Kaieteur News

The 13th Parliament will open this afternoon at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Eco-Atlantic to “hopefully” drill new well in Orinduik block in 2026 as deadline looms

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Canadian exploration company Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd., Gil Holzman, said the company could drill another well in the Orinduik Blocknextyear

Holzman made the disclosure during a recent fourth-quarter interview He stated, “In Guyana where we drill two wells with two discoveries and we’re planning to hopefully drill another well in 2026.”

This disclosure by Holzman comes as the company has been in talks with prospective partners, as the January 2026 deadline looms forittodrillanexplorationwellon the block in keeping with its petroleumagreement.

Ecoenteredthesecondphaseof the second renewal period of the Orinduik Licence on January 14, 2024.

This phase requires the drilling of one exploration well targeting the Cretaceous formation before the licence term ends on January 13,2026.

The Orinduik Block, which covers 1,354 square kilometers, is located approximately 170 kilometers offshore Guyana and lies adjacent to the prolific StabroekBlockoperatedbyEMGL and estimated to hold 11.6 billion barrelsofoil.

Eco Atlantic currently holds a 100percentworkinginterestinthe Orinduik Block, following the exit of former joint venture partners TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy, whowithdrewforstrategicreasons. In November 2023, Eco Atlantic completed the acquisition of a 60 per cent operated interest in the Orinduik Block from Tullow Guyana for US$700,000 in cash, along with future contingent royaltyconsiderations.

Kaieteur News had reported that Eco’s CEO disclosed that the company has been encouraged by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited’s

(EMGL) sanctioning of the Hammerhead discovery in the StabroekBlocktotakeafreshlook atits2019Jethrofind.

Holzman acknowledged that the company’s planned farm-out process to attract partners for the next phase of exploration in the block has taken longer than expected. “In Guyana, we embarked on a lengthy process of potential farm out after we managedtobuyoutTullow Atfirst, wethoughtwefarmoutjustinorder for someone to come and partner with us to drill the light crustaceous,”hesaid.

Holzman noted that recent developments, such as the

Government of Guyana’s September 2025 approval of a Petroleum Production Licence (PPL)forEMGL’sseventhproject, the US$6.8 billion Hammerhead development have renewed Eco’s interest in the Orinduik Jethro discovery.

Eco had been assessing its Jethro-1 and Joe-1 finds both discoveries being located in the Lower and Upper Tertiary formations of the Orinduik Block. Whilebothfindscontainheavyoil, further analysis has been ongoing to determine development feasibility

Ecosaiditcontinuestoevaluate these discoveries while assessing

deeper Cretaceous prospects, believed to hold potential for lightercrude.

Holzman added, “Until now, the sixth project that Exxon had in Guyana were light oil cretaceous discoveries and all of the sudden they came up with Hammerhead and actually proved that they can develop and make economic a heavyoildiscoveryatthetertiary.”

According to Holzman, Exxon’s move with the Hammerhead field has encouraged Eco to re-examine the Jethro 1billion-barrel heavy oil discovery madein2019. Hestatedthatthecompanyisin discussions with government to

potentially re-evaluate and recall the non-commercialisation notice that Tullow had made to the government – to now have a fresh look into a potential heavy oil development.

“So, the Hammerhead FID together with the fresh understanding of how the tertiary horizon in Guyana might work containingsomeheavyoilwhichis needed in many places around the world made us take a different approach to the farm out and a different approach toward the licenseandhopefullywe’llbeable tobegrantedwiththereevaluation right of the Jethro discovery,” Holzmanadded.

APNU calls for overhaul of national security, immigration policies

Chairman of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Aubrey Norton, on Friday called for an overhaul of the national security and immigration policies in Guyana, following the recent gas stationexplosion.

Speaking at the party’s weekly press conference, he extended the party’s condolences to the mother ofsix-year-oldSorayaBourne,who died as a result of the recent explosion,attheMobilGasStation onRegentandKingStreets.

According to Norton, the current environment requires the

-aftergasstationbombing

protectionofallGuyanese. Inthis regard,hestressedthatthereisneed for credible leadership of the GPF torestoreitstrustandconfidence.

“Given the current and recent events involving explosives allegedly placed by foreign nationals,immigrationandnational securityissueshavesurfacedagain inanegativelight.ManyGuyanese areunderstandablyanxiousandthe APNU will continue to represent andhighlightcitizens’concernsina responsible way The APNU is prepared to work with all stakeholders, both in and out of parliament, to build a national safety infrastructure that will keep

Guyanese safe and restore public confidence in the nation’s security systems,”hesaid.

Furthermore,hesaidtheAPNU iswellawarethattheeventshavea foreignpolicydimension,therefore it is urging the government to address these “as both national security and foreign policy issues. Government therefore needs to factorintheforeignpolicyelement andrespondappropriately.”

Reminding reporters that the recent explosion has caused many Guyanese to live in fear, the politicalleaderbelievesthatinlight of the information released by police,thenationalconversationon

national security and immigration remainsofutmostimportance.

“Itisinthiscontextthatweadd our voice to augment citizens’ concerns about the failures in our national security system The APNUconsistentlyraisedthisissue in the national assembly and therefore we call on the government to engage with APNU’s often-stated positions regardingimmigrationandnational security,”headded.

The party has recommended that heavy focus be placed on counteracting illegal immigration. Ithasadvisedthatthegovernment Continued on page 16

Chairman APNU and Leader of the PNC Reform, Aubrey Norton

Oil boom or debt doom?

- GUYANA’S BORROWING QUADRUPLES IN JUST SIXYEARS

Guyana entered the oil era in 2019 with US$1 8 billion in debt Six years

later, that figure has skyrocketed to over US$7.7 billion,afour-foldexplosion in borrowing under the currentadministration.

At the end of 2024, Guyana’s debt stood at US$6BbutanotherUS$1.7B was added to finance the 2025Budget,asrevealedby Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

Guyana commenced producing oil in December 2019.Sincethen,thecountry

has earned just over US$7 8B in oil revenue, according to the latest Bank of Guyana (BoG) report on the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Notably, almost US$4.6B has already been withdrawn by government since the inception of the Fund.

The country now finds itselfpayinghighintereston the money it borrowed to

finance its development

agenda Government however believes in its ability to repay the debt in lightofearningsfromtheoil sector The Irfaan Ali-led administration has often touted the low GDP to debt service ratio, meaning that the country’s Gross DomesticProduct(GDP)far outweighs the country’s annual repayment on loans. It should be noted that the country’s growth in GDP, while largely reflective of exports from the petroleum sector, is not the real value that the country receives fromthesector

For instance, Guyana’s total crude oil exports amounted to US$17 9B in 2024 but Guyana only received a meagre US$2.6B in revenue from the sector during the same period

Stakeholders have frequentlywarnedthatwhile thecountryis“richonpaper” in reality the nation risks

slipping into a dangerous debt crisis that many oil producing states previously fellpreyto.

Economist Elson Low had warned of the consequences associated with dependency on oil revenues to repay debt, as a collapse in oil price could have serious effects on the economy Heremindedthat Dr Ashni Singh informed the International Energy Conferencein2023thatwith the tripling of Guyana’s economy,thecountryisnow in a better position to take more loans. Low said, “This implies that the reason we areabletotakeonmoredebt is because of the oil sector As a result, our ability to repay these debts is dependentontheoilsector.”

Ballooningdebt

In 2019, the country’s debt was US$1 8B; accordingtoAnnualReports from the Bank of Guyana (BoG), the nation’s debt

grew by 46.7% in 2020 to US$2.6B. In 2021, the debt surged to US$3.1B, and in 2022 this trend continued with the total stock of debt climbing to US$3 7B In 2023, debt increased further by 23.4% to US$4.5B while this grew to a massive US$6Battheendof2024.In 2025, government added approximately US$1 7B more in debt as announced bytheVPatthebeginningof thisyear

Govt. still to provide solution to rice price woes

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha has reaffirmedthegovernment’s supportforricefarmers,but is still yet to provide a concrete solution to the pricing distresses currently faced.

Back in September, rice farmers in Essequibo held a massive protest in Anna Reginaoverthepricesbeing offered for the paddy, along with the huge amounts that have been left to spoil on theirhands.

In October, Kaieteur News reached spoke with rice farmers in Mahaicony, who relayed that they were pressing ahead with their harvests, even as they await thelongpromisedtalkswith government officials over the crisis level prices being offered by millers for this crop.

Durant said. “To unlock our fullpotential,wemustinvest in building competitive, diversified economies that can withstand external shocks and deliver inclusive growth.”

Debtreliefservices

Only last week the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) called on Caribbean governments and developmentpartnerstotake bold, coordinated action to confrontthetwinchallenges of stubbornly low growth and persistently high debt across the region. Speaking at the 2nd Caribbean Debt Forum, Ian Durant, Acting Vice-President (Finance and Corporate Services) of the C D B , o u t l i n e d a comprehensive set of policy recommendations aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainablegrowth,boosting competitiveness, and strength

While regional debt ratios have improved since the pandemic, Durant cautioned that eight of the Bank’s Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs) still exceed the 60 per cent debtto-GDP benchmark. Rising global interest rates and slowing nominal GDP growth,henoted,threatento erode these fragile gains, making debt sustainability an urgent development priority “Debtsustainability isnotjustafiscalissue,itisa development imperative,” Durant stressed “CDB remains committed to supporting member countriesthroughinnovative financing, technical assistance, and policy dialogue to help them build resilience and achieve lastingprosperity.”

$2,800 a bag, it’s below the break-evenpoint.Wesimply can’tsustainthis.”

Farmers said the current price represents a sharp fall from the $4,000 per bag earned last crop, even after f a c t o r i n g i n t h e government’s previous subsidy Manywarnedthatif the situation continues, small rice farmers could go under

under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration,” thestatementsaid.

Minister of Agriculture

Zulfikar Mustapha

Farmer Roopnarine E t w a r o o t o l d t h i s publication that despite multiple appeals, there has been no direct engagement w i t h g o v e r n m e n t representatives.

Despite all of these concerns in a statement via his Ministry’s Facebook page on Saturday, the minister assured farmers that the government will support them to ensure the sustainability of the industry.

“We’re still waiting on that appointment to meet with the minister,” Etwaroo said “Our farmers are harvesting, yes but at

“Speaking during a meeting with rice farmers along the Essequibo Coast on Saturday, Minister Mustapha highlighted the significant progress being made in rice production

M u s t a p h a , acknowledging that there are global challenges affecting rice, told farmers that an influx from major producers, is what led to a dip in international prices. However, he disclosed that he has been having engagementswithmillersto secure a better price for paddy

“Minister Mustapha

announced that the government will soon commenceconstructionofa $2 billion modern drying and storage facility at Onderneeming on the Essequibo Coast. The facility, he noted, will have t h e c a p a c i t y t o accommodate a significant amountofpaddy,andwill Continued on page 15

ng fiscal resilience through decisive debt management. Durant p o i n t e d t o r e c e n t macroeconomic data and regional assessments that paint a sobering picture: the Caribbean’s growth trajectory remains weak, undermined by low productivity, narrow export bases, and high exposure to climate shocks. These deeprooted structural issues, he warned, continue to restrict fiscal space and hinder the region’s long-term development prospects

“The Caribbean’s growth

trajectory has been constrained by high export concentration and structural rigidities, which have led to low and volatile growth,”

Experts and politicians have warned the Guyana Governmentaboutexcessive borrowing on the back of its oilrevenues.

OnlyrecentlytheUnited Kingdom increased its export credit financing limit forGuyanafrom£2.1billion to£3.0billion,amovebilled by both London and Georgetown as a vote of confidence in Guyana’s accelerating economic progress But amid the applause, commentators have here have sharply warned that Guyana must treadcarefully Failuretodo so, they say, risks plunging the country into a debt trap, especially given the volatilityofoilpricesandthe nation’s already heavy external and domestic obligations.

President Irfaan Ali

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Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

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

EDITORIAL

The WJP report

Guyana'splacementinthelatestWJPRuleof Law Index offered more than just a statistic: it sounded a warning bell This year the country slid to 80th out of 143 nations, and across Latin America and the Caribbean the position among peer states dropped to 18th out of 32 The margin of decline may appear slight less than one per cent but the trend and underlying dynamics are nothing todismiss

Theessenceoftheruleoflawissimpleyetprofound: government and private actors are accountable; laws are clear, equally applied and protect fundamental rights; legalprocessesareaccessible,fairandefficient;justiceis delivered by competent, independent adjudicators The WJPoutlinestheseprinciplesclearly Andyet,inacountry undergoing rapid economic transformation and battling governancechallenges,wemustnow ask:isGuyanatruly upholdingtheseprinciples?

The answer, regrettably, is that we are slipping The WJP report points to discernible weaknesses in key factors: Constraints on Government Powers, Open Government, and Fundamental Rights These are not abstract or peripheral, they are the foundations of public trust, investor confidence, and socialstability Whenthey erode,theconsequencesrippleoutward.

To be sure, the Government has questioned the validity of the ranking arguing that the survey data underpinning the Index derives largely from 2018 and 2022, and questioning the credibility of the stat – mark group that gathered it. But the core issues the ranking reflectsaren'tnew

They mirror recurring themes seen in our streets, institutionsandboardrooms.

IndependentassessmentsliketheWJPmatterbecause they draw on multiple datasets and expert perceptions, creating a comparative lens by which we can evaluate ourselves against peers and our own obligations If we dismiss them wholesale simply on technical grounds, we riskignoringthedeeperwarning:thatourlaws,institutions and practices are standing still, even as expectations, scrutinyandchangearoundusaccelerate.

Considerthewiderconsequences:Iftheruleoflawis perceived as weak, businesses hesitate, contracts falter, property rights are uncertain, disputes linger, and governancebecomesunpredictable Developmentslows Inequality deepens In short, a nation's promise is undermined

What then must we do? For starters, we must move beyondtalkingabouttheruleoflawasanabstractvirtue, and instead demand concrete accountability The judiciary must be more than just adjudicator, it must be visibly independent The police and regulatory agencies mustactimpartially

The legislature and executive must respect checks and balances,notviewthemasirritants.Andthecitizenrymust feel confident that their voice matters and their rights are protected.

In this moment of economic boom and national optimism,Guyanacannotaffordtoletthefoundationsof governance crumble. Wealth derived from natural resources is not a substitute for trust and lawful systems. Infact,itamplifiestheneedforboth.

The ranking is a red flag, not an indictment of the people or potential of this nation, but a reminder of what happens when good laws meet weak enforcement We must take it as a spur to renew our commitment to the principlesthatundergirdafree,fairandthrivingsociety

Letusthentreatthisslidenotasabadgeofshametobe ignored, but as a catalyst for action: stronger judicial independence, transparent public institutions, robust oversight, and a culture of accountability at every level Theruleoflawdemandsnothinglessandneitherdoesour future

Rethinking Rankings: How International Scoreboards Shape Perceptions of Media Freedom

DearEditor, The recent article, “Guyana slips in rule of law ranking” (28 October 2025, Kaieteur News), reports that Guyananowstands80thout of143countriesintheWorld Justice Project's (WJP) Rule of Law Index, citing small d

independence and civic

interprets this as a sign of democratic erosion and shrinkingmediafreedom.

Suchaconclusion,while u

premature It reflects a

w international agencies acquire and exercise the power and authority to define the meaning of freedom and rule of law in societies of the Global South.

Organisationssuchasthe WJP and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) occupy a privilegedplaceinthemoral economy of international governance. They speak in the language of universality, transparency, and accountability, yet their metrics are often shaped by historical experiences and political traditions specific to Western liberal democracies.

In translating complex local realities into global scoreboards, they wield a subtle form of power: the

legitimacyandfailure.

Dr Randy Persaud and other regional thinkers have long argued that such measures, though valuable, tend to marginalise local voices and undervalue Indigenous forms of civic engagement.

The question is not whether there should be standards, but whose structure of attitude and reference underlies them; in whose authority do they speak?

