Kaieteur News

Ganesh Racktoo

Budendra Singh

CGX secures US$2.5M lifeline

…insists Corentyne Block licence still alive despite Govt. declaring it dead

DespitetheGovernmentofGuyanaposition that joint venture (JV) partners CGX Energy Inc.andFronteraEnergyCorporationfuturein the Corentyne Block has come to an end, Canada-based CGX has tapped a US$2.5 million loan from Frontera to fund its share of corporate working capital and other agreeduponexpenditures.

TheJVhasbeenadamantthattheirlicenceis still active. According to CGX, it has already drawndownandreceivedUS$1.9millionunder the facility The loan agreement was executed by CGX’s subsidiary, CGX Resources Inc., through a Senior Secured Loan Facility with Frontera Energy Corporation via one of its subsidiaries.

The US$2.5 million will be available in tranches on a non-revolving basis for six months, commencing once conditions precedent to the first drawdown are met. The loanandaccruedinterestbecomedueoneyear after its start date, with interest accruing at 19.32%perannum,compoundedmonthly The companynotedthattheloanremainssubjectto customary conditions, including regulatory approvals.

Moreover, CGX had disclosed that on November 4, 2025, government through its counsel communicated its willingness to participate in a final “Without Prejudice” meetingwiththeJVtodiscussthedispute.

“The Government proposed November 25

orDecember2,2025,aspossibledatesforthis meeting,”CGXsaid.Itremainsunclearwhether this meeting was held. Kaieteur News on Wednesday contacted Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat for an update, but uptopresstimenonewasreceived.

The JV has stated that they remain open to engaging in good faith discussions with the governmentand,“continuestofirmlymaintain that its interests in, and the license for, the Corentyne block remain valid and in good standingandthatthePetroleumAgreementfor suchblockhasnotbeenterminated.” However, government has repeatedly reaffirmed that the JV’sinterestexpiredonJune28,2024.

In a September interview with this publication, Minister Bharrat reiterated government’sstancewhilesignallingopenness to broader investment talks. “At this time, I can’tsaywhatthatengagement,whenitwillbe orwhatnaturethatengagementwilltake,butwe maintainourpositionthatthelicencehascome toanendandweareopentotalksonhowdowe moveforward,”hesaid.

He added that government remains willing to meet investors. “As you know, we are government that facilitates investment and investors, so we’re willing to meet with any partner once it’s in the interest of Guyana and developmentofourcountry,”theministersaid.

KaieteurNewshadreportedthataftermore Continued on page 8

$50,000cashgrantforpersonswithdisability

- as Pres. Ali unveils plans for 5,000 jobs, new rights revolution for PWDs

President Dr

Mohamed Irfaan

AlionWednesday announced a major national intervention: every person living with a disability in Guyana will receive a oneoff $50,000 grant before the endofthismonth.

Theinitiativeamountsto $1.4billionindirectsupport to more than 27,000 Guyanese.The head of state made the announcement duringanationalobservance that celebrated dignity, inclusion, and the shared responsibility of building a society where every citizen canthrive.

The national observance was organised by the Office of the President in collaborationwiththeOffice oftheFirstLadyandheldat the Railway Courtyard in Georgetown on Wednesday morning.

President Ali began his remarkswithareminderthat disabilit

es, whether congenital, acquired, temporary, or lifelong, are part of the human experience.

They touch families in every community and represent not a deficit, but anotherdimensionofhuman knowledge.

He said that, as a people grounded in faith, empathy and community, Guyanese must “bear one another’s burdens”, noting that true national development is measured by how well society supports those most in need “Regardless of where you sit, in public or privatelife,wemustmakeit a collective responsibility to uplift those who are mourning, struggling or underserved,” the President affirmed.

Meanwhile, President alsoannouncedanambitious disability-inclusiveinitiative to create at least 5,000 jobs for persons living with disabilities(PWDs)overthe nextfiveyears.Accordingto a Department of Public Information (DPI) press release, the President underscored that sustainable employment is a powerful tool to advance dignity, independence and equal opportunity He reminded the gathering that disability is a universal human condition, touching families in every community As a nation grounded in compassion,hesaid,Guyana must “bear one another’s

burdens,” especially the m o s t v u l n e r a b l e “Regardless of where you sit, in public or private life, wemustmakeitacollective responsibility to uplift those who are underserved or struggling,”heaffirmed. He stressed that true development cannot be measuredsolelyineconomic growth but in how well the society supports and includes persons with disabilities Highlighting successful disabilityinclusive employment programmesinRegionsFive and Six, developed through government–private sector collaboration, the President announcedthatthesemodels will now be expanded

New national diseasetracking system coming

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, announced on Tuesday that Guyana is developingamodern,integratedsurveillance systemcapableoftrackingdiseasesaffecting bothhumansandanimals,aneffortaimedat detectingoutbreaksearlierandstrengthening nationalhealthsecurity

Speaking at the launch of the Guyana DigitalTrainingHealthInstitute,theminister noted that the government through the ministry is bringing onboard different types ofsoftwareandplatformstoprovidemodern healthcareservices.

Hesharedthatcurrentlytheyareworking on developing a surveillance system that wouldtrackbothinfectiousandnon-medical diseases across the country “We have been better at doing infectious diseases, but we now want to have a combined system where we can track both infectious, non-medical diseasesacrossthiscountry,andsowecansee real time data of what is happening in differentpartsofourcountry,”hestated.

Similarly, the health minister mentioned that they are working with the Ministry of Agriculture to be able to track diseases in the animal population, which would be sharedononeplatform.“So,if there’s any disease in the animalpopulationthatwefeel will have a potential to jump into the population, then we must be able to detect these outbreaksearly,”headded.

According to the minister,

Minister of Health, Frank Anthony

thesurveillancesystemtheyarebuildingwill befundedthroughthePandemicFundandthe World Bank. “So, there are many new applications that we’re putting in place, and thestudentsthatwe’retrainingwearegoing togivethemawiderangeofskillssothatthey willbeabletoworkwiththesedifferenttypes of software and platforms that we’re using,” hesaidonTuesday

President Irfaan Ali

nationwide. “If we replicate this model across sectors, government, private enterprise, community spaces,wecaneasilyturnthe tide,”hesaid.“ThatiswhyI want us…to target at least 5,000jobsforpersonsliving with disabilities over the nextfiveyears.”

In a sweeping new directive, President Ali announced that every new government project from parks and community centres to offices and sports facilities must dedicate a minimumof10%ofitsspace to serve persons with disabilities.

He said based on consultations with the disability community and advocacy groups, eight majoractionareaswillguide thegovernment’swork:

1.Caregiversupport

2. Education and digital learningaccess

3 C o m m u n i t y empowerment

4.Transportationsupport

5.Healthservices

6.Housingaccess

7. Government service accessibility

8 Skills training and incomegeneration

Dr Ali also highlighted significant advances already made,including:

The Prevention of DiscriminationAct

The Persons with DisabilitiesAct

·The National Policy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

· A permanent disability benefitsystem

· Creation of the first national Learning Lab for PWD education and digital skills

Online disability benefitapplications

·Anational database for childrenwithdisabilities

Distribution of thousands of assistive and mobilityaids

· The establishment of the Empower Guyana Centre,thefirstofitskindin the Caribbean, which provides employment and training to more than 120 PWDs

The President outlined several transformative

interventions that will be rolledout,including:

·Earlyidentificationand treatmentsystems

· Special-needs school expansion and homeschoolingsupport

Increased access to mobility aids and digital devices

· New business centres forPWDs

· A national caregiver trainingprogramme

·Remotemonitoringand e m e r g e n c y a l e r t technologies

·Specialhousingsupport and subsidies for parents of childrenwithdisabilities

Tax incentives for families

· Grants for caregivers who provide in-home support

A

D

financing window offering interest-free, collateral-free loanstoPWDs

“Ourmissionistocreate an environment where personswithdisabilitiescan fully participate in all aspects of national life and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s growth,” he said. “Let us embrace this community with love, understanding and dignity, and let us continue to build a Guyana where no one is leftbehind.”

KaieteurNews

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

Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456

Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS

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

EDITORIAL

Work for people with disabilities

Wednesday’s observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities came with a familiar reminder fromtheUnitedNations:theworldcannotspeakseriously aboutsocialprogresswhileleavingmillionsofpersonswith disabilities(PWDs)onthemargins.

This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” challenges governments,businesses,andcommunitiestoconfrontthe structural barriers that still confine too many PWDs to poverty, limited opportunity, and invisibility Across regions, rich and poor alike the UN notes that households with persons with disabilities are more likely to live in poverty

They face discrimination in employment, earn lower wages, and remain heavily concentrated in the informal sector Socialprotectionsystems,wheretheyexist,remain patchy and often inaccessible. And in the most troubling cases,theveryservicesdesignedto“care”forpersonswith disabilitiesinsteadstripthemofautonomyanddignity

TheUNisclear:thethreepillarsofsocialdevelopment: povertyeradication,decentandproductiveworkforall,and social integration cannot be achieved unless persons with disabilities are included as full participants in society Disability inclusion is not an act of charity It is an economic, moral, and developmental necessity Countries cannot call themselves just or progressive while entire communitiesremainshutoutfromeducation,employment, services,andpubliclife.

Here in Guyana, Tuesday offered a rare and welcome exampleofwhatgenuineinclusionlookslike.AtPalmyra, Region Six, First Lady Arya Ali announced a landmark partnershipbetweentheCentreforEquity,Opportunityand Innovationandseveralmajorutilityandserviceproviders. GPL, GWI, ENet, One Communications, MMG, MoneyGram, andWestern Union have begun establishing service kiosks at the Centre, set to begin operations by January2026.Moresignificantly,eachofthesecompanies hascommittedtohiringatleastonepersonwithadisability to run its kiosk, a direct and practical step toward meaningfulemployment.

Ninety persons already work at the Centre, and the addition of these positions marks not just job creation but recognitionthatpersonswithdisabilitiesarefullycapable, trainable,anddeservingofequitableaccesstowork.Thisis no small achievement. For years, the First Lady’s InclusAbilityInitiativehasurgedtheprivatesectortomove beyondsympatheticstatementsandinsteadopendoors,real doorstotraining,jobs,andupwardmobility Tuesday’s announcement suggests that parts of corporate Guyana are finally listening.As Mrs.Ali put it, “This partnership shows what is possible when we work together for the good of all our people.” Her words were echoed by senior members of government. Finance MinisterDr AshniSinghcalledthepartnershipamodelof the “meaningful change” that emerges when the state, businesses,andcivilsocietyfunctionastruepartners.Itis, he said, an embodiment of President Ali’s One Guyana philosophynotasslogan,butaslivedpolicy PresidentAli himselfTuesdaynightannouncedthathisgovernmentwill incorporate some 5,000 persons with disabilities into the localworkforce.

“Wewant5,000withdisabilitiestobeincorporatedinto the workforce, and we are going to make it happen,” PresidentAlitoldagatheringoftouroperators.

Forthedisabilitycommunity,representedbyChairman of the National Commission on Disability, Ganesh Singh, the First Lady’s initiative is a “progressive step” that not onlybringsservicesclosertothepeoplebutdoessoinaway that affirms accessibility, independence, and dignity. But readers should not lose sight of the bigger picture. While these developments are commendable, they are only the

Did any govt. agency give permission for a drainage trench to be sand filled at Land of Canaan

DEAREDITOR,

Iamjustasking.Thereis adrainagetrenchinLandof Canaan on the East Bank, Demerara that is being sand filled. Did any government agencygivepermissionfora drainage trench to be sand filled at Land of Canaan on

EastBankofDemerara?Itis the drainage trench before the ‘five-door’ sluice. The part of the trench that is being sand filled is on the easternsideoftheEastBank PublicRoad.Thepartofthe drainage trench on the western side between the

Public Road and the Demerara River is not sand filled.Iwouldliketoknowif the Drainage and irrigation Authority, Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Ministry of

Public Works, Central Housing and Planning Authority or any other relevant agency give permission for this drainage trenchtobesandfilled?

Sincerely,

CitizenAudreyanna Thomas

“AFeast of Privilege,AFamine of Decency: Condemning the Cruel Spectacle of Power”

DEAREDITOR

It is with a profound sense of outrage and collectiveshamethatwe,the insulted and the forgotten, must address the recent spectacle emanating from thehighestofficeinourland. What was presented as humor at an elite gathering was, in truth, a vulgar revelation of character—a chilling display of how power, when divorced from empathy, curdles into contempt. The imagery is stark and sickening. On one hand, we have the desperate hope of citizens for whom a promised cash grant representsnotaluxury,buta lifeline;achancetobreathe, to eat, to survive another month This hope, this solemn promise made to strap the nation, was not a hidden concern. It is the daily anguish of our people. Yet, on the other hand, we witnessed the President transformthisanguishintoa punchline for a roomful of “fancy people.” To take the

rawneedofthedestituteand use it as fodder for dinner satireisnotmerelyalapsein judgment It is a fundamentalmoralfailure.It is the crassest form of vulgarity, not of language, butofspirit.

This episode lays bare a disturbing philosophy of governance: the people as playthings, to be embraced before elections and hammered after The thinking, as laid bare by his actions, appears to be that vulnerability creates a license for mockery, that dependency translates to dominion. The citizen becomesa“toy,”a“balltobe kicked around,” because they are “available, weak.” This is not leadership; it is predation Leadership embodies service, sacrifice, and solemn respect for the governed. It requires a heart that feels the weight of the people’s struggle, not a tongue that mocks it for applause What is most unconscionable is the

calculatedbetrayal.Thevery promise that served as a headline for political gain was later wielded as a joke for social gain among the privileged who willingly playedalongunhinged. This doubleexploitation—firstof votes, then of dignity—is conduct utterly unbecoming oftheoffice.Hehasbelittled not only the hopeful but, in his glib performance, has diminished the very stature ofthepresidency

To play on the needs of others for personal or ingroupamusementrevealsan unhinged disconnect from therealityoverwhichoneis meanttopresideover.

Werejectthiscruelty.We condemn this performance as a grotesque parody of leadership.

Totheentitledcirclewho shared in that “cruel joke,” your resounding laughter echoesasacomplicitchorus, underscoring a Guyana divided between those who feast on privilege and those who famine in hope

Therefore, we demand not silence, but accountability Whilelegalimmunitiesmay exist, there is no immunity from the judgment of the people, from the stain on one’s legacy, or from the basic human duty to make amends A responsible leader, one capable of selfcorrection, would offer an immediate and public apology Not for political expediency,butbecauseitis the minimally decent thing to do. After all you are the final arbiter of your legacy Let this be the end of the “cashgrantcomedy.”

