing, and the authority's international partners have been apprised,” GRA stated.”

Meanwhile, Mohamed in an interview with Kaieteur News maintained his innocence stating that all regulations were followed.

He said, “I never knew it was a crime to sell vehicles. I sold those vehicles at an agreement of sales, we went through the right process, we paid for the transfer of the vehicles, for each and every vehicle we paid.”

The businessman further stated that he's surprised that his transfers

are being investigated. “I don't know what they are coming for. All I have to say is that I don't know if I want to sell a vehicle of mine is it a crime. I went through the right process, I submitted the agreement of sales, we submitted the relevant documents. The staff of GRA checked off each vehicle to ensure that the vehicles, the registration that they are intact, and that they are not stolen vehicles, and all regulations were followed,” he said.

The businessman further added, “This is just political prosecution, it's like I'm a prisoner in my own country.”

Mohamed clarified too that

Businessman: Azruddin Mohamed none of his luxury vehicles were sold, a claim made by the tax authority body. “The Lamborghini is still in my possession,” he said.

Police crackdown on firearms on New Year's Day The firearms that were lodged during New Year’s operation

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted a major firearm crackdown on New Year's Day following the discovery of several illegal weapons and ammunition across multiple locations.

The intelligence-led operations resulted in several arrests, including businessmen and security officers.

The illegal firearms were discovered in Georgetown, along the East Coast of Demerara, and in Region One (North West District).

At about 03:40 hrs. in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, ranks on mobile patrol observed a motor car proceeding along Durban Street.

However, as police approached, the driver sped off. “The vehicle was intercepted at the intersection of Aubrey Barker and High Palm Roads, where a search was conducted in the presence of the driver, who was the lone occupant at the time,” police said. During the search, ranks found a 9mm pistol and a magazine containing three 9mm rounds in the driver-side door.

The suspect, a 26-year-old man of

Lamaha Park, Georgetown, was arrested and escorted to the East La Penitence Police Station. The suspected firearm and ammunition were lodged pending investigations, and the suspect remains in police custody.

Two additional operations led to firearm discoveries along the Sparendaam area, East Coast Demerara. Around 06:40 hrs., ranks of Regional Police Division 4 'C' observed a 47-year-old man standing among several individuals. “Upon noticing the police, he proceeded away from the location in a hurried manner and was subsequently intercepted,” police said. A search of his person revealed one 9mm Taurus pistol along with a magazine containing five 9mm rounds of ammunition.

The man, a chief security officer of South Vryheid's Lust, East Coast Demerara, was arrested and escorted to the Sparendaam Police Station, where he remains in custody. The suspected firearm and ammunition were lodged pending investigation.

Earlier, at about 06:00 hrs. along the Sparendaam Access Road, police arrested a 39-year-old security guard of La Penitence, Georgetown, after he allegedly discharged a firearm within 100 yards of a public space. “At the time of the incident, ranks from Regional Police Division 4 'C' were conducting an operation in the Sparendaam/Plaisance Railway Embankment Area when they observed the individual allegedly pointing a firearm into the air and discharging a round,” police said.

He was approached and intercepted, and a 9mm pistol along with a magazine containing 11 live 9mm rounds was found on his person. A firearm licence and precept were subsequently produced and examined, and police confirmed that they corresponded with the firearm. The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Sparendaam Police Station, where the firearm, ammunition, licence, and precept were lodged pending investigation.

In another operation conducted

around 06:30 hrs. in the Sparendaam/Plaisance Railway Embankment Area, East Coast Demerara, ranks intercepted a motorcycle driven by a 38-year-old businessman of Republic Gardens, Georgetown. A search was conducted, during which police found a .40 Smith & Wesson pistol tucked in his waist along with a magazine containing one live .40 round of ammunition. The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Sparendaam Police Station, where he remains in custody. The suspected firearm and ammunition

were lodged pending investigation.

Meanwhile, in Region One, two improvised firearms were discovered at Bamboo Landing, White Water Village, North West District, at about 07:30 hrs.

“Ranks visited the area and, acting on information, retrieved one improvised firearm reportedly taken from a male involved in a family dispute.

Further searches led to the discovery of another improvised firearm at a nearby residence,” police said. Both firearms were lodged at the Mabaruma Police Station. A 33-year-old chainsaw operator of Bamboo Landing, White Water Village, was arrested in relation to the discovery, while several other individuals were questioned.

Investigations into all of the discoveries are ongoing.

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

PAGE 13

Hana Mohamed raises concerns of continued persecution by PPP Gov't, plot to enable illegal occupation of family land Executive member of the We Invest in Nationhood ( W I N ) p a r t y, H a n a Mohamed has raised an alarm over reports the group has received, regarding squatters being sent to settle on 15 acres of land privately owned by the Mohameds.

The land is owned by Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed, who are both facing sanctions by the United States government over allegations of gold smuggling and tax evasion.

Despite securing the second highest number of votes at the September 2025 elections, Azruddin Mohamed has not been appointed leader of the opposition as he faces an extradition request by the US government.

His sister, Hana has accused the ruling party of orchestrating a calculated and relentless campaign of political persecution, targeting the businessman, his family and other Guyanese.

She explained that on December 31, 2025 the party leader received credible information that the PPP government devised a plan to send squatters onto portions of his privately owned property, located at Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

The female Mohamed detailed, “This followed an

Hana Mohamed established pattern of persecution through the deliberate enabling of vulnerable Guyanese to illegally occupy the presumptive opposition leader's land.”

Further, she pointed out that these actions were publicly circulated and encouraged by a Facebook page associated with the PPP, “Live In Guyana” and aided by PPP-aligned contractors and candidates.

The activist noted that millions of dollars were

invested in building materials and equipment, and dozens of workers were hired to erect squatting structures on the property owned by the family.

To this end, she argued, “This was a calculated assault on Azruddin Mohamed's property rights, intended to undermine his lawful ownership and manipulate public sentiment by suggesting he should surrender his land to the poor.”

The political stunt

escalated further, falsely implying that the property had not been legally purchased, with the clear objective of tarnishing the presumptive opposition leader's reputation, according to his sister.

“These acts were enabled and sanctioned by the PPP, including ministers and senior government officials, demonstrating a deliberate strategy to exploit citizens, distort facts, and politically pressure the presumptive opposition leader,” she added.

The WIN executive reminded that in February 2025, a PPP aligned news outlet fabricated and circulated a false flyer instructing vulnerable citizens to line up at the Mohamed family's business premises for cash grants.

According to her, “this cruel and orchestrated deception was designed to humiliate citizens, mislead the public, and indirectly attack Azruddin Mohamed, while affording the PPP a veneer of plausible deniability.”

