Government recruiting global healthcare workers amid persistent labour shortage
Endorsements by Opposition members prove PPP’s strong, multi-ethnic national movement – GS
fear he’ll kill us” – mother of 2 breaks silence on 6 years of domestic violence
Cops nab speedboat passenger with 875g of cocaine
"Sir, I does hustle da lil weed" – man busted with ganja tells Police
Nigerian gets 6 years jail for romance scam in Guyana
Ali extends solidarity with India over tragic plane crash …as 241 on board Air India plane killed in crash, 1 survives
Berbice motorcyclist killed by speeding pick-up
Jamaica sets sights on Guyana’s logistics boom …businesses exploring port, shipping partnerships …team dispatched to aid woman after Police allegedly failed to act …push to maintain quality care amid rollout of new hospitals Page
Caribbean set to outgrow US economy through 2027 – World Bank
The
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 13 – 03:55h-05:25h and Saturday, June 14 –04:25h-05:55h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, June 13 – 05:10h-06:40h and Saturday, June 14 –05:50h-07:20h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 18:00h reaching a maximum height of 2.41 metres.
Low Tide: 11:32h and 23:43h reaching minimum heights of 0.63 metre and 0.82 metre.
GECOM must crack down on parties fraudulently inflating candidate lists – Jagdeo
…warns of deliberate attempts by Opposition to mislead public ahead of 2025 polls
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is calling on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to take firm and impartial action against any political party found fraudulently inflating candidate lists or intimidating citizens ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
Speaking during his weekly press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo raised serious concerns about repeated attempts, particularly by opposition-aligned parties, to mislead the public and undermine the electoral process. He emphasised that these actions, if unchecked, could erode public trust in the country's democratic institutions.
“I hope that GECOM will pay attention to this. They should take firm actions against any party, any political party that is threatening people not to go on another party's list. They should also take firm action against parties that are fraudulently putting people on their backers list. You recall I have here a news article from 2018: ‘Cops to probe claim that AFC fraudulently procure names for backers’ lists’... AFC is back at it again and APNU. They're back at fraudulently getting people to support their list,” the vice president claimed.
Additionally, Jagdeo highlighted a pattern of abuse by opposition elements, referencing past incidents, including a 2018 case where Alliance for Change (AFC) operatives were accused of collecting signatures under false pretences. He explained that in many cases, people were told they were signing petitions for community improvements or social pro -
grammes, only to discover their names on a nomination list for a party they never intended to support.
He also drew comparisons to similar cases in the recent local government elections, noting that even when the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) made internal errors, corrective actions were taken quickly and transparently.
“We asked the police to probe it, but it was too short a period. People came forward and said, ‘I never supported this group here.’ They told me they came around and said we're signing a petition for better drainage in the area, and then we signed on to the list, and this is what happened. So, I hope that GECOM will take strong action against people of all – any political party that does this… GECOM should take strong action against those who are doing this fraudulently, and the po -
lice should also do so,” he urged.
Responding to opposition claims of voter disenfranchisement, Jagdeo dismissed arguments suggesting that polling agents are being unfairly barred from voting where they are assigned. He noted that the law already provides for alternates and that this issue was resolved in previous elections, including in 2015 and 2020.
Further, he rebutted the narrative around prisoner voting rights, stating that the matter had been “definitively dealt with” in the past and should not be weaponised for political gain.
Nomination Day; withdrawals
The 2025 General and Regional Elections are set for September 1.
Nomination Day has already been announced for July 14, 2025, which will allow for the submission of Lists of Candidates for
the upcoming General and Regional Elections. On the designated day, the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) will be available to receive the lists between the hours of 10:00h (10am) and 14:00h (2pm) at the Umana Yana, High Street, Kingston, Georgetown. Several important deadlines accompany the submission of these lists.
The following day, July 15, is reserved for notifying the CEO in writing of any death or withdrawal of a candidate. Also on this day, the CEO will inform representatives and their deputies of any defects found in submitted lists.
By July 17, corrected lists must be submitted, and further notification of any withdrawals must also be made.
On July 18th, GECOM will issue notifications regarding the approval or non-approval of the candidate lists.
Parties dissatisfied with disapprovals may lodge appeals with the High Court by July 20th.
On July 21, representatives and their deputies must inform the CEO in writing of any joinder of lists. The entire process culminates on July 23 with the gazetting of the approved lists.
The notice was issued under the hand of GECOM Chairperson, Justice of Appeal (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, and dated June 2nd, 2025.
Many Guyanese have wondered about the utility of the WPA coalescing with the PNC when objectively they had dwindled to a handful of elderly armchair warriors by 2011. The answer lies in the WPA’s role in the rehabilitation of the PNC, in the aftermath of their sordid history, by deploying the moral capital Dr Walter Rodney earned in Guyana as a member of the WPA between his return in 1974 and his assassination by Burnham in June 1980.
In the continued effort to prove their relevancy in the upcoming elections, and to ensure that the WPA continues to occupy a possible Cabinet seat, WPA Executive Dr David Hinds recently went even further: he sought to rehabilitate the founder leader of the PNC, Forbes Burnham as summarised in the caption of his column: “Our Guyana, Our Caribbean and Our Forbes Burnham,” back in 2019. “Our Burnham”.
He begins his restorative project by setting up a false dichotomy in asserting he “realize(d) that there is no line between our critique of leaders and our demonisation of them.” Why does “critique” have to be contraposed with “demonisation” if the critique is factually based? Hinds’ denunciation of “demonisation” of Burnham would be morally offensive to the hundreds of thousands of Guyanese whose lives were ruined by Burnham’s policies. The rice farmers, for instance, who were immiserated by being forced to sell their rice and paddy for a song to the PNC Government, which made windfall profits on the world market. Or sugar workers who saw their hard-won profit-sharing snatched away with the levy Burnham imposed.
Hinds’ epiphany on Burnham evidently arose because he has “become aware that Mr. Burnham meant a great deal to the earlier generations of African Guyanese”. But this is an epistemologically-untenable position: that Burnham was a hero to a great many Guyanese does not confer on his positions any greater truth or validity. Hitler was a hero to the vast majority of Germans, but that does not excuse his horrible excesses. As Walter Rodney said in his “People’s Power: No Dictator”, “We cannot say that Guyana today has reached the same stage as Germany under Hitler's rule, because that would be to lose a sense of proportion. Burnham as a dictator is petty because ours is a nation of less than a million people.”
Situating Burnham in a “complex Guyana”, Hinds postulated, “There are three narratives about Burnham, each of which is valid. First, there is the narrative of Burnham the visionary who used Government to empower Guyanese, especially the poor, and who lifted the image of Guyana globally through a most progressive foreign policy.” But we know that Burnham did not seek to “empower Guyanese”: just those who had PNC “party cards”, as recently reiterated by PNC Chair Volda Lawrence.
As for Burnham’s “progressive foreign policy”, Rodney had this to say: “On the international scene, Burnham could never be a powerful force.” Rodney, of course, experienced the opportunism of Burnham with his pretensions on “progressiveness” and this was expressed decades later when African progressives opposed the latter receiving an honour from South Africa.
According to Hinds, “The second narrative about Burnham is that of the dictator” which he concedes but excuses: “to think that that was all that defined him is to be equally dishonest. And many in our midst, especially our Indian Guyanese brethren and sistren, are of that mindset.” But did not Rodney describe why Indian Guyanese might hold that view: “we should refer to the pamphlet by Jessie Burnham, entitled “Beware My Brother Forbes”, in which she describes his racist attitude to Indians, his absolute selfishness and his limitless ambition to hold others in domination.”
The third narrative, according to Hinds, is his self-described “critical” one adopted by himself. Rodney, however, had a different position, He demanded Guyanese call a spade a spade: “Our language must express not only ridicule but anger and disgust….Guyana has seen the "Burnham Touch" – anything he touches turns to shit!”
Guyana Rising: The choice to build or backslide
In this defining moment of Guyana’s history, we stand not at a crossroads but at a launching pad. The past five years under President Irfaan Ali have ushered in a new era of infrastructure, health, education, and opportunity, reaching corners of the country long forgotten under previous administrations. And yet, there lingers a dangerous perception gap; a growing disconnect between the real and tangible progress on the ground and the outdated grievances that some continue to cling to.
This is not just a political phenomenon. Around the world, voters have repeatedly shown a tendency to ignore fact-based improvements in favour of populist promises. In the United States, entire communities that benefited from Democratic economic stimulus packages flipped to vote Republican out of cultural grievance. In the UK, even as regions gained from EU development funds, many backed Brexit out of perceived slights to sovereignty. And in Guyana today, some cling to discontent, ignoring what’s visibly changing before their eyes.
Just walk through any market or strike up a conversation in a minibus queue— you’ll hear it. The word on the street is that people see the roads being fixed, the new hospitals opening, the children getting their cash grant back, and even meals at school. They’re talking about how life is changing. Slowly? Yes. But surely.
Under President Ali, Region 1 has seen an astronomical leap in education investment—from G$54 million under APNU to over G$7 billion under the PPP. Schools have been rebuilt, teachers trained, and dormitories constructed to ensure that hinterland children aren’t left behind. In Region 7, health
sector investments exploded from G$373 million to nearly G$2 billion. Clinics have been upgraded, new facilities are underway, and lives are being saved.
The numbers are staggering. In Region 3 alone, housing investment increased by more than 700%. In Region 8, education spending quadrupled. And across Regions 5 and 6, public works have brought reliable water, new roads, bridges, and electricity to thousands. These are not abstract budget lines—they are real outcomes. They are the difference between children walking miles to school or having a classroom nearby. Between a farmer getting crops to market or being cut off by a washed-out road. Between a mother giving birth in a well-lit, wellequipped facility or risking it all in a wooden shack.
And what of the future? Thanks to the Natural Resource Fund—established by the PPP and governed by a transparent, legal framework—Guyana is not only growing, it’s saving. The oil revenues are being invested with care: in hospitals, schools, salaries, and strategic infrastructure that future-proofs our economy. Unlike petrostates of the past, this government is not squandering the oil boom—it’s building with it.
Still, perception persists. Why? Because the loudest voices in opposition offer style over substance. They speak of “transformation” but cannot say how. One man, Mohammed, flies around Guyana in a Santa suit of populist promises while evading taxes and undermining institutions. Another hides behind platitudes, unable to name a policy that improves people’s lives. Their personal brands may be flashy, but their records are empty.
The youth of this country—our next generation—
must be reminded of just how bright their future can be. Their grandparents and parents endured far harder times so that they wouldn’t have to. They built this country with their hands and their hopes.
And now, thanks to President Ali’s leadership, young Guyanese no longer have to dream of Canada, America, or the UK to build a future. They can build a successful life right here, at home. That is priceless.
But with this opportunity comes responsibility. We cannot become a nation that complains and waits for a cheque. That would be lazy and rob us of our dignity. Oil revenues can uplift us—but only if we meet that gift with hard work.
Like President Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” Guyana doesn’t owe us ease; it demands effort. And it will reward it.
What’s clear on the ground is that President Ali is seen not just as a party figurehead but as a problem solver. As the man who, during a global pandemic and war-induced inflation, still delivered housing, jobs, and bonuses to nurses and teachers. The government doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—it needs to show Guyanese what’s already working. And it must do so with clarity, hope, and optimism.
Crime and cost of living are real concerns. But the answer is not to gamble on the unknown. It’s to double down on what works. Under Ali, police reform is ongoing, more officers have been trained, community policing has been strengthened, and investments in safety continue. And to combat rising prices, his administration has introduced subsidies, expanded school feeding programmes and distributed direct cash transfers—programmes that have
a real impact for real families.
And we are not just about oil. Guyana is blessed with one of the richest rainforests in the world, and we are protecting it, not just for ourselves, but for the planet. The world is watching us in awe. And in agriculture, we are the only country in the world that is fully self-sufficient in food. Think about that. While others depend on imports and international supply chains, Guyanese farmers feed our people. That’s not just resilience—that’s excellence.
We are a diverse people, racially and culturally. And yet, we remain stable and harmonious. In a world torn by division, that is something to be proud of. Let no one tell us otherwise. We are also a real democracy—where voices are heard, and votes count. Where peaceful transitions and civil discourse are the rule, not the exception.
The message going into the next election should be simple: We are not perfect, but we are delivering. We are not finished, but we are building. And above all, we are moving forward, not back. Let’s not fall for billionaires who claim to be “change makers” while dodging the very taxes that fund our roads and schools. Let’s not be fooled by those who sow resentment while offering no plan. Let’s remember: sunshine is not just weather—it is a mindset. A patriotic belief that we can keep building, together.