Lettheonlyfollow-upbe the swift fulfillment of the promise and, at the very least, that tiny apology to restore a shred of sanity to ourpublicdiscourse.And,of course,themoney

The people’s money Their dignity, however bruised, is not for sale. But the promise made to them mustbekept.

Sincerely Hemdutt

Kumar

USAshould ban corrupt politicians, not ordinary people

DEAREDITOR, American Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is recommending that USA ban people from some 30 third world countries to come to USA President Trumpreferstothesecountries as sh hole Guyana is not

among the countries on the proposed ban list These countriesareinLatinAmerica, Africa,MiddleEast,andAsia and their leaders are largely knowntobeanti-American Secretary Noem, former Governor of native Indian state of South Dakota, said

beginningofwhatmustbecomeanationalmovement.An inclusive society is not built through ceremonies or announcementsalone.

It requires employers across Guyana, large and small to rethink outdated assumptions about ability, productivity,andworkplacedesign.Itrequiresaccessible publicspaces,inclusiveeducation,strongenforcementof disabilitylegislation,andsocialprotectionsthatreflectthe real costs of living with a disability Persons with disabilitiesdonotneedpity Theyneedopportunity They needthetoolstoenjoybetterlives,meaningfulwork,and fullparticipationinsociety

lastMondaythatsheadvised the President for a “full travel ban” on “every damn country that’s been flooding our nation with killers, leeches, and entitlement junkies ” According to published reports, Noem wrote: “Our forefathers built this nation on blood, sweat, and the unyielding love of freedom, not for foreign invaders to slaughter our heroes, suck dry our hardearned tax dollars, or snatch the benefits owed to AMERICANS Wedon’twant them, not one” The Trump administration has also ramped up its immigration crackdown on millions of illegal immigrants, including many from Guyana. US

Citizenship and Immigration Servicesannouncedthatitwill reexamineallgreencardsand citizenship naturalisation for anyone who broke laws in USA Guyana has very good relations with USA thanks to the strategic policy of Jagdeo andIrfaan

It is wrong for the US to banpeoplefromtheproposed 30 countries The people did not commit crimes; their political leaders commit crimes Thepeopleshouldnot be punished for bad governanceofpoliticianswho impoverished their nations renderingthemsh hole The corruptpoliticiansshouldbe bannedfromenteringUSA.

Yourstruly, VishnuBisram

CARICOM, other Central and SouthAmerican countries must defy Trump’s no-fly zone

DEAREDITOR

Organisation for the VictoryofthePeople(OVP) condemns Donald Trump’s latest moves in his war games off the coast of Venezuela.First,hedeclared the CIA created “Cartel de los Soles” a terrorist organisationandthegreatest terroristthreattotheworld”, and second, he illegally and unilaterally declared the airspace over Venezuela closed.

Hehasnoauthoritytodo this, and in the absence of any institution capable of enforcing international war, we call on CARICOM and countries across the Caribbean, Central and SouthAmerica to break this no-flyzoneimmediately

Across the Caribbean and South America, the majorityofpeopleknowthat the most serious terrorist threat to this region, and indeedworldwide,istheUS Empireanditsallies.

We must respond to the naked fascism and bullyism of gangsters parading as world leaders, like Trump, withoneunifiedvoice.

The only way to stand against this existential and very real threat to our sovereignty, peace and securityistoresistenmasse. Ifthissituationescalatesinto a full-blown invasion of Venezuela, it will have dire consequences for Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago and the entireregion.

ThepeopleoftheGlobal South have seen this same scenario played out too many times. IfAfghanistan, Iraq, Libya and Syria have taughtusanything,thenitis that we must act now to prevent further escalation.

When Captain Ibrahim Traoré was threatened, we raised our collective voices from the African Continent

to the Americas and everywhere in between demanding HANDS OFF TRAORÉ/HANDS OFF BURKINA FASO, and we must do the same now H A N D S O F F MADURO/HANDS OFF VENEZUELA.

As usual, the US has fabricated the usual fiction. For the record, there is no structured organisation called Cartel de los Soles.

This is a nickname given to Venezuelan Generals who assisted the CIA drug trafficking operations, dating back to the early 1990s, long before Nicolas Maduroandhispredecessor, Hugo Chavez, assumed office.

The nickname came from the fact that the generals uniform carried a sun symbol on the shoulder lapel.

Those of us who live in the region are well aware of the fact that the CIA is part and parcel of the drug trafficking operations throughoutthisregion.

The CIA worked handin-hand with these corrupt Ven

officers, Colombian senators, and their death squads, as well as with a number of corrupt US government officials in Miami,tonamejustafewof itsnotoriousconnections.

These relationships and operations predated PresidentPetro’spresidency Infact,hispredecessor,Iván Duque’s election campaign was financed by one of Colombia’s most powerful druglords.

President Petro has waged war on the drug cartels since coming to office and has received seriousthreatstohislifeasa consequence.

Likewise, President

Maduro, and Hugo Chavez before him, have cracked downoncorruption,andthe drugandhumantraffickers.

The US and Western Europeareindecline.China is now the largest trading partnerintheAmericas.This isashowdown.

Trump and his murderous gang, including fascists like Marco Rubio, are reviving the Munroe Doctrine, but it is dead and buried and cannot be revived.

Too many have given their lives in the struggle to freeusfromtheabsurdwhite supremacist notion that we areintheUSA’s“backyard”. The murderous US military machine must be stopped. This funder and enabler of the ongoing Zionist genocideinGaza,thehorror of which has changed the world forever, must be broughttoitsknees.

Wecanonlydothiswith a strong and unified regionwideresistance.

If we fail to stand up to this naked fascism now, it will surely engulf and consumeusall.

Regards GeraldA.Perreira

Onbehalfofthe National Directorate Organisationforthe VictoryofthePeople (OVP)Georgetown, Guyana

DEAREDITOR

I join with others who mayhavecommentedonthe colour full political journey of former PM of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves ending with his mammothelectoraldefeat.

IfthereareanyGuyanese who would have known and know Ralph Gonsalves historicallyandpoliticallyit wouldbefirstandforemost, Cheddi Jagan, then Moses Nagamootooandthiswriter Should there be any other, pleasestepforward.

ThePPPhasalwayspaid keen interest to political developments in Caribbean countries in this case, St Vincent and the Grenadines at a time when fresh, young andvibrantpoliticalactivists had emerged on the Vincentian political scene and were openly inclined to scientific political thought andaction.

Those Vincentians were tobefoundatthattimeinan organisation called the United People’s Movement (UPM)ofStVincentandthe Grenadines. The UPM was established in 1979 as a leftist alliance of three organisations one led by Gonsalves.

The (UPM) was a socialist-oriented political party and was first led by Renwick Rose a committed Rastafarian and founder of TheBlackLiberationAction Committee(BLAC).

Gonsalves emerged in the corridors of West Indian academiaintheearly1970’s.

HewaseducatedatUWI

Jamaica, the University of Manchester (England) and the Makerere Institute of Social Research (Uganda).

He was a former lecturer at UWIJamaicaandBarbados.

Yo u n g C a r i b b e a n intellectualswhoemergedat that time and under those circumstances would have had the privilege of meeting and conversing with Cheddi Jagan.

Jagan had embraced Marxist philosophy long before Gonsalves did, however, Gonsalves eventually come around to adopting his own variation of Marxism; His was democratic socialism’ ‘Left Nationalism and antiimperialism’.This was after he broke from the UPM and formed his own ‘Movement for National Unity’ and brokeredanalliancewiththe StVincentLabourParty,the oldest political party on the island.Hispartylaterjoined theSocialistInternational. Progressive forwardthinking Vincentians at that time,participatedinthefirst meeting of the Caribbean Anti-imperialist conference heldonSeptember1,1972in Guyana. Resolutions were passedatthemeetingcalling for a Democratic Antiimperialist Caribbean Union; on Civil Liberties; Racism and Racial Discrimination; Ending the

Blockade of Cuba; Black Power and Free and Fair Elections.

Five years later, progressive Vincentians participated in what was called a Consultative MeetingofMarxist-Leninist Parties and Groups of the English- Speaking CaribbeanheldinApril1977 in Guyana. According to a communiqué issued following the meeting, ‘The meeting carried out a scientific-realistic assessment of the political, economic and social situation in the region stressing the continuing danger posed by US imperialism to the progress and well-being of the working people of the Caribbean; the meeting noted the necessity for countries individually and onaregionalbasistoensure the practice of the fullest democracy; it pledged to s t r u g g l e f o r t h e incorporation into the Caricom Treaty a Convention on Human Rights.’

The Vincentians were invited by Jagan to participate in what became known as the Caribbean Anti-Imperialist Movement which was established after several meetings held in Guyana.Idonotrecall

(Continuedonpage06)

RailwayCourtyardtobetransformedintoa walkwayreflectingindependencetimeline

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan AlionWednesday officially unveiled a plaque for the new Railway Courtyard at Kingston, Georgetown. This landmark urban renewal project seamlessly blends history, culture, wellness and tourismintoasinglefamilyorientedpublicspace.

Standing before the restored railway grounds, thePresidentsaidtheproject embodies the spirit of national unity and the country’s commitment to honouring its past while shapingavibrantfuture.

The Railway Courtyard isoneofthelastremnantsof the Georgetown Station of the former East Coast Railway, which was closed in1972.

Formanyyears,thisarea served as a workshop and offices for the Guyana Transport Services Ltd, which managed the large buses that replaced the trains, and later as a maintenanceworkshopfora governmentministry

“In this very simple

President Irfaan Ali addressing the gathering at the Railway Courtyard, Georgetown

ceremony today, we launch the Railway Courtyard, Kingston Georgetown,” the president declared as he unveiled the plaque. “The Railway Courtyard has significant historical connections with the people of Guyana, the growth of Guyana, and the challenges ofthepeopleofGuyana.”

PresidentAli announced thatinthecomingweeks,the space will be fully

transformed into a historic pre-independence walkway, allowing visitors to walk through a curated, visual storyofGuyana’sjourney

“Whenyouwalkthrough the courtyard going all the way to Sheriff Street, you’ll be walking through the preindependencehistoryonone sideofthewalkway,instory andinpicture.”

More than three years of research, including 80,000

Implement VAT free day

DEAREDITOR

ThenewgovernmentinSVGisofferinga VATfreedaytocitizens, withthefirstsuch daybeingDecember19.

Maybe our government can consider

such a day, monthly, in its roll out of measures to assist with the high cost-ofliving.

Regards

ShamshunMohamed

Reflectionsof3weeksinGuyana -andanurgentproblem!

DEAREDITOR,

I’mwrappingupathreeweek stay in Guyana—one ofthemostenjoyablevisitsI havehadsinceleavingthese shoresdecadesago.Muchof my time was spent in the countryside, especially along the Mahaica Creek, whereIwasremindedofthe simple, down-to-earth warmthofrurallife.

Isoakedinthebeautyof the birdlife (wow!)—such an astonishing variety! and indulged in more water ‘kokenut’ than I can count.

Even hearing Indian music drifting from afar stirred something deeply familiar

But above all, what touched m e m o s t w a s t h e graciousness, simplicity, andhospitalityofthepeople. That remains Guyana’s greatesttreasure.

Yetthecountryfacesreal challenges. From persistent transportation issues to

concerns about foreign influence, from feverish construction to rapid, often unregulated, gold extraction,andfromchronic traffic problems to an array of social pressures-Guyana ischangingfast.Amidallof this, one issue rises above the rest in urgency and severity: the escalating garbageproblem. Plastic bottles are everywhere.

Afewdaysago,arich(!) neighbour hosted a large celebration that had nuff fancyvehicles.

By the next morning, Corona bottles, Canada Dry cans, and various other containers were scattered outside their gate and remainedtherefordaysuntil the garbage truck finally arrived - after some fell in thedrainandwereleftthere. Canalsandtrenches,bothin Georgetown and the

countryside, are clogged with layers of plastic mixed with every imaginable kind ofwaste.

In many places, the canalsaresopackedthatthe surfacelookslikeahardened sheetofdebris.Itisasadand nauseatingsight.

Yes, Guyana is moving forward with new opportunities from oil. But that progress loses its shine if the country ignores the growing waste problem Something must be done immediately

The garbage situation is not just unsightly it threatens health, the environment, and the nation’sfuture.

Guyana has so much beauty and potential Addressing the garbage crisisurgentlyisessentialto protectingboth.

Yourstruly, DevanandBhagwan

the courtyard will house busts of all former presidents, in addition to dedicated spaces for health andwellness.

“We’llhaveoutdoorgym equipment,anditisdesigned specifically for families, children, and women especially to have a safe environment.”

The courtyard will also serve as a signature walking area for visitors as Guyana expands its tourism product andcruisemarket.

The Railway Courtyard is a key element in a larger revitalisation vision for downtownGeorgetown.

archivalwordsexaminedby historian Dr David Dabydeen and a team working in the British Archives, form the basis of theinstallation.

The opposite side of the walkway will showcase G u y a n a ’ s p o s tindependence history, creatingacompletenational timeline for citizens and visitors.

President Ali stated that

“We are creating that e n t i r e w a l k w a y improving drainage, enhancing the historical context of Georgetown, promoting the cultural vibrancy, celebrating the commerceandbringing togetherourcuisine.”

The full walking loop, linking Water Street, the National Library,Avenue of the Republic, South Road and the Botanical Gardens, is being developed in partnershipwiththeKing’s

Foundation The presidentalsoannouncedthe restoration of the original Transport and Harbours rail infrastructure located just behind the courtyard. “By theendofthefourthquarter, that rail will be completely upgraded, ” he said “Georgetown is a fusion of allthepeopleofourcountry So in this very simple ceremony, we are really embodying the true spirit of One Guyana and what One Guyanarepresents.”

The President also highlighted that the courtyard will remain accessible even as GRA operations are relocated in early 2025, allowing for a continuous walkway from MainStreettoSheriffStreet. The president noted that Fridayeveningwillmarkthe official festive opening of the courtyard, with lighting and final adjustments underway

“It’s going to be very beautiful,” he added, inviting the public to enjoy oneofGeorgetown’snewest signature public spaces (DPI)

Innocent until proven guilty

DEAREDITOR

Theelectionoftheleader of the opposition should not be delayed because of the pending charges or because oftherequestforextradition tostandtrial.

An indictment is only a formal charge and is not a guiltyverdict.

The constitution of Guyana does not require a delay in the process of electing the leader of the opposition if criminal chargesarepending.

The people of Guyana voted for him knowing that there was an issue of legal concernpending.Itisnotup to parliament to decide the outcomeofthecase,andthus the process outlined by the constitution must be followed What occurs afterwardsisamatterforthe courts.