Imperial systems of knowledge did not depend merely on formal criteria; they rested on an entire structure of attitude and reference - a cultural lens through which other societies were perceived, described,andranked.

This is crucial. To speak ofa“structureofattitudeand reference” is not to reject standardsordisciplinebutto examine the historical imagination that frames them. Western agencies do not simply measure; they interpret and evaluate, drawing upon inherited assumptions about order, freedom,andcivility

Whenthoseassumptions aretreatedasuniversal,they transform complex realities i n t o c o m p a r a t i v e hierarchies.Theresultisnot a contest between high and low standards, but between different vantage points on what human freedom looks likeinpractice.

But representation is never neutral; it arranges realities into hierarchies of value, deciding who speaks andwhoisspokenfor Today's indices reproduce this logic: they classify,quantify,andname, performing what might be called classificatory violence,wherelocalnuance is sacrificed to external coherence Under this authority, Guyana's story becomes a set of digits and ranks-73rdintheRSFPress Freedom Index, 80th in the WJP Rule of Law Indexeach converted into a global headline, stripped of the contestationandvitalitythat define our media space and culture.

In reality, Guyana's publicsphereisanythingbut silent Kaieteur News, Stabroek News, Demerara Waves,andnumerousdigital platforms host continuous, sometimesferociousdebate. Government agencies such as the Department of Public I n f o r m a t i o n a n d independentjournalistsalike participateinanoisy,plural, and self-questioning ecosystem Across social media, citizens scrutinise authority and test the limits of expression daily These arenotsignsofdecaybutofa living, argumentative democracy

W h e n e x t e r n a l scoreboards present minor shifts in data as evidence of

national decline, they turn socialcomplexityintomoral calculus.

The effect is not i l l u m i n a t i o n b u t simplification:anarrativeof failure in search of an audience But as Michel Foucault would remind us, the language of expertise is never outside the structures ofpowerthatsustainit.

The solution is not to rejectexternalevaluationbut totransformitsbasis.Global benchmarks should engage with the societies they classify and describe, grounding their claims in dialoguewithlocalscholars, journalists, and civic actors instead of an inherited imperial authority Diplomatic partners and international NGOs have an important role to play herenot as auditors of progress but as collaborators in understanding. Freedom cannot be reducedtoanumber;itmust beinterpretedwithincontext and culture. A genuinely universalconversationabout press and governance will emerge only when the structures of attitude and reference which sustain them are made visible, debated, and revised so that what we call “standard” becomes the outcome of shared inquiry, not inherited authority

Respectfully, DrWalterPersaud

Govt's handling of land allocation in Region 10

DearEditor,

As a United Workers Party (UWP) activist and a proudresidentofRegion10, I am deeply troubled by the way this government continuestohandletheissue of land and housing, especiallyhereinourregion. While the PPP loudly preaches the slogan of “One Guyana,” their actions continue to tell a very different and painful story Whatweseeonthegroundis not unity or inclusion, but division,discrimination,and selectivetreatment.

Across Guyana's 83,000 squaremiles,theproblemof squatting has become a national pandemic. Families from every background, Afro-Guyanese, IndoGuyanese, Amerindian, and mixed, are affected.Yet it is disturbing to see that enforcementactionsseemto disproportionately target A f r o - G u y a n e s e communities. When Afro-

GuyanesecitizensinLinden, Mocha, or Golden Grove faceevictionanddemolition, we are told they are “illegal squatters.”Butwhensimilar situations arise in other regions,theresponseisoften quieter, softer, and more accommodating.

If this is truly “One Guyana,” why is one group being singled out for punishment while others are met with understanding and patience? That double standard cuts deep, and it exposes the painful truth, that political and racial bias still shape how justice and opportunity are distributed inourcountry

The reality is that successive governments both PPP and PNC, have failedtoactquickly,enforce housinglawsfairly,orcreate enoughaffordablehomesfor a growing population. Now, hardworking citizens, single mothers, miners, vendors, andyoungfamiliesarebeing

penalised for the failures of thoseinpower

In Region 10, countless families have been waiting for years, some for decades, for their house lots. Many have applied multiple times, and some have even paid deposits, yet they remain in limbo. Instead of helping them regularise their situation, the government brands them as “squatters” and threatens them with eviction That is not compassion; that is victimisation.

Projects like the longdelayed Bamia Primary School stand as further evidence of this neglect

After nearly four years and millions of taxpayer dollars, the school remains unfinished, leaving our children to pay the price for poor planning, broken promises, and a lack of accountability.

How can a government claim to stand for “One

Guyana” while treating certain regions and communities like outsiders in their own homeland? Unity cannot be built on slogans, speeches, or billboards, it must be lived throughfairness,justice,and respect for all citizens, regardlessofrace,region,or politicalpersuasion.

The United Workers Party believes that Guyana canonlymoveforwardwhen ourleadersbegintoleadwith heart, honesty, and fairness. We therefore call on the government to stop dividing thisnationandstartlivingup to its own promise of “One Guyana.” Let us see that unitynotjustinwords,butin action, in fair land distribution, completed schools,andrestoreddignity for every Guyanese family strivingforabetterlife.

Sincerely, LorenzoJoseph United Workers Party (UWP)Ac

Commentary on leader of opposition & paying Mps

DearEditor,

Mr Neville Bissember (Oct 28) provided clarity on the appointment and role of the LOO under the British imposedconstitutionandthe onefrom1980thatemerged outoftheriggedreferendum of July 1978 He cited relevant articles and clauses of both constitutions to buttress his arguments, something few columnists and or letter writers tend to do Bissember does not attack others unlike a few discredited columnists paid to pelt mud at others of integrity He is also not jealous of those who have achieved higher academic credentials than himself unlikeotherswhohavebeen kickedoutofuniversitiesfor plagiarism and academic fraud.

Bissember points out some contradictions in the 1980 constitution and humbly seeks clarity on

clauses He does not disagree that the incumbent government must continue in office after dissolution of parliament until after a new administration is sworn in followinganelection.Asthe AG, Anil Nandlall, had rightly stated, continuation of governance is a perk of incumbency Theincumbent government must continue inofficeuntilsuchtimethat a new administration is in place; a country can't be withoutagovernment.Itwill alsoseemreasonablethatthe LOOremainsinplaceuntila new government has been sworn in Should an outgoing LOO remain in office after a government is swornin?

In Guyana, it is argued that a new LOO is sworn in after the new parliament meets, a full two months after the declaration of results. It is not permitted elsewhere, certainly not in

theregion. Aquestionposed by lawyers is when a new President, regardless of party, is sworn in and new Ministers are also sworn in following a new election, shouldn't a new LOO also take office right after?

Should a person, regardless of party, who is not elected from new elections (not announced as a member of the new assembly) continue his role as LOO until parliament meets? A LOO must be a member of parliament. If the outgoing LOO, who is not an elected MP, continue to hold office and be paid, why can't other outgoing MPs (from all parties) also be paid till the new parliament is sworn in?

Between dissolution of p a r l i a m e n t a n d announcement of new MPs or swearing in of new parliament, the outgoing MPscontinuetoservicetheir constituents?SeveralMPsin

the outgoing parliament from both sides have not been elected to return in the new parliament and servicingconstituencies.

After dissolution of parliament,MPswhoarenot intheexecutivearenotpaid. Is that fair when MPs who are members of the Executive continue to receivefullsalary?Theycan continue to represent their constituents. In most other countries,MPsarepaidfrom swearing in till next swearing in of the new parliament and continue to service constituents In Guyana, following dissolution of the assembly andthenon-paymentofnonexecutive MPs (from ruling and opposition parties), it would mean they cease to represent constituents It means for the period between dissolution of the parliament till the new parliament is sworn in, the

Govt's prosecution team for Mohameds' extradition matter is rather incompetent

DearEditor,

It is with an acute sense ofoutrageandutterdisbelief that I write to condemn the staggering incompetence displayed by Guyana's government prosecuting team handling the extradition proceedings of father and son, Shell & Azruddin Mohamed The recent revelation that the casewaserroneouslyfiledin the Magistrate's Court, a court with no jurisdiction to hear such matters, is not m e r e l y a m i n o r administrative error; it is a catastrophic failure of basic legal procedure that undermines the entire administrationofjusticeand insultstheintelligenceofthe Guyanese people This raises many questions but before I ask, I digress for context.

Mr.AzruddinMohamed, is poised to be Guyana's political opposition leader come Monday, November 3rd, 2025. Seemingly and

with haste, Magistrate Judy Latchman was provided information from the prosecuting team that necessitatedhersigningthat arrest warrant for the father &sonduo.Thelightningfast “fast tracking “of this extradition process leaves the public to only conclude that this paradigm was politically motivated. Why? Well, if the Mohamed's extradition was hurriedly done over this weekend, he, Mr Azruddin Mohamed, could not have attended/ be sworn into parliament as an MP,comeMonday,AND,by

extension could not have beenvotedinasleaderofthe opposition (LOO). His non entry into parliament would have engendered a chaotic, unheard-offiasco,tovotein a LOO. The public cannot help but think this was the endgameoftherulingparty Thankfully, the Mohameds defenseteamhighlightedthe administrativeerrorandbail wasdetermined.

Editor,thisisnotamatter of complex legal nuance. The extradition act is clear ontheproperforumforsuch proceedings To have bungled this most

public has no MP to representorservicethem.Is that democratic and fair?

Commonsense suggests that is undemocratic and unconstitutional. In almost everycountry,outgoingMPs or legislators continue to serveastherepresentativeof theirconstituencyuntilafter the declaration of new elections In USA, a legislator is elected in November (unless there is a special election) of an even year and sworn in the followingJanuary(2,3).He

Help

DearEditor,

continues to serve until the new parliament meets or whentheelectionresultsare certified The outgoing legislatorsinUSAremainon the payroll and continues r e p r e s e n t a t i o n o f constituents till the new Congress meets on January 2.

In Guyana, the LOO remains on the payroll until the new parliament meets andanewLOOiselected. If the LOO can remain on the payrollasaconstitutional

(Continuedonpage6)

for Jamaica

With the undertaking to send help to Jamaica, if the government has not considered this already, the government should tie the help to Jamaica with the currentricefarmersfinancial jeopardy caused by the globalricesurplus.

Paythefarmersafairrate for paddy and negotiate a

fundamental step reveals a level of negligence that is simply unacceptable from a sitting government This error has immediate and severe consequences includingsquanderingoftax dollars and international embarrassment.

OurGuyanaconstitution guarantees due process to everyindividualanditismy fervent hope that the Mohamed's will be afforded such and not suffer a “KangarooCourt”,actionin Guyana.

Respectfully, JonathanSubrianEsq.

reduced milling cost for all ricesenttoJamaica. Easytoseethat,notonly willtheassistancetoJamaica bemet,butthegovernment's promised support for struggling rice farmers will alsobedelivered.Jamaicans' suffering can reduce that of theGuyanesericefarmers.

Regards FaiyazAlli

Outgoing Leader

of the Opposition

DearEditor, Itwasalwaysgoingtobe a hard call for the outgoing LOO.Caughtbetweenarock andahardplace...damnifhe did,damnifhedidn't.

Having given his unsolicited, no objection to the confirmation of the two femalejudgesinthetwotop judicial posts, he could not nowturnaroundandgivehis no objection for one of the twotobeconfirmed.

That would seem as though he was in agreement

with the early retirement strategy So,theeasiestway outwasnottorespond. By doing so, the impression is also conveyed that he is not in agreement withtheactingincumbentto be made substantive in the toppost. Hismomenttoshineand riseabovepartisanpoliticsis nowlost.Hewhohesitatesis lost. And in the meantime, theactingcontinues.

Regards ShamshunMohamed

Guyana bets on bamboo

...new pilot aims to restore forests, boost community livelihoods

The Ministry of N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s (MNR),throughtheGuyana

Forestry Commission (GFC), has launched a new initiative titled “Piloting BambooforRestorationand Sustainable Livelihoods in Guyana.”

The project was officially introduced on October 27, 2025, at the GFC Multiplex Building in Kingstonandmarksamajor step toward integrating

bamboointoGuyana'sforest restoration and green economic development plans, a press release by the ministrysaid.

Supported by the European Union Delegation in Guyana under the EUROCLIMA Programme, the initiative is being delivered with technical expertise from Expertise France, the International Bamboo and Rattan Organisation (INBAR), and the GFC's Forest Resources

ManagementDivision.

According to the ministry, building on restoration efforts under the National Forest Restoration Initiative (NFRI), the bamboo pilot will assess the potential of naturally occurringbamboospeciesto rehabilitate degraded lands, including mined-out areas while creatin

livelihood opportunities for

communities.

The project, the release

stated will strengthen Guyana's push to diversify its forest economy through bamboo-based products and value chains Community partners across Region Ten including Maria Elizabeth, Three Friends, Coomacka, O l d E n g l a n d , Nottinghamshire,Richmond Hill, and Siberian will participate in the design and operationofadedicatedpilot site.

Delivering the feature address, Minister of Natural

Resources Vickram Bharrat identified bamboo as a key contributortoGuyana'slowcarbon, sustainable forest economy, and stressed the importance of collaboration to build viable markets for bambooproducts.

Fast-growing, versatile, and rich in environmental benefits, bamboo offers strong potential for climate r

mic inclusion, and ecosystem restoration.

This launch reaffirms

Guyana's commitment to advancingsustainableforest management and building a future-readygreeneconomy forcommunitiesnationwide.

When the rights of one are trampled, the rights of all are threatened

DearEditor,

The clandestine move last Friday by the State to arrest the Mohameds and have them face extradition wasnosurprise.Societysaw it coming. But let me make this very clear- this issue is not merely about Azruddin Mohamed, though he stands attheforefrontofthestorm. This is about every single Guyanese and our fundamental right under the Constitution of this CooperativeRepublic.

Weareanationgrounded intheprinciplesofcommon law One of the cardinal pillarsofthatlawandofany civilised society is that a personispresumedinnocent until proven guilty That principle protects even the

mostdespisedamongus.Itis not optional. It is not to be trampled upon when convenient or when foreign forcesmakenoise.

If we discard that pillar, we invite disorder, lawlessness, and tyranny And we have stood at that brink before. Let me take this nation back to 2005. I recall the words of the late Chancellor and Attorney General Keith Massiah SC inhisminorityreportduring the Gajraj Commission of Inquiry into the phantom squadkillings.

Back then, this country wasconsumedbyfear,extrajudicial killings, and the collapse of public confidence in law enforcement Justice

Massiah spoke truth to power His words still echo today He said: “Killings however reasonable and expedient in the opinion of many persons of goodwill o u g h t n o t t o b e countenanced Even the alleged serial killer, the persistent rapist and the paedophile, detestable as those pariahs are, enjoy the fundamental right to a fair hearing and the full protectionofdueprocess.”

What this learned son of thesoilremindedusofisthat justice is not a privilege for thefew Itisthebirthrightof all. Even the most hated among us must be guaranteed due process That is what separates a

Food inflation 7.5 % in past year: lived reality much higher

DearEditor,

According to the Bureau ofStatistics,foodinflationin Guyana stood at 7.5 percent over the past year- a figure government officials have promoted as proof that inflation remains “modest” and “under control.” Yet for the average consumer, that number feels disconnected from reality At markets across the country, the cost ofstapleshasrisensharply:a 10-kilogram bag of rice that once sold for $2,000 now costs $3,000; a tray of eggs averages $2,000; and a 10pound gas cylinder now exceeds $5,000. Such price increases are not technical data points; they are daily struggles for thousands of families. These increases reflect

the erosion of purchasing power among working households, pensioners, and single parents who live paycheck to paycheck. The widening gap between official statistics and lived experience has deepened public mistrust. While oil production expands and the government celebrates record revenues, ordinary Guyanesearestillbattlingto put food on the table. Oneoff cash grants and shortterm handouts cannot substitute for real structural relief, fair wages, and sustainedpricestabilisation. If the government truly believesininclusivegrowth, it must close the distance between policy rhetoric and household reality. That requires more than slogans,

it demands wage and pension reviews, effective

transparency in how oil revenuesareusedtocurbthe rising cost of living. Until then, the “modest inflation” narrative will continue to ring hollow for the very citizens it is meant to reassure. The people are not askingformiracles;theyare asking for honesty, consistency, and relief that reach beyond headline numbers. If policymakers in governmentfailtorecognize this widening gap, they risk allowing Guyana's oil prosperity to coexist with growing poverty at the kitchentable.

