Kaieteur News

oil ships’ capacity for  every new project

code of conduct ahead of E-day Girls, 13 and 15, go missing

President confers Medal of Service on long-service army pilot

President Irfaan Ali on TuesdayconferredtheMedal of Service on Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d), Mohamad

Aziz Nezamudeen, honouring more than five decades of distinguished service to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Air Corps and the national aviationsector

According to the Office of the President, the award was presented at the GDF HangaratEugeneF Correia InternationalAirportafterLt Colonel Nezamudeen piloted President Ali to and fromMabaruma.

“For over fifty years, Lt Colonel Nezamudeen has remained a pillar of aviation excellence in Guyana,” the Presidentsaid.

Over the span of his career, Lt Colonel Nezamudeen has logged an estimated 26,000 accidentfree flying hours, an achievementhedescribedas one of the most memorable milestones of his life Though formally retired from military service, he continuestoservethenation asacivilianpilot,actively

In brief remarks, President Ali praised Lt Colonel Nezamudeen’s enduring legacy, noting that hehasselflesslynurturedthe GDF Air Corps with an extraordinary wealth of experience and theoretical knowledge.

Continuedonpage5

President Irfaan Ali and Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d), Mohamad Aziz Nezamudeen

President Irfaan Ali with Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d), Mohamad Aziz Nezamudeen (left)

President Irfaan Ali with Chief of Defence Staff, Omar Khan (right), Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Philips (left) and Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d), Mohamad Aziz Nezamudeen

...but GECOM warns against disclosing who you voted for Nobanoncellphonesinpollingbooth

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has taken a decision not to have voters lodge their phones as a measure to ensure they are not used to photograph their ballots.

Opposition appointed commissioner Vincent Alexander revealed that GECOM madethedecisionbywayofamajorityvote on Tuesday He said that the governmentappointedcommissionersweresupportedby chairperson retired Justice Claudette Singh ontheissue.

This is despite the opposition commissioners objecting to voters being allowedwiththeirphonesinthebooths.The commissioner said he believes that not allowingthephonesintothepollingstations isawayofsecuringthesecrecyoftheballots.

Alexander explained that “There is a rumor that people are being paid to vote for specific parties so what happens when they enterthepollingbooths,theytakeapictureto show to the party as proof of how they voted…There was also an instance a few years back of persons voting and taking a pictureoftheballotandpostingitassoonas they left the polling station. These are the thingswearetryingavoid.”

“However, when this point was raised, the commissioners opposed it and made a point of not allowing the phones into the polling stations being troublesome since the staff would have to be trained to secure people’s phones, and it would mean extra workforthemandsoon,”hesaidnotingthat thecommissionhashoweveragreedthatthe taking of pictures inside the voting booth is prohibited.

On Monday, GECOM issued a reminder to all voters, particularly first-time voters, about key election laws, including the illegality of vote-buying and obstructing the secrecyofaperson’svote.

GECOM emphasised that all stakeholdersandvotershavealegalandcivic

dutytoensuretheelectionsareconductedina free,fair,transparent,andcrediblemanner

“Inthisregard,thecommissiontakesthe opportunity to strongly emphasise the need for voters and other concerned stakeholders tobeinformedofthefollowingprovisionsas enacted in the Representation of the People ActCap:1:03:”thecommissionstated.

The commission reminded that is a criminaloffenseforanypersontodirectlyor indirectly offer money, gifts, or loans to a voterinexchangefortheirvote.Secondly,it is also illegal for any person, including the voterhimself,tocommunicateatanytimeto any person, any information about the politicalpartyforwhichanyvoterhasvoted on his behalf, or as a proxy on behalf of anothervoter

Additionally, GECOM noted that it is a violationofthelawforanyonetopressureor influenceavotertoshowtheirmarkedballot, thereby revealing the party they voted for, eitherontheirownbehalforasaproxy

The commission warned that anyone found guilty of committing these offenses may face a fine and up to six months’ imprisonment upon summary conviction. Furthermore,convictedindividualsmayalso be disqualified from participating in future elections.

InareleaseTuesday,theAPNUcoalition called on GECOM to ensure the public is informed that photographs and the use of camerasareprohibitedinthepollingplace.

“We hereby also advise GECOM and the GuyanaPoliceForcetosetuphotlineswhere persons can anonymously report these and other incidents of electoral fraud The other contesting political parties, which are interestedinfreeandcredibleelections,should havenodifficultyinpubliclyendorsingthese andothermeasurestomaintainthesecrecyof theballot Theyshouldraisetheirvoicesnow Notonlyisthecountry’sdemocracyatstake, butitsverysoul”

GECOM Headquarters in Kingston

KaieteurNews

PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.

Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Campaigning

Campaigningispickingupsteamasthedaysgodeeper st intoAugust,closertothatmagicdateofSeptember1 EDayisgoingtobeV-Dayforoneofthesixcontestantsinthe generalandregionalelectionsrace. Itisalreadyprovingto be a slugfest, a banquet of promises, and the major contenders trying to out promise one another Like prior electionscampaignsinGuyana,thisoneisthesame. Amid the campaigning and promising, there is the mudslinging, the fearmongering, and reaching for the stars. No one wants to be left behind, even if that means that they must walkalloverthenextmantogetwheretheyaregoing.

PPP General Secretary Jagdeo is hurting badly, which showsintheamountoftimehespendsontheWIN'sleader, AzruddinMohamed. Fromourexperience,whenJagdeois afraid of someone, and the potential exposures that they represent to him, he has a habit of overdoing things. He losescontrol,andbecomesamanpossessed,sointentheis to vanquish the tormentor and bone-in-the-throat, who is making his existence a living hell. The WIN's leader has been making inroads into the traditional bases of both the ruling PPPC and the OppositionAPNU. His appeal is so consistent that the PPPC cannot afford to ignore him, or shoo him away Mohamed's appeal is so worrying to the PPPgeneralsecretarythattheparty'sdecadesoldnemesis, the PNC now theAPNU, that Jagdeo speaks less of them, and attacks them less. What the electorate is viewing is Jagdeo focusing most of his attention, and directing much ofhisenergies,onWIN'sMohamed.

Mohamed has become the challenge for Jagdeo. Not AubreyNorton,notNigelHughes,butAzruddinMohamed istheonethatisdrivingBharratJagdeocrazy Whenever citizens take a breath, and believe that there is a welcome lull in the hostilities against WIN and Mohamed, another kitchen sink is dug up from somewhere by the PPPC and droppedonhishead. FromtheUSAmbassadortoGuyana to the Guyana private sector, a whole army of foot and media soldiers have been put to work to slowdown Mohamed by digging holes in his path. Voters are alternatelydisturbedandthrilledbythecircusatmosphere, which notwithstanding its chaotic nature, does have its seriousmoments.

Despitethosemoments,thespotlightisstillfirmlyfixed on what next is going to be weaponized against the new party that calls itself WIN, and its leader, Azruddin Mohamed. Prospectivevotersheartherollofpromises,but theyhaveoneearcockedforthenextblowtobedirectedat themostseriousthreattothePPPC'sholdonpowerinalong time.

FromthePPPC,votersinRegionOnehearaboutsome moreelectricityrelieftothetuneofa30%reduction. From theAPNU,votersinNewAmsterdam,weretoldthat25%of their oil money will be saved, and that full accountability willbethenormonhowtheiroilmoneyisspent. Promises andpercentagesfromthePPPCandAPNUarelockedina warfortheupperhand. Theexpectationisthattherewillbe morebrightpromisesandmorebigpercentagesfromboth st ofthemajorpartiesbetweennowandAugust31 WINand Mohamed,ontheotherhand,continuetodowhathasbeen drawing fair to surprising crowds in most places that they visit. We at this publication note something curious unraveling. Whatever the leader of WIN promises, or doesn't,whereverhegoesthepeoplestillcomeoutandwant tohearwhathehastooffer

The PPPC has done everything it could relative to his presence in this year's election, and yet he keeps moving, andextendinghisreach. Likesomeunstoppablecentipede, when a piece of his group is hacked off, it still goes on. Thoughhewouldneveradmittosuchacondition,Jagdeois athiswit'send,runningoutofoptions. APNUandtheAFC have largely stayed to the side in the PPPC-WIN quarrels. Undoubtedly, campaign nastiness will intensify as st September 1 draws closer The PPPC has proven its masteryofsuchugliness.

Liberation for those whose ancestors were enslaved must continue unabated

DearEditor, AsweapproachElection DayinGuyana,etchedinmy th memory is the 6 ofAugust. On that date, eighty years ago, theAmericans dropped thepowerfulnuclearweapon known as the atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The first time that newly developed bomb was used against fellow human beings.As the world condemned this assault we forgot or ignored the very Japanese using hundreds of bombers, attacked the American naval facility at Pearl Harbour, destroying several battleships and killingAmericanservicemen and women There are lessonswemustlearn.

th Fortyyearsagoonthe6 of August, Guyana lost one of its brilliant sons and visionary, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. His sudden passing took place when the Cold War was drawing to a close. Even Burnham's detractors admit that it was his skill that allowed us to gain Independence and he

navigated the stress and turbulence in the height of theColdWar.Hearticulated the need for free education from Kindergarten to University. This meant giving every Guyanese child, care and equal opportunity to make optimum use of his or her potential. He also with a passion articulated to Feed, ClotheandHouseourselves. Subsequent administrations have allowed our markets to befloodedwithforeignfruits vegetables and green. A sad andsorrystateofaffairs.

Burnham left us with a w e l l - s t a f f e d a n d knowledgeable foreign service not like those staff underthePPPcuss-birdsand architects of the infamous black clothes gang – the PhantomSquad.

In early 1965, before they got Independence, the three 'Bs – Errol 'Dipper' Barrow of Barbados, Vere Cornwall Byrd of Antigua and Forbes Burnham, Guyana met at Dickinson Bay to provide the beginnings of Caribbean

integration. Next when even among some PNC supporters, who did not wish to offend the United States, and the PPP leadership did not wish to offend the Soviet Union, Burnham, Reid and Green had persuaded cabinet in 1972 to recognize the People's Republic of China in the Diplomatic community

ItwasBurnhambreaking tradition who made Hindus and Muslim's holy days, NationalPublicHolidays.

Today, as we remember the sudden passing of LFS Burnham, every Guyanese, irrespective of race, colour or creed, must remember how he stood up against the peoplewhoenslavedus,who broughtushereasslavesand indentured labourers We must listen to his echoing wisdom, that our God-given natural resources, oil, gas, gold, timber, marine resources,mustbeharvested inaway,thatwethepeople, whilesharingourpatrimony must ensure that the owners of that bounty benefit much

more than is the case at present.