In 1984, Ronald Reagan won a landslide with the promise that “It’s morning again in America.” It wasn’t about ideology—it was about optimism. In 2025, Guyana needs its own version of that. Because when you look around this country, from Mabaruma to Lethem, from Bartica to Berbice, the morning light is already shining. We just need to open our eyes.
Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud reading for children at Unique’s Daycare, Pre-School & Nursery School in La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD) on International Day of Play on Wednesday (Human Services and Social Security Ministry photo)
Rebuking Ram’s accusations, questioning credibility of alternatives
Dear Editor, Christopher Ram, an accountant who is also a lawyer and indulges, from time to time, in dabbling in the extremities of politics and letter writing to the press, wrote a letter published on 8th June, 2025, given pride of place, claiming that President Mohamed Ali has “diminished the Presidency” and “ought not to be re-elected”. Strong and accusatory words.
Mr Ram is, of course, entitled to his opinion, even though he is defaming the character and performance of the president, however misinformed, misguided and mistaken he is.
Mr Ram’s letter is burdened with presumption rather than fact, personal opinion instead of the truth, and is based on Ram’s convenient interpretation of Mr Azruddin Mohamed’s alleged WhatsApp messages accusing the president of facilitating “the undervaluation for customs purposes of a highend vehicle” (a Lamborghini), in Mr Ram’s words.
There is not a scintilla of evidence, but loads of speculation, that the president did any such thing, all of it
based on accusations from the newly declared presidential candidate, Mr Azruddin Mohamed.
What are the facts as we know them, shorn of speculation? Mr Ram conveniently overlooks the fact that Mr Mohamed has admitted his own guilt of attempting to persuade the president to act improperly on his behalf. There is no evidence, because there is none, that the President did anything to satisfy Mr Mohamed’s appeal for his intervention.
The facts are that Mr Mohamed has been sanctioned, along with his father and his company, by the United States of America’s Treasury Department for the alleged massive evasion of taxes on gold exports to the tune of some G$10B at the expense of our government and the people of Guyana. The facts are that Mr. Mohamed has also been sanctioned for allegedly paying bribes to Guyanese government officials. The facts are that Mr Mohamed is now before the courts for misrepresenting the value to the Guyana Revenue Authority of the Lamborghini and other
fancy vehicles which he imported into the country.
Nevertheless, Mr Ram prefers to believe and support claims made by an individual who has been accused by the US government and is now before our own courts accused of gross criminal behaviour.
I feel reasonably certain, knowing my friend (I don’t use that term sarcastically) Mr Ram as I do, that Mr Ram will respond to my letter, so, in advance, I ask him whom he would choose at the forthcoming elections to be Guyana’s President, other than Mr Mohamed? Would he choose, for instance, the confused Mr Aubrey Norton, who has embraced the abject racism of Mr David Hinds, or, perhaps, the other presidential candidate, Mr Nigel Hughes, who has disqualified himself by the fact that his company, Hughes, Field and Stoby, represents ExxonMobil, an unforgivable and unacceptable conflict of interest for a presidential candidate? Or, perhaps, he would choose Mr Mohamed?
I have another question for Mr Ram. Does he really believe that President Mohamed Ali, as
a favour to Mr Azruddin Mohamed, would have picked up the phone and directed Mr Godfrey Statia, Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, to jeopardise his professional reputation by cheating on Mohamed’s tax declarations?
Mr Ram’s letter, to a large extent, seems to be founded on a Stabroek News editorial (Saturday, 7th June, 2025), arriving at much the same wholly irresponsible conclusions which he has echoed in his letter, that “on the face of what was presented by Mr Mohamed about his contact with the president in September of 2020, there is certainly a case for President Ali to answer”. The Stabroek News appears to have arrived at this conclusion only based upon, it seems, the fact that there once existed a long friendship founded on the shared Muslim faith between the President’s family and the Mohameds, about which there is no secret, and, therefore, somehow, that the President would be susceptible to the importuning of Mr Mohamed, and nothing much else.
What the Stabroek News
Lack of understanding on crucial matters of public policy
Dear Editor,
Annette Ferguson (MP) has yet again demonstrated a lack of understanding on crucial matters of public policy, this time in the case of housing. Ms Ferguson mixes up the allocation of house lots with a range of other issues. As it stands, space only allows for engagement with some of the errors.
Firstly, Ms Ferguson states that some people applied for house lots three years ago, but they are still waiting. I have no idea how this claim invalidates the well-established fact that the PPP/C has fulfilled its 2020 election promise on house lots.
Secondly, Ms Ferguson complains about the rising cost of building a new house. But this is the same MP who wants workers to be paid more. An unskilled day labourer now makes $5000 to $6000 performing such tasks as fetching water. A truck driver now can make anywhere between $17,000 and $20,000 daily. A mason will not work for less than $16,000 daily, nor would a carpen -
ter. Rather than acknowledge that wage rates have gone up, a positive thing, Ferguson deploys the language of inflation. Ms Ferguson should go read the last IMF Article IV Report on Guyana.
Third and finally, MP Ferguson rails against house lots for $3 million, but the argument is sheer quackery. Why? Well, because she ignores the fact that there are different categories of house lots and the price of a lot also depends on the location. For instance, on the East Coast of Demerara, low-income house lots range from $250,000 to $600,000. If you are in Region 5, you can get a moderate-income lot for $300,000 or a middle-income lot in Region 3 for $800,000. In Region 6 you can get a moderate-income lot between $286,000 and $320,000 or a middle-income lot from $520,000 to $585,000. Regarding the high-income lots for $3 million, yes, but that is up to you. As with all things, buy what you can afford.
Ministers Croal and
Rodrigues are absolutely correct when they state that the PPP/C government has fulfilled its elec -
tion promises on housing.
Sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud
and Mr Ram have chosen to ignore is the fact that President Ali, in spite of that friendship and because he is the president, has properly ended that relationship.
Mr G.H.K. Lall, well recognised for his entrenched hostility to all that is the PPP and the government, has gleefully joined the Stabroek News/Ram bandwagon and, in the Kaieteur News (Tuesday, 10th June, 2025), published a fountain of verbiage and meaningless superfluous rhetoric, calling for the president’s resignation, devoting over some one thousand (1000) words, but not a single one of evidence, to support his hysteria. Why and how in the name of heaven does anyone read him, or does anyone?
This entirely malicious attack on President Ali has clearly been fuelled by the very apparent political bias of the Stabroek News and the personal animosity of Mr Ram. So, I have a final question to ask, not merely of
Stabroek News and Ram, but the entire electorate?
Given that every declared contesting Presidential Candidate is not without fault of some sort, would they really prefer our country to be governed by a President who is criminally sanctioned by the US Government, or a President dedicated to taking our country down the black hole of racism and from a party which attempted to rig the last elections, or a President totally politically compromised by legal ties to Exxon and also a party associated with the rigging of the last elections, or a President of a governing party who, with all of his alleged foibles, has already, evidentially, led our country down the road of a massive development programme to the ultimate benefit of every one of our citizens? For these are the choices before us as voters on 1st September, 2025.
Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
◄ Page Foundation
Changing mixed numbers to improper fractions
To change mixed numbers into improper fractions, find the fraction part of the mixed number. Multiply the whole number by the denominator of the fraction. Then, add the numerator to that product and place the total over the denominator.
Example:
By Walt
Change into an improper fraction
Step 1: Multiply 3 x 4 = 12
Step 2: 12 + 1 = 13 and the remainder becomes the fraction.
Have you reckon’d a thousand acres much? have you reckon’d the earth much?
Step 3: So
Exercises: Change to improper fractions
Have you practis’d so long to learn to read?
Stop this day and night with me and you shall possess the origin of all poems, You shall possess the good the earth and sun, (there are millions of suns left,) You shall no longer take things at second or third hand, nor look through the eyes of the dead, nor feed on the spectres in books, You shall not look through eyes either, nor take things from me, You shall listen to all sides and filter them from your self. Continued
Have you felt so proud to get at the meaning of poems?
To be continued
Pres Ali extends solidarity with India over tragic plane crash
President Dr Irfaan Ali has extended condolences to the government and people of the Republic of India following Wednesday’s horrific plane crash that claimed the lives of more than 200 persons, including children.
The Air India flight, AI171 – which was destined for London – crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad in the State of Gujarat on Wednesday afternoon. Only one passenger survived the tragic incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the 230 passengers, including 11 children, 2 infants and 12 crew members aboard the flight, as well as those who lost their lives or were injured from the impact of a building struck by the aircraft.” President Ali said in
a brief statement.
Meanwhile, the High Commission of India in Georgetown and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre have also expressed
deep sadness and shock to learn about the devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
“We stand in solidarity with those who have lost
their near and dear ones in this tragedy and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured. May the Almighty God provide strength to those affected by this devas-
tating tragedy,” they noted in a statement.
Flight AI171 took off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad en route to the London Gatwick Airport.
The 12-year-old Boeing 7878 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 13:38 h, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew, Air India confirmed in a subsequent statement on Friday (India Time).
“Of these, 169 are Indian nationals, 53 are British nationals, 1 is a Canadian national, and 7 are Portuguese nationals. The injured are being taken to the nearest hospitals,” the airline stated.
It added, “Air India is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating this incident.”
Meanwhile, the sole survivor of the incident has been identified as a British
national of Indian origin, Vishwashkumar Ramesh.
In videos circulating on social media and by international news agencies, he was seen walking away from the crash site, seemingly disoriented. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Based on local reports, Ramesh sustained multiple injuries about his body but is out of any danger. Ramesh had travelled to India for vacation along with one of his brothers, who was also killed in the crash.
The plane had crashed onto a medical college hostel during lunchtime, killing over 240 people.
BBC reports say that by night-time, a police official who wanted to stay anonymous told the news agency that all the bodies and their remains had been removed from the site of the crash.
Govt recruiting global healthcare workers amid persistent labour shortage
…push to maintain quality care amid rollout of new hospitals
The government of Guyana has announced that it is actively recruiting healthcare workers from across the globe to address persistent shortages in the sector, particularly as the country prepares to open several new state-of-the-art hospitals in the coming months.
The recruitment strategy includes nursing assistants, general medical staff, and specialists in various disciplines.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo confirmed the initiative on Thursday, noting that the government is casting a wide international net in search
of qualified personnel, including but not limited to Cuban healthcare workers.
“We are recruiting from around the world,” the vice president explained, “… we could have more people from other countries, much more than from Cuba. The idea is to get our own people to work in the hospitals. So, we're recruiting nursing assistants and a whole range of people to do that, to do the work. But right now, we don't have enough healthcare personnel to offer the expanded level of services that will come through the opening of these new hospitals.”
As the government fasttracks its hospital modernisation programme, a widening gap between infrastructure and human resources has become evident. The shortage of skilled personnel threatens to slow or weaken service delivery, especially in rural and hinterland regions where healthcare access is already limited.
In fact, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) alone is facing an escalating shortage, needing an estimated 700 more nurses to ensure adequate patient care and maintain essential operations. This shortage
has led to concerns about the ability of hospitals to provide services, especially in departments like the Accident and Emergency unit.
With this in mind, the vice president assured that while governing is welcoming foreign medical professionals to meet immediate demand, the administration’s strategy is not a permanent replacement for local talent.
“As we train more of our people, then we can fill the posts with our own people. That is the idea. But we don't want the service to suffer because of the shortage of Guyanese healthcare
professionals. We want a good quality service until we can fill those positions with our own people. And so, that is the approach to that matter,” Jagdeo added.
Addressing concerns related to the employment of Cuban healthcare workers and U.S. human rights conditions, the vice president made it clear that Guyana will ensure full compliance with international labour norms.
“So, we're recruiting people from around the world, not confined to Cuba. But we're working to ensure that the people who come here from Cuba, that
they meet the definition because of what the U.S. Secretary of State mentioned, that the conditions of work here don't run afoul of the requirements set by the United States of America,” he assured. Back in March, the US expanded an existing Cuba-related visa restriction policy that targets forced labour linked to the Cuban labour export programme. This decision will see visa restrictions placed on state officials believed to be involved in the export of Cuban workers – a move that has been strongly criticised by some Caribbean leaders.
Berbice motorcyclist killed by speeding pick-up
ACorentyne motorcyclist is now dead after he was struck by a speeding pickup along the East Coast Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) Highway on Wednesday afternoon.
Reports are that the pickup crashed into a parked truck after flinging the motorcyclist into a canal.
