The Guyana Marketing Corporation celebrates International Women's Day, honoring the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. Together, we stand in unity and empowerment.
William Cozier
The stolenAllion
PPP should refund all the Mohameds’ - NRF Member
contributions made over the past 10 years
Businessman and member of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Investment Committee, Terrence Campbell has called on the People's Progressive Party (PPP) to returnallcontributionsmade tothepoliticalgroupoverthe past10years.
His comments came on the heels of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo's Thursday press conference, where the General Secretary of the party not only launched a personal attack onAzruddin Mohamed, son of Nazar Mohamed,butalsosoughtto defend the PPP against corruption allegations made byAzruddin.
In sharing a clip of Jagdeo'spressconferenceon his Facebook page, Campbell said, “If it is an organization with a good ethical compass, the PPP should refund all contributionsreceivedinthe lasttenyearsfrom"wannabe gangsters" and sanctioned personsorbusinesses.”
Furthermore, it is Campbell's view that the weekly press conferences hostedbytheVicePresident, at Freedom House, are far from civil According to him, “This is where the abusive culture in Guyana getsitssteroids.Forthoseof you who find this weekly abuse show funny, don't complain when the school kidsarefightingwithfriends cheering Don't complain about road rage Don't complain about domestic violence. This guy is the chiefpromoteroftheculture of abuse and incivility that engulfsGuyana.”
The businessman's comments were hinged on Jagdeo's statements about the Mohamed's On Thursday, Jagdeo said, “I
occasions and I think he is a wannabegangsterwhocan't stringtwocoherentthoughts together and if he had to confront APNU, he would s**tabucketload.”
Jagdeo said he saw Azruddin Mohamed make disparagingcommentsabout the Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and even impliedthatheiscorrupt.
On the contrary, the General Secretary of the party said Mustapha has been“workinghisassoff”to assistfarmersovertheyears while Azruddin has been busy“evadingtaxes.”
Jagdeomadeitclearthat while the PPP supports citizens' right to express themselves, this does not mean the party would not defenditself.
The Vice President explained that Nazar Mohamed made a statement recently that seeks to create the impression that he is either a victim of “PPP excesses”.
Jagdeo however remindedthatthefamilywas accused of smuggling 10,000kilogramsofgoldout ofGuyanaandevadingover US$50Mintaxes.Heargued that the United States Ambassador, NicoleTheriot previously pointed to the multiyear investigation that was conducted, with a mountainofevidencefiled.
Instead of addressing that,hesaidNazarMohamed pointed to another businessman, allegedly purchasing gold from Venezuela, without consequences. To this end the politician urged that any evidence in this regard be provided to the U.S. and all details shared with the public.
Further, in addressing statements made by Nazar Mohamed on Tuesday, Jagdeo said, “It's a gross misrepresentation to claim, as he did, that it's only American companies that could face sanctions if they associate with the Mohamed's.” According to him, this is clearly outlined inthestatementissuedbythe U.S. Jagdeo quoted a section
of the statement which outlines, “In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activitieswiththesanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctionsorbesubjecttoan enforcement action the prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services by, to or for the
benefit of any designated person.”
As such, he pointed out that persons who receive contributions from the Mohamed's can face sanctions.
Jagdeo concluded that theMohamedsareinterested now in politics to shield the family from sanctions imposedbytheU.S.
Nazar Mohamed in a public statement this week brokehissilenceontheU.S. sanctions.Hesaidtherewere d e l i b e r a t e misrepresentations on the sanctions which in reality preventhimandhissonfrom conducting business with U.S.citizensandcompanies.
Be that as it may, he pointedtohistwobusinesses suffering locally, as his gold license was terminated and efforts to renew licenses for vesselsownedbythefamily were denied. He said, “To say that anyone who associates themselves with the Mohamed's would be
sanctionedisludicrous.”
The businessman went ontopointouthisloyaltyto the PPP over the years, thoughfinancialsupportwas offeredtootherparties.“All my life I have been associated with the PPP I worked with Forbes Burnham from then onwards I knew all the political leaders in our country,”hesaid.
To this end, he said he could not understand the hostility being meted out to thefamily
MemberoftheNRF InvestmentCommittee, Terrence Campbell
PPPGeneralSecretary, Bharrat Jagdeo
Azruddin Mohamed
KaieteurNews
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Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456
Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS
Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210
EDITORIAL
Gold permits - what is Guyana getting?
Canada’sGoldPortCorporationhaspositioneditselfto capitalize on soaring gold prices. Last year, Gold Port obtained approval from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to explore and exploit the mineral richesintheGroeteGoldProjectintheEssequiboRegion.
ThenumbersintheGGMC’spermitsarehuge:fiveyears duration, 1384 hectares or 3418 acres for exploration, a reasonable(inferred)estimateof157millionofgold-copper equivalentounces GoldPortexecutiveshavetobedroolingin anticipation of harvesting enormous profits from Guyana’s rich mineral fields Gold prices are around US$2470 per ounce, but Gold Port has hedged against falling prices by factoring in a calculation of US$1275 per ounce in its estimates TherecanbenoquestionthattheCanadianmining company has set itself up well, is sitting on top of one of Guyana’s largest treasure troves The question is what has GuyanagottenforitselfforitswarmreceptiontoGoldPort?
Thereisthehighlikelihoodofgoldbeingfoundinheavy commercialquantitiesintheGroeteproject Abonanzaisin themakingforGoldPort,anditsinvestmentiswelcomed,its confidenceinGuyana’spotentialforcompanyprofitsashigh as it could get But what is Guyana getting in return for royalties? WhatistherateoftaxesGoldPortisgoingtopay on its income to the Guyana Revenue Authority? Are Guyaneseprofessionalsgoingtobeholdersofthegoodjobs thatshouldcomewiththemassiveGroeteGoldProject? Not laborersandtruckdriversonly,thebottomoftheladderstuff thathasnoappealtotheforeigners,butwhichpoliticiansall overtheworldliketocelebrate Wearetalkingaboutjobsas accountants, auditors, computer specialists, Human ResourceManagers,andothersinthoseniches.
“TheCompanyisinterviewingadditionstomanagement tofacilitateadrillprogramtoenhanceandpotentiallyexpand thecurrentknownresource.” Itwouldbeinterestingtoknow who numbers among the candidates being interviewed for those vacant management positions. We say this unambiguously: Guyanese must feature and feature prominentlyinthefinalselectionsformanagers Itcannotbea token local face in one section, and another in some other department Withaninferredestimateofoneandahalfmillion ouncesofminerals(gold-copperequivalent),fromaprojectof thismagnitude,Guyaneseworkers,fromunskilledtoskilled, manual to technical, must be a part of Gold Port’s staff complement TheGuyaneseworkermustbeonthesamepay scalesastheirforeigncounterpartsinthesamejobs
In terms of dollars, we hope that the Government of Guyana was wise and firm in the royalty percentage negotiated. Guyana has handed on a platter to Gold Port thatfive-yearapprovalforanareathatpromisessomuch. Itisonethatisalmostguaranteedtoperform,aninvestment with extremely rich returns for the company It is hoped thatthePPPCGovernmentgotmoreforGuyanain2024,as comparedtothosepriorgolddealsfinalizedandapproved. GoldPorthasprovidedtheclearestindicationofhowmuchthis Groeteprojectmeanstoit,howlucrativeitcouldbe,almost suretobe Forwhenthecompanycouldbesoboldastoprice themineralatclosetolessthanhalfofwhatitistradingonthe world’sgoldmarkets,itconfirmshowcertainGoldPortisthat itwillreaphandsomeprofitsandthenstillsomemore Toputit differently,evenifgoldpricesweretofallprecipitously,Gold Portisstillexcitedabouttheproject,issettomakegoodmoney
The numbers were before the government, from estimated ounces, the probability of success with rich finds, and gold prices at current and other levels. Notwithstanding sensible consideration of the cyclically depressed prices that are an inseparable aspect of gold markets,therearestillprofitstobemade. Allofthisshould meansomethingbetterforwhatGuyanesegetastheirshare of this gold bargain. Jobs are fine, but that cannot be all. Royaltiesandtaxeswillonlymeansomething,iftheyareat ratesthatarefavorabletothiscountry Timewillprovide confirmation.
The GOALprogramme needs to be audited
DEAREDITOR, The current scandal involving the Staffordshire University denying its involvement in the GOAL program validates the call made by Mr Terrence Campbell in January 2025 for a “value for money” audit.
To be fair, the GOAL program offering Guyanese the opportunity to obtain degrees up to the doctorate level is an outstanding
Ali Administration. It opens the door for anybody to obtain higherqualifications,andit’s free. That’s a good thing. But we must always be monitoring program quality a n d p r o g r a m implementation.
The people whom the President appointed to run
the program must do an excellent job so the Government looks good all thetime.
Sadly, the current Staffordshire scandal brings a bad name to the President asthoseinchargeseemtobe nappingandmessingup.
A good thing, poorly implemented, is bringing shame to the Government. Heads should roll The Director has let down the Government.
Noexcusecanexonerate what happened It’s just shameful Who is monitoringtheGOALfolks? Where is the Ministry of Educationinallofthis?
GOAL must improve its customerservicetostudents. Studentshavecomplainedof the unresponsiveness of GOAL staff At certain
times, GOALpeople are not in the office and work from home, so you can’t get them on the office phone if they areathome. They are not efficient at answering questions posed on their website. Students who have completed programs don’t know the procedures for getting their certificates/diplomas And GOAL can’t tell you what’s goingon.
Will GOALbe in charge of the President’s new Digital School project? The Government may want to rethink that or else a good idea may be badly implemented and get screwed up. The GOAL peoplethemselvesmaywant to take classes in program management How are programs offered by GOAL
linkedtotheneedsofoiland gas and STEM? Are they providing too many programs not tied to the manpower we need to serve theoilandgaseconomy?
So, an independent reviewisneedednow
Lastly, if we believe in local content, why are we buildingandfinancingother people’s universities, when we could have run GOAL through UG, maybe at the Berbice campus? True, UG hasitsownproblems,butwe need to implement reforms theretomakethingsbetter
Why is UG not going back to face-to-face? Is it a GOAL-like program too? GOALandUGmusthelpus with the crisis in education, notbepartofthecrisisitself.
Sincerely,
M.Singh
CCWU General Secretary requests Interim Management Committee for the Clerical and Commercial Workers’Credit Union Limited
DEAREDITOR
, T
Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU), along with the General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, was outvoted by members who were not part of the CCWU.