And finally, remember that our National Motto of 'One People, One Nation, One Destiny' must never ever be tarnished, compromisednorretooledto satisfy the greed and mirror the attitude, that of our erstwhileslavemasters.

This month and this date havesignificance.Allofour people remember the words of a Guyanese Patriot, Dr Yesu Persaud - “we came in different ships, but today, we're in one boat.” So let us paddle to the drum beat of the Congo Drums, the Amerindian Drums, the Tassa Drums, and every other Drums, to inherit the bounty that the Creator has sogenerouslygiventous.

Finally, Guyanese r e m e m b e r t h i s i s Emancipation month when the African slaves were set free legally. The effort for liberation for those whose ancestors were enslaved mustcontinueunabated.

HamiltonGreen Elder

Election observers must embody the highest standards of neutrality and public trust

DearEditor,

The Private Sector Commission's (PSC) press releasedatedAugust1,2025, condemningtheWINParty's call for a boycott of certain businesses, has reignited a critical conversation about the role and credibility of institutions that seek to observe our national elections.

While the PSC is fully entitled to defend its members, its tone and content reflect an alarming descent into political partisanship.Bylabelingthe actionsofapoliticalpartyas “abhorrent,” “reckless,” and “irresponsible,”andgoingso

farastoinvokeinternational sanctions to delegitimize that party's leader, the PSC has abandoned any claim to impartiality This is not the language of a neutral institution;itisthelanguage ofapoliticalactor.

Election observers must embody the highest standards of neutrality and public trust. Their role is to independently assess the fairness and integrity of the electoral process not to align with or attack political parties. When an entity like the PSC uses its platform to disparage one political faction while remaining silent on others, it sends a

clear signal of bias. This alone should disqualify it from any role in election observation.

Furthermore,thebroader principle must be affirmed: No politically invested or economically entangled institutionshouldbegranted election observer status.

Whether it's a business consortium, a politically affiliated NGO, or a civil society body with known partisan ties, observer roles must be insulated from all forms of vested interest Democracy cannot be safeguarded by entities that have something to gain or lose based on electoral outcomes.

The credibility of our elections depends not only on free and fair voting but also on the perception of impartiality in those who monitor the process. The PSC, in its current form and posture, fails to meet this threshold.Forthesakeofour democratic integrity, we must draw a firm line: observer status is a responsibility that must be e a r n e d t h r o u g h d e m o n s

e d independence—not political alignment or economic power

Sincerely, A.Rampersaud

The govt. is responsible for the cost-of-living-crises

DearEditor,

The talk about high cost of living has become an everydayconversation.How didwegettothisunbearable situation is no magic? Since early2023,Ipennedmyfirst letter warning the infrastructure Minister, Mr Edgill, that the excessive installation of speed bumps should not be the choice of solution to the recklessness on our roads There are hundreds of other solutions that could effectively bring

the madness to a screeching halt I also warned that speed-bumps have a 95% side effects and I shared severalexamples. However, Mr Edgill continued to ignore my well research thesis.

Editor, two weeks ago, I was in Berbice. What I saw there was the aggressive use of speed-bumps that is very sicken. I have no doubt that the countrywide estimated number of speed-bumps have reached the two

hundred thousand (200,000) mark. I explained in my last letter, late last year, that frequent acceleration causes vehicles to burn five times more fuel. I also mentioned that even if fuel prices dropped, and which it did two times for this year, high fuel consumption will hold usindefinitelytohighcostof t r a n s p o r t a t i o n Transportation is the heartbeatofeveryeconomic activity Two hundred thousand speed-bumps and its implication of frequent acceleration have rendered everyvehicleinthiscountry fuel inefficient. This high cost of inefficiency is factored in to every economic activity in this country

Editor,Iknewsince2023 ifgovernmentcontinuedthis path,wewillhaveahighcost of living crisis that is inescapable I listened keenly to president Ali's speechandhisplanstolower (Continuedonpage5)

Restoration of City Hall a great initiative

DearEditor,

City Hall, which was once among the most beautiful buildings in Guyana, and in the West Indies has deteriorated over the decades It is now showingsignsofreturningto itsformerglory,whetherit's the work of central government or the local government, it's a great initiative.That building was once the pride of the city Editor, please allow me to give you a brief history of thatbuilding.

In 1897, the creation of thatbuildingstartedwiththe designbyarchitectReverend Ignatius Scoles. By June of

1889, the building was completedforthemayorand city councils and the city engineer at the cost of $54, 826.26 GYD. In those days that money could have built theMarriottHotel.

The City Hall was officiallyopenat3pmonthe st1 ofJuly1889byGovernor Viscount Gormanston and Archbishop of British Guiana William Percy Austin who blessed the building. The opening saw 400ofGuyana'selitesbeing invited, that opening day saw 8,000 people passing through the building; although only 6,000 tickets were issued There were

performances by the then military band and a Portuguese band being the most popular bands those days, at that time. The first mayor being George Anderson Sorshow bought thesiteonMarchof1887.

Themottoofcitycouncil "Petimus," Latin phrase meaning, "We give and ask in return " The reverend IgnatiusScoles,thearchitect who designed the building had declined his award.The building was constructed by Sprostons and Sons of La Penitance Wood Working Company

Yourssincerely, FrankDeAbreu

A fool and his money are soon parted

DearEditor,

The recent statement that the amount of the contract awarded to the Dominican company for work to support GPL is a smallamountisludicrous.

When you consider the labour bill for GuySuco, the continual annual losses andtherequiredgovernment interventions we must ensure that every dollar we havegoesalongway.

President confers Medal of Service...

Frompage2 supporting GDF missions and lending his expertise to criticaloperations.President Ali also disclosed that the GDF intends to formally document Lt Colonel Nezamudeen's legacy, e n s u r i n g t h a t h i s contributions to national defence and aviation are preservedandcelebratedfor generations to come The head-of-state thanked Lt Colonel Nezamudeen on behalf of the government andpeopleofGuyanaforhis exceptional service and

enduring commitment to nationaldevelopment.

Lt Colonel Nezamudeen returned to Guyana after overseas training and enlisted in the GDF, completing the Military Conversion Course in 1978 before being posted to the Air Corps. Throughout his career, he played a vital role innationaldefence,security, a n d development participating in reconnaissance, search andrescue,training,medical evacuations, and anti-piracy missions.

He also served as First Officer on the Twin Otter at the then Guyana Airways, and as Pilot-In-Command and instructor on multiple aircraft Within the Air Corps, he held several key appointments, including Chief Pilot, Operations Manager, and Commanding Officer(ag).

PrimeMinisterBrigadier (Ret'd)theHonourableMark Phillips, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, and other senior military officers were present at the ceremony

The govt. is responsible for the...

Frompage4 thehighcostofliving.Itwas acombinationoffancyterms and words to make an impressive speech but offered

hing of substance. He mentioned the Gas-to-shore project

This p

o

Anyone who says that millionsofU Sbeingspent annually is a small amount thatshouldnotbeofconcern is obviously being wasteful and does not appreciate the valueofmoney We must ensure that a competitive bidding process is adhered to and always used, with at least 3 bidders and we must also allow for multiple suppliers

Getting the best value for our money mustremain important.

whentheworkbeingdoneis critical to our nation's development. The 80: 20 rule may be successful in such an arrangement Remember, a fool and his moneyaresoonparted.

We cannot afford to have fools lead our country.

Sincerely,

Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman

T h e C o o p e r a t i v e

Republicans of Guyana

Refusing to sign the ERC Code of Conduct

DearEditor,

It was disappointing that twocontestingpartiesforthe upcoming GRE were absent from ERC's Code of Conduct signing (INews August5).

Ofthetwo,oneisnewto the political landscape, whiletheotherisknownnot

to shake hands, reply to a request from the President andnownotavailingitselfto the signing event. But it is the new party that is most disappointing.

On this, its first foray it can be perceived to have taken a dissenting position. It is hoped this is not the case.

Whatever the reason(s) fortheabsences,bothparties should have availed themselvestosigntheCode.

It has been noted that a prominent founder has delegated the simple task of signing.

ShamshunMohamed

ect has no guarantee and no known feasibility study that Guyanese could rely on. It bares similar footprint like the Skeldon Sugar Factory andtheAmeliaFallsproject.

But even if this project comes on stream, it will not escape the impact of high cost of transportation President Ali's speech was justaloftydream.Inclosing, I say, the PPP government through its various ministrieshavemismanaged this country. They are responsible for the cost-oflivingcriseswearecurrently facing.The first mistake the president Ali made was to place a man who doesn't

possess qualifications related to the infrastructure portfolioheholds.Thelistof mishaps is too numerous to mention. I concurred with theslogan,“forcostofliving tolow,thePPPmustgo”.

Yourssincerely

C.Woolford

Exxon agrees to terms for deepwater blocks offshore

Trinidad, agreement to be signed soon

Reuters - Trinidad and Tobago's government has agreed to award U.S. oil

major ExxonMobil (XOM.N), acreage in an ultra-deepareathatincludes seven blocks to explore for oil and gas, two senior government officials told Reuters.

The parties began negotiationsearlierthisyear fortheareasofftheeastcoast of the Caribbean country, which ExxonMobil left morethan20yearsago.The blocksarelocatednorthwest of ExxonMobil's prolific Stabroek block in Guyana, where the consortium it leads has confirmed more than 11 billion barrels of recoverableresources.

ExxonMobil and the Trinidadian government could sign the agreement as soon as next week, accordingtothepeoplewith knowledge of the negotiations, who were not authorisedtospeakpublicly

Theareatobeawardedto ExxonMobil is an amalgamation of seven blocks, and has been renamed Ultra Deep 1 or UD(1) The area covers water depths of 2,000 to 3,000meters,thepeopletold Reuters.

"Wewillnotcommenton third party sources, but we r o u t i n e l y l o o k a t opportunitiestooptimiseour advantaged portfolio," an ExxonMobil spokesperson toldReuters.

Trinidad and Tobago's Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal did not respond to arequestforcomment.

"Ultra-deepTrinidadand Tobago could unlock potential similar to

ExxonMobil's Stabroek block," according to a 2024 study by Houston-based energy data analytics firm TGS.

In Guyana, ExxonMobil and partners Chevron and CNOOC are about to begin production at their fourth floating facility, which will expand its capacity beyond 900,000 barrels per day (bpd), less than six years af

eginning oil production in the South American country. The groupplanstoproduceupto 1.7millionbpdby2030.