The dead man has been identified as 35-year-old Tameshwar Sukhcharan, of Topoo Village, Corentyne. The crash occurred at around 17:40h Wednesday on the Dun Robin Public Road, East Coast Berbice, Region Six.
tion where he is stationed.
The police statement said the crash involved the motor pickup GAK 1990, driven by 30-year-old Andrew Johnson of Lamaha Park, Georgetown; Sukhcharan’s motorcycle; and a parked motor lorry, GLL 9958, owned by a 47-year-old man of Yakusari, Bush Polder.
was parked on the southern parapet.
Sukhcharan was subsequently taken out of the trench in an unconscious state by public-spirited citizens and taken to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Murdering Rodney... ...again
TSukhcharan was on his way to a worksite in West Canje at the time, while the pickup was heading in the opposite direction towards the Corentyne. The father of two worked as a cattle ranger with the Albion Sugar Estate.
The police said the pickup was being driven by the 30-year-old man allegedly at a fast rate of speed when he attempted to overtake a vehicle and collided with Sukhcharan, whose motorcycle was coming in the opposite direction.
His wife, Cynthina Bandoo, told this publication that he left home shortly after 17:00h and went to the estate to book in his time and was heading to the loca-
Sukhcharan was flung into a nearby trench; he received injuries to his head and other parts of his body.
The pick-up then further collided with the lorry which
The driver of the pickup, who was also injured, has been admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital.
He received a fractured femur and abrasions on his body. His condition is stable, the police said in its release.
Meanwhile, the nowdead man’s mother said from the information they received; her son died at the scene.
TURN TO PAGE 11
oday, some so-called “Rodneyites” from the WPA are rehabilitating the dictator Burnham for his “progressive” foreign policy, his “socialist” nationalisations, and his regional outlook. While “honouring” Walter Rodney on the 45th anniversary of his assassination!!! Well, today your Eyewitness will let the great man speak on Burnham in his own words – uttered just before Burnham snuffed out his life.
“The Burnham dictatorship has masked and camouflaged itself. It would prefer that its vices be hidden from the public. Why is this? Men in the past have boasted of being dictators....like Idi Amin. (But) The world has come to shun racist regimes...and all dictatorial governments. This climate of international opinion offers the first explanation as to why the Burnham dictatorship prefers to remain disguised.
“The Burnham dictatorship presents itself as its own opposite...as a democracy....(like) Hitler who subverted German bourgeois democracy in the 1930s. Burnham has taken a similar road to power – subverting the democratic system of which he was part in 1953. Hitler had a mad wish to rule the world. For this reason, he is generally described as a megalomaniac. Hitler's megalomania was backed by the powerful German economy and the might of the German army. Burnham's megalomania is closer to comedy and farce. It takes the form of wearing a General's uniform and hoping that the army will conquer his own people.
“Like all classic dictatorships, that which exists in Guyana has fostered the cult of the personality. The minority PNC regime has used all manner of tricks and gimmicks to make the "Comrade Leader" appear to be a demi-god. (Like) on the exercise books of school children, the face of the reigning English Monarch was simply replaced by that of the Prime Minister. (There is also) the highly personalised nature of the dictatorship. The dictator and his cronies make it their business to hire and fire....(via) the state control over the economy was the main weapon used to keep people in line (or) who to prosecute in the courts...
“Burnham encourages around himself individuals who are weak or corrupt because he then exercises vicious control over them....On the international scene, Burnham could never be a powerful force. But he has proved crafty and cunning in achieving his ends within Guyana. An old woman at Bourda shouted at a recent political meeting that "Burnham mek Satan cry!"
“The Burnham dictatorship crept up upon Guyanese people like a thief in the night. His violations of human rights were frequent, but they were sufficiently gradual that many persons did not realise what was going on until it was too late.”
And then Burnham had Rodney assassinated! ...for “Exposing the Burnham Dictatorship”
“We have said before that the Burnham dictatorship would prefer to hide under the disguise of being a democracy. Elections have not been abolished; instead, they have been rigged in such a way as to become a complete mockery of the most fundamental of rights –the right to self-determination and free choice of one's government. The rigged elections of 1968 and 1973 and the amazing referendum fraud of July 1978 all indicate that Guyanese people have not chosen the PNC clique. The regime holds power by armed force. Guyanese are finding from their own experience that the dictatorship hates to be reminded that it is a dictatorship. To expose the dictatorship, the first step is to denounce the government as illegal and illegitimate.”
“Psychologically, the domination of the dictator has to be rejected. The population must learn to despise the falsehoods which surround the man; they must refuse to accept that he has any halo of greatness around him. “
“They must remove any confusion in their own minds and see the dictator clearly for what he is: a villain and a monster, the principal enemy of the people.”
...with Burnham’s touch
“Our language (describing Burnham) must express not only ridicule but anger and disgust. Guyana has seen the "Burnham Touch" – anything he touches turns to shit!”
Including WPA types touching his feet today
Dead: Tameshwar Sukhcharan
Endorsements by Opposition members prove PPP’s strong, multi-ethnic national movement – GS
General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has made it clear that the majority of the party’s supporters are happy with the endorsements from members of the opposition, noting that their support only shows that the PPP is growing stronger and becoming a multi-ethnic party and national political movement.
“Most PPP supporters know that what is important is winning the elections so we can continue to transform this country, so they want us to win the elections, and they’re happy that people are coming to us because they see what we’re about, and it makes us stronger. They’re happy that we’re growing stronger; why would they be dissatisfied that we’re growing stronger?” Jagdeo said.
The PPP GS was at the time responding to a report in another section of the media, which quoted President Dr Irfaan Ali saying that there were very few complaints from long-serving PPP members that defectors from the opposition were joining his
party to be rewarded.
While acknowledging that this may be a minority view among supporters, the PPP General Secretary reiterated during his press conference that none of those persons were promised any positions. Jagdeo had already made this clear during his press conference last week, noting that even the current ministers do not know if they will be returning to their offices after the September 1 polls.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, Jagdeo further clarified that those who have switched sides are not being forced to formally join the PPP, nor are they being asked to condemn the political opposition where they served as members for many years.
“When people come to us, we don’t say you have to prove to us by cussing the people where you came from. We don’t demand that from them,” he said, adding that “they don’t have to become members of our party to be part of our national campaign. They don’t have to be members of our party to be welcomed in our collective.”
Jagdeo added that
while the former opposition members can choose to share their experiences, it is not mandated.
Responding to comments about the PPP now accepting those who attempted to rig the 2020 General and Regional Elections, he said it is the responsibility of the leaders of the PNC/APNU and the AFC to apologise to the nation for their actions relating to the 2020 elections.
“The leadership of those parties has to do that.
Jagdeo also highlighted that when these persons embrace the PPP, they are knowingly endorsing a party that supports democracy.
“So if they come with a rigging past, it will not work with us. They know what they’re coming towards; they’re coming to a party that believes in free and fair elections,” he emphasised.
Seeram, who also endorsed President Ali for a second term.
Former PNC/R Central Executive member, Dr Richard Van-West Charles, said he believes that President Ali is the leader Guyana needs now. Dr Charles is the son-in-law of former president and founder of the PNC, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.
Nigel Hughes, who is the leader of that party (AFC), he has refused to do that, and [Leader of the APNU, Aubrey] Norton. In fact, they keep insisting that they won the elections,” the GS pointed out.
Jagdeo further explained that “they didn’t see the SOPs; they were told that they won. A lot of the people who have come to us, they were not part of the inner circle that was trying to rig the elections, but they were supportive of their party.”
Among those persons who have recently come forward to endorse the PPP are former Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs under the APNU+AFC government Sydney Allicock, former People’s National Congress (PNC) General Secretary and Opposition Parliamentarian Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Alliance For Change (AFC) Regional Councillor Ismail Muhammad-Al-Cush, and Chairman of the Region Seven division of the AFC David Daniels.
Additionally, Regional Vice Chairman for Region Four and member of the PNC Samuel Sandy has endorsed the PPP. He joined Executive Member of the PNC/R and Region Four Chairman Daniel
Former PNC members James Bond and Thandi McAllister also threw their support behind the PPP. In 2023, former General Secretary of the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), the youth arm of the PNCR, Lance Smith, and former Georgetown Mayor and longstanding PNC member, Patricia Chase-Green, broke ties with the PNC and joined the PPP/C to contest the local government elections. Additionally, leaders of other smaller parties –The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) Shaz Ally, The New Movement (TNM) Asha Kissoon, and the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) Lenox Shuman – have also joined the PPP/C ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo
Mae Thomas will not return as PPP candidate – Jagdeo
…as Party to finalise list of candidates soon
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) will soon meet to discuss its list of candidates for the upcoming General and Regional Elections set for September 1, according to General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.
At that time, the party will also discuss the possibility of US-sanctioned Mae Thomas returning to the party’s list of candidates.
When asked about this specifically during his press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo said, “I don’t think she wants to be on the list, but the way how I personally see it, she will not be on the list.”
He did note, however,
that as a party, the PPP has not yet discussed these matters.
“We have not put out our list of candidates as yet. People will be considering the names of the candidates,” Jagdeo explained.
Thomas was a former permanent secretary at the Home Affairs Ministry and the Labour Ministry. She was sanctioned by the US along with the Mohamed family.
The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had stated that while being Permanent Secretary to the Home Affairs Ministry, Thomas used her position to offer benefits to the Mohameds’
US-sanctioned Mae Thomas
Enterprise, and Azruddin Mohamed – among others – in exchange for cash payments and high-value gifts.
Following the an -
nouncement, Thomas had resigned from the PPP.
Meanwhile, the PPP General Secretary explained that the party has sent out circulars to its representatives in the various administrative regions from which names will be submitted to form the list.
Prior to the agreement on the list, Jagdeo said he will be meeting with those involved later this month.
Nomination Day is set for July 14 by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
The General Secretary said the PPP is now faced with a situation where it has more persons than needed to prepare a full list of candidates for the
elections.
“We’re a party that has so many names now, it is hard to get down to the required level, unlike some parties that can’t get can -
didates to go on the list because if they go on the list, they face potential sanctions or they’re knowingly going on a losing list,” he told reporters.
Berbice motorcyclist killed...
According to Devitree Harinarain, when they arrived on the scene, police were in control, and they were not allowed to go close.
Eye-witnesses say persons who were on a passing truck stopped and pulled the motorcyclist from the canal.
There are reports that what appeared to be a part of his brain was left on the road shoulder.
Sukcharan’s father, Rajest Sukcharan, said it was not until Thursday they were able to see the body at the mortuary.
“I went to the farm, and then I got a phone call, and they said that they saw the accident. So, when we reached home, they said that he dead. So, we rushed to the scene at Number 19 Village, and we see him lying on the road, but they didn’t allow us to see him. Until this morning they only show us the face,” he said. There are also reports that Sukcharan suffered broken limbs and lost parts of his body as a result of the crash.
The investigation is ongoing.
“I
fear he’ll kill us” – mother of 2 breaks silence on 6 years of domestic violence
…team dispatched to aid woman after Police allegedly failed to act
When Joanna Ramoutar entered into a romantic relationship in October 2018, she never dreamed she would one day be speaking out about an abusive relationship she endured for six years.
However, on Thursday, she broke her silence and revealed the struggles she has faced.
Just two days shy of Father’s Day, Ramoutar alleged that her boyfriend, Karran Sukhan, is responsible for years of abuse.
Despite filing a report with the police five days ago, she claims that nothing has been done about the matter. She also alleges that Sukhan is currently hiding and that neither she nor her children can leave the house.
According to Ramoutar, her nightmare began shortly after the relationship started.
“In October 2018, I began a relationship with Karran Sukhan, the owner of Red Scorpion Car Rental. By March 2019, the abuse had started. First with slaps, then escalating to brutal, life-threatening violence. He kicked me in the stomach, stomped on my head, and beat me repeatedly. Over the years, the violence only worsened.”
In fact, she relayed that just last Friday, after telling him she wanted to leave the relationship, he attacked her violently.
“Last Friday, after I told him I wanted to leave, he attacked me again — this time with a knife and a cutlass. My body is now covered in scars and bruises. He even pulled a knife on our twoyear-old son and threatened to poison and kill all of us.”
Ramoutar said even Sukhan’s grandmother had witnessed the abuse during the time of their relationship.
“His own grandmother witnessed the abuse on multiple occasions. When she tried to intervene, he would say, ‘She’s my wife. I can do whatever I want to her.’ That would only make things worse.”
The violence, she said,
extended far beyond the physical. She mentioned that he tortured her emotionally and mentally.
He called her degrading names, told her that she was worthless, and forced her into obedience. She stated that life felt like slavery, as it was demanded of her to rub lotion on his body, put toothpaste on his toothbrush, and do everything exactly as he wanted — or else she would face punishment.
