Works progress “ahead of schedule” as EBD road reopens – Edghill
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Monday, April 7 –01:30h-03:00h and Tuesday, April 8 – 02:30h-04:00h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, April 7 –12:35h-14:05h and Tuesday, April 8 – 13:35h-15:05h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Light to thundery rain showers are expected during the day, with late afternoon sunshine. Partly cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 12:58h reaching a maximum height of 2.09 metres.
Low Tide: 06:28h and 19:09h reaching minimum heights of 1.25 metres and 1.05 metres.
New Demerara River Bridge Works progress “ahead of schedule” as EBD road reopens – Edghill
The section of the East Bank Demerara (EBD) public road that was closed over the weekend to facilitate works on the new Demerara River Bridge, was on Sunday afternoon expected to reopen at midnight on Sunday – hours ahead of the initial deadline.
The EBD corridor, between Nandy Park and Red Road in Providence, was initially slated to be closed from 04:00h on April 5 until 03:00h on April 7, to allow for the overhead installation of the pre-cast girder across the public road at Peters Hall.
However, the works were completed ahead of time.
“We’d be able to give you back this thoroughfare at midnight tonight,” Public Works Minister Juan Edghill told reporters on Sunday afternoon at the construction site, where he was updated on the progress of works.
According to Edghill, “We’re ahead of schedule… So, persons coming from the [Cheddi Jagan International] Airport, persons going to the airport, persons traversing
were in the process of removing the form work, as well as clearing the carriageway for resumption of traffic later that night.
Despite the delays encountered after some residents of Peter’s Hall refused to relocate and filed legal pro-
[and] living along this thoroughfare should take note that the East Bank highway from the Harbour Bridge to Red Road will be fully reopened to traffic.”
The Public Works Minister explained that the early reopening was due to the hard work and dedication of the teams – the contractor, China Railway Construction Corporation Limited (CRCC); the supervisory firm, Politecnica; and the Ministry’s technical personnel.
“I want to thank the Guyanese people for their patience. We had to make a significant interruption to get this piece of work done… We knew that an interruption of this carriageway would cause great inconvenience, and a lot of planning was put into it. The execution was seamless, without incident, and we’re very very happy about that,” he noted.
At the time of the visit late Sunday afternoon, the girders were already installed and casting done. The eight-hour curing time had also elapsed, and the workers
ceedings which they lost, significant progress has been made “in record time”, since the site was handed over to the contractor late last year.
Those delays, however, have pushed back the completion date of the bridge to August 2025 – a deadline that Edghill is confident would be met.
“We’re advancing the works, and for those of us who are wondering if the bridge is going to be finished by the deadline, that’s what we’re working towards… We’ve worked with the Chinese contractor and the consultant to increase their teams…”
“We’re on target for the new deadline and that’s why we’ve added additional staff. There are more than 100 people that have been added to [those who were] working. And you have to put fairness where it belongs: the contractors have been working around the clock, Sunday to Sunday,” the Minister noted.
As the installation of the girders and casting continues, work is simultaneously being executed on the
two towers at the centre of the bridge in the Demerara River, where vessels will traverse without interrupting vehicular traffic. Another level has to be added to the two structures, to take them to 110 metres.
In the meantime, the cables are already being installed on both the western and eastern sides of the towers.
“On the western side, we have four cables out of 17 in and on the eastern side, there are three cables out of 17 in… When they put the cable-stay on the high section, where the ships have to pass under, they have to put the cables in and cast that section. When they finish casting that section, they have to give it a certain amount of time to cure, and then they’d be able to advance to another section,” the public works Minister explained.
According to Edghill, it is
traffic, with a 50-metre fixedhigh span to cater for the free and uninterrupted flow of vessels. The river would be dredged along a 13.5-km stretch to accommodate large vessels.
Project Engineer from the Public Works Ministry, Patrick Thompson, explained to reporters on Sunday that the bridge would accommodate as much 36 tonnes of gross weight and for axle-load, about 12 tonnes per axle. The engineer explained that for cargo heavier than 36 tonnes, up to 100 tonnes, there will have to be a special crossing with proper management.
Once completed, the new bridge and extensive road upgrades along the EBD are expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion and travel time.
Only last month, President Dr Irfaan Ali conducted a visit at the new
that curing time that is taking the project to the August deadline.
The new bridge would be a fixed, 2.65-kilometre (km), four-lane, high-span, cable-stayed structure across the Demerara River, with the width of the driving surface being about 23.6 metres. It will feature a bicycle lane, and would bring to an end the closure of vehicular
bridge and made it clear that no extensions will be granted to the contractors.
According to Minister Edghill on Sunday, “This is a transformational project that all Guyanese are awaiting. People just can’t wait, but we have to do it right, we have to make it safe and we have to ensure that we’re getting value for money, and we’re doing that every single day.”
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill speaking with reporters at the construction site
The girder installed overhead the East Bank Demerara public road at Peters Hall
Editor: Tusika Martin
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How we are seen
The following article “Small Countries Should Not Exist” by a Netherlands philosopher, Thomas R Wells, offers an insight of how we are seen by the new, evolving oligarchic world order. Forewarned should be forearmed.
“The World Bank classifies 40 countries as ‘small States’ on the basis of having a population smaller than 1.5 million. Some are as small as 11,000 (Tuvalu), and the total population of all of them put together is only 20 million. Nevertheless, each of these countries has ‘sovereignty’ – meaning that the organisations that rule over the populations within these territories has special and equal rights under international law – to exploit the resources that fall within their exclusive economic zone, for example, or to vote on matters of global importance at the United Nations, or to make up their own regulations about corporation tax and secrecy. This is absurd, but also far from harmless.
“Small countries do not make economic sense in their own right because their populations are too small to sustain the large-scale markets required for specialisation and economies of scale, and hence the economic productivity required for real prosperity. The lack of real economic opportunities leads many of their citizens to want to leave. Hence most of these countries are very poor, simply because the borders have been drawn around too small a population. It is true that some small States manage to prosper despite their singular disadvantage. But the ways in which they do so provide no general justification for the existence of small States.
“Most of the small States who prosper do so by exploiting the only thing they have in abundance: the legal sovereignty gifted by the international order. Most obviously, they use their right to make their own laws to convert crimes into opportunities for money laundering and tax avoidance for international companies and wealthy individuals. This is economic parasitism because it contributes nothing of economic value to the world. It only creates problems for the rest of the world by allowing corrupt individuals (often in Global South governments) to hide the loot they have stolen, thus encouraging them to steal more; and forcing Governments to raise taxes on people and activities that are harder to hide abroad, with all the economic distortions and unfairness that implies.
“One can see why this strategy makes sense to the small States that pursue it – there is literally nothing else they have a competitive advantage in. Some small States have improved their situation by joining larger confederations and thereby reducing the burden that political borders pose to economic development. However, the fact that being too small to be economically viable can, to some extent, be made up for does not justify creating States with such a structural handicap in the first place.
“It is often claimed that small countries are a natural political development of a people demanding a country of their own. This argument is popular among the fantasists who believe in culturally coherent and persistent nations enduring and evolving over time. This is a fantasy because it has things exactly the wrong way round. The evidence seems very clear that political entities come first – governments and borders – and then identity follows. It is also sometimes claimed that small countries are more responsive to the needs of the population…but the smallness of the population makes it unlikely that such a government could be very effective.
“What can the Government of a small State do to protect its people against invasion for example? Or to cope with the aftermath of a natural disaster? They would have to call for help from some of the real countries around them that have developed such additional capacity (‘resilience’). Once again, smallness is a structural handicap, not an advantage. For that matter, even the economy itself is likely to be vulnerable in all sorts of ways since it is so tiny, but still too big (because overconcentrated in one sector, such as tourism or tax evasion), for the Government to be much help in the case of a shock.”
World Health Day 2025
On this World Health Day 2025, Guyana joins the international community in observing the theme: “Accelerating Progress to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Health and Survival.” As a government, we continue to prioritise the health and well-being of our nation, fully recognising the vital importance of maternal and child health.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 300,000 women lose their lives each year due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. In addition, over two million infants die within their first month of life, and another two million are stillborn. Unfortunately, current trends show that four out of five countries are not on track to meet the targets for improving maternal survival by 2030.
In Guyana, the Ministry of Health has taken significant steps over the past four years to enhance women’s and children’s longterm health and well-being. Every mother and child deserves access to quality healthcare services that ensure safe pregnancies, healthy deliveries, and the best possible start in life.
We are encouraged by the progress made thus far. Over the past five years, the country has made significant strides in reducing maternal deaths due to postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), with a notable decrease from 23 cases in 2019 to 14 cases in 2024. This reduction results from concerted efforts and strategic interventions across the public healthcare sector. Key initiatives contributing to this success include the widespread implementation of the Zero Deaths by Haemorrhage training programme for healthcare workers in partnership with the Pan American Health
Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO). Additionally, we have enhanced healthcare infrastructure by equipping all hospitals with Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garments and establishing blood banks at regional hospitals, ensuring a steady and reliable blood supply. Emergency care capacity has been further strengthened by creating dedicated operating theatres nationwide designed to address complications swiftly. Furthermore, we have deployed obstetricians to nine of the 10 administrative regions, ensuring expert care is available across all urban and rural areas. These measures, along with improved access to healthcare services, have collectively contributed to the reduction in maternal mortality from postpartum haemorrhage.
In August 2022, I had the privilege of joining His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, to turn the sod for the construction of the EUR 149 million Maternal and Paediatric Hospital at Goedverwagting, Region Four. This state-of-the-art facility, scheduled to open next year, will focus on maternal and child health, offering specialised services such as prenatal and postnatal care, safe childbirth, and paediatric services. With 256 beds, the hospital will feature modern surgical theatres, laboratories, and imaging suites (including CT scans, X-rays, and MRI equipment), ensuring world-class care for women and children.
The new hospitals under construction will feature modern birthing suites and dedicated prenatal and post-natal wings. These facilities will provide a comprehensive and specialised environment for mothers and infants, ensuring the
highest standards of care.
Over the last few years, the Ministry of Health has invested in decentralising neonatal care. We have nine fully equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). These modern facilities have vital life-saving equipment such as ventilators, incubators, pulse oximeters, and heart monitors. Such advancements guarantee that infants facing critical health issues, like low birth weight or prematurity, receive the specialised care they need.
In the hinterland regions, we have added Maternal Waiting Homes. These facilities, strategically located within hospital compounds, provide a safe and supportive environment for pregnant women at risk of complications. By offering women the opportunity to stay closer to healthcare facilities, we ensure they have timely access to care and the ability to receive critical interventions if complications arise during labour.
In addition to the Maternal Waiting Homes, we established 81 telemedicine sites across the hinterland regions. These sites enable Community Health Workers (CHWs) to conduct ultrasounds on pregnant women with the support of obstetricians and gynaecologists based at regional hospitals. Through this technology, women in remote communities can now receive specialised care.
The Ministry has placed significant emphasis on training and the continuous professional development of healthcare providers. Through local and international collaborations, doctors, midwives, and nurses have received comprehensive training in prenatal care, safe delivery practices, and postnatal support via Continued Medical Education (CMEs) and specialised programmes.
Noteworthy achievements include the training of 187 midwives between 2020 and 2024. Currently, an additional 123 midwives are undergoing training and are scheduled to graduate from the Ministry’s Midwifery Programme in May of this year.
In addition to enhancing healthcare services, the Government of Guyana is dedicated to directly supporting families through the Newborn Cash Grant Initiative. This initiative offers $100,000 to every newborn, with over 2000 families already benefiting from the grant.
These initiatives form part of a comprehensive approach to enhancing maternal and child health in Guyana, with the ultimate goal of reducing mortality rates and fostering healthier families. The Ministry is committed to strengthening our health systems, improving training for healthcare providers, and expanding access to essential services. We will continue to develop policies aimed at enhancing maternal and child health, focusing on issues such as reproductive health rights and healthcare access. Public health campaigns will persist in raising awareness of the significance of regular check-ups, vaccinations, mental health, and maternal nutrition, all of which play critical roles in improving maternal and child health outcomes.
On this World Health Day, I urge all families, communities, and healthcare professionals to prioritise maternal and child health. By working together, we can ensure that every mother and child in Guyana has the opportunity to thrive.