TheCreditUnion,anarm
of the Clerical and Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU), was established by members of the Union and founded by the late Great George De Peana, General Secretary of the CCWU The building is owned by the Clerical and Commercial Workers’Union(CCWU)and was built with the members’
fundsoftheCCWU
These principal officers do not have the authority to renttheUnionbuilding,and the union or trustees have never permitted the Clerical &CommercialCooperatives Credit Union Limited, whichisonlyopentoUnion membersoftheCCWU
There are no Executive Members of the Clerical & CommercialWorkersUnion (CCWU) who do not hold the principal officer position, and the building belongstotheunionbylegal transport As General Secretary of the Clerical & CommercialWorkersUnion, I am calling on Honourable
S
y
s outspoken, non-members wish to punish me for speaking on behalf of the members The pressing issues include the fact that they secure loans for their friendswithoutanyintention to repay The Credit Committee has a member who arbitrarily grants loans to his associates. Everyone accepts this as he solely signsoffontheloans. Yourssincerely, SherwoodClarke GeneralSecretary Clerical & Commercial Workers’Union(CCWU)
JosephHamilton,Ministerof Labour,toinvestigatewhatis occurring with these individuals running the Clerical & Commercial Workers Credit Union Limited Credit Union loans were being distributed without proper justification; they were grossly incompetentinmanagingthe affairsofthecreditunion They paid themselves exorbitantsumsofmoneyto attend meetings without approval from the annual meeting.Theysentonesetof members to the CCCU Conventionwithoutareport upon returning, while the current management c o m m i t t e e l a c k s accountability Because the G
My policy has failed, yet I want to be re-employed as the boss of the enterprise called Guyana
DearEditor,
There is something that emergeseveryThursdaythat convinces people that Guyana is not a real place. The role play that follows shouldleaveyouinnodoubt that the man who holds a press conference every Thursday thinks that Guyanesearefools.
I am the boss of an enterprise called Guyana. I determinethepolicy Iselect the people to carry out the policy Then, I decided that the priority will be infrastructure. I see and know that people are messingup.
After one year, I say nothing The policy
continues and the mess up continues,andIsaynothing. Complaints continue to come in and I intensify implementationofthepolicy in year 2 Complaints continue to come in and I insist on continuing the policyinyear3. Successor failure is irrelevant and so thepolicycontinues.
Thosearoundmeseethat Iamconsumedbythepolicy andsaynothingorwhatever theysayisrebuffed.
My policy drives me to expand the pool of contractorsandincludeeven more unqualified persons.
After year 4, the complaints continue to increase and so does the embarrassment
fromflawedandsubstandard work. Yet, I continue to insist on the policy Year 5 hasarrived,anditistheyear in which I am seeking to be re-employed as the head of theenterprisecalledGuyana. Inowrealizethatthefailures of my policy cannot be my fault. Inowlookaroundfor peopletoblame. Itistimeto make family, friends, favourites and flatterers the problembecauseIcannotbe blamed.
Iblametheengineersfor nothavingaprotocolofhow things should be done. I blamethecontractorsfornot havingtheskillstodoagood job.
Iblamethesuppliersfor
supplying short materials or materials below quality I blame the Ministers for not payingattentiontowhatwas going on and not doing somethingaboutit Iamnottoblameforallthe failures of the last five years becausemypolicyisgoodand everybody implementing it is bad So,notwithstandingthatI have been ignoring the warnings and complaints for five years, I should be reemployed as the boss Guyanese,justthinkaboutthe audacityofthefailurewhoputs onashoweveryThursday
Sincerely, MervynWilliams, FormerMemberof Parliament.
The grave danger of electing leaders under international sanctions
DEAREDITOR
,
Inrecentyears,theworld has witnessed an alarming riseintheelectionofleaders who are under international sanctions, particularly those imposed by major powers liketheUnitedStates.
This trend is not just a political issue; it is a profound danger that could further exacerbate the already fragile conditions in many developing countries. Citizens must understand thatelectingsuchleadershas far-reaching consequences, which often result in the suffering of the ordinary people,whilethoseinpower remain insulated from the verysanctionsthataffectthe masses.
One of the clearest
examples of this is Venezuela Under the leadership of Nicolás Maduro,Venezuelahasbeen subjected to numerous international sanctions, primarily by the United States, aimed at pressuring his regime into changing its policies.
These sanctions have crippled the country’s
economy, leading to hyperinflation, mass
poverty, food shortages, and acollapseinhealthcare.Yet, despite the hardships faced by millions of Venezuelans, Maduro and his inner circle continuetolivecomfortably, insulated from the worst of thesanctions.
Maduro’s government has been accused of hoarding wealth and power while ordinary Venezuelans suffer from scarcity, unemployment, and an overwhelmedhealthsystem.
Even with the sanctions in place, he has managed to maintain a tight grip on power, with accusations of widespread corruption and manipulation of state resources.
M e a n w h i l e , t h e Venezuelan people face escalating poverty, with the majority of the population livingbelowthepovertyline and many forced to flee the country in search of better opportunitiesabroad. Other countries, such as North Korea and Iran, offer similar examples. In North Korea, Kim Jong-un’s regime remains in power
d e s p i t e s t r i n g e n t international sanctions imposed by the United
Nations and other Western powers.
The country is facing widespread food shortages, energy crises, and a lack of basic necessities, yet the ruling elite continues to live in luxury, enjoying privileges that the average citizencouldneverimagine. Likewise, in Iran, the repressive government under leaders likeAyatollah KhameneihasweatheredUS sanctions for years, but the people continue to endure
skyrocketing inflation and unemployment.
This stark contrast between the suffering of the general population and the comfortofthoseinpoweris not only a moral issue, it’s a strategicone.
The continued election of leaders who are under international sanctions is a dangerous choice for the people. These sanctions are meant to target the governmentanditsofficials,
but in practice, they rarely affect the elite who have access to foreign currency, private accounts, and offshoreassets.
M e a n w h i l e , t h e ordinary citizens are left to bear the economic burden, leading to widespread poverty and social instability.
Itiscrucialthatcitizens in developing countries, where political discontent and frustration are high, understand the devastating consequences of electing leaders who are already isolated on the international stage.
While these leaders may make promises of national pride and sovereignty, they are often only able to maintain power by appealing to populist sentiments, often at theexpenseoftheirpeople’s well-being.
The real cost is borne bytheordinarycitizenwho suffers from rising prices, diminishingaccesstobasic
goods and services, and a diminishing standard of living.
As voters head to the polls, it is important to consider not only the promises and rhetoric of candidates but also their international standing and the potential ramifications of electing a leader who is under sanctions. Sanctions rarely impact the ruling elite directly; they are often insulated by corruption, foreign bank accounts, and international allies
But the average citizen suffers on a daily basis, facing shortages of food, medicine,andemployment opportunities
Voters must ask themselves: is it worth electing a leader who may offer promises of defiance and sovereignty at the expense of our well-being?
Willwebeabletoendurethe economic hardship, social instability, and international isolation that inevitably follows?
More importantly, we must demand transparency from our leaders and hold them accountable for the impacts their leadership choices have on the daily livesofordinarycitizens
In conclusion, while political ideologies and national pride may motivate the election of leaders under international sanctions, it is vital to acknowledgethelong-term damage that such leaders bringtotheirnations
The ordinary people of these countries, who are already struggling to make ends meet, are the ones whosufferthemost
Letusnotbesweptaway by the promises of defiance thatcomewithsuchleaders, but rather, let us choose leaders who have the wellbeing of the people in mind and seek peaceful, constructive paths to nationalprosperity
Sincerely, Raymon Abdul
UG’s open day and job fair 2025 opens with expansive career opportunities
The University of
Guyana’s (UG) 2025 Open Day and Job Fair opened on Fridaywithexpansivecareer a n d n e t w o r k i n g opportunities for students andalumni.
Themed, “Explore, Connect, Evolve”, this year’s open day and job fair aims at helping students discover career paths, engage with industries, and foster personal and professionalgrowth.
The event which
concludes today attracted employers from diverse sectors, all eager to meet potential employees It providesaplatformforlocal companies to meet and interviewjob-seekers,while also fostering relationships with UG students, alumni and secondary school students.
In addition to career opportunities, attendees wereinvitedtoparticipatein exciting competitions and utilize a specially designed
app that help job-seekers navigate available job listingsbothattheeventand online.
Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin spokeoftherapidgrowthof Guyana’s economy and the need to equip the country’s workforce with the skills to meetitsgrowingdemand.
She said, “Guyana is really one of the fastest growing economies in the world and really we (University) cannot keep enough people, we cannot produce enough people in
the University to fill the needsoflocalcompanies,in certaindisciplines.”
The Vice Chancellor said,“Thethemethisyearas you can see, explore, so we invited everybody to explore, connect we invite youtoconnect,notonlywith each other, not only to the teamsonthegroundsandon the booths but also we do have some exciting other
competitions, you can win prizes, we have an app that you can log unto if you are lookingforjobselsewhere.”
ProfessorMohamedsaid it is important that persons take full advantage of the existingopportunities.
Registrar of the
University of Guyana Dr Nigel Gravesande reflected onthegrowthofthejobfair initiative and its positive impact on student development.
He said, “Starting from three years ago with a job fair, the intention is to bring employers into direct contactwithourstudentsbut thathasgoneevenfurtheras we have seen expediential growthofcollaborationwith corporate Guyana and the University’s academic units.”
Dr Gravesande said that theUniversity’sstudentsare
benefitting significantly from the opportunities for “internment in which the relevance of what industries are doing is complemented b y t h e a c a d e m i c deliverables.”
He also spoke of the geographicexpansionofthe University’s impact, citing increased enrollment in various regions of Guyana. He explained that in Region One (Barima-Waini), there has been a notable 35.8 percent increase in the numberofstudentspursuing highereducation.
I n R e g i o n Tw o (Pomeroon - Supernaam), student enrollment has surged by 25 9 percent, indicating a growing demand for tertiary education Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) saw a more modest increase of 5 8 percent, while Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) experienced a 17.7 percent rise.
Additionally, Dr GravesandesaidthatRegion Six (East BerbiceCorentyne)sawa5.4percent increase, and Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) recorded a 10 9 percent growth in the number of studentsseekingtertiary (Continuedonpage22)
Secondary School students examine booths at the University of Guyana’s Open Day and Job Fair held at its Turkeyen Campus.
Govt. grabs US$30M World Bank loan to install renewable energy on public buildings
Guyana, along with two other C a r i b b e a n countries, has signed a new World Bank loan to help increase the supply of renewable energy in public buildings.
The total loan for the three countries amounts to US$$131.87millionandhas
three components
According to the Project document seen by this publication, Component One (US$112 35 million) will finance investments in Energy Efficiency (EE) retrofits and the installation
of new Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) systems in public buildings and other facilities, along with technical assistance for identification, design, and implementation supervision of the EE and Renewable Energy (RE) investment. It will also support grid integration of Distributed Photovoltaic (DPV) systems.
Component Two of the loanhasanestimatedcostof US$3.7 million and features four sub-components
Subcomponents2.1,2.2,and 2 3 will support the development of regulatory frameworks for scaling up EE and RE investments in Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Guyana, respectively, and promoting harmonization with relevant regional regulations and rules Subcomponent 2 4 will support multiple regional regulatory and policy developmentactivities.
Meanwhile, Component Three (US$15.82 million) w
stakeholders, as well as the establishment of a regional ProjectImplementationUnit (PIU) and related capacity building and a genderrelated training program in Guyana.
