Prime Ministerial candidate for APNU, Juretha Fernandes
Guyana borrows US$18 million from CDF for agri programme
…says40%ofbeneficiarieswillbewomenandyouth
TheGovernmentof Guyana and the C A R I C O M Development Fund (CDF) on Tuesday signed a US$18
m i l l i o n f i n a n c i n g agreement, to kickstart the A g r i c u l t u r a l a n d Infrastructural Development Programme (AIDP) which will see over 4,300 farmers across the ten regions of Guyana benefitting, with forty percent of the beneficiaries being women andyouth.
The programme will allow for a further boost to Guyana’s agriculture sector in the form of support for compliancewithfoodsafety, sanitary and phytosanitary standardsinthesector
The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Finance in the presence of representatives of the MinistriesofAgricultureand Finance.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, who signed on behalfofGovernment,while thanking the CDF for its support over the years noted that Guyana is proud to be a founding member of the CDF and to have benefited from the Fund’s activities overtheyears.
“As a Government, led by His Excellency President Irfaan Ali, we recognise the importance of a strong and competitive non-oil economy, and I want to
assure you that we consider agriculture and agricultural products to be a principal pillar of our non-oil economy, and we anticipate that long into the future, agriculture will remain an
economic growth and an important contributor to livelihoods, in particular
d livelihoods, “ Dr Singh explainedtoCDF’sCEO,his ministry’s said in a press release.
He added that Guyana will long maintain and further enhance its position
nt of food security for the Caribbean regionmorebroadly,noting that this project and others like it, have a very important role to play in ensuringthecountryrealises thisachievement.
According to the press release, Dr Singh also outlined various agricultural projects supported by the CDF over the years, including farm-to market roads, highlighting that this project, which will be implementedbytheMinistry of Agriculture under the leadership of Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, also aligns closely with Guyana’s and the CARICOM Region’s foodsecurityagenda. “This project is in a sector that is extremely important and it aligns closely with our national development
Chartered accountant and attorney Christopher Ram has responded to grave allegations made by the Attorney General (AG)andMinisterofLegalAffairsSC,Anil Nandlall,thathisongoingconstitutionallegal challenge is secretly being financed by a politicalfigure.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ram commended the unfounded and dangerous remarks by theAG in a recent video, where Nandlall alleged that the legal case filed to challenge Article 160 (2) (a) of Guyana’s
priorities, and with the regional agenda on food security,”heconcluded.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CDF Mr Rodinald Soomer said the US$18 million programme is a bold and strategic investment in the fulfilment of CARICOM and Guyana’s shared vision for a resilient, productive and inclusive agricultural sector that not only feeds the nation but nourishes the region and reinforces Guyana’s leadership role in
CARICOM.
“This programme is intended to enrich lives, upliftlocalcommunitiesand regions, and create new economic opportunities for producers and processors of coconuts, cocoa, coffee, peanuts, pigs and pork products, honey and associated by-products and vegetables,”heexplained.
The CEO added that under the AIDP, the foundation for a safer, more competitive agricultural sector will be laid, with the construction of a modern swine abattoir, 13 new or upgraded agro-processing facilities,andeightenhanced surveillance outposts to enable officers to execute theirdutiesunderconditions which are more conducive and should yield better results in combating the prevalence of the carambola
fruitfly
WithPresidentIrfaanAli being CARICOM’s lead representative for agricultureintheregion,the project’s proposed activities have notably satisfied several aspects of
CARICOM’s goal of reducing the region’s food import bill, as well as in the areas of food and nutrition security,implementationand operationalisation of sanitary and phytosanitaryrelated policies, and increased production and climatesmartagriculture.
The programme will c o n t r i b u t e t o t h e Government’ s broader diversification strategy includingthroughthefurther development in agriculture, one of the country’s main non-oilsectors.
With most agriculture concentrated on the coast facing challenges such as climate change risks and reducedavailabilityofwater
and suitable land, Guyana’s MinistryofAgricultureaims to increase production and value addition in selected commodities.
Throughprojectssuchas this,theMinistrywillbeina stronger position to propose policiesandinvestmentsthat generate the highest return for the country, in line with Guyana’s National Strategy for Agriculture (2020 –2030).
T h e C A R I C O M DevelopmentFund(CDF)is an organisation established under Article 158 of the Revised Treaty of
Chaguaramas for the purpose of providing financial and technical assistance to disadvantaged countries, regions, and sectors in the Caribbean Community(CARICOM)to enhance their prospects for successful competition withintheCommunityandto redress, to the extent possible, any negative
impact of the establishment of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and St. Vincent and theGrenadinesareclassified asLessDevelopedCountries (LDCs) in CARICOM and disadvantaged countries in theCDF Barbados,Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago as well as Suriname are classified as Developed Countries (MDCs). The accumulated mobilised resources of the CDF are to bedisbursedinthreeformsgrants, interest subsidies, and concessionary loans Financial resources to facilitate the attainment of these objectives are pledged by Member States (also referred to as Contributors) and supplemented by contributions from International Development Partners.
Constitution is being supported by political interests. “I retained Mr Kamal Ramkarran, the son of Ralph Ramkarran, as my attorney to challengeArticle 160 (2) (a) of Guyana’s Constitution, which I believe permits individualstocontestparliamentaryelections in geographical constituencies Readers mightrecallthatKamalwasalsomycounsel — right up to the CCJ - in the case he successfully filed over the 2018 noconfidence motion in the National Assembly,”Ramexplained.
Ram stated that according to the video, the AG made the grave allegation that the senior Ramkarran’s column was “an attempt by him to distance his law firm from a statement that I (AG) made from a contention that I (AG) advanced…and the contention that I advanced was that based upon the information that I have received, informationthatIhavenoreasontodoubt,the
legal proceedings are being financed by a politicalpresidentialaspirant.”
Ram strongly refuted this accusation, revealingthatafterreviewingthefootage,he personallycontactedtheAGtodemandeither evidence or a public apology However, he said theAG instead issued what he termed a “non-statement,” claiming he was merely repeating public speculation circulating online.
“Hisfeeblejustificationraisesevenmore serious concerns. If he is basing official statements on unverified social media posts and rumors, this speaks to a fundamental failureinhisdutiesasthenation’schieflegal officer Social media gossip and speculation do not constitute the reliable information he initiallyclaimedtopossess,”Ramsaid.
He further accused Nandlall of shirking
responsibility “It is profoundly disappointing that our nation’s chief legal
officerwouldconducthimselfinthisreckless manner His refusal to accept accountability when challenged sets a dangerous example thatunderminestheintegrityofhisofficeand erodes public confidence in our legal institutions,”Ramadded.
Moreover, Ram apologised to Senior Counsel Ralph Ramkarran, his attorney KamalRamkarran,andtheirfamiliesforthe “embarrassment and pain” caused by the allegations and the AG’s refusal to retract them.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CDF Mr. Rodinald Soomer (right) and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh signing the financing agreement
Amanza walks away from Norton
...LAUNCHES NEW PARTY TO CONTEST ELECTIONS
ByShaniaWilliams
Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs and
longstanding member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Amanza Walton-Desir, resigned officially from the party on Wednesdayandlaunchedher own political movement, ‘ForwardGuyana.’
The announcement was made at an emotional press conferencejustminutesafter thePNCRissuedastatement confirmingherdeparture.
According to the PNCR’s statement, party leader Aubrey Norton and executive member David HalesmetwithWalton-Desir earlier this week to discuss her potential involvement in the upcoming General and RegionalElections.
“During the meeting, Ms. Walton-Desir enquired whether she could be guaranteed extraction from the list to become a member of the next parliament,” the PNCR stated. “In response, Mr Norton assured her that shewouldbeextractedtobe amemberofparliament.She wasalsoinformedoftherole shewouldplayintheAPNU government. She then asked about her role in the campaign, and Mr Norton informed her that she would beamemberofthecampaign management team Ms Walton-Desirthenstatedthat she needed to consult her team and would revert,” the party said The statement said further, that instead of receiving a response from the politician, a resignation letter was issued instead. It wentontosaythatonbehalf of the PNCR and the parliamentary opposition, gratitude was extended to Walton-Desirforherservice andwellwishesinherfuture endeavours.
Shortly after, WaltonDesir addressed the media and the nation in a press
conference where she publicly announced her resignation from the PNCR, effective immediately, and revealedtheformationofher newpoliticalparty, Forward Guyana She declared that her party is open to forming a
opposition groups and individuals who share similarprinciples.
“We understand that no onepartyormovementholds all the answers. That is why we remain open to collaborationandcoalescing — but not for coalescing’s sake. Unity cannot be based on expedience. It must be grounded in shared principles,coherentpolicies, and a common vision for a just and inclusive Guyana,” shesaid.
“Wearepreparedtowork with others who are serious about dismantling systems ofcorruption,inequality,and exclusion, and who agree that collaboration must be rootedinclearcommitments to justice, service, and the long-overduetransformation ofourpoliticalculture.”
Reasonsfor departurefromPNCR
An emotional Amanza Walton-Desir, speaking at her press conference, outlined the key reasons behind her decision to part ways with the PNCR. She explained that she had not been given a clearly defined role in the upcoming e l e c t i o n s a n d f e l t increasingly side-lined by theparty
“After being repeatedly omittedfrommostcampaign activities and key meetings within my designated portfolio, I sought and was granted a meeting with the leader of the Opposition,” she recalled. “My intention was to clarify what role, if any,Iwasexpectedtoplayin shaping the future of the PNCR There was not sufficient clarity for me on the way forward in the PNCR as it is currently constituted While I appreciated the opportunity to engage, it became clear that I cannot, in good conscience, remain where my contributions are undervaluedandmyvoiceis silenced.”
W a l t o n - D e s i r acknowledged that the decision to resign was not madelightly,citingherdeep familial and personal ties to theparty
“The PNCR is the party in which my grandparents,
myparents,aunts,anduncles gave yeoman service. It is a party that helped shape my identity,myconvictions,and my sense of duty to country Ithasbeentheonlypolitical home I have known,” she said, breaking down in tears asshespoke.
Preparednessand collaborationefforts
Duringthequestion-andanswer segment of the press conference, Walton-Desir stated that her party is actively preparing for the elections and open to collaboration with likeminded groups. “Of course, wehavetakenstepstosecure t h e m o v e m e n t a n d participation But we also said that we are going to collaborate that could mean there will be work going on in the next few days,” she noted She disclosed that several existing political parties have already expressed interest in collaboration, but emphasised that her team wouldonlypartnerbasedon shared values and policy alignment “I have issued invitations to anyone interestedinhearingwhatwe are about, our vision and policiesforGuyanatospeak withus,”shesaid.
Whilesheacknowledged thattheAllianceForChange (AFC) had not yet engaged with her directly, she noted that the party had issued a general invitation for discussions with other political leaders on Wednesday Regarding the approaching nomination deadline, Walton-Desir expressed full confidence in her party’s readiness “All our ducks are in the pond,” sheaffirmed.
Rejects‘WaitingYour Turn’notion
Addressing criticism about timing and political seniority, Walton-Desir firmly rejected the idea that new political leaders must “wait their turn.” “It’s never about the length of time that someonehasserved.Idonot seethisnotionofwaitingfor a turn as being relevant or serious to the discussion aboutthiscountry It’sabout who shows up with heart, whoshowsupwithcourage,
whocangetthejobdone.”
Fundingandsupport
On the question of campaign financing, she expressed optimism that ‘Forward Guyana’ will receive grassroots support “Overthenextfewdays,the people of Guyana will see. They will be motivated to give.Wehavetobelievethat what we offer will be sufficienttoattractpeople.”
Manifesto andpolicyfocus
Walton-Desir outlined some of the central themes expected in F
, decentralisation, health reform, and migration policy “We want to empower Guyanese and make them a part of every investmentmade,”shesaid.
