personsarrested Top CSEC scorer calls for review of scholarship criteria
Court halts Coverden Oil Waste Project
High Court Judge, Justice Nicola Pierre has ordered that the Permit g r a n t e d b y t h e Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)foranoiland gas waste facility to be quashed, as the regulator failed to ensure a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was first conducted.
Inherjudgementhanded down on October 28, 2025, Justice Pierre stated, “The EP Agency when granting Operation Permit Reference No. 220210216-GOESW to Global Oil Environmental Services (Guyana) Inc withoutanEIAoftheproject being submitted failed to follow the requirements of section11oftheEPAct.The EP Agency when waiving the requirement of an EIA for the waste management facility for exploration and production oil and gas wastes failed to follow the requirementsofsection11of the EPAct. The waiver is a procedural impropriety, and the grant without first consideringanEIAisillegal andoutsidethepowersofthe EPAgencyundertheAct.”
As such, the Court ruled
...Judge blasts EPA for illegally skipping
t h a t G l o b a l O i l Environmental Services (Guyana) Inc. ought to have obtained and submitted an EIAtotheEPAinthecourse of applying for a Permit to operateawastemanagement facility for exploration and production of oil and gas wastes.
It therefore determined that the Permit issued to the company was invalid. As such, the High Court also made an order of Certiorari quashing the decision the Agency to transfer the PermittoProfessionalWaste SolutionsInc.(PWSI)on14 July2023.
The Court made it clear thatthePermitforthewaste management facility is invalid and ordered costs be paidtotheapplicants.
Coverden citizens were represented by awardwinning Lawyer, Melinda Janki and Attorneys-at-Law Tim Prudhoe, Anna Kay Brown and Saevion David Longe while the EPA was represented by Attorneys Shareefa Parks and Niomi Alsopp.
Inastatementtothepress Attorneys-at-Law, AnnaKay Brown and Saevion
environmental study
David-Longe noted that the decision was not only meaningfulfortheCoverden community, but also for other communities where developers might seek permits for projects that requireanEIAundertheAct. They said, “Upholding the rule of law is vital to
communities. More broadly, the decision illustrates to ordinary citizens the importance of resisting the abuseofpowerandunlawful actionsbypublicauthorities.
Their efforts will not be in vain because they have recourse within the justice system.”
Similarly, Janki said the rulingisavindicationofthe rule of law She explained, “We have seen the democratic process fail as votersstayedhome.Wehave seenParliamentfailbecause it has been captured by the executive branch of government.
Thejudiciaryarenowthe most important protection for the rule of law When a public authority such as the President, ministers or statutorybodiesactillegally, the citizen has the right to seek judicial review of such actionsandtoobtainredress forpublicwrongs.”
Meanwhile, Audreyanna Thomas, who brought the action with the support of
thanked the successful legal team for its support and advocacy on the matter She said, “This success in the case has brought much comfort and peace to the res
environment, waterways, health and livelihoods will not be adversely affected by the operations of the oil and gaswastetreatmentplant.In addition,ourwayoflifewill not be altered due to this operation.”
ThedecisioninThomasv Environmental Protection Agency is a victory for the Coverden community, who repeatedly raised their concerns with the Agency whichwereeitherignoredor brushed aside, despite the Agency's statutory duty to protect the environment and publichealth.
Award-winningLawyer, Melinda Janki
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
Barrels,then more barrels
Guyana's oil riches are gushing out from under the seabed, in the manner of those spouting geysers in Yellowstone National Park in the US, or one of those wondersinNewZealand.
Themorethevastandpowerfulunderwaterfountainsin Guyana's Stabroek Block flow with laden cargoes of oil to the surface, the more the state of this country's peoples is subjecttoharderandhardercriticism.
Thenumbersarepresentandtheydon'tlie,plusthereis anotherfactorthatcontributesheavily:asmorebarrelsofoil are produced daily, there are no deniers of that fact now writteninthegoldenblackfingersofoil.
Daily oil production in Guyana has increased by leaps andbounds. Intheearlydaysoflocaloilproduction,there wasthebasiclevelof270,000barrelsadaythatclimbedto 450,000 barrels a day in quick time, as the wells got going andsettledintotheirstride. Fromthatproductionplatform, the thresholds went to 650,000 barrels of daily output. In more recent times, that number has quietly crept up to 770,000barrelsperdayofproduction,andthentherewasthe incredible. In October, daily production soared to a staggering 938,000 barrels a day From not quite three quartersofamillionbarrelsadaytojustwithinreachofthat coveted number and distinction of a million barrels of oil produceddaily
Canthisbewhereoildevelopmentsandthatlevelofoil productionareinGuyana? Believeit,forthatiswherethe numberssaytheyare,andthereisnoobjectingtothem,for thereisnofaultinthem.And,whiledailyoilproductionin Guyanaclimbsandclimbs,likeasupersonicwarplane,into the stratosphere, can this be where a great number of Guyaneseare,trappedinpoverty,havingastheircompanion a partner called hopelessness? Believe that also, for there are those hard-hit citizens who don't have, who don't know where to turn, and who don't know what to do, to ease the daily torments of their condition. This is the puzzle that is notapuzzle,acontradictionthatisobvious,andwhichagain cannot be denied or dismissed, since the poor are not disappearingfromGuyana'smap.
Themorethatthedailyproductionofoilrisesandrisesin Guyana,thereisthegrimrealityofimpoverishedGuyanese falling and falling lower and lower Those who are categorisedasthe'havenots'inGuyanaarefallingbehind,in thecrunchofprices,inwhatisforthemabarreneconomic environment. How does a worker live, feed a family, on $60,000 a month in a Guyana where prices far outstrip earnings, and not from one job alone? During the wild moments of the recent political craze, many big promises were made. Though the days are still early, the people are still waiting, and their circumstances are so blighted that evenanannouncementcoulddomuchtoeasetheirfearsand despair
Why is this happening in Guyana today, where today Guyana is a country that produces almost three quarters of millionbarrelsofoiladay? Whenacountrywithlessthana millionmouthstofeedcancomeclosetoproducingasmuch as a million barrels of oil a day and still hold citizens not havingenoughtoeat,thatshouldbemadeintoacrime. Not justamisdemeanortypeofcrime,butitiswhatqualifiesasa highgovernmentalandleadershipcrimeagainstthepeople. PoorGuyanesearefedasteadydietrichininfrastructure projects estimated to cost billions of US dollars. Those projects promise a considerable return to this country, but there are lacking in any meaning to the Guyanese who are hungry, and grapple with the challenges of taking care of their loved ones. Daily oil production in Guyana reaches higherandhigheraltitudes,andthereisthesavageironyof battalionsofGuyanesewhofindthemselvesinadeeperand deeperfinancialhole.Theycan'tcope,theydon'thavemuch hope left.Therewere those political promises made during thecampaigns,thatifkeptcouldbringalittleeasing,alittle only
Unite Against Corruption
DearEditor, Lorenzo Joseph (United Workers Party (UWP) Activist), on Nov 07, 2025, asked “Why the Silence on “Guyanese Critic” and the Missing Millions?” He inquires, “As a citizen and activist who believes in fairness and accountability, (that he is) deeply disturbed by the recent revelations in the Auditor General's 2024 Report on the Public
Government is still to recover $121.7 millionfrom TepuiGroupInc.,acompany owned by social media commentat
Mikhail Rodrigues,widelyknownas “GuyaneseCritic.”
TothemanyLorenzosof Guyana, both home and
abroad, on behalf of the PPP/CGovernment,Isay'So what?”“Whatyougonnado aboutit?”“Weruntings?”
First off, I invite GuyanesetoquerytheTepui Group Inc… like get to understandwhyitcameinto being.Youwilldiscoveritis most neoteric, and convenientlyso,asitsorigin wasinanticipationofandto facilitate collusive
Government/PPP/C contracts.So,itisnowonder that this notorious Tepui Group Inc. has already been linked to at least two government contracts, both of which have rightfully drawn significant scrutiny Lookatthesedetailsplease. Firstly, there was the Belle Vue Pump Station construction: This
controversial contract, initially valued at $865.544 million (later adjusted to $870 564 million), was a w a r d e d i n August/September 2023 The contract was eventually rescindedbythegovernment due to extensive delays and lack of progress. So, maybe according to plans, another c o m p a n y , G a i c o Engineering, took over the project as a 'subcontractor.'
Please note that a 'subcontractor'tookoverand too many have the case where'FraudulentSchemes,'
involving corrupt individuals, have set up "dummy" companies to receive inflated payments forworkthatisthen"subbed out" at a much lower cost, with the difference being
pocketed.ThatiswhyIwant this Tepui Group Inc. to be investigated. Someone must delve into the basics: tax returns, number of staff members, history of contracts, age of company, etc.
Secondly, there is the multi-million contract in June 2024, reportedly awarded quite furtively to Tepui Group Inc, the specifics of which (e g , projecttype,valueetc.)were not detailed, and seemingly, quitedeliberatelyquagmired among government and public records to avoid scrutiny
However, as per “Public records and the Auditor General reports,” major concernswerehighlighted (Continuedonpage5)
Under the Streetlight in Enmore
DearEditor,
T
ht on
Friendship Road flickered, as it always did after the rains. A taxi rattled past, carryingafamilyhomefrom Georgetown, and the tires hummed against the new asphalt,asoundthatmingled with the crickets in the garden behind the old sugar estate wall. Children ran barefootonthenewlypaved sidewalks, laughing over a cricket ball made of rubber, while their mothers called from doorways, balancing impatience and sari-clad dignity
Rohan paused at the corner shop, listening to the radio, which was airing an old Mohammed Rafi tune. Hehadgrownuphere,buthe returned from the city only recently, after ten years of university and a stint in business The world had changed Magnificent houses have cropped up where cane fields had once laid,cafesglowedwherethe market stalls used to stand, and yet, underneath the transformation, the rhythms of the town persisted, like roots insisting on their place beneathconcrete.
An older man sat on the bench outside the shop, peeling sugarcane He glancedatRohanandoffered anod,asthoughrecognizing someone who had always belonged even when he had left.Theman'shandsmoved with the economy of habit, splitting the stalks and breakingthemintochewable lengths.
“Cane tastes different after it's burned,” he said,
withoutexpectingananswer Rohan nodded anyway, because he knew it did. It carried the taste of memory, of his grandmother bending over the hearth, of festivals celebrated quietly, without parades or notice, and of morningswhenschoolbooks and prayers collided in the samebreath.
Across the street, the Afro-Guyanese children played a game of tag. Their shouts punctuated the evening like exclamation marks, asserting their joy, their space, their voice Rohan watched them for a moment, the way a painter might watch the edges of a canvas.
He recalled his own childhood, how he had learned to speak the language of two worlds: the one that moved fast and demandedachievement,and theonethatlingeredinscent, insong,intheslowgeometry ofvillagelife.
He had never felt excluded,yetheknewthatin certain narratives newspapers, schoolbooks, tourist brochures that worldwasoftensummarized in the briefest of footnotes: Diwali,curry,atempleinthe distance.
Awomancameoutofthe shop, carrying a basket of rotiandfriedfish.Shewaved atthechildren,whoscattered for a moment, then returned to their game. Her sari was the colour of mango flesh, brilliant against the twilight, and her presence was ordinary, commanding, unquestioned. She carried with her the authority of
everydaylife,thekindthatis built not in speeches but in repetition, in feeding the town, in ensuring the pulse continues.
Rohan walked on, past the modern clinic with its solar panels, past the small bank that had once been a warehouse, past the cafés where young professionals in brand-named t-shirts and jeans sipped coffee and argued about politics and cricket.
Thetownhadgrowninto a suburban sprawl, yet the old estate walls remained, a silent witness to the history that had shaped him, his parents, and their parents beforethem.Thesewallshad been built for control, for measurement, for labour Today, they still marked territory, but in their shadows, lives had expanded, multiplied, found music and philosophy, and made homes that no one coulderase.
The streetlight steadied. AbuscamedownFriendship Road, slow and rattling, and Rohan caught sight of a bannerannouncingacultural festival in the town square.
The organizers had included the usual attractions: steelpanbands,dances,anda selection of Indo-Guyanese cuisine.
But Rohan knew the invisiblerhythmbeneaththe surface:thedailydevotionof teachers, shopkeepers, artisans, and families whose work, stories, and laughter constituted the heartbeat of Enmore itself. It was not for tourists or photographers, notforacclaimorpolitics.It
simplyexisted. He thought of the word “representation,” though he did not need to. It was already happening, quietly, insistently, in every shop, every school, every cricket pitch, every home where people lived their histories without needing to be labeled or justified The t
y, IndoGuyanesediligence,thenew suburbanveneer,wasitselfa story, one that required no permissiontoexist.
Rohan paused again at the corner where the sugarcane had been peeled. The older man had gone inside, but the smell lingered. A boy hit the ball toward him, and without thinking, he returned it. In that small exchange, a continuum was maintained: memory, presence, and the everyday authority of life itself. The city, the country, the history of migration, labour,andadaptation-itall persisted, in the quotidian, the unrecorded, the visible onlytothosewhowatched.
The streetlight flickered once more, and Rohan smiled. He did not need to speakofbelonging,ortoask for a place in the story The story was already there, written in the streets, the children, the smells, the buildings, the laughter The mango tree — if it had been here — could have leaned toward the light as it always did. But even without it, Enmore'slightendured.
Respectfully, Dr WalterH.Persaud
If your goal was to wound, you failed
DearEditor,
IrefertotheletterbyMr VishnuPrashadpublishedin the Stabroek News on November 4, 2025 His selective memory and deliberate omissions do a disservice to the public discourse. He conveniently ignoresthegravedereliction b y t h e t h e n Opposition while in Government to confirm Chancellor Singh and Chief Justice Chang, and brushes asidethecurrent,unjustified vilification of the sitting ChiefJusticeasthoughthese mattersareinsignificant.
Letmebeclear:Ididnot write to defend the office of theChiefJustice.
My purpose was—and remains to defend the characterandintegrityofthe individual whom Dr Campbell maliciously and baselessly maligned as unfit
to serve not only as Chief JusticebutevenasaJudgeof the High Court Such reckless character assassination cannot go unchallenged.
