over continues Gaza demolitions bodyofcaptiveasIsrael
‘7 in the Dock’ ...three Guyanese, four Venezuelans
terror charge for gas station
…callsforanswersonillegalbordercrossings, intelgaps,compensationtovictims
By:DavinaBagot
Newly
sworn-inMember of Parliament Azruddin
Mohamed wasted no time Monday in declaring his mission: to ensure every Guyanesegetsafairshareof the country's rapidly growing wealth and to fiercely hold the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government accountable Mohamed, Leader of the surging We InvestinNationhood(WIN) Party, told Kaieteur News that his focus is squarely on uplifting ordinary citizens, the same people he has supported through years of philanthropy, helping them start businesses, build homes,andaccesslifesaving support.
Hisassistancetofamilies has awakened hope in the hearts of Guyanese, particularly those on the lower end of the scale, anxious to live a better life.
ForMohamed,thiswillbea priority during his tenure as
M P a n d i n c o m i n g
OppositionLeader Moments after he was sworn in as an MP on Monday in the Dome of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, he told reporters in response to a question from Kaieteur News that he will not only ensure Guyanese get what they deserve, but will hold the People's Progressive Party (PPP) governmenttoaccount.
Wheninvitedtosharehis top priorities as new Opposition Leader, he said, “To hold the government accountable and to ensure thepeopleofthiscountryget theirfairshare.”
Asked if pushing for a renegotiation of the oil contractwithExxonMobilis amonghispriorities,hesaid, “Yes,possible”ashewenton to highlight the state of education facilities across thecountry
M o h a m e d s a i d ,
“(Monday) morning, I posted a video with 66
children. They are doing their schoolwork under a tent, with holes…and rain is fallingonthem.”
With the election yet to take place for Leader of the Opposition, he is optimistic that the cap belongs to him.
To this end, the Leader expressed willingness to work with the other two opposition parties in the NationalAssembly
Despite announcing his candidacy for presidency, a merefourmonthsbeforethe September 2025 elections, WIN secured 16 seats in the National assembly It is the first political party to form the main political opposition, since Guyana gained independence, booting the seasoned A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), which accumulated 12 seats Another new party, Forward
Guyana Movement, led by MP Amanza Walton-Desir hasalsograspedaseatinthe House. This means that the Opposition currently holds 29 seats and the governing People's Progressive Party 36 seats in the 65-member Assembly
On Monday, Mohamed disclosed that he has not yet held talks with the other opposition parties. “We didn'thaveanyengagements with them as yet but of course national interest, wanting to empower the people, ensure the lives of thepeoplearebetter,wewill (worktogether).”
The Leader of the WIN Party was expected to be appointed Opposition Leader during the first th Sittingofthe13 Parliament on Monday but his election hasbeenputoffindefinitely Azruddin Mohamed and his
father,NazarMohamedhave been indicted in the United States of America for 11 charges related to financial crimes. Three days before Parliament was convened, law enforcement arrested both men, acting on an extradition request by the
U.S government. They were later released on $150,000 baileach.
The father-son duo has alsobeenaccusedofevading taxes owed to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for the purchase of luxury vehicles.
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Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456
Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
ExxonMobil is operating in the stratosphere, keeps headinghigher ThesourceoftheUSoilgiant'ssuccessisdue, in significant part, to the contributions from Guyana's oil. Guyana's increasing daily oil production is a rich, reliable backstop when other assets of the company experience difficulties. ExxonMobil'sCEO,DarrenWoods,wasproud toinformtheworldoftheexceptionalstatethathiscompany isat,andhowmuchofafactor,acontributor,thatGuyana's oilproductionis.
“Weareinaleagueofourown”,saidCEOWoods There is no disputing that fact where ExxonMobil is concerned How many head honchos of large corporations can speak withsuchconviction,whilenotguiltyofanyexaggeration? Woodscan,andmostofhiscompetitorsmaydreamofdoing so, but dare not say so. Meanwhile, there is that contradiction,ablotonthecompany'ssuccess,thatisnever addressed directly and truly by either ExxonMobil or the Government of Guyana. How is it that in a half and half partnership,thatonepartner(ExxonMobil,theoperator)is on a runaway earnings trajectory, while the host oil producing partner (Guyana) is lagging far behind in its combinedshareofroyaltyandprofits? Giventhat75%cost recovery for ExxonMobil comes straight off the top of revenues,Guyanafirstgetssqueezedrightthere. Also,there arequestionsandmorequestionsabouthowmuchofthose US billions in expenses submitted by ExxonMobil are legitimate.
How much a team of skilled and hardworking auditors coulduncover,ifitwascommittedtoagenuineexamination of Guyana's oil partner's expenses? Another hard blow, probablyalowone,hastobeabsorbedbyGuyana,foritsoil that is being produced at higher and higher daily volumes. The more profits that ExxonMobil reports, the more that Guyana is left to deal with a mysterious reality Though ExxonMobil rakes in its billions in profits, Guyana is standing still, or barely inching forward, considering the paltry deposits from the company into its NewYork-based NaturalResourceFund. Manybillionshavebeenspenton exploration, where ExxonMobil holds all the cards, can swampGuyanawithcosts,andthiscountrybeingnonethe wiser,astohowcredibletheyare. Moreover,muchhasbeen said about how much expenses will start to diminish, with Guyana's collections from its oil rising. Guyanese are waitingandquestioning:willtheybebetteroff,orwillthey betrickedagain? Thedaysofmorearestilltocome,even thoughthereisthewatchfulnessthatnewwaysofpullingthe wooloverGuyana'seyescouldbeinthemaking.
It is constructive to look at where Guyana stands today, how much its oil is delivering to ExxonMobil's out-of-this worldbottomline. Dailyproductioniscurrentlyat700,000 barrelsperday(bpd),with900,000bpdisonthehorizonand drawing closer, and the Uaru and Whiptail projects set to join the First Oil production line in 2026 and 2027 respectively Inamatteroftwomonths,2026willbehere, and Uaru contributing to more barrels of oil produced by Guyanadailyispoisedtofollow ItiswhyWoodscanspeak with such authority, confidence. The challenge of lower levelsofoilfromitsTengizfieldiseasedbymoreoilfrom Guyanadoingitspart. Inthemidstofthisthrillingstoryof ExxonMobilbeing“inaleagueofitsown”thereisawicked irony.
Givenits700,000bpd,Guyana'soilrepresents14.5%of Exxontotalthirdquarterproductionof4.8Mbpd. Incredibly, GuyanaisstillhuntingdownborrowersformoreUSbilliondollarloans. Guyana'sdailyproductionisnowmorecrucial to ExxonMobil's plans and profits, given that one of the largestoilfieldsintheworld,thecompany'sTengizfieldin Kazakhstan,isproducingless. CEODarrenWoodshimself pointed to this state in his customary corporate language. “Lowerearningsfromweakercruderealizationsandhigher depreciationfromTengizwerelargelyoffsetbyadvantaged volume growth in the Permian and Guyana.” But there is Guyanaswappingitspatrimonyformoreloans. ExxonMobil is, indeed, “in a league of its own” Meanwhile,almosthalfofGuyanalivesinthepovertyleague
DearEditor,
According to press reports,'PresidentAlivowed that authorities would work to ascertain the motive behind the attack'.” We are going deep, broad and hard to the bottom of this,” “this attack bore all the hallmarks of terrorism It was an attempt to sow fear and chaos, to destabilize, to createtension.”
I agree fully with the President's modus operandi “going deep, broad and hard to the bottom of this.” Thatisthecruxofthematter; and it is precisely that approach that may prove to be most challenging given the complexities of what appears to be a unique i n t e l l i g e n c e - l e d investigation with an external and internal character
Terrorismisbynomeans new to Guyana, be it homegrown or localized acts. During the 1962-1964 period, several terrorist acts were perpetrated by centrally-directed terrorist groups and individuals operating in the then British Guiana.ThebombingofPPP HQ Freedom House and killingofMichaelForde;the blowing up of the Son Chapman boat killing several passengers on board in the Demerara River and the attempted dynamiting of the rice marketing T&HD bond at Water Street have since been established as terrorist acts that were
externally instigated, financed by the CIA and executedbylocaloperatives.
In 1976, eleven
Guyanese passengers including five students travelingtoCubawerekilled when two-time bombs planted by terrorists explodedonaCubanaircraft off the coast of Barbados.A total of 73 passengers were killed.
Later, in the 1979-1980 period, the country was rocked by another wave of terrorist acts during the campaign waged by the Walter Rodney-led WPA
against the Burnham dictatorship Acts of terrorismweremanifestedin the burning down of the Ministry of National Mobilization,thestabbingto death of Catholic priest Father Darke and the assassination of Dr Rodney inacarbombexplosion.
Still later, 2003-2008 marked a period of brutal killingsofscoresofinnocent Guyanese including Minister Satyadeo Sawh during the rampage by a terroristgangledbyRondell Rawlingsaka'Fineman.'
Seventeen years later, Guyana has again experienced threats at sea from its North-Western neighbour,andbombingson landatapoliceoutpostanda GPL substation; but the recentterroristactreferredto bythePresidentandsecurity forces raises a host of questions that impinges on
our country's national security
We were told that a man and accomplices, described as Spanish speaking nationals entered our country illegally on Sunday, October 26, '25. It appears that they were sent on a specific mission. What was the code name for their mission and who sent them wedonotknow
Before leaving their port of origin, the group must have been briefed by their superiors that they were to disembark at a predetermined location with a specificlandmarksituatedat a quiet riverside village, on the East Bank of the EssequiboRiver
It appears that the new arrivals were provided with locally garnered human intelligence identifying the Parkia koker as the ideal location for disembarkation on a Sunday morning knowingitwouldbesuitable to do so around that time. Who were their home-based handlerswedonotknow
The Spanish speaking nationals probably came by boat. What type of boat we don't know Were they escorted up to a point by a more professional and experienced crew in another vessel leaving them on their own with a map and strict navigational directions detailing where they should head in order to eventually arrive at the pre-determined locationalongtherightbank
of the Essequibo River? We donotknow
Further, there must have been locally-based 'look outs' awaiting the expected arrivalsusingagreedsignals and cell phone contact to guidetheircompadrestothe landing Vehicular transportation must have been organized and waiting inordertotransportthemen onamissiontothecity Who were the local look-outs we donotknow
The question is, do the presence of locally-based 'look outs' indicate that members of cells of the overseasbased'R'Syndicato move freely amongst the Guyanese populace waiting to be activated? We do not know But more troubling is the question whether they crossed the Demerara River using the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River bridge or did they cross the river by boat from Vreedenhoop to Georgetown;Or,didtheynot land at Parika, but travelled by sea from Parka to Georgetown? We do not know
We were told that they had in their possession an explosive device. Had the devicebeenplantedontothat bridge, its activation would have been catastrophic, but alas,forreasonsknownonly totheindividuals,thebridge wasnotthetarget
The individuals must have been briefed before departingtheirhome-base, (Continuedonpage5)
DearEditor,
Now that the 13th Parliament of Guyana has convened and all Members of Parliament from both the government and the combined opposition have taken their oaths, one would hope that the real work, the work of the people, would begin.
However, I cannot help but express deep concern about what is unfolding. We are witnessing a parliament without a Leader of the Opposition.
This is not only unusual; it is a break from parliamentary customs and traditions.
It has always been customary and traditional that at the first sitting of Parliament following a General and Regional Election, the Speaker of the House, the Deputy Speaker, and the Leader of the Opposition, whether representing a combined opposition or a single party, are all duly named and in place.
