Guyana to welcome Canada’s Air Transat in December
Tattoo artist denies role in daycare break-in despite video evidence
Officials
LM&TC accumulates $63M in outstanding NIS payments for workers – Town Clerk
indiscriminately, Police assure
GDFS Essequibo decommissioned after 2 decades of service
“The GDFS Essequibo stood proudly as the flagship of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard for more than two decades, a true symbol of national power and maritime pride,” declared Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, during the official decommissioning ceremony for the vessel.
Commissioned into the GDF in 2001 after serving as HMS Orwell in the Royal Navy, the GDFS Essequibo was acquired to strengthen Guyana’s maritime security amid increasing challenges such as illegal fishing.
Since its arrival in Guyana, the vessel was commanded by a distinguished
while the ship’s operational chapter may have closed, its symbolic and historical significance endures. He noted that considerations are ongoing regarding the vessel’s repurposing.
Acting Commander Coast Guard, Commander Adrian Mc Lean, highlighted the ship’s vital role in
line of officers: Captain (CG) John Flores (1st), Lieutenant Commander Floyd Levi (2nd), Lieutenant Commander Derrick Erskine (3rd), Lieutenant(CG) Michael Elliot (4th), Commander Adrian McLean (5th), and most recently, Lieutenant Commander Ronald Mc Intyre (6th), who oversaw its final operational phase.
In a GDF Facebook post, Brigadier Khan expressed deep appreciation to all those who served aboard the Essequibo, stating that
maritime patrols, interdiction of illicit activities, and the training of law enforcement personnel. He reaffirmed that the decommissioning marks a milestone in the Coast Guard’s evolution and the nation’s broader efforts to modernise and expand its maritime capability.
Lieutenant Commander Ronald Mc Intyre offered a heartfelt reflection on the Essequibo’s legacy. He honoured the leadership of his five predecessors and underscored the vessel’s par-
ticipation in regional exercises such as Tradewinds, its humanitarian deployment to Grenada following Hurricane Ivan in 2004, and its involvement in successful enforcement operation, many of which tested the skill and resolve of her crews. More than a vessel, he noted, the Essequibo served as a crucible for leadership, resilience, and enduring camaraderie.
Former Coast Guard Officers, Captain (CG) John Flores, Lieutenant Commander Floyd Levi, Lieutenant Commander Derrick Erskine as well as the vessel’s earlier Marine Engineer Officer, former Lieutenant Coast Guard Christopher Lawrence, were also in attendance at the decommissioning ceremony. Their presence added a profound sense of continuity and reverence to the occasion, as they stood alongside current ranks to honour the vessel they once led and the legacy it leaves behind.
The decommissioning of GDFS Essequibo stands as both a moment of solemn pride and strategic transition. The vessel’s contribution to national security, regional cooperation, and the professional development of Coast Guard personnel will remain firmly etched in the annals of the GDF.
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, June 9 –03:30h-05:00h and Tuesday, June 10 – 03:55h-05:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, June 9 – 15:25h-16:55h and Tuesday, June 10 –16:05h-17:35h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 2.68 metres.
High Tide: 15:23h reaching a maximum height of 2.39 metres.
Low Tide: 08:56h and 21:07h reaching minimum heights of 0.72 metre and 0.84 metre.
State-of-the-art $6.6B Diamond Regional Hospital commissioned
The $6.6 billion Diamond Regional Hospital on Sunday became the first of six regional hospitals being completed this year to open its doors, making good on the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s drive to revolutionise healthcare in Guyana.
The hospital, which was built by China CAMC Engineering Company, and overseen by VIKAB Engineering, is fully equipped with CT scans,
Guyana to be a major health hub. Health care and health services must be able to provide economic opportunities. Because health and the eco-system that surrounds it is important also. Whilst we want to encourage private investment, we want to ensure that the Government invests simultaneously in equivalent care, so every Guyanese can have a minimum standard of care, regardless of which region you’re from,” he stated.
several Intensive Care Units (ICU), including a neonatal ICU for babies; three modern surgery theatres, including one in the emergency department; a high dependency unit; several outpatient clinics, and 75 patient beds with five beds in each room; digital X-rays, and ultrasound machines.
In his feature address, President Dr Irfaan Ali stressed that the Diamond Regional Hospital is only the first phase in the PPP/ C’s investment into the citizens and their life expectancy. He made it clear that Guyana’s healthcare sector will one day be a “global masterpiece”, and will make Guyana a health hub.
Further, the Head of State emphasised that citizens must be able to get healthcare on par with private hospitals, even at the public institutions. As a consequence, the Diamond Hospital will be similar in scope and international standard to the remaining five hospitals to be launched this year.
“We are already advancing the next phase of the transformation. You saw drone delivery of medicines and medical supplies. We have a clearly defined strategy that will take us to 2030 and beyond. A strategy that would set our health sector as a global masterpiece. Offering world-class services, but more importantly, a health sector that would continue to incentivise private investment,” the President said.
“Because we want
Additionally, the Diamond Regional Hospital, which will be staffed with some 1000 employees, has a management slate that is dominated by women. President Ali noted that 75 per cent of Guyana’s medical intake and 90 per cent of its nursing intake are women, describing Guyana as leaders when it comes to empowering women. President Ali also provided statistics on how much investments the PPP/C Government has
made in the healthcare system, including constructing more than 26 health centres, upgrading more than 400 health facilities, and
ahead. In the sense of your immediate benefits, the environment you work in, your welfare, your opportunities to own your own home, hav-
upgrading key hospitals like Lethem and Leonora into smart facilities. He also assured healthcare workers that they can be confident that they will have a rewarding future in the local healthcare system.
“We must be able to build a future, in which our healthcare professionals can rest assured that they have a rewarding future
ing good roads, cheap electricity; and rewarding also in service,” he said.
Necessary hospital
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony in his address, explained how they came up with the proposed new hospital at Diamond.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Scenes from within the newly-commissioned Diamond hospital
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Democratic norms and elections
Last month, addressing the Private Sector Commission (PSC), US Ambassador Nicole Theriot offered her country’s perspective on the upcoming Sept 1 elections, which bears repetition in light of very polarising statements emanating from the Opposition. “Regarding elections, both the United States Embassy and the PSC demonstrated our commitment to peace, justice, and transparency in the aftermath of the 2020 elections. We learned valuable lessons that we will apply this year to help ensure elections are free and fair, and the people of Guyana can trust the electoral process.” Guyanese should be even more concerned that democratic norms will be observed by the Opposition.
The US was the first country to institute democratic governance after its declaration of independence from Britain in 1776. Since then, even though it has faced its own challenges, it has remained a beacon to those countries that aspire to follow in that path by putting its money where its mouth is to promote democracy. In this vein, the Ambassador declared: “I am extremely grateful to my ABCEU colleagues for their investment in the success of Guyana’s elections.”
One US Government statement, “The Benchmark of Elections” declares, “Elections are the central institution of democratic representative governments. Why? Because, in a democracy, the authority of the Government derives solely from the consent of the governed. The principal mechanism for translating that consent into governmental authority is the holding of free and fair elections.”
But it cautioned that based on the US’s experience, “All modern democracies hold elections, but not all elections are democratic.” In answering the question, “What Are Democratic Elections?”, the statement pointed out that “Jeane Kirkpatrick, scholar and former US Ambassador to the United Nations, has offered this definition: "Democratic elections are not merely symbolic....They are competitive, periodic, inclusive, definitive elections in which the chief decision-makers in a government are selected by citizens who enjoy broad freedom to criticise Government, to publish their criticism and to present alternatives."
The US statement elaborated in more concrete terms on the non-negotiability of “free and fair elections” for democratic governance: “Democracies thrive on openness and accountability, with one very important exception: the act of voting itself. To cast a free ballot and minimise the opportunity for intimidation, voters in a democracy must be permitted to cast their ballots in secret. At the same time, the protection of the ballot box and tallying of vote totals must be conducted as openly as possible, so that citizens are confident that the results are accurate and that the Government does, indeed, rest upon their "consent".
When the election is over, the losers accept the judgment of the voters. If the incumbent party loses, it turns over power peacefully. No matter who wins, both sides agree to cooperate in solving the common problems of the society. The losers, now in the political opposition, know that they will not lose their lives or go to jail. On the contrary, the Opposition, whether it consists of one party or many, can continue to participate in public life with the knowledge that its role is essential in any democracy worthy of the name. They are loyal not to the specific policies of the Government, but to the fundamental legitimacy of the state and to the democratic process itself.
At the next elections, Opposition parties will again have the opportunity to compete for power. In addition, in a pluralistic society, one in which the reach of Government is limited, tends to offer election losers alternatives for public service outside Government. Those defeated at the polls may choose to continue as a formal opposition party, but they may also decide to participate in the wider political process and debate through writing, teaching, or joining one of many private organisations concerned with public policy issues. Democratic elections, after all, are not a fight for survival but a competition to serve.”
Guyanese know who have violated these democratic rules and who have observed them and deserve their vote on September 1st.
Anti-environmentalism is on the rise, but it’s full of contradictions
By AlAstAir Bonnett
Anti-environmentalism is gaining ground. Attacks on the net zero goal and hostility to conservation measures and anti-pollution targets are becoming more common. And, as recent election results have shown, these tactics are reshaping politics in Britain and across the West.
Anti-environmentalism is a rejection of both environmental initiatives and activism. But despite its sudden rise and bold rhetoric, it is built on shaky foundations. The messages it offers are often contradictory and row against the tide of everyday experience.
