Kaieteur News

Poor judgement!

Former Treasurer of the P e o p l e ' s N a t i o n a l Congress/Reform (PNC/R), Elson Low,haslabelledAPartnershipfor National Unity's (APNU) move to form an alliance with the People's Progressive Party at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) electionsas“poorjudgment.”

Ashockingallianceoccurredon FridayduringtheRDCelectionsto electChairmenandViceChairmen, as old-time rivals APNU and PPP joined forces, a move many see as an attempt to block newcomer We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) from controlling regional offices.At the RDC elections, APNU formed an alliance with the PPP in Region Eight, giving the ruling party controlofthatregionwhilebooting itsfellowoppositionpartyWIN.In Region Ten, the two parties also workedtogetherinamovethathas left WIN's control of the chairmanshipuncertain,asthefinal decisionisnowleftinthehandsof Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand.

He reminded of APNU's leadershipfailingtonegotiatewith the Alliance for Change (AFC) ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections. “It appears they have failed again, resulting in what now appears to be a very strained relationship with WIN. This stems from leadership's continued belief that it must literally be in positions of power, rather than establish effective governance frameworks As a result, it is clear that under this leadership every disagreement becomesaconflict,”henoted.

In relation to APNU's collaboration with the PPP, Low stated, “leadership appears to have exercisedverypoorjudgment.Iam notsayingtherearenosituationsin whichitisacceptabletocollaborate with the PPP, but most Guyanese wouldagreethatthismustbedone in the context of achieving meaningful, lasting change for Guyana, not merely in pursuit of holding on to one or two positions ofpower.”

T h e P N C R m e m b e r underscored that it is important to

“It is clear that there is collaborationbetweenthePPPand APNU, as well as an unsuccessful efforttonegotiatewithWIN,”Low, who is still a member of the party, toldthispublication.

Former PNCR member, Elson Low

distinguish between the leadership of the party and its members and supporters, who he noted are extremelyhesitanttoengageinany dealmakingwiththePPP

Ahead of the local government elections,LowsaidAPNUneedsto make meaningful changes to restorevoterconfidence.“Itcannot afford to be seen as cutting deals withthePPPatitsconvenience,”he noted.

Moreover, he pointed out that WIN is “no fountain of virtue.”

Notwithstanding this, he said APNUmuststrivetobeseenasthe primarypartyofintegrity Heurged that going forward, much work be

donetobringtheoppositionparties together to craft a common understanding of their duty to the Guyanese people and to restore trustintheirabilitytoholdthePPP governmentaccountable.“Without significant changes, it's unclear howtheleadershipcanaccomplish this,”henoted.

R e g i o n E i g h t (Potaro–Siparuni) was previously controlled by APNU, but at the 2025 elections, the PPP took control of the region, securing 2,872 votes. WIN followed with 2,562votes,whileAPNUmanaged just 276. In this region, WIN secured 7 regional seats, while the PPPalsogained7andAPNUjust1.

At the election for Regional Chairman,APNU councillor voted in favour of the PPP, giving it control of the chairmanship, while APNU with its one seat in that regiongotViceChairman.

For his part, WIN's leader Azruddin Mohamed during an interviewwiththispublicationhad expressed surprise at the outcome in Region Ten. “Yes. Very much surprised. Very much. I cannot believethattheywouldtrytowork together to keep WIN out,” Mohamedsaid.

Speaking on what occurred in RegionEight,Mohamedexpressed his frustration “Same thing happened in Region Eight. Same thing just happened. The APNU (Continuedonpage11)

Similarly,inRegionTen(Upper Demerara–Upper Berbice), traditionallyastrongholdbyPNCR was taken by WIN at the 2025 Regional Elections. WIN received 10,458 votes, followed by APNU with 5,334, PPP with 4,260, the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) with 662, the Alliance for Change (AFC) with 210, and the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) with 85. Region Ten's RDC election for Chairman remains undecided after Friday's process ended in a tie between WIN's Mark Goring and APNU's Dominique Blair A total of 18 councillors were sworn in: 9 from WIN, 5 from APNU, 3 from the PPP, and 1 from FGM. The ballot count showed 9 votes each for Goring and Blair While WIN was not completely shut out, the final decision now rests with the MinisterofLocalGovernmentand RegionalDevelopment.

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EDITORIAL

Guyana on top, Guyanese out

Foreign investors have a new vocabulary to describe Guyana'srichnaturalresources TheycouldcomefromtheUS, or Canada, or Asia, and the language is the same The rich naturalresourcesofGuyanaareeither“worldclass”,or“crown jewels”,orina'classbythemselves'sofabulousthefinds,and what could be still more finds in abundant quantities. The discovery of oil approximately 190 kilometers from shore broughtoutthesuperlativesfromsomeofExxonMobil'stop executivesfromtimetotime. TheoilwealthofGuyanaisso great that the captains of ExxonMobil cannot believe their goodfortune,andthedelightthataccompaniestheirvisions. ItisthesametalewithGuyana'sgreattrovesofgoldinthe remote interior The Oko gold project has executives of the Canadian mining firm, G2 Goldfields (G2) virtually drooling with excitement G2 succeeded in obtaining two large-scale gold prospecting licenses from the PPPC Government, as announced by the company on August 28. What was so important that those licenses couldn't wait until after the elections? Whytheyhadtobesignedandsealedinthelast week before the general and regional elections? What bargainhadtobeinkedbetweenthegoldcompanyandthe PPPC Government, regardless of the appearance of the issuanceofthetwogoldprospectinglicensessoclosetothe elections? Wasitthatthefearofanewgovernmenttaking office necessitated that those prospecting licenses be approved,nomatterhowimproperitlooked?

G2hadeveryrighttopushforthoselicensestosecureitsown interests But the Guyana Government was under no urgent deadline, no compelling circumstances, that required those prospectinglicensesbeapprovedwhentheywere Howmuch differencewouldafewmoreweeksmatter,orwhatwasatstake sovitalthatnothingcouldbelefttochance? TheOkoGold Project involves well over a million ounces of gold and, interestingly,replaces11medium-scaleminingpermitsheld by Guyanese businesspeople. What went on there, were they bought out? Or were they forced to relinquish their miningpermits,andhavenochoicebuttostayquiet,inthe hopeofkeepingontherightsideofthegovernment?

Wethinkthatwhen15millionouncesofgoldispartofthe potentialofagoldproject,thenprudencehastoprevail,andnot thishastetoissueprospectinglicenses G2'sCEO,DanNoone, followed in the footsteps of theAmerican oil giants, when he notedthattheapprovalsofthoseprospectinglicenseopenupa pathway to exploit Guyana's “world-class gold system.” And,“wearewell-positionedtounlockthefullpotentialof this highly prospective gold district…” It is all that Guyanese hear or read about in terms of their natural resource wealth. How wonderful it is, and how much it meanstotheforeigninvestors. Ofcourse,thereisalwaysa neat little line about partnering with the Guyana GovernmentforthebenefitofGuyanese. That'saformality, part of covering the bases, and ensuring that the foreign investorcompanylooksgoodonpaper

Sincethesegoldfindsandgoldfieldpotentialaresorich,it surprises that Guyanese are in the dark about what they are gettingfortheir“world-class”mineralresourcesandsystems,be it for their oil, their gold, their bauxite, or their other piles of wealth World-class wealth and crown jewels should generatehighlevelsofincomeforGuyana'scoffers,ifthose verbal nuggets are going to mean anything for the true ownersofthewealth,Guyanese.

ThoughtheExxonMobiloilcontractisinacategoryof horribleallbyitself,Guyanesecanstillsaythattheyknow what they are receiving for the millions of barrels of oil pumped monthly It defies reason that the same cannot be saidforgoldfieldswithestimatedproductionoveramillion ouncesoverthelifeofaproject.

That could be responsible for the secrecy? Why should Guyanesebeleftinthedarkwiththereturnsfromtheirwealth? With an old government returning for a new term of office, it cannotbethesameancientwaysofhiddendeals Orwhatever sidearrangementsmaybeatwork

Kaieteur M@ilbox

Proposed Constitutional Reform Commission should not be subject to party control

DearEditor,

After decades of driving Guyanese into migration by theirrecenteventsthatwhen mutuallychallengedthetwo parties will promptly seek eachotherfortheirsalvation. A more constructive test, however, of the new politics may well be the manner in which they approach the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC): either prolonging its suspended animation, or finding new andmoreconstructiveforms ofinclusivepolitics. Will the parliamentary component of the Commission reflect the new makeup of Parliament, or will the two established parties reinforce their m

behaviour?

The current CRC was conceived with no regard to thespiritoftheHerdmanston Accord, which remains the most realistic fundamental guide to constitutional reform in Guyana That Commission in 1999 from the start was managed expertly by senior members from both major parties as Chair and Secretary of the Commission Its civic component benefitted from preparatory Commission related-activities – lectures, discussion series, public lectures,visitingexperts.

The intention of the HerdmanstonAccordwasto ensure that the interests of the sectors were represented rather than particular organizations and consideredimproperthatthe

ruling party to do more than indicate the number of representatives to be assigned to each sector, leaving it to the sector to determine the manner of choosingitsrepresentatives.

The Herdmanston Accord embodies a process for reconciliation and healing of society In other words, as the process develops the society begins to heal and be reconciled to it. It is not a question of antagonistic elements developing a blueprint to be implemented in future by others The constitutional reformprocessitselfmustbe a healing process. Effective control by one party is the core violation of the Herdmanston spirit which soughttore-toolgovernance

mechanisms in ways which encouraged and enabled Guyanesetorelatetopeople who would normally find excuses not to talk to each other

These hopes were, in part, embodied in the legislation that followed the 1999-2000 CRC to be used infutureCRC.Inlightofthis the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) stronglyurgesthattheruling party amend its proposals bothforthecompositionand scope of the proposed Commission,alongthelines ofthatlegislation. The GHRA recognizes that the culture of civil societyinGuyanatodatehas not reached the levels to whichtheHerdmanston (Continuedonpage5)

Nascimento's Distortion of Principle and Guyana's Legal Obligations

DearEditor,

Mr. Kit Nascimento's recent letter in the Guyana Chronicle attempts to turn a principleddiscussiononlaw, sovereignty,anddueprocess into partisan theatre I welcome dissent, but what I cannotpermitisthecareless distortionofargumentorthe cheapvilificationofcitizens who still believe in the institutionsofourRepublic.

My earlier piece in StabroekNewsandKaieteur News did not defend any individual It defended procedure: the lawful, constitutional, and moral frameworkbywhichaState must act. That distinction matters, because our country's credibility is built on more process and less passion.

I stand by that

framework because it is the same one that the current PPP/C administration, led by President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo, has painstakingly rebuilt after years of institutional trauma foisted upon us by Kit Nascimento's Burnham government.

ThePPP/Cgovernment's consistent approach to the rule of law, judicial reform,

Proposed Constitutional Reform...

Frompage4

Accord aspires.As a society

Guyana is culturally insecure,nothavingattained thedemocraticconfidenceto trust our legal and administrativeinstitutionsto protect us from corrupt or ambitiousindividuals. We are all challenged to accept that someone with different opinions can hold the same principlesaswedo.

Should the Government insist on identifying particular individuals or organizations to serve on Commissions or Boards, they ought to submit themselves to a process of validation by the sector it is intended they represent Alternatively, depending on the circumstances, the sectors identified for inclusion should take steps

to choose their own representatives, ignoring any specific unilateral recommendations the ruling partymaymake.

At a minimum any individual or organization specifically nominated by

the ruling party for membership of the CRC should seek the approval of the leader of the opposition, NamelyWIN,inordertorid itself of any taint of partisanship.

understanding of what I called the “protective core” of citizenship. In this sense, my intervention was not in any way a criticism of the g

reinforcement of its best instincts.

Mr Nascimento's bad habit of turning every legal question into an electoral morality play serves no one except h

political identities in

Guyana. The PPP/C government, for all its critics, has resisted such impulses.Ithasconsistently anchored decision-making in the courts and in parliamentaryoversight,and it has taken care to modernize legislation, from extradition protocols to AML reforms, that enhance transparency while safeguardingsovereignty

,

he architects of this CRC initiative appear more concernedtobeabletosayit happenedratherthanforany benefitsitmightproduce.

Since whatever recommendations emerge from a CRC will need parliamentary approval before becoming law, this

The State selecting which civic sectors should providemembers,andwhich individuals should represent them is not only an absurd anachronism in this day and age, it also reflects the distrust of the Government towards non-party involvement in governance activities. Rather than the positives which a more inclusively-structured CRC could generat

level of party control of the C

f unnecessary.

A Commission with a majority of members drawn from the non-party sector, chosen by procedures not subject to ruling party pressure and under an independent chairperson is the only guarantee that a Constitutional Reform processwillcometofruition.

ExecutiveCommittee

Guyana Human Rights Association(GHRA)

elf His statement that “those who voted for Mohamed will now see the consequences” betrays an older, more punitive Burhamite view of statecraft, one that confuses governance with vendetta and reduces citizenship and civic engagement to factionalism.

That attitude, familiar from earlier periods of our sordid history, has long proven corrosive to national c o h e s i o n a n d t h e development of civic

When I urge the observanceofdueprocess,I am echoing the very principles that guide the administration's legal architecture for the benefit of my fellow Guyanese nationals Those who mistake this for defence of an individual reveal their own thinly-veiled cynicism abouttheState.

I r e s p e c t M r Nascimento'slongservicein public life. But the same history obliges him to exercisecare.Hisgeneration helped shape Guyana's

institutions; it should not now be found undermining them with half-truths or partisan alarms Younger Guyanese deserve to inherit a civic political culture that rewards reasoned argument, notreflexivehostility What is most urgently needed in our public life is the growth of a deeper civic consciousness, an understanding that rights come with responsibilities, and that national debate must rest on law, evidence, and respect Such civic maturity will protect our democracy more effectively than any slogan or personality could By developing an educated and ethicallygroundedcitizenry, wesafeguardboththeruleof law and the moral authority oftheRepublicitself.

The long view of the State matters deeply in our ongoing transformation. Be advised!

Sincerely,

Dr WalterH.Persaud

M@ilbox

Transforming Guyana's Fisheries: A sector on the rise

DearEditor,

As a proud Guyanese, I am heartened to see the remarkable strides our government is making to support fisherfolk and modernise the fisheries sector Fishing is more than anindustryitisalifelinefor thousands of families along our coast and an important contributor to our national food security For too long, fisherfolk operated with little support and outdated systems. Today, that picture is changing, in fact over the last five years, strides have been made under the leadership of President Dr IrfaanAliandtheMinisterof Agriculture Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha.

Kaieteur M@ilbox

Making Accessibility for the Physically Impaired a Mandatory Pillar of

Guyana's Modernization

At the same time, the Government has invested in infrastructure that strengthens the industry fromthegroundup.Landing sites across the country are being rehabilitated with modern facilities lighting, ramps, sheds, and cold storage to improve safety and product quality Earlier this year, fisherfolk on the Upper Corentyne celebrated the commissioning of a $32 million administrative building at No. 79 Village, with plans for a fuel station and hardware outlet to cut costs and improve efficiency Only recently, seine nets valued at $14 million were distributed in Berbice, fulfilling commitments made by the Ministry Safety and sustainability have also been prioritised. Vessel Monitoring Devices are being introduced on artisanal boats to protect fisherfolk at sea and strengthen surveillance against piracy and illegal fishing. Partnerships with international agencies like theFAOaremodernisingthe sea bob shrimp industry,

When hardship struck in 2022 with low catches and high costs, the Ministry of Agriculture stepped in with real relief Over 7,500 fisherfolk benefitted from a $150,000 cash grant, injecting more than $1.1 billion into communities from Regions 2 to 6. Taxes oncriticalfishinginputsand outboard engines were removed, helping crews to reduce operating expenses. These actions sent a clear message and that was that our fisherfolk are not forgotten.

improving governance, data collection, and market readiness. These steps are not just about survival they are about building an internationally competitive industry

Lookingtothefuture,the Government'svisioniseven moreinspiring.Recognising the pressures of climate change and fluctuating catches, fisherfolk are being encouraged to diversify into aquaculture. In Region 6, brackish-water shrimp

dramatically, offering a steady income for fishing families Aquaculture overall has expanded by more than 70% in recent years, with new hatcheries and marine cage systems in development.Plansforlarge aquaculturehubswillensure that Guyana becomes a leader not only in wildcaught seafood, but also in farmedfishandshrimp.

Just as importantly, the legal framework is being updated.Amendmentstothe Fisheries Act and a new Aquaculture Framework Bill are in progress to supportco-managementof (Continuedonpage7)

Dear Editor, Guyana is witnessing rapid development and modernization, yet a critical concern remains glaringly unaddressed—the needs of the physically impaired and vulnerable populations are often overlooked in new buildings and infrastructure. Also, even with the current status quo no noticeable adjustmentscanbeenseen.

Despite the existence

of the Persons with DisabilitiesAct2010,which mandatesbarrier-freeaccess and prohibits discrimination inpublicandprivatespaces, many newly developed sites lack essential accessibility features such as ramps, designated parking spaces, tactilesignage,andinclusive sanitaryfacilities.

City government also remains culpable as there are no visible signs of any designated parking spaces marked with proper signage and secured for the impairedbyissuingtagsthat can be displayed on their vehicles.

The recent launch of the Building Accessibility Handbook 2025 by the

DearEditor,

Ministry of Health and the National Commission on Disability is a positive step,

environments inclusive for all.

implementationraiseserious

commitment to truly embed

n our development plans. In the absence of actionable implementation, it can be misconstrued as mere politicalgrandstanding.

W

rous enforcement, audits, and accountability, legislative provisions risk being mere wordsonpaperwithlimited realtangibleimpact.

To ensure Guyana's development is genuinely inclusive and progressive, it is imperative that the gov

ment and all stakeholders make accessibility a mandatory, non-negotiable pillar of infrastructure planning and construction.

T h i s i n c l u d e s enforcing building codes that reflect universal design

gular inspections to uphold compliance, swift penalties for violations, and meaningful consultations with persons with disabilitiesineveryphaseof projectdevelopment.

Our collective vision for a modern, inclusive Guyana must embrace all c i t i z e n s M a k i n g accessibility a central pillar to our development will not only uphold the rights enshrined in law but also enrich our society by enablingfullparticipationof allitsmembers.

We call on the current administration to prioritize and institutionalize accessibility standards as a foundational aspect of G u y a n a ' s g r o w t h trajectory because progress that leaves anyone behindisnoprogressatall.

This call to action seekstocorrecttheanomaly of exclusion and ensure that future development truly empowers every Guyanese, regardless of physical ability

Sincerely,

Hemdutt Kumar

Cricket madness

As I watch the women's world cup cricket in Sri Lanka and look at the team standings,itisobviousthata certain team previously known for their world class cricketismissing--theWest Indies.WhentheWestIndies narrowly beats a team like Thailand,youknowthere'sa problem. Not forgetting the current performance of their counterpartsintheIndiatest matches.Idon'tneedtobea prophet to predict who will winthesecondtestmatchin India.

When I was growing up in Guyana, the question was asked at times "Why can't Guyana have their own international cricket team?" After all, Guyana had produced some of the toptiered players in the world

backthen.Weweregiventhe answerthat"sinceGuyanais a small country populationwise like the other West Indies nations, the pool talent would be greater collectively". Perhaps there issomemerittoit.

However,whenyoulook at world class cricket, some of the most dominant teams havelessofapopulationsize thantheircompetitors.

This also applies to soccer(football).So,whatis it? I personally believe that though the population size can contribute to the pool talent,themainfactorhasto do with identifying, developing and nurturing talentfromayoungage.This means investing in training, better cricket facilities and coaching One of India's greatcricketcoacheswasnot

Indian. He instilled a new level of confidence in India cricket.

A good cricket player does not necessarily make a goodcoach.

A good coach in any sport needs to have an indepth understanding of the gameandtheabilitytoteach. Oneneedstobeabletoteach the technical aspects of the game and to predict the movement of the game-what's around the corner Thus, coaching accordingly Acoachneedstobeinvolved in continuous learning. For starters,weneedworldclass coaches to develop world classplayers.

The West Indies cricket team is selected by the head coach and data-driven performance. India's cricket team is selected by a fivemember board based on not only on performance, but team balance and form. But it starts with excellent scouting at the junior levels. There is a saying "It is madness to keep doing the same thing and to expect different results". This summarizes West Indies cricket.

Bestregards, DanielSingh

Toddler, grandparents knifed by neighbour during fight at Coverden traffic stop

An 18-month-old child and her grandparents received injuriesonFridayafterbeingknifedbytheirneighborduring a row at a traffic stop at Coverden, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

According to police, the wounding incident was committed on Indira Thomas, a 53-year-old Housewife of Coverden, EBD, her husband William Thomas, a 68-yearoldBusinessman,andtheir18-month-oldgranddaughter

“The wounding incident occurred at approximately 15:30 hrs. yesterday (Friday, 10th October 2025) at Coverden, East Bank Demerara, while they were in traffic along the East Bank Road corridor Police have since arrested the suspect, Wilfred Aaron, a 68-year-old Construction Worker from Coverden,” police said in a statement.Investigationshaverevealedthatthesuspectand thechild’sgrand-parentsareknowntoeachother,sincethey areneighbours,butarenotonspeakingterms,asaresultof ongoingissues.

Indira told police that she and her husband visited a Friendship, EBD daycare and play group to collect their granddaughter Ontheirwayhome,theywerestuckintraffic atLandofCanaan,EBDwhentheyencounteredAaronwho usedexpletivesonWilliam.

It is alleged that Aaron threatened to kill the businessman, who exited his vehicle, and approached the suspect. Aaron then armed himself with a knife which he usedtoattackWilliamThomas.

WilliamsThomasreceivedwoundstohisabdomenand ear while the toddler’s writst was injured. Indira Thomas attempted to part the fight sustained injuries to her elbow, palm of her hand as well as cuts on the right middle, index andringfingers.

“The businessman managed to enter his motor car and headtotheDiamondRegionalHospital,wheretheywereall seen and examined by a doctor on duty, treated, and sent away Investigationsareinprogress,”thepolicestated.

SandCreekVillage

TheMinistryofHealthissettospendapproximately$69 million to construct a maternal waiting home at Sand Creek Village,inRegionNine.

Information released by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office has revealed that following the national competitive bidding process,Ash CivilEngineeringWorkssecuredthe$69,045,002contract.

Thismaternalwaitinghomeisoneofseveraltheministry intends to build in remote communities, to ensure pregnant womenhaveaccesstoessentialhealthcareservices.

Kaieteur News understands that when completed, the maternalwaitinghomewillcomplementthenewSandCreek DistrictHospital.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony has noted the importance of maternal waiting homes close to hinterland hospitals, stating that it will help eliminate the challenges mothersfromfar-flungvillagesface.