This ensures that the Parliament begins its work withbalance,representation, andaccountability
How then is it that the Deputy Speaker has already
been named and assumed office, while no clear move has been made to appoint or elect the Leader of the Opposition?
This delay not only breaks with long-standing practicebutalsoundermines thedemocraticspiritandthe confidence of the people in theparliamentaryprocess. TheroleoftheLeaderof the Opposition is not symbolic; it carries the responsibility of holding the government accountable, representing the voices of thousands, and ensuring fairnessinnationaldecisionmaking. When that role is
left vacant, the people, especially those who supportedtheopposition,are leftwithoutrepresentationor reassurance that their concernswillbeheard.
Our parliament belongs to all the people of Guyana, notjustoneside.
I therefore urge that this delay be addressed urgently so that our democracy can function as it was intended, with fairness, inclusion, and respectfortradition.
Yoursfaithfully, LorenzoJoseph United Workers Party (UWP)Activist Region10
DearEditor,
Since I've had no response from previous correspondence, from either officialorunofficialsources, I write again. Once again today, Tuesday 4th November, at 2:46pm “blackout” compliments of Guyana Power and Light, compliments of many millions spent everyday on two Turkish power ships, compliments of assurances
more than a year ago by our governmentthat“blackouts” willend.
Ordinary citizens, in particular the under class, who can not afford to purchase, or maintain a generator, regularly experience distress and strain happening as I dictate thisletter Thebigquestionis why?
Sincerely, ElderHamiltonGreen
DearEditor,
The recent public discourse concerning the procedures for appointing theLeaderoftheOpposition following the first sitting of the13thParliamentwarrants a dispassionate examination of the constitutional and parliamentary framework. I alsonotethestrongreactions expressed by Member of Parliament Mr. Sherod Duncan regarding the proceedingofthe1stSitting ofthe13thParliamentonhis showandtheconcernsraised by former Member of Parliament Mr David Patterson on social media. Such responses are not necessaryatthistime.
I want to caution Team
WIN, a trap is being set and thus legal consultation and caution are key at this point in time. I encourage Team WIN to seek guidance from former speakers like Mr Ralph Ramkarran and Mr Barton Scotland, both very honourable legal minds. A careful reading of the Cons
S
illustratethatthereisnoneed foranxietyatthistime,buta clear understanding of your rightsandtheprocess.
The process for recognizing the Leader of the Opposition is clearly outlined in the Constitution of Guyana, specifically Article 161 (1), which states:
"Except for the purpose of electing a Speaker or a Deputy Speaker, the member of the National Assembly who is the leader of the party whichholdsthemostseatsin the Assembly, other than the party to which the President belongs, shall be invited by the President to become the LeaderoftheOpposition."
This article establishes a clear sequence: the identity of the relevant party leader must be established, after which the President extends aformalinvitation.
The subsequent role of the Speaker, as per the Standing Orders, is more proceduralandistoformally declarethisindividualasthe LeaderoftheOppositionfor
t h e p u r p o s e s o f parliamentary proceedings. But the critical step remains asking the Clerk to call the meeting to have the elections.
A review of recent precedent is instructive
Following the 2020 elections, the first sitting of the 12th Parliament proceeded without a recognized Leader of the Opposition.This was due to a period of deliberation required to confirm the undisputed leadership of the largestoppositionparty The situation was resolved after more than a month and only after the leadership was clearly established and communicated through the
Frompage4 that there was one specific target. They knew the exact location of the target. Who briefed them with that kind of intelligence and who provided them with the explosivedevice?Wedonot know
Was it an improvised devise or was it a factorymanufactureddevice?Wedo not know Who gave them instructions on how to triggerthedevice,wedonot know However, we can assumethattheremusthave been some training on how to transport and to activate such a dangerous and sensitive device across borders having regard to timeandspace.
Forsuchadevicetoenter Guyana undetected raises serious questions in relation to border security, state security and national security
Eleven and a half hours after arriving by boat at Parika, a suspect, later identifiedbyCCTVcameras asoneofthepassengers,was seen approaching a Mobil gas station corner of Regent and King streets He attempted to place a black garbagebaginadisposalbin near a pump station but was prevented from doing so by
analertattendant. His plan foiled, the suspect then opted to leave thebagatanotherlocationin the compound of the said Mobil gas station located at centralGeorgetown.At7:24 p m a violent explosion occurredatthegasstation.
The life of a child was brutally snuffed out and manywereinjured.
People say many more lives would have been lost and a huge, difficult to control conflagration would have erupted had the device beenplantednexttothefuel pump as was originally planned.
Utilization of US, Chinese, Cuban and Israeli intelligence and counterterrorist experiences can provehelpful.
AnattackonaMobilgas station, symbolizes the ideological and political nature of the attack. Mobil representsawell-established American brand name a s s o c i a t e d w i t h ExxonMobil. Assets at sea associatedwithExxonmobil have been targeted recently byVenezuelannavalvessels. Guyanesesoldiershavebeen shotatbyVenezuelanswhile onborderpatrol.
The planting of an explosive device on the
property of an established American company was by its very nature, an antiAmerican act. Secondly, it was aimed at the supplier of fuel,asourceofcontroversy and energy which was intended to send a signal about the motive behind the attack.
That aside, the nature of the attack is even more serious; from a national securityperspective,itwasa violent act against a civilian target d
d to psychologically impact an audience beyond the immediate target or victims oftheattack.Wearetoldthat the attack was executed by Ve
belonging to a group called 'R'. Whether they acted on their own or were state sponsored for mainly political reasons we do not know
In this particular matter, the proposition that 'one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter' must berejected.Onthecontrary, itmustbe'oneman'sterrorist
is everyone's terrorist ' Irrespectiveofsponsorship.
Whether the 'R' Syndicato is a terrorist grouping or an insurgent organization should be of concern to us. Is the prime suspect, Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, telling the truth? Or is he selling a line given to him by his handlers should he be captured?
We don't know.Thetask ahead is to go “deep, broad and hard to the bottom of this,”“thisattackboreallthe hallmarksofterrorism.”
Yoursfaithfully, ClementJ.Rohee Former Minister of HomeAffairs; Former Chairman, N a t i o n a l S e c u r i t y Committee; and National Commission for Law and Order
proper channels, allowing the constitutional process to befulfilled. Itistimeforthe WINTeamtowritetoallthe opposition parties in Parliament asking them to a formal meeting with the ClerkactingasthePresiding Officer to hold the elections by a show of hands for the position of Leader of the Oppositiontogettheprocess rolling. The President cannot act without clear instructionsasprescribedby theConstitution.
T h i s p r e c e d e n t demonstrates that the absence of a Leader of the Oppositionatafirstsittingis not, in itself, irregular The business of the first sitting, as reflected in the Order Paper from September 1, 2020,somefiveyearsago,is primarily ceremonial and administrative, focusing on the swearing-in of members and the election of the Speaker The critical requirement is that the internal processes of the opposition parties are resolved to allow for a clear and constitutionally sound appointmentthereafter
Inthecurrentcontext,the appropriate procedure is as follows: First, Members of Parliament from the largest non-governmental party shouldformallychoosetheir candidatewhoshallserveas the Leader of the Opposition.
This decision must then be communicated in writing to the Clerk of the National Assembly and all the opposition parties in the Parliament and ask for a formal meeting to elect the Leader of the Opposition. Next, the Clerk is expected to organize a process to
verify that the identified leader has majority support fromtheoppositionbenches by a show of hands of all opposition Member of Parliament who are present. Once confirmation is achieved, the Clerk will inform the Speaker, who, in turn, notifies the President, but the WIN Team can also informHisExcellency.Only then does the President has the power to issue a formal invitation to the chosen individual to assume the office of Leader of the Opposition, after which the Speaker makes the official declarationintheHouse.
The constitutional system is designed to be objective However, as history shows, the process canexperiencedelaysdueto necessary internal party confirmations At this juncture, patience and a strict adherence to the legal and procedural roadmap are paramount.
All stakeholders can be assured that the established framework, when followed diligently, will lead to the proper appointment of the Leader of the Opposition as m a n d a t e d b y t h e Constitution. There was no rd need to stand up on 3 November, 2025 and make an objection on a point of orderasbeingsuggestingby Mr Duncan. It is either he doesnotknowtheprocessor hewasattemptingtomakea fool of the WIN Team but there is enough educated GuyanesethatcanguideMr Mohamed and his team in theseinitialdays;thereisno needforMr Duncan'sorMr Patterson'swisdom.
Yoursrespectfully, LancelotHyman
Dear Editor, Farnum Playfield in Subryanville,Georgetownis an open green space designated as community ground. It is not the private property of the Mayor and CityCouncillors(M&CC)to be disposed of, rented or
occupied for private advantage.Itisheldintrust,
to be preserved for recreation and community use and bound by covenants thatprohibitbusinessuse.
The public trust principle is enshrined in the ConstitutionofGuyana.The Municipal and District CouncilsActgivesauthority to Council to maintain recreational open spaces for theuseandenjoymentofthe public. This power is not intended to be misused and convertedforprivategainor
to refuse to disclose and produceinformation.
M&CC and CHPA undertheTownandCountry Planning Act failed in their dutiestopreventtheerection of the large 2 storey prefabricated structures on thecommunityground.Now M&CC proposes an agreement. This is intended, to retrospectivelylegitimizethe structures built illegally, to permit the operation of multiple private owned schools, to give licence to occupy and privatise communitygroundforprofit and to take away public rights, all without consultation.
In effect, M&CC
wishes to reward a private person for building, without permission,withoutproofof ownership and without certificate of registration for Mae'sSchools.
CHPAand government agencies have elected to remain silent despite being notified.Thisisanegregious breach of public trust and a violation of M&CC's fiduciary obligations which requirethemtoactinthebest interestofthepublic.
No payment, albeit nominal, can cure an illegal occupation or convert a public trust into a private tenancy
F i n a n c i a l arrangements will not mitigate the traffic chaos enduredbyresidents,whofor yearsmaintainedFarnum,in the absence of M&CC upkeep The traffic
generatedbytheschoolswill lead to foreseeable potential dangerstoresidentsandroad users.
Initially, without receiving a written application, M&CC granted permission in secret to a private individual to use Farnum for one year for tents.
Even before the permission ended, the developer purportedly applied for extension and proceeded to build permanent-type structures, despite objection from residents.
I t m u s t n o t b e forgotten that in 2017, the original Mae's owner attempted to convert part of Farnum Ground, residents intervened and M&CC and CHPA halted the illegal attempt. The residents were howeverleftwiththeburden ofrestoringtheground.
This demonstrates h o w “ t e m p o r a r y ” permissions easily become entrenched, changing the character of the ground replacing green field with steel, concrete and sandleading to slow conversion of public trust property into privatepossession. Notably, lawful alternatives existed, the Mae's Schools Extension at Farm as advertised, temporary rental of private land or placement in the breakaway Mae's Schools established by the former Mae's Headmistress The very existence of alternatives removes any justification for violating publictrustofland.
T h e w e l f a r e o f children,whileimportant,is not a legal exemption for breaching laws, public trust and safety regulations Illegality cannot be justified or sanitized under the guise ofcompassion.
Protecting children include ensuring they learn inasafe,lawfullysanctioned environment, not in unapproved and anarchic conditions, with electrical
and safety risks. A true and valuable lesson in child welfare is teaching respect for the rule of law, public integrity and environmental responsib
ity – not disregardforlaws,justifying unlawful conduct or the art ofcircumventinglaws. The public interestlies in upholding the laws, t
p a r e n c y a n d accountability – the very principles that secure environment protection and sustainable use for future
authoritiesfailtoenforcethe laws, they erode public c
od governance with direct consequences for the rule of law
This conduct violates Guyana and international laws that community lands mustbemanagedintrustfor all. The attempt to privilege private interests over collective rights is contrary to Council's by-laws, town planning,environmentaland other laws that are intended to prevent degradation of public spaces and obstructs Guyana's commitment to protecting open green spaces.
