Kaieteur News

Palestinian infant freezes to death in Gaza as Israel keeps blocking aid

December 17, 2025 - Vol. 20 No. 50

Online readership

- Winter cold 'becomes lethal' as Israel restricts entry of tents, blankets and other shelter supplies to ravaged enclave

yesterday, 41,760

Kanapang Village sues State over detention of 27 Brazilian miners [File: by Jim Watson and Federico Parra/AFP]

Prosecution requests Trump orders ‘total’ blockade of paper committal sanctioned Venezuela oil tankers for deadly gas The order comes a week after the U.S. military station bombing seized an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast.

21 WIN tables motion to increase private sector minimum wage to $100k U.S. military kills 8 in latest attacks on vessels in Eastern Pacific U.S. President Donald Trump

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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Rising debt servicing crowds out social spending across Latin America and the Caribbean – ECLAC

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Exxon to conduct seismic survey on T&T ultra-deepwater block in Feb. 2026

For illustration purposes only Boundaries and locations are approximate for general information

An illustration of the Block UD-1 (The Energy Chamber Trinidad and Tobago image)

American oil major ExxonMobil Corporation is expected to begin seismic acquisition on Trinidad and Tobago’s Ultra Deep 1 (TTUD-1) block in February 2026, according to that country’s Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the ministry said ExxonMobil has selected a seismic acquisition vendor and confirmed that operations for the newly awarded ultra-deepwater block are on schedule. The anticipated “first shot” window is projected for February 2026, about six months after the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) was signed in August 2025.

The update was provided during a meeting between T&T government officials and a high-level delegation from the U.S. Embassy and ExxonMobil.

Those present at the meeting were: Dr. Roodal Moonilal, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Ernesto Kesar, Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries, Karinsa Tulsie, Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries and Terrance Ali, Senior Continued on page 3

Wednesday December 17, 2025

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WIN tables motion to increase private sector minimum wage to $100k The leading parliamentary opposition party We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) has submitted a motion that seeks to increase the minimum wage of private sector employees from the current $60,000 monthly to $100,000.

The motion was submitted by WIN’s prime ministerial candidate and member of parliament (MP) Ta b i t h a S a r a b o - H a l l e y o n December 5, 2025 to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs.

Her motion also aims to ensure that the “relevant Parliamentary Sectoral Committee (s)” meet to assess the economic and social impact on private sector employees earning the current $60,000 national minimum wage against the current Consumer Price Index.

Sarabo-Halley’s motion states that the Labour Act, Cap. 98:01, provides for the establishment of minimum wages and empowers the minister responsible for labour to prescribe minimum wage rates by order.

In building her case, she points out that the cost-of-living in

Exxon to conduct...

From page 2 Chemical Engineer (Ag.), Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries.

E x x o n M o b i l ’s d e l e g a t i o n included Paul Riley, South America Exploration Manager; Gboyega Ayeni, Upstream Commercial Manager; and retired Ambassador Craig Kelly, Senior Director for International Government Relations. The U.S. Embassy was represented by Chargé d’Affaires and Deputy Chief of Mission Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz and Charlie J. Franta III. TTUD-1 was awarded to ExxonMobil earlier this year and comprises a consolidation of seven ultra-deepwater blocks.

The Energy Ministers reiterated the Government’s commitment to support the project by optimising the necessary permitting and approvals processes, ensuring that there are minimal delays on the State’s end as it pertains to achieving the accelerated timeline for the execution of the minimum work committed by ExxonMobil.

Further, the Energy Ministers and the officials from the U.S. Embassy took the opportunity to reaffirm mutual commitment to the collaboration between T&T and the United States of America, particularly as it relates to energy sector matters.

Notably, it was also stated that all parties remain committed to the accelerated and successful development of TTUD1, committing to continued open dialogue and communication.

Guyana has increased significantly over the last five years, causing severe financial pressure on workers in both the public and private sectors.

The MP therefore stated that the current national minimum wage as is detailed in Order 20 of 2022 does not adequately reflect the economic realities facing thousands of Guyanese households in 2025, especially those on the lower scale in the private sector.

“The current Consumer Price Index and Food Inflation has rendered Order 20 of 2022 obsolete, given what is required for a basic family unit to live outside of the poverty line…part of the responsibility of the National Assembly is to protect the welfare of all citizens by ensuring that

financial and economic policies (via acts, regulations, orders etc.) optimize the standard of living for the working population,” the MP reasoned.

The former Minister of Public Service therefore called on the government of Guyana to ensure that the national minimum wage for public servants be increased to $100,000 per month by the earliest practicable.

In this year’s Mid-Year Report, the GoG reported an increase in food prices during the first six months of 2025.

At the end of June 2025, Guyana’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) climbed 2.9% compared to the end of 2024 with food costs almost entirely to blame.

While gasoline, diesel, and

kerosene prices plunged easing pressure on transportation and businesses the savings at the pump were not enough to offset soaring food bills. Kaieteur News reported that fuel prices dropped sharply in the first six months of the year: Gasoline: 20.9%; diesel: 32.8% and kerosene: 34%.

These declines contributed -0.2 percentage points to inflation, a direct boost to household budgets.

But higher food prices alone added 2.9 percentage points, wiping out the relief, according to the MidYear report.

Families, especially those with single parents have been struggling to survive on the high food bill with other expenses, such as transportation remained high despite the reduction in fuel prices.

WIN’s Prime Ministerial Candidate and Member of Parliament (MP), Tabitha Sarabo-Halley

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor-in-Chief: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

OMAI and Guyana's politics Guyana is such a democracy that anyone from anywhere feels free to come here and have their say on its politics.

They give themselves licence to enter into the fray and take a stand in Guyana's nasty, divisive politics. Which foreign company, foreign investor presence in Guyana, would be comfortable doing so, and not caring about the appearance of their posture, however benign, however nuanced, it is made to be? OMAI Gold Mines Corp., (OMAI) through its Chief Executive Officer, Elaine Ellingham, recently threw caution to the winds and dipped her toe into Guyana's politics, and on the side of the Irfaan Ali-spearheaded People's Progressive Party. She wasn't the first, and the odds are that she will not be the last.

Ellingham may think that she is sophisticated and her words had all the suppleness of a veteran diplomat. But there can be no doubt that what she came out and said on behalf of OMAI has the strong taint of going too far in Guyana's ugly politics. “I was very confident because I mean, I think you've probably noticed President Irfaan Ali gets quite a bit of profile on the international stage because of the oil and gas business, but he's a very impressive guy.” To her credit, she waited until after the elections to publish what can only be interpreted as slick and self-serving corporate public relations at its best. The other side of that is that many would be on solid grounds to conclude that what Ms. Ellingham said qualified as calculating company propaganda, political fawning for profit purposes. The standard is that when in Rome do as the Romans do. Neither Ellingham nor OMAI is Roman, as far as we can determine, but there was her imitation.

What's next for OMAI and Ellingham, a red mascot, a cup for a logo, running around and running off at the mouth selling One Guyana, on behalf of the PPPC Government, and President Ali, whom she admires so much? Ellingham is in good company, because if Guyanese can recall, it was Hess Corp's CEO, John Hess, who couldn't help himself from shouting to the skies about how great Guyana's democracy is. So great that some senior figure in the same PPPC apparatus could 'guarantee' a judicial decision before the presiding judge or higher court had arrived at a ruling. For its part, the much savvier ExxonMobil and its man-of-theworld Country Head in Guyana, Alistair Routledge, were far more wary of publicly coming out on one side or another in Guyana's dirty, bitterly polarized politics. Not even a quick snippet on elections, before or after, because Routledge was smart enough to navigate around that, not touch that with a ten-foot pole. Routledge may be many things that are detrimental to the interests of Guyanese, but he will not do a single thing that could be to the later detriment of ExxonMobil. Not even by a seeming slip of the tongue, not even in his sleep.

But OMAI's Elaine Ellingham did that with her eyes wide open, and with words to match. However subtle (and it wasn't), and however sideways (and it wasn't) what Ellingham delivered in the public domain had all the elements of an audible and vigorous endorsement of the PPPC. What the US Ambassador in Guyana, Excellency Nicole D. Theriot, did not go near, at any time, Ellingham was bold enough shrug off and go there. Into Guyana's politics, taking the PPPC's side as the best possible government for Guyana. We assert that her corporate love song dedicated to President Irfaan Ali stands as the essence of a full-fledged commercial and endorsement of the PPPC. Almost half of this oil rich and gold rich country is hungry to some extent, and Ellingham pretended that's nonexistent.

Almost half of this country's electorate harbours the worst sentiments about the PPPC leadership, and that is of no standing to Ellingham. So long as the wheels are greased with cheap contracts and a free hand to enrich themselves, the Ali-spearheaded PPPC is the best. Today it is OMAI and Ellingham, tomorrow there could be more like her coming out of the corporate closet and jumping feetfirst into Guyana's politics for the PPPC.

Cash grant needs parliamentary approval Dear Editor, Greetings, citizens! It is with a profound sense of bureaucratic awe and a dash of theatrical despair that I must address you today regarding the state of our national affairs. I write concerning two pillars of our democracy: Money and voice. Specifically, the fascinating dance between them—or perhaps more accurately, the elaborate tango where one partner is dancing with a vault of cash while the other is locked in a soundproof booth.

The Sanctity of the Purse Let it be known, shouted from the rooftops of every minibus, and etched into every cook-up pot: Cash grants require parliamentary approval! This is not a suggestion, a friendly guideline, or a matter of discretionary kindness. It is the bedrock of fiscal responsibility, a sacred covenant between the treasury and the people's representatives. No executive, however benevolent their intentions may be painted, can simply sprinkle Guyana dollars like confetti without the sober, deliberative approval of the National Assembly. This is Governance 101. This is the law. This is what separates a republic from a royal court.

We must guard this principle

with the fervor of a jaguar protecting its cubs, lest our treasury become a personal p i ñ a t a f o r a n y administration.

The astonishing case of the disappearing opposition And here is where our parody curdles into something resembling a tragicomedy. To ensure the rigorous, transparent, and inclusive parliamentary approval mentioned above, one would logically require a functioning… well, Parliament. A key feature of such a body is the presence of a Leader of the Opposition. This role is not ceremonial window dressing. It is the constitutional checkpoint, the designated questioner, the voice for those who did not vote for the government.

It is, in short, kind of important.