We must trust in our J u d i c i a r y a n d i t s competence. What appears to some to be political meddling will only increase

persecution. Let the process proceed in a transparent and just manner as outlined in the constitution.

We must allow the democratic process to continue to operate effectively and efficiently The people have made their voices heard via their vote and we must respect their choice.

Bestregards, Mr.JamilChanglee

Ralph Gonsalves then and now...

Frompage05

Gonsalves attending any of thosemeetingsbutRoseand otherscertainlydid.

Gonsalves first seminal workwasanessaypublished in a booklet entitled ‘The Non-Capitalist Path of Development’ (1981) According to Gonsalves, ‘The theoretical issues raised in the booklet are as relevant as ever and can surely assist in deepening our understanding of those a n d o t h e r r e c e n t developments in Africa and theCaribbean.’

He added that the essay ‘has drawn heavily from

contemporary authors i

C Y Thomas,’ among other Soviet scholars and expertsonthesubject.

)

Cheddi Jagan quotes extensively from ‘The Spectre of Imperialism: T h e C a s e o f t h e Caribbean’an

r writtenbyGonsalves In the light of his colour full historical journey ending as it did on November 27, 2025 it

would appear that while Gonsalves stuck firmly to his social democratic, left n

st and antiimperialist convictions, he strayed somewhat from political practice; not keeping in mind that ‘politics is a concentrated formofeconomics ’ As his son Camilo Gonsalves put it; “The prioritiesofthepeoplewhoI was elected to serve and those of the party and government were not aligned and this was the resultofthatmisalignment.”

Yoursfaithfully, ClementJ.Rohee

MODEC funds transition education programme for children with disabilities

MODEC has funded a new Transition Education Programme for Children

with Disabilities, implementedby the Guyana CouncilofOrganisationsfor Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD).

The initiative currently supports thirty-eight (38) studentswithatailoredafterschool programme designed to strengthen academic readiness and enable successful progression to mainstream or advanced educationalpathways.

According to press release, MODEC said under a three million, six hundred

a n d t e n - d o l l a r ( G Y D $ 3 , 6 1 0 , 0 0 0 ) investment from MODEC, studentscommencedthe12month pilot in September 2025 The programme benefits students from the following schools and centres:

• David Rose Special EducationNeedsSchool

•New Amsterdam Special Education Needs School

• R e g i o n F o u r Department of Education Special Education Needs Centre

•Ministry of Education, Resource Unit for the Blind andVisuallyImpaired

• P o r t M o u r a n t

Secondary Special EducationNeedsUnit

The programme delivers

$30M

i n d i v i d u a l i s e d , complementary instruction in Mathematics, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science, strengthening students’core competencies and preparing them for graduation, employment, or continuedstudies.

Noting that MODEC is proud to partner with GCOPDtoexpandaccessto quality education for children with disabilities, Rafael Fumis, Country Manager, MODEC Guyana, statedthatthisprogrammeis about creating pathways, so that every child, regardless of ability, has the support theyneedtothriveinschool andbeyond.”

Expressing gratitude, Ganesh Singh, Programme Manager at GCOPD, noted

that these targeted lessons address students’ areas of weakness adding that the older students graduating from the programme can transition to the GCOPD remedial education and C

y Education Certificate (CSEC) programme, funded by the M

continuityandopportunity Investing in initiatives that support persons living with disabilities is a key p

a

of MODEC’s community impact strategy, aimedatupliftingvulnerable groupsnationwide.Through this partnership, MODEC reaffirms its commitment to inclusion, equity, and equal o

Guyanese.

water supply system ends water woes for Silver Hill residents

A new $30 million water system was commissioned in the remote community of Silver Hill on Friday, marking the end of strenuous walks to the creek for approximately90percentofitsresidents.

The upgrade introduces potable water access directly to homes, fulfilling what many describe as a long-awaited “dream cometrue.”

The scope of the works included three major components: the drilling of a new water well, the installation of a sustainable photovoltaic pumping system, and the

layingofapproximately3kmofdistribution network. The successful implementation means the vast majority of Silver Hill residents now have water access close to their homes, eliminating the tiring daily choreofaccessingwaterfromthecreek.

Raffina Lund, a lifelong resident of Silver Hill, expressed profound gratitude duringthecommissioningceremony “Iwas born and grew up at Silver Hill. And I’ve been a resident for actually my entire life,” shesaid.“Growingupandlivingwithout Continued on page 9

CGX secures US$2.5M...

Policy Forum Guyana says office targeted for third time

Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) has confirmed that its office was once again tamperedwithonWednesday,3rdDecember 2025at10:25a.m.,markingthethirdincident inlessthantwoweeks.

The first breach was discovered on Tuesday,25thNovember2025,followedbya second on Thursday, 27th November 2025. During this latest attempt, three windows alongthesideofthecoordinator’sofficewere found damaged.Apiece of iron, believed to have been used in the attempt, was left outside,apressreleasefromtheorganisation said.

According to PFG, following the second incident, desks and key files were moved awayfromthewindows,preventingaccessto documentsthistime.Onlyminoritemswere disturbed, and no equipment was taken. Initially,thefirstvandalismwasthoughttobe random — possibly the work of someone of unsound mind or simply an opportunistic intruder However, three consecutive and targetedattempts,focusingsolelyonthePFG Coordinator’soffice,nowraisemoreserious and concerning questions about motive and intent.

The building is protected by MMC Security, and police investigators from the Albert Town Police Station are currently reviewing nearby CCTV footage to identify those responsible.These incidents come at a time when PFG has been publicly vocal on matters relating to the Guyana Extractive IndustriesTransparencyInitiative(GYEITI), particularly regarding governance and transparencysurroundingcivicparticipation.

“While nothing was stolen today, the persistence and precision of these actions leave us deeply unsettled,” said the Coordinator of PFG. “What once appeared

One of the damaged windows

random now seems far more deliberate.Yet, Policy Forum Guyana remains firm in our commitment to transparency and accountabilityandwewillnotbeintimidated intosilence.”

PFG said it will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement and provide updatesasinvestigationsprogress.

Two drivers on causing death charge get bail

Two drivers were on Wednesday arraigned at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Courtonaseparatechargeof causing death by dangerous drivingandweregrantedbail inthesumof$250,000each.

Budendra Singh, a 32year-old truck driver of Enmore, East Coast Demerara, has been charged in connection with a fatal accident which occurred on Sunday September 7, 2025, ontheEnmoreNewHousing Scheme Access Road, East CoastDemerara,resultingin thedeathofKimberlySingh.

Frompage2 than two decades of exploration, the JV finally struck oil at the Kawa-1 well in January2022.JustaheadoftheJune28,2024 deadline for the block’s appraisal programme, the JV submitted a Notice of PotentialCommercialInteresttogovernment for the Wei-1 well, on June 26 The government later said stringent conditions would need to be met to retain the block. In March2025,thegovernmentissueda30-day noticeandgavetheoilcompaniesachanceto make representations Government was open togood-faithnegotiationswithinthespecified timeframe.

Government eventually cut ties with the JV in relation to the Corentyne Block and said that it is of the view that there are no reasonable grounds to grant an extension to CGX and Frontera for their exploration and appraisal obligations. However, the JV has maintained that its interest in the Corentyne Block remains valid, even after receiving a formal communication from the government statingthatthePetroleumProspectingLicence (PPL)andPetroleumAgreementhadended.

The allegation is that Singhdroveamotorvehicle inamannerdangeroustothe public, thereby causing the death of Kimberly Singh, contrary to Section 35(1) of theMotorVehiclesandRoad Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. On Wednesday Singh appeared at the Cove and John Magistrates’ Court before Her Worship, Magistra

O

inthia Schmidt, where the charge wasreadtohim.

Hepleadednotguiltyand was granted bail in the sum of$250,000.Thematterwas adjourned to January 28, 2026. Similarly, Ganesh Racktoo, a minibus driver, was also charged in connection with a fatal hitand-run accident which occurred on Saturday October 25, 2025, on the Enmore Station Road, East CoastDemerarathatresulted in the death of Charran

Suresh, 43 of Newtown, Enmore,E.C.D. The allegation is that Racktoo drove a motor vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Suresh, contrary to Section 35(1) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02 He too appeared before Magistrate Schmidt and was granted bail in the sum of $250,000 afterpleadingnotguilty

Budendra Singh Ganesh Racktoo

Rafael Fumis, Country Manager, MODEC Guyana and Ganesh Singh, Programme Manager at GCOPD

Guyana’seconomyisheadingintorockywaters

Gu y a n a ’ s economy has

been on an

extraordinary growth trajectory This growth has been fuelled almost singlehandedly by the country’s rapidlyexpandingoilsector

But beneath the headline

numbers and recordbreaking GDP growth lies a

vulnerability that policymakers have been slowtoconfront.

Guyana is dangerously dependentonoilexportsata moment when global oil prices are slipping, and are expectedtoslipevenfurther The trajectory of global

energymarketssuggeststhat Guyanamaybeheadinginto rocky economic waters, and that its current development strategy may not be sustainable.

In April 2024, Brent crude peaked at US$93 per barrel,drivenbygeopolitical tensions and supply fears. ThatsurgeofferedGuyanaa temporary revenue windfall

and reinforced the widespreadillusionthathigh oil prices would remain the norm. But for more than a year since that peak, prices have steadily trended downward Today, they hover far below that 2024

high and are forecast to average around US$60 per barrel by 2026 Some analysts warn that prices could dip even lower, possibly into the US$55 range, as global supply exceeds demand and major producersrampupoutput.

This spells trouble for Guyana.Exxon’s operations intheStabroekBlockremain profitable even at lower prices, thanks to unusually favorable fiscal terms and low production costs. But Guyana’s share of the oil proceeds, which depends heavily on the market price is far more vulnerable. If

$30M water supply system ends water...

Frompage8

water close to the home, it was a struggle. With this well, I just want to say thank you. Thank you so much. This is like actually a dreamcometrue.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Raymond Baldwin, who expressed not only reliefattheinterventionbutalsoprideinhis crucialroleinbringingittofruition.Baldwin wasoneoftheresidentsactivelyinvolvedin layingthedistributionnetwork,takinggreat pride in shaping a new future for his community.

“For years we have been using creek waterforeverything.Sincethebeginningof thisproject,Ihavehelpedwiththelayingof pipes and it has been very beneficial for me andthecommunity,becausenoweverybody isgettingpotablewater,anditevenhelpsin the little kitchen gardens we have in the yard,”heshared.

He also commended the government’s grassrootsapproachtoleadershipwhichsees essential services and direct contact with residents in previously overlooked communities. “I think it is a good step that

the government has taken for small communities along the highway We look forward to taking care of this well as the yearsgoby,”Baldwinaffirmed. Ministerof Public Utilities andAviation, Deodat Indar, whocommissionedthesystem,notedthatthe waterbeingproducedfromthewellislowin iron content, which means it is safe for consumption. He said that the government, through the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI)hasdrilledabout131similarwellsin remoteandhinterlandcommunitiesoverthe last five years, underscoring a commitment toexpandingpotablewateraccessacrossthe country

“We have to modernise, we have to move away from [relying on water from creeks and rivers]. So through [GWI] we are divulging those resources to ensure thatwehaveuniversalaccesstowaterthat isclean,andusableforcooking.”While90 per cent of households gained direct home access, the remaining 10 per cent of Silver Hill can access potable water via the standpipes located at strategic points of the community (DPI)

DEM BOYS SEH

Bettertopinchpennynow thanbegfuhpennylater

Dem boys seh when yuh hear

ole people proverb, is not joke-talk. Is w i s d o m w r a p u p experience. An’ if ever de government need some wisdomindemheadisnow Imaginejustafewyears back, dem spend lil more than a hundred million fuh clear La Repentir burial ground. Today, reports seh is more than three times that.Threetimes!Demboys seh even de dead must be raisingdemeyebrowbone.

Yuh see, ole people always holler, “Wonton waste does bring woeful want.”Anddemdidn’tneed no feasibility study fuh know that. When yuh start spend like is endless river flowing, one day yuh gan wakeupandrealiseisonlya

tricklelef’.Butsomeahwe leaders behaving like becausewefindoil,isfreefor-all.Oneoleauntyuseto say, “Not because yuh gat money, yuh gon waste it.” Dem boys seh she talking straight to some people in high office who feel treasury got bottomless pit. La Repentir clearing now looking like a luxury resort project. What dem clearing?

Gold-plated coffins? Diamond vines? Or maybe is platinum weed? Dem boys want know who cost out this ting, because from one hundred million jump to three hundred-plus sounding like somebody mark up de bill with imagination instead of calculator. Government

must remember that

BrentslipsbelowtheUS$60 mark, the country’s projected revenues could shrink sharply, creating a fiscal crunch just as the government is scaling up its spendingcommitments.

Thisloomingrealitymay explain why the President has, quite sensibly, been warning citizens not to raise their expectations Those w a r n i n g s , t h o u g h understated, reflect the fact that Guyana may not, next year, earn as much as it hopes With ambitious development plans, skyrocketing expenditures, andmulti-yearmegaprojects underway, the government’s budgetisincreasinglytiedto oil revenues that may soon fallshort.

A prolonged decline in oil prices would have a cascading effect across the economy. The national budget,whichhasballooned year after year, is built on assumptions of robust oil revenues. If those revenues fall, Guyana may be forced to borrow more heavily to sustain its development agenda.

A country that once prided itself on financial prudence could suddenly find itself digging deeper into debt, eroding long-term fiscalstability.

This is why the current production strategy raises serious concern. With oil prices falling and oversupply threatening further declines, Guyana

should have been scaling back production to preserve the value of its resource. Instead,thecountryisdoing the opposite. Government officials continue to boast about rising production levels,asifhigheroutputcan magically compensate for weaker prices. But pumping more oil in a declining market does not increase revenue it accelerates resource depletion while fetchinglowerreturns.

This contradiction stems from Guyana’s lack of a clear, documented depletion policy What passes for a “policy” seems to exist only insomeone’shead.Andthat unwritten blueprint appears to prioritise pumping as much oil as possible, as fast as possible, regardless of market conditions. Such a strategy might benefit Exxon Mobil and its partners,butitdoesnotserve Guyana’slong-termnational interest. When prices are sliding due to global overproduction, the logical response is certainly not to add more barrels to an alreadysaturatedmarket.

Even more troubling is the government’s persistent insistence on presenting massive annual Budgets, each larger than the last, as though revenue constraints donotapply.