Regards
Jamela Ali SC, LLM
A week after the deadly gas-station explosion that ripped through Regent & King Streets, killing sixyear-old Soraya Bourne and injuring unsuspecting shoppers, workers and commuters, serious questionsarenowbeforethe National Assembly about what the government knew, when they knew it, and why nothingwasdonetostopthe horror
Opposition Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan has filed a series of hardhitting questions directed at Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond and several other government ministers, demanding full disclosure on security breakdowns, emergency response failures and even the use of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund and the Contingencies Fund toward relief or investigation activities linkedtotheincident.
The October 26 blast, officially labeled an act of terrorism, by the state has been linked to Spanish-
speaking nationals who reportedly slipped across Guyana's borders illegally just hours before the attack.
The mastermind of the attack, Venezuelan Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo and another accomplice also from Venezuela are in police custody along with other local suspects Kaieteur News understands that they will be formally charged todayforterrorismandother relatedoffences.
Duncan's questions effectively ask: where was the in
nce and prevention. He MP wants Minister Walrond to state whether a national threatassessmentbulletinwasever issued between May and O c t o b e r f l a g g i n g vulnerabilitiesatfueldepots andmajorcommercialhubs.
He is also pressing for answers on: intelligence on the foreign suspects; crossborder alert systems between Immigration, CANU and the Police and after-action reviews from priorbombattacks.
Additionally, Duncan said that the bombing of October 26, 2025, raises concerns about emergencyresponse coordination among the Guyana Fire Service, EMTs and the PoliceForce.Assuchhehas asked that the minister lay before the House the response-time logs for the Fire Service, EMTs and Police for the evening of October 26 and questioned what standard operating procedure governs interagency command at masscasualty scenes, and when wasitlastexercised?Healso asked whether propane-
cylinder hazard maps or depot-specific drills were conducted for the Regent & King Streets corridor within the past 12 months? “What counselling and liaison arrangementswereactivated for victims' families during andaftertheevent?”
On the issue of illegal entry and international intelligence, Duncan is also challenging ForeignAffairs, Hugh Todd on whether: CARICOM IMPACS was called in to track the terror network; whether any regional intelligence alerts were shared prior to the attack and whether borderscreening technology will finally be updated. He has also asked Human Services Minister, Dr Vindyha Persaud to clarify: what emergencygrantsorsupport packages have been approved for the Bourne family and others affected; what is the current statutory framework for victim compensation in masscasualty or terrorism cases, and will the Minister consider amendments? and has the Childcare & Protection Agency intervened to support traumatised minors in the affectedhouseholds?
Following the bombing the Ministry of Human ServicesandSocialSecurity had announced that it will cover the funeral and wake expenses of Bourne According to a statement from the ministry, Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) Ms. Levine Gouveia and Manager of the Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU) Ms Jashudra SeeramLackhan had visited the family to offer continued assistance. “Through DCU, the ministry will cover funeral and wake expenses, while CPA will conduct daily hospital visits to monitor the children's progress Counseling and supportwillalsobeprovided toallaffected,especiallythe twohospitalisedchildrenfor as long as needed,” the ministrystated.
Visiting the grieving family also was Minister of Education,SoniaParagwho was accompanied by Chief Planning Officer at the Ministry, Ms Mischka White-Griffith.Theministry notedthattheincidentwhich claimed the life of Bourne also resulted in the injuries of little Sadiya McClintock andRashadLord,alongwith Genica Hooper and Yvonne
APNU, Member of Parliament, Sherod Duncan
Jonas- all of whom are attached to the education sector
Minister Parag who expressed her deepest condolencestothelittlegirl's relatives, assured them that President Irfaan Ali, along with the Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, and all relevant law enforcement agencies, are working assiduously to apprehend the main suspect and to conduct a thorough investigation “Minister Paragtoldthefamilythatthe tragedyhasbeenfeltbyallof Guyana and that they are in our thoughts and prayers.
Minister Parag also committed her and the Ministry of Education's full support to the affected families,” the ministry statement. This publication understands that the Ministry of Health is also providing support to ensure thatalloftheinjuredpersons receive the best care possible.PresidentIrfaanAli alsoonMondaymetwiththe grieving families of the victims of the bombing during which he promised “swift justice” and confirmed that the Guyana Police Force has been interrogating the suspect who has since confessed to the crime to determine his motives for the “horrific act” The President also updated the families on the findings to date, telling the parents of Bourne that his government would assist them in every possible way and will use every available tool to help them and those injured to return to some formofnormalcy Meanwhile, in a set of question to the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony Duncannotedthatfollowing thegas-stationexplosionthe performance of emergency medical services and
hospital readiness came underscrutinyandassuchhe asked: what was the patient surge figure handled by GPHC within the first two hours following the blast; howmanyoperatingtheatres were mobilised; has the ministry completed a postincident medical readiness r e v i e w, a n d w h a t deficiencieswereidentified?
Operatoroversight
Further, in a series of questionstotheMinistersof Natural Resources and Public Works, Duncan is demandingonwhenwasthe last comprehensive safety inspection of that facility conducted by the Guyana Energy Agency or allied bodies and asked that the minister table copies of the Mobil Fuel Station's insurance certificates and compliancelicencesvalidas ofOctober262025. Healso asked what compensation framework has been negotiated or triggered for affected employees, customers, and nearby businesses and what penalties apply for lapses in storage, signage, or firesuppression standards and have any been invoked.The APNU MP also questioned the Minister of Finance, Dr AshnSinghontheuseofthe National Disaster Risk Management Fund and the Contingencies Fund in relation to the bombing, enquiring whether any disbursement been made from either Fund toward relief or investigation activities linked to the incident? Duncan also asked what criteria govern such releases, and will the ministry publish the corresponding warrant and expenditure details? The questionsweresubmittedon Monday at the convening of th the 13 Parliament and are listedfororalreply
There is always something faintly comical, and therefore tragic, about governments pretending to bedemocratic.Theylovethe trappings—theelections,the slogans, the photographs of ministers surrounded by smiling citizens—but they cannotbearthethingitself.
It demands humility, trust, and the surrender of power The People’s Progressive Party/Civic government has mastered the performance but not the principle. It speaks of local democracy, but it does not believeinit.Ithasconfused m a n a g e m e n t f o r governance, and control for competence And so, its grand local government plans are already doomed, not by opposition, not by inefficiency, but by its own fearoflettinggo.
Over the past five years, the PPP/C has perfected a system of benevolent authoritarianism disguised as development. Everything must flow from the centre every project, every dollar, every dream The governmentdoesnotpartner with communities; it dispensestothem,likealord tossing alms to peasants. It prefers to rebuild community roads directly through its ministries rather than work through the local bodies created precisely for thatpurpose.
D
N
(NDCs) are treated not as organsofgovernance,butas a d m i n i s t r a t i v e inconveniences, useful only when pliant, expendable whennot.Thereisawordfor this: centralization And there is a consequence: decay Inthevillagesandwards where NDCs exist only on paper, people have learned the new etiquette of dependency When the drains flood or the roads disintegrate, they no longer appealtotheircouncils;they appeal to the minister They know the council has no money, little machinery, no m e a n i n g I t i s a ghost starved of funds, stripped of autonomy, reduced to begging for the government’s yearly subventions. The councils can neither raise sufficient rates and taxes nor keep the little they collect without centralapproval.Yetinstead ofhelpingthembecomeselfreliant, the government prefers to keep them on fiscallifesupportbyhanding outsubventions. It is all very logical, if you accept the logic of control. A weak NDC is a manageable NDC A dependent region is a grateful one The government does not want strong local institutions; it wants obedient ones. So, it builds dependency into the system, and then complains that the system does not
work.
The contradiction is almost elegant in its simplicity The government declares that it wants strong local governance but does everything to ensure that power never leaves Georgetown It preaches community empowerment butcannotabidethethought of communities acting without its direction It champions participation but only on the condition that participation means applause. The result is not democracy, but a carefully staged production of governance where the script is written in central government.
This, more than anything, is why its local governmentagendawillfail. Not because the idea of reformiswrong,butbecause the impulse behind it is insincere Real local democracy requires trust that communities can manage their own affairs, that mistakes will be made and corrected without ministerial supervision, that peoplecanlearnbydoing. But trust is a rare commodity in the PPP/C’s political culture. Its instinct is domination, not democracy It does not see citizens; it sees clients. It doesnotseecouncils;itsees committees waiting for instructions. Its vision of governance is paternal: government as provider,
Thesedays,weall living like jailbird, even thoughweneverseeinside a prison Every man, woman and child deh pun remand inside dem own house When yuh leff home, yuh does lock de gate, padlock de grill, and double-bolt de door like yuh hiding from bandits or vampires De whole countryturnsecurityguard. Every fence gat barbed wire, razor wire, and even electric wire. Dem CCTV cameras blinking red light like Christmas tree bulbs. Alarm system in every corner, motion sensor pun everywall,andstill,people sleepingwithoneeyeopen and one hand pun de cell phone. Is like we waiting fuh somebody come break inbeforeweevenclosewe eyes.
And when night come, we does lock we self in so tight,notevenfreshbreeze could pass through. Some people living in airconditioncoffin.Imagineif fireketch,halfahdemcan’t even get out. Dem does burnbeforedemcouldeven finddekey Rememberthat famous Indian dancer who used to live in Kitty? Poor ladygetroastalivebecause she couldn’t open de grill. De same grill she put up to protect she, end up killing she.
We all talking bout freedom,butwelivinglike caged parrot. Yuh can’t even walk down de road without watching over yuh shoulder De same crime we trying to stop got we trapping we self. We build we own prison and call it “homesweethome.” And when yuh go to de
peopleasrecipients.
The tragedy is that Guyana cannot modernize undersuchaphilosophy No country ever did Local go
nment is th
foundation of civic competence, the school in which citizens learn selfgovernment. But when the councils are denied both responsibilityandresources, they become weak and helpless.Thegovernment,in its arrogance, is recreating theverycolonialstructuresit once condemned: power concentrated in the capital, the peripheries kept docile withsubventions.
It will not matter who is appointed Minister of Local
Government. The failure is systemic, not personal Ministers come and go; the machinery of control remains. The new minister may tour the regions, pose for photographs with councillors but without real fiscal autonomy, without the power to raise and retain their own revenues, the NDCs will remain crippled. And in the end, the government will complain again that local bodies are ineffective and must therefore be bypassed, thuscompletingthecircleof futility it has so carefully drawn.
It is all depressingly familiar Guyanahashadthis
conversation before. Every g
empowerment and every government, once in office, discovers that power tastes too sweet to share The rhetoric of democracy alwaysyieldstothereflexof control.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
market and see price climb like skyscraper, remember is crime causing dat too. Every businessman does add a “bandit fee ” Supermarket gat to pay for camera, alarm, and guard. Dem taxi driver gat to tint dem car and still trembling when night fall. De farmer plant,anothermanreap.So, he raise he price too—he seh he got to charge fuh de thiefmantax.
So, when yuh see dem big iron grill pun yuh window, don’t laugh at de prisoners downtown. You just living in a fancier cell. De only difference is dem getthreemeals,andwegot to pay VAT pun we own food.