Yoursfaithfully, SherodDuncan

nationoflawsfromajungle ofmen.

Due process is not a favour It is a right, a constitutional and Godgivenright.Thelaw-abiding among us expect that the process will be allowed to work, including the accused's right to be heard andthejudiciary'sauthority, uptotheCaribbeanCourtof Justice, to determine the facts.

Let the law take its course without fear, favour or ill will. We must not demand the protection of rights only when it suits us. Justice ceases to be justice when applied selectively In any civilised society, due process, the rule of law, and equal treatment must apply toall,notsome.

Today it is the wealthy Mohameds who can afford the best lawyers to fight for theirrightsinacourtoflaw Tomorrow it could be you, the ordinary worker, the small farmer, the single

mother, the unemployed youth. And if you do not havethemoneyorinfluence thattheMohamedshave,cat gon eat your dinner Do not think you are immune from theprecedentbeingsethere.

Once the door to injustice is opened,itwillnotstopuntil itreachesyourdoorstep.

Andletmesaythistothe Mohameds themselves: the public outcry in your defence must be taken as a call for fairness, not favour

Thepeopleexpectthatwhen young Mohamed takes the Oath of Office as a parliamentarian, and possibly as Leader of the Opposition,heandhisparty will remember who they serve:thepeopleofGuyana, whether they voted for you ornot.

Let us also remember where we came from. In 1926, the trade union movement began the fight for internal self-government anduniversaladultsuffrage, one man one vote. That

struggle gave birth to Independence in 1966 and Republican status in 1970. Ourforeparentsdidnotfight colonial masters to now handoveroursovereigntyto new external powers or domesticpoliticalcabals.As a sovereign people, our Constitution and our courts must stand above foreign interference and political manipulation Fellow Guyanese, we must not blink. We must defend our democracy, our sovereignty, andourConstitutionwithout apology and without fear If we fail to do so, we betray the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and endanger the future of those yetunborn.

Let every Guyanese, irrespective of race, class, creedorpoliticalpersuasion, understand this truth- when the rights of one are trampled,therightsofallare threatened.

Regards LincolnLewis

Commentary on leader of opposition...

Frompage5 representative of the country, with cabinet ranking, why can't all opposition MPs and all government MPs who are not in the executive branch alsobepaidtillthereturnof thenewparliament?

MPs and or their constituents should file a constitutional question in court on representation and payment.

Iftheydo,Iamconfident the CCJ will rule in their favor if the high court and CourtofAppealruleagainst them.

A similar case was

adjudicated in 2002 in Trinidad and the Privy Council. Following a tied e l e c t i o n , a n d t h e (undemocraticappointment) of Patrick Manning as PM, thePandayledUNCrefused to attend parliament after its firstsitting.

Manning decided not to pay the UNC's 18 MPs of their parliamentary remuneration(salary). TheillustriousGuyanese Senior Counsel Fenton Ramsahoye challenged the non-payment of UNC MPs while government PNM MPs were paid including all perks. The high court and

Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the Manning government Ramsahoye was confident of victory at Privy Council which unanimously overturned the lower court's judgement The Manning government had to pay the full salary of theUNCMPsplusinterests In Guyana, MPs from bothsides,notservinginthe executive, should challenge the law that denies the people representation and themselves payment. It is discriminatory and unconstitutional.

Yourstruly, VishnuBisram(PhD)

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat

Dr. Campbell to shadow Drs Ashni Singh, Frank Anthony

Businessman, Dr T e r r e n c e Campbell, a new face in the PNC-lead A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and parliament, will shadow the MinisterofFinanceDrAshni Singh and the Minister of HealthFrankAnthony,when

the 13th Parliament convenestoday Campbell told the media

F r i d a y , t h a t t h e parliamentary opposition will have a shadow cabinet that will ensure rigorous scrutinyoftheexecutiveand c o m p r e h e n s i v e representation across all sectorsofgovernment.

He explained that this

structure is vital to accountability, the defense ofdemocraticnormsandthe advancementoftheinterests ofallcitizens.

“In the current configurationoftheNational Assembly of Guyana, the APNUhasnameditsshadow

c

government on the issues of transparency,accountability, institutional responsibility, and effective parliamentary e

assignments are aimed at ensuring every facet of government is robustly scrutinised and that the voices of the Guyanese people are represented with clarity, conviction, and competence,” Dr Campbell relayed at his party’s press conferenceonFriday

Because the APNU is entering parliament with a

d number of seats, most of its members will have more thanoneshadowportfolio.

I n a d d i t i o n t o

Dr.Campbell’s portfolio, Dr DexterToddwillshadowthe office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs Ganesh Mahipaul will shadow the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

Newcomer, Riaz Zakeer Rupnarain was assigned to shadow the Ministry of ForeignAffairs,whileSaiku Andrews will be shadowing theMinistryofPublicWorks and Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation CorettaMcDonald,A.A.will continue to shadow the Ministry of Education with the Ministry of Labour and

Manpower Planning added toherportfolio.

Vinceroy H. Jordan will continue to shadow the MinistryofAgriculturewith the Office of the Prime Minister added to his portfolio, while Juretha Fernandes will shadow the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Tourism, Industry and Commerce Sherod Avery Duncan will shadow the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry ofHousing.

Educator, Nima Natacha Flue-Bess will continue to shadow the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture, while Sharma Raheem Solomon will shadow the Ministry of Public Service,

Government Efficiency and Implementation and the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Co-leaderoftheWorking People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr DavidHindswillshadow the Ministry of Human ServicesandSocialSecurity

“With reference to our parliamentary legislative agenda, we will focus on advancingbills,motionsand questions with the aim of pressing the government to ensu

e transparency, accountability and equity,” DrCampbellsaid.

Furthermore, he noted that the APNU members of parliament will continue to engage the citizens of Guyana to represent their interests and make their concerns public, offering wellthoughtoutsolutions.

Gold Project

Guyana is set to reap an estimated US$3.4 billion in taxes and royalties from the Toroparu Gold Project, which Canadian-based Aris MiningCorporationexpects, will generate US$14 7 billioningoldsalesbasedon a base gold price of US$3,000perounceoverits 21-yearminelife.

The Toroparu Project located in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) is being developed through Aris Mining’s local subsidiary, ETK Inc. The project is 100 per cent owned by the Canadianfirm.

According to the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) recently published, at a base gold priceofUS$3,000perounce, the project is expected to contribute US$2.2 billion in income taxes and US$1.2 billion in royalty payments to the Government of Guyana, bringing the country’s total projected earnings to US$3.4 billion. At the same gold price assumption, the Toroparu gold project is projected to deliver an after-tax Net Present Value (NPV5%) of US$1.8 billion, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 25.2%,andapaybackperiod ofthreeyears.

The PEAresults confirm plansforalarge-scale,longlife open-pit operation expected to produce an averageof235,000ouncesof goldperyearovermorethan two decades. The project’s life-of-mine production is estimated at 5 0 million ounces of gold, 4.9 million ounces of silver, and 260

millionpoundsofcopper

According to the PEA,

Government of Guyana, the project will pay an 8% royalty on gold sales, 1.5% on silver, and 1 5% on copper Itwasstatedthatthe royaltiesaredeductiblefrom taxable income under Guyana’s 30% corporate tax rate.Notably,a2011mineral agreementbetweenETKand the Government of Guyana established a tiered gold royaltyof5%forpricesupto

leasing strategy, which lowerstheupfrontcostofthe mining fleet from US$73 million to approximately US$35 million during construction.

The company explained that this leasing approach willensureaccesstomodern, well-supported mining e q u i p m e n t u n d e r comprehensive maintenance and parts-supply programs throughout the 20-plus-year minelife.

Thereportalsostatedthat the mine life of 21.3 years

US$1,000perounceand8% forpricesabovethat.

The report outlines gold production costs at US$826 per ounce, with an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of US$1,289perounce.

The large-scale open-pit mine will require an initial construction capital of US$820 million, which includes pre-production costs and a US$96 million contingency Aris Mining said this figure represents a US$38 million reduction comparedtoapreviousfleetpurchase plan The cut results from the company’s

comeswithopportunitiesfor further expansion through continuedexploration.

A c c o r d i n g t o information from the company’s website, the project site was first mined by Alfro Alphonso in 1997 and explored by ETK from 1999 under a joint venture with Alphonso ETK acquired full ownership in 2020, paying US$20 million to exercise its option, while Alphonso retained certain alluvial rights and access privileges,ETKalsosecured an investment agreement with GO-Invest granting tax exemptions on projectrelatedimports.

Dr. Terrence Campbell

When can self-defence be used as a defence?

Whenindividualsseekto make personal judgments about matters of law, it is essential that they first developanunderstandingof the law itself and the principles upon which it rests.

Legal reasoning is not guided by emotion, sympathy,orpublicopinion, but by established doctrines and carefully balanced rules designed to ensure fairness and justice. Without such understanding, commentary and conclusions risk being misguided, overlooking the structuredreasoningthatthe courts must apply when

determining guilt, innocence, or the justification for a particular act.

Self-defenceisoneofthe most recognised and

fundamental legal justifications in criminal law It acknowledges that in certain circumstances, a person may lawfully use force, even deadly force, protect themselves from harm. The core issue is whether the response was r e a s o n a b l e a n d proportionate to the threat faced at the time of the incident Under criminal law, self-defence is not an excuse for violence but a justification. It operates on theprinciplethatindividuals have the right to protect themselves, others, or their property from unlawful aggression.

The test for self-defence generally has two components: a subjective and an objective one

Subjectively, the accused must genuinely believe that the use of force was necessary to avert an i m m i n e n t t h r e a t

Objectively,thatbeliefmust be reasonable in the eyes of anordinarypersonplacedin the same circumstances. A person invoking selfdefence must demonstrate that they faced an imminent threatofunlawfulharm.The threat must be immediate or impending, leaving little or no opportunity to retreat or seek other protective measures.

The law does not generally permit a person to claim self-defence in response to a threat that is merely speculative or remote. There must be clear evidencethattheaggressor's conduct created a real danger that could result in serious injury or death. In this regard, a cliam of selfdefence must be assessed against the proportionality of his response to the threat h e e n c o u n t e r e d Proportionality is a central element in determining the legitimacyofself-defence.It requires that the force used be no more than what is reasonably necessary to repel the attack or prevent furtherharm.

Courts examine not just the outcome of the

event but the circumstances leading up to it. The law focusesonwhattheaccused reasonably perceived at the moment, rather than on hindsightjudgmentafterthe fact.Apersonunderattackis not expected to weigh alternatives with perfect calmness The law recognises that decisions made in the heat of confrontation may not be measured with clinical precision.

However,thisallowance is not limitless The defensive act must still be grounded in a rational and honest belief that one's life or bodily integrity was in immediate jeopardy Selfdefence cannot be used as a shield for retaliation or revenge.Oncethethreathas ceased,anycontinueduseof forcebecomesunlawfuland cannot be justified. If, for example,thethreateningact was receding or in retreat, then the subsequent response would not be seen as self-defence At that point, the justification evaporates because the necessity for defensive actionnolongerexists.

Another crucial consideration is whether the person claiming selfdefence provoked the confrontation. The right to self-defence is generally unavailable to an initial aggressorunlesstheyclearly withdraw from the conflict

DEM BOYS SEH

Oil don't spoil, but we pocket

Kaieteur News – Dem boys seh de former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago did right when he seh, “oil don't spoil.” Butdemboysquickfuhadd,itcould spill — and in Guyana, is not de oil that spilling, but de people pocket. Every time one barrel come up, dem boys does pray nothingdon'tspill.

Guyananowabig-timeoilcountry,orso demseh. Butdemboysstillcan'tfigureout howanationsittingonbillionsofbarrelsof oil still got fuh borrow money fuh fix one roadandbuildbridge.

We producing oil like ants carrying sugar,yetdetreasurydrylikecoconutshell afterdemilkdonedrainout.

Dem boys seh it strange, man. Usually when people find oil, dem celebrate. But when Guyana find oil, we shoulda mourn. Becauseinsteadofoilwealth,whatwegetis oildebt.Othercountriesgoindebtbecause demgovernmentwentonaspendingspree. Guyana going in debt because de oil companiesondespree—andwefootingde bill.

Dem boys seh dem oil companies spending like sailor on shore leave. Plane ticket here, consultancy fee there, and nuff big fancy office chair Everything costing triple what it should. Dem submit invoice formosquitospray,andsomehowdatendup

and communicate that withdrawal to the other party The law imposes a duty of reasonableness and restraint even in tense situations It expects individuals to respond in a mannerthataprudentperson wouldconsidernecessaryto protect themselves, not to exactvengeance.

Inhomicidecases,when self-defence is raised, the burden initially rests on the accused to provide some evidence supporting the claim.Oncethatthresholdis met, the prosecution bears the responsibility to disprove self-defence beyond a reasonable doubt. This safeguard ensures that individuals are not unjustly convicted when they acted out of genuine fear for their

safety It also maintains the balancebetweentherightto self-protection and society's interest in preventing unnecessary violence. The court will typically consider severalfactorsinassessinga self-defence claim. These include the nature of the threat, the immediacy of danger, the availability of alternative options, and the proportionality of the response.

Eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence can all play crucial roles in determining whether the accused's belief in the necessity of force was reasonable The focus remains on whether the response matched the perceived level of threat.

Thedoctrineofself-defence reflects a careful balance between individual rights and societal order It acknowledges that people must be allowed to defend themselves but insists that such defence must be both necessaryandproportionate.

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

Teen stabbed to death at Loo

Creek

worksite - co-workers capture alleged killer

A36-year-oldlaboureris in police custody for the alleged murder of 17-yearoldGuaravBhagwan,police saidSunday.

Thepoliceforcesaiditis investigating the alleged murder of the 17-year-old labourer, of Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara which occurred at about 21:30hrs on Saturday November 1, 2025 at Loo Creek, Soesdyke-Linden Highway

done spoil

as“explorationcost.”Butwhocanquestion dem?Notwe,becausewedonesignawayde righttoevenasktooloud.

And speaking of signing, dem boys seh isdesamepoliticianswhoputweindisbaba-laps. Dem go fuh negotiate but end up bowing instead. Dem sign agreement wid dem eye close.One man even sign so fast, dem boys sure he didn't read a single line. Maybehethoughtitwasabirthdaycard,not abillion-dollarcontract.

Now, every time we blink, new figure pop up in de papers. Billions here, billions there — all “cost recovery.” Dem boys seh dat mean dem recoverin' every cent dem spend, and we recoverin' nothing but headache.Andwhenweaskquestions,dem tell we to hush and be grateful — as if gratitudecanpayoffdebtorbuildhospital.

DemboyssehGuyanagottobedeonly placewhereoilfindwepoorer Demorewe pump, de less we keeping. Is like cooking soupwithnuffmeatandbone,butwhenyou done share out, you left wid only de pot cover

So, dem boys seh, don't talk too much 'boutoilprosperity.Becausewhileoildon't spoil, contract can.And de way things deh going,demboyswaitingfuhdedaywhende onlythinglefttoexportisweshame. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

The murder, they said, was allegedly committed by a 36-year-old labourer of La Belle Alliance, Essequibo Coast, who is currently in policecustodyassistingwith theinvestigation.

Police said during the preliminary investigations, it was revealed that Bhagwan and several other co-workerswereexecutinga road and drainage project in

thearea.Oneoftheworkers reportedly heard a loud

s c r e a m a n d u p o n investigating, the teen was discoveredlyingmotionless, with what appeared to be stabwoundsabouthisbody

“The suspect was seen nearbyandwasrestrainedby his colleagues until the arrivalofthepolice.”