Yes, the current Chief Justice is my son-in-law That is an open and wellknown fact throughout the legal fraternity, across political parties, and in the civilized Guyanese society atlarge.
My relationship to him does not remove my right—indeed, my duty—to rebutdishonestyandslander What is telling, however, is thatyousoughttosmearme byattemptingtotiemyname t o t h e B u r n h a m Government,asifthatalone would undermine my credibility
If you were genuinely informed,youwouldknowI served under the Hoyte
A
Burnham's.
U n l i k e y o u r insinuations, my record stands on merit Under President Hoyte, I made tangible contributions to the liberalisation of Guyana's economy and society and to t
Guyana–U S diplomatic relations Should you
, consult the former U S Ambassador to Suriname, His Excellency Mr Dennis Hays, or the U S State Department.
F o r m e r U S
Ambassador Clint Lauderdale can attest to the transformation of relations during that era from suspicion and isolation to engagement and respect President Hoyte moved Guyana away from the brink of authoritarian
socialism and into a freemarket democratic society conditions you now enjoy, yet appear unwilling to acknowledge. I therefore wear my service under President Hoyte as a badgeofhonour His intellect, integrity, and leadership reshaped this countryforthebetter.Ifthat offendsyou,sobeit.
Your letter attempted to glorify the lineage of the Honourable Justice Rishi Persaud through his late father,PremPersaud.
I do not dispute the distinguished legacy of that gentleman. What I reject is yourdishonestomissionthat the late father of Justice Singh was likewise a highly regarded and accomplished legal practitioner in Region Two.
Legal brilliance did not emerge from one family
Unite Against Corruption...
Frompage4 with the Belle Vue Pump Station contract, notably that Tepui Group Inc failed to meet several tender requirements for the pump station project and was significantlybehindschedule on the work Yet the government is still in the process of recovering a significant portion of the advance payments made for theBelleVueproject I dare say, that this government is good to work 'with'and'for',astheypayupfront, and even for delinquent work (the latter involving BK Marines, and I add to this the now dormant “Government repossession efforts (October 2023) on the Kingston Water Front Property, where the government was prepared to takethemattertothe CCJ to continue its pursuit of justice).Editor,thenotoriety of Guyanese Critic has reached legendary proportions-indecencyishis trade mark and violence his modus operandum. I need not elaborate here, but I cringe, thinking that decent folks, especially women, andchildrenareexposedto his 'sour breath' and 'bad tongue'allmanifestationsof hisbankruptmentality Readers take this for a closure and get an idea into who the PPP/C, the likes of Jagdeo,NandlallandAliare
The Public Accounts Committee,inarecentreport, revealed that during the
evaluation period for the pump station contract, Tepui had listed a $313 million contract with Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) which falls under the Housing Ministry, for the upgrade of roads in Block 3, Great Diamond. It was stated that the contract is dated February24th,2023.
Thedocumentalsostates that the company received other government contracts (as) Tepui had submitted a documenttoshowthelistof projects it had done, which includedtherehabilitationof South Pakistan Street and rehabilitation of Tyre Shop Street,valuedat$25million and$24millionrespectively
Both contracts were purportedly awarded by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure It should be noted, however, that the dates of those contracts werenotstated. You want more?
Following the revelation, checks were made by many people on the NPTAB websi t e f o r o t h e r contracts awarded to TepuiGroupbuttonoavail. OneofthedailiesaskedVice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo whether or not this was true, that the 'Guyanese Critic's' company received another government contract.
WhileJagdeowasunable toconfirmifTepuiGroupdid receive the contract, he
directed the publication to check online since all contractsaremadepublic.It should be noted that as of June 26, 2024, the only contractlistedasawardedto Tepui on NPTAB's website was the Belle Vue Pump Stationcontract.
Maybe it is time now for another whole level of operation Let it be known that there are ways to internationally investigate a government for corrupt contractawardstofriends.It typically involves reporting the information to international anti-corruption bodies, law enforcement agencies with international r e a c h , a n d n o ngovernmentalorganizations (NGOs) that specialize in transparency These bodies caninvestigateand,insome cases, facilitate legal action or apply international pressure.
It is time for a concerted effort It is time to officially inform Transparency International (TI) (This global civil society organization has Advocacy and Legal Advice Centres (ALACs) in over 60 countries); the FBI in the U.S., or the Serious Fraud Office in the UK). (These agencies often collaborate through task forces (like the International AntiCorruption Prosecutorial Task Force) to investigate transnational corruption a n d c a n i n i t i a t e
alone. It exists in both and runsintheirveins.
For your enlightenment, Justice Rishi Persaud is also related to me and my children. Should he one day beappointedChiefJustice,I would salute that elevation with pride, as he will continue to reflect distinction on the Kissoon family But your attempt to weaponisehisheritagewhile ignoring the pedigree of others only exposes your bias and intellectual dishonesty
Most disappointingly, your letter evaded the substantive issues raised by
Campbell Rather than c o n f r o n t t h e r e a l constitutional and ethical concerns he identified, you d i v e r t e d i n t o a n unwarranted, ill-conceived personal attack on Jailall Kissoon.Ifyourgoalwasto wound, you failed. I remain unmoved.
Next time, I urge you to address issues with facts, fairness, and intellectual integrity rather than resorting to petty personal attacksandhalf-truths.
Warmestregards,
J.T.Kissoon Attorney-at-Law
Urgent action needed to restore reliable emergency communication to the St. John's Ambulance Brigade in Linden
DearEditor,
investigations if the case involvestheirjurisdictionor citizens/companies.
T h e r e a r e a l s o Multilateral Development Banks (If the contracts involve projects funded by bodies like the World Bank or regional development banks); United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) (The UNODC works with state parties to the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to establish frameworks for t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d a c c o u n t a b i l i t y i n procurement.
I believe that things can change. The most potent forceinanycountryisagroup of people united, not under politicalandracialumbrellas, by a quest for transparency andaccountability Ipositthat Guyana can come to a grinding halt if an independent inquiry is held intoanumberofissues,both financiallyandnarcotically
Yourstruly, Prescott
Mann
As an activist of the United Workers Party (UWP) and a concerned resident of Region 10, I feel compelled to raise an issue that affects every man, woman, and child in our community, the inability to reliably reach the St. John's Ambulance Brigade at the LindenHospitalComplexin timesofemergency
For too long, the Brigade's landline has been out of service. They have beenforcedtodependsolely on a cellular phone as their o n l y m e a n s o f communication. While we deeply appreciate the dedication of the team that continues to serve under these challenging conditions, this situation is b o t h u n s a f e a n d unacceptable.
Emergenciesdonotwait. When someone is gasping for breath, when a child is injured,orwhenanaccident occurs late at night, a
working phone line could meanthedifferencebetween life and death. It breaks my hearttoknowthataresident in distress might struggle to reach help simply because a landline, something so basic and essential, has been left unfixedformonths.
I am pleading with the relevant authorities, particularly those responsibleforpublichealth and emergency services, to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves. Please, do not wait until tragedy strikes to act. The people of Lindendeserveareliableand functioning emergency communicationsystem.This is not a political issue it is a humanone.Everylifeinthis community matters. Let us fix this before it costs someonetheirtomorrow.
Respectfully, LorenzoJoseph United Workers Party (UWP)
Activist Region10
Remembrance Day commemorated in Region Six
Under heavy d
, Remembrance Day, also known as 'Poppy Day', was commemorated
on Sunday, in the East Berbice Corentyne (Region Six) to pay homage to those who fought bravely in the twoworldwars.
A simple ceremony was held at the Esplanade Ground, New Amsterdam Regional Democratic Council (RDC). It began with a customary minute of silence, followed by brief remarks from Regional Chairman,JuniorBassant.
“On this Sunday of remembrance, we meet again to remember all those servant-men and women, who gave their lives in two world wars. We are forever indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the causeofpeaceandfreedom.
We also recall with gratitudethosewho,through
theyears,havemadesimilar personal sacrifices in the continuous struggle for humandignity,socialjustice and freedom from all forms of oppression, wherever these exist,” the chairman emphasised.
The national exercise was supported by members of the joint services comprising the Guyana PoliceForce,GuyanaPrison Service, Guyana Defence ForcealongwiththeGuyana F i r e S e r v i c e a n d constabulary of the Mayor andTownCouncil.
Held annually, the ceremony, which was
Regional Commander, Asst. Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus
attendedalsobyprogramme heads and councillors of the RDC,featuredwreathlaying by senior officials of the regionandthejointservices, aswellasthetraditional21gun salute and a parade by jointservicespersonnel.
Regional Chairman Junior Bassant participates in the wreath laying ceremony
The Government's Dilemma in the Mohameds' case being “withdrawn and discontinued”
DearEditor, I hold no brief for either the Mohameds or the Guyana Government, and write solely to advise my successorsintheDirectorof Public Prosecutions Office concerning the risks “the w i t h d r a w a l a n d discontinuation of criminal charges” can create. The GRA's statement does not bear the imprimatur of legally counseled representation, a grave
mistakebytheDPP'sOffice, conceding, that, “In light of this extradition request and Government of Guyana's decision to proceed with the said extradition request, and taking into account all relevant legal principles, including international comity, appropriateness and fairness, these charges were w i t h d r a w n a n d discontinued.”
A competent defense counsel worth his salt may argue that this particular withdrawal is a dismissal, especiallysinceitinculcates “international comity, appropriateness and fairness,” and raise the defense of double jeopardy and/or autrefois acquit, terminatingtheproceedings, and forever barring them frombeingrefiled.
Indeed, I can still hear Bernard DeSantos, one of my favourite defense counsel, making this same argument with consummate skill in a criminal case that barely survived dismissal decadesago.
His arguments flowed from the illuminating judgmentofoneofGuyana's greatest legal minds, Chancellor Joseph O F Haynes, concurred with by respected Justices ofAppeal Ronald Luckhoo, and KennethM.George(Ag.),as
they then were, in the locus classicus Guyana Court of Appeal authority of Bowen v Johnson,GY1977CA11.
This tactical maneuver caused me unnecessary anxiety when a young prosecutor under my mentorship, but in my absence, spontaneously withdrew his holding charges before instituting others,andsentthecaseinto a tailspin invoking dismissals, a move the Mohameds will most likely implement vigorously in the future.
Whereas the prosecution may then argue that a withdrawal in these circumstances was not a “dismissal on the merits” and therefore capable of resuscitation, why take that ill-advised risk when adjourning the matter sine die will enable its survival, allow the extradition to proceed, and hence avoid subjecting the Republic of Guyana to the mercy and d i s c r e t i o n o f a n unpredictableMagistrate?
A fortiori, if the extraditioncasefailsagainst the Mohameds, and the Guyanagovernmentseeksto reinstitute its withdrawn charges in this high-profile case, a jury will most likely railagainsttheGovernment, inculcating the perception
thatitdoesnotknowwhatit is doing, and/or it is engaging in a witch-hunt, andfreetheMohameds.
Further, by conceding jurisdictiontotheUS,which has invoked its forfeiture statutes (18 U.S.C. §§ 981, 982)intheMohameds'case, Guyana is concretizing a dubious Pontious Pilate policy of putting other countries above its own interests, and its entitlement to the enormous fines, penalties and forfeiture over the $191 billion allegedly involved in this case, which will guide other significant cases like these brought in thefuturetothedetrimentof the Guyana Treasuryalthough the fruits of these alleged crimes originated in Guyana.
ItwasGuyana'sminerals and resources that were allegedly being illegally shippedoutofGuyana,anda bilateral treaty to at least shareinanyill-gottenassets emanating from these cases mustbeexpeditiouslyironed out to benefit the Guyanese people!
Regards
Hon.AlbertBaldeo Fmr Senior State Prosecutor, Police Legal Advisor, Magistrate (Guyana) District Leader & RetiredAttorney,NY,USA
Make the announcement
Dear Editor, F i s h e r f o l k t o receive150kgrantasaform ofsupporttotheindustry
This has been made known, but rest of citizens will know by year end the slew of benefits, including cashgrant,toberolledout. With the fisherfolk set to receive this amount, coulditbediscernedthatthe expected cash grant to citizens would not be below thatamount? Further, fisherfolk wouldalsobeentitledtothe 'national' cash grant, wheneveritisrolledout. It is year end, so maketheannouncement. Regards S h a m s h u n Mohamed
APNU renews calls for govt. to release full procurement records for Inter Energy
The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) on Friday renewed its call for the government to release thefullprocurementrecords for the project between the GuyanaPowerandLightInc (GPL) and Dominican
company InterEnergy Group.
The party's shadow Minister of Agriculture, Vinceroy Jordan said that thisshouldbedonetoensure accountability
“ T o e n s u r e accountability in public spending, APNU has asked theMinisterofPublicWorks t
procurement records of the
d through GPL, including tender board minutes,
evaluation criteria, and justification for selection,”
Jordan relayed during the party's press conference on Friday
The party has been appealingtothegovernment to release details of the contract.
Kaieteur News reported onOctober9,thatthepower company inked a US$15.6 million contract with the InterEnergy Group for Supervisory, Engineering, and Project Management Consultancy Services, marking a major step in the government's drive to modernise Guyana's power infrastructure and build a smarter,morereliablegrid.
The two-year agreement followingaMemorandumof Understanding (MoU)
signed in January 2024 is designed to accelerate the country's energy transition, improve grid reliability, and
capacitywithinGPL.
According to a press release from the Ministry of PublicUtilitiesandAviation, under the deal, InterEnergy
management oversight for GPL's major infrastructure projects, technical advisory support for operations and maintenance of generation assets, and smart grid
including the development of a full-scale digital roadmap for Guyana's electricitynetwork.
The company will also support capacity building through training, expert
consultation, and technical audits to enhance GPL's decision-making and longtermsustainability
Speaking at the signing ceremony,MinisterofPublic Utilities, Deodat Indar, hailed the agreement as a breakthrough for GPLand a
f t h e government's push to strengthen institutional capacity
“It was a very rigorous negotiation process This contract reflects the best interests of the government and InterEnergy Holdings,” Indarsaid.“Ilookforwardto
electricity sector over the nexttwoyears.”
GPL chairman, Maurice G
partnership a “historic step forward” in Guyana's development and a deepening of ties with the DominicanRepublic.
