Policeman found guilty of killing Orin Boston
Police Constable, Sherwin Peters of Amelia's Ward, Linden, was found guilty on Wednesday of k i l l i n g E s s e q u i b o businessman, Orin Boston, backin2021.
His trial was held at the Essequibo High Court Peters, a member of the Guyana Police Force's (GPF) Special Weapons and
Tactics (SWAT) unit, was charged with manslaughter for the September 15, 2021 killing of Boston at his Dartmouth,EssequiboCoast home. He was found guilty bya12-memberjury Peters' trial commenced on June 17, 2025 and approximately 25 witnesses werecalledtothestand.The matter was presided over by Justice Sandil Kissoon State Counsel Latifah Elliot presented the indictment against Peters, who pleaded not guilty He was selfrepresented throughout his trial The verdict was delivered after a summation of the trial on Wednesday After the verdict was delivered, Peters, who was on bail pending trial, was taken into custody His sentencing is scheduled for July10,2025.
Peters was charged with manslaughtermonthsafterit
was reported that around 04:00hrs on September 15, 2021,hehadbeenonapolice operation searching for 'illegal substances' at Boston's Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast home Boston, who was reportedly still in his bed at the time of the shooting, was shot once inthechestwitha (Continueonpage16)
Trinidad eyes Guyana's oil in move to restart its refinery
Energy Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr
Roodal Moonilal, has announced that the twinisland republic is looking to Guyana as a potential crude supplier as part of plans to restart its mothballed refinery, which was shutteredin2018.
Speaking during the debate on the Finance ( S u p p l e m e n t a r y Appropriation) Bill in the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament on Monday, Dr. Moonilal said that technical groundwork is already underway to bring the refinery back online, including collaboration with the Oilfields Workers' Trade
Union (OWTU) and international partners. “We are in discussions with government officials to ensure that we have some commonality there, so that we can source the important inputs for the refinery from Suriname, from Guyana and from elsewhere, ” the ministertoldtheHouse.
The minister outlined thatrestartingtherefineryis not a simple task He explained, “It is not simply going down there with a cigarettelighterandlighting uptheflare.Youknow,isnot a matter of taking the plug and plugging in and iron a shirt. Severalthingshaveto happen-technical,scientific, commercial, economic, contractual, at the same time.”
He also shared that a
RefineryRestartCommittee, comprised of technical experts, has been formed, and an assessment of the plant's condition is underway Once complete, Trinidad will seek a suitable partner through an open, transparent process to assist withtherestart.
Further,theministeralso criticisedtheongoingcostof maintainingtheidlerefinery, pointing to $400,000 TT beingspentmonthlytokeep theplantoperationalwithout producing any output Trinidad's refinery was closed in 2018 due to a sustained decline in local crude production, which led to costly feedstock imports and unsustainable refining expenses.
Now, with Guyana emerging as one of the world's fastest-growing oil producers,Trinidadiseyeing its Caribbean Community
(CARICOM) sister neighbour as a strategic supplier Oil production offshore Guyana's Stabroek
Block, operated by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), began in December 2019. Since then, production has grown to 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) from three sanctioned projects: Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2, and Payara. This outputissettoincreasewith the imminent start-up of Yellowtail, the fourth development,laterthisyear Exxon already has two other sanctioned projects
Digicel Group and Symptai join forces to offer better access to world-class business solutions
DTrinidad and Tobago's Energy Minister, Dr. Roodal Moonilal
under its belt, the Uaru and Whiptail. The company has already submitted the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for its
production targeted for 2029.Thecompanyhasalso filed an application for an eighth development named Longtail.
Notably, despite its oil wealth, Guyana currently hasnodomesticoilrefinery While the government remains open to the idea, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, back in 2024, stated that such a ventureisnotfeasibleatthis timeduetoconcernsaround storage, logistics, and consistent crude supply In 2022, the government invited proposals for a private-sector-led 30,000barrel-per-day refinery near Crab Island in Berbice Although the land and incentives would be provided by the state, Guyana has not committed anyinvestmentorownership intheproject.
igicelGroupand S y m p t a i C
ing
Limitedhavejoinedforcesto offer businesses better
s solutions and experts to support all their technology needs.
This milestone builds on Digicel's initial stake in S
underscores the group's continued commitment to driving secured digital growth and transformation across the region, the
company said in a press release.
Sympt
ading technology advisory and cybersecurity consultancy firm, boasts a 27-year track recordasregionalexpertsin cybersecurity, data privacy and protection, anti-money l
compliance, and digital transformation.
With Digicel Business' mobile and ICT solutions, Symptai's deep expertise supporting governments, financial institutions and
Digicel's business solutions acrosstheCaribbean.
“This is a major step forward in strengthening Digicel's capabilities in cybersecurity, data privacy and digital transformation,” said Liam Donnelly, Chief Business Officer, Digicel Group.
“For over five years, Digicelhasbeenapioneerin thecyberandSOC(security operation centre) services forbusinessesandnowwe're
taking it to the next level. Globally, there's a dearth of cyber expertise, so you can imagine across the Caribbean,withapopulation of about 45 million people, thedemandisgreat. Now, with the combined expertise of Digicel and Symptai, there is an even largerpoolofknowledgeand experts to better serve our customers and have even greater reach across the regionandbeyond.”
(Continueonpage17)
Canada working to simplify
lengthy visa process
In response to ongoing concerns about the tedious andtime-consumingprocess ofacquiringaCanadianvisa, High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, Sebastien Sigouin, announced that efforts are underway to simplify the system.
Speaking during a cocktail reception celebrating the 158th Anniversary of Canada Day onWednesdayeveningathis B e l A i r G a r d e n s , Georgetown residence, Sigouin acknowledged the issue directly “We are a welcoming country peopleliketovisitus…there are over 20 million people visiting Canada every year. Andyes,gettingavisatakes time. I know, I hear a lot about it every day. I wish I could fix it, but believe me, we are working on it,” he stated during his keynote address.
The announcement f o l l o w s a r e c e n t development for travellers, as Canadian airline Air Transatissettobeginflying directlybetweenGuyanaand Toronto twice a week. High Commissioner Sigouin also
High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana and Ambassador to Suriname, Sebastien Sigouin – says Canadian High Commissioner
used the occasion to praise the strong and evolving relationshipbetweenCanada and Guyana, highlighting recent developments that signal deeper collaboration.
“We recently signed a m e m o r a n d u m o f understanding with Guyana’s Ministry of Financethatwillcreatemore commercial opportunities to s u p p o r t G u y a n a ’s development. It will also pave the way for more collaboration and more prosperity,”hesaid. He also noted that
Canadahasmadesignificant investments in Guyana, contributing to job creation and providing a loan of $18 billion to support social services Additionally, Canada has invested $2 billion through partnerships with organisations like UNICEF and the World University Service of Canada to advance key initiatives. These include e a r l y c h i l d h o o d development programs and efforts to protect Indigenous communitiesfromsexual (Continueonpage16)
Liam Donnelly, Chief Business Officer, Digicel Group
Marlon Cooper, CEO, Symptai Consulting
Sherwin Peters
Orin Boston
KaieteurNews
PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.
Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456
Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
State resources and campaign financing
The hallowed grounds of Guyana's premier venue for international conferences- Arthur Chung Conference Centre- will be transformed into a dance hall to host the PPP/C'sfundraiserdinnerthisweekend.
It is not a State event or a national celebration, but a political party's election campaign fundraiser The event was initially scheduled to be held somewhere on the Success Public Road, East Coast Demerara, but has now beendramaticallymovedtotheconferencecentre.
We can only imagine the type of activities that will accompanysuchagathering.Theendlessrumdrinkingand partying are not befitting the venue, where this country hostsitsParliament.Whentheconferencecentrewasgifted tothiscountrybytheChineseGovernment,itwasclearthat itwouldbeusedforlocalandinternationalconferences.
Today,therulingpartyhasbeenusingitasitwishesto host a range of non-state activities, including its congress andnowafundraiser.Itcannotbethatthegoverningparty isshortofalternativevenuestohosttheirfete-afterall,they havecontroloverquiteafewNDCsontheECDthathave control over the community grounds, and if the rainy weatheristheproblem,gosomewhereelse.ThePPPdoes notspareanyopportunitytospeakaboutexcessesunderthe ForbesBurnhamera,yetheretheyaredoingthesame.Only recently, the Guyana Human RightsAssociation (GHRA) hadcausetodrawparallelsbetweenthesaidBurnhamera and that of the PPP of today The GHRA observed that under the dictatorial phase of the Burnham presidency, subordination of the State to the whims and wishes of the rulingpartywassymbolisedbytheflyingofthePNCparty flag over the Court of Appeal. "Similar levels of control overtheadministrationofjusticearepursuedbythecurrent Government. Rather than the flag, however, control is symbolised in the refusal to confirm the appointments of theChiefJusticeandtheChancellorandtheinterferenceat alllevelsoftheGuyanaPoliceForce(GPF)."
We have seen in the past the said venue being used to host weddings for PPP officials and other private gatherings. Guyanese would be interested in knowing whetherthepartyispayingarentaltousethevenue;ifnot, then all the entertainment promoters and other citizens should be allowed to use the centre's ground for their barbecueandfishfry
The use of the centre for the PPP's dinner also brings intofocustheneedforrobustcampaignfinancinglawsthat can put a check on the incumbent government's abuse of State resources for its elections campaign. Already, questionshavebeenraisedabouttheflurryofoutreachesby the government, thinly disguised as official work, but are reallyelectioneering,utilisingStateresources.
Following the May 2015 General and Regional Elections,itwasobservedbytheCarterCentrethatgapsin the law on campaign financing have created a weak distinctionbetweentheresourcesoftherulingpartyandthe resources of the State. Incidentally, this weak distinction hadexistedbetweenStateresourcesandthoseofthethenruling party at the time, the People's Progressive Party Civic(PPP/C).
Thereportnotedthattheabsenceofpublicfundingfor politicalpartieshadimpairedtheabilityofsmallerparties tocompete.Itwasstatedthatitwillbeofgreatsignificance forfutureelectoralfairnessiflawsareintroducedonparty financestocreategreatertransparency Itwasconsideredin the report that it is a given that political parties and their candidatesneedfinancingandadequateaccesstoresources inordertocampaignandmaketheirplatformsknownand available to the populace. As such, the Centre said that Guyanashouldputmeasuresinplacetopreventcorruption, particularly in the context of campaign financing. This is important, since the country would have signed on to the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the Inter-AmericanConventionagainstCorruption.Thereport
Gaslighting going wild
DearEditor, Although the concept of gaslighting is not widely usedinGuyana,Iknowofno better construction that can highlight what, at times, transpires in the media. In fact, gaslighting is going wildhere.
I asked ChatGPT for a definition,andhereiswhatI got:“Gaslightingisaformof psychological manipulation inwhichonepersonorgroup causes another to question theirownreality,memory,or perceptions.
The goal is often to gain c o n t r o l , a v o i d accountability,orundermine
the victim's confidence and sense of self.” This is a perfect description for a piece published in the press yesterday that reads as follows – “the People's NationalCongress(PNC)is, by every measure that matters, more democratic thanthePeople'sProgressive Party(PPP)”(6/24/2025).
Let me make the following points clear First, except in one instance, the PNChasriggedorattempted to rig every election since 1973.
This includes referenda and their own party elections.Secondly,thePNC
No one with the
has regularly resorted to intimidation or even violence (e g via Rabbi Washington) to achieve its goals And thirdly, if democracy implies economicgrowthandhuman development, then PNC policies have delivered persistent decline and massive suffering. Nothing democraticthere!
Bycontrast,andcontrary to the attempted gaslighting by C.S. Singh, the PPP has defined processes for party governance, including the selection of its leaders at all levels. Its economic policies are arrived at through deep
and wide consultations in electoral districts across the country
The same engagement is availed to civil society from different ethnic and racial groups, religious leaders, women's groups, trade unions, and private sector organisations.
The suggestion that the PNC is more democratic than the PPP is more than absurd It is asinine Thankfully, the Guyanese people have more common sense than the 'gaslighter' mighthavecalculated.
Sincerely,
Dr.RandyPersaud
mindset of a slave master will dominate or conquer me
DearEditor,
InoteyourJune24,2025 Editorial titled “Criminal Defamation". The Editorial justly condemned the PPP regime's fabricated false charges of criminal defamation that were unlawfullyinstitutedagainst me and excoriated by Chief Justice Roxanne George in herjudgment.Icommendthe newspaperfordoingso.
Yo u , h o w e v e r, diminished the valorous Editorialdenunciationofthe government's Hitler-like, autocratic aggression with the false claim that "We would be the first to admit thatsomeoftheviewsofMr Burke are extremist in nature ” Respectfully, I completely reject the notion that some of my views are extremist in nature I challenge you to state some extremist views that I have espoused.