“Let’ssayifsomeonewaspregnantandtheyhadtocome toahospital,itwouldbeverychallengingbecauseifyouare pregnantandyouleavewhenyouaregoingintolabour,more than likely by the time you get to the hospital, you will probablydeliverthebabyenroutetothehospital,”hesaid.

Whilecommissioningasimilar$46millionwaitinghome in Mabaruma, Region One earlier this year, the minister related that the facility was equipped with trained staff to provide support and monitor the health of both mothers and their babies even after delivery It was reported that constructing maternal waiting homes forms part of the government’seffortstoensurehealthequalitywhilereducing maternalmortality Theconstructionandrenovationofhealth facilities are part of the government’s broader efforts to decentralise and expand healthcare services provided to Guyanese.This year, the health ministry was allocated some $120.9billiontoexecuteitsprojectsandprogrammesacross thecountry

The Odd Couple

Somewhereinthesmoky backrooms of Guyanese politics—between the last bottle of El Dorado and the next declaration of democracy two sworn enemies met eyes across the table. It wasn’t love at first sight. It wasn’t even mutual respect. It was something much deeper, much more sacred It was selfpreservation.

We’re talking about the great Guyanese political soap opera — “The PNCR andthePPPC:TillDeath(or PowerLoss)DoUsPart.”A long-running series, with newepisodesreleasedevery election cycle, in which the protagonists passionately hate each other in public, onlytosneakofftogetherto plot the downfall of anyone new, fresh, or remotely independent.

And the latest episode?

Region 10 Starring the upstart WIN party— “We Invest in Nationhood,” thoughthesedaysitmightas well stand for “We’re In for Nonsense” because nonsense is exactly what greeted them. They won the most votes in Region 10, which, in any respectable democracy, should mean something. But in Guyana, democracy is not a destination; it’s more like a buffet. Everyone picks what theywant.

Now, let’s not forget the precedent. Back in 1994, HamiltonGreen’sGoodand Green Georgetown (GGG) party pulled off the political v e r s i o n o f a miracle—beating both the PNC and the PPP in the municipalelections.Itwasa shock.

A n d h e r e ’s t h e thing—Desmond Hoyte, the

PNC leader at the time, accepted defeat. He said the party with the most votes should take the mayorship. That’s right: he chose democracyoverpettiness.In Guyanesepolitics,that’slike choosing salad over pepperpot at Christmas Unheardof.

Fast-forward thirty years The wheel of democracy has turned into a Ferris wheel—going round androundbutneveractually moving forward. The WIN party, after hustling and sweating for votes, thought they had earned their seat at thegrown-ups’table.Butno. When they arrived at the Region 10 boardroom, they found the PNC and PPP combining to deny WIN the Chairmanship of both Regions.

Andjustlikethat,thesocalled archrivals were back i

DEM BOYS SEH

Denewnationalsport

–parkbehindpeopleanddisappear!

Yuhknow,demboyssehGuyana don’t need no new national sport We done find one already — reverse parking behind people and vanishing for hours! Is de new craze sweeping de nation. You park nice and proper, diagonal like de sign seh, feeling proud you following de law Yuh even straighten de steering wheel like a model citizen. You gone in de store, come out feeling good… and BAM! Somebody deh park straight behind yuh, lock yuh in like yuhinCampStreetjail.

Now yuh watching de sky, hoping de trafficcopwiddeclampshowup.Butdem boyssehclampmanonlyappearwhenyuh double park fuh two seconds to drop yuh grannygroceries.Whenyuhreallyneedhe, he gone on “strategic retreat” — probably somewhere clamping a bicycle or buying lunch.

So yuh waiting. And waiting. And waiting.Yuh see people come and go.Yuh growabeard.Yuhphonebatterydead.Yuh startquestionyuhlifechoices.Then,likea

miracle from de heavens, de owner of de offending vehicle stroll back two hours later, swinging de keys and smiling broad likehejustwindeLotto.Andwhenyuhask, “Boss, yuh ain’t see yuh block me in?” — he look surprise, scratch he head, and seh, “Ohlawd,sorry’boutthat,bai.”

Mutedapology Noshame.Nourgency JustpureGuyaneseconfidence.

Dem boys seh we need a new ministry Ministry of Common Sense and Courtesy—becauseclearlydemthingsget deported long time. Until then, maybe we got fuh start travelling wid folding chairs, snacks, and a good book fuh when de “blockers”appear.

Orbetteryet,let’smakeitofficial:next Mashramani,let’sputupafloatcalled“De Parking Olympics.” Events include PrecisionBlocking,DisappearingAct,and FastestFakeApology

Only in Guyana, boys and girls — where parking legally is risky, but parking illegallyisnationalpride! Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

n each other’s arms. You could almost hear the love theme swelling in the background.

The PNCR and PPPC

relationship is truly something for the history books. Think of it as The Odd Couple, but instead of Felix and Oscar, we have two parties that have spent decades calling each other corrupt,dictatorial,andunfit togovern…andyet,whena third party shows up and threatens their respective base, suddenly they’re holding hands and finishing eachother’ssentences.

They are symbiotic twins—attached at the hip, butalwaysfightingoverwho gets the better suit. One cannot exist without the other If the PNC vanished tomorrow,thePPPwouldbe in mourning by morning. “Who will we blame now?” they’d cry “Who will we accuse of undermining democracy by rigging elections?

Meanwhile, WIN sits outside.Theywonthevotes, butapparentlydidnotgetthe memo that in Guyana numbers are only meaningful when they’re

convenient.

In Region 4, the PPPC got the most votes, and voilà the Chairmanship was theirs “Democracy prevails!”theydeclared.But in Region 7? When WIN took the lead, democracy suddenly developed a bad back.Couldn’tstandupthat day And in Region 10—well, democracy didn’t just stay home. It took a vacation.

Now, I’m not saying the PPP and PNC coordinated this. No, that would require communication, and anyone who’s watched Parliament knowsthat’snottheirstrong suit.WhatI’msayingisthat somewhere, deep in their political DNA, lies a shared instinct a reflex for survival. Whenever a new force emerges, they unite faster than you can say “coalition.”

Theymightfightbitterly over who gets the presidential palace, but if a thirdpartysomuchaspokes its head into the tent, they’ll bothgrabthesamebroomto sweepitout.

It’stheGuyaneseversion of the Cold War. Two superpowers locked in

eternal rivalry, united only by their fear of change. Because as long as there’s power to share and rivals to crush, these two will keep finding ways to turn democracyintoperformance art.

So, here’s to the PNCR and the PPPC—Guyana’s most enduring love-hate relationship A political marriage held together not byaffection,butbyamutual fearofbeingalone. Theymayfightinpublic, but behind the scenes, they’reliketwoactorsinthe same tragicomedy—forever sharing the stage, forever pretendingit’snotaduet.

And as for WIN? Well, they’velearnedthefirstrule of Guyanese politics: winning votes is easy. Winning acceptance is the realcampaign.

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

H@RD TRUTHS

Hess Corporation and taxes

Chartered accountant and attorney-at-law, Mr Chis Ram, does the digging up. Idothecremating. The th170 chapterofhisoilseries in Guyana, titled “The mystery of the receipts and certificates(SN,Oct3,2025) calls Hess's Standard Disclosure Filing 4, as “not only gibberish” but “false and deliberately so.” It is a boracic mouthful from the usuallyplacidandstaid,Mr Ram. I think he started out onthewrongfootandended up in a bad place. One that made no sense for a man of

his prowess. His error was that he was looking for answers. LikeItoldseveral people with whom I had conversations of Hess's tax payment maneuvers, do what I learned to do quickly on Wall Street. Don't look for answers. Look for the hammerthatisabouttofall. Look for the trick that trips. Don't anticipate serious construction; brace self for the concoction that tries to pull wool over the eyes, whiledrivingaspikeintothe behind.

What else is there to

think, conclude, about: “A portion of gross production from the Stabroek Block, separate from the joint venture partners' cost recovery and profit share entitlement,isusedtosatisfy the joint venture partners' i

Delivery of this production to the government in satisfaction of the joint venturepartners'incometax liability is administered by ExxonMobilGuyanaLtd.as theoperator,andistherefore notincludedinthisreportas a payment.” (Italics mine).

Mr Ram declared that to be “gibberish”. I am kinder: balderdash, rubbish, and trash,itis.

First,itisapaymentthat is not a payment, not included as such, as Hess itselfsaid. Exxon,Hessand the Chinese do their own books. Except that in this m a g i c a l m y s t e r y monstrosity that is a tax payment tangle, Hess niftily separates itself and does a corporate shovel pass to Exxon. RecallthattheHess familyatonetimeownedthe S

National Football League New York Jets team. Hess Corp knows about laterals, shovel passes, dinks, and Hail Mary(s). The lingo of thelastsentenceencirclesall fouractions.

Second, who is paying what to whom, but really isn't? How is that for trickiness, when all is said, done? Third, out of where did that “portion of gross production from the Stabroek Block” come? Since, the people said it is “separate from the joint venture partners' cost recovery and profit share entitlements”, then my reasoning says that some of that deliberately hazy production is coming from Guyana'spoolandportionof oil. Toputdifferently,apart of Guyana's own split of oil production is being pushed by Hess to Exxon to sell to the world as satisfaction of thepartnership'staxliability tothiscountry

I have reluctant admirationforcreativitythat is too clever by far In contrast, there is total distaste, complete scorn, for whatIinterprettobetheonly label that could fit: a deep, darkgame.

I think that what Hess Corp presented in that U.S. filingisbetterthananything thattheskilledcreatorsatthe Office of the President can conjure. Even a student of the language, as I fancy myself to me, am stroking my jaw No! I haven't yet reached the stage of scratching my head, or pulling out any of the remaininghairfromthere. It

was one of the Hess principals who sold Guyana to the planets as a special kindofdemocracy Ithasto be, when the Hess Corp can dare to construct such an outrage,andstillbeallowed to walk in the times that enrichfairsonsofliberty In which other country on this God's green earth can someone attempt to pull a fastonelikethatfabrication, whichpurportstobeincome taxliabilitysatisfaction,and is allowed to do more than get away with it? That is, add insult to injury by turningaroundandmocking the people of a victimized nation with derisive laughter

Mr Ram was so apoplectic that he barely managed“gibberish.” NotI, milords and ladies. These are the developments that get the blood boiling, the synapses racing What Guyana is enduring relative to receipts and certificates, as such relate to oil taxes, is what Americans fondly call making someone into a horse'sass.

Withthisbusinessoftax receiptsandcertificates,itis not an individual ridiculed, butawholedamnedcountry that is the picture of some FarEasterndespot'sdemand for all comers to subject themselves to face down, full-length prostration Gibberish doesn't quite fit. Thinkoffiendish.

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

US$565M oil money flows into NRF for third quarter of 2025

Th e N a t u r a l Resource Fund (NRF), Guyana's oil account, was boosted with approximately US$565M during the third quarterof2025. This is according to an NRF Receipt published by the government of Guyana (GoG),fortheperiodJuly1, 2025toSeptember30,2025.

The document reflects one royalty payment relative to the second quarter of this year which amounts to

US$77,860,330.36. Meanwhile, eight profit oil payments were recorded during the period, totalling US$486,672,093 33 This means Guyana received a total of US$564,532,423.69 during the three-month timeframe.

Sofar,closetoUS$1.8B has flowed into the oil account for the year In the first quarter of this year, the Fund received payments totaling US$605,462,893 Meanwhile, in the second quarter of the year, another US$617,955,248 was depositedintotheaccount.

Banditsshoot,rob

manwhileurinating nearwakehouse

An auto-body workman was early Saturday morning shot and robbed while urinating a short distance from a wake he was attendingatAnnandale,East CoastDemerara(ECD).

An investigation has been launched into the incident which occurred at 00:05 hrs on Saturday. Police said the man “was robbed of a Samsung S9 cellular phone valued at $40,000, along with a haversack valued at $5,000 by two identifiable males of African descent, one of whom was armed with a handgun.The suspects were onamotorcycle(registration numberunknown).”

The victim told police that he ventured a short distance from the gathering to urinate, and while doing so he noticed two persons

approaching him from an easterlydirection.

“As a result, he turned and ran in the direction towards the 'wake house', but the perpetrators caught up with him, held him at gunpoint, and demanded money He resisted, and the suspectwiththefirearmshot him once in his right thigh, which caused him to fall to theground.

T

haversack, which contained his cell phone and personal documents. The men made good their escape on their motorcycle,”policesaid.

The injured was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)wherehewastaken byresidentsatthewake.He is scheduled to undergo surgery

Poorjudgement!

Frompage3

councilorwentagainstusandvotedforthePPP So,PPPwon the chairmanship in Region Eight, because we had seven seats. PPP got seven, and APNU got one…so it looks like theyareintalks.Youcanclearlyseeit,”hestated.

The WIN leader stressed that his party won the Region 10, and simply wanted the opportunity to represent the people of that region. “They don't want them, they wanted us…IhopethepeopleofRegion10andGeorgetownandall the regions can see clearly what is going on, the PPP and APNU and FGM, they are working together to keep WIN out,”Mohamedadded.

Nowthatthedecisionisuptotheminister,Mohamedsaid WIN is awaiting her decision. However, he noted, “I don't thinkshewillgiveittoWIN.Youcanseehoweverythingis unfolding so let's see what the Minister of Local Government,herdecisionis.ButIknowshewillgowiththe APNUbecausetheywanttokeepWINout.Theyknowthat when,nomatterwhichgovernmentitis,WINwillholdallof themaccountable.”

Government is projected to earn an estimated US$2.2 billion in profit oil and US$340 6 million in royaltiesbytheendof2025.

Itisanticipatedthatthere will be 246 lifts of profit oil from the Stabroek Block in 2025- each lift is equivalent to one million barrels of oil. Within this, Government is

projected to have 31 lifts of profit oil from the four Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels (FPSOs) currentlyoperating offshoreGuyana.

Earlierthisyear,Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh tempered the expectation of Guyanese with regard to revenueflowfromthesector During the presentation of Budget 2025, he indicated thatalthoughGuyana'sdaily

production is expected to climb,thecountrywillseea decrease in earnings from the sector, as a result of a projected 10.9% decline in oilprice.

He said, “Oil prices contracted by 2.3 percent to average US$80.7 per barrel in 2024, primarily due to slowing global demand, particularlyinChina.”

TheMinisterwaskeento note that this trend is expected to continue this year as “crude oil prices are forecasted to decline by a further 10 9 percent to US$71.9 per barrel, with global supply expected to exceeddemand.”

Consequently, he explainedthatGovernment's petroleum revenue deposits are projected to be 2 6 percentlowerthanin2024.

Kaieteur News reported

that in 2024, an average of 225 4 million barrels of crudeoilwasproduced,with the sector recording 57.7% growththatyear. Atanaverageoilpriceof US$80.7 per barrel in 2024, Guyana earned US$2.6B fromoilproduction. In accordance with the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Guyana receives 2% of oil produced soldintheStabroekBlock.It also receives a profit share, equivalent to 12.5% after ExxonMobil deducts 75% monthly towards expenses and takes another 12.5% as itsprofit.

Finance Minister, Dr.Ashni Singh

“Occupationnomore”…

Scores of Guyanese march through rain in solidarity with Gaza

Scores of Guyanese braved the rain on Saturday to march against the Israeli occupationofGaza.

theUmanaYanaforarally

“1,2,3,4 Occupation no more”, they chantedastheymarchedthroughthestreets of Georgetown with Palestinian flags, placards.

The marched kicked off a little after 10:00 hrs. on Saturday from the Umana Yana. The group marched up Main Street before turning left onto Church Street and thentakingotherroutesthatledthembackto

Israel has been bombarding Gaza for twoyears,killingthousandsofPalestinians includingwomenandchildren.

The country has agreed to a ceasefire and as it holds, thousands of Palestinians have reportedly returned to the ruins left behind. Meanwhile, the U.S. awaits the releaseoftheremainingIsraelihostageson Monday.

The war on Gaza has been described as Genocide.

CJIAtointegratebiometricsto reduceprocessingtimesforpassengers

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation(CJIAC)hassaidthatitplansto integratebiometricsintoitslistofservicesto be able to reduce processing times for passengers.

Accordingtoastatementfromtheagency, its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Ramesh Ghir recently held discussions with the President of Société Internationale de TélécommunicationsAéronautiques (SITA), Mr Shawn Gregor and other senior executives, to advance CJIAC's ambitious technologyroadmap.

“Theprimaryfocusofthediscussionwas CJIAC's plan to integrate biometrics and leverage SITA's cutting-edge technology to significantly enhance service quality and reduce processing times for passengers,” CJIAstated.

Duringthediscussions,Ghiremphasised that this initiative is central to President IrfaanAli'svisionoftransformingCJIAintoa modern, efficient, and technologically advanced gateway that embraces digital solutions to enhance the overall passenger experience.

CJIA stated that during the meeting, the CEO outlined several key technology deploymentsrequiredtomeetthisvision.

These includes, Self-Check-In Kiosks whichtheystatedthatSITAwasspecifically tasked with working closely with airlines operating at the airport to ensure seamless provisioning and availability for passengers

toutilisetheself-check-inkioskscurrentlyin theairportterminal.

Another has to do with off-airport services.Inrelationtothis,theCEOoutlined his forward-thinking vision for deploying Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) andSelf-CheckandBaggageTagPrintingat major international hotels across Guyana, which will offer passengers the convenience of starting their airport procedures before theyarrive.

“Reduced Processing Times: To further streamline the departure process, Mr Ghir requestedSITAtocaterforCurbSideCheckin and Self Bag Drop services, which are criticalstepsinreducingprocessingtimesfor departingpassengers,”thestatementnoted.

Ontheirpart,CJIAdisclosedthatSITA's executivesaffirmedtheirstrongcommitment to the region, assuring the CEO that Guyana is considered a critical market for the company SITAalsopledgedtodeploytheir latest technology solutions to meet the high expectations of the travelling public and support CJIAC in its transformation into a regional leader in passenger processing and biometricsadoption.

“The CJIAC and SITA teams have committed to working closely together to implement these technological upgrades, markingamajorsteptowardrealisingamore seamless, efficient, and modern travel experience at Guyana's main international hub,”thestatementconcluded.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CJIA, Mr. Ramesh Ghir flanked by executives of Société Internationale de TélécommunicationsAéronautiques (SITA).

....a

resilientfighterwho survivedbreastcancer despitelatedetection

AwarenessMonthcontinues, more brave women are stepping forward to share theirpersonalbattleswiththe disease.Thesestoriesinspire hope, strength, and the impo

ance o

y detection. One such woman is60-year-oldLloydaSingh, a resilient fighter who survived breast cancer even after it was detected at a late stage. In her interview with The Waterfalls, Singh

recounted her journey, beginning with an unexpecteddiagnosis.“Iwas diagnosed, but wasn't aware ofitbecauseIwasn'tgetting any signs. My breast turned into another shape like a burger The nipple went inward,”sherecalled. Singh,whohadnofamily history of cancer, said she initially, thought she was in the clear But after noticing the change in her right side (Continuedonpage39)

Breast cancer survivor, Lloyda Singh

By Karen Abrams, MBA, AA, Education Technology Doctoral Candidate

In a recent column, I argued that before Guyana can leap into the era of artificial intelligence, we mustfirstgetourdatahouse in order That work begins not with AI, but with the slow, deliberate digitization of the millions of paper records that underpin government operations, birth certificates, land titles, school records, tax receipts, andpensionfiles.

For too long, our bureaucracy has been built onpapertrails.Everyvisitto agovernmentofficeisatest of patience and recordkeeping, where citizens are asked to produce decadesoldreceiptsorcertificatesto validatesimplerequests.Itis a system designed for frustration and inefficiency Digitizing public records is not just a clerical task; it is nation-building work A digital archive would allow e-systems to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and even save lives Health records, for example, could help doctors track chronic diseases Land registries could speed up property transfers Education data could guide teacher training and curriculum reform

D o n e r i g h t , t h i s

transformation could position Guyana as a research hub for the

Caribbean, givin

UniversityofGuyanaaccess tovaluablenationaldatasets thatdriveinnovation.

Digitizing is the foundation of progress. But to clarify, an electronic system (or e-system) is not necessarilyanAIsystem.Esystemsmanageinformation electronically, they allow citizens to fill forms online, track applications, and eliminate the need for paper submissions. These systems

alone can deliver tremendous gains in transparency, speed, and

accountability. Some Guyanese agencies, like the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Immigration Services,havealreadymade strides in this direction

Advancing Education, Technology & Innovation in Guyana…

Data Primacy: Why Digitizing Public Records Is Nation-Building

Theirexamplesshowwhatis possible when processes movefromdesksandledgers toscreensandservers.

Artificialintelligence,by contrast, represents the next layer of capability AI doesn't just store data, it learnsfromit.Itcanclassify documents automatically, detect fraud, predict delays, and even use facial recognition to verify identity But AI can only function effectively when thereisclean,structured,and digitized data to learn from. Withoutthatfoundation,talk of AI modernization is premature.

Thefirstandmosturgent step, therefore, is to ensure that every new transaction acrossgovernmentagencies, from renewing a passport to applying for a business license, is recorded directly

into digital systems

Simultaneously, each department must begin the difficultbutessentialtaskof reviewing and documenting its internal workflows Everymanagershouldknow howlongatasktakes,whois responsible for each stage, andwherebottlenecksoccur This kind of organizational self-knowledge is the backboneofefficiency

Countries that have already embraced egovernance offer valuable lessons. The United States, and all of the developed countries including

countries like Estonia and Singapore have built integrated digital systems that now deliver nearly all public services online Rwanda, often categorized as a 'low income' country, hasdigitizeditslandregistry andhealthsystems,reducing fraud, corruption and administrative delays A World Bank study in 2023 found that nations adopting e-government systems, whether or not they include AI, cut administrative costs by up to 45 percent while improving public trust (World Bank, Digital Public Infrastructure for Development,2023).

Once Guyana's agencies complete the hard work of d

transformation will be visible.Citizenswillbeable toinitiatetransactionsonline via their computers or mobiledevicesandtrackthe progressoftheirtransactions fromanywhereintheworld. For Guyana, the gains will be transformative Once processes are standardized and digital dashboards track performance, leaders will finally have the tools to measure what matters; response times, backlog reduction, citizen feedback, andcompliancewithservice standards. It would mean an end to long lines, lost files, and disc

tionary favoritism. Citizens could

initiate applications online, monitor their progress, and hold offices accountable for delays.

AI will come, and when it does, i

will add remarkable capabilities,

automated fraud detection, and even smart service delivery, but the true transformation begins with something far simpler and moreurgent,replacingpaper withdata.

The future will not wait for us to get ready The question is whether we will start by doing the hard, disciplined work that makes readinesspossible.