“This collaboration is proof that Guyana is matching words with action asoneoftheworld'sfastestg
, ” Gajadharsaid.
InterEnergy Group
Chairman, R
ando GonzálezBunster,described the partnership as both strategicandsymbolic.
“This goes beyond the valueofthecontract—it'sa commitment to helping Guyana build a modern power system. Electricity is vital,andweassureyouthat our work will make you proud,”Bunstersaid.
Member of Parliament (MP) and Shadow Minister of Agriculture
GPL's head of executive m
h Nandlall, noted that the collaboration represents a transformationalmomentfor theutility “Thispartnership will strengthen service delivery,improvereliability, and bring us closer to our 2030 goal of a smart grid,” hesaid.
UG Tain Campus toasts to 25 years
It was in November, 2000 that the University of Guyana (UG) opened the doorsofitsBerbiceCampus (UGBC),atTain,Corentyne for Berbicians seeking to advance their education at thehighestlevel.
Some 25 years on, the institutionhasbeenhailedas anintegralcomponenttothe socio-economicevolutionof the country, depositing thousands of upskilled graduates to Guyana's vast intellectual treasury each year
On the evening of November 6, 2025, the Tain campus hosted a significant event in honor of the occasion.
Students, past and present,alongwithlecturers,
transformed the campus' auditorium into a setting befittingroyalty,wherethey hosted a dinner which was preceded by a brief formal ceremony reflecting on the institution's strides over the years. Vice Chancellor, Dr Paloma Mohamed- Martin reminded the gathering of
MIAMI–FinnLAC Forum 2025, the Inter-AmericanDevelopmentBankGroup's (IDB Group) premier regional summit on financial innovation, paved the way for the future of growth and development in Latin AmericaandtheCaribbeanwithtwodaysof high-leveldiscussionsinMiamithatbrought together hundreds of authorities, business leaders and key players from more than 30 countries.
Across Latin America and the Caribbean, the financial landscape is being transformedbyinnovation.Theregionnow countsmorethan3,000activefintechfirms across 26 countries, while digital payment systemssurpassed64billiontransactionsin 2024. But while access to finance has expanded dramatically in recent years, it is not enough. The next frontier is financial health–ensuring that people and businesses can use financial services to build stability, resilience,andlong-termprosperity
the purpose behind the establishmentoftheBerbice campus, one which she said was crafted with no element ofdiscrimination.
"Thiscampus,likemany othersinthecountry,started with a very important idea, and the important idea was that every person in this
country, regardless of where they came from, their status in life, regardless of who their parents were, once they showed that they had the capacity for university education, that they should haveit."
She affirmed that the institution was built on the premise of equality, inclusion, diversity and the desire for everyone to have unhindered opportunities to accesseducation.
The Forum featured influential voices including James Scriven, CEO of IDB Invest;MichaelSchlein,PresidentandCEO ofAccion; Sophie Sirtaine, CEO of CGAP; Andrés Vásquez, CEO of Nequi; and Shu Nyatta, Co-Founder and CEO of Bicycle Capital. These tier-one leaders were joined by senior representatives from IFC, FMO, Sparkassenstiftung, and regional fintech associations, underscoring the Forum's role asapremierplatformforshapingthefuture of finance in Latin America and the Caribbean.
“At the IDB Group we leverage innovation, investment, and opportunities—helping the private sector turn the region's potential into sustainable andinclusivegrowth.Weconnectideasand people from global markets with Latin America and the Caribbean to unlock new opportunities for economic and social development,”saidScriven.
Aconcernforthecampus was rate of enrollment. Dr Mohamed-Martin explained that the 1000 milestone for students was only reached after 25 years. There has beenareverseinfortunesfor the campus, however, as the vice-chancellor disclosed that "this year, for the first time, we are seeing over a thousand students in the campus."
This positive she attributed to the tuition fees being removed, allowing individuals to enroll free of cost.
"IfBerbiceistorisetoits full potentials, then Berbice hastobeabletoensurethatit has the people who can rise
celebration is a celebration of excellence, because I know if the government had notassistedinthesupportfor this campus, it would have justdied.ButwhatIknowis that the future is bright for ourchildreninGuyana."
Opadeyi praised the recent decision by the government to discontinue student tuition fees for the country's premiere tertiary institution He also highlightedthefreeonline scholarship initiative which offers tertiary level programmes, and urgedalltomaximisethe useoftheopportunities.
and lift it up," MohamedMartinsuggested.
Exclusive to the Berbice Campus is the first Institute for Marine and Riverine Ecologies and Economies (IMAREE)programme.
Giving figures, the seniorUGofficialstatedthat todate,theUGBChasabout 6,000 to 8,000 alumni Overall, the UG retains almost15,000students.
Head of the Guyana
Online Academy of Learning(GOAL),Dr Jacob Opadeyiemphasisedthatthe history of the campus must becelebrated.Heupheldthe importance of such an institution, noting that there are some countries where learning is greatly impeded for lack of the necessary facilities.
" T h e 2 5 y e a r s
"So that privilege, that honortobearegionthathas university,don'tletustake itlightly."
Advisor in the Office of the President, Dr Randy Persaud, expressed confidence that the institution “will go a far way.”
"Twenty-five years ago, the Berbice Campus was established here at Tain, it represented another declaration of faith, that higherlearningmustnotstop at Mahaica bridge, that educationmustreachthefarflung corners of this great land, ” Dr Persaud maintained.
As part of its exhibition, the university paid homage to some of its pioneers. These include former president Bharat Jagdeo, who “provided national leadership and state resources, formally opening ofUGBCin2000.”
Also recognised on the '(Continuedonpage 17)
Vinceroy Jordan
UG's Vice Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed- Martin
The system is rotten
If you ever find yourself doubting the existence of systemicrot,ifyoueverfeel the need for a single, damning case study that encapsulatesawiderculture of incompetence and lax accountability, look no further than the tale of the BelleVuePumpStation.
Thisprojectismorethan a story of a delayed infrastructure project. It is a perfect microcosm, a meticulously documented chronicle of a national procurement system that is broken.
The 2024 Auditor General's Report outlines a series of decisions so baffling they would be comical if they did not involvehundredsofmillions oftaxpayerdollars.Thesaga begins not with a mistake, butwithwhatappearstobea conscious choice to ignore the rules. The contract was awarded, we are told, to a contractor who failed to satisfy nine out of the eighteen requirements set outintheevaluationcriteria to qualify for the Contract award.
The bidder failed half of the fundamental tests designed to establish basic competence to execute this project. In any functional system, this would have been an immediate and u n e q u i v o c a l disqualification.Yet,inours, itwasmerelyaminorhurdle.
T h e N a t i o n a l Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), the very entity created to ensure fairness andadherencetoprocedure, first awarded the contract,
then rescinded it, and then awardeditagain.Andhereis wheretheplotthickens,like a poorly prepared roux.The secondawardwasnotforthe price the contractor himself had bid. Astonishingly, the report notes the award was made for an increased sum of $870 564M, which is $5.020M higher than the sum stated in the Contractor'sbid.
Thereisnopolitewayto saythis:thisisindefensible. Procurement rules are designed to create a level playing field and ensure value for money To arbitrarily increase a bid
especially for a contractor
mockery of the entire competitive process It suggests that the rules are not rules at all, but gentle suggestions,easilybypassed forreasonsthereportleaves tantalisin
y, and disturbingly,unexplained.
But the Belle Vue tragedyisagiftthatkeepson giving. Having awarded the contract to an unqualified bidder at an inflated price, thesystemthenproceededto shower the contractor with financial grace and operational impunity An addendum was rushed through to double the advancepaymentfrom15% to 30%. Consequently, a staggering$129.831million ofpublicmoneywashanded over as a mobilisation advance.
What followed was a masterclass in negligent ove rsight The report
PaymentBondexpiredon21 March 2025 and at the time of reporting in September 2025,theoutstandingsumof $121.717M or 93.7% of the mobilisation ad
payment was still to be recovered.
The Performance Bond suffered a similar fate, expiring and leaving the government with no security. The financial safe
y mechanisms designed to protect the public purse, were rendered utterly meaningless.
The project's timeline is a monument to inertia. A year after a physical verification, the Auditor General's team found no significant work progress was recorded over this period,withtheconstruction works now only at foundation stages The intended completion date has been pushed back to June 2026. And the official response to this litany of failure? The Ministry of Agriculture blandly stated that an assignment of Contract was entered into and that the bonds have not beenupdated.
This, then, is the core of themalady—aprofoundand s y s t e m i c i n e r t i a characterized by an absence ofoutrage,alackofurgency, and a complete void of consequence.TheBelleVue debacleisatellingsymptom of a deeply ingrained condition.
It lays bare a system operatingonasetofinverted principles, where the very f o u n d a t i o n s o f
DEM BOYS SEH
De Belle Vue Pump Station
Good morning, Guyana! Today wegattotalkboutdisBelleVue PumpStationbusiness.Islikea badsoapopera,butiswemoneydeyplaying with!
DemBoysSehdecontractwasawarded after de de successful bidder failed nine outtaeighteenqualificationtests.Nine!Ifa man fail nine outta eighteen questions on a driver's licence test, he ain't getting no licence. But apparently, to build a multimillion-dollarpumpstation,isjustaminor issue.
Butwait,itgetbetter!Notonlydeyget dejob,butdepricemagicallywentupby$5 millionafterdebiddingdone.Iswhatkinda supermarket this is? "Oh, the price on the shelf is just for show, boss.At the register, we adding a 'convenience fee' for we own convenience."
Anddendeycollectacool$129million advance, and de bond to protect we money expire since last year! Is like lending yuh
accountability have crumbled. In this reality, professional qualifications are treated as mere suggestions, and submitted bid prices become mere opening offers, subject to mysterious upward negotiation after the fact. It is a world where multimillion-dollar advances are dispensed with the nonchalance of petty cash, strippedofthebasicsecurity meant to protect public funds.Andultimately,when projects spiral into catastrophic failure, the official response is not
corrective action, but a collective, dispassionate shrug from the bureaucratic machinery
The Belle Vue Pump Station was meant as a flagship project to prevent flooding.Instead,itstandsas a m o n u m e n t t o a procurementsystemthathas lostitsway It demonstrates that w i t h o u t s t r i n g e n t enforcement, without real consequencesforthosewho violate its principles, and w
transparency, the entire e d i f
Teen drowns during swimming outing
A17-year-old boy, identified as Vernel, reportedly drowned on Sundayduringanoutingwithfriends at Canal Bank, Port Kaituma, North WestDistrict(RegionOne).
Accordingtoreports,theteenwas swimming when he disappeared beneath the water and failed to resurface.
procurement is just a costly piece of fiction. The report on Belle Vue is not just an audit finding; it is an indictment against a system thathasforgottenwhomitis meanttoserve.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
NDIA failed to meet full staff complement...
Frompage7
was developed to demonstrate that there was continuous training considered for staff, to allow them to maintain as well as enhance their competencies in carrying outtheirtasks.
“The authority's failure toestablishatrainingplanto improve staff knowledge and skills can result in loss
of productivity, an increase in accidents and/ or errors, and a lack of innovation. Further,staffwillbelacking thenecessaryskillstoadjust to new technologies and trends,”thereportstated.
brand-newcartoastrangerwhotellyuhhe can't really drive, and then yuh find out he lef de car pon bricks in South and the insurancewasforabicycle.
So here is de multi-million-dollar question:Whogonbeheldaccountable?
Becauselisten,ifamanforgettorenew theinsuranceonavehicle anddepopogan be held accountable he that vehicle knock down anybody, is immediate accountability! But when it come to hundreds of millions of taxpayers dollars vanishintoamuddyholewithnobondand no pump station to show for it… is a collective,nationwideshrug.
Dem Boys Seh de only thing getting pumped is we treasury, straight into a bottomlesspit.Sowhogonanswer?Orwe justgongetanotherreportnextyeartelling wedesamething,whiledeonlythingrising faster than de contract price is de water in BelleVue? Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
In its recommendation, the audit office said that the managementoftheauthority shouldassesstheknowledge andskillsofstafftoidentify competency gaps and plan appropriate training to bridgethosegaps.
In response, the management of the NDIA said that the authority acknowledges the findings and it has a “performance appraisal system that evaluates staff performance as part of the staff development process and training needs will be identified.”
H@RD TRUTHS
The dirty money trail, dirty people
It is good that
Guyanesegettohear
from the local Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). A $2 billion 'dirty money' trail compiled for 2024, and published for citizenstodigest.
A dirty money trail means that there are dirty people behind that kind of money, dirty people using that shadowy trail. Let Guyanesehavesomenames, Mr.MatthewLangevine.
I appreciate that the FIU headcan'tdoso,duetorules governing him. But the peopleabovehim-regulatory people, political people, law enforcement people-all knowthenames.
They know who they were before. Because some of those same dirty money people, likely most of them, were their own people, their donors, even their friends.
Since, FIU director Langevineisrestrainedfrom speaking publicly, then the burdenfallsonme. Whena citizenhasnothingtofear,he
Gcanspeakandwriteanything anywhere and before anyone, even get in the bad booksofanypower,andwith one guiding condition: hold fasttotruth.
The $2 billion in dirty money is from 2024. Who was in charge in 2024? In 2024,$2billiondirtydollars madeittotheFIUradar,via Suspicious Transaction Reports, which I submit could be just the shadow of theiceberg.
How many more dirty dollars and how many other perps fell outside the sweep of the FIU's radar? How many reporting agencies of this Republic looked the other way, ducked a development, when there wasatransactionthatmetthe criteria for FIU reporting?
The bulk of the suspects is thesame.
Gold smuggling Bribery Tax evasion Money laundering. Who is the PPPGovernment and its agents going to try to pawn
off that on, which
objectionablecitizen?
The spinners in the attorney general chambers will get to run before their microphonesandholler:see! The government is on the job. Vigilant and casting a wide net; and there are neither friends nor sacred cows. Ha! Ha! IfGuyanese only have a clue about the whole story, the whole rackets, and the whole cabal ofpeopleinvolved. Itisnot just the dirty money Guyanese,buttheGuyanese who deal with them, who protect them, because deh tek de peeple monee. Stink and dutty money, I remind the citizens who care about thesethings.