Take the US President, Donald Trump. He dismantled many environmental protections in his last term of office, and is now removing those that are left – including support for research that even mentions the word climate. Yet he told a rally in Wisconsin in 2024: “I’m an environmentalist. I want clean air and clean water. Really clean water. Really clean air.”
Some of the contradictions of anti-environmentalism reflect its departure from traditional conservatism. Although routinely identified as “conservative”, the populist anti-green politics of Republicans in the US and Reform in the UK, along with the AfD in Germany and National Rally in France, represent a radical challenge to the ideals of continuity and conservation that were once at the heart of conservatism.
The Conservative Environment Network is an organisation which pitches itself as an “independent forum for conservatives in the UK and around the world who support net zero, nature restoration, and resource security”.
Much of this network’s work involves reminding people that important environmental protections, from America’s national parks to controls on pollution and climate change in Britain and elsewhere, were introduced by conservatives.
But few on the right appear to be listening. A populist tide is washing this conservative tradition away, despite the fact that support for environmental protection remains very popular.
Polling indicates that 80 per cent of people in the UK worry about climate change. Public backing for the work of the US Environmental Protection Agency is also overwhelming, including among Republican voters.
In part, this support reflects the fact that environmental damage is an everyday reality: unpredictable weather, the collapse of animal and insect populations, and a range of other challenges are not just on the TV, they are outside the window.
In my research for a forthcoming book on environmental nostalgia across the world, I keep bumping into an irony. In Western nations, voices from the right say they want their country back, yet appear hostile to environmental policies that would protect their country and ensure its survival.
Many people – including Trump himself – claim they are environmentalists even when the evidence suggests otherwise. The signs and symbols of environmental care are knitted into every aspect of our commercial and cultural life: if wildlife could sue for copyright, there would a lot of rich bears.
I argue that a distinction can be made between what I call “cold” and “hot” forms of environmentalism. The for-
mer values and mourns the loss of nature, but as a spectacle to be observed – a set of appealing images of flora and fauna – while the latter feels implicated and anxious.
The former position allows people to claim they love nature yet be indifferent or even hostile to initiatives to save it. However, the line between cold and hot, or between antiand pro-environmentalist, is neither fixed nor hard.
Another quality of anti-environmentalism is that its beliefs are changeable, even quixotic. Climate change is an example.
Reform’s leaders have long flirted with climate change denial. “Climate change has happened for millions of years,” explained former Reform UK leader Richard Tice in 2024, adding that “the idea that you can stop the power of the Sun or volcanoes is simply ludicrous”. Tice has not changed his views, but later the same year, the party’s new leader, Nigel Farage, told the BBC that he was “not arguing the science”.
Like other populist parties, Reform adopts a mobile position on the environment, moving between denying that climate change is happening or that humans are causing it, and the very different contention that anthropogenic climate change is real but that environmental targets are unreachable and unfair, given that other nations (China is often mentioned) supposedly do so little.
Researchers are only just starting to think about anti-environmentalism. One key analysis is environmental politics researcher John Hultgren’s The Smoke and the Spoils: AntiEnvironmentalism and Class Struggle in the United States. This new book explains how Republicans managed to con-
vince working-class voters that there is “zero-sum dichotomy between jobs and environmental protection, workers and environmentalists”.
This kind of binary has also been found by contributors to The Handbook of Anti-Environmentalism, who identify and critique the stereotyping of environmentalism as middle-class and elite in several Western countries.
Yet the geographical focus of these pioneering works misses yet another of the paradoxes of anti-environmentalism: that although its rhetoric often accuses China and other non-Western countries of doing little, there has been a significant environmental turn in both policy and public attitudes beyond Europe and the US.
Environmentalism is becoming post-Western. This is partly because the realities of environmental damage are so stark across much of Asia and Africa.
Extreme temperatures and unpredictable rainfall are leading to food insecurity and community displacement. Environmentalism in the African Sahel and south Asia might better be called “survivalism”.
And despite its continuing reliance on fossil fuels, China’s State-led vision of a transition to a conservationist and decarbonised “ecological civilisation” is positioning it as a global environmental leader.
Stereotypes of environmentalism being primarily a Western concern are crumbling. Because of this, along with the many contradictions that beset it, the rise of anti-environmentalism appears not only complex, but curious and unsustainable. (The Conversation)
Alastair Bonnett is Professor of Geography, Newcastle University
Paving of the 121km all-weather road from Linden to Mabura Hill continues apace. Once completed, the road is expected to reduce travel time, improve safety and open new doors for trade and development (Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo photo)
It is the people together who constitute the guardrail against hateful political rhetoric, divisiveness, and violence
Dear Editor,
In callous disregard for the formation of a Guyanese unity, unethical opposition leaders, utilising various media platforms, hasten to promote Afrocentric racism principally aimed at instilling hate, and generating antagonisms among the ever-advancing harmonious Guyanese people.
Hate – defined as an intense dislike for someone or something – once instilled in the minds of supporters, or gradually implanted in the psyche of gullible and persuadable racist individuals, can easily be exploited as a convenient instrument for creating instability and inciting violence.
Anyone willing to objectively examine regular hateful pontifications by
Afrocentric politicians, and their minions would surely unmask the underlying intent to dehumanise and demonise those not pursuable, or susceptible to divisive and destructive racist propaganda that focuses on promoting hate and hostilities or aimed at inciting overt violence.
This then leads one to ask whether the overt violence that materialised in stark aggression of rioting and looting in the aftermath of Adrianna Younge’s death, will morph into similar expressions of destructiveness in the coming months before the elections?
Undoubtedly, in recent months, Afrocentrists targeted their racist vitriols at those whose social, political, and economic success proved irksome, and resistant to
their proselytisation of divisiveness and racism.
The indifference became clearly manifested in the denigration of AfroGuyanese whose antipathy towards Afrocentric ethnocentricities resulted in AFC’s David Hinds condemnation of Afro-Guyanese supporters of the PPP as “lick bottom” and “lick BT Africans,” - a denigration that gained the support of Henry Jeffrey who said, “Hinds barbs are warranted.”
For the economically progressive Guyanese of every race, success did not self-actualise overnight but resulted from years of persistent strenuous toil and thrift. And, within the last four years, under the governance of the PPP/C, the sector of progressive Guyanese
grew due to the opportunities provided in areas of employment, education, health, housing, retirement benefits, investments, and national development.
Why then, one may ask, do Afrocentric proponents target their hateful vitriol at the Government, and especially at President Ali, and Vice President Jagdeo, when, factually, many of them benefited politically, socially, and economically from the very policies promulgated and articulated by the PPP/C?
The answer appears clear. It is the lust for power and control over Government.
Hence, it does not require clairvoyant insights to grasp why Afrocentric proponents seem to focus on inculcating in the minds of the pockets of disenchanted ethnocen-
tric individuals, suspicion and animosity towards successful Guyanese, and the Government.
This is despite the truism, that, more-so under the current PPP/C governing administration than under PNC, and APNU-AFC regimes, access to opportunities is available to all desirous of socio-economic success.
Given the evidence of accomplishments in plain sight around the country, those influenced and persuaded by Afrocentric proponents’ falsehoods, racism and hate, could benefit by asking: ‘How does participating in violence and other anti-Government activities enhance their lives?’
With the date for national elections fast approach-
ing, would Afrocentric racists, and wannabe politicians expedite their propaganda campaigns of divisiveness, distrust, and hate, while probing opportunities to incite violence?
Time is yet to tell. And, while law-enforcement personnel stand as a buffer to violence, everyone needs to be reminded that it is the people who together constitute the guardrail against hateful political rhetoric, divisiveness, and violence – all destructive elements, which the PPP/C, as a political party, fought, and continue to fight, against.
With evidence, I stand corrected.
Yours sincerely,
Narayan Persaud, PhD Professor Emeritus
Jah still rules in the affairs of men
Dear Editor,
Yes, The Almighty still rules in the affairs of a place called Guyana, as quoted in the good book, he sets up Kingdoms as well as he dismantles them Daniel 2: 21 - 22. This is the situation as it is and shall be in Guyana, so amidst all the talk about Guyana being a godless state, the scripture still gives guidance as it regards our existence in this part of the world. This fact was highlighted in Adrianna's drowning incident, that is, using the dead for purposes other than a celebration of life. It speaks to the disgraceful conduct of a political party that used the
little girl's death for political mileage. It speaks to the running away with the lie of that child being murdered in a satanic ritual, converting it into a political campaign mantra. If this is not the actions of sick, evil minds, then what is?
Sick minds do desperate things and what transpired in our country certainly causes us to reflect and wonder if this had occurred a week or a month before elections? I shudder to think what would have been, but thank God this has taken place well before the elections, that we could see the full manifestation of opposition forces. We remember the burnings, the beat-
Caribbean Airlines map blunder reflects incompetence and poor oversight
Dear Editor, Caribbean Airlines' recent admission that it published an advertisement featuring an incomplete map of Guyana in its inflight magazine is more than just an embarrassing Marketing blunder — it is a stark reflection of carelessness, weak oversight, and managerial incompetence within the airline.
That such a sensitive and easily verifiable error slipped through layers of review speaks volumes. CAL claims to have launched an investigation and replaced the printed issues, but the damage to regional relations and the airline’s credibility is already done.
This is not an isolated
mistake but one in a series of troubling developments pointing to a culture of negligence and basic professional incompetence. In any other serious organisation, such a lapse would result in disciplinary action or resignation. In the spirit of accountability, we must ask: What is the outcome of the investigation? Who approved the advertisement? Will anyone be held responsible? This incident should not be treated as a minor editorial slip but as further proof that accountability and reform are urgently needed within CAL’s leadership and operations.