According to the World Bank, Guyana has reported receiving 317 applications for an aggregate of 7 5
megawatts (MW) of
Distributed Renewable Energy(DRE)generation,of which222applicationswere for government systems, totaling 4.2 MW It is not
clear how much renewable energy would be supplied to local public buildings upon completionoftheproject.
The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) on its website noted that during 2017 and 2018, the Government implemented under its Green Public
Sector programme solar photovoltaic (PV) systems withacombinedcapacityof 3.02 MW on the rooftops of 175 public or government buildings A pilot programme for stand-alone solarstreetlightingwasalso carried out and 65 solar powered LED street lights
increaseinrevenuefromthe oil stream and as we promised the people of Guyana, we will utilize this increased revenue to improve the lives and livelihoods of people,” Phillipsnoted.
The regional renewable energyprojectisfundedbya combination of donors and mechanisms.
The World Bank's International Development Association is providing concessional financing of $40 million to Grenada, $30 million to Guyana, and $30 milliontoSaintLucia.
wereinstalled.
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret'd) MarkPhillipsexplainedthat thelackoffinancingresulted in only 5% of the country's energy needs being generatedbyrenewables.
“Thegovernmentalways has an intention of doing more but you know everything has to be financed. You need to have money or some source of moneyintermsoflendingor borrowing to finance those projects. We are in a stage now where we have an
Additionally, grants of $3.3millionwillbeprovided to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Commission to support pooled procurement at the regional level, and $0 7 million to the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency which will providetechnicalassistance.
TheGlobalEnvironment Facility is contributing a US$1.791 million grant to SaintLuciaandGrenadawill receive a loan of US$8.5 million from the Clean Technology Fund, while a US$8 2 million loan and US $0 38 million grant is provided to Guyana from the Canada Clean Energy and Forest Climate Facility
A solar system installed on the rooftop of a public building (Photo credit: GEA)
Jagdeoshouldseekadvicebeforehemouths-off
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo should not be embarrassed to seek advice fromhisAttorneyGeneralin relation to the sanctions imposed on the Mohameds. Norcantherebeanyharmin askingtheOfficeofForeign Assets Control (OFAC) for clarification.
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of
Treasury issued the
following when it sanctioned the Mohameds andtheirrelatedcompanies:
“Asaresultoftheaction,all property and interests in property of the designated personsdescribedabovethat areintheUnitedStatesorin the possession or control of U.S.personsareblockedand must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50% or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issuedbyOFAC,orexempt,
OFAC’s regulations generally prohibit all transactionsbyU.S.persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons.”
“In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or
activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselvestosanctionsorbe
subject to an enforcement action The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receiptofanycontributionor provisionoffunds,goodsor services from any such person.”
So let us break down these two paragraphs: The first paragraph relates to property and interests in property that are held in the United States or held by US persons.
Anysuchpropertythatis in the US or held by US persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. Also any property owned 50% or more, directly or indirectly, by these blocked personsisalsoautomatically blocked. Then it goes on to state that U.S. persons and entities cannot engage in transactions that involve the property or interests of the designated persons unless specificallyauthorized.This includes transactions within the U.S. or those that transit through the U.S. financial system. This first paragraph seems to be providing Jagdeo with difficulties in interpretation.Jagdeoseems to be confusing the transactions that transit throughtheUSwithpersons knowntotheMohamedsthat traveltoandthroughtheUS. The second paragraph deals with secondary sanctions. These relate to financial institutions and other persons that engage in “certain transactions or
sanctioned individuals Prohibited transactions include any contribution or provisionoffunds,goods,or services to or from the designated persons. The US has not clarified what are “certain transactions or activities” and it is the duty of the government to seek such clarification if it has doubts or questions. The language of the secondary sanctions outlined in the OFAC statement appears to apply primarily to U S financial institutions and U.S. persons, rather than to entities or individuals in Guyana. The reference to “financial institutions and other persons” engaging in transactionswithsanctioned individuals suggests a focus on those within U S jurisdiction or those who rely on access to the U.S. financialsystem.
Also,theprohibitionson providing or receiving funds, goods, or services from designated persons are standard restrictions under U.S.sanctionslaw,typically applying to U.S. persons or entit
s that have a connection to the United States.
There is no explicit indication in this provision that non-U.S. governments or businesses—such as the Government of Guyana and local businesses are directly subject to these prohibitions unless they engage in transactions that involve U.S. persons, U.S. banks, or the U.S. financial system. There has been an
DEM BOYS SEH
Sun ah bun and rain ah fall
De m b o y s remember de timewhenwas takingdemfussplaneride. De plane just take off, right? De pilot come on de mic, cool as a cucumber, and seh, “Thank you fuh flying wid we. De weather is…”
Den outta nowhere, man start hollering like he seeduppy,“OHGAWD!IT AH BUN MEH!! IT AH BUNMEH!!”
Silence. Dead silence. Whole plane holding dey breath like dey life depend onit. Twosecondslater,pilot come back on, trying fuh soundprofessional,butyuh could hear de pain in he voice, “Uh I terribly sorry‘boutdat.Ispillsome hot-hot coffee pun meh
lap…yuh should see meh pants!”
Before he could finish, avoicefromdebackahde planebussout,“Well,why yuh nah come back here andseeWEpants?!”
Everybody fuhget about de weather.Was real dramawhileitlasted. Bai, if yuh ever wan know wah real drama look like, just watch Guyana weather Oneminutesunah bunyuhtaillikeyuhoweit money,nextminuterainah falllikeheavengataleak. Is like de weather gat mood swing like yuh ex, and it en care who it inconvenience Sun ah shine so bright, yuh start fuhwonderifittrainingfuh de Olympics in heatwave. But hold on! Before yuh pull out yuh sunblock and
attempt, by the PPPC government, to impute that the secondary sanctions apply to Guyanese, and also that persons associated with the Mohameds can be subject to sanctions However, the secondary sanctions appear to relate to US financial entities and persons in the US and not explicitly to Guyanese. It would be unconscionable if the US were to sanction Guyanese from any transactions at all with the Mohameds.
The U.S. is not yet an authoritarianstate(itmaybe heading there) and there is no way that these secondary sanctions could mean that local persons associated withorprovidingservicesto the Mohameds in Guyana canbesanctioned.
Or that local entities cannot provide goods and services to the Mohameds. How will they eat, move around and exist? Is the government trying to tell us that a gardener, domestic helpordrivercannotprovide services to the Mohameds? Is the government trying to say that no supermarket or petrol station can sell goods totheMohameds?Norcanit be concluded that the
shades, here come de rain, soaking up everything like itowndeplace.
But hey, at least de weather keeping life exciting. In Guyana, yuh doan need no Netflix or cable TV Just sit outside andwatchdeskydoitting.
Sun, rain, thunder, lightning—is a full-blown production, and we all just extras in de show So, mek sure yuh gat yuh umbrella, yuh sunscreen, and yuh sense ah humor Trust me, yuh gon need all three fuh dis rollercoaster ride
Weatherfuhso,bai! How many of y’all remember when de sun shining and de rain falling at the same time, people usedtosehdatdedeviland hewifefighting? Talkhalf.Leffhalf
Andifthereisanydoubt, to resolve this matter the government should seek legal clarifications from OFAC (the U.S. sanctions office)todeterminewhether specific local transactions wouldtriggerpenalties.That would seem to be the smart thingtodo..
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
government cannot do any business at all with the Mohameds Is the government trying to say that the children of the familycannotbeeducatedor be entitled to healthcare or can the family receive electricity or water or postal and police services?Are the adults in the family not entitled to government services in their own country? Under U S sanctions laws, the term “persons” typically refers to individuals and entities rather than sovereign governments. If a foreign government were directly targeted, OFAC would usually use language like “theGovernmentofGuyana to avoid ambiguity as was doneinrelationtoVenezuela and Iran.The U.S. has NOT explicitly sanctioned the GovernmentofGuyanainits designations against the Mohameds.This means that the government itself is not automatically restricted from dealing with the Mohameds unless the U.S. later determines such dealings to be part of secondary sanctions. There are cases where U S sanctions explicitly prohibit foreign governments from dealing with sanctioned entities. However, in the case of the Mohameds in Guyana, there is no explicit provision stating that the Government of Guyana is directly restricted from engaging with them However, the U.S. can take action if the government of Guyana engages in transactions with the Mohameds that involve U.S.-linked banks and US citizens and permanent residents.Thosetransactions couldbeblocked.
H@RD TRUTHS
Press presentations - a study in contrasts
E x x o n ' s G u y a n a
President, Mr Alistair Routledge had a press showing recently It was my second opportunity listening to him, even though it was onlyashortclip. Something
b e c a m e a p p a r e n t immediately This was a man in full control of himself; someone who has that rare ability to disguise his disdain and play the propaganda game. Exxon's.
What a contrast Mr Routledge is, when our own dear Drs.Ali and Jagdeo are linedupnexttohim.
Both Excellencies Ali and Jagdeo can be rowdy, snarling, exuding menace. Dr Routledge has his own
tonics: reserve, calm, and a Santa Claus in a suit (and in February to boot) charm. Thinkofashark. Somemen don't have to shout to represent their interests Theyholdtheirground,even undersustainedfire. Ali and Jagdeo imagine wildfires, when all that there is to question is someone lightingacandle. Presidents Ali and Jagdeo can be raw and rank in their press engagements President Routledge is serious as the flu, and just as severe. The two Guyanese hotshots (at least they have so convinced themselves) could learn from a master of self-control in tough circumstances. I
heard him use words that e x p r e s s e d h i s superciliousness, his withering condescension, without a raised eyebrow, or raisingasweat.
A swift aside, anytime that one country is governed by three presidents, that is a recipe for the unimaginable. It was what President Routledge delivered in his turnatthemicrophone.
The issue before the man from Exxon was taxes. He usedthefollowingphrase:“a bit of confusion” on the matter, as it pertains to Guyana, and what it is collecting. To my fellow Guyanese, learn this from me:“confusion”asusedbya
guarded oilman is a synonym for pretension or perversion. When used by an impatient, arrogant captain of oil commerce, “confusion” is a slang for a cloven-hoofed creature with ears like that of a bat, and a tail longer than an anaconda. Guyanese who think highly of this American Caesar are free to pick the one that is less offensive, more endearing to their docile, slaveconditionedminds. As d e r o g a t i o n g o e s , “confusion” on taxes, when spilled from the mind of Mr Routledge,isnothingbutthe ultimate in diplomatic dismissal.