The system cannot hold much longer, and little by little there are these 'seepages' into the public domain. The two big ones represent one such seepage. Recall how the big, smart man was setting the stage with 'more indictments expected soon.' What a tangledwebisweavedwhen
first we practice to deceive. What is this business about 'we?' That has its own people, and guess who isn't part of that dirty, nasty, sickly crowd? PPPcontrolled State media can try its hand to obfuscate. PPP-friendly media can vacillate PPP-instigated socialmediacanprevaricate. To little avail would be all the deflecting, distancing, and daubing on others. The Yanks are watching, absorbing,takingnotes.
The U S government mustbebreathingharddown the neck of the Guyana Government, for it to belatedlyseeGod.
Two billion Guyana is small fish; in Guyanese patois, 'fine change' or minibusmoney Whatabout theyearsbefore?
How many more dirty dollars before? Who from the clique of friends, family, and favorites (fiends, too) were fingered, but got a pass?
Who in the PPP Govt
turned a blind eye
before? And going deeperintothepast,who inthePNC-AFCGovthada part of the dirty money and dirty people bribes? It is why they are all-PPP, PNC, AFC-scrambling to separate themselves from their past and present godfatherism, paid-for patronage and protection. It is why there are such desperate efforts, such frenzied energies in PPPquarterstopinthetailof
into the pit they dug. Last week, it was FIU director Langevine and his disclosures. Tomorrow, the U.Sgovtwillnamenames.
Do Guyana's business right,andthere'snoneedfor anxiety Deflections don't work.
manufactured One that consents to being intimated intosilence.
Few are the Guyanese whohaveasmallideaofthe magnitudeofthecrimesthat were and are committed in their names by their own heroes,theirfalsegods. The sawdust has started to flake. And the more they protestandpretend,themore they play games, the more theyplantthemselvesdeeper
Defamations transform into a red badge of courage, puts Guyana on trial. Deal with crime-inclined people in the right manner, and the peopleattheFIUwouldhave to go job hunting, for they would have so little to do. Butthat'showpoliticiansget rich, collecting from and protecting lawbreakers Hence,dirtymoneytrails.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
says Caribbean boom driven by Guyana's oil economy
uyana continues to outpace every economy in Latin America and the Caribbean, with the oilfueled nation once again driving the region's growth, accordingtothelatestupdate
from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC).
In its revised projections for 2025, published on October 23, 2025 ECLAC estimates regional GDP growth at 2.4%, up slightly from 2.2% in August. But that modest rise masks stark disparities: while many economies remain sluggish, theCaribbeanisprojectedto growby4.7%—orjust1.9% if Guyana is excluded. That m e a n s G u y a n a ' s performance alone more than doubles the region's average, underscoring its status as the hemisphere's
fastest-growing economy since the start of oil production in 2019 For 2026, ECLAC forecasts Caribbean growth of 8.2%, but just 1 7% without Guyana, again confirming the country's dominant role in the region's outlook. The UN agency's report also warns that most Latin Americaneconomiesremain trapped in “slow-growth mode”,constrainedbyweak external demand, limited fiscal space, and sluggish productivity
“Theregioncontinuesto grow at a slow pace,” ECLAC cautioned, urging nations to push for productive transformation, job creation, and economic diversification.ECLACsaid Guyana's oil-driven expansioncontinuestomask the Caribbean's fragility, where smaller economies remain heavily reliant on
tourism and vulnerable to global shocks. Across the wider region, inflation remains sticky, trade tensions persist, and fiscal c o n s t r a i n t s l i m i t governments' ability to respond to external pressures.
The report calls on regional leaders to preserve macroeconomic stability whileinvestinginlong-term transformation to avoid dependency on extractive industries and volatile external markets. ECLAC's next comprehensive analysis, The Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2025, will be published in December with updated figures and growth breakdowns.
Meanwhile,accordingto EDCLAC, the current
projections point to heterogeneous behaviour among subregions. In 2025, South America is seen growing by 2.9%, above the 2.7% forecast in August. Thisrisereflectsanincrease in trade between the subregion's countries and China and a rebound in the prices for precious metals and other products from extractivesectors.
The GDP growth estimateforCentralAmerica is not seen varying from the figureannouncedinAugust, holding steady at 2 6% Meanwhile, Mexico's GDP isseengrowingby0.6%,an upward revision of 0 3 percentage points versus the estimate presented in the EconomicSurvey,reflecting a more favorable result in terms of international trade andabetter-than-anticipated
performance by the United S
chspeaking Caribbean is forecasttogrowby4.7%,or 1.9%ifGuyanaisexcluded, versus 4.1% and 1.8% in August, respectively, driven by a more favorable-thanexpected result in the tourismsector
For 2026, ECLAC has kept its regional projection unchanged at 2.3%. If this estimate is borne out, it would be the fourth straight year in which the region grows at rates of around 2.3%, leading to average regional GDP growth of 1 6% for the 2017-2026 period. By subregion, 2026 growth rates are forecast at 2.4% for South America, 3.2% for Central America, 1.3% for Mexico and 8.2% for the Caribbean (1.7% if Guyanaisexcluded).
Additionally, ECLAC said the region's moderate economic performance will be reflected in the labour market's limited dynamism. ECLAC projects that the numberofemployedpersons will increase by 1.5% in 2025and1.2%in2026,with a slowdown in formal employment creation Although a slight reduction in labor informality and gendergapsisforeseen,both indicators are seen
remaining at high levels, whichpointstothestructural challenges of regional labor markets.
Uncertainenvironment andcalltoaction
ECLAC warns that the international outlook continues to be dominated by downward risks, including the possibility of abrupt corrections in international financial markets, pressures on fiscal sustainability in advanced economies, and possible additional trade disruptions – tensions that could affect the credibility of monetary policies in the world's main central banks and interest rate levels Given this scenario, ECLAC urges the region's countries to preserve macroeconomic stability, strengthen their fiscal and monetary institutions, and promote productive development policies aimed at increasing productivity, diversifying e x p o r t s , b o o s t i n g intraregional trade and fostering sustainable investment.
In addition, it reiterates that international c o o p e r a t i o n a n d multilateralism are essential for sustaining the recovery and mitigating the effects of g e o - e c o n o m i c fragmentation.
A nation remembers r : President Ali calls for global unity in defence of peace remembers:
Amid persistent rainfall, Commander-in-ChiefoftheArmed Forces, President Dr Mohamed IrfaanAli,onSundayledthenation
in solemn observance of Remembrance Day at the War Memorial Cenotaph Monument in Georgetown.
Held annually on the second Sunday of November, the ceremony honours the valiant men andwomenwhogavetheirlivesin serviceduringtheFirstandSecond WorldWars.
The morning's proceedings began with a stately military parade In quiet symmetry, precision and discipline met reverenceasthePresidenttookthe salute. The bugle's mournful notes marked the sounding of the Last Post, followed by two minutes of poignantsilence.Prayersthenrose into the overcast skies, invoking memory,gratitude,andhope.
PresidentAliledtheceremonial laying of wreaths, followed by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and heads of theJointServices,allpayingtribute to the fallen whose service forms
the bedrock of Guyana's freedom. Against the backdrop of renewed global strife and threats to peace, the commander-in-chief reminded those gathered of humanity's enduringdutytodefendlibertyand justice.
President Ali invoked the legacy of the brave who perished, urging that their selflessness guide modern nations as they face aggression, oppression, and inequality “We are indebted forever to them for their supreme sacrifice in the cause of peace and freedom. We recall with eternal gratitude those who have made similar personal sacrifices in the continuing struggle for human dignity, liberty, equity, and social justice.“
Even as the nation paused to honour the dead, President Ali extended tribute to the men and women who now stand in service, guardingGuyana'ssovereigntyand preservingitstranquilcoexistence. Theirvigilance,hesaid,carriesthe samespiritofdevotionandcourage that shaped Guyana's story “We thankthem,wesalutethem,weare
A scene from the Presidential salute
encouraged by their example to strengthen our resolve to preserve the peace within our borders and also to keep this peace for generations to come,” the head of statesaid.
The president also recognised allleaderswhoupholddemocracy, justice, liberty, and who together combinetheireffortsinpursuitofa just and peaceful world. “Let us protect our next generation and allow them to grow in a world of honour, freedom, and dignity.” With measured grace and conviction, the president affirmed
Guyana's pledge to the ideals for which so many fell, to rededicate the nation to peace, to the welfare of its people, and to the enduring prosperityoftheRepublic.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, who is acting as Prime Minister, along with Oneidge Walrond (Minister of Home Affairs), Charles Ramson Jr. (Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport), Steven Jacobs (Joint Services Head), diplomats, and citizens,joinedthePresidentforthe ceremony (DPI)
Several honoured at CPCE's graduation
As the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) concluded its annual graduation ceremony on Friday, several outstanding students were recognised as the bestgraduatingstudentsfromtheir respectivecentres.
With over 1,300 students graduating this year, the event was markedbycelebrationandprideas family members, friends, and educators gathered at the National Stadium, Providence East Bank Demerara to support the graduates withmostoftheawardeesunderthe ageof30.
On Friday, Kaieteur News spoke with several students who were recognised as the best performers at their respective centres,includingthosefromAnnai inRegion9,Linden,andBelladrum in Region 6 Among the top honourees was 21-year-old Latchme Jaigobin from the New Amsterdam Centre, who proudly received three major awards: the Prime Minister's Award for Best GraduatingTeamofStudents,Best Graduating TVET Student, and Best Graduating Student from the New Amsterdam Centre Reflectingonherachievement,she said, “My CPCE journey was very inspiring and somewhat challenging, but I have to thank God and my support system, I am so grateful for them.” Jaigobin sharedthatshehasalwaysdreamed ofbecomingateacherandwillsoon beginteachingSocialStudiesatthe secondary level in New Amsterdam.
Samalson Mack, a 26-year-old graduate from Annai Village in Region Nine, was named the Best GraduatingStudentfromtheAnnai
Centre.Mack,thefirstinhisfamily to graduate from a tertiary institution, expressed deep gratitude for the support he received throughout his studies. “I managed to overcome every obstacle with the help of my colleagues,andIamveryhappyfor the achievement I have gained today I wish to give my utmost to theschoolwhereIwillbeteaching and to serve my country well,” he said Mack added that his motivation to teach comes from a desiretonurtureyoungmindsinhis
someone ready to empower the younger generation, that's one of the main reasons I chose this profession. It's quite an accomplishmentformetonowbea trained and qualified teacher in
community to join the teaching profession, noting, “It's an underdeveloped area, so there's a need for more educators to help developthecommunity.”
Inthefieldofculture,T'Shanna Cort was recognized as the Best
community, where access to educationremainsachallenge.
Another awardee, Bhojraj Laikhram who studied at the BelladrumCentre,receivedawards for Best Graduating Business StudentandBestBusinessStudent from the Belladrum Centre
Reflecting on his journey, he said, “My journey overall I would say was an enjoyable experience, though they were challenges I find thatbeingawardedafterhardwork, issomethingthatyouhavetothink about through the challenge. This journey has moulded me into
Bhojraj Laikhram received awards for Best Graduating Business Student
Music Student. She expressed her desiretorevivemusiceducationin schools, saying, “The journey was not an easy one, but I love music; it'sagiftfromGod.WhenIstarted, itwasdifficult;somenightsIcried, butIpersevered.Ihadgreatsupport from my mother and my lecturers, and it was all worth it.” Ayanta Alphanso, 25, from Linden, was awarded as the Best Graduating Student from the Linden Centre. She shared that she worked diligentlyfromthebeginningofher studies with the goal of earning a distinction. “I told myself, I had to
do well from start to finish,” she said,acknowledgingthechallenges
she faced with assignments and collaboration. Now specializing in Home Economics, Alphanso aims to make a difference in her region. “Not all children are brilliant at first,butmanyhavepotential,andI wanttohelpunlockthatpotentialin mycommunity,”shestated.
Meanwhile, 29-year-old Asha SemplefromtheMabarumaCentre in Region One received the award for Best Graduating Early Childhood Teacher Reflecting on her personal struggles, she said, “I hadalotofsilentbattles,butIdidn't give up. I'm thankful for everyone who supported me, especially my loving partner, Kester Hughes, I commend him for staying up late with me and encouraging me through it all.” Semple shared that she has already made plans to contribute to the development of education in her region. “When I return home, I will work hard to mould young minds. Since I was small, I used to pretend to be a teacher, so being one now is truly fulfilling my childhood dream,” shesaid.
Presidential salute
ceremonial the fallen
President Ali lays the ceremonial wreath in honour of the fallen heroes
Latchme Jaigobin receiving her award
T'Shanna Cort, Best Graduating Music Student
Little Soraya laid to rest
Six-year-old Soraya Bourne, who was killed tragically in the deadly bombing at the Mobil Gas StationonRegentStreetwaslaidto rest on Sunday after a heartwrenching service at the Heavenly Light World Outreach Fellowship, CooperStreet,Albouystown.
The service was attended by Home Affairs Minister, Oneidge Walrond and several other parliamentarians from the opposition - APNU. The powerful blastkilledBourneandinjuredfour others, including children and adults. Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) showed the suspect, clad
inabluejersey,whatappearedtobe black trousers and a khaki hat, entering the gas station and first attempting to place a bulky black bag in a bin located at a pump station. An attendant, who was seated there, forbade him from placingthebaginthebin.Theman thenventuredtotheareaofthefuel station where it is reported that cooking gas was stored. Shortly after, the car in which little Soraya Bourne and her family traveled in was seen slowly reversing before thebombexplodedcausingthegirl andherrelativestobepitchedinto theair
Last week, four Venezuelans andthreeGuyanesewereremanded to prison following their appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court for the deadly October 26 bombing. The prosecution outlined that all the suspects acted in alliance with the main suspect, 33-year-old Venezuelan Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo, who was
identified as the primary orchestratoroftheattack.Theother sixindividualswereeitherawareof the plan, aided Poedemo, or assistedintransportinghim.