She reasoned that a careful examination of these events over the past year, including the public spectacle arrest of the presumptive opposition leader and his 72-year-old f ath er, w h er e h e w as handcuffed and thrown into the back of a pickup truck by

more than a dozen masked men armed with heavy artillery is evident of a systematic targeting of political leader and his family.

She alleged that videos of vehicles owned by the Mohameds continue to be circulated among PPP operatives and sent to police instructing them to stop and harass the drivers unlawfully, with Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo issuing a public threat holding the police commissioner personally responsible if anyone were injured in an accident involving these vehicles, which the PPP falsely and repeatedly claimed to be non-compliant.

“This has resulted in

repeated unlawful stops, the impounding of several of the presumptive Opposition Leader's family vehicles on fabricated charges, and continuous politically motivated pressure,” according to her.

Moreover, she stated that the Special Branch Police and Police Inspectors have also been weaponized to carry out these actions in real time, turning law enforcement into a tool of coercion and political persecution.

In light of these and other events, WIN urged all citizens to remain vigilant against actions that undermine the independence of Parliament, the judiciary, and the principles of fair governance.

Labourer sentenced to 8 months for breaking into woman's home

Keshon Mendonca

Construction worker first road fatality for 2026

Dead: Brandon Thomas

A 21-year-old construction worker lost his life on Thursday morning following a motorcycle accident along Coldingen Public Road, East Coast Demerara, marking the first road fatality for the new year.

The deceased has been identified as Brandon Thomas of Melanie Damishana ECD. The incident occurred around 07:00hrs.

According to police reports, Thomas was riding motorcycle CN 8252 east along the northern lane on the Coldigen

public road. He subsequently lost control of the motorcycle and fell onto the roadway and sustained injuries to his body. He was rushed by public-spirited citizens to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival,” police said.

His body is currently at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a postmortem examination.

Police stated that CCTV footage from the area has been secured and will be reviewed.

Investigations are ongoing.

A 21-year-old labourer was on Friday sentenced to eight months' imprisonment in relation to two separate break-andenter incidents in Mabaruma, Region One. The accused, Keshon Mendonca of Thomas Hill, Mabaruma, North West District, was charged with breaking and entering the home of a 38-year-old female gold miner of Settlement Village, Mabaruma, between December 19 and 20, 2025. During that incident, items valued at approximately $200,000 were reportedly stolen.

Mendonca was also charged with break and enter with intent after unlawfully entering the same residence again between December 28 and 29, 2025.

He was arrested by police on December 29, 2025, and subsequently charged in connection with both incidents.

Mendonca appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Mabaruma Magistrates' Court, where the charges were read to him. He pleaded guilty to both offences and was sentenced to eight months' imprisonment on each charge, with the sentences to run concurrently.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Saturday January 03, 2026

Foreign gold miners given 24 hours to up declarations - President Ali …illegal operators to face prosecution, expulsion

…MNR, GGMC to enforce declarations, deregister non-compliant dredges Foreign gold miners, particularly Brazilian nationals, operating in Guyana's mining sector, who have had low to zero declarations have been given 24-hours to fully comply with local laws and the requirements surrounding gold declaration.

Those operating illegally will also face prosecution and expulsion, President Irfaan Ali announced Friday.

In a Facebook post, the president said he met with the leadership of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) at state house, where instructions were given to immediately ordered to address non-compliance in the gold mining sector.

According to the president, all gold miners must fully comply with their obligations to declare all gold produced in 2025. He further directed that all registered dredges with no declarations will be deregistered. “All foreign miners operating illegally in Guyana must be identified for prosecution and expulsion. It was also noted that some Brazilian miners operating in Guyana have

had very low or no declarations. These miners have 24 hours to comply fully with the laws of Guyana and the requirement to declare to the Guyana

Gold Board,” the post stated.

Moreover, it was also announced that the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the MNR will work together to ensure that all miners, across every category, are registered with the ministry and have a local bank account.

President of GGDMA Ronaldo Alphonso, who was also present at the meeting, urged miners to adhere to the laws and only sell their gold through legitimate channels to protect the long-term viability of the sector.

“It is our responsibility

as miners to ensure the sustainability of the industry.

We n e e d t o m a k e i t compliant, and we need to declare gold.

Make 2026 the year of

compliance and declaration,” Alphonso said.

This meeting with officials of MNR, GGMC and GGDMA follows a recent announcement by President Ali that there will be a comprehensive assessment of Guyana's mining sector to be completed and presented on January 5, as the government moves to strengthen accountability, environmental protection and production compliance across the industry.

President Ali had explained that the assessment will review

Scenes from the meeting President Irfaan Ali held with officials from MNR, GGMC and GGDMA

every mining licence, claim, and operational decision, with firm action to follow where miners fail to declare production or hold lands without productive use.

The head of state also announced that gold declarations will now be linked to mercury purchases to reduce under-declaration, environmental harm, and illegal activities in the industry.

“We are going to link the mercury they buy with their declarations. If they have land that they are working on and there is no declaration, those lands will be

repossessed,” the president stated.

He stressed that environmental destruction without production will not be tolerated.

“There is no sense destroying the environment if there is no production,” President Ali added.He observed that the mining sector, which faced a serious decline, has recovered, thanks to significant financial incentives that have helped protect miners and workers during global crises and supported communities near rivers and in remote areas.

This publication had reported that Guyana's gold industry had experienced a steady decline in declarations between 2019 and 2023, falling by approximately 209,000 ounces, according to the Bank of Guyana's annual reports. However, 2024 saw a modest increase of 1,954 ounces — from 432,113 ounces in 2023 to 434,067 ounces in 2024.

Despite the marginal rise in output, gold revenue for 2024 climbed to US$989.9 million, a US$180 million increase over the previous year, largely due to higher global gold prices.

According to the 2025 MidYear Report, Guyana's gold sector showed stronger signs of recovery in the first half of 2025, with a 10.9% increase in output driven by higher declarations from the only large scale gold producer in Guyana, Aurora Gold Mines and small-and medium-scale miners.

Three charged with murder of Chinese businessman in Canje

P

olice in Region Six have confirmed that charges have been laid against the three men who were arrested this week for the robbery and murder committed on Chen Yongping on December 22, 2025.

Pieter Baker, a 29-year-old Guyanese male of mixed ancestry, a pump operator, of Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, East Canje, Berbice, and Colwin “Screech” Morris, a 29year-old Guyanese male of mixed ancestry, labourer of New Street, Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice, were arrested last Tuesday by the police.

A 17-year-old male of mixed ancestry, who is a labourer of Burn Bush Dam, East Canje, Berbice, was also arrested.

The three suspects were charged Friday, for the offence of murder in the furtherance of a robbery committed on Yongping at Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice.