During a press briefing lastweek,ExxonMobilCEO Darren Woods said explorationispartofathreepronged approach to ensure t h a t t h e c o m p a n y continuouslyreplacestheoil andgasitproduces.

"We're continuing to have a very consistent and focused effort on finding more resources that will be economically advantaged and competitive in our portfolio."Woodssaid WORKTODO

ExxonMobil has agreed to a signing bonus and a three-phase exploration programme in Trinidad that includestheacquisitionof (Continuedonpage8)

Boy, 9, killed in Corentyne accident …driver arrested

A9-year-old boy

was on Tuesday killed in an accident along the Corentyne, Berbice road

Thechildhasbeenidentified asSahilNaipaul,astudentof Crabwood Creek Primary School.

Naipaul reportedly resided with his family at Grant 1802 Crabwood Creek,Corentyne,Berbice.

Reports are that the lad was hit by a car at around

12:45h. Details surrounding the accident are unclear, however Kaieteur News understandsthatthedriverof thecarisa21-year-oldmale from Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek,Corentyne,Berbice.

Up to press time, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) haD not issued a press statement on the accident. However,reportsarethatthe driver of the car, bearing registration number PAK 6598,isinpolicecustody

The car involved in the accident

The accident scene

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Ed Ahmad asks court to impose $30M judgment on Travis Chase for default libel

United States-based Guyanese businessman, Ed Ahmad, has asked the High Court to impose GY$30 million judgment award against Guyanese journalist TravisChasefordefamation.

Ahmad had secured a default judgment against Chase in June after the reporter failed to enter an appearance in the matter Ahmad had initially sued ChaseforGY$100million.

However in submission totheHighCourtdatedJuly 31, 2025, by Mr Ahmad's lawyers, Darshan Ramdhani and Rajendra Jaigobin, AhmadaskedtheHighCourt toawardhimGY$30million because his reputation has been affected not only in Guyana, but also in the UnitedStates.

The default judgment granted by Justice Fidela Corbin at the Georgetown High Court after Chase

failed to put in a defence against the libel claim by Ahmad.

According to the judgment order seen by this newspaper, after the business instituted the libel proceedings,Marshalsofthe SupremeCourtofJudicature made two (2) unsuccessful attempts to effect service of theseproceedingsonChase.

Thedocumentnotedthat the first unsuccessful attempt was made on the 18thFebruary,2025,atLot1 R e p u b l i c D r i v e , Beterverwagting,EastCoast Demerara (ECD); the address of HPGTV Nightly News, where he is a news presenter

The Marshal made a secondunsuccessfulattempt to serve a copy of these proceedings upon Chase at Lot 1 Republic Drive, Beterverwagting,ECD.

Then on 3rd March,

2025, Mr Roysdale Forde S.C.,Attorney-atLaw,wrote to Mr Ahmad's attorneys, Darshan Ramdhanie, KC and Rajendra Jaigobin, informing them that he acts for Mr Chase in the proceedings and that he had instructed him to accept serviceonhisbehalf.

Consequently,aMarshal effected service of the proceedings by serving a copy the proceedings together with Chase's authorisation code on the chambers of Mr Roysdale FordeS.C.

However according to the judgment order, both Chase and his lawyer failed toenteranappearanceinthe proceedings and also failed toserveandfileadefencein high court action herein withinforty-two(42)daysof service, as prescribed by the CivilProcedureRules.

As a result, Justice

Corbin determined that default judgment can be granted against Chase followinghisfailuretoserve andfileadefencewithinthe period prescribed by the CivilProcedureRules.

Ahmad had sought GY$100 million from Mr Chaseforlibel.However,the quantum of the judgment is to be determined by the judge.

The court determined that Chase failed to defend

Frompage6

seismic data and drilling of exploration wells, the two sourcessaid.

If oil or gas is found, the agreement also includes royaltypaymentsandashare of the profits to the government, along with a provision for cost recovery, thesourcessaid.

United States-based Guyanese businessman, Ed Ahmad

whether the series of publications on his Facebook page, Travis Chase, were untrue, false, maliciousanddefamatoryof Ahmad.

E

approached the Trinidadian government in November of 2024 with interest in the sevenblocks,theyadded.

TrinidadandTobagoisin the middle of a deep-water auction, that has been extended to close on September 17 and excludes the areas ExxonMobil is interested in. According to Tr

governmentcanindividually n

explorationandproductionif they are not included in a competitivebiddinground.

Thedocumentdescribed (Continuedonpage20)

Trinidad has been trying to rejuvenate investment, especially offshore, where moregasoutputisneededto supportthenation'sliquefied n a t u r a l g a s a n d petrochemical industries But it is also hoping to find oilinitsdeepwaters.

A flagship offshore gas project with neighboring Venezuela recently lost its U.S. authorization to move forward and has been shelved. It was expected to help relieve some of the country's ongoing gas shortages.

Guyanese journalist Travis Chase

Girls, 13 and 15, go missing

Two school girls, aged 13 and 15, h a v e b e e n reported missing by their relatives The girls, identified as 13-year-old AneezaBangattand15-yearold Shavine Russell of Supply,EastBankDemerara (EBD).

The girls attend the SoesdykeSecondarySchool.

Accordingtoastatement by the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the girls have been describedas“slimbuilt,four feet seven inches in height, with shoulder-length hair andbrownincomplexion.”

“These two girls have knowneachothersincethey attended the same school. They left home on 4th August2025,atabout10:30 hrs.

for an unknown destinationinaBlackToyota 192 bearing registration numberPJJ1933.

They have not returned since,andareportwasmade to the Police on 4th August 2025 at 19:36hrs,” police said.

Police have since released the girls' photographs and that of a male whom was last seen in theircompany

Missing: 15-year-old

Shavine Russell

Missing: 13-year-old

Aneeza Bangatt

Persons with any information about the whereaboutsoftheteengirls are asked to contact the nearest police station or the commander for Regional Police Division 4B,

Superintendent Wayne DeHeart on Tel Number: #661-4716.

Former Chief Parliamentary Council

Cecil Dhurjon dies at 96

Former Chief

Parliamentary Council Cecil Dhurjon, CCH, AA, SC has diedattheageof96.

President Irfaan Ali in a message of condolence postedonhisFacebookpage said, “ It is with profound sadness that I have learnt of the passing of one of Guyana's finest legal minds and most dedicated public servants,Mr.CecilDhurjon, CCH,AA, SC, formerChief ParliamentaryCounsel.”

President Ali said Dhurjondedicatedmorethan sixdecadesof“distinguished service to Guyana, four of which he spent as Chief ParliamentaryCounsel.”

“His outstanding contribution to shaping the legislative framework of post-independent Guyana is alegacythatwillcontinueto resonate for generations to come.

Iextend,onbehalfofmy government and my own behalf, deepest condolences to his wife, Ananda, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

May his soul rest in

eternal peace,” the president said.

Similarly, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SCexpressedsadnessonthe deathofDhurjon.

Nandlall in a Facebook page said that Dhurjon died th two months shy of his 97 birthday. He described him as “A distinguished, enduring and stellar legislativedraftsman.”

“Mr.Dhurjonwasoneof the chief architects of Guyana's post independent legislativelandscape.

He was the longest serving Chief Parliamentary Counsel of Guyana and arguably, the longest holder of such office in the entire Commonwealth.

Mr Dhurjon served Guyana with unmatched dedication for over four d e c a d e s a s C h i e f Parliamentary Counsel and inthedraftingdepartmentof the Attorney General Chambers for over six decades,” said the Attorney General.

Nandlallsaidtoothatthe former Chief Parliamentary

Cecil Dhurjon, CCH,

AA, SC, former Chief Parliamentary Counsel

Counsel served under every AttorneyGeneralofGuyana, including, him between 2011-2015.

“He resigned at age 90! Itwillbenearimpossiblein the foreseeable future for any other to surpass the number of legislation he would have worked on in his extraordinarily long career

For his remarkable contribution, he was appropriately conferred with silk and two National Awards,theGoldenArrow of Achievement and the Cacique Crown of Honor The legacy of his work w i l l e n d u r e f o r generations to come,” Nandlall said as

extended condolences to Dhurjon'sfamily

The car the girls were last seen in.

The young man the two teenaged girls were last seen with.

Guyana, oh lovely Guyana

It's the most wonderful time of time of the year Christmas is So too, elections in Guyana, with 2025 staggering the senses. I turn left and it's bright. Lookdownanditsbeautiful. Open the papers, and the good times roll merrily along. Thanks, Dr Jagdeo, for the good developments, what promises to be grand times. Amidst this cascade ofgoodness,PPPleadership benevolence and goodness, there's a challenge. Where to start? Roads are plenty, since they are the signature callingofMinisterofPublic Works, Bharrat Jagdeo Move over, bishop; make wayfortherealdeal.

I drive along the streets of GT, and there are these fresh mounds of excavated earth on the side. The last time I came face-to-face with a Caterpillar or a bulldozer or an excavator wasinPeoria,Illinois. Now, they dot the scenery in GT. The roads are newly smoothed, like a sweetly ironed white shirt. Not a wrinkle, not a bubble, or stray thread out of place. If that is not care and compassion, not progress, thengoshoutittotheworld, there never will be. I invite Marco Rubio to return to Guyana, especially GT, and give his judgement then. Let's see what has to eat crow,RubioorJagdeo. Iam perplexed, if its Christmas,

thenIammissingthecarols. It is likely that the PPP of Jagdeo and the tireless AG have finally made up their mindstoconfrontthesacred private sector and did somethingaboutthechronic noise nuisance menace

Thanks, Mr Jagdeo; though Christmas carols are never offensive to me, regardless ofthedecibellevels. I look down, and the drains in the city (some of them) have been given a facelift Silt removed Water all the way to the bottom. Thesmellsreduced, the clarity of the water inviting on these scorching Guyana days. Clear as a bell, and as clean as the imagination allows. The GWI is in for some competition, and since it is the season of elections, expectationsrunhigh. Ilook down and I can see it all around. Things are looking up. If the last few weeks alone could continue indefinitely, then the dismal record of the last five years wouldbeeasilyforgotten. A figment of overreaction, a product of opposition malevolence.IfIweretoget carried away and call the Office of the President, or walk into any government office, even venture near FreedomHouse,Iamcertain that the reception would be one reserved for King Charles or Donald Trump. The problem is that,

occasionally, I carry things toofar Nevertheless,onlya Philistine or an incorrigible pagan could look at GT today, the enhancements of the last few weeks, and not see the light. Thanks, Mr Jagdeo Sorry, Mayor Mentore,andwhoeveristhe LocalGovernmentMinister Bottom line: if Jagdeo doesn't bark, get it done, it isn't done. I know how my breadisbuttered,andwhois responsibleforit,soIdomy duty

Then some more light came. Inthebleakdarkness that saturates Guyana, came the late-breaking news. An agreementbetweentheGPL and Inter-Energy of the Dominican Republic. A betterGPL. Abetterproduct coming out of it. The same thing was heard about the Ottomans and their powerboats, let there be light. FromIstanbul,oncea world power, to the Caribbean Sea, and a place called the Dominican Republic, which I had trouble deciding if it had so much as a generator. But if Dr.Jagdeosaidthattheyare uptothejob,thenthat'sgood enoughforme. Thetrouble starts when I question the kind of job that he has in mind. PrimeMinisterMark Phillips should be the Field Marshallonthisone,butthe way I see it, that honorable citizen has either been consigned to the vicinity of

the stockade, or he took his owndischarge. Inthearmy, that'scalledAWOL(Awaltz ofleisure). AndtothatIadd politicalluxuries.