The accused are: Wayne Correia, 44, Guyanese; Ramesh Pramdeo, 51, Guyanese; Krystal LaCruz, 33, Guyanese; Jennifer (Continuedonpage16)
Family members of the late six-year-old Soraya Bourne at the funeral service
Soraya Bourne's classmates paying tribute at her funeral service
Hundreds attended the funeral service
TopCSECscorercallsforreviewofscholarship criteria …ministryinsistsitmustfollowregionalrules
The family of top Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) performer, JaydenAdrian, has called on the Ministry of Education to review the eligibility criteria for the Presidential Scholarship, after the student was deemed ineligible despite his outstandingacademicrecord.
However, the Ministry of Education has outlined its obligationtoadherestrictlytothese pre-established criteria of the Caribbean Examinations Council's (CXC), while stating that it does nothavetheauthoritytochangethe criteria. Adrian, a former Queen's College student, was named
Guyana'stopCSECperformerafter sitting 27 subjects and earning 23 Grade Ones and six Grade Twos. However, the Presidential Scholarshipwasinsteadawardedto Mahesa Boodhoo, also of Queen's College, who wrote 20 subjects, securing *19 Grade Ones and one GradeTwo.
In a letter to the Ministry, Adrian's mother, Candase Adrian, described the decision as unfair, arguing that her son's exceptional performanceshouldhavequalified him for the scholarship. “Despite this remarkable performance, Jayden was not granted the Top PerformerAwardorconsideredfor
the Presidential Scholarship, reportedly because of a single Grade Two in Spanish,” she said. “However, his colleague who wrote20subjectsandgot19Grade Ones copped the top performance award because she earned a Grade One in Spanish. How do I explain thistomyson?”
While acknowledging the Ministry's adherence to the Caribbean Examinations Council's (CXC) policies, Adrian criticised the current criteria as “unfair, illogical, and unreasonable,” particularly in a country where English is the primary language of instruction. She argued that one
non-core subject should not outweigh a student's consistent academic excellence across 23 subjects. “Such a rule does not alignwiththetruespiritoffairness, merit, or encouragement for our nation's youth, who dedicate years of effort toward excellence,” she wrote.
She further highlighted the sacrifices and determination behind Jayden's achievement “Jayden has worked tirelessly, motivated by the dream of earning the Presidential Scholarship through determination, integrity, and discipline. By all fairness and logic, his record of achievement
speaks
to the level of commitment that such an honour seeks to recognize,” she said. The family hassinceappealedtobothCXCand (Continuedonpage17)
Jayden Adrian: Top performer in this year's Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC)
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BritCham Guyana raises $5.8M in auction for Jamaica hurricane relief
The British Chamber of CommerceGuyana(BritCham Guyana),incollaborationwith international artist Maxi Priest, hosted a charity auction during its Business ForumandNetworkingEventat ChelseaFootballClub,StamfordBridge,London.
The event successfully raised£21,035(approximately GYD$5.78million)tosupport Jamaica’sHurricaneReliefefforts.
According to a release fromBritChamGuyanaonSaturday, the auction, co-hosted byBritChamChairmanFaizal KhanandMaxiPriestonNovember 6, brought together government ministers, Sir TrevorPhillipsOBE,andrepresentativesfrommajorinternationalcompanies,including ExxonMobil,amongothers.
The funds raised will aid recovery efforts in Jamaica followingHurricaneMelissa, which has claimed more than 50 lives and displaced over one million people across the Caribbean. Jamaica has been particularlyhard-hit,with2.8 millionpeopleexposedtodestructive winds and flooding. As of 3rd November, 32 deaths have been confirmed inJamaica,94injuriestreated, andover7,000peopleremain in shelters.
Five major hospitals are
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severelydamagedinWestern and Southern regions of the country. Seventy percent of water supplies were inoperableduetohighturbidityand electrical outages. Forty percent of the facilities islandwide still have power instability, further complicating recovery efforts.
Inhisremarks,Chairman Faizal Khan highlighted the significance of the initiative, saying, “This initiative embodies the spirit of regional unity and the power of partnerships. Guyana stands at the heart of the Caribbean’s growth,andBritChamiscommitted to not only fostering business but also being a force for good across the region.”
Maxi Priest also expressedheartfeltappreciation forthesolidarityshown,noting, “Jamaica has shared its ‘one love’ message with the world for decades, and it’s trulyheartwarmingtoseethat love and unity return in our time of need. It was incred-
ible to see the ‘One Love’ spirit flow from Guyana and theUKbackintoJamaica.”
Among the auction highlightswere:
* A painting donated by President Irfaan Ali won by Kads Khan Jr
* A signed guitar by Ali Campbell of UB40 won by RobbieRambarran
*AsignedLucianoguitar wonbyOrlaithRafferty
* An 8-day Guyana RainforestAdventureExperience, sponsored by the Guyana Tourism Authority and local partners, won by Sheryl Fergus
* A signed Maxi Priest plaque and XM 25-Year-Old RumwonbyOdingoGordon
*AGourmetTasteofScotlandDiningExperienceforten won by Tony Thorne
*AGuyanaNationalFootball Team shirt (Gold Cup 2019) signed by Kadell Daniel, won by Hans De Putter
*Various signed Guyana Amazon Warriors mementos
of the British
Guyana), Faizal Khan (right) and International recording artist Maxi Priest
,FulhamFC,AstonVilla,and Birmingham City shirts, and signed Maxi Priest items claimed by several donors, includingDamienBlackburn, Ryan Burrowes, Alex Medrecki, Michael Arnold, John Behar, SalimAlli, Ruth Ann Lynch, Sherwyn Naughton, Andy
McLoughlin, Keon Howard, Shabir Khan, Martin Elliott, BikSingh,NavinHansraj,and IanDhanraj.
BritCham Guyana confirmedthatallitemsfromthe auctionwillbedirectedtoorganizations leading recovery and rebuilding efforts in Jamaica.
CDBincreasinginvestmentinprocurementprofessionals acrosstheCaribbeantoboosttheimpactofpublicfunding
The Caribbean DevelopmentBank(CDBisstrengthening public procurement systems across the region through targeted capacity building and professionalisation initiatives.Asprocurementcontinues to evolve into a strategic function critical to development effectiveness, CDB is investing in the people and partnerships that will shape the future of public sector delivery
participants with advanced toolstoleadreformeffortsin their home countries.
Complementing this, the Caribbean Procurement TrainingProgramme(CPTP)delivered in partnership with the World Bank and the University of Technology, Jamaica (Utech) - offers internationally recognised CharteredInstituteofProcurement and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 and5Diplomas.Withparticipantsfromover13countries, CPTP continues to build regional capacity and strengthen procurement governance.
empowering procurement professionals to become agents of change, capable of delivering public value and driving inclusive growth.”
CDB’s leadership is further reflected in its endorsement of a shared vision for elevatingprocurementacross LatinAmericaandtheCaribbean. One of the most effective mechanisms for this collaboration is the INGP The network serves as a regional platformforthedissemination of best practices and tools, and networking among procurementpractitioners.
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Head of Procurement (Acting) Naomi AkoyBouguenon,CDBspeakingat the XIX Annual Conference of the Inter-American NetworkonGovernmentProcurement (INGP) said, “Procurement is no longer just about compliance-it’saboutleadership,strategy,andimpact.We are proud to support the transformation of procurement into a recognised profession, one that demands specialisedskills,ethicalstandards,andadeepunderstanding of development goals.”
CDB’s efforts are anchored in a multi-pronged approachthatincludesscholarships and regional training programmes, made possible bypowerfulstrategicpartnerships. Through its ProcurementScholarshipProgramme, theBankhasenabledprofessionals from across the Caribbean to pursue the InternationalMaster’sinPublicProcurement Management (IMPPM)attheUniversityof Rome Tor Vergata. This initiative, co-financed with the Inter-AmericanDevelopment Bank (IDB), has equipped
“Professionalising procurementisnotaluxury-it’s a necessity,” added AkoyBouguenon.“Byinvestingin trainingandeducation,weare
In 2025, CDB supported 17 Caribbean Procurement Directors’participationinthe INGP Conference, exposing themtoinvaluableexchanges
and debates on emerging trends in e-Government Procurement (e-GP). As the region continues to embrace digital transformation and emergingtechnologies,CDB remains committed to ensuring that procurement professionals are equipped to navigate the evolving landscape. TheINGPplaysaparticularly valuableroleinthisarea,serving as a space for countries to share lessons learned, explore digital tools and standards, and exchange experiences on the design and implementation of e-GP systems. Through continuous learning, regional collaboration, and strategic investment, the Bank is helping to buildafuturewhereprocurementdeliversrealimpact.
Little Soraya laid to rest
Frompage12 Rodriguez,33,Venezuelan;JohnnyBoodram, 27, Venezuelan; and Alexander Bettancourt, 44, Venezuelan. They appeared in court on the same day, but their hearings were conducted at different locations. Poedemo, Bettancourt,LaCruz,andBoodram'scasewas heardbeforeChiefMagistrateFaithMcGusty at the Georgetown District Court, while the casesofRodriguez,Corriea,andPramdeowere heard virtually at the Leonora Magistrates' CourtbyMagistrateAliciaGeorge.
Poedemofacedaseparatecharge.Hewas accused of committing an act of terrorism on October 26, with intent to threaten the sovereignty and security of Guyana or strike terror tothepeoplebyusinganexplosivesubstance by placing it at the mobile fuel station on RegentandKingStreets,Lacytown,Georgetown, whichcausedthedeathofsix-year-oldSoraya Bourne. He was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge.
Meanwhile, Bettancourt, LaCruz, and Boodramwerejointlychargedwithaidingand
abetting Poedemo in carrying out the bombing. They were also not required to enter a plea.AllwereunrepresentedexceptBoodram. Boodram'sattorney,MikelPuran,arguedthat his client, a taxi driver, had no knowledge of thebombingandwasmerelyhiredbyLaCruz to drive her and two Venezuelan men to Georgetown. Pooran claimed that Boodram was innocent and that his arrest was an abuse of the judicial process, as police had not followed proper procedures.
“Itisanabusetobringhimbeforethecourt and he has no knowledge,” Pooran stated. Nevertheless,theprosecutionopposedtobail on grounds of public interest and safety to the public. The four accused were remanded and scheduled to return on November 12, for further proceedings. Meanwhile, Rodriguez, Correia, and Pramdeo were jointly charged with aiding and abetting Poedemo between October 24 and 29 at East Bank Essequibo. They were alleged to have assisted in the bombing, although their lawyers denied any involvement.
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WIN says democracy under siege in Guyana
We Invest in Nationhood ( W I N ) , Guyana's main political opposition party has made a public appeal to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the
broader international community to pay keen attentiontotheslowcollapse of democracy in Guyana as the Irfaan Ali-led PPP administration misuses state institutions to target the Leader of the party, Azruddin Mohamed and his family
In a statement, WIN accused the government of G u y a n a ( G o G ) o f weaponising state i n s t i t u t i o n s , l a w enforcement, and public officeagainstthegroup.This followstherecentseizureof vehicles owned by the Mohamed's for lack of insurance, which the family has been denied in light of sanctionstheyarefacedwith from the United States (US)
government.
According to the party, “This is not merely a questionofinsurance,traffic stops, or speeding tickets. It is the steady intrusion of power, the slow but deliberate encroachment on freedomandfairness.Thisis a politically orchestrated campaign of harassment designed to intimidate and silence.”
It added that Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo's public threat, directed at Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken, that he will facecriminalchargesshould any vehicle owned by the Leader of the opposition's family be involved in an accident is egregiously reckless and a blatant abuse ofpower
W I N s a i d t h i s frightening overreach sends a clear signal to the entire state apparatus that persecutionisnowpolicy
The party highlighted that the vehicles now being
instructed to pull over were once used by President Ali, as they described the move as “targeted harassment under the guise of enforcement.”
WIN argued that police force is now investing its time in hunting the vehicles owned by the opposition leaderinwaiting,butnotime to address reports of sexual harassment of female ranks byseniorofficers.Further,it reasoned, “Guyana's Vice
President openly and publicly threatens police over accidents involving opposition vehicles, but yet has nothing to say when a school child is killed on a pedestrian crossing by a police officer Is this governanceorvengeance?”
Thepartyconcludedthat Guyana is being placed in thesamecategoryasnations whereoppositionleadersare hunted instead of debated; wherepolicepowerreplaces constitutional power and where the state becomes the weaponoftherulingparty
“We have seen this beforeinPakistan,underthe persecution of Imran Khan; in nations where the judiciary bends under political pressure; in countries where democracy exists in name but not in practice,” WIN pointed out. Moreover,themainpolitical opposition said it witnessed theinternationalcommunity condemn the lawlessness of Haiti, including the
notorious influence of the gangleader'Barbecue.'“Yet here in Guyana, there is a figure whose name begins with the same letter, who wields power with similar disregard for democratic norms, who uses the trappingsofofficetosilence and coerce, rather than serve,”WINargued.
It questioned whether it was this same government thatstoodbeforetheworldto condemn the creeping dictatorship in Haiti and the same administration that shouted to Canada, Kenya, CARICOM and every democratic partner to intervene, restore order, and defendtheruleoflaw
The party said, “The international community must now confront a sobering reality The PPP Government is weaponising state institutions, law enforcement, and public office against the Leader of the Opposition, his family, andpoliticalmovement.”
WIN questioned the silenceofCARICOMonthe escalating political victimisationinGuyanaasit called on the President of Brazil,LuizLuladaSilvato shift his attention to the events unfolding here, as a globally respected defender ofhumanrights,democracy, and constitutional order
“We ask Brazil, as a leading voice in South America, to help ensure that the rule of law does not collapse under political ambition,” WIN said as it went on to urge Guyana's international partners and human rights organisations that the country is in need of intervention, monitoring, andaccountability
“To the international community: do not wait for Guyana to become another cautionary tale…Guyana is entitledtoagovernmentthat neither trembles before the law nor wields it as an instrument of oppression,” thepartyconcluded.
Aris Mining pushes for large-scale licence to advance 5.4M-ounce Toroparu Gold Project
Canadian firm, Aris Mining Corporation has applied to the Guyana
Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Minister of Natural Resources to convert its small-scale claim licenses, mining permits, and prospecting permits into large-scale mining licenses to advance its 5.4 million ounces Toroparu Gold Project.