A Budget is not merely an exercise in ambition; it must be grounded in fiscal realism. Welcoming another oversized Budget at a time

when oil revenues are forecasttodeclineisarecipe for future austerity, stalled projects, or a heavy reliance onborrowing. If oil prices continue their downward slide, as most independent forecasts suggest, the country will face difficult choices Should it cut spending? Delay capital projects? Increaseborrowing? Or renegotiate fiscal termstosecureafairershare from its offshore wealth? Noneofthesepathsareeasy, but the worst choice would be to ignore the risks entirely The oil boom has given Guyana a rare opportunity, but that opportunity is not infinite. The belief that prices will remain high forever has evaporated.

Guyana now needs a strategy rooted in caution, diversification, and realism. Ifitfailstoadapt,thecountry could find itself navigating farroughereconomicseasin the years ahead. And with little to show for the wealth thatonceflowedsofreely.

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

Guyana ain’t turn Dubai yet.Yes, de country getting money now, but de future ain’t guarantee. Oil price got mood swings like rainy season. It up today, down tomorrow.When de coffers start squeeze, all dem extravagant projects gan come back fuh haunt we likejumbiebythecemetery gate Dem boys seh governmentneedtightende belt, not loosen it Be prudent, be wise, and stop treating taxpayers’ money like is rich uncle inheritance Spend, but spend smart. Develop, but develop with sense Becauseifwecontinuepun this fancy-fancy road, we gan soon find weself digging deeper holes. And notjustinLaRepentir Talkhalf.Leffhalf

H@RD TRUTHS

PPP V Azruddin Mohamed, the overlooked race factor

Relative to the PPP Govt.Azruddin Mohamed wars, droves ofGuyanesehavegottentrappedin the law -extradition intricacies. Relevant, not improper Then, Guyanese lost themselves in the allegedcrimes:goldsmuggling,tax evasion,moneylaundering(more), as developed by the U S government (sanctions), and a Federal Grand Jury’s indictments, charges.

Whodidwhat,whocoveredup for whom, leading to mouth open, and story run out? Juicy and entertaining. That spinning and deflectingprogramhasn’tstopped, flourishes at lower volumes. All well and good; and captivating, as anaddedbonusforthelocalcircus. Next, Guyanese marveled at the politics -how many votes the man from WIN (We Invest in Nationhood) grabbed from the PNC, how many Indigenous Guyanese formerly for the PPP voted for him, and how a seismic shiftjustupendedGuyana’sbattleplagued political landscape Spicier than that holiday pepperpot. Saucier than that Guyanese daytime soap opera There’s

admirationfornativewisdom,local instincts. But one area remains unexplored,notgivenitsdue.Itry

Intheanxietiesandtraumasthat visited PPP headmen when Azruddin Mohamed became a political contender, there was one aspect of the party’s reaction that hasn’t attracted much attention.

Guyanese gave no stopping, no searching, no questioning clearance. The unspoken aspect of the PPP’s reaction (govt and political group) has been its undiminished, unceasing aggression against Azruddin Mohamed. Azruddin Mohamed, theallegedgoldsmugglerwasn’ta nationalconcern.

ButAzruddinMohamed,theinthe-face(andcraw)politicalleader andpoliticalcompetitor,represents a PPP crisis. Paramountcy of the party when compared to country, anyone? How about this then: reverseracisminsprawlingaction, targeting a member of one’s own tribe? Racialfearandracialhateof a unique kind for one’s own who was formerly high up in the innermostcabal? Thelatterdoesn’t need any qualifier, such as

allegedly Too real is the feeling of makebelieve…(TonyWilliamsand the Platters -The Great Pretender). Rightalongside‘thatmagictouch.’ The PPP made Azruddin into Saladin.

st In the September 1 elections, the call from some political quarters was ‘don’t split the vote.’ Loud,deafening. Didanyonehear thePPPasaparty,oritsleadership fountainhead, runout and holler don’t split the Indian vote, when Azruddin Mohamed showed up? Nothingsocrude. Buttheboorish in the PPP well-attired in their red uniforms and baseball bats came out to split his presence. Express hand delivered messages in Letter Kenny, Lima Sands, and other tribalenclaves.

No Indian welcomed in Indian communities to split the Indian vote. The second set of messages was subtle; more psychological than verbal or physical. It was directed at Indian communities throughout Guyana. In terms that Martin Luther King may have endorsed,itwasholdfraternityand unity intact In words more c

leadership, it was: ayuh help dah man Mahamid fuh split the Indian vote, and God be with ayuh. Split the Indian vote, and a ton of rocks from the mountaintop will fall on ayuhstupideehed.

Not quite an offer that can’t be refused; but definitely some considerations not to

overlooked. Job loss. Contract exclusion Family expulsion Land reversals Business suffocations. Lest I forget, there are other popular weapons to get renegadeIndiansintherightframe of mind: taxman and policeman. Collateral damages Now if Azruddin Mohamed was of AfroGuyanese descent, the PPP would have been politically sensitive. Since he is what he is, PPP barbarisms multiplied For doubters, recall two stars from Guyana’s political cognoscenti

First,Mr RaviDevarrivedwithhis NewYorkideas;hetookabattering from the PPP’s version of protect the franchise whatever it requires. And who was Ravi Dev? He certainty cannot be mistaken for ForbesBurnhamorDonaldTrump. He has mellowed now, content

t o joinwhohecan’tbeat. Then,there was Khemraj Ramjattan, who departed the PPP and returned as AFC. Heexperiencedcombustible PPP rage, which has since cooled enoughforoccasionalchitchats,as circumstanceswarrant.

Ravi, Ramjattan, and any other Indian that steps out of line, better get ready to go down the line. Or fallinline. AnalyzsehowthePPP grows apoplectic, hysteric, and frantic,whenoneIndianseparates, stands up. Need an eyewitness? Askme.

Pronounced reverse racism, by mydefinition. Refreshthememory of corrosive PPP aggressions Yesteryear, it was other Indians. Today,itisAzruddinMohamed,the newestIndianthreat. Oldornew,it is PPP maximum aggression directed at Indians. Split the vote and prepare for a split existence. That’s looking kindly at local circumstances. A split skull is alwaysonthetable.

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

Gasstationbombing…

New evidence sent to India as terror case deepens

The case surrounding the deadlyterroristattackattheMobil Gas Station continued on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, with prosecutors disclosing that additionalevidencewasrecovered from the bombing site and sent to Indiaforforensictesting.

The matter came before acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty. Appearing virtually in court were the main suspect, 33-year-old Venezulean Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo; 44-year-old Venezulean Alexander Bettancourt; Venezulean national Kyrstal LaCruz; and Guyanese JohnnyBoodram.

Duringtheproceedings,Police Prosecutor Mandel Moore informed the court that two new items were recently discovered at the Regent and King Streets bombing site near the gas station. Heexplainedthattheevidencehas already been dispatched overseas for detailed analysis and that the prosecutionisawaitingtheresults.

Asaresult,fulldisclosureremains incomplete, prompting the prosecution to request an adjournmentuntilDecember16to finalisetheprocess.

Attorneys Nigel Hughes, representing LaCruz, and Mikel Puran, representing Boodram, offerednoobjections,andthecourt accordingly granted the adjournment. The accused were furtherremanded.

The suspects are charged in connection with the October 26 bombing,whichclaimedthelifeof six-year-old Soraya Bourne Poedemo faces a separate indictablechargeofcommittingan act of terrorism on October 26, allegedly using an explosive device at the Mobil Fuel Station with intent to threaten Guyana’s sovereignty and security or to instill fear among the population. Hewasnotrequiredtoenteraplea. B

Kaieteur News/Radio on Wednesday delivered on its pledge to donate 10 per centofitsadvertisingsalesforthemonth of October to the Guyana Cancer Foundation(GCF).

Handing over a check to the CEO of the Foundation, Bibi Saeedah Akhtar Hassan(thirdRight),onbehalfthemedia group were Sueria, Zayne and Zayden Lall.

High-powered rifle found in hammock

The rifle and ammunition found by police.

PoliceinRegionalDivision#10are

investigating the discovery of a suspected rifle and ammunition during an intelligence-led operation conducted on Tuesday at 77 Miles, Unamco Road,Region#10.

During the operation, ranks conducted searches in the area and found several camp sites,whichpromptedfurtherchecksthatled

to the discovery of a suspected RF-15 rifle with a magazine containing thirty (30) .223 liveroundsinahammockinoneofthecamps. Nopersonswereseenintheareaatthetime.

The firearm and ammunition were taken to the Mackenzie Police Station where they were lodged pending investigation No arrests have been made. Investigations are ongoing.

Linden man nabbed with guns, ammo, millions in cash

AL i n d e n

businessman was on Wednesday arrestedafterpolicefoundinhis hometwogunsandaquantityof ammunition.

Inastatementpolicesaidthe items were seized following an operation conducted at RedwoodCrescent,Mackenzie, Linden, which resulted in the arrest of the 30-year-old businessman.

During the operation, ranks conductedasearchinabedroom in the upper flat, where they founda Glock199mmpistol,a Polymer80 9mm pistol, six magazines and a total of 56 9mmroundsconcealedbeneath the flooring of the bedroom. Additional searches uncovered $6,915,000 GYD and $7,445 USD in a wardrobe in the said bedroom.

60gramsofganja foundatOgleAirport

Sixtygramsofganjawasfound at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle Wednesday morning police have confirmed.

In a statement police said that about 11:25hrs, searches were conducted on cargo at the airline duringwhich13smallzip-lockbags containing a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis were found concealed in four white oats packets placed in a bagwhichwasdestinedforChiChi Village,Region#7.

The cannabis was taken to the police narcotics branch, where it was weighed, amounted to sixty gramsandsubsequentlylodged.No arrests have been made Investigationsareongoing.

The Guyana Police Force is investigating the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis that was found about 13:45hrs today Tuesday December 2, 2025 at No. 42/Seafield Village, West Coast Berbice,whichledtothearrestofa 43-year-old male Taxi Driver of Tucville, North East La Penitence, Georgetown.

Meanwhile, in another incident during an intelligence-led operation, ranks stopped and searchedaToyotaPremiomotorcar in the vicinity of Seafield Public Road, West Coast Berbice and foundtwobulkyblackgarbagebags inthetrunkcontainingleaves,seeds andstemssuspectedtobecannabis. The driver was arrested and escorted to the Weldaad Police Station along with the suspected cannabis,whichwasweighedinhis presence and amounted to 41.667 pounds. The suspected cannabis waslodgedandthesuspectremains in custody as investigations continue.

The guns, ammunition and cash that were seize during the police operation.

The ganja that was found at the Ogle Airport.

The cannabis that was seized at Seafield Village, West Coast Berbice.

Powerstruggleerupts!

- Bitter feud over control of Union Sports & Cultural Complex

Afull-blown power struggle has erupted at the Union Sports & Cultural Complex at Number 53 Village, Corentyne, as longstanding committee members clash with a newly formed committee they claim was deliberatelycreatedtoseizecontrolandsow division.

Thenewbodywasreportedlyestablished bytheNo.52-63NeighborhoodDemocratic Council (NDC), which falls under the purviewofitschairman,HemrajGhanshan.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Lawrence Harvey, treasurer of Union Complex,saidhewasaskedtosurrenderthe assets, including keys to the building to the newcommittee.

Harveydisclosedthattwoweeksago,he wasinthecompoundofthefacilityassessing someworkstobedoneonthelibrary,whenan individual-LakeramSingh‘Raj’-showedup with three others, whom he pointed out as Indira Jafarally, Berget McGregor, and OudwinDouglas.

“They said to me that day- Monday- I must not do anything at the complex

anymore,andalso,OudwintoldmethatIwill receive a letter….I was made to understand that the overseer was searching for me. He alsowentbythesecretarywithaletterstating that I should submit the assets for the complexandthekeys….”

Hesaidhewasalsoaskedtosignaletter to which he refused. It was said too that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) councilors areinfullsupportofthenewcommittee.

Heexplainedthathetriedtogettheletter tomakeaphotofile,butwasdenied.Heopted againstsigningtheletteraswassuggestedby themember,whothenleft.

HarveysaidheisaresidentoftheNo.53 Village for over 30 years, and worked betweenNo.52-63NDC.

Hesaidthereisapowerstrugglebetween twowomenforcontrolofthecomplexwhich wasbuiltin1972.

Vibert Welch, an 85-year-old pastor and former chairman of the No. 54 NDC, explained that the establishment was constructedbycoordinationofthefirstever Continued on page 17

The We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party is calling on the Ministries of E d u c a t i o n , L o c a l Government and Regional Development, and the Region Three Regional Democratic Council to urgently intervene at Zeeburg Secondary School, where teachers and students arereportedlyfacingbatand pigeon infestations, foul odours and dangerous structuralfailures.

In a statement on Wednesday, WIN reported being alerted to worsening conditions at the school, including animal infestation in classrooms and surrounding areas, and cracked or collapsing sectionsofthebuilding.

The party published images highlighting the deteriorating state of the institution. “These bats and pigeonsexposeteachersand students to unsanitary conditions, foul odors, and health hazards. We believe that the exposure to these pests has led to a notable increase in respiratory discomfort and other illnesses,”WINstated.

The opposition party further noted that from the reports reaching them, no effective or lasting corrective measures have been taken to address the issue, and that teachers are forcedtotakeonthepersonal expense of installing mesh and wooden boards to limit further entry for bats and

A dangerous crack runs along the wall above the students heads

of the

that is facing severe infestation and structural failures.

pigeons. Equally alarming, the party noted is the structural failures around the school’ compound WIN indicated that it finds these conditions completely unacceptable “WIN emphasises that teachers are educators, not maintenance personnel,andsuchremedial and structural work must be the responsibility of the relevant authorities WIN therefore calls on the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Local Government and Regional Chairman(3)toimmediately assessandconductrepairsto Zeeburg Secondary School where needed,” the party stated.

Kaieteur

N e w s understands that Zeeburg S e c o n d a r y School which pened in 2016 currently has close to 600 students and over 50 teachers.

O n We d n e s d a y, concerned teachers and parents confirmed with this publicationthattheschoolis indeed facing an infestation problem and structural failures for some time now Sharing images with this newspaper,aPTAExecutive member informed that the beam in her child’s classroom has started to crumble and though the situation has been reported multiple times during meetings, nothing has been done to address it. Worried that the infrastructure may one day collapse and hurt

those present in the classroom, the parent is calling on authorities to fix this and other failures at the building. Speaking on the infestation, the parent described “The smell is so pungent sometimes and the noise the pigeons make Some of the desk have poop in the morning the cleaners have to be there early in the morningtocleanit.”