In one horrific instance, she fell asleep and missed his call.
“I answered on the second call. He was calling me to open the door, which I did as soon as I picked up. He kicked me in my stomach, and I flew into the house and hurt myself.”
She also alleges that a few months after giving birth, Sukhan made her roll on hot concrete.
“He slapped me while I was holding our one-monthold baby, causing the child to hit his head.
He forced me to kneel with my hands in the air while he sat with his feet on my shoulders, pulling my hair and cuffing me.”
She said Sukhan would hit her with hoses and pelt her with anything he could get his hands on — plates, cups, phones, shoes — whenever something displeased him.
This included not finishing dinner before he got home, asking him to stop cheating, or simply not wanting to have sex.
Ramoutar also highlighted that one time during their relationship, he tied a wire around her neck, fastened it to a grill, and tried to pull her off of her bed, threatening to kill her — all while she was pregnant.
She says he isolated her, refused to help with the children, and spent most of his time attending to his own affairs — only to return home and continue tormenting her.
The most disheartening part of the whole tragedy, she said, is the reaction from the police, which showed no empathy.
“…Officer [name with-
held] from the New Amsterdam Police Station told me I must have ‘enjoyed the licks’ since I stayed so long. What am I supposed to do when even the police blame me instead of protecting me? I stayed quiet out of fear. Now I’m speaking up, and I’m still being silenced by neglect, blame, and inaction. Please, I am begging for help.”
She described the emotional toll the situation has taken on her.
“I am terrified that if action isn’t taken soon, he will make good on his threats. I fear for my life and for the lives of my two innocent children.
Please, if you can help, help us now.”
Ministry intervenes
Meanwhile, on Thursday, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry confirmed that
upon hearing about the situation, they immediately dispatched a specialized team from the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU) to intervene and provide support.
The ministry also expressed that its priority is to ensure the victim receives comprehensive and compassionate care.
They reaffirmed their commitment to addressing all reported cases of domes-
tic violence and pledged to continue working tirelessly to provide assistance and foster a safer society for all.
Meanwhile, police in Region Six have since confirmed that they are investigating the matter.
Joanna Ramoutar and Karran Sukhan in happier times
Marks of violence on Joanna Ramoutar’s body
Jamaica sets sights on Guyana’s logistics boom
…businesses exploring port, shipping partnerships
Abusiness delegation from Jamaica is currently in Guyana exploring potential opportunities for partnership with locals, and among the areas floated for possible investment is the transport and logistics sector.
Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill, is leading the 4th Business Mission to Guyana to look at available collaboration opportunities.
During remarks at a welcome session in Georgetown on Thursday morning, Minister Hill pointed out that in the absence of a major port facility in Guyana, there are opportunities for Jamaican businesses to step in and provide critical services in the transport and logistics sector.
“We need to look at logistics as a place to make sure we build that partnership so that when Guyana gets it’s huge port, we’re a little part in there already,” he noted.
The Jamaican minister was, at the time, echoing sentiments expressed by the president of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Rafeek Khan.
During a presentation to the Jamaican Business Delegation, the GMSA head explained that Jamaican companies can take advantage of the low freight cost for shipments between Guyana and
Jamaica.
“I believe Guyana to Jamaica is the lowest among the lowest – if not the lowest – freight cost [with about] US$2,500 for a container, and why are we not trading and selling more between each country?” he questioned. Khan went on to add that with Port Georgetown unable to take in huge ships because of its draught being just about four to six metres, Kingston offers a viable option to accept large vessels and then transship with smaller vessels to Guyana.
“I believe we can do good logistics. We need to have breakbulk shipments, going from Guyana to the Caribbean, stopping in Jamaica, Trinidad, or wherever it is we’re doing business. You’re bringing
goods from Jamaica here, and we‘re taking goods to Jamaica, and we’re stopping at certain strategic islands and dropping off. It doesn’t always have to be containerized. We need more breakbulk shipments, more Less than Container (LCL) shipments,” the GMSA President stated.
Less Than Container Load (LCL) refers to the consolidation of shipments from multiple operators who use a single container for ocean freight to save costs and optimize container space. Meanwhile, breakbulk refers to cargo that is individually packaged in boxes, barrels or pallets for shipment.
Minister Hill believes there is much scope with breakbulk shipments between Guyana and Jamaica.
“We need to get barges. We don’t have to get big ships; some ships, yes, but barges that can come from Kingston to Guyana. One day, everything is going to ship from Guyana. We’ll be there in Kingston waiting. But until then, let us help Guyana.”
“If you bring the stuff in from the States or wherever you bring it from – and Drake [Passage] is just a bad place to let it land these days, [but] we’re not interfering in the tariff wars. Let the big guys do their thing – now, you quietly come to us. Bring your stuff into Kingston; we break bulk, send it to Guyana. Much of it will come to Guyana, but there’s Trinidad, there’s Barbados.” the Jamaican Minister noted.
According to Minister Hill, Jamaican companies have access to financing through the banking system in the island state to undertake such a venture. However, he outlined that partnering with Guyanese is key in exploring these opportunities.
“We need to put together a consortium with Guyanese and look [to] invest in our breakbulk business coming from Kingston. We want to make sure Guyanese investors are in there. We want a partnership. Yes, we can find the money. Yes, we have all the laws written already for the Jamaica Special Economic Zone. Let’s partner. I don’t care what you
came here for. I want you to think about this. This is a real opportunity.” the minister posited.
He went on to note that with such an initiative, they will be able to not only address logistical challenges in the region but also bolster bilateral trade between Caribbean neighbours and, in doing so, reduce importations from places around the world.
The current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has long been touting its vision of transforming Guyana into a transshipment hub with the building out of modern port facilities at strategic locations across the country to boost trade, especially in the South America and Caribbean regions.
Already, the government is embarking on transforming the Parika
Stelling into an international port facility that will have cold storage and a packaging house to assist local farmers, and providing a launching pad to export produce directly to the Caribbean. This port facility will play a vital role in Guyana’s food security ambitions and boost exports of agricultural products.
Moreover, Guyanese shipping giants – John Fernandes Limited and Muneshwers Limited –have joined forces to build a US$285 million port facility in Berbice, a project that would create about 1000 job opportunities for locals.
In the region, however, Guyana is working along with Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago to set up a regional ferry service to not only enhance travel in Caribbean, but also the movement of goods.
GMSA President Rafeek Khan
Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill
Nigerian gets 6 years jail for romance scam in Guyana
Nigerian national, Matthew Ejike Nwachukwu was, on Thursday, found guilty on two counts of conspiracy to commit a felony and was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment on both counts by Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Wismar Magistrate’s Court.
The Nigerian national was investigated by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) for facilitating several fraudulent romance schemes and package delivery scams that defrauded dozens of Guyanese of millions of dollars countrywide in 2022.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) stated that in September 2022, Ejike was charged and remanded on both charges. One of the complainants whose case was on trial recounted that she was befriended by a German man (mastermind) and that they later developed a long-distance relationship. She recalled that in July 2022, her German
partner indicated that he would be sending packages for her with valuables via FedEx.
She reported that after three days, she received a call from a foreign number stating that the packages had arrived in Guyana and that she would be required to pay the sum of GD$155,000 to various persons at the McKenzie Post Office to uplift the package.
The victim related that she believed the packages to
be genuine after she was informed that diamonds and other valuables were in the packages and that the sum of GD$155,000 was required to ensure that the packages were not confiscated on the basis of money laundering.
At the trial, SOCU led evidence to show that the defendant, Matthew Ejike Nwachukwu, was an accessory to the crime and that he arranged agents on behalf of the German mastermind to uplift monies from the virtual complainant at the McKenzie Post Office.
The matter was taken up by prosecutors Aaron Daniels and Neville Jeffers from the Special Organised Crime Unit, and Attorneyat-Law Lawrence Harris represented the defendant, Matthew Ejike Nwachukwu.
SOCU reports that efforts are being made to apprehend the German mastermind and other accomplices as investigations continue into the massive package delivery romance schemes.
"Sir, I does hustle da lil weed" – man busted with ganja tells Police
Thirty-five-year-old
Sayeed Salul of Gap Road, La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara (WCD) was, on Wednesday, busted with 30 grams of ganja in his possession and another 480 grams at his home.
Police stated that the ranks were conducting a routine traffic exercise in front of the Den Amstel Police Station when they intercepted a Toyota Fielder Wagon motorcar, in which Salul was the lone passenger.
Cops nab speedboat passenger with 875g of cocaine …claims he was "helping a friend"
The
Aspeedboat passenger and another man were taken into custody on Wednesday, following the discovery of 875 grams of cocaine at the Bartica Stelling, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
According to reports received, at about 16:55h on the day in question, a team of police ranks intercepted an incoming speedboat
from Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).
A male passenger who was seen acting in a suspicious manner was approached by a rank, who requested permission to search him and his personal belongings, to which he agreed.
Police stated that during the search of a plastic bag in the man’s hand containing a pineapple, the rank dis-
covered 28 plastic packages concealed in another plastic bag.
Upon inspection, the police observed that the packages contained a rock-like substance suspected to be cocaine. As such, the suspect was told of the offence, cautioned, and arrested.
He was subsequently taken to the Bartica Police Station, where the narcotics, when weighed, amounted to 875 grams.
However, during interrogation, he admitted ownership of the narcotics and informed the ranks that he was transporting the cocaine on behalf of his friend who resides at Third Avenue, Bartica.
Upon receipt of this information, the ranks swiftly apprehended the ‘friend.’ Both men were placed into custody and are assisting with the investigation.
Due to a strong scent of marijuana emanating from the motorcar, the driver and suspect were asked to exit the vehicle for a search to be carried out. During the search, a plastic bag containing the cannabis was found in Salul’s possession.
Subsequently, another search at his home in La Jalousie, West Coast Demerara, unearthed several small Ziplock bags with ganja in a chest of drawers.
He was then told of the offence committed, and under caution he replied, saying, "Sir I does hustle da lil weed.”
The ganja, when weighed, amounted to 512 grams. The suspect was placed into custody pending charges.
Arrested: Sayeed Salul
The ganja found during the traffic stop
The ganja found at the suspect’s home
cocaine that was discovered on the speedboat passenger
Jailed: Matthew Ejike Nwachukwu
FRIDAY, JUNE 13, 2025 |
$72M Children’s Court opens in Charity
The Judiciary of Guyana, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), officially opened the Children’s Court at the Charity Magistrate’s Court in Charity Magistrate District, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), to support the advancement of juvenile justice and the promotion of child welfare in the region.
The construction and renovation of the Children’s Court at the Charity Magistrate’s Court came at a cost of $72 million. This funding facilitated an upgrade of the existing infrastructure, including the complete renovation of the original court building, the addition of a new annex, the installation of perimeter fencing, and full electrical rewiring and system upgrades. It also supported the modernisation of both the children’s and magistrate’s courtrooms, along with the enhancement of washroom facilities to meet contemporary standards.
Delivering the feature address, Attorney General Nandlall hailed the occasion as a landmark achievement,
noting that the Children’s Court is the first of its kind in Region Two. He underscored the government’s commitment to investing in children, whom he described as the country’s greatest resource.
"Our greatest asset and resource are our children, and in our country, the government commitment is to invest heavily in that resource and do everything that is possible and capable of what we are doing to ensure that that resource is nurtured, grown and educated... that it evolves and that it matures in such a way that it becomes capable of attaining its fullest potential. That’s why mechanisms have been put in place across all institutions, with constitutional provisions mandating that decisions affecting children must prioritise their best interests,” the attorney general said.
He also highlighted several modern legislative advancements relating to child custody, adoption, and juvenile justice, all geared toward safeguarding the rights and welfare of children.
“We recently signed on to the conventions that had
ceremonial cutting of the ribbon
Children’s Court at the Charity
a menu of legislative measures as well as other regulatory protocols of the most modern time, all designed to protect and advance the welfare of the child," he stated.
Touching on the importance of the newly commissioned Children’s Court, Nandlall noted that the 2018 Juvenile Justice Act established detailed protocols for how children should be treated when in conflict with the
Take decisive action on volatile issues affecting Region today –COTED Chair to trade ministers
The Chair of the Caricom Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), Hon. Kerrie Symmonds, has emphasized the critical role of the Council in steering the region through an increasingly complex and volatile global trade landscape.
Speaking at the opening of the Sixtieth Regular Meeting of COTED at the Caricom Secretariat Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana, on Tuesday, Jun 11, Symmonds highlighted the urgent need for co-ordinated regional action in response to ongoing economic disruptions caused by global supply chain bottlenecks, rising shipping costs, and geopolitical tensions.