ArisMiningChief ExecutiveOfficer (CEO)NeilWoodyer
The Toroparu Project, located in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), is one of the largest undeveloped golddepositsinGuyana.Itis being developed through Aris Mining local subsidiary, ETK Inc. and is expected to produce an average of 235,000 ounces of gold per year over more than two decades, yielding approximately 5 million ounces of gold, 4.9 million ounces of silver, and 260 million pounds of copper overitsminelife.
ArisMiningdisclosedin the Toroparu Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) that ETK currently holds all the necessary permits and permissions required for exploration and medium-scale mining and recovery of gold and other minerals in the project area.
“In order to advance the Project, ETK has applied to theGGMCandtheMinister of Natural Resources of GuyanatoconverttheSmall Scale Claim licenses, Mining Permits and Prospecting Permits it presently holds through the A&R Joint Venture Agreement and the Godette Agreement to large scale mining licenses and to issue
UG Tain Campus toasts to 25...
Frompage8
wallofpioneers'wasformer Minister of Education Dale Bisnauth, for providing the politicalsupport.
Others key figures include: Dr James G. Rose: DeanofArts;whopostponed his sabbatical to spearhead UGBC's planning and structure.
M r R a m d a t t Nandkishore, who was appointed the first administrative officer, UGBC.
President Janet Jagan: who reignited the initiative
thesameinthenameofETK (the Conversion),” the companysaid.
AlphonsoJointVenture
The Toroparu deposit is locatedonpropertythatwas originally subject to a Mining Joint Venture Agreement between Mr Alfro Alphonso and Mr Gregory K Graham, effective August 1, 1999.
This arrangement, initially called the Upper Puruni Venture, was later amended and restated on January 1, 2008, through an agreement between Mr Alphonso and ETK, now referred to as the A&R Joint Venture Agreement.
In March 2020, ETK exercised its option under thatagreementandacquired
the Option Interest, paying US$20milliontofinalisethe purchase and extinguish its obligations to make further payments under the A&R agreement.
Notably, Alphonso retained rights to conduct alluvial mining on specific landsnottiedtotheToroparu Project,alongwithaccessto (Continuedonpage18)
President Cheddi Jagan, who first articulated the vision of a Berbice campus, framingitwithinhisbeliefin education as a fundamental right.
Professor Paloma Mohamed, for “visionary leadershiphasrevitalisedthe University of Guyana B e r b i c e C a m p u s , positioning it for future growthandinnovation.”
in 1998, stressing affordability, staffing, and regionalaccessibility
Prof. Harold Lutchman: Vice-Chancellor who secured academic board support and university-wide approvals.
Dr Parsram Thakur: Appointed the first director, recruitedfromNewYork.
Regional Chairman of Region Six, Junior Bassant, andformerGuyanaTeachers Union President, Mark Lyte are both alumni of the BerbiceCampus. from vice-chancellor of UG, Professor Paloma M o h a m e d - M a r t i n ; appearing on behalf of Education Minister Sonia Parag; and Dr Randy Persuad, who represented Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo.
WIN Leader, Azruddin Mohamed
Despite Truce, Israeli forces arrest 442 Palestinians in October, including 33 children
(AL-JAZEERA) The Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs, the Palestinian Prisoner's Society and the Addameer PrisonerSupportandHuman Rights Association have released figures showing that some 442 Palestinians, including 33 children were arrested by Israeli forces in October
Rights groups and even the US State Department have accused Israel of frequently making arbitrary detentions of Palestinians, keepingpeoplelockedupfor years in some cases without trialsorcharges.
As ofApril this year, an e s t i m a t e d 1 0 , 0 0 0 Palestinianswerebeingheld inIsraelijails.
Israeli drones are still actively operating across Gaza, in particular over the eastern part of the enclave –especiallyareasunderIsraeli control, beyond the yellow demarcationline.
On Sunday, one of the drones hit a group of civilians in the eastern part of Khan Younis, an area wherefamiliesarereturning, trying to return to assess the damage inflicted on their homes or collect wood for cooking from the destroyed areas.
Reports from other parts of Gaza, particularly from theeasternsideofGazaCity, state Israeli heavy artillery
Frompage17 certain roads and an airstrip builtbyETK.
As part of that transaction,Alphonsoissued a written affirmation and declaration of trust, acknowledgingthatheholds all lands and permits under the A&R Joint Venture in trust for ETK, pending the conversion of the smallscale licenses into largescalemininglicenses.
According to the PEA, ETK must cover all associated fees and rentals and Alphonso remains obligatedtotakeanyactions requiredbyETK,GGMC,or the Minister to facilitate the conversion.
GodetteJointVenture
The Sona Hill deposit, another key component of theproject,iscoveredunder the Godette Joint Venture establishedonApril1,2008. Through this arrangement, ETK holds rights to four mining permits (MPs) knownastheGodetteMPs.
has been pummelling residentialhomes. According to the Israeli military,theseareoperations to eliminate any potential threats to Israeli forces stationed beyond the yellow line. For now, Palestinians feel there is no sense of respite as the Israeli attacks continue to unfold under variouspretexts. Al Jazeera has verified two videos circulating on Palestinian media platforms showing Israeli forces demolishing and seizing
ETKhasfulloperational control and exclusive rights toexploreandsellanygold, precious metals, or gemstones recovered from theproperties InDecember 2012,ETKpurchased100% of the Godette family's interest in the joint venture for US$300,000 Although the Godette Heirs remain the registered owners of the permits, they have irrevocably committed all rightsandintereststoETK, grantingthecompanyan irrevocablepowerofattorney totakeanyactionsrequired by the Government of Guyana to issue a largescale mining license covering the Godette lands
Notably, the heirs have also agreed to cooperate fully with ETK and refrain fromanyactionsthatcould interfere with the company's operations or ownership conversion process Moreover, Aris Mining also disclosed in the
Palestinian homes in the occupiedWestBank.
Inoneclip,filmedinthe town of Broqin, west of Salfit, Israeli machinery can be seen demolishing the home of prisoner Maher Zohair
According to the
Palestinian news agency Wafa, troops raided the house accompanied by a military bulldozer before tearing it down, amid a heavy deployment of soldiersinthearea.
Thesecondvideo,filmed in Silwan south of Al-Aqsa
Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem, shows Israeli authorities emptying the contents of a Palestinian home in preparation for seizingtheproperty
The footage shows a Palestinian woman being carriedtohospitalassoldiers remove furniture and personalbelongings.
Inthelatestdeadlyattack in Gaza, Israeli forces hit a tent where a Palestinian had been sheltering in Bani Suheila, east of Khan Younis.
People living there said
PEA that the environmental permit for the Toroparu project has been renewed, allowing operations to continue until September 2029.
The permit, which took effectinOctober2024,will remainvalidforfiveyears Aris Mining stated that it must apply to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by March 31,2029,forrenewal.
Kaieteur News had reported that Guyana is set to reap an estimated US$3.4billionintaxesand royaltiesfromtheToroparu Gold Project, which is expected to generate US$14.7billioningoldsales basedonabasegoldpriceof US$3,000perounceoverits 21-yearminelife.
ThePEAstatesthatata base gold price of US$3,000 per ounce, the project is expected to contribute US$2 2 billion in income taxes and US$1 2 billion in royalty
thelocationtargetedwasnot withintheyellowlinethatis demarcating territory under Israelicontrol.
Since the start of the ceasefire,Israeliforceshave killed at least 241 Palestinians.Mosthavebeen accused of crossing the yellow line That's how Israeli forces have been attempting to justify why theykilledthesepeople.
Locals said the victim, whose body has been transferred to Nasser Hospital, was not living within the yellow line.They said there is no explanation why Israeli forces would havehithistent.
Violationslikethismean thatPalestiniansfearthewar couldresumeatanysecond. There are drones still buzzing in the sky We have been hearing endless explosions as Israeli forces continue to destroy areas beyondtheyellowline.
Meanwhile, Gaza is
receiving just one-third of the aid trucks agreed under theceasefirethattookeffect nearly a month ago, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reports. Only 4,453 trucks have entered the Strip since theceasefirebegan,farshort ofthe15,600expectedbythe end of last week, QNA quoted Ismail al-Thawabta, director of Gaza's Government Media Office, assaying.
Daily deliveries average 171trucksinsteadofthe600 s t i p u l a t e d i n t h e humanitarian protocol, he said, adding that Israel is blocking more than 350 essential food items, including eggs, meat, fish and fresh vegetables while allowingnonessentialgoods at inflated prices.Israel has confirmedtheidentityofthe remains handed over by Hamas, saying they belong to Israeli soldier Hadar Goldin, who was killed in 2014.
Firearms, drugs seized in Aramu Backdam raid
- four persons arrested
p a y m e n t s t o t h e Government of Guyana, bringing the country's total projected earnings to US$3.4billion.
At the same gold price assumption, the Toroparu gold project is projected to deliver an after-tax Net Present Value (NPV5%) of US$1 8 billion, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 25.2%,andapaybackperiod ofthreeyears.
Under the Mineral Agreement with the Government of Guyana, the project will pay an 8% royaltyongoldsales,1.5% on silver, and 1.5% on copper.
It was stated that the royaltiesaredeductiblefrom taxable income under Guyana's 30% corporate tax rate.Notably,a2011mineral agreementbetweenETKand the Government of Guyana established a tiered gold royaltyof5%forpricesupto US$1,000perounceand8% forpricesabovethat
Police also seized a quantity of cocaine during the raid
A, Guyana Police conductedamajoroperation at Aramu Backdam, Region 7, on Sunday uncovering a firearm, ammunition, and significant quantities of suspectednarcotics.
Four individuals, including two couples, were taken into custody as investigationscontinue.
In a press release police said during the operation, ranks searched the business premises of a 33-year-old b
Some of the marijuana that was seized by police
Queenstown, Georgetown and his 37-year-old reputed wife, of Aramu Landing. A 12-gauge shotgun with its serialnumberfiledoff,anair pistol and six (6) 12-gauge live cartridges were found duringthesearch. Further searches were carried out at another building within the same compound, occupied by a 38-year-old gold miner of West Watooka Hilltop, Linden and his 27-year-old reputed wife Aramu Landing. There, the police discovered quantities of
believed to be cocaine and amphetamine. The items were seized and all the suspects were arrested. The suspected narcotics were laterweighedinthepresence of the suspects. All exhibits weresealedandlodged.The four suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue Investigationsongoing.
Omai Goes All In...
Five rigs now digging for gold in Reg. 7
…eyesgovt.’splanneddeep-waterportforfurtherbenefits
Canadian mining company Omai Gold Mines Corp.hasintensifieditspush to unlock Guyana's next majorgoldbonanza,withthe deploymentofafifthdrilling rig at its Omai Gold Project in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).
Omai holds a 100% interest in the pastproducing Omai gold project, which hosts two orogenic gold deposits: the shear-hosted Wenot Deposit and the adjacent intrusivehostedGiltCreekDeposit.
In September, the company announced the additionofafourthrigtoits gold project as it pushes ahead with an aggressive exploration programme. In its latest update, Omai disclosedthatanotherrighas beenaddedtoitsfleet.“Five rigs are currently drilling on
the Wenot deposit with the goal of completing an additional 8,000m before yearend,”thecompanysaid. Itfurthernotedthatatotalof 64 drill holes have been completed to date this year on the Omai property, totalling30,297m.
Earlier this year, Omai announced an updated combined Mineral Resources Estimate (MRE) of2.1millionouncesofgold (indicated), a 7% increase, and 4.3 million ounces of gold (inferred), a 92% increase from the previous MRE.
Omai's President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Elaine Ellingham, said that although the company remains focused on expanding the Wenot open pit deposit and advancing an updated
Preliminary Economic
Study with a muchexpandedOmaimineplan,it stillbelievesthatidentifying and defining additional satellite deposits will create furthervaluefortheproject.
“ A f e w o f o u r exploration targets have evidence of higher-grade mineralization and present possibilities for satellite pits that could positively impact early cash flow and overall NPV [Net Present Value]. Withtoday'sresults,wewill furthermodelthesetargetsto guide additional drilling in these clearly prospective areas,”shesaid.
Ellingham added that sinceOmaihasidentifiedthe Wenot deposit along a 2.5 km strike length, the potential depth extension bodeswellforthelong-term potential of the project. She
noted that while the Omai MREisalreadysizeable,the geological extension to depth of the shear corridor that hosts the gold mineralization in the upper part of Wenot provides the possibilityforanevenlonger minelife.
Moreover, Omai's CEO stated that the government's planned deep-water port on the coast of Guyana could bring additional benefits to its gold operations Ellingham had previously identified the US$190 million Linden to Mabura Roadasamajoradvantageto thecompany'soperations.
“Omai is located 10km from the only road from Georgetown, the capital city ofGuyana,toBrazil.Paving iswellunderwayonthisroad and there are longer-term plans to establish this as an
accesstoamajordeep-water port planned on the coast of G u y a n a , e a s t o f G e o rg e t o w n T h i s infrastructure would further benefit the Omai project,” Ellingham said in a recent companyupdate.
ThePeople'sProgressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has said the planneddeep-waterportwill be constructed in Region Six, linking Guyana directly
Caribbeanmarketsaspartof effortstomakethecountrya regionaltradehub.
President Dr Irfaan Ali hasrepeatedlystatedthathis administration plans to upgrade and expand Guyana's ports to handle more maritime trade and position the country as a regional logistics centre Vice President, Bharrat
Jagdeohasexplainedthatthe project's viability depends on integration with northern Brazil, since revenue from cross-border trade would help sustain the investment. He had also disclosed that thegovernmenthasreceived several proposals and is assessing the financial and technical capacity of developers.
NDIA failed to meet full staff complement over last four years
A performance audit conducted into the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) for the period January 2021-June 2024 showed that the authority failed to meet the full complement of staff in order to ensure its efficient functioning.
The report which was tabled in the National Assembly at the convening of the 13th Parliament showed that the NDIA should have a properly
staffed operational management structure, ensuring that effective drainage and irrigation services are received by citizens, while the authority's goals and objectivesareachieved.
