“Itwasn’tme,itwasAI” Man who threatens ex tells Police,
An alleged abuser is currentlyontherunafterhis wife publicly revealed her ordeal and reported the mattertopolice.
Joanna Ramoutar, a mother of two, shared her harrowing story on her FacebookpageonThursday, detailing six years of abuse at the hands of her husband and seeking help and protection after escaping fromherabusivehome.
Speaking with Kaieteur
News on Thursday, Commander of Region 6, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus,
confirmed that an investigation was launched. “We are investigating the report, the victim gave a statement. We are looking for the suspect; he's on the run.”
Bacchus also stated that Ramoutar was taken to the News Amsterdam Hospital for medical treatment and a medical examination followingherreport.
She explained that she
had endured this violence in silenceforyears,fearingfor her life: “Out of fear for my life, I kept it hidden from everyone: my family, my friends, until last weekend, when my family finally helpedmeescape.Withtheir
support, I left the home I shared with my abuser, takingmytwochildrenwith me, and filed a police report.”
Recalling the beginning ofherordeal,Ramoutarsaid, “In October 2018, I began a
relationship with him. By March 2019, the abuse started. It began with slaps and then escalated to brutal, life-threateningviolence.He kicked me in the stomach, stomped on my head, and beatmerepeatedly Overthe
years, the violence only worsened.”
She also recounted a recent attempt to leave the relationship that culminated in violence. “Last Friday, after I told him I wanted to leave, he attacked me
again—thistimewithaknife and a cutlass. My body is now covered in scars and bruises. He even pulled a knife on our two-year-old sonandthreatenedtopoison andkillallofus,”Ramoutar (Continuedonpage22)
E a c h m o n t h ,
ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), the operatorofGuyana'soil-rich StabroekBlocktakes75%of the production to recover its investments. This processknown as cost recoveryensures that the company and its partners recoup the costs associated with installing the facilities to ensure safe production and smooth flow of the operations.
AlthoughGuyana'soilis being used to repay the Stabroek Block partnersExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC- the assets paid for through cost recovery does not belong to the country. Thiswasrecentlymadeclear by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and later confirmed byEMGL.
During a media
engagement at the company's Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown office on June 3, Exxon's Business Services Manager, John Collings hinted that Guyana can only take ownership of the assets it is paying for when production activitiesarecompleted.
Collingssaid,“Underthe petroleum agreement, those assets are owned by
ExxonMobil Guyana
Limited but as you highlighted, there is cost recovery on those assets so once costs have been
recovered and those assets have produced as intended then under the petroleum agreement Guyana does have the ability to take ownershipofthoseassets.”
The ownership of assets beingpaidforwithGuyana's oilhavesparkeddebatesince Exxon signaled its intent to sell its local resources to meetfinancialobligationsin the event of an oil spill disaster With the country lackinganunlimitedoilspill guarantee from the parent company, Exxon has said it can sell the assets here to take care of costs relating to cleanup and compensation. It is however argued that these assets cannot be sold by the company, since they are being paid for by the state. It would therefore mean that Guyana would be forced to handle the bill relatedtosuchadisaster
By the end of January 2025, it was reported that Guyana already paid Exxon U S $ 3 3 9 B f o r i t s investments in the Stabroek Block In the meantime, ExxonMobil said it has invested or is committed to invest about US$54B on the six projects, sanctioned to date.
It was reported that Guyana's financial protection in the event of an oilspillincludesaUS$600M insurance (per event), and a US$2B affiliate company
guarantee. As highlighted earlier,Exxonalsoexplained that it could sell the assets beingpaidforwithGuyana's oil,tohelpthecompanytake care of its financial obligationsinthisregard.
Even as the debate continues over the rightful owners of these assets, stakeholders argue that the oil spill coverage is grossly insufficient, considering the s cale of Exxon's local operations and its likely impact on 14 Caribbean islands.
EMGLBusinessServices Manager, John Collings
Government has since passedlegislationtoaddress oilspillswhichlawyersboth locally and across the Caribbean have raised
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PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana
Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456
Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
Gold is springing out of the ground in Guyana's rich hinterlands. Foreign investors have to be filled with anticipation of huge gold haul, and huge profits, from Guyana gold production. Once world market prices hold, they are in for sweetly profitable years. Guyanese always hadthesensethatmassiveamountsofthepreciousmineral arehouseddeepinthebowelsofinteriorareas.
OtherthanforafewbigstrikesbyahandfulofGuyanese miners, the bonanzas have eluded local hands. It's a differentstoryfortheforeigncompaniesthatscourtherich interior soil, from creeks down into the sinews of mountains, to the goldfields on land. Their chief spokespeople speak with high excitement of estimated yields and the multimillion-dollar paydays now almost guaranteed. The question that we at this paper ask is that, amid the flurry of breathless news, what is in these gold discoveriesforthisnation.
Considerthenames,andtheyarearollcallofCanadians beside themselves with joy over their Guyana's prospects. GMiningVenturesCorp,ReunionGold,OmaiGold,Gold PortCorporation,GreenheartGoldCorporationand,Mako Mining.
All have extensive operations in the heart of Guyana's gold belt. The Chinese company, Zijin also is very much present in local gold exploration and production. Now considerafewoftheprojectsthatholdspectacularpromise. G Mining's Oko West project in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni)hasanestimated4.5millionouncesofmetal,and overa12-yearproductionlifespan.
From the Wenot operations, also in the mineral rich Region Seven, Omai is expecting 4.3 million ounces of metal. Meanwhile,GoldPortCorporation,thesoleowner of the Groete Gold Copper Project estimates an inferred mineral resource of 1.57 million ounces of gold-copperequivalent. In each of the three projects, estimates of millionsofouncesofgoldhavebeenannounced,whichhas to peak the interests of other investors and corporate executivesintheglobalgoldcommunity
The harvesting (startup production) of these national richesbytheforeigncompaniesissettobroadcastGuyana's placeonthegoldmap. Inotherwords,Guyanaistheplace for gold investors to be. The gold is here in copious quantities,goldpricesareatrecord-breakinglevels,andstill climbing, and inflation worries are a concern for many Thus, Guyana has to rank among the best gold plays anywhere.
Local officials and foreign executives working in the sector pride themselves in speaking about the ease of obtaining permits and licenses. This only adds to the attractionofGuyanaasagolddestinationtoprioritize. We think that the government has been more generous than usual in the partnerships that it has fostered with foreign goldcompanies,throughitsreadinesstoclearobstaclesout oftheway
WherewebegintoseparatefromthePPPCGovernment centersaroundtheissueofhowmuchGuyanaisgettingin return for the thousands of hectares of land awarded. The smoothness of the review and approval processes for coveted new land parcels for prospecting purposes, must countasafactorinhelpingGuyanarakeinsizableamounts ofroyaltiesandtaxrevenues. So,whatisGuyanagetting,or settoget,fromthehead-spinningprojectionsofmillionsof ouncesofgold?
Amidalltheeye-poppingestimatesandannouncements from different foreign gold companies' operations in Guyana's goldfields, why is it that the Guyana side of the ledgerisnotascrystalclearasitshouldbe. Wethinkthat fair deals, contracts that represent good deals, for Guyana belong in the public domain. Guyanese should see what theyaregettingfortheirgold. Thetermsandconditionsof thesecontractsoughttobeeasilyaccessibletoallGuyanese, andtheyshouldberich.
DearEditor, A letter to the Editor published in the name of Christopher Ram requires a responseprincipallybecause it is much more than superficial rantings being flung in a preposterous manner to the Office of the President.
Looked at from another angle, the contents of Ram's letter should serve to open the eyes of those still slumbering away in a hypnotic chant wherein the Office of the President is demonized instead of being respected.
With elections season upon us, the barbs are now being shared amongst PPP haters and Opposition elements.Thisisnaturaland to be expected at this time. Mypointis,thebarbsshould notbebrushedaside.
W h a t M r R a m conveniently ignored in his letter were the election promises made by the PPP/C,inits2020manifesto, having been kept by dint of hard work and collaboration between government, the private sector and the international donor community A vision based o n d e v e l o p m e n t , cooperation and peace were the underpinnings of its manifesto.
Inhisletter,Ramchoseto reciteaslewofgrouseswith the aim of negativizing the
transformative efforts of the Irfaan Ali administration between2020-2025.
From the thrust of his letter, Ram chose to go the GeorgeSorosway;“Tobring downacountry'fromwithin' without firing a shot in the darkness.”
To accomplish his notorious objective, Ram knowshecannotdoitalone, thus,hehaspickedaside;the contents of his letter clearly puthimsquarelyintheranks of those who engage in the twisted urgings that; 'Ali oughtnottobere-elected.'
To justify his call for what is tantamount to an anti-Alicampaign,Ramlists several repackaged and recycled matters anyone can readaboutonadailybasisin mainstream media He totally ignored the fact that e v e r y o n e o f h i s regurgitations have been dealt with over and over again either by the PPP's General Secretary or the Presidenthimself.
It's either Ram opted not to listen to nor to read what Jagdeo or Ali said when questioned about those issues.
The General Secretary's andthePresident'sresponses are usually reported as headlinenews,innewspaper editorials or in letters to the editor;apparently,theywere not to the satisfaction of Mr Ram, as a consequence, he
chosetodroolovertheissues he chose to write about as if stirring a pot filled with loathsomeingredients.
As far as Ram is concerned, the only way to 'save Guyana' is to 'extricate ourselves' from the PPP/C administration and to wean the country off the 2016 oil agreement. A public debate on the latter, plus Ram's weekly column on the vagaries of the oil sector is either insufficient or has not gainedtraction,thustheneed forhimtokeepatit.
In essence, what we got inRam'sletterwasrepetitive whining meant mainly for electoral agitation and propagandapurposes.
Mr Ram completely ignoredthefactthatGuyana is a perfect example of economic growth, not destruction as he claims. Inflationremainssubduedat 2.9 percent, while poverty was reported to have declined significantly from where it was in 2006 to where it is today due to increased social transfers (World Bank) Moreover, debt will and continue to be within affordable and manageableproportions.
Ram wants us to believe his 'facts' and that he is tellingusthetruth,butifwe agree that practice is the criterion of truth no matter how brutal and fiendish his claims may be, a legacy can
only be built on truth. Thus, whenself-esteemiscrushed, those of us who hold 'truths tobeself-evident',intheend, acclamation instead of condemnationwillprevail.
Guyanaisanexemplarof goodnotperfectgovernance and it certainly does not exude a pariah image internationally The country certainly has marshaled alliesinitslongandarduous battle and diplomatic reach to keep Mother Guyana safe fromterritorialpredators.
The quest of Mr Ram to not re-elect the PPP/C, is built not on the 'joy that cometh in the morning' but on distress. And even under those conditions, I ask Christopher Ram to bear in mind Tom Paine's; 'The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress,andgrowsbraveby reflection...' Our democracy embraces inclusiveness, the hopes and aspiration for all Guyanese. We should hold fervently to the belief that Guyanalikearisingtidewill liftallboats,notonlyone.
Inthiselectionseason,as the attacks multiply, as the winds of opposition despair and clouds of hopelessness aboutafreeandfairelections drift by, and doubts of a brightfuturegather,letusbe 'firmus in unda' (firm amid thewaves).
Yoursfaithfully, ClementJ.Rohee
DearEditor,
TheGuyanaPoliceForce (GPF) should urgently reexamine its approach to the clamping of vehicle tyres. After reviewing the relevant traffic laws, I have found no provision that explicitly authorizes this practice. If I have overloo
regulation,Iwouldwelcome clarification, along with reference to the relevant legalprovision. In the absence of such a law,theGuyanaPoliceForce hasalsofailedtoundertakea nationwidepublicawareness campaign on parking
regulations and the legality ofvehicleclamping.Without a transparent, informed approach,Guyanesecitizens will continue to suffer unnecessary inconvenience; particularly if the Force persistswithanunclearorad hocstrategy Letmebeclear; I do not condone illegal parking, which is indeed a violationoftrafficlaws.
However, as a regular road user, I can attest that traffic congestion in and around Georgetown has worsened significantly, and parkinghasbecomeanevergrowing challenge. It is my view that the relevant
Guyanaisgettingjobs,mainlylowertierones. Guyana is getting royalties and taxes, but those should be much higherthanoldlevels. Guyanaisprovidingdifferentlayers ofservices(security,customs),andthosearecostly Withall the concessions given, land approved, bureaucratic tape reduced,Guyanamustgetmore. Isitso? Ifitwereso,the governmentwouldhavepublishedthattosellitsleadership strength. Only when Guyanese see and know the terms/detailswillbelieffollow
authorities have done little if anything to meaningfully address this longstanding issue Years
ago, the Georgetown Municipality proposed several parking initiatives that could have generated revenueandimprovedtraffic flow Unfortunately, those proposals were rejected by Central Government, and in somecasestakenastheirs.
Toillustratetheproblem, oneneedsonlytoobservethe situation on Regent Street, one of Georgetown's main commercialcorridors.While there are designated bus parksandspacesforhirecars aroundBourdaMarket,other areas are marked as “No Parking” zones. Yet some businesses have taken it upon themselves to use collapsible barriers and improvised materials to reserve public spaces for private use, an unfair and unlawfulpractice.Itisworth questioning whether these
businesses have obtained official permission from the City Council and are paying the requisite fees. It seems evident that many are not prioritizing customer accessibility or complying withmunicipalregulations.
To its credit, Bounty Supermarket is among the fewbusinessesalongRegent Streetthatprovidestructured parkingforitspatrons.