The accused appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the New Amsterdam

Teen

Charged: Pieter Baker

Colwin “Screech” Morris

Magistrates' Court, where the charge was read to them, to which they were not required to plead. Consequently, Baker and Morris were remanded to prison, while the teen was remanded to the juvenile holding centre.

The matter was adjourned to January 14,

2026.

On December 24, between 09:00 hrs. of and 09:30 hrs., government pathologist, Dr. V. Brijmohan conducted a post-mortem examination with dissection on the body of Chen Yongping at Bailey's Funeral Home.

The cause of death was reported as shock and hemorrhage due to multiple stab wounds.

The body was identified by the deceased's wife, Wu Xiao Fen, and witnessed by police.

The body was subsequently handed over to the relatives.

Saturday January 03, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

WANTED

VACANCY

Sales Rep needed, ages 1830 years. Knowledge of vehicle model will be an asset. Contact: 619-1237.

Vacancy exist for ; Desk c l e r k , r o o m attendant,supervisor,laundry attendant,ages:25-55 . Email ;kvchotel@gmail.com.Contact #225-0198 .

Wanted house lot to buy & land with unfinished building. We pay cash. Call: 2160671 / 692-8464. Whataspp 622-0267.

Live in maid wanted please call : 762-3155, Robb Street Bourda.

Wanted one Maid. For more information please Call: 680-1282.

VEHICLES FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, low mileage, PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.

Vacancy exists for 1 domestic help 30 to 50 years.Zeelugt Front East Bank Essequibo . Interested applicannt can contact 692-5939 .

General Domestic (4 day work) & experiened handyman, apply at Keyfood Trading Mc Doom next to the post office.

Female domestic $6000 labour $6000-7000,semi skilled worker $70008000,skilled worker $10,00012,000 to work at Vreed EnHoop #682 5230,615 4414 Babysitter/Housekeeper (age 35-45 ) for 3 boys. Mond a y - F r i d a y, o c c a s i o n a l weekends.Salary starts at $8000.Located Canal #2 Polder WBD.Call:702-9612 PROPERTY FOR SALE

SERVICES VISA Application for USA, Canada, UK, ETA, ETC. Naturalisation guidance + application filling & Building Plans. Tel: 626-7040.

For low cost repairs for AC units, refrigerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 629-4946, 225-4822.

LEGAL NOTICE

FOR RENT Spacious , Furnished 900 SQ FT 1 bed/1 bath in Subryanville. Call: 6242619/624-4636

FOR SALE TRUCK TIRES 295 / 75R22.5 $40K EACH. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL / WHATSAPP:+592688-3201.

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Kaieteur News

Herstelling two storey house 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms apartment,garage,and recreation space.Asking price : 128 million . Call 6288619/615-2270 .

LEGAL NOTICE 2025/952-HC-FDA-DEMCIV Page 4 of 6 2025/ 12/16 11:47 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OFGUYANA REGULAR JURISDICTION 2025/952-HC-FDA-DEMCIVENTERTAINMENT ERNESTINE BARKER Applicant -and1. LEON LOGAN 2. CENTRAL HOUSING AND PLANNING AUTHORITY Respondents Rb NOTICE: TO: LEON LOGAN (Address Unknown) TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 14th day of October, 2025, against you by ERNESTINE BARKER , in the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Applicant asks for: a) An Order directing the

Central Housing & Planning Authority (CH&PA) to delete the name of the First-named respondent, LEON LOGAN , from the allocation of the parcel of residential land situate at Lot 537 Block 22, Wismar, Linden, Guyana; b) An Order directing the Second-named Respondent, Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), to process the allocation of said Lot 537 Block 22, Wismar, Linden, Guyana, in the sole name of the Applicant, ERNESTINE BARKER; c) An Order directing the Second-named Respondent, Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), to convey and transfer the parcel of land situate at Lot 537 Block 22, Wismar, Linden, Guyana, in the sole name of the Applicant, ERNESTINE BARKER; d) Such further or other Order as this Honourable Court deem just.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 25W ˆ day of November, 2025, the Applicant is directed to effect service of this application on you by publication of a Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of Kaieteur News, a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around G u y a n a .

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Application, you must forthwith within 28 (twenty eight) days after the final publication, enter an Appearance thereto, and serve an Affidavit in Defence on MS. SHELLON BOYCE , whose address for service and place of business is at Guyana Legal Aid Clinic “Maraj Building” 185 Charlotte & King Streets, Georgetown, Guyana, Email: legalaid@networksgy.com , and file same to this cause in the Registry of the High Court at Georgetown via the High Court’s eLitigation online platform with the use of the authorisation code: iECGLS, not later than 4 (four) days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your Attorney-at-Law must appear at

LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE the hearing;AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file an Affidavit in Defence and/or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the Fixed Date Application is fixed for Hearing on the 19W ˆ day of February, 2026 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Zamilla Ally-Seepaul at the High Court, Demerara.

FORREGISTRAR

LEGAL NOTICE 2025/437-HC-FDA-DEMCIV IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA REGULAR JURISDICTION BETWEEN: S U R U J WA N T I E JAIKARAN, herein represented by her duly constituted attorney, Gowkarran Singh, agreeable with the Power of Attorney executed on the 21st July, 2023, deposited in the Deeds registry on the 3rd August, 2023 and numbered 4887 of 2023.

Applicant -andJ A G E S H W A R RAMSAROOP,in his personal capacity and his capacity as the Administrator of the estate of Ramkissoon Ramsarup also known as Ramkissoon Ramsaroop, deceased, who died on the 6th March, 2017, granted on the 22nd February, 2023, with Probate and Administration No. 2022HC-BER-EST-210.

Respondent

LEGALNOTICE NOTICE LEGAL

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE: TO: JAGESHWAR RAMSAROOP Lot 130 A, Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice, Guyana TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 21st day of May, 2025, against you by S U R U J WA N T I E JAIKARAN, herein represented by her duly constituted attorney, Gowkarran Singh, agreeable with the Power of Attorney executed on the 21st July, 2023, deposited in the Deeds registry on the 3rd August, 2023 and numbered 4887 of 2023, in the HighCourt in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Applicant asks for: a) An Order that the removed as the executor/ administrator of the estate of Ramkissoon Ramsarup also known as Ramkissoon Ramsaroop, deceased, who died on the 6th March, 2017, granted on the 22nd February, 2023, with Probate and Administration No. 2022-HCBER-EST-210; b) An order that the Public Trustee be named as the Administrator/

Applicant is directed to effect service of this application, and this order on the Respondent by publication of a Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur Newspaper, a newspaper, printed and published and circulated in and around Guyana.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Application, you must forthwith, within 28 (twenty eight) days after the second and final publication, enter an Appearance thereto, and serve an Affidavit in Defence on Mr. DONAVON A RANGIAH whose address for service and place of business is at Lot 156 Charlotte Street,Lacytown, Georgetown, Guyana, Email: dar@donavonrangiahlawyer.com, and file same to this cause in the Registry of the High Court at Georgetown via the High Court’s eLitigation online platform with the use of the authorisation code: RgmMWQ, not later than 4 (four) days before the date fixed for hearing of the application, and you or your Attorney-at-Law must appear at the hearing.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file an Affidavit in Defence and/or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you not withstanding your absence.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the matter is fixed for Hearing of the Fixed Date Application on the 20th February 2026 at 9:45 AM before the HONOURABLE JUSTICE FIDELA CORBIN-LINCOLN via zoom or in person at Court8.