One teacher, who requested anonymity, mentioned the infestation has been an issue for some years now with the droppings and odour raising concerns While some sectionhasbeenblockedoff, Continued on page 16

Section

Zeeburg Secondary School

Regional Chairman of Region Three, Sheik Ayube in the compound at the school, where it was alleged had the presence of snakes.

Pres. Ali in new push to break barriers, unlock millions in tourism sector

President Ali addressing the gathering

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan AlionTuesdayeveningunveileda sweepingsetofinitiativesdesigned to shatter longstanding barriers in the tourism sector and position Guyana as a global destination capableofdrivingmajoreconomic growth.

President Ali said his plan includes building the capacity of local tourism operators, unveiling plans to hire a dedicated team of youngprofessionalswhowillwrite proper business proposals, help form consortia, and guide

businesses through every requirement needed to secure investment incentives and approvals.

Addressing a large audience of industry leaders, government officials, diplomats, and awardees at the GuyanaTourismAuthority’s 2025 Awards and Gala at the Guyana Marriott hotel, the President said there are generous fiscal incentives for tourism and related investments, including tax and duty exemptions, and said no outstandingapplicationsaresitting attheinvestmentoffice.

“There is absolutely not one outstanding investment application at the Guyana Office for Investment,” he revealed, adding that “some investors still misunderstand what is available or are asking for additional benefits without first using the incentivesthatalreadyexist.”

“Less than 10 per cent of the incentives available to the tourism sector are being utilised. If the problem is people not making use

From

of what is in the system, then we must bridge that gap,” President Alisaid.

Thepresidentsaidhewouldbe willing to hire four young professionals who will work exclusively with the sector, developing business plans, investment proposals, and registration requirement

, including acquiring TIN numbers, company incorporation and full compliancewithregulations.

“Gotothemwithyourideas,let them help you write your business plan, prepare your proposal, and take it to GoInvest,” he urged operators. “There is no backdoor approach,” he said, adding that if operators want to be part of the sector,theymustabidebytherules, regulations and governance requirements.

He called on the Tourism and HospitalityAssociation of Guyana (THAG),GoInvest,theMinistryof Finance and the new team to form an inter-agency mechanism that

will guide operators from concept to investment agreement. “In the last two weeks alone, we received nine Expressions of Interest for investments in tourism,” he announced.“Ifalltheoperatorsin this room come together and raisedUS$10million,andthensay to the President, ‘Help us leverage another US$30 million,’ we can take one of these projects to the next level. That is the role of THAG.”

Theheadofstateassuredthata united front would strengthen Guyana’s case before international investors and institutions such as the International Development Bank(IDB).

The president emphasised that government investment in tourism infrastructureisunprecedentedand transformative. He listed major projects underway or about to begin,including:

More than 15 hotels completedorunderconstruction

·Twonewregionalairportsand

theexpansionofCJIATerminal2

· 32 hinterland airstrips slated forupgrades

· A new cultural market at Palmyra

M a j o r w a t e r f r o n t developments,includingamarina

· New national museum, art galleryandupgradestothezooand BotanicalGardens

· Four new ferries designed withtourisminmind

· The Corentyne River Bridge, the New Berbice River Bridge and thedeep-waterport

· Major road and connectivity projectslinkingGuyanatoBrazil

“These are not isolated investments, they are part of a national push to modernise every aspect of the tourism ecosystem,” thePresidentsaid.

He praised First Lady Arya Ali’s transformative beautification initiatives, saying her work has lifted the country’s aesthetic standards“fromtheseawallstothe hinterland.” President Ali said

‘nothing good will come from you’ to

IDCE graduate -

Afiana Lesperance, a single

mother whose childhood was marked by hardship and discouragement, is among the four hundred andsixty-nine(469)studentssettograduate fromtheUniversityofGuyana’sInstituteof DistanceandContinuingEducation(IDCE) onFriday,December5.2025.

Afiana’s story mirrors that of many IDCE graduands who seized a vital second chance to transform their lives. Completing the Certificate Programme in Industrial Relations and Management has unlocked new possibilities for her, including the opportunity to pursue a degree at the UniversityofGuyana.

Herpathwasfarfromeasy Astheeldest of seven children raised by a single mother, Afiana confronted low expectations and

Guyana is already in discussions for major global sporting and culturaleventsandhassubmitteda formal bid for an “extraordinary global event” in 2030, the details of which will be revealed later “We’re going big,” hesaid. “If we want to create a destination, we mustfightforit.Wearecompeting withtheworld.”

The President highlighted the sector’sstrongperformance: 18% increase in visitor arrivalsforJan–July2025

· 1.4 billion global tourists in 2024, with massive spending and jobcreation

·Guyana’sbronzeawardatthe JapanTourismExhibition

· At least five international tourismawardsinthelastfiveyears He said the global rebound in tourismafterthepandemicpresents a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for Guyana. “The world is discovering Guyana,” he said. “Demand is rising, and our strategyisworking.”(DPI)

Single mother defies the odds

harsh judgments from teachers and neighbours. “They would say hurtful things like, ‘Nothing good will come from you.’

Those words could have destroyed me, but instead, they fueled my determination,” she recalled. Afiana credits her son as her greatest source of strength and motivation.

“EverythingIpushedthrough;Ididforhim. He has been my greatest motivation,” she shared.

Theturningpointcameatworkwhenshe wasdeniedajobopportunitysolelybecause she lacked the required qualifications

“Those words of denial cut deeper than a knife,” she said. Rather than accept defeat, Afiana reached out to the University of Guyana and learned that “It’s never too late for anything.” Encouraged, she enrolled in the Industrial Relations and Management

programmeatIDCE.Balancingstudies,fulltime employment, and parenting required immense discipline and sacrifice. “My journey was challenging but extremely rewarding. There were many late nights, moments of doubt, and times when I felt overwhelmed. But I persevered because I wantedabetterlifeformysonandmyself,” sheexplained.

Through hard work and perseverance, Afiana now serves as the Human Resource ManageratProfessionalGuardServices—a position she once thought unattainable.

“Graduating means everything to me. It is proofthatmypastdoesnotdefinemyfuture. It represents growth, independence, and breakinggenerationalbarriers,”shesaid.

Afianareliedonthesupportofherson Continued on page 16

Awardees pose with Tourism Minister, Susan Rodrigues following the ceremony Tuesday night.

Afiana

‘Doggie’freedoffirearm,assaultcharges

Five of the six charges laid against 36-year-old

businessman Bradly

Sampson, known as “Doggie,” were dismissed whenheappearedbeforethe Georgetown Magistrates’ CourtonWednesday Sampsonwasinitiallyhit with the charges in July during his first court appearance, where he pleaded not guilty to allegations that on July 15, 2025, at the Square of the Revolution, he unlawfully wounded Genista Fordyce and used obscene language and threatening behaviour towards her He was also

accused of behaving disorderly in a public place, unlawfully carrying a firearm, and possessing an unlicensed firearm All offences were said to have occurredatthesamelocation on the same day. The allegations arose out of a dispute regarding payments owed to individuals by We InvestinNationhood(WIN).

During Wednesday’s hearing before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, the prosecutor informed the courtthattwoofthefirearmrelated charges; unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying an unlicensed

firearminpublicwerebeing dismissed based on advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions No further detailswereprovidedforthe withdrawal.

On previous hearings, threeothercharges;unlawful wounding,obscenelanguage and threatening behaviour werealsodismissed.

With one charge still before the court; disorderly behaviour, Sampson’s attorney, Jevon Cox, requested that the matter be dismissed,arguingthatsince the commencement of the case the prosecution had failed to produce any

evidence. Cox noted that no statements had been presented between July and December, telling the court thatjudicialtime“shouldnot bewastedonthismatter.”

In response, the

magistrate sought clarification from the prosecution, who indicated that disclosure would be ready by December 5. As a result, the matter was adjourned to Friday, December 5, giving the prosecution one final opportunity to proceed on the sole remaining charge. All firearm-related charges arenowdismissed.

Meanwhile,inrelationto the other matters, Cox explained that at previous court hearings, he made an application for the three matters to be dismissed againstSampsononthebasis thatthestatementsdisclosed bytheprosecutionincludeda statement from the virtual complainant stating that she wished to have no further legal actions against Sampson “She never showedupincourtaswell,” Coxsaid.

Bradley Sampson called ‘Doggie’at the Georgetown Magistrates’Court

The charges stemmed from a viral video in which Sampson appeared to be in possession of a firearm. At his first appe

nce, MagistrateMcGustygranted him$270,000bail.

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Guyanese react to new national tint policy

With the new vehicle tint policy set to take effect nationwide on December 31, 2025, Guyanese, particularly drivers, are expressing mixed reactions.

Under the updated regulations, motorists found violating the tint limits will face stricter penalties, including a $75,000 fine.

Last week, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond announced that drivers may now use tint allowing up to 35 per cent light penetration without requiring a waiver from her ministry. She explained that the measure applies uniformly, although restricted waivers will be introduced for high-security categories, including diplomats, government officials, and other persons specifically approved by the minister.

lished, my personal thought on the matter is this policy should have been implemented a while ago, and I am in total support of it,” he said.

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Following the announcement, Kaieteur News sought to hear from the “man in the street” of their reactions. Most respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the 35 per cent limit and criticised the heavy penalty, arguing that more serious traffic offences carry significantly lower fines. Below are some of their views: Jeron Boucher, a frequent driver, supported the initiative, saying he was not surprised by the policy. “I think for security purposes police must be readily able to see the persons driving the car, because that dark tint could really be a mask/cover for nefarious activities. Secondly, I think the extremely dark tint contributed to a lot of the vehicular accidents that have been occurring as it is extremely difficult to see clearly through same especially in the nights. That being estab-

Another driver, S.N (Initials only given) also welcomed the change. “I think it’s good. It’s better than what we had previously. We just need to see the penalties being applied to offenders equally. If one feels he needs a darker tint, there is a process that they need to go through to apply for that, which, if they truly believe they have good reason to get it, the process will grant them.”

Monique (only given name) supported updating the rules, but felt the 35 per cent limit was too light. “As an ordinary citizen, I understand why the tint rules needed updating, while the 35 per cent limit is appreciated for bringing clarity and uniformity. It still seems a bit too light, considering our climate and daily life. Many of us use tint for heat, privacy, and a general sense of safety. What

people really want is fairness. If we all have to adjust, then the rules should feel equal for everyone, not just some. We’re willing to follow the law, but it should also reflect the everyday reality of living and driving in Guyana,” she said. Vieira (only given name) felt the government’s priorities were misplaced. “To me there are more serious things going on within the country right now and they are worrying about tint. Other countries allow persons to have tint on cars, the percentage does not matter as long as the front screen isn’t fully tinted eg. Jamaica. I mean in todays’ society with crime so high and all the road accidents, murder and domestic violence going on we are looking at tint. What you’re gonna see most police will still have tint and nothing will be done about it. I say if you want to implement a new law do it the right way and what goes for one must go for all not because we know someone, means I will get approved with a tint waver. It should be across the

board. Only vehicles that should be heavenly tinted are the president’s cars.”

On the fine, Vieira added: “I don’t agree with that for more serious offense, the fine is not even half of that. Every day you on the road whether it be a passenger or driver and you blatantly see offenses being committed and police are sometimes right there and do or say nothing.”

Rawl Toney argued the policy was unrealistic. “I think the tint policy should be realistic.

Thirty-five per cent tint is almost like having no tint at all. I think when you look at other countries within the region like Barbados, their policy is a bit more realistic; 20 to 25 per cent respectively. There isn’t a clear measure where ordinary persons like me that troubles with light from the sun, there isn’t a clear way to say, okay fine what do I do? Do I go to the doctor to say this is my prescription so will I be allowed a tint waiver? Additionally, (Continued on page 18)

Zeeburg Secondary battles bats, pigeons, crumbling...

From page 12 the pigeons and bats still find ways to enter the classrooms. Another educator highlighted that, just over a year now,

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some parts of the school started to “flake and crack.”

“Sometime, last month in a staff room, a part of the ceiling collapsed, the concrete ceiling came down early in the morning,” they recalled to this publication.

Kaieteur News understands that after images surfaced on social media of the condition of the school, Regional Officials through their

contractors started to conduct some works to address the pigeon and bats infestation. As it relates to the infrastructure of school, Kaieteur News was informed that authorities are considering to breakdown the building and reconstruct a new one.

A decision on this is yet to be made. Meanwhile, WIN had reported and published images that among the prob-

lems affecting the school is the presence of snakes in the compound.

Responding to this, Regional Chairman Sheik Ayube via a Facebook post refuted these allegations.

Upon a visit to the school on Wednesday, the chairman confirmed that the “circulating photo was an old picture and not related to the current situation at the school.”

From ‘nothing good will come from you’

From page 14 and siblings, who encouraged her when times were tough, and she expressed gratitude for the lecturers and staff at IDCE.

Above all, she credits her faith: “I thank God for the courage, strength, wisdom, and understanding that He has blessed me with. Without God, none of this would be possible,” she said. Having overcome obstacles that many would consider insurmountable, Afiana

hopes her story inspires others. “Do not give up on yourself. Your situation is not your destination. You can achieve anything once you believe you deserve better,” she urged. With her IDCE journey complete, Afiana plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Guyana, furthering her qualifications in human resources and management. The University of

Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education will host its Convocation on Friday, December 5th at 13:00 hrs at the University’s Turkeyen Campus.

The public is invited to view the ceremony live on the University’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ uniofguyana (Feature by the Department of Events, Conferences and Communication (DECC), Office of the ViceChancellor, University of Guyana.)

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Heavily tinted vehicles

Omaiappliesforenvironmentalauthorisationforgoldproject

…to start community consultation in two weeks

Canadian miner Omai Gold Mines Corp. has s u b m i t t e d i t s application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for environmentalauthorisationfor its RegionSevengoldproject.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Elaine Ellingham, speaking during a recently aired Crux Investor interview, said she is currently in Guyana to advance the permittingprocess

“Part of the reason I’m here is because our permitting application; we got our environmental permit last November using that previous PEA (Preliminary Economic Assessment) but we’ve applied for an EIA (Environmental ImpactAssessment),”shesaid She noted that the EPA has already issued the public notice “So we have our application in andso,ournextprocessisdoing ourcommunityconsultation So actually somebody this morning just handed me the

notice, that it’s out for public comment and in fact I have community consultation meetings,twoweeksfromnow,” Ellinghamstated

Shealsoexplainedthatwhile the mine plan is being updated, the project’s general layout remains unchanged Omai’s CEO noted, “I think the footprintthatwe’relookingatis very similar to what we had before,it’sjustthelargerpitand the underground portal still looksthesame ”

A notice published on the EPA’swebsitestatesthatOmai’s subsidiary, Avalon Gold

Exploration Inc has applied for environmental authorisation for goldminingandprocessingwithin Permit Licence #03/2024 at the confluence of the Essequibo and SeballiRivers,Omai,inthePotaro MiningDistrict.