WEEK-IN-REVIEW

SUNDAY

Guyanatofinallyreceive rightful2%royaltyfromExxon …asLicencefor7th projectplugsloophole

Guyana will finally receive its rightfulshareofroyaltyfromtheoil and gas operations in the Stabroek Block as a result of the new and carefully worded Petroleum Licence (PL) granted by the Government of Guyana (GoG) for theseventhproject,Hammerhead.

Royalty is a payment made by the extractors of natural resources totherightfulownersofthewealth.

Usually, ExxonMobil pays Guyana 2% of their profits as royalty to the Government of Guyana, as reflected on the company’s annual financials. This arrangement has been condemned as further shortening the country’s rightful entitlement, since the oil contract states that the sum should be paid from “all petroleum producedandsold”.

Article 15.6 of the PSA states, “The Contractor shall pay, at the Government’s election either in cash based on the value of the relevant Petroleum as calculated pursuant toArticle 13 or in kind, a royalty of two percent (2%) of all Petroleum produced and sold, less thequantitiesofPetroleumusedfor fuel or transportation in Petroleum Operations, from all production licensessubjecttothisAgreement.”

By first deducting 75% of the oilascost,thensharing12.5%with Guyana as profit, the country has been losing massive revenue over the years by failing to ensure it receivesitsrightfulroyalty

IntherecentlyissuedPLforthe Hammerhead development, the government has made it clear to Exxon that this previous arrangementwillnotcontinue.

The Licence clearly states at (mm) 3(1), “The Licence Holder shallpaytotheGovernmentwithin the period specified therefore by the Minister, royalty in respect of the petroleum produced in the Production Area to which this Licencerelatesattherateoftwo(2) per cent of the gross petroleum producedfromtheProductionArea orwherearrangementsaremadein the Petroleum Agreement for payment of royalty in kind wholly or in part in keeping with theAct, by making such payment and/or deliveries in accordance with aforesaidarrangements.”

Part 2 goes on to specify that grosspetroleumproducedfromthe Production Area-for the purposes of payment of royalty shall mean: “(a) all petroleum produced and sold from the Production Area including such petroleum which hasbeenproducedbutnotsold,but

shallexcludeallpetroleumutilised for reinjection or other Petroleum Operations from the Production Area.”

Petroleum produced but used for fuel or transportation in petroleum operations shall be free of royalty in keeping with the provisions of the Petroleum Agreement.

Notably, this provision was featured in the previous Licence granted by the GoG for the sixth project, Whiptail. Kaieteur News did not observe the same clear requirementoutlinedinthefifthPL issued to the operator for the Uaru project.

Boy,15,choppedto deathbystepfatherduring rowoverbicycle

A 15-year-old was chopped to death on Friday, allegedly by his

stepfather, during a row over a bicycle at their Stewartville, West CoastDemerara(WCD)home.

Dead is Sudesh Singh, called Joel of Lot 71 Last Street, Stewartville. He was killed around 14:30hrs.

Investigators said that the teen and his stepfather had a misunderstanding over a bicycle. The bicycle belonged to the stepfather and the teen had reportedly used it and caused its chaintoslip.

The stepfather confronted him and an argument ensued between them.

Police in a statement said that during the argument, the suspect ran into the kitchen and returned armedwithacutlass.Hereportedly ran up to Singh and chopped him threetimestotheneck.

named in honor of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who has been described as a giant in Guyana’s politicallandscape.

The announcement was made by President Irfaan Ali on Sunday night during the commissioning of theUS$262millionbridge,builtby China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) with a lifespanofacentury

President Ali underscored the importance of October 5th in Guyana’s history and the crucial role Jagdeo played 33 years ago in pullingthecountryoutofeconomic turmoil.

President Ali recognised the former president and current vice president for his dedication to Guyana’s upliftment. “Aman who has been an adviser, an architect and an anchor in our development today,Iwanttopaytributetoagiant ofourlocalpoliticsandeconomy,” Alisaid.

“October5thisnoordinarydate intheGuyanesecalendar Itisaday burnedintoacollectivememory It isadaythat33yearsago,witnessed the breaking of chains and the openingofdoors.OnOctober5,the People’s Progressive Party Civic and the Guyanese people shattered the shackles of authoritarian rule and gave Guyana the chance to breathe again,” President Ali added.

Heoutlinedthatthedateserves asareminderofthedawnofanew era, when the nation was rescued from economic collapse and p o l i t i c a l d a r k n e s s The president noted that October 5th holds special significance for Jagdeo, recalling that he stood shoulder to shoulder with Dr CheddiJagantopullGuyanaoutof “economicwilderness.”

Thesuspectthenwalkedoutof the yard and made his way to the Leonora Police Station where he turned himself in He was immediatelyarrestedbeforepolice visitedthescene.

“On arrival at the scene, the Police found the teen lying motionless,faceupwardsunderthe house,bleedingathisneck,”police stated while adding that a cutlass wasseennearthebody

Singh’s body was removed from the scene and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital for further examination before being transported to the Ezekiel Funeral Parlour

Several persons in the were questioned as investigations continue.

M0NDAY

Newbridgenamedafter BharratJagdeo

The 2 65-kilometer bridge acrosstheDemeraraRiverhasbeen

Ali reminded that at the time, Guyana’s economy was bankrupt, roads were in tatters, utilities had collapsed, businesses were crippled, and debt consumed more revenue than the country earned, making it a highly indebted poor nation.

“A lesser soul would have walked away, but not Bharrat Jagdeo, he stood and worked to resuscitate our economy, to lift Guyana,afewyearsearlier,hehad returned from studies with a mind sharpened like steel and a work ethic that set him apart,” the presidentnoted.

Ali continued, “Dr Jagan recognisedhimaformidableasset, and he was elevated swiftly to Minister of Finance Then he worked tirelessly rebuilding the country’srevenues,introducingthe mostgenerousincentivesregimeto boost our economy He did all of this by slashing import tariffs and fighting on international front for debt relief Under his watch, Guyana moved from being shackled by debt to standing with dignitywhenheassumedthe Continued on page 17

ExxonMobil's 2024 financial statement shows that the company paid royalty to Guyana from its share of revenue.

The crime scene Sudesh Singh

Frompage16 presidency in 1999 it was in the midstofviolenceanduncertainty.”

President Ali praised the vice presidentforstandinguptobullies and shielding democracy He said Jagdeo is more than just a national figure in Guyana’s political arena, asheisalsoaregionalleaderanda global thinker Ali reminded that

Jagdeo chaired CARICOM

Agriculture Initiative and pioneered the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), a model that today earns Guyana carbon credits and global respect. He noted that Jagdeo was also recognised by the United Nations asa“ChampionoftheEarth.”

“It is my honor, my privilege…on behalf of a grateful people,I’mpleasedtodedicatethis bridgeinthenameoffromthisday forward, it shall be called the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge,becausegreatmendeserve recognition, because visionaries deserve legacies, because Guyana never forgets its giants,” President Alisaid.

‘Govt.begging Exxonforcrumbs’ …asdemandsUS$1.2Mfrom Exxontoconductaudit …ChrisRamsaysvague languageinlicencefor7th projectmanindicate amendmenttoPSA

The Government of Guyana (GoG) in the Production Licence (PL) for the seventh projectHammerhead- has required ExxonMobil to pay an additional US$1.2M, an arrangement which may amount to an amendment of the2016oilcontract.

This is according to prominent Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram. In an invited comment, the Lawyer noted that the Hammerhead Licence requires ExxonMobil to pay US$400,000 a year for three years a total of US $1 2 million under Clause (gg)(ii), whichprovidesthatthesumbepaid into a government account “to be used by the Government for the preparation of the audit scope and the procurement of third-party auditors to supplement the Minister’s resources and develop institutional capacity for the ongoingconductofaudits.”

Ram said it was unclear whether the independent audit referred to is the same as the Ministerial audit under Article 23 of the 2016 Petroleum Agreement and 1.5 ofAnnex C thereto (Audit and Inspection Rights of Government), the cost of which is “at [the] Minister’s sole cost and expense”.

To this end, the lawyer pointed out, “If it is the same audit, the clauseamountstoanimpliedorde factoamendmentoftheAgreement – something that, under Article

Bharrat Jagdeo Vice President

31.2, can only be done “by mutual consentinwriting”–notinalicence but by way of anAddendumto the Agreement for which there is a precedent.”

RambelievesthatiftheLicence is not an amendment to existing contract, then it signals greater troubleforGuyanese.Accordingto him, “Worse yet, if it is not (an amendment) it means that if the Government begs Exxon for crumbs,itwouldbepreparedtouse alicencetoshowitsgenerosity.”

He reminded the GoG that Article 31 2 of the Agreement makes provision for either party to lawfully request an amendment or modi

“Meaningful negotiations must then take place. Neither party can refuse to make reasonable efforts towards an amicable resolution,” Ramadded.

OnSunday,MinisterofNatural Resources, Vickram Bharrat said that the provision in the Licence is for “continuous auditing” In response Ram said he failed to definitivelysaywhetherthemonies will finance the cost oil audits, required under the PSA. Further, the advocate argued that the vague language in the Licence is more evidence of the absence of

seriousness with which the Petroleum Agreement and its derivativesaredealtwith.

He said, “But the Government refuses to set up a Petroleum Commission as it has promised to because it is satisfied with crumbs over seeking an amendment or modification Its feeble excuse: “sanctityofcontract”.

On Saturday, this newspaper reported that the administration inserted a provision into the Licence which will require the company to pay an additional US$1.2 million for the conduct of audits,althoughithasoftenmadeit clear that it is prohibited from increasing the financial burdens of ExxonMobil and can therefore not seekarenegotiationofthelopsided oil deal, or any additional benefits forcitizens.

Minister Bharrat has since clarified that the sum is not cost recoverable Stakeholders have often argued that government can capitalise on these licenses when approving more projects, to seek additionalrevenueforthepeopleof Guyana.

Government officials have however been reluctant, insisting that the financial burdens of the contractor cannot be increased, in keepingwiththetermsofthe2016 Production Sharing Agreement

(PSA).

TheStabilityClauseofcontract statesat32.2,“Afterthesigningof thisAgreementandinconformance with Article 15, the Government shall not increase the economic burdens of Contractor under this Agreement by applying to this Agreement or the operations conducted thereunder any increase of or any new petroleum related fiscalobligation,including,butnot limited to, any new taxes whatsoever, any new royalty, duties, fees, charges, value-added tax(VAT)orotherimposts.”

Meanwhile, 32 3 of the agreementgoesontopointoutthat should there be any change in the lawswhichcausesanadverseeffect on the contractor’s economic benefits, “the Government shall promptly take any and all affirmative actions to restore the lost or impaired economic benefits to Contractor, so that Contractor receivesthesameeconomicbenefit under theAgreement that it would havereceivedpriortothechangein law or its interpretation, application, or implementation.”

Bethatasitmay,Exxonhasagreed to pay the additional revenue over tothestate,raisingdoubtsaboutthe “sanctity of contract” and government’s refusal to seek more financial benefits from its resources.

TUESDAY

U.S.indictsMohameds inmassivegoldfraud …seekingforfeitureofassets …duofaceslengthy prisontermifconvicted

Leader of the We Invest in Nationhoodparty(WIN)Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed, have been indicted in a U.S. federal court in Miami, Florida on 11 charges of wire and mail fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and the importation of a Lamborghini luxury car- all stemming from accusations of massive tax fraud committedagainstGuyana.

The indictment, unsealed on October 2, 2025, accuses the Mohameds of orchestrating an elaborate fraud and moneylaundering scheme involving gold exports, customs fraud, bribery, andtheevasionofmillionsintaxes androyaltiesowedtoGuyana.

The case, captioned United States of America v Nazar Mohamed & Azruddin Mohamed, isfiledintheU.S.DistrictCourtfor the Southern District of Florida under case number 25-CR-20441 (WILLIAMS/LETT) Among the statutes cited are: conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud (18 U S C § 1349), wire fraud (18 U S C § 1343), mail fraud (18 U S C § 1341), conspiracy to commit money laundering (18 U S C § 1956(h)), and related forfeiture statutes (18 U.S.C. §§ 981,982).

At the heart of the US Government’scaselieseveralcore allegations, among them gold export fraud and customs seal reuse. The indictment seen by this newspaper charges that Mohamed’s Enterprise, the Guyana-basedgoldwholesaling

Continued on page 18

Section of the Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge

Frompage17 and export company controlled 90% by Nazar and 10% by Azruddin, is alleged to have sold goldtobuyersinMiamiandDubai, while circumventing Guyana’s revenueandregulatorysystem.The

indictment claims that the defendants would reuse official GuyanaRevenueAuthority(GRA) and Guyana Gold Board (GGB)

customs seals and export declarations, originally applied legally on one shipment on subsequent shipments for which theyhadnotpaidtaxesorroyalties. This, prosecutors say, created the false impression that proper paymentshadbeenmade.

Additionally, the duo is also accusedofbribingstateofficialsto facilitatetheirallegedcorruptacts. The indictment sets forth that the MohamedspaidbribestoGuyanese government officials, including customs agents to allow the acceptanceofduplicatepaperwork and reused seals Through this mechanism, the scheme allegedly enabled the evasion of duties and royalties that should have gone to Guyana’scoffers.

According to the court papers from 2017 through June 11, 2024, the indictment alleges the defendants caused exports of at least 10,000 kilograms of gold to pass through Miami without payment of the proper dues to Guyana, amounting to a loss of approximately US$50 million to the Guyanese government The indictment further charges the Mohameds with conspiring to transport, transmit, and transfer funds derived from their criminal scheme, including through international wire transfers, with theintenttopromotetheunderlying illegal activity. The scheme is said to have used U.S. and foreign financialinstitutionstomoveillicit proceeds.

According to the court papers, the purpose of the conspiracy was for the defendants to unlawfully enrich themselves and defraud the government of Guyana in connectionwithtaxesandroyalties owedonthesaleandexportofgold by fraudulently reusing Guyana customs declarations and seals on goldshipmentssentthroughMiami to make it appear that Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid taxes and royalties when it had not actually paidthem.

According to the court documents, the manner and means by which the defendants and their co-conspirators sought to accomplish the purpose of the conspiracy included, among other things, the following: NAZAR MOHAMED and AZRUDDIN

MOHAMED entered into

agreements on behalf of Mohamed’s Enterprise to sell thousandsofkilogramsofgoldper year from Guyana to buyers in Miami and Dubai The court

documentsdidnotidentifybyname the companies, but noted that the pair coordinated with Company 1, via electronic communications between Guyana and Miami, to transportgoldsoldbyMohamed‘s Enterprise from Guyana to Miami and Dubai (through Miami) In connection with those shipments, NAZAR MOHAMED and AZRUDDIN MOHAMED caused paymentstoCompany1frombank accountsinGuyanatotheSouthern DistrictofFlorida.

Additionally, the documents saidtheMohamedssetupasystem whereby Mohamed’s Enterprise would pay taxes and royalties in Guyana on one shipment of gold and receive the appropriate GRA and GGB seals, but then reuse the same customs declarations and GRA and GGB seals on the subsequent shipment so that Mohamed’sEnterprisecouldavoid taxes and royalties on the second shipment.

The court documents said too that the Mohameds caused Company 2 to ship empty wooden boxes with intact GRA and GGB seals from gold buyers in Dubai to Miami Azruddin Mohamed the courtpointedoutcausedCompany 3 in Miami to ship those empty boxes with intact GRA and GGB seals from Miami to Mohamed’s EnterpriseofficeinGuyana.

The duo is accused of then reusing empty boxes with intact GRAandGGBsealsforshipments of gold to make it appear that Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid Guyana taxes and royalties on shipments of gold when, in truth andinfact,Mohamed’sEnterprise had not paid them on those shipmentsofgold.

Luxuryvehicle undervaluationscheme

In a separate count, Azruddin Mohamed, the presumptive nomineefortheconstitutionalpost of leader of the opposition here is chargedwithsubmittingfraudulent documentstotheGuyanaRevenue AuthorityregardingaLamborghini AventadorSVshippedfromMiami to Guyana. The indictment claims he falsified invoices to show the vehicle’s value as around US$75,300, when its true cost was approximately US$680,000, therebyevadingoverUS$1million in taxes The WIN leader is currentlybeforeaGuyanacourton thismatter Hewasfirstarraigned in May 2025 and placed on $500,000 bail after pleading not guilty to the charges before MagistrateMcGusty Forfeitureofassets

Meanwhile, the U S Government in the court papers indicted that it will be seeking forfeiture of property traceable to the proceeds of the scheme, including a seized shipment containing approximately US$5.3 million in gold bars intercepted at Miami International Airport on

June 11, 2024 This matter was never reported locally and it came

sanctioned by the United States Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and their businesses barred from doing business with the Guyana G

e Mohameds be convicted under these charges, the penalties may include substantial fines, asset forfeiture,andlengthyprisonterms u n d e r U S l a w T h e Demerarawaves reported that the pair could face a maximum of 20 years on each count, maximum supervisedreleaseofthreeyears,a maximum fine of US$250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss. On the charges of wire fraud, he could also be sentenced to 20 yearsimprisonmentandmaximum supervised release of three years and a fine of US$250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss. The Grand Jury is also seeking a

supervised release and a fine of US$500,000 or the value of the propertyinvolvedinthetransaction for conspiracy to commit money laundering.

NewOppositionLeader

The timing and gravity of this indictment come at a time when AzruddinMohamedisabouttostep into the constitutional office of LeaderoftheOpposition.Hisfourmonth-old WIN party captured 16 seatsinthenewNationalAssembly, surpassing the old PNCR-led APNU grouping to become the primary opposition bloc. His rise caught many by surprise, with political watchers still figuring out whatcausedtheseismicshiftinthe electorate. Mohamed has already expressed readiness to take on his roleasOppositionLeaderpledging to channel his salary into community causes and to hold the government strictly accountable His party has named its 16 candidatestotakeuptheirpositions as Members of Parliament in the 65-seat legislature here. Observers

Neutered before it got going, and withimplicationsforareturntothe old rancid racial and political divisions,”Lallcommented. USsanctions

In mid-2024, OFAC imposed sanctionsonbothAzruddinandhis father and then PPP executive member and Permanent Secretary, Mae Thomas citing allegations of tax evasion, corruption, and gold export schemes that deprived Guyana of substantial revenues According to the OFAC, the Mohamed’s allegedly evaded tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under declaring their gold exp

o Guyan

say that this grand jury indictment couldscareoremboldensupporters oftheWINparty

On Facebook yesterday politicalopponentshavewastedno time in raising the alarm. Some warn that allowing an indicted individual to assume such a powerful office may erode public trust in Parliament, but supporters of Mohamed, for their part, have argued that he is the target of political persecution and that he remains innocent until proven guilty

Writing in a column in another section of the media, Kaieteur News columnist, GHK Lall said: “Aman out of nowhere electrified swaths of the Guyanese electorate, even with sanctions hanging around his neck, and matters have cometothis. IndictmentviaaU.S. grandjury Myfirstquestionoutof afewtoday,iswhatdoesthisdoto the will of the Guyanese people, andtheirpowertochoosetheirown champions? Has the will of Guyanese been subverted, reduced tozilch?”

Lall further said: “I get belated understanding as to why the parliamentary clock is currently being rundown to the last day. Coulditbethatdevelopmentsfrom U.S. federal jurisprudence were awaited? What now, a request for extradition? Meanwhile,Guyana’s parliamentisenjoyingasabbatical, with taints staining long before its doors are reopened ” Lall said whateverAzruddin Mohamed was and is, however he would have turned out to be in parliament, he may not be allowed to put foot in there. “I note that while several of Mohamed enterprises are specificallynamedinthegrandjury indictment, the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party is not amongthem. IftheheadofWINis removed,wheredoesthatleavethe remaining body in parliament, and to what effect, since the people didn’t vote for them? How could thatprompthissupporterstoreact? Theseismicchangeinthepolitical landscapecouldbethefirstvictim.

se authorities “Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogramsofgoldfromimportand export declarations and avoided payingmorethanUS$50millionin duty taxes to the Government of Guyana,”theUSTreasuryalleged. It further alleged that: “Mohamed’sEnterprisehasbribed customs officials to falsify import andexportdocuments,aswellasto facilitate illicit gold shipments Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid bribes to Guyanese government officials to ensure the undisrupted flow of inbound and outbound personnel that move currency and other items on behalf of Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise,” OFACalleged.

OFAC had also implicated Thomas in the Mohamed’s web of allegedcorruption.Inexchangefor cash payments and high-value gifts, it was stated that Thomas misused her position, while as PS fortheMinistryofHomeAffairsto influence the award of official contract bids and the approval processesforweapons’permitsand passports on behalf of Mohamed’s Enterprise. While the department only named and sanctioned Thomas, it was stated that other government officials are complicit foracceptingbribesandgivingthe Mohamed’s favourable treatment.

“Inreturn,corruptofficialsreceive cashandgiftsforincidentsthatare overlooked Additionally, Mohamed’s Enterprise has paid bribes to corrupt Guyanese government officials to facilitate the award of government contracts,”theOFACalleged.

Jurisdictionandextradition

Meanwhile, Guyanese have alreadystartedtoaskquestionasto whether the US will seek the extradition of the Mohameds Guyana does have an extradition treatywiththeUnitedStatesandin recent times officials from that country have come here to discuss matters pertaining to extradition. Back in July this year Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs,MohabirAnilNandlallmet with SandyRao,SeniorInspector, UnitedStatesDepartmentof Continued on page 28

Leader of the WIN Party,Azruddin Mohamed (right) and his father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed

TTowards a better life with your psychologist

Bullying: A mental health epidemic crisis in Guyana's Schools Essentialcomponentsofaneffectiveprogramme

o effectively combat bullying in our schools, the issue must first be

acknowledged and addressed at the level of government, organisations, and community leadership Key figures including the president, ministers, CEOs, directors, and religious leaders—mustreassesstheir behaviours and lifestyle choices, setting a positive example for the younger generation. This approach, while straightforward, can yieldimpactfulresults.

W h o l e - s c h o o l approach: A practical plan

requires school-wide involvement and support, from administrators to students The school

environment should reinforce a culture of inclusivenessanddiversity

A bullying prevention programme in schools aims to prevent and reduce

b u l l y i n g t h r o u g h comprehensive, multicomponent strategies that involve students, staff, p a r e n t s , a n d t h e community

Student activities and curricula: Classroom lessons and activities can

help develop socialemotional skills, such as empathy and conflict resolution Role-playing scenarios can empower bystanders, also known as "upstanders," to intervene safely It is essential to initiate discussions about

bullying This could involve a dedicated two- to three-month campaign during which bullying is examined in classrooms, accompanied by daily general assembly's lasting approximatelyonehour.