Itis,unfortunately,elitist and objectionable to deem a campaign for justice and equalrights"extremist".Iam resolute and strident in my criticism of, and advocacy against, the PPP regime's racism,racialdiscrimination and oppression against the A f r ican G u y an es e population, as well as the unchecked corruption in
DearEditor,
which they boldly engage withinfuriatingaudacity
Senior members of this PPP government formed death squads that killed hundreds of people, including journalist Ronald Waddellandpoliticalactivist CourtneyCrumEwing,with no justice. That's extreme! Thepressandthepopulation should not rest until those responsible are held to account. Instead, these lives havejustbeendiscountedas expendable. In what other societyisthisacceptable?
Members of this PPP government and their Police Force have covered up the raping of children and women, the murder of Joel andIsaiahHenry,themurder of Adriana Younge, and countless other heinous crimes, because the perpetrators are from their cabal and party There has been no justice That's extreme!Mustweacceptthis in silence? I refuse to. In what other society is this acceptable?
Members of this PPP government have starved opposition Regions and communities of government funds and shut out African Guyanese from benefiting fromtheoilandgasrevenues and economic development
ofGuyana.Theyonlystarted rushing to give African Guyanesesomeinsignificant government contracts when CGID, Attorney Nigel Hughes, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton and other opposition Members of Parliamentandactivists,and I, began to pummel them over such despicable and overt racism which effectively saw the transfer ofthecountry'swealthtothe PPP and their ethnic collective.That'sextreme.In whichothersocietyaresuch apartheid policies acceptable?
Whichothergovernment in the world can get away with what the PPP governmentdidtothepeople of Mocha Arcadiadestroyingtheirlives?That's extreme!
IliveintheUSandhave been a tireless warrior for justice for the people in Guyana who are victims of injustice, extrajudicial killing, racial discrimination andpoliticalvictimisationby those in the PPPregime. If I wereresidinginGuyana,the leadership of the PPPwould have orchestrated for me to be killed; there would be no justice. I would have been another Ronald Waddell or Courtney Crum Ewing. In
which other society is that acceptable? I live in the US and the PPP government, in ordertosilenceme,madeup allegations;allsortsofcrazy, fantastic and wildly false allegationstoportraymeasa criminal. Then they did the unthinkable. They sent two armed men, one of whom is G P F A s s i s t a n t Superintendent Rodwell Sarabo, to my Brooklyn, NewYorkhome. No media in Guyana, except the Village Voice newspaper, condemned the PPPregime'sviolationofthe sovereignty of the US and the laws of Guyana. In fact, Kaieteur News carried this just as another normal news item. It took the Supreme CourtofGuyanatocondemn this egregious attack on me in New York in a landmark ruling. As the victims of all theabove,whenIfightback, youcallit"extreme."Ireject that.
Iamadescendantofthe indomitable slaves who fought and abolished slavery No one with the mindsetofslavemasterswill dominate or conquer me. Regards, RickfordBurke President Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy(CGID)
I was expelled from the PNC
This is justtocorrectan error by some wellintentioned persons who
stated that I was suspended or that I walked away from the People's National Congress.
had also noted that Guyana's legal framework is weak on this matter and has contributed to inequalities between political parties. This report was released in 2017 and September1,2025willmarktwogeneralelectionssincethe Carter Centre's observation and recommendations, and neitherthePPPnorthePNChassoughttotakeactiontofix theproblem.
The truth is I was expelled from the PNC by the then Leader, Mr Hugh Desmond Hoyte, because I expressed a disquiet over certain unilateral actions takenbyhim.
Because of my desire and passion to continue providing service and sharing my vast experience, I, along with others, formed
theGoodandGreenGuyana (GGG)Party
After Mr Hoyte's death, I immediately rejoined the PNC Party and remain committed to supporting my Party and its leadership.
Hamilton Green Founder Member
People's National Congress
The information I provide is thoroughly vetted and can withstand scrutiny
DearEditor,
Thank you for the opportunitytorespondtothe letter titled “Government Office Complex is progressing under strict scrutiny and in full compliance with highest standards of public accountability,” authoredby Minister Juan Edghill and published in your letters column on Saturday, June 21,2025.
I wish to make it unequivocally clear to Minister Edghill that at no point did my letter seek to misrepresentfacts,engagein political grandstanding, or derail the project His accusations are, in my view, baseless and without merit.
Minister Edghill is aware of m y c h a r a c t e r a n d professionalism, having knownmeduringmytimeas ayoungpublicservantatthe GPOC, where he served as Chairman of the Board of Directorsfrom2001to2011, prior to his appointment as Junior Minister of Finance. He is, therefore, familiar with my work ethic and personalintegrity
It is unfortunate that MinisterEdghillhasresorted to attacking my character, attempting to discredit me for fulfilling my duty as a Member of Parliament on theOppositionside.Myrole is to scrutinise, educate, and inform my constituents and the wider Guyanese public on the progress of national projectsandtheuseofpublic funds If holding the government accountable is considereddisruptive,thenI accept that responsibility with pride. My efforts are rooted in transparency, accuracy, and facts, not speculation.
Minister Edghill responded to my letter (published June 18, 2025) under four thematic headings.However,hefailed to adequately address the core concerns I raised. For example,inhisfirstpoint,he claimed that the project is “active and advancing,” noting mechanical issues and stating that pile driving
workis26%completed.Yet, comparethiswithhisearlier remarks reported by DPI on January 3, 2025, where he said:“BytheendofJanuary, you will be seeing much, muchmoreworkbeingdone on site… While not fully satisfied,Iampleasedweare getting ahead, and we are able to cross some of the hurdles, and we are getting thisdonequickly.”
Five months later, there is little visible progress on the site. In contrast, the US$200 million Brickdam Police Station Headquarters project shows visible completionofitsfoundation and superstructure Meanwhile, $7.4 billion of the$8.6billionallocatedfor the Government Office Complex has already been paid to the contractor, according to Minister Edghill himself Yet, the public has not seen proportional work on the ground This discrepancy was also highlighted during the scrutiny of the 2025 Budget in the National Assembly In point three of his response, Minister Edghill described me as “flippant and uninformed,” listing several activities and associated costs. However, hemissedtheopportunityto provide receipts or photographs of the 18 containersreportedlyatPort G e o r g e t o w n M y independent research does not support his claims. It would be pertinent for the public to know whether demurrage fees are being incurred, who is paying them, and when the containers arrived. This is what real accountability
entails, not dismissive assertions.
Minister Edghill further referredtoClause14.4(6)of the contract, which allows for payment for imported materials upon submission of verified shipping documents.
While I appreciate this clarification, I am disappointed that the full contract, valued at over $15 billionoftaxpayerfunds,has never been laid before the National Assembly or made publicfortransparency
It is unacceptable that three years after funds were appropriated and significant payments were made, the nation is only selectively being shown contract clauses In point five, Minister Edghill asserted that Caribbean Green Builders Inc. is a legally registered and operational entity Yet,myrequestforthe company's local address, outlinedinmyJune18letter, has gone unanswered. The public deserves to know whether this company has a legitimate and stable local presence. This is a $15 billion contract, not a $15 million one, and Guyanese citizenshavearighttoknow who is executing it and wheretofindthem.
I must again emphasise, it is not my intention to mislead or misinform the public.
I am committed to honesty and transparency AsaMemberofParliament, I have a moral duty to represent the people and hold the government accountable for how their money is spent It is concerning that Minister Edghill only responds to
issues concerning the Government Office Complex when I bring them to public attention. If this project is indeed “real and active,” then the Minister should provide regular updates, not reactive explanations.
Minister Edghill has invitedmetoengagewithhis Ministry In response, I extend a proposal for a joint
site visit involving the Opposition, officials from the Ministry of Public Works, and members of the media. I suggest July 2 or July 9, 2025, as potential dates My contact information is easily accessible, and I hope Minister Edghill will give this proposal serious consideration. Finally, for the record, I reiterate to
Minister Edghill and the public that I am not an irresponsible person The information I provide is thoroughly vetted and can withstandscrutiny Isupport developmentthatbenefitsall Guyanese, but I reject propaganda and the lack of transparency surrounding theuseofpublicfunds.
Yourssincerely,
AnnetteFerguson,MP
Oil Royalty and the Opposition: Nonsensical
DearEditor,
This past Monday, G
highlighted a call from Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton urging that voters should determine increasing o
m ExxonMobil to 25 percent. Whilehigherroyaltiesmight sound appealing, such a move would be one of the most irresponsible political and economic actions any government could take. Mr Norton's statement reveals a lack of understanding of the fundamental need for investorstotrustthatlegally binding agreements will be upheld, regardless of which politicalpartyisinoffice.
To understand the present situation, it is importanttorevisitwhatthe People's National Congress (PNC) negotiated in the original Production Sharing Agreement(PSA).
In 2016, under thenPresidentDavidGranger,the PNC signed a PSA with ExxonMobilanditspartners, Hess Corporation and CNOOC, granting them rights to explore the
ExxonMobil to recover 85 percent of its costs and set a royalty rate of just 2 percent for Guyana. This PSA was signedonJune27,2016,and was never subject to public consultation or meaningful debate The Granger administration had a responsibility to engage the Guyanese public and seek a fairdeal,butitchosesecrecy over transparency. The result: Guyana was locked intoalow-royaltyagreement thathasdrawncriticismboth locallyandinternationally
Afterthe2020elections, the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) returned to office, with the then President Bharrat Jagdeo playing a key role in reshaping the country's approach to oil governance. InstarkcontrasttothePNC's closed-door approach, the PPP/C introduced a new model PSA for future oil
o
k, roy
s increased to 12.5 percent (a combination of a 10 percent base royalty and a 2 5 percent corporate income tax, treated as royalty). This was a significant improvement, reflecting a more assertive and competent approach to resource management A legitimately elected government has a duty to ensure political, economic, and legal stability, including thehonouringofcommercial agreements. Violating these agreements would trigger investor uncertainty, destabilisetheeconomy,and send the wrong signal to the g l o b a l m a r k e t Mr Norton's proposal is reckless.
It undermines the principle of legal continuity and disregards the gains Guyana has already made. Disrupting the country's economic architecture for the sake of political grandstanding is not leadership; it is folly The Guyanese people deserve thoughtful, forward-looking governance, not slogans masqueradingaspolicy
Sincerely, TilokieDepoo,Ph.D. Economist
DearEditor,
I am dismayed, for the second time in recent days, regarding your recent Editorials most notably that of Monday, June 23 which addressed the tragic death of 11-year-old AdrianaYounge.
Your newspaper had distinguished itself in 2020 by refusing to be drawn into conspiracy theories and discredited narratives about dead and migrant people voting.ButyourEditorialof last Monday now appears to have abandoned that same principled standard. At the
Justice begins with truth
height of a political crisis in 2020, Kaieteur News demanded evidence, rejected falsehoods, and insistedonfacts.Thatlegacy makesyourEditorialposture of Monday, June 23, all the more troubling. Rather than giving credence to the overwhelming and conclusive scie
c findings of a team of highly qualified pathologists, your Editorial gives oxygen to c
s unsupportedbyevenashred of credible evidence. The final report of the first autopsy, conducted by a
professionals forensic experts from Barbados and the United States found that Adriana died by drowning.Theirconclusions were not vague or openended. They pointed to the classic signs of drowning: Lungsdescribedascrepitant w i t h o e d e m a a n d congestion; Over 400 ml of fluid in each pleural cavity; Congealed foam in the nostrils and mouth; and washerwoman skin consistent with prolonged submersion. That autopsy foundnoevidenceoftrauma
Law and order are getting weaker
DearEditor,
If the Ministry of Home Affairsisunabletokeepour Ministers safe, then the safetyoftheordinarycitizen is also at risk. A sitting Minister should not have to fear for his and his family's personalsafety Thesecurity apparatus and their knowledge of what is going on in the country should be easilyachievedinourcloseknit and small country The GFS, the GPF and the Ministry of Home Affairs must show that they are competent and quick to
resolve these serious securitymatters.
The slowness of the investigationsandtheirslow response does not build confidence in foreign investors to place more foreign investment into the country It must be clear to everyone, including those outside of Guyana, that the governmenthascontrolover the country and that it can easily maintain law and order within our cities and communities. Without the assurance of safety for the common man, there will be
limited investment in the country It is time for the criminalactivityandgunuse to be brought under control. Thelevelofhomicideisstill unacceptablyhigh.Asforthe Ministerandhisfamily,may they remain safe The Ministry of Home Affairs needs to get its act together We have also had an attack on the President that was barely thwarted These threats must be stopped before they are put into action!