He then proceeded to p u s h h i s next chess piece before a n unsuspecting
G u y a n e s e public Exxon doespaytaxes. Yessir! But a man as sophisticated as the Exxon Guyana President should not lower his dignity by descending to the level of subterfuge, burlesque
When Guyanese talk about taxes, ask questions about taxes, and press for a percentage of taxes, they do n o t h a v e i n m i n d withholding taxes, or Sales Tax (VAT), or other taxes. They are talking about corporatetaxesatthecurrent 25% rate that Mr. Routledge was gracious enough to let pass his lips. Impressive, I mustsay,thatthemanwhois E x x o n ' s S u p r e m e Commander of Oil in the Gulf of Guyana (they have changedthatyet,havethey?) isfamiliarwithsomethingas mundane as Guyana's 25% corporate tax rate. Sneaky, sir, sneaky Frankly, I will take that 15% minimum that the reputable and influential OECD (Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development)hasputonthe table and which America's President Joe Biden (remember him?) gave an approvingnod.
When Master Routledge squeezed in his spiel about Exxon paying GY$49 5 billion in withholding taxes to the GRA, I found that richer than sugar-loaded cheesecake.
In case Mr Rouledge forgottoremember,Idohim the favor The burning question is corporate taxes not paid by Exxon, and not withholding taxes deposited at the GRA. A man smarter than Solomon must know that the payment of corporate taxes into Guyana's coffers is not a one-or-the-other situation It is one AND the other Since Alistair the Great dumbed down himself to deal with unruly natives, I
help restore him to his regular glory Exxon must be made to see the light in paying corporate taxesAND withholdingtaxes.
Payment of corporate taxes is one of the glaring areas that the boisterous Guyana headman, and the cantankerous Guyana oil czar should manifest fearlessness to get changed. Insteadofworkingfuriously, but futilely, at trying to beat stupidity into the heads of Guyanese, payment of corporate taxes is where theirfightis. Foamingatthe mouth doesn't deter any serious citizen, Excellencies AliandJagdeo.
Such performances are water on a duck's back, for Guyanese who are not fazed by leaders playing Crazy Eddie (Vinny “the Chin” Gigante). Save breath and energy, Drs.Aand J (sounds like a comedy duo -Bud and Lou), to confront Exxon and not patriotic Guyanese Learn from Mr Alistair, Mr Ali Go easy on the savagery;trysomecivility
Here is one that should appeal to the Confederate hearts of Exxon's generals. There was a Confederate Civil War commander with the heavy-duty name of P.G.T Beauregard. He was given bad hands, but still managed to display the stuff ofgeniuswiththem.
Throwing in the towel, and displaying childish tantrums, were useless to his side. He fought with his all with what he had. No surrender Nosanctityofthe other side's cause. Another lessonforExcellencyAli.
(Theviewsexpressedin this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the o p i n i o n s o f t h i s ) newspaper.)
Norton unbothered by resignation of PNCR members
Leader of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton, is unbothered by the recent resignations of longstanding party members Amna Ally and Vanessa Kissoon, stating that he expects more members to leave.
Nortonsaidthedeparture of long-standing members does not affect the party's
Car stolen from Essequibo found at stelling ...saysheexpectsmoretoleave
strength.
Ally, a former General Secretary of the PNCR, resigned after serving 54 years in the party, citing disrespect towards Kissoon and other women within the leadership.
Kissoon, a former Member of Parliament, resigned just days earlier Their departure has fueled speculation about internal conflicts, but Norton
dismissed concerns about theparty'sstability
“I'mnotconcernedatall. WhenIbecameleaderofthis party,theywerenotasactive andinallcommunitiesaswe are. In the last three and a halfyears,wehavebeenand oursupportersandmembers are working and they are satisfiedthatwecanbeatthe People's Progressive Party,” Norton said during a press conferenceonFriday
PromptresponsefrompolicebasedinEssequibo,Region 2 might have thwarted plans to sail a stolen car to the city Police have confirmed that a stolen Toyota Allion was recoveredonThursdayattheSupenaamStelling. Kaieteur News received information that the car was stolenearlyThursdayfromawoman. Detailsaresketchyatthistimebutpolicehaveconfirmed anallegedcarjacking.
$20k bail for Duncan Street man accused of assaulting woman
Michael Allonso
A32-year-oldmanwasonFridayplacedon$20,000bail when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court to answertoanassaultcausingactualbodilyharmcharge.
MichaelAllonso of Lot 4 Duncan Street, Campbellville, Georgetown was charged with assaulting Jada Mahadeo on February 23, 2025 at the said address. Allonso pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty Allonso's attorney requested reasonable bail for her client and reassured the court of his innocence.In additionto granting bail, MagistrateMcGusty alsoplacedAllonsoonapeacebond.Heisscheduledtoreturn tocourtonApril4,2025.
resignations are a normal part of political life, citing past defections from the People's Progressive Party (PPP)thatdidnotweakenit. He referenced figures such as Ranji Chandisingh and Vincent Teekah, noting that political parties have historically seen members shiftloyalties.
“Themereideaofpeople leaving.Infact,somepeople thatleaveprobablyallowthe party to breathe, because
some of the accusations made against them will no longer be targeted at the party,”heasserted.
Norton maintained that the PNCR remains strong and has been successfully mobilizing supporters. He claimedthatsince2021,over 10,000 new members have joined the party, and suggested that financial incentives are influencing some of those who have chosentoleave.
“Let us also understand that the PPP has endless
moneytobribepeople,and wearewellawarethatsome peopledon'twanttosaywho are accessing those resources,”hestated.
Despite the resignations, Norton insisted that the PNCRisgrowing,withmore people quietly supporting the party and its coalition partner, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He reiteratedthatthepartyisnot affected by the departures and remains focused on strengthening its political position.
The stolen Allion
LeaderofthePeople'sNationalCongress Reform(PNCR), Aubrey Norton
Vanessa Kissoon Amna Ally
Missing boat captain floats up with severed neck, battery strapped around chest
A missing boat captain reportedly floated up in the Puruni River, Region Seven on Thursday afternoon with his neck severed and a batterystrappedtohischest.
Thedeadman,identified as 52-year-old William Cozier, reportedly went missing on Tuesday but his family only learnt that he wasmissingonThursday
Amanwho worked with Cozier from time to time reportedlytoldhis(Cozier's) nephew, “Bai your uncle missingfortwodaysandtwo nights and that don't normallybehe”.
The nephew, after informing relatives that Cozier was missing, was advised to make a police report. Itdidnottakelongbefore relativesmadethegruesome discovery that he was brutallymurdered.
Speaking with Kaieteur News on Friday, the dead man's niece, Nalini (only name provided) said, “My brotherhaveadredgeaswell at Top side, Puruni River so he was going up to his worksite and he... a think was with three other passenger with the boat
captain spot a foot up in the air at Rock Creek (An area alongthePuruniRiver)”.
They pulled closer to investigate, and after realizingthatitwasahuman body,theycalledthepolice.
At the time, Nalini's brother did not know it was hisuncle.
They waited for two hoursuntilpolicearrived.
When investigators pulled the remains from the river,Cozier'srelativeswere left in a state of shock and disbelief.
“My uncle was robbed andbrutallymurdered,these
people chop off my uncle head leaving a skin at the fronttoholdon,thesepeople tie up my uncle with a battery,sinkhewithhisboat and engine”, Nalini told KaieteurNews.
Cozier's relatives believed that he was robbed becausehisclothesandother possessions from his camp were missing. They noted toothatheworesixouncesin gold jewellery at all times and carried a pouch containing millions he earnedfromboattrips.
Neither C
z
er's jewellery nor pouch were
understands one person is beingquestionedbypolice.
As police investigates the
some cr
me, relatives are demanding justiceforhisbrutalkilling.
Relatives said that Cozierturnedhislifearound months ago after going throughabadpatch.
“He worked for his things,"theysaidnotingthat he started his own boat service Kaieteur News understands that he recently survived several traumatic situationsthatcausedhimto changehislife.
ongoing.
A 2 5 - y e a r - o l d cosmetologist and her brother-in-law were on Friday fined $10,000 each when they appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court, for throwing missiles ateachother
The cosmetologist, Orianna Hercules of Lot 3665 Christini Street, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown was charged for using abusive language, breach of a
Protection Order and throwingmissilesintheform ofglassbottlesatherbrotherin-law Shawn Walton on February19,2025atthesaid address. The charges were read to her by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty Hercules pleaded guilty to the throwing of missiles chargebutpleadednotguilty totheothertwocharges.
Hercules told the court that on the day in question she was preparing her child for school when her brotherin-law, who lives next door, started to curse her and tell her awful things about her family The woman said that Walton then picked up a bottle and threw it at her whichhitherinherstomach, it fell and broke resulting in herfeetbeinginjured.
Hercules disclosed that she armed herself with a glass bottle and threw it at
Walton However, Walton toldthecourtthatontheday of the incident, he was at homebecausehewasunwell. He said he was trying to rest when he heard Hercules speaking loudly He said his peacewasdisturbed.
Walton said he stepped outofhishometoaddressthe matter with Hercules but the duogotintoanargument.He saidhearmedhimselfwitha glass bottle and threw it at her
The man told the court that Hercules retaliated by throwingtwobottlesathim.
Magistrate McGusty, after hearing from both parties,remindedWaltonthat whenheappearedincourton February21,2025hepleaded not guilty to throwing missilesatHercules.
The magistrate said that basedonstatementsmadeon Friday he is guilty by admission.SheaskedWalton if he wished to change his plea to which he agreed.He wasthenfined$10,000.
Meanwhile, Magistrate McGustyplacedHerculeson $20,000 bail for the abusive language and breach of the peace charges. Like Walton, she was also fined $10,000 for the throwing missiles charge.
Herculeswasalsoplaced on a peace bond while the matterisbeforethecourt.
Orianna Hercules
Shawn Walton
Dead: William Cozier
Empowering women to conserve wildlife:
ByGillianSmith,FAO RepresentativeinGuyana
In the heart of Guyana's Rupununi region lies a unique story of balance between nature and human communities, tradition and progress, and conservation and sustainable livelihoods. This vast and pristine landscape, often referred to as the “Land of Giants” for its healthy populations of large-bodied neotropical species, holds the key to a futurewherewildlifethrives alongside empowered communities.Centraltothis visionistheroleofwomenin driving sustainable wildlife
m a n a g e m e n t a n d communitydevelopment.
TheRupununiisaregion of breathtaking beauty Rolling savannahs, majestic
mountains, and lush waterfallsformthebackdrop of a rich tapestry of biodiversity It is also home to approximately 24,000 people, predominantly from three Indigenous groups, whose lives are intertwined with the wildlife and ecosystems around them Wildlife provides these communities with food and income, while also holding deep cultural significance. However, the delicate balance between human
needs and wildlife conservation is increasingly under threat Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, and womenareattheheartofthis transformation.
TheSustainableWildlife
Management (SWM) Programme, supported by the European Union and implemented by a dynamic consortium of four partners,
Turtle conservationist Lorrie Thomas records data as a team member rescues turtle eggs. FAO/Luke McKenna data
including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), hasbeenworkingtodevelop such solutions in fifteen countries. In Guyana, FAO supports the Centre for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFORICRAF) in implementing this approach, which recognizes that sustainable wildlife management must be community-driven and inclusive, with women playing a pivotal role in conservationefforts.