He also noted that inflationary pressures, commodity price volatility, and restrictive trade measures by major economies have placed small and vulnerable Caricom states at greater risk. These challenges, he said, demand decisive leadership and collective policy solutions aimed at strengthening regional trade integration, improving production resilience, and ensuring food and energy security across the Caribbean.
The COTED Chair called on fellow trade ministers to move beyond rhetoric and implement bold, forward-looking measures that will secure the region’s economic future in the face of global uncertainty.
“Two years ago, we could never have imagined the turmoil with which the global trading system and the global economy are now confronted. Our business community is reeling from cancelled export orders, the imposition of new and unexpected tariffs, and unprecedented uncertainties.”
He urged COTED to take swift and decisive action in addressing the pressing trade and economic challenges facing the Caribbean region. He stressed the urgent need for Caricom to strengthen its external trade position by ensuring that regional exports are able to access international markets with minimal barriers.
“The question of whether our exports can enter markets with the least possible barriers and whether imports reach us in a timely, safe, and affordable manner will all impact the performance of
our economies and determine whether we thrive or struggle as a community.”
Symmonds underscored that overcoming tariff and non-tariff obstacles is essential not only for boosting competitiveness but also for safeguarding the region’s economic growth and development in an increasingly protectionist global environment.
Caricom trade ministers met from June 10 to 11, to address an agenda dealing with the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), proposed implementation of the revised Common External Tariff (CET), progress of the Sectoral Working Group reviewing Caricom Rules of Origin, and reports from the monitoring mechanisms on sugar, cement, and rice.
Key external trade issues, including the impact of the America First Policy on Caricom, negotiations on Caricom-Colombia trade agreements, and Belize's partial scope agreement with El Salvador, also received the ministers' attention. Regional standards, reports on the industrial policy, and public procurement mechanisms were also on the agenda.
Gabriel Vockel, described the court as a vital step in guaranteeing access to justice for all children, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 16 and a shared commitment to child protection and empowerment. He reaffirmed UNICEF’s continued commitment to partnering with Guyana in safeguarding the rights of every child and ensuring they are upheld in all aspects of society.
the
law. The court, he said, will provide a dedicated space for the proper implementation of this act.
From arrest to sentencing, Nandlall emphasized that the entire process must remain child-focused and geared toward rehabilitation, with the active involvement of the Legal Affairs and Human Services Ministries.
“This is an important development, and the government will continue to support and resource this effort,” he pledged.
UNICEF Representative
“This court represents a critical step in ensuring access to justice for all children. It supports Sustainable Development Goal 16 and reflects our shared vision for child protection and empowerment,” Vockel stated.
Meanwhile, Justice of Appeal Navindra Singh reflected on the personal significance of the court’s commissioning. He noted that the court provides young people with a crucial second chance, offering them the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions while also giving them hope for a better future. Additionally, by creating a space that supports rehabilitation and restorative justice, the court enables children to change the course of their lives and reach their full potential.
Justice Singh also shared
insights into the Juvenile Justice Act, which embodies the principles of restorative justice. “Here, children will not be lost in the system. They will be heard. They will have the chance to become the best versions of themselves.” he said.
Additionally, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva also addressed the gathering, noting that Region Two is home to over 15,000 children. She emphasized that the country is entering a new era where traditional methods of child discipline and care need to evolve to meet modern standards. De Silva expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Legal Affairs and UNICEF for their dedicated efforts in making the court a reality, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in supporting children and families across the region.
“This court is a welcome boost to our justice system. We are in a new era where time has changed, and so must our approach to child discipline and care," De Silva said.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards; Chief Justice (ag), Justice Roxane George, and regional officials.
Linden Town Clerk tackles allegations of biased garbage collection
In response to mounting concerns from residents in various communities across Linden who allege that certain individuals are being given preferential treatment in the collection of garbage by the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC), Town Clerk Lennox Gasper has committed to taking firm action.
Amid residents voicing frustration over what they describe as an unfair and biased system of waste management where some areas consistently receive priority over others, Gasper, during a recent edition of the ‘A Closer Look at Municipal Matters’ programme, assured the public that the matter will be thoroughly investigated and that corrective measures will be implemented to ensure transparency, accountability, and equal treatment for all citizens.
He emphasized that the administration will not tolerate any form of corruption or favouritism within the municipal system.
“When there's special work; when there's building materials to be removed, we charge for those. But those [don't] pay into the cashier at the council, nor to the tractor driver, nor to the workmen –we pay that into the cashier. That's part of transparency; anything outside of that is corruption, and so I've got to nip that in the bud.”
The town clerk added, “They may have some ‘big boy’ – let's put it as that – or some businessman, or somebody in Cinderella City that
is able to nice a guy himself; and so, they go to him alone, pick up his garbage. But here is his neighbour, standing on his or her bridge, saying, ‘Hi sir, my stuff,’ and they're like, ‘We're coming back’ – No that cannot be happening.”
In this regard, the town clerk urged residents to promptly report any instances of unfair treatment or suspected misconduct to the appropriate authorities, including his office, so that such matters can be properly addressed. He emphasized that community cooperation is essential in identifying and eliminating corrupt practices within the municipality.
“I need the residents, the citizens, to help me help the staff get it right. While you might call and make a complaint because your garbage is growing too much for you to deal with or manage, we try to accommodate. They go, and they don't want to deal
with the entire street, or they don't want to deal with the person because you just go to accommodate one individual – we can't do it like that. Especially if the people are helping to bring the garbage themselves out and throw it into the tractor. Why would you drive away? Those are the things that I want to nip in the bud.”
LM&TC is tasked with managing solid waste collection and disposal across Linden’s eight constituencies, a vital municipal responsibility aimed at maintaining public health and environmental standards.
Historically, the Council has faced challenges, including aged equipment, limited funding, and labour disruptions. In response, it has acquired new compactor trucks to strengthen its refuse collection fleet.
Efforts have also been made to develop a comprehensive waste management strategy, in partnership with environmental consultants, to introduce proper disposal protocols, recycling, composting, and stronger enforcement measures.
Despite these initiatives, illegal dumping near the Kara Kara Blue Lake access road is causing environmental, tourism, and access concerns.
The LM&TC continues to work with regional agencies, private partners, and equipment suppliers to repair trucks, relocate dumpsites, and improve collection services in order to fulfil its mandate effectively.
The
at
commissioning of the
Magistrate’s Court. Also in photo are Chief Justice (ag), Justice Roxane George; Attorney General Anil Nandlall and UNICEF Representative Gabriel Vockel among other officials
Regional leaders at the opening ceremony on Tuesday
Linden Town Clerk Lennox Gasper
Media to play critical role in public health advocacy – Chief Medical Officer
Aiming to raise nationwide awareness and save lives, the Health Ministry is calling on media houses to play a critical role in promoting organ donation and debunking widespread misconceptions—especially those tied to religious beliefs.
The call was made during a media sensitization session hosted on Thursday, in collaboration with the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Narine Singh, while addressing the session, urged the media to capitalize on their platform and influence to raise awareness about organ transplantation, and to dispel persistent myths surrounding the issue across
Guyana.
“We are calling on the media, not just to report on organ transplantation, but to be champions of public understanding and ambassadors of truth. We recognize the media as an essential partner in national development and public health advocacy. Your voices reach every corner of society—across religions, classes, and cultures.” Dr Singh stated.
He emphasized that media professionals are not only storytellers and educators but also powerful agenda-setters. He noted that television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms are trusted sources of information throughout the country.
Participants present at the session
By raising awareness about the life-saving potential of organ and tissue donation, he explained that the media can play a vital role in dispelling fear, un-
Efforts continue in T&T to stabilise sinking Guyanese ship
En route to St Vincent carrying construction materials, cargo vessel Hein ran aground just off Monos Island, Trinidad & Tobago (T&T), on June 10. The crew is receiving assistance from both private and state agencies to stabilise the ship.
When Newsday visited the site on June 11, the vessel’s owner, Abbas Farouk, was present and co-ordinating operations. People were being transported to and from the vessel, and sling bags were being used to offload cargo to reduce the vessel’s weight.
Farouk engaged the services of Capital Signal, dispatching the tugboat C Prowler, along with a craneequipped barge, to aid in the operation.
Captain Ronald Wilde, who has over 30 years of maritime experience and has taught navigation and safety in Trinidad for the past two decades, was also on site.
Speaking to the media, Wilde said, “I’ve done a lot of salvage and pulled ships off rocks before. This is a fairly simple situation. While it is technically an emergency, there’s nothing dire here.” Wilde confirmed that a
barge had arrived to help lighten the load and alleviate the vessel’s tilt, which he explained was caused by a cargo shift. He commended the vessel’s captain for his quick thinking.
“He did an excellent job by beaching the vessel safely, which helped protect both the ship and crew. That’s exactly what I would have advised in such a situation.”
He noted that offloading the necessary tonnage to refloat the vessel would take time. Most of the cargo will likely be removed from the port side to help bring the ship closer to a stable position, though it may still not be fully level when it refloats.
“The vessel will need to be towed out, stern-first, to clear the rudder and propeller from rocks and the shoal. The next opportunity may come with the high tides, either around first light tomorrow or in the evening. If 50 to 100 tonnes are removed by then, she (the vessel) might be able to refloat.”
Despite the incident, the vessel appears intact and is not leaking fuel.
Addressing environmental concerns, Wilde said a
small amount of light oil, likely less than a cup, had spilled when the vessel began tilting. However, he stressed that it was not heavy diesel, was not persistent, and posed no environmental threat.
Wilde also said the grounding may have been the result of a miscommunication regarding an approaching storm.
According to VesselFinder, an online site that tracks vessels around the world, the Hein is a general cargo ship built in 1966 (making it 59 years old) and is currently sailing under the flag of Guyana. It has an overall length of 61.75 metres and a tonnage of 861.
Gary Aboud, corporate secretary of the environmental advocacy group Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS), acknowledged the boat had to be deliberately run aground to save the crew and the captain. He thanked the business community for its efforts in mobilising support to assist the vessel.
Aboud also acknowledged the efforts made to shift the vessel’s load in order to stabilise it.
(Source: Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)
certainty, and religious misconceptions.
Dr Singh encouraged the media to highlight success stories of transplant recipients and donor families, as well as explain the legal protections in place to ensure ethical practices.
“There are common misconceptions rooted in religion that the media can help to powerfully clarify and address.” Dr Singh added.
On that note, he stressed the importance of responsible, accurate, and sensitive reporting that encourages informed discussions in communities, religious institutions, and households.
“That is why this engagement is critical—to ensure that accurate, responsible, and sensitive information about organ donation and transplantation is shared
widely and effectively. We need your help to tell the real stories—the stories of patients whose lives have been transformed by transplants, of brave donors and their families, of progress, science, and, above all, humanity.” he said.
Dr Singh reiterated that while the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Act, passed in 2022, provides a strong legal foundation, its success depends heavily on public awareness and support.
“The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Health, has taken a firm and progressive step by establishing a structured framework for organ and tissue transplantation. But no law, no policy, no agency can succeed without the support of the public. And that is where you, the media, play a critical role.”
He illustrated this with emotional examples—a child
awaiting a kidney, a mother regaining sight through a corneal transplant, and a father receiving a second chance at life.
“These stories are real. They are powerful. And they need to be told. Organ and tissue donation is one of the greatest gifts a human being can offer.” he said.
Dr Singh concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the media in their public education efforts.
“Your role in this national journey is indispensable. We at the Ministry of Health are committed to ongoing dialogue; to providing you with technical support and accurate information, and to supporting your efforts in telling these life-changing stories. We are calling on the media not just to report on organ transplants, but to be champions of public understanding and ambassadors of truth.”
Caribbean set to outgrow US economy through 2027 – World Bank
The Caribbean region is poised to outpace not only the United States but also Europe and Japan in economic growth over the next two years.
According to the World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report released on Thursday, the Caribbean’s growth will be driven by Guyana’s ongoing oil boom and the continued rebound of tourism and services across the region.
The Caribbean is projected to grow by 3.9 percent in 2025 and by an impressive average of 6.2 percent across 2026 and 2027. Even when excluding Guyana, regional growth is expected to remain solid at 3 percent in 2025 and 3.3 percent in 2026–2027.
By contrast, the U.S. economy is forecast to grow by only 1.4 percent in 2025, followed by 1.6 percent in 2026 and 1.9 percent in 2027.