Message from the Minister of Health – Dr Frank Anthony
Rockstone is a well-known fishing and recreational spot with its bountiful waters and lush scenery (Photo credit TFA Outdoors)
AI and boys’ academic pursuits
Dear Editor,
“Education will be profoundly transformed by AI (Artificial Intelligence)”; “Teaching tools, ways of learning, access to knowledge, and teacher training will be revolutionised.”UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.
Many boys are turned off from the formal education system. For many boys, they have identified less stressful and more lucrative pathways to provide for themselves and their families than to engage the education system. The truth is, the education system is not attractive to boys. This disconnect is rooted in many variables.
Unfortunately, policy makers continue to push an education system which by default caters more to girls. This gendered divide from the formal education system has antecedents in the period of colonialisation.
Boys by design are more tactile learners while girls are more auditory or visual-based learning, often a result from their overall socialisation and specifically gender socialisation.
The sit, talk and chalk approach that is predominant in our classrooms favours girls more than boys.
Girls are more prone to remain in their classrooms for extended periods of time. Consequently, there are some subjects such as English Language, where girls outperform boys at all
levels of the education system.
Undoubtedly, educators need to do more to motivate our boys to perform better academically. This call to action is not new and changes to which we seek will not magically happen. Of particular concern is the fact that boys in general do not like to write. How can we expect boys to write in their English Language classes when they do not read in their leisure time?
For many boys, younger boys in particular, reading is often times associated with a negative stimulus. However, all hope is not lost regarding boys’ underperformance specifically in English Language.
The emergence of Artificial Intelligence AI offers a myriad of opportunities and solutions.
AI refers to computer systems capable of performing complex tasks that historically only a human could do, such as reasoning, making decisions, or solving problems.
The term “AI” describes a wide range of technologies that power many of the services and goods we use every day from apps that recommend TV shows to chatbots that provide customer support in real time.
AI is used in education in numerous ways that enhance different aspects of teaching and learning. For example, adaptive learn -
Counterfeit money circulates in Guyana
Dear Editor, Counterfeit is stirring in Guyana. I have detected this twice in my business while doing business transactions with customers.
Therefore, I urge business owners to check their money properly before collecting from customers. Please check for distinguishing marks or features that the real currency might have, such as the thousand-dollar bill ($1000) which has a macaw that can be detected when put close to the light. This feature distin-
guishes the real from fake.
The counterfeit money ranges from five hundred ($500) and bigger notes.
Counterfeit money can cause nothing but a loss to businesses and it is a crime.
Please report to the Police if you received large quantities of counterfeit money immediately.
Counterfeiting is the illegal reproduction of money, products, or services with the intent to deceive.
Yours sincerely, Amanda Sawh
ing platforms customise content for individual students
Ironically, an education system which should be rescuing our boys is now facilitating their demise.
Educators and administrators can now leverage AI to analyse vast amounts of data, providing insights that drive informed decisions and strategies. Additionally, AI is breaking down education barriers thanks to tools that support students with different needs and learning styles.
The integration of technology into education is no longer a futuristic concept, but is a present-day requirement. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) argue that the transformative power of AI spans across all economic and social sectors, including education. AI has the ability to close the gap concerning access to information which at particular junctions could only be accessed by the upper class in society. UNESCO adds that AI can ensure inclusive and equitable access to education.
Since the release of OpenAI’s free ChatGPT programme in November 2022 there has been an increase in generative AI. Yes, we are aware that AI generated content can be
biased and inaccurate.
Houman Harouni, lecturer on education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, believes that getting school students and those in higher education to engage with virtual worlds is essential.
Educators must “help the next generation face the reality of the world and develop instruments and ways of navigating this reality with integrity,” Harouni says. Students are well aware that technologies such as ChatGPT exist, and are already experimenting with them on their own, but they need guidance about how to use them responsibly.
One frequent concern about generative artificial intelligence is that students will use it to cheat and avoid the hard work of thinking for themselves, but Harouni says that tools like ChatGPT should really challenge teachers and professors to reassess the assignments they give their students.
There is an urgent need to empower students to learn how to learn, so they can independently adapt to their future. Students should be able to communicate effectively with AI by asking thoughtful, focused questions and writing clear, structured prompts.
The reality is many of our students are already using various apps to cre -
ate or edit content. The student who sits in class rather bored, will show more interest in those lessons where there is a fusion of technology.
AI, if applied properly will transform many classroom experiences which were once unimaginative into an oasis conducive for teaching and learning. Boys will once again exhibit that passion and yearning for knowledge. There will also be fewer instances of maladaptive behaviours by boys, once this vision is supportive of transformational leadership.
Students in general should be allowed to use AI during formal teaching and learning sessions. As we try to get boys more interested in English Language specifically, the teacher should set boundaries regarding the percentage of AI material that will be allowed in extended writing.
Boys learn differently from girls. Michael Gurian, co-founder of Gurian Institute and author of The Minds of Boys: Saving Our Sons from Falling Behind in School and Life states in general, more areas of girls' brains, including the cerebral cortex (responsible for memory, attention, thought, and language) are dedicated to verbal functions. The hippocampus a region of the brain critical to verbal memory storage develops earlier for girls and is larger in women than in men. "That has a profound effect on vocabulary and writing," Gurian says. In boys' brains, a greater part of the cerebral cortex is dedicated to spatial and mechanical functioning; so boys tend to learn better with movement and pictures rather than just words.
With an AI supportive teaching and learning environment, boys will no longer fear writing or shy away from their English Language classes. The harsh reality is, many boys are searching for that one educator who will motivate him to think beyond the ordinary to realise his full potential. AI literacy is a must.
The introduction of generative AI will be the foundation for the educational revolution across the globe. AI can enhance the 21st century skills of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. Schools should start teaching AI at the primary levels where students are curious and yearning for knowledge. An education system which embraces AI facilitates co-learning where both the teacher and the students collaborate effectively to enhance learning outcomes.
Yours sincerely, Wayne Campbell
Page Foundation
and I have not studied at all!
Don’t stress
Don’t worry: stressing and thinking negative thoughts only make things worse. Know that you can be successful at your exam with the time you have left.
Focus
Ten days is sufficient time to revise and pass your exam if you use it wisely.
Take stock of what you know
Your memory is like a storeroom of knowledge and your curriculum/syllabus dictates what should be in your storeroom. So, check the status of your storeroom – assess your knowledge by creating a global overview.
Create a global overview
With the aid of your subject syllabi, list all the topics that will be covered in the exam, and highlight the ones you answer successfully and know you know it. Delete them from your study schedule to focus on those you need to work on, where you feel less confident.
Gather your resources
Get together your textbooks, class notes, worksheets, past exams and any other supplementary materials available to you. The Education Ministry website has the Grade Six textbooks, study notes, worksheets, past exams and other supplementary materials.
Create a study schedule
Divide the topics you don’t know and are not confident about into eight sections. Each section will be allocated to one day. Aim to cover all material while leaving time for review.
Create a positive mindset
Don’t compare yourself with others. Keep out of social media. Don’t ask your friends whether they have studied certain lessons or any other study-re-
lated things. Checking on others and trying to make excuses are not going to help. Keep focused on your own work. Your attitude must be you like revising, you enjoy the topics you’re studying and you will do well in these exams. Finally, take note of what distracts you and get it out of your study area.
Study
Now, your aim is to revise for eight hours a day – two hours per subject, referring to your textbooks, notes, and other supplementary materials. You can do more, but that is eight hours avoiding distractions.
Study in focused 20-minute blocks followed by short five-minute breaks
Use active learning techniques: Summarisation – Write summaries of each topic in your own words.
Flashcards – Create flashcards for key concepts, terms, or definitions for quick review. Do practice exams or answer past questions to familiarise yourself with the format.
Teach Back: Try to explain the material to someone else or even to yourself; this helps solidify your understanding.
Online Resources: Use videos, online courses, or educational websites that cover your exam topics. Finally, remember to practise self-care –Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest, especially in the days leading up to the exam.
Nutrition: Eat balanced meals to keep your energy levels up.
Exercise: Incorporate some physical activity to reduce stress.
By Gerard Manley Hopkins
The world is charged with the grandeur of God. It will flame out, like shining from shook foil; It gathers to a greatness, like the ooze of oil Crushed. Why do men then now not reck his rod?
Generations have trod, have trod, have trod; And all is seared with trade; bleared, smeared with toil; And wears man’s smudge and shares man’s smell: the soil Is bare now, nor can foot feel, being shod.
And for all this, nature is never spent; There lives the dearest freshness deep down things; And though the last lights off the black West went Oh, morning, at the brown brink eastward, springs — Because the Holy Ghost over the bent World broods with warm breast and with ah! bright wings.
Questions
1. Summarise the poem
2. What type of poem is it?
3. Describe the tone, mood, atmosphere, and persona
4. List two examples of imagery, metaphor/simile and all the figures of speech found in the poem
5. Describe how the poem makes you feel
6. Suggest an alternative title for the poem and state why it is appropriate
WORD SEARCH:
Toronto job fair
PSC Chair urges Canadian Diaspora to form consortiums, partner with Guyanese companies
– says PPP/C Govt
is one that works with, not hinders
The Private Sector Commission (PSC) over the weekend partnered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diaspora Unit, to organise a Toronto job fair, aimed at attracting not only skilled Guyanese/ Canadians to return home and employ those skills, but also for businesses from the diaspora community to seek business partnerships in Guyana.
The job fair was held at the Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites, and saw more than 250 attendees participating. During the job fair, attendees signal strong interest in jobs, investment
opportunities, and returning home to contribute.
PSC Chairman, Komal Singh, was in attendance, and expressed support for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s economic policies and the work of the Diaspora Unit to attract Guyanese home. Singh went on to urge them to explore the opportunities available in Guyana.
“What is taking place right now, can actually expand beyond the boundaries of Guyana. And help everyone. Together we are here as the private sector, along with the Government, to solicit your interest in coming
back home, not just to be workers in companies and organisations. There are huge amounts of investment opportunities, in almost every sector.”
“You can form yourselves into consortiums, you can come to Guyana, you can find local partners in Guyana. There are many, many small businesses in Guyana right now. That want to develop, but they lack technical capability. They lack the experience. They lack access to finance. That’s where you come in from the diaspora unit.”
As such, Singh urged the Canadian diaspora to have
Private Sector
conversations and to work with them, noting that they will receive a warm reception. He also made it clear that the PPP/C Government is willing and ready to assist them when they return.
As a matter of fact, he contrasted the current Government’s posture with the 2015 to 2020 period, when much needed private sector investments were not being facilitated or encouraged by the then A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government’s policies.
“We have a Government today, that works very closely with the private sector. And they allow the private sector to grow. This Government has removed significant barriers, that prohibited the private sector from growing. In 2020, when (the PPP/C) took back office, the private sector had close to US$1 billion sitting in investments.”
“If that investment would have been completed, we would not have been behind in the oil and gas sector. Right now, we are catching up, because a lot of those infrastructure was supposed to be in place in 2016. But it was lagging behind,” Singh further said.
The first Guyanese diaspora job fair was held in July 2024, with 16 Guyanese private sector companies participating in the event in
New York, seeking to recruit individuals for vacant positions within their organisations.
Canada has one of the largest Guyanese diaspora populations outside of Guyana’s shores. There has already been significant interest from Guyanese/ Canadians, in reinvesting in their homeland, such as in the case of the ‘Timehri Sands Golf & Country Club (G&CC)’.
The project is being developed by a Canadianbased Guyanese family, with the sod turning for the US$3 million golf course having been held in January of last year. Conceptualised by Christopher and Hess DaSilva, this facility will
be located near the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. According to the DaSilvas, it will provide easy access for both local golfers and international travellers with the added opportunity to introduce golf to new markets within the Guyanese population.
They added that the golf course will be modern, built on a fast and firm sand-based property ideally suited for golf. This will promote a traditional ground game, playing over many rolling and bumpy contours and undulations. There will be three sets of tee decks per hole, allowing all levels of golfers to play the golf course to develop and challenge their game.