Withutmostconcern, Mr JamilChanglee
Lawless use of the roadways
DearEditor,
The lawless use of the East Coast highway, especially during the rush hour traffic in the mornings, w o u l d h a v e b e e n unbelievableifsomeonehad related to me what usually occurs.However,Iwitnessit every morning as I traverse toworkinGeorgetown,andI amamazedthattherearenot morefatalaccidentsdaily
As soon as you reach Melanie, the madness starts. Vehicles undertaking and overtaking,especiallybuses, forcing oncoming traffic off the road. The double solid yellow lines do not mean a thing to these errant drivers. You experience what it is liketobesandwiched,when two vehicles, one undertaking and the other overtaking you at the same time, try to squeeze you in themiddle.Expectavehicle driving at top speed in the wrong lane to suddenly cut into your lane, narrowly missing wrecking your
vehicle and perhaps killing you in the process. At the same time, keep a lookout for the motorcyclists, who, by the way, break all the laws, zipping in and out of traffic, since they could end up in front of your car, resultingintheirowndemise andyourimprisonment.
On more than one
occasion and to my amusement, I saw police vehicles pulling off the road toallowthevehiclesdriving at top speed in the wrong lanetopass.Onemorning,as I was approaching the Vigilance Police Station, a driver decided to overtake the long line of traffic. At that very moment, a traffic police officer was coming outofthestationcompound. Hesawthecarandsignalled the driver to drive straight into the station compound. I waselatedthatsomeonehad finally decided to take action.Loandbehold,asthe driver dropped the heavily tinted glass, the police
or foul play: No external or internal signs of injury, strangulation, or sexual assault; No foreign DNA; N o d r u g s i n h e r system—only trace ethanol c o n s i s t e n t w i t h d e c o m p o s i t i o n Additionally,thebodyborea patternedimprintfromaVIP wristband,confirmingithad remained submerged continuously Her clothing was intact and properly positioned,andherskinwas freeofante-morteminjuries, ruling out any post-mortem movementortampering. Allofthiswasreinforced
by a second autopsy in the United States, which, while emphasising that drowning is a diagnosis of exclusion, still affirmed the competence with which the firstautopsywasconducted, and also raised no evidence of trauma. Furthermore, the police investigation, which was overseen by a retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, found no evidence of foul play And yet, despite the accumulation of clear, clinical, corroborated facts, your Editorial calls for “justice”, implying that
accidental drowning has not been established That suggestion is not only m i s l e a d i n g b u t irresponsible, particularly from a newspaper that once held itself to a higher Editorialstandard. Justicebeginswithtruth. It cannot be built on doubt fordoubt'ssake,orsustained by lending a platform to conjecture when the facts havespoken.KaieteurNews should not, must not, become a megaphone for discreditednarratives. Regards, RupnauthHardyal
Elections and the right to elect a government of one's choice must never be taken for granted
DearEditor,
T h e P P P / C i s undoubtedly the largest multi-racialpoliticalpartyin Guyana. Formed over 75 years ago, it has been at the forefront of all major political and constitutional developmentsinthecountry, includingtherighttovote.
G u i a n a S e v e r a l organisations and individuals appeared before the Commission, where a case was made for the removal of property and literacyqualificationinorder tovoteinnationalelections.
officerrecognisedhim,gave him a 'pound' or a touch on hisfistandallowedhimtogo onhisway
ThesituationontheEast Coast is unbearable for the law-abiding drivers, since you are stuck in a line of traffic that is not moving or moving very slowly, all because you are being overtaken and undertaken, and those vehicles bore in thelineinfrontofyou.This sometimesleadstoroadrage or even encourages lawabiding drivers to begin to break the law also. I would like to take this opportunity to call on the Commissioner of Police to embark on a sustained campaign, targetingthismadnessthatis happening on a daily basis, and to take some drastic action against the errant drivers that bully others on the roadways and the police officersthatcondoneit.
Yourssincerely,
Mr. Janaknauth Panchu
Most Guyanese today take that right for granted, but there was a time when only the rich and the propertied class were allowed to vote. That was before the formation of the PPPinJanuary1950.Infact, one of the first demands made by the PPP was to petition the British government to allow for universaladultsuffrage.This led to the visit of the Waddington Commission to the then-colony of British
In 1953, elections were held for the first time under universal adult suffrage, whichwasdecisivelywonby the PPP The PPPwon 18 of the 28 seats and for the first time,anationalistpartycame to office, albeit with limited powers Dr. Jagan was named Chief Minister, and for the first time, a ministerial system of governmentwasestablished.
Thepointintheaboveis that it was the PPP that led the struggle for the right to vote, which was ruptured by the PNC in 1968 and
subsequent 'elections' until democracy was finally restored on October 5, 1992 after some 28 years of PNC authoritarianrule. It is important that the history of democratic electionsinGuyanabeputin proper historical context, especially as we approach yet another General and Regional elections on September 1, 2025 Elections and the right to elect a government of one's choice must never be taken forgranted.Ittookalongand sustainedstruggleledbythe PPP to obtain the right to voteandanevenmorebitter and relentless fight to have that right restored after decades of minority authoritarianrule.
Regards, HydarAlly
Can small parties get on the ballot?
DearEditor, Reports suggest that between 16 and 28 parties submitted a symbol and a name to contest the September 1 election GECOM informs them that they will be notified about acceptance of the symbol aroundJuly1.
The dominant parties have retained their symbol. The parties will have until July 15 to submit
nominations, lists, signatures, presidential candidate, head of list, etc., toqualifyfortheballot.
Is two weeks enough?
The larger parties like PPP and APNU can meet the deadline.
Can the AFC and other small or minor parties meet the requirements in two weeks?Itisdoubtful.
To get on the ballot, a partymustcontestatleastsix regions. It must submit a nomination form with at least40top-upcandidateson thenationallistandanumber of candidates for the geographic lists that could number between 1 and 7 candidates,dependingonthe sizeoftheRegion.Region4 is seven seats. Parties were known to submit lists larger than the number of geographical seats in each Region,aswellasthetop-up seats.Itisachallengingtask to get candidates to submit
the forms as well as to sign thenominationform. It is rather doubtful that the minor parties, except WINandAFC,canbeableto q u i c k l y m e e t t h e requirements. It will be a major achievement if any of the other small parties can submit nomination forms that meet eligibility criteria. Thesystemisdisadvantaged againstthesmallparties.And why is a person not able to contest as an independent? ROPAdoesnotallowit.That act is unconstitutional as it violates the fundamental rightsofanindividualtoseek electiveoffice.
Yourstruly, Vishnu
Bisram
BLUNT BLUNT
ExxonMobil's PR: Guyana Government
This week, the Government of Guyana became the public relations arm of ExxonMobil as it tried to explain the financials of that oil giant. The case was a simple one; ExxonMobil recently released its financials, in which it reported US$2.6 billion profits for Guyana and US$10+ billion in profits for the Stabroek Block co-venturers.
This information was published by all the reputable news agencies overseas, stating clearly that profits were pegged at US$10.4B. The company only took umbrage when this newspaper published that figure, showing at the same time the measly US$2.6B this country received in a 50/50 profit-sharing partnership. To think that ExxonMobil would issue a statement clarifying its financials, it employed the Guyana Government through the Ministry of Natural Resources.
As we have said before, it is of deep concern that the Ministry of Natural Resources, as the regulator of the petroleum sector, is treading on dangerous grounds when it tries to explain or justify the private financial reporting of ExxonMobil, Hess, or CNOOC.
These companies are legally and commercially separate from the State of Guyana. It is inappropriate and arguably irresponsible for the Government to act as their public relations arm. Instead, the Ministry should be demanding that these oil companies publish standardised, consistent, and complete disclosures so the Guyanese people can assess whether they are receiving a fair deal.
Until that happens, these financial statements and the Government's attempt to explain them must be regarded as inadequate, misleading, and potentially damaging to Guyana's international reputation. If the Government continues to accept this level of opacity and inconsistency, it sends the wrong signal - that Guyana is indifferent to accountability in the management of its most valuable natural resource.
Robust security screening of Venezuelans at Guyana borders - Chief of Staff
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, has assured that robust security measures are in place to screen and document
Venezuelan migrants intercepted at Guyana's borders.
While acknowledging the humanitarian crisis
unfolding across the Guyana-Venezuelan border, Brigadier Khan emphasised that Guyana's response remains grounded in both compassion and national security, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.
“While Guyana is approaching this with
compassion, we are committedtosafeborders… that is why we have implementedstrongsecurity measures on vetting, p r o c e s s i n g , a n d documenting allVenezuelan migrants,”hestated.
BrigadierKhanmadethe remarksduringaprogramme broadcast on governmentcontrolled platforms on Tuesday According to DPI, inrecentyears,thousandsof Venezuelans have crossed
into Guyana, fleeing
political and socioeconomic turmoil in their home country. “In the execution of my duties and my visits to the border
communities, I have
personally witnessed Venezuelanmigrantsandthe embarrassment, shame, the almost loss of dignity of families, women, children,
babies, fathers, seeking refugeinaforeignland,”the ChiefofDefenceStaffsaid.
Brigadier Khan noted that the processing of migrantsenteringGuyana is being facilitated through a multi-agency approach, supportedbytheMinistryof Health (MoH), regional authorities and the GDF
“This humanitarian gesture is not uncommon for the GDF The GDF has been involvedaspartofitsroleto conduct humanitarian and disaster relief operations,” he explained Brigadier Khan highlighted that the GDFhasparticipatedinover 200humanitarianprojectsin Guyana and across the region,offeringvitalsupport tovulnerablepopulations.
With approximately 2,403 Venezuelan migrants entering Guyana on a monthly basis, concerns continue to be raised as to where most of them have settled, and government has been tight-lipped on its earlier plans to establish a settlement for them on the outskirts of Mabaruma, RegionOne.
Back in May this year, StabroekNewsreportedthat a total of 2,403 Venezuelan migrants entered Guyana monthly between January 2024 and April 20, 2025, according to records from the Ministry of Home Affairs The figure, the newspaper reported, was disclosed in Parliament in response to questions posed
byAPNU+AFC Member of Parliament Tabitha SaraboHalley According to Stabroek News, Region 1 (Barima-Waini)continuesto see the highest inflow, with the border village of Morawhanna recording a total of 452 Venezuelans over the period. Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), specifically through the ports of Eteringbang and Bartica, saw the highest overall intake, receiving a total of 1,242 migrants for the period Region 9's Lethem recorded 440 Venezuelan arrivals, while Region 2 (Charity) reported a total of 190 migrants. Georgetown, in Region 4, recorded 79 Venezuelan migrants during the period. Regions 3 (Parika), 5, 6, 8, and 10 reported no new arrivals during the same timeframe Also, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud recently disclosed that approximately 100,000 persons of direct or indirect Venezuelan ancestry are currentlyinGuyana. Meanwhile, it has been several months since Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn informed the Houseviaawrittenresponse that the Government of Guyana had established a settlement for Venezuelan immigrants on the outskirts of Mabaruma. There has since been no further information provided, even though this publication has reachedouttotheminister
On February 17, 2025, Member of Parliament TabithaSarabo-Halleyasked theministertotelltheHouse about the arrangements made for the Venezuelan immigrants present in Guyana In his written response, he said that the government has established asettlementnearMabaruma called“FarmCorps.”
This publication later contacted the minister to obtainfurtherinformationas to when the settlement was established, how the occupants are determined and the current population. The minister had promised tolocatetheinformationand provide it. Some days later, the minister was again approached on the matter, and he promised to provide
Pres.
the information and even noted contact information. The information is yet to be provided to this publication.
ShadowMinisterofForeign Affairs Amanza WaltonDesir was also contacted on February 17, after the minister's response, to ascertainifshewasawareof
such a settlement and what information she could provide She told this publication via WhatsApp, “I'm digging myself for info,”asshewasnotawareit existed. Research by this publication on the said settlement yielded no results.
Ali woos Canadian businesses to explore 'untapped potential' in Guyana
President Irfaan Ali, on Tuesdayevening,welcomed C
t in Guyana's oil and gas industry, but urged businesses in that country to explore opportunities in othersectorshere.
He was at the time addressing the audience at the Canada Day celebration heldattheBelAirresidence o f C a n a d a ' s H i g h Commissioner to Guyana, SébastienSigouin.Sincethe discoveryofoilhere,several Canadian companies have expressed interest in the sector However,itisunclear whethertherehavebeenany newinterestsinrecenttimes.
The most prominent Canadian companies in the oilsectorovertheyearshave been CGX Energy and Frontera.
H o w e v e r , t h e Government of Guyana recentlysaidthatthelicence that was issued to the companies to explore the CorentyneBlockhadlapsed, though the companies were adamant that it remains valid. The Corentyne Block was seen as a key effort to diversify Guyana's oil
industry, currently dominated by a consortium ledbyExxonMobil.Itisalso the only area that Frontera and CGX Energy, the joint operators that hold the licence, have left in Guyana aftertheyreturnedtwoother blocks in recent years over budget constraints The Guyanese government had given the joint venture until February 22 to submit
a r g u m e n t s f o r reconsideration. The license expiredonMarch10,2025.