Among Caribbean countries, Guyana stands out with an extraordinary growth projection: 10 percent in 2025, followed by 23 and 24.3 percent in 2026 and 2027, respectively. The Dominican Republic, another high performer, is set to grow by 4 percent in 2025 and an average of 4.3 per-
cent in the two years after, fuelled by structural reforms and rising foreign investment.
The broader Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region is forecast to grow by 2.3 percent in 2025, improving to 2.4 percent in 2026 and 2.6 percent in 2027—surpassing both the U.S. and other major economies such as the Euro area (1.6% in 2026 and 1.9% in 2027) and Japan (0.8% and 1%, respectively).
While the regional outlook remains positive, the World Bank cautions that external risks such as rising protectionism, policy uncertainty, and global financial
tightening could affect export performance and delay fiscal improvements. Still, the Caribbean stands at the forefront of global growth prospects heading into the latter half of the decade.
Felicia J. Persaud, CEO of Invest Caribbean, reacting to the World Bank data in the Global Economic Prospects, June 2026 report, stated, “The time is now to invest in the Caribbean – and the numbers back it up. To all those who have dismissed the region as too small or unworthy of investment or lending, it’s time to wake up from your slumber.”
(Barbados Gazette)
Hein, a Guyanese cargo vessel, right, is being assisted by the tugboat C Prowler, left, and a barge equipped with a crane on June 11, after it ran aground off Monos Island on June 10
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh
Regional
Torrential rain in T&T causes flooding, forces closure of schools
Heavy rains and thunderstorms swept across T&T on Wednesday, leaving a trail of fallen trees, flash floods, and infrastructure damage in their wake.
The country’s first Adverse Weather Alert for June took effect at 2 am.
Within hours, the showers left emergency crews in Tobago scrambling to respond to incidents from Mason Hall to Scarborough. Safety concerns prompted officials from the Division of Education, Research and Technology to order the closure of all schools in Tobago at around 10.30 am.
The weather system hit Tobago and northern Trinidad particularly hard, with the Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) and the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government (RDLG) working through the morning to clear fallen trees from blocked roadways.
By day’s end, authorities had recorded 13 weather-related incidents, ranging from fallen trees and landslides to flooding.
TEMA reported ten weather-related incidents by 2 pm. Trees crashed down in Mason Hall, Glamorgan, Belle
Garden, and Charlotteville, while floodwaters inundated areas in Whim and Scarborough.
In Delaford, a fallen tree damaged a house, and in Belle Garden, high-tension electrical wires came to rest dangerously on a rooftop.
In a 6 pm update, officials of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) said that surface water treatment facilities across Tobago and Northern Trinidad were struggling with high turbidity levels and clogged screens— direct results of rivers swollen by the day’s heavy rainfall.
The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service (TTMS) updated their alert at 10 am Wednesday, warning that more significant rainfall is expected to return today. The current alert remains active until 4 pm Thursday,
pending any further updates.
A Met Service advisory, issued at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, stated:
“After continued rainfall activity, the Manuel Congo River and the Caroni River near the Tumpuna and El Carmen areas have all reached critical threshold levels (based on official data) and may soon overflow their banks as water levels continue in an upward trajectory. While weather conditions have settled over Trinidad currently, further rainfall activity will likely continue over the next 24 hours which will result in further elevation of these river levels. As a result, there continues to be a severe risk to public safety, livelihood and property in communities surrounding these rivers.”
(Source: Trinidad & Tobago Guardian, CNC3)
EU removes Jamaica and Barbados from high-risk money laundering list
Jamaica and Barbados are no longer considered high-risk jurisdictions for money laundering and terrorist financing by the European Union, following a significant update to the EU’s official list of countries requiring enhanced financial scrutiny.
In a statement released this week, the European Commission confirmed that both Caribbean nations, along with Gibraltar, Panama, the Philippines, Senegal, Uganda, and the United Arab Emirates, have been delisted after demonstrating substantial progress in strengthening their anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financ-
ing (AML/CFT) frameworks.
“The Commission concludes that these countries have addressed the strategic deficiencies identified in their AML/CFT regimes,” the statement read. “It is therefore appropriate to remove these countries” from the EU’s list of high-risk third-country jurisdictions.
The Commission’s decision follows a “thorough technical assessment” that considered criteria set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog on money laundering. The review included bilateral discussions, on-site visits, and analysis of reforms implemented by the
delisted countries.
As a founding member of the FATF, the European Commission stressed the importance of alignment with the international body’s list of “Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring.” According to the Commission, both Jamaica and Barbados met the requirements laid out in action plans previously agreed upon with the FATF.
No other Caribbean nation was delisted. New additions to the list include Algeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal, and Venezuela. (Excerpt from CNW)
United States Coast Guard transfers 20 Cuban migrants to Bahamian authorities
The United States Coast Guard has transferred 20 Cuban nationals to Bahamian authorities following a coordinated rescue effort near Anguilla Cay, an uninhabited island in the Bahamas.
According to a statement from the Seventh Coast Guard District, the operation began Friday when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami agents alerted Coast Guard watchstanders about
a potential group of migrants stranded on Anguilla Cay.
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations aircrew confirmed the group’s presence and condition, while a Coast Guard Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft dropped supplies— food, water, and a radio—to maintain contact with the group.
Bahamian officials formally requested assistance from
the Coast Guard, prompting the deployment of the United States Coast Guard Cutter Walnut. The cutter’s crew arrived on scene and brought the individuals aboard due to “safety of life at sea concerns pending their disposition.”
The migrants were later transferred to the Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell and handed over to Bahamian authorities on Tuesday. (Excerpt from CNW)
B’dos sets up cameras for illegal dumpers
Barbados environment Minister Adrian Forde, has warned that surveillance cameras are now quietly monitoring illegal dumping hotspots across Barbados, with offenders to be prosecuted in the courts.
Speaking during a World Environment Month press briefing on Wednesday, Forde confirmed that the long-announced monitoring system is now in place and operational, though he declined to disclose the camera locations.
“We have started to put cameras in specific areas so that we can be able to catch those outbreaks and use the registration [plates] to bring them before the law courts.” Forde said.
“That’s all I can say on it... they don’t need to know where the cameras are.”
The minister’s blunt
warning came as he delivered a passionate appeal for Barbadians to stop littering and polluting the environment, especially gullies, which he described as vital natural buffers against climate change.
Forde said the government’s Gullies Are Life project, designed to protect biodiversity and strengthen climate resilience, has already revealed the extent of public disregard including the dumping of old appliances and chemical pollutants in sensitive green spaces.
“It is heart-breaking. We’ve picked up devices, sometimes old ones, that should never have been dumped there. It shows how we are treating our gullies and ecosystems.” he said.
The minister reminded the public that recently passed Storm Water
Management legislation allows for fines of up to $20?000 for individuals who pollute the national water supply.
He urged residents to dispose of waste properly and use the bins and collection systems provided.
“I’m not asking Barbadians to go to Mars and recycle carbon dioxide into oxygen. I’m asking them to do the simple, basic things.” he said.
“Stop littering. Stop illegal dumping. Stop putting chemicals in our gullies. These are not big asks nor rocket science.”
Forde also criticised cruise-goers and beach users who discard plastics and garbage into the ocean, calling for a collective effort to protect the island’s marine environment. (Excerpt from Barbados Today)
Bolivia anti-Government protests turn deadly as tensions rise
Clashes between anti-government protesters and authorities in Bolivia have left at least four first responders dead, the country's justice minister said on Thursday.
Tensions have intensified in recent days as supporters of former President Evo Morales, who have strangled transportation by blocking highways across the Andean nation, skirmish with officials attempting to clear the roadblocks.
The demonstrations have gained momentum primarily in Bolivia's rural areas, where Morales' supporters have taken to the streets to express their frustration over the former president's disqualification from running in upcoming elections and the
country's deteriorating economic situation.
The deceased are three police officers and a firefighter, Bolivia's state news agency reported.
"We can't call these civilian protests anymore.
We are talking about paramilitary groups, groups that carry weapons, and we have to respond firmly," Siles said.
The government has deployed military tanks to Llallagua, where the most significant clashes between authorities and protesters have occurred, according to local media reports. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Cuba’s students call for resignations and strikes after brutal Internet price hike
Having endured electricity blackouts, water shortages, transport failures and the spiralling cost of food, Cuba’s students appear to have finally lost patience with their government over a ferocious price hike for the country’s faltering internet.
Local chapters of Cuba’s Federation of University Students (FEU) have been calling for a slew of measures, including attendance strikes, explanations from ministers and even the resignation of their own organisation’s president.
Trouble began when Etecsa, Cuba’s stateowned communications
monopoly, recently increased prices for its mobile data without giving notice. While it offered 6GB a month at a subsidised rate of 360 pesos (about $1 at black market rates), prices would rise to 3,360 pesos ($9) for the next 3GB. There was immediate uproar across a country where monthly state wages start at 2,100 pesos ($5.70) and the internet has become the route by which much of the population hears news, buys necessities, runs small businesses and communicates with relatives abroad. The average Cuban uses 10GB a month, according to the government.
The students, some of whom called their protest “brave, revolutionary and respectful”, said that while the internet was the trigger, real anger is aimed at Cuba’s communist government’s increasing reliance on US dollars. In recent months, state supermarkets have opened across Cuba that only accept hard currencies. Gasoline stations are switching away from the peso. There are rumours that electricity is about to follow. Each of these measures comes with foreign packages that encourage Cubans to ask their relatives abroad to pay. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Military Police clear a roadblock in Parotani, Bolivia, on June 11
Around the World
OOIL NEWS
Oil settles lower as traders gauge Middle East tensions
Survivor of Air India crash jumped out of emergency exit, Police say
– only known survivor of 242 person onboard
Ril prices settled slightly lower on Thursday as traders booked profits from a 4% rally in the prior session, driven by concerns that worsening tensions in the Middle East could cause supply disruptions.
Brent crude futures settled down 41 cents, or 0.6%, at $69.36 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude fell 11 cents, or 0.2%, to settle at $67.97 a barrel.
The U.S. had earlier decided to move personnel out of the Middle East, sending both crude oil benchmarks up more than 4% to their highest since early April on Wednesday.
The surge put the market in overbought territory based on several technical indicators, so it was likely due for a brief correction, StoneX Energy analyst Alex Hodes said.
Rising tensions in the region have oil traders worried about possible supply disruptions.
Britain's maritime agency warned on Wednesday that increased tensions in the Middle East may escalate military activity and impact shipping in critical waterways.
JPMorgan said oil prices could surge to $120-$130 a barrel if the Strait of Hormuz were to be shut, a scenario the bank considered to be severe but a low risk.
Still, oil traders were growing cautious.
"We are still higher than two days ago, as some short investors prefer to stay on the sidelines amid the uncertainty," said Giovanni Staunovo, an analyst at UBS.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff plans to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Oman on Sunday to discuss Iran's response to a U.S. proposal for a deal. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Newsom
calls
Trump
a
stone cold liar as LA protests against ICE raids continue
Gavin Newsom, California s governor, has called Donald Trump a stone-cold liar , condemned the federal deployment of troops in Los Angeles as theater and madness and even questioned the president s mental fitness, as protests over immigration raids in the city continue.
Trump federalised 2,000 of California s National Guard on Saturday, with a US president acting over the objections of a state governor in this way for the first time in more than half a century. It followed the outbreak of protests over a series of sweeping immigration raids in the LA area, with Newsom criticizing Trump s actions as illegal overreach, unconstitutional and provocation . Newsom, a Democrat, said that Trump never raised with him the federalising of the National Guard before it occurred when the two spoke by phone last Friday, despite the president s claims to the contrary. He lied, stonecold liar, the governor told the New York Times podcast The Daily on Thursday morning in an interview.
This is theatre; it s madness; it s unconstitutional;
it s immoral. It puts people s lives at risk; these people are being used as pawns.
Newsom said that looting is unacceptable , but that more than 1,600 police were dealing with the situation, and his greater concern was the thuggish behaviour of the Trump administration in ordering the military onto the streets of a US city.
Several members of the federalised National Guard have told friends and family they are deeply unhappy about the deployment.
Newsom told local media that Trump s age seemed to be affecting him.
He claimed to the Times that the president can t recall the phone conversation they had on Friday and that he s not all there , echoing comments first made by the governor on Monday that Trump, who turns 79 on Saturday, is incapable of even a train of thought and that he has lost it .
Trump said that the actions in Los Angeles were necessary. If I didn t act quickly on that, Los Angeles would be burning to the ground right now, Trump said. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
amesh Vishwashkumar, the only known survivor out of the 242 people onboard an Air India plane that crashed in Ahmedabad on Thursday, had been sitting near an emergency exit of the London-bound flight and managed to jump out, police said.