As someone who grew up in the close-knit Bourda community, I fondly remember playing with my siblings along Merriman's Mall. Today, the stretch between Light and Albert Streets has effectively been converted into a private parking area serving a large commercialentityonChurch Street.Thistransformationis emblematic of a broader trend in Georgetown, where former residential zones are b
commercialandindustrial (Continueonpage5)
DearEditor,
Given the emergence of political movements such as the “Vigilent” Political Action Committee (VPAC), theAssemblyforLibertyand Prosperity (ALP) and the People's Movement (TNM) among others, that are passionate about disbanding the tentacles of racism and oppression in Guyana, it is important for both the People's National Congress Reform (PNC/R) and the AllianceForChange(AFC), as well as all the other opposition alliances of A Partnership for National Unity, to remain committed tothiscause.
Many Guyanese are currently living under a despotic society where respect for our laws is being undermined.
Press freedom on the other hand is intensely politicised and targeted, especially against those few independent media outlets thatareextremelycriticalof the government and are known for exposing the veracity of corruption and malpractices.
Moreover, there have been alarming incidents of brutalisation and murder
committed by law enforcement against civilians.
Recently, 29-year-old R o n d e l C l a r k e , a construction worker of Foulis, East Coast Demerara, was a victim of such an ordeal and his friends, family and those dearest to him are left to mournhisdeath.
Letusnotforget11-yearold Adriana Younge, who was found dead at a hotel's pool. No one has been held accountable even as her family demands a commission of inquiry into herdeath.
Thecountryisfacedwith so many injustices and societal ills, and the Opposition must remain focused and divert their attention towards regaining the confidence and trust of the electorate While the attentionmaybetowardsthe development of manifestos and working towards the
dethronement of the ruling PPP/C, the Opposition must not forget its commitment andleadershiptoitspeople.
Itisnotabouthowmany votes the PNCR, AFC and other like-minded opposition factions can attain at this year's General and Regional Elections, but itisaboutbearingtheinterest of its citizenry, and that begins with unity and harmony
Opposition Member of ParliamentAmanza WaltonDesir on Wednesday urged the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and AllianceForChange(AFC), to reach an agreement for a coalition ahead of the upcoming elections in September
TalksbetweentheAPNU andAFCcametoanendover the past few months, and political leaders from both sides have publicly traded blame for their failure to reachanagreement. Walton-Desir, in a statement, reminded both sides that the majority of their supporters, including
herself,aredeeplyfrustrated and fed up with the ongoing negotiations between the coalitionpartners.
While she isn't directly involved in these engagements between the two political alliances, the Opposition Member of Parliament has been advocating and upping the anteforbothAPNU&AFC, to unite and develop a proposal that both their supportersandthepeopleof Guyana can have a sense of confidenceandpridein.
Regrettably, six months later,boththeAPNU&AFC have not brokered an agreement, but instead have appeared more divergent than ever According to Walton-Desir, the Opposition in its current form is failing the people who are looking to them for leadership because they are feeding them a diet of division and public bickering that is draining theirhopeandtrust.
“We are failing the peoplewhobelieveinus,all the while enabling a corrupt
Frompage4 development, often in violationofzoninglawsand without adequate urban planning.
Large commercial structures are rising across thecitywithlittleregardfor the negative impact on surrounding residential neighbourhoods.
Residents are left to contend with worsening congestion, increased noise levels, and blocked driveways, while the authorities appear indifferent.Iencourageyour media team to conduct site visitstoDuncanStreet,First and Fifth Streets in Alberttown, and sections of RobbandAlbertStreets,the issuesareglaringlyobvious.
Development is necessary and welcome, but it must not come at the expense of the poor and vulnerable.
a n d i n c o m p e t e n t government that is running unchecked. The future will not forgive us, history will not absolve us. It is time we all wake up and realize that leadership means actually putting people first”, the Member of Parliament admonished.
Sharingsimilarconcerns was Member of Parliament and AFC Member Juretha Fernandes, who distanced herself from her party's position for there to be a consensus presidential candidateforthecoalition.
Fernandes said that at thisjunctureinthelead-upto electionswhichareslatedfor September 1, 2025, it is important for there to be leadershipforthepeopleand leadership that understands theplightofthepeople.
In her Facebook post on Wednesday, she posited that it is not a moment to “be hijacked by any group that perceives itself to be better than the political leaders whohavestayedthecourse”.
Nigel Hughes, whom I hold in high esteem to arrive at a consensus regarding the presidential candidate and ratio of parliamentary representation,encourageall members of both political organisations to respect whatever decisions were made,andputasideegoand power consumption, as this willnotleadtovictoryatthe 2025polls.
Our leaders must be reminded that our young people are observers, and theymustsetagreatexample for us to follow, as our citizens can no longer exist in a society where racism, v i c t i m i s a t i o n , totalitarianism and lawlessnessarepervasive.
Itisimportanttonotethat my statements and opinions are premised on neutrality andgraveconcernregarding the glaring divergence between the two political alliances. I have not stated mypoliticalallegianceasit's unimportantatthisjuncture.
Many of these newly established businesses lack properparkingfacilities,and theiroperationsoftenrestrict access to residents' homes. Thisisnotsustainable. There is an urgent need foracomprehensiveanalysis of the parking crisis in Georgetown, followed by collaborative, long-term s o l u t i o n s S o m e underutilized public spaces, s u c h a s a r e a s o f Independence Park, Durban Park, and sections adjacent to major drains, could be transformed into structured parking zones using collapsible covers and organizedsystems. These could serve as pilotprojects.
Any such initiative should include adequate security, numbering, and accountability mechanisms toensuretransparency Irecallthatunderformer Mayor Hamilton Green, a parking initiative was
introduced on East Street between Middle and New Market Streets. Though it faced initial resistance, it was a step in the right direction.
BeforeIconclude,Imust also raise an issue that has become increasingly prevalent over the past five years;theuseofunregistered vehicles Many such vehiclesoperatelateintothe night using unauthorized or missing trade plates, posing a serious danger to other roadusers.
Alarmingly, police officers often stand by without taking appropriate action. Just a few days ago on Durban Street, I witnessed police stopping a vehicle that was both unregistered and without a tradeplate.Afteraphonecall wasmadeandhandedtothe officer, the vehicle was allowed to go on its way When will this culture of
impunityend?
In conclusion, I submit thatournationalapproachto governance, especially in urban planning and enforcement,mustchangeif we are to truly position Guyana as a developed and model nation in the Caribbean.
Many smaller nations have implemented effective systems that their citizens follow Why can't we? Especially now that we are anoil-producingcountry,the time for meaningful reform isnow
I sincerely hope the relevant authorities take theseconcernsseriouslyand begin to address the bigger picture, rather than relying on fragmented and reactive policies.Wecanandmustdo better!
God bless our dear land ofGuyana.
Yourssincerely, AnnetteFerguson,MP
Like Walton-Desir and Fernandes, others are displeased with the infighting and nonconsensus between the two parties, and both leaders must take this into consideration.
Napoleon Bonaparte, a former French general and statesman, once said: “The inevitable end of multiple chiefs is that they fade and disappearforlackofunity”. It is imperative for both leaders, Aubrey Norton and
As an aspiring attorneyat-lawandayoungmanwho hasapenchantforyouthand nationaldevelopment,Iurge our leaders to unite, as their decisions will determine who will govern us in the nextfiveyears,forGuyanese deserve betterment and this only result if both leaders place servitude and nationhood above ego and self-interests.
For the ball remains in yourcourt,playwisely.
Regards, AntonioDey
DearEditor, In 2020, the PPPwanted an African Guyanese to fill their prime ministerial role. They knew the value, worth andintegrityofDr Terrence Campbell. They knew how honest he was and respected his relationship with IndoGuyanese and the people of Guyana.
The PPP knew that Campbell'srelationshipwith AfricanGuyanesewouldput them in good stead. It was clear to the PPP that Campbell was not only a unifying figure but also an altruistic, kind and genuine Guyanese filled with humility They wanted a people'sperson,asuccessful manandabrilliantmanager
ThePPPreachedoutand Dr Campbell politely declined the prime ministerial candidate role. He could not, in principle, supportaregimeofmenand women who were corrupted and steeped in division. He respected, too much, all the people of Guyana and decided to reject the second
most powerful position in Government.
Dr Campbell is an enigmatic man In his presence, one senses not a complex person but a pure one. He puts you at ease instantly His personal achievementsinbusinessare testimony to a young man who came from nothing but with discipline and purpose attained unimaginable success.
Dr Terrence Campbell said,NO tothePPPbutsaid YES to a broad coalition barring not a single ethnic group.Wemustnotsaynoto him There is nothing stopping an outright win in September with Dr Campbell heading the coalition Nigel Hughes knows that and can publicly say that Aubrey Norton knows that too. Dr Simona Broomes knows it. We all knowit.
What Campbell will bring to the coalition is not only energy that will fuel a feverish campaign with no limitations. He brings hope
for the unity we all need to confront and defeat the PPP Amanza Walton will not refuse to support a coalition withDr Campbellleadingit and Dr Campbell will not refuse to support a coalition with Walton Desir in the lead.
I have spent a lifetime fighting for the liberation of Guyana and I love my country unconditionally Youcancriticisemeonmany of my views and how I sometimes relate but you knowwheremyheartis.
Finally, anyone chosen from within the APNU or AFC to lead will still see disagreements between the two parties. There will be quietdissatisfactionandthat can affect the fervour and energy needed over the next threemonths.
The PPP is praying for Dr Campbellnot to lead the coalition into the elections. AskPresidentAliwhy?
Sincerely
NormanBrowne Social and Political Activist
The position of both the government and opposition in resisting renegotiation of the lopsided ExxonMobil contract confirms the fact that patriotism has beaten a hasty retreat before the commercialism, tribalism, opportunism, and vandalism that have all become nothing but central features of our oil wealth. In today's circumstances, there is no consideration, no space for the type of oil nationalism that would benefit immensely the citizens of this country. We again urge that this oil bonanza must cease from being this one-sided, feet-upward, face-downward deal that condemns this nation to a destiny of continued chronic poverty for the many.
We cannot continue to be satisfied with being among the richest people on earth on paper. We must not become complacent and be misled about potentially having the highest GDP in the world, according to projections of experts.
We have to put a stop to paying our fair share of taxes, while Exxon and its partners are the beneficiaries of massive tax exemptions that burden us further
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has clarified that the healthcare workers his government is looking to recruitwillnotbeconfinedto justCuba.
He also said that government will ensure the recruitment process meets therequirementsrecentlyset out by the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.
The Vice President was asked on Thursday at his weekly press conference by the media if Cuban workers wouldberecruitedaspartof government's efforts to source staff for the new hospitals from overseas Jagdeotoldreporters,“We're recruiting people from around the world, not
confined to Cuba, but we're working to ensure that the people who come here, that they meet the definition because of what the US Secretary of State mentioned, and the conditionsofworkheredon't runafouloftherequirements set by the United States of America…”
He confirmed that the
recruitment will be done worldwide,andtherewillbe personsfromothercountries a p a r t f r o m C u b a Additionally, government is also looking to get more Guyanese to work in the hospitals as well, hence the expansion in training programmes.
On February 25, 2025, the United States DepartmentofState,through Rubio, announced that there will be an expansion of the visa restriction policy for persons exploiting Cuban labour Rubio said, “Today, we announce the expansion of an existing Cuba-related visa restriction policy that targets labour linked to the Cuban labour export program.
This expanded policy
applies to current or former Cuban government officials and other individuals, i n c l u d i n g f o r e i g n government officials, who are believed to be responsible for, or involved in, the Cuban labour export program, particularly Cuba's overseas medical missions. Thispolicyalsoappliestothe immediate family of such persons.TheDepartmenthas alreadytakenstepstoimpose visa restrictions on several individuals, including Venezuelans, under this expandedpolicy.”
Further, the Secretary of State said that Cuba profits fromthe“forcedlabourofits workers, and the regime's abusive and coercive labour practices are well documented ” “Cuba's
Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo
labour export programs, which include the medical missions, enrich the Cuban regime, and in the case of Cuba's overseas medical missions, deprive ordinary Cubans of the medical care theydesperatelyneedintheir home country The United States is committed to countering forced labour practices around the globe. To do so, we must promote accountability not just for Cuban officials responsible for these policies, but also those complicit in the exploitation and forced labourofCubanworkers.”
Politics,itwasoncesaid, istheartofthepossible.But inGuyana,itisoftenadrama of the improbable: a parade
o f m i s a l l i a n c e s , miscalculations, and megalomania, performed beforeapopulationtoojaded to believe, too weary to resist Thus, the latest installment in the saga presents itself an aging sidekicknowabandoned,its cape torn and its mask askew,standingaloneonthe edgeofthe2025generaland regional elections The AllianceForChange(AFC), oncetheshimmeringhopeof amiddleclasstiredofracial arithmetic,nowfindsitselfa disheveled actor denied a script, a stage, and an audience.
The AFC, let us recall, was not always a tragic figure. In 2015, it managed to negotiate, under the much-fêted Cummingsburg Accord,alion’sshareofthe ministerial pie—40%, to be exact. This was not without controversy The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), seasoned practitioners of power politics, grumbled that the AFC, with what the PNCR believed to be less than 8% of the vote, had secured too muchofthebanquet.
But therein lies the rub: without that 8%, or perhaps l e s s , t h e Coalition—APNU+AFC,an acronym masquerading as unity would have remained in the political wilderness. The PNCR, in their eternal conviction that arithmetic should serve
ambitionandnotviceversa, misjudged the limits of gluttony
The divorce began with the PNCR’s decision to go solo in the 2018 local government elections, casting the AFC adrift like some unwanted appendage.
Apowerplay,yes,butalsoa harbinger of a deeper betrayal The PNCR believed, perhaps rightly, thattheAFChadsecuredtoo much of the spoils. It was under pressure from its supporters to right-size the AFC’s share of the spoils of
office The PNCR
supporters, seeking positions of influence, wanted to downsize the AFC.