Yours sincerely, Business Outreach
ings and widespread destruction that followed, all because a lie was magnified and advocated as the truth. The political race hate that followed, speaks volumes of what those who are obsessed with power can do to our country? Is this the Guyana we want to live in? Certainly not!
Then it behooves me to posit the following:
Are we entering the Crum-Ewing phase of our election campaign in 2025?
Remember what took place three days prior to the 2015
Election and the opposition's false accusation of the PPP/C being responsible for that man's death? Isn't this the same opposition who are trumpeting the Voodoo death story of Adrianna?
Fast forward to the election itself, are we going to see a repeat of opposition forces blocking voters from carrying out their democratic right?
Make no mistake, this was done in previous elections and there are indications that they might go down that road again.
Are we about to witness opposition's propaganda of seeing PPP/C supporters stealing ballot boxes?
Are we about to hear the opposition accusing the PPP/C of double voting in their Strongholds?
Are we going to hear false accusations of dead people turning up to vote in PPP/C Strongholds?
Of bomb scares as was the case in the 2020 Election, these false reports have the effects of deterring voters from going out to exercise
their franchise. We are into the election season and all efforts must be put in place to defuse these subversive tactics of the opposition. In this regard I call on our Security forces to be on high alert, that means that there should be a strong police presence at all places of poll. It means that security must be heightened as we go along unto the day of elections.
Yours sincerely, Neil Adams
Estimating Products
Example:
Remember:
When you round both numbers downward, you know your estimate is less than the actual product. If you round both numbers upward, your estimate will be more than the actual product.
Exercises
Saturday’s answers
By Jessica aBughattas
The winter I leave him, I ask my parents to consider me their oldest son. To bend the rules. I could be a little tree, late to flourish, focused on my underground career. I tell them to buy me a house. They’re 15 years divorced. We’re sitting around my mother’s kitchen table. My father and I smoke. My father: Remember, this is the second time. As though I could forget: I have no use for houses since I’ve refused to raise children. I want walls they can’t touch, tender drywalls of protection. Still, I was there, pulling weeds to no avail. When I toil again, I want it to be for me. When I commit to the cinema of sorrow, I like to follow through, stay in my seat until the end, stand and clap. I want to know what happens after: Hard laughter pouring out of the apartment above mine, all night.
GtE Project plans expanding to support 2nd power plant – EMGL
...as significant progress made in appraising gas in south-east Stabroek Block
ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) had reported significant progress last year in appraising the gas resources in the south-east Stabroek Block it controls, noting that the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project plans continue to expand to support the Government’s efforts to build out a second power plant.
This is contained in the company’s 2024 Annual Report, in which they laid out the progress they made not only in completing its part of the GtE Project, but also in appraising the Stabroek Block alongside its co-venturers CNOOC and Hess Corporation. “In 2024, we also made significant progress in appraising the non-associated gas resources in the southeast of the Stabroek block, and in parallel, advanced plans to maximise the value of Guyana’s gas for all stakeholders,” EMGL said.
EMGL explained that in 2024 they were able to complete the GtE Project pipeline and riser connections to the Liza Destiny and Unity FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) vessels. According to the company, this is “a crucial step towards the project’s goal of
reducing electricity costs for Guyanese families and businesses by half and stimulating growth in other sectors of Guyana’s economy.”
“Plans for the GtE Project are expanding. There is the potential to increase gas production from the originally planned 50 million cubic feet per day to 120 million cubic feet, supporting a second power plant as part of the Government’s GtE Phase II,” the report further stated.
According to the company, the completed pipeline extends from Nouvelle Flanders on the West
Coast Demerara (WCD) to Reynstein on the West Bank Demerara (WBD). Additionally, EMGL explained that the pipeline will operate at high pressures above 1,800 pounds per square inch.
“This additional, affordable natural gas supply will enhance power generation and grid stability, supporting further growth in the country’s economy,” the Exxon Mobil subsidiary explained in the report.
Meanwhile, EMGL also assured that the safety around the pipeline is an important part of the com-
pany’s collaborative effort, along with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government and surrounding communities.
“To help raise awareness about the importance of pipeline safety, EMGL conducted door-to-door interactions with landowners, farmers, and schools and held numerous community meetings and open houses,” EMGL said.
Earlier this year, the Government of Guyana, through Guyana Power and Light (GPL), signed a total of US$422 million in contracts to upgrade the local
energy infrastructure ahead of the GtE Project’s completion.
The project will see the construction of 155-kilometres (km) of 230 double-circuit transmission lines, 167-km of 69 Kilovolts (kV) double-circuit transmission lines, the construction of five new substations, and the upgrading of the Kingston substation.
Meanwhile, LNDCH4 was awarded the US$759 million contract in November 2022 to build the 300-megawatt (MW) Combined Cycle Power Plant and a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility at Wales, WBD – key components of the first phase of the GtE Project.
Upon completion, the project is expected to substantially lower electricity generation costs, which have significant implications for the Guyanese economy, fostering more competitive production costs and stimulating broader economic growth. In addition to the gas pipeline that EMGL has completed, the transmission lines and substations required for integration of the project are also significantly advanced. Back in September 2024, the Government, through the Office of the Prime Minister
had also invited companies to respond to a Request for Proposals (RFP) to “design, finance, and operate” Phase II of the GtE Project based on a 20-to-25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Phase Two of the GtE Project is expected to see a second power plant and NGL facility being built at Wales, WBD. And last week, the bids for this second plant were revealed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). The second phase of this transformative project includes the design, construction, and operation of a 250 MW combined-cycle power plant, to deliver 2,100 Gigawatt/hours (GWh) of electricity per annum, and sold to GPL.
The project also caters for the design, construction and operation of another NGL facility to produce at approximately 6,000 barrels per day of NGL products such as propane, butane, and C5+gasolene. Additionally, Phase II also includes the transfer, at no cost, of excess “lean gas” estimated at 30 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd), for utilisation in downstream industries, e.g. fertiliser production, to be located at Wales.
Guyana to welcome Canada’s Air Transat in December
ublic Works Minister
PJuan Edghill has announced that Guyana will welcome Canadian airline, Air Transat in December 2025, marking a major milestone in the country’s aviation sector. According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the Minister made the disclosure during KLM Royal Dutch Airlines’ inaugural flight to Guyana at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri on Wednesday.
Guyana has already welcomed air services from Dominican Republic air carrier, Sky Cana, British Airways, Inter-Caribbean Airways, Jet Blue, Fly Always, Suriname Airways, and now KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – in just five years.
In December 2024, Air Canada announced plans to launch direct flights between Guyana and Canada in 2025.
“June 4 marks the progress made in the aviation sector from 2020 to 2025. This [KLM Royal Dutch Airlines] is the ninth international carrier that I have had the opportunity to stand at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and welcome to Guyana… Our air navigation services in Guyana are second to none in this hemisphere,” Minister Edghill stated.
He added that it signifies Guyana’s growing prominence on the global stage.
He further revealed, “And I believe, with the good support and the rational, responsible actions of the Guyanese people, on December 16 we would be able to stand here and welcome the 10th Air Transat from Canada.”
Air Transat service will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, from December 16, 2025, to April 24, 2026.
It will operate its new route with the A321LR, an aircraft known for its efficiency. The A321LR provides passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience with its ergonomic cabins and cutting-edge inflight entertainment system. It also has club class seats, allowing passengers to enjoy a premium travel experience to their destination.
Air Transat is a leading travel brand that was voted the 2024 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World
Airline Awards.
The Minister noted, “Guyana and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport have been positioned as a major hub of connectivity and we are serving because of our geographical location…The more carriers we get into the
CJIA and into Guyana [will help us to] open up the world in positive ways.”
In addition to unlocking new commercial, tourism, and economic opportunities in Guyana and the Caribbean, these new airlines have greatly improved connectivity between numerous nations.
More than one million passengers have already arrived in Guyana so far in 2025, which is a 15 per cent increase from the previous year.
All of these undertakings form part of the Government’s plan to position Guyana as a critical hub for air travel.
The Minister of Public Works described the People’s Progressive Party/Civic
(PPP/C) Administration as an “overachiever”, said the DPI, citing its extensive fiveyear record of meeting—and, in many cases, exceeding— development commitments aimed at improving live-
lihoods and accelerating Guyana’s economic growth.
“We did not just do what we promised. We did more than we promised,” he stressed.
The Stabroek Block
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill
Tasers not to be fired indiscriminately, Police assure
– officers trained for controlled use, amid rising attacks especially against traffic ranks
Amid growing public concern over aggressive drivers and recent viral videos showing citizens physically attacking traffic ranks, senior officials of the Guyana Police Force are reaffirming that tasers, newly deployed non-lethal weapons, will be used only with clear justification and restraint.
Speaking on a recent programme of Road Safety and You, Assistant Superintendent Sherwin Henry, from the Traffic Headquarters’ Education Section, emphasised that the tasers, or “conducted energy weapons,” have been introduced as a safer alternative to lethal force, but that they are not to be used indiscriminately.
“It is not the instrument being used to intentionally injure people or so,” ASP Henry explained. “It is being used to maintain and control a situation.” Officers, he added, are required to follow a use-of-force continuum that includes verbal warnings and situational assessment before a taser is discharged.
“They will give them a verbal warning to desist from the behaviour… and if the drivers continue to behave in such a manner, they will have to use it,” Henry said. “Ranks are being trained with it in the way they should use it… with justification and within the force policy.”