The Zoom particulars are below: Meeting ID: 882 1097 6231 Passcode: Court12 FOR REGISTRAR

Executor of the estate of Ramkissoon Ramsarup also known as Ramkissoon Ramsaroop, deceased, who died on the 6thNOTICE March, 2017, LEGAL granted on the 22nd February, 2023, with Probate and Administration No. 2022-HC-BER-EST-210 and administers and/or vest the estate to the beneficiaries; c) Alternatively, an order, if appropriate, that the Applicant be named the executor/administrator of the estate of Ramkissoon Ramsarup also known as Ramkissoon Ramsaroop, deceased, who died on the 6th March, 2017, granted on the 22nd February, 2023, with Probate and Administration No. 2022-HC-BER-EST-210 and solely administers and/ or vest estate of Ramkissoon Ramsarup also known as Ramkissoon Ramsaroop, deceased, who died on the 6th March, 2017, granted on the 22nd February, 2023, with Probate and Administration No. 2022-HC-BER-EST-210; d) Any other relief that the court deems fit in the circumstances; and e) Costs AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 4th day of December, 2025, the

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

New $6B water treatment plant for Diamond

T

he new water treatment plant, the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) is planning to construct at Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara, is estimated to cost some $6,142,500,000.

GWI recently issued a tender, seeking contractors for the “design, supply, instillation and commissioning” of the Diamond Water Treatment Plant.

Responding to the call, a total of five bids were received by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

The bids, which included companies out of China and Mexico are as follow: Shandong Hi-Speed Dejian G r o u p L t d $10,784,040,000; Jiangsu Gaia Environmental Technology Co. Limited $3,476,624,420; Hi-Pro Ecologicos SA de CV (Mexico) - $4,492,069,000; Sinohydro 12 - Sinohydro Joint Venture (VAT Exclusive and Inclusive of Provisional Sums) - US$ 44,302,689.47 and Sinohydro 12 Sinohydro Joint Venture (VAT) - US$6,002,804.18; and China Railway International Group Co. Ltd, in joint venture with China Tiegong Investment & Construction Group Co. Ltd and North China Municipal

Engineering Design & Research Institute Co., L i m i t e d $7,276,320,784.47.

This publication understands that the project will be financed through a loan, the Guyana Government acquired from the InterAmerican Development Bank under the Climate Resilient Water Infrastructure Improvement Project.

The GWI advertisement had stated that the facility will be a 30 million litres per day (MLD) surface water treatment plant, with construction expected to last for 24 months.

Back in March 2025, GWI stated that under the Guyana Climate Resilient Water Supply Improvement Programme, the initiative was being carried out in collaboration with the InterAmerican Development Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Once completed, the water treatment plant will significantly enhance water access for thousands of residents along the East Bank corridor, ensuring a more resilient, sustainable, and efficient water supply system.

The project will also reduce groundwater abstraction and improve climate adaptability through modern

infrastructure and nonrevenue water (NRW) reduction initiatives.

As part of the broader Guyana Climate Resilient Water Supply Improvement Programme, the project will be supported by key infrastructure investments, including investment in water treatment and transmission, which seeks to construct a modern water treatment facility, raw water intake infrastructure, and 30km of new transmission mains.

GWI said it remained committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable water services while adapting to the challenges posed by climate change.

GWI's CEO, Shaik Baksh in the statement, had reaffirmed the company's dedication to delivering improved service quality to residents across the country, stating, “this partnership with IDB and JICA represents a major step forward in ensuring a sustainable and climate-resilient water supply for our growing communities which we are witnessing through developmental transformation and expansion.

The new Diamond Surface Water Treatment Plant is a key component in our vision for a modern and efficient water system,” he related.

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Kaieteur News

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Saturday January 03, 2026

Venezuela detains Americans as tensions with U.S. rise ( C N N ) Ve n e z u e l a n security forces have detained at least five Americans in recent months as the US has built a pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, a US official familiar with the matter told CNN. The circumstances of the individual cases vary, and some could have been involved in drug smuggling, the official said. US officials are still collecting information about what the Americans were doing in Venezuela and at the time of their detention, the official added. Trump administration officials believe that the Maduro regime is detaining the Americans to build leverage against the US, the official said, as the pressure campaign against the Ve n e z u e l a n l e a d e r — including the US strikes on drug boats, a CIA strike on Venezuelan port facility and recent oil blockade — has intensified in recent months.

The tactic mirrors that of

President of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro speaks during a march as part of the "Venezuelan Student Day" at Miraflores on November 21, 2025 in Caracas, Venezuela. (Photo by Jesus Vargas/Getty Images) Jesus Vargas/Getty Images Russia, Venezuela's longtime ally, which has detained numerous Americans on Russian soil in recent years to use as leverage in Moscow's tense relations with the US. The New York Times was first to report on the recently detained Americans.

The State Department did not respond to multiple

requests for comment. The White House did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Trump administration officials have resisted saying that they are actively seeking regime change in Venezuela but have accused Maduro of being illegitimate and a n a r c o - t r a f f i c k e r. T h e

administration has been increasing pressure on Maduro, including the “blockade” of sanctioned oil vessels and other financial tactics. In December the State Department announced two sets of sanctions against Maduro's family members, targeting three of Maduro's nephews, his sister-in-law and other relatives.

Also in December, the US conducted its first strike on a land target in Venezuela, hitting a port facility in a CIA drone strike, CNN reported.

“It is clear that the current status quo with the current Ve n e z u e l a n r e g i m e i s intolerable for the United States,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said during a

December press conference when asked about comments from the White House chief of staff that Trump “wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.”

Asked Thursday about the attack on the Venezuelan port facility, Maduro said it “could be a topic we might discuss in a few days” and broadly sought to assure that Venezuela is safe.