Members of the Canadian Guyanese Diaspora during the event
PSC Chairman Komal Singh
Enmore man sentenced to two years imprisonment; Success resident granted bail on wounding charges
Two men from the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) found themselves before the courts this week in separate cases involving violent offences.
Krishna Beharrylall, also known as Steven, a 22-year-old labourer of Lot 903 Grass field, Enmore, ECD, was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to
the offence of Felonious Wounding.
Beharrylall was arrested on March 30, following an incident on March 29, in which he allegedly wounded a 27-year-
old fellow labourer, also from Grassfield, Enmore. He was formally charged on April 2 by ranks from the Enmore Police Station under Section 57 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.
The matter was heard at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt. Upon entering a guilty plea, Beharrylall was handed a sentence of two years behind bars.
Meanwhile, 29-year-old Ravindranauth Parbhu, a construction worker of Lot 378 Success Railway Embankment, went before the courts, after being charged with Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm, contrary to Section 50 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01.
Parbhu was arrested on March 29 in connection with an incident that occurred on March 10. The offence involved a 42-year-old male construction worker of the Success Squatting Area, and reportedly occurred along the Success Railway Embankment.
Parbhu appeared before Magistrate Abigail Gibbs at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court #2 on April 2, where the charge was read to him. He pleaded not guilty and was granted $250,000 bail.
As part of his bail conditions, Parbhu is required to report to the Beterverwagting Police Station on the first Monday of every month until the case concludes. The matter has been adjourned until May 21.
Duty…
…to collect duties
Here we are in the midst of what the international community’s calling a global “Tariff War”! It was launched by Pres Trump and made your poor Eyewitness’s eyes spin with all the intricacies of taxes – excise and otherwise, duties, tariffs! They all involve crunching numbers – which makes his brain spin!! But while that’s playing out – with doomsayers predicting another Great Depression in the making – we got another matter dealing with that tax called “duty” that’s applied in specific percentages to imported goods. And don’t ask your Eyewitness at this time to say how duty is different from tariff!!
Anyhow, all your Eyewitness can say about the local “duty” story is that it just proves the soundness of the old folk wisdom that warns: “All smart fly does end up in cow backside!!” And we know when THAT happens, the fly’s never gonna be able to get out of the stuff that’s excreted from that location!! So what’s the local “duty” story all about?? It concerns one wealthy businessman trying to evade the duty you gotta pay when you import vehicles into our dear Mudland. And yes, we know it’s a sore point since the said duties are so high we end up paying twice the price we paid to the folks in Japan – or wherever – for the USED cars we import!!
The sore point leads to all sorts of convulsions, convolutions and manipulations to avoid the said duties that’s collected by the GRA. From the moment a kid plops out from the mother’s womb, he learns about “duty free” and all the ways to attain that blessed status. So, a few years ago, this wealthy businessman and his family brings in some real high-end vehicles – a Rolls Royce; a Lamborghini; 2 Land Cruisers and a Ferrari!! Yes…and who said you can get “concussions” driving on our roads – when people will bring in these US-million-dollar (or Guyanese-billion-dollar) lowslung vehicles??
Anyhow, SOMEHOW the vehicles cleared customs even though the duties – based on the costs – were underpaid to the GRA to the tune of GY$1.2 billion!! Clearly, some hanky panky (surprise!!) went on with the customs officers who cleared the cars for some vastly smaller sum. In the usual scheme of things, nothing would’ve happened excepting for the “smart fly” syndrome. The wealthy businessman decided to use social media to ostentatiously flaunt his cars – and their value!!
And triggered an investigation by the GRA – where someone smelled a rat!! The businessman – who could’ve afforded to pay the duties with no sweat – tried to deflect by claiming “PPP govt persecution”!! He forgot that’s GRA’s standard operating procedure. Under APNU they’d seized vehicles from Ban Shin Lin – and regularly advertise auctions for seized vehicles!!
…to protect
To have a duty is to have the responsibility to do something specified. And when your Eyewitness reads about the continued bombing by Israel of Gaza – which daily adds dozens of killings to the over 50,000 Palestinians already murdered – he wonders not only about personal duty, but also about the UN’s DUTY to Protect against such killings. The Responsibility to Protect – known as R2P – was unanimously adopted in 2005 at the UN World Summit.
It seeks to ensure that the international community never again fails to halt the mass atrocity of crimes against humanity. The concept emerged in response to the failure of the international community to adequately respond to mass atrocities committed in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia during the 1990s. The International Committee on Intervention and State Sovereignty developed the concept of R2P during 2001.
A small nation like ours ultimately depends on the international institutions to prevent excesses – whether external as from Mad Maduro or internal from “political sophisticates”.
First they bombed the Palestinians… …to observe democratic rules
The separation of powers is fundamental to our democratic order – checks and balances! The CJ took time to point out that ambiguities existing in our Constitutional structures on voters registration must be dealt with by the LEGISLATIVE BRANCH!!
Krishna Beharrylall
Ravindranauth Parbhu
‘‘Trust him with another term’’ – another former PNCR exec joins PPP/C ahead of elections, urges Guyanese to re-elect Pres Ali
Another former People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R) executive has joined the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) platform ahead of the upcoming 2025 General and Regional elections, urging Guyanese voters to cast their vote and re-elect the ruling party for another term, to ensure development continues.
Former PNC/R executive Thandi McAllister joined President Dr Irfaan Ali and other members of his team in a public meeting at Canal No Two Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD) in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara).
While there, she confirmed that she has joined forces with the PPP/C; the latest former PNC/R executive after former PNC/R Member of Parliament James Bond to join the party.
She referred to President Ali as her “brother and friend”. Further, she expressed confidence in the vision outlined by the Head of State.
“I can tell you, I’ve joined forces with my brother and friend Irfaan, because I believe in his vision. A vision which he personally outlined to me. And as a young person, I feel that this is a grand time to be alive in this cooperative republic.”
According to McAllister, the upcoming elections will determine the future of Guyana. With that in mind, she urged voters to trust the PPP/C with another term in office, noting that President Ali has demonstrated his commitment to the people.
“These elections that are upcoming, will determine the future of this country. So, I want to encourage you to stay the course, with my friend and brother. You have seen first-hand the development, from 2020 to date. Imagine what he will do with another term!”
“I trust his vision. I trust his word. His word is his bond and he’s proven that. I’ve known him for many years. And I’m saying to you, trust him with another term. Trust him with Guyana’s future. He has demonstrated that he’s a man for all seasons. He’s demonstrated that he’s a President for the people, by the people and of the people,” she said.
McAllister also urged Region Three to come out and vote in their numbers, noting the importance of the region on the electoral map. She challenged them to go above and beyond, to ensure they vote in favour of the PPP/C.
“Region Three, in these elections, your votes are critical. Chairman said 70,000. I’m going to challenge you to give me 80,000 votes,” McAllister made clear, to loud applause from the crowd at the meeting.
Since 2020, several prominent members of the PNC/R have resigned from the party. McAllister, a longstanding member and Central Executive Committee (CEC) member, resigned in 2021. At the time, McAllister, an Attorney-at-Law and a maritime professional, had cited that the leadership’s direction
was not aligned with the aspirations of young people, party supporters, and national development.
“Having [been] a member of the party and serving for
more than 25 years, I thought it best to give the party a fair chance to see if perhaps if I can align myself with the direction of which the party was being led, and I just couldn’t. I found that the current leadership is not best suited for the party since it does not take into consideration the best interest of its membership and support base,” she had said.
Since McAllister’s departure, other members have resigned, including former PNC/R Treasurer Faaiz Mursaline and former PNC/R General Secretary Dawn Hastings-Williams. More recently, Vanessa Kissoon —
a long-time member of the PNC/R and a Councillor on the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) — as well as Amna Ally, a former General Secretary and Minister of Social Cohesion under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition Government, also resigned.
In resigning, Ally had lambasted the current leader of the PNC/R, Aubrey Norton. She had highlighted several concerns, including the treatment of women within the party. Among them was Vanessa Kissoon, who re-
signed from the PNC/R just days ago. According to Ally, Kissoon, along with Linden Mayor Sharma Solomon and party elder Cheryl Sampson, faced verbal abuse at Congress Place during the National Congress of Women (NCW).
According to Ally, all of this was done without rebuke from the leadership of the party. She further noted that many senior females in the party have expressed disgust at how far the PNC/R has sunk under Norton and went on to call for him and his supporters in the party executive, to resign and “save the party”.
Former PNCR Executive Thandi McAllister (centre) along with President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister of Housing Collin Croal, while in Region Three for the public meeting
CANU denies involvement in GRA operation to seize vehicles for unpaid duties
The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) has flatly denied any involvement in the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) luxury vehicle seizure operation at the residence of high-profile businessmen Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar "Shell" Mohamed, on Saturday.
Saturday morning, officials from GRA and ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were blocked from entering the Mohamed’s home by an angry mob, who were at the time protesting the authorities move to gain access to several luxury vehicles owned and or imported by the family.
In a live Facebook broadcast, persons can be heard insinuating that the operation was being executed in collaboration with CANU. However, CANU has vehe -
mently rejected claims that it played any role in the high-stakes operation.
In fact, the agency slammed the reports as “misleading and irresponsible,” urging the public to check their facts before spreading unverified information. CANU’s swift and firm response is aimed at quashing any rumours of wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, GRA agents have confirmed their action at the Mohamed family estate, noting that the exercise is linked to a massive $900 million customs duties bill.
A few weeks ago, the GRA issued a press release explaining its authority to re-evaluate and recover unpaid taxes from the Mohameds, who allegedly brought the vehicles into Guyana under the re-migrant scheme.
According to the agency, re-migrants are required to maintain legal residence in Guyana for five years, spend at least 183 days per year in the country, and personally use the vehicle as their primary mode of transportation under the GRA’s standard conditions for duty-free concessions.
Additionally, vehicles under this scheme cannot be leased, sold or transferred within the five-year period, and owners must report to the GRA every six months for inspection. Noncompliance with these conditions is an offence under Section 36 of the Customs Act, which may result in penalties, including fines and forfeiture.
On this point, it was revealed that the remigrants who brought in the vehicles under question for the Mohamed family did not
fulfil these conditions, particularly the residency requirement. This has led to the GRA’s move to recover the waived taxes.
By Saturday afternoon, however, the GRA’s enforcement efforts were placed on hold by a temporary restraining order issued by Justice Gino Persaud at 13:39h. The court barred the GRA from seizing or detaining four vehicles—two Land Cruisers, a Lamborghini, and a Ferrari—until a further hearing.
At 15:30h, the court extended the order until Thursday, April 10, 2025, giving the GRA until then to respond to Azruddin Mohamed’s application for judicial review and a full injunction.
Among the amounts cited are $479.7 million
for a 2020 Ferrari registered to Hana Mohamed, $371.7 million for a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster titled to Azruddin Mohamed, and $320 million for a 2023 Rolls Royce registered to Bibi Mohamed.
Additional taxes include $61.4 million for a 2023 Range Rover under Leslie Khan’s name, and $24.6 million each for two Toyota Land Cruisers also registered to Azruddin Mohamed.
It was just days after the Mohameds had posted the vehicles on social media, that GRA began their investigations of the luxury vehicles.
In 2024, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had announced that it sanctioned against Nazar Mohamed and his
son, Azruddin Mohamed, several of their companies, and a Guyanese Government official, Mae Thomas, for their roles in alleged public corruption in Guyana.
According to a statement from OFAC, this is related to the evasion of taxes on gold exports noting that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms (kg) of gold from import and export declarations, and avoided paying more than US$50 million (over $10 billion Guyana Dollars) in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.
Since being sanctioned, the Mohamed’s have never directly addressed the sanctions imposed by the US Government.
Woman granted bail on unlawful wounding charge
A37-year-old woman was on Wednesday placed on bail when she appeared at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court to answer to a charge of unlawful wounding.
Carlotta Jarad stood before Acting Chief Magistrate (ag) Faith McGusty, where she was formally charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Claudette Dick during an incident that reportedly occurred on Monday, March 17, at Hadfield Street, Georgetown.
Jarad pleaded not guilty to the charge.
During the proceedings,
Jarad told the court that she resides in Albouystown with the father of her child and is currently unemployed. She further disclosed that she knows the virtual complainant, Dick, due to a past relationship Dick allegedly shared with her child’s father.