Eco Atlantic, another Canadianfirm,wasawarded theOrinduiklicenceinearly 2016. Eco holds 100% working interest in the Orinduik Block and an indirect, 1 3% working interest in the Canje Block.
EcoAtlanticisanoilandgas exploration company focused on the Atlantic Margin, listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) in Toronto and the Alternative Investment Market(AIM)oftheLondon StockExchange. Guyana is one of C
the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) In 2023, merchandise trade totalled CAD $272 7 million Exports for 2023 were valued at CAD $59 1 million, and imports were valued at CDN $213 5
million Canadian mining companies are actively exploring in Guyana, while Canadian companies are seeking joint ventures in Guyana'soilandgasmarket. ACanada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce was launched in Georgetown in December 2020. D
development assistance programm
or the Commonwealth Caribbean countries and territories established by Canada in 1985 – and Canada's other Tariff preference measures, the vast majority of all CaribbeanexportstoCanada enterduty-free. Governance
Meanwhile,Ali said that Canada plays a huge part in building out the strength of Guyana's governance mechanism,especiallyinthe case of the Indigenous communities Highlighting that support is being provided for not just education but also criminal justice refo
m and governance, President Ali said such assistance comes not with a heavy hand but with true partnership in economics.
He assured that ties between the two countries are strengthening as the years go by, especially with t
CARIBCANTrade (Continueonpage10)
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan
President Irfaan Ali
Ballots, not boxes, decide elections
The controversy surrounding the alleged invalidity ofsome14,000votescaston the East Coast of Demerara during Guyana’s 2020
general and regional elections is a manufactured red herring and a legally mootpoint.Itispremisedon
a f u n d a m e n t a l
misunderstanding or deliberatedistortion—ofthe legal meaning of the phrase “valid votes” under the RepresentationofthePeople Act (ROPA), and the constitutional framework
governing Guyana’s electoral process. A close reading of the Caribbean CourtofJustice’s(CCJ)July 2020decisioninAlivDavid laysthismattertorest.
The suggestion that votes cast on the East Coast are invalid simply because documents such as the Official List of Electors (OLE), poll books, or marked lists were not found in the ballot boxes is legally untenable These source
documents are not determinativeofthevalidity of ballots, and indeed, are
not required to be placed in theballotboxaftertheclose of polls. Section 87(2) of ROPA prescribes which documents are to be placed in specific envelopes and pouches for secure transmission, but not all of them are required to go into the box. More importantly, as the CCJ emphasised, the issue of “valid votes” must be understood ex facie, that is, on the face of the ballots themselves. The CCJ could not have been clearer: “The concept of ‘valid votes’ is wellknowntothelegislative framework governing the electoral process The concept has a particular meaninginthatcontext.The phraseappearsseveraltimes in the Representation of the PeopleAct.Aswesawat[9] above,section96ofthatAct, for example, contains that precise phrase. That section calls on the Chief Election Officertocalculate‘thetotal number of valid votes of electors which have been cast for each list of candidates’ (emphasis added).”
In this legal context,
“validity” does not turn on whetherancillarypaperwork isavailableafterthefact.Itis not a question of bureaucratic housekeeping or clerical completeness The validity of a ballot is determinedduringthecount, at the close of poll, by those present including party agents—according to clear criteria such as whether the ballot was properly marked, or whether it was spoiled or rejected As the CCJ explained:
“Validity in this context means,andcouldonlymean, thosevotesthat,exfacie,are valid. The determination of suchvalidityisatransparent exercise that weeds out of the process, for example, spoilt or rejected ballots.
This is an exercise conductedinthepresenceof, interalia,thedulyappointed candidates and counting agentsofcontestingparties.”
Thisprocessisgoverned by the statutory framework andcarriedoutattheplaceof poll immediately after the close of voting, not weeks l a t e r t h r o u g h a n administrativereviewbythe
Japanese shipbuilder issues tender...
Frompage2
targeted is significantly lower compared to the last three projects sanctioned, each targetingover200kbd.
Hammerhead-1 is located approximately 13 miles(21kilometres)southwestoftheLiza-1 wellandfollowspreviousdiscoveriesonthe Stabroek Block at Liza, Liza Deep, Payara, Snoek,Turbot,Ranger,PacoraandLongtail. The Stabroek Block measures 26,800
square kilometres or 6.6 million acres. To date, six projects have been sanctioned for development.
These include Liza One, Liza Two, Payara, Yellowtail, Uaru and Whiptail. The first three projects are already in operation, producinganaverageof650,000bpd,which islikelytobeincreasedbeforetheendofthis year with the startup of the fourth development,Yellowtail.
DEM BOYS SEH
Results lookin’ better, but don’t pop champagne yet!
Dem Grade Six results come out and like de Education Ministry light one big firecracker! Pass ratejumpfrom49%to63% and dem boys hear some peopleinBrickdamalready poppin’ champagne like GuyanawindeWorldCup. Demboyssehbigupto de children who pass! Some of dem work hard, someofdemprayhard,and some of dem still cyah believe dem actually pass Math.
Buthearnah,ifIwasde Minister of Education, I woulda tek off meh party hatandputonmehthinking cap. Because 63% overall passratemightsoundnice, but when 37% of dem pickneystillcyahget50%, somethingstillwronginde
kitchen You can’t be baking cake and calling it sweetwhenmorethanonethirdstilltastelikesawdust.
Dem boys seh we also gottoask:whosetthisyear paper? Was it de same difficulty like last year? Or dem tek out de hard questions and put in some like “what colour is de sun?” and “how many legs a dog got?” Yuh cyaah use softquestionstojudgehard problems.
And you ever hear about judging progress in one year? Education is not instant noodles. It tek time to boil, soak, and season properly So yes, numbers lookin’ better but wait two more years and if de upward trend continue, thenwecouldreallystartto
Chief Election Officer (CEO). Once the count is completed and certified, the CEO has a singular, narrow responsibility: to add up the totals and prepare a report based on the valid votes already determined at the placeofcount.TheCCJwas categoricalthattheCEOhas no authority whatsoever to conductafreshevaluationof validity or to unilaterally discardvotes:
“The CEO is not a lone ranger He must act within the parameters of the Constitution and the law… He does not have the authority to disenfranchise tensofthousandsofelectors in the absence of any electionpetitionchallenging thevalidityoftheirvotes,on the basis of alleged a n o m
n d irregularities ” This is crucial.The CEO’s function is purely arithmetical. He cannot assume judicial powers and determine
whether entire boxes or ballots are to be excluded. Doingsowouldviolateboth ROPAandArticle177ofthe Constitution. The only legal avenue for invalidating votes on the basis of irregularities or fraud is through an election petition filedwiththeHighCourt,as perArticle163.
Hence, arguments about theabsenceofdocumentsin ballot boxes no matter how loudly or frequently repeated do not impugn the validity of the ballots. Theycannot.Thelawsimply does not permit such a conclusion. To do so would giveelectoralofficialsextralegal power to negate the willofthepeopleandshortcircuit the judicial process. That is precisely what the CCJwarnedagainst.
The argument about 14,000 invalid votes is a political fiction, not a legal fact. The absence of certain documents in the ballot box
isnotproofofinvalidityand does not vitiate ballots alreadydeemedvalidduring the count. The CCJ’s ruling leaves no doubt that “valid votes” are determined ex facieatthecloseofpolls,and not weeks later by administrative sleight-ofhand The CEO has no lawful power to discard ballots. If anyone believes votes were illegally cast or counted,theirremedyliesin an election petition, not in the public imagination, and n o t i n p o s t - f a c t o justification.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
dance. Till then, dem boys seh: clap for de pickney dem who shine, hug dem who try, and check pon de ones who still in de dark. Becausebrightfuturedon’t come from big numbers alone—it come from real learning. And yuh notice how dem private schools outshine de public schools again. Dat shows dat de public school system still need a great deal of improvement.
So Ministry, keep yuh headonyuhshoulder.Stop moonwalkin’ like Michael Jackson just yet Hold strainandkeepdemexams standard Then we gon know if we climbing real stairs or just jumping trampoline.
Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
H@RD TRUTHS
From Molotov cocktails to meddlers in elections - Jagdeo's mercies
Bharrat Jagdeo can be a man of god. I really believe so. Regarding which god would actually accept him, well, that's another story, beyond my capabilities. Of all the citizens in this topsyturvy country, imagine Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, a man of longspellsinvariousoffices and longer records of an extraordinary kind, is flush with the milk of human kindness.
If I were an atheist before, a true believer I am now Think of this: Bharrat the abuser, now filling the shoesofBharrattheforgiver His history in this regard is
Math
illustrious,worthgoingover, if only to give the man the jacketdue. Itisdyedscarlet, which has scriptural significance. And they say that he hails from a place called Unity? Fitting, just fitting. There was the last Local Government Elections interval, and Bharrat the Forgiver reaching with welcomingarmsforthelikes of a former Mayor of the GardenCity Nottheonein Long Island, New York, but whatwasoncetheproudtitle of Georgetown, Guyana The dogs have since taken over, and I don't mean the
running streams of foreigners, as once so lavishly praised by that Chinese gent, Zhou-en-lai. If Master Forgiver Jagdeo could let bygones be bygones for a PNC mayor, thenanybodyandeverybody could qualify for the big man's cup that overflows with mercy It has to, since some suspected murderers, predators, abusers and stalkers hold pride of place high in Big Government.
Forgiveness in Li'l government and forgiveness in Big Government can't beat. Who can beat Dr Jagdeo? Itiswhythosewho
can'tbeathimjumpshipinto his warm embrace. Jeez! I am getting sick. Feeling sickerismylottoday,asnow shared.
scores highest past rate in five years
By Shania Williams
This year's National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) has recorded a significant improvement across all four core subject areas, with Mathematics seeing the best performance inthelastfouryears.
This is according to the DirectorofOperationsatthe Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), Dr Nicole Manning,whopresentedthe performance of each subject at the announcement of the NGSA held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre onWednesday.Dr.Manning noted that the 2025 results have surpassed the overall performances recorded over the past four years, from 2021 to 2024. During her presentation, Dr Manning shared detailed statistics on the 2025 NGSAresults. She reported that a total of 18,000 students registered for the assessment, with 3,450 candidates coming from Region Four She also highlighted that the registration reflected a b a l a n c e d g e n d e r distribution.“Whenwehave the highest registration of candidates,weseebothmore males and females The
…as NGSA results show significant improvement
Director of Operations at the Caribbean Examinations Council(CXC), Dr. Nicole Manning
norm is that there's general equityacrossthetwogroups ofstudents,”shestated.
Mathematics, long regarded as one of the most challenging subjects nationally, recorded a dramatic improvement in this year's NGSA results. A total of 5551% of students scored 50% or above, markingthehighestpassrate in the last five years In comparison, the subject recordedpassratesof3650% in 2021, 3472% in 2022, 3987%in2023,and4036% in 2024 The significant improvement prompted a standing ovation at the conferencecentre
“We are happy also, because this means that we are seeing a shift in the
There were those who once numbered among Cheddi Jagan and the PPP's most notorious haters and revilers. Andwherearethey today? Whoever guessed high up in the PPP Government and among the intimate companions of Dr BJ just won another 10,000 freeairlinemiles. Makesure it'sAmerican. Look at how forgiving General Secretary and President-Director Jagdeois. Therewerethose whom I describe as motorbike Molotov cocktail hurlers; their preferred targets were Jagan's allies. Thanks to Jagdeo's merciful benevolence, the old Molotovcocktailmixersand hurlers have assumed new identities under the PPP They are now Molotov cocktail hurlers and curlers oftheepistolaryvarietydeep inside the elevated confines of the PPP Government Isn'tthatdivine? Iamproud of my little brother Bharratsuch grandness, such willingness to forgive and forget. He should consult witholdPPPheadslivingin Richmond Hill and Cypress Hills, and any stray ones in DixHillsformoredetails.
generation, and that therefore means we're l o o k i n g f o r t h a t improvement at the other level, the Caribbean SecondaryExamination,”Dr Manningsaid Addingtothis achievement, a remarkable 472 students received full marks in Mathematics, the highestnumberinfiveyears This represents a substantial increase compared to previous years: 1 student achieved full marks in 2021, 38 in 2022, 117 in 2023, and 108 in 2024 Meanwhile, there was also a notable decline in the number of students scoring zero in the subject Only 6 students receivedzeromarksthisyear, comparedto10in2021,12in 2022, 8 in 2023, and 7 in 2024, making it the lowest number of zero scores in the f i v e - y e a r p e r i o d
Additionally, both male and female candidates demonstrated average performancesabovethe40% mark, indicating overall progressacrossgenders.