On decentralisation, she noted plans to expand focus beyond the oil sector “We are looking at other entities and sectors that can contribute to Guyana’s development like gold mining. It should not just be about oil; all our resources mustbeincluded.”
In the health sector, Walton-Desir emphasised a shifttowardpreventivecare. “We believe it is better to prevent your people from getting sick than allowing them to get sick and then moving them into a public hospital system that shuffles
t h e m i n t o p r i v a t e healthcare ” She also touched on the absence of a
Former PNCR member, Amanza Walton-Desir
comprehensive migration policy, stressing the importance of national securitymeasures.
Politicalmission
Walton-Desir stated that she is stepping forward becauseshebelievesGuyana urgently needs political transformation. “I am now stepping forward because I know I can make a difference. And although it may be uncomfortable for me and for some others, Guyana simply cannot wait — and Guyanese are out of patience with poverty in the midstofplenty.”
Describing the founding missionofForwardGuyana, Walton-Desir said the country’s current political environment leaves too many disillusioned and voiceless “There is a fundamental problem in Guyana we can no longer ignore. For far too long, our politicshasbeenreducedtoa false choice — either-or — between two dominant parties that do not necessarily thrive on performance, ideas, or vision.”“Thishasstifledreal progress and left too many Guyanese disillusioned, disenfranchised, and voiceless The Guyanese electorate is hungry for a change.” “Forward Guyana is a bridge to a better future. A bridge built not of concrete, but of courage, conscience, and collective will.Itisabridgeawayfrom the politics of division, corruption, and favoritism toward unity, integrity, andrealresults.”
“Poverty in terms of unnecessarily hard livesfromhighcost-of-living,poor wages, underemployment, hunger, unsafe public transportation, lack of adequate public safety, and rampant corruption at every level in the midst of a booming oil industry where the government earns millions daily and Exxon earns billions annually Sometimes, to step up, you must first step out ” She further admitted that the oppositionhasfallenshortin recent years. “The truth is, despitethepresenceofgood people in the opposition, we may not have done enough over the last five years to effectively check the excessesofthePPP.”
KaieteurNews
PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana
Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456
Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
GuySuCo and diversification
The headline screamed from the Stabroek News on Tuesday:“Presidentvowstomakesugar`greatagain.”It was one of the many comical statements, Guyanese have become used to from President Ali. The catch phrase is also a slogan being used by current US President Donald Trumpthathasevolvedintoamovement-MakeAmerica GreatAgain(MAGA).
The announcement was made by President Ali on Mondayatthe77thAnniversaryobservanceoftheEnmore Martyrs,atEastCoastDemerara,whereheoutlinedwhat hedescribedasastrategytoreimagineGuySuCo'srolein Guyana's agriculture sector “We have to think strategicallyofhowwewillexpandtheroleofGuySuCo. AndperhapsitistimeforustoreimagineGuySuco'srole altogether Why must its mandate stop only at sugar? GuySuCo can and must become a hub of rural economic development,”thepresidentsaid.
Itisnoteworthy,thatdespitethegovernmentpumping billionsofdollarsintothesugarcorporation,thecompany has been failing. President Ali also said that GuySuCo's land, infrastructure and knowledge base can support the productionofothercropsaswellaslivestockoperations, agro-processing hubs, farmer trading and extension services,fabricationandengineeringservices.“Theglobal machinery industry historically recruited machinists and fabricators from GuySuCo. We have to leverage this humancapitalandhumanpotential.Andinembracingthis future that I speak of, there will be some exciting opportunities. Crop diversification, skills diversification, incomediversification,”thepresidentannounced.
Here we have the President vowing as the Stabroek Newsheadlinesaystomakesugargreatagain,butlaying out a plan to diversify GuySuCo by planting corn and cassava.Wehavenoproblemwiththediversificationplan ifthegovernmentissincereaboutit,butpoliticalmeddling willblockanyprogress.
Thecorporation'spotentialremainsuntapped.Imagine GUYSUCOasanationalagriculturalcorporation.Itcould importfertilizers.
It could support rice and cash crop farmers. It could dominatetheagriculturalinputsmarket.Butthisrequires visionandthepoliticalwillbecausedespitePresidentAli's grandiose declaration his plan will go against the bourgeoisclassthatdominatesthemarketforagricultural imports.Somepolitically-connectedpersonsarealsopart ofthismarket.
GuySuCoisonlifesupport,whichisputtingitgently Thishasbeenknownforawhilenow,anditwasclearfrom whathasemergedonandoffthatallwasnotwell.Wehave heardfromtheoccasionalseepagesofthewaysthingsare beingruninsideGuySuCo,thatnewproblemsareaddedto longstanding ones paving the way for further deterioration.
In quick order, there have been sharp rebuttals followingontheheelsofanybadnewsputintothepublic domain.
Itisbettertosmoothoverthewrinkles,andkeepupthe pretense that all is well, which as all well know can only endure for so long. This is precisely what has now occurredwithnootherthanthePresidentbasicallysaying thatitwastimetoclosedownthesugarindustryandstart plantingriceandcornandrearlivestock.
As one of our writers said previously, GuySuCo's problems are political, not managerial. Its survival depends on political reform, not just managerial adjustments. It needs visionary leadership at the level of theBoard,leadershipthatseesbeyondsugar
The rural economy depends on GuySuCo, the nation depends on its success. Political meddling must end.The corporation'spotentialmustbeunleashednotcurtailed.
Amanza is well-regarded in the base
DearEditor, Amanza Walton Desir's departure from the PNC (APNU) is a telling blow to theparty
Sheisverypopularinthe PNC base and among floating voters who are disgruntled with PPP, PNC (APNU),andAFC.
Unlike others who departed from the PNC, Amanza has a base and will takethemwithher Those who do not
recognize Amanza's popularitydonotunderstand the state of politics in the country Their political acumen and analysis of contemporary politics is questionable.
Amanzahasbeenknown to raise issues of social, political and economic importance as well as diplomacy and international relations, and confronted opponents on the floor as wellasoutsideofparliament
the House. She has a lovely voicethatattractsalistening audience even if the content at times may not have been verygood.
Amanza Walton-Desir is well liked, well-regarded and is an asset to any political party Voters I polledoverthelastfewyears consistentlydescribedheras leadership material She would have united the APNU+AFC base had she been chosen as a consensus
Presidential or even Prime Ministerialcandidate.Sheis also well regarded by diplomats.
Latest polling put President Irfaan in the lead. Azruddin Mohamed is giving both PPP and PNC a run for their money How Amanza fares and what she brings to her new political associates will have to be tested.
Yourstruly, VishnuBisram
Things Needed in Guyana
DearMr.Editor,
Inthefirstplace,Idonot put much store into what America is doing at the moment, given what is happeninginthatcountry.
I now give some reasons why I might vote for Mr Mohamed:
1.Commitstoraisingthe private sector wage to $150,000 per month. At the m o m e n t i t i s a n unconscionable $60,000 The same private sector that says it cannot pay more is enjoyingthegoodlife.
2.Commitstoraisingthe taxthresholdfrom$130,000 toatleast$200,000.
3. Commits that billiondollarpumpstationcontracts will only be given to qualified, capable and track recordprovencontractors.
4. Commits to a Public Procurement Commission thatdoesitsworkratherthan spending millions of dollars “pampazetting”. This PPC I am told sought a legal opinion as to whether it can do the work it is being paid hundreds of millions of dollarstodo.
5.Commitstoareformed NPTABwherequalifiedand independent engineers, procurement specialists, accountants,andanalystsare employed.
6.Commitstosupporting amorerepresentativeprivate sector body rather than the current status quo where the Private Sector Commission is used as a conveyor belt systemtomovepersonsfrom the PSC to cushy Board Appointments, Presidential Advisors and Ministers in return for being sycophants, c h e e r l e a d e r s a n d opportunists.Suchnewbody should have term limits for persons serving on the executive. The current body has persons who have been there since Noah was buildingtheArc.
7 Commits to full disclosure of award of lands inthenewopenedareas,like Heroes Highway, Ogle to Diamond, Backroad, West Coast,WestBank,etc.
8 Commits to the confirmation of the Chancellor and the Chief Justice - two persons who have been doing Herculean work especially the acting Chief Justice. I do not know howthislegalgiantisableto do as much work as Her Honour does and it is a slap in the face that they are not confirmed.
9.Commitstocompetent persons as opposed to friends, family and cronies serving on state board and
commissions The main qualification should be integrity and ability, rather than friends, family and cronies.
10. Commits to an enhanced Ministry of Public Works where competent engineers and surveyors are retained to check on governmentprojects.
11.Commitstoreduction of the powers of the President and removal of certainimmunities-possibly going back to the Independence Constitution withcertainamendments.
12 Commits to a reformed and nonpoliticized police force that can regain control of our roads and deal even handedly and firmly with crime.
13 Commits to renegotiation of the oil contractasourPresidentand VicePresidenthadpromised to do. A promise that was neverkept.
14. Appointment of a competent and capable C o m m i s s i o n e r o f Information.
15.Fulldisclosureofany and every information including contracts and addendumsinrelationtothe Gas-to-Energy project In addition, disclosure of all
reportsandifnecessary,risk assessment and feasibility studies by internationally recognized experts. In other words, we cannot afford anotherfailedroadtoAmelia Falls or another Skelton Sugar Factory white elephant Our great grandchildren cannot afford tocarrythatburden.
Thislistisnotexhaustive but Mr Mohamed will get my vote if he commits to them.
T h e p o i n t , M r Nascimento, is whether you support this government or Mr Mohamed, depends on whose lens you are looking through. For example, if I was enjoying a cushy consultancy contract with Duty Free concession and otherbenefitswiththeability totakeoutsideconsultancies also I will certainly support the status quo because my bread is well buttered with some jam on it also. But if I am one of those who is struggling to make ends meet, who is seeing all the opulence in front of him beingenjoyedbyafavoured few, I would vote for Mr Mohamed.
I believe this is called self-interest.
Faithfully, HiltonSeecharan
The Hindu community feels aggrieved
DearEditor:
Please permit me to respond to Tony Viera's 18 June 2025 letter that was carriedintheStabroekNews underthecaption,“Jailingof Baby Skello a violation of myandhisrights.”Mr Viera draws an analogy that he is willing to tolerate swearing [inmovies]thatinvokeJesus Christandbyextension,heis willing to accept Baby Skello's “anti-Hindu” lyrics. WhileMr Vieradidnotstate which of his rights were violated. Let me make it abundantly clear to Mr Viera;youdonothavearight to receive or listen to anti-
Hindulyrics.Letmeexplain.
First, all rights are subject to limitations depending to the mores of thesociety Forinstance,itis strictlyprohibitedtopossess child pornography One cannot possess such images. Similarly, it is for our courts toconsiderthesocietalfactor inGuyanatodeterminewhat is appropriate and what is beyondthepale.
Second,Mr Viera,either deliberatelyorinadvertently, ignored the Guyana Constitution[thatmanywho will seek its protections u s u a l l y d e s c r i b e derogatorily as the
Shahabuddeen-Burnham
Constitution]. Under
C h a p t e r 3 8 F, t h e Constitution provides, “No person'sreligionorreligious beliefs shall be vilified.”
While Mr Viera is acculturated by Hollywood, Hindus in Guyana are acculturate by Bollywood. I am yet to see a Bollywood movie that denigrates a Hindudeity AndIdoubtone is forthcoming. Third, the Guyana Constitutionaffords Baby Skello, under Chapter 146, Protection of Freedom ofExpression.However,that freedom is circumscribed. Under Chapter 146(3),
“Freedom of expression in this article does not relate to hate speeches or other expressions, in whatever form, capable of exciting hostility or ill-will against any person or class of persons ” The Hindu community feels aggrieved. Baby Skello's artistic freedoms are limited by our constitution and Mr Viera does not have an unlimited right to listen or possess lyrics that are offensive and is capable of exciting hostility or ill-will against Hindus.