The campaign should begin with defining bullying, exploring its various forms, examining its detrimental effects, and discussing appropriate responses

Educational materials, in both printed and video formats, should be made readily available, displayed prominently within school environments, and accessible via mobile devices

This initiative aims to educate students about the nature of bullying, the motivations behind such

behaviour, and the consequences faced by those who are targeted

Establishing clear behavioural expectations is crucial.

Clear, consistent policies: School-wide rules against bullying must be e s t a b l i s h e d a n d communicated to students, staff, and parents The school system should consistently enforce consequences for breaking theserules.

To reduce incidents of bullying, schools must adopt unambiguous definitions of bullying, along with a wellestablishedpolicy Students should be informed about the school's stance on bullying, including the consequences that will be enforced for perpetrators, the support systems availableforvictims,andthe resources accessible to both groups.

Parent and community engagement: Informational

s e s s i o n s a n d communication with parents help extend antibullying efforts into the home Partnering with community organisations can provide additional resourcesandsupport.

Incidents of bullying occurring outside of school by school-aged children should be reported to law enforcement and addressed byaNationalAnti-Bullying TaskForce

It is vital to foster open communication and to reconstitute the ParentTeacher Association (PTA) to specifically focus on addressingbullying.

This should involve

securing unwavering pledges of support to provide the necessary r e s o u r c e s a n d t o collectively brainstorm solutions to combat this pervasive issue, which has been negatively impacting livesforgenerations.

Buildingchildren'sselfconfidenceisalsoessential

A review of the school curriculum is necessary to incorporate life skills, psychological grounding techniques, self-awareness, and emotional regulation into a dedicated subject, commencing in early education. Teachers should be adequately trained, or specialists should be engagedtoconductsessions twotothreetimesaweekto address these important topics.

Addressing bullying in schools necessitates a proactive and responsive approach, engaging parents and children in therapeutic interventions until notable behavioural change is achieved

I

recognise that individuals whoengageinbullyingmay

displaying traits associated with personality disorders,

Additionally, they may originate from challenging

characterized by trauma, leading to bullying as

mechanism.

Therefore, addressing this issue requires a comprehensive familybasedapproach

Staff Training and Professional Development: Teachers and staff require

recognise, prevent, and respond effectively to incidents of bullying This trainingshouldcovertopics

recognising signs of covert bullying.

Encouraging reporting:

Establish multiple, non-

anonymous methods for students to report incidents of bullying This ensures that incidents are tracked andaddressed

Targeted support for involved students: Give specialised support to students who bully, are bullied, or witness bullying behaviour.

Thisincludesindividual c o u n s e l l i n g a n d interventions focused on developing positive behaviours and building self-esteem

The Victim of Bullying

Upon the identification of a child as a victim of bullying, it is essential to implement an appropriate response Thevictimshould be provided with traumainformed care, which includes psychotherapy aimed at rebuilding selfesteem,self-confidence,and self-value Fostering resilience and assertiveness iscrucialtopreventthechild from developing passiveaggressive or aggressive

behaviours towards themselves and others. The

victim should engage in weekly therapy sessions lasting approximately 60 minutes to address the repercussionsofthebullying experience.

It is recommended that parents or caregivers participateinaminimumof 25% of these sessions until the child achieves significant progress or is fullyrehabilitated

The Bully

In cases involving bullying, it is advisable to temporarily remove the child from the school

environment for an indefinite period It is essential to conduct an assessment to diagnose the underlying causes of the bullyingbehaviour

A comprehensive treatment plan must be developed, necessitating the attendance of both the child and their parents at weekly 90-minute therapy sessions Additionally, modifications at home

should be made to support the child's recovery within a nurturing parental environment.

and

S p e c i a l i s e d Intervention: The personnel conducting these individual, group and family psychotherapy sessionsmustbequalified

Trained for years and highly skilled with a recognised master's degree or doctoral degree in

educational, counselling or trauma fields This is to prevent retraumatizing the victims and to better administercaretothevictim andpredator

Evidence-based programmes

Olweus Bullying Prevention Programme (OBPP):Acomprehensive, school-wideprogrammefor elementary through high schoolthatincludesschool, classroom, and individuallevelinterventions

Supports (PBIS): A tiered framework for promoting positive behaviour that can be adapted to prevent bullying

B u

Prevention Unit (BPU): A supplemental, evidencebased programme for kindergarten students that can be added to the social-

ning curriculum I am willing to support individuals, families, schools,andtheMinistryof Education in developing a comprehensive programme that brings healing to both victims of bullying and perpetratorsofbullying

By Dr. Telford Layne Jr. PsyD, MSc. Postgrad, BSc. Clinical

Developmental Psychologist - Psychoanalyst Unwrapping Gift -Clinic

From where I stand...

Civil society is comatose and Guyana demands its resuscitation

CivilsocietyinGuyanaisn't dead. But it is comatose; surviving on shallow pulses of engagement, periodic consultation, and the heroic labour of a few relentless individuals.Ittwitchesfrom timetotime,whenprompted

by government-led consultations or donor timelines However, a country this alive, with this level of transformation, wealth, and complexity, cannot afford a civil society that merely twitches It demandsresuscitation. There are countries that move forward without civil society But the price is almost always steep: corruption, unchecked power, widening inequality, eroded trust. And when the government is as powerful andasintolerantofdissentas ours seems to be, civil society'sdormancybecomes incrediblydangerous.

Of course, there are consultations, especially when required; like for the national budget, the Low

Carbon Development Strategy,andnotablytheUN Universal Periodic Review (UPR). Great! But this is often checkbox inclusion.A telling example is the government's UPR consultation on human rights, held in November 2024 According to the media coverage, only 13 civil society organisations attendedoutofmorethan40 invited. That turnout alone reflects either civil society's disengagementordistrustof theprocess.Likelyboth.

Wealsoseethisdynamic with legislative processes. Groups are called in after decisions have already been made or when international partners require proof of inclusion.Butifcivilsociety only gets a seat at the table when protocol demands it then that's basically a PR stunt. Take for instance in timesofdeepsocialdistress; a femicide crisis, rising youth crime, suicide, one would expect churches and otherreligiousinstitutionsto bemorevocal.Theirsilence on national issues, despite their influence, is both baffling and concerning Where is the moral leadership? Where is the solidarity with those suffering or marginalised? Whereistheroleofthefaith community in national healingandtruth-telling?

We must also ask: why don't more people enter the civilsocietyspace?Whyisit always the same five names from the same organisations

all year around? It's a rhetorical question, we all know the answer yet few of uswilladmititpublicly

Itstartswiththefactthat speaking out in Guyana carries risk; being labeled opposition and antidevelopment, being locked out of the process or denied opportunity, or indeed targeted by a weaponized tax system Some might be inclined to deny this but whether true or not, the perception is real and perception is enough to silenceapopulation.

And even when people doshowup,their voicescan sometimes be ignored. If you've spent years engaging with policymakers only to watch your contributions discarded or co-opted, why continue? Why invest energy into a process that feelsperformative?

Yet this isn't just about the government. There are real questions for civil society itself. Consider the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), for as longas I'vebeenajournalist (since 2003), it has been led by one individual. This is clearly a failure of institutional design. Even in NGOs leadership renewal, succession planning, and intergenerational inclusion are essential for longevity andlegitimacy Amovement that cannot reproduce itself willinevitablyfade.

The funding crisis has also become an issue. With the end of large USAID programmes, for instance, many NGOs have shuttered orscaleddown,leavingcivil society thinner, with fewer resourcesandlessmuscleto organize around broader nationalissues.

Worse still, civil society itselfhasgrownfragmented. Labour movements protest alone.Women's groups hold vigils alone. Human rights advocates stand alone Rarely do we see crosssector solidarity It seems like every group for itself. We must know that such siloed instinct undermines power Whenonlyahandful ofpeopleprotest,it'seasyfor leaders to dismiss them as rabble-rousers. There is no incentivetorespond.

It's also important to rememberthatcivilsociety's role is not limited to protest or critique. At its best, it functions as both a partner and a watchdog, helping to design solutions, support implementation, and bridge thegapbetweencitizensand power Unfortunately, in

Guyana, advocacy is too

T h a t defensiveness weakens democracyanderodestrust.

To be fair, some civil society actors have not helped their own cause, appearing only when it suits partisan lines And the government too must stop treating every critique as a political attack Genuine

maturityandawillingnessto hear uncomfortable truths without requiring the critic tofirstpraisethestateforits efforts.

Additionally, the culture of selective engagement is made worse by the state's resistancetotransparency

JustlastJuly,civilsociety activists protested in front of the Office of the President over the failure of the C o m

s i o n e r o f Information to respond to freedom of information requests (Kaieteur News, July 12, 2025; Stabroek News,July5,2025).Andlet us not forget, the national census was completed in 2022. It is now 2025. Still, thefullresultshavenotbeen madepublic.

If data is locked away, if government ministries don't share even basic nonproprietaryinformation,how can researchers, advocates, and watchdogs do their work? You cannot hold power accountable with blindfoldson.

Perhaps the one part of civil society with real influenceistheprivatesector. Theycertainlyhavebeenthe most active For obvious reasons, they are economic drivers and maybe even campaign donors. However, I'm sure we are aware that civil society cannot be reducedtobusinessinterests alone. Civic life is broader thancommerce.

Thisisnotacalltovilify the state, certainly shouldn't be interpreted as such It is more a call for a new social contract, where government enables, not controls; where civil society renews itself, not just recycles leadership; and where collaboration is structured,notperformative.

O u r N a t i o n a l Development Strategy of 1996 was shaped heavily by civilsocietyinput.Andso,as the country embarks on its new development journey, now turbocharged by oil, a similar posture is needed. Not just for optics, for ownership–'GuyanaisALL ahweown'.

Across the world, from

Brazil to South Africa to India, strong civil society movements have kept democracy alive, corrected policy missteps, and shaped national futures. Guyana is no different. If we want inclusive development, we needarobustcivilsociety

From where I stand, resuscitating civil society is not optional. It's the CPR Guyananeedstothrive.

About the author: Janelle A.N. Persaud is a j o u r n a l i s t a n d communications strategist

with over two decades of experience across media, p u b l i c a f f a i r s , a n d development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in

By Janelle Persaud

International Relations and a Master of Science in Strategic Development Studies from the University ofGuyana.

Newtourismprojectlaunched atSantaAratack,RegionThree

A new tourism project- Waia Green Escapes and Ecolodge hasbeenofficiallylaunched, to offer visitors a chance to explorethenaturalbeautyof Waia Creek and the nearby community of SantaAratak, Region Three. Waia Green

accommodation.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Tourism, Susan Rodrigues, highlighted the opportunities tourism createsforcommunities.She noted that Waia Green Escapes is a locally driven initiative that enriches

The ChineseAssociation of Guyana, and WildAdventures to develop and promote Hope own, Guyana's first Chinese settlement, as a tourism product.

Escapes and Ecolodge was launched on September 27, tomarkWorldTourismDay

Currently, providing day tours withfishing,mountain biking, and kayaking activities, Waia Green Escapeswillsoonexpandto include overnight

Guyana's tourism product while providing authentic andmemorableexperiences.

“By developing experienceslikethis,outside ofGeorgetown,wehighlight theuniquestories,traditions, and landscapes that make each region of Guyana

signedbetweentheMinistry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the Chinese Association of Guyana, and WildAdventures to develop and promote Hope Town, Guyana's first Chinese settlement, as a tourism product.

special,” the Minister said. Waia Green Escapes is managedbyKeiranSamuels andShabanaDanielsofWild Adventures.

Additionally, with great optimism,onWorldTourism Day, a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was

The MoAwas signed by Stephen Su, President of the Chinese Association of Guyana,ShabanaDanielson behalf of Wild Adventures, and Director of GTA and Minister Rodrigues on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry & Commerce.

Hope Town is a site of profound historical and cultural significance. This

Waia Green Escapes and Ecolodge has been officially launched, to offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of Waia Creek and the nearby community of Santa Aratak, Region Three

partnership will help preserve its heritage while creating new tourism and community engagement opportunities.

Located along Kamuni

Creek, Hope Town also providesaccesstothenearby Santa Aratak villages, offering visitors a richer experience of the region's historyandculture.

TaylorSwiftTaylorSwift

seems to be unbothered by mixed reception of her 'Showgirl' album

(CNN) Taylor Swift knows you have some thoughts on her latest album, andshe'sreadyforit.

The superstar billionaire singer-songwriter appeared onThe Zane Lowe Show for Apple Music on Tuesday, where she said she “welcomes the chaos” when it comes to how fans and listeners feel about her new music–thegood,thebadand theugly

“The rule of show

someone who didn't relate to (her sixth studio album from 2017) “Reputation ” And now that I've been through some other things in my life, that's my favorite album,'” Swift said, going on to observe that she has her eye on the long game when it comestoherdevotedSwiftie fanbase.

“We're doing this thing for keeps,” she said. “I have such an eye on legacy when I'mmakingmymusic.Iknow

business is, if it's the first week of my album release and you are saying either my name or my album title, you'rehelping,”Swiftshared. Swift's album “The Life of a Showgirl”–whichpeelsback thecurtainonherlifeontour andinthethroesofpassionate love with her fiancé Travis Kelce – was released last week.

“Ihavealotofrespectfor people's subjective opinions onart.I'mnottheartpolice,” Swift said “It's, like, everybody is allowed to feel exactly how they want. And what our goal is as entertainersistobeamirror.”

The 14-time Grammy winneralsoreflectedonhow this isn't the first time she's heard her fans and followers deliver less-than-glowing takes on one of her albums.

“WhatIoftenloveseeingmy fans say is, 'I used to be

what I made. I know I adore it, and I know that on the themeofwhattheShowgirlis –allofthisispartofit.”

Last week, Swift fans aroundthecountryandworld linedupatmusicretailersand gathered for listening parties to herald the release of “Showgirl,” which has since elicited a mixed response. Some have called the multiple, expensive versions ofphysicalmediaaroundthe release excessive, while others are taking issue with the brutish way she seems to have treated a classic Shakespeariancharacter And that's just the beginning. Not to be deterred, the “Antihero” singer continues her media blitz of a tour in support of the album on Wednesday, when she will appear as the sole guest on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.”

GNBS CELEBRATES NQW 2025 – FOCUSED ON BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR DEVELOPMENT THROUGH STANDARDS ST

Annually, Standards Bodies worldwide unite to observe World Standards

Day on October 14, celebrating the vital role standards play in shaping a safer, smarter, and more sustainable world In

Guyana, the Guyana

National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) goes a step further by dedicating theentireweek(October1218) as National Quality Week(NQW).

The theme for this year's observances - A SHARED VISION FOR A BETTER WORLD – SPOTLIGHT ON SDG 17, focuses on buildingpartnershipsandthis will be highlighted during the activities of NQW. This theme was chosen by the Key International Organisations,includingthe International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) as the world moves closer to meeting these SDGs by 2030. Today, the United

Nations Sustainable

Development Goal (UNSDG)17becomesmore crucial for building partnerships to achieve the

other sixteen SDGs, which includes reducing poverty and hunger, providing quality education, clean water and sanitation, affordableandcleanenergy, building industry, i n n o v a t i o n a n d infrastructure, and ensuring responsible production and consumption.

I n t h e f i e l d o f

Standardisation, at all levels people are working together to develop standards which offer solutions and a shared vision for a better world.As the National Standards Body,theGNBSisproudof the crucial partnerships it has established over the years to promote the use of standards to create a culture of quality in Guyana Severalofthesepartnerships were formally established with key stakeholders including consumer groups, business groups and regulatory bodies through thesigningofMemorandaof Understanding, while there continues to be mutual collaboration with others towards advancing our nation. At the international

level,GNBShasalsosigned MOUs with Standard Setting Bodies including Amer

leum Institute (API) and ASTM International which enable accesstothelateststandards that are critical to local industries. We also greatly value every opportunity provided outside of these MOU's, especially with other Bureaus in the C a r i c o

n , Measurement Institutes and Groupings Worldwide. No doubt, individually and collectively, thes

partnerships have supported our national efforts to

Infrastructure to support the rapid transformation we see today, which also brings Guyana closer to achieving manyoftheSDGs. As customary, during National Quality Week several activities are organised This year, they includeaspeechcompetition for students of secondary schools in region 2, the dissemination of key messages via the media, a “

campai

med at enhancing awareness of standards, and the GNBS Long Serving Awards Ceremony to honour our d e d i c a t e d s t a f f Additionally, a stakeholder session is slated for the International Business Conference on October 15,

and just outside of National QualityWeek, in November the GNBS will also host the National Quality Awards 2025, to recognise local businesses that demonstrate outstanding commitment to quality, excellence, and continuous improvement GNBS

participation and support of all stakeholders in these activities.

For more information on National Quality Week andstandardsandservices offered by GNBS, call 2190064-66, WhatsApp 6924 6 2 7 , o r v i s i t wwwgnbsgyorg

Frompage18

Justice, United States Marshals Service, and Timothy Semons, Regional Security Officer, Embassy of the United States of America.

The US Marshal Service is the lead Federal Law Enforcement Agency and Subject Matter Expert infugitivesandextraditionmatters in the United States ofAmerica.A release from the AG’s Chambers had said that Rao expressed gratitude to the Government of Guyana for enacting crucial amendments to the Fugitive OffendersAct. These amendments will mutually enhance both countries’ ability to expedite extradition cases between the two countries, many of which are pending, the release said Both sides had pledged to continue to work together in enhancing every aspectofmutualassistanceandcooperation in criminal matters betweenthetwocountries.

‘Loosewheels,lostlife’: husbandblamestruckowner’s neglectforwife’sdeath

Leroy Punch, the husband of 65-year-old Donna Punch, who tragically lost her life in a freak vehicular mishap, is holding the owner and driver responsible for the tragedy which has left the communityinshockandgrief.

The woman, Lot 40 SectionA, AlnessVillage,CorentyneBerbice, waskilledonSunday,whentherear wheel of a passing lorry flew off andsmackedherwhileonherway to church with her husband. The now dead woman was arranging transportation for herself and husband when the incident occurred. Asacarwaspullingover to collect them, the husband recalled that he heard a truck approaching, but entered the car nonetheless.

“Suddenly, for some reason I just glimpsed back to the direction ofthelorry,andisabig tirecoming straighttomeandmywife.Ibarely takeevasiveactionoffofinstinct,” PunchtoldKaieteurNews.

The next image he saw after wasthatofhiswifetumblinginthe directionofanearbydrain.Hesaid basedontheimpactoftheblowand her position when she stopped, he wascertainshewasdead.

“WhenIrundowninthecorner, since I hold my wife, I know she died…her whole head was sheer blood,”hedetailed.

She was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where she was pronounceddeadonarrival.Punch disclosed that the driver fled the scenewithoutassisting.

“When you know you hit somebody, you’re supposed to at least come to render assistance,” Punchlamented.

The owner’s family, however, did reach out to the bereaved family,heconfirmed.

Nevertheless, the grieving 64year-old husband vented to this publication that it was the negligence of both the vehicle operatorandownerofthelorrythat caused the demise of his wife of nearly40years.

A former truck driver himself, Punch stated that for such types of vehicles, frequent inspections should be conducted before they begin their daily course on the roadways.

“These people are very careless. You can’t get these big vehicles and ain’t service them….andyou’regoingtopickup a truck and start driving without evencheckingyourlugnut?Thatis thefirstthingyou’resupposedtodo becausethatisdeath.”

Punch, who is also a pastor, previously worked for many years as a heavy-duty vehicle operator He told this newspaper that he is verymuchfamiliarwiththeweight of the truck tires, and could understand precisely why the impact caused the death of his partner

“When you come in the morning to pick up your truck to drive, your service man gets into the truck, check the wheel, come back, turn on the truck, check the gaugesandthingkindathings,and you(also)gon’secondcheck.Buta man who will jump on a truck without checking his wheels is a total failure,” the ex-trucker

reasoned.

This negligence on the part of the owner and the driver, he said, cost him his wife, a pensioner, whom he described as serviceoriented to her church, and whose upstanding character the entire communitycouldvouchfor

The couple resided at Alness andhadthreechildrentogether

Meanwhile, police in a release Monday said investigation is ongoing into the fatal incident which occurred on Sunday, on the Alnesspublicroadinvolvingmotor lorry #GAJ 4955, driven by Divindranauth Seeram, a 35-yearold resident of Corentyne, and pedestrianDonnaPunch.

The statement said two pedestrians came out of a street on the northern side of Alness public road,andwerestandingontheside oftheroad.

According to information gathered, the lorry was proceeding west along the southern drive lane when both of its right-side rear wheels became dislodged and collided with Donna Punch who wasstandingonthenortherncorner oftheroad.

As a result of the collision, the pedestrian fell onto the grass parapet, where she received injuries to her head and body She was picked up in an unconscious condition by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Her body is at Ramoo’s Funeral Home, awaiting a postmortemexamination.

The lorry driver is in police custody, assisting with the investigation.

WEDNESDAY

GRAdrops$191Btax bombonMohameds …accusesgolddealers ofmassiveunder-reporting ingoldsales,income

TheGuyanaRevenueAuthority (GRA) has accused gold dealers

wasstated.

Further,theauthorityexplained that the understated taxes attract interest and penalties in keeping with the financial administration and audit act and the Income Tax Act “An accumulated sum of $191,171,975,676 as per the attached computations, is due, owing and payable to the revenue authority by Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed, trading as Mohamed’s Enterprise. For ease of reference, kindly be guided by the attached document, which shows a detailed breakdownofthetaxesdue,owing andpayable,”GRAsaid.

The tax body has given the Mohameds an opportunity to respond to the outstanding tax liability and to show cause why proceedings should not be institutedagainstthem.

Nazar “Shell” Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed, of Mohamed’s Enterprise, of massive underreporting of income between 2019and2023,resultinginbillions ofdollarsinunpaidtaxes.

Azruddin, who leads the We InvestinNationhood(WIN)Party, is already before the magistrates’ court facing a multimillion-dollar tax evasion charge That case, brought by the GRA, stems from alleged false declarations and underreporting of the purchase price of a luxury vehicle imported in2020.

In a fresh move, a letter dated October 2, 2025, addressed to Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed, states that GRAis seeking billions in taxes from Mohamed’s Enterprise.Thedemandarisesfrom $34 billion in understated income declarations for the period 2019 to 2023.

According to GRA, its review of the company’s filings showed that over $34 billion in income taxes were understated. With accumulatedinterestandpenalties, thetotalsumnowowedtothestate stands at more than $191 billion.

“The revenue authority has conducted a review of the income and property tax returns submitted in relation to the above years of assessment.