In English, the overall performance of students has significantly improved in 2025,with69.25%of (Continueonpage16)
as Excellencies Ramkarran, Ramotar, and Rohee, for elaboration. Guyana once hadastringbandcalledDem Guys; everywhere they played, brawls erupted. It shouldringabell. IgiveDr Jay still another nudge, so that he cannot hide behind failureofrecall,orpretended ignorance He used to occupy an office where former motorcycle Molotov cocktail bombers are now well-situated. I like this version of Bharrat J: Those who are with me, I declare holy Those who stand against, I damn them, unleash the dogs against them, spear them, then barbeque them If that sounds cannibalistic, Freedom House has a voucherwaiting.
Last, election riggers (allegedly) were once denounced as the most reprehensible, those who sought to derail the Guyana democracy train. Today, even those from the dens of election riggers are now on thegoodsideofBJ. Ibelieve that Jagdeo doesn't know god,hasnotimeforgod,yet thinks that he's god. There
Moreover, since Mr Jagdeo is reported by his awed worshippers to speak m a n y l a n g u a g e s simultaneously, I am positive that he understands what I mean by past motorcycle Molotov cocktail hurlers who devastatedPPPloyalists. He should consult with PPP
may be something to the latter Who in Guyana, besides myself, has been exemplary in living that c o m m a n d m e n t o f commandments? Love thine enemy Jagdeo went further: he rolls out the red carpet for them, gives them duty-free concessions, provides security coverage forthem,andrefocusestheir minds on the here and now, whatisintheinterestsofthe PPP That is, BJ's interests. Hedoesn'tevenhavetosay: 'sic 'em, boys; go get 'em girls, and they are off. In today's climate of understanding and accommodation, one never knows who is boy, who is girl. Regardless, all are welcome by the forgiver of past transgressions, as long as they comply fully with n e w o n e s T h e commandments of Bharrat Jagdeo. Name the leader, Christian, Hindu, or Buddhist, who possesses such a merciful, cherishing state of mind. Bharrat, my brother,Jagdeo,hisbrother's keeper Bharrat Jagdeo, the forgiver It'senoughtomake me weep (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
Pres.AliwoosCanadianbusinesses...
Frompage8 Agreement until 2033, p r o v i d i n g g r e a t e r predictability and enhancing trade relations between the two countries, which the president described as “somethingthatismorevital nowthanever.”
The Head of State went on to say that, “The recent MoU signed with the Canadian Commercial Corporation is another positive step, and we expected, we expect to streamline and strengthen our procurement process Canada remains a major investorinourminingsector, and we welcome your increasing interest in our oil andgasindustry Butbeyond these traditional sectors, we believe that there is significant untapped potential.”
He then extended an invitation to Canadian businesses to come to Guyana and explore the opportunitiesavailableinthe
agricultural sector, infrastructure, eco-tourism, public housing and also climate-smart agriculture.
The President boldly describedthelatteras“afield where innovation can align b e a u t i f u l l y w i t h sustainability.”
Ali reasoned that it is recognised that the world in which we operate is a politically charged environment where conflicts, the erosion of multilateral cooperation and economic instability may have become way too common. However, in the face of all this, Guyana formed a strong belief that the Caribbean Region and the entire Western Hemisphere must remain a zone of peace, as the future dependsonit.
“Aswelooktothefuture ofGuyana-Canadarelations. We do so with a sense of optimism and purpose. We believe that through continued bilateral and
multilateral engagement, we can expand our trade and economic ties, confront the sharedchallengesofourera, including climate change, rising inequality, economic shocks and new security threats, and above all of all, the shared values that form the background of our friendship,courageinfacing adversity, compassion in responding to human need, inclusivity in recognising every person's dignity and creativity in crafting solutions for the future,” PresidentAli said. He urged thecontinuationofbuildinga partnership that is not just strong but inclusive, sustainable and enduring, to ensurethatthebondbetween the citizens of the two countries grows stronger in thecomingyears.
The Head of State ended his speech with a toast to success and prosperity for Canada and continued friendship for the two countries.
NGSA top performers express confidence, surprise at results
The top students of this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) said they were both confident and surprised at their performance, which was said to be amongthebestsofarinthecountry
The high-flyers spoke with Kaieteur News on Wednesday, moments after the announcement was made at the Arthur Chung ConferenceCentre.
Top student, Tanasha Mayers, of the Academy of Excellence in Region Three, said she was pleasantly surprised after hearing the news. Mayers, who secured perfect scores in her four subjects, saidshedidnothaveanychallenges during her preparation for the exam. “I didn’t expect to do that good,” the student exclaimed. She said she was overly excited when she received the call from the ministry, informing her of her outstandingperformance.
Her mother said, “She is over the moon. I am overwhelmed and overjoyed; I couldn’t be prouder She worked hard. Sometimes we
wouldprobablyworkpastmidnight and we were rewarded. She made usproud.Sheis10yearsoldandis anaspiringlawyer.”
Emma Khelawan of the same school said she became nervous as results day drew near She was, however, constantly reminded that shedidwellandthatfilledherheart with excitement. She said after receiving the call, she was
overwhelmedwitheagerness.
“Preparingforexamswaskinda nervous, but with my friend and parents encouraging me, it helped mealot.”Khelawanshared.
Knial Williams of North Georgetown Primary School is an aspiring lawyer He told Kaieteur Newshewasconfidenthewouldbe a top performer since he worked really hard by working on past
papers, doing practice tests, and readingoverhisnotes.
“I felt excited, overjoyed and over the moon when I heard the results,” Williams told this newspaper
Hismothersaidthefamilywas expecting nothing but greatness since Williams is a consistent and dedicatedstudent.
“Knial has a bit of history; his early years started at the New GuyanaSchool,andinthelasttwo years before he sat this exam, he transitioned to North Georgetown Primary,”accordingtothemother
She added that the preparation wastedious,buttheywereworking toward a goal and it needed to be achieved, so they remained persistent.
Pricilla Henry, the top performer for Region Eight from the Micobie Primary School, expressedthatshefeelsproudtobe the top performer for her region.
Shesaidhersuccessdidnotcomeat aneasycostsinceshehadtotakea break from outside adventures to focusonherwork.
“Ihadtogiveupgoingoutand play around the neighbourhood,” shesaid.
Adriana Younge earned spot at Leonora Secondary at NGSA
Eleven-year-oldAdrianaSueria Younge, who died tragically in April, was awarded a place at Lenora Secondary after securing 446 marks at the National Grade SixExaminations(NGSA).
Adriana, a resident of Hyde Park, Parika, had recently written the examination when she was reportedmissingonApril23during a family outing at the Double Day International Hotel and Bar in Tuschen,EastBankEssequibo.She was last seen by her grandmother around 13:01hrs onApril 23 while swimminginthehotel’spool. Her body was discovered the nextday—nearly20hourslater— inanuprightpositioninthehotel’s
swimming pool, despite earlier searches of that same area. Family members reported visible bruises andscratchesonherknees,elbows, face,hands,andtoes.Strangely,her bodyshowednosignsofbloating,a conditiontypicallyassociatedwith drowning victims These observations only deepened suspicionssurroundingherdeath.
Before her body was found, police and hotel staff reportedly attempted to convince the family thatshehadbeenabductedfromthe premises. The discovery of her body in the pool sparked national outrage, violent protests, and widespreadcallsforjustice.
The first post-mortem
examination, conducted on April 28byathree-memberinternational forensic team, including Dr. Shubhakar Karra Paul (Barbados), Dr GaryCollins(Delaware,U.S.), and Dr Glenn Rudner (Mount Sinai, U.S.), concluded that the causeofdeathwasdrowning.
However, the team could not determine the time of death or confirm whether Adriana had inhaledpoolortapwater
Her funeral was initially scheduled for May 5, but was postponed at the last minute after Adriana’s parents and close relativesexpresseddoubtsoverthe findings of the first autopsy Feeling they still had many
unanswered questions, the family chose not to proceed with the burial.
Determinedtogetmoreclarity, theyarrangedforasecondautopsy in the U.S. Her body was flown to Atlanta, Georgia, where Dr Carol Terryconductedtheprocedure.
In an interview with journalist TravisChase,Dr Terrycalledthe case “highly suspicious” and emphasised that only a thorough investigation could determine whether Adriana drowned or was murdered. “At this time, drowning cannotbeconclusivelystatedasthe causeofdeath,”shesaid.
Aftertwomonths,herbodywas finallylaidtorestlastSundayatthe
Henry’s mother expressed thanks to the teacher who offered private lessons, which contributed to her daughter’s success. The mother said her daughter has always been a consistent top performerfromnurseryallthrough her primary journey, and at this exam,sheexpectedhertodoreally well.
Meanwhile, Katy Budhan of Success Elementary School and MichaelaSammyfromStellaMaris Primary School shared different sentiments when compared to the otherstudents.
Budhansaidthatwhileshewas confident,herapproachtotheexam wasdifferent.
“Preparing and studying in the night was not really my thing. I started studying nights before the exam and I was really confident in myself and I prayed to God and look where we are now,” Budhan said.
Sammy said that her teachers andparentswerehermotivationto get through the journey since preparationwasdifficult.
“Preparing for the exam was hard, it was a challenge, but it was worthit,”shesaid.
Eleven-year-old Adriana Sueria Younge, who tragically passed away last April
Vergenoegen Burial Ground, East BankEssequibo. The solemn farewell marked the end of a deeply emotional and public period of mourning for a young girl whose mysterious disappearance and death captured the attention and heart of an entire nation.
Knial Williams and his family at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre
Pricilla Henry and her mother at theArthur Chung Conference Centre
Katy Budhan at theArthur Chung Conference Centre
Michaela Sammy at theArthur Chung Conference Centre
CDB and IDB Invest launch strategic partnership to empower Caribbean private sector
IDB Invest and the
C a r i b b e a n Development Bank (CDB) announced a new strategic partnership to support private sector developmentintheregion.
T h i s r e n e w e d collaboration focuses on expanding financing for trade and unlocking new opportunities for businesses across the Caribbean, placing private sector-led growth at the forefront of a common agenda, CDB said inapressrelease.
According to the CDB, the partnership reflects a shared vision to empower the Caribbean's private sector as a driver of economic development. By working with financial institutions across the region, the collaboration aims to improve access to finance for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), expanding their opportunities for trade, investment, and long-term development.
A key highlight of the
enhanced partnership is CDB's new Trade Finance Guarantee Programme, a significant milestone in r
innovation. As part of the pilot phase, CDB will enter into a Risk Participation Agreement (RPA) with IDB Invest RPAs enable the sharing of risk associated with loans and other
arrangements will further expandthereachandimpact of the initiative. According
to Lisa Harding, Division Chief, Private Sector, CDB, “This partnership and the Trade Finance Guarantee Programme will enhance access to trade investment across the Bank's member countries, crowd in private sector resources, foster economic growth and d
integration.”
Trade finance plays a critical role in facilitating both global and regional commerce.
IntheCaribbean,limited
access to timely trade financeremainsasignificant barrier for businesses, particularly SMEs Trade funding helps reduce financing gaps between tradingpartnersandsupports participation in regional and globalmarkets.
Beyond trade finance, the two institutions are laying the groundwork for joint originations and cofinancing of private sector
Caribbean. This will impact thereachofbothinstitutions
while fostering a more dynamic and resilient business environment. CDB and IDB Invest will also collaborate on capacitybuilding initiatives to strengthen the Bank's broader private sector operations throughout the Caribbean.Theseeffortswill d
readiness, further accelerate innovation, and lead to the
tailored to the region's evolvingneeds.
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IEA calls for more investment in ensuring universal energy access
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The world has made progress in increasing access to basic electricity, but developing nations need much more financial support to reach 666 million people in vulnerable and rural areas who lack access to energy, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in a report on Wednesday.
The report tracks the progress toward achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 7 to “ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all” by 2030. The report, which the IEA collaborated with the International Renewable
Energy Agency (IRENA), the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), the World Bank, and the World Health Organisation (WHO), found that nearly 92% of the world’s population now has basic access to electricity.
However, 666 million people remain without access to electricity and clean cooking energy. To address this issue, financing commitments must surge to ensure progress and address disparities, the IEA says.
International financial flows to developing economies in support of clean energy grew for the third year in a row to reach
$21.6 billion in 2023, the report found. However, country commitments remain heavily concentrated. A total of 43 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) received funding during 2023—but 81% of those flows went to just 9 countries. “Despite progress in some parts of the world, the expansion of electricity and clean cooking access remains disappointingly slow, especially in Africa,” said Fatih Birol, the IEA’s Executive Director. “Greater investment in clean cooking and electricity supply is urgently required, including support to reduce the cost of capital for projects.”
Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency, commented, “To close the access and infrastructure gaps, we need strengthened international cooperation to scale up affordable financing and impact–driven capital for the least developed and developing countries.”
IRENA and the IEA have also been warning that the goal of tripling global renewables capacity by 2030 is falling short and needs another tripling of investments, from $570 billion in 2023 to $1.5 trillion every year between 2024 and 2030.
Math scores highest past rate in five years...
From page 10 candidates scoring 50% or above, marking the highest percentage over the past five years. By comparison, the pass rates in previous years were 65.71% in 2021, 64.75% in 2022, 60.47% in 2023, and 66.79% in 2024. “We thought last year was very good, but this year was even better, the best we’ve had in five years,” Dr. Manning noted.
Additionally, 93 students achieved perfect scores in English this year, showing an increase compared to the 72 students who did so in 2024. In contrast, only 61 students achieved full marks in 2023, 13 in 2022, and 142 in 2021.
Although there has been an overall reduction in the number of students scoring zero in the subject over the five-year span, this year saw a slight increase with 9 students receiving zero scores, compared to 7 in 2024. Prior years recorded higher numbers: 10 in 2023, 18 in 2022, and 17 in 2021.
In terms of gender performance, the mean percentage score for females was 65.98%, while males averaged 57.22%. Both figures represent an improvement over previous
years and are the highest recorded in the last five years for each gender.
Social Studies performance at the 2025 NGSA saw a notable improvement, with 64.77% of students scoring 50% and above, the highest pass rate in the past five years. This marks a steady rise from previous years: 56.30% in 2021, 58.9% in 2022, 58.57% in 2023, and 62.63% in 2024.
In terms of full marks, 55 students achieved perfect scores in Social Studies this year, also the highest number in five years. Comparatively, 52 students achieved this in 2024, 17 in 2023, 3 in 2022, and 27 in 2021.
There was also a significant drop in the number of students scoring zero in the subject, with only 4 recorded this year, the lowest in five years. By contrast, there were 6 zero scores in both 2021 and 2024, 14 in 2022, and 9 in 2023.
Regarding gender performance, while female students continued to show consistent results, there was a noticeable improvement in the performance of male students in Social Studies this year.
Science also demon-
Policeman found guilty of killing...
From page 3 high-calibre rifle. A subsequent autopsy report revealed that Boston died as a result of a gunshot injury to the left side of his chest.
Residents had mounted protest action on the Essequibo Coast over the shooting. Four months after Boston’s killing, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, recommended that the rank be charged with manslaughter.
Fiona Boston, wife of the deceased, had stated that it has been a challenge for her and her two children since her
husband died. At Peters’ first court appearance, he was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleges that on September 15, 2021, at Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast, in the Essequibo Magisterial District, he shot and killed Boston. Following the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the matter, Magistrate Sam ruled that there was sufficient evidence for Peters to stand trial for manslaughter before a judge and jury. Peters was committed to stand trial by Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrates’ Court in 2022.
strated a strong upward trend, with 63.70% of students scoring 50% and above, an overall improvement from previous years. Dr Manning acknowledged the progress, stating, “Last year we had a dip, so it means that not only did we do better than last year, it really moved past what we ever had over the five years.” In comparison, the percentage of students passing Science in previous years stood at 40.12% in 2021, 46.45% in 2022, 55.11% in 2023, and 54.00% in 2024.
Additionally, an impressive 228 students achieved full marks in Science in 2025, the highest number in five years. This represents a significant increase from 30 in 2024, 69 in 2023, 5 in 2022, and just 1 in 2021. There was also a substantial reduction in zero scores in the subject, with only 4 students scoring zero, the lowest across the fiveyear span. In previous years, zero scores were higher: 9 in 2021, 11 in 2022, 7 in 2023, and 13 in 2024. In terms of gender performance, both boys and girls showed improvement. This year, 62.15% of females passed Science, while 55.90% of males did the same. Dr.
Manning noted, “We dipped last year so that’s also very significant for both males and females. It is important to note that boys are coming out of the 40% zone; not only are they performing better, but they have left that 40% zone completely.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand confirmed that 2025 marks Guyana’s best NGSA performance since 2015. The overall pass rate rose dramatically from 49% in 2024 to 63% in 2025. “Guyana has done the best it has ever done and by far…We have moved the overall pass rate from 49% to 63% of our children in this country passing all the subjects. You know what that means, our children are doing better,” she remarked. Minister Manickchand attributed the improvements to several interventions such as enhanced teacher training, school feeding programs, quizzes, radio and TV educational programming, increased school monitoring, the National Grade Five Assessment, the distribution of textbooks, and school upgrade initiatives.
Canada working to simplify...
From page 3 exploitation. Looking ahead to Guyana’s general and regional elections on September 1, Sigouin stressed Canada’s support for democracy. “We’ll work with the Organisation of American States, the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, and the Centre for Local Democracy to make sure the elections are accessible, transparent, and fair, because a strong democracy builds a strong nation,” he said.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who also addressed attendees, echoed the High Commissioner’s sentiments, reaffirming the value of the
bilateral relationship. “Our two countries have long enjoyed excellent relations, rooted in mutual respect and shared ideals. Canada’s contribution to Guyana’s development has been generous and enduring. They have partnered with us in improving our healthcare system,” the President stated. The event saw attendance from several dignitaries, including U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot and Prime Minister Mark Phillips. Guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere with food, drinks, and a golf competition, with prizes awarded to participants. Canada Day will be officially observed on July 1.
New Board of Directors appointed for Caribbean Airlines
(TrinidadGuardian)The Minister of Finance, Davendranath Tancoo, presented instruments of
appointment to new members of the Board of Directors of Caribbean
Airlines Limited on Tuesday
The Government has approved the appointments for a two-year term. The appointments took effect from the date of the
Resolution of the Shareholders,inaccordance withtheCompaniesActand the By-laws of the Company
Reyna Kowlessar has beenappointedChairmanof theBoard.VideshPraimhas beennamedViceChairman. Othermembersappointedto the Board are Sharlene Maharaj, Selwyn Cudjoe, Amit Krishan Mahabir, and D.AdamJ.Moss.
Minister Tancoo extended congratulations to the new appointees and conveyed appreciation for their willingness to serve.
Digicel
He noted the Government’s confidence in the Board’s ability to guide Caribbean Airlines through its responsibilities to the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.ThenewBoardwill oversee the operations of Caribbean Airlines Limited during a period where the airline continues to address challenges in the regional and international aviation sectors. The appointments arepartoftheGovernment’s efforts to ensure sound governance and effective management of state enterprises.
Caribbean Airlines Limited is a state-owned enterprise and the designated national airline ofTrinidadandTobago.
The Ministry of Finance has not indicated any changes in the airline’s executive leadership at this time.
The newly appointed Board members are expected to assume their rolesimmediately
Group and
Symptai join forces to offerbetteraccess to world-class...
Frompage3
“Symptai and Digicel have beenworkingintandemfor a number of years now and as a business partner, Digicel has everything you could want for your company,” said Marlon Cooper, CEO, Symptai Consulting.
Man arrested for abduction of 13-yr-old girl
An East Coast
D e m e r a r a (ECD) man was arrested on Wednesday afternoonaftera13-year-old girlwhowasmissingalleged that he had locked her up in hishouseforseveraldays.
This unified approach
positions Digicel Business as the leading technology partner for businessesofallsizes,not just in Jamaica, but throughouttheregion
Digicel Business and Symptai Consulting remain committed to delivering greater value and stronger security solutions to customers, empowering Caribbean businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital world
“The technology, the n e t w o r k , t h e consultants, the partners ( l o c a l l y a n d internationally) are all there, which means that whether you’re a small, medium or large-sized business, we have the products, services and people to meet you where you are, and also to help you as you scale ” Now that Symptai is fully part of the Digicel Business family, customers can expect a seamless and strengthened value proposition, backed by Digicel’s global strategic partners and Symptai’s provenexperience.
The 13-year-old girl went missing on June 18, andnoonehadaclueofher whereabouts Family members said that on Wednesday morning, a taxi driversawherwalkingalone at a location and picked her up. He quickly alerted family members via telephone that he had found her
Familymembersadvised himtotakehertothenearest police station since she was found a good distance from herhome.
“I tell him where to take
her,” the child’s mother said whilerecountingthatthetaxi driver also put the 13-yearold girl to speak on the phone.
In police custody, the girltoldpolicethatshewas held against her will at a house on the East Coast of Demerara. Her exact words, according to her mother, was, “He lock me up there forcoupledays.”
The victim took police to a location, and there theyfoundthesuspect.
He was immediately handcuffed and taken awayforquestioning.
Reports reaching Kaieteur News are that the childwasassaulted.
Police are yet to release anyinformationonthecase. Kaieteur News understands, however, that it might be a caseofanallegedabduction
The suspect in the alleged abduction
Minister of Finance, Davendranath Tancoo, presented instruments of appointment to new members of the Board of Directors of Caribbean Airlines Limited on Tuesday
Japanese shipbuilder issues tender for works on 7th FPSO for Exxon
Japanese shipbuilder, MODEC,hasissuedatender for offshore installation works on ExxonMobil’s seventh oil development projectinGuyana’sStabroek Block, months after being awardedthecontracttobuild the project’s Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading(FPSO)vessel.
According to a report by industry outlet, Upstream
ch remains unnamed, will be MODEC’ssecondFPSOfor E
, following the Errea Wittu beingbuiltfortheUarufield. Although the project is p
approval, Exxon has moved aheadandawardedaLimited Notice to Proceed (LNTP)
me
ead FPSO Notably, Phase One of the contractencompassesFrontEndEngineeringandDesign (FEED) while Phase Two covers Engineering, Procurement, Construction,
Online, MODEC has released a Request for Information(RFI)toidentify potential contractors for the installation of suction piles and chains pre-lay scope of work for the Hammerhead development FPSO The project is expected to start productionin2029.
andInstallation(EPCI).
TheLNTPwillallowthe company to commence activities related to the design of the vessel, which willensureanearlypossible projectstart-upin2029,once the government gives the green light The second phase, which includes constructionandinstallation, isalsosubjecttogovernment approval,aswellasaproject sanction by the operator of the Stabroek Block, Exxon, anditsco-venturers.
It was disclosed that the FPSO for the Hammerhead development vessel will havethecapacitytoproduce 150,000 barrels of oil per day, with the addition of water and associated gas. Using a SOFEC Spread Mooring System, the vessel will be moored at a water depth of approximately 1,205 meters. This is the company’s second contract to build an FPSO for Exxon Guyana’s operations, as it follows the Errea Wittu, which is currently being constructed for their Uaru
project.
Exxon began its work to seek regulatory approval for the seventh project back in 2024, and earlier this year, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Hammerhead project was submitted.Thecompanyhad madeapartialsubmissionof the project’s Field Development Plan (FDP)
backin2024. Hammerhead was announced as Exxon’s ninth commercial discovery in August 2018 The Hammerhead-1 well was drilled in a new reservoir, encountering approximately 197feet(60metres)ofhighquality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoir The well was safely drilled to
An illustration of an FPSO setup (Source: MODEC)
13,862 feet (4,225 metres) depth in 3,773 feet (1,150 metres)ofwater Theproject will target between 120-180 thousand barrels per day (kbd). Exxon is aiming to commence production activitiesby2029,following therequisiteapprovals. Notably, the daily productioncapacitybeing Continued on page 9
Offloading facility Topside (Production facilities)
Mooring system
Mooring lines
Storage tanks
Risers(Flowlines)
Mooring lines
West Coast Warriors beat GT Fire to keep winning ways at NYNCL 30-over tournament
West Coast
Warriors beat GTFireby29 runs last Sunday in the continuation of the 2025 New York National Cricket League (NYNCL) 30-over competition at Beach 32 ground.
The win keeps West Coast Warriors unbeaten with 7 victories now from 8 encounters with one fixture
abandoned due to the inclementweather
After West Coast Warriorswereinvitedtotake first knock, they reached a competitive 174-9 from the allotted 30-overs while GT Fire replied with 145 all out inthe25thover Off-spinner and playerof-the-match Avi Dhanpaul produced an outstanding bowlingperformancetohelp
dismissGTFire.Hegrabbed 4-16 from five probing overs.
Dhanpaul received excellentsupportfromleggy Brandon Cabose who finished with 3-33 off five overs while seamer Javed Shafeekcollected2-31(4).
GT Fire started off their reply brilliantly reaching 115-3 before a sudden collapse.
Vijendra Bhir provided some entertainment with a fiery65whichcontainedsix sixesandthreefoursfrom32 balls.
Michael Butcher scored 26andErrolVelaidumadded 25toprolongtheresponse.
Earlier, West Coast Warriors lost inform opener Cabose for 7 at 40-1 before theinningswasstabilisedby hisfellowopenerYoughestir Bachan who scored an impressive63.