Sincerely, RogerAlly
Let
us not fail our descendants, end this charade and sit down around the proverbial round table to produce a Government
DearEditor,
The Statement over the weekend by former President and Leader of the PNC, Brigadier David Granger, as published in Monday16thJune, Kaieteur News titled “Refocus coalitiontalksonpolicy,not power,” is instructive and pertinent.
It compels me to break mysilenceonthisimportant issue.
I described in a private discussion,thetalksbetween AFC,PNCetal,asstepsthat may be considered misguided and shortsighted, ignoring the bigger picture and the need to give Guyanese everywhere a chancetoexhaleandenjoya betterlife.
What with ineptness by the current administration, including a discernible effort to manipulate and manage a judiciary or mismanagement of the oil sector and our inability to control the gold sector, not tomentionthewoefulwaste in sugar, where only yesterday,ourHeadofState proclaimed at the Enmore Martyrs Day Rally, he would make sugar great again, obviously forgetting that in 2020, when he assumed office, the Coalition had GuySuCo producing 89 tonnes of sugar Since then, to date they have only produced 58 tonnes. These are facts not fictionalfigures.
The problem and
obsession by this Government to appoint to top managerial positions, persons whose principal qualifications is allegiance totherulingelite.
We also forgot that the Enmore Martyrs Monument was built at the instance of Forbes Burnham and the PNC.
The PPP administration is vulnerable as they are in the vanguard of an unhappy processofrecolonization.
Thefactthattodayatthe cambios, the exchange rate, was above 218.00 dollars to
1 against the US dollar, in what our leaders in Government boast to be the fastest growing economy in theworld.
It is unnecessary for me to recite our many failings, well articulated in the independentmedia.
In a note to one of the potential coalition Parties, I posed the question, “Why should we be wasting, yes I said wasting precious time in trying to share the chickens, even before the eggs are hatched,” because the silly steps we are taking suggest that in a few short weeks, there will be no chickensandtheeggswould have remained in the possession of an inept Government,whosemission is to continue a spending spree awarding contracts to persons with little or no experience, all supported by a powerful propaganda machine.
Briefly, what we should be doing is identifying specific geographic areas, and based on their knowledge and experience on the geographical areas, assignamemberormembers ofacoalitiontomobilizethe people and give them hope that we can better manage and distribute our fantastic and unprecedented windfall due to recent harvesting of oil,gas,gold,etc.
Let us not fail our descendants, end this charade and sit down around the proverbial round table to produce a Governmentthatwouldnot make the many mistakes which we are making in ForeignAffairs, a Ministry with an abundance of money and therefore personnel to await the independent media bringing to our attention, maps in circulation which putstheNewRivertriangle in Suriname and which have failed to adumbrate a policy to protect the integrity and sovereignty of all of our 83,000 square miles
Further, to bring hope to our people by retooling our education system to put in place,thedeepermeaningof free education from Kindergarten to University To offer hope to our people ofaPoliceForce,thatistruly professional and not influenced by partisan, politicalconsiderations.
The similar effort in the health sector and to put in place, the ideas advanced in the document entitled “Defence in Depth,” a mechanism to secure our bordersfromtheEastandto theWest.
I hope that we do not waste another day but concentrate on how a togetherness, that in spite of the hurdles can topple the current regime.As a caveat, discussionscanalsofocuson identifying qualified and competent persons, whose loyalty is to the people and no one else Persons to manage their branches of Government. For me, this is myhope,sothatnoonewho is a genuine patriot is excluded from contributing tothegoodofGuyana.
Too much is at stake, lookaroundtheworld,there is no other place on earth, with such massive natural resources and a population oflessthanonemillion,with no natural disasters, hurricanes, monsoons, tornadoes, etc., let us not betray the Maker, who has putourcountryinthisunique position, so that every Guyanese could be well educatedandbeproductive.
Sincerely
HamiltonGreen Elder
PPP/C in and out of government has never stopped engaging the people directly
DearEditor,
In this letter, I will not touchontheextenttowhich crossoversordefectorsfrom the PNC would impact the PPPasapoliticalpartysince itismoreaquestionofhowit would impact the defector's understanding of freedom fromwhatcaptivatedthemin the past to the freedom to now embrace the Irfaan Ali administration knowing all freedomsarerelative.
I will restrict myself to respondingtoan'OPINION' framed; 'From ideology to theatre:defectionsintheage of oil' written by Nigel Westmaas and published by Demerara Waves in its June 12,2025edition.
Nigel Westmaas is one the sons of David Westmass whoperformedthefunctions of Secretary to Premier Cheddi Jagan during the colonial era and later, as Secretary to Dr Jagan as OppositionLeader David was a stalwart of thePPP.Hewasnotaracist. His writings show his fight for free and fair elections, against the Burnham dictatorship, racism and justice for all. He worked at Freedom House where he assisted Dr Jagan with research papers and preparationofpressreleases. He helped with the creation of the Civil LibertiesAction Council (CLAC) and the Guyana Peace Council (GPC). He was great with Englishgrammar HissonNigel,gravitated to the Working People's Alliance (WPA) He eventuallyimmigratedtothe USA.
Byhiscommentaryinthe news outlet, Westmaas seemed more interested in
exposing the racial and ideological undertones that are to be found in the peculiarities of Guyanese politicalculture. In this regard, young Westmaas must say if he agrees with the WPA's political line that apartheid, racial domination and discrimination is being practiced in Guyana by the PPP/C In his 'Opinion', Westmaas makes a fundamental mistake by deliberately miscategorise thephenomenonofdefecting or crossing the floor as 'a show'andas'theatre.'
We Guyanese have a moral obligation and responsibility to challenge the system to create a fairer and more just society for all Guyanese but we cannot accomplish this obligation and responsibility through rhetoric and hyperbole claiming that the PPP is; 'busy putting on a show and that It's the same political theatre.' Better constructive criticisms and concrete participation in nation building. Characterizing the announcements of persons from the PNC endorsing President Ali, Westmaas concluded; 'This isn't about transformation It's a transaction of the most devious kind in a broken society.'
This is a flawed conclusion. By describing the phenomenon of crossing from one party to another as symptomatic of a 'broken
society' Westmaas connects his understanding of the problem to some other idea or domain of life when in reality it is symptomatic of the nature of Guyanese politics and not of the 'broken society' which he conjuredupjustasanycritic ofthePPPwouldbeproneto declare.
Probably because his party's alliance with the PNC, Westmass chose to ignorethebrokensociety,the PNC left behind and instead chose to pin the label on the PPP/C, conveniently overlooking the years of PNC misrule, a wrecked economy, a legacy of rigged elections, heavy outward migration and a flawed experimentations with socialism and Marxist ideology which led some of thedefectorstobecomeright opportunists/ deviationists, whilst the others were merely wedded to the popular and nationalist policies of the PPP of the colonial era and pressured through the use of fear, v ic t im iz a ti o n a n d intimidationbytheBurnham dictatorship to defect to the PNC.
Quoting from President Ali, Westmaas wrote; 'Even President Ali has acknowledged, in a rare moment of candor last November that there was a “systemic cultural problem” in Guyana.'. I hasten to add thatmyinterpretationof (Continueonpage6)
Widening of the road at Grove, EBD
DearEditor,
It does not appear that any considerationwas given to the welfare and convenienceof the residents and businesses along the roadwayatGrove,EastBank Demerara,inthewideningof thissectionoftheroad.Even the optically impaired could clearly see that the space availableforthewideningof the road was grossly inadequate to accommodate twomorelanes.
The result, therefore, is absolutechaos.
Some the residents have awoken to find that their yards are now two feet and more below the newly built gutters outside their fences. And animals and strangers can easily step over the fences and into their yards. And what about those who are physically challenged,
whether due to old age or illness? How are they going to get in and out of their yards? But not only that, residents who own vehicles have found themselves in a deep hole when it comes to getting their vehicles in and out of their yards. Many of thevehicleswouldhavetobe liftedout,asbuildingaramp intheiryardsinfrontoftheir gateswouldnothelp.
So, Editor, I am considering investing in the purchase of a Hi Up Canter truck.Iforeseeabigdemand of this type of service along the roadway, because the only way a number of the peoplewouldgettheircarsin and out of their yards is by liftingthemout.
Right now, it's a nightmare to traverse this section of the roadway.And thousands have to do this every day But what about those who live thereinsanity is probably knocking on their very doors So, you have to wonder why a caring government would inflict this kind of hardship on its people.
One has to question, not thewisdom,butthesanityof thosewhoareresponsiblefor thistravesty Whydothosein authority decide to build a four-lane road in such cramped space? What about the residents' rights to unhindered ingress and egress to their properties, and the quiet enjoyment of their homesteads? Where is thesensitivitythatshouldbe shown for people's welfare? Isinsanitythepriceonemust payfordevelopment?
Yourstruly
Dougla
PPP/C in and out of government has...
Frompage5
PresidentAli'sreferencetoa 'systemiccultureproblem'in Guyanashouldnotbecastin derogatory terms rather, it should be understood in its contextual and peculiar significance.
Furthermore, Westmaas' harping on the 'systemic culture problem' is a crude model for understanding the political phenomenon and begsthequestion;whatifthe defections were from the PPP to the PNC as was the caseinthe1970's?
Wouldhehavedescribed thatasashowandtheatrics? In the circumstances, it seems to me that Westmaas over-simplified a political phenomenon that is well established in the world of politics.
In a society culturally and ethnically diverse as Guyana, the 'systemic culture problem' that the President may have referred to, must have been one peculiar to Guyana but certainly not one that would maketheeconomygrindtoa halt, making the country 'uncreditworthy' or to pull thecountrydown.
Inthisregard,thepolitics ofcrossingoverisobviously influenced by various considerations, such as greater political awareness and perhaps, personal interests and family pressures.
Westmaas's approach would confuse readers because he loses focus and does not address, nor speak to factors such as empathy, familiarity, inclusivity nor common interests when it comes to such highly publicizedmatters.
The recent spate of defections or floor-crossing or resignations was never designed nor destined to occurinthiswayatthistime. And not because defections and floor crossing occurred inthe1970'swithdefections from PPP to PNC while the PPP was in the political opposition, it follows that it is bound to happen in this way from PNC to PPP/C while the PNC is in the opposition The political contexts under which such actions take place cannot be cast aside and replaced by meresloganeering.
That being said, nevertheless, the PPP has always maintained that political allegiances are not staticandcouldchange.
Westmaas' article is obviouslystructuredtheway he thinks about politics. He did not take into consideration, at least at a conceptual level, that debates at the parliamentary or RDC levels for example, are exchanges where individuals take sides, and that evidence and facts revealed in such debates cannot be blind-sighted nor ignored because of woodenheadedness through no fault of government nor the PPP/C Outside of the chamber, MPs chat and exchangeprivateviewswith eachother
SohereishowWestmaas concludeshiscommentary:
'Inadeeplypluralsociety like Guyana, national unity can't just mean putting different faces on the same political machine. It can't be reduced to symbolic inclusion or temporary alliances built for election
season. Unity must engage directly with inequality, mistrust,andpastexclusion. Without that engagement, what's called “unity” becomes little more than choreography, people standing together for the photo while pursuing very different goals behind the scenes.'
Ironically, while Westmaas choses to lecture readersonmatterspertaining to unity, the WPA, party he supports, every day via its podcasts promotes disunity andanideologythatistotally unhelpful to reconciliation andnationunity
And in caseWestmaas is not aware, it might interest himtoknowthatthroughits engagements at the grassroots levels, the PPP/C inandoutofgovernmenthas never stopped engaging the peopledirectly At the same time, through policy initiatives, the Ali administration does its level best to address manifestations of inequality, mistrust and exclusion. And it is precisely through these engagementsthatchangesin political allegiances are manifesting themselves today
Historyhastaughtusthat no one person can do everything, but if we follow theEthiopianproverb'When spiders unite, they can tie down a lion', we Guyanese have a better chance of solving our problems together and creating a nation that lives up to its dreams of 'One People, One Nation, One Destiny' or if youwish,'OneGuyana!' Yoursfaithfully, ClementJ.Rohee
BLUNT BLUNT
Opposition farces
When an opposition is needed the most, it is lost, whether measured as one group or a coalition of two. While the PNCR continues with the sham of being a contender of merit, the AFC first lost its credibility, then its voice, and lastly its footing. There is this ugly public fight over a consensus candidate for the leadership spot.