Yet, astoundingly, the presumptive Leader of the Opposition (LOO), MP Azruddin Mohamed has / is being denied his rightful seat at the head of one side of the parliamentary aisle. The Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr. Manzoor Nadir, with precise prestidigitation, that would make the likes of Harry Houdini and David Copperfield blush, has managed to sideline this pivotal figure through a feat of procedural legerdemain

so potent it has suspended the very architecture of balanced governance. We have a constitutional office, elected by the people, rendered a spectator in the very forum designed to hold power to account. It's like hosting a football match but insisting the opposing team's captain watch from the parking lot.

The Glorious Irony: A perfect storm of inconvenience! Behold the magnificent, Delphic masterpiece we are living: 1. We cannot legally spend money without Parliament.

2. We cannot have a full, legitimate Parliament while its second-most important member is in parliamentary exile.

This creates a situation so exquisitely absurd, it would be hilarious if it weren't our country's future at stake. It is a bureaucratic catch-22 worthy of Kafkaesque proportion. It allows for the perpetual motion machine of blame: "We want to help the people with grants!" cries one side. "Then bring it to Parliament!" cries the public.

"But how can we? Mr. Azruddin Mohamed has not been elected! Parliament is not whole!”, whisper the walls of the chamber, missing a key piece of its puzzle.

My humble plea:

To the powers that be: we say this with all the seriousness a satirical letter can muster: To the Executive: If the cash grant is righteous, necessary, and legal, you should have no fear of the debate. Submit them.

Embrace the scrutiny. That's the job.

To the Speaker: Your role is to steward the Assembly, not to stifle it. A Parliament without a sitting Opposition Leader is a bird with one wing. It can only fly in circles before crashing.

Uphold the spirit and the substance of the Constitution, not just the loopholes.

To the Public: Do not be fooled by the pageantry. The debate over cash grants and the sidelining of the Opposition Leader are not separate issues. They are two symptoms of the same malaise: a disturbing comfort with weakening the checks and balances that protect all of us.

We are not asking for a favour. We are demanding the baseline operation of a democratic republic. We want our financial decisions approved by a complete House, and we want our elected officials to be able to take their elected seats.

It shouldn't be this hard. It really, really shouldn't.

Jonathan Subrian Esq.

The stalled Princess Street road project Dear Editor, We are increasingly living in a nation where, alarmingly, wrongdoing is normalised by some political leaders, while a culture of public accountability continues to erode. Equally troubling is the extent to which many Guyanese have adopted a posture of silence, failing to consistently hold elected officials accountable for their actions and inactions.

Several weeks ago, I publicly raised concerns regarding the stalled Princess Street road project.

The project remains in an unsightly and unfinished state, contributing to persistent flooding, public inconvenience, and undue hardship for residents and businesses in close proximity. Subsequently, I read a letter from a resident of Louisa Road expressing similar concerns, highlighting the disadvantages they continue to face due to the apparent

sluggishness of ongoing infrastructural works.

I have taken note of site visits conducted by the Honourable Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, on Monday, December 15, 2025, to several project locations, including Princess Street. These visits followed public exposure and advocacy by residents, concerned citizens, and Members of Parliament.

However, what stood out most from the video recordings of the Minister's remarks were the critical omissions and lack of transparency regarding the management and progress of the Princess Street project.

According to INews Guyana (online media), r e p o r t e d o n Tu e s d a y, December 15, 2025, the Princess Street Road expansion project, officially t i t l e d L o t 2 3 : Rehabilitation/Construction of Princess Street – Cemetery Road to St. Stephen Street, was awarded

to Yhardram & Sons Construction Establishment under a contract valued at $ 6 3 1 m i l l i o n . Wo r k s reportedly commenced on November 25, 2024, with a scheduled completion date of September 24, 2025, spanning a contractual duration period of ten months.

Despite this publicly available information, Minister Edghill failed during his site visit to disclose key project details, including the contractor's name, the project duration, the scope of works, and the contract sum. Instead, he indicated that the contract had been terminated, without providing a termination date and that the remaining works would now be undertaken by the Special Projects Unit (SPU) of the Ministry of Public Works.

R e s p e c t f u l l y, t h i s explanation raises serious concerns. From all observable indications, the original contract

encompassed road widening and the construction of concrete drainage south of Princess Street. While the SPU is generally tasked with repairing potholes and resurfacing roadways, questions remain as to whether it possesses the t e c h n i c a l c a p a c i t y, equipment, and mandate to execute major drainage works and full-scale road construction, particularly within tight timelines and required quality standards.

Notably absent from the Minister's remarks was any explanation regarding the project's financial administration—specifically , the value of payments already made, including mobilisation advances, and the mechanisms in place to recover public funds for unfinished or unmeasured works following the termination of the contract.

Such omissions undermine public trust and conflict with the principles of (Continued on page 5)

Wednesday December 17, 2025

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The Heroes Highway extension: A masterclass in designing tomorrow's problems at today's inflated prices Dear Editor, In a previous missive, I addressed the super-inflated contract pricing of the proposed lanes addition to the “concussion” highway in a simple cost-comparative analysis, I would now endeavour to expose the perpetual cycle of the transactional aspects of these projects.

These occurrences are not attributable to human failure or oversight, but are purely by design to enrich a few.

Observations would have revealed a pattern that

has been practised by the PPP Administration, where issues are created, allowed to fester until it becomes a “pain-point” for citizens, then in comes the “We care team” springing into action to alleviate the pains.

Citizens breathing a sigh of relief, overlooks the optics and plunder.

Editor, beyond the fiasco of the Heroes Highway lies a corrosive pattern that plagues our national development: this is not an isolated failure, but a recurring blueprint. Time and again, state-funded

projects are marred by inflated costs and flawed designs, revealing a systemic ailment where bureaucrats insert themselves into the domain of technocrats.

This practice of sidelining engineering expertise for administrative overreach is a direct pipeline to plunder, transforming public treasure into private gain packaged with halfbaked solutions. It is a cycle that must be shattered, not just to fix a road, but to halt the relentless hemorrhage of tax revenues that should be

building a nation, not enriching a selected few.

The already scandalous Heroes Highway project, with its contracts awarded at 40-50% premiums, now reveals a deeper flaw: it is fundamentally misdesigned.

The plan to add only 4.2km of a third lane, sandwiched in the middle of a 9.4km twolane corridor, is not a solution—it is a blueprint for guaranteed congestion and future waste.

From a traffic management standpoint, this design is perplexingly inept.

The core principle of

The stalled Princess Street road project...

From page 4 transparency and accountability required under Guyana's procurement laws. Eventually, this was reported in the article carried

by INEWS Guyana.

It is also instructive to consider the Cemetery Road rehabilitation project, which reportedly involved a wider scope of works, including extensive roadway upgrades and drainage improvements.

That project was awarded to Av i n a s h C o n s t r u c t i o n Company at a contract sum of approximately $475 million. When viewed comparatively, this disparity raises legitimate questions regarding cost efficiency, value for money, and consistency in procurement decision-making.

When these projects are assessed side by side, it becomes increasingly difficult to reconcile the scale, cost, and performance of the Princess Street project with fundamental principles of competence and value for money. The persistent delays, substandard execution, and apparent lack of technical capacity strongly suggest that the contractor may not have possessed the requisite

experience to undertake a project of this magnitude and complexity. This, in turn, raises serious concerns about the robustness of the pre-qualifications process, bid evaluation, and ultimate award of the contract.

The challenges surrounding infrastructural development in Guyana extend beyond the Ministry of Public Works. There appears to be a recurring pattern whereby individuals and entities with close political affiliations continue to benefit from lucrative state contracts, despite repeated failures to deliver completed projects within stipulated timelines and technical standards, often without meaningful sanctions.

A striking example is the Belle Vue Pump Station project, initially valued at approximately $856 million and awarded to TEPUI, a company reportedly incorporated less than one year prior to the award.

Available public information suggests that the company failed to meet key eligibility requirements outlined in the bidding documents, yet reportedly received mobilisation payments

amounting to approximately 30 per cent of the contract value—some $160 million.

The project failed to meet its stipulated completion deadline of August 2025.

It has since been reported that the Belle Vue Pump Station contract has now been awarded to GAICO for c o m p l e t i o n . H o w e v e r, concerns persist, as it has also been reported that limited on-site activity has occurred, raising further questions about project continuity, timelines, and the effective stewardship of public funds.

Editor, it is a sobering reality that corruption has become so entrenched that it is increasingly treated as routine governance.

Individuals who should be held accountable continue to walk freely and, in some

cases, are awarded additional contracts. This state of affairs is fundamentally incompatible with democratic governance, fiscal r e s p o n s i b i l i t y, a n d sustainable national development.

As I conclude, I call upon all right-thinking citizens to demand accountability from those entrusted with public office. Silence only e n t r e n c h e s maladministration. Citizens must be bold and unwavering in calling upon their government to account for the use of hard-earned taxpayers' dollars—funds intended to deliver services, infrastructure, and an improved quality of life for all Guyanese.

Yours sincerely, Annette Ferguson

roadway capacity is consistency. Introducing a brief three-lane section between two-lane ends creates what engineers' term "lane drops." This forces merging, a primary cause of turbulence, sudden braking, and bottlenecks. The promised "relief" in the middle will be nullified by severe congestion at both transition points, where traffic must funnel back down.

Furthermore, safety is compromised by the increased necessity for merging maneuvers, leading to a higher risk of rear-end and sideswipe collisions, particularly when the drops are poorly signed, causing driver confusion and erratic maneuvers.

The problems are often compounded when the dropped lane is located too close to intersections (Massy to Haags Bosch Rds), and

sometimes the lane that is dropped is under-utilized by drivers fearing stressful merges, further impacting overall efficiency. The project, therefore, substitutes one traffic problem for two new, predictable ones.

This raises grave questions. Was a reputable traffic impact study ever conducted?

Were qualified traffic management design engineers consulted? The obvious flaw suggests not.

Instead, it points to a project conceived in haste, devoid of holistic analysis, and focused solely on the transactional value of the initial construction contract.

The alarming conclusion is that this is a multi-faceted failure: first, price gouging at the contract stage; second, a technically flawed design that ensures (Continued on page 6)

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

The passing of Ronald (Ron) Owen Robinson A.A. The Heroes Highway...

Dear Editor, On this solemn occasion, on behalf of The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, and also of the National Drama Company, I pay tribute to Ronald Owen Robinson, A.A., numbered among the great theatre and broadcasting personalities of Guyana.

Ron Robinson was an actor, director, producer, radio and TV broadcaster,

co-founder of The T h e a t r e C o m p a n y, Production Director of Merundoi radio series, former Chairman of the Theatre Guild, whose name became a household word in Guyana.

H e was famous for several memorable plays, dramatic performances, radio programmers, TV satirical series, and was the winner of many

awards and prizes.

Ron reigned for decades as the nation's best actor and best director.