Thegambitemployedby thePNCRwassimple:prove the AFC electorally feeble andusetheresultsasExhibit A in the case against any futureclaimstothepositions within government The AFC was forced to go into the 2018 local government elections alone. And like a moth to the flame of relevance, flailed through thoseelectionsandcameout burnt.
But power has its own logicanditsownkarma.The distrust sewn in that unilateral act by the PNCR wasnotaminortear—itwas a fault line that ran right through the 2020 general elections.The Coalition lost narrowly, and it is the memory of the AFC’s complicity in that botched attemptatelectoralalchemy that remains. The AFC did not merely stand by as
democracywaskneecapped; it attempted to wear the stainedrobesofvictory,asif legitimacywerejustanother ministerial portfolio to be distributed The stain remains, indelible and damning.
Now, the AFC faces its own electoral baptism by fire.Alone,forthefirsttime in general and regional election, since 2011, it must answer the question it has long evaded: does it exist as apoliticalforceindependent ofcoalitionarithmetic?Will it garner 2% or 8%? Or, to putitmorepoetically,hasthe party that once claimed to bridge the chasm between Guyana’s racial poles becomeafootnotetoitsown preamble?
This is more than a matterofvotepercentages;it is a question of political anthropology TheAFCwas, atitsconception,avesselfor middle-class aspiration a promise that the republic could be governed by ideas ratherthanrace,byintegrity ratherthaninheritance.That it chose, in the end, to be a junior partner in realpolitik is no surprise. Idealists in politics are like pianists in a hurricane: one never doubts their talent, only their timing. The party’s most damning crime was not its a m b i t i o n , b u t i t s abandonmentofpurpose.
To be clear, the PNCR’s greed its refusal to acknowledge that its path to State House ran through the bridge called AFC—is no lessculpable.Intheirhunger for power and disdain for
Long time ago, Guyana had a boxing gym name The Republicans.Demboyssehdeh wasn’t just punching bag and skipping rope—demhadseriousfighters.Butifyuh tellsomebodynowdatdeRepublicanswas a gym, dem might seh, “Oh! Is a new politicalpartyforminginjail?”
Because nowadays, people hollering dat prisoners got rights. Dem seh dem got derighttovote.Demboyssehifyougotde right to vote, then what stop yuh from havingderighttorunfuhPresidenttoo?
OnemansehifamanlockupinCamp Street, he should still be able to pick de President.Anothermanwhisper,“Well,leh herunfuhdepositiontoo.”Butholdon!De same law seh if yuh get convict and serve time, yuh can’t sit in parliament. So wait—yuh could pick who gon sit down, butyuhcan’tsitdownyuhself?
That’s like telling a man he could buy de rum, but he can’t drink it or telling a woman she could bake de cassava bread butcan’ttasteit.
partnership, they ensured that what began as coalition endedindissolution.Butthe AFC’s failure to resist, its eagerness to play the handmaidinthemasquerade of 2020, robbed it of the moral high ground it once claimed The electorate noticed. And the electorate, intime,remembers.
So here we are: 2025 looms, and the AFC must now stand naked before the voters, without the camouflage of coalition, without the leverage of kingmaker status. This is its moment of truth—not the
scripted truths of press releases or Facebook Live monologues, but the hard, unblinking truth of ballots andpublicmemory IftheAFCfailstobreach even the modest 8% barrier, it will not merely be an electoraldefeat.Itwillbean obituary The professional classes the party’s traditional base may finally signal that they have moved on, unwilling to mortgage their ideals for a party that pawned its integrity
Butpolitics,liketragedy, loves a comeback The
questioniswhethertheAFC, now humbled and cornered, hasthecouragetorediscover its founding soul If it cannot,then2025willnotbe its Waterloo. It will be its unmarkedgrave.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
Demboyssehitgettinrealconfusing.If amaninjailcouldvote,andhecouldforma political party maybe call it The Incarcerated Alliance—what gon happen when he win a seat? He gon zoom in to parliamentfromcellblockC?
And if de President come from jail, de inauguration gon happen behind bars? De oathgonread:“Isolemnlysweartouphold de law, even though I breaching it last week?”
Demboyssehthisismadness.Onefoot in de prison, de other in de parliament. Is eitheryuhinoryuhout—nothalfwaywith onefootindemanholeandtheotheronthe redcarpet.
ButknowingGuyana,don’tbesurprise ifnextelectiongotcampaignpostersinside TimehrijailandhustingsinLusignanlockups.
Dem boys seh if jailbirds voting, de next thing yuh gon hear is cell-to-cell canvassingwithmanifestoinonehandand mosquitonetintheother! Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
I am caught between thanking Pres Bharrat Jagdeo or congratulating Guyana's combination of Houdini,Bernie,andDonny The second gained Wall Street recognition of a kind; the latter started in the Big Apple, elevated to the Bad Apple. Wall Street and Washington for Jagdeo is a stellar accolade, indeed
Thanks for clearing the air on oil profit formula by distorting and polluting it. And, I congratulate Pres. Jagdeo for the twisted, but insisting that it is straight.
Incidentally, it's President Jagdeo, since the 'addah banna' suffers from a memory that goes and comes. Mainly,goes. Profit was the question.
The more he revealed, the more he concealed. Profit formula: instead of enlightening, he added darkness It is classic Jagdeo; deception theater squared.
First,'It'sconsistent',this formula employed. What is it, good sir? 'Over the last three years, the formula is consistent.' Second, why
hasDr Jagdeodriftedtothe last three years, when the profit numbers are for only 2024? Why venture there? The question still dangles. Whatisthismysterious,topsecret formula in operation to derive Guyana's and Exxon's respective shares in ahalfandhalfprofit-sharing partnership? Dr Jagdeo went around, came around, andhisprofitformulawasin thesameplace. Nowhere. It's consistent is a concoctionstraightoutofthe PPP Government's laboratory Frankenstein camefromsuch. Consistent withwhat? Whatisitsbase, elements, reference? What can it be, other than this: oil revenues minus expenses, and the result divided by two? One half for Exxon and company, one half for Guyana. Unless, in this unique profit-sharing formula, it's what Bugs Bunny did to Daffy Duck in that old Looney Tunes cartoon. One for you, and twoforme. Itcouldbesome peculiar American style oil mathinoperationinGuyana. IfPres.Jagdeodoesn'tknow, then he should give that sophisticated job to Dr Ashni Singh, a man who does know, despite developing energy only aroundbudgettimes.
I am humble enough to say publicly that I may not know enough, and seek enlightenment. Hence, the question remains, is not going away: what is the damned formula, Mr Jagdeo? Take off the tricky headgear Put on a clean white hat and inspire Guyanese. For third, what explains the huge
differential between the consortium'sprofithaulof US$10 4 billion (US$4 7 billion, US$3.1 billion and US$2.5 billion for XOM, Hess Corp, and CNOOC respectively) for 2024, as against Guyana's US$2 6 billion take? In a 50:50 profit formula, that just doesn't make sense. In British English, it doesn't add up In Brooklyn English,itstinks. InJagdeo English, 'it's consistent over theyears',andthe'formulais consistent' says nothing. I have never heard so much nonsensecrammedintosuch a short span of time, and from one man. Aman who was a finance minister. I think I just heard a reincarnation of Bernard Madoff's high finance that mademanyswoon,andthen their many millions, too. I try my hand to untangle the noodles that Dr Jagdeo delivered. Hespokeof14.5percent, asGuyana'sshare:75%gone for expenses, and the remaining 25%, split into two equal shares, plus Guyana's 2% royalty Is Exxon now including some recoveredcostsasprofit? It still doesn't tie-in and tieback, because Exxon stands at US$6 billion in profitfor2024pretax,while Guyana's overall receipts amountedtoUS$2.6billion. Pre-tax, post-tax it's the same for Exxon, since it doesn't pay corporate taxes. The fractions fall apart, and whatevertheratioordecimal application used, there is an imbalance that hangs around, and doesn't make sense It begs for explanation, reconciliation.
A simple, straightforward, persuasive one. Moreover, was it really necessary to insert any correlation between profit collection and the national budget? Even further, I interpret Mr Jagdeo's drift into 'who gets more now versus who gets more later', to be another smokescreen intended to convolute the profit-sharing issueandconfusecitizens.
A 50:50 profit formula shouldn'tleadtothislevelof leadership vacillation, o b f u s c a t i o n , a n d constipation. 'It'sconsistent' has all the binding power of froth. IrecommendtoPres. Jagdeo that he thinks before hetriestheseverbalcha-chacha(s). 'Laak ah tole de addahfellah,havesomeselfrespect, maan.' Add or subtract, multiply or divide, American oil accounting or Russian(roulette),theprofit representations from Dr Jagdeo are part of the serial deceptions now so normal locally Now I close with thislittlemessage. There is no trustworthy leadershipinGuyana. There is no credible Opposition. There are no respected national institutions Corruptionisofnoconcern, consequence So, too, ethics, morals, principles. standards. Whatthehellam I doing by being involved? Time for me to start easing outofthisminefield. Books are waiting to be read, written.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
Di s g r a c e d
P e r m a n e n t Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and member of the People's Progressive Party, Mae Thomas, will not be on the PPP's list of candidates for the upcoming elections slated to be held on September1,2025.
ThisisaccordingtoVice President and PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo. “Mae Thomas- we have not putoutourlistofcandidates asyet…”hesaidathispress conference on Thursday Whenaskedifsheiseligible, Jagdeo declined to answer, noting, “I'm not gonna enter into that debate, wait on our list…”
However, when pressed further, the GS said, “The wayIseeit,Idon'tknow Idon'tthinkshewantsto be on the list, but the way I personallyseeit,no,shewill
Disgraced PS of the Ministry of Labour and PPP/C member, Mae Thomas
notbeonthelist,that'showI seeitpersonally.”
He added that the party hasnotdebatedsuchmatters as yet. Further, the Vice President pleaded that the focus should not be on Thomas.
He said, “Please don't make Mae the issue here, you have a big sanctioned
manfor10,000kilogramsof gold that caused Mae to get sanctioned, and he- now is poorMaeyougoingafter.”
In June 2024, Thomas resigned as a member of the PPP's Central Committee after she was sanctioned by the United States Government, specifically theUSTreasuryDepartment Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), for allegedly taking bribes to facilitate the award of government contracts, passportsandgunlicencesto sanctioned Guyanese businessmen Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed.At one of his press conferences in September 2024, Jagdeo revealed that Thomas remainedonpaidleave.She hadproceededonleaveafter thesanctionswereimposed.
OFAC, in a statement, said that as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of
Home Affairs from October 2020 through August 2023, Thomas allegedly used her position to offer benefits to Mohamed's Enterprise and Azruddin, among others, in exchange for cash payments and high-value gifts. It was stated,“Thomasmisusedher position to influence the award of official contract bids and the approval processes for weapons' permits and passports on behalf of Mohamed's Enterprise A corrupt
Permanent Secretary could manipulate procurement processes to suit their preferred bidder by providinginsideinformation at the early stages of evaluation Access to a Permanent Secretary of any Ministry could afford contractors insight into upcoming projects and bid values Permanent
Secretaries can act as the legal authority to sign contracts on behalf of their ministry.”
The curtain rises once again on one of Guyana's most cherished cultural showcases—the 32nd Annual Mother and Daughter Pageant—taking centre stage on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the National CulturalCentre,undertheenchantingtheme: “ASymphonyofLove.”
Presented by Supa Stylistics in proud partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Government of Guyana, this year's production promises a refreshing harmony of tradition and innovation, where elegance, emotion, and entertainment come together in one magical evening.
Once again, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has collaborated closely with producers to ensure that this highly anticipated event, now an integral part of Guyana's cultural tapestry, is executed with the world-class entertainment features our nationdeserves.
Dr Sulan Fung, pageant producer and newly minted Howard University Dental School graduate, shared the reason behind the rescheduled date: "I graduated on May 10—the usual pageant date. We wanted to celebrate that milestone with family, and so we moved the pageant to the eve of Father's Daytohonourallfamilies.
Anightoffashion,family,flawlessvibes from the glitz of the KFC Red carpet experienceat6PMtotheglamourofthemain eventat8PM,theaudiencecanexpectafull sensory journey The red carpet is not just a photo op—it's an event within the event! Attendees will enjoy free food, drinks, ice cream, exclusive product giveaways, live interviews, and more—all included in the ticket price.This year's edition introduces a specialnon-competitiveshowcaseoffathers and sons, making the 2025 pageant a true celebrationoftheentirefamilyunit.Eachday this week, featured father-son pairs will be revealedviathepageant'sofficialplatforms, building anticipation for an unforgettable show night Every ticket-holder is automatically entered for the grand door prize—a trip to a surprise international destination,announcedjustbeforetheshow Lastyear'swinnerjettedofftoLondon. Competing mothers and daughters stand to win a dazzling array of prizes, including local and international experiences and tangible gifts from Guyana's top brands, but beyondbeauty,thiseventcontinuestohonour resilience, heritage, and love across generations.
Sponsors of the event include IGLOO, SABPropertiesandKFC(Guyana).
Over 100 residents from MurawainRegionEightwill benefit from a new $34 millionwellthatwillprovide easier access to potable waterforthefirsttime.
Construction works are set to begin shortly, so residentstherewillnolonger havetowalkforonehourto source water from the river or harvest rainwater MinisterwithintheMinistry ofHousingandWater,Susan Rodrigues, made the announcement during a community engagement at the village's Benab on Wednesday
She explained that, “We havealreadytenderedforthe well for Murawa and the contractor is expected to bringinhisequipmentintwo weeks to start the drilling of the new well.” Due to the deplorable state of the road,
she disclosed that the Ministry of Public Works will facilitate emergency repairs on the access road and bridges to enhance accessibilityfortheresidents and for the rig to be t
h
communitytodrillthewell.