One side says that it is willing to relinquish a claim to the leadership mantle. The other says that it is open to listening, could even look favourably on what gives the best chance of victory over the PPPC on September 1.
The leadership of both the PNCR and the AFC has indicated that they are willing to go to the polls alone. Whatever voter numbers they pretend to have, this is how they mislead their own respective bases, through bluff and sound bites that mean nothing.
A prime example of this is AFC leader Nigel Hughes, who entered the political milieu with a bang and has since collapsed like a punctured balloon. Guyanese voters are looking for their share of the national wealth. They are hoping to find a leader who they can trust. They are rewarded with farces.
Canadian gold miner signs US$83M equipment agreement
with Komatsu-Genequip
Canadian gold miner, GMIN Ventures Guyana Inc , a subsidiary of G Mining Ventures Corp., on Tuesday announced that it signed a landmark US$83 million agreement with Komatsu–Genequip for the supply of mobile equipment for its flagship Oko West Gold Project, located in RegionSeven,Guyana.
In a statement, the company said the signing took place on Monday, June 16, 2025, in the boardroom of GMIN's
headquarters at the Pegasus Corporate Suites and Business Centre, Kingston, Georgetown. The agreement was executed by Louis-Pierre Gignac, founder and Chief Executive Officer of G Mining Ventures Corp., and Schelte van Dijk, Managing Director of Genequip. Also present were Renger van Dijk, Chairman of Genequip, and Omar Abril, Senior Project Manager of Komatsu Representing GMIN were Country
Manager Bjorn Jeune, Administrative Services ManagerRaviSamaroo,and Communications Specialist StacyCarmichael.
Aspartoftheagreement, GMINwillacquireafleetof over 60 Komatsu mobile equipment units, valued at over US$83 million Deliveries are scheduled to commenceinJune2025and will continue through to the startofproductionin2028.
In addition to supplying state-of-the-art equipment, Genequip, Komatsu's
Louis-Pierre Gignac, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of G Mining Ventures Corp. and Schelte van Dijk, Managing Director of Genequip sign the agreement. [From L-R] Also pictured are Renger van Dijk, Chairman of Genequip; Bjorn Jeune, Country Manager, GMIN Ventures Guyana Inc.; Omar Abril, Senior Project Manager, Komatsu; and Ravi Samaroo, Administrative
exclusive representative in Guyana since 1993, will provide comprehensive maintenance and parts support to ensure long-term operationalexcellenceatthe Oko West site. Komatsu, a globallyrecognisedleaderin the manufacture of heavy machinery, brings its expertise in mining, construction, and utility equipment to support the successoftheproject.
“This agreement reflects our commitment to equipping our team with the highest quality machinery,
ensuring both operational excellence and safety,” said Louis-Pierre Gignac, CEO of G Mining Ventures. “We are proud to partner with KomatsuandGenequip,two globally respected companies,aswecontinueto investinGuyana'sfuture.”
“As we build the Oko WestGoldProject,ourfocus remains on safety, sustainability, and local capacity building,” Gignac added “This investment strengthens our ability to deliveraprojectthatbenefits not only our shareholders, but also the people and communities of Region Seven.”Asymbolicpainting waspresentedtoMr Gignac by the Genequip team in recognition of the partnership and shared vision for sustainable developmentinGuyana.
GMIN said that the agreement represents anotherkeymilestoneinthe advancement of the Oko WestGoldProjectandaligns with GMIN's broader vision of delivering lasting value for its stakeholders and host communities.
No bail for man accused of helping foreigners in police outpost bombing
Thirty-five-year-
o l d S e o n Carmichael who was remanded to prison for allegedly assisting foreign nationals in lobbing improvisedbombsatapolice outpostandaGuyanaPower andLightstation,wasdenied bailonWednesday.
Carmichael of Lot 205 Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara (EBD), made his first court appearance last month before Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty
at the Georgetown Magistrates'Court,wherehe wasremanded.
During his first court appearance,Carmichaelwas not required to plead to the two counts of the indictable charges which alleged that between May 15 and 17, 2025, he facilitated a terrorist act, which is the bombing of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Georgetown Substation on Mandela Avenue, and the bombing of the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost. Atthattime,hisdefencewas
led by attorney Everton Singh-Lammy
During yesterday's court
hearing, Carmichael appeared virtually before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where an application wasmadeandhepleadednot guiltytothetwocharges.
Carmichael is now represented by attorney Mikel Puran, who requested bail on the grounds that his client is the main bread winner for his family, no wanted bulletin was issued forhimandheisnotaflight risk. Attorney Puran said Carmichael was in no way hiding from the police since he was arrested in close proximity to his home in a minibus he frequently drives.
Theprosecutionobjected to bail due to the serious nature of the charge. It said the accused facilitated a terrorist act as he used his vehicle to transport the suspects to and from the crime scenes and also purchased components to makethegrenade.
The accused Seon Carmichael at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on his first court appearance
MagistrateAzore denied Carmichael's bail due to the serious nature of the allegations, for his own protection and for public safety Carmichael is scheduled to return to court onJune25,2025.
This pu
ion u n d e
n d s t h a t Carmichael's lawyer intends tomakeaHighCourtbail
(Continueonpage17)
Protecting Religious Harmony
In a pluralistic society such as Guyana, where diverse religious beliefs and sensibilities coexist, the law must delicately balance the constitutional right to freedom of expression with the equally important right to religious freedom and societalharmony
The law must draw a bright line between critique andcontempt.Inthisregard, it is both necessary and justified to preserve, or replace with carefully
defined alte
natives, o f f e n c e s s u c h a s blasphemous libel to ensure that expressions do not descend into incitement of religioushatredorviolence.
This balance – between the right to freedom of expression and the right to
religious freedom –necessitates the retention of offenses that criminalize vulgarandmaliciousattacks on religious deities while simultaneously upholding the right to legitimate, rational, and respectful
critique of religious doctrines and beliefs. So what constitutes legitimate, rational, and respectful
critique of religious doctrines and beliefs?
Acceptable criticism of religion falls within the
ambit of academic, theological, philosophical, and journalistic expression,
where doctrines are interrogated, beliefs
c h a l l e n g e d , a n d interpretationsdebated.
Such criticism must be expressedinlanguagethatis civil, devoid of malice, and aimed at advancing understanding rather than provoking outrage For example,ascholarlycritique o f t h e h i s t o r i c a l development of a particular religion, or public debate over the role of religion in shaping social policy, constitutes acceptable expression. On the contrary, speech that employs crude, profane,vulgarordegrading epithets against religious figures, deities, or symbols—especially when aimed at inciting contempt or emotional injury among adherents—transgresses the boundary of lawful expression and enters the realmofcriminalharm. These acceptable limits mirror jurisprudence from democratic societies The European Court of Human Rights, in Otto-PremingerInstitut v Austria (1994), recognizedthelegitimacyof states protecting religious peace by curtailing expressions that are “gratuitously offensive” to religious believers. In that case, the Court upheld Austria’s measures, ruling that the protection of religious feelings justified the restrictions on freedom of expression, given the film’s extreme provocation. The decision highlights the tension between artistic freedom and religious sensitivities, granting states
a margin of appreciation in suchconflicts.
In Guyana, there have been calls for the repeal of what has been described as “archaic” blasphemous libel laws. However, a wholesale repealwithouttheenactment of replacement legislation that targets incitement to religioushatredandviolence wouldleaveagapingholein the legal architecture designed to safeguard religious coexistence It wouldemboldenhatespeech disguised as free speech, with little recourse for communities that feel under attack.
The real danger lies not merely in offend
ng sensibilities,butincreatinga permissive climate for religious polarization, r
n, and retaliation.Intoday’sworld, malicious attacks on religious symbols and deities are often amplified onsocialmediaplatforms.It would appear that, in the absence of incitement to hatredandviolence,theonly legal redress the charge of blasphemous libel The absence of others forms of legal redress leaves aggrievedcommunitieswith fewavenuesofjustice.
TheUnitedKingdomhas repealed blasphemy laws. But it has not left a legal vacuum. It has replaced it withstatutesthatcriminalize incitement to religious hatred, focusing on protecting individuals and
DEM BOYS SEH
Resign, Relocate, Retire - Is Politics or Hopscotch?
Demboyssehthesedayspoliticslookin more like a dancehall than a Parliament. Onepersonresign,nextonecrossdefloor, and another one seh he only “step aside temporarily”likehegoneinacornertocool off.Ismorelikeatukbandwitheverybody playinadifferenttune.
Lang ago dem had a man who resign. Denwehadonewhogetresigned–hewalk outofameetingsaying“Idonewithy’all”. Next thing yuh know de man get a letter acknowledging he resignation – which he never sent. We always had a tradition of people crossing de floor But it now catching on like COVID. Under Burnham yuhhadonepoliticiancrossdefloorsofast, de Speaker had to check if de man install wheelsonheshoes.Whendemaskhewhy heswitchside,heseh,“Well,degrasslook greeneroverthere.”
Butdemboysseh,deonlytinggreenis heeyewhenheseeministerwukanddutyfree perks. De man didn’t cross de floor—hesprintthroughit.Demboyssehif crossindefloorwasanOlympicsport,this man done qualify fuh gold—straight outta
communities from speech that fosters hostility and discrimination. If there is consensus that blasphemous libelisarchaic,thenGuyana canfollowsuit.Itcanrepeal blasphemous libel and replace it with legislation that explicitly outlaws incitement to religious hatredandviolence.
This brings me to the issue of whether an apology for an unlawful act means thatthepersonshouldnotbe charged. Anapology,while laudable, does not erase the offence itself. Under the principlesofcriminallaw,an offence is committed once the prohibited act and requisite intent are established An apology
does not negate the actus reus or the mens rea; it merelyservesasamitigating factor in sentencing. Courts may take the expression of remorse into account when determining penalties, but it does not exonerate the perpetrator
This principle is essential to uphold the rule of law If offenders could escape liability simply by offering a post hoc apology, it would undermine deterrence and embolden others to engage in similar conduct,expectingimpunity after the fact. Mitigation is not absolution. Those who are therefore calling for the repeal of the offence of blasphemous libel must say
what should constitute its replacement to safeguard religious coexistence in a multicultural society Repealing blasphemous libel without viable legal substitutes would constitute legislative abdication, leavingsocietyvulnerableto the dangerous tides of religioushostility
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
constituencyandstraightintoCabinet. With all of this floor-crossing, resignationandretirement,depeopledon’t know whether to celebrate or mourn. Should we clap? Cry? Dance? Drink? Or just sit down quiet and wait fuh de next episode.Demboyssehishardtokeeptrack these days. Yuh need a scoreboard. Or maybe a GPS fuh know where dem politishuns stand today because yesterday, dem was somewhere else, and tomorrow,demmightbeinDubai.
And de parties? Dem always shock.
“We’re disappointed,” one party seh, like deyain’tseeitcomin.Butdemboysknow detruth:halfofdemleadersmoresurprised whensomebodydon’tcrossdefloor Some leaders does be glad when some persons resignorretire.
So dem boys seh, don’t bother buy popcornfuhdeelections—buyacompass, a map, and a trampoline. ‘Cause in this country, politics ain’t about policies, is aboutwhocanjumphigher,landsofter,and stillsmilewhendeyland. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
East Coast Demerara man busted with
ganja along Lethem trail
Man pulls gun on “travel buddy” at Lethem
LethemPoliceStation.