All these developments, these sweet announcements, involving nice millions in July, with elections rushing in from over the horizon. Something tells me that the PPP is running low on campaign funds. Spending in the millions opens the

door to self-help by sweet fractions of those enticing sums. Guyanese know by now how much Christmas means to me, but I'll take electionseveryday,ifthisis howthecityandcountryare treatedbyDr Jagdeoandthe PPP Government No naysaying about corruption, nor ulterior motives, nor dirty tricks relative to keeping the Guyanese people informed Can't

expecthamandeggswithout casualtiesonthefarm. It'sa small price to pay, and I'm converted. Elections! Oh, how lovely is Guyana. It's goodbyecomingtoAmerica.

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

Charlene Stuart heralded for life of service, style and strength

(Trinidad Guardian)

Former journalist, communications specialist, and mental health advocate Charlene Stuart was given herfinalritesonTuesdayina heartfelt, tearful funeral serviceattheLoveandFaith Church World Outreach Ministries in Sophia, Guyana.

Stuart, 45, passed away on July 20, prompting an outpouring of tributes from family, friends, and former co-workers from across the region.

Among those in attendanceatthefuneralwas former journalist and minister of communications Maxie Cuffie, who broke intotearsseveraltimesashe described how Stuart never gaveuponhimandwentout of her way to ensure he receivedproperhelpafterhe suffered a stroke, which left him with a speech impediment.

He said Charlene organised classes with a speech coach, the late, renowned broadcast journalistBarbaraAssoon.

"And every day I would go by Barbara Assoon for classes and to get my elocution properly As the M i n i s t e r o f Communications, Charlene always sat in a prominent place to give me directions when I'm speaking. So the factthatIcanspeaktoyouall today..." he said before his voice became emotionally inaudible.

Cuffie recalled that in 2017, when he left the Government, many believed he would simply fade away, butStuartalwaysbelievedhe wouldbounceback.

He shared that while he was residing in Washington, DC, Stuart—who was on a work trip to New

York—made her way to his home to spend some time withhimandhiswife.

"She brought so much joy and laughter to the house," he said, before his voice broke again while wipingawaytears.

Stuart's professional life beganattheGuyanaAirways Corporation before she transitioned into print media withStabroekNewsandthen KaieteurNewsinGuyana.

In 2003, at just 23 years old,shemadealife-changing move to Trinidad and Tobago, where she entered broadcast journalism with CCN TV6 before joining Guardian Media's CNC3 newsroomin2005.

ArmedwithaDiplomain Communications from the University of Guyana and a Master of Science degree in Business Management from theUniversityofEdinburgh, Stuart's communications career in Trinidad and Tobago spanned several major government and state agencies.

These included the Government Information ServicesLimited(GISL),the Tobago House ofAssembly, t h e M i n i s t r y o f Communications, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Social Development, the Ministry ofTourism,andtheHousing DevelopmentCorporation.

Her close friend and

former co-worker, Colleen Holder - now Director of Corporate Communications andProductionsattheOffice of the Parliament - reflected on a high point in Stuart's career while she was a produceratGISL.

“During her tenure producingTheInsightStory, it attained the distinction of being the only government programme ever to be in the number television viewer spot, and that record stands today So Charlene was a consummate professional who knew her job," Holder said.

As her close friend, Holder also recalled Stuart's personalflair.

"Shewouldhaveflowers and art in every apartment that she lived in over the years and was always someone filled with lots of laughterandshenanigans."

She described Stuart as m e t i c u l o u s a n d uncompromising when it cametostandards.

Holder added: "She embodied the CSME (CaricomSingleMarketand Economy) ethos — the best of the Caribbean giving of their best anywhere in the Caribbean."

Family members who spoke at the farewell described Stuart as brilliant, stylish, and courageous, and saidherlegacywouldliveon “through the stories she wrote, the artwork she created and the meals she cooked.”

Oneofhersisters(whose name was not immediately available) remembered Stuart's concise way of speaking, saying she would have a word for those who wentontoolong.

"Likeyoujustrecitedthe entiredictionaryforfun?

(Continuedonpage11)

Charlene Stuart

Mohamed promises to rebuild the Palms, upgrade markets at Sophia rally

Leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, Azruddin Mohamed on Mondaypromisedtorebuild thePalmsGeriatricHomeif elected to government Mohamed was at the time addressing supporters at his party's 'C' Field Sophia publicmeeting.

The presidential hopeful said his party is committed to bettering the lives of all Guyanese.

“The Palms, look at the conditionofthePalms,Iwill ensure that I rebuild a new Palms for the elders, I will ensure that I do that,” he said.

In its manifesto, which was released in July, WIN pledged to among other things increase senior citizens' pensions from $41,000to$100,000.

Additionally, the businessman referenced the Stabroek and Bourda markets that are in need of upgrades. He said his party willcreateamoreconducive

environment for both vendorsandcustomers.

“The Stabroek market, the Bourda market… rest assured the people would have a good environment to sell their produces, that is a promise and a commitment of the WIN administration, we will get the job done for thepeople,”hestated.

Mohamedalsopromised toincreasethesalariesofthe 10-days workers and Community Service Officers (CSOs) noting that he is aware of the CSOs are receiving payments months after their stipulated deadline.

“I have a list with over 100 ten-days workers they nd dismissed, but the 2 of September we are hiring them back The 10-days workers will get more, the CSOswillgetmoreandthey willgettheirsalariesontime because presently the CSOs they have to wait months to collect their salaries,” he related.

Leader of WIN, Azruddin Mohamed

The WIN leader

continued: “So much barrel of oil, they (government) boasting about the fastest GDP, every day oil is pumping out there, every yearwearereceivingGY$2 billionandyetthepeopleare leftbehindandyetwegetthe crumbs.”

Heassuredthatunderhis leadership more money would be invested in the people as he plans to cut back on “wasteful spending”.

“We got to cut back. We got to get more money to investinthepeopletobetter the lives of the people,” the Presidential candidate added.

CharleneStuartheraldedfor...

Frompage10

Keep it simple. We're not rewriting an entire Shakespeare monologue," shesaidofStuart.

Another family member r e f l e c t e d o n h e r multidimensional gifts and signatureelegance.

"Charlene was a Renaissance woman, painting in Trinidad, cooking with flair, styling homes, doing make-up, dressingelegantly,shedidit all and did it impeccably Shedidn'tjustfollowtrends, shesetthem.

Shewasalsothefamily's walking encyclopedia... if she didn't know the answer, she'd research it and come backwithfacts."

Family members also honoured her courage as a mentalhealthadvocate.

After being diagnosed with clinical depression during the COVID-19 pandemic, Stuart openly sharedherjourneyonsocial media helping to destigmatise mental health conversationsintheregion.

They encouraged those who loved her to remember her vibrantly, "because Charlene would remind us, theoccasionislifeitself."

"RestwellCharlene,you did it beautifully, and you did it your way," another sistersaid.

A video tribute in her honourhighlightedherdeep love for family, noting how she remained closely connected through phone calls,messages,andsurprise visits, even after leaving GuyanaforTrinidad. Stuart grew up in Georgetown, Guyana, and was a member of the National School of Dance. Inheryouth,shewasalsoan active member of the Love and Faith Church World Outreach Ministries dance team She excelled academically at both the primary and secondary levels, was a school prefect and debater, and competed in sports as a long-jumper andrunner,accordingtoher family She was later cremated at the Memorial GardensinGuyana.

Exxon vows to push production beyond oil ships' capacity capacit for every new project - CEO says

ExxonMobil,operatorof the Stabroek Block, has vowed to continue debottlenecking efforts for every new project brought onstream, as part of its strategy to maximise oil production beyond the nameplate capacity of its vessels and secure higher returnsonitsinvestmentsin Guyana.

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) currently

has three Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels producing oil, with a fourth

expected to begin production this week. The FPSOsalreadyproducingoil are the Liza Destiny, Liza Unity,andProsperity

The Prosperity FPSO

began production in November2023andreached its nameplate capacity of 220,000 barrels per day (bpd) within months. With subsequent modifications, Exxon was able to ramp up output to around 260,000 bpd. Similarly, in 2022, the Liza Unity vessel came online producing 220,000 bpd and was also optimised to 260,000 bpd. The Liza Destiny, Exxon's first FPSO

in Guyana, began production in December 2019at120,000bpdandwas later upgraded to 160,000 bpd.

During the company's second-quarter earnings call on Friday, ExxonMobil's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) DarrenWoods,wasaskedto speak about EMGL's debottlenecking efforts and how sustainable it is for the vesselsoperatingattheLiza Phase 2 and Payara projects tocontinueproducingabove theirnameplatecapacities.

Woods first highlighted the company's commitment to optimising its capital investments “Obviously, have a design basis, you workthroughwhatyouthink it's capable of delivering. Andthenasyougetitupand running, you've got our technology organisation, operations organisation, all veryfocusedonmakingsure that we're maximising the value of the capital that we put in the ground without compromising any of the necessary integrity and safety parameters. They've done a really good job of that,”theCEOsaid.

He noted that this is a consistentpracticeacrossall ofExxon'sglobaloperations and credited the company's focused technology organisation for playing a majorroleinthoseefforts.