B h a g w a n w a s transported to the Diamond Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty, police said. The Guarav's body is at the mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations areongoing.

Dead Guarav Bhagwan

FromGuyanatoArabiawithlove

Note is taken of how Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali held took his Olympicsized torch from the metropolis-in-the-making that is Georgetown all the way across the mountains and oceans to the megapolis of Riyadh. It was from the riversofGuyanatothesands of Saudi Arabia with a specialkindoflove. ‘Small nation, giant impact’ said Guyana’s president in boomingshadesofApollo13 astronaut, Neil Armstrong. Recall him, and his ‘one smallstepforman,onegiant leapformankind’whichstill resonates to this day, ripples acrosstheglobe. Therewas MIA. Excellency Ali is on top of the world, and he should be, since he is the foremost beneficiarythatisfloatingon a sea of oil. Just lean to the side, Dr President, and ask the Arabs gathered at that summit. Theyshouldknow, sincetheyhavebeenwalking on oceans of the stuff and occasionallyboxingtheears of the Western world to prove who is cock of the walk Now there was Guyana’s Ali milling with themighty,andonewhomay be dressed for the harsh environment, but is developing a reputation for beinganall-weatherdresser,

a resplendent costume to graceeveryoccasion. More powertohimand,topushthe nuclearbutton,maybeevena bigger piece to Guyana for itspreciouspatrimony

Because, in a manner similar to that cohort of Arabs,well-representedwith oi

buccaneers,thereisGuyana, and the paradox of the contradictions of great wealth and still greater poverty For amid that fabulouswealthforachosen few, there are those pictures thatmustbehiddenfromthe public with its prying eyes and chattering classes. The

picturesareofalandblessed with plenty, which makes a giant impact on the prosperityofthefew;while, on the other hand, there are those droves of hungry, and those living in grimacing, woundingpoverty Anation this small, with this small number of citizens for a population should not have one pauper, one scrapper runningaround,anddigging about,tomakeadailyliving. Where is the big impact on their lives after six years of oil production at an increasingdailyrate? When anyone sees that giant impact, I would appreciate an electronic note, which should provide the basis for another warm round of applauseforPres.Ali.

“We are shaped by the way we think, and the boldness of our thinking” was part of the flashing rhetorical fireworks that Excellency Ali shared with hisraptgathering. Wellsaid, skipper; I’m awed. People pay attention to those who travelgreatdistanceswith11 billion barrels of oil in their hip pocket. But on that, ah, item of “boldness of our thinking” I have some difficulty interpreting how the docility of “sanctity of

contract” reconciles with the “boldness of our thinking.” Something is missing. Boldness, or a patented baldness of intellect, a shallow grave where courage has been buried? Boldness in thinking,ormoreinthemold ofaprostratingpassivitythat breathes the dust on which others walk, maybe spit and even splashwith bodily liquids?

“Hereisacountrythatis providing the solution to the global problems of deforestation and climate change, yet many do not knowofit.”

Ijustdon’thavetheheart to disagree with Pres. Ali. Not when he is in such full flow Not when he is like a man possessed. A leader whoisarmedwiththeinkof scribblerswhoknowjustthe right words to write for different audiences. And along with that, there is the confidence that in Pres. Ali, Guyana has one who thrills to the ecstasy of delivering. As if those words were straight out of the stone tablets presented by Moses thousands of years ago in that same desert setting What I will be bold enough tosharewithPres.Aliandall

Guyanese is that while he is busy “providing solution to…global problems” there are Guyanese sick to their stomach for want of vittles andthevitalitythatgoeswith those. For what is it for a man to gain the world, and lose his soul? There’s the effervescenceofwordswellwritten and well-said. Then there’sthatotheressence:of almost half of Guyana wobblingonweakkneesand feetonfire.

I confess to having a weakness for love letters, whether written in sand; or coated in Styrofoam. It is wonderful to absorb President Mohamed Irfaan Ali stand in immaculate attire and expound to his listenersabout‘smallnation, giant impact’ with Guyana beingthedriver Pityhegets so excitedly preoccupied with words that the substance of Guyanese suffering has proven most elusivetohim.

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

Brazilianminermurdered atSandhillLanding

- suspect on the run after knife attack

PoliceinRegionSevenarehuntinga24year-old Brazilian gold miner accused of fatally stabbing his colleague during a drunken brawl at Sandhill Landing, Cuyuni River,earlySaturdaymorning.

Dead is 34-year-old Francis Diago Alivera,aBraziliannationalandgoldminer The killing ocurred around 01:45hrs on Saturday In a statement police said initial enquiries disclosed that Alivera and the suspect,alsoemployedasagoldminerinthe areawereknowntoeachotherandhadbeen socialising on the evening prior to the incident During the early hours of November1,2025,analtercationreportedly developed between them, during which the suspectallegedlyarmedhimselfwithaknife andinflictedmultipleinjuriesuponAlivera.

Theinjuredmanwasassistedbypublic-

spirited persons and subsequently transported to a nearby mining company outpost, where he received initial medical attention. He was later transferred to the Bartica Regional Hospital where he was receiving treatment but subsequently succumbedtohisinjuries.

Ranks led by senior detectives visited both the hospital and the scene at Sandhill Landing.The area was processed by crimescene investigators who recovered a knife suspected to have been used in the attack. Several persons have been interviewed and statements obtained. The suspect fled the scene and is currently being sought. The body of the deceased is presently at the Bartica Regional Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination Investigationsareongoing.

GPL flips the switch on 5MW solar farm at Onderneeming

Asection of the solar farm

The Guyana Power and LightInc.(GPL)onSaturday

commissioned its 5 Megawatt-peak (MWp)

Solar Photovoltaic Farm at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, a major leap forward in Guyana’s drive toward clean, reliable and modern energy

The Onderneeming solar farm was financed through revenues earned under the first phase of the Guyana–Norwaypartnership for forest conservation. The widerGUYSOLprogramme, valued at US$83.8 million, will deliver 33 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity and 34 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage across Regions Two, Five, Six and Ten.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony

Prime Minister, Mark Phillips said the project reflects the government’s practical approach to energy diversification and the successful execution of its low-carbon development agenda “This solar farm strengthensthegrid,supports the growth of local communities, and ensures that Guyanese families and businesses will benefit from cleaner, more reliable and moreaffordableenergy.”

The facility marks a historic expansion of power capacity on the Essequibo Coast, increasing the region’s generation from 16 MW to approximately 22.5 MW This significant boost ensuresgreaterreliabilityfor households, schools, health facilities and businesses throughouttheregion.

According to Prime Minister Phillips, this project,alongwiththe3MW solar farm at Charity, now under construction, will benefit from a combined output of 12,300 MWh annually, meeting more than 20 per cent of its projected 2026energydemand.Hesaid the Onderneeming installation alone will produce approximately 7,700 MWh per year, saving an estimated GY$447

million in fossil fuel costs andreducing6,000tonnesof carbonemissionsannually

The prime minister highlighted that the commissioningreflectsmore than an infrastructural achievement He said it represents a decisive step in Guyana’stransitiontoenergy independence and reduced carbon emissions. He also explained that it will help stabilise electricity costs whilecreatingspaceforGPL to integrate additional renewable sources in the future.

The prime minister further emphasised that the government’s long-term vision is grounded in diversification—integrating renewable energy sources with natural gas to provide dependable and affordable electricityforeveryregion.

“We are pursuing an energymixthatwillresultin greater use of renewable energy Between 2020 and 2025, our target was 500 megawatts of new capacity across solar and hydro developments, and we are alreadyexceedingthattarget. Alongside these utility-scale solarprojects,wearemoving aheadwiththe300-megawatt Gas-to-Energy Project at Walesandthe165-megawatt Amaila Falls Hydropower Project. Together, they form the foundation of Guyana’s long-termenergysecurity.”

He stressed that this approach advances the three national imperatives under President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s development vision — energy security, food security and climate security—whichensurethat every community has access to the resources it needs for sustainablegrowth.

“As we move towards greater use of renewable energy, the impact on the environment is reduced, and we move closer to achieving climatesecurity Thatiswhat this government is about: ensuring that every region has access to energy, every community is empowered to grow, and our development

remainssustainable.”

Phillips reflected on the enduring impact of the Guyana–Norway REDD+ Investment Fund, describing it as a continuation of Guyana’s pioneering app

financing and sustainable forestmanagement.Henoted that the LCDS established a globalmodelinwhichforest preservation provides the means to fund low-carbon development “What we have achieved here today is the product of consistent leadership and sound environmental stewardship. Years after that agreement was signed, Guyana is still benefitting from the vision that protecting our forests givesusthemeanstodevelop inacleanerway Thatvision islightingEssequibotoday.”

The REDD+ Investment Fund was created in 2009 under a bilateral agreement between Guyana and Norway, through which Guyana earned US$250 million for maintaining low deforestation rates. In 2020, the current administration allocated US$85 million from the fund to develop renewable energy projects under the GUYSOL programme, including the Onderneeming solar facility and other utility-scale farms across the country Turning tothehumanandoperational dimensions of the GUYSOL programme, the Prime Minister commended the project’s inclusive approach to training, employment and capacity-building He highlighted that 31 women, including nine from Region Two, have been trained and employed in solar PV installation, while 20 apprentices — among them six persons with disabilities — are gaining experience in engineering, finance and projectmanagement.

He also pointed out that the programme integrates r o b u s t s a f e t y a n d environmental measures to safeguard long-term reliability and performance. EachGUYSOLsiteisguided

The ganja that was seized by police.

by a Disaster Risk Management Plan, an Environmental and Social Management Plan, and a Flood Risk Assessment to ensure continued operations under changing climatic conditions. The integration of smart monitoring systems and modern substations will further enable GPL to manage and respond to grid operationsmoreefficiently

“Projectslikethisarenot only about technology, they are about people They illuminate homes and classrooms, they empower workerswithnewskills,and they support local economies. The light that n o w s h i n e s f r o m Onderneemingispractical,it is earned, and it belongs to every Guyanese who believes in a sustainable future.”

Prime Minister Phillips noted that the government’s utility-scale solar programme is advancing acrossmultiplelocations.He stated that projects are underway in Regions Two, Five, Six and Ten, and highlightedthatthelargestof these farms is being developedinLinden,Region Ten, with a planned capacity o f 1 5 m e g a w a t t s Collectively,theseinitiatives are expected to increase Guyana’s renewable generation capacity to over 39 megawatts by 2026, strengthening energy security and supporting sustainable growth in both coastal and hinterland communities.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, the Honourable Deodat Indar; IDBCountryRepresentative, Ms Lorena Solorzano Salazar; Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahender Sharma; GPL Team Leader of Executive Management, Mr Kesh Nandalall;representativesof SUMEC and XJ Group Corporation; Regional Chair andotherlocalofficialswere also at the commissioning ceremony (DPI)

Police in Regional Division #5 on Sunday intercepted a minibusloadedwithamassivequantityofcannabisalongthe FoulisPublicRoad,WestCoastBerbice.

The seizure occurred around 06:00hrs During the exercise, ranks intercepted a motor minibus bearing registrationnumberBAJ534,drivenbya44-year-oldmaleof Hopetown Village, West Coast Berbice. A search of the vehicle uncovered several bulky bags containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. The suspected narcotics were weighed in the presence of the driver and amounted to 164.7 pounds. The exhibits and vehicle have been lodged and the driver remains in Police custody as investigationscontinue.

The minibus that was intercepted with the narcotics

WIN sounds alarm!

...says Govt. plotting to block Mohamed b from becoming opposition leader fr Go

With the swearing-in of members of parliament and the official installation of a leader of the opposition set for 2 PM today, the main oppositionmovement—We InvestinNationhood(WIN) is warning that the government may be scheming to blockAzruddin Mohamedfromtakingupthe post.

Mohamed’s WIN party secured the most seats

among the opposition parties, positioning him to become Guyana’s first new opposition leader in nearly sevendecades.Buttheparty believes Friday’s dramatic arrest—whenAzruddinand his father, Nazar Mohamed, were hauled before the courts to begin extradition proceedings over alleged gold-smuggling may

have been more than coincidence Although granted bail, senior PPP/C figures openly criticised Magistrate Judy Latchman’s ruling, fueling concerns of political interference ahead of today’s parliamentary session.

In a blistering Facebook

warning on Sunday, Mohamed’s sister, Hana

Khamelia, said the ruling party’sintentionsareclear:

“We know what you’re up to. We are fully aware of the attempts being made to interfere with the swearinginofleaderofWINAzruddin Mohamed tomorrow. Let it beclearthattheConstitution of Guyana provides strong a n d u n a m b i g u o u s protections for this process. The taking of the oath is a constitutionally mandated step that automatically vests members with the authority toserveandisnotsubjectto obstruction or delay by outsidepressures.

Any effort to prevent or disrupt this historic process includingthefirstemergence ofanewoppositioninnearly seventy years would run contrary to the rule of law andtheseparationofpowers that safeguard our parliamentary system,” Khameliawrote. Sheadded: “The Guyanese people will neverallowthisprocesstobe derailed, and we are fully prepared to uphold these constitutionalprotections.”

W I N ’ s G e n e r a l Secretary, Odessa Primus, echoed that message, saying the party expects more

CDC’s new multipurpose CDC’ building and bond

targeted moves in the hours ahead to derail Mohamed’s swearing-in.

On Saturday WIN strongly condemned the manner in which its leader and his 72-year-old father Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed werearrestedonFriday

The party, in a statement published on its Team Mohamed’s Facebook page,

said the arrests were “nothing but a public spectacle and an exhibition of power and authoritative attitudeunderthePPP/C.

Videosofthearreststhat surfaced on social media,

s

Mohamed being accosted in frontoftheGuyanaRevenue Authority’s(GRA)officeon Smyth Street, Georgetown. He was surrounded by a party of masked policemen with firearms who showed upinseveralpolicevehicles.

The businessman was handcuffedthenplacedatthe backofapolicepickup.

Following their arrest, the father-and-son duo were p l a c e d b e f o r e t h e Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before following an extradition request from the government of the United

States of America

Subsequent to hearing arguments from both sides themenweregrantedbailin the sum of $150,000 each. They were required to lodge their passports and report to the officer- in- charge of the Ruimveldt Police Station

every Friday between 13:00hrsand15:00hrs.

AzruddinMohamedsaid hethoughthewasacriminal given the manner of his arrest.

“Ohmy,themannerthatI wasarrested,IthoughtIwas a criminal They had Narine and Sarabo pull up withsix,sevenvehicleswith morethan20gunmen(police officers) in mask. I thought theywantedtokillmethere. I thought they wanted to execute me right there,” he told reporters shortly after beinggrantedbail.

He continued, “So I asked, what is the problem? Because they are the same guys that follow my moves every day, these Special Branchguys,everydaythey followmymoves.”

Azruddin’s sister Hana Mohamed told reporters outside of the Criminal Investigation Department

DPI - A modern multi-purpose facility designed to expand the Civil Defence Commission’s (CDC) storage capacity for disaster relief was commissioned on Friday at the CDC’s Headquarters, Thomas Road, Thomas Lands,Georgetown. Thestate-of-the-artcomplex,which isvaluedat$97.8millionandfundedby the Office of the Prime Minister, will alsoenhancetheagency’slogisticaland coordinationcapabilities,ensuringthat emergency supplies are properly maintained and swiftly deployed in timesofcrisis.

(CID)atEveLearyonFriday that“(they)confiscatedtheir phones and the phones of theiremployees.AndIheard that they threw Azruddin Mohamed in the back of a pickup truck on direct orders,andourelderlyfather inacar.”

The woman reminded that, “Nearly 110,000 of Guyanese citizens voiced their choice on September 1 for their representative, and ifthisisadeliberatetacticto preventhimfromtakingthat role,thenallIcansayisthat we’reataverysadstate.”

In the statement headlined “Let’s compare President Irfaan’s arrest in 2018 and Azruddin’s arrest in2025!!!”thepartysaidthat toinitiateasneakyarrestofa leader who is also a wellknown humanitarian along oneofGeorgetown’sbusiest streetswasnotjustaboutthe arrestofitself.