Busted with ganja, Sedney Aubrey Johnson
A 2 4 - y e a r - o l d construction worker was busted on Wednesday along theAnnai -Lethem Trail with over one kilogram of marijuana stashed in his haversack Thebustwasmade around 14:00hrs after police received information about the drugs. Sedney Aubrey JohnsonofHopeEstate,East CoastDemerara,wasreportedly traveling in a minibus carrying six passengers- a woman and five men – when police ranks intercepted the vehicle “The driver and passengers were informed of the information received,”policesaid. They requestedtosearcheveryone on the spot, but passengers asked that it be done at the
Policeescortedthebusto the Lethem Police Station There it was offloaded and passengers handed over their luggagetobesearched There, police found Johnsonwithablueandgrey haversack which contained some parcels The parcels were cut open, and each containedaquantityofleaves, seeds,andstemssuspectedto be cannabis.Johnson was cautioned, arrested and taken into custody The cannabis was weighed and amountedto1,478grams.
The friendship between twomenendedingunplayon Tuesday at Culvert City, Lethem, Rupununi Region Nine.
KaieteurNewslearntthat the men became travel buddies for a trip to the Region Nine township and had arrived there recently in a vehicle. One of the men identifiedonlyas“Max”was the passenger and had gone to Lethem to do some work, while the driver (name provided) accompanied him for the drive and some sightseeing.
Information reaching Kaieteur News is that on Tuesday, Max visited some acquaintances at Culvert
Gov't
City and took the driver along. They were having a few drinks and the driver, according to eyewitnesses, became intoxicated and started using indecent language towards Max's acquaintances.
Max then reportedly cautioned him about his behaviour, but he continued andstartedarguingwithhim (Max). As a result, Max decided to part ways with himonthetrip.
“He (Max) tell the (the driver) man, leh me tek out me passport and things dem fromyuhcar”,asourceclose to the investigation told this media entity Max then got upandwalkedtothevehicle.
to undertake
His actions, however, angered the driver and he resorted to pulling a gun on Max, allegedly threatening to shoot him if he removes anything from the vehicle. Fearful for his life, Max retreated and made his way down to the policestation at Lethem and made a complaint. When the police gotinvolved,theylearntthat the driver was the holder of an expired firearm licence and was not permitted to carry the weapon with him. After detaining him, the driver reportedly attempted to bribe his way out of the situation he had found himselfin.Investigationsare ongoing.
$2.1B
in road works across ECD
The government, through the Ministry of Public Works, will spend some $2,141,839,839 on its miscellaneous road programme for several road projects across the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), Region Four This is accordingtoaninvitationfor bids issued by the ministry Bidsareexpectedtoopenon July 2, 2025 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB)office.
In its document, the ministry stated the projects have been divided into two phases (phase 6 B&C) and coverslots1940to1987.
RelatingtoPhase6B,the communities where works will be executed are as follow:OldGasStationroad in Mahaica, Enmore Resource Centre, Supply DamroadinMahaica,Foulis DirectAccessRoad,Victoria Parallel to West Sideline Dam, Coldingen North Road,BelmonteinMahaica,
Bladen Hall School Road,
Goedverwagting New HousingScheme,HopeLow Lands East of Scheme, East Sideline Dam in Nabacalis, Verginia Village road in Mahaica, Friendship Middle Walk, Zafarali Street and Ogle Old road, Dublyn Street in Victoria, Canegrove, Sparendaam Housing Scheme linking Goedverwagting New Housing Scheme, Better Hope to Temple Street at Vryheid's Lust road, LBI, and Melanie. According to the ministry's engineer, the works for this phase is e s t i m a t e d t o c o s t $1,312,523,485.
Further, as it relates to Phase 6 C, the ministry informed that rehabilitation and construction of roads will be executed at Melanie, BagRiceStreetEastSideline Section in Victoria, Nabacalis, Ann's Grove Market, Lima Dam in Mahaica, Supply Farmland inMahaica,BrittonStreetin Plaisance, First Cross Street Republic Drive in Non Pareil,Beehive,BladenHall Mud dam, Wilson Street in Mahaica, Jonestown th WalkwayinMahaica,and4 StreetatSupply Works for road projects a r e e s t i m a t e d a t $829,316,345. Thispublicationreported previously, that in executing its miscellaneous road programme last year, the government through the ministryhadspentsome$74 billionontheseprojects,and thisyear,another$52billion is set aside to undertake similar works across the country.
Vreed-en-Hoop to get new $979M secondary school
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand inspecting the construction of the $1.3 billion Nismes Secondary School on Wednesday.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand on Wednesday turned the sod to officially commenceconstructiononthenew $979 million Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary School, which will be constructed at Crane, West Coast Demerara,RegionThree.
According to information providedbytheministry,theschool projectwillbedoneinfourlotsfora grandtotalof$979,620,900.
The contracts which were awarded following the national public bidding process are as follow:LotOnewillcoverthesubstructure, superstructure, electrical
works, plumbing, fire safety, and finishing for administrative areas, the library, and classrooms, and willbecarriedoutbyK&SGeneral Construction for $323,500,000; LotTwowillincludesimilarworks for the science labs, mechanical labs, technology drawing labs, and classrooms and will be done by D&S Construction for $279,800,000; Lot Three, which involves external works, will be executed by Ele’s Trading and Hardware for $269,110,500; Lot Fourentailsfurnishing.Thisaspect wasawardedtoPS23Construction for$107,210,400.
The ministry stated that the construction period is expected to be nine months, with many components being developed concurrently to meet the projected timeline. Further, there will be a nine-month defects liability period for some components, ensuring
quality and allowing for any necessary adjustments or correctionsduringthattime.
GR Engineering will serve as the consultant for the project, overseeing all technical and supervisoryaspects.
Providingabriefbreakdownof thefeaturesofschool,theministry sharedthatthemodernfacilitywill be a fully reinforced concrete structurefeaturingtransparentroof sheeting and a circular building outline.
“Itwillhouseover500students and support the delivery of educationthatmeetsbothacademic and technical needs. The school will include more than 20 classrooms, a science center equipped with physics, chemistry, and biology laboratories, and a TVET center furnished with industrial and home economics labs,”theministryinformed.
When completed, students will also benefit from a multi-purpose hall,acanteenandcafeteria,andan
international library or document center.
Additionally, a sanitary block will be constructed to serve the student body and teaching staff. Importantly,theministrynotedthat safetyhasbeenakeyconsideration inthedesign,withfireescapeexits, alarms, extinguishers, escape doors,fire-retardantpanels,limited use of timber, and metal ceilings forming part of the fire prevention system.
The building will also have outdoor recreational spaces which will enable students to participate in sports such as basketball and cricket, which form an important part of the school’s wider curriculum.
Noting the significance of this school, the education ministry related that it forms part of the broader mission to close the education access gap, particularly inrapidlyexpandingcommunities.
“Itisatestamenttothe Continued on page 15
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand (in safety vest) alongside regional officials and students turning the sod for the new $979 milion Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary School at Crane, West Coast Demerara. (Photo courtesy, Ministry of Education)
A section of the new Tuschen Secondary School. (Photo courtesy, Ministry of Education)
Norton names AFC’s Juretha Fernandes as running mate
Shadow Minister of Finance and member of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Juretha Fernandes, has been named the prime ministerial candidate for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) intheupcomingGeneraland RegionalElections.
Opposition leader, Aubrey Norton told this publication in a telephone interview, that the political body has been searching for acapableperson,confirming that Fernandes has been doing a lot of work in parliament.
T h e s e i n c l u d e shadowing the finance minister, and robust budget presentations, among other things.“We also look to see if the person is someone who engages the ordinary man on the ground So, we only want intellectual capacity We also want the prime minister candidate to be somebody who can engage with people on the ground, and in this regard, we thought that she was a
goodcandidate ” He revealed that PNCR executive member Ganesh Mahipaul, who is also a member of parliament will also be part of the top candidates. He said these decisions were made so that the top of the list will have representatives of every ethnicity reflecting the true natureofGuyana.
“ in fact, as an Indigenouswoman,wethink she can work with the Indigenous communities, both in opposition and in government.So, we feltthat that is the way to go. In addition,shewasalwaysone ofthepersonswhohavebeen procoalition,wantingtosee us work together and to the extent that we couldn’t get agreementwiththeAFC,and she was prepared, on principle, to promote coalition politics by joining us,wehaveacceptedherand ispromotingherasourprime ministerial candidate,” he added.
Having Fernandes as the PMcandidatewasagreedon
by all APNU member parties,asNortonconfirmed t h e r e h a v e b e e n engagements on the criteria whichshefitsperfectly “ we have been engaging, and our party had long decided the basic criteriawewerelookingfor, andshefittedintothecriteria wewerelookingfor,notonly us, but even our partners in the APNU, we spoke with t h e m T h e y w e r e comfortable with her as a p r i m e m i n i s t e r i a l candidate,”headded.
In a subsequent interview, leader of the AllianceForChange(AFC), Nigel Hughes said he was notawareofanyresignation fromFernandes,andthatshe did not have the support of thepartyonthemove.Inthis regard, he said he was “expecting her resignation shortly.”
“Ms.Fernandescertainly did not enjoy any support or approval from the Alliance ForChangeinrelationtothis report that she is the prime ministerial candidate for
APNU, so she is certainly not the AFC’s candidate for prime minister, and she certainly does not have the support of theAFC in so far as appointment for that position is concerned,” he said.
This comes a few hours aftertheShadowMinisterof Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amanza Walton-Desir resigned from the party and as an opposition Member of Parliament and announced the formation of her own party
Reports of Fernandes being offered a PM position by the PNCR began surfacing in April of this year, after she appeared alongside PNCR officials d u r i n g a r e c e n t parliamentary outreach in Essequibo.
When asked about the speculation, Fernandes reportedly told another sectionofthemediathather attendancewasbasedsolely on her duty as an elected representative responding to the needs of her constituents
Anil Nandlall criticises Opposition GECOM commissioners over push for prisoners to vote
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, hascriticisedtherecentpush by opposition-nominated commissioners of the
G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) for their push to include incarcerated persons in the upcoming September 1 elections, calling the move ‘obstructionist and illtimed.’
For several weeks, since the announcement of the election date, oppositionnominated commissioners have been advocating for prisoners to be allowed to vote. The matter has been met with delayed decisions
and rifts within the commission.
At a previous GECOM
meeting, oppositionnominated commissioner VincentAlexanderdisclosed that chairperson, Justice (Ret’d)ClaudetteSingh,had agreedtoraisetheissuewith theattorneygeneralandwas awaiting his response at the nextstatutorymeeting.
However, during his ‘Issues in the News’ online
programme Tuesday evening, Nandlall publicly
rebuked the opposition’s late-stagepush.
“Youcan’tspringthaton a population and spring that o n t h e E l e c t i o n s Commission three months beforeelections.Youclearly want to frustrate the holding of elections, you want to obstruct elections from takingplace,andthatwillnot happen,”hestated.
Nandlall argued that the same Opposition members who now advocate for prisonervotingneversought to advance such a policy during their years in government.
“They governed the countryfor28yearsandthen another five [2015–2020]. They never championed the causeofprisonersvotingfor all those years. The laws have never changed. How come, three months before elections, this is an issue of sudden contention? They didn’t know they wanted prisoners to vote when they were in government?” he asked.
He further called their current advocacy politically m o t i v a t e d a n d obstructionist.
Further, Nandlall
explained that Guyana has historically not permitted incarcerated individuals to vote, a position that aligns with inherited British-era practices.
“ I s u s p e c t t h a t philosophically, it may have beenfeltthatthatpartoftheir freedom the right to vote wouldhavebeencurtailedby imprisonment,”hesaid.
He also emphasised that while the constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, these rights are subject to limitations especially in the caseofimprisonment.