In addition to the need for a new facility to complement the work being done by the old Diamond facility, he also cited the new housing developments and the increased business activity on the corridor.
“The old Diamond hospital had certain limitations. And the President decided that we must build a new Diamond Hospital. And so, with his vision of a world-class healthcare system, one of the things is that we must have a world class facility on the East Bank corridor. You would have seen the boom of housing on the
The taser’s physical effect is temporary, meant to subdue, not harm. “It just temporarily incapacitates the driver or whoever… It is being aimed to the body – except the head and the groin area,” he clarified. “So, when it’s being shot – there’s two prongs being done—one will hit the upper part and the other will hit the lower part.”
Henry also outlined the situational precautions required during use.
“We gotta ensure the areas around [the target] is very much safe… because when you’re being hit with it, you might fall,” he said. “We are also looking at persons, vulnerable, like children, we will not choose to use [the taser] on them.”
This comes days after Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh issued a strong pub-
back to three, four years ago.
The East Bank corridor is now a blossoming of new businesses. It has now become a vital hub for the oil and gas sector. And the remarkable growth in business dictates that we must also put in the social amenities to go along with those businesses.”
lic warning, citing increasing assaults on law enforcement. Singh made it clear that traffic offenders who violently resist or attack officers will now be subdued using tasers and arrested.
“I want to re-emphasise that this type of behaviour by our citizens will not be condoned by the Guyana Police Force (GPF),” Singh declared. “Offenders who are willing to attack law enforcement officers… especially traffic policemen, will be tased with the use of taser guns, arrested and brought to justice.”
According to Singh, the decision follows “recent social media posts of members of the public violently assaulting and resisting police ranks in uniform with impunity.”
He noted that all traffic officers are being trained in less-than-lethal and non-le-
thal tactics in accordance with the Police Act Chapter 16:01.
“No longer will members of the public be allowed to violently assault members of the Force with impunity when enforcing the laws,” Singh added.
The use of tasers is grounded in legislation under the Police Amendment Act 13 of 2021, Section 2(b), which makes provisions for less-lethal weapons. Officers have also been instructed to consider environmental factors, such as whether the person is standing near traffic or flammable material, before activating the device.
Public safety advocates and former lawmen are backing the policy shift. “It makes no sense that the police are there to protect, but there’s nothing to protect the police,” said Earl Lambert, Chairman of the National Road Safety Council.
“You see videos on social media of people tumbling with somebody in uniform, and you’re wondering where we are, if we are in the Wild West,” he said.
As the GPF expands its modernisation efforts, authorities are promising more public education on the role and limits of tasers. “This is not something just coming and throwing at you,” Henry said. “Systems would have been put in place long before… and it’s being enforced now.”
FROM PAGE 3
Finding… …candidates
Faced with an exodus of high-ranking members of his party to the PPP on practically the eve of elections, PNC leader and LOO – Leader of the Opposition – Aubrey Norton’s been trying to put up a brave face. Not to worry, he says, “there will be no negative impact on the party…I don’t believe any of them can pull three votes.” Well, even if they can’t pull “three votes” – which is debatable – at a minimum, Norton should be concerned that the exodus signals to the electorate if he’s unable to inspire confidence in those who know him up close and personal, how’s he gonna inspire confidence in the said electorate to put their Xs next to the Palm Tree come September??
Or – going back to the initial “Exodus” with the Israelites fleeing the tyrannical Pharaoh – that he’s a domineering leader who leads with a stick -- a rod? – rather than a carrot!! This, of course, has been the scuttlebutt on Norton that’s been making the rounds for years – it’s either his way or the highway!! But Norton has sought to go on the offensive by asserting he’s gonna be filling whatever gaps that were left with “tested and proven PNC persons” as candidates! “Tested and proven”? Sounds like a redo of the “fit and proper” criteria invoked by that Sanctimonious Gangster David Granger!! So we’ll just have to see who these new persons are.
After he snagged the PNC leadership during a party election fraught with “fixing” accusations, his two strongest challengers dropped out in disgust – he picked (and don’t let no subsequent internal elections fool you!) a bunch of real nonentities that haven’t exactly set the house on fire!! And show no signs of doing so in the near future!! Can Norton say how many votes Shurwayne Holder – his Chairperson – or Anil Sugrim – a Central ExCo member –will bring in??
But “PNC persons” has been a code word for signalling “Afro Guyanese”. So has Norton given up on expanding the PNC base?? Does he think he can be a contender – much less a winner – if, for instance he doesn’t get Amerindian votes to go along with the usual African and Mixed Guyanese votes?? And what about Indo-Guyanese?? One of the few from that latter group remaining in the PNC –the former GT Mayor and current Pandit – warned: “No election in Guyana has ever been won by appealing to a single ethnic group. Those who believe they can build political castles on such narrow foundations are deluded”!! Strong words, eh?? It might just cost the goodly exmayor any position at Norton’s side!! Which is sad seeing it’s precisely such a “tested and proven PNC person” who might help his (doomed?) candidacy!!
…spunk
East Bank. We can look right here at Diamond, the expansion of the housing schemes here,” Dr Anthony said.
“We can look at housing at the back of Providence and many other housing schemes along the corridor… think
According to Anthony, it is about more than the opening of a new hospital. Anthony noted that it is also a testament to President Ali’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare, making it clear that this is not a privilege but a right for all.
The Health Minister also revealed that the hospital will be making its own oxygen since it has an oxygen plant. This is in addition to featuring two dialysis machines, a stateof-the-art blood banking sys-
tem and a six-chamber mortuary.
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, also assured that the remaining five hospitals will be completed to the same high standards as that exhibited by the Diamond Regional hospital. She also re-emphasised China’s commitment to Guyana’s development.
“Chinese companies will continue to complete and deliver this project with high quality, high standards and high efficiency, which is my consistent requirement for Chinese companies – I would like to assure his excellency and the Guyanese people. The six regional hospitals project is another milestone in the joint efforts of our two nations to build the health-silk road.”
“Chinese companies are playing an increasingly important role in Guyana’s economic and social transformation, while enthusiastically contributing to the social and economic development of Guyana. They also actively fulfil social responsibilities,” the Ambassador further said.
The remaining regional hospitals left to be commissioned this year are the Lima, De Kinderen, Bath, Enmore and Number 75 regional hospitals.
Last year, $15.5 billion was allocated for the construction of the six regional hospitals, with a further $28.1 billion allocated this year.
Additionally, there is a state-of-the-art Paediatric and Maternity Hospital being built at Ogle.
Back in the day, it was said that PM Indira Gandhi of India had more balls than any of her Congress colleagues –and proved it by giving Nixon the finger, which earned his wrath!! Well, it looks like over in T&T they’ve just gotten another (ballsy) Indira on their hands with PM Kamla!! Reacting to Venezuelan officials claiming that a paramilitary group had entered their country from T&T and they would go after such groups wherever they are, Kamla replied:
“Today I want to make it very clear to the Venezuelan Government and officials that they can do whatever they want on Venezuelan territory, but they cannot come here. T&T territory is off limits to them. I will … seek advice on protections for our Coast Guard to use deadly force on any unidentified vessel entering T&T waters from Venezuela.” Who told her to say THAT!! Mad Maduro immediately responded, “The PM’s virulent and high-handed attitude raises serious suspicions of complicity.”!!
Let Mad Maduro’s (usual bullying) games begin!!
…partners
Rebuffed by the PNC, Dead Meat AFC’s running out of options to cling to some party’s coattails for the elections!! To the option “to joinder or not to joinder” they’re scared they’ll draw the shortest straw and lose everything!!
Earl Lambert, Chairman of the National Road Safety Council
Assistant Superintendent Sherwin Henry
LM&TC accumulates $63M in outstanding NIS payments for workers – Town Clerk
The Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) has come under increased public and administrative scrutiny following revelations that it has failed to remit National Insurance Scheme (NIS) deductions for its employees over an extended period.
The accumulation of unpaid NIS contributions was brought to light by Town Clerk Lennox Gasper during a recent episode of the A Closer Look at Municipal Matters programme. This long-standing issue has reportedly resulted in an estimated $63 million in outstanding contributions, affecting both current staff and former employees who have since retired or left the organisation.
During the discussion, Gasper disclosed that numerous concerns had been raised, particularly by former employees, regarding irregularities and discrepancies in the payment of their NIS contributions.
“And I know that there are staff out there that have been calling; as a matter of fact, ever since my appointment on the job, persons would have reached out to me to say, hey, I've worked 14 years, and NIS only has three years for me or four years for me; for some, two,” he disclosed.
On this point, Gasper revealed that the significant build-up of unpaid NIS contributions cannot be attributed to the current council’s administration. Instead, he stressed that the issue is the result of longstanding mismanagement and oversight by previous councils.
According to Gasper, while the present leadership is actively working to address the problem, the financial backlog reflects systemic challenges that have accumulated over many years, complicating efforts to bring the council’s social security payments up to date.
Nevertheless, the matter was brought before the court, which has since issued a ruling ordering the LM&TC to pay approximately $63 million in cash to settle the outstanding NIS contributions.
“It's something that would have happened over the years. So there is a buildup nonetheless; the matter
would have went to court, and there is an amount at that court ruling, which is, like, roughly $63 million that we need to clear.”
Gasper explained that once the debt is fully settled, individuals who previously filed claims related to their NIS contributions will have those claims honoured.
He assured that the repayment will pave the way for affected employees—particularly former staff to receive the benefits and entitlements that were delayed due to the outstanding contributions.