Housingdevelopment
Apart from constructing anewwell,10houseswillbe built in Murawa under the H
g materials such as wood are sourced directly from the community, stimulating the
disposable income for many households Already, the community has cut 16,565 out of 50,000 wood to build allthehousesforthehousing project. Twenty-eight solar panel systems will be
provided to the community toboostaccesstoelectricity Meanwhile, issues highlighted by residents, i n c l u d i n g h e a l t h , infrastructure, pension p a y m e n t s a n d transportation, will be relayed to the respective ministries for immediate intervention Minister Rodrigues also detailed the substantial investments made by the government in education, health, and infrastructure, aiming to improve access to muchneeded services. Present at the meeting were Senior Councillor of Murawa, G i l b e r t A n t h o n y ; Representative from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Orlando Shuman and Senior Engineer at Guyana Water Incorporated Inc,KhemrajPersaud.(DPI)
Trinidad Newsday - The crew of the cargo vessel HEIN, which ran aground just off Monos Island on June 10 while en route to St Vi n c e n t c a r r y i n g construction materials, is receiving assistance from both private and state agenciestostabilisetheship.
When Newsday visited the site on June 11, the vessel's owner, Abbas Farouk, was present, coordinating operations
People were being transported to and from the vessel, and sling bags were being used to offload cargo toreducethevessel'sweight.
Farouk engaged the services of Capital Signal, which dispatched the tugboat C Prowler along withabargeequippedwitha cranetoaidintheoperation.
Despite the incident, the vessel appears intact and is notleakingfuel.
Captain Ronald Wilde, who has over 30 years of maritimeexperienceandhas taught navigation and safety in Trinidad for the past two decades,wasalsoonsite.
Speaking to the media, Wildesaid,“I'vedonealotof salvage and pulled ships off rocks before.This is a fairly simple situation. While it is technically an emergency, there'snothingdirehere.”
Wildeconfirmedabarge had arrived to help lighten the load and alleviate the vessel's list, which he explained was caused by a cargo shift. He commended the vessel's captain for his quickthinking.
“He did an excellent job
by beaching the vessel safely, which helped protect boththeshipandcrew
That's exactly what I wouldhaveadvisedinsucha situation.”
He noted that offloading the necessary tonnage to refloatthevesselwouldtake time. Most of the cargo will likely be removed from the port side to help bring the ship closer to a stable position, though it may still not be fully level when it refloats.
Wilde outlined the expected refloating procedure. “The vessel will need to be towed out sternfirst to clear the rudder and propellerfromrocksandthe shoal. The next opportunity may come with the high tides,eitheraroundfirstlight tomorrow or in the evening.
If 50 to 100 tonnes are removed by then, she (the vessel) might be able to refloat.”
A d d r e s s i n g environmental concerns, Wildesaidasmallamountof light oil, likely less than a cup, had spilt when the vessel began tilting
However, he stressed it was not heavy diesel, was not persistent, and posed no environmentalthreat.
“There'snotragedyhere. The ship is sound, and everyone will go home safely.”
Wilde also said the grounding may have been t h e r e s u l t o f a miscommunication regarding an approaching storm.
Heconcludedtherewere currently no signs of
The sinking Guyanese cargo vessel 'Hein' (St. Vincent Times) V
hydrocarbons leaking into the water. Because the vessel's captain had already secured help from Capital Signal, and there was no needforauthoritiestoboard theshipatthattime.
A c c o r d i n g t o
VesselFinder, an online site thattracksvesselsaroundthe world,theHEINisageneral cargo ship built in 1966 (makingit59yearsold)and iscurrentlysailingunderthe flag of Guyana. It has an overall length of 61 75 metresandatonnageof861.
Gary Aboud, corporate s e c r e t a r y o f t h e environmental advocacy group Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS), acknowledged the boat had to be deliberately run agroundtosavethecrewand thecaptain.
Hethankedthebusiness community for its efforts in mobilising support to assist the vessel “When it ran aground,therewasasighting of oil and diesel because there was some liquid bilge onthedeckthatwashedinto thewater Therewasconcern itcouldescalate.
Weweren'tsurewhatthe vessel was carrying, the volumeofliquid,orwhether it was contained. Our main concern was a storm last night(June10),anditmight further damage the vessel. We were lucky there was no stormlastnightortoday.”
A b o u d a l s o acknowledged the efforts made to shift the vessel's loadinordertostabiliseit:
“It appears that everythingisokay Wespoke to the captain, we spoke to
themanager,andwespoketo several technical experts, and everything is okay God has blessed us with another day.”
Turning his attention to the former government, he criticisedtheconditionofthe responsevessel.
“ We w e r e v e r y embarrassed to see several government representatives visiting the grounded vessel on a dilapidated, poorly managed, antique pirogue labelled 'Coast Guard.' Such a disgrace for us taxpayers, especiallywhenweconsider the millions, trillions, even billionsspent.”
Saying the former ministerofnationalsecurity, Fitzgerald Hinds, should be ashamedofthestateofthese vessels and his management oftheCoastGuard.
Ahead of World Blood Donor Day, observed on June 14, the Pan A m e r i c a n H e a l t h Organization(PAHO/WHO) has released new data showing progress in voluntary blood donation across the Americas However, key challenges remain to achieving 100% voluntarydonations.
The preliminary report, Acces
B
n American and Caribbean Countries 2023, shows that 23 countries—17 in Latin Americaand6non-Spanishspeak
ed 9,212,861 units of blood in 2023, marking a 15 5% increase compared to the 7,776,198 units collected in 2020. Nearly 80% of countries reported significant increases thanks to post-pandemic recovery and new awareness strategies.
“Equitableaccesstosafe bloodisarightforallpeople and can only be guaranteed through well-organized, efficient systems based on regular, voluntary, and nonremunerated donation,” said Dr Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director “Wearegratefulto those who give generously and encourage more people to jointhislife-savingactof solidarity,”headded.
The region averages 16 blood donations per 1,000 inhabitants, but disparities persist: 13 countries fall belowthisaverage,while10 exceed it. Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina account for 75% of total donations.In2023,56.8%of donated blood came from voluntary donors—a 6.7% increase compared to 2019 resuming the prepandemicgrowthtrend.This progress was driven by digital campaigns, mobile drives, and institutional partnerships. The remaining donations came from family members or close contacts responding to direct
requests No country reported paid donations, highlighting the region's commitment to altruistic giving.
Mauricio Beltrán, PAHO's Regional Blood Services Advisor, emphasized that equitable accessandasteadysupplyof safe blood and plasma depend on voluntary, nonremunerated donation. “We need more regular, altruistic donors, ” he stated, explaining that this type of donation prevents shortages and provides more sustainableaccesscompared to one-time family donations, which, while valuable,tendtobereactive.
The report also highlights improvements in safety and quality: 100% of donated units were screened f o r t r a n s f u s i o ntransmissibleinfections,and 90% were fractionated into components such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets,optimizingclinical use. However, national and regional blood systems continue to face structural challenges Over 1,900 collection sites and 1,400 processing centers operate independently, limiting efficiency Only four countries processed more than10,000unitsperyearon average, with Paraguay leadingat20,706units. Blood transfusions are essential for treating postpartum hemorrhage, childhood anemia due to malnutrition or malaria, disaster-related injuries, and c o m p l e x s u r g i c a l procedures PAHO urges governments to invest in efficient national blood systems, promote voluntary donation, and strengthen oversighttoensureequitable and safe access. This year's World Blood Donor Day campaign, under the theme “Give blood, give hope: Together we save lives,” aims to raise awareness, inspire new donors, and thank those whose generosityhelpssavelives.
"It wasn't me, it was AI”
A man who sent threatening photos to his exgirlfriend via WhatsApp reportedlytoldthepolicethat the images were AIgenerated.
The ex-girlfriend has a protection order against the suspect after allegedly sufferingyearsofabuseathis hands. However, she said the man continues to allegedly harass her with threatening text messages, and recently it wasnodifferent.
Reports are that he threatened to shoot her and even sent her pictures of him holding a quantity of 9 mm ammunition. The woman
reported the matter to the policebutcomplainedthatthe ranks only took action after she reached out to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Protection. “After having to jump through several hurdles to have him arrested, and an unsuccessful searchfortheweapon,hetold the police…It's all AI,” the woman said in a Facebook post. Kaieteur News has confirmed that the suspect was indeed arrested and a search was conducted Kaieteur News understands thathewasreleasedonstation bail as investigations continue.
A speedboat passenger traveling from Parika to Bartica was arrested on Wednesday afternoon with 875 grams of cocaine at the BarticaStelling.
Police in a statement said that the male passenger was acting suspicious when he was approached by officers, whorequestedhispermission to conduct a search on his personal belongings and he agreed.
“During a search of a plasticbagwhichthemanhad in his hand that contained a pineapple, the rank discovered twenty-eight (28) plasticpackagesconcealedin another plastic bag The packages contained a rocklikesubstancesuspectedtobe cocaine,”policesaid. The traveler was made aware of the offence, cautioned and arrested, and was taken to the Bartica Police Station where the suspected narcotics was weighedandamountedto875 grams.
Moreover, while at the station when questioned, the man admitted ownership of thecocaineandtoldtheranks that he was transporting it on behalf of his friend (name provided), who resides at Third Avenue, Bartica Officers after receiving that informationwasabletoarrest the friend and both men were placed into custody, and are assisting with the investigation.
A 49-year-old visually impaired father of two is pleading for assistance to rebuildahomeforhisfamily after the house they were living in began collapsing earlierthisyear
Darrell Rigby, a former security officer at the Georgetown Public Hospital and current resident of the North Sophia squatting area, saidhehasbeenstrugglingto support his family since
losing his eyesight in 2023. Hiswife,whoisalsobattling health issues, and their two children, ages 13 and 15, h
hazardous conditions since (Continuedonpage19)
The launch of Orinduik Marine Services (OMS), a locally-owned company focusedonsubseaanddiving support for the oil and gas industry,marksaboldstride in Guyana's local content ambitions, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali declaredonWednesday
Speakingattheunveiling of the OMS facility in
Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, President Ali called the moment “local
contentcomingtolife,notas aslogan,butasastrategy.” OMS, spearheaded by Guyanese entrepreneur Harrychand Tulsi, will offer cutting-edge training in offshore safety, navigation, and subsea technology, not
o participants from across the Caribbean The company will focus on two vital asp
y Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
and Diving Services, both
maintenance.
President Ali described the venture as a cornerstone in Guyana's strategy to not onlybenefitfromoilwealth, buttoshapeahighlyskilled, homegrown workforce
, innovating and eventually leadinginhigh-techsectors.
In his address at the Orinduik Development
President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali flanked by Orinduik Marine Services' Founder, Harrychand Tusli; Michael Arnold, the Chief Executive Officer of OMS Subsea (United Kingdom) and General Manager of OMS (GY), Kenneth Vorster, among others.
Incorporated Training Centre's compound in Lusignan, PresidentAli said that “sovereignty means having people who can design, operate, and innovate across all sectors, allowing Guyana to prosper long after the era of oil and gas ” He added, “You are seeing a classroom on waves You are seeing training in real-world, highr i s k , h i g h - v a l u e environments. This is your time.Thisisyourmomentto
prepare, to train, to dream andtoride.”
President, Dr Mohamed I
y Orinduik Marine Services' Founder, Harrychand Tusli; Michael Arnold, the Chief Executive Officer of OMS Subsea (United Kingdom) and General Manager of OMS (GY), Kenneth Vorster,amongothers. President Ali reemphasised that true national development is measured not just by GDP
growth or infrastructure, but bythetransferofknowledge and the transformation of people. “We are coming for every opportunity,” President Ali asserted. “We arebuildinglocalcompanies togoaftereveryworld-class operation.”
He described OMS as a direct outcome of deliberate policy “This didn't happen by accident. It's the result of sound policymaking, of a policy matrix that people (Continuedonpage22)
T
Responsibility (OPR), has completed their investigationintothekillingof32-year-old Keon Fogenay, also known as “Dan”, who wasshotduringaprotestinLinden.
This is according to the head of OPR Elston Baird, who also confirmed that a report is being prepared to be sent for legal advice.
ItwasreportedthatFogenaywasshotin theeyeandkilledbyapoliceofficerduringa protestfor23-year-oldRonaldoPeterswho wasshotdeadbyamemberoftheGuyana The Regional Security System (RSS) was also expected to submit a report containing findings and recommendations byFriday,April25,2025.
Frompage16 part of their home collapsed inApril.
Speaking with Kaieteur News on Thursday, Rigby said,“Intheweehoursofthe morning, we heard a loud cracking sound. It was the back part of the house near the canal collapsing. The houseshiftedbackward,and a support beam underneath broke Now the whole structure is leaning toward thecanal,”Rigbyrecalled.
He said the house had been in a “deplorable” state since he purchased it earlier this year using his $100,000 cash grant and public assistancefunds.“InApril,I bought the house from a fella,butIdidn'tknowitwas inthiskindofstate.Theroof was leaking, the walls had holes. When rain used to pour my gosh the hallway would flood, the mattress would soak, and the television was broken,” he said.
Rigby related to this publication, that he has land locatedintheVigilanceNew HousingSchemeontheEast Coast of Demerara and has been appealing for help to construct a proper home for his family there “I am hopingforassistancetohelp me with materials or anything. I am thankful for receiving anything. I am begging for my family,” Rigbysaid.
Since losing his job in August 2023 due to illness,
Rigby has had no steady income.“Ibecameasecurity guard in 2020 and lost my jobinAugust2023becauseI becamesickwithglaucoma, and I eventually lost my sight. From since then, I have been fighting, seeking assistance, trying to get my kidstogotoschool.”