Speaking from his hospital bed, the 40-year-old told Indian media that he was a British national and was travelling to Britain with his brother after visiting family in India.
Ramesh who shared a picture of his boarding pass with reporters says, "Thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise... it all happened so quickly."
It was not clear whether Vishwashkumar managed to jump out before the plane made impact.
Social media footage shown on Indian news channels showed a man in a bloodstained white t-shirt and dark pants limping on a street and being helped by a medic. The man had bruis-
plied, "They're all inside."
A photo of Vishwashkumar's boarding pass shown online by the Hindustan Times showed that he was seated in seat 11A of the plane bound for Gatwick Airport.
The aircraft came down in a residential area, crashing into a medical college hostel outside the airport
es on his face and a goatee beard, resembling photographs of Viswashkumar in hospital after the crash that were published by local media.
Reuters could not immediately verify the video, in which people gathered around the man and asked him where the other passengers were, to which he re-
during lunchtime, in the world's worst aviation disaster in a decade.
More than 240 people were killed in the crash.
Police said a previously shared death toll of 294 was wrong due to some double-counted body parts.
There were 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals and
one Canadian on the flight, Air India says.
Altogether, 229 passengers and 12 crew members were killed in the crash, the airline says.
At least 50 injured medical students were taken to hospital earlier today after the plane crashed into a doctors' hostel in the Western Indian city.
India s Federation of All India Medical Association said five students were missing, but the BBC is yet to hear a further update.
The plane, en route to London, hit a hostel for doctors when it crashed, and images show its tail protruding from the building.
BBC correspondent Roxy Gagdekar has been speaking to people at the scene of the crash in Ahmedabad.
We heard a loud noiseit sounded like a bomb blast. One man says.
There was smoke and fire. I said, Let's go and see.
Someone said that the plane had fallen, he says, adding, As soon as I got there, I saw that the plane was on fire. There were three people lying nearby.
Another man, a taxi driver who was working nearby, says, When I saw the smoke, I ran there. I couldn't go
near the plane; there were dead bodies outside. The plane s wing had come out on the main road. There was smoke everywhere, he says.
DNA testing of the victims of the plane crash is currently underway, a press release from Indian Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah says.
Shah, who has now visited the crash site after earlier speaking to survivors in hospital, says that only once DNA testing is complete will an official death toll be released.
Late into night-time, Indian officials said they have completed their rescue operation at the vast Ahmedabad plane crash site.
A police official who wanted to stay anonymous has told the BBC that all the bodies and their remains have been removed from the site of the crash.
And it s not just those on board, he continues. The building the plane crashed on, the hospital, was full of medical students. Many have died, from our understanding.
It s going to be a long night for all of us. (Source: BBC News, Reuters)
China ready to drop all tariffs on African imports
China has said it is ready to drop the tariffs it charges on imports from all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations.
The move, announced at a China-Africa co-operation meeting, comes as the continent is facing the possibility of increased tariffs on its products entering the US.
China is Africa's largest trading partner a position it has held for the last 15 years with Africa exporting goods to the Asian nation worth around $170bn ( 125bn) in 2023.
The zero-tariff move,
when implemented, will be an extension of the deal made last year for China to drop tariffs on goods from 33 African nations classified as "least developed".
The expanded list will include some of China's larg-
est trading partners on the continent, including South Africa and Nigeria. China has not said when the decision will come into effect.
Eswatini is the only African state excluded from the zero-tariff announce-
ment, as it recognises Taiwan as an independent country, whereas China regards it as a breakaway province.
China currently imports a lot of raw materials from Africa, notably from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea.
In April, President Donald Trump caused consternation among US trading partners by announcing high tariffs on its imports from many countries, including a 50% rate for Lesotho, 30% for South Africa and 14% for Nigeria. (Excerpt from BBC News)
A number of buildings like this one were badly damaged, with twisted fragments of the aircraft seen stuck between the floors
Vishwashkumar Ramesh meets Indian Interior Minister Amit Shah in hospital
Venture out, discover what’s new and exciting and put your energy into building friendships with people heading in a similar direction. Keep an open mind, but don’t lose sight of your goal.
Presentation is everything when you want others to do things for you. Do your homework and upgrade your skills and qualifications. Combining thought with action will bring you to the winner’s circle.
Review the possibilities and move forward one step at a time. Enjoy each moment as it comes. It’s time to breathe, smell the flowers and be grateful for what you have.
Keep the momentum growing. The moment you slow down or give someone the chance to step in and take charge, you’ll have regrets. Opportunity requires action if you wish to be a forerunner in your field.
Be careful: Too much, too soon will be costly. Put a halt on your plans until you have all your ducks in a row. Precision, timing and execution are essential to fulfilling your destiny. Don’t rely on others or take shortcuts.
A shift in how you handle financial and medical affairs is necessary. Get out into the mainstream and discover what’s meaningful to the masses. Knowing what’s necessary and what’s fruitless will save you time.
First and foremost, be honest with yourself. Keep your situation in perspective. Refuse to let laziness or self-pity set in when your creativity, charm and confidence will carry much more weight.
Do you want to bulldoze your way forward or gain support incrementally? Think big, but fine-tune your game plan to fit your budget, time and skills. Make sure you have adequate support lined up.
Look for something that moves you. Walk away from annoyances while seeking out people who are interested in your pursuits. Taking on too much or not communicating will threaten your home life.
Get out, venture into the mainstream and get a better view of trends. Attend conferences, networking functions and exhibits where you can share your thoughts and skills. Romance is favored.
Deal with your emotions before they get you in trouble. Applying pressure will make you look bad. Take an approach that offers insight and assistance to others.
Uncertainty will hold you back. Approach someone who can offer a financial perspective regarding your plans, and you’ll gain insight into how much your plans might cost. Time is on your side.
ARCHIE
Australia ahead after Cummins, Rabada and Ngidi dominate pulsating 2nd day
For two hours in the middle of day two, Australia had one hand on the World Test Championship (WTC) mace after taking a 74-run first-innings lead at Lord’s. For the next two, South Africa did their utmost to prise their fingers from it, and for the one after that, Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc fought them off with a 61-run eighth-wicket partnership. As things stand, Australia still have a few fingers on the mace after a gripping day of Test cricket.
It was, once again, a day for bowlers. Fourteen wickets fell on day two, the same number as the first day, for a total of 28 wickets in six sessions.
Pat Cummins stole the early headlines when he became the first visiting Captain to take a fivefor at Lord’s and then went on to pluck his 300th Test wicket. Then it was over to Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen who had Australia 44 for 3 before Lungi Ngidi, back in the Test side after 10 months and coming off a poor first innings, redeemed himself with three wickets in a nine-over spell that broke Australia open.
Where things stand at the end of the day is that South Africa will already have to pull off the fourth-highest successful chase at Lord’s, and do it against Australia’s unrelenting attack. That means it’s probably still advantage Australia after a breathless seven and half hours in a final that has hit fast-forward.
South Africa resumed on 43 for 4, 169 runs behind Australia’s 212 and on a goslow. Temba Bavuma had laboured his way to 3 off 37 overnight as South Africa’s innings ground to a halt, but he showed more initiative on the second morning. He struck two glorious lofted drives in Starc’s second over of the day and looked to be
finding his touch. Bavuma was on 17 before he was given out lbw off a Josh Hazlewood delivery that nipped in and struck his back pad, and he reluctantly reviewed. To everyone’s disbelief including Bavuma’s, Snicko showed an inside edge. Bavuma went on to drive Hazlewood and Starc over the covers and pull Cummins into the stands for six in what looked like an increasingly authoritative stay at the crease. His partnership with David Bedingham grew to 64 and it took a moment of magic in the field to separate them. Bavuma drove Cummins in the air and to the right of Marnus Labuschagne, who dived full length and pouched it with both hands.
Bavuma’s dismissal sent South Africa back into their shells. Bedingham and Kyle
Bedingham reached for the ball and dropped it close to his foot. Usman Khawaja and Smith began appealing for obstructing the field, and there was some excitement before it was decided the ball was dead. Bedingham responded by hitting the next ball, a half-volley, for four and South Africa went to
Verreynne scored 17 nervy runs in the next 52 balls and both looked vulnerable.
Bedingham was drawn into a false stroke by Hazlewood and Verreynne was on 1 when he edged Beau Webster just short of Steven Smith at second slip. But the moment of controversy came when Bedingham edged Webster onto the flap of his pad. Carey moved towards him in an attempt to take a catch and the ball bobbled into and then out of Bedingham’s pad flap. At that moment,
lunch on 121 for 5, 91 runs behind.
More drama ensued after the break when Cummins hit Verreynne on the pad as he shuffled across, and the ball deflected to fine leg. Verreynne attempted a run, Cummins turned to appeal, and the pair collided, by which point a throw had come in and there was also the chance of a run-out. Cummins asked for a review on the lbw and replays suggested the ball would have gone on to hit leg stump. Three balls later, Jansen handed Cummins a simple return catch, and at 126 for 7 South Africa were in disarray.
Cummins completed his five-for when he had Bedingham caught behind off a thin edge three overs later and then got his 300th when Rabada nailed a pull to Webster at deep square. Cummins finished with 6 for 28 in a final analysis that included six maiden overs out of 18.1 and barely a bad ball.
Crucially, he gave Australia an important lead that could still have a decisive say on this game.
The same can be said of South Africa’s collapse. They lost 5 for 12 in 35 balls; Australia had lost 5 for 20 in the same time on day one.
South Africa came out looking flat as Labuschagne took Rabada’s opening over for seven. Rabada and Jansen bowled three noballs in the first four overs, but started to find their rhythm when Rabada hit Labuschagne on the pad in his third over and then induced an outside edge.
In the next over, Jansen thought he had Khawaja caught behind and Bavuma burned a review to see daylight between bat and ball. It took until the 11th over for things to start happening for South Africa. For the second time in the match, Rabada struck twice in an over, against the same two batters. Khawaja was caught behind poking outside off and Cameron Green edged to third slip. Smith sought to restore order with a straight drive that went for four. Australia went to tea on 32 for 2, 106 ahead.
As was the case on day one, the evening session could only be described with one word: mayhem. Jansen bowled a marathon spell either side of the break and was into his eighth over when he offered Labuschagne a full one that was just short of driving length, and he nicked off.
Khawaja, Labuschagne and Green had collectively scored 49 runs in this match, the worst return by an Australian top three since 1890.
Then came Ngidi. After three unspectacular overs post-tea, he went fullish and straight. Smith missed and was hit on the back pad and Bavuma was convinced to review again and was success-
ful. Ngidi then hit Webster on the back pad with a ball that tailed in and the number six reviewed unsuccessfully. In the next over, Wiaan Mulder beat Travis Head’s inside-edge and the ball ricocheted off his pads onto the stumps, and then came the delivery of the evening: Ngidi’s yorker to Cummins. It thundered into middle and off and Australia were 73 for 7.
But just as South Africa may have started to sniff something special, their momentum drained away. Carey and Starc put on 61 for the eighth wicket at a good clip – 4.31 runs an over – before Rabada had one last word on the day. He got the ball to move back into Carey
from around the wicket and had him out lbw in an over peppered with no-balls. All told, Rabada bowled five on the day and six in the match so far and South Africa have overstepped 19 times. They’ll worry about that as much as what could have been in the final over when Jansen dropped Starc at gully, off Mulder, off the thirdlast ball of the day. By then, South Africa had moved the fielders behind the bat closer in, as several balls had dropped short, and Jansen’s attempts to juggle were not as successful as they had been the day before. Australia go into the third day with a lead of 218 runs and two wickets in hand.
Kagiso Rabada is pumped after taking two wickets on the second day
Alex Carey works one off his hips
Pat Cummins picked up 6 for 28
Stage of Champions CEO looks towards a bright future
The One Guyana Stage of Champions was etched in the history books last weekend at National Culture Centre, as Christina Ramsammy made history as the first person to win a pro card at the sixth edition of the event.
In the Bikini Open contest, the Guyanese won first place as Meyer Charelle got second. Sabita Stephenson and Ralissa Weleleer finished third and fourth respectively.
Stage of Champions Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) Vidish Sookram highlighted, “Christina Ramsammy will definitely go down in history. It was the first pro qualifying event and we have one of our very own in Guyana and she was the first person to win that pro card in the bikini category. The pro card was handed over by the Honourable Minister Charles Ramson, who also will be in history for doing that. The first pro card by a Guyanese and handed over by the Minister of Culture
and Sport.”