“What was explained to us was once you clear off the debt, it is only then we can honour the claims that persons would have come in. So we were having some issues where some persons would have gone in to make claims, but they did not get the claims honoured… Also, as it relates to information with the payment, while it is on the record, the payment wasn't handed over. And so that would reflect in some persons maybe having to work 14 years, and there is a reflection of only two years or three years or what have you. We are working closely with NIS to sort that out.”
The Town Clerk added, “What I can assure them is that as long as I am seated as town clerk, I will ensure that I work with the administration and that we ensure we put the importance towards making things better for those persons who would have laid the foundation for us.”
NIS contributions are essential for ensuring that workers in Guyana have access to a range of vital social security benefits. These include old age pensions, which provide financial sup-
port after retirement; sickness and maternity benefits, which offer income during periods of illness or maternity leave; injury benefits for those hurt on the job; invalidity benefits for individuals who become permanently disabled; and survivors’ benefits, which offer finan-
cial assistance to the dependents of deceased contributors.
Without regular and ac-
curate contributions to the NIS, employees risk losing access to these crucial forms of support, which are
designed to protect them throughout their working lives and beyond.
Town Clerk Lennox Gasper
Roads, bridges, other infrastructure must be built to withstand climate change – Pres Ali
...cites importance of disaster-resilient infrastructure in ICDRI 2025 address
On the occasion of the International Conference for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2025, President Dr Irfaan Ali stressed the importance not only of building roads, bridges and other infrastructure that can withstand climate change, but the importance of global funding for vulnerable states to make this happen.
ICDRI 2025 was held in Nice, France from June 6 to 7 under the theme “Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions”. It featured delegates from around the world and addresses from leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ali, who made a virtual address.
According to President Ali, the construction of di-
saster resilient infrastructure is a more pressing concern now than it ever was. He cited threats such as rising sea levels and the ravages of climate change, which are particularly perilous for Small Island and Developing States (SIDS).
“Rising sea levels, extreme weather events and coastal erosion present an existential threat to small island developing states and low-lying coastal nations. Our population centres, farmlands, and economies stand vulnerable to these threats,” President Ali said.
“In the face of this mounting danger, the need for disaster-resilient infrastructure is not optional—it is imperative. Roads, bridges, sea defences, buildings, water systems— these are not just assets,
they are important lifelines. They must be built to withstand the changing climate and the threats it now brings with increasing
frequency and ferocity.”
That being said, however, many of these countries are in need of financial assistance, due to limited re-
sources. According to the president, “climate-resilient infrastructure is a question of survival” and a global push is needed for
international resources to be unlocked.
“However, for many small island developing states and low-lying coastal states, the capacity to enhance resilience is constrained by limited resources. We know what must be done, but often we lack the means to do it. The finance, the technology, the technical support—these are critical gaps that must be addressed urgently.”
“Against this background, I hope that this important gathering of the International Conference for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, France will go beyond dialogue and deliver real, coordinated action. We need a global push to unlock the resources required to bolster climate adaptation and mitigation for vulnerable regions, especially for small- island developing and low-lying coastal states,” President Ali said. This year’s ICDRI 2025 is the seventh instalment, and was organised by the New Delhiheadquartered Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). It is the first time the conference was held in Europe.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been undertaking a number of massive infrastructure projects with a 2030 and beyond focus, including the US$260 million Demerara River Bridge which will have a lifespan of 100 years… far eclipsing the lifespan of the old bridge.
The new bridge will 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. The bridge, which features a bicycle lane, will bring an end to closures to vehicular traffic, with its 50-metre fixed-high span to cater for the free flow of vessels uninterrupted.
The river will be dredged along a 13.5-km stretch to accommodate large vessels. As of Saturday, it was announced that the bridge is approximately 90.7 per cent completed, as the cement was poured on the final of 35 concrete towers, marking a significant milestone towards the August 31, 2025 deadline.
President Dr Irfaan Ali during his address to the ICDRI 2025
President Ali takes part in tree-planting exercise
– as he leads national clean-up campaign
Despite the inclement weather, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on Sunday morning, led the national clean up initiative, and participated in a tree-planting exercise at the new Vreed-en-hoop roundabout in Region Three.
The initiative first began in 2022, under President Ali’s leadership, and has since been rolled out annually across the 10 administrative regions, in collaboration with businesses, public and private institutions across the country, as well as public-spirited citizens and volunteers.
The President remained hands on with the initiative, frequently joining citizens in removing waste and scrap metal from communities nationwide.
While the President was in Region Three, other Government officials, including the Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, members of civil society and the private sector, were at different locations playing their part.
Members of the joint services including the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) turned out in their
widespread support for the Government’s
Finance Minister joins GPSU to honour 102nd anniversary
Dr Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, on Sunday joined the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU)
ing its 102nd anniversary under the theme: “102 Years and Still Standing Strong –Championing the Rights of Public Sector Workers.”
In a statement in observance of the occasion, the
uity, rights and recognition for every Public Servant in this great nation. The legacy of the GPSU is one of endurance, service, and steadfast advocacy, which we honour and continue to build upon with pride and purpose,” it stated.
“We must also mention that since the appointment of Dr Ashni Singh as Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, there has been a noticeable shift towards a more respectful and constructive relationship with the GPSU,” the GPSU stated, adding that “This renewed tone of engagement is promising and, if sustained, could lead to meaningful progress and a stronger partnership in addressing the needs of Public Servants.”
While the GPSU achieved numerous landmark victories through struggles, sac-
for brunch, in honour of its 102nd anniversary.
He was also honoured with the anniversary cake cutting tradition with GPSU executives.
In brief remarks at the event, the Finance Minister saluted and paid tribute to every generation of leadership within the GPSU, and in particular, today’s generation of leadership, for what he described as their “stepping out of their comfort zone and for serving a bigger cause – the cause of the public service more broadly.”
He also used the occasion to reaffirm the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s commitment to ongoing engagement with the union, particularly in areas of mutual interest aimed at advancing the welfare of Guyanese workers.
Established on June 8, 1923, the GPSU is celebrat-
union said this historic milestone is a testament to the Union’s unwavering dedication to the rights, dignity, and advancement of Public
rifices, and solidarity over the past 102 years, it underscored the need for much more to be done to improve
Servants across Guyana.
“Today, June 8, 2025, marks not only the passage of time but a reaffirmation of who we are and what we continue to fight for: dignity, eq-
employment conditions in Guyana.
The GPSU noted that its 102nd anniversary is a turning point, especially for internal examination. To this end, the union recognised that it must evolve to meet the demands of a changing national landscape, and committed to restructuring in order to remain relevant, resilient, and responsive to the needs of its members and to the challenges of a modern Public Sector. As such, the GPSU will be prioritising promoting national unity and racial harmony, and supporting women and youth, among other crucial areas.
numbers, demonstrating the public’s
cleaner and
greener Guyana initiative. Clean-up activities that began at dawn continued well into the evening.
One result of the 2025 National Clean-up Campaign. The initiative first began in 2022, under President Ali’s leadership (Ministry of Public Works photos)
President Ali during the tree-planting exercise
They began at dawn. From Commander-in-Chief to Commissioner National-Clean-Up Exercise across the regions of Guyana. Here are some scenes
Commissioner to cop, to everyone called to action, they participated in the scenes from this sterling national effort, carried out on Sunday, June 8, 2025
Region 2 joins nationwide clean-up campaign
As part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing nationwide clean-up initiative, Region Two has launched
The exercise, spearheaded by the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC), is being carried out in collaboration with the
communities
Coast.
the private sector, residents and other volunteers in the township of Anna Regina.
The clean-up will also extend to other key areas, including Charity, Suddie, Supenaam, and other parts of Anna Regina.
In an interview with the Guyana Times, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed satisfaction with the level of involvement and the overall success of the campaign.
“The clean-up exercise has been very successful throughout the region. All villages, local authorities, the disciplined services, and private sector representatives came out and played their part,” De Silva said.
She emphasized that the initiative is part of a national effort launched by President Irfaan Ali, to promote a cleaner and healthier Guyana as the country advances in development.
“A cleaner environment will help us reduce sickness
and diseases that result from untidy surroundings,” she noted.
The clean-up began with mechanical support, including a mini-excavator used to clear trenches along the coast, and tractors to assist with transporting garbage to designated dump sites.
De Silva also reminded the public that anyone caught littering will face penalties under the law. She urged hire car and minibus drivers to carry garbage bags in their vehicles, emphasizing the importance of providing passengers with a proper way to dispose of their waste responsibly.
“Hire car and minibus drivers should carry garbage bags in their vehicles so that passengers can dispose of their waste properly,” she suggested.
The Chairperson thanked all who participated, and encouraged continued efforts to maintain cleanliness, beyond the campaign.
Police are investi-
gating a fatal accident that occurred at about 19:15h Saturday at Agriculture Road, Triumph, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Dead is 51-year-old construction worker, Antonio Ignatius of Lot 77 Triumph sideline dam, East Coast Demerara.
According to police reports, the accident involved motor car #PAH 5305, driven by a 29-year-old from Triumph, ECD; motor car #PYY 4685, and pedestrian
Anna Regina Town Council, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Water Users Associations, and the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI).
The campaign saw enthusiastic participation from regional officials, members of
Pedestrian killed by speeding car which then crashed into parked car
Antonio Ignatius. Enquiries disclosed that motor car #PAH 5305 was proceeding north along the western side of Agriculture Road at a fast rate.
The driver alleged that the pedestrian suddenly walked across the road from east to west, into the path of his motorcar, and a collision occurred.