Demboysseh,weain’t freenomore.Wejailupwe selftofeelsafe,butweain’t safe,andweain’tfree. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
Ihavealwaysheldthe view that the Hon. Attorney General of Guyana, Anil Nandlall, SC, MP,isonesmartfella. Ishall not define 'smart ' Mr Nandlall has an inside view of how certain matters pertainingtoGuyana'sworld ofcorruptionareshakingout intheU.S. Hehasaninsight ortwoaboutwhatiscoming down. The question on the minds of Guyana is who is on the hot seat, those same indictments that Mr Nandlall made sure that he set the table by taking preemptiveaction.
More indictments are coming down soon. Well, well; blow me down Robb Street,soIcangetacloseup view of who will be cuffed and carted off. Is Freedom Houseahtaakinabout.
When Mr Nandlall was instructed to go before the public and bare his breast, with more indictments are coming, it was the PPP Govt's way of defusing the fallout, given who are guaranteed to be named.
Good ole Uncle Sam bringing out the law enforcement cavalry and running to the rescue of its financial system under attack,andtheirchildrenand adultspoisonedbystuffthat used to go into Coca-Cola, and is better off being refined into Ovaltine or Milo. My sense is that several wheelbarrows of PPP comrades are in for an American identification parade, with a litany of crimes read out. For sure, it's not one of those riot acts ofwhichGuyaneseheardso much, and from which little to nothing has come about. It is reality of those who betrayed the people's trust, bartered the principles of their high offices, and have had a jolly good time with thenation'smoney
Theprimecandidatesfor indictments must be largely members and insiders of the closemouthedPPPcabalthat have wreaked havoc in the local environment, and who have tons of unexplained wealth that they cannot
provide any accounting trail tosupport. Acrediblesetof books that testify to legitimate earnings, hands that are untainted by gold smuggling, drug smuggling, andmoneylaundering.
How many in the PPP Govt. can say so, produce such? Therearetworelated issues that commonsense and past life on Wall Street (yessir!WallStreet)leadme to believe that is part of the indictmentpotnowbrewing, now getting ready to begin bubblingoverinGuyana.
First, in government-togovernment discussions, there are times when horsetrading features extensively I believe that some of the biggest names in Guyana could be spared, as in avoid being indicted There should be a large handful of ministers, but that is part of the bargaining, the deals cut behind closed doors
Second, the names of some PNC/AFC stalwarts should also rise to the top, but I see that as having long odds. It ismorethanlikelythatsome
folks in law enforcement couldhavethedistinctionof getting their names on U.S. indictments. Some senior public servants are also eligible for inclusion, given the half decade record of their collusions and coverups with politicians whodoubleastrickstersfora handsomeliving.
On a personal note, although they know better, there is nothing better that the PPPGovernment and its armyofhelperswouldcrave to see, than my name splashed across U S indictments.
I've got good news and bad news for those making that their central purpose in life. The good news is that they give them a chance to earn the easiest $100 (Guyana) that they ever did in their lives. Wanna bet?
The bad news is twofold. GY$100 is all I can afford, andthesecondisthatanyone foolish enough, or daring enough, to bet me, will end uplosingtheirmoney
S a n c t i o n s a n d indictments dropped like a long-delayed bunker buster bomb on this country. Suddenly, nobody in the hierarchy of the PPP Government isn't friendly anymore. All they live for now, do their damnedest, is shake-off any past relationshipsandstickthose on any candidate that they thoughtmadeforthebestof easyscapegoats.
There was a willing Bobby, whose name is now etched in Guyana's and Exxon oil history, and so muchsothatevenBigMassa run and swore that Bobby is a fine Guyanese public servant.
I agree, but only when there is the clearest disclosure of what the man from America he meant by fine? Fortherecord:menah Bobby Abiggermistakeby this government and its leadershasnotbeenmadein alongtime.
Now more indictments aresettotouchdownwiththe next American Airlines flight. Guyanesemustthank AG Nandlall for the headsup My brotherly recommendation is that he keepshisownheaddown.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
From 63% to 80%: Guyanamakesstunning leapinglobalaviationsecurityranking
Guyana has scored a major international victory, achieving an outstanding 80 12% in the latest
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Aviation Security Audit, soaringwellabovetheglobal average of 72% and surpassingICAO'sown2033 targetof75%.
T h e d r a m a t i c improvement, leaping from 62.90% in 2016 to 80.12% marks a 1722% jump and signalsthatGuyanaisrapidly becomingaleaderinaviation securityacrosstheCaribbean andLatinAmerica
Conducted from August 25toSeptember3,2025,the aviation security audit was part of ICAO's Universal Security Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring
Approach Guyana's exceptional score of 80.12% not only highlights the nation's commitment to aviation security but also exceeds ICAO's global aspirational goal for all States to achieve effective implementation of 75% by 2033,aDepartmentofPublic Informationreleasestated
This comprehensive audit rigorously evaluated Guyana's compliance with the Convention on
International Civil Aviation, specifically Annex 9 (Facilitation) and Annex 17 (Security – Safeguarding International Civil Aviation Against Acts of Unlawful
CJIA airport
The Cheddi Jagan International Airport
Interference) The audit consisted of 494 Protocol
Questions and scrutinized eight critical areas of the aviation security system, including: Aviation Security Legislation;AviationSecurity
P r o g r a m m e s a n d
Regulations; State Appropriate Authority for Aviation Security and its Responsibilities; Personnel Qualifications and Training; Provision of Technical Guidance,Tools,andSecurity Critical Information; Certification and Approval Obligations; Quality Control Obligations and Resolution ofSecurityConcerns.
FourICAOexpertsinthe various areas conducted the audit.TheGCAAextendsits heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, for his visionary leadership for Guyana's aviation sector to attain world-class standards Special appreciation to
The GCAA wishes to thank its dedicated Aviation Security team, who worked tirelessly to achieve this significant accomplishment, and the support staff who assisted Their collective effort has made an indelible impact on the overall su
c
ss,
nforcing Guyana'scommitmenttothe safety and security of the traveling public This achievement not only enhances the reputation of Guyana's aviation sector but al
confidence among international travellers and stakeholders, positioning Guyana as a leader in aviation security on the globalstage.
An inconsolable Christina Arjun, mother of Navindra Mahes (NCN)
The female police corporal who fatally struck 15-year-old Navindra Mahes on the Success Public Road, East Coast Demerara (ECD)inOctoberwasonTuesdayplacedon $500,000 bail after being charged with causingdeathbydangerousdriving.
The cop, 35-year-old Yonelle Cumberbatch, of Eastville Housing Scheme, Annandale,EastCoastDemerara,appearedat the Sparendaam Magistrates' Court before SeniorMagistrateAbigailGibbs.Shewasnot requiredtopleadtothecharge.
Maheswasstruckwillattemptingtocross the Success Public Road, ECD at about 07:30honOctober30,2025.Theteen'sfamily was plunged into mourning and has since calledontheauthoritiestoensurethatjustice isserved.
The matter was adjourned to January 6, 2026 As part of the bail conditions, Cumberbatchisrequiredtolodgeherpassport withtheCourtandreporttothePoliceonthe firstMondayofeverymonth.
With heatwaves intensifying and Sahara dust storms becoming more frequent and deadly,twelveCaribbeannationshavetaken a major step toward protecting their populations from climate-driven health threats.
Meteorological, surveillance and Climate-and-HealthFocalPointsfromacross theregiongatheredinBarbadoslastweekto design a regional Early Warning System (EWS) that will alert health workers and the public before extreme heat or dust events strike—andpreventavoidabledeaths.
It is hoped that this will result in useful information being provided to health care workersandthepublic,beforeaheatwaveor Sahara dust event occurs in the region. In a press release, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) said stakeholders learntabouttheeffectsofthesetwoclimatic events on the health of the population, the
challengesandsurveillancegapsofHeatand Dust related illness in the Caribbean and heardlessonslearnedfromcountriespiloting thesesystems.
PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr Amalia Del Riego, expressed PAHO's pleasure to have collaborated with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) and other regional institutions to pilot climateinformed Early Warning Systems in several CARIFORUMcountries.
“These systems - especially the dengue predictivemodelsnowhostedonCARPHA's platform - are not just innovations; they are lifelines. They integrate health surveillance data with climate information to empower timely, targeted public health responses. In
(Continuedonpage16)
Meanwhile, following Tuesday's court hearing Mahes' devastated mom told reportersthathersondidnotdeservetodie.“I lostmyson.Shewillgohomeandseehersbut Icannotgohomeandseemine.Howisitfair, tellme.Howisitfair?”theinconsolablemom cried after the bail was granted to Cumberbatch.
Shecontinued:“Iwasexpectinghertogo tojail…shedoesnotdeservetocomeouthere. My son was on the pedestrian crossing. He wasnotwrong!”
ThreeGuyaneseandfour Venezuelans have been chargedwiththeOctober26, 2025 bombing of the Mobil Fuel Station on Regent Streetwhichtookthelifeofa six-year-oldgirlandcausing injuriestoseveralothers.
The seven suspects are likely to be arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court today In a statement police said following
c o m p r e h e n s i v e investigations into the explosion legal advice was obtained from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to institute charges against several individuals. As a result of the evidence gathered, the following individuals were charged: Wayne Corriea, 44 years,
Guyanese; Ramesh
Pramdeo, 51 years, Guyanese; Krystal LaCruz, 33 years, Guyanese; Daniel
Alexander Ramirez
Poedemo, 33 years,
Venezuelan; Jennifer Rodriguez, 33 years,
Venezuelan; Johnny
Boodram, 27 years, Venezuelan and Alexander Bettancourt, 44 years, Venezuelan.
“They have each been charged with the Offence of Terrorism, Contrary to Section 3(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences)
Act, Chapter 8:01,” the police said in the statement.
“The Guyana Police Force assures the public that the investigationwasconducted
with professionalism, integrityandstrictadherence to due process. The Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law,
protecting citizens and ensuring peace and public safety across the nation whileexpressinggratitudeto the public and partner agencies for their continued cooperation and support in this matter,” the statement concluded.
Last week the Guyana Police Force (GPF) had secured a High Court order tofurtherdetaineightofnine suspects who were initially arrested The decision allowed investigators additional time to pursue critical leads and analyse evidence, including surveillance footage and forensicmaterialsrecovered fromthescene.
Kaieteur News reported onThursday last that two of the Venezuelan suspects usedaKFCfoodrunascover to scout the site before carrying out the deadly attack.Accordingtoasenior police officer, investigation so revealed that sometime between11a.m.and12noon on October 26, 2025 the prime suspect- Daniel
, and his Venezuelan accomplice travelledtoGeorgetownina
atapressconferenceheldat theMinistryofHomeAffairs that Peodomo and his accomplice have some affiliation with a “gang in Venezuela known as ‘R’” which is linked to the Sindicato gang The Sindicato gang has been linked to several violent cross-border crimes The C r i m e C h i e f s a i d investigatorslearnedthatthe explosive device was activated moments after the mainsuspectexitedacarand walked into the Mobil Gas Station at Regent and King Streets,Georgetown.
motor car along with a female accomplice and a hired taxi driver “They parkedthecarinthevicinity ofthegasstation.
The female accomplice then exited the vehicle and wenttotheKFCoutletatthe said location, where she purchased food for the two Venezuelans,” the senior officer disclosed. “It was during that time that the Venezuelans took the opportunity to conduct surveillance of the fuel station before executing their act to bomb the station,” the officer added. After completing their reconnaissance,thesuspects reportedly returned to Region Three, the officer said.
Police investigations havealsoconfirmedthatthe suspects entered Guyana illegallythroughabacktrack routeinthePomeroonRiver, before being dropped off at Parika, East Bank Essequibo. From there, they made their way to Georgetown, where the deadly attack was later carriedout.
Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum had told reporters
The powerful blast killed Bourne and injured four others, including children and adults Investigators have not disclosed the motive behind theattackandwhetheritwas linked to organised transnational criminal activity.
C l o s e d - C i r c u i t Television (CCTV) showed the suspect, clad in a blue jersey, what appeared to be black trousers and a khaki hat, entering the gas station and first attempting to place a bulky black bag in a bin locatedatapumpstation.
An attendant, who was seated there, forbade him from placing the bag in the bin. The man then ventured totheareaofthefuelstation where it is reported that cooking gas was stored Shortly after, the car in which little Bourne and her family traveled in was seen slowly reversing before the bomb exploded causing the girl and her relatives to be pitchedintotheair
Further, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) said it has been pursuing all leads through collaboration with its local, regional and international counterparts, including INTERPOL A Special Investigative Task Force was established comprising members of the Major Crimes Investigation U n i t , C r i m i n a l Investigations Department Headquarters, Regional Divisions3,4A,and4Band other key stakeholders, supported by intelligence and forensic experts. The investigation was also coordinatedwithcontinuous o v e r s i g h t b y t h e CommissionerofPoliceand seniorofficers.
One of the homes which was severely damaged due to heavy rainfall and wind at Lima Housing Scheme on Monday
The Regional
D emo cr atic Council (RDC) of Region Two, alongside MenonMission(MoM)and other stakeholders, have pledged to rebuild homes andprovideothersupportto the families affected by a 'freak storm' on Monday at LimaHousingScheme.
Kaieteur News had reportedthataround8amon Monday heavy rainfall and wind wreaked havoc at the Lima Housing Scheme causing damage to some six households and affecting over20persons.
Regional Chairman, DevinMohaninresponseto the distress call from residents, said the administration immediately activateditsresponseteam.
The chairman in his statement revealed that the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) was promptly contacted to disconnect electricity in the area to prevent electrocution hazards, while the regional enhancement team was mobilised to render on-site assistance.
He shared that the Civil
Defence Commission (CDC) was notified and respondedswiftly Giventhe extentofthedamageandthe exposure of household property, the Guyana Police
Force (GPF) was also engaged to conduct regular patrols to ensure the safety and security of the affected families.
M e a n w h i l e , t h e
Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) team was deployed to assist with clearing debris and removing damaged household materials, he stated.
According to the chairman, emergency relief items, including janitorial hampers and tarpaulins to provide temporary shelter and support were all distributedtothoseaffected.
Following his visit on Monday, an emergency coordination meeting was convened with regional officials, the joint services, andotherstakeholders.
Following that meeting, it was decided that the RDC will provide meals to all affected families beginning Monday, November 3rd, untilfurthernotice.
In rebuilding efforts, some90CIIPworkersanda core public works team will assist,alongsidetheMenon Mission (MoM) initiative, which has committed to rebuilding two homes that suffered the most extensive damage.
“The RDC will provide all necessary tools and
materials, with the subdistrict of public works
contributing wooden resources for construction,” heinformed.
Further, he said that Colonel Shepherd of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has pledged 10 skilled personnel to provide masonry and carpentry assistance.
He mentioned that a database of affected residentsisbeingdeveloped to assess individual needs andensuretargetedsupport.
The regional chairman alsosaidtheRDCcontinues to closely monitor the situation and is actively coordinating efforts to ensure that affected families receive the necessary aid to rebuildtheirlives.
“We will also engage corporate and public partners to strengthen ongoing recovery and rehabilitation efforts. The Guyana Police Force will maintainenhancedpatrolsin the community until full normalcy is restored,” he disclosed.
Given the recent incident, Mr Mohan indicated that as part of the RDC's long-term response, the regional administration has established a disaster riskmanagementcommittee to oversee current
emergency relief efforts and i m p r o v e d i s a s t e r preparedness and resilience acrossRegionTwo.
Meanwhile, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Tuesday said it responded to a high wind event that affected several homes in the Lima Housing Scheme on Monday, November3,2025.
The agency said reports from Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan, confirmed that at approximately 7:50 a.m., strong winds caused significant roof damage to six houses, affecting thirtyonepersons.
“Upon notification, the CDC deployed a team to conduct a rapid assessment of the impact. Emergency relief supplies, including
tarpaulins, food hampers, and cleaning supplies and roofing materials, were distributed to affected households to provide immediate assistance and temporarysheltersupport.
The Region Two administration,withsupport from the CDC, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the GuyanaPoliceForce(GPF), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative, and private sector partners, convened an emergency coordination meeting to organise response and recoveryefforts.”
ItsaidtheRDChassince mobilised public works and CIIPpersonneltoassistwith clearing debris and the c o m m e n c e m e n t o f
rebuildingworks,scheduled forTuesday,November4.
Further details from CDC said two individuals sustained minor injuries during the incident. Both received prompt medical attention at the Suddie Public Hospital and were later discharged in stable condition.
“CDC continues to monitorthesituationclosely and remains in contact with the regional administration to ensure that affected families receive the necessary support as they rebuild Residents are encouraged to remain alert during this rainy season and toreportanyemergenciesto the National Emergency MonitoringSystem(NEMS) on600-7500or226-1114.”
By Tracey Khan
From humble beginnings in Guyana to leading one of New York's fastest-growing home care agencies, Navin Shivpal is living proof that the American dream is stillwithinreachforthosewholead withpurpose.
Shivpal, a proud Guyanese immigrant, started Cottage Home Care Services just before the pandemic in a small Queens, New York office. Five years later, his agency now employs over 3,000
CEO
careg
ers, servesthousandsoffamiliesacross New York, and is expanding to several U.S. states, including New Jersey, Maryland, and Michigan, with plans to enter Delaware, St. Louis,andConnecticutnextyear Recently, Shivpal celebrated another milestone: the grand opening of Cottage Home Care's newestbranchonFlatbushAvenue in Brooklyn, a hub that not only provides quality care but also honours the Caribbean heritage of
the communities it serves “This isn't just about business,” Shivpal said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony “It's about helping humanity We're expandingacrossstatesnottomake a profit, but to give people opportunity, training, and stability.”
AMissionRootedin CompassionandCulture Under Shivpal's leadership, Cottage Home Care has become (Continuedonpage16)
Drug trafficking charges against Leon Nicholas were dismissed on Tuesday when the matter was called at the Diamond Magistrates' Court before Magistrate Judy Latchman.
Magistrate Latchman upheld submissions made by Nicholasthroughhisattorney, Siand Dhurjon, that the prosecutionfailedtoestablish that he possessed 67kg of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking The decision followedlengthyproceedings whichspannedovertwoyears atthecourt
According to the facts of the case, on September 1, 2023, police officers raided the A1 Nightclub and Bar located at Lot 19 Backroad, Soesdyke, East Bank
Demerara
round 10:00pm.Severalvanloadsof armed police acting on intelligence drove in to the compound and entered an apartment rented out by the former defendant through a window, where they discovered 6 69kg of cocaineinthetoiletarea Nicholaswaschargedwith possessionofnarcoticsforthe
purpose of trafficking
However, his lawyer argued thatthecocainewasnotfound in his presence and the premises was not under his control at the time. That person,whohadaccesstothe apartment, was never investigated.
Utility bills and a transport in the name of a third party were put in to evidence by Nicholas
Dhurjon thoroughly interrogatedthepoliceduring cross-examination where they were asked whether the search was done in Nicholas'
presence and whether he admittedtoowningtheillegal substance
Further, Nicholas elected to give sworn testimony and subjected himself to crossexamination by the prosecutor.
Under the Narcotics and Psychotrophic Substances ControlAct,wherethepolice discover any amount of cocaine above 2 grams, the lawpresumesthatthecocaine was held for the purpose of trafficking and the defendant has the burden of proving otherwisetotheCourt Bailis
The Guyana Water Inc. is preparing t o s p e n d approximately $258 million
to construct a single flat office at Annandale, East CoastDemerara. This is according to the
recent reading of bids at the office of the National Procurement and Tender AdministrationBoard.
Th
s newsp
r understandsthatatotalof15 contractors have bid for the project.
Below are the companies and their bids:
GuyanaWaterInc.
Construction of GWI single flat office building atAnnandale, East Coast Demerara.
Bidder Amount Tendered
Z&ZContractingServices
Maleya’sHomeFurnishing
Naven’sConstruction
QingjianGroupCompany(Guyana)Inc
SizesJacksonConsultancyService
IKhanContractingService
CuttingEnterprise
WellDrillingServicesInc
NextgenPrecisionBuilders
ConstructITInc
AvinashContracting&ScrapMetalInc
CompassIndustrialServices
RasheidConstruction
JDInvestmentsInc
KanukuBuilders&SuppliersContractors
$244,184,550
$265,005,846
$256,008,008
$404,431,149
$370,400,276
$248,134,740
$257,921,948
$352,405,111
$248,773,255
$353,308,221
$253,139,565
$252,840,000
$223,600,020
$310,851,860
$398,155,217
Engineer’s Estimate $258,350,904
InstallationoffiltertankatPouderoyenWaterTreatmentPlant.
Bidder Amount Tendered
EngineeringAgenciesCaribbean Limited
ManoharServices
SJagmohanConstruction& GeneralSupplies
CuttingEnterprise
NabiConstructionInc
CompassIndustrialServices
$132,902,620
$136,318,400
$146,950,000
$119,878,000
$115,641,017
$117,599,918
Engineer’s Estimate $119,058,500
Installation of filter tanks and pumps at SophiaWaterTreatment Plant.
Bidder Amount Tendered
SigmaEngineersLimitedInc
EverlastConstructionSolutions
EngineeringAgenciesCaribbean Limited
CuttingEnterprise
S JagmohanConstruction&General SuppliesInc
NabiConstructionInc
InnovativeEngineeringSolutions
CompassIndustrialServices
$448,026,750
$444,462,500
$496,761,103
$449,776,800
$557,961,000
$433,875,206
$697,741,000
$444,005,450
Engineer’s Estimate $454,748,000
Ministry of Education
Rehabilitation/ construction of water supply systems at schools in Regions Four, Five and Six.
Bidder Am ountTendered
Nicozy General Construction
Rajesh W oodworking & Construction Services
Lereg Engineering
$40,105,076
$40,810,308
$42,397,487
$34,078,000
Lot22
$43,847,025
Lot23 $43,847,025
Lot24 $43,847,025
Lot25 $44,947,025
Lot26 $44,947,025
Tony’s Construction Lot23
$35,441,120 Lot22 $37,013,020
JB & Brothers Construction$73,330,840
KKH Construction -
Orvin M angru Contracting ServicesPro Business -
M ark Desuza General Contracting Establishment
Engineer’s Estim ate Lot22
$45,539,230 Lot23
alsonottobegrantedinsuch cases unless special reasons existunderthatlegislation.
MagistrateLatchmanwas heavily influenced by the sworn testimony of the defendant and the submissions made by Dhurjon.Sheultimatelyruled that “Outside of finding Mr. Nicholas within the parameter of A1 Night Club and Banquet Hall, there is absolutely no evidence to establishthathehadcontrolof the cocaine There is no evidence to prove that he knew of the existence of the cocaine in Room 5. And in these circumstances, I find Mr LeonNicholasnotguilty
Night club operator, Leon Nicholas.
andthiscaseisdismissed.”