He went on to state, “Stage of Champions was definitely a success because of 1) the sponsors and most of all, the Government support. The Government and the Ministry of Culture and Sport. It was attended by 25 countries and the level of competitors was definitely such a pro quality and deserving of a pro card.”
The event’s CEO was also asked about the future projections and goals for the Stage of Champions.
Essequibo set to host next Precision Sports Camp
After a very successful camp held in Demerara, Precision Sports will continue training young female cricketers across Guyana on the 14th and 15th of June in the Essequibo county.
Female athletes from across the country will participate in various training sessions as they look to enhance their skills and develop their personal game.
Organiser of the camps, Nidia Andrews shared some of her thoughts before this weekend activities.
“We will definitely be focusing on batting and fitness during this Essequibo leg of the training sessions. Batting has been a lacking factor over the years, and after the Demerara sessions, it showed us how much needs
to be done,” Andrews noted.
The organiser divulged, “Training is open to females of any age group since the goal is to help with the development of their skills. At present, we have the U19 girls, senior inter-county players, and a few national players coming out.”
Andrews also expressed gratitude to the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) for the important role it is playing, in order to maximise the upcoming training sessions.
“The Essequibo Cricket Board is providing us with the hostel in Anna Regina and their bowling machine in the indoor area so we are very grateful for that.”
“To be as transparent as possible, it was extremely difficult to get an indoor facility during our Demerara sessions. The
countless calls and running around we had to do and never got a straight answer from the National Sporting Commission. We had access to the National Gymnasium due to just showing up and having faith that it would work out. We bought brooms the morning of the Saturday session and swept the water off the basketball court, then on Sunday the volleyball team had no issue sharing the inside with us when they came in, because it was raining heavily outside,” Andrews later disclosed.
Precision Sports continues to aid in the females’ preparation as the cricketers continue to fine-tune their skills for the upcoming Women’s 15-over tournament taking place in Guyana from August 9th to the 15th.
Contestants for the Bikini Open
“Definitely, the projection of this sport is going forward. It’s definitely going forward at a fast rate. I mean, it’s only six competitions and we are already granted eight pro cards. However, we only had three categories. In the future, we plan to have more than four categories. We plan to have at least all eight, so that we could have all eight pro cards to give away; that way, we will have more visitors from more countries, more athletes from different parts of the world. It will be bigger and better,” Sookram explained.
He went on to add about the event’s potential, “It also looks like it is a competition that will also boost tourism in Guyana, because, for instance, you have the Roger Boyce Classic in Barbados,
which is very similar on a slightly higher level. Because of it, the storm has been there for a very long time. This definitely boosts tourism, because you have athletes coming from different parts of the world: Spain, Italy, Egypt, Morocco, Dubai, different places, Brazil, the United Kingdom and so on. So, this, that is the level of competition that we’re looking to have in Guyana.”
Pacers beat Thunder to take lead again in NBA Finals
Tyrese Haliburton praised a team effort from the Indiana Pacers after they beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-107 to take a 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals.
Haliburton scored 22 points and made 11 assists and nine rebounds as the Pacers overturned a five-point deficit going into the fourth quarter in game three of the best-of-seven series.
The Pacers bench outscored the Thunder by 4918, with reserve Bennedict Mathurin contributing 27 points at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
“So many different guys chipped in,” said Haliburton. “Ben Mathurin was amazing off the bench. We just had guys make plays after plays.”
Mathurin said: “The main thing is you have to be resilient. You have to be the aggressor in order to win games.”
The Pacers, who went into the game after a 123-107 defeat in game two, extended a run of not losing consecutive games since March.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, scored 24 points for the Thunder, but only three in the fourth quarter.
Tyrese Haliburton was one rebound shy of a triple-double
Jalem Williams top-scored for the visitors with 26 points, while Chet Holmgren scored 20 points and made 10 rebounds for a Thunder side that gave up 19 turnovers which led to 21 points for the Pacers.
“In the fourth quarter, I just thought they really outplayed us on both ends,” said Thunder Coach Mark Daigneault.
Game four will take place at the same venue at 20:30 local time today (01:30 BST, Saturday). (BBC Sport)
2nd – Joel Tobie 3rd – Getrouw Rudolph
Men’s Physique over 177 cm 1st – Ruley Chundler 2nd – Marley Vyphuis
Stabroek Ballers maul Game Changers; 5 teams advance to round of 16
When the round of 32 in the inaugural June Madness Futsal championship powered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and ANSA McAL commenced on Wednesday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Stabroek Ballers romped to a huge 11-1 win over Game Changers to highlight the night’s proceedings.
Guyana
Along with Stabroek Ballers A, four other teams –Gold Is Money, Corinthians, Spaniards and Bent Street B – have all booked their spots in the round of 16. Two seeded teams were sent packing on the night: Stabroek B which fell to Spaniards and Espyanol downed by Corinthians.
Leading the charge for Stabroek Ballers A was
Brandon Solomon (6th, 9th, 24th) and Deon Alfred (16th, 18th, 27th) with a hat-trick of goals each. Seon Taylor added a double in the 25th and 29th minute with one each for Randy Maynard (13th), Lionel Holder (23rd) and Shem James in the final minute of play.
Game Changers’ consolation goal came off the boots of Emmanuel Lewis in the
through to knockout stage of U23 3x3 Tournament in Paraguay
Team Guyana, featuring Anish Ramlall, Domitre Ranking, Arren Vanlewin, and Stephen George, have advanced to the next round of the U23 3x3 basketball tournament in Paraguay.
The event marks the conclusion of a high-performance training Camp ahead of this year’s Junior Pan American Games.
Under the leadership of Coach Willon Cameron, Guyana will now face Group A winners Paraguay today at 09:00h (local time).
Drawn in Group A alongside Argentina, Grenada, and the Cayman Islands, Guyana faced a mixed set of results in the group stage.
The Cayman Islands were forced to withdraw due to two injuries sustained during pre-tournament training, resulting in a walkover win for the other teams.
Guyana battled Grenada, but came up short in a 16-21 contest, and against tournament favourites Argentina, they were defeated 10-21.
Coach Cameron noted that it was the first time the players were competing together as a unit, but highlighted their steady progress throughout the training camp.
“The tournament was a great opportunity for the players to apply what they’ve learned since the programme began on Monday,” said Coach Cameron.
penultimate minute of the match in which they were totally outplayed by the more seasoned Stabroek Ballers A, one of the 16 seeded teams that earned second-round spots.
Spaniards, who got past Unity Ballers 5-2 in their first-round match, proved that they are as good as the seeded teams when they racked up their second win, trouncing Stabroek B 7-3, led by braces from Tyreck Cummings (5th, 17th) and Omar Brewley (13th, 29th). They were ably supported by Kendolph Lewis (2nd), Teshawn Gordon (20th) and Jashawn Moore (25th).
Stabroek B’s three goals, which were not enough, came from Kevin Padmore (15th), Jamal Bristol (27th) and Jonathan McKenzie (28th).
Gold Is Money easily put away Young Stars 3-0 on account of goals from Randolph Wagner (6th, 29th) and Tevin Troyer.
In a clash of the Spanish teams, and a very physical showdown, Corinthians outhustled Espanyol 4-1, thanks to goals from Mauel (5th), Luiz David (15th), Adriane Talla (28th), and Carlos Escobar (28th). Espanyol’s consolation goal was scored by Felix Nunez in the 24th
minute.
The night’s opening clash was a close matchup, but Bent Street B were able to hold their nerve to edge Albouystown A 3-2. Samuel Garnett (16th), Lennox Young (17th), and Tyric McAllister (21st) lay the platform for the win and a place in the round of 16, Albouystown A tucked in two late goals from Timothy Thomas (26th) and Ezikiel Telford in the final minute of play.
Five more matches were slated for Thursday night, with the next match night being Father’s Day night and it is anticipated to be epic.
CWI announces historic T20I series against Emerging Nation Nepal
Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Thursday announced the Region’s participation in a historic three-match T20 International series against the Asian nation of Nepal, the first-ever bilateral series between the two teams, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing mission to grow and globalise the game of cricket.
The camp, hosted in Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, runs until June 13 and is part of a wider initiative to prepare teams for the upcoming Junior Pan Am Games.
Guyana’s participation comes on the heels of a newly-signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the Paraguayan Olympic Committee, designed to foster greater collaboration and development in sports.
Other countries participating are Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil, Paraguay, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Roca, and the US Virgin Islands.
Taking place in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates UAE) on September 27, 28, and 30, 2025, the series is being hosted by the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and represents a landmark opportunity for Nepal as it gears up for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier later this year.
For CWI, the engagement reflects its strong commitment to supporting the development of cricket in emerging nations and fostering meaningful partnerships with fellow cricketing boards worldwide.
Speaking on the importance of this occasion, CWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chris Dehring stated, “This series is more than just a set of international matches – it’s a celebration of the game’s expanding global footprint and a testament to what cricket represents: pride, purpose, and the power of unity. As a
full-member nation, we see it as part of our responsibility to contribute to the development of cricket beyond our borders. Supporting Nepal in this key phase of their cricketing journey not only builds the sport at the grassroots and international levels, but also reminds us of the deep pride and honour associated with representing our nation and wearing our national colours. We are proud to stand with Nepal at this moment in their history and look forward to exciting and competitive cricket in Sharjah.”
The West Indies team, known for its rich legacy and dynamic style of play, is expected to field a competitive squad that will offer Nepal critical exposure ahead of
their World Cup qualifying campaign. The series also provides an opportunity for players and fans alike to experience the spirit of international cricket in a vibrant, neutral venue.
CWI extends its sincere thanks to CAN and the Emirates Cricket Board for their collaboration in organising the series and looks forward to continuing to work together towards advancing the global growth and accessibility of the game of cricket.
From left: Arren Vanlewin, Stephen George, Coach Willon Cameron, Domitre Ranking, and Anish Ramlall
West Indies A team toured Nepal last year
A look at the clash between Corinthians (black and white) and Espanyol.
Guyana to host Massy WCPL for 1st time
Cricket fans can look forward to an exciting showcase of worldclass women’s T20 cricket as the 2025 Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) comes to Guyana from September 6 to September 17, the first time in the tournament’s fouryear history.
The tournament will feature three teams: the Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, and Trinbago Knight Riders, who will battle it out over six group stage matches, culminating in a thrilling final on September 17.
All fixtures are scheduled to be held at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence, a venue renowned for its electric atmosphere and passionate support. The Barbados Royals, defending champions for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024), will aim for a historic third title, while the Warriors and Knight Riders seek to dethrone them and claim the WCPL crown.
Adding further excitement, the WCPL matches will be played as double-headers alongside games from the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL). This unique format provides fans with unparalleled access to both men’s and women’s elite T20 cricket in a single outing – doubling the action and delivering even greater value for spectators.
Cricket West Indies
(CWI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chris Dehring highlighted the growing stature of the tournament, “Women’s cricket continues
to grow year on year, and the WCPL is a hugely-important part of our cricketing calendar. We are looking forward to seeing the best Caribbean talent play alongside fantastic players from around the world in what we are sure will be an excellent event.”
CPL CEO Pete Russell emphasised the significance
of this year’s edition, “We are incredibly proud to continue building on the success of the WCPL as we head into the 2025 tournament. Each year the competition grows stronger, and we are committed to providing a platform that showcases the exceptional talent within women’s cricket across the Region and beyond.”
The 2025 WCPL is not only a celebration of top-tier women’s cricket but also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of cricketers across the Caribbean. With local and international stars on display, fans will witness unforgettable moments, emerging talents, and a renewed commitment to gender equity in the sport.
Date and time Teams Venue
Sat, Sept 6, 2pm Guyana Amazon Warriors v Trinbago Knight Riders Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Sun, Sept 7, 3pm Guyana Amazon Warriors v Barbados Royals Guyana National Stadium, Providence Wed, Sept 10, 2pm Trinbago Knight Riders v Barbados Royals Guyana National Stadium, Providence Sat, Sept 13, 4pm Trinbago Knight Riders v Guyana Amazon Warriors Guyana National Stadium, Providence Sun, Sept 14, 2pm Barbados Royals v Guyana Amazon Warriors Guyana National Stadium, Providence Tues, Sept 16, 3pm Barbados Royals v Trinbago Knight Riders Guyana National Stadium, Providence Wed, Sept 17, 2pm WCPL FINAL – 1st place v 2nd place Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Note, the Men’s Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League match on Sunday, September 7 between Guyana Amazon Warriors and St Kitts & Nevis Patriots will now start at 8pm.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors Women will host the tournament for the first time
The Barbados Royals Women are the tournament’s defending champions