Chairman and CEO Darren Woods

“So, my view is we're goingtocontinuetoseethat with every new project that comes on. I would also tell you that as we find those d e b o t t l e n e c k i n g opportunities and we think they'reapplicabletothenext project,webuildthatintothe basis,sothatwehaveaclear understanding of what capital is needed to deliver on the volume,” Woods explained.

He went on to state that Exxon will continue updating its investment and design basis based on lessons learned from previous debottlenecking efforts.AccordingtoWoods, while this approach may reduce“capacitycreep”over time, it is offset by the organisation's constant innovation and drive to maximise asset value. He noted that these two forces are essentially in competition, but expressed fullconfidenceintheteam's ability to push performance furtherwitheveryproject.

Woods added, “We give you guys the design basis, that'sourbestestimate.And then we hope for the upside based on the capability and quality of the folks we are getting after that every hour ofeveryday.”

Moreover, he was also asked abouta recentdrop in productionattheLizaPhase 1project.WhileWoodssaid hedidnothavespecificdata on that development, he offered a broader explanation.“…Andso,the teamsarealwaysworkingat development plans. Nobody is satisfied to have spare capital on the ground. So, there'salotofworkgoingon to make sure that we maximise the utilisation of the kit we've already invested in That's the cheapest–that'sthehighestmarginbarrelistheonesthat youbringonlinewithcapital that'salreadyintheground,” henoted.

EMGL operates the Stabroek Block, which spans6.6millionacresandis estimated to hold 11 6 billion barrels of oil equivalent, according to the

Government of Guyana ExxonMobilGuyanaholdsa 45% stake in the block, while Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd (now Chevron) holds 30%, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limitedholdstheremaining 25%.

In addition to the Yellowtail project expected tostartproducingthisweek, Exxon has two other sanctioned developments: Uaru and Whiptail The companyhasalsosubmitted anEnvironmentalImpact (Continuedonpage20)

ExxonMobil

FPSO Prosperity

MOH launches national training to

eradicate filaria

DPI

- The Ministry of HealthandthePanAmerican Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) on Monday launched the Lymphatic Filariasis Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Training. The goal is to eradicatefilariainGuyana. This latest round of MDA training sessions marks the final round of MDAtoeradicatelymphatic filariasis in Regions Three andFour

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, Director of Vector Control Services, Dr. Reza NilesRobin and PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. Kim Eva Dickson and other health professionals at the launch of Lymphatic Filariasis Mass Drug Administration Training.

According to the

Ministry of Health, health professionals will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively implement the Mass Drug Administration I v e r m e c t i n , Diethylcarbamazine, and Albendazole (MDA-IDA) regimen.

Minister of Health Dr FrankAnthony said that the government has embarked on a comprehensive campaign to administer the triple therapy method to eradicate the disease, which hasexistedforcenturies.

According to Dr Anthony, this approach has proventobesuccessfulona globalscale.

He added that this initiative is important t o w a r d s G u y a n a ' s eradication of this tropical illness.

“We have been working togetridofthisproblem.We haveneverbeensoclose.We are almost there…We have eliminated lymphatic filaria from eight of the ten regions,” he said during remarks at PAHO/WHO's BoardroomonRegentStreet in Georgetown He explained that more work needs to be done in specific communities in Regions Three and Four, where the diseaseismoreprevalent.

“That is why we are going back this year to ensure that we cover these

areas thoroughly I think if we do that, we are going to beabletosay,sometimenext yearortheyearafter,thatwe haveeliminated[thedisease] from all the regions in Guyana,”thehealthminister noted Minister Anthony noted that the health professionals will be fully equipped with the requisite information to effectively execute their duties when administering the medications and responding to queries about the pills fromthepublic.

Once this is done, he added that it will help to contribute to the health and well-beingofmanyfamilies.

Minister Anthony stated that the health workers will be adequatelyprepared with the necessary knowledge to effectively execute their responsibilitieswhilegiving the medications and responding to questions from the general public about the importance of the pills. He said that after this is done, it will improve the health and well-being of manyfamilies.

“They will work with you to make sure that we train you well. When we train you well, we want you to go out and implement this…We have to make sure that we are taking the right message to every household and that they understand whatwearesayingtothem,” hestated.

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony

4 parties sign ERC code of conduct

Out of the six political parties contesting the upcoming September 1 general and regional elections, only four have signed the Ethnic Relations Commission's (ERC) Code of Conduct, which is intended to promote peace, unity, and responsible campaigning during the electionperiod.

The signing ceremony tookplaceonTuesdayatthe Arthur Chung Conference Centre(ACCC),whereparty leaders and representatives pledged to uphold mutual respect, reject divisive rhetoric, and prioritise national interest throughout thecampaignseason.

The parties that signed the code were the Alliance for Change (AFC), the People's Progressive Party Civic(PPP/C),theAssembly of Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN). The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), led by Aubrey Norton, and the ForwardGuyanaMovement (FGM), led by Amanza Walton-Desir,didnotattend orsigntheagreement.

Contacted by Kaieteur News,APNU'sNortonmade it clear that his party would not be signing the code, citing bias within the ERC.

“The APNU made it very clearthatwearenotgoingto sign any code of conduct becausetheEthnicRelations Commissionisbiased.When PPP people violate the conduct, nothing happens. But as soon as the APNU does something, they make an issue out of it,” Norton said. He stressed that the ERCisnotanimpartialbody andthereforelacksthemoral

Frompage20

Assessment (EIA) for a s e v e n t h p r o j e c t , Hammerhead, which is targetinga2029start.

authoritytorequestpartiesto sign such a document Nonetheless,Nortonassured that APNU will continue to operate within the confines ofthelaw

At press time, FGM presidential candidate Amanza Walton-Desir had notprovidedareasonforher party'sabsenceatthesigning event, however, she promised to issue a statementinduecourse.

In a statement following the ceremony, the ERC reaffirmed its constitutional mandate to promote ethnic harmony,safeguardnational unity, and support peaceful democratic processes Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, emphasised the need for responsible leadership and national solidarity “Let us also reaffirm that the political space in Guyana must never be reduced to hostility or intimidation. It must remain one of dignity, responsibility, and decency, whereallcitizensfeelsafeto participate and express themselves without fear,” Hack said. He described the code of conduct as not merely a commitment to the ERC but as a solemn promise to the people of Guyana to campaign peacefully, avoid hate speech, and act in the national interest over partisanambition.

Hack further stated that the primary aim of the code of conduct is to ensure that all political parties operate within the rule of law and encouragetheirsupportersto do the same While acknowledging the ERC's ownimperfections,Hack (Continueonpage21)

An application has also been filed for an eighth project, Longtail. Exxon is aiming to bring all eight developments into production by the end of the decade, targeting a combined output of 1 7 millionbpd.

Frompage8

Mr Ahmad as a businessman and the owner of several businesses in Guyana and New York, United States of America, with over 200 employees. Ahmadisalsoadirectorand shareholderofcompaniesin Guyana.

The court noted that Ahmadwasconvictedinthe United States ofAmerica of conspiracy to commit a criminal offence in 2017, and he was sentenced to a term of imprisonment;

served that time and abided by all conditions of the sentence.

However, based on his claim, Ahmad, through his lawyers, noted that the defendant is a reporter who operates the page, “Travis Chase” on Facebook, a socialmediaplatformandis a presenter and editor at HPGTV Nightly News published patently fabricated, concocted, false and malicious posts against the New York based businessman.

Region Six residents disgruntled over tardiness of road projects

Communities within New Amsterdam in Region Six, are benefitting from roadupgradesascontractors across the region accelerate effortstorelievetheburdens of residents. Contracts for roadworks, some of which are within the parameters of

GYD $100 million, have been secured for extension, enhancementorrepairstobe doneinAngoy'sAvenueand theMayorandTownCouncil (M&TC) Scheme, among otherareas.

Back in April, the Ministry of Public Works

Work on this road began on Saturday. Residents have been struggling with horrible road conditions for almost 30 years.

Frompage20 emphasised that these flaws should not be used as excuses to create division but instead be met with political maturity and restraint. “The true strength ofademocracyisnotmerely testedattheballotbox,butin how its leaders conduct themselves before, during, andafterelections,”hesaid. WIN raises concerns overattacksfromPPP/C

During the remarks session at the signing, WIN party representative Hana Khamelia Mohamed voiced her party's support for the ERC's principles of peace, tolerance, and political decency However, she also raised serious concerns about the lack of action by the ERC regarding attacks on WIN candidates and supporters, allegedly by the PPP/C government. “We cannot sign in silence. We must speak honestly about the reality we continue to face. The incumbent PPP/C government has repeatedly andopenlyviolatedthespirit and letter of this very code. We call the commissioners

signed over $4.2 billion in contracts for a number of roadworksinseveralRegion Sixcommunities.

While grateful for the development in their respective communities, many residents are bemoaning the slothful pace at which the work is being conducted. Many walkways have for decades been impassablewhenaggravated by the rainy weather Further, there are some residentswhoaresuspicious at the suddenness of works done to upgrade their roads andby-ways.Itisnoisolated view that most of these are mere efforts by the People's Progressive Party/Civic administration to secure itself withi

e communities by providing

improvements, as general and regional elections are imminent.

One perspective in the politically assorted community of Angoy's Avenue is that given it is an electionsyear,politiciansare seeking to heap assurances and guarantees, thus the haste to tend to the needs of themoredepressedareas. Promises to attend to issueswererepeatedlygiven

to frustrated residents of Angoy's Avenue in particular,whoremainatthe mercy of the weather conditions. The crossroads arenightmarishwhenitrains for just about five to ten minutes, after which many sections of the community become inundated by water As the water recedes, the w a l k w a y s b e c o m e impassable as children attempttonavigatetheirway toschool,andadultstowork. Alreadysomecrossroads and walkways have been completed, paved and modeledincement,muchto the relief of many who took up dwelling in that community for over ten years. The main roads are c u r r e n t l y u n d e r construction, along with the alleyways.

On condition of anonymity, one resident opinedthat“personswerein need of these upgrades for months, even years, and it has not been happening Several reports about the deplorable state of the roads havebeenmade,andnoone came, but as soon as it's the election season, now all the roads are being done. That only shows us what the government prioritises duringthisseason.”

attention to the constant and thedeliberatediscreditingof our presidential candidate

Azrudin Mohammed through coordinated, online smearedcampaignsandstate affiliated messaging. These attacksaremeanttodiminish hiscredibilityandsilencethe hope he represents for so many,”shesaid.