EPA noted that an EIA is required because the proposed operation, involving both openpit and underground mining, m a y h a v e s i g n i f i c a n t

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Omai Gold Mines Corp., Elaine Ellingham

environmental impacts As such,the agency invited members of the public to submit written commentsorraiseissuestheywish toseeaddressedintheEIA.

The public have up to December 17 to submit their commentsto:“TheChairman,The EnvironmentalAssessment Board, eabguyana21@gmail.com.”

Asummaryoftheprojectcan be viewed on the EPA’s website

or uplifted at the EPA’s Office address below, at the reasonable costofphotocopying Omai holds a 100% interest in the past-producing Omai gold project, which hosts two orogenic gold deposits: the shear-hosted Wenot Deposit and the adjacent intrusive-hosted Gilt Creek Deposit.

Earlier this year, Omai

announced an updated combined Mineral Resources Estimate (MRE) of 2 1 million ounces of gold (indicated), a 7% increase, and 4 3 million ounces of gold (inferred), a 92% increase from the previous MRE

Once a prolific gold producer from 1993 to 2005, the mine yielded 3 8 million ounces ofgold,producinganaverageof more than 300,000 ounces of gold per year during a period whengoldtradedbelowUS$400 perounce

Since its return to “miningfriendly” Guyana, Omai has revitalised the property, which

Passing the Test: Hurricane

Melissa and the Caribbean’s Resilience

ByLiliaBurunciuc (World Bank Director fortheCaribbean)

As another hurricane season draws to a close, the collective exhale that sometimes follows never came Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica, leaving the country reeling. Homes and schools were destroyed, roads and hospitals damaged, and countlessfamiliesdisplaced. The scale of the devastation is heartbreaking—and the recovery will take time, resources,andresolve.

In Kingston, where I’m based,I’veseenthatresolve everywhere in neighbors

helping more rural neighbors, in local authorities working through

exhaustion, and in volunteersdrivinglengthsto delivercriticalsupplies.This spiritofsolidarityrunsdeep in the Caribbean. It has carried the region through every hurricane season, and itwillcarryJamaicathrough thisone.

ButMelissaalsoshowed something new This time, thefamiliarstoryofstrength and recovery was matched bypreparedness.Behindthe scenes, years of investment in resilience paid off. Jamaicawasbetterequipped - f i n a n c i a l l y a n d institutionally - to act quickly when disaster

struck Within days of landfall, the government received a US$91.9 million payout from the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF), providing much-needed liquidity for early response A larger disbursement US$150 million from Jamaica’s catastrophe bond, arranged withthesupportoftheWorld Bank. This ability to mobilize resources quickly did not appear overnight. It reflects a regional architecture the Caribbeanhasbeenbuilding for more than a decade. Countriesnowrelyonamix of tools—from Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Options to Contingent

Emergency Response Components and Rapid Response Options, insurance schemes, and catastrophe bonds that provide financing at different moments of a crisis.Together, they form a more predictable and diversified system for respondingtoshocks.Atthe same time, countries are strengthening the systems that determine how well those resources are used. Governments are improving risk governance, integrating climate considerations into budgets, and tightening fiscal frameworks so that recovery is faster and

r

sustainable Institutional capacity has also become a central focus. Countries are investing in data platforms that track hazards, earlywarning systems that reach more people, and coordination mechanisms that allow agencies to work together under pressure These investments ensure thatpreparednessisnotonly financial, but also operational.

The result is a shift in how the region approaches risk. Climate and disaster considerationsarenolonger confined to environment ministries; they guide national planning, investment decisions, and development strategies. It is one of the most significant changes I have seen in my years working alongside Caribbeangovernments.

Hurricane Melissa, however, reminds us that this work is never finished. To stay ahead of growing risks, countries will need to keep strengthening what they have built Three prioritiesstandout.

1. Greater private-sector engagement. Governments cannot carry the full cost of resilience. Insurance coverage remains low, and access to affordable finance for resilient housing and small businesses is limited.

Financial institutions can help by offering incentives

for climate-smart investments and expanding resilience-linked lending thatencouragesadaptation.

2 Maintenance and sustainability. Building resilient infrastructure is only the beginning; maintaining it ensures protection endures Includingmaintenancecosts in national budgets and involving communities in caring for public assets can safeguard investments over time.

3. Data and foresight. Strongdisaster-riskdataand early-warning systems are

essential Regional platforms like CDEMA’s hazard-monitoring network

a n d t h e O E C S Environmental Information

System are valuable foundations Integrating these tools with national planning and fiscal systems will ensure that risk information guides every majordecision.

Across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, the determination to rebuild is matchedbyacommitmentto prepare. Our shared task now is to keep building on this momentum, so that when the next storm comes, it finds the Caribbean stronger, more united, and better prepared than ever before.

benefits from much existing infrastructure

Of the two gold deposits located on the property, Omai has been more focused on the Wenot“superpit”

With gold trading above U S $ 4 , 0 0 0 p e r o u n c e , Ellingham has insisted that the operation will remain strong evenifglobalpricesease She contended that Omai’s Guyana gold project stands out becauseofitsgradeprofile

She outlined that early 2025

Wenot revealed exceptionally strong intercepts

Ellingham said, “These are the widest, best intercepts ever for We

seeing things like that you can addtheouncesquickly” Those results prompted Omai

announced it had added a fifth rig at Wenot, just two months after deploying a fourth rig in September

Power struggle erupts!

Frompage12 committee “The money raised to build this complex came from a portion of reservedlandthatwehaveat the back which was left for communal grazing and future extension of house lots.”

Welch,whoservedfrom 1970 to 1992, highlighted that the people of union at that time decided to construct a facility for meetings and other activities In 1971, a committee agreed that the facility would be built throughself-help.

When funds were exhausted,theywereableto secure financial assistance f r o m “ c o m m u n i t y development” to complete the project The senior former chairman bemoaned the rising conflict, and took aim at individuals who he regarded as unfamiliar with thehistoryofthecommunity orthefacility

“From that time, I have beenanactivememberinthe community, I have been an active member in the complex committee, and I amdisturbednowthatsome peoplewhoknownothingat all about this village, about this complex are fighting to takeoverthiscomplexfrom us.”

In light of the brewing controversy,Welchiscalling onthe“higherauthorities”to intervene.Healsoaddressed the development as a mere

ploy by the PPP to instill discord, but affirmed his determination to overcome suchefforts.

“What the PPP is trying to do is divide the people in my union When they succeed in dividing the peopleoftheunion,itmeans thattheywilltakecontrolof this building, but I cannot allow that This building belongs to the people of the union, and it must serve the people of the union to the bestofitsability.”

Offering comments on the matter, the chairman of the No 52 - 63 NDC divulged that the NDC conducted community meetings to address concerns regarding the mannerinwhichthecurrent committee manages the complex.

Ghansham noted the non-submission of financial statements from the management committee for over two years, despite it beingrequestedbytheNDC. Both Harvey and Welch, he stated, were invited to the meeting but none of them attended.

He said the new committee was then established, following a request by residents The chairman said that the NDC is responsible for the transitioning of the old committee to the new, ensuringthenewcommittee secures the keys and other assetsofthefacility

Israel accused of ‘manoeuvring’ as it says Gaza crossing open one way only

(AL-JAZEERA)Israel said it received the bodyofacaptivefromGaza through the International CommitteeoftheRedCross and added it will begin allowing Palestinians to leave through a border crossingwithEgypt–butnot return.

The announcements follow statements from the armed wings of Hamas and thePalestinianIslamicJihad sayingtheywouldhandover the body at 5pm (15:00 GMT)onWednesdayafterit was recovered in northern Gaza.

“The coffin will then be transferred to Israel, to the Health Ministry National Center of Forensic Medicine. Upon completion of the identification process and as per the findings, formal notification will be delivered to the family,” the Israelimilitarysaidinapost onX.

This comes a day after Israel said remains previously transferred by Hamas were not linked to anyofthebodiesofcaptives

Islamic Jihad and Hamas soldiers transport a body bag in northern Gaza on Wednesday [AFP]

stillheldintheGazaStrip. Thehandoverofremains forms part of a United States-brokered plan aimed at ending Israel’s genocidal war on the Palestinian people in Gaza. A fragile ceasefire continues to hold despite persistent Israeli killingsacrosstheenclave.

Under the terms of the ceasefire, the long-closed Rafah crossing is to be opened fo

cal evacuationsandtraveltoand fromGaza.

The World Health

Organization says there are more than 16,500 sick and woundedpeoplewhoneedto leaveGazaformedicalcare. It was not immediately clear when the border crossing would be opened, however, because of a dispute Israel is having with

Egypt.

‘Israelimanoeuvring’

E g y p t ’ s S t a t e Information Service, citing anunnamedofficial,rejected the claim, saying Cairo has not agreed to any plan to open the crossing for outboundmovementonly Any agreement with Israel, the official said, would require opening Rafah in both directions in

line with the current ceasefire plan. The source denied coordination with Israeloverthereopening.

HusseinHaridy,aformer Egyptian assistant foreign minister,saidEgyptremains “committed to UN Security Council Resolution 2803, adopted on October 17 last year, which endorsed a ceasefireplan”.

Allcrossingsshouldbe opened under the resolution, and Egypt is w o r k i n g w i t h t h e European Union and the Palestinian Authority on operating the posts, including Rafah, when conditions allow, he told AlJazeerafromCairo

“We need to operate the Rafah crossing according to the [US President Donald] Trump peace plan Ever since 1948, the date Israel was established, we’ve become accustomed to Israeli manoeuvring when it comes to implementing ceasefire agreements,” said Haridy

“Having said that, we

will take Israel to task if they don’t implement the S e c u r i t y C o u n c i l resolution ” R e p o r t i n g f r o m Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, Al Jazeera’s Nour Odeh said Israel’s announcement reflects a patternof“drip-dropping” its obligations under the ceasefireagreement

Odeh said Israel intends to maintain a veto on who can exit, including medical cases, and is not allowing thousands of Palestinians who have registered to return to Gazatodoso.

Gaza’s Health Ministry andtheGovernmentMedia Office say Israeli forces h a v e k i l l e d 3 5 7 Palestinians in the first 50 days of the truce Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 70,117 Palestinians and wounded 170,999 sinceOctober2023 Atotal of1,139peoplewerekilled inIsraelduringtheOctober 7,2023Hamas-ledattacks, and about 200 were taken captive

Guyanese react to new national tint policy...

Frompage16

I think an outrage with the publicwouldbethefine,it’s not necessarily the fine itself, its fining someone $75,000 for tint when there are numbers to prove that dangerous driving and speeding causes death and the fine for that is $7,500, I understandyouwanttoputa harshpenalty,butthereisno correlation to tint, accidents and crime. I think a lot of people think that their priorities are mixed up and webelievetheyshouldfinda realisticwaytoimplementit. The honourable minister should find a way to deal withthecommonmanwhere tintisconcerned.”

Taxi driver Donald Primo said, “Well for me I finditridiculous,notthefine butthe35percentminimum. I do agree that stricter penalty should be implemented for defaulters, however most drivers use

tint to protect us from damagestobothourcarand person.Weallknowthesun don’tbeeasyinthiscountry and a 35 per cent tint wouldn’t work even if the ACisrunning.

I think whoever decided on the requirements for tint is someone that don’t normally be in a car or one that have special privileges for lower percentage I recommend the minimum tintbebetween15and20per centwithourweather,itwill still allow enough light through the car and people willbeabletoseethrough.”

Chris (only given name) argued that tint is a safety feature. “The new restrictions on window tint are concerning, given the clear practical benefits tint provides.Inacountrythatis hot most of the year, tint is not cosmetic, it is a safety feature. It reduces glare on the dashboard, improves

visibility,andlowersinterior temperatures, helping prevent heat related discomfort and accidents.

Tint,whenusedresponsibly, does not create harm or contribute to conflict A more thoughtful, climateaware approach is needed. Reasonable levels of tint should remain to allow for the safety and comfort of drivers and passengers,” he said.

Timothy Jaisingh said, “Thepolicyisnotbadbutthe 35 per cent is too light and doesn’tgivemuchprivacy.A 20 per cent is great for privacy and still had great visibility; however, the 70 per cent could drop to a 4550 per cent. But when it comes to the fine, very atrocious because why is it $75,000 for a piece of thin plastic,thatonlycost$2000? I strongly believe that the fine should be dropped to $10,000, because what if a

personthatisnotfinancially stable gets charged? It’s Christmastimesothatmean they’ll spend Christmas in jail instead of with their families over a thin piece of plastic?”

Tricia Nandalall said the 70 per cent windshield requirement offers little difference from having no tint “To be exact the windshieldstheycantryand doabetterpercentage70per cent is not much of a difference with tint and without. The sun still gets through that easily,” she said.

Zane Atherley criticised both the tint limit and fine. “FormeIdon’tthinkit’sthe rightmovebytheministerof home affairs. A fine being $75000that’sjustridiculous. How can the other lawbreaking charges be lower than10kandtintofallthings is so much money? For me 20percentonthedriverand

passenger side is reasonable and 5 per cent at the back is good. Asforwindscreen70 percentisnotgoodenough.

The minister is complaining aboutbeingabletoseeinthe vehicle and see out, when with50percentyoucansee in someone vehicle and you can comfortably see out. It helps way better with the heatwearecurrentlyfacing.

I just believe things are unfairinthecountryandwe are treated with little to no respect While they are focusing on tint other major lawsarebeingbrokendaily,” hesaid.

Taxi driver, Mark (only given name) argued that enforcement is inconsistent.

“As a taxi driver when the sun is facing me, it could bother when I’m driving on theroad.

And the penalty is bad because majority of the vehicles on the road, minibus driver, private car

they can whatever tint they want,theydon’tgetpullin,” hesaid.

Taxi driver, Christian Porter strongly opposed the newlimits.“Thecurrenttint that is being allowed on our vehicleswill not do. First of all, 20 per cent across all glasses is the starting point for comfort and protection from harmful UV rays and etc. Having 70 per cent on the front screen is like having no tint on at all and the heat will submerge the vehicle burning the passengeranddriver. So that tint legislation doesn’t make any sense. That’s just finding ways to make civilians’ lives much harder Ministers don’t drive without heavy tint and they will never change their minds because they are allowed to have what they want. WeGuyanesecitizens shouldn’t settle for less,” he said.