“What I can tell you is that the national defense system, which combines the popular military and police forces, has guaranteed and continues to guarantee the territorial integrity, the peace of the country, and the use and enjoyment of all our territories,” Maduro said

during an interview with Ignacio Ramonet, recorded on Wednesday and broadcast Thursday by the state-run channel VTV. “Our people are safe and at peace.”

Venezuela holds hundreds of people as political prisoners, according to human rights activists, some of whom were detained in the aftermath of a 2024 election in which Maduro claimed victory but that independent observers said was undemocratic.

Dozens of people were released from a Venezuelan p r i s o n o n T h u r s d a y, Venezuelan rights groups said.

None of them are American, according to Alfredo Romero, the head of rights group Foro Penal.

UG introduces Associate Degree in Pre-Medical Sciences

T

he University of Guyana (UG) has begun to offer the Associate Degree in PreMedical Sciences, the Ministry of Education announced on Friday.

The ministry said the new programme was made possible through recent consultations between Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin, and the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony.

The ministry stated that at those discussions Minister Parag had stressed on the need for a more structured and accessible pathway into medical training for

Guyanese students.

“For years, students interested in pursuing medicine who did not qualify for direct entry were required to spend an additional one or two years in biology, chemistry, or related science programmes that were not specifically tailored to medical training.

This new pre-medical sciences programme addresses that gap by providing a structured, purpose-built pathway into medicine and other healthrelated fields,” the ministry said.

Further, the ministry reported that the programme will be delivered in various

regions across Guyana, expanding acces s and ensuring that students, regardless of location, can benefit.

The Associate Degree in Pre-Medical Sciences provides a strong academic foundation for students seeking entry into medicine, dentistry, and other allied health fields. It is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and discipline required to succeed in advanced medical training, while expanding opportunities locally and regionally.

Applications are now opened and eligible students are encouraged to apply.

Brazilians buried alive in mining pit at Chenapou

T

wo Brazilian miners were on Tuesday buried alive, after a mining pit collapsed at “S” Bend Backdam, Chenapou, North Pakaraimas.

The deceased have been identified as Cleumiton Da Silva Santos, 37, and Antonio Filho, 44. The

incident reportedly occurred around 16:00hrs.

According to police reports, the two men, along with other miners were working inside a mining pit, when a quantity of sand collapsed.

“While other workers managed to escape, both men became trapped and

were later retrieved motionless,” police said.

Police stated that due to the remote location, the bodies remained at “S” Bend Backdam, before relocating to the Mahdia District Hospital, where post-mortem examinations will be conducted.

Investigations are ongoing.

‘Journalism being choked in Guyana...

From page 10 said it will be paying keen attention to whether the Guyana government intends to use the Australian model on social media access by

minors as the precursor to or the basis for tightening control on journalistic content or broadly fetter freedom of expression for its narrow political objectives.

In conclusion, the GPA said it will continue to be active in the fight for openness and transparency in support of quality journalism.

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

When a government makes secrecy a governing principle, suspicion becomes inevitable. Under the PPPC administration, concealment has evolved into routine practice, reinforced by propaganda, silence, and, when pressed, abuse.

Nowhere is this more glaring than in the continued withholding of the completed ExxonMobil audit covering US$19.6B in cost recovery claims.Nearly two-thirds of a year has passed since the VHE Consulting consortium completed its work, yet Guyanese remain locked out of information that belongs to them.

What findings are so troubling that the report must remain sealed? What requires massaging, negotiation, or doctoring before public release?

Excuses about “technical reviews” and GRA staffing shortages wear thin against the scale and importance of this audit. Delay breeds distrust.

President Ali's conspicuous silence only deepens public unease. With an access-to-information law long in force, this hide-and-seek governance is not just unacceptable—it is disgraceful.

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Saturday January 03, 2025

Saturday January 03, 2026

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Saturday January 03, 2025

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

PAGE 23

Letter to the Sports Editor

Could the New Year bring an urgent move from FIFA with a normalization committee for Guyana’s football Dear Sports Editor, As I look at football in Guyana, I am left to wonder, ask searching questions and call on the relevant stakeholders for action.

Don’t be quick to jump and attack this missive or its writer, rather see what I am saying and think hard before you make your judgements.

Guyana’s irrelevance in C O N C A C A F i s unprecedented, heading into the New Year with Curaçao being the only Caribbean nation qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Jamaica and Suriname still have a fighting chance of advancing.

The only way to reverse

this downward trend is to legally end the tenure of the current Guyana Football Federation (GFF) administration.

The Ministry of Sport and President Irfaan Ali could make representation to urge CONCACAF President, Victor Montagliani, and FIFA President, Gianni Infantino,

Saturday January 03, 2026 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today the cosmic conditions are great for peak physical and mental energy. You'll be able to take on almost anything.

With an added increase to your confidence level, now is the time to take steps toward your biggest goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This will be one of those days when you're glad to get up. The energy is exceptionally positive. You'll probably feel energetic, confident, and ready to get down to work on your projects.

This in combination with your tendency to work hard

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Expect to enjoy today. You're in great shape and operating at peak performance. These are excellent conditions for working or creating. Given the chance, your mind will teem with innovative ideas.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) It's going to be a great day to get things done. Cosmic conditions will have you feeling energetic and raring to go. If there's a list of things to do waiting for you, grab it and get going.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) The energy today means you'll feel on top of the world.

Given your usual hardworking nature, you may need to keep an eye out for exhaustion.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) This will be an excellent day to start some of the projects you've held back for some time. You'll likely feel more physical and mental energy than you've experienced lately.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're off to an excellent start.

If you've felt a little weary lately, this will change. Added mental and physical strength is available to you. Things that seemed difficult yesterday will come easily today.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You might be more energetic than you've felt in a long time.

It's the perfect day to get busy with tasks, projects, and housework. You'll breeze through most things in no time and enjoy them.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You might feel like you have more energy today than you usually do. Whether the tasks ahead require physical strength or mental acuity, approach them with confidence.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)If only more days could be this easy. The energy from the aspects is revitalizing, allowing you to get a lot accomplished. If there's something you've hesitated to do.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Expect to start your day with renewed strength and energy.

Almost everything on your todo list will fall into place. You can approach your projects with confidence and vigor because you can do what needs to be done.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today will start off with an energy boost for you. Seize the opportunity to make the most of this by getting those major projects and chores handled. It isn't every day that you feel this good. If you get to work right off the bat.

to possibly implement a F I FA N o r m a l i z a t i o n Committee (NC).

In Trinidad & Tobago, their FIFA NC from March 2020 to March 2024 removed leadership and gave their football landscape a chance to recover. Sports Ministry trio Kashif Muhammad, Steve Ninvalle and Franklin Wilson as long-standing players in the Guyana football ecosystem, need to f o c u s t h e P r e s i d e n t ’s attention on this national football crisis.