He served as a tutor at the Drama School, was a pioneering TV news anchor, broke records with Gem Madhoo for the longest running and most popular dramatic productions, and contributed to culture in diverse ways.

The loss of Ron

Robinson signifies the passing of an age of greatness and achievement in Guyanese theatre and drama. The National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, like the entire Guyanese nation, is in his debt, and on this solemn and reflective occasion, acknowledges an outstanding artist and says thanks to Ron. A l Creighton Jnr., Director of Studies

From page 5 underperformance. This creates a perfect and perpetual corrupt cycle: overspend on a defective solution, guarantee its failure, and then justify spending billions more on the inevitable "corrective" contracts in the future. We are not witnessing mere incompetence. We a r e observing a pattern where project failure is a feature, not a bug—a perpetual

scheme to siphon off public funds. The Heroes Highway extension, as designed, is an insult to the intelligence of every citizen who endures daily traffic and a blatant betrayal of public trust for private gain.

It must be halted and subjected to independent, expert review before another dollar is wasted.

Sincerely Hemdutt Kumar

Wednesday December 17, 2025

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Prosecution requests paper committal for deadly gas station bombing …as family of bombing accused protest outside court The case surrounding the deadly terrorist bombing at the Regent Street Mobil Gas Station continued on Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court, where the prosecution made full disclosure of evidence and requested that the matter proceed by way of paper committal.

H o w e v e r, t e n s i o n s

escalated outside the courtroom as relatives of one of the accused protested, calling for his release.

The proceedings were heard by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.

During the hearing, four of the seven accused appeared before the court: 33-year-old Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander

Johnny Boodram's family and friends outside the Georgetown Magistrates' Court calling for his release

Ramirez Poedemo; 44-yearold Venezuelan Alexander Bettancourt; Venezuelan national Krystal LaCruz; and Guyanese taxi driver Johnny Boodram. Police Prosecutor Mandel Moore informed the court that full disclosure of all forensic evidence and witness statements had been completed. He further stated that two additional items, which had been sent overseas for detailed forensic analysis, were returned and tendered as evidence.

Following the disclosure, the prosecution requested that the matter proceed by way of paper committal, a process in which the magistrate reviews written evidence to

determine whether the accused should be committed to stand trial in the High Court. However, Boodram's attorney Mikel Puran, requested time to examine the newly submitted evidence before the paper committal could proceed. Magistrate McGusty granted the request and adjourned the matter to December 30, 2025. The accused were further remanded.

Meanwhile, outside the courtroom, relatives and supporters of Johnny Boodram staged a protest, calling for his immediate release. The demonstrators raised placards and chanted “Justice, justice,” asserting that Boodram is innocent

and was merely performing his duties as a taxi driver at the time of the incident, with no knowledge of any alleged criminal plan. Throughout the proceedings, Boodram's lawyer maintained his client's innocence.

Several placards displayed messages such as “Driving a taxi is not a crime” and “Free Johnny.”

Speaking with reporters, Boodram's brother, Prakash Latchman, said the family was protesting because Boodram is innocent. “He's just a taxi driver and we protesting for him,” he said.

B o o d r a m ' s s i s t e r, Venessa Boodram, also voiced her frustration, stating that her brother has (Continued on page 19)

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Arrested by a fingertip There are moments in public life when the law finds itself undone not by wicked villains or loopholes, but by a single misguided sentence. In this case, that sentence was: “We have to touch you to arrest you.” At which point the law sighed deeply, adjusted its spectacles and wondered how it had come to this.

Let us set the scene. A woman is alleged—note the deliciously non-committal word alleged—to have committed an offence. Not one considered indictable or serious. Not rape, not murder, not manslaughter, not for possessing drugs or firearms. For a lesser offence.

Days passed. Time, that great healer and even greater complicator, strolls on. Then the police arrived at her home, that sacred domestic fortress where one is entitled to boil kettles, argue with relatives, and not be arrested without proper authority.

The woman a little theatrical, says, “Don't touch me, I coming out.”

This is not the cry of resistance. This is the language of compliance, submission, and a perfectly sensible desire not to be pawed by someone with a fondness for handcuffs.

Enter, supposedly two police officers, one of whom confidently, and entirely incorrectly—that touching is required to effect an arrest.

And touch they do. At this point, the legal questions pop up.

In the sober, unfunny world of law (which we are about to mock mercilessly), the answer depends on the nature of the offence. If the offence is minor—damage to property, say—and not committed in the officer's presence, the law tends to frown upon spontaneous, arrests without a warrant.

Indeed, the law doesn't merely frown; it clears its throat, taps the rulebook, and says, “Apply to a magistrate like everyone else.” A warrant exists for a reason. It is the law's way of saying, “I have thought about this and agree it is necessary.” Without it, an arrest days after an alleged offence begins to look less like law enforcement and more like an unsolicited home visit.

So yes, in most such cases, a warrant would be required. Or at the very least, a summons, which is the law's polite invitation rather than its grabby handshake.

After all, the home is the occupants' castle. It is the place where the law removes its shoes and asks permission before entering.

At common law, police cannot simply stroll into a home to make an arrest without a warrant unless something urgent is afoot: a fleeing suspect, a screaming emergency, or a breach of the peace so immediate it cannot wait for paperwork.

Or unless the laws provide for this to be done as is the case with our narcotics and firearms laws.

None of that appears to be present here. No hot pursuit. No smoke, fire, or flying crockery, no firearms, no narcotics. It appeared to be merely a case of a woman, a private bedroom and a police theory about the necessity of touching.

Now here is the key point that seems to have been misplaced in someone's training manual: consent matters. When the woman said, “I coming out,” she effectively granted cooperation. She did not invite them in, mind you—but she removed the need for force, drama, or tactile enthusiasm.

Once she submits to authority, the arrest, legally speaking, is complete. No touching required. No ceremonial laying on of hands. The law is not a game of tag. Touching is only necessary when someone resists, flees, or behaves like a contestant on an obstacle course. To insist on touching someone who is already complying is rather like insisting on pushing someone through a door they are already walking through.

The misunderstanding lies in confusing physical custody with legal arrest.

The law does not demand fingerprints, forearms, or elbows to validate an arrest.

Words plus submission will do nicely. Anything more is garnish—and sometimes, unlawful garnish at that.

Worse still, touching a person inside her home

DEM BOYS SEH

Pay de rent first; everything else can wait Me old granny used to seh, straight up, “Boy, when yuh get yuh salary, de first ting yuh does do is take out de rent money. Pay de landlord first!” She did always hammer dat into we head. Granny seh, if yuh don't pay yuh rent, de next ting yuh know, yuh gan end up in front of de court wid a eviction notice.

Simple as dat.

But nowadays, people don't listen to no granny advice. Dem get de phone bill, de data bill, de cable, de electricity bill, de bar bill, de sweet woman bill, de car loan bill and de furniture hire purchase bill de wha'ever else. And dem paying off these bills.

But when de landlord come knocking, dem start fuh complain like de man don't know he work. “But I short a couple thousand,” dem seh. Short? Short? Yuh short because yuh doh listen to me granny!

Listen nah, if yuh living in somebody else house, yuh gatta pay de rent. Ain't no magic in dis world where yuh could dodge de landlord and still sleep in de house. He ain't coming to vex yuh for fun. He ain't coming to check how much data yuh use. All he want is de money dat yuh supposed to

pay.

So leh dis be a lesson: pay de rent first, everything else can wait. Phone bill, data, power bill, all dem can wait. But de landlord? He nah wait. If yuh doh pay, yuh move out or yuh face de music. Simple as that. Granny never lie. People don't want to hear, but de eviction notice don't lie.

It just happen so that yesterday, a friend call me up and seh she need $50,000 to pay her rent. Now I don't play when it comes to rent so I seh, “Alright, leh me check meh account, I go call yuh back.”

Before I even check, her sister call me and seh, “Don't give her any money, she lying to yuh! She plan to use dat $50,000 fuh bail to get her man outta jail so dem could link up for her birthday.”

I sit down, think for a minute, and seh, “Well, leh she go ahead” and I send her de money.

One day later, she call me from de local jail, bawling like a baby, screamin', “Why I give she counterfeit money?!”

I seh: “So you and yuh man could be together for yuh birthday!”

Talk half. Leff half.

without a warrant, when she has already agreed to come out, raises the awkward possibility that the arrest was not merely unnecessary, but unlawful. The law, at this point, begins to cough discreetly and look for an exit.

Police authority is not strengthened by unnecessary touching, nor is legality improved by confidently stated nonsense.

The law prefers calm,

warrants, clear words, and restraint—both legal and physical.

In short, a warrant was likely required. Arresting someone at home without one is tightly restricted. And no, touching is not a magical legal ingredient.

The law does not work by fingertips. It works by principles. And it expects those principles to be understood before action is taken, preferably without

grabbing anyone in the h a l l w a y. ( T h e v i e w s expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10 S

UTH

D TR

HAR

HK

BY G

LALL

Wednesday Monday December May 02, 17,2022 2025

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

The Guyana street – raw, grim, poignant The picture. It's grey overhead. Drizzles fall on the head; 5 in the morning.

The streets of GT stretch ahead in the familiar rectangular grids.

A vehicle or two on still silent roads.

On the pavements, under awnings, there they are. What is left of men and women, old and young, all hobbling in some manner. They are mostly sleeping.

Wasting away, amid dreams mostly

tormenting, sweat-filled. A dozen here at one corner on Regent Street, a score there near Water Street. And on Hadfield close to Leopold, they swarm in an endless procession. Pres. Ali went to Tiger Bay. God bless his thoughtful mind, caring heart.

His thoughtfulness and kindness could be expanded, if a stopover is made one day in the Leopold Street area; then others harder hit. An hour

from State House, and would be beyond social studies, get the best education on the lessons of life in a study of man.

Guyanese man, Guyanese woman.

If I say one more time that this shouldn't be in the kind of country that Guyana now is, I shall kick myself.

After throwing up. After hiding my face in shame and anguish. And I am neither a national leader nor a minister nor a billionaire private

sector operator or contractor.

For the record, not a billionaire anything.

By the time that encounter and exchange was over, approx. 100 Guyanese down at the bottom and the gutter had been met with quiet prayer uttered. Lord, why? This doesn't have to be, WHY My Lord?

Why? In this place of all places.

And without knowing how many more are like these fellow citizens in Berbice, Essequibo, and up and down Demerara. For those Guyanese whose heart b e a t s h o n e s t l y, a transformation occurs.

No matter how often that these visits and these extensions into the far corners of life happen, they still shock, shake to the soul.

True, some of the pain of those on the street may be by their hand. But where is our hand? My hand?