He added that both he and his wife are part of the MinistryofHumanServices and Social Security's Public Assistance Programme, but the support barely covers basic needs. “The public assistanceis$22,000,andto send two kids to school, clothe them, feed them, and pay car and bus fare every day, it's very hard,” he explained Rigby also disclosed that he suffers from epilepsy and has been diagnosed with breast cancer, further complicating his ability to provide for his family Rigby shared that while he has reached out to several organisations and individuals, including Men onMission(MoM),Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy, and local businesses “I did get a response from Men on M i s s i o n , b u t n o confirmation yet I also reached out to Minister Kwame McCoy, but I haven't received a positive response,” he said. Some businesses such as Décor and Gift Gallery, Superbet, and Ramchand Auto Spares
AN i g e r i a n
National was sentenced to six years in jail on Thursday after he and accomplices ripped off a Guyanese womanandadozenothersof hundreds of thousands of dollarsinaromancescam.
have occasionally assisted with hampers and small financialcontributions.Still, Rigby says what he truly needsissustainablesupport, especially materials to build anewhomeonhisland.
Rigbyalsonotedthatthe family had previously lived nearby but were forced to move due to unsafe and unsanitary conditions “Where we used to live was clusteredupalotofgarbage andsmoke.SoImovedfrom thearea,”hesaid.Now,with thestructuretheymovedinto dangerouslyunstableandno job or stable income, Rigby is desperately seeking help. “I just want a better life for my children. That's all I'm asking,”hepleaded.
Two months ago, Rigby came to this publication, at his wits' end, seeking assistance for his family He had previously shared his story about living with a visual impairment. At that time, although his housing situation was stable, he hopedtostartanewlifeina new land—but recognized hecouldn'tdoitalone.Now returning for a second time, Rigby emphasizes that his conditionhasworsened,and he is in urgent need of supporttocareforhisfamily while managing his visual disability
Anyonewishingtoassist DarrellRigbyandhisfamily can contact them at (592) 671-9479 or (592) 7238225.
The convict, Matthew Ejike Nwachukwu, was part of a scam where the mastermind pretended to be German and made the womanfallinlovewithhim before scamming her of $155,000 to clear gifts he neversenttoher Shewasnot hisonlyvictim,accordingto an investigation conducted by the Special Organised CrimeUnit(SOCU).
Nwachukwu committed thescamsin2022.
He appeared at the Linden Magistrate's Court on Thursday, where Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool found him guilty of two counts of conspiracy to commit a felony and sentencedhimtothreeyears' imprisonment each on both counts. Ejike Nwachukwu was charged and remanded
Guyana and that she would berequiredtopaythesumof GD$155,000 to various persons at the McKenzie Post Office to uplift the package.
According to the woman, she believed the packagestobegenuineafter she was informed that diamonds and other valuables were inside and that the $155,000 must be paid to ensure that they wouldnotbeconfiscatedon the basis of Money
Laundering
on both charges back in 2022.
One of his victims reportedly recounted during the trial that she was befriendedbyaGermanman online and eventually developed a long-distance relationshipwithhim.
SherecalledthatinJuly 2022,herGermanloversaid thathewouldsendpackages forherviaFedEx.
Three days later, she receivedacallfromaforeign number stating that the packages had arrived in
Police said that at the trial, SOCU produced evidence showing that Ejike Nwackukwu was an accessorytothecrime. He reportedly arranged agents on behalf of the “German mastermind” to uplift money from the victim SOCU reportedly said that they are still trying tofindthe“mastermind”and other persons involved According to SOCU, it is a massive scheme being operated by Nigerian nationals operating in Guyana.
Israel said early on Friday it had struck Iranian nuclear targets to block Tehran from developing atomicweapons,andIranian
media and witnesses
reported explosions including at the country's main uranium enrichment facility
Calling the offensive "Rising Lion," Israel said it was also targeting Iranian commanders and missile factories, and declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes by Tehran. We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history," Israeli Prime Minister BenjaminNetanyahusaidin arecordedvideomessage.
Israel targeted Iranian scientists working on a nuclear bomb, its ballistic missile programme and its N a n t a n z u r a n i u m enrichment facility, in an operation that would
continuefordays,hesaid.
AwitnessinNantanzcity said multiple explosions were heard near the facility, and a senior Iranian official told Reuters that the country's leadership was holding a top security meeting.Iran'sstateTVsaid several explosions were heard in Tehran and the country's air defence system wasonfullalert.
An Israeli military official said Israel was striking "dozens" of nuclear and military targets. The officialsaidIranhadenough material to make 15 nuclear bombswithindays.
" F o l l o w i n g t h e preemptive strike by the StateofIsraelagainstIran,a missile and UAV (drone) attack against the State of Israel and its civilian populationisexpectedinthe immediate timeframe,"
DefenceMinisterIsraelKatz saidinastatement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel acted unilaterally because it believes the operation was necessaryforself-defense.
"Tonight, Israel took unilateralactionagainstIran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region," Rubio said in a statement. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel," he added U S and Iranian officials were scheduled to holdasixthroundoftalkson Tehran's escalating uranium enrichment programme in Oman on Sunday, according to officials from both countries and their Omani mediators.Butthetalkshave appearedtobedeadlocked.
Trump said on Thursday an Israeli strike on Iran "couldverywellhappen"but reiterated his hopes for a peacefulresolution.
GTU calls on teachers, students to protect themselves against COVID
I
n t h e w a k e o f unconfirmed reports of new coronavirus (COVID) cases detected among school children, the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) has called on teachers, parents and students to exercise safetyprecautions.
General Secretary of the GTU, Coretta McDonald, toldthispublicationthatshe has received information thatatleastfourschoolshave been affected by the virus. McDonaldrevealedthattwo primary schools in Georgetown, a primary school on the East Bank Demerara and a Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast,havebeenaffectedby thevirus.
“I have spoken to teachersattheseschools,and many of them are afraid to speakout,buttherearecases where the students got sick, the staff got infected, even a janitor At one school, when parents heard what was happening, they started arrivingearlytopickuptheir children”
Kaieteur News was informed that at one secondary school in Georgetown, more than half the population turned up withmasks.Thispublication was reliably informed that
even though exams are progressing, parents said they are not sure if their children will be attending school because of the rumours.
AccordingtoMcDonald, thesituationinschoolsisnot an isolated one. “I believe thedishonestyfromMinistry of Health and Ministry of Education, and by extension the Government, is worrying.
While the Ministries continue to stall on addressing the issue, the advisory to schools, the principal education officer …confirmed that they are fumigating the schools,” the GTUGeneralSecretarysaid.
US intelligence had indicated that Israel was making preparations for a strike against Iran's nuclear facilities, and U.S. officials said on condition of anonymity that Israel could attackinthecomingdays.
The U S military is planningforthefullrangeof contingencies in the Middle East, including the possibilitythatitmighthave to help evacuate American civilians, a U.S. official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity (Reuters).
"Let me be clear: Iran should not target U S
“The GTU wrote Chief Education Officer on behalf oftheteachers,asweshould not be gambling with the health of children, teachers or even the auxiliary staff.” In a letter, McDonald stated that“theUnionwritesoutof an abundance of caution after reading an article as is stated in the subject at caption, which was reported byMr.TravisChase.”
“Mr. CEO, it's being reported that three learners from a Grade 5 Class tested positive for the COVID-19 Virus,andthefactthatothers are falling ill is of grave concern to us, as this situation could be detrimental.
As such, in light of the above, we here now suggest the following: -that all teachersandlearnersbesent home; that the department set aside a day to facilitate random testing, that the b u i l d i n g b e fumigated/teachers and learnersbemonitored.
The GTU General Secretary urged, “That the necessary precautionary measuresbeimplementedin schools all across this country.” “They should use masks, practice social distancing, hand washing andsanitising,”shesaid.
Firefighters work at the scene of a damaged building in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, on June 13, 2025 [Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via Reuters]
interests or personnel," he added.
CNN reported that U.S. PresidentDonaldTrumpwas convening a cabinet meeting. Crude oil prices jumpedmorethan$3abarrel onthenews.U.S.andIranian officials were scheduled to holdasixthroundoftalkson Tehran's escalating uranium enrichment programme in Oman on Sunday, according to officials from both countries and their Omani mediators.Butthetalkshave appearedtobedeadlocked.
Trump said on Thursday an Israeli strike on Iran "couldverywellhappen"but
reiterated his hopes for a peacefulresolution.
US intelligence had indicated that Israel was making preparations for a strike against Iran's nuclear facilities, and U.S. officials said on condition of anonymity that Israel could attackinthecomingdays.
The U S military is planningforthefullrangeof contingencies in the Middle East, including the possibilitythatitmighthave to help evacuate American civilians, a U.S. official told Reuters, speaking on conditionofanonymity (Reuters)
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- U.N. member nations voted overwhelmingly Thursday to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and unrestricted access for the delivery of desperately needed food to 2 million Palestinians.
bassador, Riyad Mansour, also pleaded with U.N. members to vote in favor.
“The actions you take today to stop the killing, displacement and the famine will determine how many more Palestinian children die a horrible death,” he said.
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The vote in the 193-member General Assembly was 149-12 with 19 abstentions. It was adopted with a burst of applause.
The resolution, drafted by Spain, “strongly condemns any use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare.”
Speaking before the vote, Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon vehemently opposed the resolution. He denied that Israel was using starvation as a weapon of war, calling the accusation “blood libel,” and insisted that aid is being delivered.
Experts and human rights workers say hunger is widespread in Gaza and some 2 million Palestinians are at risk of famine if Israel does not fully lift its blockade and halt its military campaign, which it renewed in March after ending a ceasefire with Hamas.
At the start of Thursday’s meeting, Spain’s U.N. Ambassador Héctor José Gómez Hernández urged members to vote in favor of the resolution in light of “the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza.”
The Palestinian U.N. am-
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Last week, the U.N. Security Council failed to pass a resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza and calling on Israel to lift all restrictions on the delivery of aid. The United States vetoed the resolution because it was not linked to the release of the hostages, while all 14 other members of the council voted in favor.
There are no vetoes in the 193-member General Assembly. But unlike in the Security Council, assembly resolutions are not legally binding, though they are seen as a barometer of world opinion.
After a 10-week blockade that barred all aid to Gaza, Israel is allowing the United Nations to deliver a trickle of food assistance and is backing a newly created U.S. aid group, which has opened several sites in the center and south of the territory to deliver food parcels.
But the aid system rolled out last month by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has been troubled by neardaily shootings as crowds make their way to aid sites, while the longstanding U.N.run system has struggled to deliver food because of Israeli restrictions and a breakdown of law and order.
Like the failed Security Council resolution, the resolution passed on Thursday does not condemn Hamas’ deadly attack in southern Is-
rael on Oct. 7, 2023, which ignited the war, or say the militant group must disarm and withdraw from Gaza. Both are U.S. demands.
Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea told the assembly before the vote that the resolution “sends an unacceptable message to Hamas and other Iran-backed terrorist proxies, and that message is, you will be rewarded for taking hostages, diverting aid and launching attacks from civilian areas.”
The resolution references a March 28 legally binding order by the top United Nations court for Israel to open more land crossings into Gaza for food, water, fuel and other supplies. The International Court of Justice issued the order in a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of acts of genocide in its war in Gaza, charges Israel strongly denies.
The resolution stresses that Israel, as an occupying power, has an obligation under international law to ensure
that humanitarian aid reaches those in need.
It reiterates the assembly’s commitment to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the Gaza Strip as part of a Palestinian state. The assembly is holding a high-level meeting next week to push for a two-state solution, which Israel has rejected.
The resolution supports mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United States aimed at implementing a January ceasefire agreement.
The Hamas-led militants killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 hostages. About 55 hostages are still being held. Israel’s military campaign has killed over 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. It says women and children make up most of the dead, but doesn’t distinguish between civilians and combatants. Israel says it has killed more than 20,000 militants, without providing evidence.
From page 2 revealed. She further shared, “His own grandmother witnessed the abuse on multiple occasions. When she tried to intervene, he would say, ‘She’s my wife. I can do whatever I want to her,’ which only made things worse.”
The emotional toll of the abuse was also evident. Ramoutar described the constant emotional and mental degradation she endured, recalling that she was called degrading names and forced into obedience.
“He told me I was worthless and forced me into obedience. I lived like a slave. I had to rub lotion on his body, put toothpaste on his toothbrush, and do everything exactly as he wanted, or I would face punishment.”
She detailed several specific incidents of abuse, including:
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“One time, I fell asleep and didn’t hear him calling my phone. When I answered the
second call, he was calling me to open the door. He kicked me in my stomach, and I hurt myself.”
“A few months after I gave birth, he made me roll on hot concrete.”
“He slapped me while I was holding our one-monthold baby, causing the child to hit his head.”
“He forced me to kneel with my hands in the air while he sat with his feet on my shoulders, pulling my hair and cuffing me.”
“He hit me with a hose, pelted me with plates, cups, phones, shoes—anything nearby if he was displeased.”
“If there was dust in his water or a speck of eggshell in his food, I was beaten.”
“He beat me for not finishing dinner before he got home, for asking him to stop cheating, or simply for not wanting to have sex.”
“He forced sex on me daily. When I resisted, I was physically and verbally assaulted.”
“He tied a wire around my neck, fastened it to a grill, and tried to pull me off a bed, threatening to kill me. I was pregnant at the time.”
“Sometimes he beat me while I was holding our newborn.”
Ramoutar expressed her ongoing fear, even after escaping. “Despite filing a report with the police five days ago, nothing has been done. He is currently hiding.
I live in constant fear. My children and I cannot leave the house… I stayed quiet out of fear. Now I’m speaking up, and I’m still being silenced by neglect, blame, and inaction.”
She concluded with a plea for safety and justice: “I wasn’t just abused- I was tortured, controlled, and dehumanised.