Even if the merits of the Global Super League cricket tournament are highly questionable, the President has shown in the cricket space, he can use state power to affect a sport.

On November 29th GFF had its ordinary congress, then on December 9th announced its calendar of activities for January 2026 to May 2027. It had no mention of major corporate sponsors. The kind of national corporate sponsorship GFF needs to further Guyana’s football, such investment is going towards individuals such as K&S and Petra with the KFC International Schoolboys Football Tournament. This tells us everything.

Once more, following the congress, the GFF current executive since taking office in 2015, has no plans for Guyana making a serious play to leave CONCACAF and join CONMEBOL. Could a potential Guyana FIFA NC benefit from President Ali using his relationship with Brazil’s President to advocate Guyana joining the South America Football Confederation? The power of politics and sports in modern times is a well-established negotiating tactic.

PRESSING GFF QUESTIONS Why did the GFF appoint a general secretary from India, a nation with no global football pedigree? Why is Bryan Joseph still GFF’s e m p l o y i n g Te c h n i c a l Director? Why was American Thomas Dooley hired as Golden Jaguars coach, when he has no connection to Guyana, the diaspora or experience working in CFU? Why is the Providence Stadium not used for international football, when

Supporters Group” to continue being part of the women’s programme?

Why did the lady Jaguars play no international friendlies before the December 2nd 3-1 defeat to Nicaragua? The ladies were inactive since playing Dominican Republic in California, January 2024.

Why were the Lady Jaguars missing so many senior players for the Nicaragua game? Have they retired, were unavailable or declined call-ups? These specific decisions and trends should scare the living daylight out of the Guyana football world. The FIFA Normalization committee maybe the urgent New Year wish for Guyana’s football.

The Sports Ministry must read the riot act, while the government rings the fire alarm to CONCACAF & FIFA, calling for this global intervention. Concerned Football supporter.

(Name and contact provided)

other Caribbean countries use their cricket stadiums?

Why has the GFF only now gotten FIFA’s approval for the final stages of the “Blue Waters” stadium, when on the eve of 2023 GFF m a d e t h i s b i g announcement? The whole country sees the comical state of that area down Home Stretch Avenue.

Why is this Super16 Cup happening after the “so called” Elite league and why did the GFF not raise major concerns over national player Omari Glasgow playing for Slingerz FC? What is the financial and development relevance of a local women’s league, when since 2010 the Lady Jaguars senior team’s success has been built on diaspora players?

The Jamaica Football Federation has an outside organisation involved with its star studded Jamaica Reggae Girls, why did the GFF sign a new MOU on October 28th with the “International

Berbice River Bridge Closure to Road Traffic Saturday January 03, 2026

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 16:00hrs Sunday January 04, 2026

For Ocean going Vessels & Trawlers 05:10hrs For Ocean Going Vessels opening last 1-1½ hrs DATE: 01/02/2026

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G.L.C. 357 Lamaha Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown Tel:226-0753. While every effort is made to ensure numbers are correct, please call the hotline for confirmation, The G.L.C. and Kaieteur News cannot be held responsible for printing errors.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

Caribbean Boxing Showdown Round 2...

Local fighters ink contracts ahead of fight night - Boxers from 5 Countries to feature

The local fighters on the card took a photo op following the signing of their contracts at the Wind Jammer International Hotel. Seated (L-R) are the GBBC VP Joshua Abdool, Bris-O Promotions CEO Seon Bristol and CBO Executive Dexter Patterson.

B

r i s - O Promotions in association with the Caribbean Boxing Organization (CBO) and the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) commence 2026 with the Caribbean Boxing Showdown Round 2, which is scheduled for the C l i ff A n d e r s o n S p o r t (CASH) on January 24.

Yesterday, the local fighters involved in the seven-bout card that features other pugilists from four Countries, met at the Windjammer International Cuisine & Comfort Inn to sign their contracts.

The brief meeting was attended by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bris-O Promotions, Seon Bristol, CBO Executive, Dexter Patterson, and GBBC Vice President, Joshua Abdool.

Bristol stated that he was quite pleased to commence the New Year with this event which is geared toward building the world of boxing locally and abroad in the best

interest of the fighters.

He also mentioned they were faced with an unavoidable issue which forced the rescheduling of the fight date, but that hurdle provided ample time to effectively implement their preparatory steps.

The CEO further disclosed a goal of Bris-O Promotions as they aim to improve their efficacy, which is to host a total of ten promotions per year with more territories involved.

In the GBBC Vice President’s brief comments, he commended Bris-O Promotions for compiling the card to get the New Year u n d e r w a y. A b d o o l anticipates that the card is going to be a fantastic one and urged the Promoting body to continue on their mission.

On fight night, the only eight-round fight will feature Rasheed Williams of the Bahamas going head-tohead with Jamaica’s Nico Yeo, battling at 147 lbs.

The two six-round bouts to be fought at 175 lbs are expected to be intriguing with local fighters Desmond Amsterdam pitted against Desmond DeClou, while Quincy Jones (GUY) will clash with Charles Cox of Jamaica.

Also on the card are four four-round bouts. Fighting at 140 lbs, Jamal Eastman will make his debut against local compatriot Delon Charles, while Jamaica’s Damar Haslam will face off against Joel Williamson on home turf.

In the other two matches, Suriname’s Samuel Greene a n d G u y a n a ’s K e e v i n Allicock will match fists at 126 lbs while Barbados’ Tyreece Tait will battle Mitchell Wielson at 158 lbs.

Prior to those bouts there will be an amateur card that will allow the rising stars to showcase their skills.

Meanwhile, as the Event draws closer the promoting body will be releasing more information.

Saturday January 03, 2026

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Women’s CWI Regional Super50/T20 fixtures announced ahead of 2026 season - Defending champs Guyana to face Windwards in opener A star-studded Guyana Women’s team will be winging out in a few days as they prepare for their first assignment of the new year, when the 2026/27 Regional Super50 and T20 Blaze Championships bowl off on January 13 across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The local ladies will have a huge target on their backs but more importantly will have a bigger target to achieve in bringing home the Super50 title, while still having to shift gears to defend their T20 Blaze cup, against some equally stiff competition.

Guyana and the Windwards will commence battle from 9:30h, a nice opener to Round 1’s triple header, which features Jamaica tackling Leeward Islands from 14:30h.

Barbados will then lock horns with Trinidad and Tobago under lights from 19:00h; with all 5 rounds of the competition being hosted at the Arnos Vale Ground, including the final set for January 22nd.