The prosecution, while not objecting to bail, noted that the injuries sustained by the victim were minor.
Magistrate McGusty subsequently granted Jarad $20,000 bail. However, the defendant pleaded for a reduction in the amount, stating, “I’m really broke and don’t even have money to
buy
Vehicles used to block GRA agents from accessing the Mohameds' entrance
stuff for my kids.” The Magistrate, in response, told her that her child’s father could assist with posting bail. The matter was then adjourned to April 16.
Carlotta Jarad
“PPP/C is 1 million % committed to national unity” – Pres Ali
...as President receives warm welcome, endorsements during Reg 3 trip
President Dr Irfaan Ali, during a visit to Belle West in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), made it clear that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration he leads is not just 100 per cent, but one million per cent committed to national unity. The President, accompanied by regional officials and Cabinet colleagues such as Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, received a warm welcome during his visit and used the occasion to send a clear message to those seeking to stoke divisions.
“Let me be very clear. We are a million per cent committed to national unity. There is no way we’re going to allow the future of this country to be divided, segmented or taken apart by any individual or group.”
“United and strong, we are going to deliver the most prosperous Guyana to every single person,” President Ali made clear, to thunderous applause from the Belle West crowd gathered at the public meeting.
Meanwhile, the President also received a plethora of praise from among those gathered for his Region Three visits, such as one resident identified as Roger, who vowed to do all in his power to help the
PPP/C to regain office.
“You must go back in power. You got to go back in power. We said that and we’re going to see that you go back in power… Mr President, I use to plant cane. And I was an APNU (A Partnership for National Unity) supporter. But since they close down the estate, is sixteen months I go under the bread basket. I didn’t finish pay my loans yet!”
This is a reference to the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC’s) decision to close several Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) sugar estates, which resulted in more than 7,000 job loss-
es, and devastation to tens of thousands of households reliant on the sugar industry.
Under the former APNU/ AFC Government, the sugar sector was also marred by severe economic mismanagement. Between 2020 and 2024, the PPP/C Government invested $45 billion to revitalise the sector and make it a vital component of the country’s developmental plans.
With a focus on strengthening internal cooperation, the Government hopes to bring the sugar industry back to its former glory, contributing once again to the nation’s development and economic growth.
Meanwhile, Marlon
Daniels, a long-serving employee of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), spoke about President Ali’s vision for the water sector. He also laid out the roadmap for how President Ali has sought to develop the water sector, from his days as Minister of Housing and Water, to the President of Guyana.
“In the water sector, what we’ve done is really tremendous work. The President, when he became Minister, introduced a pensioner’s subsidy. Which was taken away when there was a change of Government [in 2015]. VAT was also added on to water when there was a change of Government.”
“One of the first calls we got when the new Government was formed in 2020, was to immediately remove VAT (Value Added Tax) from water… what VAT did to the water bill – and we received complaints every day about the high-water bills– was add $16 on every $100. So, we removed that immediately,” Daniels recalled.
Not only was this oppressive VAT imposition removed when the PPP/C returned to office, but with the subsidy, more money actually goes into the pockets of the pensioners.
Daniels also spoke of the PPP/C Government’s efforts
to expand access to treated water, such as in Leguan and Wakenaam, where water treatment plants are being built. He also referenced Wales, with water being extended to La Grange.
“So right now the people of La Grange are getting water from Wales, clean clean. No iron. So, I want to take the opportunity to thank you for your leadership. I look forward to when we open the Del Conte Road, we open the road to Makouria and buss it back to Timehri. When those land open, we are ready to ensure there is water there. To serve everybody.”
Moumir Rashid, another
resident and farmer, meanwhile spoke of the speed with which the PPP/C Government provided targeted assistance that helped farmers, particularly when it comes to transporting their goods.
“Sir, I came to thank you for the service you have delivered to our farmers. When you [previously visited this] area, you promised us roads. Soon as you got into office, I sent a letter. Third day, we get a reply. It was forwarded to Ministry of Agriculture. Next day, Agriculture called we. Today, we got farm to market roads. And we got more than that and more to come,” he said, expressing his thanks.
An attendee at the community meeting by the name of Roger
GWI employee Marlon Daniels
‘‘Do the Right Thing’’ road safety campaign hits Lethem
On Friday, April 4, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with Regional Police Division #9, conducted a ‘Do the Right Thing!’ road safety awareness exercise and community walkabout in the Tabatinga area of Lethem.
The exercise aimed to promote responsible road use, and strengthen community-police relations in anticipation of increased travel for the upcoming
Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo 2025.
Motorists along the Tabatinga commercial zone’s main thoroughfare were provided with bumper stickers, buttons, and informational flyers focused on traffic safety. The materials emphasised the importance of adhering to road safety regulations, and encouraged drivers to adopt safer driving habits. With the upcoming rodeo event, the initiative also served to sensitise
both residents and visitors on the importance of road safety, especially during high-traffic events. The campaign aimed to create heightened awareness around traffic laws, noise nuisances, and general public conduct in preparation for the anticipated influx of travellers to the region.
Drivers were urged to practice defensive driving and remain vigilant for other road users, in line with traffic laws.
Commander Rose and
the team also conducted a public sensitisation effort, engaging residents on key issues such as road safety, noise nuisances, and the range of services offered by the Guyana Police Force.
The initiative, led by Regional Division Commander, Assistant Commissioner Raphael Rose, brought together officers from the Guyana
Police Force and staff of the Ministry. The event was well-received by the community, with several residents engaging in meaningful discussions and voicing their concerns to the officers
and ministry staff present. The Ministry of Home Affairs remains committed to enhancing public safety and building community partnerships that support safer, more resilient communities.
First authentic Region 6 Indian restaurant opens in Canje
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha joined India's High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang and other regional officials for the official opening of the Aarna Resturant in Canje, Berbice.
Aarna is the first authentic Indian restaurant to open in the region, offering authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine.
Minister Mustapha said
The
that the new establishment was a testimony to the confidence placed in the country's economy.
The restaurant currently employs approximately 20 persons and offers dine-in, take-out, and delivery services to areas in East Berbice and along the Corentyne Coast.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, along with India's High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, Dr Deepali Telang, and regional officials, among others, at the ribbon cutting ceremony
minister looks at a sample of foods available
PM attends GVL anniversary at St James-the-Less Anglican Church
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips attended a commemorative church service Sunday, to mark the 11th anniversary of the Guyana Veterans' Legion (GVL) at St James-the-Less Anglican
Church.
The anniversary commemorates the merger of the Guyana Legion and the Ex-Guyana Defence Force (ExGDF) Association into the GVL.
Also in attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan; the President of the GVL, Lt Colonel (Retired) George Gomes; and other members of the Legion.
OPR launches probe into missing cocaine from Police Headquarters
The Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has launched a formal investigation into the disappearance of a quantity of cocaine that was reportedly being stored at the armory of the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Tactical Services Unit (TSU), located within the Force’s headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown.
The matter came to light following multiple reports circulating on social media, and queries raised by press media. In response, the Police Force issued a statement on Saturday confirm
ing that an internal probe is underway.
“GPF will provide an update on the investigation as soon as details are available,” the statement noted.
While the Police have not disclosed the exact quantity of narcotics unaccounted for, sources suggest that it may amount to several pounds. There are also unconfirmed reports that some of the missing cocaine bricks were replaced with a lookalike substance, a development allegedly discovered during a recent handover at the unit.
The Force has so far re-
mained tight-lipped about the specifics of the investigation, but assured the public that updates will be provided as further details emerge. Similar incidents occurred in 2016, where eight parcels of cocaine were reported missing following a major drug bust, and in 2017, when several members of the Police Narcotics Branch were under close arrest following the disappearance of close to two kilograms (kg) of cocaine from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.
The Prime Minister Mark Phillips, along with Revd Fr Raymon Cummings Jr, with members of the Guyana Veterans’ Legion, at St James-the-Less Anglican Church
The Prime Minister and Revd Fr Raymon Cummings Jr
PM Phillips interacts with GVL membership
Some members of the GVL during the commemoration service
-
Govt mulls options for use of existing floating DHB
–
“Nobody will be thrown to the curb” says
Floating for some 1.85-kilometres (1.15 miles), the current Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) is a strategic link between the East and West Banks of Demerara, facilitating the daily movement of thousands of vehicles, people, and cargo.
However, the steel structure has outlived its lifespan by several decades.
With a new high-span, fixed concrete bridge now under construction across the Demerara River and slated for completion by August this year, questions have been raised about the use of the existing DHB.
Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, explained that while “no final decision” has been made, bridging the Berbice River at Kwakwani in Region 10 (Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice) is a strong contender for the use of the current steel structure.
In fact, Head of the Transport Management Unity at Public Works Ministry, Patrick Thompson, has already conducted a study on the possibility of using sections of the DHB bridge at Kwakwani across the Berbice River. That report is being examined, according to the Minister.
He told reporters on Sunday that, “The President is very keen about accelerating development in Guyana
and it would be a call by the executive… to determine what is priority.”
According to the public works Minister, they have already ruled out using the floating structure at the Kurupukari crossing in Region 10 since that section of the Essequibo River has a lot of rocks below the water.
However, he added that there are lots of other potential sites that are also under consideration.
“There are many places that we could go. We’re still looking at it. Connecting Leguan and Wakenaam is still a possibility. Crossing the Canje Creek, where we’re doing the farm-to-market road at Number 58 and Number 52 is still a possibility,” Edghill stated.
Bridge staff
With Government currently constructing new structures to replace the current DHB and MackenzieWismar Bridge also with plans to eventually replace the Berbice Bridge with a high-span fixed concrete structure, there have been fears among technical staff.
Minister Edghill has reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting workers of the three major bridges across Guyana when the toll-free initiative takes effect in August.
The Public Works Minister noted, “We got mechanical engineers, we got other engineers who run the [DHB] bridge, welders who have served for many many years. Those skills would be
Public Works Minister on current bridge staff
mopped up.”
“The administrative staff, the HR [Human Resources] staff – we have a whole public service. They would not be thrown to the curb. The unions have already been told that, the people have already been told that. So, there is no fuss, there is no scandal.”
He further assured that there will not be a break in service for the workers who are transferred within the public sector.
Following President Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement last month that there will be no fee to cross the DHB, Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge in Linden and the Berbice River Bridge from August 1, concerns were raised over the fate of workers especially those currently operating the toll booths.
Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has already
A25-year-old shopkeeper from the North West District (NWD) was on Friday fined over $260,000 after pleading guilty to possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.
assured last month that the employees have nothing to fear – something that the Public Works Minister reiterated on Sunday.
He was at the time speaking with reporters at the construction site of the new Demerara River Bridge, where girders were installed overhead across the East Bank Demerara (EBD) main road.
“We need people to work in Guyana. There is no shortage of getting people into positions. They might not be working at the location where they are [currently] working. And I’ve said [previously] in the parliament, nobody will be thrown to the curb,” Edghill contended.
According to Edghill, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is about creating jobs – not taking away jobs. This, he explained, would be demonstrated
when the new Demerara River Bridge is completed and the new highways are constructed in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), opening up lands for both residential and commercial use.
“Ultimately, this [new bridge] would be connected to the Schoonord to Parika road. We’re are already aiming to tender for the bridges [along that new road]… We’re building out a new port facility at Parika… Once that road is open, new lands will be opened, housing developments, people who are choked in Georgetown for space for manufacturing and factories will migrate. So, this bridge is not going to bring loss of jobs, it’s going to be a single investment that will lead to the creation of many many jobs because it is linked to so many things,” the Minister stated.
Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10.
Alleyne appeared virtually before Magistrate Rabindranaught Singh at the Baramita Police Station, where she pleaded guilty to the charge relating to 58.3 grams of cannabis.
The Magistrate imposed a fine of Gy$261,900, with an alternative sentence of six months’ imprisonment if the fine is not paid.