“A continuous shortage of staff and key positions remainedvacant.TheNDIA organisational structure has 16departments,11ofwhich are operational To effectively manage these d e p a r t m e n t s , t h e government has approved and authorised a staff strength of 173 employees for each year during the period under review The authorisedstaffstrengthwas distributed as shown in the following table,” the report said.
(INSERTTABLE1)
For the period under review, the NDIA was not operating at its full staff
capacity, as there were over 30 positions remaining vacant for each year, additionally as the years went by the number of vacanciessteadilyincreased.
(INSERT TABLE 2 and 3)
“Additionally, the positionsofChiefExecutive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Secretary/Legal
Officer, Manager of
O p e r a t i o n s a n d Maintenance, Mechanical Engineers, Internal Auditor, a n d E n g i n e e r i n g Technicians were vacant as of September 2024,” the
reportsaid.
As a result of the consistentriseinthenumber of vacancies as well as the extended absence of key personnel gaps in the asset management process. The unfilled positions also resulted in increased workload for the existing staff,delaysintheexecution of projects in addition to challenges would have been created in the maintenance ofthequalityofservicesthat w e r e p r o v i d e d t o stakeholders, the report stated.
The authority's ability to properly manage its assets
and achieve objectives effectively and efficiently wereadverselyaffected.
In this light, “The audit office recommends that the authoritytakesthenecessary steps (a) to determine its human resources needs against the organisational objectives and (b) promptly fill existing vacancies to ensureefficientandeffective servicedelivery.”
T h e a u t h o r i t y ' s management in its response said that it is aware of its institutional needs and fill continue to fill the vacant positions. Another issue the audit flagged was that of staff training needs not being assessed.
“Training needs a s s e s s m e n t i n a n organisation is necessary,
sincetrainingcanbealigned withitsgoalsandobjectives. Additionally, competencies' gaps will be identified to facilitate relevant training, which will enhance staff knowledge and skills Therefore, the authority should have conducted training needs assessments to plan for training accordingly,”itsaid.
In spite of this, it was revealed during interviews conducted with the authority's human resources department that neither staff training needs assessments nor training sessions were conducted.
In addition, there was also no evidence that any training plan or programme (Continuedonpage9)
Omai's President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Elaine Ellingham
Bent Street/VP 'Champion of Champions' Futsal Tournament returns for 2nd Edition
It will be six nights o f b l
action as the highly anticipated2ndEditionof the Ben
et/VP 'Champion of Champions' Futsal Championships officially launched on Saturday P
stakes, better structure, and greater inclusivity, this year's tournament is set to cement its status as one of the premier futsal events
The action will unfold from tomorrow across two of the nation's most
Anderson Sports Hall and the National Gymnasium,
excitement for fans and participantsalike
The main tournament will feature a massive field of 32 top teams,
elimination format Only
t h e m o s t s k i l l
disciplined, and resilient teams will survive the initial rounds to vie for the coveted grand prize of $1,000,000 The second, third, and fourth place teamswillreceive$500,000, $300,000, and $200,000 apiece and a trophy In addition to the team prizes, several individual awards willalsobepresented.
Building on the successesoftheinaugural staging, the 2nd Edition is e x p a n d i n g i t s developmental footprint
Monday November 10, 2025
ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)
In a philosophical or political conversation,youdon'thesitate to offer your thoughts Your examplesmaybeextreme,but yourprinciplesaresound
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Youshouldbeinagoodmood, although you might have a hard time fully expressing yourself.Perhapsyoufeellike there is someone keeping an eyeonyoureverymove.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
You may get the feeling that despite all the hard work you've accomplished, something is still missing, Gemini. There's still a long road ahead, regardless of the goalsyou'veattainedsofar.
CANCER(June21–July22)
Freedom may be a theme for youtoday You'rebeginningto question what it is you're tryingtofreeyourselffrom.A person? Job? Commitment? These may be the very things youstarttosearchforassoon asyou'refreeofthem.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
You'retheliquidthattakesthe shape of its container, Leo. Even though this may seem like the most nonconfrontational way to do things, you may find that it's actually a cause of great frustrationforyouandothers
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
Youmayfeellikeapuppythat has been let outside for the first time, Virgo. The air is warm and you're full of energy You're ready to run over the fields and hills Unfortunately,you'retiedtoa stake and you can't move beyondaten-footradius.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Youmayfeelastrangetension. Itseemsthatnothingyousayor do is quite right, Libra. As much as you may try to do the correct thing, you can't make thingsclickthewayyou'dlike.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)
It may be hard for you to maintain your self-discipline. Your childlike nature wants to go out and play Emotionally, you're anxious to let loose and followyourplayful,instinctual nature.
SAGITTARIUS(Nov22–Dec21)
Ifyou'reunclearaboutthetopic of discussion, say so Asking questionsisanimportantpartof learning You shouldn't be afraid to ask. Communication maytakeonaserioustone,and intellectual discussions are likelytogetheated.
CAPRICORN(Dec22–Jan19)
Youmaybeshywhenitcomes to expressing your emotions today,Capricorn.Thiscouldbe a rare thing for you. Other people may wonder if somethingiswrong.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
Youmaynotknowwhichway to turn,Aquarius. You may be emotionally weighed down by sentimental feelings and memories that bind you to the past You may also feel restrictedbyauthorityfigures.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Your mind may be going in manydifferentdirections,with fantastic ideas about how things should be done, Pisces. T h e d i f f i c u l t y i s communicatingtheseideasina way that makes sense. Others mayseeyouasathreattotheir authority
Chief tournament coordinator Troy Lambert (left) poses with the championship trophy alongside assistant coordinator Daniel Wilson following the launch of the Bent Street/VP 'Champion of Champions' Futsal Championships.
This year will feature dedicated women's and youth segments, allowing emerging talent a chance to compete on the nationalstage
These segments will commence at the intense semi-final round The winner of the women's division will p
$100,000 Both secondplace finisher
receive$50,000
Sp
coordinator Troy Lambert emphasised the strategic importance of growing thecompetition.
“Our goal this year is twofold,” Lambert stated. “We are committed not only to expanding the Bent Street brand across the sporting landscape butalsotosolidifyingand developing the futsal format across the nation By integrating youth and women's segments, we are ensuring a feeder system that guarantees the sport's longevity and competitiveness.”
Lambert further stated that a critical element in the tournament's success is the unw
ring dedication demonstrated by the Vice President (VP),BharratJagdeo
He noted that the VP's commitment to grassroots sports was instrumental in bringing this megaevent to fruition, fulfilling a key promise made to the community to p
ensures that athletes have a robust platform to showcasetheirtalent
Omari Glasgow becomes first footballer to win Guyana's Sportsman of the Year Award
…Fernandes, Austin, and Hinckson among top honourees at the National Sports Awards
By Rawle Toney
Itwasahistoricnightfor Guyanese football at the National Sports Awards, hosted by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Ministry of Culture, YouthandSportonSaturday evening at the Pegasus SuitesandCorporateCentre.
Golden Jaguars forward Omari Glasgow etched his nameinthehistorybooksby becomingthefirstfootballer since the award's inception in 1955 to be named SportsmanoftheYear
The 21-year-old, member of Guyana's senior men's national team, has been a beacon of consistency and inspiration forlocalfootball.
Glasgow, the country's all-time leading goalscorer, hasfoundthebackofthenet 21 times in 33 international a p p e a r a n c e s , a n a c h i e v e m e n t t h a t underscores his growing legacyinthesport.
In 2024, Glasgow continued to make waves internationally The striker, who is signed to Major LeagueSoccer(MLS)outfit Chicago Fire, spent the season on loan with Loudoun United FC in the United Soccer League (USL), where he impressed withhisperformances.
Gl a s g o w e d g e d bodybuilder Nicholas Albert, who earned his International Pro Card in 2024, to take home the top honour
In an emotional acceptancespeech,Glasgow dedicated the award to his family, teammates, and the people of Guyana, saying their support has been the foundationofhissuccess.
Meanwhile, Nicolette Fernandes, Guyana's former world-rankedsquashplayer, added yet another accolade to her illustrious career,
being named Senior SportswomanoftheYear
Fernandes, who once reached a world ranking of No.19,dominatedtheWorld Squash Federation (WSF) Masters Tournament in the Netherlands, winning gold intheWomen's40-and-over category.
This follows her previous success in the Women's 35-and-over division, cementing her reputation as a multiple World Masters Champion
and reaffirming her continueddominanceonthe internationalstage.
Thenightalsocelebrated t
f Guyana's emerging athletic stars. Malachi Austin, the national U20 400m recordholder, was named Junior Sportsman of the Year (2024) after a season that redefinedexcellenceinlocal athletics.
Guyana's
Sports Woman Person With Disability Abigail Jairam (Chess) receives her award from DoS Steve Ninvalle.
At the CARIFTAGames in St. George's, Grenada, Austin captured gold in the Under-20 400m and powered Guyana to a CARIFTA Games record in the 4x400m Mixed Relay, before anchoring the men's relayteamtobronze. His success continued at the South American U20 Championships in Peru, where he stormed to victory in the 400m final, adding another gold medal to his growingcollection.
Austin's outstanding performances earned him a full athletic scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU), where he now competes in the NCAA DivisionIcircuit,honinghis craft among some of the world'stopyoungathletes.
Austin's Running Brave Athletics Club teammate,
Athaleyha Hinckson, capp
remarkable year by winning the Junior Sportswoman of theYeartitle.
The 16-year-old sprint sensation, affectionately dubbed the “Pocket Rocket,” became the first Guyanese female to win a 100m gold medal at the CARIFTAGames,rewriting thenation'ssprintinghistory.
Though she narrowly missedcompletingthesprint double,claimingsilverinthe U17 200m, Hinckson's performance was nothing shortofhistoric.
Her dominance carried over to the South American Under-20Championshipsin Peru, where she clinched gold in the 100m despite being the youngest competitorinthefinal.
Like Austin, Hinckson has also accepted a full scholarship to LSU, where she will continue her development on one of the
world's most competitive collegiatestages.
In the Coaching category, Guyana Harpy Eagles Head Coach Ryan Hercules was named Coach of the Year, following a season of leadership and success in domestic and regional cricket with the GuyanaHarpyEagles.
The Media Awards recognised excellence in sports journalism, with Avenash Ramzan of News Room taking the NonPrint/Online Journalist of the Year award, Jemima Holmes of Guyana Times receivingthePrintJournalist of the Year title, and Eric Collymore of NCN earning the honour for Broadcast Journalism.
CompleteListof Awardees:
Senior Sportsman-ofthe-Year: Omari Glasgow
Frompage21 readsasfollows:
- Lawrence Farnum (Captain) - Guyana/UKBatsman - Z a m i n A m i n ( P l a y e r / C o a c h )Guyana/USA - Left Arm Orthodox/Middle Order Batter
- Antonnel Atwell
(Assistant Coach)Guyana/UK - Top Order Batter/LegSpinner
- Larry BabbBarbados - Left Arm Seamer/Middle Order Batter
Omari Glasgow receiving his Sportsman of the year award from Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. Jr
(Football)
Runner-up: Nicholas Albert(Bodybuilding)
Senior Sportswoman-ofthe-Year: Nicolette Fernandes(Squash)
Runner-up: Ashley Khalil(Squash)
Junior Sportsman-ofthe-Year: Malachi Austin (Athletics)
Runner-up: Kaidon
Persaud(Athletics)
Junior Sportswoman-ofthe-Year: Athaleyha Hinckson(Athletics) Runner-up: Tianna Springer(Athletics)
Sportsman (PWD): Gibran Safaraz (Table Tennis)
Sportswoman (PWD): AbigailJairam(Chess)
Male Coach-of-theYe
(Cricket)
Female Coach-of-theYear: Tremayne Smartt
- A s i f C h a nG u y a n a / U S AWicketkeeper/Batsman
- Mohan ChatramGuyana - Off Break Bowler/Lower Order Batter
-VishanLall- GuyanaBattingAll-Rounder
- Richard LatifGuyana - Batting AllRounder
- Joel LeacockBarbados - Opener/Wrist Spinner
- Devindra MaharajTrinidad & TobagoWicketkeeper/Batter
(Cricket)
Te
SeniorSquashTeam
Association-of-the-Year:
Guyana Basketball Federation
Male Sport Official-ofthe-Year: Videsh Sookram (Bodybuilding)
Female Sport Officialof-the-Year: Aileen Bowman-Joseph(Netball)
Sport Journalist (Print): Jemima Holmes (Guyana Times)
Sport Journalist (Broadcast):EricCollymore (NCN)
Sport Journalist (NonPrint/Online): Avenash Ramzan(NewsRoom)
Corporate Sponsor (Small):TrophyStall
Corporate Sponsor (Medium):MVPSports
Corporat
or (Large):ENet
- Raja PooranGuyana/Canada - Middle OrderBatter/Seamer
- Randy RamananTrinidad & TobagoOpener/OffSpinner
LEADERSHIP & SUPPORT: -RajSingh-Manager - Zamin Amin –Player/Coach
- Antonnel Atwell –Player/AssistantCoach
- Joel LeacockPlayer/Trainer -PhysioinPakistan -MediaOfficer
- Reno MittelholzerBritish Virgin IslandsMediumFastSeamer - M a h e n d r a Nagamootoo-Guyana/USA - Leg Spinner/Middle OrderBatter
Flashback!
Athaleyah Hinckson (left) crosses the line to win U17 100m Gold at the 2024 CARIFTA Games. CARIFT
West Indies Masters unveil squad for 2025 O40s T20 World Cup in Pakistan
- Lawrence Farnum named Captain, Raj Singh takes on the role of Manager
Cricket West Indies
Masters Association (CWIMA) has revealed its official lineup for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to take place in Karachi, Pakistan,fromNovember17 toDecember2,2025.
This international tournament will showcase elite Master's players from around the globe, individuals who exemplify the spirit, pride, and rich history of cricket. CWIMA is entering the competition with a well-rounded team comprised of experienced internationals, regional legends, and emerging Masters stars, all poised to representtheCaribbeanwith honour
“ T h i s s q u a d i s remarkable, combining experience, leadership, and fervor,” stated Raj Singh, Chairman of CWIMA. “We are privileged to compete in Pakistan,anationrenowned for its passionate cricket culture and historic venues. Ourplayersareambassadors for the Caribbean and the enduring legacy of West Indiescricket.”