Bachan, a former Essequibo Inter-County player, stroked seven fours while occupying the crease for74balls.
Thursday June 26, 2025
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
Difficult predicaments could arise today if you try to exert your will over others without having the most honorable intentions, Aries. It could be that you're using someone else's fear of you to control himorher
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
The fire within you is raging today,Taurus,andyoushould becarefulhowyouwieldthis power Be proud and triumphant. Walk with your shouldersbackandheadhigh. Freedomisimportant.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
There may be a great deal of fuss over something that seems quite insignificant to you, Gemini. Try to see the beauty and importance of everythingaroundyou.
CANCER(June21–July22)
Thingsarecomingtoacritical point for you today, Cancer, and you may find that other people openly object to your actions. It's OK to be a bit selfish if the situation is appropriate.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Feelfreetospeakmoreloudly today, Leo. You'll find that things fall into place more easily if you speak your thoughts outwardly and directly in the presence of others. Bring your internal powerunderyourcontrol.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
Youshouldbaskinaglorious splendortoday,Virgo.There's a great deal of power at your disposal.You'll find your ego ishealthy,charged,andready forthebattlefield.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Add more sunshine to your day, Libra. It may be time to stir up your inner passion and let it speak with greater confidencethanyouhavebeen lately Make sure you heal yourself by letting the people aroundyouhearyourtruth.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
You'llfindthatyoursparkcan easily turn potential energy into kinetic energy, Scorpio. Don'tunderestimatethepower of your words. Realize the profound impact they have on othersandtakeresponsibility
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Don't dwell on your fluctuating moods today, Sagittarius. Look at the larger trends and how positive elements are coming together inyourfavor
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Thisisyourdaytoshineinall your glory, Capricorn. There's noneedtoholdanythingback. You'll find that you have a great deal of love to share. Your heart is likely to go to extremes today in order to proveitslove.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Trynottolosesightofyour own projects or desires, Aquarius. There's a great deal of power and manipulative energy in the air today that could throw you off course if youaren'tcareful.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Recharge today by getting outside and stretching your arms to the sky, Pisces. Be proud and courageous. You have the power to turn an unhealthy situation into a positiveone,
Dhanpaul, before his wicket-taking display, had demonstrated his batting skillsaswellwithafluent37 while runs-machine Kevin Christian added 22 runs. Prior to this innings, Christian, an ex-Guyana youth player, registered a century and chalked up five half-centuries to be the leading runs-scorer (508) so far in this 16-team roundrobincompetition.
Richie Gayadeen, Navin Dewlall and Avinash Lallbeharryhadtwowickets each,bowlingforGTFireon abone-driedsurface.
The action is scheduled tocontinueonSundaywitha bunch of matches. West Coast Warriors will tackle EmpireCricketClubintheir next fixture while GT Fire will trade punches with TricountyCricketClub.
Avi Dhanpaul
Williams named skipper of Guyana Squad ahead 2025 CWI U19
Female
Tournament - Defending champions set to compete in Trinidad and
U n d e r - 1 9 F e m a l e Tournament, which takes placefromJuly6to20inthe twin-island republic of
Trinidad and Tobago Guyana’s U19 ladies will enter the competition as defendingchampions.
Leading the squad is captain Laurene Williams, supported by Vice-captain Crystal Durant The full teamincludesTrishaHardat, Shonette Belgrave, Tiea Isaacs, Danellie Manns, L o t a y a W i l l i a m s (wicketkeeper), Mahadevi Dass, Jada Fraser, Daniela Hicks, Briana Samaroo, Rebekael Cleto, Cianna Barkoye, and Devani Rickram. Standby players are Jaraya Rodrigues, Aneesa Chetram, Ackella Stephens, Thalia Hack, ShanayaMackay,andEmely Booker
Chairman of Selectors Andre Percival explained that the selection process was not easy, given the limited match exposure this season.
“We only had one intercounty game and then the
National Park tournament, whichwasn’tplayedwiththe usual hardball conditions,” he said. “However, we were satisfied with the performances and have sevenplayersreturningfrom last year’s title-winning team.”
Thesquadwillundergoa week-long encampment in Essequibo from June 27 to July 3. Percival noted that recent weather challenges could affect outdoor sessions, but he remains hopeful the facilities will allow for productive preparation.
“Every country is facing its own struggles, but I’m confident in this group,” he added. “With experienced leaders like Laurene and Crystal, and promising new talent, we’re ready to compete.”
Tobago
Percival, when asked about the team’s chances of defending the title, said: “Yes, listen, I am confident, because cricket is a game of glorious and unsurprising things.Youneverknowwhat will happen on the day The team that plays the best during the competition will win the competition. Just like how we’re going throughthestrugglesherein Guyana, other countries are going through struggles as well. So, you know, it’s going to be an open competition That’s the reason why I’m quite confidentinourgirls.”
President of the Guyana Cricket Board, Bissoondyal Singh, extended his best wishes to the team, urging the players to remain disciplined, committed, and focused.
RegalOver-40(Masters) and Over-50 (Legends) teams have been announced for the 2025 Independence SoftballCup,whichisslated forthisFridaytoSunday
T h e t h r e e - d a y extravaganzawillberununder the auspices of the NewYork Softball Cricket League and willhaveallthreecategories: Legends, Masters and AllStars (Open) Teams to compete in the various categories are from New York, New Jersey, Atlanta, Schenectady, Connecticut, Florida, Guyana and Canada.
This year marks the 20th edition of the annual mega softball event and monetary prizes along with trophies are up for grabs Meanwhile, Manager of the teams Ian Johnhasexpressedprofound confidence that the Guyanabased teams will return
homewiththetopprizes. He mentioned that they guys have prepared really hard for the competition as well. John stated that both teamsarewell-balancedand ready to rumble against toughopponents. Both Regal Legends and Masters teams won championshipsbeforeatthis tournament.
Over-50(Legends) 1:UnissYusuf 2:RudolphBaker
4:WayneJones
5:EionAbel
6:KhemrajSumair
7:SaheedMohamed (49yrs)
8:LaurieSingh
9:TroyGobin
10:LloydRuplall
11:FarookQayaam
12:JeshParasnauth
13:RoyPersaud
14:StanleyMohabir
Overs-40(Masters)
1:KhemchandraDindyal (Captain)
2:FazalRafiek
3:PatrickRooplall
4:LenoxMark
5:LakeramRoopnarine
6:BalramRoopnarine
7:HemrajGarbarran
8:RudolphJohnson
9:AsifAli
10:RavySingh
11:RandolphKetwaroo
12:KumarRamjit 13:TyroneSanasie
3:SurujdeoRamdeen
The Guyana Cricket Boardhasannouncedits14member squad for the 2025 Cricket West Indies (CWI)
Danellie Manns
Shonette Belgrave Skipper Laurene Williams
Uniss Yusuf
Archery Guyana Hosts Champions Movement and Unity on Olympic Day 2025
ArcheryGuyanaproudly joined the international sporting community on Monday 23rd June, 2025 in commemorating Olympic
Day 2025 under the powerful theme: “Let’s Move?”-aglobalcallbythe International Olympic Committeetoinspirepeople of all ages and abilities to embrace movement for health,connection,andjoy
Held at the scenic Kingston Seawall, the event brought together archers,
families, youth, and supporters dressed in workout gear and waving flags in celebration of the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.
Delivering warm opening remarks, President of Archery Guyana, Mrs.
Vi d u s h i P e r s a u dMcKinnon, emphasised the importance of movement as
Participants of Olympic Day 2025 strike a pose after an energising session, united by movement and the Olympic values of friendship and excellence.
an antidote to the growing tide of inactivity and disconnection.
Aspecialhighlightofthe afternoonwasadynamicand informative presentation by
Neurologist Dr Alex Persaud, who spoke on the profound neurological benefits and importance of exercise and movement for thebodyanditsneurological
system This covers the brain,spineandallpathways forlifeandmotorfunction. Participants were then led through energising exercises by World Archery
Level 2
Coach, Mr Ryan McKinnon, whose expert guidance was met with enthusiasm and applause
The session featured an inspiring demonstration by
8-year-old Alista
McKinnon, one of Archery Guyana’s youngest members, who guided the crowd through hand movements and squats, earning cheers for his leadershipandenergy
National archers
Saifullah Gani, Nolan Gray, and Richard Dookie also took center stage, sharing fun demonstrations and interacting with the crowd, showcasing that movement and sport are for everyone, regardless of age or skill level.
As the sun set over the seawall and the high winds picked up, participants were reminded that Olympic Day ismorethanacelebration-it isamovementinitself.
Archery Guyana encourageseveryonetotake a step, a stretch, a breath — to move with purpose not justtoday,buteveryday
Seales,ShamarscythethroughAustraliabeforequicksreturnfire
ESPNcricinfo - Jayden
Seales and Shamar Joseph shared nine wickets on the opening day in Barbados to increase the pressure on Australia’s faltering batting line-up, but the visitors’ quicks struck back to suggest another Test match that could unfold in fast forward on a surface that offered assistance for the seamers.
Australia’s reshaped top order slipped to 22 for 3 against new ball before Usman Khawaja, who was dropped twice on 6 and 45, andTravisHeadadded89as they threatened to take control.
However, Khawaja’s dismissal to Shamar Joseph sparkedacollapseof7for69 which included Head for 59 a f t e r h e ’ d b e e n controversially reprieved by thethirdumpirewhoruleda catch hadn’t carried to wicketkeeperShaiHope.
Australia’s180wastheir lowest total in West Indies having chosen to bat first, and their lowest either way since 1995 in Trinidad. But while they have issues over the batting, the bowling attack remains formidable and the total grew in significance amid Mitchell Starc’snew-ballburst.
He had former captain Kraigg Brathwaite, playing
his 99th Test, edging low to second slip where Beau Webster held an excellent catch. He then shaped one away from the left-handed John Campbell to leave the hosts16for2.
Keacy Carty and debutant Brandon King, who had earlier dropped threecatches,mixedcaution with positivity to see West Indies to within 20 minutes oftheclose.ButCartycould do little against a delivery from Pat Cummins that kickedfromshortofalength and caught the shoulder of thebatonthewaythroughto AlexCarey
Then nightwatcher Jomel Warrican couldn’t keep out an excellent delivery from Josh Hazlewood.At the moment, itwouldappearunwisetobe making cricket-watching plansfortheweekend.
Ahead of the game, just the second Test in six years at the ground, there was degree of uncertainty over what conditions would present.
There was movement throughout while the occasional delivery also lifted sharply to challenge Cummins’ view at the toss that “it looks a pretty good wicket.” Seales ended up edging thewicketstally,butShamar
Joseph was magnificent throughout: his first spell read6-2-12-2andhisthird50-12-2.With bettercatching supportfromhisteam-mates - West Indies dropped four chances in the innings - he and not Seales would have hadthefive-wickethaul. He bowled with pace, movement and occasionally some significant extra bounce. It took him just 10 balls to make his first impact, nipping one back at the recalled Sam Konstas to pin the 19-year-old lbw althoughthenotoutdecision needed to be overturned by theDRS.
Cameron Green should havegoneforaducksecond
ball when he edged a drive off the back foot, but King droppedaregulationchance atgully ShamarJosephthen sawanotherchancegodown when new captain Roston Chase spilled Khawaja at firstslip.
Green went on to be given a torrid working over as he continued to find life tough at No. 3. Shamar Joseph regularly challenged the outside edge and then drew one which carried low tosecondslip.
Josh Inglis, filling in for the injured Steven Smith at No.4,triedtotakeapositive option but top-edged a pull fromoutsideoffwhichHope settled under to give Seales
hisfirstwicket.
Itwasnotuntiltheendof theoverinwhichInglisfell, the 16th of the innings, that Australia struck their first boundary when Head opened his account with a strongdrivealthoughaslow outfieldwaspartlytoblame.
Khawaja then briefly wentontheattack,pulling Alzarri Joseph for six and twice sending Seales through the off side, but there was never a great sense of permanency to his innings Still, he and Headhadrepairedsomeof the early damage as they carried Australia through tolunchwithoutfurtherloss on65for3.
Fortune favoured
Khawajaafterthebreakas he was beaten by Alzarri Joseph and edged through a gap in the slips Head also slashed over the cordon as he took a typically positive approach which started to turn the tide inAustralia’s favour as he brought up a 57-ballfifty
Khawaja’s second life came when he slashed to gullyon45whereKingwas againtheculprit,butthisone didn’t cost West Indies too many as Shamar Joseph resumed his wicket-taking when Khawaja bottomedgedapull.
He then produced a magnificent delivery which completely squared up Webster and clipped the top ofoffstump.
In his next over Shamar Joseph thought he had his fifth wicket when Head edged through to Hope who tookitverylowandsignaled hisuncertaintytothesquarelegumpire.