Chrislyn Alleyne of Triangle Backdam, NWD was arrested on March 28, 2025, by a rank attached to the Port Kaituma Police Station. Following investigations, she was charged with Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a) (i) of the Narcotic Drugs and
The charge forms part of ongoing efforts by regional law enforcement authorities to curb the movement and distribution of illegal drugs in hinterland communities. NWD woman fined over $260,000
Chrislyn Alleyne
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill
The floating Demerara Harbour Bridge
“We
have to make the industry more resilient” – Agri Minister
…Ministry working to establish standard market prices for fishing industry
Recognising the economic importance of Guyana’s thriving fishing industry, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha recently emphasised the need for stakeholders to identify and implement initiatives that will strengthen the industry's resilience.
In a recent outreach in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha met with fisherfolk from Albion and other surrounding areas on the Corentyne Coast. Minister Mustapha noted that while the Government has been active in supporting fisherfolks through initiatives like direct cash transfers and pay increases, he stressed the importance of stakeholders identifying ways in which they can make the industry more sustainable and resilient.
“You have to develop the industry to make the industry more resilient. Are you going to come back in two years from now and say you need a cash grant again? We have to make the industry more resilient so that you can earn a daily income or a
weekly income from the industry and how we can do that? We have to work with you.”
Mustapha added, “We must not stop doing fishing work. Fishing is important for the country's economy. Fishing is important for your daily bread, for your survival, for your income.”
Moreover, recognising that prices on the fishing market fluctuate regularly, Minister Mustapha told farmers that the Agriculture Ministry is currently working to establish standard market prices for the sector.
“We are looking to see some long-term market for
you all, it's a work in progress where we can get a standard price. Because… you as fisherfolks, you are the persons who [are] risking your life, going out there, risking your life, braving all the elements: the sun, the rain, the rough sea, everything – and when you come out back, you do not make the money.”
In 2024, the Fisheries industry in Guyana had recorded its highest marine production in the last five years; in 2021, the fisheries sector faced challenges with severely low catches, impacting the livelihoods of fisherfolk and overall indus-
try production. In response, the Government had implemented various measures, including grants, consultations, and new interventions, to support and enhance production.
To further boost production and monitor activ-
fishing, significant strides have been made in advancing the aquaculture industry. Initiatives such as the expanding brackish water shrimp project, cage culture, and prawn production have contributed to the diversification of the sector.
livestock and aquaculture. This represents an increase compared to the $97.6 billion allocated in the 2024 budget.
In Guyana's 2025 National Budget, a total of $1.3 billion is allocated for the fisheries and aqua-
ities in the Atlantic Ocean, the Ministry of Agriculture procured tracking devices for deployment on private boats conducting patrols. In addition to traditional
Meanwhile, this year the Agriculture Ministry has been allocated $104.6 billion, a significant investment to boost several sub-sectors such as crops,
culture sector, with plans to construct 80 additional brackish water shrimp ponds in Region Six and install 50 more fishing cages.
M&CC again clears up recurring Vlissengen Road garbage pile up …As St Sidwell’s Church moves to turn area into green space
After recent complaints were once again made about the triangular area situated at Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, opposite St Sidwell’s Primary School, which has apparently turned into a small dump site, the Georgetown City Council successfully cleaned the area to creating a well-maintained space for pedestrians.
This information was relayed by Reginald Brotherson, Priest Warden of St Sidwell’s, in a recent interview with this publication.
According to Brotherson, the clean-up was completed Saturday.
"Actually, on Saturday, I passed by and saw that the City Council was clearing the spot. They cleared the area," Brotherson said.
Amidst this, he suggested that the bush surrounding the area should also be removed, as it increases the likelihood of people returning to dump trash.
"But the bush, they just moved the rubbish. So, that's the problem. The place looks more clear, but
as most persons may know, our church has an anniversary coming up, and we have a subcommittee to look at how best we can improve the area," he added.
Meanwhile, Brotherson shared that a great initiative being led by St Sidwell’s Church is to renovate the triangle spot, where debris was previously dumped into a green space.
“We’re reaching out to potential partners for sponsorship. We want to create a safe space, and I have this idea of seeking funding to transform the area. It’s the intent of the church. During our last committee meeting, we agreed that the subcommittee should begin looking into the project. We hope to have it completed by October,” he said.
On March 18, Guyana Times had reported that the Director of Solid Waste Management at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) stated that steps would be taken to resolve the issue within a week.
In an interview with
this publication, Director Walter Narine, had explained that the delay in removing the garbage and debris was due to several beehives in the area. This led to workers being
hives are there, so we need to examine the area, create an invoice, and try to get this resolved within the next week,” he had said.
Brotherson had also explained then that this had
is also a triangular area of land covered with bushes, where additional debris is accumulating.
Brotherson had suggested that a fence should be installed around the
injured and rushed to the hospital for medical assistance.
“I don’t understand why people are doing this. They come with horse carts and dump garbage—someone is doing this. The problem is that I’m unsure how many
been a persistent problem for some time. He noted that individuals were disposing of waste in the early hours of the morning, creating an unsightly mess near the church and the nearby school.
Nearby the debris, there
area. “It would be an excellent project if some organisation or the Government could just fence this triangle with a small picket fence and beautify it. This could be a place where the children could have recreation,” he suggested.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha addressing fisherfolk at the outreach
St Sidwell’s Priest Warden – Reginald Brotherson
Caricom reaffirms imperative for the prohibition of nuclear weapons
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reaffirmed the urgent necessity of prohibiting nuclear weapons testing, use and proliferation, emphasising that this imperative has never been more pressing than in this century.
Speaking at a regional workshop for state signatories in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) Framework on 3 April in Jamaica, CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Foreign and Community Relations, Ms Elizabeth Solomon highlighted the heightened nuclear threat in this era, marked by accelerated climate change and the direct and indirect possession of nuclear weapons by some states.
Describing the potential use of nuclear weapons as an “anathema” to CARICOM, she stressed the Region’s commitment to preserving its status as a
Zone of Peace.
“We have retained and continue to do everything in our individual and collective power to maintain this Region as a Zone of Peace,” she stated, noting the critical role of the Treaty in reinforcing global norms against nuclear testing, which directly bolsters Zone of Peace.
ASG Solomon also stressed CARICOM’s strong opposition to the transshipment of nuclear waste
through the Caribbean Sea, citing environmental and economic concerns.
“We take a strong stance against the transshipment of nuclear waste because of the possible negative effects of a nuclear accident on the delicate land and sea ecosystems of the Caribbean,” she stated.
Beyond nuclear disarmament, ASG Solomon highlighted the valuable scientific and civil applications of Comprehensive
Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO)managed data. Given the Caribbean’s vulnerability to natural disasters, she said access to seismic data and collaboration on tsunami warning systems and volcanic activity detection, could prove invaluable for coastal and other vulnerable communities.
On this point, she said that successful tsunami warning models developed with Chile, Honduras, and Venezuela are frameworks worth replicating across the Caribbean. Welcoming the CTBTO’s return to the Region, she recalled previous workshops in Antigua and Barbuda and Jamaica, which were instrumental in securing ratification of the Treaty by several CARICOM countries.
She commended the fact that all states in CARICOM, and LAC have ratified the CTBT, signifying the Region’s collective commitment to nuclear disarmament.
Noting the capacity con-
straints faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in meeting international obligations, the ASG welcomed the National Data Centres for All (NDCs4All) initiative that seeks to address capacity
tablishing the Preparatory Commission for the CTBTO. The Treaty establishes CTBTO, located in Vienna to ensure the implementation of its provisions, including those provisions for international verification
and knowledge gaps on the CTBT.
The CTBT bans all nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes. It comprises a preamble, 17 articles, two annexes and a Protocol with two annexes.
Another important text is the Resolution adopted by the States Signatories on 19 November 1996 es-
measures.
The Treaty provides for measures to redress a violation of the Treaty and to ensure compliance, including sanctions, and for settlement of disputes. If the Conference or Executive Council determines that a case is of particular gravity, it can bring the issue to the attention of the United Nations (UN).
Tiperu Village benefits from improved access to potable water …as Rukumuta residents receive access to potable water with $30M project
Tiperu Village in the South Pakaraimas, Region Nine, is now benefiting from significantly improved access to potable water, following the commissioning of a new water supply system by the Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, on Thursday.
Tiperu is the oldest village in the Karasabai sub-district, and is home to approximately 350 residents. Before this intervention, only 32 per cent of the population had access to water from surface water sources, a drilled well, and
elevated storage.
The new system is providing some residents with first-time access to clean water.
The total investment for the project was $22 million.
This initiative is part of the Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) programme to improve hinterland water access. The scope of works for the new system includes the drilling of a well, the expansion of the distribution network, and the installation of additional service connections across the community.
The project was com-
pleted in collaboration with the Village Council, ensuring community involvement throughout the process.
Minister Croal, during the commissioning of the new water supply system, relayed that improved water access in the hinterland regions is a key priority for the Government, as clean water plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of populations.
“The work we are doing reflects our Government’s commitment to bridging development gaps and empowering communities,” the Minister stated.
The Minister was accompanied by Regional Vice-Chairman Mr Bertie Xavier and Hinterland Services Director of GWI, Mr Ramchand Jailal, and their team.
New water supply systems were also commissioned at Rukumuta to the tune of $30 million and in Yurong Paru to the tune of $23 million during his visit to the region on Thursday. These systems have improved water access to 95 per cent of the communities.
Speaking at the event, Minister Croal relayed that the Government is fulfilling its promise to deliver improved water access to ev-
ery corner of Guyana.
The remote village of Rukumuta in the South Pakaraimas, Region Nine, has seen a significant improvement in water access following the recent commissioning of a new water supply system. Rukumuta, which is located approximately 28 miles from central Karasabai, is home to 329 residents.
Before the intervention, only about 50 per cent of residents had access to potable water through a drilled well, elevated storage, and springs. The newly implemented project, executed by Q&A Construction, included the
installation of a distribution network, construction of an elevated storage facility, and service connections throughout the community. As a result, 95 per cent of the community now has reliable access to safe water.
The project is part of a wider effort by the Ministry of Housing and Water to enhance water access in hinterland communities across the country.
The Minister emphasised that the Government is close to reaching its goal of 100 per cent water access in the hinterland by 2025 and noted that $2.1 billion has been budgeted to invest in major projects this year.
Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal tries water from the new water supply system, with assistance from GWI Hinterland Services Director Ramchand Jailal (right)
A view of the new water supply system in Rukumuta
Dr Tariq Jagnarine Fam meD, enDocrinology
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious infection that causes blisters and sores. It tends to occur most often in young children. It is a highly-contagious infection. It’s caused by viruses from the Enterovirus genus, most commonly the coxsackievirus. These viruses can spread from person to person through direct contact with unwashed hands or surfaces contaminated with faeces. They can also be transmitted through contact with a person’s saliva, stool, or respiratory secretions.
HFMD is characterized by blisters or sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. The infection can affect people of all ages, but it usually occurs in children under age 5. It’s generally a mild condition that goes away on its own within several days.
CAUSES
HFMD is often caused by a strain of coxsackievirus, most commonly coxsackievirus A16. Coxsackievirus is part of a group of viruses called enteroviruses. In some cases, other types of
HEALTH TIPS
HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
enteroviruses can cause HFMD. Viruses can be easily spread from person to person. A child may get HFMD through contact with a person’s: saliva, fluid from blisters, faeces, or respiratory droplets that are sprayed into the air after coughing or sneezing.
HFMD can also be transmitted through direct contact with unwashed hands or a surface containing traces of the virus.
RISK GROUPS
Young children have the highest risk of getting HFMD. Risk increas-
first getting the infection. This period is known as the incubation period. When symptoms do appear, you or your child may experience:
• Fever
Decreased appetite
• Sore throat
Headache
• Irritability
Malaise (feeling unwell)
• Painful red blisters in your mouth
• Drooling
Red rash on the hands and the soles of feet
A fever and sore throat are usually the first symptoms of HFMD. The characteristic blisters and rashes
es if they attend day care or school, as viruses can spread quickly in these facilities. Children usually build up immunity to the disease after being exposed to the viruses that cause it. This is why the condition rarely affects people over age 10. However, it’s still possible for older children and adults to get the infection, especially if they have weakened immune systems.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms begin to develop three to six days after
show up later, usually one or two days after the fever begins. The rash usually looks like flat red spots. The spots can be harder to see on darker skin tones, so it’s easier to check the palms of hands and the bottom of feet where the condition may be more noticeable.