In a surprising move, this season’s CG United Super50 Cup was limited to just three rounds and will bowl off

Defending Women’s Regional T20 Blaze champs, Guyana will be looking to start 2026 off with a bang, as they prepare for back-to-back Competitions in just a few day’s time.

shortly after the conclusion of the T20 Blaze competition; from January 27. Guyana will face off against the Jamaicans at Cumberland, while Trinidad and Tobago and Windward Islands do battle over at Sion Hill and Barbados play the Leeward Islands at Park Hill; with all matches starting 9:30h, respectively.

Guyana squad: Shemaine Campbelle (Captain), Ashmini Munisar (Vice-captain) Shabika

Gajnabi, Sheneta Grimmond, Realeanna Grimmond, Nyia Latchman, Kaysia Schultz, Laurene Williams, Latoya Williams, Analesia D’Aguiar, P l a ff i a n n a M i l l i n g t o n , Mandy Mangru, Feona Benjamin and Tremaine Marks.

Guyana Reserves: Cyanna Retemiah, Letisha Jordan, Crystal Durant, Tiea Isaacs, Anastecia Valenzuela, Tifeny La Rose, Sarah Bheir and Naomi

Barkoye. Talented allrounder Cherry-Ann Fraser will miss the tournament due to injury.

2026 CWI T20 BLAZE f ixtures: Round One (January 13) Guyana vs Windward Islands from 09:30h Jamaica vs Leeward Islands from 14:30h Barbados vs Trinidad and Tobago from 19:00h Round Two (January 15) Barbados vs Jamaica from 09:30h

Windward Islands vs Trinidad and Tobago from 14:30h Guyana vs Leeward Islands from 19:00h Round Three (January 17)Leeward Islands vs Trinidad and Tobago from 09:30h Barbados vs Windward Islands from 14:30h Guyana vs Jamaica from 19:00h Round Four (January 20) Leeward Islands vs Barbados from 09:30h

Guyana vs Trinidad and Tobago from 14:30h Jamaica vs Windward Islands from 19:00h Round Five (January 22) Trinidad and Tobago vs Jamaica from 09:30h Guyana vs Barbados f rom 14:30h Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands from 19:00h 2026 CG UNITED SUPER50 CUP fixtures: Round One (January 27) Guyana vs Jamaica at Cumberland Trinidad and Tobago vs Windward Islands at Sion Hill Barbados vs Leeward Islands at Park Hill Round Two (January 29) Guyana vs Trinidad and Tobago at Park Hill Jamaica vs Barbados at Sion Hill Windward Islands vs Leeward Islands at Cumberland Final Round (January 31) Guyana vs Windward Islands at Park Hill Leeward Islands vs Jamaica at Sion Hill Barbados vs Trinidad and Tobago at Cumberland

Anthony Joshua’s driver charged over Nigeria crash that killed two BBC Sport - Anthony Joshua’s driver has been charged after a crash in Nigeria injured the boxer and killed two of his team members, police have said.

Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was charged a t t h e S a g a m u Magistrates’ Court on Friday. Police sources told the BBC the charges included causing death by dangerous driving.

J o s h u a ’s p e r s o n a l trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength coach, Sina Ghami, died on Monday after the vehicle they were travelling in crashed into a stationary truck on a highway in Ogun state, near Lagos.

T h e f o r m e r heavyweight champion was taken to hospital with injuries after the crash and was discharged on Wednesday.

Prosecutors brought

The former heavyweight champion was a passenger in the crash, which killed his team members Latif Ayodele (left) and Sina Ghami (right). (Social Media) f o u r c h a rg e s a g a i n s t Mr Kayode - causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care, and driving without a valid driver’s licence, a police source told the BBC. The defendant was granted bail in the sum of

5,000,000 Naira (£2,578) and was remanded pending his bail conditions being met.

The case has been adjourned until 20 January.

Joshua, 36, was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a parked truck on the busy

L a g o s - I b a d a n expressway, in south-west Nigeria, on Monday.

Mr Ghami and Mr Ay o d e l e w e r e b o t h pronounced dead at the scene, while Joshua was pictured being helped from the wreckage.

Ogun and Lagos state officials said in a statement

that the British boxer was “heavy hearted” over the deaths of the two men, who were both his close friends.

After being discharged from hospital, Joshua visited the funeral home where their bodies were “being prepared for repatriation”, the statement added.

Just hours before the crash, Joshua posted a video to Instagram of him playing table tennis with Mr Ayodele.

On Wednesday, Eddie Hearn, who has been Joshua’s promoter for more than a decade, paid tribute to the team members.

“Rest in peace Latz and Sina,” Hearn posted on Instagram. “ Yo u r e n e rg y a n d loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed.

Praying for strength and

guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”

Joshua, who was born in Watford, has family roots in Sagamu - a town in Ogun state, near the crash site.

He was on his way to visit relatives for New Year celebrations in the town at the time of the crash, a family member told the BBC. The boxer had been spending time in Nigeria after his recent victory o v e r A m e r i c a n YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on 19 December.

Paul posted on X after the crash: “Life is much more important than boxing.

I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone i m p a c t e d b y t o d a y ’s unfortunate accident.”

Kaieteur News

PAGE 26

Saturday January 03, 2026

‘Don’t gaslight me’ - Khawaja hits out at racial stereotyping Usman Khawaja feels he has been treated differently across his career because of his race and religion ESPNcricinfo - Usman Khawaja has said that the criticism he received at the start of the Ashes series for the back injury he suffered had racial undertones and that he had been frustrated and hurt at being treated differently to other Australian players across his entire career.

Khawaja held a 50minute press conference at the SCG on Friday to announce that he was retiring from international cricket at the conclusion of the fifth Test against England at the SCG, which starts on Sunday.

Speaking to a large media contingent, with his wife Rachel, his two daughters, his parents and some members of his extended family present, Khawaja opened up for the first time on how he felt after receiving criticism for playing three days of golf in the lead-up to the Perth Test at start of the Ashes, where he suffered back spasms, which meant he could not open the batting.

Khawaja, who was born in Pakistan and was the first Muslim to play Test cricket for Australia, said the criticism was in keeping with what he had received throughout his career.

“I’ve always felt a little bit different, even to now,” Khawaja said. “I’m a

Usman Khawaja speaks at his retirement press conference. (Getty Images)

coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is, in my opinion ... that’s our best team. It’s our pride and joy.

But I’ve also felt very different in a lot of respects, different by the way I’ve been treated, different for how things have happened.

“I had back spasms, and that’s something I couldn’t control. But the way the media and the past players came out and attacked me, I could have copped it for two days, but I copped it for about five days straight. And it wasn’t even about my performances.