As a result, the pedestrian was flung into the air, fell onto the road surface, and received injuries to his body.
The vehicle then collided
with motorcar #PYY 4685, which was stationary on the western parapet.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) from the Melanie Fire Station were summoned, and the pedestrian was pronounced dead.
The body was then escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s (GPHC) Mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination (PME). Investigations are in progress, with no word yet on the driver alleged to have been speeding.
Mahaicony man killed in city accident
Christopher Rohaman, a 31-year-old from Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) died Saturday after he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a light pole.
According to the police, the accident occurred at about 00:20h on Camp Street and Carifesta Avenue, in the vicinity of Everest Cricket Ground, Georgetown, on June 7.
Enquiries disclosed that Rohaman, driving motor car #PAB 5434, was proceeding north along the western
drive lane of Camp Street at a fast rate, and on the approach of the intersection formed with Carifesta Avenue, he apparently lost control of his vehicle and collided with the light pole on the western side of Camp Street.
The vehicle ended up in a nearby trench several feet away; the driver was pinned inside the vehicle and sustained injuries to his body.
The Ambulance service was summoned, and arrived at the scene, where Rohaman was taken out of the vehicle in an unconscious condition by the Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), placed into the ambulance and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital's (GPHC) Accident & Emergency Unit. He was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and was pronounced dead on arrival.
His body is presently lying in the GPHC Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are continuing.
a massive effort to beautify and clean
across the Essequibo
Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva (in white clothing) cleaning up garbage around the Anna Regina Market area
Clean-up exercise at Charity
Massive clean-up exercise at Supenaam
Clean-up exercise at Pomona
GPHC symposium spotlights
Guyana’s advances in cardiology
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) successfully hosted the 2025 Cardiology Symposium at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), bringing togeth er leading healthcare pro fessionals, stakehold ers, and academic experts from across Guyana and the wider region, for a day of dialogue, collabo ration, and innovation in cardiovascular medicine. Delivering the feature ad dress, Honourable Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony underscored the Government’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare outcomes, with a specific focus on strength ening cardiovascular ser vices nationwide.
According to Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, one of the principal achieve ments in cardiology has been the implementation of
the Healthy lifestyle coun selling, Evidence‑based treatment protocols, Access to essential medicines and technology, Risk‑based car diovascular disease man agement, Team‑based care and Systems for monitor ing (HEARTS) programme, in alignment with rec ommendations from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“We currently have HEARTS operational at 221 sites across the coun try, serving nearly 4,000 patients. The data indi cates significantly better patient outcomes when us ing this model compared to traditional treatment approaches,” he revealed. As part of his Ministry’s strategy to decentralise
World Oceans Day 2025
Caricom leaders pledge continued action on sustainable ocean use
As the internation al community ob serves World Oceans Day 2025 on June 8, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) reaffirms its solidarity and deep com mitment to collective action in the sustainable man agement of our ocean; a vi tal and expansive natu ral resource, central to the Region’s identity, economy, and future.
In recognition of the im portance of sustainably managing its marine re sources, CARICOM is ad vancing the development of a CARICOM Ocean Governance Framework: a regional policy initia tive aimed at guiding ocean management and maximis ing the economic, environ mental, and social benefits of marine resources.
While the Region has made progress with sustain able management of ocean resources in the past, mo mentum has been building in member states to exer cise greater care, responsi bility, and sovereignty over the Caribbean’s marine and coastal environments.
The Community has be gun to embrace the tremen dous potential of its marine space which, in most cases, is significantly larger than terrestrial territory, but far less is known of its un
tapped value and potential.
Recognising this, CARICOM and the United Kingdom (UK) Government have entered into an agree ment to strengthen ocean governance in the region, which came into force on March 6, 2024.
At the opening ceremony ahead of the 118th Special Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) on the Environment and Sustainable Development in April 2025, Mr Alexader Gozney, Climate and Environment Attaché for the Caribbean of the British High Commission, Bridgetown, Barbados, had noted:
“Halting and reversing biodiversity loss is one of the UK’s top priorities on our international climate and nature work. So, we are delighted to have sup ported the development of CARICOM’s Natural Resources and Environment Policy Framework, and to be supporting the devel opment of a CARICOM Oceans Policy Framework. These policies should build on the good work already taken place to protect and restore ecosystems in the region, while also providing sustainable livelihoods.”
“The UK recognises the Caribbean’s position as both
a biodiversity hotspot, as well as a highly climate vul nerable region, and has been and will continue to support the Caribbean, both through global advoca cy and programmatic sup port.”
As the Region ob serves World Oceans Day, CARICOM stands united in its efforts to develop a cohe sive, resilient, and inclusive framework for ocean gov ernance: — one that safe guards biodiversity, fos ters sustainable livelihoods, and reflects the unique re alities and aspirations of CARICOM.
World Oceans Day, cel ebrated every year on June 8, is a global observance aimed at raising aware ness about the critical role the ocean plays in our lives and the urgent need to pro tect it. Established by the United Nations (UN) in 2008, the day highlights is sues such as marine pollu tion, overfishing, climate change, and biodiversi ty loss. It serves as a plat form for Governments, en vironmental organisations, coastal communities, and individuals to promote sus tainable ocean manage ment, advocate for marine conservation policies, and encourage collective action to preserve ocean health for future generations.
and expand cardiology ser vices, Minister Anthony an nounced the establishment of catheterisation laborato ries (cath labs) at three re gional sites.
“This expansion will bring critical diagnostic and interventional cardi ology services closer to the communities that need them most,” he stated.
Minister Anthony also stressed the importance of continuous professional de velopment, encouraging the nation’s healthcare workers to pursue ongoing training and skills enhancement.
“We want our health care providers to consis tently upskill themselves so they can deliver the highest standard of care to patients,” he affirmed. The GPHC Cardiology Symposium 2025 show cased Guyana’s progressive approach to healthcare de
livery, and underscored the role of multidisciplinary collaboration and educa tion in driving sustainable improvements in cardiovas cular care.
In 2021, the Ministry of Health committed to reduc ing the burden of cardio vascular diseases by adopt ing the Global HEARTS Initiative.
According to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the HEARTS technical pack age provides a strategic ap proach to improving cardio vascular health, promoting the adoption of global best practices in the prevention and control of cardiovascu lar diseases (CVD), and im proving the performance of primary health care ser vices through better control of high blood pressure.
CVDs, which include conditions such as heart at
tacks, stroke, and heart fail ure, are the leading cause of death in the Americas.
An estimated 2.0 million people died from CVDs in 2017. Of these deaths, 30 per cent occurred in peo ple 70 years and under.
In Guyana, these diseas es comprise at least 70 per cent of the disease burden, according to a 2024 PAHO news report.
HEARTS is fundamen tally evidence based prac tice in diagnosing and treating arterial hyperten sion, the Health Ministry notes.
HEARTS, PAHO notes, is being implemented and expanded in 33 countries of the Caribbean, South and Central American regions to include 6,052 health cen tres, which together cover approximately 39 million adults in the respective catchment areas.
Businessman granted bail after cannabis charge remand
ASophia based busi nessman, who was previously remand ed to prison on a drug pos session charge, has been granted bail in the sum of $200,000.
Gavin Dowden was re leased on Friday when he made a second court ap pearance, this time be fore Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
He had initially been remanded by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty after being charged with having just over a kilogram of cannabis in his posses sion.
The allegation stems from an incident in which Dowden was reported ly found with 1.042 kilo grams of cannabis, alleged ly discovered near him in the driver’s seat of a vehi cle. He pleaded not guilty to the charge during his first court appearance.
When the matter was called on Friday, Dowden’s attorney successfully peti tioned the court for bail.
The attorney argued that Dowden, who oper
ates a welding business in Sophia, had been set up.
According to the defence, Dowden was at a gas station when an unidentified per son approached him with a request to deliver a pack age in exchange for money. That same individual lat er returned to the location, this time accompanied by agents of the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), the court heard.
The lawyer maintained that his client had no prior issues with the law, posed no flight risk, and was will ing to comply with any conditions imposed by the court.
Despite objections from the prosecution, who ar gued that the cannabis was discovered within arm’s
reach of the accused and that no special reasons were presented to justi fy bail, the court ruled in Dowden’s favour.
As part of the bail con ditions, Dowden was or dered to lodge his passport and report to CANU every Friday until the matter is concluded. The case has been adjourned until July 11, 2025.
The charge followed an operation conduct ed by CANU officers on Wednesday, May 14, in the vicinity of the Rubis Gas Station on Vlissengen Road, Georgetown.
Acting on information received, agents intercept ed a motor car suspected to be involved in narcotics trafficking. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncov ered four parcels contain ing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.
Dowden was arrest ed on the spot and escort ed to CANU Headquarters, where the suspected nar cotic tested positive for can nabis with a total weight of 1.042 kilograms.
Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony
Gavin Dowden
Officials call for revival of rules for minibus, taxi drivers
– transportation code of conduct forgotten, says Minibus Union President
As complaints against minibus drivers mount – from fare hikes to unprofessional attire and reckless behaviour – transportation and law enforcement officials are calling for the revival of the Code of Conduct governing the country’s public transportation operators, which they say has been completely sidelined.
During his appearance on the Road Safety and You programme, Eon Andrews, President of the United Minibus Union (UMU) and Public Relations Officer of the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC), lamented the discontinuation of a previously active programme designed to enforce professional standards within the minibus indus-
that these trainings [on the Code of Conduct]… we would have trained almost 300,” Andrews said. “But it had to be continuous. It just stopped as she came off.
try.