This review, together with additional information received from other tax and financial agencies, have revealed that you failed to submit true and correct returns for the said years of assessment 2020 to 2024 (years of income 2019 to 2023),” the authoritysaidintheletter

G R A r e m i n d e d t h e businessmenthatsubmittinguntrue and incorrect tax returns is an offence under Section 110 of the Income Tax Act. It said the false declarations directly affected the liability to income tax that should havebeenpaid.“Accordingly,asa result of the untrue declarations made, income tax in the sum of $34,067,322,989 were understated for the said period 2019–2023,” it

“Please note, if you fail to respond with legal justification/s within 14 days of service of this letter,therevenueauthoritymaybe forced to take necessary actions againstyou,withoutfurthernotice, for the act committed and to have the taxes payable recovered, in accordance with the laws administered,”GRAwarned.

Additionally, GRA also disclosed that it is investigating Mohamed’s Enterprise prior years of income. Once the investigation is complete, the businessmen will be notified of the findings and givenareasonabletimetorespond.

OnMonday,thefather-sonduo was indicted in a United States federal court in Miami, Florida on 11 charges of wire and mail fraud, conspiracy to commit money launderingandtheimportationofa Lamborghini luxury car- all stemming from accusations of massive tax fraud committed againstGuyana.

The indictment, unsealed on October 2, 2025, accuses the Mohameds of orchestrating an elaborate fraud and moneylaundering scheme involving gold exports, customs fraud, bribery, andtheevasionofmillionsintaxes androyaltiesowedtoGuyana.

The indictment seen by this newspaper charges that Mohamed’s Enterprise, the Guyana-based gold wholesaling and export company controlled 90 percentbyNazarand10percentby Azruddin, is alleged to have sold goldtobuyersinMiamiandDubai, while circumventing Guyana’s revenueandregulatorysystem.

In June 2024, Nazar,Azruddin and their businesses were sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The Mohameds were sanctioned for alleged gold smuggling Azruddin earlier this year launched WIN, and contested the 2025 General and Regional Elections that were held in September Hispartyaccumulated Continued on page 29

The truck driven by 35-year-old Divindranauth Seeram, with the loose wheel that caused the death of Donna Punch

Dead: Donna Punch

Frompage28

the second-highest votes, earning 16 seats in the National Assembly whichisexpectedtoconvenesoon.

Goldshattersrecords –pricesoarspastUS$4000 forthefirsttimeinhistory

CNBC - Gold prices hit US$4,000forthefirsttimeTuesday asinvestorsseekasafehavenfrom a weaker dollar, geopolitical volatility, economic uncertainty andstubborninflation.

Gold futures hit a record intraday high of US$4,014.60 per ounce Prices have gained more than50%thisyearastheU.S.dollar index has dropped 10% and President Donald Trump upends the global trade system and threatens the independence of the FederalReserve.

Central banks and retail investorsarebuyinggoldatarapid pace.Chinaandothercountriesare diversifying away from U S Treasury’s and into gold after Washingtonimposedstiffsanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and retail investorsarelookingforprotection againstinflation.

The latest leg higher in the precious metal came after the Fed cut interest rates in September for the first time this year, making short-term debt instruments like Treasury bills less attractive to investors. The market is expecting two more reductions in the fed funds rate, now 4.00% to 4.25%, before year-end The Fed next meetsinthreeweeks,onOct.29.

Ray Dalio, founder of

Bridgewater Associates, recommended Tuesday that investors put “something like 15% of your portfolio in gold.” Debt instruments are “not an effective store of wealth,” Dalio said at the Greenwich Economic Forum in Connecticut.

Goldis“theoneassetthatdoes verywellwhenthetypicalpartsof yourportfoliogodown,”hesaid.

Bank of America urged investors on Monday to approach gold cautiously as prices headed toward US$4,000 BofA warned clients that gold faces “uptrend exhaustion,”whichcouldleadto“a consolidation or correction” in the fourthquarter

THURSDAY

Maternaldeathsrisetonine …GPHCslamsprivatehospitals forlast-minutetransfers

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has so far recorded nine maternal deaths for the year, surpassing the totaleightrecordedin2024.

ChiefExecutiveOfficer(CEO) of GPHC, Robbie Rambarran, revealed that the majority of these deaths occurred among critical

patientswhoweretransferredfrom private hospitals at the last moment.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Rambarran explained that most of the women who died were never under GPHC’s care until they were referred in extremelycriticalcondition.“From January to now, I recall we have nine deaths, it’s an increase from lastyear Thethingisthatwehave more referral this year and admissions as well. A lot of those patients that died came from other hospitals, they were never under our care and they were referred to us They were referred in some criticalstate,”hesaid.

Healsonotedariseinneonatal referrals, with more new-borns being transferred from private institutionstotheGPHC.

Rambarran criticised the practice of private hospitals transferring severely ill patients onlywhentheirconditionsbecome dire.“Sometimestheysendthemto usandthereisnothingdifferentthat wecandoforthem.Therearecases where they send patients that are incubated. I believe that private hospitalslikedoingthisbecausethe deathdon’tfallontheirnumbers,it comes under our numbers,” he stated.Rambarranaddedthathehas raisedtheissuewiththeMinisterof Health and the hospital board, suggestingareviewofthereporting criteria for maternal deaths recordedatGPHC.

He emphasised that while the GPHC is the national referral hospital and should receive highrisk cases, many of the transfers arrive too late for effective intervention Rambarran further disclosed that several of the recent cases are under review and will be forwarded to the Guyana Medical Council for further deliberation “Many of those reviews are being completed.Iwilldiscussthemwith mymedicalteamandsendsometo the Medical Council for deliberation. We also plan to have some discussion with the private hospitalssincesomeofthesecases clearlyneedintervention,”hesaid.

According to previous reports, it has long been a trend for private

hospitals to transfer patients to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) only when theyareincriticalcondition.

For2024,theGPHCrecordeda total of eight maternal deaths and 41 neonatal deaths – the lowest figures in the hospital’s recent history During the institution’s end-of-year press conference, Rambarran noted that those numbers reflected a continued improvement in maternal and neonatal outcomes, surpassing last year ’s record-breaking performance.

However, Rambarran emphasised that all eight maternal deaths involved patients that were transferred and were already in severe condition “This year (2024), we can boast that we have achievedevenfurther Lastyearwe had 10 maternal deaths, this year we have eight Of those eight maternal deaths, each and every one was referred to us in a very criticalstate,”hesaid.

Supporting this point, Dr. Radha Sookraj, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, highlighted that most of the maternal deaths were indirect and involved patients transferred from other healthcare institutions. “We offered the best care possible with the collaboration of other doctors who were involved,” Dr Sookraj said.

UKraisesGuyana’s creditlimitto£3B …saysmovesignals strongconfidence inboomingeconomy

The United Kingdom has increased its export credit ceiling for Guyana from £2.1 billion to £3 billion, signalling growing confidence in the country’s economic expansion and fiscal stability

The announcement was made on Wednesday by the UK Export Finance (UKEF) the UK government’s official export credit agency during a meeting with President Dr Mohamed IrfaanAli, attendedbyaUKEFdelegationand His Majesty’s Deputy Trade

Commissioner for Latin America andtheCaribbean.

According to a statement, the higher financing capacity “reflects the UK’s confidence in Guyana’s economic trajectory and fiscal sustainability, and marks a further deepening of bilateral relations betweenthetwonations.”

President Ali, in outlining his priorities for UKEF support, said the announcement comes at a “pivotalmoment”asGuyanaramps up infrastructure development and strengthens its position as a major investmentdestination.

“TheBritishHighCommission looks forward to supporting sustainable growth and shared prosperity through this collaboration between the UK and Guyana,”thestatementconcluded.

FRIDAY

Chevroneyesbiggerpayoff fromUS$55BHessdeal …Stabroek Block seen as crown jewel

HOUSTON, Oct 8 (Reuters) –Chevron (CVX.N) CEO Mike Wirth told employees on Wednesday that he believes the company will outperform publicly stated financial targets given to investors following the acquisition ofsmalleroilproducerHess,whose prizedassetincludesa30%stakein Guyana’s Stabroek Block-one of

the world’s most prolific offshore oildiscoveries.

The No. 2 U.S. oil producer closed its $55 billion purchase of Hess in July after triumphing in a lengthy arbitration battle against largerrivalExxonMobil(XOM.N) Uponclosingthedeal,Chevron said it expected $1 billion in synergies and raised its free cash flow guidance for 2026 to $12.5 billionfrom$10billion.

“In our last number of acquisitions that we’ve done, once we’ve closed the deal, we actually findmorevalue,”Wirthsaidduring aninternaltownhallmeeting,audio of which was heard by Reuters. “I fully expect the (Hess) deal will meet and exceed what we’ve committedexternally.”

Hess’crownjewelwasits30% stakeintheprolificStabroekBlock in Guyana, an oilfield that Exxon operatesandisestimatedtoholdat least 11 billion barrels of oil Completing the acquisition gave Chevronamuch-neededboosttoits oil and gas reserves and future growth prospects. Chevron will host an investor day on November 12 to formally provide updated guidancetoshareholders.

Wirth said the company was continuing to examine possible projectstopowerlargedatacenters in the U.S. when asked by Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Laura Lane about conversations he held with Big Tech executives like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Meta (META O) CEO Mark Zuckerberg. “They need a lot of power,” he responded. “The scale ofitisalmosthardtodescribe.”The boom in artificial intelligence has driven electricity demand to new heights, and Chevron is looking at projects that would not be connected to the existing power grid that Wirth said is fragile and unabletohandletherequiredpower loads.

The meeting with employees took place days after a large fire broke out at Chevron’s 285,000 barrel-per-dayElSegundorefinery in southern California. There were noinjuriesinthefire.

Orstedexpandedrapidlyover Continued on page 30

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPHC, Robbie Rambarran

Chief Executive Officer of Chevron, Mike Wirth

Frompage30 the past decade, but has recently faced higher costs from supply chaindisruptionandinflation.

Internaldatashowsthatstaffis notconsistentincompletingsafety checklists before beginning work, Wirth told employees, adding that fatalitiesthisyearhavebeenmostly among the company’s contractor workforceandthatChevronneeded to ensure they were properly trained.

“What we need is more

consistent and disciplined execution of those processes,” he said.

Asked about the town hall, a Chevron spokesperson said “our talented workforce is an essential part of the ongoing success of our company,andweengageregularly to align on strategic priorities and our shared purpose to safely provide affordable, reliable, ever cleaner energy that enables human progress.”

Closerattentionbeing paidtocartelthatthreatened CANUDirector

Local and international law enforcementauthoritiesarepaying closer attention to the group responsible for making a death threat against Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) Director, JamesSingh.

Speaking to the press on the sidelines of the official launch of Guyana’s National Early Warning

System (EWS) at the Ministry of Health, Singh said that investigators are in possession of informationthatprovidesclarityon whoissuedthethreats.

“In this field there is always a threat and this one is more pronounced. We are working with our counterparts both locally and internationally…the threat is still therebutIthinkwearemoreaware of what is going on and those organizations that are behind it have been getting a lot more

attention within Guyana and externally,” the CANU Director stated.

Singh said that based on intel, CANU can safely say that most of the drugs coming to Guyana are from our neighbouring country Venezuela.

“VenezuelaisanarcostateandI would say that they have a vested interest in intimidating us, as they normally do to allow the drugs to flowfreelybecauseobviously,they are not doing enough to allow the flowofdrugswhetherbyseaorby air.”

LastAugust, it was announced thatCANUhadheightenedsecurity after receiving information of a deaththreatagainstitsdirector

Singh had confirmed the death threatstatingthat,“Athreatagainst the directive is a threat against the entire organization so we have heightenedoursecurity…”

At that time, he disclosed that CANU heard about the threat but investigators were unable to say where the criminal network was based.

“We just know it’s a Spanish network,” Singh told Kaieteur News while revealing that the threat is linked to several drug seizuresCANUmade.

“It is as a result of several seizures we have had, which foreign nationals have been arrested and [placed] before the court. So, coming out of that we heardsomeinformation…wehave been following up on it,” the CANU Head had told Kaieteur News.

Singh assured that he won’t allow the threat to stop him from performinghisduties.

“The nature of the threat is something we deal with every day in this kind of business,” he said while adding, “We can’t let traffickers dissuade us by such threats.”

Notwithstanding, Singh told KaieteurNewsthatthedeaththreat “willnotbetakenforgranted.”

“I already spoke with my officers they are aware of what is goingonandwehavewarnedthem to be vigilant in everything that theyaredoing,”hedisclosed.

SATURDAY

‘ShockingAlliance’: APNUjoinsPPPtoshutout WINinRegions8&10

Ashockingallianceoccurredon Friday during the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) elections to elect Chairman and ViceChairman,asold-timerivalsA Partnership for National Unity

(APNU) and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) joined forces, a move some see as an attempt to block newcomer We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) from controllingregionaloffices.

For several regions, parties

formed alliances to secure the chairmanship However, in Regions Eight and Ten, the unexpected partnership between the PPP and APNU has sparked uproar

R e g i o n E i g h t (Potaro–Siparuni) was previously controlled by APNU, but at the 2025 elections, the PPP took control of the region, securing 2,872 votes. WIN followed with 2,562votes,whileAPNUmanaged just276.

In a statement on Friday, WIN notedthatitsecuredsevenregional seats in Region Eight, while the PPP also gained seven and APNU just1.Thepartysaidthatduringthe swearing-in and elections for Regional Chairman, the APNU councillor voted in favour of the PPP, giving it control of the chairmanship.“PPPthen rewarded APNU by giving them the ViceChair position This is clear collusion,”thepartysaid.

WIN contended, “For decades, the Guyanese people were fooled into believing that the PPPand the PNC were enemies. They have been lying to the people. Now that they have a chance to defeat the PPP, they are joining with them to stifleWIN.WINwantstoassureall Guyanese that we will not be compromised and we will not be bought We will continue to represent the people of our country.”

Similarly,inRegionTen(Upper Demerara–Upper Berbice), traditionally a stronghold of the People’s National Congress Reform(PNCR)wastakenbyWIN at the 2025 Regional Elections This publication had reported that of the 38,460 electors on the Official List of Electors (OLE) for Region Ten, 21,195 voted. WIN received10,458votes,followedby APNUwith5,334,PPPwith4,260, the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) with 662, the Alliance for Change (AFC) with 210, and the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity(ALP)with85.

RegionTen’s RDC election for Chairman remains undecided after Friday’s process ended in a tie

between WIN’s Mark Goring and APNU’s Dominique Blair A total of 18 councillors were sworn in: 9 from WIN, 5 from APNU, 3 from the PPP, and 1 from FGM. The ballot count showed 9 votes each for Goring and Blair While WIN was not completely shut out, the final decision now rests with the MinisterofLocalGovernmentand Regional Development, Priya Manickchand.

For his part, WIN’s leader Azruddin Mohamed during an interview with this publication expressed surprise at the outcome in Region Ten. “Yes. Very much surprised Very much I cannot believethattheywouldtrytowork together to keep WIN out,” Mohamedsaid.

Hecontinued,“Rightnowits99. It’s clearly, you can see that the PPP,theAPNUandtheFGM,they all voted together and WIN voted separate, because we got 9,APNU got 9 and with the 9, it’s the five from APNU, the three from PPP and the one from FGM. I don’t know why all these parties are tryingtoworktogethertogetWIN out.”

Speaking on what occurred in RegionEight,Mohamedexpressed his frustration “Same thing happened in Region Eight. Same thing just happened The APNU councilorwentagainstusandvoted for the PPP So, PPP won the chairmanship in Region Eight, because we had seven seats. PPP got seven, andAPNU got one…so it looks like they are in talks. You canclearlyseeit,”hestated.

The WIN leader stressed that his party won the Region 10, and simply wanted the opportunity to representthepeopleofthatregion. “They don’t want them, they wanted us…I hope the people of Region10andGeorgetownandall the regions can see clearly what is going on, the PPP and APNU and FGM,theyareworkingtogetherto keepWINout,”Mohamedadded.

Now that the decision is up to theminister,MohamedsaidWINis awaitingherdecision.However,he noted,“Idon’tthinkshewillgiveit to WIN You can see how

everything is unfolding…so let’s see what the Minister of Local Government, her decision is. But I know she will go with the APNU becausetheywanttokeepWINout. They know that when, no matter which government it is, WIN will holdallofthemaccountable.”

News of APNU voting alongsidethePPPtriggeredoutrage on social media, with many users expressing frustration over what they described as ‘political betrayal’.

Following the 2025 General and Regional Elections, the PPP secured 36 seats in the National Assembly, followed by WIN with 16,APNU with 12, and FGM with one. InaFacebookpost,attorney-atlaw Darren Wade said, “Working with the PPP politically is shortsighted, and I said the PPP, not the Government For the next five years,theAPNU/PNCwillhaveto depend on the PPP for political space. WIN in the National Assembly could totally shut the APNU out. In effect, the WIN can prevent the APNU from speaking (except during Budget debates) unless the PPP, through the Speaker, permits otherwise. WIN can also shut out the APNU/PNC from the constitutional appointments.”

Former PNCR treasurer and current member Elson Low also weighed in, stating, “I never thought I’d see the day where PPP and APNU representatives would be voting together across various regions. What is this? What do we standforanymore?”

Mahaiconyricefarmers pushonamidpricecrunch -awaitwordfromGovt.as Essequibogrowerscallfor survivaloptions

Rice farmers in Mahaicony are pressing ahead with their harvests even as they await long-promised talks with government officials over the crisis-level prices being offeredbymillersthiscrop. FarmerRoopnarineEtwaroo Continued on page 31

CANU Director, James Singh

Leader of WIN, Azruddin Mohamed

Leader ofAPNU, Aubrey Norton

Frompage30 told this publication on Wednesday that despite multiple appeals, there has been no direct engagement w i t h g o v e r n m e n t representatives.

“We’re still waiting on that appointment to meet with the minister,” Etwaroo said “Our farmers are harvesting, yes but at $2,800 a bag, it’s below the break-evenpoint.Wesimply can’tsustainthis.”

Farmers said the current price represents a sharp fall from the $4,000 per bag earned last crop, even after

f a c t o r i n g i n t h e government’s previous subsidy Many warn that if thesituationcontinues,small ricefarmerscouldgounder Meanwhile, over on the EssequiboCoast,farmersare urging government to introducealternativeincome optionsifricecontinuestobe unprofitable.

“Youcan’tsurviveatthis price,” said farmer Adjuda Narayan of Golden Fleece. “If we can’t plant rice, the government has to help us findsomethingelsetodo.”

Anotherfarmerlamented t h e l a c k o f c l e a r communication from authorities.

“They know rice from last crop still deh in the system,” he said. “Why not tell us to plant less and give weotherwaystoearn?”

Millers, however, maintain that the price drop mirrors the international market Carlos Carbo, General Manager of SAJ Rice Group at Mahaicony, explained that global rice prices have plunged by 45 percent over the past two years, forcing local rates to follow

Etwaroo said the combinationoflowyields— worsenedbypestinfestation — and the price slump has pushed many farmers to the brink.

“Expenses going up, prices going down… at this rate,someofuswillhaveno choicebuttowalkaway,”he warned.

Over the past few weeks several farmers in Regions

Two and Five have complained and protested the prices being offered per bagofpaddy

On September 17 this publicationreportedthatrice farmers in Region Five are clamoring at the shockingly low prices being offered by millers for this crop, contendingthatifthereisnot an increase, they will be

unable to repay their loans, pay the rent on their lands andpayworkers.

This publication received reports that some millers are now offering a mere $2,800 per bag of paddy, $1200 less than what theyreceivedlastcrop,when the $400 government subsidywasadded.

While attempts to contact millers for details proved futile, Carlos Carbo, generalmanagerofSAJRice Group in Burma Road Mahaicony, explained that the price being offered for paddy is in accordance with international market price He said over the last two years,ricepricehasbeenon thedecline.

“So,thisisacommodity, and it depends on how the world market and the world prices are. The world price dropped in 45 per cent, and so it goes according with that, because if it doesn’t drop, we cannot sell…The mill have to buy from the farmers, and the mill has to export it And when we export,wecompetewiththe internationalprice,”hesaid.

Roopnarine Etwaroo, a ricefarmerfromMahaicony told this publication that in Region Five millers are offering $2800 per bag of paddy, which is a big fall compared to the $4000 they enjoyedlastcrop.

“Socurrently,thepriceis set at $2800 which is like a break-even point, or even under a break-even point, because last time, our yield was higher because we hadn’t much incidence of like gandi and so on. Right now,atleastabout80-90per centofthefarmersarebeing affected by bugs which has affected the yield overall,” hesaid.

On October 04 this publication also reported

that Farmers in Essequibo, Region Two, are enquiring about their next move, as pricesforpaddyremainatan al

m governmentanywhereonthe horizon, and the rate of paddydumpingcontinuesto grow Kaieteur News ventured to Essequibo, to get a firsthand view of the troubles of

farmers in the region, who for weeks have been complaining about the minimal prices per bag of paddy

The first site visited was Hack’s Rice Mill, Golden Fleece, Essequibo Coast Trucks, tractors and trailers were observed parked in lines that appear to be endless, from the road front allthewaytothemill.

Thevehiclesloadedwith paddy belonged to several farmerswhowerewaitingin line for days to offload their produce in hopes that they werenottoolate. While farmers are in deep worry, securing interviews proved a task, as several of them explained that they were fearful of being victimised by government officials, the

millers and staff of the Guyana Rice Development Board(GRDB).

The farmers were overheardlamentingthatthe government seems to have abandoned them and before the elections, officials were intheregioneveryweek.

After some coaxing and explaining that if they wanted betterment for the sector, they had to stick together, farmer Adjuda Narayantoldthispublication that the current price being offered at $2300 per bag is far below the cost of production.

“Youcan’tmakenothing and it nah mek sense you continuetoplantrice,buton the other hand, the governmentgottaimplement something for farmers to survive,iftheynahplant,”he stressed.

Narayan informed this publication that he is in the processofcutting,butithas been difficult to get combine harvesters due to the number of farmers trying to harvest their crop simultaneously

Farmers continue harvesting their crop in Mahaicony even as they await government intervention on falling rice prices.

EMMY AND THE HAUNTED HOUSE MYSTERY

Emmy loved a good mystery asmuchasshe loved reading a good book. She had a great detective kit, which included a large magnifying glass, a notebook to record all clues,andaflashlightthat she thought was brighter than the moon itself. Her bedroom wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was half detective office, and half to hold her candy stash too. What was supposed

to happen tonight? Tonight was going to be Halloween,whichwasthe best night of the entire year to wear fabulous costumes, eat caramel apples, and help solve curious cases that were takingplace.

Emmy dressed as a vampire detective Black cape, red bowtie, and a badge that said, “Official Investigator of Spooky Stuff.”

She joined her friends fortrick-or-treating,buther eyes kept drifting toward theendofthestreet.There, past the pumpkin-lined sidewalks and glowing jack-o’-lanterns, stood the oldWaverlyHouse.