Lesions can appear on all surfaces of your hands and feet, but this is one of the few times a rash on your palms and soles occurs, which is why it’s easy to identify. Most children with HFMD will also have painful sores
in the mouth. Check their tongue — including the sides — and throat.
DIAGNOSIS
A doctor can often diagnose HFMD by performing a physical exam. They’ll check the mouth and body for the appearance of blisters and rashes. The doctor will also ask about other symptoms. The doctor may take a throat swab or stool sample to test for the virus. This will allow them to confirm the diagnosis.
TREATMENT
In most cases, the infection will go away without treatment in seven to 10 days. However, your doctor may recommend certain treatments to help ease symptoms until the disease has run its course. These can include:
• Prescription or over-the-counter topical ointments to soothe blisters and rashes
Pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve headaches
Medicated syrups or lozenges to ease painful sore throats
Don’t give aspirin to children for viral infections. Aspirin can lead to Reye’s syndrome in children.
HOME REMEDIES
Certain at-home treatments can also provide relief from HFMD symptoms. Try the following home remedies to help make blisters less bothersome:
• Sucking on ice chips or popsicles
Eating ice cream or sherbet
Drinking cold beverages
Limiting citrus fruits, fruit drinks, and soda
• limiting spicy or salty foods
• Swishing warm salt water around in your mouth may also help relieve the pain associated with mouth blisters and throat sores. You can do this several times a day or as often as needed.
Infected people should feel completely better seven to 10 days after the initial onset of symptoms. Getting the infection again is uncommon. The body usually builds up immunity to the viruses that cause the dis-
ease. Call a doctor immediately if symptoms get worse or don’t clear up within 10 days. In rare cases, coxsackievirus can cause a medical emergency.
Potential complications of HFMD include:
Dehydration
Fingernail or toenail loss
Viral meningitis
• Encephalitis
Paralysis
Myocarditis
PREVENTION
• Practising good hygiene is the best defence against HFMD. Regular handwashing can greatly reduce the risk of getting this virus.
Teach children how to wash their hands using hot water and soap. Washing hands after using the restroom, before eating, and after being out in public is important.
Children should also not put their hands or other objects in or near their mouths.
• It’s important to disinfect any common areas in your home on a regular basis. Try cleaning shared surfaces first with soap and water, then with a diluted solution of bleach and water.
• Disinfect toys, pacifiers, and other objects that may be contaminated with the virus.
If experiencing symptoms such as a fever or sore throat, stay home from school or work. It’s best to avoid contact with others once the blisters and rashes develop. This can help avoid spreading the disease to others.
Young, Kamla accuse each other of AI campaign tricks ahead of April 28 T&T general election
Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Stuart Young says the PNM has evidence of efforts by the Opposition UNC to attempt to influence people to vote for its candidates and its coalition partners in the April 28 general election.
Young made this claim on April 5, as he supported statements made by PNM San Fernando West candidate Faris Al-Rawi about evidence of the UNC spending $1.5 million to influence poor and vulnerable people in the constituency to support it on April 28.
Al-Rawi made this statement after filing his nomination papers at the San Fernando North Community Centre on April 4.
"They (UNC) believe and we have the names and places of people that they are targeting because our intelligence is very good."
Al-Rawi said the constituents of San Fernando West could not be bought.
Addressing the media after touring a new $35 million San Fernando Fishing Centre at King's Wharf,
Young claimed the PNM has evidence the UNC and its agents are using artificial intelligence to go on to govern-
ment websites and PNM websites to create fake profiles and put out false comments.
Young said, "You are seeing an increase of people turning up, offering money to persons to vote and that is the reality."
The PNM, he continued, is not fazed by this.
"This country is going to decide who is the person best suited to lead us, who is the responsible government and certainly we will not engage in some of that irresponsible behaviour."
Young said it was ironic to hear Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar claim legitimate decisions made by Cabinet were in breach of election laws when the same could be said of the alleged actions of the UNC.
In a WhatsApp response, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar rejected Young and Al-Rawi's claims.
Persad-Bissessar urged citizens not to be fooled by the dirty tricks of the PNM.
She claimed, "Stuart Young was imposed on this nation. He was not chosen by the people."
Persad-Bissessar also claimed Young is clinging to power "with the help of lies, AI-generated filth, and a cam-
paign designed to divide and distract."
The Opposition Leader on April 5 responded to the release of a voice recording on social media on April 4, which purportedly highlighted a conversation between PersadBissessar and Chief Secretary Farley Augustine over money that the UNC had allegedly given to him ahead of the December 2021 THA election.
Persad-Bissessar accused the People’s National Movement (PNM) government of using artificial intelligence “to manufacture lies, distort reality and spread propaganda in a desperate attempt to hold on to power,” in the run up to the April 28 general election.
In a statement, PersadBissessar dismissed the clip as fake.
In response, the PNM’s Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis in a WhatsApp voicenote said: “All I will say to Ms Kamla Persad-Bissessar is to stop trying to take the people of TT for fools. All of us big and we have sense and we can tell the difference between AI and a normal real conversation between two people, featuring ambient noises. (Excerpt from T&T Newsday)
Chicken meat washed up on Jamaica's shores; public warned not to consume it
The Ministry of Agriculture is urging members of the public against consuming, selling, or distributing chicken products that washed ashore in a container along the Hellshire coastline in St Catherine.
The container came ashore on Thursday, April 3.
The agriculture ministry says the chicken, labelled under the Brazilian brand, Perdix, was not intended for the Jamaican market.
It says it has confirmed that the container fell from a vessel while in transit
to The Cayman Islands. Despite this, there have been widespread reports of looting by members of the public, according to the ministry.
The Ministry, through its Veterinary Services Division, has not approved this shipment for entry into Jamaica. As such, the chicken meat does not meet Jamaica's safety standards and has not received the necessary import permits under The Animal (Diseases and Importation) Act.
Further, the public is being alerted that the contents
of the containers would not have been maintained under ideal temperatures, raising serious concerns about food safety and spoilage.
Individuals who may have taken any of the products are strongly advised not to consume or feed it to animals, and should immediately contact their local public health department for guidance on safe disposal.
The public is also urged to report any instance of sale or distribution of these products to the relevant authorities. (Radio Jamaica)
Colombian rebel group steps
towards peace, hands over war material
Colombian armed group Comuneros del Sur, which has broken away from the leftist National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels, handed over war material and signed two agreements with President Gustavo Petro, the government and the group said on Saturday.
During an event in Pasto city in the southwestern Andean region, Comuneros
del Sur said the delivery of explosives, grenades and other devices was a sign of the group's desire for peace.
"We consider that the armed fight is obsolete, that there are new times and new needs. We refuse to return to war," said Royer Garzon, one of the leaders of the armed group.
The move paves the way for eventual disarmament and reincorporation of some
300 Comuneros del Sur fighters into civilian life. The deal is the most significant step toward peace since Petro assumed the presidency in 2022 with plans to end Colombia's internal conflict.
Analysts said Petro's other peace efforts – with ELN, FARC factions and criminal gangs – show little progress.
(Reuters)
Over 50 nations want to start trade talks with US after tariffs, Trump officials say
More than 50 nations have reached out to the White House to begin trade talks since U.S. President Donald Trump rolled out sweeping new tariffs, top officials said on Sunday as they defended levies that wiped out nearly $6 trillion in value from U.S. stocks last week and downplayed economic fallout.
On Sunday morning talk shows, Trump's top economic advisers sought to portray the tariffs as a savvy repositioning of the U.S. in the global trade order. They also tried to minimize the economic shocks from last week's tumultuous rollout, ahead of Monday's expected bumpy opening of Asian stock markets.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said more than 50
nations had started negotiations with the U.S. since last Wednesday's announcement, putting Trump in a position of power.
Neither Bessent nor the other officials named the countries or offered details about the talks. But simultaneously negotiating with multiple countries could pose a logistical challenge for the Trump administration and prolong economic uncertainty.
U.S. customs agents began collecting Trump's unilateral 10% tariff on all imports from many countries on Saturday. Higher "reciprocal" tariff rates of 11% to 50% on individual countries are due to take effect on Wednesday at 12:01 a.m. EDT (4:01 a.m. GMT). Some nations have al-
ready signaled a willingness to engage with the U.S. to avoid the duties.
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te on Sunday offered zero tariffs as the basis for talks with the U.S., pledging to remove trade barriers and saying Taiwanese companies will raise their U.S. investments.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would seek a reprieve from a 17% tariff on the country's goods during a planned meeting with Trump on Monday.
An Indian government official told Reuters the country does not plan to retaliate against a 26% tariff and said talks were under way with the U.S. over a possible deal. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Russian cult leader arrested in Argentina for human trafficking
Russian cult leader Konstantin Rudnev was arrested at Bariloche airport in Argentina last Friday as part of an ongoing human trafficking investigation, the Herald’s sister publication C5N has reported.
More than a dozen individuals were arrested for their alleged involvement — nine at San Carlos de Bariloche Airport, and six at Jorge Newbery Airport in Buenos Aires, according to airport security police. Most of those arrested were Russian nationals en route to São Paulo, Brazil.
Security personnel noticed a group of Russian citizens in the airport departure lounge consisting of one man and six women “who showed signs of malnutrition similar to two others previously detained by the Argentine Federal Police (PFA) and held in PSA cells.”
Upon being approached by authorities, Rudnev allegedly took a razor blade from his wallet and attempted to cut his own throat before he was detained. Because his injuries were not deemed serious, he was treated on-site and re-
mains in custody. The cult members’ luggage reportedly contained “pills that, when treated with a chemical agent, tested positive for cocaine hydrochloride,” according to Ambito.
Authorities are investigating reports that the women were subjected to extreme cruelty. Each allegedly suffered from severe malnutrition and hair loss, and was kept in deplorable conditions. Rudnev is the leader and founder of a Russian cult known as “Ashram Shambala.” The author of
a book called The Way of the Madman, which was required reading for members, he claims to be an extraterrestrial bringing knowledge to Earth. Rudnev’s arrest in Argentina occurred after a Russian woman, accompanied by several compatriots, gave birth at Bariloche’s Regional Zonal Hospital. Irregularities in her story raised suspicions of a possible human trafficking network and led the hospital to involve judicial authorities. (Excerpt from Buenos Aires Herald)
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Stuart Young
Russian cult leader Konstantin Rudnev
Germany considers withdrawing 1200-ton gold stockpile from US in riposte to Trump
Germany is considering removing an enormous stockpile of gold from a vault in New York over worries about Donald Trump’s unpredictable policies.
For decades, Berlin has stashed 1,200 tons of its famous gold reserves, the second largest on the planet after those of the United States, in a vault deep underground at the US Federal Reserve in Manhattan.
Now, senior figures from the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, which is set to lead the next German government, have discussed removing it from New York because of concerns that Washington is no longer a reliable partner, the Bild newspaper has reported.
For decades, Berlin has stashed 1,200 tons of its famous gold reserves, the second largest on the planet after those of the United States, in a vault deep underground at the US Federal Reserve in Manhattan.
“Of course, the question has arisen again,” Marco Wanderwitz, a former German government minister who gave up his CDU seat in the Bundestag this year, told Bild.
Mr Wanderwitz has long advocated for a policy that would allow German officials to regularly inspect the gold – or for withdrawing it completely.
He has previously lobbied to visit the gold reserves and personally inspect them, but his request was rejected in 2012.
Germany’s riches were earned after World War Two, when exports surged resulting in large trade surpluses with other nations.
These surpluses were converted into gold under the Bretton Woods system.
Markus Ferber, a
member of the European Parliament for the CDU, said that he was also in favour of German officials being allowed to personally inspect the bullion.
“I demand regular checks of Germany’s gold reserves. Official representatives of the Bundesbank must personally count the bars and document their results,” he said.
Both politicians were speaking to Bild before Mr Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on the European Union this week, which may have further hardened their position. (Telegraph UK)
Pope Francis greets crowds at St Peter's Square
Pope Francis has made a surprise appearance at St Peter's Square in the Vatican following his discharge from hospital after five weeks of treatment.
The Pope briefly appeared on stage in a wheelchair, with an oxygen tube under his nose.
"Hello to everybody," he said, waving to cheering crowds. "Happy Sunday to all of you, thank you very much."