“The constitution that confers the fundamental rights and freedoms on the citizens also subjects those rights to restrictions. These restrictions include persons wholosttheirlibertyandare in custody due to sentences and orders of courts of competent jurisdiction Therefore,thesamewaythat prisoners lose their right to liberty,itincludestheirright to vote. This is provided for by the constitution, the very instrument that gives them the freedom,” Nandlall stated.
implementing prisoner voting would not only require a shift in national policybutalsotheenactment of new legislation and logisticalplanning.
“Such a change would require a formal policy, amendments to the law, and administrative and logistical arrangements to make inmate voting possible,” he added.
During the previous GECOM meetings, the debate over the issue has exposed divisions among commissioners According toCommissionerAlexander, during the discussion, the chairperson indicated there may be legal restrictions on public engagement with incarcerated individuals, which could complicate any plan to include them in the electoralprocess.
“The chairmansought to suggest that there is some lawthatforbidsthepublicor anyone from speaking with prisoners, and therefore, we don’t have the facilitation to allow them to vote,” Alexandersaid.
H o w e v e r , t h e opposition-nominated commissioners rejected this argument.
“Wearguethatthereisno needtospeakwithprisoners. The list of the incarcerated can be compiled the same waythelistofthedisciplined services is compiled, and they can vote on that day without us touching the prisoners,”heasserted.
Government-nominated commissioner Sase Gunraj rebutted, stating that legal provisions are required for suchamove.
“This is an issue that requires specific legislation. Prisoners are governed by specific legislation, and as a consequence, to merely say wearegoingtoputapolling station in the prison… Just like how special legislation is put in place to deal with voting on days outside of election day by disciplined servicemembers,thereisno such facility in the law to allow voting by prisoners. And as a consequence, that was a conclusion on the discussion, ” Gunraj explained.
Gunraj confirmed to Kaieteur News that the commission has not yet madeafinaldecisionand Continued on page 15
Prime Ministerial candidate for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)
Juretha Fernandes
Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton
Leader of the Alliance for Change Nigel Hughes
Guyana Elections Commission
APNU rejects AFC’s latest proposal to form coalition
...snaps up Juretha, Duncan and Ramsaroop
A coalition between A Partnership for National Unity and theAlliance For Change (AFC) might be off the table after APNU rejectedAFC’s most recent proposal to join forces.
APNU’s latest rejection comes after it snapped up three AFC members, Juretha Fernandes, Sherod Ducan and Deonarine Ramsaroop.
The AFC in a statement on Wednesday nightsaid,“ItisnowcleartheAPNUwasand isnotinterestedinacoalition”.
Inthefirstproposal,AFChadaskedfora 60/40split.ItisunclearifAPNUturnedthem downbuttheAFCmadeanotheronethistime proposing a 60/35 split with APNU nominating the presidential candidate and AFC nominating the prime ministerial candidate.
“WewereinformedonTuesday18ththat this proposal was rejected”,AFC said while adding, “On this occasion, APNU decided that they must also name the AFC’s PM candidatecontrarytotheestablishedprotocol ofthenegotiations”.
According, AFC, APNU’s demand is unacceptable.
The AFC further argued, “This last proposal gave APNU all they have been askingfortoagreetoacoalitionandtheAFC decided at all costs it would play its role in responsetopublicfeedbackandthenation’s desireforaunifiedopposition”.
The party warned too that any private arrangement established without consultation and completely contrary to the established protocols of the negotiations to dateistotallyunacceptable.
Warau man critical after hit and run at Mabaruma
A Warau Indigenous man is in a critical condition following a hit-andrun accident on Monday night at Kumaka, Mabaruma, North West District,RegionOne.
Reportsarethatavehicledrivenby ateacheroftheNorthWestSecondary School had struck him down. Acellphone recorded video showed the victim groaning in pain at the scene afterthevehicledroveaway
The victim left behind after being struck down
He was later taken to the Mabaruma Regional Hospital where he was admitted and is presently waiting to be air-dashed to Georgetown for further treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). It is being alleged that a cover-up of the accidentwasafootuntilavideoofthevictim wasleaked.
Investigationsareongoing.
A28-year-old hairdresser, Tawana Hamlet, was granted bail on Wednesday for inflicting grievous bodilyharmona26-year-oldmanandhisfour-yearolddaughter
She appeared at the Cove and John Magistrate’s CourtbeforeMagistrateOrinthiaSchmidt.
Shepleadednotguiltyandwasplacedon$80,000 bail on each count. Hamlet is expected to return to courtonJuly13,2025.
Tawana Hamlet
APNU Leader, Aubrey Norton
Leader of the AFC, Nigel Hughes
AFC expels Duncan, Juretha, Ramsaroop AFC expels Duncan, Juretha, Ramsaroop AFC expels Duncan, Juretha, Ramsaroop AFC expels Duncan, Juretha, Ramsaroop Juretha, Ramsaroop
...as trio slips over to APNU without informing their party
The Alliance For Change (AFC) in a statement on Wednesday said that it has cancelled the membership of Juretha Fernandes, Sherod Duncan, and Deonarine (Ricky) Ramsaroop after independently verifying that they joined A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
“The AFC General Secretary has written to each of the former members seeking clarification and they have failed to respond”, the AFC said before adding, “However, independently, the Party has been able to verify that the three - Duncan, Fernandes
and Ramsaroop have officially subscribed to membership of the APNU”.
Guided by its constitution, the AFC added, it has chosen to expel them out of the party.
The action taken by AFC came after media reports surfaced that Juretha Fernandes has been named a Prime Ministerial Candidate in APNU’s list of candidates for the upcoming September 1, Regional and General Elections.
Other party members, Sherod Ducan and Ramsaroop were also named in APNU’s list.
US sanctions leadership of Mexico’s Jalisco cartel
The letters “CJNG” for the group’s formal name, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, covers the facade of an abandoned home in El Limoncito, in the Michoacan state of Mexico, Oct. 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo, File)
(AP) The Trump administration on Wednesday imposed economic sanctions on five high-ranking members of Mexico’s powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel for their drug trafficking, while also citing their involvement in killings. Previous administrations have also sanctioned the cartel – one of Mexico’s most powerful — as the
Trump administration also did in May, when it targeted the cartel’s fuel theft operations.
The sanctions freeze any assets the individuals or companies have in the U.S. and prohibit U.S. citizens from doing business with them.
“CJNG’s reign of terror across Mexico and its trafficking of fentanyl into the United States has destroyed count-
less innocent lives,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement.
“The United States remains strongly committed to leveraging all available tools to degrade the capacity of CJNG and other cartels to flood our streets with dangerous drugs and perpetrate heinous acts of violence against civilians.”
In February, the U.S. administration designated Jalisco New Generation as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.
The cartel is led by Nemesio Rubén “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes and he was among the five leaders named Wednesday.
Washington has offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture.
Two of those sanctioned have been recently connected to high-profile investigations in Mexico.
Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytan has been linked to a ranch in Jalisco state where relatives
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of missing people found hundreds of garments, shoes and other items. Authorities believe the ranch was used by the Jalisco cartel to train recruits. Families of the missing believe recruits who didn’t comply were also killed there. Ricardo Ruiz Velasco is a cartel lieutenant affiliated with its special forces unit.
The U.S. Treasury said he also handles their propaganda and communications.
Ruiz is a suspect in the killing of social media influencer Valeria Márquez, who was allegedly his romantic partner and was killed while on a live video stream in her salon on the outskirts of Guadalajara last month.
The other cartel members sanctioned were Julio Alberto Castillo Rodríguez, Oseguera’s son-in-law, who allegedly runs the cartel’s operations in the Pacific port of Manzanillo, and Audias Flores Silva, a regional commander for the cartel in several Mexican states.
Nandlall criticises Opposition GECOM...
From page 13 that the chairperson has undertaken to seek further legal guidance from the attorney general, who serves as GECOM’s legal advisor.
Meanwhile, preparations for the September 1 elections continue.
Alexander informed Kaieteur News on Wednesday that GECOM will be host-
ing a briefing for contesting political parties on July 19. He also noted that the commission has approved appointments for Returning Officers (ROs) and Supernumerary Returning Officers (SROs).
Appointments for Deputy Returning Officers (DROs), Senior DROs, and other electoral staff will be considered once applicant spreadsheets are presented.
“The sheets should detail the bases for the recommended appointments,” Alexander stated.
In addition, GECOM continued its discussion on the removal of deceased persons from the Register of Registrants. Alexander said the commission agreed to process lists submitted by the General
From page 12 government’s unwavering focus on providing every child with the opportunity to learn in a safe, modern, and well-equipped environment,” the ministry said in a release. Speaking in live broadcast via the ministry’s Facebook page, Minister Manickchand said that Region Three has been one of the regions with limited space Vreed-en-Hoop to get new $979M
to accommodate secondary age students.
She said to address this issue, the ministry has now moved to construct some five new secondary schools in the region to accommodate the students.
While in Region Three, the minister also visited the secondary school project at Nismes on the West Bank of Demerara. There she briefed
that works are currently ongoing with contractors looking to have works completed in July.
“I am here to say that the Nismes Secondary School will begin in September and because this school is beginning in September, we’re going to be able close all primary tops. This school and the Tuschen Secondary School, we’re going to be able to close
Registrar’s Office (GRO), but legal advice will be sought from the attorney general regarding the use of “form 12” to delete names submitted by the Commissioner of Police and Chief Medical Officer.
“That was a consensus,” he said, although he emphasised that he had pushed for the immediate use of form 12.
secondary...
all primary tops across Region Three,” she explained. Kaieteur News had reported that in November 2024, the Education Ministry turned the sod for the $1.3 billion secondary school at Nismes.
The minister and her team also visited the construction of the $864 million Tuschen Secondary School, which is near completion.
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Baildeniedformanwhohelpedforeignersin...
Frompage8 application.
It was reported that attorney Lammy told the court that the suspected bombers had threatened to kill Carmichael and his family if he reported the mattertoanyone.Asaresult, the lawyer said his client remained quiet. He added thatifaproperinvestigation is carried out by the police, they will successfully find thesuspects.
The attorney argued that his client assisted the police with the investigation by providing them with video interviews and written
statements of what transpired on the day in question. Lammy noted that his client bought a few screws and other items for the suspects, however, because of the type of work themendo,hisclientdidnot suspect anything until after theincident.
Moreover, Lammy requested reasonable bail beforethetrialsincethereis no way the matter will concludeinreasonabletime.
Carmichael told the court that one of the suspects is known to him and he normally provides him with atransportservice.Headded
that he was paid $20,000 to transport the men The Guyana Police Force (GPF) had issued wanted bulletins for two Spanish-speaking menandaBraziliannational over two explosions in the city on May 17 last. The explosions occurred after midnight and blew off the back gate of the East RuimveldtPoliceOutpostat Vlissengen Square and East Front Road, Georgetown The second occurred just momentslaterattheGuyana Power and Light (GPL) Substation on Mandela Avenue.
Investigations have so
far pointed police in the direction of three foreign nationals. “The police are pursuing three individuals, two Spanish-speaking men and a Brazilian national known by his alias, 'Flavio Tasso',”policetoldKaieteur News on Tuesday Flavio hadallegedlyintroducedthe Spanish-speakingmentothe bus driver, who assisted them in renting three rooms at a hotel in Stevedore H o u s i n g S c h e m e , Georgetown.
The Brazilian had also told him that the men had come to Guyana to do “bad things”,policesaid.
Israeli forces kill 72 Palestinians in Gaza, including 29 seeking food
(AL-JZEERA) - At least 72 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire across Gaza since dawn, including 29 people who were waiting for aid trucks, Palestinian health officials say,thelatestcarnagehitting people desperate to secure food for their hungry families.
The latest incidence of the daily killing of Palestinian aid seekers in recent weeks took place early on Wednesday on Salah al-Din Street near the Netzarim Corridor in central Gaza, medical sources told Al Jazeera More than 100 others were injured in the attack, they said.