GPHC successfully performs first-ever chain kidney transplant in the Caribbean

Guyana has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone as the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) completed the Caribbean’s first chain kidney transplant, involving four donor–recipient pairs and eight surgeriesoverfourdays.

The achievement places Guyanaattheforefrontofregional transplantmedicine,markinganew era for advanced, life-saving healthcare within the Caribbean community

Achaintransplant,alsocalleda paired-exchange chain, allows someone who wants to donate a kidney to a loved one but is medically incompatible to instead donate to another patient in the chain. In return, their loved one receives a compatible kidney from someoneelseinthechain.

This creates a loop of donors and recipients, maximising the number of successful transplants. This chain transplant is the first of its kind in the Caribbean. With kidney disease on the rise globally and in Guyana, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony revealed that

from 2023 to date, 2,200 new kidney patients have been registered at GPHC’s nephrology unit.Hesaidthattherearecurrently 316 Guyanese receiving dialysis treatment,with246ofthemhaving startedtreatmentthisyearalone.

“Every successful transplant is a second chance at life and freedom from dialysis, restored health, and renewed hope for families,”MinisterAnthonysaid.

GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Robbie Rambarran, commended the dedication of the staff who made the historic accomplishment possible. “Your work is truly extraordinary and a testament to our commitment to providing world-class healthcare services,” the CEO stated, noting that expanding transplant capacity has reduced waiting times and broadened access for underserved communities.

Lead transplant surgeon Dr Kishore Persaud highlighted the complexity of the four-pair chain procedure, which relied on advanced virtual cross-matching techniques to match each donor withacompatiblerecipient.“These surgeries were performed entirely by the doctors and staff of GPHC. We have proven that our own can leadthewayintheCaribbean,”Dr Persaud emphasised. Guyana now leadstheregionwith13transplants completed in 2025, surpassing countries such as Antigua, Barbados, The Bahamas, and TrinidadandTobago.

The Ministry of Health stated thatthemilestoneispartofongoing efforts to strengthen transplant services, expand access to specialised care, and introduce deceased-donor transplantation, whichisexpectedtosavehundreds of lives and alleviate the pressure on dialysis services GPHC reaffirmed its mission to deliver cutting-edge care, comprehensive patient support, and continued medical innovation for the benefit ofallGuyanese.(DPI)

Legislation will be in place to ensure privacy of data in E-ID system - AG

Attorney General (AG) andMinisterofLegalAffairs

Anil Nandlall has assured citizens that there will be legislationinplacetoensure that whatever data is requiredandprovidedforthe E-ID system remains private.

On Tuesday night’s episode of his weekly programme “Issues in the News” he said that it was already explained that the legislation governing that data and the card are not yet in place. Nevertheless, the p e r s o n s w h o a r e

...says current info obtained already public

that backdrop,” Nandlall assured.

Henotedthathehasseen the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and other commentators expressing fear on how the data is being obtained and thetypeofdata.

After dismissing the fears as being “unfounded, without basis, and polluted bypolitics,”hefurtherstated that “…this fear that the government is accumulating dataandwillmisusethedata andwillmanipulatethedata for ulterior design and purposes is one that is without basis and unfounded.The government has access to this informationanyhowthrough thevariousstateagencies.”

“Oncealltheprocessesarein place and the personnel are in place and the mechanism to administer the full implementation of the legislationareinplace.Then the legislation will be brought into force and these processeswillbeunfoldedin accordancewiththelawand then it becomes obligatory on every citizen to become part of the process against

participating in the preliminary roll out are doingitonavoluntarybasis andtheinformationtheyare provided is already in the public information system, he said. “So, data such as name, addresses, ID card numbers, national ID card numbers, passport numbers, TIN, photograph, driver’s license numbers, marriage certificates,birthcertificates are all information that are already in the public information system of this country,”theAGexplained. He highlighted that, persons can go to the public agenciesandobtainthistype of information, as it is neitherpeculiar,privateorof afinancialormedicalnature.

Nandlall reaffirmed that when the process truly begins whatever data is obtained from citizens, especially “the type of information that are deeply personal that laws, data protectionlawsarepassedto protect.”

On November 26 this publication reported that A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is sounding the alarm over what it calls the government’s reckless

and unlawful rollout of the new Digital ID system, warning that thousands of Guyanese are already being registered without the legal protections Parliament intended In a statement issuedbyAPNUMemberof Parliament, Sherod Duncan, the party said it is “deeply concerned” by Prime Minister Mark Phillips’ admission that the administration has already begun issuing Digital ID cards even though two crucial pieces of legislation remain inactive: the Digital Identity Card Act, and the DataProtectionAct.

Duncan said while A P N U s u p p o r t s modernisation and digital

transformation, no responsible government shouldcollectbiometricdata without the legal safeguards meant to prevent abuse. “A major red flag Guyanese cannot afford to ignore.”

According to Duncan, the government is now gathering and storing sensitive biometric information from public servants “without the full force of the law, without oversight, and without the firewalls Parliament intended.”

Duncan said this issue does not stand alone. “In recent weeks, APNU has already raised alarms about the Government’s misuse of citizen data, its refusal to operationalise the Data Protection Act, its mishandling of electionrelated communications in Parliamentary Questions already tabled on the integrity of the Digital Identity ecosystem. Today’s development expands and intensifies those concerns.”

The APNU MP said, senior m e m b e r s o f t h e Government, including the Vice President, have publicly announced that the Digital ID will soon be mandatory for accessing government services, securing employment, opening and maintaining bank accounts, remitting money, and potentially for migrant registration and regularisation Public servantsformthefirstwave. The rest of the population will follow, under a regime that still lacks any active statutoryprotections.

“These developments raise unavoidable questions: Whyistherollouthappening

before the laws take effect? Why build the system now, but activate the protections later? Guyana is witnessing the rapid assembly of what experts describe as a “single spine of traceable identity,” linking employment records, banking information, cashgrant delivery, healthcare data, migration status, telecommunications metadata, and even inputs from the expanding national camera network This u n i f i e d i d e n t i t y infrastructure is being built without the legal architecture required to safeguard rights, prevent profiling, or ensure accountability,” the APNU MPsaid.

He added that this concernbecomesevenmore serious when placed in the wider context. “The same administration rushing ahead with this biometric ecosystem has previously misused citizens’ personal data during election campaigns, required bank accounts for cash-grant programmes, creating indirect financial surveillance, and refused to operationalise the Data ProtectionAct.

The recovering patients and officials following the surgery.

Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall.

2025 GCB SeniorWomen’s 50-Over Inter- County tournament final... Star-studded Berbice, in-form Essequibo face off today with title on the line

Tucber Park Cricket Club B team continues their merriment in the Anil Lalsa 40-over Second Division Cricket Competition Kisten 260, Caesar 131 leads demolition

The final showdown of theGCBSeniorWomen’s50Over Inter- County tournament will begin today with powerhouse Berbice seeking to challenge the inform Essequibo ladies with the title at stake, as action gets underway at the LBI Ground. Berbice have been onatear,especiallygiventhe low-scoring nature of the tournamentwhichmanaged to survive a number of scaresfromtheweather Essequibo have been

playingwithgritandheartbut their final challenge could

probably be their hardest, giventhelosstheysufferedat the hands of the Ancient County women a few rounds prior

Thursday December 04, 2025

ARIES(Mar 21–Apr 19)

Overall,theforecastfortoday is fairly good. The aspects seemtofavorfiguringoutthe meaning of all that's transpired over the past several weeks It's an opportunity for you to take a leisurely

TAURUS(Apr 20–May20)

Have you felt somewhat lost forthepastfewdays?Thefog maylifttodayandenableyou to situate yourself at last. You'reprobablyeagertosettle a question that has nagged at you and interfered with your judgment.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

You may have been feeling somewhat disillusioned Perhapsyoulostsightofyour goals or misplaced your faith in yourself. You'll feel some reliefbeginningtoday

CANCER(June21–July22)

Youmightbetemptedtosettle certain matters by radical means. The visionary part of you means you're painfully aware of the world's wrongs. You see no reason not to take actiontocorrectthem.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Today will be fairly calm in terms of outside events, but yourinnerworldislikelytobe in a rush of activity Today you wish you could find the solutiontoyourheartachesas well as your career predicaments.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

You have a lot of thinking to do about your professional goals, Virgo. You'll go over the elements to see if there isn't some way to approach thingsdifferently

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Youjustcan'tdoeverythingat once, Libra How do you expect to reduce your stress and recuperate while at the same time continue to be a superstar performer in every areaofyourlife.

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)

Thisisagoodmomenttoadapt your logic and reason to reality, Scorpio. If you don't, you're going to run into some inte

ual problems Everyone knows that you find newideasplentiful.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

It'sgoingtobealittledifficult talking to you today, Sagittarius. You, who can be easily influenced by others, will be listening to and criticizing everything that peoplesay

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Haveyoubeenreviewingyour family history lately, Capricorn? Of special interest is your cultural background. What educational, social, and religious environment were you born into? What are its values?Intheend.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) It's time to elevate your senseofself,Aquarius.You're justasgoodasanyoneelse,so why don't you believe it? The problem is that you're very sensitiveabouthavinganego. Even though you know everyonedoes.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Today your intellectual and expressive abilities should receive a boost from the planets.It'sanexcellenttimeto organize your thoughts about presentingaproject.

With Demerara skipper Kaysia Schultz out of the tournament, veteran offspinner Plaffianna Millington is currently the leading wicket-taker with 9 scalps, returning figures of 3-5, 1-5 and 5-10

Alongside leading runscorer Sheneta Grimmond, who has a total of 65 runs under her belt thus far, will belookingtoaddtoscoresof 38 and 24 come today. Essequibo’s leading scorer in Kumarie Persaud posted a string of double-digit scoresincluding17,11and 13, which has helped her side cement a spot in the hunt for this year’s cup. However, with stars like Laurene and Latoya Williams, Tramaine Marks, CyannaRetemiath,Shonette Belgraveandothers,allsolid batters, Essequibo will need to amplify their approach to batting against a decked out Berbicebowlingattack

Marks has also been good with the ball, leading with 5 wicketsincludingabestof3-14 but will need to show up big against a strong Berbice battingunit

Withthebattingyettogo past the likes of Crystal Durant,TieaIsaacs,Sherica Campbell alongside Grimmond and Millington whohad21notout,Berbice will be seeking to run roughshod with either or both bat/ball From a confidence angle, Berbice should be licking their chops as they knocked over today’s opponents with almost their entire batting orderintact

Berbicealsodidafantastic job in stifling Essequibo for well under a 100 runs, thus making today’s encounter more of a challenge for the CinderellaCountyWomen.

Today’s match is set to bowl off from 9:00h (CliftonRoss)

BySamuelWhyte

dominated a hapless Flying Stars cricket team that was brought to the ground in humiliation.

Winning the toss and batting first, Tucber Park B were on the gallop from the word go as they amassed a commanding 480-6 in their 30overs.Beatingtheir462-6 in 31 overs made the previous week against Blazers Leading the massacre was Berbice U19 batsman Kevin Kisten who slammed a career best 260, whichwaslacedwith31x6 and 14 x 4 in a devastating

Caesar hammered 13 for

performance.BerbiceSenior batsman Tomani Caesar followed up his first-round century with another dominant knock, rattling up 131with12x6and8x4.

TheFlyingStarsbowlers were plummet all over the ground with S Barran grabbingthreewickets. In reply, Flying Stars were bundled out for 119 in 16.4 overs. National youth players Micah Amsterdam and Gilbert Griffith Jr were the pick of the bowlers, snaring three wickets each. FastbowlerRoystonDuggin chipped in with two, while Kwesi Mickle and S. Lewis tookone,apiece.

Tomani

Tucber Park B, his second centuary

Sheneta Grimmond

Plaffianna Millington

Kumarie Persaud

New Zealand in front after Duffy’s

five-for

ESPNcricinfo - Jacob

Duffy’s maiden five-wicket haul in Tests gave New Zealand the upper hand on the second day of the first Test against West Indies in Christchurch. Matt Henry alsochippedinwithathreeforasWestIndiesfoldedfor 167 in response to New Zealand’s first-innings total of231.

This despite New

Zealand dropping four catches, three of those off

Henry, and giving away 28 extras.ForWestIndies,Shai Hope and Tagenarine Chanderpaul scored halfcenturiesbutonlytwoothers reached double-digits At stumps, New Zealand were 32fornolossintheirsecond innings,extendingtheirlead to96.

In the morning, West Indies needed only three balls to take the last New Zealandwicket,ZakFoulkes edging Jayden Seales down

wrecks West Indies

the leg side But they themselves lost an early wicket as Foulkes struck with the first ball of the second over Bowling around the wicket, he induced an outside edge from John Campbell, and Will Young took the catch divingtohisleftatthirdslip.

However, a few overs later,Youngdroppedamuch easier chance when Henry got Alick Athanaze to edge one. Henry wasn’t to be denied for long, though. In hisnextover,hegottheball to jag back in from around thewickettomakeamessof Athanaze’s stumps. All this while,thescoreboardmoved at a snail’s pace. After 12 overs, West Indies were 10 for2.

Hope and Chanderpaul, though,hungaroundwithout worrying about the scoring rate. The first boundary of WestIndies’inningscamein the 23rd over when Hope, batting in sunglasses because of an eye infection, drove Duffy through the covers. In the next over, he droveNathanSmiththrough mid-on for another boundary

C h a n d e r p a u l , meanwhile, enjoyed his luck.Hewasdroppedtwice,

on 5 and 24, both times by Devon Conway at leg slip, firstoffthebowlingofSmith andthenHenry Hopebroughtuphisfifty after lunch With Chanderpaul also looking comfortable, New Zealand were forced to change their plan Duffy went short against Hope and had him hopping around Once a short leg was deployed, Hope’s problems increased. Eventually, he ended up gloving a short ball from around the wicket to Tom Latham,whowaskeepingin place of Tom Blundell Blundell had hurt his hamstring while batting on the first day and didn’t take thefieldinthemorning.

Once Duffy broke the 90-runstand,Henryreturned to pick up two in one over Bowling awayswingers just around off stump, he had Roston Chase and Justin Greaves caught behind for ducks, leaving West Indies on106for5.

It didn’t affect Chanderpaul,though.

He carried on in his unhurried manner and brought up his half-century He and Tevin Imlach added 34 for the sixth wicket, a stand that was broken when

Conway finally held on to a catch. Chanderpaul pulled Foulkes aerially towards square leg, where Conway flunghimselftohisleft,went with both hands, and landed withtheballinhisleft.