TheselectionofPakistan as the host country underscores its robust cricketinginfrastructureand deep-rooted love for the game. Anticipation for the event is high, promising to foster connections among Masters communities worldwide. Most matches will be broadcast live on
television, featuring commentary from cricket experts. In the group stage, theWestIndieswillfaceoff
against host nation Pakistan, Canada, UAE, South Africa, and Hong Kong
Lawrence Farnum is the Captain of the team.
Raj Singh in the Manager
Thesquadisastrongmix of specialist T20 batsmen, versatile all-rounders, and adeptbowlerssuitedforthis f o r m a t F o u r players Farnum, Amin,
M a h a r a j , a n d Nagamootoo previously toured Pakistan during the 2023 Global Cricket Cup, whilemuchofthesquadwas selectedfromtheWINDIES
M A S T E R S
EXTRAVAGANZA in Barbados last year and the ongoing 2025 BIG MAN
CRICKET O40s T20 tournamentinGuyana.
“We boast a formidable unit that reflects the diversity of West Indies
cricket, representing Guyana, Barbados, Trinidad, BVI, the UK, the US,andbeyond,”Chairman Singh added “These athletes serve as role models,demonstratingthata passionforcricketknowsno age.”
CWIMA expresses its heartfelt gratitude to International Masters Cricket (IMC), Pakistan Ve t e r a n s C r i c k e t Association(PVCA),andall sponsors, partners, and supporters of Masters cricket for their unwavering dedication to the sport's growth.
Thecompletesquad (Continuedonpage20)
Joy Adams to lead Guyana at FIBA
Women's Caribbean Championship
…GBF unveils strong 12-member squad for home tournament
Sp a i n - b a s e d
professional Joy Adams has been named captain of Guyana's senior women's basketball team, which will tip off its campaign on Wednesday
evening against The Bahamas at the Cliff AndersonSportsHall.
Fivecountries–Guyana, The Bahamas, Virgin Islands, Suriname, and Jamaica – will compete in a round-robin format to determine the champion of the FIBA Women's Caribbean Championship, which returns for the first timesince2022.
The tournament runs daily from 4:30 pm until November 16, with the top threeteamsadvancingtothe 2026CentrobasketWomen's Championship.
Adams, who currently represents Lointek Gernika Bizkaia in Spain's top professional women's
league, Liga Femenina Endesa, brings a wealth of experienceandleadershipto thenationalside. She will be joined by fellow professionals Anaya Clemons and Ruth Adams, both of whom have also playedinEurope.
The squad also features thetalentedRamlallsisters–Amisha,Arshia,andAshna–along with locally based players Jamaicy Ogle, Kean A n d r e w s
Romain,BreannRitchie,and JunellyPaddy
The team will be guided by Head Coach Kenny Avent, assisted by Willon Cameron and Warren Wilson.
Petra-Republic Bank U18 Football League
Wharton's double keeps Chase's Academic unbeaten, as Dolphin-South clash end in draw
Joy Adams –National team Captain
Avant is no stranger to Guyanesebasketball,having led the country's U16 Boys' National Team to a silver medal finish at the 2016 Caribbean Basketball Confederation(CBC)Junior Championships.
Following their opening match against The Bahamas at8:30pm,Guyanawillface The Virgin Islands on November 13, Suriname on November15,andwillclose thetournamentwithahighly anticipated showdown against Jamaica on November16at8:30pm.
TheGuyanaBasketball F e d e r a t i o n ( G B F ) expressed confidence that the squad will represent the countrywith pride and defendhomecourt.
Thechaseforgloryinthe sixthAnnual Republic Bank Under-18 Secondary School Football League (RBL U18 SSFL)heateduponSunday, as defending champions Chase's Academic Foundation made their title intentionsclearwithanother commanding victory at the Ministry of Education (MoE)ground.
Onarain-soakedsurface, the Petra-organised tournament's fourth round saw Chase's Academic outclass West Ruimveldt Secondary 3–0, tightening their grip atop the points table with 12 points from fourgames.
Bryan Wharton once again proved unstoppable, nettingtwiceinthe36thand 66th minutes after Mark Glasgow's early opener in the15thgavethechampions the upper hand. The win keeps Chase's Academic as theteamtobeatheadinginto Round5.
Earlier in the day, Three Mile continued their impressive run with a hardfought 2–1 victory over Abram Zuil Secondary The Region Two outfit struck first through Roy Da Silva,
Chase's Academic mows West Ruimveldt 3-0 to stay perfect in RBL U18
but the Bartica powerhouse rallied back as Rondell Washington levelled the scores before halftime Travis Da Silva then found the winner in the 60th minute,sealingThreeMile's third triumph of the season and keeping them on nine points.
Meanwhile, South Ruimveldt and Dolphin Secondaryfoughttoafierce 1–1 draw in a gritty contest that left both sides sharing thespoilsinMatch#15.
The Republic Bank (Guyana) Limitedsponsoredtournamentisalso supportedbytheMinistryof Culture, Youth and Sports, RonocaConcreteInc.,Busta Soft Drink (GBI), and MVP Sports.Theactioncontinues this Sunday at the same venue, with all eyes on whether Chase's Academic can keep their perfect streak alive.
Charlestown Secondary also joined the nine-point club, cruising past President's College with a 3–0 win. Dilshawn Alleyne (21') and Adion Hamilton (23')stunnedtheiropponents early, before Adriel Hamilton's rifled finish in the65thminutecappedoffa commanding display that pushed President's College deeperintotrouble.
Ramesh Sunich highlights staff for Trophy Stall's Corporate Sponsor of the Year Award
Proprietor of the Trophy Stall, with locations in Georgetown and Berbice, Ramesh Sunich, expressed pleasure at his entity receiving the Corporate SponsoroftheYearAwardat the National Sports Commission (NSC) Awards programme on Saturday evening at the Pegasus Hotel.
Sunich was full of praise for his dedicated staff and theireffortsovertheyearsin servingtheGuyanesepublic In his acceptance speech Sunich noted, “It is a great privilege to receive the Corporate Sponsor of the Year Award. On behalf of Trophy Stall, I thank the NationalSportsCommission for this special recognition. We truly appreciate it and feel proud to be part of the effort to support sports and athletesacrossGuyana.
This award is not mine alone I dedicate it to the hardworking and committed staffofTrophyStall Theyare
the real champions behind thisachievement.Justlikein sports, our success comes from teamwork Every memberofourteamplaysan important part, and together wemakeithappen.
Wetakeprideinknowing that our trophies and awards are part of the many competitions held all across the country Every time a youngathleteholdsuponeof those trophies, it represents hard work, dreams, and success—and we are happy toshareinthatmoment.”
“We promise to continue supporting sports in Guyana We will keep working with the National Sports Commission, with athletes, and with the sporting associations and promoters to build a brighter future for sportsinourcountry
Thankyouonceagainfor t h i s h o n o u r , a n d congratulations to everyone who helps keep the spirit of sport alive in Guyana,” Sunichnoted
Ramesh Sunich
Sodhi, Duffy three-fors trump late late
blitz in thriller
Romario Shepherd topscored for the West Indies in a rearguard action with Springer. (AFP/Getty Images file photo)
ESPNcricinfo - The series that keeps on giving. After two humdingers in Auckland, the third T20I between West Indies and New Zealand in Nelson was shapinguptobeamoreonesided contest, with the visitorshavingslippedto88 for 8 in 12.3 overs, chasing 1 7 8 , s t a r i n g a t a comprehensive defeat Surelygameover,right?
Shamar Springer and Romario Shepherd, however, had other ideas. In a stunning rearguard action, theduoadded78runsforthe ninthwicketoffjust39balls to keep West Indies' chase alive. From 90 off 45, they brought the equation down to13offseven.
ButNewZealand,justas they did in the second T20I, held their composure in the end.
Jacob Duffy pulled off a stunning return catch off the final ball of the 19th over to send back Springer And with 12 needed of the final over,KyleJamiesonstepped up for the second game running to dismiss Romario Shepherd.NewZealandwon thethirdT20Ibyninerunsto go 2-1 up in the five-match series.
Electing to bat, New Zealand recorded 177 for 9
intheir20oversontheback ofDevonConway's56off34 balls and Daryl Mitchell's 24-ball 41. The final score was threatening to be a lot more,butthreerun-outsand Matthew Forde and Jason Holder's two-fors denied NewZealandalatecharge. Ish Sodhi's 3 for 34 and Duffy's two-wicket opening over had West Indies on the mat, before the visitors threatened to pull off the improbableagain.Intheend, theyfellshort…again. Shepherd and Springer springasurprise
The game was done, the writing was surely on the wall, but Shepherd and Springer proved otherwise. When the duo got together, West Indies were in all sorts
at 88 for 8 in the 13th over Springer slog swept Sodhi over deep midwicket first ball. Shepherd soon joined him, smashing Duffy for six overfinelegandthenslicing himoverpoint.Atthetime,a comp
Zealand win felt just two mis-hitsaway,butthesemishitsnevercame.
Both Springer and Sh
Springer muscled Mitchell Santner over long-on, and then walloped Jamieson for back-to-back fours. By the time the 18th over from James Neesham was taken for19,WestIndiesbelieved. With24neededof12,itwas theirgametolose,especially when Duffy was sent out of
the stadium for a 103m six overlong-onbyShepherd.
But Duffy, who had struck two telling blows earlier, dove low to his left andpluckedoutastunneras Springerfellforasuperb20ball 39. Jamieson, who had defended 16 in the previous match, was now tasked with defending 12 in Nelson. He went the hard-length way, rattling Shepherd with the extrabounce.
With the equation down to ten off two, Jamieson bowled a shin-high full toss that was miscued to only as farasMitchellatlong-off,as a third-straight last-over finish went New Zealand's way
WestIndiesslipand tumble
Much before the
Shepherd-Springer mayhem,WestIndieslooked in complete disarray Jamieson conceded three foursinhisopeningover,but as Duffy had all series, he kept at it. He bowled Amir Jangoo, chopping back onto hisstumpsfirstball.
Three balls later, he had Shai Hope caught at deep backward square leg.At the other end, however, Jamiesoncontinuedtobleed runsandalsoputdownAlick Athanaze, as West Indies
breezedpast50in6.3overs.
Sodhi's introduction flipped the script. He had Athanaze caught behind with a long-hop, while MichaelBracewellsentback Sherfane Rutherford. Sodhi then found Rovman Powell swinging for the hills, but Powell missed instead and sawhisstumpsinamess.By thetimeSodhitrappedForde lbw for 4, West Indies had lost 6 for 35 in less than six overs.
Fordeshines,others disappoint
Earlier, Conwaymanagingtoavoidhisseries nemesis Forde in the opening over - got into his groove, pumping Akeal Hoseinoverdeepmidwicket forahugesix.Fordehimself
was tight with his lines and concededjust14inhisthree oversinthepowerplay
This spell included gettingridofTimRobinson, who was looking to turn the fast bowler around the corner, but popped a straightforward return catch instead.
However, West Indies bled runs at the other end. Hosein's two overs went for 21, while Shepherd conceded 11 runs, as New Zealand reached 47 for 1 aftersixovers.
Scores: New Zealand 177 for 9 (Conway 56, Mitchell 41, Forde 2-20, Holder 2-31) beat West Indies 168 (Shepherd 49, Springer 39, Sodhi 3-34, Duffy3-36)bynineruns.
Ageless Djokovic wins 101st title after marathon final with Musetti in Athens
ATHENS, (Reuters)NovakDjokovicbecamethe oldest champion on theATP Tour when the 38-year-old fought back to beat Lorenzo Musetti 4-6 6-3 7-5 to win the Hellenic Championship onSaturday,liftinghis101st titleontheATPTour
In a marathon encounter thatlastedoneminuteshyof three hours between the top seeds, Djokovic dropped a set against Musetti on a hardcourtforthefirsttimeas theItalianbattled towinthe match and seal his place at theATPFinalsinTurin.
However, Djokovic recovered to win the second set, showing no signs of his advancing years when he stretched at the net to play a cross-court drop shot doing the splits at full stretch that got the crowd roaring its approval.
Thedramareachedfever pitch in the decider when an exhausted Djokovic was brokenservingforthetitleat 5-4. However, he rallied once again to break Musetti before finding his last reserves of energy to serve out the contest and eclipse
RogerFedererbyclaiminga record72ndhardcourttitle.
Djokovic was initially too exhausted to celebrate but, after embracing the 23year-oldMusetti,theSerbian ripped his own t-shirt as he roaredindelight.
'AGRUELLING MATCH'
"Incredible battle It's just,Idon'tknow,threehours a gruelling match p h y s i c a l l y, s u p e r demanding. Lorenzo played really well," Djokovic said whilecatchinghisbreath. "It could have been
anybody's game, anybody's match.Socongratstohimfor anamazingperformanceand I'mjustveryproudofmyself togetthroughthisone."
Djokovic is now two titles behind Federer in the ATPTour'sall-timelistwhile Jimmy Connors leads the waywith109.
The result saw Musetti lose out on the last ATP Finals spot, allowing Canadian Felix AugerAliassime to qualify for the tournamentinTurin.
"Novak, every time I share the court with you, I take it as a lesson," said the humbledItalian.
Djokovic now turns his attention to the ATP Finals where he is set to play his first match on Monday The Serbianisinthesamegroup as Carlos Alcaraz, Taylor FritzandAlexdeMinaur
Serbia's Novak Djokovic celebrates with the trophy and his parents, Dijana Dokovic and Srdjan Djokovic, brothers Marko Djokovic and Djordje Djokovic, and his son Stefan after winning his final match against Italy's Lorenzo Musetti. (REUTERS/Louiza Vradi)
Devon Conway and Tim Robinson added 47 runs for the opening wicket. (Getty Images)
Omari Glasgow becomes first footballer to win Guyana's Sportsman of the Year Award …Fernandes, Austin, and Hinckson among top honourees at the National Sports Awards
Sodhi, Duffy three-fors trump late Joy Adams to lead Guyana at FIBA Women's Caribbean Championship …GBF unveils strong 12-member squad for home tournament
RuthAdams JoyAdams in action for Lointek Gernika Bizkaia in Spain.