Womenascatalysts forchange well-being They produce food, educate the young, and contribute to the local economy Their involvement in wildlife conservation efforts magnifies their impact on both their communities and theenvironment.
To date, the SWM Programme has supported 491 women through technical training, engaged 450 girls in environmental education classes, and created employment opportunities for 177 women. These numbers are more than statistics—they represent a shift in how communities perceive the role of women in conservationandsustainable development.
In the first year of the programme, women made up only 30% of participants
in capacity-building activities.Bythefourthyear, thatnumberhadincreasedto
50%, with women actively p a r t i c i p a t i n g i n environmental education, wildlife monitoring, data collection, and livelihood activities such as poultry farmingandecotourism.
Turtleconservation:a successstory
One clear example of women-led conservation efforts is the yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) conservation project. With support from the SWM Programme, communitieshavebeenable toupscalehatchingfacilities and monitoring efforts Lorrie Ann Thomas, a d e d i c a t e d t u r t l e conservationist, exemplifies theimpactofthiswork.
Recognizing the importance of teaching children about natural resource management, Thomas and her team take young wildlife club members on monitoring missions.Duringthesetrips, they rescue turtle eggs from flooding beaches, teaching the children valuable conservation skills and fostering a sense of environmentalstewardship.
When asked about the importance of involving more women in turtle conservation, Thomas said, “It is important to have womenonboard,because,as mothers, we see the need to pass on this knowledge to our children That is important for this work to keep going.” Her work has already shown results, with moreturtlesnowbaskingon
the sand banks than ever before.
Gender-inclusive eco-tourism:apathto economicempowerment TourismintheRupununi is evolving towards a more gender-inclusive model, thanks to partnerships between the SWM Programme and Visit Rupununi, the region's first destination management organization. Over the past
three years, the SWM Programme has tailored its activities to ensure women
opportunities.
To date, 109 individuals have received training in first aid, hospitality, health and safety, and business management with 51% being women. This training has opened new doors for women in the tourism
industry, allowing them to take on roles that improve their economic status and advancetheireducation.
Removingbarriers forwomen
The SWM Programme's approach goes beyond training and employment. It has integrated social safeguard strategies to ensure women are involvedindecision-making (Continuedonpage14)
Gillian Smith joins wildlife checkpoint rangers during a training session organized by the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) © FAO/Luke McKenna
A group of young girls head to a river to release turtles as part of an initiative by Caiman House Inc. and Yupukari Village to boost turtle populations in the Rupununi region of Guyana. © FAO/Luke McKenna
GospelSinger releases“Perfect”today
“Perfect” is Faith Corrica's first worshipsonginseveralyears.
Corrica is a renowned gospel singer in Guyana and has been making music for sometime,but“Perfect”ishertestimonyof God's greatness. Inspired by a powerful sermon, Corrica wrote the song last year and what was meant to be only a small productionforanupcomingalbumwithher producer, and production manager, Joshua NeddontheKeyboardturnedouttobeone oftheirbiggestproductionsfortheyear
“Itdidnotremainthatwaynotevenfor five minute”, the gospel singer told KaieteurNews.
“Iwrotethesewordsduringaseasonof lifewhereIrealizedthatmyplanswerenot
nearly as perfect as His (God)," Corrica said while adding, “I was chasing dreams on my own terms, only to find that God's plan was far greater than anything I could imagine”.She explained that “Perfect” is more than just her testimony, “…but the testimony of so many other believers especiallyouryoungergeneration”.
“Perfect” is also a heartfelt invitation, "a call to all who listen to set aside their doubtsandleanintothedivine,”sheadded.
The singer emphasized that anyone who listens to “Perfect” will be convicted to"letGodhavehisway.”Streamingonall platforms.
The song will be released onYoutube, Facebook,Spotify,andTikTok.
Man arrested for battering 10-year-old stepson over lost $1000
Police have arrested a man for allegedly battering his 10-year-old stepson causing him to have a bloodshot eye and swollen face.
Kaieteur News understandsthattheincident occurred on Wednesday at approximately 19:45h in Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Reports arethatthemansentthechild to the shop with $1000 to purchaseanitem.
However, the child lost the money and was badly abused by his stepfather uponhisreturntotheirhome.
The owner and landlord ofthehousethefamilylives in told Kaieteur News that Wednesday'sbeatingwasnot the first for the lad who has been enduring constant abuse at the hands of his stepfather
“Ihavelearnedfromone of the tenants that lives in front that this young kid is being abused by his stepfather, regularly abused by his step father, he (the stepfather)wouldnormally hold his (the young child) headandpushitagainstthe concrete wall, he will cuff him, slap him, tear his
The bloodshot eye of the 10-year-old child
clothes off and stuff like that and the mother will not do anything at all about it, she encourages it,” Kaieteur Newswastold.
The 52-year-old man explainedthatafterthechild lostthemoney,hereturnedto the house crying " the stepfather hold him, ripped hisclothesoffofhim,throw him on the ground and sit overhimandcuffhimupand slaphimupandstuff.”
Thelandlordsaidhewas upsetaboutthematterandon Thursday he visited the child's school “When I learnedaboutitbecauseitis my property I got angry and I went the next morning (Thursday) to (the child
school) to see the teachers, and he was in class and the teacherscallhimoutandthe teachers examined him and sotheysaw hisfaceswollen and his eye bloodshot,” the landlordrecalled.
Thelandlordsaidhetold the teachers to contact the S c h o o l s ' We l f a r e Departmentwhilehereports the matter to the police. Police arrested both the accused and the child's mother However, the boy's motherwasreleasedbecause sheispregnant.
“This kind of thing does happen in a lot of different homes, and it's being covered down and covered up,childrenarebeingabused by stepfathers, by their own mother And this nonsense havetostop,becausehe(the suspect) could have killed that child in that house, you can look at that child, he is traumatize,” the angry landlord told this publication.
Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent of Police Khalid Mandall confirmed that the man has been arrested but would only say, “(The) matter (is) under investigation.”
Empowering women to conserve wildlife:
Frompage11
processes.Theprogrammeactivelyworksto removebarriersthathavehistoricallylimited women'sparticipationinsustainablewildlife management.One such barrier is the lack of representation in leadership roles By providing women with the skills and opportunities to engage in wildlife management, the programme ensures they have a seat at the table. Women like Lorrie Ann Thomas are leading the way, demonstrating that conservation efforts become more sustainable and impactful whenwomentakethelead.
Amodelforthefuture
The SWM Programme's approach to wildlife management and community developmentintheRupununiisamodelthat
can be replicated elsewhere. By placing people's rights at the centre of conservation efforts and recognizing the unique role women play, we can achieve conservation needsandsustainablelivelihoods.Itisalsoa testamenttothepowerofcommunity-driven conservation.Itdemonstratesthatwhenlocal communities especially women are empowered,theybecomethemosteffective stewardsoftheirnaturalresources.
As FAO Representative in Guyana, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of this programme and I am deeply grateful to the European Union for their continued support and commitment to the initiative.Together, we are building a future wherewildlifeandcommunitiesthrivehand inhand.
Gospel Singer, Faith Corrica Singer
ICJ acknowledges Guyana's request for provisional measures to block Venezuela's plans to elect governor for Essequibo
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has acknowledged Guyana's Request for provisional measures in the case concerning the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 (Guyanav Venezuela).
The request, filed by Guyana on Thursday, calls for the Court to take urgent action in response to Venezuela's plans to hold elections in the disputed Essequibo region The Court, in a statement issued Friday, confirmed receipt of the request and stated it would carefully consider the matter
The filing is in response t o V e n e z u e l a ' s announcement that elections are scheduled to take place on 25 May 2025 in the disputed region Guyana asserts that the conduct of these elections, along with any preparatory acts, would violate its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence
Furthermore,Guyanaargues that such actions would breach the ICJ's provisional measures order issued on December 1, 2023 The coun
activities could cause irreparable harm and underscores the urgency of provisionalmeasures.
In its request, Guyana asks the ICJ to impose s
measures These include prohibiting Venezuela from conducting any electoral activities in the territory on Guyana's side of the boundary line as established by the 1899 Arbitral Award. Specifically, Guyana seeks to prevent Venezuela from extending voting rights to residents of the disputed region, distributing electoral materials, naming or supporting candidates for elections, and establishing polling stations or other electoral facilities within the territory
Additionally, Guyana urges the Court to prevent Venezuela from taking any actions that might be interpreted as an annexation of the disputed territory, either de jure or de facto, such as incorporating “Guayana Esequiba” into Venezuela. The filing also seeks to ensure that Venezuela refrains from
The International Court of Justice
alteringthecurrentsituation, where Guyana administers and exercises control over thedisputedarea.
H i s t o r y o f t h e proceedings
On March 29, 2018, Guyana filed anApplication instituting proceedings against Venezuela with respect to a dispute concerning “the legal validityandbindingeffectof the Award regarding the Boundary between the Colony of British Guiana and the United States of Venezuela, of 3 October 1899”.
As basis for the jurisdiction of the Court, the Applicant invokes Article IV, paragraph 2, of the “Agreement to Resolve the
Controversy between Venezuela and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland over the Frontier between Venezuela and British Guiana”, signed at Geneva on February 17, 1966, and the decision of January 30, 2018 by which the Secretary-General of the United Nations, in accordance with that Agreement, chose the Court as the means to be used for the settlement of the controversy
On June 18, 2018, Venezuela informed the Court that it considered that the Court manifestly lacked jurisdiction to hear the case and that it had decided not to take part in the proceedings.
The Court then decided to address first the question of itsjurisdiction.
InitsJudgmentdelivered on December 18, 2020, the Court found that it had jurisdiction to entertain the Application filed by Guyana in so far as it concerned the validity of the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899 and the related question of the definitive settlement of the land boundary dispute between Guyana and Venezuela.
Further to the filing of preliminary objections by Venezuela on June 7, 2022, the Court, in its Judgment of April 6, 2023 rejected Venezuela's preliminary objection concerning the exercise of the court's jurisdiction and found that it could adjudicate upon the meritsofGuyana'sclaims,in so far as they fall within the scope of the Court's jurisdiction as defined in the operative clause of its Judgment of December 18, 2020.
On October 30, 2023, Guyana filed a Request for the indication of provisional measures due to its concern over the Government of
Venezuela's stated intention to hold a so-called “Consultative Referendum” on 3 December 2023 regarding the purported creation of the State of “Guayana Esequiba” within Venezuela, comprising the territory at issue in the currentproceedings.
In its Order of December 1, 2023, the Court stated that, in light of the strong tension that characterized the relations between the Parties,itconsideredthatthe conduct of Venezuela — in o r g a n i z i n g s u c h a referendum and asserting that it would take concrete action on the basis of the resultsofthatreferendum— presented a serious risk of Venezuela acquiring and exercising control and administration of the territoryindispute.
The Court therefore directedVenezuelatorefrain from taking any action, pending a final decision in the case, which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby Guyana administers and exercises control over that area.