No one ever trick-ortreated there. It was dark, crooked, and whispered rumors of ghosts haunted the area Some said you could hear piano music at midnight Others claimed the curtains moved even when the windows were shut.

Emmywasintrigued.

”I’mgoingin,”shesaid,

grippingherflashlight. Her best friend, Max, gulped.“Yousure?”

”I have a mystery to solve,” Emmy said. “And maybe they give out kingsizecandybars.”

Thegatecreakedabitas Emmy pushed it open.The porch let out a loud groan underherfeet.Sheknocked once, then twice, but no answercame.

She turned the knob on the door slowly and found thatitwasn’tlocked.

Insidethehouse,theair carried the scents of old books and cinnamon A chandelier also flickered above.Cobwebsdidaslow dance in the corners of thelivingroom.

”Hello, anyone here?”

E m m y c a l l e d o u t nervously

There was no reply at all.

Emmy went tiptoeing throughoutthehallway,her

Keepingclean

ByUncleRoy

Inallthethingswedoeachday, Takingcareofourthingsandbody, Wemusttrytobecleanandtidy, Soastokeepthemalwaysready

Cleanlinessisaverygoodhabit, Cleanlinessisaverygood Thathelpsustokeepthingsright, Aswellasmakeourselvesthebest, Sothatwealwayslookneatandbright.

Sowhetheritisyourbodyorclothes, Yourroom,yourbooksortoys, Makesureyoukeepthingsniceandclean, Andyouwillhavemuchmoretoenjoy.

Halloween Paper Cups

MATERIALS:

*RAINBOWPAPER

*CUPS

*MASKINGTAPE

*BLACKANDWHITE

*WIGGLEGOOGLY

*EYES,ADHESIVE

*CARDSTOCK

*GLUE

*FRANKENSTEIN

*FACETEMPLATE

*HowtoMakeCups

tep1Firstly,usingthe template,cutoutthe shapesfromthecard.

Step2Stickthehairtothe topofthecupandthe

boltsoneithersideofthe cup.

Step3Stickonthewiggle eyes.

Step4Useablackpento drawonthefacial features.

Step5Lastly,fillitwith juiceorsnacks.

flashlight making sweeps

furnituregatheredthere.

Thenshesawit—there was a trail of visible candy wrappers leading straight upthestairs.

”Cluenumberone,”she whispered,jottingitdown.

Upstairs, the wrappers stopped at a door with a sign: ?“Solve the riddle to enter.”

Belowitwasanote:

”I have a face but no eyes,Handsbutnofingers, I tell you time but never speak.WhatamI?”

Emmy grinned. “Easy Aclock.”

Thedoorcreakedopen.

Insidewasacozyroom with glowing lanterns and music A piano playeditselfinthecorner A ghost floated by, wearing a bowlerhatandsippingtea.

”Welcome,” said the ghost “You solved the riddle You may ask one question.”

Emmysteppedforward.

“Areyoureal?”

The ghost chuckled “Real enough to play the pianoandeatmarshmallow ghosts.”

”Why do people think thishouseisscary?”

The ghost smiled. “Because they never came inside.Mysteryfadeswhen you’re brave enough to look.”

Then he handed Emmy a candy bar, the size of her arm.“Foryourcourage.”

Emmy left the house with a grin, her notebook full of clues, and her pocketsfullofcandy

Shedidn’tjustsolvethe mystery—she made a new friend.

A n d f r o m t h a t Halloweenon,theWaverly Ho

popularstopontheblock.

Strive to improve, but be thankful for what you have

Although selfimprovement

must be a continuous task for all human beings, it is only rightthatweshoulddevelop an attitude of gratitude and satisfaction for the things withwhichweareblessedat anytime. Peopleoftenfeel that, because there is nothing really exciting happening to them, and there are things that they have to be constantly working on to get ahead in life,theycannotreallyenjoy life.

The fact is that real enjoyment of life does not come only from thrills or extraordinary events. As we have all experienced at some time, one can derive the greatest pleasures from the simple things around at any time – a walk in one’s neighbourhood, observing the trees, the birds and

animals, even the people going about their everyday tasks; a lively conversation aboutwhatisinthenewsor about what is happening in one’sownlifecanbejustas uplifting. The list can be endless if you tax your own mindtocomeupwiththings to do and get satisfaction from.

The secret of this satisfaction must come

Do your best at whatever you are working on, and have faith that the rewards will come.

simp

ing contented with what you have,andwithwhatyouare doingduringanyperiod. If you really think about it, eachofusatanygiventime musthavewhatisneededto make us happy if we only appreciateit,anddonotlong for more and more things, but rather than have the patienceandfaithtowaitfor thefruitsofwhateverweare workingon.

Ifyoujustthinkofthe thingsyounowenjoy-your own health and natural talents, the love of your family, how you are being successful at what you are

doing - you are sure to feel contented. You must then realise that we always need to keep a joyful spirit and feel happy no matter the situation in which we are at anytime. It will help for us human beings to remember that happiness is a choice, andwecanbehappyinany circumstances if we maintain an attitude of satisfaction, look at life in a positive way, and have the faith that the things that we need will be forever within ourreachaslongaswekeep working conscientiously to obtainthem.

We make our own world

(ByCarmenMashier)

Wemakeourownworld,whoeverweare, Ourhappinessisofourownmaking; Wemakeourownworld,whereverwe are,Ourhappinessisthereforthetaking.

Ourworldgoeswithusaswe walkandtalkeachday, Ourworldcanbeaheavenorhell, ourattitudewillsay, Wemakeourownworld,whateverweare, Let’smakeourownworld,whereverwe are.

Keepthinkinghappy,andwe’llmakeanew world,Happinessinachoicethatwecanat anytime make;Whenwefeelgrateful forallwehaveandcando,Thenwewill alwaysbehappy,whether asleep orawake.

Iamagaininvitingourreaderstowritetome aboutanyproblemtheyarefacing,oranything thattheywouldliketosharewithothersonthis page. Pleasebeadvisedthatyourmessageswill betreatedrespectfullyandconfidentially,andany responseImakewillnotmentionyourname. As ateacherandcounsellorformanyyears,Ican assureyouthatIwillbeabletoprovidesolutions tomostofyourproblems.

Myemailaddressisuncleroy1992@yahoo.com

Perspective Art Exhibition set for Oct 21-31

Perspective,thelocalartexhibitionshowcasingthediverse talentsofeightcarefullyselectedartists,eachexcellingintheir respective fields of fine arts/ craft will be open to the public fromOctober21stto31st,atCastellaniHouse.

Under the theme “Dialogue of the Brush,” the inaugural event celebrates artistic freedom and expression. It also provides artists the liberty to create without constraints, allowing their individualism to unfold naturally This exhibitionwasbornwhenasmallgroupoftalentedartistswho decided to seize the opportunity to create something meaningful. Initially forming a core team of five, the group graduallyexpandedtoincludeatotalofeightartists.

Artist and coordinators of the event, Leon Hardowar explainedthatmanyoftheparticipantsarefriends.

He noted that “We understand each other's strengths and talents, which has helped us work collaboratively and harmoniously Over time, we steadily organised and developedtheconcept,bringingoursharedvisiontolife.What makesitdifferentfromtherestoftheexhibition?Allartworks ondisplayareoriginalcreationsproducedin2025andwillbe exhibitedforthefirsttime.Eachpiecewillbeaccompaniedby a Letter of Authenticity issued by Castellani, provenanceandvalue.”

Participating artists will benefit from the by offering an opportunity to

connectwithartenthusiasts,collectorsandnetworking.

Participating Artists include: Chelsea Ramotar is a Guyanese-basedartistwhoworksprimarilyinacrylicpaintas well as in wooden and clay sculptures, a few of which have exhibited in Dong Chung Qu in China, Mumbai in India, LondonintheUnitedKingdomandofcourse,Georgetownin Guyana Her works often explore themes of human experiences such as introspection, metamorphosis, and melancholy

Demion Mack is a talented Guyanese artist born on September 9, 2001, in the small village of Rewa, North Rupununi, Region #9. His artistic journey began at Rewa NurseryandPrimarySchool,wherehediscoveredhispassion for drawing.This early interest blossomed during his time at AnnaiSecondarySchool,whereheexcelledinartandrealised his potential as a professional artist throughhisCXCexaminations.

D

developedhisskillsatthe E.R. Burrowes School of Arts, laying the groundwork for his

Althoughhefaced

(Continued on page 38)

Artist Pekahiah James piece, 'The Scarlet Thread' showcased at the National Gallery ofArt, Castellani House, in 2023.

Chelsea Ramotar creates works primarily in acrylic paint as well as in wooden and clay sculptures, a few of which have exhibited internationally

Artist Leon Hardowar admires one of his art pieces

Demion Mack is a young Indigenous artist who is using his skills to honour his lineage

'Cravings_gy’

ByAllyiahAllicock

Comi n g from a f a m i l y where creativity and skill runs deep, the apple certainlydidnotfallfarfromtree when it comes to 22-year-old ChristolFitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick who is a baker and cook is the proud owner of 'Cravings_gy', asmallbusiness whichsheofficiallylaunchedon October24,2024.

Preparing to celebrate the first anniversary of her business rd and also her 23 birthday on October18,todaywesharewith you a brief insight on the incredible journey that led to Cravings gy A journey Fitzpatrick described that is filled with family, faith, determination,andawholelotof flour.

reparedrightinourkitchen.”

Thosemoments,shesaid shaped her more than she realisedatthetime,andasshe watched how much love and effort went into creating something special for others to enjoy, and that feeling stayed withher

She noted that out of all the things she learned from her family, baking stood out to the most. “It became my escape — my therapy There's something peaceful about measuring ingredients, mixing batter, and watching a creation come to life intheoven,”shementioned.

Having a liking for it, Fitzpatrick recalled that she

something I wanted to pursue seriously — not just as a hobby, butasacareer,”sheexplained.

Sharpening her skills even further, Fitzpatrick related that she decided to enroll at the Carnegie School of Home Economics, where she gained professionaltrainingintheartof bakingandculinarypreparation. That experience she noted, gave her the confidence to take the next big step — turning her passionintoathrivingbusiness.

Taking the next big step, the youngwomanrecalled,“WhenI first started Cravings gy, I focused on cookies I was inspired by the popular Crumbl Cookies brand that had taken

countless hours ching baking tutorialsonYouTube a n d T i k To k , teachingherselfnew techniques, and experimenting in the kitchen.

“Atfirst,itwasjust forfun,butastimewent on, I realised this was

asmotivation,”shestated.

everything, especially during timeswhenthingsgettough.

social media by storm and wanted to bring something similar to Guyana. My goal was simple:tocreatedessertsthatnot only looked amazing but tasted evenbetter.”

From cookies, she then expanded by offering a range of baked goods which include cakes, cupcakes, pastries just to nameafew

With her business about to turn one, Fitzpatrick disclosed thatoneofthethingssheismost grateful for is her support system. She expressed that her family,friends,andpartnerhave been by her side through every step of this journey

“My family is always eager to taste test new recipes, and their honest feedback helps me to improve.

Speakingoftoughtimes,she is of the firm conviction that running a small business is rewarding, but it is also challenging. Noting that there aregooddaysandslowdays,she explained that sometimes sales fluctuate,andthosemomentscan bediscouraging.

Taking it all in, the young entrepreneurnotedhowever,that she has learned that patience, consistency, and faith are key to overcoming the difficult times.

“I've come to understand that

overnight — it's built one step, one recipe, and one satisfied customeratatime,”shetoldthis magazine.

Proud of what her business has been able to achieve, she shared that becoming an entrepreneur has taught her so much about independence,

(Continuedonpage39)

Christol Fitzpatrick showcasing her baked sweet treats at the Fairre of the ages event.

Some of the tasty cookies, cakes, donuts and cheesecakes Cravings_gy has to offer

GHKLalldemandsretraction,publicapologyfrom ‘GuyaneseCritic’overfalse,maliciousstatements

Attorneys for Kaieteur News columnist GHK Lall have written to social media commentator Mikhail Rodrigues also known as the 'Guyanese Critic' demanding a public apology and retraction of false and malicious statements he madeononeofhisprogrammes.

Inapre-actionletter,,attorneys NigelHughesandChristopherRam saidthattheyhavebeenretainedby Lall in relation to the matter and noted that Rodrigues has seven daysfromthereceiptoftheletterto issuehisapologyandretraction.

“We are retained by Mr GHK Lall, a newspaper columnist, EUCHARISTIC MINISTER, retired remigrant and civil society activist in relation to utterances made by you as published and broadcast on your programme "Progress Report with the Critic" beginning on or around October 6, 2025,andfurtherrepeatedduringa subsequent broadcast of "Norman Browne / VOD tv" on or around October 7, 2025. These broadcasts were disseminated across social media platforms including

Facebook and YouTube and have beenwidelycirculatedtothepublic in Guyana and abroad. These broadcasts remain uploaded to the above-mentioned platforms as of October10,2025.”

In the letter the attorneys said that Rodrigues repeatedly made “false and malicious allegations” on the programme which was repeated and discussed on the programme “Norman Browne / VOD tv” broadcast on Tuesday October7,2025.

“GHKLall,wastheheadofthe Guyana Gold Board. Now, he writeslettersaboutthegovernment this and duh, never said nothing abouttheMohameds.Thegoldwuh he helped the Mohameds smuggle he talks about incompetence and corruption and this and duh this time now we know in these documents GHK Lall is one of the leading factors, one of the leading players in corruption in Guyana.

GHK Lall. Kaieteur news over the years,havepromotedhisstoriesto paint a picture of the government. Only for us now, to find out that

GHK Lall

GHK Lall was the head of the Guyanasowaityoutellingmethat all this 10,000 kilograms of gold pass through the Guyana Gold board, and GHK Lall, who knows all about corruption, aint know it pass through deh? He didn't know that these boxes were going and coming ”The pre-action letter noted that during the airing of the programmes expressed reference

was made to Lall, The lawyers made it clear that Lall never engagedinanyformofcorruption, smugglingorcriminalconduct.

“The broadcasts constitute a baseless and damaging attack on his integrity and standing. As a result,ourclienthassufferedpublic embarrassment, ridicule, and significant injury to his personal andprofessionalreputation.”

Further, the attorneys have demanded that Rodrigues issue a “clear, unqualified, and unconditional apology and retraction in terms and form to be approved by our client, to be published in the Stabroek News, theKaieteurNews,andonthesame broadcastmediumandprogramme through which the defamatory statementswereoriginallymade.”

Additionally,thelawyersnoted thattheapologyandretractionmust bepublishedandbroadcastnolater seven (7) days after receipt of this letter and must receive equivalent prominence and circulation to that of the offending publication and broadcast.

“Additionally,havingregardto the gravity of the false allegations andthevastaudiencetowhichthey werecirculated,ourclientisclearly entitled to substantial compensationandreasonablelegal costs.Weherebyaskyoutosubmit your proposal as to damages and costs.

Should you fail to provide a satisfactory response by the date and time stipulated above, we are instructed to institute legal proceedingsagainstyoupersonally without further notice In the meantime, our client expressly reservesallhisrights,”thelawyers said The lawyers advised Rodrigues that his statements may exposehimtocriminalliability

“Compliancewiththedemands in this letter shall not be construed as any undertaking that criminal proceedings will not be pursued, nor as any offer of immunity in respectthereof.

Itisinyourbestinteresttoseek legal advice in relation to this correspondenceandtobeguidedby thatadvice.”

Police hunting occupants of Tabatinga home where cocaine, weed were found

Police are on the hunt for the occupantsof a house at Tabatinga, Lethem, Central Rupununi where they found 435.5 grams of cocaine and 68.6gramsofcannabisonFriday

According to a statement, police said that they conducted an intelligence-led operation at the locationduringwhichthenarcotics werefound.

“The operation was led by a Chief Inspector, two Inspectors, oneSergeant,andapartyofranks.

Actingoninformationreceived,the teamproceededtoafencedyardin the Tabatinga area, where a flat concrete house, which was locked at the time was observed.Asearch of the yard was conducted and several black plastic bags were found concealed beneath dry bushes next to a garbage heap,” policesaid.

An examination revealed that the bags were found to contain severalwhiteziplockpacketswith “whitish, rock-like substances

The cocaine and cannabis before they were sealed and entered as exhibits.

suspected to be cocaine.” There were also several others that contained leaves, seeds and stems suspectedtobecannabis.

“Thenarcoticsweretakentothe Lethem Police Station where they wereprocessed.

The suspected cocaine was countedandamountedto1,245zip lock bags weighing 435.5 grams while the suspected cannabis amounted to 74 zip-lock bags weighing 68 6 grams,” police

noted.

Both sets of narcotics were placedintoevidencebags,marked, sealed and lodged as exhibits. Based on information received by t the police, it is indicated hat the residence is normally occupied by Spanishnationals.

“The area was canvassed for CCTV footage, but none was observed.Noarresthasbeenmade thus far, and investigations are ongoing,”policeadded.

APNU working with PPP was long in the making –GHKLall

..says alliance shows “perfect symmetry” between the two major parties

Political commentator and columnist, GHK Lall, is

contending that the A Partnership forNationalUnity's(APNU)recent collaboration with the People's ProgressivePartyCivic(PPP/C)at the Regional Democratic Council elections to block newcomer, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) from controllingregionalofficeswasnot surprising, but rather 'long in the making.'

“Why are Guyanese shocked that the APNU (PNC) threw its support behind the PPP to lockout WIN in Regions 8 and 10? C'mon people,getsomediscernment.The subtitleswerealreadythere,gavea previewofwhatwasinthemaking. Now, there is the proof emerging out of Regions 8 and 10, and look who is joining with whom,” Lall said.

right back into the arms of Jagan's offspring. Clearly, Pres. Ali is making strides with his One Guyanamotto.OneGuyanaminus WIN,thatis.”

He added, “Forbes Burnham walked away from Cheddi Jagan and the PPP a hundred years ago. Now today, a century later, Burnham's children are walking

Lallsaidtheeventsattherecent Regional Democratic Council (RDC) elections confirmed suspicions he had before the polls, where APNU and PPP councillors joined forces. “Given time, WIN itself may come around to the PPP corner. It was one of the concerns, speculations,priortotheelections.

IfthePNCcanpartnerwiththePPP, then anything is possible. Like I said just now, Guyanese should haveseenthiscoming.”

According to Lall, the first signs of this political shift were visible even before the elections.

“The PNC did not compete. The PNCdidnotfightwithitsallforthe favor of voters. Lackluster, it was.

Late to the ring of genuine competition, the record will show.

Lostandlimping,asacheckofthe audiosandvideoswillconfirm,”he

DialogueoftheBrush…

Frompage35 challengesincompletinghis formal education due to a lackofsupport,heremained undeterred. Inspired by his surroundings and cultural heritage, Demion strives to depict the lifestyle of his ancestors through his work. With a deep connection to his roots and a commitment tohiscraft,DemionMackis eager to see where his artistic journey will lead him Lisa Thompson is a SocialWorkerbyprofession who has worked in several countriesincludingGuyana, Barbados and Canada. She has a wide range of professional experience having worked in the areas of Social Work, Public Health and Restorative justice.Shehasmanagedthe Regional Program of the United States President Emergency fund for AIDS Relief, and more recently, the Advancing Partners and Communitiesproject,afiveyear USAID funded HIV project in Guyana. Lisa is currently the Project Director and Country Representative for the "StrengtheningtheCriminal Justice System in Guyana" project being implemented by the Justice Education SocietyofBritishColumbia, Canada. Her work focuses on improving access to justice for women, girls and Indigenous peoples and takes her to several regions ofGuyana.

Born in 1992, Leon Hardowar developed his love for the arts at a young age, not surprisingly, by exploring his fascination with the surrounding fauna andeagerlytryingtocapture the beauty of it all on paper in full colour He later went on to formally pursue his interest in art at the E.R.

Burrowes School of Art, where he obtained relevant certificates in painting, drawing, photography and graphic design. In recent years, he has built a tremendous portfolio in digital and oil painting, specialising in nature and wildlife painting, portraits, and fan art. He especially hopes that some day his artworkcanbringawareness to the rich biodiversity in Guyana. Most of Leon's work is done in realism, withtechniquessuchasthe illusionofdetailsanddepth offield,focusingmostlyon the foreground while making the background as minimalisticaspossible.

commitmenttothearts. Originally self-taught, Pekahiah honed her skills through available resources, focusing on themes of women,life,andspirituality Her academic pursuits deepened her interest in sculpture and installation art, leading to her final year project.TheScarletThread', showcased at the National Gallery of Art, Castellani House, in 2023. Pekahiah's work explores the depth of personal and collective h

encouraging viewers to

contemplation of cultural, social, and spiritual connections.

H e r c u r a

o r i a l achievementsarenotable.In 2023, she served as a Consultant and Curators' Assistant for 'Beyond the Brush' at FineArt gy

Marriott Hot Guyana, an c

H e r i t a g e

Exhibitions 2023-2024,at the National Gallery ofArt, Castellani House. In 2024, she also curated 'Deaf Artis Unveiled',anexhibition by the Deaf Association of GuyanafundedbyUNICEF, which highlighted the diverseartisticcontributions of deaf artists from across thecountry

said.Lallalsoreferencedcomments made by PPP General Secretary and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo after the elections, saying, “Right aftertheresultsbecamefinal,there was Guyana's one-man illuminati, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo: the PPP's preferenceistoworkwiththePNC, and not WIN. Say that again, please. He didn't have to, since I smelled the rat. The odor was overpowering.”

Lall continued, “According to

(Continuedonpage42)

Roann Pierre, a Georgetown-based artist specialising in pencil portraits, is dedicated to honing her skills in hyperrealism artwork at her own pace. With a focus on capturing expressions and

e y s her aits , she finds fascinationinthesubtleties of human emotion and expressionthroughart.

Guyanese-born Artist, ShelizaRampersaud,isona creative journey, an exploration of the intricate relationship between the natural world, human existence, and cultural diversity

Agraduateoftheclassof 2014 at the Institute of Creative Arts: E.R Burrowes School of Arts,Sheliza'sartistic inspiration is deeply rootedinherprofound appreciation for the wondersofnatureand lifeitself.

Pekahiah James, a Georgetown-based artist and curator, graduated from the University of GuyanawithaBachelorof Arts in Fine Arts Her artistic journey began in earnest in 2015 with the creation of 'Gaia', a painting that solidified her

Tammy Walker is aGuyaneseoilpainter whose work bursts with the vibrant spirit of the landscapes she calls home. From the flowing river of

Koriabo to the glistening bronze

waters of the Demerara River and

the Atlantic Ocean, Tammy roams across Guyana, capturing scenes that speak toitsraw,naturalsoul.With acamerainhand,shecurates visualnarrativesthroughher own photography images that later evolve into richly texturedpaintingsalivewith movement and emotion Known for her dynamic, creative rhythm, Tammy rarely commits to a single canvasatatime.Instead,she dances between multiple works-in-progress, allowing her ideas to unfold organically

This multi-project approach reflects her belief that creativity thrives in motion and multiplicity. Each painting becomes a window into her thoughts, a carefully layered blend of colour,story,andplace.Her art is a celebration of Guyana's untamed beauty and a testament to the in

environment With every brushstroke, Tammy invites viewers to experience not only the majesty of the terrain but also the personal journeybehinditsportrayal.