I am terrified that if action isn’t taken soon, he will make good on his threats. I fear for my life and for the lives of my two innocent children.”
The Ministry of Local Government and Regional Developmentispreparingto rehabilitate the roof of the StabroekMarket. This is according to the recent reading bids at the tender board office. It was
revealed that five contractorsarevyingforthe contract, bidding between $107 million and $298
million. The ministry went out to tender to seek bids also for the rehabilitation of the East La Penitence Municipal Market, for which seven firms have appliedforthecontract. It was reported that this year, the Local Government Ministry was allocated $2.7 billion to upgrade several marketsacrossthecountry. Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids: MinistryofLocalGovernmentandRegionalDevelopment RehabilitationofStabroekMarketroof,RegionFour
RehabilitationofEastLaPenitenceMunicipalMarket.
ConstructionofLeachatePumpStation &CollectionNetworkatHBSL.
NationalAgriculturalResearchand ExtensionInstitute(NAREI) ReconstructionofstaffquartersatWaramadong.
MinistryofPublicService CastingofCompoundTrainingDivision.
Trinidad ExpressPrime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is standing by her warning to Venezuelan President Nicolas Madu
Trinidad and Tobago is offlimits.
In response to questions from the Express, the Prime Minister said there has been no “compelling evidence” presented by Vene-zuelan officials to support their claims.
“No information was given to us regarding the supposed captures (of) Trinidadians,”shesaid.
The Prime Minister also firedbackattheOpposition, which criticised her Government’s handling of thematter,sayingitfailedto engageindiplomacy
Persad-Bissessar said her Government followed proper diplomatic protocol and that there was no misstep. “The misstep is being committed by those who support a dictatorship. It’s amazing how some Trinidadiansarevehemently supporting dictatorship, election fraud and democratic rights violations in Venezuela but would scream to the heavens if anything like that happened with a government in TT,” sheargued.
The Prime Minister said the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs dispatched diplomatic notes to Caracas
Express)
from the inception of the allegations made by Maduro.
“It’smiraculoushowthe once vociferously Patriotic PNM
ve become unpatriotic What an amazing turnaround I wonder why?” stated Persad-Bissessar
Atthepost-Cabinetnews conference on June 5, the Prime Minister sent a messagetoMaduro,warning him to stay out of Trinidad and Tobago territory, as any unidentified vessel entering T&T’s waters would be met with deadly force. PersadBissessar recalled statements by Maduro and Venezuelan Justice Minister Diosdado Cabello, as she d e c l a r e d t h a t h e r Governmentwouldtakeany threatsseriouslyandstoodin solidarity with the United States.
Maduro claimed that an armed group of men had attemptedtoenterVenezuela
from Trinidad and Tobago with“weaponsofwar”.
The Prime Minister said she could “categorically” state there was no evidence tovalidatethisatthispoint.
Persad-Bissessar also noted newspaper reports in whichCabelloclaimedthata Trinidadian identified as “Kendel Jheron” was supposedly captured in this group. (Cabello identified the man as “Guis Kendell Jerome”). Persad-Bissessar insisted there was no evidence to support the comments from Venezuelan officials.
Said Persad-Bissessar: “Today, I want to make it clear to the Venezuelan government and officials, that they can do whatever they want on Venezuela territory, but they cannot come here. T&T territory is off-limitstothem.
“If Mr Cabello’s commentsareaveiledthreat to enter T&T territory, they
should reconsider any such intention.”
In a response on June 6, the Venezuelan government issuedacommuniquéstating that Persad-Bissessar’s comments were “irate and unjustified”.
“The Prime Minister’s virulent and high-handed attitude raises serious suspicions of complicity and undermines the good cooperativerelationsbetween ourcountriesinkeyareas,”the statement said The communiqué also claimed Venezuela“capturedcriminals of Trinidadian origin” who confessed to the alleged incursion
Caracas said the men’s statements were “duly supported with compelling evidence”.
On Monday, Minister of ForeignandCaricomAffairs Sean Sobers met with Venezuelan Ambassador Álvaro Sánchez Cordero, where they held discussions ontheissue.
Sobers also detailed the diplomaticstepshisministry undertook to obtain information from the Venezuelan government since last week, including sending two diplomatic notes. The minister told the Express onTuesday that the ambassador did not present any evidence to support the allegations made, and he committed to return with information.
moving to prevent any form of retaliation following the killing of a reputed gang leaderinOlympicGarden,St Andrew, on Wednesday night. The deceased, Mark Harrison, otherwise called ‘Mark 2’, the leader of the 440 Drive gang, was reportedly shot dead by one ofhishenchmenathishome, thepolicesaid.
Reports indicated that around 11:00 pm, Harrison was at home when he was approached by one of his cronies,whopulledafirearm andshothimseveraltimesin theupperbody
The man fled, and residents assisted Harrison to the Kingston Public Hospital,wherehelaterdied whileundergoingsurgery
The St Andrew South police reported that in the days leading up to the
incident,thegangleaderand his alleged killer were frequently seen together in thecommunity
They engaged in seemingly friendly interactions, socialised, drank and spent time togetherinamannerthatdid notindicateaconflict.
Police said the gang leader’s killing has significantly increased the potential risk of retaliation. According to the police, thereisahighlikelihoodthat counterattacks may be initiatedbythegang,asthey possess the capabilities and resourcestocauseharm.
Harrison,thepolicesaid, maintained deep ties to the criminalunderworld.Hehad numerous criminal associates who may choose to avenge his death, thereby escalating tensions and triggering further acts of violence. As a result, the
police have requested that Courtney ‘Blood Stain’ Ashley,alsocalled‘Orlando Williams’, ‘Biggs’ and ‘Alien’,whoiswantedinthe d i v i s i o n f o r murder/shooting, to turn himself in. The police have also listed three persons of interest, namely Tevin Clarke of Seaward Drive, DamariMcKnightakaKujo; and Mark Harrison Jr aka ‘Passa.’These four men are to report to the Hunt Bay Police Station by noon tomorrow
Policesaidthemotiveof the attack on Harrison is unclear However, it was revealed that the alleged killer was brought into the 440 Drive Gang and community by the nowdeceased.
This gang is involved in murders, shootings, rental, extortion, and contract killing,thepolicesaid.
Furthermore, the police shared that the gang is involved in an active feud/turf conflict with the neighbouring Samacan gang This conflict has resultedinmultiplemurders, shootingsandarsonattacks. According to the police, Harrison had multiple encounters with law enforcement.
In 2015, he was stopped while riding a bicycle, searched, and found in possession of a Parabellum pistolalongwithamagazine containing 10 rounds. He was arrested, charged, and later released in relation to thatmatter OnNovember2, 2018, Harrison was again arrested and charged with shooting with intent, assault at common law, unlawful wounding,illegalpossession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition. —DavidDunkley
BBC-ABritishmanhas walked away from the wreckage of the Air India crash that killed 241 people in an extraordinary tale of survival.
VishwashkumarRamesh was in seat 11A on the London-bound Boeing 787 flightwhenitcrashedshortly aftertakeoffinAhmedabad, western India. Mr Ramesh’s brother, Nayan Kumar Ramesh, told BBC News Vishwashkumar “has no idea how he survived” and escapedtheplaneastheonly survivor Air India said all other passengers and crew were killed - including 169 Indian nationals and 52 Britons.NayantoldtheBBC “It feels great seeing him [Vishwashkumar] doing well” but he was worried abouthisotherbrotherAjay, whowasalsoonboard.
“Wewereallinshockas soon as we heard what happened, just utter shock. Speechless,”hesaid.
“He [Vishwashkumar] himself has no idea how he survived,howhegotoutthe plane.“Whenhecalledushe wasjustmoreworriedabout
Vishwashkumar Ramesh meets Indian Interior Minister, Amit Shah in hospital (Reuters)
my other brother, like ‘Find Ajay,findAjay.’That’sallhe caresaboutatthemoment.”
ArelativecalledJaytold the PA news agency: “He’s gotsomeinjuriesonhisface. He was painted in blood. He’sdoingwellIthink.It’sa bigshock.”
He was later seen in a hospital bed meeting Indian interiorministerAmitShah. Dr Dhaval Gameti, who treated Mr Ramesh, said: “He was disorientated, with multipleinjuries all over his body Butheseemstobeout of danger.” Indian media
said he shared his boarding pass, which showed his name and seat number The businessman, who was born in India and has lived in the UK since 2003, has a wife and four-year-old son. The BBC understands he was borninIndia,buthaslivedin theUKformanyyears.
The plane crashed into accommodationusedbytrainee doctorslessthanaminuteafter take-off in Ahmedabad in the state of Gujarat It is not clear how many people on the grounddiedandthecauseof thecrashisstillunknown.
Three Britons thought to havediedontheflighthavebeen named by Gloucester Muslim SocietyasAkeelNanabawa,his wife Hannaa Vorajee and their daughterSara
“They touched lots of people and they will be missed by lots of people,” imamAbdullahSamad.
Couple Fiongal and JamieGreenlaw-Meek,who run a spiritual wellness centre in London, are also thought to have been on the flight They laughed and jokedinanInstagramvideoas they told of their “10-hour
Their firm the Wellness Foundryhasbeenapproached forcomment
Also on the plane were Javed and his wife Mariam Syed, from West London, alongside their two young children AmmaarahTaju,the granddaughter of a couple from Blackburn who were onboard the flight, said she wasinshockanddisbelief.
Adam Taju, 72, and his wife Hasina, 70, were flying back from Ahmedabad’s InternationalAirportwiththeir 51-year-old son-in-law, Altafhusen Patel who lives inLondonwithhiswife.
In a statement from the King, he said he and his wife were“desperatelyshockedby the terrible events in Ahmedabadthismorning”
“Ourspecialprayersand deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected by this appallingly tragic incident across so many nations, as they await news of their loved ones,” the statementadded.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmersaidhisthoughtswere
with the families who were going to be “absolutely devastatedbythisawfulnews”, while his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi said it was “heart-breakingbeyondwords” UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has arranged crisisteamsinIndiaandtheUK, andhaschairedameetingofthe government’s emergency committee in response to the crash LondonGatwickAirport confirmedthatareceptioncentre for relatives of passengers was beingsetupwhereinformation would be provided, and that it was liaising closely with Air India It said on X: “British nationals who require consular assistance or have concerns about friends or family should call02070085000” Air India flight AI171 left Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 13:39 local time (08:09 GMT),AirIndiasaid. It was scheduled to land at London Gatwick at 18:25 BST One video verified by the BBC shows the plane descending before a large explosion as it hits the ground.
Aljazeera - Israeli attackshavekilledatleast52 people across Gaza since dawn, medical sources told Al Jazeera, as the United Nations General Assembly passedaresolutionurgingan unconditional ceasefire in thebesiegedenclave.
Sources told Al Jazeera thatatleast26ofthepeople killed on Thursday died in Israeli drone attacks while waiting for food and basic suppliesbeingdistributedby the controversial United States and Israel-backed
Gaza Humanitarian Foundation(GHF).
Gaza civil defence official Mohammed elMougher told AFP news
agency that al-Awda Hospitalreceivedatleast10 bodies and about 200 others who were wounded “after Israeli drones dropped
multiple bombs on gatherings of civilians near an aid distribution point
around the Netzarim checkpointincentralGaza”. El-Mougher said that
At least 26 people were killed in Israeli drone strikes while waiting for basic aid distributed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
Since the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began its operation in late May, dozens of Palestinians have been killed while trying to reach the aid distribution points, according to Gaza’s civil defence agency [Mahmoud Issa/Reuters]
Gaza City’s al-Shifa Hospital also received six bodiesafterIsraeliattackson aid queues near Netzarim and in the as-Sudaniya area innorthwesternGaza.
Since the GHF began its operation in Gaza in late May, dozens of Palestinians havebeenkilledwhiletrying to reach the aid distribution
points, according to Gaza’s civildefenceagency
Thepreviouslyunknown GHFhascomeunderintense criticism from the United Nations, which says its distribution model is deeply flawed.“Thismodelwillnot address the deepening hunger The dystopian ‘Hunger Games’ cannot
become the new reality,” PhilippeLazzarini,thechief of the UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA), wrote on X “The UN including@UNRWAhasthe knowledge, expertise & community trust to provide dignified & safe assistance. Justletthehumanitariansdo their jobs,” he added. The
body of a Palestinian is transported on a car roof as mourners travel to attend funeralsofPalestinianswho were killed in Israeli fire on Thursday [Mahmoud Issa/Reuters] Separately, a medical source at al-Shifa HospitaltoldAlJazeerathat two Palestinians were killed as a result of Israeli shelling targeting the Bir an-Naaja area west of Jabalia refugee campinnorthernGaza.
Meanwhile, Hamas condemned on Thursday whatitdescribedasanIsraeli decision to cut off communicationlinesinGaza, describing it as “a new aggressive step” in the country’s “war of extermination” “We call on the international community toassumeitsresponsibilityto stoptheaggressionandensure theprotectionofciviliansand humanitarian and civilian facilities” The disruption of communications has resulted in the UNRWA losing contact with its colleagues in the agency in
Gaza, the UN’s main humanitarian provider in Gaza said Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said on Thursday that there was a full internet blackout in Gaza, likely the result of military activity damaging the last cable into the territory Haq said that “lifelines to emergency services, humanitarian coordination, and critical information for civilians haveallbeencut”.Thelatest developments come as the UNGeneralAssemblyvoted to pass a resolution that demands an immediate, unconditionalandpermanent ceasefireinthewarinGaza The 193-member General Assembly adopted the text with overwhelming support, despite Israel lobbyingcountriesthisweek againsttakingpartinwhatit called a “politically m o t i v a t e d , counterproductivecharade”. Last week, the United Statesvetoedasimilareffort intheSecurityCouncil.