In an invited comment Nicholas thanked Magistrate Latchmanforherdedicationto carefully considering the evidence and for vindicating him Heextendedthankstohis attorneyforfaithfullystanding byhimandforinterveningin hiscasebyobtainingbailfrom theHighCourtforhimafterhe was remanded to prison for a lengthyperiodin2023
Pres. Ali demands bold, factdriven Parliament to deliver new era of development
PresidentDr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has challenged the 13th Parliament to rise to the moment and power Guyana into a future defined by innovation, accountability, an
development.
In an interview on Monday, President Ali described the National Assemblyasacriticalpillar of democracy and the engine that must drive the country's transformation overthenextfiveyears.
The President stated that the government's agenda for the new term is
, emphasising sustainable
modernisation.“Parliament playsanintegralroleinany democratic society It is where policies are tested a
w h e r e t h e representationofthepeople is given full meaning”, the Presidentsaid.
Dr Ali stated that the government's five-year p l a n e n v i s i o n s unprecedented expansion of infrastructure, housing, and social programmes, with a clear focus on inclusivity and national prosperity He said that his government'skeypriorities continue to be improving access to healthcare and education, creating new industries and jobs, expanding water supply, and diversifying the economy to enhance resilience and global competitiveness.
highlighted the importance of technology and digitisation in creating a 'new Guyana', which he sees as a progressive and globally connected nation. He also stated that the government wants to make thecountryaleaderinfood security, energy, climate resilience,andecotourism.
Dr Ali called on all parliamentarians, regardless of political allegiance, to engage constructively in debates that enrich Guyana's democracy and bolster the nation's social fabric. He expressed his hope for a parliament that is creative, innovative, and visionary, and for a government p u r s u i n g a b o l d developmentpath. “Iwish them well I wish the Parliamenteverysuccess.I wish to see robust debate, debate that is based on facts, debate that enriches what we do in Guyana, enriches our democracy”, hesaid.
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The head of state also stated that he will formally address Parliament in due course to outline the government's development roadmap to 2030. He explained how his administration plans to improve social equity and sustain stability amid rapid growthdrivenbytheoiland gas sector President Ali promised that this new session would herald a dynamicandproductiveera in Guyana's governance –one rooted in vision, accountability, and progress for everyone (DPI)
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One Communications has said that its fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) network now passes more than three-quarters of all households in Guyana. In a statement, the telecommunications company said that this achievement “cements the company’s position as the country’s largest and most advanced fibre network.”
“The latest expansion marks a major milestone in Guyana’s digital transformation, ensuring that residents, small businesses and large enterprises alike have access to world-class internet speed and reliability,” the statement said.
One Communications said that with more than 170, 000 homes and business establishments within reach of their fibre service, the continued build-out its network/ supports the government’s digital transformation agenda, one that/prioritises/nationwide connectivity, education access,/and/ICT-driven economic growth./
One Communications’ Chief Operations Officer, Eshwar/Thakurdin/commented, “Over the last two years, we have been focused on reducing disparities between urban and rural communities./Our priority was to connect more homes from the West Side, East Coast Demerara to Berbice, and down the East Bank Demerara to Linden.”
He added, “This new milestone is a significant increase from the 150,000 homes we reported in June 2023./The roll out of these last 20,000 premises has been challenging, but the team was commit-
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ted. For example, it took 15 weeks to aerially run 300Km of fibre.”
The company’s fibre expansion, which required an increased investment of US$10M over the last two years, has outpaced regional trends, positioning Guyana among the fastest rising broadband markets in the Caribbean, signaling a stepchange in the country’s digital readiness.
“We’ve built Guyana’s digital backbone” continued Thakurdin. “Our mission is simple: To keep Guyana connected to whatever is next. Whether it facilitates a global investor, a student in a remote classroom or a modern smart home, we can’t stress enough that fibre is the foundation for a more connected, competitive Guyana.”
The latest communities to/benefit/from One Communications’ ongoing expansion work during August to October 2025 are Look Out, Grove, Hyde Park, Hope, Two Friends, Ann’s Grove,/Bee Hive,/Clonbrook, Wisberg, Wisroc, Vriesland, Rosignol,
Shieldstown, One Mile, Wales, Goed Intent, Goode Ver Vagting, No2, D’Edward, Cotton Tree, Eldorado, Belladrum, Paradise, Golden Fleece, Weldaad, Canal#2, Bell West, No6-9, Blairmant, Balthyock, Zoorg en Hoop, Ithaca, and Bushlot.
Meanwhile, Hilton Wong, General Manager of One
Communications’ business arm Brava,/highlighted that entrepreneurs and small retailers are now better able to move their businesses online, improving access to customers and digital payment solutions. “Connectivity is the foundation of modern development. We want to lift/businesses/of all sizes, link teach-
ers and students, and equip the wider society to/participate/fully in the opportunities of the digital economy. This is about inclusion, empowerment, and national progress,” he said./
One Communications first rolled out fibre in Guyana in 2017, and more rollouts are planned for 2026.
From page 11 fact, the dengue EWS predictive models now form the basis of a web-based application hosted on a CARPHA-based server… to enhance regional surveillance and health data management systems. This represents a major milestone in our technical collaboration and a leap forward in regional capacity to anticipate and respond to climate-sensitive diseases,” Dr. Del Riego noted.
While explaining how EWS’s can assist a country in predicting events, Dr. Laura Lee Boodram, Head of the Caribbean Regional Field Epidemiology and Laboratory
Training Programme at CARPHA, noted that they must be both acceptable and credible.
“The alerts that these systems generate have to be timely and relevant. But they also have to be compatible with different decision-making protocols in countries. So, if the systems are showing a high-risk signal, that is, an outbreak or event is predicted response and action must follow established country mechanisms.
As technology advances and system accuracy increases, we want to be able to better pinpoint epidemic prone areas and the popula-
tions that are going to be at risk.
The key operating premise is, Early Warning for Early Action. By utilising systems such as these, Ministries of Health will be better prepared to mitigate the effects of climate change on both communicable and non-communicable diseases and conditions,” Dr. Boodram explained.
In addition, in Barbados, Grenada, and Saint Lucia, the development of National Health–Climate Bulletins is enhancing our ability to communicate actionable insights. These bulletins, supported by workshops that build cli-
mate literacy and communication capacity, are helping health professionals translate complex data into life-saving decisions.
This important work, as well as the updating of regional and national climate and health bulletins, have been accomplished with the assistance of key development partner, the European Union, through the EU/ CARIFORUM Climate Change and Health Project. In addition to Dr. Boodram the facilitators also included Adrian Trotman, Cedric Van Meerbeeck, Roche Mahon and Jodi-Ann Petrie of the CIMH.
Guyanese entrepreneur builds one of New Y Guyanese entrepreneur builds one of New Y Guyanese entrepreneur builds one of New Y
From page 14 known for blending compassion with cultural competence, an approach that resonates deeply in New York’s diverse neighbourhoods.
Chief Operating Officer, Nusrat Shova said the company’s training programs, the Brooklyn Institute of Vocational Training in Queens and the Care Guide Training Institute in Brooklyn, prepare aspiring home health aides for meaningful careers. “We started with three people, and now we’re one of the biggest,” Shova said. “But the goal has always been the same, to lift people through care and opportunity.”
Honoring Caribbean Excellence
The grand opening brought together elected officials, community leaders, and cultural advocates from across New York’s Caribbean diaspora for a day of celebration. Council Member Rita Joseph, who represents Flatbush, praised Cottage for its personalized, people-first approach.
“When it comes to home care, everything isn’t cookiecutter; it’s customized to the needs of the patient,” Joseph said.
Claire Patterson-Monah, Interim Executive Director of the Guyana Cultural Association of New York, highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in caregiving.
“When caregivers understand their clients’ favorite
foods, music, and traditions — from roti to reggae, it transforms the experience,” she said. “Culturally competent care brings comfort, joy, and connection.”
Deputy Brooklyn Borough President Kim Council called Cottage Home Care “a model of care with soul,” while State Senator Kevin Parker praised its expansion as “an investment in health, community, and self-reliance.”
“You’re not just creating an entity,” Parker said.
“You’re doing God’s work.”
Building Opportunity and Legacy Branch Manager Sharmella Persaud, also of Caribbean descent, said Shivpal’s success has inspired many immigrant work-
ers to pursue leadership in healthcare.
“Many of us are immigrants and see him as a role model,” she said. “He built this company from scratch in just five years, and he’s never forgotten where he came from.”
The ceremony concluded with performances by Caribbean entertainers Michael Ignatius and Fiona Singh, who brought the celebration to life through music, dance, and cultural pride.
For Shivpal, Cottage Home Care’s growth is not just a business achievement; it’s a calling. “This is more than home care,” he said. “It’s about building trust, honouring heritage, and taking care of our own.”
Followinguponhisvow tomakeGeorgetown“oneof the most beautiful cities in the region,” President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Tuesdayannouncedthestart of wide-scale consultations
on a new “Drainage DevelopmentPlan”aimedat rescuing the capital from its long-sufferingfloodwoes.
The once-celebrated “GardenCity”hasbecomea swamp after every downpour,andPresidentAli saystimehasrunoutforthe city's dilapidated, clogged, and outdated drainage system.
During a meeting with ministers and technical officials at the Office of the President on Tuesday, the president said that public consultations will continue for three weeks across variouswardsofthecity,and willeventuallyincludeother urbanareas.
The consultations are intendedtoengageresidents, businesses, and other stakeholders on the design and implementation of the
president's bold plan, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported. President Ali explained that the consultations mark the firstphaseofalarger,multi-
TheGuyanaPoliceForce has launched a full investigation into a deadly motorcycle-motorcar collision that claimed the lives of two young men at Kara Kara, Linden on Mondaynight.
Dead are 19-year-old Latrel Whinfield of Wisroc HousingScheme—therider of motorcycle CP 6912 — andhispillion,studentIsaiah Richards, whose age and a d d r e s s r e m a i n unconfirmed.
In a statement, the Guyana Police Force said it is investigating the fatal accident which occurred on Monday November 3, 2025 about 20:30hrs at the intersection of Practor Road and Kara Kara Public Road, Linden The accident involved motorcycle # CP 6912 and motor car # PAE 7246, which was being driven by a 45-year-old excavator operator of Central Amelia's Ward, Linden The collision resulted in the deaths of Latrel Whinfield, 19, an operator of Wisroc Housing Scheme,Linden,theriderof the motorcycle and Isaiah Richards, a student, age and address unknown at this time,thepillionrider
P r e l i m i n a r y investigations revealed that motorcycle # CP 6912 was proceeding east along the Kara Kara Public Road at a fast rate of speed when it collidedwiththerightsideof
motorcar#PAE7246which wasatthetimeturningnorth onto Proctor Road The impactcausedboththerider andpillionridertobethrown onto the roadway, resulting insevereinjuries.
The rider and pillion rider were picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex where they were pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty Their bodieswerelaterescortedto the Gjetsco Funeral Home Mortuary for storage, pending post-mortem examinations.
Both vehicles were lodged at the Mackenzie
Police Station for examination.CCTVfootage from the area will be reviewed to assist the investigation while the driver of the motor car remainsinpolicecustodyas investigationscontinue.
On Sunday, Kaieteur News reported that a former student of the Ann's Grove Secondary School was on Saturday killed during a collision with a truck at Belfield, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The teen has been identified as 17year-old Laron Harris of Douchfour,ECD.Policesaid that the accident occurred at about14:15hontheBelfield Public Road, ECD and involved a truck driven by a 33-year-old man from Alberttown, Georgetown andHarriswhowasdrivinga
motorcyclewith registration numberCG5938.Hisfriend, thepillionrider,identifiedas Josiah Abrams was injured. “Preliminary investigations revealedthatthemotorlorry was proceeding west along the southern driving lane while the motorcycle was proceeding east along the northern driving lane at an alleged fast rate of speed. It is reported that the motorcyclist swerved to avoid two animals (goats), ontheroadwayandcollided head-onwiththelorrywhich was proceeding in the opposite direction,” police said.