WANTED VACANCY
Wanted Driver Diamond/ Grove E.B.D with Larry license. Contact: 677-6620
One Welder, must have mechanical knowledge, free accommodation provided & 1 hauler/ low bed Driver. Call: 627-5043/ 639-1315.
Nanny wanted to do some housekeeping must be 3045 years old 8:am-4 : 30 pm at Nandy Park E.B.D. Contact : 626-4884
SERVICES
Need a grocery shopper, ship chandler or visa application preparer: USA, Canada, UK ETA. 626-7040.
Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.
For low cost repairs for AC units, refrigerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 6294946, 225-4822.
Electrical Repairs- transformer, powertools, vaccum, water pump, air cooler, etc @ Friendship, EBD. WhatsApp: 659-5664, Call: 627-7835.
FOR SALE
For Sale 6 used American made Dental chairs excellent condition. Contact Mr Vino on 661-3030 or 626-8918.
Small Farmers mini Tractor, complete plows - coutock plows. Cantact : 624-0646.
VEHICLES FOR SALE
One Unregistered Nissan X-Trail 2016 model, Mode Premiere. Call : 649-0956.
1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 6490956.
DRESSMAKING
Learn to cut & sew at Enid's Dressmaking classes located 66 Sixth St. Albertown. sewing also done here! Call: 643-7966/ 223-9106.
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Lot 138 being a portion of block 5, Part of plantation Vryheid's Lust , Location on the East Coast Of Demerara. Call : 616-7306.
Vacancy exists for porter, driver, cashier Apply 16 Vlissengen Rd, Kitty Email: humanresource.survival@ gmail.com
One night Watchman needed. Call: 731-2125.
Pump Attendant (6am-2pm & 2pm-10pm).Mobil Providence E.B.D, Call: 265-7306. Email:Mobilramsburg@ gmail.com
Maid for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.
Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.
Male cleaner for Eccles. Call: 615-9132 or 645-8443.
Male cleaner for yard in East Bank area, two (2) days a week, call 615-9132.
Enthusiastic, customer- focused sales rep for Georgetown , able-bodied sales driven. $90k / Month + benefits . Whatsapp : 688-6868
Experienced female Accounts Clerk to assist in all administrative function of the company. Call: 662-0469, Email: bakshwork@gmail.com
Experienced Driver Expeditor. Call: 231-0363.
Handyman to work in Eccles area. Call: 231-0363.
Hiring Labourers for the purpose of cleaning drains and alleyways. WhatsApp: 6578957/ 619-8062.
Desk staff, Receptionist, Supervisor, Room attendant @ 33 South Road Lacytown. 25-50 years old. Call: 2250198.
Handyman with knowledge of plucking chicken. C/Ville area $6,000 daily & Cashier/ Counter staff, $5000 Daily. Call : 227-5222 / 617-4662.
Timber Grant manager , Tractor operator, Labourer, Chain saw operator, Wood Mizar Operator. Call Richard: 6097675 / 674-1705
ACCOMMODATIONS
Aracari Hotel renovated rooms ,A/C, TV, Restaurant, bar, pool, gym Stay 7 nights, 1 Free! Call: 264-2946.
LAND FOR SALE
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LEGAL NOTICE
2024-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-541 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Petition No. FD-541
HODGE (KENISHA ODELLA ABIOLA) nee PETERS
Petitioner/ Applicant -VHODGE (LLOYD JUNIOR)
Respondent TO: LLOYD JUNIOR HODGE 53 Robb Street, Georgetown, Guyana
TAKE NOTICE that on the 11th day of April, 2024 a Petition for a Divorce was filed against you by KENISHA ODELLA ABIOLA HODGE nee PETERS the Petitioner/ Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 20th day of February, 2025 the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the KAIETEUR NEWS, a daily newspaper printed, published and circu
LEGAL NOTICE
lated in and around Guyana and on the worldwide web (Online).AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledge ment of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is fixed for Directions on Friday the 23rd day of May, 2025 at 11:00 am before the Honourable Madam Chief Justice Roxane George via z00m (please contact the Chief Justice Chambers for zoom details)IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00amto 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 26th day of February, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
2024-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-1051 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Petition No. FD-1051 Between: - (SIMMONS) REANNA SHONDEL nee RAJBALLY Petitioner /Applicant -and- (SIMMONS) ORLANDO RECARDO Respondent TO: ORLANDO RECARDO SIMMONS Formerly of West Watooka Hilltop, Linden, Upper Demerara-Berbice, Guyana
LEGAL NOTICE
TAKE NOTICE that on Wednesday the 29th day of July, 2024 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by REANNA SHONDEL SIMMONS nee RAJBALLY the Petitioner/Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 5th day of November, 2024 the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of his Petition on you by publication of this in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the worldwide web (Online).AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is fixed for Directions on Tuesday the 18th day of March, 2025 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif via zoom Meeting ID: 766 308 6865 and Passcode: 123456. IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 31st day of January, 2025
From page 06 education. This upward trend is also evident in Regions Eight, Nine, and Ten, where similar increases have been observed.
“The net effect of this all is that the University of Guyana is reaching every corner of our 83,000 square miles and the administration should be commended for this vision, supported by the private sector in access,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ritesh Tularam, Deputy Chief Education Officer for the Ministry of Education, offered valuable insights into the broader educational landscape, emphasizing the importance of networking and understanding the job market.
He said, “As I mentioned, a well conceptualized, well strategic thought out job fair that is positioned not for us to come here and walk around and to have a conversation but it’s bigger than that, it’s much more important than that.”
Tularam emphasized the importance of utilizing the opportunities available at the moment and maximizing their potential. He highlighted the need for forming networks, which refers to connecting with others to learn about the various services and products available.
He encouraged the students to grab all opportunities offered to support their educational growth and success.
To this end, the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton urged persons to pay attention to the ever-changing labor landscape.
“Don’t want to do something that is out of style, many professions are already out of style and more will go out of style, pay attention for the needs of the labour landscape and I would say to you that will save you the heartache of being on social media informing us (Labour Ministry) how long you have graduated and you can’t get a work yet,” he said.
The Minister raised concerns about regional imbalances in the country’s labor market. “For the private sector there’re a couple things they have to do. How do you move your industries into other regions, we cannot talk about national development and we only focused on Region Two, Three, Five, Six and maybe 10, we have 10 regions,” Hamilton stated.
He continued, “So as the University, as the Ministry of Education and as the Board of Industrial Training and all the training arms we have in Government, as we do that, up skilling people, the private sector must also recognize that most people want to work where they live and most people want to live where they work.”
Women and Gender Equality Commission
International Women’s Day Message
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated
Imagine!
Unfortunately, 114 years since International Women’s Day was first observed, the type of changewomenalloverthe world are clamoring for hasyettomaterialize
To have a perspective of the progress made, one must look at the statistics of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, which asserts that women in decision making only account for 26 9% in 2022 and a mere increase of 0 4% in 2023
In 1975, when the UN declared the Decade for Women, women accounted for 10.9% in leadership.
Ten years later only 1% to an average of 12% are
women in political leadership.
Imagine a mere 1% increase in a decade
However, a few countries have done well; Cuba has m o r e w o m e n i n Parliament whereas in Nigeria, 3 out of 109 parliamentarians are women while Oman has none This tells the story oflipserviceandinaction
It would be interesting t o s e e h o w w e l l governments around the world will honor their c o m m i t m e n t s t o Sustainable Development Goals,especiallyGoal5by 2030.
Thecollectiveeffortsof millions of women around
the world have shaped the BeijingPlatformforAction which provides a road map for governments, civil society, NGOs, and international organizations. There is no shortage of ideas or resolution, ONLY thewilltomakethechange. We are happy that Guyana has 39% of women in decisionmakingandallthe indicators in the social sectorsareimproving.
As we observe another IWD we are mindful of the challenges which we must overcome.
There is still too much violence in OUR society-physical,sexual, mental and psychological
violence Too many people are being hurt
because the use of violence seems to be the firstoption.Why? Why is violence the first option? Why are
people so readily resorting to violence? Is it because people are intoxicated?
There are now many types of intoxicants in oursociety
We have the old
alcoholic beverages whichweallknow There is marijuana There is cocaine Now, there is an influx of synthetic drugs Some are in the form of tablets, some in the form of gummies, some in the form of candy and some are in the form of vapes What is clear is that we haveaproblemandweall must deal with it Each of usmustplayourrole Do not be violent to another person whether in
oroutofthehome.Helpthe personwhoisbeingabused. Letusworktogethertostop thisviolencenow!
Wecallonthecitizens of our country to raise their voices against the betting shops that are permeating communities aswellasthosebusinesses and individuals who are bringing behavior altering substances such as disguised as gummies and vapes into the lives of our youngmenandwomen.
We wish to remind our menfolk to provide leadership to their sons and daughters so that they do not fall prey to drug addiction and harmful social behavior which leadsespeciallytogenderbasedviolence
Women constitute the footsoldiersinpolitics,and we must continuously remind our political leadership of the importance of that large percentofvoters.
Women need to stand up, speak out and mobilize to advance the rights of womenandgirls.
We need to create an enabling environment to promote gender equality through access to education,employmentand decisionmaking.
We t a k e t h i s opportunity to call on our government to ensure that the women acting in the positions of Chancellor of the Judiciary and Chief Justice are confirmed. We call on all Guyanese to work unitedly for a better societyforall.
Happy International Women’sDay
ERC CELEBRATES IWD 2025
TheEthnicRelationsCommission(ERC) proudly joins the global community in celebratingInternationalWomen’sDay2025 under the theme: “Accelerate Action.” This day serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions of women in shaping a society rooted in inclusion, peace, andrespect.
Women have long been pioneers of cohesion and unity in Guyana. As leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and caregivers, their resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication continue to drive national progressandsocialharmony
TheCommissionrecognizestheindelible role of women in Guyana’s socio-economic advancementacrossallethnicgroupswithin each sector of society The ERC firmly believesthatcreatingan environmentwhere women’s potential can fully blossom is essentialforbuildingasustainablefutureand justsociety
To ensure there is improved access to clean waterforresidentsinRegion Seven, the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) is preparing to issue $107,702,000 in contracts for the installation of water supply systems for severalAmerindian villages intheregion.
Theprojectswhichwere publicly advertised were
o contractors through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board(NPTAB)office.
According to NPTAB, GWI tendered for the installationofawatersupply system for 72 Miles and Issano, a project which was
s h i Construction & Supplies to thevalueof$24,340,500.
Joshi Construction was alsoawardedthecontractto install the water supply system in Batavia and Itaballi in Lower Mazaruni, for another $29,691,500 The same contractor was
awarded the contract to do similar works at Karrau and Kartabo Villages at a value of$25,670,000.
M
Enterprise was awarded a $28,000,000 contract to install the water supply system at Kangaruma
Village Kaieteur News understands that the water supply system usually consists of the drilling of a water well, installing a trestle for storing tanks, a photovoltaic system, and a pipe network along with standalonepipes.