The hand of the good people in charge? It isn't theory; it's the reality of gritty Guyanese streets.

Raw. Grim. Poignant. To the bone, to the soft part of the stomach, to the depths of the soul pierced.

There are those who don't want to hear of these brutalities.

Then what do they thrill to hear about: GDP? The glorious state of the economy? The sagacity of those with the tools and resources in their grasp? It is time that heads are taken out

of the books, faces from beneath the sand, and minds away from slamming one another, and admit one thing. After all the quarreling and wrangling, after all the building and growing, there are those who have fallen and are falling farther and farther down humanity's ladder.

No, I will not speak of poverty. Nor of subsidy, the small handful of them. I shall speak and let it stand.

Maybe a leader's heart touched.

Perhaps, a policy man or woman pauses: what about them? What can be done about them, for them, the lost and the left out? No safety net.

A hundred or so in one spot in the capital city, and then the line became invisible. Baskets empty.

Cups run dry. How many hundreds more across GT, across distant villages, across the vast remote fastnesses of the hinterlands? At this point, the liberty is taken of reaching into poor homes, famished kitchens. Those also count. Those still held back against that sometimes final, often fatal, plunge to the roadside.

Domestics. Sickness.

Circumstances not of one's own making.

Guyanese that are honest with themselves, those

capable of putting aside their prejudices, are appealed to: n o t f o r c h a r i t y, b u t consideration.

There are those types of citizens trapped by the gutter, or ensnared in the prisons of their homes that have become an ICU. Short of nutrition. Short of means to make those voids disappear.

Short of the optimism that inspires to the belief that tomorrow can be, and will be, a better day. A day that is a year, many years. Because of national gifts. Because of how those who have stewardship over that gift have dealt with it.

Fairly.

Conscientiously.

Decently. Inclusively.

In that close encounter with Guyanese and their last clasps on body, sanity, and dignity, I fell myself shrinking, recoiling, seeking sanctuary in some still untouched section of my mind.

After all the grand rhetoric, there is this forlorn substance of Guyanese reality on the street and in impoverished homes. Raw. Grim. Wrenching.

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

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

Rising debt servicing crowds out social spending across Latin America and the Caribbean - ECLAC High debt levels and rising financing costs are forcing governments across Latin America and the Caribbean to divert growing shares of public resources to interest payments, intensifying development pressures and squeezing spending on critical social services.

On Tuesday, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) delivered its flagship report, Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean. The report also projected economic growth for 2026. During the presentation, ECLAC's Executive Secretary, José

Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, addressed the region's mounting fiscal challenges.

“Central government interest payments as a share of expenditure on education, health and social protection, 2012 and 2023,” it was stated.

According to ECLAC's data, by 2023, central government interest payments in 23 countries in the region absorbed a larger share of expenditure relative to education, health, and social protection compared with a decade earlier.

Interest payments accounted for the equivalent of 70 per cent of education spending in 2023, up from 45 per cent in 2012. In relation to health, from 61 per cent in 2012 to 86 per

cent in 2023, for social protection, interest payments increased from 52 per cent to 57 per cent.

Moreover, growth in Latin America and the Caribbean is expected to remain weak in 2026 amid continued global uncertainty. The region's Gross Domestic Product is projected to expand by 2.4% in 2025 and 2.3% in 2026, marking consecutive years of growth hovering around 2.3%.

It should be noted that the Caribbean, excluding Guyana, is forecast to grow by 1.8% in 2026, slightly below the pace seen in 2025.

This expansion will largely depend on trends in tourism and construction, leaving the

subregion vulnerable due to its reliance on imported energy, high transport costs, and exposure to natural disasters. By contrast, Guyana's economy continues to outperform, with real GDP growth projected at 24% in 2026 following 15.2% growth in 2025 and 43.6% in 2024.

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Wednesday December 17, 2025

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

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Canada announces new methane emission standards for oil and gas sector

The Canadian government said the new guidelines will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 304 million tonnes [File: Todd Korol/Reuters] The new rules, which will take effect in 2028, aim to cut emissions by 75 percent by 2035.

Aljazeera - Canada has announced long-promised rules aimed at dramatically reducing methane emissions from the country’s oil and gas sector.

The regulations, announced on Tuesday, lay out a path for Canada – the world’s fourth-largest oil producer – to cut by 2035 its overall emissions of the potent greenhouse gas by 75 percent over 2014 levels.

They fulfil a promise by Prime Minister Mark Carney to strengthen Canada’s existing methane rules, but allow for a slightly longer target timeframe than the previous draft rules announced under Carney’s predecessor, Justin Trudeau.

Tr u d e a u ’s n e v e rimplemented rules called for a 75 percent reduction in methane emissions by 2030 and faced criticism from the

oil and gas industry for being too difficult to achieve.

While methane does not last as long in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, it can have 80 times the climatewarming impact of CO2 over a 20-year period.

Oil and gas facilities are responsible for about half of Canada’s total methane emissions, according to the government. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is released directly into the atmosphere during oil and gas production, through practices such as venting and flaring, and can also escape through leaks in wells and other infrastructure.

The new rules, which will take effect in 2028, prohibit venting with several exceptions and establish an inspection schedule for companies to find equipment leaks and repair them.

Operators will have the option to design their own approaches to controlling methane as long as they meet the required methane intensity thresholds.

Total greenhouse gas emissions from Canada’s oil and gas sector continue to grow as production increases, and Canada is not expected to reach its target of cutting greenhouse gas output by 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.

Carney, who has been c r i t i c i s e d b y environmentalists who see him as prioritising the economy over climate, recently rolled back some of Canada’s emissions policies to spur energy investment.

But on methane, the country has made progress.

Previously enacted rules, which require industry to regularly inspect and repair

equipment to reduce leaks, have helped put Canada on track to meet its previous methane commitment of a

40-45 percent reduction below 2012 levels by the end of 2025.

The Canadian

government said the new rules will reduce emissions by 304 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent,

while reducing oil and gas production by just 0.2 percent between 2025 and 2035.

PAGE 16

Kanapang (Rajkumar Singh photo)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kanapang Village sues State over detention of 27 Brazilian miners Kanapang Village has instituted legal proceedings against the government of Guyana, seeking redress over what it describes as unlawful arrests, prosecutions and imprisonment of 27 Brazilian miners, allegedly in breach of domestic and international human rights law.

In a statement on Tuesday, attorney-at-law Darren Wade said that on November 13, 2025, ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) entered the titled lands of Kanapang without the consent of the Village Council, without a warrant, without notice and without statutory authority, in breach of the Amerindian Act. During the operation, 27 Brazilian men and women were arrested.

Wade outlined that Kanapang is a legally recognised Amerindian community located within ancestrally and traditionally occupied territory in the North Pakaraimas, Region Eight, along the Ireng River which borders Guyana and Brazil.

He noted that the Brazilian nationals were subsequently taken before the Mahdia Magistrates’ Court and charged with illegal entry, contrary to section 34(1)(b) of the Immigration Act, Chapter 14:02, and illegal mining, contrary to section 14(1)(a)(ii) of the Mining Act. According to the lawyer, the matter was first heard on November 14, 2025, when pleas were entered, with some of the defendants pleading guilty and others not guilty. On that occasion, several defendants were convicted and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

During the most recent hearing, the prosecutor acting on behalf of the GGMC informed the court that no authority to prosecute had been presented, and stated that such authority is intended to be provided on or before the next court appearance.

“Based upon our instructions and understanding from the time of the arrest, the accused persons were unable to properly understand the language spoken in court, as they are fluent in Portuguese

and do not sufficiently understand English,” Wade said.

The attorney also stated that the interpreter previously presented by the State was speaking Spanish, and that the defendants did not sufficiently understand the proceedings. He further noted that at the last hearing no interpreter was presented by the prosecution, resulting in the matter being adjourned to January 29, 2026.

“It must be noted that failure to provide interpretation services throughout the proceedings is unlawful and constitutes a direct violation of domestic law and international human rights law, including Article 14(3)(a) and Article 14(3)(f) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 144 (2) b of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,” the lawyer stated.

He further contended that the arrest, detention, prosecution, conviction and imprisonment of the Brazilian nationals under these circumstances are unlawful and amount to arbitrary detention. Wade argued that the actions are particularly egregious where prosecutorial authority has not been demonstrated or lawfully established, accused persons were unable to understand the proceedings due to language barriers and the absence of competent interpretation, and custodial sentences of up to six months were imposed in circumstances inconsistent with due process and fair trial guarantees.

As a result, Kanapang Village contends that the State of Guyana has committed multiple breaches of constitutional, statutory and international law.

These include violations of the right to personal liberty under Article 139 of the Constitution, arising from the unlawful arrest, detention, charging, c o n v i c t i o n a n d imprisonment of the affected persons; a breach of the right to freedom of movement under Article 148 of the Constitution by criminalising the presence and movement of residents within their traditionally occupied and titled territory; and a breach of the right to Continued on page 18

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Palestinian infant freezes to death in Gaza as Israel keeps blocking aid Winter cold ‘becomes lethal’ as Israel restricts entry of tents, blankets and other shelter supplies to ravaged enclave.

A displaced Palestinian family tries to stay warm outside their tent in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, on December 15, 2025 [Haitham Imad/EPA]

Aljazeera - A Palestinian infant has frozen to death in the Gaza Strip, local authorities say, as Israel continues to restrict the entry of shelter supplies and other humanitarian aid to the enclave despite the harsh winter conditions there.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza said on Tuesday that the two-weekold baby, Mohammed Khalil Abu al-Khair, died a day earlier after seeking treatment for severe hypothermia, brought on by the extreme cold gripping Gaza.

Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum noted that the child’s death comes as basic protections in Gaza have been “systematically dismantled” due to Israel’s genocidal war against Palestinians in the territory.

“Families are living in tents on wet ground without heating, electricity or sufficient clothing,” Abu Azzoum said. “When food, fuel, shelter and aid are banned, cold absolutely becomes lethal.”

Israel’s two-year war has decimated more than 80 percent of the structures across Gaza, forcing hundreds of thousands of

families to take refuge in flimsy tents or overcrowded makeshift shelters.

A huge storm that recently hit the Strip killed at least 11 people as torrential rains and fierce winds flooded tents and caused damaged buildings to collapse.

“We try to dry the children’s clothes over the fire,” Umm Mohammed Assaliya, a displaced Palestinian mother, told Al Jazeera from Gaza City.

“There are no spare clothes for them. I am exhausted. The tent we were given cannot withstand winter conditions. We need blankets,” she said.