Tammy Walker is a Guyanese painter whose work bursts with the vibrant spirit of the landscapes she calls home.

Lisa Thompson, an artist who handcrafts pieces for home or office décor

Sheliza Rampersaud's work is often inspired by nature

Roann Pierre, a Georgetown-based artist specializing in pencil portraits

From page 36 discipline, and resilience

“I've also had the opportunity to participate in two business expos (Women in business expo and Fairre of the Ages) this year, which gave me great exposure and allowed me to connect with customersface-to-face,”she mentioned.

Grateful for the experience,she disclosed that the feedback she

received from

hose e v e n t s h a s b e e n heartwarming, reminding her why she started in the firstplace.

Still young and new in

the business arena, Fitzpatrick said that the long-term goal for Cravings gy has always remained the same that is to stand out from the crowd According to the youngwoman,shewantsher brand to be known for its quality, creativity, and affordability

“I don't just want

people to recognise Cravings gy as a name; I want them to associate it

with great service, delicious products, and genuine passion.

Every item that leaves my kitchen is made with the same love and attention to detail as the first batch I ever bake,” she pointed out

“Even though I'm still at the early stages of my business journey, I'm proud of how far I've come

There are moments when I feel uncertain, but I always remind myself why I started because baking brings me joy, and through Cravings gy, I get to share that joy with others.Mystoryisstillbeing written,butonethingIknow forsureisthatI'llcontinueto putmyheartintoeverything Ido,”sheexpressed.

That being said, this young entrepreneur strongly believes that m o r e e x p o s a n d opportunities for small businesses in Guyana can help young entrepreneurs gainrecognitionandgrow

Speaking directly to aspiring entrepreneurs, she expressed, “So, to anyone chasing a dream, my advice is simple: start where you are, use what you have, and trust the process. With patience, faith, and hard work, everything will fall into place in its owntime.”

Eager to taste her tasty t r e a t s , C h r i s t o l Fitzpatrick can be contacted on Instagram & TikTok @Cravings gy or v i a W h a t s A p p o n telephone number (592) 636-1762

Armed bandits cart off with cash,phone cards from Parfait Harmonie Chinese Supermarket

Armedbanditscartedoff with an undisclosed amount ofcashand$50,000worthof phonecardsonFridayfroma Chinesesupermarketlocated in Parfait Harmonie, West BankDemerara.

According to police, the robbery occurred at the Chine #11 Supermarket owned and operated by Zhuangshui Xu, a 38-year-

o l d m a l e C h i n e s e

businessman of Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara.

“…The armed robbery occurred on 2025/10/10 at about 20:44 hours by three malesarmedwithagunanda cutlass,”policesaid.

The victim told the police that he was in the supermarket behind the

cashier counter, when he observed the suspects entering the supermarket

Oneofthemwasdressedina camouflage hoodie, dark pants and a black cloth tied aroundhisface.Thatsuspect was also armed with a handgun.

A second suspect who wasdressedinalongsleeved grey and blue jersey, blue

pantsandablueclotharound his face, was armed with a knife. The third member of the group was dressed in a long-sleevedbluejerseyand dark coloured pants with a grey cloth around his face. Hewasarmedwithacutlass. “The victim said the suspects approached him anddemandedthathehand

(Continuedonpage41)

Lloyda Singh a resilient fighter who survived breast...

Frompage14

breast in August 2024, she decidedtoseeadoctor “She examinedme,shesentmeto do one ultrasound. I get it done.Iwentbacktoherand shereferredmerightawayto Georgetown Public Hospital.Theysentmetodo abiopsy—Ididthebiopsy.I waitedtwotothreeweeksto get the results. They called me to tell me that I need to come because it's urgent,” Singhexplained. Thaturgentcallchanged her life. “So I had to go. When I went, I had to do an emergency surgery I was admittedthenextday Ihadnochoice—Ihadto be admitted the next day I did my surgery I come out

safebythegraceofGodand faithinprayers,”shesaid.

Her diagnosis came in August 2024, and her surgery followed shortly after, on August 26. Singh went on to endure eight sessions of chemotherapy, a process she described as both physically and emotionally draining “I wasn't feeling well during thechemo.

I wasn't feeling well. I wasn't able to eat because I can't take the scent of the food. I wasn't able to do things for myself,” she shared.

Oneof themostdifficult moments came early in her treatment. “My hair started to drop off on the first

session,”Singhrecalled.Yet, she remained undeterred, clinging to her faith and optimism.“Ididn'tworryasI remained hopeful that God would see me through,” she said.

Throughout her journey, Singh'sfamilyplayedavital role in keeping her strong.

“My husband and my children was my support at that time,” she said with gratitude.

Despite the hardships of 2024, Singh's faith carried her through. Today, she is gratefulforherrecoveryand renewedhealth.

“Iamfinenowwithgood healthandstrength.Theonly thing that bothers me is I can't use my right hand as

how I used to. I can't lift heavy weight, and that's my problem,”sheadmitted.

Now, Singh uses her experience to encourage others battling cancer “I would tell others who battling to trust in the Lord, put their faith in Him because that is what I did. When I go on that surgery table, I prayed, and when I came out, I came out as though nothing happened to me— and me thank God for thattillnow,”shesaid.

Lloyda Singh's story is a powerfulreminderthateven in the face of late detection, cancercanstillbeovercome through faith, determination and the support of loved ones.

WANTED

Sales Rep needed, ages 1830 years. Knowledge of vehicle model will be an asset. Contact: 619-1237.

Drivers to drive Canter & Porters to work in Warehouses. Experience will be an asset. Call : 673-7373.

Wanted one Maid. For more information Call: 6801282.

One Porter to work on Hauler Truck needed. Call: 611-7088 for more information.

FOR SALE

T RUCK TIRES 295/ 75R22.5 $40K EACH. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL/WHATSAPP: +592-688-3201.

3 AB DICK offset printing press-Model 360,370, & 9810 in good working Condition, price : $300,000$500,000. Call : 624-7436 / 621-5140.

1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.

Mercedes Benz, E220 Diesel 2009 Manual Transmission, six forward gears. Call: 621-1634 / 637-9541.

VISA Application for USA, Canada, UK, ETA, ETC. Naturalisation guidance + application filling & Building Plans. Tel: 626-7040.

Bus Services for school children in Central Georgetown, Monday - Friday $5,000 per week. Pick up and drop off. Call : 643-6210.

Jetblue flight rescheduled after crew

and passengers stuck in EBD traffic jam

A JetBlue flight rescheduled its take-off time on Saturday after its crew and passengers were left stuck in a traffic jam at Soesdyke Junction, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Some 50 passengers including crew members reportedly showed up late for the flight bound for New York.

Take off from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timerhi, EBD, was scheduled for 3 PM and many were worried that they would have missed their flight but JetBlue B61916 accommodated them.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force stated that traffic flow along the Soesdyke stetch was restored around 15:20 hrs. - 20 mins. after the flight’s scheduled take off time.

Priority, according to the Guyana’s Traffic Chief, Mahendra Singh, was given to outgoing passengers and flight crews.

Traffic ranks are on site to ensure that the traffic contin-

Vacancy for Hotel & Restaurant Manager and Accountant. Apply in person Lot 29 Sussex Street, Georgetown. Tele : 757-8231.

One clerk for TSI Eccles office English 1, Maths 2 call 615-9132 or email application to techserigy@yahoo.com

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence Call 615-9132.

Maid for East Bank area call 615-9132.

One (1) female cleaner for Eccles office. Call: 645-8443.

Vacancy exists for a Canter Driver to procure and deliver materials to construction sites around Georgetown. Call: 225-5818 / 656-0603 (Whatsapp)

Room Attendant & Desk Staff needed. 25-45 years old at 233 South Road, Lacytown. Call: 225-0198.

Vacancy for one tiler to tile a small amount of tiles. Call : 615-9132.

Vacancy at Dyna's Embroidery & Screenprints: We are hiring Accounts clerk.Tel# 226-2621.

Vacancy for Elderly Caregiver @ Republic Park. Please Call or WhatsApp: 656-1875/ 2335160/609-6952.

The congested Soesdyke area

ues flowing smoothly.

The traffic chaos was reportedly caused by ongoing road-works along the EBD roadway.

Kaieteur News understands the traffic was at a

standstill for hours.

The Traffic Chief said that to ease the congestion “police escorted materials to the work site to aid with the speedy completion of the road works.

APNU working with PPP...

From page 38 brother Jagdeo, the PNC has to get past its hatred. My God, it did. How it did! I love it, full of Christian character, but also overflowing with political calculation. In this time of lucrative oil opportunities, to be in the political wilderness is a daunting proposition.”

He further suggested that the cooperation between the two major parties could extend to the National Assembly. “The new PNC house leader, Dr. Terrence Campbell’s work in the National Assembly just became a cakewalk. If in for the Regional Councils, then it’s in with the right turn into parliament, and merging into the same lane as the PPP. A foregone conclusion, I assert,” he suggested . He added that a deputy Speaker for the PNC would be the first gift of thanks. Lall reminded of the other two deputy speakers who have since joined the PPP. Commenting on the unresolved outcome of the Region 10 RDC chairmanship, Lall said he foresees no surprise in the minister’s deci-

sion. “Yes, I know there is the position of chairperson for Region 10 deadlocked and waiting. From my perch, there is no deadlock at all. Is there any Guyanese who foresees the Hon. Minister of Local Government casting her deciding ballot for WIN? Ha ha! Ho, ho, ho, and a bottle of rum,” he said. According to Lall, “This is not about the more things change the more they stay the same. This is about the PPP and PNC linking arms to sabotage, derail, the WIN express train now losing steam, slowing to a crawl. The PNC gets its moment of revenge for all those votes lost to WIN, and some piece of the oil action.” He added that while the PPP gains political advantage, the PNC gets its moment of revenge for all those votes lost to WIN. “I feel sorry for WIN’s Tabitha Sarabo-Halley: ‘APNU prefers PPP to WIN.’ Get used to it, sister. Checkout that circle, Guyanese, elections wise old heads. APNU prefers PPP. And from Jagdeo: the PPP prefers the PNC. It is perfect symmetry, my fellow Guyanese,” he noted.

VACANCY

GDF hosts month of the elderly observance at national veterans' home

In honour of the Month of the Elderly which is observed in October, the National Veterans Rest Home (NVRH) located at L a m a h a S p r i n g s Georgetown, hosted a series of engaging and meaningful activitiesonThursdayaimed

at celebrating and recognising the invaluable contributionsofthemenand women who once served in theJointServices.

Among the activities organised was a Media SitIn. This session provided residents with a platform to share their experiences and reflections on military service, offering insights that form an important part of the nation's defence history Through their

stories, the veterans highlighted the dedication, resilience, and sacrifices of those who helped shape the early years of Guyana's defenceandsecurityforces.

This was followed by a Thanksgiving Church Service and Luncheon,

which brought together veterans, staff, and invited guests in an atmosphere of gratitude and fellowship

The event featured musical selectionsbytheGDFBand, including songs specially requested by the veterans, andanappreciationsegment

acknowledging their invaluable contributions to theForceandthenation.

In attendance were Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Notoya Le

nk, NVRH Administrator Mrs. La-Sean Semple, Board

C

Colonel (Ret'd) Lelon Saul, Force Welfare Officer Mr Jermain Hamilton, Legions Welfare Officer Warrant Officer Class One (Ret'd) Clay Fatts, and family membersoftheveterans.

In his remarks, the Chairman expressed heartfelt gratitude to the residents for their dedicated service to the nation, emphasizing the importance of enhancing service delivery and fostering a

approach to improve their overall well-being. He also reflected on the vision that led to the establishment of theNVRHin2011.

The month-long observance will culminate with a Games Day on Wednesday, October 22, 2025,attheNVH.Thisevent promises to be a lively and

yabl

ion, fostering camaraderie, friendlycompetition,andthe well-beingoftheveterans.

Moreover, this year's celebrations hold special significance, coinciding withthe60thAnniversaryof theGuyanaDefenceForce.

Many of the veterans at the Home proudly served duringtheformativeyearsof the Joint Services and contributed significantly to the GDF's growth and traditions Their service continues to inspire the men and women currently serving in the Force, standingasatestamenttothe values of loyalty, discipline,

Armedbanditscartoffwithcash,phone...

From page 39 over the cash to them

In honour of the Month of the Elderly which is observed in October, the National Veterans Rest Home (NVRH) located at Lamaha Springs Georgetown, hosted a series of activities on Thursday aimed at recognising the invaluable contributions of the men and women who once served in the Joint Services

andpatriotismthatdefinethe GDFtoday.

Through these activities, the GDF reaffirms its

commitment to honouring veterans recognising not onlytheirpastservicetothe nation but also their

enduring influence on the Force'sidentityandmission.

(Source: GDF Facebook page)

One of the suspects entered the cashier area and took out the day's sales from the cash register and placed it in a black plastic bag along with the Digicel and GT&T phone cards.

inanunknowndirection,” policesaid

The suspects then made good their escape on foot

Several persons were questions as police continue its investigation intothearmedrobbery

Palestinians search Gaza rubble for loved ones in ceasefire, return home

Aljazeera - The bodies of 135 Palestinians have beenpulledfrombeneaththe rubbleacrosstheGazaStrip, as Israel’s ceasefiremandatedhaltinitstwo-year genocidal war allowed rescue workers to reach devastatedareas.

Dozens more were retrieved from several hospitals across Gaza, including 43 bodies taken to al-ShifaHospitaland60toalAhli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, with others arriving at hospitals in Nuseirat, Deir el-

B a l a h a n d K h a n

Younis.Separately, medical officials said another 19 peoplewerekilledinIsraeliair strikes on Friday, while one person succumbed to earlier injuries.

Sixteen members of the Ghaboun family were killed when their home, south of Gaza City, was bombed in the early hours Another Palestinian was killed in Sheikh Radwan, while two more died in strikes near KhanYounis.

Itremainsunclearwhether

any of the attacks occurred after the truce took effect at noonlocaltime(09:00GMT)

Thereturntoruins

As Israeli forces withdrew from parts of the decimated enclave and the coastal al-Rashid Street reopened, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians began the long and painful journey back to the ruins of their homes. Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum, reporting from Nuseirat, described scenes of “children, women, elderly,

Displaced Palestinians return to the ruins of homes, driven by loss, defiance and the will to rebuild.

cars, vans, donkey carts loaded with furniture” heading towards Gaza City “Families removed their makeshift tents to take and reset them over the ruins of their destroyed homes,” he said. “This return is seen as historic but it needs to be accompanied by concrete steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis,” Abu Azzoumadded.

Almostnothingremainsof Gaza City after months of relentlessIsraelibombardment.

The destruction is total: no functioning infrastructure, no cleanwater,noelectricity–just the skeletal remains of what oncewerehomes

“There is now an urgent needformakeshifttentsand mobilesheltersforreturning families,” said Al Jazeera’s MoathKahloutfromDeirelBalah. “Carrying what little they have, they march towardtheunknown.”

‘Remarkableresilience’, holdingontohope

Despite unimaginable loss, Palestinians are determined to return. Naim Irheem, packing his makeshift tent into his car,

told Al Jazeera: “I’m going to Gaza City even though there are no conditions for lifethere–noinfrastructure, nofreshwater Everythingis extremely difficult, truly difficult, but we must go back.“Mysonwaskilled,all my daughters were wounded. Still, I want to return.We’llpitchatentand live in it, however it can be done,” he said. For many, returning to Gaza City means facing nothing but ashes. Yet Kahlout noted, “For generations, Palestinians have shown remarkable resilience under Israelioccupation.Eachstep back is not just a return, but anactofdefianceandhope.”

Aisha Shamakh, another survivor of Israel’s genocidal war, said: “We want to go see our homes, our homes that were destroyed at the start of the war Floors have fallen on ourchildren,butIcan’teven describe to you the joy [of theceasefire].”

Lifeamidloss

InGazaCity,AlJazeera’s Ibrahim al-Khalil reported “exhausted faces filled with

both grief and joy” as people returned “Manytoldmethey don’tknowiftheirhomesare still standing or reduced to rubble, yet they return clingingtohope,”hesaid.

AhmedAbuShanab,who made the difficult journey north, told Al Jazeera: “We sufferedalot Wedidn’thave enoughspaceandweliterally couldnotsleep.”

Another resident, Maryam Abu Jabal, voiced the fear many shared: “We returnedtotheunknown,and we don’t know if our homes still exist We hope to God that our home is still standing ” Mohammed Sharaf, returning to the obliterated Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood, said:

“Everythinghaschanged We havereturnedtoadisasterwe cannot comprehend We thoughtwewouldleavefora fewdays,nowwe’rebackand wehavefoundnothing” Even amid the death, mourning and destruction, the will to return remains a potent reminder of a people refusing to be erased or expelled from their land by Israel.

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCIES!

In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Dr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecencies in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.

MONDAY–OCTOBER06,2025

Recklessdriving, Stilloutofcontrol

Despite the installation

of speed clocks and increased police patrols, reckless driving remains a dailymenace,claiminglives and shattering families. The flashing numbers on the speed monitors seem to do littlemorethandecorateour highways, as drivers hurtle pastthemwithimpunity

Itisclearthattechnology alone cannot fix a culture of lawlessness Too many motorists treat the road as a racetrack, emboldened by weak enforcement, bribery, and lenient penalties. The loss of life from speeding and drunk driving has become so routine that outragefadesbeforethenext tragedy.

Thetimefortalkhaslong passed. Government must enforce stricter penalties

, and mandatory re-education for repeat offenders Police must deploy more mobile radar units and random breath tests, especially on weekends. Dashcams and

community reporting hotlin

s should be introduced to deter reckless behaviour

Most of all, public educationmusttargetdrivers before they reach the road from driving schools to schoolyards Until discipline, not recklessness, definesourroads,noamount of speed clocks will save us fromourselves.

TUESDAY–OCTOBER07,2025

TheJagdeobridge

President Irfaan Ali's decision to name the new DemeraraRiverBridgeafter Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has stirred strong emotions across Guyana

Supporters call it a fitting tribute to a man who, as president, envisioned and championed national infrastructure development. Critics, however, see it as a blatant act of political hero worship,anotherexampleof therulingpartyrewardingits own while the people's voicesgounheard.

The Demerara River Bridge is no ordinary project. It is a symbol of progress, linking east to west, uniting communities, and driving commerce. Its name should, therefore, reflect national unity, not partisan politics. Public infrastructure belongs to the people, not to any political dynasty

History will judge leadersnotbythenumberof structures that bear their names, but by the lives they uplift and the integrity they uphold. At a time when Guyana stands on the threshold of unprecedented wealth, humility and inclusion must define our politics.

If this bridge is truly to represent a new era, then let it carry the weight of the nation's hope, not the shadowofpoliticalego.

WEDNESDAY–OCTOBER08,2025

Pickingpennies,losing billions

The government's latest move to demand US$1.2

millionfromExxonMobilto fund the audit of the company's seventh oil project exposes a glaring hypocrisy

This request, though outside the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), shows that when it suits them, the government can “find a way” to extract somethingfromtheoilgiant. Yetwhenitcomestothebigticket items like higher royalties, ring-fencing, or making Exxon pay its fair shareoftaxes,theysuddenly hide behind the so-called “sanctityofcontract.”

This double standard insults the intelligence of every Guyanese. It proves that the government is capable of pushing Exxon, but chooses to settle for crumbs while billions of dollars slip away. If a small, uncontracted request for auditfundscanbemadeand met, why can't the same resolve be shown to renegotiateunfairtermsthat robthenation'sfuture?

Guyanadeservesleaders who will defend national interest with the same vigor Exxon defends its shareholders We cannot keep begging for pennies while our patrimony flows offshore Courage, not convenience, should guide our dealings with ExxonMobil.

FRIDAY–OCTOEBR10,2025

WhitherWest Indiescricket

Once the pride of the Caribbean West Indies crickethasbecomeasymbol of wasted talent, poor l e a d e r s h i p , a n d

Transforming Guyana's Fisheries...

Frompage6 resources, strengthen inland fisheries and align with international best practices. These reforms are vital for maintainingaccesstoexport markets where traceability andsustainabilityarekey

Of course, challenges remain, particularly in securing the 150 fishing licences from Suriname, which the Government continues to pursue diplomatically.

Climate variability will alsotesttheresilienceofour

fisherfolk But what is encouraging is that for the first time in decades, the sector is not simply reacting to problems it is being systematically transformed. As citizens, we can take prideinthisprogress. What we are witnessing ismorethanshort-termrelief itisthebuildingofamodern fisheries sector that will sustain our people for generations. From upgraded landing sites and safer seas to aquaculture expansion andstrongerlaws,thepieces

administrative decay The recentdebacleNepalandlast week's humiliation in India in the first test underline some of the challenges the teamfaces.

Theteamthatoncemade giantstremblenowstruggles to string together basic partnerships or bowl with discipline.Thecollapseisn't suddenit'stheresultofyears of neglect, arrogance, and short-sightedness by those entrusted with its stewardship.

While other nations invest in youth systems and domestic professionalism, West Indies cricket remains trapped in politics, insularity, and outdated thinking.Playersseemmore interested in franchise leagues than in wearing the maroon cap with pride. The board, instead of rebuilding trust and vision, appears content with excuses and cosmeticchanges.

The once-feared fire has been replaced by flickers of

mediocrity Fans who grew up on the glory of Lloyd, Richards, and Lara now watch with disbelief and h e a r t b r e a k U n t i l accountability replaces complacency and purpose replaces profit, West Indies cricket will continue its tragicdriftintoirrelevance. This is not merely a sportingcrisis,itisacultural one. The region deserves better The people deserve a team worthy of its proud legacy

arebeingputinplace.

Our fisherfolk deserve no less and I commend the Ministry of Agriculture and the wider Government for ensuringthatthisvitalsector is given the attention, investment, and vision it deserves.

Guyana is indeed on the rightpathandasanation,we can all be proud of the progress being made at sea andonshore.

Yoursfaithfully, A Proud Guyanese Citizen

crews, roll out 24-hr shifts to beat deadline Raceagainsttime:

Contractors of the Gas-toEnergy (GTE) project, Lindsayca/ CH 4, have doubled the labour force and will soon commence 24hour construction activities to delivertheplantbynextyear

TheGTEprojectfeaturesa12inch pipeline to transport gas from offshore, as well as a power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility ExxonMobil Guyana Limited has already completed the pipelineaspectoftheproject.