Itwasa“calculatedactof intimidation, designed to send a political message to anyone who opposes the PPP/C regime,” the party said noting that “The use of over20maskedgunmenwho pointed their firearms in the face of Mr. Mohamed and cameras to initiate the arrest ofsomeonewhohadoffered full cooperation is a clear disrespectoftheruleoflaw.”

Azruddin Mohamed, through one of his lawyers, wrote the Minister of Home Affairs, the Commissioner ofPoliceandtheDirectorof Public Prosecutions on

October 6, where he expressed his readiness to surrender once the proper extraditionrequestwasfiled andthelegalprocesseswere inplace.

thanjustice,”thepartysaid.

Further, the party highlighted that the younger Mohamed, whose party secured the second largest number of votes in the 2025 general and regional elections, was handcuffed and thrown in the back of a vehicle, then whisked away in the presence of his supporters.Thepartyalleges thathewasdeniedcallstohis attorneys.

“Mr Mohamedremained calm and let due course prevail On this note, Mr Mohamed’s driver was also unlawfully arrested and placed in custody during whichhewaschuckedinthe face in the car while being taken to Eve Leary This is nothing but a premeditated, concocted plan from the beginning First, a sitting magistrate was brought to Georgetown to preside over this matter; all cases at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court were rescheduled to facilitatethisso-calledhighprofile matter, and arrangements were in place to whisk the Mohameds out of the country,” the statementsaid.

WIN said that all o p e r a t i o n s a t t h e Georgetown Magistrates’ Court were at a standstill, withnoonebeingallowedin or out and several masked, armed men paraded the compound “Even soldiers were called out to surround thecourthouse.Well,thatall backfired thanks to Almighty GOD and the competent legal team that representedtheMohameds,” thestatementsaid.

In his feature address, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said the commissioning signifies another step in strengthening Guyana’s national capacity for preparednessandresponse. Hesaidthatreadinessmustbebuilt, trained, housed, and supported by the rightinfrastructureandresources.

Theprimeministeremphasisedthat these investments directly save time, reduce loss, and protect lives, while reaffirming the government’s commitmenttobuildingresilience Continued on page 15

“His father, on the other handwastakeninhandcuffs from his Lombard Street office He too, fully cooperated and let the process run its course Moreover, this PPP/C regime has time and time again used state machinery as a political weapon, reducinglawenforcementto instruments of fear rather

The party called on citizens to remain vigilant, “and to hold this destructive and criminal-minded PPP government that will lead this nation for another five years,accountable.” Additionally, the party said that no form of intimidation and public humiliation will be enough to prevent its leader and members from going to ParliamentonMonday

WIN leader, Azruddin Mohamed set for parliament today

US military kills 3 in another strike on Caribbean vessel

(AL-JAZEERA) The United Stateshascarriedoutanotherstrike on a ship in the Caribbean, according to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, killing at least three menonboardthevessel.

InapostonXlateonSaturday, Hegsethsaidtheattackwascarried out on the orders of US President DonaldTrumpandtargetedavessel that “was known by our intelligencetobeinvolvedinillicit narcoticssmuggling.”

He said “three male narcoterrorists”wereonboardthevessel during the strike, which was conductedininternationalwaters.

Allthreewerekilled,headded.

TheattackonSaturdayfollows another on Wednesday that killed four men and a series of bombings thatkilled14othersonMonday

The operation, which began in early September, has killed more than62people,includingnationals fromVenezuelaandColombia,and destroyed 14 boats and a semisubmersible The Trump administration has said the attacks are targeting alleged drug smuggling, but has yet to present any evidence to the public to

A combination image shows two screen captures from a video posted on the X account of The White House on September 15, 2025, depicting what Trump said was a US military strike on a Venezuelan drug cartel vessel that had been on its way to the United States. [The White House/Handout via Reuters]

substantiateitsclaims.

Criticshavecalledthestrikesa form of extrajudicial killing and a violation of international law, which largely prohibits countries from using lethal military force against noncombatants outside a conflictzone.TheUnitedNations’s High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk decried the attacks“andtheirmountinghuman cost” as “unacceptable” in a

statementonFriday

“TheUSmusthaltsuchattacks and take all measures necessary to prevent the extrajudicial killing of people aboard these boats, whatever the criminal conduct allegedagainstthem,”Turksaid.

The attacks come against the backdrop of a US military buildup in the Caribbean that includes guided-missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine,

andthousandsoftroops.

The Trump administration has ordered the Ford carrier strike group to the region, and it is expected to reach the Caribbean in thecomingweeks.

The US campaign has raised tensions with Venezuela and Colombia, with the Venezuelan governmentdenouncingthestrikes asillegalandanaggressionagainst thecountry

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who has shored up his security powers and deployed tens of thousands of troops around the country,hasalsoaccusedTrumpof seeking regime change – an allegation the US president has downplayed.

Washington inAugust doubled its reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50m, accusing him of links to drug traffickingandcriminalgroups.

Trump has also previously confirmed he has authorised the CIAtoconductcovertoperationsin Venezuela. Earlier on Saturday, Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the “excessive militaryforce”deployedbytheUS intheCaribbeanandreaffirmedits supportforVenezuela’sleaders.

“Suchactionsareinviolationof both US domestic legislation andthenormsofinternationallaw,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said in a commentary on her ministry’s website. She added that Russia “confirms our firm support for the Venezuelanleadershipindefending itsnationalsovereignty”.

Govt.torolloutfreshsupportforricefarmers

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has signaled that major new relief measures for rice farmersarejustdaysaway,amove aimed at strengthening incomes and reinforcing national food security in the face of global price volatility

Addressing farmers on the Essequibo Coast on Saturday, Minister Mustapha acknowledged that international market pressures are squeezing profitability He assured producers that the Governmentwillnotallowthemto shoulderthoseburdensalone.

“Ourricefarmerswillneverbe neglected by this government.You play a very critical role in our country’s development and food security agenda You’ve contributedtotheprogresswehave achieved over the last five years, becausewhilewe’veinvestedinthe technology and research to ensure better yields and new varieties, your hard work and dedication to thesectorhaveallowedustogetto where we are today We will continue to stand with you every step of the way This partnership has resulted in national production moving from 500,000 tonnes to 725,000 tonnes in 2024 That growth is a direct result of the policies and investments made by President Dr Irfaan Ali’s administration to strengthen the sector, support farmers, and modernise production,” Minister Mustapha is quoted in a press releaseassaying.

He acknowledged that while

global rice markets have recently faced downward price pressures duetoaninfluxofricefrommajor producingnations,thegovernment remains focused on implementing policies to cushion the impact on localfarmers.

“Large producers are dumping morericeontheworldmarket,and that has influenced the price. But we’ve been working to assist you. Through initiatives such as the fertiliser programme, which many of you have benefited from, we’ve helped farmers offset one of their biggest costs Last crop, we contributed$300perbagofpaddy So,ricefarmerscannotsaythatthis government has not been making valuable contributions to assist with lowering the cost of production. Overall, for Region Two alone, we invested over $838 millioninfertiliser,seedpaddy,and o t h e r k e y i n p u t s a n d infrastructure,”hestated.

Minister Mustapha told the farmers that he has been actively engaging millers to ensure they offerbetterpricestofarmers.“I’ve been meeting with the millers, pushing for them to increase their prices, and because of those constant engagements, we’ve already seen some upward movement, with some millers now paying up to $2,500 per bag,” he said.

He announced that, as a longterm intervention to assist with storage, the government will soon commence construction of a modern drying and storage facility

atOnderneemingontheEssequibo Coast. The new facility, which is expectedtocostapproximatelytwo billion dollars, will have the capacity to store significant amounts of paddy, ultimately reducing post-harvest losses while improvingqualitycontrolandprice competitiveness Minister Mustaphaalsoremindedfarmersof the administration’s plan to establishazero-interestinvestment bank, which will allow farmers to accesszero-interestloanstoexpand andupgradetheiroperations.

“I know some farmers have outstandingdebtandarrangements with millers, so when they harvest their paddy, they have to take it there regardless of the price being offered at other mills. Before the elections, we said that we would

build a zero-interest bank for Guyanese to access financing

Once fully operational, farmers will be able to access zero-interest loans. You wouldn’t have to take money from millers to fund your operationsbecauseyou’llbeableto access a loan from that bank,” he explained.

He further disclosed that Guyana is pursuing new export markets for rice, as he recently engaged the Mexican Ambassador on the matter He also said that Saudi Arabia was another market being explored, as samples were sent to the Middle Eastern country forevaluation.Thesenewmarkets, heexplained,willcreateadditional opportunities for farmers and strengthenthecountry’spositionas a leading rice producer in the

- Mustapha

region.

While speaking specifically to increases in production costs, Minister Mustapha also pointed to the steady increases in land rentals as one of the factors affecting profitability,notingthatfarmersare competing with one another for access to prime lands and, in some cases, offering higher prices to landowners.

MinisterMustaphatoldfarmers thatPresidentDr MohamedIrfaan Ali is expected to make an official announcement in the coming days regarding additional measures to further support rice farmers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring that the riceindustrycontinuestothriveand thateveryfarmerbenefitsfromthe sector’songoingtransformation.

A section of the farmers at the meeting

Bids opened for doctors’ living quarters at Mahdia

heRegionalDemocraticCouncilofRegionEight Tispreparingtospendapproximately$63million to construct a six-apartment doctors’ living quarteratMahdia,RegionEight.

Bids which were opened at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) revealed that fivecontractorsbidbetween$60millionand$62millionfor theproject.

Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids:

RegionalDemocraticCouncil ofRegion8-PotaroSiparuni ConstructionofSix-Apartment Doctors'LivingQuarteratMahdia.

MinistryofHousing ProvisionofSecurityServiceforYear2026.

MinistryofTourism,IndustryandCommerce ProcurementofSecurityServicesLot1-4. s

ProcurementofSecurityServicesLot1-5.

Frompage12 across all institutions responsible for national security and disaster management.

“ L a d i e s a n d gentlemen, preparedness demands resources, but also foresight. The cost of readiness is always less than the cost of inaction. Each dollar invested in prevention saves many more in recovery,” adding “it spares communities from prolonged suffering andallowstheeconomyto reboundfaster.”

The prime minister also noted that the CDC’s growing footprint mirrors G u y a n a ’ s w i d e r development progress, pointing to similar facilities established in Region Nine and another to be commissioned in Region Eight to improve regional response there, noting that when adversity comes, Guyana will not be caught unprepared.

He further stressed that each improvement in the CDC’scapacitystrengthens the nation’s overall

resilience.

Overtheyears,theCDC has led national training in oil spill response, contingency planning, and interagency coordination The commission has also worked closely with the private sector and regional partners, most notably p r o v i d i n g s w i f t humanitarian relief to Grenada and St Vincent following natural disasters lastyear

Currently, the CDC, together with private sector partners, are mobilising support for Jamaica and other Caribbean countries severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, which theprimeministerdescribed as “perhaps the biggest storm the region has experiencedinthelast200 years.”

Prime Minister Phillips concluded by reaffirming the government’s full supportforthecommission, stating that preparedness “must be maintained every day through discipline, coordination, andcommitment.”

Govt.stillto...

Frompage3 significantly reduce postharvest losses while improving quality control and price competitiveness,” thestatementadded.

On October 13 former finance minister, Winston said it was the government’s dutytoadvisericefarmerson alternative sources of income.

While he acknowledged that there are concessions given to the farmers, he reasoned that these are just sweeteners and reiterated that the government has currently done all it could in thisregard.

Jordan said there was nothing wrong with the government’s overall objective of increasing food production, but there should be a mapped-out strategy on how much it should be increased by and how the increase will be dealtwith

He explained that it should be made certain that the demand for whatever is b e i n g p r o d u c e d i s proportionate, as farmers

could not be “out here stretching their necks out to produce rice and there is no wayofsellingit.”

While farmers should be encouraged to increase productivityandshouldhave the necessary experts advising them on fertiliser and how to avoid certain mistakes, so they can continuetomakeaprofitand sustainthemselves.

Highlighting all the concessions being given J o r d a n s a i d , “…notwithstanding the concessions that you might be given to the industry, it is thedutyofthegovernmentto advise the farmer of coming out of that crop and planting something else that will supplement the income that hewasgettingorreplacethe incomethathewasgetting.”

Even if the new crop being pursued will not providethelostincomefrom rice, farmers can be encouraged to take additional jobs, whether it is in agriculture or in other expanding areas of the economy,headvised.

Corentyne carpenter allegedly beats drinking buddy to death

returned to his own home.

A lifelong friendship turned deadly in Belvedere, Corentyne,aspoliceinRegion

Six investigate the alleged murder of 56-year-old Imran Kadir,knownlocallyas“Shut PonShoulder.”

The next day, Kadir was found in a pool of blood, based on information provided by the police.

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DeadisImranKadir,ofLot D King Street, Belvedere Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice, who was on Sunday morning discovered dead in his yard.

Kadirwasreportedlyconsuming alcohol on Saturday with the suspect, 32-y-o Joel Ramsammy, called ‘Scotty’, who hails from the same neighbourhood. Subsequentlythetwowereinvolved inafight.

Mara Renee, called “Anna,” who lives obliquely oppositebothImranandJoel, provided details to the police on what she recalled. On the dateandtimementioned,both Kadir and Ramsammy were imbibing alcohol at Ramsammy’shomewhenthe host allegedly began to hit Kadirandchasehimfromhis yard. Kadir left and returned to his own home.

Shortlyafter,Ramsammy went to Kadir’s home, where hedealtthemanseveralblows withapieceofwood,andthen

On Sunday, at approximately09:00hours,ReneevisitedKadir’shometocheckon him,butfoundhimlyingstill. A report was made at the AlbionPoliceStation,andthe policeweresummoned.

Theywereabletocontact the suspect who was informedoftheallegation,cautioned, arrested, and escorted to the Albion Police Station, where he was placed in custody and is assisting with the investigation.

Officers were also able to recover a piece of wood which had what appeared to be blood stains. The body of the deceased was escorted to thePortMourantPublicHospital, where doctor Rahaman

examined the body and certified him dead. The body was thentakentoRamoo’sFuneral Parlour,awaitingPostMortem Examination.

Kadirhadmadeapriorreport of assault committed against him by Ramsammy, butasthematterwasheardat the Albion Magistrate Court, Kadir offered no evidence, and the two maintained their socialactivities.

Meanwhile, 55-year-old Khemraj Ganputh, a neighbuor of the deceased man,toldreportersinBerbice that on Saturday, he saw the suspect advancing towards the victim’s yard with a piece ofwoodandhecautionedhim to stay away from the man’s home, but he was ignored.At

that time, Kadir was in his hammock, the neighbour related.

The suspect then made his way into the man’s yard, and Ganputh stated that he could not get to see into the yardfromhispositionashort distance away. “He go in the man’s yard, and the man sickly too. I didn’t hear any holleringorso…thismorning Ipeepoverthere…agirlcalled mefromovertheroadandtell me to come across, so I went across and I see the man flat on the ground,” Ganputh said. Both the suspect and victim,hesaid,weredrinking buddies.

Healsotoldreportersthat Kadir’s family members are mostly overseas.

CAFapprovesUS$670,000forreliefeffortsinJamaica

Development Bank of LatinAmericaandtheCaribbean has approved US$670,000 in emergency grantfundingfortheGovernment of Jamaica to support humanitarian and recovery efforts following the widespread devastation caused byHurricaneMelissa. This contribution is intended to complement the assistance being provided by other regional and internationalpartners,CAFsaidina press release.