“It was about something very personal, it’s about my preparation. And the way everyone came at me about my preparation, it was quite personal in terms of things like, he’s not committed to the team, he was only worried about himself, he played this golf comp the day before, he’s selfish, he

doesn’t train hard enough, he didn’t train with them the day before the game, he’s lazy. These are the same stereotypes, the racial stereotypes I’ve grown up with my whole life.

“I just thought that the media and the old players and everyone else had moved past it, but we obviously haven’t fully moved past it, because I’ve never seen anyone being treated like that in the Australian cricket team before.”

“You guys had a crack at me for missing a game, yet plenty of my team-mates, who were not playing, you didn’t say a word to them. So for me, I’ve been dealing with this stuff a long time.

And for me, I know I’m up here talking about topics and people are like, okay, Uzzy’s here, he’s playing the race card again, but don’t gaslight me” Usman Khawaja.

Australian players have suffered golf-related injuries in the past, with Josh Inglis ruled out of the 2022 T20 World Cup after cutting his hand on the golf course while Glenn Maxwell missed an ODI during the 2023 World Cup after suffering concussion when falling off the back of a golf cart.

Khawaja said he could cite countless other examples of players who had

Usman Khawaja with his family after announcing his international retirement. (Getty Images)

not received the same level of criticism he did, and that was because of his race.

“There’s still a little bit out there, which I still have to fight every single day, which is the frustrating thing for me,” Khawaja said. “I can give you countless number of guys who play golf the day before and have been injured. You guys haven’t said a thing. No one else said a thing.

“I can give you even more, probably guys who’ve had 15 schooners the night before and then got injured.

No one said a word. That’s all right. They’re just being Aussie larrikins, right?

They’re just being lads. So for me, that was the frustrating part. But when I get injured, everyone went at my credibility and who I am

as a person.”

Khawaja also cited the criticism he received at the end of the last summer when he missed the final round of the Sheffield Shield season because of hamstring tightness and went to the Australian Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne while Queensland were playing South Australia in Adelaide as they tried to qualify for the Shield final.

Khawaja again believed he was singled out when fellow Australian player Nathan Lyon was also at the Grand Prix and missed the entire back end of the Shield season to rest a hip issue, while Steven Smith skipped the rest of the season post the Champions Trophy to spend time in New York.

“You guys had a crack at

me for missing a game, yet plenty of my team-mates, who were not playing, you didn’t say a word to them,” Khawaja said.

“So for me, I’ve been dealing with this stuff a long time. And for me, I know I’m up here talking about topics and people are like, okay, Uzzy’s here, he’s playing the race card again, but don’t gaslight me.

“I felt that I had to bring this up. I didn’t want to talk about this, but I just want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be different. I want you to treat him or her all the same, not have racial stereotypes of who they might be. Treat them with the same cloak that you would treat any of my wholesome other cricketers that I play with.

Bangladesh to host Australia, India during packed home season Pakistan, New Zealand and West Indies will also visit for various white- and red-ball series

Bangladesh will play 12 ODIs at home in this year.(AFP/Getty Images)

ESPNcricinfo - The Bangladesh Cricket Board has announced a packed home international calendar for the 2026 season, during which Bangladesh will host four Tests, 12 ODIs and nine T20Is. The home season will begin in March, following the men’s T20 World Cup, with Pakistan visiting for a three-match ODI series.

Pakistan will visit again in May for a two-Test series, which will count towards the World Test Championship (WTC). New Zealand will

come in April and May for a full white-ball tour comprising three ODIs and three T20Is. Australia will arrive in June, and India in August and September. Like New Zealand, they will play three ODIs and three T20Is. The season will conclude in October-November with a two-Test series against West Indies as part of the WTC. In addition to the international fixtures, Sri Lanka A will tour Bangladesh in May for two four-day matches and three one-dayers.

Kaieteur News

Saturday January 03, 2026

PAGE 27

Western Tigers shock Slingerz FC to lift GFF Super 16 Cup …Army overwhelms Police to finish third

By Rawle Toney Providence erupted in disbelief on New Year’s Day as underdogs Western Tigers stunned the star-studded Slingerz FC 1–0 in the final of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Super 16 Cup at the National Training Centre.

It was a result few pundits saw coming.

Slingerz FC, dominant, disciplined and unbeaten for almost two years, arrived as overwhelming favourites.

Western Tigers arrived with belief, and left with the trophy, $2 million in prize money, and the satisfaction of ending an era.

The decisive moment came late, cruelly late, for Slingerz FC. In the 89th minute, Kevon “Showtime” Woodley lived up to his nickname, pouncing inside the box and hammering home from close range to beat goalkeeper Denzil Smith. Until that moment, the final was a tense affair filled with near misses and rising frustration.

Slingerz FC created the clearer chances and enjoyed longer spells of possession,

but profligacy in front of goal proved costly. Shot after shot failed to find the net, either dragged wide, smothered, or denied by desperate defending and good goalkeeping from Western Tigers’ Joel Yhap.

We s t e r n Ti g e r s , meanwhile, absorbed pressure, stayed compact, and waited. When the opening finally came, they seized it with ruthless efficiency, showing a hunger that ultimately made the difference. The loss brought a dramatic end to Slingerz FC’s remarkable unbeaten run. Slingerz FC’s season had been nothing short of dominant. GFF Elite League champions, conceding the fewest goals, winning 16 of their 18 matches and drawing the other two.

However, football’s unforgiving nature was on full display, dominance guarantees nothing in knockout competition.

For Western Tigers, the win on New Year’s Day capped a season of sharp contrast. Their Elite League c a m p a i g n w a s underwhelming, finishing

Western Tigers goalkeeper, Joel Yhap, makes a save from Kelsey Benjamin in the second half of their Super 16 Cup finals. fourth and well off the pace.

But the Super 16 Cup told a different story.

The West Ruimveldt side eliminated last season’s Elite League and Super 16 Cup champions, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), with Woodley scoring in every match en route to the final. His performances earned him the tournament’s End-of-Year M o s t Va l u a b l e P l a y e r

Part of the action between GDF and Police FC in the third-place game in the GFF Super 16 Cup.

honour.

Earlier in the day, GDF claimed third place with a commanding 3–0 win over

the Guyana Police Force.

Abumchi Opara struck twice in the 67th and 83rd minutes, while Jeffery

Pereira added another in the 79th. GDF collected $750,000, with Police Force earning $500,000.

rts o p S

Jubilant moment for Western Tigers players, hoisting the GFF Super 16 Cup trophy.

Western Tigers shock Slingerz FC to lift GFF Super 16 Cup

…Army overwhelms Police to finish third

Caribbean Boxing Showdown Round 2...

Desmond Amsterdam (right) and Edmond DeClou (left) exchanged a few light-hearted words after inking their contracts.

Local fighters ink contracts ahead of fight night - Boxers from 5 Countries to feature Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.