M o h a m e d a l s o highlighted the targeted harassment of Muslim female leaders within WIN, claimingtheyfacerelentless cyberbullying and online stalking with racial and religious undertones. “We are specifically concerned aboutthesilenceofreligious organizations who have failed to condemn these genderandbigotedattacks,” she added. She further criticized the PPP's alleged use of children in political rallies, calling it a deeply troubling practice that exploits minors for political optics.

In addition, Mohamed accused the ruling party of engaging in intimidation tacticsandviolatingboththe RepresentationofthePeople

Act and the Criminal Law (Offences) Act “It is unlawful to threaten, obstruct, or harass anyone exercising their political rights.Thesearenotisolated incidents.

They are part of a deliberate campaign by the ruling party to suppress dissent and silence the voices calling for change,” shesaid.Assuch,shecalled fortheestablishmentofclear standards to address cyberbullying, heckling at political meetings, stalking, doxing of candidates, and coordinated smear campaigns, particularly thosetargetingwomen.“The WIN party believes that democracy cannot thrive in fear We do not seek special treatment.Wedemandequal protection. We do not want s i l e n c e . We w a n t accountability,” she declared.

In response, PPP representative and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha expressed disappointment over WIN's accusations. He emphasised that such behavior violates

ongoing works on a street in the Mayor and Town Council Scheme, New Amsterdam

the very code being signed.

“Itwasveryunfortunatethat weareheresigningacodeof conduct and we heard a representative of a political party here accusing another party of a number of things

that never existed, ” Mustaphasaid.Hecautioned that continued baseless allegations could deepen division and disrespect the spiritofthecodeofconduct.

“Weshouldnever,ever,asa political party, try to divide this nation. We must never trytoimposeourwillortake awaypeople'sfreedoms,”he added. Mustapha urged all political parties to lead by example during the election period.“Asweapproachthe election campaign period, and we are in the midst of thiscampaign,itisvitalthat

political parties lead by example We must demonstrate through both our words and actions that democracy is stronger when itisinclusive,respectful,and guided by the principles of fairness, tolerance, and unity,”hesaid.Hereiterated thatthePPP/Cremainsfully committed to conducting a campaign that uplifts rather thandivides.

Political party leaders along with ERC representatives

More road works on Angoys Avenue

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Ali promises cheaper air travel to Mabaruma, new airstrip

People’s Progressive Party/Civic(PPP/C)Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali on Tuesday promised the residents of Mabaruma, Region One,improvedtransportation, investmentinagriculture,and better access to government servicesifhispartyiselected.

Addressingacrowdatthe party’s public meeting, Ali promised to address the challenges of connectivity in the region and committed to reducing the cost of travel to andfromMabaruma.

He said, “And yes we heard you about the cost of transportation, that’s why we are not only going to invest in roads and airstrips. We are going to invest in expanding the river transportation services.”

He added, “We are going to invest in reducing the cost of air service to your sub region,we’regoingtosubsidize transportationforourfarmers so that you can move your goods to the market in a cheaper and efficient way.”

Additionally,PresidentAli noted that his party is aware of the current state of the airstripwhichlimitstheservices airlines can provide and announced that a new airstrip will be built there. “That is why we have mandated MinisterColinCroalwithinthenext three months to find the land

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…urges residents not to sell their votes

so we can build a proper airstrip and we can bring in and take out as much load as possible here in Mabaruma,” he said.

Moreover, Ali also spoke of transforming Region One into a hub for cocoa and coffee cultivation, which he said willbebackedbyregionaland internationalpartnerships.He disclosed, “We are already bringing in a team from the Dominican Republic, from IICA[Inter-AmericanInstitute for Cooperation on Agriculture] and from Brazil to work sidebysidewithyou.Wewill puttheequipment,wewillput

theinvestment,wewillputthe resources so we can build the strongest coffee and cocoa industry.”

He also said that his party willensurethereismarketfor the products to reduce the burden on farmers.Additionally,healsohighlightedvalueadded investments including cold storage facilities, agroprocessing and a crab meat processing plant. The head0f-state spoke of enhancing productivity through cage farming of fish and crab and boosting livestock rearing.

In relation to forestry and mining, Alipledgedmoresup-

port to small miners, loggers and community forest organisations through increased concessions and better access to financing. He added, “You will get more grants,youwillgetmorecash transfers… you can be guaranteed once we are in office youwillgetmoreandmore…”

He committed to expanding electricity connections throughout the region and building mini-grids to ensure communities can enjoy 24hour electricity supply. He told residents that his party wants to ensure they own homes, farms, land and vehicles, and disclose plans to bring more government services including the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) closertothemtoeliminatethe need to travel to the city

Inclosing,Aliwarnedresidents not to trade their vote formoney.Hesaid,“Someone can’t turn up overnight and cometoyourcommunityand believe that they can pay you 50,000 for your vote, that is an insult because your vote representyourchildreninterest, it represents your family…”Heremindedthegatheringthatvotesrepresentdignity and warned that those whobelievevotesareforsale “are not worth your time or vote.”

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali during his address in Mabaruma on Tuesday

White House readies order to fine banks for dropping clients over politics: WSJ

(Wall Street Journal)

TheWhiteHouseisdrafting an executive order that would impose penalties on banks for dropping customers for political reasons, the Wall Street JournalreportedonMonday, August 4. Citing a draft of the order, the Journal said

regulators would be instructed to investigate whether any financial institutionsbreachtheEqual Credit Opportunity Act, antitrust laws or consumer financialprotectionlaws.

The order, which could be signed as early as this week, would authorise monetary penalties, consent decreesorotherdisciplinary measures against violators, theJournalreported.

Italsocallsonregulators to strike policies they have that might have contributed to banks dropping certain

customers, and requires the S m a l l B u s i n e s s Administrationtoreviewthe practices of banks that guarantee the agency’s loans, according to the report.

Th

W

declined to comment on the

report when contacted by Reuters.

US President Donald Trump in January said the chief executive officers of JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America did not provide

conservatives The two

banks denied making banking decisions based on politics.

The criticism of Wall Street banks followed a c c u s a t i o n s f r o m congressional Republicans and Republican-led states, who claimed the institutions were engaging in “woke capitalism” and unfairly cutting ties with gun manufacturers, fossil fuel companies a

d other businesses perceived to be aligned with the political r i g h t T h e Tr u m p administration is pursuing a broad reform agenda aimed atmodifyingrulesgoverning financial institutions, i

requirements, arguing that such action will boost economic growth and u

(Modified from REUTERS article)

ForwardGuyanaMovementlaunches ‘contractwiththepeople’manifesto

With less than a month before t h e September 1 general and regionalelections,thenewly formed Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), on Tuesday officially launched itsmanifestotitled“contract withthePeopleofGuyana.”

The launch took place during a press conference at the Brandsville Conference Room,locatedat88–90Pike

Street, Section “M” , Campbellville, Georgetown, making FGM the third party intheracetounveilitspolicy platform.

Presidential candidate Amanza Walton-Desir, described the manifesto as a moral obligation and a firm commitment to take action on behalf of all Guyanese. ‘The contract with the people’ is anchored on four central pillars the party believes will aid in national transformation.

The first pillar, ‘Empowering the People’, outlinesplansforexpanding land ownership, supporting small businesses, increasing access to skills training, and providing affordable housing, with specific focus on youth and women. The second pillar, ‘Tackling the Cost of Living’, proposes stricter price controls, targeted subsidies, and the implementationofanational food security agenda. The third area, ‘Fixing Governance’, includes measures to combat

corruption, enforce transparency,promotemeritbased hiring, and hold the President directly accountable to Parliament.

Lastly, the fourth pillar, ‘Building Unity and Deepening Democracy’, focusesonempoweringlocal government, funding community development, recognizing Indigenous rights, and fostering racial harmony

“We have effectively signed the contract with the peopletoaddressissuessuch as cost of living and the empowermentofourpeople, to build unity through enhancing our democracy andtoimprovethequalityof governance by waging war

and corruption and promoting transparency and accountability,” she said at thelaunch.

Walton-Desir explained that the document offers a broad vision for the country and sets the tone for where Forward Guyana sees Guyanaheading. Sheadded that the contract signing marks the beginning of a series of national engagements that the party will pursue as it builds momentum ahead of the elections.

Appealing to voters, Walton-Desir called on the electorate to vote with purpose and independence.

“On September 1, we ask of youthepeopleofGuyanato

Bids open for construction of Buxton Sideline Primary School

The Ministry of Education has received 21 bids for the construction of the Buxton Sideline Primary School, East CoastDemerara(ECD).

According to the bids received at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office,contractorssubmittedbidsbetween$441millionand $654millionfortheproject.

Theprojectfallsunderthe$36.2billionallocatedforthe constructionandrehabilitationofeducationfacilitiesacross thecountrythisyear

Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids: MinistryofEducation

ConstructionofBuxtonSidelinePrimarySchool.

voteforyourinterest,notfor traditionnotforrace,andnot for those who conspired to keep us here and to keep us poor,“sheurged.

Duringthequestion-andanswer segment of the press conference, Walton-Desir confirmed that the party’s campaign is fully underway, withrepresentativesactively engaging communities across the regions where FGM is contesting “We have entered this election to win,”shedeclared.

Shealsonotedthatinthe coming days, Forward Guyana will publish more detailed highlights from its manifesto to further inform the electorate of its vision andplans.

ConstructionofFence-SouthRuimveldtLibrary

UpgradingandremodelingofKitchenforCommercial FoodPreparation-CarnegieSchoolofHomeEconomics.

ElectricalInfrastructureHoustonNurserySchool.

US President Donald Trump

(From left to right) FGM candidate Dowain Bess, Presidential Candidate Amanza Walton-Desir and Prime Ministerial Candidate Nigel London.

Palestinians queue to receive a hot meal in the Gaza Strip.

[Abdalhkem Abu Riash/Anadolu]

Israeli attacks on Gaza kill over 80, starvation deaths mount

(AL-JAZEERA) Over 80 Palestinians, including 52 aid seekers, have been killed and 644 injured in Israeli attacks across Gaza in the past 24 hours, according to the enclave’s HealthMinistry

The count includes eight people – one child and seven adults – who starved to death in the past 24 hours, it said, raising the hunger-related death toll to 188, including 94 children.

Eight bodies were also recovered from the rubble of previous Israeli attacks, the ministry statement said on Telegram.

Israel’s war on Gaza has killed a total of 61,020 Palestinians and injured 150,671 since October 7, 2023, the ministryadded.