Team Guyana, featuring Anish Ramlall, Domitre Ranking, Arren Vanlewin, and Stephen George, has advanced to the next round of the U23 3x3 basketball tournamentinParaguay
The event marks the conclusion of a HighPerformanceTrainingCamp ahead of this year’s Junior PanAmericanGames.
Under the leadership of Coach Willon Cameron, GuyanawillnowfaceGroup AwinnersParaguaytodayat 9:00am(localtime).
Drawn in Group A
alongside Argentina, Grenada, and the Cayman Islands, Guyana faced a mixed set of results in the groupstage. The Cayman Islands
wereforcedtowithdrawdue to two injuries sustained during pre-tournament training, resulting in a walkover win for the other teams.
Guyana battled Grenada butcameupshortina16–21 contest, and against tournament favourites Argentina, they were defeated10–21.
Coach Cameron noted that it was the first time the players were competing together as a unit, but highlighted their steady progress throughout the trainingcamp.
“The tournament was a great opportunity for the players to apply what they’ve learned since the programme began on Monday,” said Coach Cameron.
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Some unexpected but very welcomevisitorscouldarrive today, Aries They might bring some people you don't knowbutshouldconnectwith rightaway Expectinteresting n e w s , f a s c i n a t i n g information,.
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An unexpected letter could arrive today, Gemini, with a check enclosed, perhaps a gift, bonus, or offer to make more money.This might be a welcomebreak.
CANCER(June21–July22)
If you're in the arts or sciences, Cancer, sudden inspirationcouldcauseyouto startorcontinueaprojectthat meansalottoyou.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Meditation, dreams, or visions could bring amazing insights your way, Leo. You mightfindthemtoobizarreto believe, at least at first, but follow-up research could reveal that what you've come upwithisquitecredible.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
You're an adventurous soul, Virgo.Areyouthinkingabout a little mischief today? Are yougoingtoproposethatyou and a friend or perhaps your partner skip town for a day andforgetaboutwork,
The camp, hosted in Paraguay’s capital, Asunción,runsuntilJune13 and is part of a wider initiative to prepare teams fortheupcomingJuniorPan AmGames.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
A n u n e x p e c t e d communication may come today from someone connected with your career, Libra.Thisisgoodnews,butit maybesooffthewallthatyou couldwalkaroundinadazefor awhiletryingtomakesenseof itall.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Anunexpectedchancetoflyto a faraway place, perhaps at someoneelse'sexpense,could cometoyoutoday,Scorpio.A group might be involved, perhaps one connected with education.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Some bizarre and rather silly dreams might come to you tonight,Sagittarius.Theymay bethesortthatissocrazythat youactuallywakeuplaughing. Don't dismiss them. Silly or not,thesedreamsaretryingto tellyousomething.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Ifyou'resingle,youcouldfeel a very powerful attraction to someone unusual and perhaps alittlewacky Ifyou'realready inarelationship.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Have you been looking for anewjob,Aquarius?Ifso,you might hear of an opportunity from an unexpected source, perhapsatasocialgathering,if possible.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
If you're single, Pisces, love may come to you completely out of the blue today The person could be standing behind you in line at the store or sitting nearby you in the park.
West Indies Masters Cricket Association has announced their Over-60 squadfortheupcomingTour ofEngland.
The Caribbean veteran cricketerswillplayanumber of 45-over matches along with two T20s against Club teams.
The tour will run from June14-28.
Seasoned campaigner and left-arm orthodox spinner, Zamin Amin, will leadtheteam.Aminrecently captained the West Indies Over-50teamtoSriLankain an International World Cup tournament The team includes HafeezAli and leg spinnerChanderpaulSingh.
Again, the team will be managed by Raj Singh. The US-based Guyanese, Singh,
is also the President of the MastersAssociation.
The squad reads:
Guyana’s participation comes on the heels of a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Guyana OlympicAssociation(GOA) andtheParaguayanOlympic Committee, designed to foster greater collaboration anddevelopmentinsports.
Other countries participating are Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Roca, and the United States Virgin Islands.
Frompage30 to field a competitive squad that will offer Nepal critical exposure ahead of their World Cup qualifying campaign. The series also provides an opportunity for players and fans alike to experience the spirit of international cricket in a vibrant,neutralvenue.
Cricket West Indies extends its sincere thanks to the Cricket Association of Nepal and the Emirates Cricket Board for their collaboration in organizing the series and looks forward to continuing to work together towards advancing the global growth and accessibility of the game of cricket.
Match Schedule (All Matches@Sharjah,UAE): 1stT20I–September27, 2025 2nd T20I – September 28,2025 3rdT20I–September30
Dolphin Speed Swim Club emerged as overall champions of the Inter-Club Developmental Swim Meet hosted by Dorado Swim Club at the National Aquatic Centre on Sundaylast.
The meet, marking the first swimming competition oftheyear,broughttogether several clubs in what turned
out to be a highly competitive and spirited event. DolphinSpeedSwim C l u b a m a s s e d a commanding total of 1,027 points, finishing well ahead of second-place hosts DoradoSwimClubwith543 points, and third-place Sea Otters Swim Club with 536 points.
The other results saw Torpedo Swim Club (315), Trident Swim Academy (171) and Mafra Swim School(76).
Dolphin’s dominant performance is a testament to the hard work of their coachesandinstructors,who have been utilizing the Colgrain and National Aquatic Centre pools, with supportfromtheMinistryof Culture, Youth and Sport through the National Sports Commission.
Despite six of the club’s 51 entered swimmers being unable to participate due to illness, the team delivered outstanding results, highlighted by a total medal haul of 47 gold, 38 silver, and29bronzemedals.
Age group champions included, Aahil Persaud, Kaia Wilkinson, Adon Ramdatt, Malakhiy Patokie, AshleyRamsammy,Makeen Hope, Patrice Mahaica and Paul Mahaica, who were awardedtrophiesandmedals for their exceptional
individualperformances.
Other medal-winning team members included Eshwar and Chitanand Roopnarine, Katy Budhan, Yaseen Hope, Shahid Matthews, Yashi, Sahii, and Myna Toocaram, Heaven Belony, Sarah Ramsammy, Delia Daniels, Isabella Chapman, Brandon Cush, Arianna Persaud, Ada Ferdinand, Soriya Khan, Omario Barrington, Amirya Caesar, De Andrea Leitch, andKadishaChase.
The meet featured competitive races across all four strokes freestyle, butterfly, backstroke, and breaststroke as well as novice and kickboard events. Swimmers battled
for top honours and points thatcontributedtotheclub’s overallwin.
Adding prestige to the event was the presence of Olympic swimmer and Guyana’s first PanAmerican Aquatics Championship medallist, Raekwon Noel, who participated and inspired the next generation ofswimmers.
Dolphin Speed Swim C l u b e x t e n d e d congratulations to all participating clubs and expressed appreciation to Club Dorado for hosting the meet TheClubalsothanked its board, members, and supporters for their continued dedication to the sport.
GCB, GCUSA recently sent their heartfelt regards to the family, friends and cricket community following the passing of fallen comrade,
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and the Georgetown Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association (GCUSA) paid tribute to the late Stephon Sankar, youth cricketer and buddingumpirewhopassed awayrecently
The 18-year-old former student of Chase’s Academic Foundation and Under-13 youth all-rounder of the Malteenoes and Transport Sports Clubs, respectively had a bright futureaheadasbothaplayer andanofficial.
The (GCB) via social media expressed their empathy to the family, friends and cricket community following the passing of young cricketer and umpire. “Stephon was more than just a rising talent- he was a dedicated young man whose love for the game was evident. He carriedapassionandrespect for cricket that inspired many.”“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his
family, friends, teammates and the wider cricketing fraternity Thisisaprofound loss, and we mourn with all who had the privilege of knowing him Gone too soon,butneverforgotten.” Meanwhile the GCUSA echoed similar sentiments, as they stated via their heartfelt messages
“Stephon’s unwavering passionforthegameandhis steadfast commitment to upholding its spirit were evident in every match he officiated As both an emerging umpire and a cricketer, his contributions wereinvaluable,andhewill forever be remembered for the camaraderie he shared witheveryonearoundhim.”
“TheGCUSAextendsits deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Stephon’s family and friends during this profoundly difficult time.Hiswarmpresenceand invaluable contributions will be profoundly missed byallwhohadtheprivilege ofknowinghim.
SportsMax - The West Indies men’s team will have toputtheirredemptionquest onholdforafewmoredays after the opening T20 International against Ireland was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain at Bready CricketClubonThursday
For the Caribbean side, this three-match series was billed as a crucial opportunity to bounce back after a sobering 3-0 T20 seriesdefeattoEngland.But the elements had the final say, frustrating both teams and denying the Windies a much-neededchancetoreset theircampaign.
permitting—as the men in maroon continue their s
d confidence ahead of next year’sT20WorldCup.
Head coach Darren Sammy, who had voiced his concerns about the team’s
following the England tour, will have to wait a little longertoassessanychanges or improvements. For now, the focus s
s to preparation and fine-tuning, with the shortened series leavinglittleroomforerror
Instead of putting new strategies into motion and testing their resolve under pressure, the West Indies were left at their hotel sheltering from steady showersasanyhopesofplay fadedearly With the series opener rained out, attention now turns to Saturday’s second m a t c
West Indies Captain Hayley Matthews, who made 40 off 44, and Qiana Joseph, who top-scored with a 58-ball 60, posted a rapid 88-run opening stand.
SportsMax - The West Indies Women began their three-match ODI campaign against South Africa on a winning note, as they held their nerve in a rain-affected encountertosecureafour-wicketvictoryvia the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method attheThreeWsOvalonWednesday
In a contest interrupted and shaped by intermittent showers, the home side showed flashes of grit and composure, qualities that head coach Shane Deitz will hope become hallmarks of a new era for the regional side, who were returning to winning ways after beingswept6-0ontheirtourofEngland. Afterwinningthetossandoptingtofield first, the West Indies bowlers found early rewardthroughdisciplinedspellsandcrucial breakthroughs. Karishma Ramharack (2-44) andAaliyahAlleyne (2-35) led the attack to restrictSouthAfricato232-9intheirallotted 50overs.Scores:SouthAfricaWomen232-9 (50overs);WestIndiesWomen180-6(32.0)
Despite threatening contributions from TazminBrits,whoslammedfivefoursanda sixina65-ball57,andNadinedeKlerk,who madeabrisk42off38balls,includingthree foursandtwosixes,thevisitors,whostarted brightly, faltered under pressure from an
increasingly sharp West Indian field Notably,run-outsprovedpivotal,withLaura Wolvaardt (27) and Nondumiso Shangase (two)bothfallingshortthankstosomeslick work from Realeanna Grimmond and Zaida James,respectively
Setareducedtargetof180,theWestIndies’ reply began with purpose, as Captain Hayley Matthews, who made 40 off 44, and Qiana Joseph,whotop-scoredwitha58-ball60,laid a confident platform The two posted a rapid 88-run opening stand that put the hosts well aheadoftheDLSparscore Matthewshadfour boundariesandasixinherknock,whileJoseph slammed 10 boundaries and a six to lead the way
Thoughthemiddleorderstumbledslightly with Grimmond (five) and the returning Chenelle Henry (11) having brief stays in the middle,alongwithShemaineCampbelle(12) andJannillaGlasgow(10),experiencedhands Stafanie Taylor, with an unbeaten 34-ball 30, and Alleyne calmly steered the chase home. South Africans briefly clawed back through Ayanda Hlubi’s impressive 3-50. With two more ODIs to come, the West Indies Women will look to build on their 1-0 lead in the secondcontestonSaturday.
SportsMax - Cricket fans can look forward to an excitingshowcaseofworldclass women’s T20 cricket asthe2025MassyWomen’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) comes to Guyana from6to17September The tournament will feature three teams: the Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, and Trinbago Knight Riders, who will battle it out over six group stage matches, culminating in a thrilling final on 17 September
Allfixturesarescheduled to be held at the Guyana Nat
renowned for its electric atmosphere and passionate support The Barbados Royals,defendingchampions for two consecutive years (2023and2024),willaimfora historic third title, while the Warriors and Knight Riders seek to dethrone them and claimtheWCPLcrown
A d d i n g f u r t h e r excitement, the WCPL matches will be played as double-headers alongside games from the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL). This unique format provides fans with unparalleled access to both men’s and women’s elite T20 cricket in a single outing—doublingtheaction
and delivering even greater valueforspectators.
Chris Dehring, CEO of Cricket West Indies, highlighted the growing stature of the tournament: “Women’scricketcontinues togrowyearonyear,andthe WCPLisahugelyimportant part of our cricketing calendar We are looking forward to seeing the best Caribbean talent play alongside fantastic players from around the world in what we are sure will be an excellentevent.”
Pete Russell, CEO of the Caribbean Premier League, emphasized the significance ofthisyear’sedition:“Weare incredibly proud to continue buildingonthesuccessofthe WCPL as we head into the 2025 tournament Each year the competition grows stronger, and we are committed to providing a platform that showcases the exceptional talent within women’s cricket across the regionandbeyond” The 2025 WCPL is not onlyacelebrationoftop-tier women’s cricket but also an opportunity to inspire the nextgenerationofcricketers across the Caribbean. With local and international stars ondisplay,fanswillwitness unforgettable moments, emerging talents, and a renewed commitment to
genderequityinthesport. Sat 6 Sept, 2pm Guyana
Amazon Warriors vs Trinbago Knight RidersGuyana National Stadium, ProvidenceSun7Sept,3pm
G u y a n a A m a z o n Warriors vs Barbados Royals - Guyana National Stadium,Providence Wed10Sept2pm Trinbago Knight Riders vs Barbados RoyalsGuyana National Stadium, Providence Sat13Sept,4pm Trinbago Knight Riders vs Guyana Amazon Warriors - Guyana National Stadium,Providence Sun14Sept,2pm Barbados Royals vs Guyana Amazon WarriorsGuyana National Stadium, Providence Tue16Sept,3pm Barbados Royals vs Trinbago Knight RidersGuyana National Stadium, Providence
Wed17Sept,2pm WCPL FINAL – 1st placevs2ndplace-Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Please note, the Men’s Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match on Sunday 7 September between Guyana Amazon Warriors and St Kitts & NevisPatriotswillnowstart at8pm.