I s r a e l ’s ‘ b l a t a n t , outrageous’ violations threatens Gaza ceasefire deal: Hamas Humanitarian groups have urged Israel to allow unimpeded deliveries of aid to Gaza.

But the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, which the UN says is best suited to distribute supplies in the territory, says the Israeli government has blocked it from bringing aid directly into Gaza.

“People have reportedly Continued on page 20

Kanapang Village sues...

From page 16 equality and equal protection of the law under Article 149D through discriminatory enforcement of criminal and regulatory laws against residents of an Amerindian community.

The village also contends that there was a breach of the right to the protection of the law under Article 144 (2) b of the Constitution, which provides that every person charged with a criminal offence shall be informed, as reasonably practicable, in a language that he or she understands and in detail, of the nature of the offence charged.

Wade further noted that the defendants are from neighbouring communities on the Brazilian side of the border, whose populations include Amerindians and persons of mixed ancestry with long-standing cultural, familial and economic ties to the territory.

“The criminalisation of their presence and activities within this area further implicates protections under international law, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP),” he said.

He also noted that the Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brazil has been in communication regarding humanitarian and consular concerns arising from the detention and treatment of the affected Brazilian nationals.

“It must also be noted that whilst the matter has not garnered significant public attention in Guyana to date, it has generated substantial attention and concern in Brazil, including widespread discussion on social media and other public platforms,” Wade said.

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Sophia vendor arrested for ganja possession in Region Seven

The cannabis found on the vendor at Region seven Police have arrested a 43year-old male vendor of Sophia, Greater Georgetown for being in possession of 196.55 grams of cannabis that was discovered in his haversack at Barakat Backdam, Cuyuni River, Region Seven.

According to police, enquiries revealed that ranks were conducting mobile patrols in the area when they observed a man riding a motorcycle and behaving in a “suspicious manner”.

As a result, the ranks intercepted the rider and conducted a search of both his person and belongings.

“Searches were conducted on the rider and his belongings, during which ranks examined a haversack carried by the rider, where one bulky transparent parcel containing two additional transparent parcels with leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was found,” police said.

The motorcyclist was arrested and taken to the Itaballi Police Checkpoint.

The narcotics was weighed and lodged as evidence.

T h e m a n w a s subsequently taken to the Bartica Police Station where he remains in custody.

Prosecution requests paper...

From page 8 been unjustly incarcerated for an extended period. “I want Johnny to get justice because he's innocent. For years he was a taxi driver, so they got him there long and we ain't getting no answers. Everybody knows he's innocent. He ain't got nothing to do with this; he just get a call and get hired like normal,” she said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Boodram's wife, Andeli Manohar, questioned how a taxi driver could be held responsible for a passenger's intentions. “How can a taxi driver know what a passenger is going to do? You cannot send innocent people to prison just like that,” she said. She also highlighted the emotional toll on the family, noting that the Christmas season is

approaching and that their one-year-old child is waiting for his father. “I want the truth and justice for him,” she added.

The accused are charged in connection with the October 26 bombing, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne. Poedemo faces a separate indictable charge of committing an act of terrorism, alleging that he used an explosive device at the Mobil Fuel Station with the intent to threaten Guyana's sovereignty and security or to instil fear among the population. He was not required to enter a plea.

Bettancourt, LaCruz, and Boodram are jointly charged with aiding and abetting Poedemo in carrying out the attack.

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Palestinian infant freezes to death...

From page 18 died due to the collapse of damaged buildings where families were sheltering. Children have reportedly died from exposure to the cold,” UNRWA said in a social media post on Tuesday.“This must stop. Aid must be allowed in at scale, now.”

HAMAS SLAMS ISRAELI CEASEFIRE VIOLATIONS Meanwhile, Hamas has condemned Israel for its repeated violations of a ceasefire deal that came into effect in October.At least 393 Palestinians have been killed and 1,074 others wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since the first full day of the ceasefire on October 11, according to the latest figures from the enclave's

Health Ministry.The Israeli military also killed a senior Hamas leader, Raed Saad, in a targeted attack on a vehicle in western Gaza City on Saturday, further straining the tenuous truce.On Tuesday, Hamas leader Ghazi Hamad accused Israel of “manipulating” the text of the USbrokered agreement.“We want to make it absolutely clear: the ceasefire agreement is straightforward, detailed, and unambiguous.

However, it's evident that the Israeli occupation has distorted the text, manipulating and violating every single article,” Hamad said.“Since day one, Hamas has fully abided by the agreement and honoured its commitments.

In contrast, Israel has deliberately committed several systematic and preplanned breaches.”

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

Mexico criticizes US for Trump orders 'total' blockade of classifying fentanyl as 'weapon of mass destruction’ sanctioned Venezuela oil tankers Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum speaks during her daily press conference at Palacio Nacional in Mexico City on September 4, 2025.

YURI CORTEZ / AFP

MEXICO CITY, Mexico (AFP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Tuesday the fight against fentanyl should focus on root causes of the crisis, as she criticised a new US classification of the deadly drug as a “weapon of mass destruction.”

President Donald Trump said Monday he was placing fentanyl in the same category as nuclear and chemical weapons as he ramps up his campaign against drug cartels in Latin America.

“I have raised this with President Trump — the causes of drug use must be addressed, not just this approach of now classifying one of the drugs as a lethal weapon of mass destruction,” Sheinbaum told reporters.

T h e f e n t a n y l classification ties in with the

Trump administration's campaign against alleged “narco-terrorists,” which has included a military campaign targeting alleged drug-smuggling boats.

The vessels are thought to be transporting cocaine rather than far-deadlier fentanyl, which is primarily smuggled into the United States from Mexico rather than by boat from Colombia or Venezuela.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an estimated 80,000 overdose deaths in the country in 2024, with some 48,000 of those due to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

The executive order said “illicit fentanyl is closer to a chemical weapon than a narcotic,” and that its manufacture and distribution threatens US national security.

The order comes a week after the U.S. military seized an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast

Aljazeera - United States President Donald Trump has ordered “a total and complete” blockade of all US-sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela. “ Ve n e z u e l a i s completely surrounded by the largest Armada ever assembled in the History of South America,” Trump said in a post on his social media platform Truth Social.

“For the theft of our Assets, and many other reasons, including Terrorism, Drug Smuggling, and Human Trafficking, the Venezuelan Regime has been designated a FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZATION,” Trump said.

“Therefore, today, I am ordering A TOTAL AND COMPLETE BLOCKADE

This combination of pictures shows US President Donald Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro [File: by Jim Watson and Federico Parra/AFP] OF ALL SANCTIONED OIL TANKERS going into, and out of, Venezuela,” he said.

Trump's comments come a week after US forces seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela and as

Washington has ordered a huge build-up of US military forces off the Venezuelan coast in an operation said to target drug smuggling.

The US military has killed at least 90 people since September in attacks on

dozens of vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near Ve n e z u e l a , i n w h a t international law experts have criticised as extrajudicial killings.

Washington claimed the vessels were involved in drug trafficking but has provided no evidence to support its allegations.

Caracas has long said the deployment of US forces to the region was aimed at allowing “external powers to r o b Ve n e z u e l a ' s immeasurable oil and gas wealth“.

Despite holding the world's largest proven oil reserves, Venezuela has faced severe restrictions on its exports in recent years under US sanctions first imposed during the first Trump presidency.

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

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Wanted , one night guard and one handyman . Call : 612-2125 Wanted one Maid.For more information please Call: 680-1282.

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IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OFGUYANA (COMMERCIAL JURISDICTION) 2025/3-HC-CD-SOCDEM-CIV BETWEEN CAMPTON RAZACK BAKSH, executor and beneficiary named in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, represented herein by his duly constituted attorney WILLIAM HOWARD agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 31st day of May, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 26th day of June, 2024 and numbered 3724/2024 Applicant/Claimant -andMAVIS SINGH represented herein by her duly constituted attorney MARC ANTHONY DANNETT agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 7th day of June, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 21st day of June, 2024 and numbered 3625 of 2024 Respondent/Defendant BEFORE THE HONOURABLE MADAM JUSTICE ZAMILLAALLYSEEPAUL (VIA ZOOM) DATED THIS 24TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025 ENTERED THIS 9TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2025 Mr. Gordon Gilhuys Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant Applicant (William Howard) present ORDER THIS NOTICE APPLICATION, made by CAMPTON RAZACK BAKSH, executor and beneficiary in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, represented herein by his duly constituted attorney WILLIAM HOWARD agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 31st day of May, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 26th day of June, 2024 and numbered 3724/2024, for Substituted Service, and made without notice, was heard this 24th day of November, 2025 at the High Court of the Supreme

Court.

UPON CONSIDERING the Notice of Application for substituted service, the Affidavit supporting that Application, and also the Marshall Return of Non-Service as uploaded on the portal.

AND UPON HEARING the Attorney-at-Law for Applicant, and the applicant being present.

THIS COURT ORDERS as follows: 1. The Applicant is granted an order to dispense with personal service by a person authorized by the Registrar of the Supreme Court of the Information for Court Use, Statement of Claim, Notice of Appointment of Attorney-at-law and INSTEAD to serve the Information for Court Use, Statement of Claim and Notice of Appointment of Attorney-at-law by publication of a Notice of the Proceedings in two consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News or any newspaper of general circulation in the State of Guyana 2. That the Defendant be given 42 (forty two) days after the final publication of such Notice to file a defence to the Statement of Claim.

3. That an Affidavit of Publication, sworn to by the Attorney-at-law for the Applicant, with copies of advertisement exhibited thereto and proof of affixing proceedings to the door of the aforesaid proceedings be deemed sufficient proof of service of the proceedings.

4. That a complete copy of these proceedings be affixed to the door of the address located at Lot 60 Russell and Sussex Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, together with a copy of this order.