President Irfaan Ali on Friday evening visited the Wales Development site, on the West Bank of Demerara where the final pourforthefoundationbaseofthe fourthturbinewascompleted.

In a live update from the site, the Head of State reported, “Work isacceleratingandoneofthethings that the contractor, the consultant andtheprojectteamiscommitting to is working 24/7, increasing not only the man-hours but the manpower itself. The engineering and labour force here will more thandoubleinthecomingweeksso thatwecangetbackonatimelineas quicklyaspossible.”

Head of the GTE Taskforce, WinstonBrassingtonsharedamore technicalupdateontheproject.He detailed, “The work is progressing from the power plant to the substation in the north and then around to the NGLplant. With the foundation being poured, the four gas turbines should be laid and the foundation by December and a lot of the heavy equipment brought in andplacedandfoundations.”

Brassingtonaddedthatmostof the equipment for the plant has

President IrfaanAli providing an update on the GTE project during a site visit on Friday evening (PC: Office of the President)

GTE contractors double

hasbeencompletedontheneedfor glassbottlesintheRegion.

PresidentAli reiteratedthat the fertilizer plant, currently being exploredalongsideotherinitiatives for the utilization of the country's gas resources will feature local investment. “We have said we wanted to have as much local involvement as possible, that is from an investment perspective so we are going to bring together the design planners, we have to have theengineeringcompaniesandthe builders because as you know this is a very specialized piece of investment but we want this investment to be owned as far as possible by locals and with the government itself,” the President stated.

remain is completing the civil works, what's going on now and continuing and then it's a lot of detailed work, the pipe racks, the cabletrays,sotheintentionistotry to get everything finished by next year.”

An aerial view of ongoing construction activities at a section of the project site (PC: Office of the President)

been manufactured and is already in-country,whilethemorematerial is currently being shipped. He expects that majority of the equipment will arrive by early

January, 2026 As such, Brassington said, “So what will

A representative of Lindsayca, who did not state his name, shared that there are currently about 400 personsworkingontheproject.He said, “We start from next month working 24-hours. Our target is to finishthisprojectnextyear.”

In brief remarks, a representative of the Consultant firm, Engineers India Limited (EIL), whose name was also not stated, reported that 9303 piles are required for the project, with most of the work already completed. Additionally, he pointed out, “We

havealreadystartedexcavationfor the substation…and by next week we are going forward with the concrete in pouring for the substationaswell.”

Overall,25,000cubicmetersof concrete will be poured for the power plant, substation NGLplant andotherancillaryinfrastructure.

In the meantime, President Ali said that government is currently planning for a fertilizer plant to be constructed on-site It was explained that the 1400-acre site will be bound by Free-and-Easy, Maria's Lodge and the Demerara River According to Brassington, “We have room for a fertilizer plant,aglassfactory,datacentres,a second substation to Kalpataru, an area for a small industrial electricity users.”Already, a study

TheGTEprojectaimstoreduce thecostofelectricityinGuyanaby a whopping 50%. It is expected to add300megawattsofelectricityin its initial phase. Guyana is also poisedtobecomeamajorproducer ofcookinggas,mostofwhichwill be exported. The first phase is expected to cost close to US$2B, the country's single largest project everpursued.

Government previously intended for the initiative to come onstreamin2025butconstruction delaysnotonlypushedthetimeline back but resulted in a dispute between the GoG and the contractor

Since its inception, opposition members have been pressing government to release key documents release key documents and agreements for the project whichcontinuetobehidden.

New SOMA Hotel & Restaurant opens at Houston

President Irfaan Ali on

Mangal, Founder and Chief E

ve Off

TOTALTEC Group of Companies, for the official opening of his SOMA Hotel and Restaurant, which is located at Houston, East BankDemerara(EBD).

KaieteurNewsunderstandsthat this flagship hospitality enterprise represents a major private investment in Guyana's growing service and hospitality sector which is strategically positioned within one of the country's most important operations and maritime logistics hubs supporting offshore oilandgasactivities.

With its purpose to serve the offshore oil and gas logistics and operations corridor in Guyana, while creating local jobs and developing Guyanese service in excellence,thehotelandrestaurant is located by way of the Guyana Shore Base main access road at Houston,EastBankDemerara.

Comprising of 52 modern rooms with a signature 120-seat

restaurant and lounge, it should be noted that this new establishment will serve both corporate and leisureguests,featuringconference facilities, and premium service standards designed to meet the needs of Guyana's dynamic businesscommunity

According to information provided by the company, the openingofthishotelandrestaurant provided jobs for 60 –100 Guyaneseduringitsfirstphase.

Giving a brief background on

whatpromptedtheinvestment,Mr MangalnotedthatSOMAwasborn fromavisiontocreateaspacethat serves the nation's industrial heartbeat, while also showcasing the warmth and sophistication of Guyanesehospitality

The founder explained that the name SOMA, derived from his daughter'sfirstandlastnames,and “reflects the personal and family values that inspired the projectlegacy,continuity,andcontribution toGuyana'sdevelopment.”

The new SOMAHotel and Restaurant which opened on Saturday at Houston, East Bank Demerara.

investment will impact those locally, he said that it will create some 100 direct and indirect jobs for Guyanese men and women, across hotel operations, food and b

maintenance.

He added that it will support a network of local suppliers and service providers, aligning with Guyana's local content goals and national workforce development priorities.

Further,astheprojectgrows,he noted that TOTALTEC plans to expand SOMA across other key regions of Guyana, offering

accommodation and dining experiences that support business travelers, professionals, and industrial clients throughout the country

Delivering the feature address, President Ali welcomed the initiative, noting that investments like SOMA reflect the confidence of the private sector in Guyana's rapideconomictransformationand the government's vision for sustainable,inclusivegrowth.

“Lars, I am not only here becauseofthisaccomplishment. Iamhereasastatementthatwe are grateful for you and all those who embrace this vision and supported by demonstrating c

investment, through your writing and public pronouncement and being part of that positive framework that is advancing our country's development,” the Presidentexpressed.

National Junior and Senior Badminton Tournament begins...

Robinson 19-21, 21-17, 22-20

BS U15: Vaibhav Nataranjan vs Ethan Ramsaran21-12,21-12

Men Singles: Kenneth Thuangvs NikolasPollard 21-15,21-15

BS U15: Nathan Mohanlall vs Zhi Han 2113,21-10

GS U17: Alleyia Grant vs EyotaAdams 21-5, 212

GS U17: Brianna

Morgan vs Rafiqah Chichester21-8,21-9

Sunday October 12, 2025

ARIES(Mar 21–Apr 19)

People will be focused on themselves, leaving you wonderingwhatallthefussis about. You have a strong desire to express your emotions. It may feel like you'reonstageinsomeway

TAURUS(Apr 20–May20)

The energy flows smoothly today Obstaclesseemtohave dissolved.There'sagreatdeal of energy at your disposal. Youhavestrongthoughtsand powerful emotions backing youup.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

There'sasparkabouttoignite insideyou.Paycloseattention toyouremotionsandtakecare of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually Infuse your plans with passion.

CANCER(June21–July22)

Your emotions are piqued today You're spurred to take action. People might have a me-first attitude that may get on your nerves. You're more interestedinthecollectiveand improving the situation for all.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Getoffthecouchandgetinto action. Come out of hiding and let others hear what you havetosay Letyouremotions shine and don't be concerned about what others think Dancelikenoone'swatching.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

This is a fantastic day Assert yourself with confidence and movetowardyourgoals.Your emotions are working harmoniously with your outer-directednature.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

People may seem a bit more stubborn and emotional than usual.Trynottocontributetoit by being vain and stubborn. This isn't the time to contemplate.It'stimetoact.

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

This is a very opportune day for you. Say hello to the stranger in line or follow through on a tip or comment. Opportunities are there. All you have to do is grab them. You'd do very well in a group situationtoday

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

Peoplemightsteponyourtoes today, but try not to react. Go withtheflow Thismaybethe only way they know how to act. Express your feelings. Openyourselfuptotheworld.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Thisisafantasticdayforyou, so celebrate.You're the star of the show, and you'll be up on stage more than usual. People willlookuptoyouandrespect you for your incredible leadershipskills.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Something may get your danderuptoday Therearehot tempers and strong opinions rightandleft.Trytoseethebig picture You'll seek extra attention from others, especially when it comes to yourneedsandemotions.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Cooperate today even if it seems easier said than done. People will have hot tempers and be very focused on themselves. There's a me-first attitude around, and relations will be much better if you let peoplehavetheirtime.

Frompage48

BSU13: ZhiHanvs.Joshua Tan21-18,24-26,21-16

BSU13:ZionHickerson vs. Vaibhav Nataranjan 2117,21-19

GS U19: Kristen Xavier vs. Anisha Bacchus 21-15, 21-10

MenSingles:DanielTan vs.YonneilBnejamin21-11, 21-9

GS U13: Lucy Leo vs. SkylerGurchuran21-17,219

B S U 1 5 : J o e l Rambiriche vs Nitin Chainani21-10,21-2

GS U17: Sakina Klass vs AriaBlairWalkover Men Singles: Jason Stephney vs Kunal Alert 23-21,21-16

Women Singles: Ashley Khalil vs Asiyah Eastman21-11,21-4

BS U17: Eon Williams vs LucasLeo21-1,21-2

BS U19: Darean Thomas vs Percival Chester21-13,21-15

Men Singles: Colin Bowry vs Chike Nurse 21-14,21-9

BS U19: Joanathan Debidin vs Jaquan Nedd 21-5,21-3

BS U13: CalebTan vs NitinChainani21-2,21-2

BS U13: Nathan

M o h a n l a l l v s Christopher Harrison 217,21-12

Men Singles: Gavin Cao vs Darean Thomas 21-16,21-10

GS U17: Harshini Muralidharan vs Anisha Bacchus21-5,21-2

GS U17: Galianna Frankvs.XatyBennett2118,10-21,22-20

GS U13:Ava Ching-ASue vs. Hailey Gurchuran 19-21,21-16,21-19

M e n S i n g l e s : Joanathan Debidin vs AndrewBrowne21-10,219

GS U13: Chelsea Harrison vs Kathalina Havercome21-8,21-6

B S U 1 5 : Z i o n Hickerson vs Hasani

GS U19: Harshini Muralidharan vs Xaty Bennett21-3,21-3

GS U19: Gabrielle Felix vs EyotaAdams 213,21-0

B S U 1 9 : R o n i t Gulchand vs Nikolas Pollard21-8,21-18

BS U19: Yonneil Benjamin vs. Kunal Alert 21-19,21-10

BS U19: Christopher Jordanvs.EonWilliams213,21-5

Men Singles: Raah Russelvs PercivalChester 21-13,21-14

U19 BS: Nathan Morrison vs Chike Nurse 7-21,21-9,21-18

GS U19: Gabriella Henry vs Brianna Morgan 21-3,21-5

BSU19:DareanThomas vs. Gabriel Felix 16-21, 216,21-9

Women Singles: Priyanna Ramdhani vs AnnaPerreiraWalkover

BS U19: Chioke Nurse vs.MicahHolder21-16,217BS U19: Ruel Rambiriche vs.NathanHenry21-17,2111

National Junior and Senior Badminton Tournament begins

The Guyana Badminton

Association (GBA) officially served off the National Junior and Senior Badminton Tournament on Thursday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, bringing together the country’s best and most promising players for an

exciting display of talent, skill,andcompetition. The tournament, which runs over the next few days, will feature matches in men’s and women’s singles, as well as junior events in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles,acrossmultipleage categories It promises

thrilling rallies and topquality performances from athletes representing clubs andschoolsnationwide.

According to the GBA, the tournament reflects the Association’s ongoing commitment to developing badminton from the grassroots to the elite level,

providing opportunities for young players to gain valuable experience while allowing senior athletes to sharpen their competitive edge.

S p e c t a t o r s a n d supportersareencouragedto attend and witness the high level of badminton being

played locally as the sport continues to grow in popularityacrossGuyana.

Day1Matches

Women Singles: Anna Perreira vs Shonetta CasideeLowe21-16,21-9

Men Singles: Anthony Stephens vs. Chioke Nurse 21-12,21-5

(Continuedonpage

WomenSingles:Mishka Beharryvs.Gabriella Henry21-5,21-6

GSU17:KristenXavier vs.KashishChainani2113,21-14MenSingles: ChristopherJordanvs. VishalGopaul21-17,2119

47)

Jadeja, Kuldeep strike after Gill ton propels India to 518

a new spell straight to midwicket, having got too close to the pitch of the ball on this slog-sweep. Captain RostonChasetamelyflicked one back to Jadeja. In the stands, Viv Richards and

Sai Sudharsan was hit on the grille by John Campbell, but still caught the ball (Associated Press)

(Cricinfo) - West Indies gave a better account of themselveswiththebatthan inAhmedabad,butIndiastill remained in control of the Delhi Test after Shubman Gill scored his 10th Test hundred and declared midway through the day at 518 for 5. In response,West Indiesputontheirfirsthalfcenturystandoftheseries-a contrast to at least 57 for everywicketforIndiainthis Test,AlickAthanaze posted their highest individual scoreof41andtheywent43 overs with the loss of four wickets It was an improvement after they failed to bat 50 overs in either of their innings in Ahmedabad, but they still needed 179 to avoid the follow-on.

The day began on a sour note for India when the voracious Yashasvi Jaiswal was run-out after he had added just two to his overnight173.Hewasquite demonstrative in letting his partner,Gill,knowitwashis call and that he should be looking at him and not the ball. However, Jaiswal had hittheballtomid-offalittle too well, and Gill had been quick to turn his back Jaiswal, though, kept going, and left himself no opportunitytorecover

The ever-calm Gill took it in his stride, and - at least forthespectators-morethan madeupfortherun-outwith sumptuous strokeplay to bring up his fifth century in just seven Tests as captain. For company he had 40s

from Nitish Kumar Reddy, promoted so he can play someroleinhomeTests,and Dhruv Jurel, whose dismissal brought about the declaration.

Formostpart,Gillhardly playedashotinanger When the seamers produced a mildly testing spell in the morning, Gill prospered with short-arm cuts and defensive pushes for boundaries into the leg side, often after stepping out of thecrease.Hebroughtuphis half-century with slight abandon, a lovely flick through midwicket. When Justin Greaves tried to mix cutters, he picked one even as he stepped out and then loftedhimforasix. Reddy, who bowled just four overs in the first match and didn’t get to bat, was sentinatNo.5sothatIndia can give him time in the middle and give him every opportunity to develop into anallrounderwhenheisnext needed overseas. It wasn’t the smoothest of innings, with an early edge falling short,butfeaturedtwosixes againsttheturnbeforeathird attemptendediton43off54.

Jurelwasamorereliable ally, once again showing good judgement of length againstspin.Hepreferredto pressforwardinpreparation to face the ball, but was quick to rock back every time the spinners dropped short.

Gill strolled through to his hundred before flicking intoahighergear,scoring27 off 19 after reaching the

landmark.Intryingtomatch Gill’s pace, Jurel tried to manufacture a pull and was bowled off Roston Chase, the first man other than Jomel Warrican to take a wicket.

Gill pulled the plug on the innings with that dismissal.Unbeaten,henow averaged 43.47 in Tests and 84.81 as captain. No India captain has scored more hundredsinayearthanGill’s five after he took over practicallyinthesecondhalf of2025.

Averaging 20 over the last 40 innings, the West Indiesopeningwicketfailed tochangethatnumbereither way,althoughthistimethey were unlucky John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul had looked comfortable against pace.

Campbell welcomed

Ravindra Jadeja’s spin with a paddle-swept boundary, but the next sweep, nailed off the middle of the bat, hit the short leg’s helmet and lodged itself in the fielder’s arms. B Sai Sudharsan, the fielder, stayed off the field fortherestoftheday,buthad b r o u g h t a b o u t a breakthrough.

Chanderpaul and Athanaze then put together West Indies’ most assured phase with the bat, using their feet, sweeping, lofting down the ground, and then Chanderpaul was beaten in the air by a quick Jadeja delivery, which he steered forasharpcatchatfirstslip.

Athanaze then hit KuldeepYadav’sfirstballof

Brian Lara were seen gesturing he should have defendeditwiththeturnand notflickedagainstit.

Shai Hope and Tevin Imlach saw West Indies through to stumps without furtherdamagebuttheystill hadamountaintoclimb. West Indies 140 for 4 (Athanaze 41, Jadeja 3-37) trail India 518 for 5 dec (Jaiswal 175, Gill 129*, Warrican3-98)by378runs

Frompage50 whichinevitablyresultedintheteam’sfinal scoreof179alloutinthe38thover AnthonyAdams(24)andtop-scorerPaul (30) held the middle-lower order together alongside tail-enders Myhiem Khan (22*) andLovell(24),whofrustratedtheDemerara bowlersdespitetheloss. West Indies Under-19 all rounder

pilot Demerara...

Johnathan Van Lange, snared with his medium-pace 4-35 as Looknauth spun his wayto3-26,withawicketapiecefrompacer RonaldoAlimohamedandspinnerAshmead Nedd.

Meanwhile, action continues today in Round 2 with the GCB Select XI playing Berbice at the Lusignan Ground. (Clifton Ross) Nandu and company

2025GCBQueenswaySeniorMen’sSuper50Inter-countyTournament... Nandu and company pilot Demerara to commanding 50-run win

Demerara skipped to a 50-run win over the home team Essequibo, after a classy half-century from captain Matthew Nandu

helped the defending champs draw first blood at the Joe Jagmohan Ground, HamptonCourt. Batting first, the visiting

Demerara posted what turned out to be a matchwinning 229-10 in 45 2 overs, after a brilliant start fromthetop3batsmen.

Opener Ushardeva

Balgobin scored 40 with 7 fours to help set the tone of the innings, adding 67-runs with his partner and Demerara top scorer, Nandu

The opener, who was likely eyeing a possible hundredafterdoingthehard work,fellfor73off102balls with7fours.

Number 3 batsman Raymond Perez hit 3 fours and a six in his 51-ball 40, thus capping off the leading scorerslistfortheirteam.

Honorable mentions with the bat for Demerara included Mavindra Dindyal (14), Shamar Apple (11), Ashmead Nedd (10) and RichieLooknauth(10).

Essequibo had a reasonable bowling game

thanks to seamer Thaddeus Lovell who bagged 4-43, with the senior pair of speedster Ronsford Beaton (2-29) and all-round spinner RicardoAdams(2-39).

Facing a tricky chase at home,Essequibomisfiredat the top after Kevon Boodie (29), Mark Gonsalves (11), Captain Kemol Savory (14) and Kanhayia Ramkaran (12)allfumbledtheirstarts, (Continuedonpage49)

Demerara captain and match MVP, Matthew Nandu accepts his award from Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) president Deleep Singh

-

Courts Optical

Pee

Wee U11 Football concludes Round 3

Agatash thump Leonora 5-0 as SJTB secures third win on trot 5-0

The 12th Annual Courts Optical Pee Wee Under11 Football Tournament moved into high gear on Saturday, with third-round action wrapping up at the Ministry of Education groundonCarifestaAvenue. With the knockout stages looming, teams battled fiercelyforaspotinthefinal sixteen, producing several thrilling encounters and surpriseupsets.

Among the standout performersweretournament favourites St John the Baptist (SJTB), West Ruimveldt Primary, and PotaroPrimary,allofwhom extended their unbeaten runs.

St John the Baptist Primary (SJTB) continued theircommandingformwith a 7-0 demolition of Genesis

Academy Prolific striker Aaron Christian added two early goals (2nd, 8th minutes) to remain the tournament’s leading scorer Neymar Edwards dazzled withasoloeffortinthe17th minute, whileAlex Pearson, Orlando Deeges, and Jarrel Schroeder rounded out the scoring to leave Genesis rooted to the bottom of the table.

West Ruimveldt Primary also delivered a dominant display, handing region two’s Charity Primarytheirfirstlossina 5-0 rout Ceon Rajkumer was the star, netting a well-taken hat-trick, while teammate Yanique Cadogan added another Charity compoundedtheirwoeswith an own goal, sealing a forgettable day for the Essequiboside.

Region eight, Potaro Primary edged Redeemer Primary 1-0 in a tense

affair, with Lamon Telemaque’s 29th-minute strike proving the differenceinadefensively grittyperformance.

Meanwhile, Agatash Primary stunned Leonora Primary 5-0, thanks to a hat-trick from Justin Calvin (3’, 19’, 25’) and a brace from Carlos Paul T h e l o s s m a r k e d Leonora’s first of the tournament.

Smith Memorial

Primary also picked up their first win of the competition in dramatic fashion, narrowly defeating Winfer Garden 1-0 courtesy of Derick Holder’slonegoal

On the other side of the pitch, St Gabriel’s Primary

i m p r e s s e d w i t h a comprehensive4-0winover Georgetown International Academy (GIA). A brace from Nathan Melville (6’, 9’) set the tone, while Zion Hickerson and Jalen Simon also got on the scoresheet. Credit also goes to St Gabriel’sbackline,whoheld firm to preserve the clean sheet.

StTheressaPrimaryalso broke their winless streak, defeating Ann’s Grove Primary2-0withgoalsfrom I-Shent Oudkerk and RodwellLindy

Later on, Stella Maris Primary routed Batavia Primary 5-0 behind a firsthalf hat-trick from Clevon Jacobs, with Kenyeatha Junor adding two more to completetherout.

Marian Academy returned to winning ways, securinga2-0victoryover St Stephen’s Primary after back-to-back draws in previousrounds

St Pius Primary edged Clonbrook Primary in a five-goal thriller, winning 3-2 Meanwhile, Sophia Primary and St Aloysius played to a draw, and Tu c v i l l e P r i m a r y remained unbeaten after receiving a walkover win

due to St Mary’s Primary’s no-show.

As the tournament a p p r o

h e elimination phase, the competition has become fierce, with teams jostling for position in the muchanticipated quarterfinals Round four (round-of-16) actionpromisesevenmore excitement next Saturday as the young talents continuetoimpress The 2025 Courts Optical PeeWee Under-11 Football Tournament is sponso

d by Courts Optical with support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, National Sports Commission, MVP S

Mutual, and Sterling Products Limited The

officially sanctioned by theMinistryofEducation.

St John the Baptist Primary goal scorers (L-R) Aaron Christian, Neymar Edwards, Alex Pearson,Orlando Deeges and Jarrell Schroeder

Sports Agatashthump Leonora

St Pius Primary and Clonbrook Primary featured in a five-goal thriller during the highoctane Round three action yesterday at MoE

Jadeja, Kuldeep strike

AlickAthanaze and Tagenarine Chanderpaul saw off the new ball (AFP/Getty Images)