In his letter to Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, CAF’s Executive President Sergio DíazGranados expressed solidarity with the Government and peopleofJamaicainthewake of the category five storm, whichtragicallyclaimedlives

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and caused widespread damage to infrastructure, services, and communities across the country. He acknowledged the enormous humanitarianneedsemerging fromHurricaneMelissa’simpact and reaffirmed CAF’s commitment to assisting Jamaica’s relief efforts and long-termrecovery

“Wearedeeplymovedby the reports of the devastating impact of hurricane Melissa on Jamaica,” said Díaz-

Granados. “Jamaica is a valuedmemberoftheCAFfamily,andwestandfirmlyalongside the nation during this most difficult time. We recognize that the needs are immense and immediate and stand ready to channel resources to ongoing relief efforts.”Throughitsnetworkof shareholder countries, CAF has also facilitated bilateral emergency assistance from the Government of El SalvadortoJamaica.Thisincludes

the airlift of 37 tonnes of humanitarian supplies and the deploymentofmorethan300 trained emergency personnel to support national authorities in response and recovery operations across affected communities.

In his capacity as ChairmanofCAF’sBoardofDirectors, Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Finance of Trinidad and Tobago, commendedCAF’sswiftresponse to the devastation. He reaf-

firmed the Board’s full support for the institution’s humanitarianandfinancialassistance to Jamaica. Minister Tancoo also expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Jamaica. CAF recognises the Government of Jamaica’s decisive leadership in coordinating national responseeffortsandisfirmly committed to working with the government and people of Jamaica throughout its recovery and reconstruction.

APNU calls for overhaul of national security...

From page 2 adopts policies that will ensure citizens are secure and immigrants are screened and documented in the appropriate manner upon entry

“We understand the initial humanitarian dynamic posed by issues within Venezuela’s economy that launched an exodus to Guyana. However,theextant territorial controversy with Venezuela occasions the need for change so that our responses need to be agile, comprehensiveandstrategic. We wish to remind the government that the life of every citizenisofparamountimportanceandoursecurityisnonnegotiable and transcends political partisanship,” Norton added.

He stressed that the national security agencies requireadequatefunding,technical resources and staffing alongwithstrongercoordinationandstrategicdeployment of uniformed and other personnel to safeguard the nation.

Moreover, he said Guyana’s oil resources must be utilised to modernise and reinforce the security framework. He reminded the government that the search for

solutions must be inclusive, as no single administration holds a monopoly on ideas for protecting Guyanese citizens.

The deafening blast, whichechoedacrossthecapital around 7:30 p.m., on Sunday, October 26, shattered windowsofnearbybuildings, damaged vehicles, and sent debris raining down over the area.

When Kaieteur News arrivedonthescene,amangled carlayamidtwistedmetaland shattered glass. A Toyota Fielderwagonparkednearby was also badly wrecked.

Acagefilledwithpropane bottles was completely destroyed and the glass walls of the supermarket section was also shattered with part of the walls caving in.

An emergency response team along with crime scene investigators was also on the ground. One of the officials withtheGuyanaFireService (GFS)saidthattheyreceived a call about the explosion around19:30hrs.

“Fourpersonsweretransported to the hospital … the threewerechildrenoutofthe threechildrenthatweretransported, one would have succumbed to the injuries he

said”.

KaieteurNewslaterlearnt at the scene that child who died was identified as a sixyear-oldgirl,SorayaBourne. Eyewitnesses claimed that a total of six persons were injured.

Thechildrenwerereportedly in the car that suffered the brunt of the explosion and the two surviving childrenarereportedlyincritical condition.

Among the injured was thedriverofthefielderwagon that was parked nearby when the explosion occurred. Reportsarehewassittinginside when his vehicle lifted into the air before falling back down.

Two days later on October 29 this publication reported that the main suspect in the deadly gas station bombing, Daniel Alexander RamirezPeodomo,confessed to travelling from Venezuela to Guyana illegally with the explosivedevice.

Peodomoreportedlyconfessed to the crime telling investigators that he arrived in Guyana at around 08:00h on Sundayviaboat,hoursbefore the deadly bombing. The Venezuelannationalandeight other accomplices, including

four Guyanese have been arrested.

Blanhumtoldreportersat apressconferenceheldatthe MinistryofHomeAffairsthat Peodomo and a Venezuelan accomplice [who entered Guyana illegally with him] have some affiliation with a “ganginVenezuelaknownas ‘R’” which is linked to the Sindicato gang.

The Sindicato gang has beenlinkedtoseveralviolent cross-border crimes. The Crime Chief said investigatorslearnedthattheexplosive device was activated moments after the main suspect exited a car and walked into the Mobil Gas Station at Regent and King Streets, Georgetown.

Norton said, “It is quite saddening to see any loss of life. We affirm our concern and advocacy for the welfare of all affected families and demand that every needed state resource goes to their aid. We honor the instinctive role played by Ms. Shondell Smith in thwarting a more catastrophic event. Ms. Shondell Smith is an unsung hero,” Norton said He expressed appreciation to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for having several persons in custody and implored that they leave no stone unturned, fully exploringthescopeofthisdynamic situationandtectonicevenin Guyana’s national security

Commodity prices to hit six-year low in 2026 as oil

glut expands …WorldBanksaysinflationarypressuresease,butgeopoliticaltensionscloudoutlook

Globalcommoditypricesareprojectedto falltotheirlowestlevelinsixyearsin2026, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline,accordingtotheWorldBankGroup's latestCommodityMarketsOutlook.

Pricesareforecasttodropby7%inboth 2025 and 2026, driven by weak global economicgrowth,agrowingoilsurplus,and persistent policy uncertainty Falling energy prices are helping to ease global inflation, while lower rice and wheat prices have helped make food more affordable in some developingcountries.

Despite the recent declines, however, commodity prices remain above prepandemic levels, with prices in 2025 and 2026 projected to be 23% and 14% higher, respectively,thanin2019.

“Commodity markets are helping to stabilise the global economy,” said Indermit Gill, the World Bank Group's Chief Economist and Senior Vice President for Development Economics. “Falling energy prices have contributed to the decline in global consumer-price inflation. But this respitewillnotlast.Governmentsshoulduse it to get their fiscal house in order, make economies business-ready, and accelerate tradeandinvestment.”

The global oil glut has expanded significantly in 2025 and is expected to rise

nextyearto65%abovethemostrecenthigh, in2020.Oildemandisgrowingmoreslowly as demand for electric and hybrid vehicles grows and oil consumption stagnates in China. Brent crude oil prices are forecast to fallfromanaverageof$68in2025to$60in 2026—a five-year low Overall, energy pricesareforecasttofallby12%in2025and afurther10%in2026.

Foodpricesarealsoeasing,withdeclines of6.1%projectedin2025and0.3%in2026. Soybeanpricesarefallingin2025becauseof record production and trade tensions but are expectedtostabiliseoverthenexttwoyears. Meanwhile, coffee and cocoa prices are forecast to fall in 2026 as supply conditions improve.

However,fertiliserpricesareprojectedto surge 21% in 2025, reflecting higher input costsandtraderestrictions,beforeeasing5% in2026.Theseincreasesarelikelytofurther erode farmers' profit margins and raise concernsaboutfuturecropyields.

Precious metals have reached record highs in 2025, fueled by demand for safehaven assets and continued central bank purchases.

The price of gold—widely viewed as a safe haven during times of economic uncertainty—isexpectedtoincreaseby42% in2025.Itisprojectedtoincreasebyafurther

President Ali honours 60 Years of GDF vigilance, promises unyielding defence of Guyanese peace and democracy

DPI - President Irfaan Ali on Saturday reaffirmed that Guyana is a nation of peace that will defend its peace, as he lauded six decadesofdedicatedservicebytheGuyana DefenceForce(GDF).

SpeakingattheGDF's60thAnniversary Interfaith Service, President Ali underscoredthatthemilitary'sfoundationis not built on aggression, but on discipline, dignity,anddivinepurpose.Hesaidtheforce remains a symbol of patriotism and national unity, one that has evolved into a modern, agile,andrespectedinstitution.

“The Guyana Defence Force is not a force of aggression or intimidation,” the President stated noting that, “We are peaceful, yes, but we are prepared, and we will fiercely defend our territorial integrity and sovereignty against all threats, from wherevertheymaycome.”TheHeadofState condemned the recent terrorist attack at the Mobil Gas Station on Regent Street, which claimedthelifeofayoungchild,describing it as a vile assault on the people of Guyana andanattempttosowfearandchaos.

He vowed that the state will conduct a deepandthoroughinvestigationtogettothe bottom of it, insisting that Guyana will not beintimidated

“Those who seek to harm or divide us will fail,” President Ali declared adding that, “Our spirit cannot be terrorized Our peace, our democracy, and our people will endure ”

The Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces also praised the swift and coordinated response of the joint services, including the GDF, whose professionalism he said reflects the strengthandunityofthe nation.

Payingtributetothemenandwomenin uniform, President Ali described them as

5% next year, leaving gold prices at nearly double their 2015-2019 average. Silver pricesarealsoexpectedtohitarecordannual average in 2025, rising by 34% and further 8%in2026.

Commodity prices could fall more than expectedduringtheforecasthorizonifglobal growth remains sluggish amid prolonged trade tensions and policy uncertainty Greater-than-expected oil output from OPEC+ could deepen the oil glut and exert additional downward pressure on energy prices. Electric-vehicle sales, which are expected to increase sharply by 2030, could furtherdepressoildemand.

Conversely, geopolitical tensions and conflicts could push oil prices higher and boost demand for safe-haven commodities suchasgoldandsilver.Inthecaseofoil,the market impact of additional sanctions could also lift prices above the baseline forecast. Extreme weather from a stronger-thanexpected La Niña cycle could disrupt agricultural output and increase electricity demand for heating and cooling, adding further pressure to food and energy prices. Meanwhile, the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and growing electricity demand to power data centers could raise prices for energy and for base metals like aluminumandcopper,whichareessentialfor AIinfrastructure.

“Lower oil prices provide a timely opportunity for developing economies to advance fiscal reforms that promote growth

and job creation,” said Ayhan Kose, the World Bank's Deputy Chief Economist and DirectoroftheProspectsGroup.

“Phasing out costly fuel subsidies can free up resources for infrastructure and human capital—areas that create jobs and strengthen long-term productivity Such reforms would help shift spending from consumptiontoinvestment,rebuildingfiscal space while supporting more durable job creation.”

The report's special focus section examines the history of international commodity agreements in the context of today'svolatilecommoditymarkets.

It finds that while many past efforts such as inventory controls, p

restrictions—helpedstabilizepricesforsome commoditiesintheshortterm,fewachieved lastingresults.

The most enduring international commodity agreement, the Organization of thePetroleumExportingCountries(OPEC), has struggled to sustain market power especially when prices are high—because higher prices tend to draw new competitors intothemarket.

Instead of using price-control schemes, the report recommends that countries foster morediverseandefficientproduction,invest in technology and innovation, improve data transparency, and promote market-based pricingtobuildlong-termresiliencetoprice volatility

Guyana'sshieldandswordandthesentinels ofGuyana'ssovereignty

Looking ahead, President Ali said the GDF is being reshaped and retooled to respond to modern threats through new leadership, advanced training, and enhancedairandmaritimecapabilities.

He announced greater investments in education and lifelong development for soldiers, ensuring they can pursue higher studiesevenwhileinservice

“Wearebuildingaforcethatisnotonly strong in arms, but strong in spirit, a force that inspires respect, not fear; one that is impeccable in its duty and united in its purpose,”hesaid.

The head of state emphasised that the military's enduring mission, to defend sovereignty, uphold democracy, and preserve peace, remains as vital today as it was at its founding in 1965, before the country'sindependence.

President Ali reminded the attendees that freedom must be defended and sovereigntymustbesecured,notingthatthe GDFhasstoodthetestoftime,fromhumble beginnings to a modern military institution that continues to guard Guyana's borders, protect its people, and uphold the peace that defines Guyanese as a nation. President Ali wentontomakeaclarioncallforcontinued national unity, saying that a nation at peace with itself is the strongest defence against externalthreats.

“Sixty years have passed But the mission continues, the mission remains clear,”hedeclared

The Guyana Defence Force was established on November 1, 1965 and celebrates this year's activities under the theme, “strengthening our nation through sacrificeandselflessservice ”

'Grandmother' busted with

Police have arrested a 62-year-old businesswoman fromNorthRuimveldtaftercocaineandcannabiswere unearthedinherbagduringasearchattheItaballiPolice CheckpointinRegionSevenonSunday Police ranks stationed at the Itaballi Police CheckpointinRegionalDivision#7onSundayarrested a 62-year-old businesswoman of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, following the discovery of a quantity of suspectedcocaineandcannabisduringanoperation.

During the exercise, ranks stopped a motor pickup drivenbya38-year-oldofByderaboRoad,Bartica,and conducted a search of the occupants and their belongings. A multi-coloured bag in the woman's possession was found to contain several bulky parcels suspected to be cocaine along with a smaller parcel containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.

The suspected narcotics were weighed in her presenceandamountedto261gramsofcocaineand102 grams of cannabis. The exhibits were lodged and the woman remains in Police custody, police said in a statement.Investigationsareongoing.

Police in Berbice have launched an investigation following the gruesome discoveryofabadlydecomposedbodyalong agrassytrailattheNo 43VillageSeashore, Corentyne,onSunday,October26,2025

According to police enquiries revealed that a 31-year-old Fisherman of No 35 Village, Corentyne was walking along the No 43 Seashore after experiencing an issue with his fishing boat, which had becomestuckatseaduetolowtide While proceedingthroughatrackleadingtowards

The drugs that was seized

the public road, he detectedastrongstench andsubsequentlydiscoveredtheremains Police ranks visited and processed the sceneafterwhichthebodywastakentothe Port Mourant Public Hospital. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, the cause of death could not be immediately determined. The remains have since been placed in cold storage at Ramoo's Funeral Home pending identification and a postmortem examination. Investigations are ongoing

Israeli army's top lawyer resigned after leaking evidence of soldiers raping Palestinians

(Aljazeera) The Israeli military'stoplawyer,MajorGeneral Yifat TomerYerushalmi, has resigned after admitting to leaking footage showing the gang rape of a prisoner at the Sde Teiman prison facility in Augustlastyear

Thevideooftherapehad originallybeenleakedtothe press in early August in the midst of a right-wing backlashfollowingthearrest of a number of soldiers for the rape of a Palestinian prisoner

In her resignation statement on Friday,TomerYerushalmiblamedpressure from the right-wing on her rape investigation for her decision to leak the footage, claiming that she was c o u n t e r i n g “ f a l s e propaganda directed against themilitarylawenforcement authorities”.

In the leaked footage, soldiers can be seen grabbingandleadingawaya blindfolded Palestinian prisoner before surrounding him with riot shields to obscuretherape.

“For 15 minutes, the accusedkickedthedetainee, stompedonhim,stoodonhis body, hit him and pushed him all over his body, including with clubs, dragged his body along the ground,andusedatasergun

on him, including on his head, ” the original indictmentstated.

According to medical information obtained by the Israeli daily Haaretz, the victim suffered a ruptured bowel, severe anal and lung injuries,andbrokenribsasa resultoftheassault.Helater requiredsurgery

Whathappenedtothe soldiers?

At least nine soldiers were detained in connection with the man's rape.All but five were released relatively quickly

In February, the remaining soldiers were indicted for “severely abusing” the detainee, but not raping him. The trial is ongoing.

A United Nations commission, reviewing the change of indictment and otherinstancesofIsrael'suse of sexual and gender-based violence,determinedthatthe decision to downgrade the indictments, despite the evidence, “will inevitably result in a more lenient punishment” if there is a conviction.

Whyweren'tIsraeli politicianscallingfor accountability?

Becausetheydetermined that doing so was somehow unpatriotic.

Anumber of Israel's far-

right politicians, including Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, were among those whostormedtheSdeTeiman prisoninprotestatthearrest ofthesoldiersforrape.

Israel's hard-right

National Security Minister ItamarBen-Gvirappearedto address Tomer-Yerushalmi directlyinJuly2024,writing in Hebrew, “The Military AdvocateGeneral,takeyour hands off the reservists!” he said,referringtothesoldiers accusedofrape.

Ben-Gvir's fellow traveller on the far-right, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich,wasequallyactive

on social media at the time, writing that the alleged rapistsshouldbetreatedlike “heroes,notvillains”.