The Pope, 88, was discharged from hospital in Rome on 23 March and appeared at his window then to offer a blessing.
Doctors said at the time he would need at least two months of rest at his resi-
dence. On Friday, the Vatican said his health was improving and he was "in good
Rains add to misery in quake-hit Myanmar as death toll rises to 3471
Heavy rains have lashed parts of earthquake-hit Myanmar, complicating relief efforts and raising the risk of disease, as the death toll from the powerful quakes that struck the country on March 28 rose to at least 3,471.
Aid workers in the hardhit city of Mandalay, near the epicentre of the earth-
quake, said on Sunday that rains and winds hit tent camps in the area overnight and in the morning, soaking survivors and their belongings.
More bouts of rain were expected later in the day, while temperatures were also forecast to climb to 37 degrees Celsius (98 degrees Fahrenheit).
“The weather is very ex-
Around the World
Scottish wildfire forces evacuations as blaze spreads
Emergency services are continuing to battle a wildfire that started in Galloway, south of Scotland, and has spread north into East Ayrshire, forcing the evacuation of walkers and wild campers.
The blaze started in the Newton Stewart area on Friday, then spread northwards over the weekend after a change in wind direction to reach Loch Doon. Residents living nearby were advised to keep windows and doors closed and police told people to avoid the area.
Stewart Gibson, the team leader at Galloway Mountain Rescue, told BBC Scotland fire crews had employed four helicopters to drop water on the flames from above, with the fire front several miles wide at one stage.
Rising temperatures across the UK earlier this week led to wildfire warnings being put in place, with the Scottish fire and rescue service saying there was a “very high to extreme risk” of fires spreading because of warm, dry conditions.
The service has warned the public to avoid outdoor fires and barbecues, and to
dispose of cigarettes and glass safely.
Further north in the Highlands, crews were tackling another wildfire north of Ullapool on Sunday with roads closed and heavy smoke hampering visibility.
Six crews were in attendance, with personnel travelling almost 70 miles to offer assistance and firefighters at the scene reporting a firewall stretching more than 3 miles and large plumes of smoke descending over the area.
Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland, fire brigades were called to the scene of a blaze in County Antrim on Sunday afternoon. Six fire engines attended the incident near Conogher Road, Dervock, while 40 firefighters were involved in tackling
the flames.
It was extinguished at 8pm on Sunday.
A significant wildfire that broke out on Saturday and triggered a major incident in Northern Ireland’s Mourne mountains district was extinguished on Sunday morning. One man was arrested by police.
More than 100 firefighters and 15 fire appliances were deployed on Saturday to Sandbank Road, Hilltown, to tackle the blaze, which was believed to have been caused deliberately, fire chiefs said.
Northern Ireland fire and rescue service said the fire had a front of approximately 2 miles “including a large area of forestry close to property”. (Source: Guardian UK)
Around 30 dead in Congo capital flooding, authorities say
Around 30 people have died in flooding in Democratic Republic of Congo's capital Kinshasa, the provincial health minister said on Sunday, as torrential rains over the weekend destroyed homes and roads.
treme,” Tun Tun, a specialist with the United Nations Development Programme, told the AFP news agency.
Aid agencies have warned the combination of unseasonable rains and extreme heat could cause outbreaks of disease, including cholera, among quake survivors, who are camping in the open. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
"The death toll is provisional, but so far there are around thirty dead," Patricien Gongo Abakazi told Reuters.
The Ndjili River, which runs through part of the city of around 17 million, overflowed its banks on Friday night, blocking the main national road and leaving drivers stranded since Saturday evening.
"On the way home from
the airport last night to welcome a friend, we spent the night in the car because there was no safe place to park," said Patricia Mikonga, a Kinshasa resident.
Several neighbourhoods were left without power.
Kerene Yala, a resident of Makala district, said the main problem in the area was the water supply cutoff.
Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba Lubaki said the water infrastructure had been affected but that supply would be reinstated within two or three days.
In a televised speech, he blamed illegal housing for some of the deaths and threatened to evict people
from unplanned settlements. Hydrologist Dr. Raphael Tshimanga Muamba said the river had been affected by human activity over time.
"These are anthropogenic actions where rivers are degraded; their dimensions no longer represent their initial capacity to contain floods," he told Reuters.
The flooding comes at a vulnerable moment for the Central African nation. Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have intensified an offensive in the turbulent east of the country since the start of the year, with more than 7,000 people killed in the fighting in the first two months of the year. (Reuters)
spirits"
as he continued his work activities. (Source: Independent UK)
Pope Francis makes first public appearance since leaving hospital
A resident carries a woman as others wade through floodwaters in the Ndjili district of Kinshasa on April 6, 2025
Berlin’s gold reserves, the second largest on the planet after those of the United States are in a vault at the US Federal Reserve in Manhattan
Travel, learn from what you experience and mix business with pleasure, and something positive will transpire. An innovative approach will capture attention and profits.
Concentrate on what makes you feel happy, accomplished or confident. Plan your actions and stick to a set budget. A networking event will offer insight into how to market your skills.
A blunt conversation with those you live or work with will help resolve unfinished business. It’s best to address sensitive information openly to avoid misunderstandings.
Use your energy strategically. Focus on progressively applying your skills, and you’ll find new ways to bring in extra cash. Put your time and energy into growing your assets.
It’s a waste of time and money to make unnecessary changes. When in doubt, ask questions. Knowledge is powerful; guessing won’t suffice when situations change quickly.
Pay attention to financial documents, contracts and investment opportunities. There is plenty to gain if you quickly size up situations and act. You are overdue for a change.
Broaden your vision and connect with knowledgeable people who can give you an in-depth look into new possibilities. Someone you meet will take an interest in you and what you are trying to accomplish.
A change will help you see situations differently. Communication and compromise will help you close a gap between someone valuable to you and what you want to achieve.
Refuse to let anyone bait you into an emotionally draining conversation regarding shared expenses or responsibilities. Say no to temptation and indulgent behavior.
Don’t be fooled by an exaggerated profile or opinion. Research, fact-finding and trusting your intuition will save you time and money. Sending a clear-cut message will alleviate misunderstanding.
Designate how and where you want to apply your cash to ensure you don’t fall short. Let saving for something special take precedence over emotional spending for instant gratification.
Stick to what’s affordable and doesn’t threaten your lifestyle and personal well-being. Refuse to let temptation, excess or trying to impress someone take over, leaving you in a precarious position.
ARCHIE
Indian Premier League 2025...
Siraj, Gill and Washington hand Sunrisers 4th successive defeat
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) suffered another batting malfunction, this time on a slow, black-soil surface at home, crashing to their fourth suc
Pat Cummins' cameo (22* off nine balls) and then his dismissal of Jos Buttler for a duck in Gujarat Titans' chase of 153 gave SRH some hope, but that faded away once
Siraj's 100th wicket in the IPL and sixth in the power play, the most by a bowler in that phase so far this season, with an economy rate of 6.27.
overs, but when he erred in length, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Heinrich Klaasen dispatched him to the fence. Rashid finished with 4-0-310, going wicketless for a third successive game, and with tournament figures of 1 for 143 in 14 overs at an economy rate of 10.21
Left-arm fingerspinner
to hit over the top. Just like that, Washington dumped SRH's Impact Player out of the attack.
Washington continued to attack even after that. When the ambidextrous Kamindu Mendis darted one on the stumps with his right hand, Washington manufactured swinging room and laced
Washington seemed set for a fifty until he holed out one shy of the landmark in the 14th over.
Gill, who had already crossed 50 by that point, finished the job along with Rutherford, who hit an unbeaten 35 off 16 balls.
(ESPNcricinfo)
Siraj then returned in the death to york both Aniket Verma, the last recognised bat ter for SRH, and Simarjeet Singh, their Impact
Contrasting out ings for Rashid and Sai Kishore With both Head and Abhishek gone early, Rashid Khan, who was coming into this game on the back of figures of 4-0-540, could afford to ease himself in. He started fairly well by giving away just 10 runs in his first two
Sudharsan and Buttler fell cheaply in successive overs. Washington took advantage of the last over of the powerplay, smoking Simarjeet for two sixes and two fours. It provided a throwback to Washington of 2016, when he opened the batting, alongside Abhinav Mukund, in the TNPL and showed the intent
Sunrisers Hyderabad (20 ovs maximum)
Abhishek Sharma c Tewatia
b Mohammed Siraj 18
Travis Head c Sai Sudharsan
b Mohammed Siraj 8
Ishan Kishan c Sharma
b Prasidh Krishna 17
Nitish Kumar Reddy c Rashid Khan
b Sai Kishore 31
Heinrich Klaasen †
b Sai Kishore 27
Aniket Verma lbw
b Mohammed Siraj 18
Kamindu Mendis c Sai Sudharsan
b Prasidh Krishna 1
Pat Cummins (c) not out 22
Simarjeet Singh
b Mohammed Siraj 0 Mohammed Shami not out 6
Extras (lb 2, w 2) 4
Total 20 Ov (RR: 7.60) 152/8
Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Travis Head, 0.6 ov), 2-38 (Abhishek Sharma, 4.4 ov), 3-50 (Ishan Kishan, 7.2 ov), 4-100 (Heinrich Klaasen, 13.5 ov), 5-105 (Nitish Kumar Reddy, 15.1 ov), 6-120 (Kamindu Mendis, 16.6 ov), 7-135 (Aniket Verma, 18.4 ov), 8-135 (Simarjeet Singh, 18.6 ov)
Sunrisers Hyderabad suffer a fourth consecutive defeat
Shubman Gill made 61 off 43 balls
Mohammed Siraj had impressive figures of 4 for 17 in his 4 overs
Sherfane Rutherford made a quickfire 35 off 16
Eid Naser blazes to world-leading
48.67 at Grand Slam Track
Salwa Eid Naser delivered a jaw-dropping performance in Kingston on Saturday night, storming to a world-leading 48.67 to win the women’s long sprint at the Grand Slam Track Series (GST) and reassert herself as a dominant force ahead of this year's World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
The 2019 World Champion, 2024 Paris Olympics silver medallist, and third-fastest woman in history obliterated a stacked field that featured Olympic champion Marileidy Paulino, triple Olympic gold medallist Gabby Thomas, and 2024 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) champion Nickisha Pryce. But on this night, it was all Eid Naser.
She exploded out of the blocks like a woman on a
mission, devouring the backstretch with terrifying ease. Paulino, Thomas, and the rest gave chase, but Eid Naser’s high-octane stride and flawless transition into the final 100m left no doubt –she was in a class by herself.
With knees high and arms pumping, Eid Naser
powered through the line in 48.67 seconds, the fastest time in the world so far this year and the fastest ever on Jamaican soil.
Behind her, Thomas, who won the 200m on Friday night, surged late to claim second in 49.14, overtaking a strong but fading Paulino, who clocked 49.35
for third. Alexis Holmes, running a season's best, was next across the line in 50.12, followed by StaceyAnn Williams, who looked strong early but faded slightly to finish in 50.35. NCAA champion Pryce could not replicate her indoor heroics and crossed in 50.92, ahead of Talitha Diggs and Dina Asher-Smith, who rounded out the field.
With Day 2 in the books, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Tia Jones, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi put themselves in prime position to walk away with US$100,000 cheques by winning their opening events in their respective GST categories ahead of Sunday’s finale.
Jefferson-Wooden surged late to win the 100m in 11.11, keeping herself ahead of a tightly-packed field. Jenna Prandini finished sec-
ond in 11.23, with Jacious Sears and Daryll Neita close behind.
In the 100m hurdles, American Jones clocked 12.63 to edge Danielle Williams and Olympic champion Jasmine CamachoQuinn, both finishing in 12.70. Jones’s win gives her 12 points and the inside track on the event title.
World Indoor Championship bronze medallist Ackera Nugent was fourth in 12.75. Dylan Beard stormed to victory in the 110m hurdles, winning in 13.29. Frenchman Sasha Zhoya took second in 13.34 in a close finish with Freddie Crittendon (13.35), and Daniel Roberts and Omar McLeod who were both credited with 13.36.
Kenya’s Wanyonyi executed a textbook race to win the 1500m in 3:35.18, nar-
“One of the dullest derbies” shows major change needed
"Not so much red or blue – grey would be better."