Thisnewspaperreported thattheseprojectswillform part of the $23.1 billion
As advocates for change, the Commission urges all stakeholders to actively support this year’s theme by removingbarriersanddismantlingbiasesthat hinderwomen’sprogress.
Today, the ERC honours and celebrates all women whose remarkable efforts continue to propel the development of our country Their exemplary leadership, resilience, and contributions serve as a beaconofinspiration,reaffirmingthepower of women when they are supported, empowered,andvalued.
The Commission encourages women, of all ages, to continue to pursue their dreams, enhance personal skills and strive for academic excellence so that Guyana’s development can be equally impacted by theirresourcefulness.
HappyInternationalWomen’sDay!
EthnicRelationsCommission
budgeted for the water sectorthisyear
Withtheaimofachieving 100 percent potable water coveragebytheendoftheyear in the hinterland regions, Senior Minister with the responsibilityforFinance,Dr. Ashni Singh during the presentation of this year’s budget said that “access to waterinthehinterlandmoved from46percentin2020,when wetookoffice,to91percentin 2024 through the drilling of 130wellsinhinterlandareas, along with some 102 communities receiving new
benefitting over 40,000 residents”
Additionally, he noted that new water supply systems are slated for
Pennak, Phillipai, Thomas Hill and Tobago Hill communities for which a totalsumof$2.2billionhas beenallocatedin2025.
March8,2025 GWI to spend $107M on water supply systems for Reg.7 villages
‘We have nothing left to lose’: Gazans
respond to Trump’s warnings
The US president’s threats mean little to a population battered by 16 months of total war
GazaCity–Formanyin Gaza, US President Donald Trump’s recent threats feel like nothing more than a justification for further violence and collective punishmentagainstthem.
Late on Wednesday, Trump had threatened the people of Gaza, saying they would all be “dead” if captives continued to be heldthere
As Gaza continues to g r a p p l e w i t h t h e devastating aftermath of war – mass displacement, widespread destruction, and dire humanitarian conditions – people are exhausted and sceptical about international efforts toresolvethewar
Al Jazeera spoke to Palestinians in northern Gaza about Trump’s threats
Before, he said: “I used to be a well-known clothing merchant I had a large shop, a six-storey building, a car, and stock warehouses inTel al-Hawa in Gaza City All those years of hard work vanished, destroyed in the war “Everywhere you look is destruction, ruin, and misery Is there anything left for us to grieve?
“Trump or whoever, it makes no difference ” D i s p l a c e d southwards during the war, al-Sharafa and his family returned to the north after the ceasefire began, only to find a devastatedareawherelifeis barelypossible.
“Even if we hand over the captives, nothing will change The war might return at
‘Nothinglefttogrieve’ Yasser al-Sharafa, 59, said he ignores these threats because, like many in Gaza, he has “nothing lefttolose” Now,herunsa makeshift stand selling candy and snacks to children
any moment under a new pretext they come up with. We’velosttrustintheentire world.”
‘Is Gaza the root of the world’s problems?’
Jamila Mahmoud, 62, did not hear Trump’s exact words, but some of her family members discussed it on Thursday morning.
“As you see, we’re completely cut off from everything No internet, no electricity, no means of communication,”shesaid.
Mahmoud believes Trump’s threats are part of a psychological war aimed at forcing people outofGaza.
“Every time, there’s a new scenario –sometimes, it’s talk of forced displacement; sometimes, it’s Israel taking over Gaza; and today, it’s threats to all of Gaza’s residentsoverthecaptives.”
“Has Gaza suddenly become the root of all
the world’s problems?” she asked Mahmoud insists that no matter what happens, she will never give up her right to live in Gaza, her homeland.
“I will remain on my land, even if it’s just the rubble of my home, no matterwhat,”sheaffirmed.
‘Noone’sstandingbyus’ Ayman Abu Dayyeh, walking home with a few food items for his family, told Al Jazeera he just wants “Hamas to prioritise the public interest right now –toacceptadeal,negotiate, andhandoverthecaptivesso this endless nightmare can finallyend.”
“This is the only reasonable option our position is weak, and no one’s standing by us,” the 60-year-oldadded.
But he does doubt that handing over tahe captives will not end the war for Trump and Israel, although it may make a
futurewarlessdevastating.
“ I b e l i e v e t h e American people will reject these threats They won’t accept their country leading another genocidalwar,”AbuDayyeh said.
“We’ve lost 50,000 people Two of my sons were killed in this war –in October and December 2023 – two young men in their prime. I lost my home, too. We’ve had enough loss andsuffering,”headded.
“The Arab states are silent, and the Europeans are silent How can we continue fighting without anysupporters?We’llbethe onlyvictims.”
‘Leave us alone’
Wael Abu Ahmed, 75, from Sheikh Radwan in northern Gaza City, said he was surprised by Trump’sthreats.
“Trump’s statements carry no weight or value I think he’s just making threats to pressure Hamas. The only thing left for them todoiswipeusoutentirely,” headded.
Ahmed, a retired bureaucrat and father of five, now lives with his c h i l d r e n a n d grandchildren in a single apartment after their house was repeatedly targeted duringIsrael’swar
He had refused to evacuate to the south and remained in northern Gaza with his familyuntil theceasefire.
“I’ve lived more years than I have left. I stayed in myhomeandsaid:‘Iwilldie herenomatterwhat.’
“Leave us alone. Let us face the disaster that has befallenus–orkillusalland put us out of our misery That’sallIhavelefttosay,” heconcluded,walkingaway
“What do we have left i n G a z a ? W e ’ v e witnessed horrors in this war – haven’t they done enough?” he asked, sitting onaroadsidecurb.
Shariff takes lead in the Diamond Insurance National Women’s Chess Championships qualifiers
Woman Candidate
MasterSashaShariffleadsthe National Women’s Chess Qualifiersafterfourroundsof battleoverthechessboard The
Diamond Insurancesponsored competition commenced last Saturday, March1st,2025,attheDavid Rose Special School with twenty registrants Following theclassicaltimecontrolof90 minutes plus 5-second incrementsaddedtotheclock
after each move for each player, Shariff easily defeated her opponents Rebha Lachhman, Amaya Sharma, Aniyah Couchman and Emma John, to claim victory in the four rounds playedsofar
Inthefourthround,Shariff andEmmaJohnwerematched inastruggleovertheboardthat ended in less than 50 moves Shariff,withtheblackpieces, usedhertwomenacingRooks
onopenfilestounderminethe defences of her opponent’s King ButtheresourcefulJohn foughtvaliantlytoprotecther monarch from checkmate. However,Shariffsuccessfully breached her opponent’s defencesafterwinningapiece and executed a checkmate withherQueen and Rook on move47.
Couchman, WCM Aditi
Joshi, Ciel Clement, Nellisha Johnson, and Italy
Ton-Chung are all on three points, followed by John with two and a half points.
Lachhman, Treskole Archibald, Angelina Yhap, Kaija Clement, Abigail Jairam, Kataleya Sam, and LusiannaFarlotareallontwo points
The FIDE-rated competition remains fierce forShariff,particularlyfrom WCM Aditi Joshi, a recognized force on the chessboard. The top female contenders, veterans of countless battles, have proventheirmettletimeand again, promising a thrilling
Saturday March 08, 2025
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries Your persuasivemannerandgentle nudges are just enough to get peoplewhereyouwantthem.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
When faced with ten entrees onthemenu,itmightbehard for you to choose just one. Feelfreetoordertwoormore, Ta u r u s D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down.Atthesametime.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act onthem,Gemini.Nooneelse is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take mattersintoyourownhands.
CANCER(June21–July22)
If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them nomind,Cancer Youhavethe righttoliveyourlifeanyway youwantto.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Reachforthepotofgoldatthe end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closerthanyouthink.Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think aboutwhatitisthatyouwant most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to howfaryoucango.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.
opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring moremagicintoyourlife.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)
Today is an excellent day for you,oneinwhichyou'llfinda great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving youwell.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you needtomakesenseofitall.In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Mixyourrealitywithabit of fantasy today, Aquarius. Allowyourfeettocomeoffthe ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dreamasbigasyour mindallows.
contest. Fourteen-year-old Jairam, a deaf player from theNewAmsterdamSpecial NeedsSchool,ismakingher debut at the National Women’s Qualifiers Her enthusiasmandresilienceare a valuable addition to the competition The remaining rounds continue on Saturday and Sunday, March 8th and 9th, after which the top nine young ladies will emerge to challenge the National Women’s Champion, WCM JessicaCallender,forthe2025 National Women’s Title Gamesarebeinglive-streamed on livechesscloudcom under
the watchful eyes of FIDE Arbiter John Lee The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) has actively cultivated a stronger female presence in chess and remains committed to widening its female base. F e m a l e - f o c u s e d competitions, chess camps, and training sessions have effectively broadened the baseoffemaleparticipants.
The GCF thanks its sponsor, Diamond Fire and General Insurance, for their unwavering support of the Women’s National Chess Championships.
Fourmatchesplayeddespiterainin latestCheddiJaganWindballaction
Results in the inaugural Secondary & Vocational Centers boys Cheddi Jagan memorial Windball Cricket at John Port Mourant CommunityCentregroundon March 6 show that despite the rain, which dominated most of the days play, the organisers were able to play four match which saw wins for Lower Corentyne, Central Corentyne, JC Chandisingh Secondaries & BerbiceHighSchool.
In the opening game Port Mourant Secondary batted first and made 21-2, off their 5 overs Lower Corentyne Secondary 27-0, off21overs, Dave Prittipal 22
Central Corentyne Secondary 78-1, with Isaiah Razack recording thefirsthalfcentury51not out with (6sx6)andKevon Mendonza 11 Manchester Secondary turn in the middletheywererestricted to 42-4, Darrel Lord & Troyston Calder each scoring 11 runs a piece, Hardat Rampersaud & Ganesh Latchman both pickedup2wktsfor2runs Corentyne Comprehensive 60-2, Matthew Pereira 24, Tariq Browns 15 and KrishnaBoodhoo10.
JC Chandisingh
Secondaryrepliedwith65-1 off 3 overs with Dahib Gajnabi 21 and Dinesh Singh19.
Upper Corentyne Vocation Centre 45-1 with AdilAli28.
BerbiceHighSchool462,off3.2oversinreplywith BalramChappelle21.
Play move to Region 3 with matches in the
memorial championships from 9am at the MCYS GOG Track & Field Centre
OfficerA Munroe
GRFU to hold the John Lewis Seven-a-Side Championship today at the National Park
The Guyana Rugby FootballUnion(GRFU)will hold the John Lewis Sevena-Side Championship Tournamenttoday,Saturday, 8th March, 2025, at the
National Park Rugby Ground commencing at 10:00a.m. TheTournament will be held in memory of John Lewis who served as the former President of the Union, succeeding Kit Nascimentoin2012.