Returning to social media during the furore followingtherape,Smotrich chose to ignore the credible accusations of rape and instead called for “an immediate criminal investigation to locate the leakersofthetrendingvideo thatwasintendedtoharmthe reservists and that caused tremendousdamagetoIsrael in the world, and to exhaust the full severity of the law againstthem”.

Howhavethecritics

reactedtoTomerYerushalmi'sresignation?

Many of the loudest voices in defending the alleged rapists were equally vocal in welcoming the resignation of the woman responsible for sharing evidenceofthatrape.

Writing on social media hours after TomerYerushalmi's resignation, Smotrich accused her and much of Israel's judicial systemofrankcorruption,as well as launching what he called an “anti-Semitic blood libel” against their military.

Ben-Gvir was no less

critical of Israel's judicial system in the leaking of the footage, writing: “All those involvedintheaffairmustbe heldaccountable.”

Bothministersareactive supportersofPrimeMinister Benjamin Netanyahu's ongoing attempts to weaken the judiciary and reduce its politicaloversight.

Have other crimes been committed at Sde Teiman againstPalestinians?

At least 135 of the mutilated bodies returned to Palestinian officials in Gaza byIsraellastweekaspartof the Gaza ceasefire deal, had been held at Sde Teiman, d o c u m e n t s t h a t accompanied each corpse showed.

Severalofthebodieshad beenleftwithblindfoldson, and some had their hands still tied behind their back. One had a rope around its neck.

ThesameUNreportthat examined the reduced indictment against the soldiers also noted that detainees at Sde Teiman –including children – were regularly shackled, forced into stress positions, denied toilets and showers and beaten.

Some were subjected to sexual violence, including the insertion of objects, electricshocksandrape.

Hamas rejects US accusation it looted aid trucks in Gaza

(AL-JAZEERA) Hamas hasdeniedaccusationsbythe US Central Command (CENTCOM) that the Palestinian group looted aid trucksintheGazaStrip.

C E N T C O M h a d published drone footage that allegedlyshowedanaidtruck beinglootedintheenclave It said in a statement that the drone observed suspected Hamas operatives looting the truck that was travelling as part of a humanitarian convoy in northern Khan YounisonOctober31.

OnSunday,Hamascalled theUnitedStates'accusations “unfounded” and “part of an attempt to justify the further reduction of already limited humanitarian aid, while coveringuptheinternational community's failure to end the blockade and starvation imposed on civilians in Gaza”.

“All manifestations of chaos and looting ended immediately after the withdrawal of the [Israeli] occupying forces, proving that the occupation was the only party that sponsored thesegangsandorchestrated thechaos,”itadded.

Hamas said more than 1,000 Palestinian police and security forces had lost their lives and hundreds were wounded while trying to provide protection for humanitarian aid convoys and ensure that assistance reachesthoseinneed.

It affirmed that none of the international or local institutions, nor any driver working with the aid convoys,hasfiledanyreport or complaint about looting byHamas.

“ T h i s c l e a r l y demonstrates that the scene cited by the US Central

Command is fabricated and politically motivated to justifyblockadepoliciesand t

n o f humanitarian aid,” it said, blamingtheUSforfailingto document the ongoing Israeli attacks following the ceasefire agreement that killed 254 Palestinians and wounded595.

A Palestinian walks over the rubble of destroyed buildings [Mahmoud Issa/Reuters]

number of humanitarian aid trucks and reduce commercialshipments”.

“The US adoption of the Israelinarrativeonlydeepens Washington's immoral bias and places it squarely as a partner in the blockade and the suffering of the Palestinianpeople,”itsaid.

The ceasefire took effect on October 10 under US President Donald Trump's 20-pointplan

Dronefootage

CENTCOM said that the MQ-9aerialdronewasflying overhead to monitor the implementation of the ceasefire between Hamas andIsrael.

“Over the past week, international partners have delivered more than 600 trucks of commercial goods

andaidintoGazadaily This incident undermines these efforts,” it said in the statement. Hamas said the averagenumberofaidtrucks entering Gaza daily does not exceed135,whiletherestare commercial trucks bearing goodsthatGaza'spopulation cannot afford “despite our repeatedcallstoincreasethe

Phase one of the deal includes the release of the captives in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners The plan also envisages the rebuilding of Gaza and the establishment of a new governing mechanismwithoutHamas.

Since October 2023, Israel'swaronGazahaskilled morethan68,500peopleand woundedover170,600across Gaza.

Far-right protesters hold signs during a demonstration against Israeli military prosecutors and defending reservists detained over allegations of abusing a Palestinian detainee, near a military court on July 30, 2024 in Kfar Yona, Israel

[Amir Levy/Getty Images]

BLUNT BLUNT

Whenlawenforcement becomesaweapon

What unfolded on Friday with the arrest of WIN Leader Azruddin Mohamed was not policing, it was intimidation. The deployment of masked, heavily armed ranks on a crowded Georgetown roadway to seize a man who had already pledged full cooperation was a chilling reminder of what happens when state power is misused for political theatre. Guns in faces, handcuffs on a 72-year-old father, denial of immediate access to lawyers these are not hallmarks of a democratic society rooted in due process. They are symbols of fear, staged to send a warning.

Guyana has seen many troubling moments, but this stands out for one reason: who it targeted. A newly elected Member of Parliament. A political opponent. Someone who dared to challenge the ruling party’s monopoly on authority

This Government cannot plead innocence. The optics were intentional. The message was unmistakable: oppose us, and you will be publicly broken.

Our laws were written to protect citizens, not to shield power-drunk leaders who twist security forces into political enforcers. Guyanese must decide whether this is the nation we are willing to accept — one where democracy survives only at the convenience of those in charge

Hendricks' double keeps Chase's Academic perfect, Dolphin register first win at Petra-Republic Bank U18 Football League 2025

Seventeen-year-old

Malcolm Hendricks has been making quite a name for himself, netting two goals to lead defending champions Chase's Academic Foundation to a dominant 4–1 victory over Three Mile Secondary, preserving their perfect record in the 2025Republic Bank Under-18 Schools FootballLeague.

Dolphin Secondary, WestRuimveldtSecondary, and South Ruimveldt Secondarywerealsoamong the winners as the Petra Organisationwrappedupthe thirdroundofcompetition.

Three Mile Secondary suffered their first defeat of the league yesterday at the Ministry of Education ground, as the Blue Army (Chase's Academic) cruised

toaconvincingwintomove intoroundfourundefeated Rondell Washington openedthescoringearlyfor Three Mile, giving his side a brief 1–0 advantage. Six minutes later, the seasoned forward Bryan Wharton equali

, levelingthescoreat1–1

Hendricks then took control of the match, scoringinthe32ndand44th

minutes to push the game firmly out of Three Mile's reach.WhileJuslynHalley's 40th-minute strike capped a

performance from the defendingchampions.

In the day's second

dazzling brace to guide West Ruimveldt Secondary toa2–0winoverAbramZuil Secondary

Monday November 03, 2025

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

In a philosophical or political conversation,youdon'thesitate to offer your thoughts Your examplesmaybeextreme,but yourprinciplesaresound

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Youshouldbeinagoodmood, although you might have a hard time fully expressing yourself.Perhapsyoufeellike there is someone keeping an eyeonyoureverymove.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

You may get the feeling that despite all the hard work you've accomplished, something is still missing, Gemini. There's still a long road ahead, regardless of the goalsyou'veattainedsofar.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Freedom may be a theme for youtoday You'rebeginningto question what it is you're tryingtofreeyourselffrom.A person? Job? Commitment? These may be the very things youstarttosearchforassoon asyou'refreeofthem.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

You'retheliquidthattakesthe shape of its container, Leo. Even though this may seem like the most nonconfrontational way to do things, you may find that it's actually a cause of great frustrationforyouandothers

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Youmayfeellikeapuppythat has been let outside for the first time, Virgo. The air is warm and you're full of energy You're ready to run over the fields and hills Unfortunately,you'retiedtoa stake and you can't move beyondaten-footradius.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Youmayfeelastrangetension. Itseemsthatnothingyousayor do is quite right, Libra. As much as you may try to do the correct thing, you can't make thingsclickthewayyou'dlike.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)

It may be hard for you to maintain your self-discipline. Your childlike nature wants to go out and play Emotionally, you're anxious to let loose and followyourplayful,instinctual nature.

SAGITTARIUS(Nov22–Dec21)

Ifyou'reunclearaboutthetopic of discussion, say so Asking questionsisanimportantpartof learning You shouldn't be afraid to ask. Communication maytakeonaserioustone,and intellectual discussions are likelytogetheated.

CAPRICORN(Dec22–Jan19)

Youmaybeshywhenitcomes to expressing your emotions today,Capricorn.Thiscouldbe a rare thing for you. Other people may wonder if somethingiswrong.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Youmaynotknowwhichway to turn,Aquarius. You may be emotionally weighed down by sentimental feelings and memories that bind you to the past You may also feel restrictedbyauthorityfigures.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Your mind may be going in manydifferentdirections,with fantastic ideas about how things should be done, Pisces.

T h e d i f f i c u l t y i s communicatingtheseideasina way that makes sense. Others mayseeyouasathreattotheir authority

Ramdass broke the deadlock in the 18th minute, slicing through defenders before finishing clinically Abram Zuil struggledtofindrhythmand entered the halftime break trailing 1–0 Ramdass remained relentless after the interval, doubling his side's advantage in the 57th minute with a spectacular volley from inside the 18yardboxtosealthevictory

Shortly after, Dolphin S e c o n d a r y e d g e d President's College (PC) 2–1, thanks to a decisive mid-pitch strike from Collin Frank-David PC's defensive lapse in the 14th minute gifted Ranny Yaw his first goal of the tournament, as he capitalized on a loose ball inside the box to push Dolphin ahead Sixteen minuteslater,PCdrewlevel through a penalty converted by Daniel Alexander after a foulinthearea.

H o w e v e r, t h e i r equalizer was short-lived, Frank-David restored Dolphin's lead almost immediately with a powerful finish to secure thethreepoints

In the final match of the evening, Tyrese Pemberton starredforSouthRuimveldt Secondary, scoring twice to overturn an early deficit, and defeat Charlestown Secondary 2–1 Jeremiah David provided an early leadforCharlestownwitha precise 4th-minute strike, but Pemberton responded with goals in the 31st and 40th minutes, completing a spiritedcomeback.

The tournament is sponsored by Republic Bank Limited, with additional support from MVP Sports, Ronoca Concrete Inc , Guyana Beverage Inc (Busta), and the Ministry of Culture, YouthandSport

The event is sanctioned by the Ministry of Education

Kennard Halley (left) and Malcolm Hendricks keep Chase's Academic Foundation perfect

Guyana to compete at 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia

Guyana will once again take its place on the international sporting stage as the nation prepares to participateinthe6thEdition of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) Games, scheduled for November 5–21 in Riyadh, SaudiArabia.

Guyana will field a determined and diverse contingent to represent the nation with pride, with the country's participation marking another major milestone in its expanding footprint in global multisport competitions, a development guided by the G u y a n a O l y m p i c Association(GOA).

The ISSA Games bring together athletes from over 57 member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), celebrating not only athletic excellence but also cultural understanding and unity throughsport, FOSTERING SOLIDARITY

THROUGHSPORT

The Islamic Solidarity Games, first introduced in 2005, were conceived as a unique initiative to foster

friendship, cultural exchange, and cooperation among athletes from the Islamicworldandbeyond.

The 2025 edition will featuremorethan270events across 19 sports, including traditional disciplines such as athletics, boxing, swimming, table tennis, and weightlifting, along with newer additions like esports andparasports.

Thecompetitionswillbe spread across four world-

class venue clusters

Boulevard, Olympic

Complex, Al Janadriyah, and Malaz — designed to deliver a sustainable and memorable experience for bothathletesandspectators.

Notably, this year's Games mark a return to the event's four-year cycle after the 2021 edition in Konya, Turkey, was postponed to 2022 due to the global pandemic.

GUYANA'S REPRESENTATION

The GOA delegation will be led by Chef de Mission Garfield Wiltshire, with Nalini McKoy serving as Assistant Chef de Mission.

GOA President Godfrey Munroe and Vice President Cristy Campbell will attend the ISSA Annual General Assembly, while Olympian

C h e l s e a E d g h i l l , Chairperson of the GOA Athletes' Commission, will represent Guyana at the Athletes' Commission Session, where she will exercise the nation's voting rights.

Guyana's athletes will compete in four disciplines

— Boxing, Table Tennis, Swimming,andAthletics each poised to deliver strongperformances.

Boxing(November5–10, 2025)

Representing Guyana in the boxing ring will be Tokyo Olympian Keevin

Allicock and Joel Williamson, two of the country's most promising fighters.

Theywillbecoachedby Lennox Daniels, who expressed confidence that both boxers can make their

mark among the region's best.

TableTennis(November 8–12,2025)

The table tennis squad featuresamixofexperience andemergingtalent.

Men'sTeam will be lead by recently crowned National champion, Shemar Britton, along with Elishaba Johnson, and NigelBryan.

Two-time Olympian ChelseaEdghillwillleadthe women's team that also comprises of Jasmine Billingy, and Thuraia Thomas

Theplayerswillcompete in singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team events, under the guidance of coachesLindenJohnsonand JoelAlleyne.

Swimming(November 8–12,2025)

Delroy Tyrell will represent Guyana in the pool, competing in the 50metre backstroke, butterfly, and freestyle, as well as the 100-metre backstroke. He will be coached by Ewin Enmore, who has been instrumental in Guyana's

recentaquaticdevelopment.

Athletics(November 17–20,2025)

The athletics team, which includes some of G u y a n a ' s m o s t accomplishedtrackandfield athletes, will be coached by QuincyClarke.

The lineup includes Leslain Baird (Javelin), Emanuel Archibald (100m, Long Jump, 4x100m), Noelex Holder (200m, 4x100m), Akeem Stewart (100m, 4x100m), Revon Williams (400m, 4x100m, 4x400m Mixed), Robert Marcus (200m, 4x100m), Simeon Adams (400m, Mixed 4x400m), Aliyah Abrams (400m, Mixed 4x400m), Keliza Smith (100m/200m, Mixed 4x400m), Kenisha Phillips (200m alternate), and Natricia Hooper (Triple Jump).

STRENGTHENING TIESTHROUGH SPORTSDIPLOMACY

Guyana'sparticipationin the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Gamescomesontheheelsof HisExcellencyPresidentDr Irfaan Ali's visit to Riyadh

EmanuelArchibaldwillcompeteinthe 100mandlongjumpattheIslamicGames

Investment Initiative (FII) Forum, held from October 27–30, 2025, under the

Prosperity Unlocking NewFrontiersofGrowth.”

The timing of Guyana's presence at both the FII Forum and the ISSAGames

Guyana–Saudi Arabia relations, not only in the areas of investment and economic collaboration but alsothroughsport.

The Games, therefore, hold deeper meaning for Guyana, symbolizing both sporting excellence and diplomaticengagement.

Persaud, Sukhram reign supreme at Brava Guyana Open

Golfing stalwarts

Avinash Persaud and Christine Sukhram once again stamped their dominance on local golf, retainingtheirBravaGuyana Opentitle.

HeldattheLusignanGolf Club over the weekend, Persaudcardedagrossscore of 151, tying with Ridel Doeko, but secured victory onthecountback,thankstoa superior performance on the backnine.

Persaud's

title,cementinghislegacyas the nation's most consistent golfer In the women's division,Sukhramcontinued her remarkable run, also lifting her 14th Open crown with an overall gross of 176, reaffirming her status as the undisputed queen of Guyanesegolf.