The overwhelming feeling around the 196th Manchester derby was neatly summed up by a comment posted on the BBC Sport website.
It might be a stretch to claim, as one respondent did, it was 'the worst derby match in the world'. But the sentiment encapsulated the mood.
"It's a Manchester derby," seethed former United Captain Gary Neville on Sky Sports after the dull goalless draw at Old Trafford. "It should have more blood, thunder, risk, and courage involved in playing the game.
"The congratulations and love-in I'm watching says both teams are happy with 0-0. It looks like it's Sunday afternoon and they're going to go for a roast dinner together now."
United Head Coach Ruben Amorim has not been in England long, but the former Sporting boss has worked a few things out.
"I understand everything," he said. "Gary Neville is critical about everything. I understand that part."
Amorim's assessment was a simple one. How could anyone expect a reprise of the great games of the past, from either the red or blue sides of the great Mancunian divide, given where the two teams are at the moment?
City remain outside the top four, which would guarantee qualification for the Champions League next season. More pertinently, while they remain fifth – which will almost certainly secure a spot in Europe's elite competition – they will drop down if Newcastle win either of their two matches in hand, starting with today's home match against nearly-doomed Leicester.
"I understand we are, in the moment, doing the worst season in history," said Amorim. "Manchester City won everything in the past, but this season are struggling.
"We are not in the best moments to give the best spectacle to every fan. When we are not fighting for the big things, of course it's different.
"You have to look at the context of the game. I understand the critical aspect of players that played in this game in a different way, because they were fighting for the titles every time."
Unsurprisingly, another outspoken former United Captain was not having any of that.
"They get interviewed as if a draw isn't too bad," Roy Keane said. "A draw doesn't get you anywhere fast. It isn't good enough.
"Forget the top teams. I'm on about competing with Brentford and Crystal Palace and Wolves and all these teams. Are you telling me Man Utd should be behind them, even with this group of players?"
For context, United – on course for their worst-ever Premier League season – are six points ahead of Wolves. Brentford, one place above them in 12th, are four points ahead.
There were also postmatch chants against the Glazer family from home fans who stayed behind, de-
termined to crank up pressure on the American majority owners, who they blame for United's parlous state.
But Amorim and City boss Pep Guardiola have to set aside the noise to deliver significant improvement.
"You see the numbers of players who have been at the top for four, five, six years," said Guardiola. "This year, we drop. It's not one, it's all of them – that's why we are struggling to win games."
Man Utd midfielder Bruno Fernandes had a different take on the lack of intensity.
"It can't be like it was in the past, a lot of things have changed, with VAR, everything," he said. "With VAR, you can't do that. We can't be as rough as we want in the duels. Everything has changed."
"That was one of the dullest Manchester derbies I've seen," Chris Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live. "It tells you where the clubs are at. Both have a lot of work to do in the summer."
“Everybody here is suffering a lot” United's problems are huge.
It is difficult to imagine Amorim choosing many of the players available to him in an ideal squad.
But the fundamental point is a lack of goal threat. United have failed to score in 11 of their 31 Premier League games this season.
rowly ahead of American stars Yared Nuguse (3:35.36) and Cole Hocker (3:35.52). The former World U20 champion was the front-runner in the short-distance category heading into Sunday. Saturday brought a much-needed boost in crowd support inside the National Stadium, with more fans turning out to witness the action. GST founder Michael Johnson was be hoping for an even bigger turnout on Sunday as the first-ever Grand Slam Track meet wrapped up. With major payouts on the line and points contributing toward the season-long US$100,000 bonus, the final day in Kingston promised fireworks.
And if Saturday’s performances were anything to go by, fans were in for a spectacular close. (Sportsmax)
in Manchester
Aside from matches against the three teams destined to go down, they have scored two goals or more on six occasions, including when they lost at home to Nottingham Forest on December 7.
"We had the same lack of goal [threat]," said Amorim, when asked about comparisons to last Tuesday's defeat by Forest at the City Ground.
United need to be significantly better at recruitment in the summer than they have been on the pitch this term.
Wing-backs, central defenders and central midfield are all areas of weakness, let alone up front, where Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee continue to toil for little reward. It is now a combined four goals in 48 appearances for the pair since the Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen on December 12, when Hojlund scored twice.
On Sunday, Amorim talked about how he thinks things are going on the good days. That implied there have been other days when he has wondered if United are heading in the right direction.
"In the moment, it's still really hard every day, but of course you can imagine that the next season is going to be so much different," he said. "That's why I'm always saying I'm in a rush.
Everybody here is suffering a lot with all these changes. We have to show something in the next year, right away.
"In the good days you think like that, that it was important to come [here] in the middle of the season, to work with the players, to improve the players as soon as possible, to start the next season with the better idea of what we want."
More exits expected at Man City
For City, the journey to the preferred destination is far easier to navigate and there is more belief in Guardiola to keep everyone on the right path.
Yet, for them too there are hazards, not least in the unknowns.
By his own admission, he kept faith in too many of his long-serving players last summer. That will not happen again.
We already know Kevin de Bruyne is leaving, but there are questions over plenty of others in his squad, not all of them fringe, injured or unwanted players.
The futures of Jack Grealish, Bernardo Silva and Ederson, all involved against United, have to be determined.
Juventus full-back Andrea Cambiaso and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz are mentioned most frequently as likely additions to Guardiola's squad
– but there will probably be more than two new faces. Clearly, who they can sign will be impacted by the outcome of the hearing into the 115 charges of alleged Premier League financial rule breaches. Guardiola cannot control that situation.
City's status and the pull of the manager will ensure they remain an attractive proposition even if they fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.
However, it would be a blow to his pride if, for the first time in his senior managerial career, he fails to take a team into the elite club competition. Not that he is thinking so far ahead.
"Eight games, Crystal Palace [next], go for it," he said. "I'd prefer to have 10 or 12 more points, but it is what it is. I'm not concerned about next season right now, I'm just concerned about recovery.
"Crystal Palace, Everton, Aston Villa and the FA Cup semi-final [against Nottingham Forest]." Looking ahead for red and blue is appropriate in Manchester just now. It's the easiest way of banishing the memory of what happened (or didn't) at Old Trafford. (BBC Sport)
The Manchester derby ended in a stalemate on Sunday
Salwa Eid Naser leads the pack
The last time there was no Manchester club in the Premier League's top two was 2016-17, and it has only happened four times since City were promoted in 2002
Milo Football…
Chase’s Academic Foundation among 1st teams to advance to quarter-finals
Defending champions
Chase’s Academic Foundation, Charlestown Secondary, Dolphin Secondary and Waramuri Secondary were the first quartet to book their passage to the quarterfinal round of the 2025 Milo Schools’ Under-18 football tournament, when the Round of 16 kicked off on Saturday.
The Round of 16 began with a bold statement as the defending champions, in the absence of their star striker Bryan Wharton, comfortably whipped Bartica Secondary 7-0.
Bartica held their own for a while, but Neeiaz Baksh’ 17th minute goal opened the floodgates for Chase. Then, the defenders got in on the scoring action as Tyrell Walcott and Kemron Pellew found the back of the net in the 22nd and 31st minute respectively.
Isaiah Ifill, however, stole the show netting a hel-
met trick in the 33rd, 43rd, 50th and 58th minutes to cap his team’s resounding victory.
Charlestown Secondary followed in Chase’s footsteps, defeating New Amsterdam Secondary 3-1 to secure their quarterfinal berth.
Malcolm Hendricks broke the ice for Charlestown with an individual forward press that ended with the ball in the back of the net in the 18th minute. Nicholas Nieuelder extended Charlestown’s lead in the 30th minute, but then New Amsterdam made an attempt at a comeback.
New Amsterdam’s Feaad Hussein netted in the 40th minute to push the score to 2-1, but was unable to find the equaliser.
Later, Malakai Gowen added another strike to Charlestown’s tally in the 58th minute for the 3-1 victory.
The following encounter was a close one as Dolphin
Women’s Inter-County T20…
Snippets from the Milo Schools’ football tournament on Saturday last in the 49th minute while Devonte Gaime levelled the scores for the Georgetown team in the 64th. Waramuri held their
Secondary got past Ann’s Grove Secondary 4-2. Colin Frank David struck first in the 29th minute, after which Keevin Austin made it a 1-1 affair for Ann’s Grove in the 55th. Three minutes later, Seon Grant netted to put Dolphin ahead again 2-1, but Kennard Halley had Ann’s Grove’s reply almost instantaneously, finding the back of the net in the 60th.
However, Dolphin soon showed their experience, with Ezekiel Frank David and Jamal Williams scoring in the 62nd and 65th minutes to pull off the win.
Waramuri Secondary then brought the curtains down on the day’s action with a narrow 3-2 victory over South Ruimveldt Secondary.
Waramuri got ahead first through Denzel Abrams in the 15th minute while Erwin Booker made it a 2-0 affair in the 35th minute. However, Carlin Robinson pulled one back for South
Essequibo start positively with victory over Demerara
Tnerve to find the game-winner in the dying minutes of the game as Orwin Abrams netted in the 68th minute. The Milo tournament will
continue with the quarterfinal stage being contested on Saturday, April 12 at the same Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground venue.
DCC crowned champions after clash with GCC
Vremaine Marks’ allround brilliance saw Essequibo defeating Demerara comfortably in this year’s opening game of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Women’s Inter-County T20 Tournament, held at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Community Ground, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Saturday, April 5. In this match, Essequibo won the toss and chose to field first, which turned out to be a wise choice. The Essequibo bowlers stifled the Demerara batswomen as they struggled to score freely throughout the innings. Naomi Barkoye (22) and Nyia Latchman (16) were the only players to get into double figures for Demerara as they were restricted to 86 for 7 in their 20 overs. Marks (2 for 12) and Cyanna Retemiah (2 for 24) were key in the first innings. Kumarie Persaud,
Yonette Welcome, and Varuni Pitamber all took one wicket each.
In reply, Marks led the way with 31 from 26, which included six fours.
Laurene Williams (14) and Welcome (24) won the game for Essequibo as they both finished unbeaten, with the score 90 for 3 in 14.5 overs. Captain Kaysia Schultz, Chelsea Latiff, and Latchman all took one wicket, but it was not enough to avoid defeat.
Essequibo women were scheduled to play Berbice women on April 6, but play was called off due to inclement weather. Action continues today, Monday, April 7 when Essequibo’s women will hunt their second win against Berbice women at 13:00h while on Tuesday, Demerara and Berbice will clash at 09:30h.
eterans and consistent performers for the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) led the way on Saturday as they emerged victorious in what would ultimately be a comfortable victory.
The Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) DDL Pepsi First-Division 50Over final was played at the renowned Bourda Cricket Ground on Saturday, April 5, with the hosts Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) suffering a loss.
DCC won the toss and elected to make GCC bowl first in the contest. DCC started their innings steadily, as there was a nervous atmosphere because of the occasion. Brandon Jaikaran batted well, setting a solid foundation for the batting side with his innings of 53 from 92 balls, which included three boundaries. Sachin Singh (31) and Jonathan Van Lange (39) both got starts, but failed to capitalise on the situa-
tion. Captain Christopher Barnwell walked to the crease at number 5 and
provided some impetus to the innings with his 43 off 28 balls that included one four and two sixes. Devon Lord would initiate the batting collapse for the DCC as they lost their last five wickets for 46 runs, and were bowled out for 227 in 44.5 overs. Lord had figures of 4 for 27 in 6.5 overs. With runs on the board in a final, DCC fancied their chances in the second innings and delivered. GCC’s top and middle order succumbed to the pressure and lost their wickets cheaply as a result. Ezekiel Wilson (3 for 20) removed former West Indies Test player Leon Johnson for a firstball duck, and was the main man for the DCC bowling unit. He was well supported by Daniel Mootoo, Steven Sankar, and Van Lange, who each picked up two wickets. Thaddeus Lovell (47) had the only significant score as GCC were bowled out for 127 in 29.1 overs, losing by 100 runs.
Tremaine Marks had an all-round excellent game for the Essequibo women’s team
Christopher Barnwell led from the front with a quickfire 43 off 28
Demerara Cricket Club are champions (Newsroom photo)