The on-field officials went upstairs and, having seen the first replay, West Indies started celebrating only for it to be eventually ruled not out by Adrian Holdstock much to their bemusement - it did appear as though Hope’s fingers wereundertheball.
Another wicket did fall before tea, Alex Carey edging Seales to first slip, and it became a clatter after the interval withHeadflayinganedgeto thekeeperandStarcnicking tosecondslip.
Cummins threw the bat togoodeffectforrunsthat,if the low-scoring nature of this match continues, could prove important before Seales wrapped up the innings for his third fivewickethaul.
Scores:WestIndies57 for 4 (King 23*, Starc 235) trail Australia 180 (Head 59, Seales 5-60, S Joseph4-46)by123runs
Travis Head counterattacked in typical fashion. (Associated Press)
MCYS/AnsaMcALJuneMadnessFutsal
Sparta Boss to battle Road Warriors in championship match; Lady Canaimas & Iconic Strikers in female final
The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall was humming with intense rivalry on the court and in the stands on Tuesday night when the semifinals of the inaugural June Madness Futsal championship were played intoWednesdaymorning.
Billed as two potential humdingers, the first semi between Road Warriors and Gold Is Money ended up being a 14-goal blast which thathadfansontheedgesof the seats and those in VIP, standing to absorb the exchanges.
It ended with the Brazilian side coming back from two goals down, territory they have never
been in, to defeat the game GTside,9-5.
The feature match of the nightwasnotascompetitive as anticipated with Sparta Boss turning in a boss-like performance, defeating BackCircle‘A’8-3toearna date with Road Warriors in what will be the perfect climax to this inaugural championship, powered by the Government of Guyana, Ministry of Culture, Youth andSportandAnsaMcAL. The female final will feature Lady Canaimas and IconicBallerswhohavewon both their group matches to set up what will also be an intriguingfinale.
Sparta’s dominant
display was orchestrated by the consistent and fit Curtez Kellman who recorded a helmet-trick, but most importantly,hehasscoredin all the matches they have played to date in this competition and will no doubt be a critical component in Saturday’s final.Kellman,whohasnow moved to eight (8) goals in the competition just one behind the leader, Luis Da Silva of Road Warriors, scored in the 5th, 7th, 15th and 32nd minutes. Nicholas McArthur netted his first goals of the competition, being on target in the 22nd and39thminute.
Darren Niles also scored
his first goal of the championship to add to Spart’s tally in the 24th minute whilst Kelsey Benjamin scored his third overall when he closed out Sparta’s account in the 40th minute. After being five goals down, Back Circle requestedtheyellowballand it paid immediate dividends asChrisMaceyfinallybroke their goal jinx, the double taking him to five goals overall. Many near misses summedupBackCircle‘A’s performance, they were also hamstrung with one of their more dominant players, Simoen Moore was nursing aninjury,hispresenceinthe game was very minimal but
when he came on, his presence helped in them scoring with the yellow ball in the 26th minute. Their other goal came off the boot of Stephon Reynolds in the 31stminute.
The match of the night, however, was the first semifinal. For the first time Road Warriors found themselves in real trouble withGoldIsMoneyracingto a 2-0 advantage by the 9th minute, Randolph Wagner rocking the nets in the 8th and 9th much to the delight ofthefans. Theenergywas high octane, and the action was end to end. With each halfbeing20minutes,itwill always be an uphill task to defend slim advantages Fitness and focus will alwaysprevail.
It was the 13th minute that Duarte Dos Santos scored the first for Road Warriors but split seconds laterWagnernettedthethird of his four goals to restore the three-goal cushion Back-to-back goals from Wendrecky De Souza in the 16th and 17th minute drew Road Warriors level at 3-3 and one minute later, they tooktheleadforthefirsttime with Arckson Andreazza’s goal. It was game on, and thereafter whilst the exchanges continued at breathtaking pace, the visiting team gradually wrested the initiative and started dominating as they are accustomed to.After the break where they had held a slim advantage, Dos Santos pushed the lead to 5-3,
scoringinthe23rdminute.
But Shomar Koulen hit back for Gold Is Money in the 24th and Wagner completed his helmet-trick one minute later to lock the score at 5-5. Such was the epicnatureofthisbattlethat fans could have hardly settled to absorb what was takingplaceasthegoalsjust keptcoming.
From this point though, Road Warriors pulled away fromtheiropponentsasthey fired in four unanswered goals to book their place in the championship match which will see the winner being rewarded with twomilliondollarsandtheloser, one-million.
Joao De Souza (26th), Luis De Silva (29th) Jamal Pedro (35th) with an own goalandDossantoswithhis third in the 40th minute, sealed Gold Is Money faith, theywillfaceBackCirclein thethird-placegamewiththe winnerguaranteed$500,000 andtheloser,$250,000.
The lone female game ended in victory for The Lioness 5-0 over Tucville Terrorists, Amanda McKenzienettinginthe3rd, 10th, 13th, 14th and 18th, minutes.Thegamewasonly foracademicpurposesasthe finalists would have already been decided. Lady Canaimas gained a walk over from Pouderoyen Femaleswhichhandedthem their second win in as many matches. There was an exhibitiongamebetweenGT Masters and Gladiators, the formerwon,2-0.
GuyanaTourismAuthoritybacks3rdAnnual NationalJuniorGolfChampionship
The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), through theMinistryofTourism,has reaffirmed its commitment tothedevelopmentofgolfin Guyana by supporting the 3rd Annual National Junior Golf Championship, which is set to take place on Wednesday, July 3, 2025 at the Nexgen Golf Academy, WoolfordAvenue.
According to GTA Director Kamrul Baksh, “We have seen the tremendous growth and
international interest in the development of golf in Guyana by the Guyana Golf Association (GGA), and with the massive amount of travel and foreign currency that accompanies golf tourism, we see this as a perfect avenue for the development of sports tourisminourcountry.”
Asanticipationbuildsfor the championship, all eyes are on Leguan Secondary and Region Three, who are seekingtomakehistorywith
a three-peat victory With golfnowpartoftheMinistry of Education’s Priority Programme in schools from 2023, many schools across Guyana now benefit from dedicatedgolfcoaches.This is expected to reflect in stronger performances across the board in this year’stournament.
GGA president Aleem Hussain praised the GTAon Wednesday as well as the Government for their continued support. “When
you consider that golf in G u y a n a h a s b e e n transformedfromasportfor theelitefewtooneembraced by thousands of young peoplewiththehelpofnontraditional and visionary supporters—you can only imagine the heights we will reachinthecomingyears.”
TheNationalJuniorGolf Championship is free and o
Competitors will enjoy complimentary meals, beverages, snacks, trophies, andprizes. Tr
participantsfromParikaand N
generously provided by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken and the GuyanaPoliceForce.
Among the sponsors to hop on board to date, E
Ministry of Education,
Centre, Sunshine Snacks, Guyana Beverages Inc;Edward B Beharry
The Lioness’Amanda McKenzie works her way past two Tucville Terrorists players.
BYRAWLETONEY
There is a monster on the cricketfield.
He doesn’t haunt dreams. He walks tall and proud in broad daylight, wearing maroon, representingtheWestIndiesonthe globalstage.
He’s celebrated, cheered for, idolized. But to the women he has violated, he is not a hero. He is a predator
ThiscricketerisGuyanese.
And as I write this column, I haveheardaccountsfromnofewer thanelevenwomen,oneofthema teenagerwhoallegethattheyhave been sexually assaulted, raped, or subjected to unwanted sexual advancesbyhim.
There is a monster in maroon, andhisviolencehidesbehindaball andacheeringcrowd.
Recently, Kaieteur News reported on an incident involving this player just before he departed Guyana.
Theallegationwasseriousand credible. But like so many others, thestorybegantofade,notbecause it lacked truth, but because the systemworethesurvivordown.
Exhaustedfromrecountingher trauma over and over to different ranks within the Guyana Police Force, the alleged victim could no longerbeartheburden.
During one of the official interviews, while being interrogatedbyaseniorofficer,she abruptly ended the session, citing emotionalandmentaldistress.
Yesterday, Kaieteur News learned that this same woman, broken and feeling unheard, became so distraught that she is now in hospital care, and as of presstime,remainsadmitted.
This is the horrifying toll of sexual violence. Survivors are not justleftwithbruises,theyareoften left with shame, silence, and isolation.
InGuyana,especiallywhenthe accused holds power or fame, alleged victims are treated not as survivors seeking justice, but as problemstobemanaged.Theyare asked what they were wearing,
whytheywentoutwithhim,ifthey were drunk They are crossexamined before ever seeing a courtroom.
Sexual violence by athletes is not new globally, there have been countless examples. But here in Guyana, there is a disturbing pattern of protecting the predator whilepunishingthevictim.
SincetheinitialKaieteurNews story broke, my inboxes on all platforms have been flooded with painful,personalaccounts,dozens ofwomendescribingeerilysimilar encounterswiththesamecricketer Others reached out to share their stories of abuse by different athletes.
They all echoed the same refrain;noonebelievedme.
But here is what makes their stories harder to ignore, they all providedevidence.Screenshots. Messages.Photos.Voicenotes. Dates. Hospital visits. In some cases, they reported the incident immediately In others, the shame and trauma kept them silent, until now
This is not about guilt or innocence decided in the court of public opinion. This is about a system that repeatedly fails women.
This is about the need for
investigations with integrity, accountability, and support systems that don’t retraumatize survivors. There is a monster in maroon.
Hemayhavetheswaggerofastar, but he leaves behind devastation.
And no matter how many wickets he takes, or how many runs he
scores, nothing can erase the damagehehasdone.
Wemustconfrontthismonster
Notwithsilence.Notwithexcuses.
But with courage, justice, and truth.
And to the women who continue to come forward, I hear you.Ibelieveyou.Youmatter
Junior Squash team gears up for CASA 2025 f with high hopes and strong support
T(GSA)onWednesdayhosted a p
conference at the National Racquet Centre, officially unveiling the 20-member national junior team set to compete in the 2025 Junior Caribbean Area Squash
Association (CASA) Championship in the Cayman Islands from June 29toJuly5.
The spirited young squad, which blends promising newcomers with seasoned campaigners, is determined to build on Guyana’s proud squash legacy This includes an overalltitlewinin2022and an unprecedented 12-year title streak from 2005 to 2016.LastyearintheBritish Virgin Islands, Guyana claimed second place overall, with the boys’team finishing third and the girls’
teamfifth. At the ceremonious briefing, team members met with sponsors and stakeholders; showcasing the commitment behind what is considered one of the region’s most eagerly anticipated squash tournaments
Leading the team is Under-19 ch
mpion Louis Da Silva, whose leadership and dynamic
expected to be pivotal Joining him are standout players Justin Ten-Pow, Emily Fung-A-Fatt, Ethan Bulkan,KayleeLowe,and Zion Hickerson, among other emerging talents, all of whom bolster Guyana’s chances of reclaiming regionalglory
Speaking at the briefing, GSA President David Fernandes expressed confidence in the squad’s potential: “I think this year
we have a pretty talented group, but dedication and hard work will definitely play a critical role in the team’ssuccess.
n, Rafael Brathwaite, Ethan Bulkan, Jibril Alli, Justin Ten-Pow, Egan Bulkan, Blake Edwards, Justin Goberdhan, Louis Da Silva, Mohryan Baksh, and Shiloh Asregado
The GSA’s efforts are strongly backed by key sponsors:E-Net,theGuyana Olympic Association, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the National Sports Commission, KFC Guyana, and Bounty Farm, whose support has ensured the team’s participation in this prestigious regional event.
Withhistoryontheirside and an eye on the future, Team Guyana now looks to the Cayman Islands to continue their legacy of excellenceontheCaribbean squashstage.
Over the years, we’ve produced some strong contenders,butthisisoneof the groups where I’ve seen significant growth. I know they will represent themselves, their families, coaches, and Guyana with pride ” The full team includes; Alexis Arjoon, Ella Fernandes, Tehani Munroe, Zoey McDonald, KayleeLowe,TianaGomes, Avery Arjoon, Emily FungA-Fatt, Safirah Sumner, Rylee Rodrigues, Zion Hick
Several dignitaries and support staff attended yesterday briefing at NRC as the 2025 Junior squash team gears up for CASA Juniors.
GSA President, David Fernandes unveils team uniform for the upcoming Junior CASAChampionship.
(AI generated)
Shamar Joseph had two wickets and two dropped chances in the first hour, ending with 4. (Randy Brooks/AFP/Getty Images)
Jayden Seales claimed a five-wicket haul. (AFP/Getty Images)
Seales, Shamar scythe through Australia before quicks return fire
Road Warriors and the competitions leading goalscorer, Luis Da Silva (9) takes the attack to Jamal Pedro of Gold Is Money