ThetotalnumberofaidseekerskilledsinceMay27,when Israel introduced a new aid distribution mechanism through the controversial GHF, has reached 1,568, with more than 11,230injured,thestatementsaid.Khadijaal-Rekeb,aKhan Younis resident, has described the aftermath of the Israeli strikethatkilledatthePalestinians,includingan11-year-old.

“Thosekilledherewerefromonefamily,”shesaid.“There werealsoinjuries–somanyinjuredchildrenandwomen.We didn’thearanythingotherthanthesoundoftheblast.Thatisit. Andtheshrapnelflewaroundus.Theytargetedchildren–they havenothingtodowithit.”

Thestrikehitagroupoftentsshelteringdisplacedpeople in southern Gaza, where residents could be seen sifting throughtherubbleforbelongings.

At least 52 Palestinians have been killed across the Gaza accordingtohospitalsources.Amongthedeadare28people whowereseekingaid.

Six people were killed and nine wounded near an aid distribution point on Salah al-Din Street south of the Wadi GazaareaafterIsraeliforcestargetedagatheringofcivilians, accordingtoal-AwdaHospitalinNuseirat.

Despite international calls for increased humanitarian access,Israelibombardmentcontinuesacrosstheenclave.

Severalpeoplehavebeenwoundedinasettlerattackinthe western area of Deir Ballut town, west of Salfit, in the occupiedWestBank.

Wafa news agency reported that a group of settlers attacked Palestinians in the area with pepper spray, causing burns to their faces and eyes. The central emergency room received 587 patients, while 632 people passed through the hospital’srapidtriagesystem

Hospitalofficialsreported512childrenweretreatedinthe paediatric emergency section. Another 195 patients were treatedinthehospital’soverflowtent,setuptohandleexcess demand. Medical staff said they are working under extreme pressure, with critical shortages of supplies, overcrowded wardsandlimitedaccesstospecialistcare.

Gaza’s Government Media Office has warned of an intensifying humanitarian catastrophe, accusing Israel of deliberately restricting aid and causing instability in the besieged territory Only 95 aid trucks entered Gaza on Monday,theofficesaidinastatement,farbelowtheminimum 600trucksperdayneededtomeetbasichumanitarianneeds, accordingtoUNRWA.

Thestatementsaidmostofthelimitedaidwaslooteddue to “security chaos being sowed by the Israeli occupation as part of a systematic policy of engineering chaos and starvation” “We condemn the continued systematic starvation, closure of crossings, and denial of aid entry, and hold the occupation and its allies fully responsible for the worsening humanitarian disaster affecting more than 2.4 millionpeople,”theofficesaid.

It also called on the international community to act urgently to reopen crossings and ensure the safe, sustained delivery of food, medicine and baby formula to civilians in Gaza.

Jiaram and Navin Meighbarran champions at Trophy Stall sponsored Emancipation Draughts Competition

A day filled with excitement, which was anticipated at the Transport Sports club, when the Trophy Stall sponsored EmancipationDayDraughts Competitionwasheld.There were two category matches; one on the 10x10 and the otheronthe8x8boards.

points Anthony Douglas trailedwith8pointstoclaim thefourthprize.

Wednesday August 06, 2025

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Bemoreoptimisticthanusual today It's important that your intense emotions don't bog youdown.Youmaylosesight ofimportantfacts.Maintaina healthy relationship between youandreality

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You may be in quite the party mode today, Taurus. Be open and social with the people aroundyou.Takeoffonawild adventure that quenches your thirstforspontaneityandfun.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Searching for the hidden meaning in things may be a waste of time. Go with the flow and have fun. The more you relax, the more relaxed peoplewillbearoundyou.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Your creative nature is at a peak today, Cancer, and the artistwithinyouistemptedto come out and play Indulge in a fantasy world that makes you happiest. Escapism may be a necessary element to the dayinordertobalanceallthe hardworkyou'vebeendoing.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

You'relikelytofeelaburstof energy encouraging you to engage with others in fun, creative projects, Leo. Join a group of musicians and rock the night away It's OK to spendagoodpartofthedayup theclouds.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Issues regarding love and romancearelikelytoimprove quiteabitoverthenextcouple weeks. The thing to be most concerned, is that you may takeanunrealisticapproachto currentrelationships.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

When it comes to situations regarding love and romance, it might not be a bad idea to lightenupabitnow.Youmight be taking things way too seriouslyinthisareaofyourlife

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)

This should be a fun day for you. You should enjoy a good mood and social times with others. Don't do anything that requires discipline or realistic thinking.Thisisabetterdayto simplyhavefunandrelax

SAGITTARIUS(Nov22–Dec21)

Takeanadventurousapproach, Sagittarius, especially when it comes to love and romance. Don'tgetmoodyordowninthe dumpswhenthingsdon'tseem tobegoingyourway

CAPRICORN(Dec22–Jan19)

Love is coming your way

You're likely to be more passionate than usual Be carefulthatyourenthusiasmfor theobjectofyourdesiredoesn't go overboard It's possible that youhaveanunrealisticviewof thesituation

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Thefastactionsofthedaymay confuse you, Aquarius. Don't besurprisedifyourheadisina whirl over recent events involving love and romance. You may feel as if things are happening too quickly for you toreallyunderstandthem.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Your dreamy nature is going to be sparked today and you may take an idealistic view of the world Eventhoughthecurrent situation isn't exactly how you view it, that doesn't mean you can't change the situation to makeitmorethewayyouwant

On the 8x8 boards, Jiaram made a clean sweep with 13 points over Aubrey Rowe 10 points to win that category Jiaram was undefeatedinallhismatches after winning 5 games and drew 3 as compared to his closest rival Aubrey Rowe whoalsowon5matchesand lost 3. Steve Bacchus and Navin Meighbarran both endedon9pointstotakethe third and fourth positions. All four players were awarded with trophies sponsored by Trophy Stall, BourdaMarket.

On the 10x10 boards Navin took a narrow edge over Jiaram to win that category, he ended on 13 points. Navin won 5 games and drew 3, while Jiaram also won 5 games, drew 2 and lost 1, Jiaram ended on 12 points. In the third place was Steve Bacchus with 10

All four players in that category were given prizes complimentsofGentleElias Attorney at Law and Transport Sports club Snacks and beverages were sponsored by M & M Snackette and Juice Power onMiddleStreet.GTWines also supplied wines to toast thepresentations.

The National Draughts Association would like to thankalltheparticipantsand Sponsorsoftheevent.

Players are reminded that notifications for the upcomingPanAmDraughts Tournament are out. The hostcountryisSurinameand its slated for April 2026. President of the National Draughts Association Mr Jiaram was advised by PresidentofthePAMDCCto allocateandtrainatleastone femaleandoneyouthplayer tobereadyfortheevent.

Any youth and female player who is interested to play this sport can contact Jiaram on 614 6671 or 618 4312.

From right to left: Jiaram, Rowe, Bacchus, Douglas and Navin.

2nd edition of Region 3 Ten/10 Softball Cup set for 24th & 31st August

Softball players across Region 3 and afar will once againhaveanopportunityto showcase their talent in the game as the 2nd edition of the annual “Region 3 Softball Cricket Cup” is slated for 24th and 31st Augustatthevariousvenues acrosstheregion.

The competition will be played for two weekends, week one will see teams battling to get into the regional playoffs, which is slatedforthe31statthesaid venue and will be a onegameknock-outformatwith roundarmandwristbowling being used in the tournament.

In the inaugural tournament in 2024, Hype Park Outlaw Softball Team of Parika walked away with the male championship, while the GCC Invaders Female Softball Team claimed the female championship, and both teams will be battling to retain their titles in the variouscategories.

The winning male team is guaranteed $200,000 and the female $100,000, and trophies, while cash incentives and trophies will be given to the runner-up teams, MVPs, players of the finals, best bowlers in an innings, most runs scored in

aninnings,andtrophieswill be awarded to the player of thematchineachgame.

According to the organisers,softballcricketis the grassroots of all cricket and gives young local talented players an opportunitytoshowcaseand or expose their skills in the game and help them to develop further into the game of cricket at various levels.

Softball cricket at the grassroots level not only allows local players to showcase their talents, but

also brings people together, no matter race, religion, status, political affiliations, etc.

Interested teams can register by sending their team’s name and captain’s number via WhatsApp to 726-1386 on or before 20th August.

According to the organisers, there will be lots of side attractions for the entire family, and they calling on all to support the tournament as it will be bringing people together throughsports.

Flashback picture of the inaugural winners in the Region 3 Softball Cup High Park Outlaw Softball Team of Parika.

PaulMahaicaheadsresurrected GuyanaLifesavingSociety

Paul Mahaica (Centre) along with other executives of the Guyana

National swim coach

Paul Mahaica has been elected president of the newly revived Guyana Lifesaving Society, followingtheconclusionofa First Aid and Lifeguard programmefacilitatedbythe Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport In what was described as a transparent process, Mahaica will be supported by Ewin Enmore andTrevonGillis,whowere elected as Vice Presidents, while Kenita Mahaica will serve as the association’s Secretary Ruritanya Bhudu wasnamedTreasurer

The Guyana Lifesaving Society is tasked with reducing water-related

injuries through education,

promoting safety in, on, and aroundwater

In July, a significant milestone was achieved in

lifesavingeffortsinGuyana, when more than 50 local lifeguards convened for a special meeting aimed at revitalizingtheorganization. This important initiative was supported by two

representatives from the C

Society, Tamera Wood and SarahNewton,whotraveled to Guyana to oversee and facilitate the First Aid and

Lifeguardprogramme.

n lifeguards, three examiners, 41 Emergency First Aid, 32 Bronze Medallion, and 28 Bronze Cross certifications were awarded through the C

Society

Director of Sport Steve N

revitalization of the Guyana Lifesaving Society and pledged full support to Mahaicaandhisteam.

Ninvalle noted that the NationalSportsCommission is pleased to see Mahaica at the helm and expressed optimism for collaborative effortsaimedatsafeguarding thecountry’swaterways.

Lifesaving Society

Exciting fixtures announced as Inter-ward Seven-a-side KO Football tourney set for Friday starts at Eve Leary

T

he long-overdue

DeputyMayor’sCupSevena-Side Inter-Ward/Village Football Championship is finally set to take center stage from August 8–20 at the Guyana Police Force SportsGroundinEveLeary. Thirty-two teams from Georgetown and various regions across the country will assemble for what promisestobeahigh-energy knockout tournament,

packed with thrilling m

rivalries.

Despitedelayscausedby therecentinclementweather pattern,theactionisnowset for Friday’s start after a change in the pattern of the elements.