Henry caught Kemar Roach’s outside edge soon after The ball was going straight to first slip but Michael Bracewell dived across from second and spilledit.

Soon, it became dark enough that only spinners were allowed to bowl. But after a short rain break, the sky brightened up again. When play resumed, Duffy did not take long to mop up the remaining four wickets.

With the first ball after resumption, he had Imlach caught down the leg side. The batter reviewed the onfield decision only for replays to show he had gloved the bouncer Johann Layne was caught and bowled in the same over Duffy then went full and bowled Seales and Ojay Shieldstocompletehisfivefor Scores: New Zealand

231 (Williamson 52, Bracwell 47, Shields 2-34, Greaves 2-35) and 32 for 0 (Conway 15*, Latham 14*) lead West Indies 167 (Hope 56, Chanderpaul 52, Duffy 5-34, Henry 3-43) by 96 runs.

Berbician Powerlifter Fazim Abdool joins elite group to Bench Press over 500lbs

Berbice Powerlifter

Fazim Abdool of the Iron Strength Barbell Gym of Rosignol village, on Sunday 30th November, 2025, cementedhimselfamongavery short list of Guyanese strongmen and those from Berbice Abdool,competinginthe S e n i o r N a t i o n a l Championships Equipped competition at St Stanislaus College,wontwogoldmedals duringtheevent However,the highlight of his performance, was his Bench Press in which heachieved,accordingtohim, ‘his life’s dream of benching 500lbs and over’, where he joined the elite group of only two other men to have bench pressedover500inthehistory of powerlifting in Guyana Most importantly he became the only Berbician to have ever achieved this milestone ofa501lbsBenchPressinan International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) sanctioned competition.

Fazim Abdool is congratulated on the podium after his performance which

Jacob Duffy leads the team off the field. (Getty Images)

Shai Hope batted in sunglasses. (AFP/Getty Images)

Guyana’s DMW Indoor Hockey Festival proves its worth -

Now it’s time to think bigger

If longevity is the measure of success, then the Diamond Mineral Water International Indoor Hockey Festival is already a giant Twenty editions strong, hosted inside the storied Cliff AndersonSportsHall,which itself marked 50 years of hostingindoorsport.

The event has cemented its place as one of Guyana’s proudest sporting traditions, sponsored by the Demerara DistillersLimitedthroughits Diamond Mineral Water brand, the tournament is deemedspecial.

But what unfolded this past week suggests something even more exciting:Guyana’sfestivalis nolongerjustsurviving.It’s primedtosoar

Let’s start with the obvious triumphs. The local teams didn’t just show up, they owned the place. Pepsi Hikers once again proved why they’re the region’s standard-bearers, storming

to their 10th Men’s Open titlewithacommanding7–2 win over Trinidad and Tobago Police. The Masters categories brought similar success,withHickersedging GCC The Sequel 4–3 in the Over-40 final, while Trinidad and Tobago’s veteransquadtooktheOver50 crown via penalties against GCC Vintage. And for the first time in the event’s history, the Saints womensteppedboldlyoutof the shadows, toppling perennial champions GBTI GCC to claim their maiden Women’s Open title. If the festival needed a spark, Saints provided the fireworks.

Yet, even with all these shining moments, the mood coming out of the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) camp i s n ’ t o n e o f complacency—it’s one of aspiration.

GHB President Phillip Fernandes, who has been part of all 20 editions of the

festival as player and administrator, called this year“oneofthebest.”That’s not a hollow compliment.

teamsbeganpullingout.But the late surge, both in attendanceandteaminterest, helped turn the tournament

Fernandes admitted the

Board was initially concerned when early enthusiasm dipped and

into one of the most vibrant in recent years. The crowd energy was described as electric, the finals across all

divisions were competitive andthrilling,andthequality of play, by Fernandes’ measure, has rarely been better

And then there’s the jewel of local hockey: the Pepsi Hikers Fernandes didn’tmincewordswhenhe called them “one of the best teamsintheregion.”

Their secret? A distinctive style of play introduced years ago by Timothy McIntosh, whose experience in Germany infused the team with a Europeanedge.

That heritage of innovation continues today, reflected in their unmatched medal haul and their relentless dominance at homeandabroad.IfGuyana were ever to market a sporting product to the world, the Hikers could easilybeonthebrochure.

Buthere’swherethereal opportunity lies: expansion. Fernandes revealed that the GHB is eyeing a broader international footprint, looking beyond traditional Caribbean and North American participants and actively courting teams out of Europe and Oceania Picture German, Dutch, or even Australian indoor hockey clubs stepping onto the Cliff Anderson court, matching their pace and precision against Guyana’s best.

That’s not just good sport, its good business, good exposure, and good development for local athletes.

The Diamond Mineral Water Festival has already provenitcanattractvisitors. With the right investment

and support from

corporate sponsors, government partnerships,

and a public that keeps showing up, Guyana could easily elevate this tournament into a marquee internationalevent.Ithasthe heritage,thepassion,andthe talent. What it needs now is thecouragetoscale. Yes, this year was a celebration. But if we’ve learned anything from this 20th edition, it’s that the festival’s potential is still mostly untapped. A bigger, bolder, more globally inclusive tournament isn’t just a dream. Fernandes and the GHB have already started laying the groundwork.

Guyana’sindoorhockey isn’tjusthavinga moment.It’sbuildinga future. Outstanding awards:Over-50 division:Best Goalkeeper-BrianLee Chow(TTMasters)

MVP-RogerDaniels (TTMasters)

Runners-upUp-GCC Vintage Champions-TTMasters Over-40division: BestGoalkeeperGregoryGarraway (GCCtheSequel)

MVP-KevinSpencer (GCCtheSequel)

Runners-upUp-GCC theSequel Champions-Hickers Ladiesdivision: BestGoalkeeper-Sarah Harry(Saints)

MVP-MakaylahPoole (Saints)

Runners-upUp-GBTI GCCChampions-Saints

Men’sdivision: BestGoalkeeperAnthonyCole(OldFort)

MVP-JamarjAssanah (PepsiHikers)

Runners-upUp-TTPS Champions-Pepsi Hikers

GHB Head Philip Fernandes

Over-40 division Champions, Hickers, receive their trophy from Assistant Director of Sport, Mr Franklin Wilson.

Women’s division Champions, Saints, receiving their trophy from Ms Raveena Mangal, Executive Brand Manager at DDL. Best goalkeeper, Sarah Harry is second from right in front row, while MVP Makaylah Poole is at left.

Men’s division Champions, Pepsi Hikers, receive their trophy from Ms Raveena Mangal, Executive Brand Manager at DDL. Captain Jamarj Assanah, receiving trophy, was also the MVP.

Inter-Guiana Games schedule of events released

The Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports (MCYS) through the National Sports Commission (NSC) has released the schedule of

event of the 2025 Edition of the Inter-Guiana Games featuring contingents from host Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana over this weekend.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, is extending the invitation to the general public to throng to the

respectivevenuestonotjust support the Guyanese athletes, but to witness the rivalry for future stars from the three Guianas from

tomorrow,FridaytoSunday, December5-7.

The athletes will be competing in Athletics, Futsal, Volleyball,

Basketball, Swimming and Chess. The venues are the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, National Gymnasium, National Racquet Centre, Leonora Track and Field Centre and the National AquaticCentre.

The following is the full schedule of events starting withtheOpeningCeremony at9:30amtomorrow:

Nautical Star and Unspun lead...

Frompage27 success on major U S circuits, he stands as the region’s highest-profile trainer internationally His partnership with One Guyana Racing Stable signals a new era of Caribbean collaboration andambition.

THEMOST COMPETITIVE MOUTTETMILE EVERRUN

With: the defending Horse of the Year, a U.S. Hall of Fame jockey, two powerful Guyanese-owned contenders,classicwinners, champion fillies, and imported American stars, the 2025 Mouttet Mile is shapinguptobethegreatest showdown in Caribbean racinghistory

The arrival of One Guyana Racing Stable along with the superstar presence of Javier C a s t e l l a n o a d d s international weight and rivalrytheregionhasrarely experienced Jamaica, Guyana,Trinidad, the U.S., and the wider racing world willbewatching.

Thestageisset.

Thefieldisfull.

And this year’s Mouttet Mile promises to be a race fortheages.

Nautical Star and Unspun lead Guyana’s Charge in Jamaica’s Richest Horserace

Entries have officially closed for the 4th runningoftheMouttetMile, now the richest race in the Caribbean with a staggering USD$300,000purseandthe final field of 15 has been declared.What has emerged isnotonlythedeepestlineup in the race’s history, but one of the strongest Grade 1 fields ever assembled at CaymanasPark.

This year brings a powerful regional flavor, with Guyana making its biggest-ever impact on Jamaican racing through the One Guyana Racing Stable, while the entry roster also welcomes a legendary Hall of Fame jockey from the United States setting the stage for a historic showdown.

ONEGUYANARACING STABLEMAKES

ITSMARK Nautical Star TakesAim at Glory Guyana’s rising powerhouse, One Guyana Racing Stable, has officially secured its place in the Mouttet Mile with its American-bred contender NauticalStar Importedfrom the world-renowned yard of Champion Trainer Saffie JosephJr.,thehorsebringsa wealth of U.S. graded-level conditioning and arrives in Jamaica as one of the most respected newcomers in the field.

TheJockey:ATopLocal Talent Nautical Star will be piloted by leading Jamaican jockey Reyan “Raddo” Roman,oneofthecountry’s most consistent and tactical riders. Roman has built a reputation for: exceptional timing, strong pace judgment, and the ability to get the best out of imported

Americanhorses.

Hispartnershipwithtoptier trainers such as Nunes, Subratie, and Feanny has cemented him as a rider capable of winning any Grade 1 event at Caymanas Park.

For One Guyana, he brings exactly what is needed: cool nerves, bigrace experience, and a deep understanding of the mile trip.

The Trainer: Anthony “Baba” Nunes Hall of Fame conditionerAnthony Nunes, one of Jamaica’s most accomplished and respected trainers, takes charge of Nautical Star’s preparation. Nuneshascapturedmultiple trainer’s titles and is known for producing polished, peak-condition athletes that deliver their best on major racedays.

His training programme

One Guyana Racing Stable Headlines the Strongest Field in Caribbean Racing History.

has already shown its effectiveness with Nautical Star’s steady improvement since arriving from quarantinemakingthecolta legitimate threat to the establishedlocalstars.

A N O T H E R

GUYANESEENTRY:Colin ElcockSendsUnspun.

Guyanese owner Colin Elcock adds even more regionalpridewiththeentry of Unspun, last year’s Champion 2 Yr Old in Jamaica. The talented colt hasconsistentlyshownclass and resilience, placing strongly behind top horses such as Mojito throughout theseason.

Hewillbepartneredbya visiting Trinidadian jockey, adding a second layer of international intrigue from the southern Caribbean With powerful juvenile credentials and consistent 3 Yr old form, Unspun is expected to play a decisive roleinshapingtheearlypace oftherace.

AHALLOFFAME JOCKEYENTERSTHE ARENA

Javier Castellano Joins theMouttetMileField.

Inthebiggestshockwave of the week, the entry board confirmed that worldfamous U.S. jockey Javier Castellano winner of the 2023 Kentucky Derby,

Preakness, multiple Breeders’ Cup races, and over 5,700 career victories will compete in the Mouttet Mile.

Castellano, riding Ridealldayforthelegendary Philip Feanny, instantly elevates the race’s international profile His presence signals that the Mouttet Mile has officially become a destination event foreliteglobalriders.

For many fans, the storylineisirresistible: The world-famous U.S. superstar versus the rising Caribbean powerhouse One GuyanaRacingStable.

This clash of continents, the Hall of Fame American jockey versus the Guyanese challengers adds a dramatic narrative that Jamaican racinghasneverseenbefore.

THE15CONFIRMED ENTRIES,STRONGEST FIELDEVER

Below are the official runners, along with key highlights from their recent

Hall Of Fame Jockey Javier Castellano with over 5700 wins in the USA.

formandachievements:

1 FUNCAANDUN –

Halledeen/J.DaCosta

Reigning Horse of the Year, defending Mouttet Mile champion, and winner ofnearlyeverymajortrophy in2024.Thehorsetobeat.

2 PACK PLAYS –Mamdeen/Mathie

A blistering sprintermiler with front-running style. Recently dominated theSaintCeceliaCup.

3. TIZTOK – Nelson / Nunes

Explosive winner of the LloydDelapenhaMemorial. Oneofthebestmilersonhis day.

4. LEGACY ISLE –Jaramillo/Crichton

Lastyear’sMouttetMile

runner-up. Secured qualification with a strong GoldCupvictory

5. DOTHRAKI – Innis / DaCosta

High-speed U.S. import. Recent winner of the Vassel “Jolly Man” Najair Memorial.

6 C H A M P I O N BUBBLER – Suckoo / Chung

Straight-course queen withmultiplefeaturewinsin 2024;nowtestingthemile.

7. NAUTICAL STAR –Roman/A.Nunes

One Guyana Racing Stable U S graded-level seasoning. Tactical speed. Majorthreat.

8 SUPERNATURAL POWER – Cardenas / Feanny 5-for-8 filly with big wins including the Viceroy Trophy (1:36.2). Improving rapidly

10.MAINMISTRESS–Velasquez/Parsard Front-running filly who recently wired the St ElizabethDistaff.

11 RIDEALLDAY –Castellano/Feanny The Hall of Fame jockey’smount.Unbeatenin fivestraightraces.

1 2 U N S P U N –Boodramsingh/Brown Champion two-year-old of 2024; Guyanese owner Colin Elcock. Reliable and improving.

13.GIRVANO–Foster/ DaCosta Beat Funcaandun earlier this season in the Distinctly Irish Trophy. Dangerous at longodds.

14. DIGITAL ONE –Francis/Subratie Elite sprinter with multiple trophy wins Lightningfast.

15.MOJITO–Dawkins/ Azan Classic winner and recent Jamaica Cup champion A complete racehorse.

ONEGUYANARACING STABLEALSO STRIKESINTHE SPRINT

In addition to their MouttetMilecampaign,One Guyana Racing Stable will also be represented in the Sprint by Of A Revolution, anotherhorseimportedfrom the barn of Champion U.S. TrainerSaffieJosephJr Joseph, originally from Barbados, is one of the Caribbean’s greatest exports to world racing. With over 1,000careerwins,Breeders’ Cupappearances,and (Continuedonpage26)

9 SENSATIONAL SOUL–Patterson/Subratie 2025 2000 Guineas champion with a lethal late kick.

Sprint by Of A Revolution

Unspun

Tagenarine Chanderpaul scored a half-century. (Getty Images)