In other deadly Israeli strikes across Gaza, eight people were killed, and
others injured, in an air strike on a home in the Zeitoun neighbourhood south of Gaza City, medical sources told Al Jazeera.
Eight more people were killed, and others injured, in Israeli strikes on tents of displaced people in al-Mawasi camp in Gaza’s south, medical sources told Al Jazeera
The victims included a womanandtwochildren,the Palestinian news agency Wafareported.
Another strike took place on the Maghazi camp in central Gaza, news agencies reported, citing medics.
Wafa reported that 10 people,includingahusband, wife and children from a
single family, were killed in thestrike.
Hamas condemned
Israel’sassaultonresidential areas across the enclave, as well as its targeting of aid seekersatdistributionpoints managed by the contentious US-andIsraeli-backedGaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
“The systematic abuse of innocent civilians, the escalation of massacres, the targeting of the starving, forced evictions, and the shrinking of areas the occupation claims are ‘safe’” amount to war crimes, the group said Israel’s attacks are “part of the brutal war of extermination that has been ongoing for nearly 20 months”,itadded
The Israeli military,
when asked for comment, told the Reuters news
agency that it was looking into the reported deaths of people waiting
forfoodaid
Regarding the other
reported strikes, it claimed it was “operating to dismantle Hamas military capabilities” and t a k i n g “ f e a s i b l e precautions to mitigate civilian harm”, Reuters reported
Israel-Iran conflict rages with ongoing aerial strikes amid war of words
Smoke billows up from an oil refinery after an Israeli strike on the Iranian capital, Tehran, on June 17, 2025 [Atta Kenare/AFP]
for the USashisandUSPresidentDonald Trump’s war of words accelerates
and the Israel-Iran hostilities rage forasixthday
In his first televised address since Israel began its attacks on
Friday, Khamenei said on Wednesday that Iran “will not surrendertoanyone”.
His remarks came as Israel reported that Iran launched a fresh wave of missiles on Wednesday evening, with explosions heard in thegreaterTelAvivareaandeastof thecity,followingIsraelistrikeson Tehran and other parts of the countrythroughouttheday
Iran“willstandfirmagainstan imposed war, just as it will stand firmagainstanimposedpeace”,he said.
Responding to threatening remarks made a day earlier by Trump, Khamenei said those who know Iran and its history “know thatIraniansdonotanswerwellto thelanguageofthreat.”
In recent days, Trump has strongly hinted that the US could join in Israel’s military operation against Iran, saying he is seeking something “much bigger” than a ceasefire.
In comments made on Wednesday on the White House lawn at a flag-raising ceremony, Trumpsaid:“Imaydoit.Imaynot
do it,” when asked if the US was moving closer to striking Iran. “I mean, nobody knows what I’m goingtodo,”headded.
He claimed, without offering any evidence, that Iran is “totally defenceless.
They have no air defence whatsoever.”
Iranhassaidithashadsuccess inbringingdownIsraelidronesand fighterjets.
“The next week is going to be verybig,maybelessthanaweek,” Trumpsaidwithoutelaborating.
TheUS has inrecentdays sent morewarplanestotheMiddleEast andisalsosendingtheUSSNimitz aircraftcarrier
The US president claimed Iranianofficialsreachedouttohim and suggested visiting the White House,somethingIrandenies.
“No Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the WhiteHouse.
Theonlythingmoredespicable than his lies is his cowardly threat to ‘take out’ Iran’s Supreme Leader,”theIranianmissionatthe UnitedNationssaidinapostonX.
(AL-JAZEERA) Iranian SupremeLeaderAliKhameneihas warned the United States that joining Israeli strikes on his
irreparable consequences”
Kevin Christian (136), Brandon Cabose (105) spur West Coast Warriors to victory in NYNCL 30-over
Former Guyana
youth player
Kevin Christian continued his dream-run in this year’s edition of the New York National Cricket League (NYNCL) with a brilliant 136 last Sunday in the continuation of the 16t e a m r o u n d - r o b i n competition.
Christian is now leading the runs-aggregate with 486 runs in six matches having
centuries before his 56-ball enterprisingknock.
On this occasion, the right-handed Christian hammered17sixesandthree foursasWestCoastWarriors gallopedtoadaunting328-9 from the allotted 30-overs while Cosmos Cricket Club replied with 118-9 at the expirationofthe30-overs.
Christian also shared a
GFF-Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls Inter...
second-wicket stand with Brandon Cabose who recordedhismaidencentury inthiscompetitionwith105.
T
Thursday June 19, 2025
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
Some unexpected but very welcomevisitorscouldarrive today, Aries They might bring some people you don't knowbutshouldconnectwith rightaway Expectinteresting n e w s , f a s c i n a t i n g information,.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Taurus, who's that intriguing new person in your neighborhood? What is it about this new neighbor that makesitimpossibleforyouto stop wondering about them? Quitobsessing.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
An unexpected letter could arrive today, Gemini, with a check enclosed, perhaps a gift, bonus, or offer to make more money.This might be a welcomebreak.
CANCER(June21–July22)
If you're in the arts or sciences, Cancer, sudden inspirationcouldcauseyouto startorcontinueaprojectthat meansalottoyou.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Meditation, dreams, or visions could bring amazing insights your way, Leo. You mightfindthemtoobizarreto believe, at least at first, but follow-up research could reveal that what you've come upwithisquitecredible.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
You're an adventurous soul, Virgo.Areyouthinkingabout a little mischief today? Are yougoingtoproposethatyou and a friend or perhaps your partner skip town for a day andforgetaboutwork,
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
A n u n e x p e c t e d communication may come today from someone connected with your career, Libra.Thisisgoodnews,butit maybesooffthewallthatyou couldwalkaroundinadazefor awhiletryingtomakesenseof itall.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Anunexpectedchancetoflyto a faraway place, perhaps at someoneelse'sexpense,could cometoyoutoday,Scorpio.A group might be involved, perhaps one connected with education.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Some bizarre and rather silly dreams might come to you tonight,Sagittarius.Theymay bethesortthatissocrazythat youactuallywakeuplaughing. Don't dismiss them. Silly or not,thesedreamsaretryingto tellyousomething.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Ifyou'resingle,youcouldfeel a very powerful attraction to someone unusual and perhaps alittlewacky Ifyou'realready inarelationship.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Have you been looking for anewjob,Aquarius?Ifso,you might hear of an opportunity from an unexpected source, perhapsatasocialgathering,if possible.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
If you're single, Pisces, love may come to you completely out of the blue today The person could be standing behind you in line at the store or sitting nearby you in the park.
p spanned an incredible 104 deliveries with Cabose, an ex-Essequibo Inter-County player, slamming six sixes and eight fours during his impressive 71-ball stay at thecrease.
The pair came together after Cabose’s opening partner Youghestir Bachan contributed 23 before the fireworksbegan.
WhenChristiandeparted inthe22ndover,WestCoast Warriors suffered a middleordercollapseasleg-spinner Devindra Balgobin grabbed 4-14from4tidyovers.
Two other bowlers picked up two wickets each to support Balgobin on a responsive track Ryan Ganeshconceded33runsoff four overs and Towgeshwar Thakoordeen went for a staggering 99 runs from his maximumsixovers.
When Cosmos Cricket Club batted, they never in thehuntforthegigantictotal as wickets also falling rapidly They were tottering at23-3beforeGhanamTariq offeredsomeresistancewith 45 from 28 balls which comprised of five sixes and twofours.Right-armseamer Kabir Ghai was the chief destroyer for the victorious teamclaiming4-13fromsix excellentovers.
PacerKenlyAdams,who instigatedtheearlycollapse, finishedwith2-32(4).
The win keeps West Coast Warriors unbeaten having tallied up six victoriesfromsevenoutings with one game abandoned duetorain.
The action will continue on Sunday with a list of matches West Coast Warriors coming up against GT Fire, while Cosmos Cricket Club, who is at number 8 on the points’ standing, will clash with TricountyCricketClub.
are; Wauna Primary Top, Waramuri Primary Top, Charity Secondary, Abram Zuil Secondary, Vreed-en-HoopSecondary, West Minster Secondary, President’s College, Dora
Mackenzie High School, Marian Academy and CampbellvilleSecondary
The teams have been seeded into four groups of four, where they will face off in round-robin play to determine the top eight quarterfinalists. These group-stage matches will be hosted in four different regions, as community
Guyana to make historic Badminton debut at Junior Pan Am Games
Guyana will make its historic debut in badminton at this year’s Junior Pan American Games, set for August 9–23 in Asunción, Paraguay.
Representing the country in the racquet sport are Frank Waddle, Mishka Beharry,LeshaunteBerkley, and Jonathan Debidin. The badminton competition will take place from August 10–13inParaguay’scapital.
The athletes will
compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubleseventsandwillbe coachedbyAkiliHaynes
The Junior Pan Am Games were established to provide a platform for young athletes across the Americas to compete, develop their skills, and serve as a stepping stone for future Olympians.
T h e i n a u g u r a l edition was held in 2021 in Cali, Colombia, and the event is scheduled to take place every four years
President of the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA), E m i l y R a m d h a n i , congratulated the players on their selection and encouraged them to make themostofthisopportunity
She noted that several of the athletes came
through the GBA’s
Badminton Academy, having been introduced to the sport early in their athleticcareers Ramdhani highlighted
that their selection is a testament to the sport’s growth in Guyana, especially given that, traditionally, only two spots are allocated for continental eventslikethis.
“Itshowsthatthesportis growinginGuyana.
The Continental Federation has recognized this, which is why we’ve qualifiedforfourspots,”she explained.
Following the Junior Pan Am Games, Guyana will also participate in the Caribbean Regional B a d m i n t o n C o n f e d e r a t i o n ( C A R E B A C O ) Championships in Barbados, which include both team and individual events.
The team heading to Bridgetown will include Ruel Ramritch, along with Mishka Beharry, Leshaunte Berkley, and JonathanDebidin
T h e 2 0 2 4 CARE
22–25 Guyana fielded a 20-member team across various age categories, fromUnder-11toUnder-19, in singles, doubles, and mixeddoubles.
S
including Ethan Bulkan and Mishka Beharry,
(L-R) Frank Waddle, Mishka Beharry, Leshaunte Berkley and Joanathan Debidin will compete at this year’s Junior Pan Am Games.
GFF-Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls Inter-Schools Football C/ships 2025 resumes in September
GFF-Blue Water Shipping Girls U15 Football Championship a step into a greater future where talent meets opportunity.
After five weeks of thrilling football action, 131 matches, and an impressive 233 goals, the Guyana FootballFederation(GFF)is proud to announce the completion of the preliminary round of the 2025 Blue Water Shipping Under-15 Girls InterSecondary Schools Football Championships.
The tournament, which kicked off in early May, showcased the very best in youth female football development, with matches played across several districts including Region 1 (Moruca and Mabaruma) and Region 2 (Essequibo Coast). Emerging from this highly competitive stage were standout performances from schools such as Waramuri Secondary, Christianburg Wismar Secondary, Bush Lot
Secondary, and Bartica Secondary, all of which topped their respective groups.
The preliminary round concluded on June 7, with regional champions being crowned in Region 4 (East Coast and East Bank Demerara), Region 6, Region 7, and both sub-districts of Region1
This year’s championship saw a significant expansion,
Savory, Sampson among fresh faces in Amazon...
Frompage25 powerful and well-balanced squad. Their lineup features the explosive batting duo of Brandon King and Sherfane Rutherford, complemented by the dynamic Quinton de Kock and the versatile Azmatullah Omarzaigiving the Royals formidable firepower at the topandmiddleoftheorder
Withtwooverseasplayer slots still to be confirmed, the Royals are expected to announce additional international signings in the coming weeks, adding furtherdepthtotheiralready impressiveroster
Demonstrating a strong commitment to regional talent development, the Royals have also drafted standout performers from the inaugural West Indies Breakout League. Among them are promising legspinner Zishan Motara and leading batter Kofi James, both of whom will be lookingtomakeasignificant impactthisCPLseason.