Across Region Two in Essequibo, an 18-year-old pillion rider was killed last Thursday, after the motorcyclehewastravelling on crashed into a stray cow along the Danielstown Public Road, Essequibo Coast, Region Two. Police had said that enquiries revealedthatthemotorcycle was proceeding south along the Danielstown Public Roadwhenitcollidedwitha stray cow which was crossingtheroadway Police said both occupants were thrown onto the surface of the road, receiving injuries about their bodies. The two youngmenweretakentothe Lima Regional Hospital, where Rodriguez was pronounced dead on arrival. The biker was admitted to the hospital under police guard.
agency initiative to improve Georgetown's drainage capacity and strengthen its resilience against flooding. “I had committed to putting togetherateamtolookatthe drainage system of Georgetown, to do a rapid assessment, review all existing studies, and come up with a comprehensive development plan followed by an implementation schedule”, President Ali stated According to President Ali, the plan will feature immediate, shortterm, and medium-term investments to improve and expand Georgetown's drainagecapacity
The initiative will address increased rainfall andfloodingconcernsandis designed with the city's physical and economic expansion in mind. “This plan will improve the city's capability to deal with other integrated issues such as p a r k i n g , r o a d w a y e
” , the presidentexplained.
President Ali noted that the government is using a wide array of technology in order to accurately map the entire drainage network of the city “We are creating a modern schematic of Georgetown's drainage system using satellite imagery, LiDAR data, and other digital tools to ensure optimal solutions for every drainage channel, primary, secondary,andtertiary”.
Aconditionsurveyofthe city's drains, outfalls, and pump stations has already been completed The findings will inform the development of new pumping infrastructure, maintenance schedules, and design improvements for existingsystems.
The first phase of implementation will commencewiththeclearing and cleaning of park parapetsacrossGeorgetown, manyofwhichhavebecome
encumbered by vegetation andillegalstructures.
Meanwhile, President Aliurgedresidents,property owners, and businesses to cooperate fully with the technical teams during this phase “While we understandthattheremaybe some inconvenience, this work is necessary for the health and well-being of the city,” he stated, before stating that, “A cleaner, better-drainedcityimproves safety, protects properties fromflooding,andincreases propertyvalues”.
The president also highlightedthattheinitiative aligns with Guyana's Low Carbon Development Strategy(LCDS),notingthat efficient urban drainage systems are an integral part of sustainable urban planning. In addition, the gove
nment plans to modernise the city's sewer systemincollaborationwith Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), which is developing a new sewage treatment system for Georgetown “This is part of the broader 'Rescuing Georgetown' and City Revival Plan, reviving the capital, improving its drainage, sanitation, and overall aesthetics,” the presidentaffirmed.
President Ali assured citizens that visible works will commence before the endoftheyearandurgedall stakeholders to treat the processasacollectiveeffort to create “a healthier, safer, and more resilient Georgetown.”“Thisisnotto create tension. This is to create an opportunity for better living, for a city that wecanallbeproudof.”
A contractor attempting to move a mobile policeoutpostcausedsignificantdamagetoone of the major transmission lines linking the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) KingstonandSophiaSubstationsonTuesday
According to a press statement from GPL, “irresponsible activities have resulted in an explosion and widespread outage inconveniencingthousandsofcustomers.”
GPL reminded all individuals and contractors that work or movement of equipment near the company's network infrastructure without prior authorization from GPL is unsafe and poses a serious threat to publicsafetyandelectricitysupply
Thepowercompanysaidtoothatitistaking the matter seriously and will pursue all applicable legal actions against those responsibleforTuesday'sincident.
The mobile police outpost hoisted by the contractor that caused the power outage.
Heavy machinery from Egypt continues to search for the bodies of Israeli captives along Baghdad Street in the Shujayea neighborhood under the supervision of ICRC and Qassam Brigades teams during the ceasefire between the Israeli army and Hamas in Gaza on November 3, 2025 [Khames Alrefi/Anadolu]
(AL-JAZEERA)Hamas has turned over another body of a deceased IsraelicaptivetoIsrael,asit continuestosearchforthose thatremain.
Constant Israeli artillery shelling witnessed in southern Gaza while farms and houses being destroyed ineasternpartsofGazaCity, report our colleagues on the ground.
Aceasefirewasagreedto endthewar,butthathasnot stopped Israel from attacking.OnSunday,anair attack killed four people. A few days before that, last Friday,anotherIsraelistrike killedamanonamotorbike. And on October 17 Israeli warplaneskilledatleastone person.
None of these attacks were in Gaza – where Israel hasalsospentthefewweeks since a ceasefire began on October 10 conducting attacks, many of them far more deadly than those describedabove.
Instead, the attacks mentioned were conducted by Israel in Lebanon, and comeayearafteraceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah began Yet, despite that ceasefire, Israel has continued to attack sites acrossLebanonperiodically, much to the anger of the Lebanese people and government.
Instead the attacks mentioned were conducted by Israel in Lebanon, and comeayearafteraceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah began Yet, despite that ceasefire, Israel has continued to attack sites acrossLebanonperiodically, much to the anger of the Lebanese people and government.
Israel argues that it has the right to conduct attacks in Lebanon it believes are necessary until Hezbollah fully disarms, even if a ceasefire is officially in place.
And analysts say the attacks in Gaza since the latest ceasefire, which have so far killed at least 236 Palestinians and wounded another 600, are evidence thatIsraelisimplementinga policy of “Lebanonising” Gaza – officially ending the war,butusingitsfarsuperior military strength to give it the right to conduct attacks whenever it wants for an indefiniteperiod.
“They [Israelis] don’t wanttoresolvetheconflict,” RobGeistPinfold,ascholar of international security at King’sCollegeLondon,told Al Jazeera. “War is the new norm.”
Post-October 7 attacks reality
Before Israel’s war on Gaza began on October 7, 2023, groups like Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon were believed to have a degree of deterrence againstIsraeliaggression.
“Before October 7 [2023], there was the belief thatIsraelcannothavealong or prolonged war,” Pinfold said “Its economy and society meant it was a country that wouldn’t be abletofunction.”
However, since the October7attacksbyHamas and other Palestinian groups, which killed 1,139 people in Israel and took morethan200captive,Israel has embarked on a forever war, attacking various targets around the Middle
East even after coming to ceasefireagreements.
The most obvious example has been Lebanon, where despite a ceasefire agreement implemented on November 27, 2024, Israel repeatedly violated the agreement by continuing its attacks.
P r i m e M i n i s t e r Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Sunday that the Israeli military could press ahead with further action if the Lebanese government did not do more to disarm Hezbollah, which was severely weakened in the war with Israel, most notably losing its longtime leaderHassanNasrallah.
“We will not allow Lebanon to become a renewed front against us, and we will act as necessary,” he said, according to a statement issued by Netanyahu’s office.
Thethreatshaveledtoa sense of trepidation among manyinLebanon,whofeara return to the widespread attacks across the country prior to the first anniversary of the ceasefire. However, for many in the country, particularly those in the south, where air raids and other attacks have been persistent over the last year, the ceasefire has never been implementedproperly
“This war is always here,” Abbas Fakih, a Lebanesejournalistfromthe southern city of Nabatieh, toldAlJazeera.
“Ifyouarefromaborder village, you cannot visit [it] becauseyouwillbetargeted. Anyone can be targeted at anytime.”
Parliament was duly convened on Monday, but the re-elected Speaker, Manzoor Nadir did not summon a meeting of the opposition MPs for them to elect a Leader of the Opposition as per the constitution.
This delay is not a harmless administrative hiccup, it is a direct affront to Guyana's Constitution and the principles that safeguard our democracy. The Leader of the Opposition is not a ceremonial accessory to the government of the day. It is a constitutional office with critical responsibilities: holding the Executive accountable, representing nearly half the electorate, and ensuring balance in national decision-making.
To subject that process to political gamesmanship or the whims of those in government is patently unfair and dangerously disrespectful, not only to Opposition M s but to every Guyanese citizen who expects proper governance. The Speaker of the National Assembly must never be reduced to a tool manipulated by those who benefit from delay.
This is not an isolated incident. In Region 10, the refusal of the REO to reconvene a statutory meeting to elect a Chair and Vice Chair reflects the same creeping authoritarian instinct to undermine the rules, then pretend it is business as usual.
Guyanese must reject this overreach. Silence now will only embolden those who believe democracy is theirs to ration. Where accountability is delayed, dictatorship is empowered.
RIYADH, (Reuters) -
Defending champion Coco Gauff put on a clinical performancetobeatJasmine Paolini 6-3 6-2 and eliminate the Italian as she registeredherfirstwinatthe WTAFinalsonTuesday
The 21-year-old, who made 17 double faults when she lost to fellow American Jessica Pegula in her first game in Group Steffi Graf on
Sunday, committed only threedoublefaultsthistime as she dominated the eighth seed.
“I knew today’s win was important to keep m y s e l f i n t h e tournament If I lost, I would have been out,” world number three Gauff said
The American took just over 10 minutes to build a 3-0 lead in thefirst set before Paolini went throughanine-minutebattle tofendoffthreebreakpoints andwinherfirstgame.
ARIES(Mar 21–Apr 19)
Tension may arise today, Aries.It'spossiblethatyou're either too dreamy or too practical to deal effectively with the issue. It's important to strike a balance The toughest part will be finding otherswhoagreewithyou.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Yesterday's trajectory may runintotroubletoday,Taurus. Your intrinsically dreamy nature is dragging down the action you initiated This conflict could create tension that will be difficult to resolve.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Try to align your mind with youremotionstoday,Gemini. It's possible that a powerful yet subtle force is slowly pullingyouofftrack.
CANCER(June21–July22)
An emotional issue could be rubbing you the wrong way, Cancer Your impulse is to escape. Try to do so in a healthy manner Go see a movie or read a book. Don't fall prey to the temptation to indulgeinalcoholorfood.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Yourartisticsidewantstotake to the airwaves in some way, Leo Perhaps you should considerbuildingawebsiteor becomingacommentatorona localradioshow
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
It may be apparent that what was so light and active yesterday is running into a few roadblocks today, Virgo. You're suddenly heading into a brick wall with some of the projects you've been working on.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
There may be dreaminess about your emotions today, Scorpio,whichcouldkeepyou from focusing on the task at hand. The aspects dictate that people may be stubborn and confused-andyou'relikelyto beoneofthem.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)
Little voices whisper in your ear and ask you to take flight and join them in the clouds, Sagittarius There's tension between what your heart and mind tell you. They're pulling you in very different directions.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)
Recentspiritualbreakthroughs might have you feeling both exhilarated and downcast, Scorpio. Your sensitive side tells you that this is a definite step forward on your spiritual path.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Something or someone may prod you to take action today, Capricorn. It may be best if you beat them to it and motivateyourself.Breakaway fromtheherdandgowherever youwanttogo.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20–Feb 18) You might experience a great deal of emotional confusion,Aquarius.There'sa debatebrewinginsideyou,and you're having a hard time deciding whether to be practicalormorefanciful.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar 20)
It will be a challenge to keep youremotionsonanevenkeel today,Pisces.Conflictmaybe brewing and you might fear it could get out of hand Everythingwillworkout.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) in collaboration with the Guyana Darts Association (GDA) will stage a Darts CampstartingSaturdayfor youthsaged10to17years.