Coordinator Lennox Arthurnoted,thattheplayers arerearingtogoandfanscan expectkeencompetition.

The participating teams

feature: Pele, Sophia, North Ruimveldt,Liliendaal,Road Warriors, Stabroek Ballers,

Taliban,WaleAllStars,Bent Street ‘B’, Beavers, Back Circle, Soesdyke, Police Football Team, Bell West

y, Paradise, Pouderoyen,

, Stabroek Ballers ‘B’, Albouystown, Espanyol, Timehri United, Gladiators,

Bent Street ‘B’, Timehri Panthers, and Back Circle ‘B’.

Friday’s kick-off has several exciting match-ups with eight thrilling 30minute matches starting from 6:00 p.m. Daniel Wilson, Jermaine Beckles and Richie Richards are

expectedtoturnoutfortheir respectiveteams.

On the playing schedule forFriday:PelefaceSophia, North Ruimveldt oppose Liliendaal, Road Warriors tackleStewartville,Stabroek

B a l l e r s c h a l l e n g e Campbellville, Taliban collide with Wales, Bent Street face off against Beavers, Back Circle play Eagles and Police battle BelleWestStarsinthenight cap. The action continues Saturday, August 9 at the same venue and time with Festival City starting things

Herstelling, Uitvlugt against Agricola, Mocha challenge

Stabroek Ballers B, Albouystown challenge Espanyol, Timehri United tackle Gladiators, Bent Street B throw down the gauntlet against Timehri PanthersandBackCircleare up against Soesdyke in the lastgameofthenight.

The respective winners then advance to action on Wednesday, August 13 and thefinalnightAugust20.

These teams are battling forashareof$1.5millionin cashandprizes. Thewinner will walk away with $500,000incash,alongwith a hamper, compliments of Ricks and Sari Enterprise.

The runner-up will collect $300,000, third place will receive $200,000, and the fourth-place team will secure $100,000, rounding out this year’s attractive prizepackages.

Guyana Police Force (GPF) Commissioner of Police (COP), Clifton Hicken, alongside several top-ranking officers, has thrown his full support behind the event. The Top COP Hicken has donated a brand-new motorcycle and trophy for the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Assistant Commissioner of Police Errol Watts has pledged a trophy for the Most Disciplined Team and Acting COP Ravindrauth Budhram will present the Top Goal Scorer with a specialtrophyandprize. Among some of the key supporters on the sponsorship list that adds to the success of the tournament are Ricks and Sari who has donated hampers for the top two teams, Busta has put up the trophies, Lennox Cush and Brian Tiwari are supplying lighting for the venue, Gafoor and Sons, Toolsie PersaudandSonsandENet.

Richie Richards

Daniel Wilson

Jackman, Wintz to feature on Saturday’s Pro-Am Card

Abiola Jackman and rising boxing star Terron Wintz will step into the ring this Saturday at the Cliff AndersonSportsHallaspart of the highly anticipated EltonDharry/RogerSaldana Pro-Amcard.

Wintz,whowasrecently crowned the Caribbean Champion and also secured the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) title last weekend in St Lucia, is set to face Justice JosephofStLuciainwhatis expected to be an exciting internationalbout.

Meanwhile, Abiola Jackman, Guyana’s most decorated elite female amateur boxer, will take on Trinidad and Tobago’s MerliciaDurham.

Jackman was unable to competeinStLuciaoverthe weekend after her opponent failedtoshowup,Saturday’s matchwillmarkherreturnto thering.

According to Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) President Steve Ninvalle, these matchups are part of a broader strategy to provide

Guyana’s top young boxers, both male and female, with consistent exposure to highlevel regional and internationalcompetition.

“We want to use every available opportunity to keep our boxers actively involved, and so far, we’ve seen bothAbiola andTerron perform exceptionally well on the regional and international stages,”

Ninvalle said “Their inclusion on this card reflects our commitment to sustained development and competitive readiness in the sport.”

Saturday’s Pro-Am card is being presented by Elton Dharry Promotions and NexGenGlobalPromotions, in association with the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) and the Ministry of Culture, Youth andSport.

Headliningtheeventisa much-anticipated 10-round clash for the Guyana Cruiserweight National Title, as internet sensation Laured Stewart squares off against James Moore in a

Guyana’s U-15 Boys Championship opening match postponed due to travel delays

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is informingthepublicthatthe opening match of the Guyana U15 Boys National Team at the 2025 Concacaf U15 Boys Championship has been postponed due tounforeseentravel delays.

Inarelease,

t h e G F F

announced, “The team’s

scheduled

Caribbean A i r l i n e s weekend flight

showdown expected to be a fierce display of power and endurance.

Guyanese boxing icon Elton Dharry continues his march toward a world title opportunity this October, as he takes on rugged PanamanianRogerSaldana.

A d d i n g f u r t h e r excitement to the night, international fan-favourite KeevinAllicockwillfacethe toughest test of his professional career when he takes on Colombia’s Omar Cuello, while veteran campaignerDexterMarques alsoreturnstoaction,taking on Colombian Sammy

Ramos.

Theevening’sactionwill kick off with a stacked amateur undercard, curated by the GBA, featuring some ofGuyana’sbrightestyoung talentsinthering.

Ninvalle confirmed that the amateur portion of the cardisdesignedtogivelocal boxers meaningfulexposure infrontofasupportivehome crowd.

The August 9th fight night is proudly sponsored a n d p r o m o t e d internationally by Pine Grove Inn, Long Island’s premier destination for fine steakandseafooddining.

Guyana’sopeningfixture. The Guyana vs Cuba matchwillnowbeplayedon Thursday, August 7 at 9:00 AM.

was significantly

delayed, causing the delegation to miss its connectingflightsenrouteto Aruba.Asaresult,Concacaf has officially rescheduled

Despite the setback, the players and staff remain focused and in high spirits theycontinue preparations to proudly represent Guyana on the international stage. The GFF e x t e n d s i t s appreciation to Concacaf and tournamentorganizersfor their understanding and swift coordination, and thanks the Guyanese public fortheircontinuedsupportof ournationalteams.

Terron Wintz will be in action on the upcoming card.

El Tarzan wins Kennard Memorial Turf Club Emancipation Feature Horserace

BySamuelWhyte

ElTarzanoftheSlingers

Racing Stables with Jockey Chavez on board showed thatitisfitandreadyforthe competition The animal displayedspeedandstamina asitcamefrombehindtowin the feature E2 and lower event at the Kennard

Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Emancipation MeetonSunday

It was a tight call for second and third between Stable mates of the Simple Royal Stable as Stormy Victory edged out Morning Colors.WildTexasTomwas tamedasitraninfourth.

El Tarzan took home the winning take of $500,000 andtrophy

The Emancipation horse race meet was full of action infrontofalargecrowd.

American Traveller with jockey Ramnarain in the stirrups was in control as it travelled all the way to win

the event for H Class and Lower horses. Outshining BlindingLightshadtosettle for second ahead of Sexy EyesandAmicableKate. For the win American Travelled came home with $400,000andtrophy

The three-year-old race wasakeenlycontestedaffair with I Will Have Another taking the top prize as it squeezedoutRuffTimewith Secret Traveller placing third.

It was a ‘nice time’ for Nice Time as it ran away with the Two-year-old Guyana-bred event as She’s a Dancer, Miracle Boy and Tik Tok rounded out the money

TheJclassmaidenevent wasanexcitingaffairasTop Ranking and Secret Silence battled to the line for a dead heat. Dr J came third and FireMakerfourth.

Heathland was ahead of thepackintheLClassOpen event as it beat out Money

Connections of American Traveller receives the trophy after the animal won the feature H class race.

Time,TrumpandBinLaden forthewin.

The event was well coordinated with the day’s races being held under the aegisoftheKMTC.

Colin Croft, John Holder, John Sheppard visit ailing former WI colleague Vanburn Holder

knowfriendshipsarespecial andwehavehisbackdespite hiscircumstances.Youmade his day, so thank you for reassuring Chris, “he’s not alone.”

A c c o r d i n g t o information on Cricinfo: Vanburn Holder was a fastmedium bowler in between two eras where West Indies cricket was dominated by

Former Guyana, Lancashire CCC & WI fast bowler Colin Croft, former Barbados, Hampshire CCC fast bowler & ICC Umpire

John Holder, and former Barbados, Kent CCC & WI All-rounder John Sheppard, went to visit former Barbados, Worcestershire CCC&WIfastbowler&1st ClassUmpire,and1975ICC CWC Winner, Vanburn Holder, who will be 80 in October of this year, at his hospice hospital, in Worcester,lastweek.

Croft, Holder and Sheppardhadbeenattending the excellent UK PCA Former Players Day at Worcestershire CCC, during the WCCC v Kent CCC countygame. According to Croft, “Vannie”asHolderisfondly called by his friends and playmates, has some undisclosed but very debilitating situations with

his legs, as it has been very difficult for him to actually getuptowalk.

The trio were picked up and driven to the hospice hospital by Vanburn Holder’swife,Chris.

Croft noted that, “Vannie” was in truly great spiritswiththevisit.

Many a good story passed during the at least 90 minutes visit, and “Vannie” certainly enjoyed the visit andvisitors.

Hopefully, Vanburn Holderwillstillbeabletoget upsoon,itwashoped.

John Shepard, expressed gratitude to Croft for initiatingthetriptoseetheir former colleague and informedthat,Holder’swife, “Chris,wasverytouchedby our visit, and I knowVannie was very overwhelmed by our presence. It was great to witness the connection between him and her, and I hopeitwasafilliptohimto

fast men Originally a change bowler to Charlie Griffith and Wes Hall, he relied on accuracy and determination and in 40 Tests took 109 wickets. He toured England in 1969with mediocre success - and again in 1973 when he was an integral part of the bowling attack as West Indies ended six-and-a-half

yearswithoutaserieswin.

In1973-74hehammered a career-best 122 for Barbados,andin1974wasa key part of Worcestershire’s Championship-winning side.In1974-75hetook6for 39inthefinalTestinIndiato wrap up another series win, but as the West Indies new youngfastbowlersemerged, heslippedoutofthepicture.

He returned when many of them joined World Series Cricket,andin1977-78took 6 for 28, his Test-best, againstAustraliainTrinidad. Thatwonhimaplaceonthe tour of India in 1978-79 but he did little of note and retired shortly afterwards. He was appointed as a firstclass umpire in England in 1992.

Colin Croft (centre) with John Holder and John Sheppard during their visit to Vanburn Holder.

Vanburn Holder

Abiola Jackman (blue) will be one of the star