Trinbago Knight Riders have retained the backbone of their formidable and experienced Trinidadian core, with Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, and Sunil Narine all set to return. The additionofT20powerhouse AndreRussellfurtherboosts their already impressive lineup, bringing additional
firepower and matchwinningpedigree.
Inamajoroverseascoup, the Knight Riders have signed ICC T20 World Cup winner Alex Hales, along with Mohammad Amir, one of the most consistent and successful bowlers in CPL history
Theteamalsowelcomes back Colin Munro, the leading overseas run scorer in CPL history, who has alreadyliftedthetrophyfour timeswiththefranchise.
Darren Bravo, a longserving Knight Riders stalwart, makes his return to the side in a squad packed with star power, experience, andchampionshippedigree
Antigua & Barbuda Falcons have built a formidablebowlingattackfor their 2025 campaign, blending international experience with exciting localtalent
Leading the charge is BangladeshlegendShakibAl Hasan, whose all-round prowess and vast T20
experience will be invaluable He is joined by fellow internationals Imad Wasim and Naveen-ul-Haq, adding variety and depth to theFalcons’bowlingarsenal
The local contingent has also been significantly bolstered. Obed McCoy and Rahkeem Cornwall, both acquired from the Barbados
with 21 additional schools participatingcomparedtolast year’s54,bringingthetotalto 75schools Notably,Region1 (Mabaruma) was introduced asanewdistrict,contributing three new schools to the competition Other additions came from Region 2 (4 schools),Region3(3schools),
-Top16schoolssetforshowdown
Region 4 (6 schools), and Georgetown(5schools)
Across the country, 131 games were contested, with regional champions emerging in every area; two each in Region 1, Region 4, andGeorgetown.
Now, as the tournament is geared to enter the highly
anticipatedRoundofSixteen stage,whichwillseethebest of the best from Guyana’s U15 girls’ football scene competing for ultimate glory The girls will now proceed on a tournament break before kicking off the eliminationroundon (Continuedonpage21)
Royals, bring CPL experience and wickettaking ability During the draft, the Falcons further strengthened their pace stocks with the additions of Jayden Seales and Odean Smith.
The St Kitts & Nevis Patriots made a strong statement ahead of the 2025 draft with two high-profile acquisitions: Jason Holder and Alick Athanaze, both joining from the Barbados Royals to add quality and leadershiptothesquad.
The Patriots also welcome back big-hitting South African Rilee Rossouw and dynamic allrounder Corbin Bosch
Further strengthening their lineup, the team has added promising Trinidadian spinbowling all-rounders Jyd Goolie and Navin Bidaisee, adding depth and versatility to both the batting and bowlingdepartments.
The2025RepublicBank CPL begins on 14 August, with the opening match featuring the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons taking on theStKitts&NevisPatriots at Warner Park, St Kitts. Matches will also be hosted across Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago, before the tournament culminates in the final in Guyana on 21 September
Bomb Squad downs Bent Street ‘A’; Bent Street ‘B’ trounce Stabroek Ballers ‘A’
WhilstRoadWarriors,as expected, breezed past Spaniards in the main supportingclashofthenight when the round-of 16 in the inaugural June Madness Futsal championship got underway, it was Bomb Squad and Bent Street ‘B’ who stole the spotlight with resoundingwins.
In the main shindig, futsalfanswouldhaveeasily given the experienced Bent Street‘A’thenodtogetpast Bomb Squad but the underdogs rose to the occasion to knockout their opponents.BentStreetdrew first blood when Pernel Schultz sent them into the
leadwithjust32secondson theclock.
The energetic Bomb Squad, despite trailing, matched their opponents play for play but were not abletobreakdowntheirrock solid defence. Bent Street were able to double the lead inthe17thminutethrougha SolomonAustingoal.
Things got even more bleakforBombSquadwhen they found themselves 3-0 down, this time, Schultz doubledhistallywitha19th minute goal. It seemed a donedealforBentStreet‘A’ but the boys from Bomb Squad’s never-say-die attitude would spell trouble
fortheiropponents.
Raushan Ritch reduced thedeficitinthe21stminute whentheyfoundthebackof the nets and then a bold and strategicmovewasmadeby the Bomb Squad Coach to request the yellow ball. It was a move that would stun Bent Street when Kayo Fernando’s shot nestled in the back of the nets in the 23rdminutetodrawhisteam level to the ruckus cheers of thefans,itwasgameon.
Two minutes later it was alloverforBentStreetwhen Kemar Beckford nailed the winner for Bomb Squad in what can be considered one ofthegreatestcomebacksin
futsal history Bent Street ‘B’startedoffproceedingsin this round when they downedStabroekBallers‘A’ 4-2. Bent Street ‘B’ drew first blood in the opening minute through Randy Roberts, but that advantage wassooncancelledoutwhen Deon Alfred netted the first ofhisbraceinthe3rdminute forStabroekBallers.
Lennox Young scored the first of his hat-trick for Bent Street ‘B’ in the 16th minute to restore their slim advantagebutthiswasagain cancelled out in the 26th when Alfred scored his second. Unanswered goals form Young in the 29th and 30thminutesealedaquarter final place for Bent Street ‘B’.
Road Warriors easily
tookcareofbusinessagainst Corinthians via a 7-1 scoreline, they were led by the competition’s leading goal scorer, Luis DaSilva with three goals, 15 seconds into the game, 2nd, 22nd, minute to take his overall tally to seven (7). Arckson Andreazza added a 6th minute Yellow Ball goal (countedastwo)whilethere was one each for Matheus DeSilva in the 6th and Ricardo Silva in the 29th minute.WilliamDosSantos’ 11th goal was the lone responseforCorinthians.
Gold Is Money edged Spaniardsintheothermatch, 2-1toalsobooktheirplacein thefinaleight.
DextroyAdams(9th)and William Europe (27th) were on target for the winners,
Spaniards’ consolation goal camefromOmarBrewleyin the10thminute. Meanwhile,thefinalfour matches in the round of 16 will be played on Thursday night following the start of the female segment of June Madness with two matches from 20:00hrs. Thereafter, from 21:30hrs, Ballers United will oppose Z-Tekk, North East will come up against Linden All Stars, BackCircle‘A’faceFestival City and Back Circle ‘B’ challengeSpartaBosstocap thenight.
The four male winners will advance to the Bent Street ‘B’, Gold IS Money, Road Warriors and giant killers, Bomb Squad in the quarter finals set for Saturday
Road Warriors displayed ripping form once again.
League
Hear Me Out GFF Elite League prize money is “unfair” to clubs and players
BYRAWLETONEY
Imagine playing eight grueling months of football in Guyana’s top-tier league, andthegrandprizeforbeing crownednationalchampions is a mere $2M (Guyana Dollars/USD10,000).
Now picture a futsal tournament that lasts just a few weeks, as in the case of the Kashif and Shanghai “June Madness”, where the winning team walks away withthesame$2M.
Does that make sense to you? It sounds almost criminal,doesn’tit?
Welcome to the current stateoftheGuyanaFootball Federation’s Elite League, a painful reflection of how poorly football is being administeredinourcountry
There was a time when theEliteLeagueofferedreal value, when clubs had a legitimate chance to earn as much as $10M in prize money,andnolessthan$4M justfortoppingthetable.
Now? That structure has vanished into the abyss of nostalgia.
“unfair”
drastically dwindled despite a more robus economy and an influx corporate brands operating inGuyana.Meanwhile,club expenses have skyrocketed. On average, a club spends upwards of $2M monthly to remain competitive in the Elite League. For top-tier clubs like Slingerz FC, Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force FC, and the Guyana Defence Force FC, thatfigureisevenhigher.
unwilling to invest in the EliteLeague?
Why are clubs pouring hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, into an 18-match season stretched over eight months, for a payout that barely covers onemonth’sexpenses?
off
a
The funny part is, the Elite League provides virtually zero opportunities for clubs to generate revenue.
This isn’t sustainable. It’s not even football, its financial suicide dressed up asdevelopment.
Genesis champion earned $4M.Secondplacereceived $2M, third took home $1M,
$5
To
consistent performance, the teamtoppingthetableatthe end of regular season action also walked away with an additional$1M.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane back to 2015/2016, when the Elite League was launched under the GFF’s Normalisation
Itwasthefirstrealattemptto run the sport professionally, in keeping with global football standards Back then, the Elite League was designed with structure, competition, and incentives. Eight clubs battled in a home-and-away format, totaling 14 matches per round. The first round, branded “League Genesis,” saw the top four teams face offinaknockoutformat;1st vs4th,and2ndvs3rd.
The winners met in the final to decide the round champion The League
Then came the “League Finale”, an identical format with the same rewards Altogether, the total prize pool stood at $15M, with a single team capable of bagging up to $10M if they dominatedbothrounds.
To cap it all off, the winners of Genesis and
championship match for national bragging rights. In the inaugural season, that honour went to Slingerz Football Club. Back then, the league enjoyed sponsorship from reputable companies like Ansa McAl, under STAG Beer, Courts Guyana, and E-Networks (now ENet). Ironically, the current GFF president, Wayne Forde, was at the time serving as president of FrutaConquerorsFC. Now fast-forward to the present. The league has expanded to 10 teams, but the prize money has
The GFF’s much-
criticized 60-40 revenuesharing model for home games is a joke. Most clubs have simply abandoned the idea of hosting, opting to play at the GFF’s National Training Centre at Providence, where matchday atmosphere is non-existent, and lousy seating arrangements for spectators. But I’ll save that topic for another “Hear Me Out” column. The bottom line is, football in Guyana needsseriousreform.
Ask yourself why are most major companies
And let’s not even get started on the state of associationfootball.Outside ofRegionNine,nearlyevery regionalfootballassociation is either inactive or in disarray Some are victims of poor support, while others, like Linden, don’t even have a venue to host matches. But that, too, is a storyforanotherday
For now, the “Beautiful Game” in Guyana is limping,notbecauseoflack of talent, but because of broken systems. And until those systems are fixed, we’re just playing for pride, andpocketchange.
The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has confirmed all team squads for the 2025 season following the successfulcompletionofthe playerdraft.
With several major internationalstarsjoiningthe tournament and a strong showing of regional talent, this year’s CPL promises to beanotherthrillingedition.
Reigningchampions,the Saint Lucia Kings, are wellpositioned for a strong title defencein2025,withablend ofproventalentandexciting new additions. The team welcomes back high-impact overseasstarsTimDavidand Tabraiz Shamsi, both of whombringworld-classT20 credentials and matchwinningpotential.
Building on the momentum of their 2024 championship triumph, the
Kings have wisely retained the core squad that led them to glory They’ve further strengthened their roster with the inclusion of promising leg-spinner MicahMcKenzie,oneofthe region’s brightest young prospects, and the return of JavelleGlen,whorejoinsthe side after previously featuring in their 2020 campaign.
Former champs Guyana Amazon Warriors, return with a strong and familiar core as they aim to go one step further in the upcoming season. Leading the charge onceagainistheexperienced Imran Tahir, whose tactical acumen and leadership remain pivotal to the team’s success.
Joining him is World Cup-winning allrounder Moeen Ali, bringing worldclass versatility and big-
matchexperience.
Thesquadalsowelcomes explosive New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips, renowned for his consistent and dynamic performances in the CPL. Guyana Harpy Eagles Vice-Captain Kemol Savory will play for his franchise this year along withthelikesofhard-hitting
spinning all-rounder Riyad Latif.
Warriors’ campaign is further bolstered by the return of key local stars Shimron Hetmyer, Romario Shepherd, and Gudakesh Motie, forming a wellrounded unit with both international firepower and homegrownstrength.
BarbadosRoyalsentered the draft having already securedthecoreofa
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Committee, chaired by businessmanClintonUrling.
Finale faced
in
one-off
Rawle Toney
Savory, Sampson among fresh faces in Amazon