The venue is the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC)atThomaslandsand the event will be held on November 8, 15 and 22 between the hours of 9:00 and 12:00. Registration is free and contact can be madewithNatashaon6107781andorAdrianon6499955.
The programme is
Paolini got a break but Gauff drew the Italian into backhand rallies and won points with precise cross-court shots to claim thenextgameandtakea5-3 lead before holding to win theset.
The French Open champion’s strategy of making Paolini run constantly from one side of court to the other paid off again when Gauff got backto-back breaks to go 5-2 up inthesecond.
She secured victory with a powerful serve that Paolini could only hit into thenet.
“I thought I served smart I don’t think Jasmine was a 100% today,”Gauffadded.
Top seed Aryna SabalenkafacesPegulalater on Tuesday in Group Steffi Graf.
Frompage27 generation of squash champions.
TheSquashAssociation extends heartfelt thanks to the Ramesh Sunich and Trophy Stall for their generous support and look forward to them partnering with them again in the future. Their commitment to sport and community development continues to uplift Guyana’s squash family and empower our youth.
Join us on the final day for a lively fundraiser BBQ in support of youth squash programmes Enjoy delicious food, music, and the thrill of championship matchesaswecelebratethe closeofwhatpromisestobe anexcitingtournament.
Contact any member of theGSAboardfortickets.
aimedatteachingthegame ofDartstoyoungpeoplein a fun atmosphere that encourages skill building and Maths-friendly competition. Prizes will be available for the outstandingperformersand light refreshments will be served.
Youngsters interested in learning the game of darts can register at the earliest opportunity at the abovelistednumbers. The GDAwill be providing the necessary equipment and their personnel will be on handtoteachthestudents.
Priyanna Ramdhani advanced to two finals.
PriyannaRamdhani has advanced to two finals — the Women’sSinglesFinalsand theWomen’sDoublesFinals alongside Chequeda de Boulet (Trinidad & Tobago) at the Senior Badminton Championship 2025 being staged in Trinidad and Tobago.
Yesterday, she faced Trinidad & Tobago in the Women’sSinglesFinalsand teamedupwithChequedato
takeonBarbados&Trinidad & Tobago in the Women’s DoublesFinals.
Meanwhile, Akili Haynesputupastrongfight but fell short in the Men’s Singles Semi-Finals against Trinidad, earning a bronze medal.
In addition, Priyanna Ramdhani & Akili Haynes also secured bronze in the Mixed Doubles Semi-Finals after a hard-fought match againstJamaica.
Frompage26 out St. Rose’s High in the thrilling final of the School BoysChallengeTrophy,also playedatDurbanPark.
Batting first, Covent Gardenposted47for5from their allotted overs, thanks to a steady 19-run contribution from Vinesh Latpoo St Rose’s bowler Ezekiel Ramnauth was outstanding with the ball, finishing with figures of 3 wickets for 6 runs in his singleover
Inreply,St.Rose’sHigh came close but ultimately
fellshort,managing45for6 when their overs expired. Joshua Sharma top-scored with 20, while Michael Singhbowledeffectivelyfor Covent Garden, returning 2 for8tohelpsecurethewin.
The narrow two-run victory sealed Covent G a r d e n ’ s s e c o n d consecutive championship inaweek.Coachandplayers alikeexpressedjoyandpride in their accomplishment, promising to continue raising the bar for youth cricket at the secondary schoollevel.
Frompage25 (GBF) President Michael Singh said he was pleased with the update, expressing full confidence that the government will deliver a championship-readyarena.
“This tournament is historic it’s been over three decades since we last hosted it. We want to make sure every game, every possession, and every fan experience counts The Ministry’s support gives us confidencethatwe’llputon a show worthy of FIBA standards,”Singhnoted.
Singh added that the GBF is working overtime both on and off the court, tightening logistics, finalizing rosters, and
ensuring that a formidable home team prepared to representGuyana. The GBF sees this tournament as a stepping stone for the men’s CBC tournament in 2026, which was not conducted since Guyana won in 2018. Some CBCmen’srostersboastsalot of NBA talent, and such a tournament would catapult Guyanaasahotspotforsports tourism and tournaments,” Singh highlighted Guyana will tip off their campaign against The Bahamas on November 12 at 8:30 pm, before facing the Virgin Islands (Nov 13), Suriname (Nov15),andJamaica(Nov 16),allattheCliffAnderson SportsHall.
The FlyingAce Cycling Club(FACC)ofBerbicewill on Sunday November 9th will be staging the second annual Mayoral cycle road racearoundthetownofNew Amsterdam.
The 8 laps event, which willbeginatEsplanadePark from13:00hrs,ispartofthe town of New Amsterdam 134th Anniversary and the municipality Town Day celebrations.
The event is open to all cyclists in Regions 5 and 6. The riders will be led by Mayor Wainwright McIntoshastheygoforone laparoundthetown.
Immediately after that the riders will be sent on their way by the Mayor as theypedaloffatthejunction ofMainandVryheidRoad.
The peloton will then proceed along Main Street through Stanleytown, turn left into Tacama Turn along Republic Road, left into Vryheid Street then left into Main Road for 8 laps to finish at Republic Road and Charlesplace.
All the top cyclists in Berbice are expected to be on show. There are several prizes at stake including
In picture coordinator and veteran coach Randolph Roberts receives a cheque from Naiomi Romney of 4S Security Service and Building Enterprises.
cash, trophies and other memorabilia.The first three finishers will be rewarded along with the top three veteran’s first two juniors andfirsttwobeginners.
There are also six sprint pointprizesupforgrabs.
Mayor Mc Intosh and staffwillbeonhandtoassist with the distribution of prizesattheendoftheevent. Meanwhile,anumberof businesses have donated cash and other essentials towards making the event a success, including Mayor Mc Intosh himself, Banks
DIH Limited, Naiomi Romney the Assistant Secretary of 4S Security Service and Building Enterprises, A. Ally’s and Sons business enterprise, Jermin Bagot from J.G. Bagot&TrimContracting& Real Estate Company, Home design &Associates, Franco Crawford Trucking
Service, Regional
Democratic Council Region 6 and other members of the businesscommunity
The coordinator is veteran coach Randolph Roberts. (SamuelWhyte)
With the countdown on to the November 12 tip-off of the FIBA Women’s Caribbean Championship, MinisterwithintheMinistry ofCulture,YouthandSport, Steven Jacobs, has assured that the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall will be “gameready” well before the openingjumpball.
The championship, making its return to Guyana forthefirsttimesince1994, willseeGuyanagoingheadto-head with Suriname, Jamaica, the Virgin Islands, and The Bahamas from November 12–16, with the topthreeteamsadvancingto the2026CentroBasket.
“The sports hall is coming along very nicely,
works have already started everything is in place basically, we’re working very hard, ”
Minister Steven Jacobs
Minister Jacobs told the media on the sidelines of another engagement at the Ministry of Culture, Youth andSport,yesterday. A recent inspection by FIBA’s technical officials identified key areas that required upgrades to meet international standards, and according to Jacobs, those adjustments are already in
play
Minister Jacobs pointed outthatfacilitatingtheFIBA Women’s Caribbean Championship is important, noting that, “Guyana is a sportingdestination,andfor that to happen, the facilities will have to be in order and have a very good maintenance programme in place,sowe’reworkingvery hard on that and the Sports Hallwillbeready.”
Jacobs, the former national cricketer turned Government Minister, also highlightedthatanexpanded parking area is being developed at the rear of the facility, with a new access pointfromHadfieldStreetto improve the fan experience andtrafficflow
Meanwhile, Guyana BasketballFederation
(Continuedonpage24)
C o v e n t G a r d e n SecondarySchoolcontinued their impressive dominance onthelocalTapeballcricket scene, capturing back-toback national secondary school titles in just over a week.
y, defeatingSt.JosephHighin thefinalsattheDurbanPark tarmac.Theirvictoryearned
championship trophy but
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, Covent Garden claimed the Holy Family B
reaffirmingtheirstatusasthe
nationwide.
Barely a week later, on Sunday, November 2, 2025, Covent Garden proved their mettleonceagain,edging (Continuedonpage24)
Th e h i g h l y anticipated KFC
International
Goodwill Secondary School Football Tournament has receivedamajorboostahead of its 2025 edition, as the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports announced a $3 million partnership with the Petra Organisation to support the staging of the event.
The announcement was made yesterday during a presentation ceremony held attheMinistry’sBoardroom, where Minister of Sport Charles Ramson Jr. and MinisterwithintheMinistry StevenJacobsmetwithPetra
Co-
Directors Troy Mendonca and Dr Marlan Cole.
The partnership u n d e r s c o r e s t h e government’s ongoing commitment to youth and community development
through sport The Ministry’s investment will help cushion operational costs for what has become one of the premier youth football tournaments in the Caribbean.
Minister Ramson, in his remarks, praised the Petra
Organisation for its continuedroleindeveloping
grassroots football in Guyana.
“The Ministry and Petra Organisationhavehadavery strong relationship, so I knowoftheirorganizational capability and the quality of this tournament,” Minister Ramsonsaid.
“Overthepastfiveyears, sportshaveseenadeclinein p
c
c a l advancements.When young people are distracted, the pooloftalentshrinks.That’s why it’s important for us to be involved in youth sport, particularly at the school level ” Ramson further
emphasized the importance of sustaining Guyana’s role as the consistent host of the tournament.
“The success of this tournamentspeaksforitself. Our involvement here is to secure Guyana’s consistent hosting of this event. We want to build it into a true regional Secondary Schools Championshiptournament.”
The 2025 edition of the KFC Goodwill Series is already shaping up to be the biggest yet This year’s competition will feature eight teams from across the region, including Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago,Jamaica,andforthe
The Guyana Squash Association has announced its upcoming Skill-Level
Squash Tournam
n
, sponsored by Trophy Stall. This six-day celebration of athleticism,community,and youth development will run fromTuesday4thtoSunday
Approximately 40 players across all skill levels will compete in a spirited showcaseofsquash.
Theeventwillbeheld:4th - 6th Nov Days 1–3: National Racquet Centre, WoolfordAvenue, and-7th-9thNovDays 4–6: Georgetown Club Courts,CampStreet.
Spectators are invited to attend throughout the week to cheer on
first time, Brazil and the Bahamas.
Three local schools will represent Guyana, including Chase’s Academic Foundation, the defending champions who earned automatic qualification following their impressive victoryinthe2024edition.
The tournament,
scheduled to kick off in December, will adopt a round-robin format, giving young footballers a chance to showcase their skills and earn regional recognition in one of the Caribbean’s most r e p u t a b l e s c h o o l competitions.
Minister Jacobs echoed his colleague’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships between government and privateentitiesinpromoting sport.
“It is important to have these private-corporate partnerships. It’s about creating opportunities for our young sportsmen, particularly in football,” Jacobssaid.
“We at the Ministry understand the level of commitmentrequiredtohost regional tournaments, and that’s why we’ve extended our reach to Petra. Their consistencyinhostingyouth
football events has been remarkable, and we will continue to support their efforts.”
He also commended the Ministry’s leadership under Ministe
on for prioritizing investments in youth development and sport.
“From a government
initiatives like this and wish Petra every success in their futureendeavors.”
For nearly two decades, the Petra Organisation has beenattheforefrontofyouth
grassroots tournaments and fostering pathways for young talent With the Ministry of Sports now on board, both entities are poised to elevate the KFC Goodwill Series into one of the premier school football championshipsintheregion.
On-going work at the CliffAnderson Sports Hall ahead of the FIBAWomen’s Caribbean Championship.