Hornets, Guyana Defence ForceandtheGuyanaPolice
The Seven-a-Side Championship will be contested by defending champion, Panthers, and
Force Rugby Clubs SecretaryoftheRugbyUnion, Petal Adams, will serve as Match Commissioner in
chargeoftheTournament
The British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, will make a presentation of Rugby Kits to the Union on behalf of the British
Company, SOS Kits, during the Tournament interval at 12:00midday
The media are cordially invited to attend and cover theevent.
2025
CG United Women’s Super50 Championships Guyana vs. Jamaica 3rd place playoff..
Grimmond, bowlers help Guyana finish tournament on high note
Trinidad are the 2025 CG United Women’s Super50 Champions. (CWI)
Re a l e a n n a
G r i m m o n d scored another impressive fifty while the spinners shared 6 wickets to helpGuyanasecureabig82run win over Jamaica yesterday, sealing the thirdplace spot as curtains came
down on this year’s
Wo m e n ’s 5 0 - O v e r tournament,inSt.Kitts.
Leadingtournamentrunscorer Realanna Grimmond carried Guyana’s batting for the umpteenth time this tournament,scoringapatient 76off126ballswith8fours.
All-rounder Cherry-Ann
Qualify
or
Frasersmackedfivefoursin her 41, while skipper
Shemaine Campbelle chipped in with 26 while sharing a half-century third wicket partnership with Grimmond, as Guyana posted182-2.
Ramharack, S
- Trinidad crowned champs
The spinners again dominated proceedings for Guyana, led this time by Trisha Hardat who bagged impressive figures of 4-15. Off-spinner Plafianna Millington wrapped up her season with figures of 2-25, whileTrishaHardatfinished with2-30.
Earlier, the Trinidadians stormed to the title after beating Barbados by 7 wickets,thankstoabowling spectacle led by spinner Anisa Mohammed (3-17) with 2 wickets each coming
The Jamaican duo of Neisha-AnnWaisome(3-25) and Roshana Outar (3-27) led their team’s bowling exhibition, with support fromJodianMorgan(2-29). Jamaica in reply were skittled out for 100 in 31.2 overs Captain Rashada Williams hit 27 while Waisome had 24, which failed to get their team anywhereclosetothetotal.
be eliminated!
Petra kicks off 2025 Milo U18 Football C/ship
The much-anticipated Petra Organisation Under18 Secondary Schools Football Tournament is set toofficiallykickofftodayat the Ministry of Education
Ground on Carifesta Avenue. Powered by the Milo/Massy brand, the competition will feature top teams from Regions 1-7, 9, and 10, all vying for supremacy in one of the country’s premier Secondary School’s (Youth) footballevent.
Alucrative cash prize is
on offer, with the tournament champion securing $300,000, while thesecond,third,andfourthplace finishers will receive $200,000, $100,000, and $75,000, respectively All prizemoneywillbedirected toward a school project of the winning team’s choice, fostering both sports and academicdevelopment. Duetoanoverwhelming response from schools, a new elimination qualifier has been introduced. Teams fromRegions2,3,4,5,and6 will compete in preliminary
matches from March 7-11, with the top-performing teamsadvancingtothemain draw
As in previous editions, thetournamentwillfollowa round-robin, knockout format.
Thetop24teamswillbe divided into six groups of four, ensuring each team playing a minimum of three matches in the group stage before advancing to the k n o c k o u t r o u n d s Qualification Matches Underway The road to qualification began yesterday with intense matchups In Region 2, Abram Zuil Secondary faced Charity Secondary, while Region 3 saw Vergenoegen Secondary clash with Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary Another Region 3 eliminator featured Patentia Secondary battling Endeavour and The Commons Educational Institute.
Today’s schedule promises more thrilling encounters. In Region 2, Abram Zuil takes on Eighth
May, while Region 3 qualifiers will see Leonora Secondary facing West Demerara Secondary and Stewartville Secondary squaring off against West MinsterSecondary
The East Coast district hasthreeeliminatorfixtures on the card: Good Hope SecondarymeetsAnnandale Secondary, Buxton faces Hope Secondary, and BygevalSecondarytakeson Ann’sGroveSecondary Meanwhile, Region 4 will feature four crucial matchups: Brickdam Secondary against Pure Masters, The Bishops’High battling Saint Stanislaus College, North Ruimveldt Secondary taking on St John College, and Tucville Secondary meeting Tutorial High The qualification phase will continue through Tuesday,March11,asteams fightforacovetedspotinthe main draw of the tournament.
Stay tuned for more updatesastheactionunfolds in this exciting showcase of schoolfootballtalent.
from Captain Karishma
Ramnauth and Amrita Ramtahal, which shot their
opponentsdownfor71. Opener Djeneba Joseph led the Trinidadians batting with 28 while Brittney
Cooper(17*),sawtheirteam to 75-3 and this year’s Wo m
Championships.©.Ross)
Lusignan Golf Club set to host Citizens Bank Golf Tournament this Weekend
The Lusignan Golf Club(LGC)isset to tee off an exciting day of competition asitwelcomesgolferstothe Citizens Bank Golf Tournament on March 9, startingat8:00AM.
This highly anticipated event,tobeheldatthescenic Lusignan Golf Course, promises a thrilling showcase of skill, precision, and sportsmanship in the MedalPlayformat.
This tournament will challenge players across 18 holes, offering not only a true test of ability but also a platform for camaraderie and networking within the golfingcommunity
The event will feature prestigiousawardstothetop
threefinishersandNearestto thePin(Hole#4)
Citizens Bank, a cornerstone of Guyana’s financialsector,continuesto demonstrate its unwavering commitment to social corporate responsibility by supporting initiatives that uplift communities and p r o m o t e p e r s o n a l development.
As a proud sponsor of this tournament, the bank underscores its dedication t o f o s t e r i n g sportsmanship, discipline, and healthy competition among athletes and enthusiastsalike
Beyond golf, Citizens Bank has been an active advocate for community enrichment, championing
programmes in education, healthcare, and youth emp
werment The
partnership with LGC not only elevates the status of golf in Guyana but also s t r e n g t h e n s t h e development of local talent and the sport’s accessibility toawideraudience.
Golfers eager to participate can register throughtheLusignanGolf Club, by contacting 6200093
The event welcomes players of all skill levels, providing a fantastic opportunity to test their abilities in a competitive yetfriendlyatmosphere With the Lusignan Golf Course offering a breathtaking landscape,
challenging fairways, and a well-maintained course, the Citizens Bank Golf Tournament is set to be a
premier golfing event that will continue to push the sportforwardinGuyana
The official start will be signalled by a
The
scheduled following the conclusionofplay
horn or siren.
awards ceremony is
Citizen Bank Marketing Manager, Mikhail McKenzie hands over the sponsorship cheque to LGC captain Ayube Subhan in the presence of the Club’s President Anasha Ally.
2025 CWI Regional 4-Day Championships Round 4…GHE vs. JS Day 3
Mckenzie ton keeps Scorpions anchored, as they trail Eagles by 310-runs -
Aresurgentunbeatenton fromKirkMckenziekeptthe Jamaica Scorpions in the hunt as they face an uphill final day task of acquiring
310-runs for what will be a historic victory against defending champs Guyana Harpy Eagles, following an intense third day at Sabina
Park. Setatamammoth489 to win, Jamaica who were rattledforjust44uinthefirst innings, were 179-3 trailing by310runsbattingasecond time.
Mckenziewastherockof the innings, slamming 5 sixeswhilepunching9fours as he carried his score to 104*off147ballsandwillbe the key for his team today alongside overnight partner, Javelle Glenn (5*) and company
His 132-run 3rd wicket partnership with Brandon King, who replied with a classy 53 (8x4), gave Jamaica the ideal platform needed to pull off an impossible heist or stave off aGuyanawin.
Fast-bowler Ronaldo Alimohamed, who snapped
GFF announces Golden Jaguars coaching staff and provisional squad for Gold Cup preliminaries
Th e G u y a n a
F o o t b a l l Federation(GFF) has officially confirmed the coaching staff and provisional squad for the SeniorMen'sNationalTeam as they prepare for the upcoming Gold Cup preliminaries.
The technical team will beledbyWayneDover,with Marco Bonofiglio who previously served as the head coach for the U-17 men's team during the C O N C A C A F U - 1 7 qualifiers joining as Assistant Coach alongside SamCox.
The provisional squad
features a mix of experienced and emerging talentsincluding:
Goalkeepers: QuillanRoberts
KaiMcKenzie-Lyle
AkelClarke
SeseNorville
JamaineCumberbatch
JoshuaNarine
Forwards:
IsaiahJones
EnochGeorge
OsazeDeRosario
OmariGlasgow
MorganFerrier
AbumchiBenjamin
LiamButts
DeonMoore
MarcusTudor
NeronBarrow
StephenMcDonald
Midfielders: MalcomMiggins
ChrisMacey
KadellDaniels
NathanFerguson
MaliqCadogan
NathanMoriah-Welsh
ElliotBonds
StephenDukeMckenna
KelseyBenjamin
CurtezKellman
DanielWilson
RyanHackett
Defenders:
ReissGreenidge
LiamGordon
JalenJones
TerenceVancooten
TeriqueMohammed
JeremyGarrett
LeoLovell
ColinNelson
RomaineBrackenridge
KvistPaul
RaushanRitch
KevinLayne
DominiqueBobb
SealonSue
CedricOsborne
MarcusWilson
ShakemWelcome
As the team intensifies its preparations, the final squad for the Gold Cup preliminaries will be announced in due course.
TheGFFremainscommitted to assembling the best team possibletorepresentGuyana ontheregionalstage.
up 6 wickets in the first innings, will be gunning his maiden 10-fer, after wrapping up the third day with returns of 2-31 while Gudakesh Motie (1-24) grabbedhisfirstofthegame.
Tagenarine Chanderpaul (74) returned to form with his 19th first class fifty after Guyana resumed on 68-1 with his overnight score of 37andTevinImlach(31)on 17,sittingonamassive250pluslead.
The Champs eventually
Chanderpaul(74),Anderson(50)
declared on 193-3, pushing theleadclosetothe500-run mark. Chanderpaul played his usual innings with a bit more aggression, reaching hishalf-centurywithGuyana in a strong position before beingtrappedbyMindley
Imlach then mistimed a deliveryfromSmithandwas caught by Brandon King, leavingthepairofAnderson and Kemol Savory (25*) to finishthemission.
The afternoon sessions before Tea psychologically
belongedtoGuyana,whoby thenhadtakentheirleadwell past the 450-run mark, with Anderson itching closer to another 50-plus score in the match.
Shortlyafterreachinghis half-centuryoff85balls,the declaration came, leaving both batsmen unbeaten and their team in an incredible position to secure another commandingwin.
Action on the final day bowls off from 11:00h. ©. Ross)
DarronNiles
Sam Cox
Wayne Dover Marco Bonofiglio
Tagenarine Chanderpaul
Shariff in deep concentration
action.
Niya Latchman successfully appeals the final Jamaican wicket yesterday at the Conaree Sports Club.