Thisyear'sBravaGuyana Open attracted over 80 competitors, showcasing boththedepthoflocaltalent andthecontinuedprestigeof golf

Christine Sukhram in action during the 2025 Brava Guyana Open tournament

Avinash Persaud continues his dominance on Golf in Guyana

Hero'swelcomeforRosannaFung

Guyana's top female bodybuilder, Rosanna Fung, receivedahero'swelcomeon Saturday night at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport following her historic win at t h e I F B B W o r l d Championship, held during the prestigious Binous Classics in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Fung, competing in the Wellness category, delivered a stunning performance in October that earned her gold against some of the world's mosteliteathletes

Her victory marks a first in Guyana's sporting history, as no local athlete had ever c

Trophy Stall reunites with 'Big Man Cricket' for 2025 O40s T20 Tournament

TrophyStall,under the leadership of the well-known sports enthusiast Ramesh Sunich—a nominee for the CorporateSponsorAwardat

the National Sports Commission's upcoming

awards ceremony on November 8—has proudly reneweditspartnershipwith the 2025 BIG MAN CRICKET(BMC)Over-40s T20Tournament.

Now in full swing, the tournamenthasbeenblessed withexcellentweathersince its start five weeks ago, featuring 14 teams from acrossGuyana.

The teams were divided into two pools for the preliminary round-robin phase, setting the stage for intense and entertaining cricket.

The top eight sides

a d v a n c e d t o t h e quarterfinals, which were

played yesterday at various venues across Berbice and Demerara.

In a day packed with thrilling encounters, the North Soesdyke Masters defeated Enterprise Star Sports, while Everest Masters outplayed Jai Hind Jaguars.

The Vintage Strikers edged past Blairmont Huntersbyjusttworunsina nail-biting finish, and the Albion Masters sealed victory against the West Bank Warriors to book their semifinalspot.

Thesemifinalsandfinals willbringtogetherthesetopperforming teams, with matchdatestobeannounced soon Organizers have promised high-quality cricket and fan engagement, includinglivecoveragewith commentary for the championshipmatches.

Sincetheinceptionofthe

2020/2021,TrophyStallhas been a steadfast supporter, providing all trophies and awardsforeachedition.

Thisyear,accoladeswill be presented for Champion Team, Runner-Up, Man of the Match (Final), Player of the Series, and special awards recognizing players who achieve centuries duringthecompetition.

Sunich expressed his delightatcontinuingTrophy Stall's association with the tournament,emphasizinghis company's long-standing commitment to rewarding excellence and promoting veterancricketinGuyana.

Thepartnershipbetween Trophy Stall and BIG MAN CRICKET continues to strengthen the tournament's prestige and highlight the invaluable contribution of seasoned players who keep thespiritofthegamealive.

Championship title in bodybuildingbefore

We l c o m i n g t h e trailblazing athlete home were Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr, Minister within the Ministry Steven Jacobs, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle,AssistantDirectorof Sport Franklin Wilson, and Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) President Roger Callender, alongside family members, friends, and well-wishers. The Binous Classics is recognized as one of the largest and most respected bodybuilding shows in the Middle East, attracting toptier competitors from across the globe Fung's victory on such a prestigious stage underscores her exceptional talent and commitment, as well Guyana's growing prominence in the international fitness and bodybuildingarena.

Motie left out of WI T20 squad for New Zealand Tour

Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been left out of the West Indies squad for the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, with Cricket West Indies (CWI) citing a “recent dip in form” andatechnicalissuewithhis bowlingactionasthereason forhisomission.

In a statement released on Sunday, CWI explained that the Guyanese spinner willspendthecomingweeks working closely with specialists through a collaboration with the Royals Sports Group, owners of the Paarl Royals franchiseinSouthAfrica.

The arrangement is expectedtohelpMotiemake key technical adjustments andregainconfidenceahead of his participation in D e c e m b e r ' s S A 2 0 tournament, as well as the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, whereheisprojectedtoplay acrucialrole.

Cricket West Indies said Motie remains an important part of their long-term T20 plans, pointing out that the break allows him to address specific technical aspects of hisactionandreturnsharper andmoreconfident.

The omission of Motie, who has been a consistent

…to work on technical adjustments with Royals Sports Group ahead of Sa20

performer for the West Indiesacrossformats,comes as a surprise to many, especially after his contributions during recent seriesintheCaribbean.

However, CWI noted that New Zealand's conditionsareexpectedtobe less conducive to spin, making this an opportune time for the 29-year-old to undergocorrectivework.

The West Indies squad, led by Shai Hope, departed for New Zealand on November1,followingtheir T20 series win over Bangladesh.

The tour, which runs from November 5 to 13, forms part of the regional side'scontinuedpreparations forthenextT20WorldCup.

The selectors have retained the nucleus of the successful Bangladesh series squad, with a few key changes.

Matthew Forde, who returns from a shoulder injury after completing rehabilitation, has been recalled to strengthen the pace attack, while Shamar Springer has been included to bolster the seam-bowling unit, following injuries to RamonSimmonsandJediah Blades.

A notableadditiontothe team's management staff is

Clinical Psychologist

KrisnanHurdle,whojoinsas

Mental Skills and

Performance Coach, beginning with the New Zealandtour

The appointment, announced during CWI's QuarterlyMediaBriefingon October 1, follows recommendations from the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee aimed at improving the team's mental readiness a n d p e r f o r m a n c e consistency

The Men in Maroon, under Head Coach Daren Sammy, will open the series with back-to-back matches atEdenParkinAucklandon November 5 and 6, before moving to Saxton Oval in Nelson for the third and fourth T20Is on November 8 and 9 The series concludes at University Oval in Dunedin on November12. West Indies T20 Squad vs New Zealand: Shai Hope (Captain), Alick Athanaze, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, JasonHolder,AkealHosein, Amir Jangoo, Brandon King, Khary Pierre, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, ShamarSpringer

Proprietor of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich (right), makes a presentation to the organisers of Big Man Cricket.

It was a 'Hero's Welcome' for bodybuilder Rosanna Fung Welcome'

Rosanna Fung, following her IFBB World Championship title in Dubai

Ravens edge Royals to capture Brusche's Basketball Classic

title

…EaglesclipJetstosecurethirdplace

Organiser, James Brusche (first from left) and Champions Ravens after they collected their cash and other prizes won.

G

e o r g e t o w n ' s

powerhouse Ravens Basketball Club soared to victory on Saturday night, outlasting Linden's Victory Valley Royals 61–57 to capture the 2025 Brusche's BasketballClassictitle.

The hard-fought final, played before a spirited crowd at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden, saw the Ravens pocket the top prize of$450,000.

The Victory Valley Royals came out gunning early, riding the energy of their home crowd to take a

slim 15–13 first-quarter lead. Their quick transition play and perimeter shooting caused early problems for the visitors, but the Ravens, anchored by their superior size and rebounding presence,soonbegantofind theirrhythminthepaint.

As both teams traded buckets through the second quarter, the momentum swungwhenNikkolaiSmith drained a deep three-pointer intheclosingsecondsofthe half to break a 26–26 tie, giving the Ravens a 29–26 advantage heading into the

lockerroom.

The Royals wasted no timeafterthebreak,knotting the score at 29, but Smith, who later earned the Most Assists Award, orchestrated aclinicalthird-quartersurge.

With Owan Walton coming off the bench and lighting it up from downtown, the Ravens stretchedtheirleadto50–40 aftera21–14runinthethird. Their inside dominance, led by Akil Hodges, kept the Royalsontheirheels.

In the final quarter, the Royals mounted a late

GSA serves up Trophy Stall skill-level squash tournament and Fundraiser BBQ

Th e G

Associa

n (GSA)issettohostitsmuchanticipated Trophy Stall

Skill-Level Squash Tournament, a six-day showcase of local squash talent, sportsmanship, and communityspirit.

The event, generously sponsored by Trophy Stall, will run from Tuesday, November 4 to Sunday, November 9, featuring approximately 40 players across a wide range of skill levels.

The tournament will serve as both a competitive platformandacelebrationof youth development in the sport.

Matches will take place from November 4–6 at the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue, before moving to the Georgetown Club Courts on Camp Street forthefinalthreedays.

ponsor Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall (right) and T Tian Edwards GSA Junior Programme Sub Committee Lead, with two of the trophies up for grabs this week.

comeback, tightening up on defense and pushing the pace,buttheycouldn'tcrack theRavens'interiordefense.

Despite their hustle, Linden's finest simply ran outoftimeandanswers.

Hodges was a force on both ends, finishing with 19 points to lead the Ravens' scoring, while Smith added 15, Walton chipped in 11, and Jude Corlette contributedeight.

For the Royals, Vibert Benjamin poured in 14 points, while Rakin McDonaldandKobeTappin added eight apiece, and Yannick Tappin had seven. Royals walked away with $225,000 and a trophy for theirrunner-upfinish.

In the third-place matchup, Georgetown's Eagles clipped Linden's Amelia's Ward Jets, 64–52,

Part of the action between Ravens and Royals in the finals of the Brusche's Basketball Classic

tosecure$110,000andtheir ownsliceofsilverware.

The final night also featured James Brusche, the U.S.-based former national captain and founder of the Brusche's B

Foundation, who joined LABA President Dawn McCammon-Barker in presenting trophies and prizestothetopteams.

Men's 4x400m Relay gold for Guyana at South American U20 Championships

…Javon Roberts take bronze in men's 800m

Guyana's quartet of Tishawn Easton, Kaidon Persaud,SkylarCharles,and Javon Roberts delivered a stunningperformancetowin gold in the Men's 4x400m relay at the SouthAmerican U20 Championships in Lima,Peru.

The Guyanese team stopped the clock at an impressive 3 minutes, 14.40 seconds (3:14.40), edging out Colombia (3:14.87) and Brazil(3:14.89)inathrilling photo-finish.

Their victory showcased excellent team chemistry, smooth baton exchanges,

and a powerful anchor leg from Roberts, sealing Guyana's place at the top of thepodium.

Whiletherelaygoldwas the highlight of the championships for the Guyanese delegation, the meetbroughtmixedfortunes overall.

Roberts would return to turn in another strong performance in the Men's 800mfinal,clocking1:51.98 to claim the bronze medal behind Peru's Giancarlo Banda(1:50.86)andBrazil's CarlosDomingos(1:51.64).

In the Men's 400m final, Tishawn Easton placed fifth

withatimeof48.25seconds, while teammate Kaidon Persaud finished eighth in 53.06seconds,bothshowing promise in a highly competitivefield. Elsewhere, Onesi Dunn (10.71s)ranfifthinthemen's 100, and Skylar Charles's time of 21.94s saw him finishing seventh in the men's200m.

Rodell Greene's leap of 14.93m, saw him narrowly missing the podium in the men's triple jump, as he settledforfourth.

Theathleteswereguided by coaches Raymond Daw andAndrewJarvis.

According to the GSA, eventispivotaltothegrowth of junior squash, helping young players build confidence, sharpen their skills, and gain invaluable experience from seasoned athletes.

E

d, contributes to shaping the next generation of Guyana's squashchampions.

The GSA also extended heartfelt appreciation to Ramesh Sunich and Trophy Stall for their continued support of sport and community development

S p e c t a t o r s a r e encouraged to attend and cheer on players throughout the week, from emerging junior athletes to experienced competitors, including several parents who will join the action to offer juniors a broader and more diverse playing experience.

Their commitment, the association emphasized, plays a crucial role in strengthening Guyana's squash community and empowering youth through sport.

The tournament will conclude on Sunday, November 9, with a BBQ fundraiser in support of youthsquashprogrammes.

Fans and supporters are invited to enjoy great food, music,andtheexcitementof thechampionshipmatchesas the week-long event comes toaclose.

For BBQ tickets or additional information, interested persons are encouraged to contact any memberoftheGSAboard.

Javon Roberts secured bronze in the men's 800m at the South American U20 Championship

Guyana hits the bullseye at Caribbean Development Championships

Guyana's archery team in Trinidad and Tobago

Th e G o l d e n Arrowhead flew proudly at full draw in Trinidad and Tobago, as Team Guyana

delivered a stellar performance at the 2025 Caribbean Development Championships (CDC) —

the region's premier developmental tournament forarchery

With an impressive haul of 44 medals (22 gold, 12 silver, and 10 bronze) the Guyanese contingent cemented its reputation as a regional powerhouse in the sport.

Held at the Marvin Lee Stadium,theseventhedition oftheCDCbroughttogether 262 archers from 11 countries.

Guyana's 31-member squad, backed by 11 officials, parents, and support staff, dominated in Individual, Doubles, and Mixed Team events across various bow types and divisions.

The Guyanese archers were on target from the opening qualification rounds on October 24, demonstrating consistency and technical mastery

Several archers shattered standing records in their categories, etching their names once more in the World Archery Americas Tournamentarchives.

G o l d m e d a l performancescamefrom:

Ravish Singh –CompoundBeginnerUnder15Men

Brandon Cummings –Barebow Beginner Under15Men

Samiyyah La Cruez –Barebow Beginner Under-

… captures 44 medals,including 22 gold,as archers dominate regional competition in Trinidad and Tobago

15Women

Nolan Gray – Barebow BeginnerSeniorMen

Suzanne Affonso –Barebow Beginner Senior Women

Saifullah Gani –

Recurve Developmental Under-18–21Men

Mehandra Chatargum – Barebow Developmental SeniorMen/Women

Jeewanram Persaud –Recurve Amateur Senior Men

Julie-Ann Williams –Recurve Amateur Senior Women

Teemahall Lall –Barebow Amateur Senior Men

Their performances not only showcased precision under pressure but also reflected the strength of Guyana'stechnicalcoaching and athlete development programs.

Team Guyana's archers also demonstrated their collaborativestrengthonthe shooting line, excelling in doubles and mixed-team formats, often pairing with athletes from other Caribbean nations, a true reflection of sportsmanship andregionalcamaraderie.

Among the standout teamperformanceswere: Keziah Archer & DanielCox–Gold,Recurve Beginner Under-15 Men

Doubles

Suzanne Affonso & Eslyne Gomes – Gold, Barebow Beginner Senior WomenDoubles

N o l a n G r a y & Trevaughn Waldron –Gold, Barebow Beginner SeniorMenDoubles

Samiyyah La Cruez & Brandon Cummings –

Gold, Barebow Beginner Under-15MixedTeam

Julie-Ann Williams & Jeewanram Persaud –Gold, Recurve Amateur SeniorMixedTeam

Saifullah Gani (GUY) & Divya Jiandani (VIN) –G o l d , R e c u r v e Developmental Under18–21

MixedTeam

Guided by Head Coach and Team Manager Ryan

McKinnon, a World Archery Level Two Certified Coach, the team maintained discipline, focus, and unity throughout thetournament.

Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, President of Archery Guyana, hailed the performance as a defining moment for the sport in Guyana.

She described their accomplishment as “a monumental moment for ArcheryGuyanaInc.andfor ournation.”

She also extended gratitude to the Guyana Olympic Association, MinistryofCulture,Youth andSport NationalSports , Commission, and corporate sponsors including Guyana BeveragesInc. MassyGas , Products Inc., and partners such as the Guyana Police Force GRA Customs and for their unwavering support.

Attheclosingceremony, the Trinidad and Tobago

Archery Federation (TTAF) formally handed over hosting rights for the 2 0 2 6 C a r i b b e a n

D e v e l o p m e n t Championships toArchery Guyana.

TTAFPresidentHasmat

Administered under the guidanceofWorldArchery

Americas, the CDC continues to serve as the

region's cornerstone for talent development, technical training, and cultural exchange. Guyana's r e c o r d - b r e a k i n g performance at the 2025 editionstandsasatestament to the country's growing dominanceinthesport.

officiating,andall-inclusive growth under Archery Guyana'sstrategicplan.

Ali,inpresentingtheofficial flag to , Ryan McKinnon wished the Guyanese federationsuccessinstaging thenextedition.

Archery Guyana noted that the team's success reflects the functioning of the country's investment in

Guyana hits the bullseye at Caribbean Development Championships

… captures 44 medals,including 22 gold,as archers dominate regional competition in Trinidad and Tobago

Games in Saudi Arabia

Shemar Britton (left) and Chelsea Edghill will lead the men and women Table Tennis team in SaudiArabia.

Team Guyana following their historic performance

Guyana's gold medal-winning men's 400m team at the SouthAmerican U20 Championships in Peru.