Whentheround-of-32in the inaugural June Madness
Futsal championship powered by the Ministry of Culture,YouthandSportand Ansa McALcommenced on WednesdaynightattheCliff Anderson Sports Hall, StabroekBallersrompedtoa huge 11-1 win over Games Changers to highlight the night’sproceedings.
Along with Stabroek Ballers, four other teams, GoldIsMoney,Corinthians, Spaniards and Bent Street ‘B’ have all booked their spotsintheroundof16.Two seeded teams were sent packing on the night, Stabroek ‘B’ which fell to Spaniards and Espyanol, downedbyCorinthians.
Leading the charge for Stabroek Ballers was
Brandon Solomon (6th, 9th, 24th)andDeonAlfred(16th,
Gold is Money
18th,27th)withahat-trickof goals each Seon Taylor added a double in the 25th and 29th with one each for Randy Maynard (13th), Lionel Holder (23rd) and Shem James in the final minuteofplay
Game Changers’ consolation goal came off thebootofEmmanuelLewis inthepenultimateminuteof thematchinwhichtheywere total outplayed by the more seasoned Stabroek Ballers, one of the sixteen (16) seeded that earned second roundspots.
Spaniards, which got past Unity Ballers 5-2 in their first round match, provedthattheyareasgood as the seeded teams when they racked up their second win,trouncingStabroek‘B’, 7-3, led by a brace from
Tyreck Cummings (5th, 17th) and Omar Brewley (13th,29th).
They were ably supported by Kendolph Lewis (2nd), Teshawn Gordon (20th) and Jashawn Moore in the 25th minute. Stabroek ‘B’ three goals whichwasnotenough,came fromKevinPadmore(15th), Jamal Bristol (27th) and Jonathan McKenzie in the 28thminute.
GoldIsMoneyeasilyput away Young Stars 3-0 on account of goals from Randolph Wagner (6th, 29th)andTevinTroyer
In a clash of the Spanish teams, and a very physical showdown, Corinthians outhustled Espyanyol 4-1, thanks to goals from Mauel (5th), Luiz David (15th), Adriane Talla (28th), and
The night’s opening clash was a close matchup,butBentStreet‘B’was abletoholdtheirnervesto edge Albouystown ‘A’, 32. Samuel Garnett (16th), Lennox Young (17th), and Tyric McAllister in the 21st minute lay the platform for the win and a place in the round-of-16, Albouystown ‘A’tucked in two late goals from Timothy Thomas (26th)andEzikielTelfordin thefinalminuteofplay
Five more matches were slated for Thursday night with the next match being Father’s night which is anticipated to be epic
SportsMax-CricketWestIndies(CWI) has announced its participation in a historic three-matchT20Internationalseriesagainst the Asian nation of Nepal, the first-ever bilateral series between the two teams, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing mission to grow and globalize the gameofcricket.
Taking place in Sharjah, United Arab EmiratesonSeptember27,28,and30,2025, the series is being hosted by the Cricket AssociationofNepal(CAN)andrepresentsa landmarkopportunityforNepalasitgearsup for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifierlaterthisyear.
For CWI, the engagement reflects its strong commitment to supporting the development of cricket in emerging nations and fostering meaningful partnerships with fellowcricketingboardsworldwide.
Speaking on the importance of this
occasion, CWI CEO Chris Dehring stated, “This series is more than just a set of international matches—it’s a celebration of thegame’sexpandingglobalfootprintanda testament to what cricket represents: pride, purpose, and the power of unity As a fullmember nation, we see it as part of our responsibility to contribute to the developmentofcricketbeyondourborders.
“Supporting Nepal in this key phase of their cricketing journey not only builds the sport at the grassroots and international levels but also reminds us of the deep pride andhonourassociatedwithrepresentingour nationandwearingournationalcolours.We areproudtostandwithNepalatthismoment in their history and look forward to exciting andcompetitivecricketinSharjah.”
TheWestIndiesteam,knownforitsrich legacyanddynamicstyleofplay,isexpected
(Continuedonpage25)
BySamuelWhyte Minister of Natural Resources,
VickramBharrat, recentlyreturnedtohishome county of Berbice. During hisvisithemadeanumberof stopsatvariousplacestoget afisthandlookastowhatis takingplace.
Oneoftheplacesvisited
was the Port Mourant CricketClub(PMTC)onthe Corentyne. Over the years the PMTC has been one of the top cricket clubs in the country and has produced a number of national and Test Cricketers.
During discussions with the members present, the
minister made a number of promises.
Anumberofwhichwere fulfilled. Withinshortorder, several young cricketers were presented with cricket gear in an effort to assist them in developing their skills.
Minister Bharrat was
BySamuelWhyte
The Berbice Cricket
B o a r d ( B C B ) h a s commencedpreparationsfor its cricket academy coaching programme in Berbice. The programme, whichisbeingsupportedby the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), will be held across the county in both East and WestBerbice.
TheBCBhasdecidedto organize six different academiesacrossthecounty. A commencement date and the duration of the academy has not been decided as yet, but all arrangements are beingputinplace.Theaimis
to make sure that the entire county is covered The sessions will be held four daysweekly
The locations identified are - Upper Corentyne which will be held at Skeldon Community Centre backcenterwithcoachesD. SeenarineandM.Mentis.
Two grounds have been identified for session in the Central Corentyne area. At the Whim Cricket Ground thecoachesinchargewillbe O. Giddings and Eon Hooper. The Jai Hind ground will see sessions being held by coaches Seon HetmyerandD.Kissoonlall.
The New Amsterdam areawillseeactivitiesbeing held at The Berbice High SchoolGroundwithcoaches GregoryCrandonandFloyd Benjamin. The Rose Hall Community Centre and Cumberland Ballfield have been identified for the academy activities in the East Canje area withAmeer Rahaman and Balram Samaroobeingunidentified.
The West Berbice area will see one ground being used with the Bush Lot Cricket ground being the venue with coaches Rajbance Hemraj and ShamarAngelidentified.
unavoidablyabsenttodothe handing over. However, former Guyana and West Indies cricketer, Devendra Bishoo, did the honours on behalfoftheminister
Duringhisearliervisitto
the club, Minister Bharrat was keen in engaging the youngcricketers.Duringthe engagement, he imparted wordsofencouragementand wisdomtothecricketers.
Hetoldtheyouthsofthe importanceofeducationand the need to maintain discipline in the sport in an efforttodeveloptheirskills. Before leaving Minister Bharrat donated a cover for thecricketpitchtotheclub.
BySamuelWhyte
Sports Organiser, Physical fitness instructor, community and Sports activists Eli Hazel, has once againarrangedacommunity event to coincide with a significantday Hazel has planned a 10
miles Father’s Day run on SundayJune15tharoundthe TownofNewAmsterdamin recognitionofFathers.
The activity is expected to commence at 06:00hrs at Lot40Stanleytown,proceed through No 41 Scheme, through Vryheid into
Angoy’s Avenue, around Tucber Park, then along Winkle Road, into Garrison Road along NATI and The National Psychiatric Hospital and The Burnham Park into Esplanade Road, enter Strand (Water Street) through New Amsterdam along Stanleytown around Tacama Turn into Main Streettoconcludeatitsplace oforigin. Hesaid,therunis expectedtolastbetween1½ to2hrs.
According to Hazel he will accompanied by his three grandchildren He stated that one of his grandsons will be running theentiredistancewithhim, whilsttheothertwo(boyand girl)willberidingbicycles. Hazel, who resides in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, is a qualified Physical Fitness Instructor He is the holder of a Certificate from the British Sports Trust Harvard Community Sports Leaders
Course which was held by t h e B r i t i s h H i g h Commission The course dealt with Sports Management, Marketing, Organizing, Coaching and Discipline in Sports among otherareas.Heisthefounder of the Unity for the Nation Group in New Amsterdam, Berbice.
He said that others especiallyfatherswhowants to participate can join, in order to show love and appreciation especially to fathers.
According to Hazel, fathers and men in general must not only be seen in a b a d l i g h t a n d a s disciplinarians,butaspeople who can spread love and be rolemodels.
Hazel thinks that the timing of the event is very significant. He said that at 65,hethinksthathecanstill contribute significantly in
and trophies.
Uniting the Nation. Using his Unity for the Nation initiative, he said that Unity and Leadership is needed in Guyananowmorethanever
Over the years the communityactivisthasbeen organizing a number of communityandsportingand other events across Berbice.
One of his highlights was
doing a shackle walk in Chains in remembrance of slavery Some other events include runs, walks, jogs, cycling, speeches, spelling, physical fitness, in recognition of mothers, fathers, youths, the elderly, unity,health,goodmanners, peaceandanumberofother initiatives.
TheIvanoffVodka/ M a s t e r s Dominoes team
nationwide dominoes tournamentissettoconclude this weekend at Demerara CricketClub,Queenstown.
Thepreliminaryroundof the Georgetown leg will conclude today at R and R Sports Club, Meadowbrook, while national playoffs will commence on Saturday at DCC at 15:00hrs, followed by the grand finale on Sunday
T h e r e s p e c t i v e preliminary rounds have concluded with the results expected to be released shortly
Among the teams that will contest the playoffs are BankofGuyana,Ministryof Agriculture, GUYSUCO, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, while a special invitation was extended to the Guyana Council of Organisations for persons with disabilities who have also confirmed their participation.
The tournament is being organised by the Masters
Dominoes Team in association with Demerara Distillers Limited’s (DDL)
under their Ivanoff Vodka brand which is the official titlesponsor
Over two million dollars (G$2M) in cash prizes, trophies and hampers are at stakeasthetournamentaims to celebrate the cultural significance of dominoes and foster nationwide camaraderie.
Thisyear’swinningteam willtakehome$500,000and atrophy,whilethe second- and third-place teams will receive $250,000 and $125,000 respectively, alongwith trophies.TheMVPofthe finals will also be awarded $30,000.
The Guyana National Dominoes Federation extendsfurtherinvitationfor sponsorshipinsupportofthe nationalteam.
ByRawleToney
Laured “The Lion” Stewart is ready to unleash his power once again as he prepares to face Mexican fighter Carlos Valenzuela GonzalezonJune28forthe Universal Boxing Alliance (UBA)Cruiserweighttitle.
T h e s i x - r o u n d showdownwillbeoneofthe undercard bouts on the Brandon Quarles vs Axel Vega fight card in Mexico, and Stewart is promising fireworks.
“I’ve been in camp, puttinginthework.Training has been going great,” Stewart told Kaieteur News as he gears up for what will be his sixth professional bout.AsoldierintheUnited States Army, Stewart revealed he recently took some time off to recover from an injury sustained
duringmilitarytraining.
“It’s a six-round fight, and yeah, I picked up a knockduringArmytraining, so I had to take a couple of weeks off. But I’m fully recovered now I head to California on the 26th, the fight is on the 28th, and I’m ready,” the smart-talking boxersaid.
Knownforhisferocityin the ring, the Guyanese Cruiserweight is building a reputation as a knockout artist.
In his last outing, he dismantledImranKhanwith a brutal fourth-round KO at theEverestCricketGround.
That victory marked his fourthwinoutoffivefights, all by knockout. His only blemish? A Majority Decision loss to Jalen Renaudin2020.
OnJune28,Stewartsaid
Attacking, opening batsman and Canada-based GuyaneseImranAlistrucka boundary-studded 102 to inspire Sunshine to a commanding, 157-run win over Panthers in the continuation of the 2025 OntarioRound-ArmSoftball
Cricket Association (ORSCA) Regular Season T20 competition. The lefthanded Ali clobbered 12 sixes and four fours to help Sunshinepileupamammoth 254-3 from the allotment of 20-overs Panthers, in response, struggled to 97-8 at the expiration of the 20overs. Playing at Hanover Public School ground in Brampton (June 1), Ali also featuredinaswashbuckling, 232-run first-wicket stand with Ramiz Mohamed who missedoutonacenturybya meretworuns.
Mohamed, a pugnacious right-hander, also faced equal number of balls (58) like Ali. The Essequibian Mohamed’s innings was
decorated with nine nonchalant sixes and three boundaries. Their recordbreaking partnership ended in the 17th over When Panthers batted, only Nun
Shaw offered some resistancewith32. They had a decent start
he isn’t just chasing a win, he’shuntingaknock-out.
“I’ll use the first three rounds to study him, then I’mgoingfortheknockout,” hedeclaredwithconfidence.
His opponent, Carlos ValenzuelaGonzalez,brings a record of eight fights, one
win, one draw, and six losses But Stewart isn’t overlooking him “He’s coming to fight too, so I’m preparingforwhathehasto bringtothering.”
Stewart said he’s focused, and ready to leave hismarkinthesport.
with 34 runs on the board betweenShawandArshdeep Saini (13) but when they were separated, the innings lostmomentumafterwickets keptfallingfrequently
Khemraj Harrinarine a veteran right-arm bowler, collected four wickets for 28 fromhismaximumfourovers, delivering for the victorious unit Meanwhile, 16 teams beganparticipationtwoweeks agoandtheactionisslatedto continue on Sunday with a legion of matches across the GreaterTorontoArea Notably,anewchampion to be crowned after last year’s winner Pegasus team is not participating on this occasion. The curtains are set to come down late August.