IF YOU FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE TERMS OF THIS ORDER, YOU WILL BE IN CONTEMPT OF COURT AND MAY BE LIABLE TO IMPRISONMENT OR TO HAVE YOUR ASSETS CONFISCATED. IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA (COMMERCIAL JURISDICTION) 2025/3-HC-CD-SOCDEM-CIV BETWEEN: CAMPTON RAZACK BAKSH, executor and beneficiary named in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, represented herein by his duly constituted attorney WILLIAM HOWARD agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 31st day of May, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 26th day of June, 2024 and numbered

Wednesday December 17, 2025 3724/2024 Applicant/Claimant -andMAVIS SINGH represented herein by her duly constituted attorney MARC ANTHONY DANNETT agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 7th day of June, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 21st day of June, 2024 and numbered 3625 of 2024 Respondent/Defendant ORDER OF COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA (COMMERCIAL JURISDICTION) 2025/3-HC-CD-SOCDEM-CIV BETWEEN: CAMPTON RAZACK BAKSH, executor and beneficiary named in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, represented herein by his duly constituted attorney WILLIAM HOWARD agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 31st day of May, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 26th day of June, 2024 and numbered 3724/2024 Applicant/Claimant -andMAVIS SINGH represented herein by her duly constituted attorney MARC ANTHONY DANNETT agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 7th day of June, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 21st day of June, 2024 and numbered 3625 of 2024 Respondent/Defendant TO: MAVIS SINGH represented herein by her duly constituted attorney MARC ANTHONY DANNETT of Lot 60 Russell and Sussex Streets, Georgetown, Guyana TAKE NOTICE that a Statement of Claim was filed on the 7th day of February, 2025, against you by CAMPTON RAZACK BAKSH, executor and beneficiary named in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, represented herein by his duly constituted attorney WILLIAM HOWARD agreeably with Power of Attorney executed on the 31st day of …May, 2024 and registered in the Deeds Registry, Georgetown on the 26th day of June, 2024 and numbered 3724/2024 in the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Claimant asks for: a) A declaration that the Claimant is the executor and a beneficiary named in the Last Will and Testament of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, deceased dated the 18th day of February, 2020 and is entitled to have access to the property as the executor. b) An Order setting aside the CAVEAT # 104/24, dated the 2nd day of July, 2024 for

the estate of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, deceased as there is no substantive matter filed in the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature. c) An injunction restraining the Defendant whether by herself, her servants, her agents or otherwise howsoever, from meddling in the affairs of the executor of the estate of RANDOLPH DEODAT SINGH, deceased in relation to the property situate at Lot 60, Russell and Sussex Streets Charlestown Georgetown Guyana, with the building and erections thereon and more fully described in Transport No. 667/ 87. d) Damages in excess of $1,000,000.00 (one million) for damages done to the property situate at Lot 60, Russell and Sussex Streets Charlestown Georgetown Guyana, with the building and erections thereon and more fully described in Transport No. 667/ 87. e) Costs; f) Such further or other reliefs as the Court may deem just.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 24th day of November, 2025, the Claimant is directed to effect service of the Information for Court Use, Statement of Claim and Notice of Appointment of Attorney-at-law by publication of a Notice of …the Proceedings in two consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News or any newspaper of general circulation in the State of Guyana.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Claim, you must forthwith, within 42 (forty two) days, after the final publication, enter an Appearance thereto, and serve a Defence on MR. GORDON GILHUYS whose address for service and place of business is at Lots 60–61, Hadfield Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, Guyana, Email: a t t o r n e y s a t l a wgilhuyspollard@gmail.com , and file same to this cause in the Registry of the High Court at Georgetown via the High Court’s eLitigation online platform with the use of the authorisation code: uSChh8, not later than 4 (four) days before the date fixed for hearing of the Claim, and you or your Attorney-at-Law must appear at the hearing.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to file a Defence and/or if you fail to appear at the hearing, final judgment may be given against you notwithstanding your absence.

Dated this 9th day of December, 2025

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

U.S. military kills 8 in latest attacks on vessels in eastern Pacific Aljazeera - Three latest attacks in the eastern Pacific Ocean come as the US increases military presence in Trinidad and Tobago, near Venezuela. The United States has said it killed eight people in new attacks on vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean, days after the US military seized a Venezuelan oil tanker amid Washington's continuing military buildup in Latin America.

In a post on social media, the US Military Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said that “lethal kinetic strikes” targeted three vessels in international waters on Monday, at the direction of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

“Three in the first vessel, two in the second and three in the third,” it said, while claiming without providing any evidence that those killed were linked to drug trafficking.

At least 90 people have

been killed in similar US attacks on dozens of vessels in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near Venezuela since September, in what international law experts have criticised as extrajudicial killings by the US military.

US lawmakers have questioned Hegseth over his role in the attacks, including whether he personally ordered a second strike on a boat targeting two people who had survived a first attack and were left clinging to the debris in September.

The Pentagon has also deployed warships, a submarine, drones and fighter jets to the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, in what it claims are efforts to tackle drug smuggling in the region. Venezuela said the attacks and US military buildup were aimed at allowing “external powers to r o b Ve n e z u e l a ' s immeasurable oil and gas

A US Air Force Boeing C-5 Galaxy is parked at José Aponte de la Torre airport, on September 13, 2025, in Ceiba, Puerto Rico [Miguel J Rodriguez Carrillo/AFP] wealth, “even before US forces seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela last week, with US President Donald Trump telling reporters, “I assume we're

going to keep the oil.”

US military to use Trinidad airports, on Venezuela's doorstep The latest attacks on vessels in Latin American

waters come as the US continues to build up its considerable military presence in the region surrounding Venezuela, with Trinidad and Tobago saying on Monday that it had authorised US military aircraft to use its airports.

Trinidad and Tobago said it had given the green light for the US military to use its airports “in the coming weeks”, adding that Washington would use them for “logistical” operations, including “facilitating supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations”.

The Caribbean island nation, which is located only 12km (7.4 miles) from Venezuela at its closest point, has been supportive of the US military buildup in the region, in contrast to some other Central and South American leaders.

Trinidad and Tobago's prime minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has said she would rather see drug traffickers “blown to pieces” than have them kill citizens of her nation.

In response, Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro again said that his country would stop supplying gas to Trinidad and Tobago on Monday, according to the Venezuelan state television channel Telesur.

U.S. FAA warns airlines again of ‘worsening security situation' when flying over Venezuela Dec 16 (Reuters) The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on Tuesday issued another warning to major airlines of a "worsening security situation" when flying o v e r Ve n e z u e l a a n d urged them to exercise caution.

"Threats could pose a potential risk to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflight, the

arrival and departure phases of flight, and/or airports and aircraft on the ground," the FAA said in a notice.

The notice follows a similar announcement last month and comes on the heels of a large-scale U.S. military buildup in the southern Caribbean as U.S. President Donald Trump campaigns to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

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L B T LUNT.. UNT...B BL B Wednesday December 17, 2025

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Cooper Flagg makes history with 42, but Mavs fall to Jazz in OT Reuters - Keyonte George scored 37 points -his second straight 30-pluspoint game -- and dished out six assists while leading the Utah Jazz to a 140-133 overtime victory against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday in Salt Lake City.

Utah overcame a historic performance from Dallas' Cooper Flagg, who became the first 18-year-old to have a 40-point game in NBA history. Flagg produced 42 points while also finishing with six assists and seven rebounds.

Lauri Markkanen added 33 points, 16 rebounds, five assists and four steals for the Jazz, teaming with George to score nine of Utah's 11 overtime points.

Kyle Filipowski chipped in 25 points and nine rebounds as the Jazz won for

Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (8) goes for a layup against Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) during the second half at Delta Center. (Rob GrayImagn Images)

Wednesday December 17, 2025 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) In a philosophical or political conversation, you don't hesitate to offer your thoughts. Your examples may be extreme, but your principles are sound.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You should be in a good mood, although you might have a hard time fully expressing yourself. Perhaps you feel like there is someone keeping an eye on your every move.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You may get the feeling that despite all the hard work you've accomplished, something is still missing, Gemini. There's still a long road ahead, regardless of the goals you've attained so far.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Freedom may be a theme for you today. You're beginning to question what it is you're trying to free yourself from. A person? Job? Commitment?

These may be the very things you start to search for as soon as you're free of them.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You may feel a strange tension.

It seems that nothing you say or do is quite right, Libra. As much as you may try to do the correct thing, you can't make things click the way you'd like.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) It may be hard for you to maintain your self-discipline.

Your childlike nature wants to go out and play. Emotionally, you're anxious to let loose and follow your playful, instinctual nature.

SAGITTARIUS(Nov.22–Dec.21) If you're unclear about the topic of discussion, say so. Asking questions is an important part of learning. You shouldn't be afraid to ask. Communication may take on a serious tone, and intellectual discussions are likely to get heated.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may be shy when it comes to expressing your emotions today, Capricorn. This could be a rare thing for you. Other people may wonder if something is wrong.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You're the liquid that takes the shape of its container, Leo. Even though this may seem like the most nonconfrontational way to do things, you may find that it's actually a cause of great frustration for you and others

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You may not know which way to turn, Aquarius. You may be emotionally weighed down by sentimental feelings and memories that bind you to the past. You may also feel restricted by authority figures.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may feel like a puppy that has been let outside for the first time, Virgo. The air is warm and you're full of energy. You're ready to run over the fields and hills.

Unfortunately, you're tied to a stake and you can't move beyond a ten-foot radius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your mind may be going in many different directions, with fantastic ideas about how things should be done, Pisces.

The difficulty is communicating these ideas in a way that makes sense. Others may see you as a threat to their authority.

the fourth time in six games.

P.J. Washington chipped in 25 points and 13 rebounds for the Mavericks, who had won five of their previous six games. Naji Marshall had 15 points, and Ryan Nembhard added 14 points and 11 assists.

George hit a pair of free throws and made a 3-pointer to put Utah ahead for good a minute into overtime. Dallas did not score a basket in OT until Washington dunked with 56.5 seconds left. The Jazz went on an 11-4 run, capped by a tip dunk from Markkanen and a fadeaway jumper from Filipowski, to take a 140-133 lead with 31.8 seconds left.

Dallas' Max Christie forced overtime by going 2for-2 from the free-throw line with 3.9 seconds remaining in regulation.

Washington sank a 3pointer and added a threepoint play to power an 8-0 run that put Dallas up 96-86 late in the third quarter.

The Mavericks led 10394 less than a minute into the fourth quarter after Flagg drove for a layup. Utah went on a 15-6 run and tied it at 109-109 on a 3-pointer from Filipowski with 7:51 to go.

Dallas went up by eight, but Utah bounced back and grabbed a 127-124 lead with 53.6 seconds left when Collier's basket punctuated an 11-0 run. The Mavericks missed six consecutive shots to open the door for Utah to go in front.

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Schools make strong statements as Day Four delivers futsal drama …Kashif & Shanghai School's Futsal continues tomorrow

D

ay Four of the Kashif and Shanghai School's Futsal Championship delivered another thrilling chapter at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, as several schools stamped their authority on the competition.

With qualification hopes for the next round on the line, teams produced performances marked by intensity, resilience, and moments of individual brilliance, keeping those in attendance at Guyana's premier indoor facility fully engaged throughout the day.

We s t M i n i s t e r Secondary edged Carmel

Secondary 2–1 in a tightly contested encounter that was decided by efficiency in front of goal.