“It is sad to see that Miss Tinnis… when she was there, she ensured
Nothing seemed to be happening after,” he lamented. The Code of Conduct was
developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, the Road Safety Council, and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and was intended to define the expectations for service providers and their relationship with passengers.
“There is a code of conduct that governs the relationship between the travelling public and our service providers, how they need to treat with each other,” Andrews stated. “To supplement that, there was training that was started for these providers… they would have had these seminars at the police headquarters,” he recalled. The document reportedly includes guidance on everything from fare structure, dress code, driving hours, and general deportment, and was distributed to operators countrywide. But without enforcement or follow-up training,
much of its content has been ignored. Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert, stated that drivers are now dressing “anyhow” when transporting passengers. “What I find happening is a free-for-all,” lamented Lambert. “Even the dress code; now people [are] dressing in singlet, three-quarter pants, and a slipper instead of driving a bus.”
Lambert recalled that years ago, drivers were required to wear proper attire and post their fare structure inside the bus – a now-neglected requirement that could help curb fare gouging.
“There was also this law that you had to have your fare structure posted up so that when passengers entered, they will determine whether they want to pay or they don’t want to pay, they can come out back,” he said. “Nowadays, what I find hap-
pening is a free-for-all.”
The breakdown in the enforcement of the code, officials say, has contributed to a culture of lawlessness in the transportation sector. Drivers raise fares arbitrarily, particularly in the afternoons, and sometimes do so while dressed inappropriately, while blasting loud music.
“This is a country, even though they might have fare structure, they still take advantage of persons,” Andrews explained. “Commuters would go to the Ministry of Tourism… there’s a Consumer Affairs Department… She [Tinnis] would collect them and then have a meeting with the police, Road Safety Council, the bus union… she even had her staff going into buses, travelling it to get an understanding of what is going on out there. It is no longer going on. I don’t know why,” he noted.
Inspector Kevin Budlal, from Region Three (Essequibo Island- West Demerara), confirmed that his team is still trying to uphold aspects of the code, particularly the dress code and fare enforcement. “On a daily basis… we target these buses… the same dress code that we’re talking about, dress code, the fare structure,” he said. “Many times, we get complaints about minibus drivers or the conductor charging extra fees in the afternoon.”
But the problem extends beyond just drivers, Andrews said, it also lies with some commuters who enable lawlessness.
“You’d be surprised to know commuters in there would attack the other commuter instead of trying to get together to get it right,” he said. “So, it’s a work in progress. I don’t know how we’re going to reach there.” Officials now believe it is time for the Code of Conduct to be revived, made public, and actively enforced. “We have to put a system in place,” Lambert insisted. “We have got to make arrangements to talk to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce so that we can have a continuation of the system that Miss Tinnis would have put in place… to bring some semblance to it.”
As the push grows to restore discipline in the sector, transportation stakeholders say that regulation, education, and accountability are more urgent than ever.
Tattoo artist denies role in daycare break-in despite video evidence
Claiming innocence despite video evidence allegedly showing him committing the crime, 38-year-old tattoo artist Nicholas Choy once again found himself before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, this time begging for bail and denying all involvement in a brazen break-in at the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) daycare and preschool.
Choy, of Lot 168 Robb Street, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh, where he faced a charge of break-andenter and larceny.
He is accused of breaking into the YWCA building at Lot 106 Croal Street on May 12, 2025, and stealing a series of items valued at $277,200. These include a microwave, industrial fan, double-bed mattresses, a water dispenser, a JBL speaker, a garbage bin, school supplies, and other household items.
Under Section 229A of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, the charge carries significant penalties upon conviction. Still, Choy, who appeared virtually, insisted that the entire ordeal was a mistake and pleaded fervently for bail.
However, the prosecution, responding to the bail plea, firmly opposed his release, citing strong video evidence. When asked by the Magistrate whether the footage had been reviewed, the investigating rank confirmed that the footage clearly captured Choy inside the YWCA premises. According to the prosecution, not only was he seen removing the stolen items, but he was also captured taking a bath in one of the rooms, footage that included a close-up view of his face.
Confronted with this damning evidence, Choy doubled down on his denial. “The person in the video don’t look like me,” he in-
sisted. “That person don’t have tattoos”
Despite Choy’s protestations, Magistrate Singh told him the court would determine whether the individual in the footage was him when the video is played at the next hearing. “If we play the video and the person is you, then we would consider,” she said.
Bail was ultimately denied, and Choy was remanded to prison until June 20, when the court is expected to view the surveillance footage.
The current charge is not Choy’s first encounter with the law. He was previously charged in February 2022 for a breakin at the corner of Albert and Charlotte streets in Georgetown, where he allegedly stole items valued at $460,000 from a parked vehicle belonging to Bhesham Persaud.
CCTV footage had placed Choy at the scene of that theft as well, alongside other unidentified individu-
als.
In the present case, during his first court appearance on May 16, Choy had also proclaimed his innocence before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty. He had said that he merely encountered a “junkie” walking with a garbage bin and that when he questioned the man about the bin, the man fled, leaving it behind, just as police arrived and arrested him.
“I didn’t break in nowhere,” Choy had said then. “I come home from work. I work on America Street doing tattoos.”
At that hearing, the prosecution stated that video footage captured him not just stealing the items but also using the facilities at the daycare. They further disclosed that some of the stolen items were recovered in Choy’s possession, though he tried to explain away that fact by claiming he only had the garbage bin and didn’t know what was inside.
Despite his continued claims of mistaken identity, and appeals for leniency due to his financial responsibilities, the strength of the video evidence
Nicholas Choy
Inspector Kevin Budlal from Region Three
Eon Andrews, President of the Guyana Minibus Union and Public Relations Officer of the Guyana National Road Safety Council
Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert
Burns are classified from first to third degree. Most people recover without serious health consequences, but more severe burns require emergency medical care to prevent complications and death. Burns are one of the most common household injuries, especially among children. The term “burn” means more than the burning sensation associated with this injury. Burns are characterised by severe skin damage that causes the affected skin cells to die.
Burn levels
There are three primary types of burns: first-, second-, and third-degree. Each degree is based on the severity of damage to the skin, with the first degree being the most minor and third degree being the most severe. Damage includes:
• First-degree burns: red, no blistered skin
• Second-degree burns: blisters and some thickening of the skin
Third-degree burns: widespread thickness with a white, leathery appearance
There are also fourth-degree burns. This type of burn includes all the symptoms of a third-degree burn and extends beyond the skin into tendons and bones.
Burns has a variety of causes, including: scalding from hot, boiling liquids chemical burns
• electrical burns fires, including flames from matches, candles, and lighters excessive sun exposure
The type of burn is not based on the cause of it. Scalding, for example, can cause all three degrees of burns, depending on how
hot the liquid is and how long it stays in contact with the skin.
Chemical and electrical burns warrant immediate medical attention because they can affect the inside of the body, even if skin damage is minor.
First-degree burns
First-degree burns cause minimal skin damage. They are also called “superficial burns” because they affect the outermost layer of skin. Signs of a first-degree burn include redness, minor inflammation, or swelling.
Pain, dry, peeling skin occurs as the burn heals
Since this burn affects the top layer of skin, the signs and symptoms disappear once the skin cells shed. First-degree burns usually heal within 7 to 10 days without scarring.
See a doctor if the burn affects a large area of skin, more than three inches, and if it’s on the face or a major joint, which includes: knee, ankle, foot, spine, shoulder, elbow, forearm.
First-degree burns are usually treated with home care. Healing time may be quicker the sooner the burn is treated.
HEALTH TIPS BURNS
vera gel or cream to soothe the skin
• Using an antibiotic ointment and loose gauze to protect the affected area
Don’t use ice, as this may make the damage worse. Never apply cotton balls to a burn because the small fibres can stick to the injury and increase the risk of infection. Also, avoid home remedies like butter and eggs as these are not proven to be effective.
Second-degree burns
Second-degree burns are more serious because the damage extends beyond the top layer of skin. This type of burn causes the skin to blister and become extremely red and sore. Some blisters pop open, giving the burn a wet or weeping appearance. Over time, thick, soft, scab-like tissue called fibrinous exudate may develop over the wound. Due to the delicate nature of these wounds, keeping the area clean and bandaging it properly is required to prevent infection. This also helps the burn heal quicker.
Some second-degree burns take longer than three weeks to heal, but
Treatments for a first-degree burn include:
• Soaking the wound in cool water for five minutes or longer
• Taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief
Applying lidocaine (an anaesthetic) with aloe
most heal within two to three weeks without scarring, but often with pigment changes to the skin. The worse the blisters are, the longer the burn will take to heal. In some severe cases, skin grafting is required to fix the damage. Skin grafting takes healthy skin from another
area of the body and moves it to the site of the burned skin.
Get Help immediately.
While waiting for medical treatment, raise the injury
Place a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen.
As with first-degree burns, avoid cotton balls and questionable home remedies. Treatments for a mild second-degree burn generally include:
• Running the skin under cool water for 15 minutes or longer Taking over-thecounter pain medication (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• Applying antibiotic cream to blisters
However, seek emergency medical treatment if the burn affects a widespread area, such as any of the following: face, hands, buttocks, groin, feet
Third-degree burns
Excluding fourth-degree burns, third-degree burns are the most severe. They cause the most damage, extending through every layer of skin. There is a misconception that third-degree burns are the most painful. However, with this type of burn the damage is so extensive that there may not be any pain because of nerve damage. Depending on the cause, the symptoms third-degree burns can exhibit include:
• waxy and white colour
• char dark brown colour
• raised and leathery texture blisters that do not develop
Without surgery, these wounds heal with severe scarring and contracture. There is no set timeline for complete spontaneous healing for third-degree burns.