Carmel struck first through Earl Lawrence in the 19th minute, capitalising on a lapse in West Minister's defence.

However, West Minister responded with composure and purpose. Keandre Carr levelled the contest in the 11th minute with a welltaken finish, before Nickille Wa t s o n d e l i v e r e d t h e decisive blow in the 15th minute, sealing a valuable three points and underlining West Minister's growing confidence in the tournament.

St. Joseph High produced one of the most commanding performances of the day, dismantling Charlestown Secondary 4–1.

N ic h o la s N ie n e l d e r briefly gave Charlestown hope with an early strike in the second minute, but St. Joseph quickly took control of the match.

Samech Starke ignited the comeback in the third minute, setting the tone for a dominant display.

Laurel George, Joel Stephens, and Akel Sahadeo added further goals, with Sahadeo's 19th-minute strike putting the result beyond doubt. St. Joseph's

Terron Wintz to lead New Amsterdam Boxing Academy at National Open Championships

C

a r i b b e a n champion Terron Wintz is set to spearhead the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy's challenge at the Guyana Boxing A s s o c i a t i o n ' s ( G B A ) Te r r e n c e A l i N a t i o n a l O p e n Championships, scheduled for December 19–21, according to head coach Jeff Roberts.

Roberts expressed confidence in his squad's ability to compete at a high level, pointing to a blend of youth, discipline, and growing experience within the academy.

“We have a solid team that I believe will give a very good account of themselves,” Roberts said, while singling out Wintz' determination to further establish himself as the country's leading welterweight (67kg).

Wintz, widely regarded as one of Guyana's most promising young amateur boxers and an employee of Q u e e n s w a y S e c u r i t y, enjoyed a breakthrough year on the regional stage.

Competing in St. Lucia, he captured gold at the Caribbean Championships and was also named Best Boxer in his division, a

Terron Wintz testament to his technical skill, composure, and ring intelligence.

The 19-year-old Berbician also claimed a title at the OECS Championships, again held in St. Lucia, where he was crowned the tournament's Best Elite Boxer, further underlining his rapid rise and consistency at the international level.

The New Amsterdam Boxing Academy's contingent will also feature 17-year-old Jofes Jackson, who will compete in the middleweight division, and 15-year-old Curt Mahase, who is entered in the featherweight (54kg) category. Both young boxers are expected to gain valuable experience against seasoned opposition.

In the schoolboys divisions, Curtis McDonald

will contest the lightweight class, while Ukesh Persaud, 13, will compete in the 31kg category. He will be joined by 14-year-old Richard Persaud, who is entered in the 45kg division, as the academy continues to invest in long-term development at the grassroots level.

Reflecting on the academy's growth, Roberts noted that the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy is just two years old but has already made encouraging strides.

He explained that while training is currently based at the Glasgow Housing Scheme, plans are in place to relocate to Angoy's Avenue once a new gym, currently under construction by the government, is completed.

“I promise to make Berbice great again in the sport of boxing,” Roberts added, highlighting his commitment to building a sustainable boxing programme in Region 6.

Meanwhile, GBA President Steve Ninvalle said he is enthusiastic about the upcoming National Open Championships, noting that early indications suggest gyms across the country are working tirelessly to close out the year on a high note.

Action in the K&S School's Futsal Championship. fluid passing and clinical finishing highlighted their credentials as serious contenders.

We s t D e m e r a r a Secondary advanced without kicking a ball, earning a walkover victory against Bishops' High.

Meanwhile, New Central High continued their solid run with a composed 2–0 win over VYC Academy.

Trevor Gordon opened the scoring in the fifth minute, setting the early tempo, while Peter Khan doubled the advantage in the 21st minute to ensure a controlled finish.

New Central's defensive structure was particularly impressive, as they denied VYC Academy clear chances and managed the game with maturity.

One of the most entertaining matches of the day saw Annandale edge

Cummings Lodge 3–2.

Cummings Lodge struck through Quason Price in the seventh minute, but Annandale responded swiftly through Joash Thomas in the 16th minute.

Ti m o t h y D o w d i n g restored Cummings Lodge's lead in the 14th minute, only for Annandale to mount a late surge. Goals from Devon Williams and Uzziah Collins in the 20th and 21st minutes respectively turned the game on its head, showcasing Annandale's fighting spirit and late-game composure.

Hope Secondary delivered a confident 3–1 victory over Lodge S e c o n d a r y, c o m b i n i n g attacking intent with disciplined defence.

Quashaun Campbell opened the scoring in the seventh minute, followed by Yohance King's strike in the 19th. Lodge pulled one back

through Elijah Scott in the 23rd minute, but an unfortunate own goal by Gilbert Frank in the 24th minute sealed Hope Secondary's win and capped a frustrating evening for Lodge.

With the group stages intensifying, attention now turns to a packed schedule of fixtures.

On Thursday, December 18, fans will be treated to matchups including St. Joseph versus Carmel, St. John's College against Charlestown, and New Central High facing West Demerara, among others.

Friday, December 19, promises even more excitement, highlighted by clashes such as St. John's C o l l e g e v e r s u s We s t Minister, Hope Secondary against North Ruimveldt, and Charlestown meeting Carmel in what could be a pivotal encounter.

Chase's Academic roar to second...

From page 28 ruthless display by the Jamaicans.

St Benedict's College also maintained their impressive form, cruising to a convincing 7–2 victory over Surinamen Technical Institute to secure their second win of the tournament. Goals came from Jalon Carrington (5'), Jelani Scoot (12'), Joshian Barrow (49'), Camron Burke (61', 78') and Kai Robinson

(87').

Meanwhile, Jose Viera De Sales Guerra of Brazil and Annai Secondary were scheduled to contest the final match of the day, but as of press time, results were unavailable.

With both teams yet to record a win in the tournament, the clash was shaping up to be a crucial encounter. Full details will be published in a subsequent edition once confirmed.

The 2025 KFC International Secondary School Goodwill Football Series is sponsored by KFC Guyana, with support from GBTI, Demerara Mutual, New GPC Inc., ANSA McAL (Lucozade), SkyTec Enterprise, Limacol, Trans Guyana Airways, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and is sanctioned by the Ministry of Education.

Wednesday December 17, 2025

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Opening night of UDFA/Banks DIH Christmas Futsal Championship…

Topp XX, champions Shattas play to 3-3 draw as FC YMCS dispose of Eagles 8-2 Other wins by W/Connection, Blueberry Hill and Mikerock

W

hen the yearend Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) organised 4th annual Banks DIH Christmas futsal championship began last Saturday, the defending champions Silver Shattas were locked with Topp XX 3-3 after regulation play, splitting vital points in their Group A clash; but Blueberry Hill, FC YMCA, Winners Connection and Milerock recorded wins at the Retrieve Hard Court in

the mining town of Linden.

The first game of the night produced a 2-1 victory for Blueberry Hill against Fearless in their Group B encounter, with Rondel Archer hitting in both goals for the victorious side.

Peter Johnson got the lone goal for the losers.

FC YMCA then stamped their intentions with a 8-2 hammering of Eagles United, as Morphus Andrews and Lefjuan Hendford got braces, with the other goals scored by Amari Cummings, Darrell

Australia's Green becomes IPL's most expensive overseas player Australia's Cameron Green during practice.

(Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra)

(Reuters) - Australia allrounder Cameron Green became the most expensive overseas player in the Indian Premier League (IPL), after Kolkata Knight Riders signed him for 252 million Indian rupees ($2.77 million) at the player auction for the 2026 season in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Green, who was initially registered as a batsman due to an error, was the subject of intense bidding between Kolkata and Chennai Super Kings before being purchased by the threetimes champions.

The 26-year-old is the third most expensive player in IPL history, after India's Rishabh Pant (270 million Indian rupees) and Shreyas Iyer (267.5 million).

"We are very happy.

This is something that we were really focused on... I think he adds a lot to our team," Kolkata CEO Venky Mysore said. Australian Mitchell Starc, the previous most expensive foreign player in the competition, attracted a bid of 247.5 million Indian rupees in

2024 from Kolkata, who have made three of the five most expensive buys in IPL history. Green, who missed the IPL this year as he was recovering from back surgery, is set to play in the third Ashes test against England starting on Wednesday. Kolkata also spent big on Sri Lankan seamer Matheesha Pathirana and Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman.

Five-time champions Chennai splurged 142 million Indian rupees each on wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma, who has hit 16 sixes in this season's Ranji Trophy, and allrounder Prashant Veer, making them the most expensive uncapped signings in IPL history.

Delhi Capitals bought England batter Ben Duckett and South Africa's David Miller for 20 million Indian rupees each. The 19th edition of the IPL begins on March 26, after India cohosts the Twenty20 World Cup starting in February. ($1 = 90.9980 Indian rupees)

Profitt, Orlando Lowe and Mark London.

Kyan Fields and Dexter Milo Jr. scored the goals for Eagles United.

Game three ended with Winners Connection easing past Net Rockers 5-2, with Anthony Layne leading their charge with two goals and the others netted by Akeem Caesar, Devon Haynes and

Cedric Hunte.

In the fourth game of the night Hi Stars gained victory via the walkover route after Amelia's Ward Panthers who did not turn up for their Group B game.

Milerock then downed Botafago 3-1 in their Group D match, behind goals from Ryan Arthur, Jamal Bentick and Rudolph Harmon. Jamal

Haynes got the only goal for Botafago.

The sixth match was in Group A clash between the defending champions Silver Shattas which finished without a winner with the scores knotted 3-3.

For the Shattas Omar Brewley hit a double and the other by an own goal, while for Topp XX the scorers

were Ryan Arthur, Jamal Bentick and Rudolph Harmon.

The night cap game did not materialize since Capital FC's opponents Coomacka did not show for the encounter. The competition continues today, Wednesday, with seven more scheduled matches in the round robin stages of this competition.

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

2025 Barbados tour of Guyana U-13 40-Over series Game 3...

Bajans snap hosts' win streak with 3 wicket win - Series 2-1 heading into pivotal Game 4 B

a r b a d o s outplayed Guyana in a low-scoring match yesterday at Lusignan, snapping the home team's streak to help keep the series alive with a crucial Game 4 shifting to Everest Ground today.

Chasing an easy target for their first win of the series, Barbados reached 112 with two overs left and 3 wickets remaining to break their losing streak.

It took a collective effort from Oliver King (10), Avery Boyce (17), Kayden Wilkins (10) Kymani Inniss (22*) and Natarie Lavine (17) to see the Bajans to victory, despite a fightback from the Guyanese bowlers.

Guyana earlier were kept under wraps for the most part, with Afraz Khan battling for his 96-ball 39 which featured just two fours to help his team grind for their 111-8 in 40 overs.

Middle-order batsman Daniel Johnson scored a useful 25 also with two fours, as the remainder of the Guyana team came up short with the bat, which left the home team reeling at 105-7 in the 39th over.

Left-arm mediumpacer Jahiem Springer (210) was excellent while allrounder Ky-mani Inniss (222) coupled with a wicket each from two of their teammates, was by far the Bajans best outing with the

ball all series.

However, Barbados too had a shaky start to the chase, clawing their way to 52 with four of their batters dismissed.

Inniss kept his cool despite wickets falling around him as he ended with a pair of fours which inevitably steadied the ship to see his team home.

A mixed effort with the ball from Guyana alongside 22 extras played a role in their downfall; despite wickets from Jaden Ganpat (2-12), Khan (1-21) and Fayyad Baskh (1-12) and Brandon Grimmond (1-10).

Game 4 continu es today. (Clifton Ross)

Man-of-the-match Ky-mani Inniss grabbed his award from GCB executive Shaun Massiah after leading Barbados to a strong win.

Chase's Academic roar to second straight win as goals rain in KFC Int'l Goodwill Series Isaiah Ifill doing some tidy work on the wing as Chase's Academic maintains a clean sheet in 6-0 win.

Chase's Academic Foundation continued their blistering start to the 2025 KFC International Secondary School Goodwill Football Series, recording a second consecutive victory with a commanding 6–0 d e m o l i t i o n o f We s t Ruimveldt Secondary in their second fixture of the tournament.

The 2024 KFC champions once again displayed their pedigree, combining tactical discipline with lethal finishing to completely outclass their opponents.

Chase struck early when Isaiah Ifill sliced through West Ruimveldt's defence, crashing the ball into the back of the net to ignite celebrations and hand his side a deserved 1–0 lead.

Captain Bryan Wharton soon doubled the advantage, gliding through the center before firing an accurate strike past the helpless goalkeeper to make it 2–0 at the half.

After the break, Chase turned dominance into devastation. Wharton struck again, this time producing a marksman's effort from the right wing, curling the ball beyond the keeper to stretch the lead and effectively end the contest. The goals kept flowing as Malcolm Hendrick rose highest in the 66th minute, meeting a superb floater inside the box and guiding a composed header into the net for 5–0.

Chase completed the rout in the 80th minute when Shaquan David embarked on a solo run down the right

flank, powering a rightfooted effort home to seal a comprehensive 6–0 victory and underline Chase's title credentials.

In an earlier action, Kingston College delivered a jaw-dropping performance, obliterating Anglican Central Educational Authority (ACEA) 28–0. Shaquan Elliot, Robinho Morgan, Shemoy Thomson and Riley Keywharon all bagged hattricks, while Davion Clarke was simply unstoppable, smashing a double hat-trick with goals in the 29', 33', 36', 38', 46' and 61'. NThanda Scott, Adriel Fisher and Micah Simpson each added braces, with Rasheed Gayne and Rodney Granastand also getting on the scoresheet in a (Continued on page 26)

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

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NYPD cricket team donates gear and uniforms for Police in Regions Five and Six

Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Boodram, at left, Commander Five Senior Superintendent Lonsdale Withrite, second left, during the presentation of the cricket gear and uniforms from the NYPD cricket team.

By Samuel Whyte Once again police departments in Guyana are the beneficiary of much needed assistance from the N e w Yo r k P o l i c e Department (NYPD) Cricket Team.

The benefices this time are the Guyana Police Force Regional Police Divisions number five and six.

Among the items handed over are uniforms and cricket gear. The donations help to further strengthen sporting and institutional ties between the two organisations, which continues to extend across several areas of cooperation and engagement.

The presentations were facilitated by Mr. Sheryar Hussain and Deputy Commissioner of Police “ A d m i n i s t r a t i o n ” M r.

Ravindradat Budhram.

The presentation to the Regional Police Division No five Cricket Team was made possible through the support of BM Construction and the N e w Yo r k P o l i c e Department (NYPD) and was held at the Regional Police Headquarters, Fort Wellington. Among those in

attendance were Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent Lonsdale Withrite and members of the Division's senior staff and cricket team.

The presentation to the Region six Cricket Team was held at the St. Francis Community Developers Hall (SFCD), Portuguese Quarters Corentyne was attended by Divisional Commander Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus and members of the Division's cricket team.

Deputy Commissioner Budhram, who also serves as Chairman of the Police Officers' Cricket Team, noted that sporting initiatives such as cricket, plays an important role in promoting teamwork, discipline and camaraderie among police ranks.

Mr. Sheryar Hussain said he was pleased to support the initiative, noting that sport remains a powerful means of building bridges between law enforcement agencies.

He stated that the relationship between the NYPD and the Guyana Police Force has grown steadily over the years and expressed hope that the

uniforms and cricket gear would contribute to team spirit, unity and positive

Cricket gear and uniforms from the NYPD being presented to police division five. Deputy Commissioner Ravindradat Boodram (3rd right) and Commander Division Six, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus (4th right) and Mayor New Amsterdam Waynewright McIntosh share the moment. engagement among ranks.

Both Divisional Commanders expressed

appreciation for the initiative, highlighting the value of sports in fostering

wellness, morale and positive engagement among ranks across the Divisions.

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday December 17, 2025

Archery Guyana Delivers High-Impact Wellness & Nutrition Seminar for Athletes/ Coaches Archery Guyana successfully hosted its Wellness & Nutrition in Archery Seminar at the Olympic House, Liliendaal, on Monday 15th December, 2025, bringing together approximately 65 participants from the Federation and ten (10) affiliated clubs for a comprehensive, athletefocused learning experience.

In her welcome remarks, Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon, President of Archery Guyana, emphasised that while archery is a sport of precision, discipline, and mental control, optimal performance is rooted in physical wellness, mental resilience, injury prevention,

and proper nutrition. She noted that the seminar forms part of the Federation's broader strategy to promote holistic athlete development as the sport continues to grow nationally and regionally.

The morning programme commenced with remarks and overview by Guyana's Head Coach Mr. Ryan McKinnon followed by sessions on physical wellness, mental wellness, and injury prevention, delivered by Jana Edghill, Aretha Legall, and Atavia Johnson.

These presentations focused on posture, stability, strength, focus, emotional control, breathing techniques, common

Archery Guyana recently hosted High-Impact Wellness and Nutrition Seminar for Athletes and Coaches.

archery-related injuries, and long-term athlete care.

Following a short break, the seminar transitioned into an in-depth segment on nutrition and hydration for archery performance, led by Ms. Vanessa Wickham. This extended session addressed key nutrition goals for archers, energy management, hydration strategies, competition-day planning, and recovery nutrition, providing participants with practical guidance applicable to both training and competition environments.

The programme concluded with a “Bringing It All Together” session facilitated by Aretha Legall, reinforcing the integration of wellness, nutrition, and daily performance routines into sustainable athlete development plans.

Archery Guyana expressed sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Health and the Guyana Physiotherapists

Association for their collaboration and support, underscoring the importance of evidence-based health practices in sport. Special thanks to Dr. Ariane Mangar and Ms. Vanessa Wickham.

Special thanks were extended to the Team at the National Sports Clinic, all presenters for their expertise and commitment, and to the Board of Archery Guyana for its continued leadership in advancing athlete education initiatives.

The Federation also acknowledged the generous support of its partners and sponsors: Oasis Water, the official water sponsor; and Guyana Beverages Inc., for beverage sponsorship, i n c l u d i n g h i g h - e n e rg y drinks provided throughout the session. In this regard, their Altitude Brand was commended by the Presenters as being excellent for nutrition with the sodium, potassium and

A demonstration being done during the programme.

magnesium content. Kudos to GBI in this regard for promoting and providing for the athletes.

Massy Distribution Guyana, for providing healthy snacks aligned with the seminar's wellness and nutrition focus.

Gratitude was also conveyed to Mr. Godfrey Munroe, President of the Guyana Olympic Association, and the Executive Committee of the G.O.A. for making the Olympic House facility available and for their continued support of National Federations and athlete-centred initiatives.

Archery Guyana reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a healthy, informed, and resilient archery community, noting that initiatives such as this seminar are essential to the long-term growth and sustainability of the sport in Guyana.

Wednesday December 17, 2025

Kaieteur News

Lusignan Golf Club ends 2025 Season with Festive Holiday Scramble Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) officially brought its 2025 competitive season to a close with the Annual Holiday Season Social and Partner Scramble 9-Hole Golf Tournament, held last Sunday in a lively Christmas-themed atmosphere that blended competitive golf with endof-year celebration.

The tournament, played in a social scramble format, welcomed members and their partners and served as the final sporting event on the club's 2025 calendar.

Festive décor, holiday attire, and camaraderie on the course added to the seasonal spirit, before participants gathered upstairs in the clubhouse for a wellattended Christmas social.

Top honours on the day were claimed by Carlos Adams and Gavin Todd, who emerged victorious with a Gross score of 36, a Team Handicap of 5, and the best Net score of 31. They were closely followed by Romel Bhagwandin and Max Persaud (Gross 36, Team HC 4, Net 32) and Kevin Budram and Mahin Harry (Gross 35, Team HC 3, Net 3 2 ) , u n d er s co r in g th e

Carlos Adams & Gavin Todd copped first place.

competitive edge that remained despite the relaxed holiday setting.

Also featuring among the leading teams were Brian Hackett and Patrick Prashad, who recorded a Net 33, while Imtiaz Subhan and Ayube Subhan finished with a Net 34.

Individual on-course prizes added further excitement, with Mike Mangal claiming Nearest to the Pin and Richard Haniff securing Longest Drive honours.

LGC PRO Dr. Joaan Deo said the tournament was a fitting conclusion to the 2025 season, noting that the strong turnout, competitive play, and festive post-round social highlighted the unity, sportsmanship, and Christmas spirit that continue to define the club.

Special awards were also presented to recognise outstanding contributions and character throughout the season: ● Most Improved Golfer — Orson Ferguson ● Most Honest Golfer — Patrick Prashad ● Best Dressed Golfer — Troy Cadogan ● Most Enthusiastic

New Golfer — Mortimer Wills The Lusignan Golf Club Management Committee extended sincere thanks to all participants, partners, and s u p p o r ter s , an d lo o k s forward to building on the momentum as preparations begin for the upcoming season.

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The winners row

Jamaica's Kingston College unleashed their shooters against Anglican Central Educational Authority to wrap up dominant a 28-0 win on Day two of the KFC Goodwill Series.

s t r o Sp

Chase's Academic roar to second straight win as goals rain in KFC Int'l Goodwill Series

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