Never attempt to selftreat a third-degree burn.
above the heart. Don’t get undressed, but make sure no clothing is stuck to the burn.
Complications
Compared with firstand second-degree burns, third-degree burns carry the most risk for complications, such as infections, blood loss, and shock, which is often what could lead to death. At the same time, all burns carry the risk of infections because bacteria can enter broken skin.
Tetanus is another possible complication with burns of all levels.
Severe burns also carry the risk of hypothermia and hypovolemia. Dangerously low body temperatures characterise hypothermia. While this may seem like an unexpected complication of a burn, the condition is prompted by excessive loss of body heat from an injury. Hypovolemia, or low blood volume, occurs when the body loses too much blood from a burn.
Preventing all degrees of burns
The obvious best way to fight burns is to prevent them from happening.
Certain jobs put people at greater risk for burns, but the fact is that most burns happen at home. Infants and young children are the most vulnerable to burns. Preventive measures at home include:
Keep children out of the kitchen while cooking.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
Test smoke detectors once a month.
Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.
• Keep the water heater temperature under 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Measure bath water temperature before use.
Lock up matches and lighters.
Install electrical outlet covers.
Check and discard electrical cords with exposed wires.
Keep chemicals out of reach and wear gloves during chemical use.
• Wear sunscreen every day and avoid peak sunlight.
• Ensure all smoking products are stubbed out completely.
Clean out dryer lint traps regularly. It’s also important to have a fire escape plan and to practise it with family once a month. In the event of a fire, make sure to crawl underneath smoke. This will minimise the risk of passing out and becoming trapped in a fire. When properly and quickly treated, the outlook for first- and second-degree burns is good. These burns rarely scar but can result in a change in pigment of the skin that was burned. The key is to minimise further damage and infection. Extensive damage from severe second-degree and third-degree burns can lead to problems in deep skin tissues, bones, and organs. Patients may require surgery, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and lifelong assisted care.
Colombia presidential hopeful shot in head at rally
AColombian presidential candidate re-
mains in intensive care after he was shot three times – twice in the head –at a campaign event in the capital, Bogotá.
Miguel Uribe Turbay, a 39-year-old senator, was attacked while addressing supporters in a park on Saturday. Police arrested a 15-year-old suspect at the scene, the attorney general's office said.
Uribe's Centro Democratico party condemned the attack, calling it a threat to "democracy and freedom in Colombia".
Footage shared online appears to show the moment when he was shot in the head mid-speech, prompting those gathered to flee in panic.
He was airlifted to the Santa Fe Foundation hospital where supporters gath-
Trinidad
ered to hold a vigil.
Uribe was rushed into surgery while in a critical condition, Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán said late on Saturday night.
The hospital said on Sunday morning that Uribe had undergone procedures to his head and left thigh, before being taken to be stabilised in intensive care.
He remains in an ex-
tremely serious condition, it added.
The 15-year-old suspect was shot in the leg as police and security officers pursued him following the attack, according to local media.
He was arrested carrying a "9mm Glock-type firearm", a statement from the attorney general's office said. An investigation is under way.
Govt defends stand-yourground bill, says current laws fall short
The Government is standing firm on its plan to introduce stand-your-ground legislation, asserting that the proposed protections for citizens do not already exist under current Trinidad and Tobago law.
Trinidad Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to passing the law—outlined in the United National Congress’ manifesto—despite criticism from the Opposition and legal concerns.
During a post-Cabinet press conference at the Red House, the Prime Minister responded to questions about a 2023 Trinidad Guardian article written by House Speaker Jagdeo Singh—then a practising attorney—in which he argued that existing common law
B’dos
Talready covers the principles of stand-your-ground. Singh’s article states: “It seems to be that there is collective societal misconception that a person under a threat, real or perceived, is under a duty to retreat. That is simply not so. The duty to retreat was part of the old common law. That rule has disappeared. The current common law imposes no such duty on a person.”
Despite Singh’s past statements, Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein echoed the Prime Minister’s position. “What we are doing as a Government is putting certainty with respect to the law of self-defence which is what we are calling standyour-ground law,” Hosein said.
According to Hosein, the current law leaves too much room for interpretation in
life-threatening situations.
The Prime Minister also addressed public concern and debate surrounding the legislation. “Why should you have to decide between defending your family or not defending your family because you are fearful that you will be prosecuted later?” she asked.
Persad-Bissessar added, “Do not hesitate, send them straight to the hospital.”
The Ministry of Homeland Security has formed a committee to guide the legislation, which is being drafted by Attorney General John Jeremie. Jeremie said he expects to have the necessary material ready by the end of the month, with the bill to be tabled in Parliament before the legislative recess.
(Excerpt from CNW)
Ministry clears air on scabies claims
he Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued a firm denial of recent “exaggerated claims” surrounding a scabies outbreak, stating that both patient and health care worker safety remain their top priorities. In a recent statement from the ministry, it was confirmed there were an additional two confirmed cases of scabies, bringing the total to 11.
AI technology being rolled out at J’ca police stations
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will likely have more boots on the ground soon, across the island, to increase the successes its has been having dealing with crime, as artificial intelligence (AI) has been introduced at police stations to tend to administrative matters such as taking statements from the public.
“Please welcome Constable Smart to the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the newest member of the JCF,” Amber Group CEO Dushyant Savadia declared at the JCF’s Distinguished Mensa Lecture and Transformations Expo Launch held at AC Kingston hotel on Friday.
Describing Constable Smart as a “beautiful AI
agent” built by his team at Amber, Savadia said the technology will give information in a human voice during conversations, even in the Jamaican dialect.
“It will actually speak with you in patois, English, or any language you want to speak with it,” he said then demonstrated how that system works.
When a caller dials 119, Constable Smart will answer the phone and say, “Me a Constable Smart, your law enforcement AI assistant at the Jamaica Constabulary Force. How can I assist you today?”
Explaining the benefit of having the system record police statements from complainants, the Amber Group boss said, “When you go to a police station to give a re-
port, you sit down in front of somebody who may be having a bad day from home and there are books to be written. Imagine now, all of our police stations in Jamaica, when you walk in there will be an AI agent waiting for you. You’d go up to it, talk to it, file your report, and it will ask you questions and even interrogate and ask you the right questions that it collects all the data it needs about a situation. The Transformations Expo is scheduled for June 19-22 in Kingston and Montego Bay. The event provides the public with examples of how the JCF’s quality management systems and technology are revolutionising policing in Jamaica.
(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake shakes
central Colombia
Apowerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck central Colombia early Sunday, sending residents, the U.S. Geological Survey said. No casualties were immediately reported.
The shallow quake struck at 8:08 a.m. at a depth of 6.2 miles about 10.5 miles from the city of Paratebueno, which is about 116 miles southeast of the capital of Bogota. Residents said they felt the tremor in cities including Medellin, Cali and Manizales.
The Colombian Geological Service reported additional tremors with magnitudes ranging from 4 to 4.6 that occurred in the same area minutes later.
The National Unit for
Disaster Risk Management said on X that it was assessing the situation in several municipalities.
Images posted on social media showed people in Bogota who felt the tremor — some left their workplaces to seek safety. Footage from rural areas indicated there was no damage. Colombia lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Antigua: Govt may seek legal costs from Russian claimant after US court tosses subpoenas in Alfa Nero case
Last week Tuesday, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, during a media briefing at the Pan American Health Organisation in Dayrells Road, St Michael, and Chief Medical Officer The Most Honourable Dr Kenneth George revealed there was a scabies outbreak at the Geriatric Hospital with nine infected patients. However, in a press conference called on Wednesday by Senator Andre Worrell, the Democratic Labour Party’s spokesperson on health, he said the figures were “significantly higher than those presented by the [Chief Medical Officer] in his preliminary report. Currently, there are up to 24 confirmed cases distributed across five wards”. Worrell also said there were seven nurses who were affected.
claims of 24 patient cases or seven infected nurses. This is a dynamic situation. Infection control measures are active and we remain confident in a responsible resolution. Contact tracing continues and scabies – most often spread through prolonged contact – is likely introduced by external sources.”
Health officials further clarified that the situation did not meet the criteria for a public health emergency of national significance.
The ministry, in a subsequent statement, said: “No official data supports
The ministry urged the public to disregard misinformation and rely solely on official sources. (Excerpt from Barbados Nation News)
Lawyers representing the Government are considering asking a United States court to award costs against Russian citizen Yulia Guryeva Motlokhov, following the quashing of all subpoenas in a recent disclosure case.
The announcement was made Saturday afternoon by senior counsel Anthony Astaphan, on the Browne and Browne Show on Pointe FM.
He says he has been in discussions with the U.S. lawyers who represented the Government in the case, to discuss how to proceed.
The Government spent at least US$136,000 on the case, while West Indies Oil Company has received a legal bill for some US$200,000.
Judge Jesse M. Furman delivered the ruling on Wednesday.
Guryeva Motlokhov had been seeking to dig into private banking details of several Antiguan officials and entities, including Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne, but the judge stopped her in her tracks, insisting the applicant “failed to meet the statutory requirements for relief.”
The Government has welcomed the decision, with Prime Minister Browne call-
ing it a “complete vindication”. The Prime Minister had faced a torrent of unsubstantiated allegations arising from the case.
The Russian citizen has claimed an ownership interest in the Alfa Nero superyacht, which was sold by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda for US$40 million last year. (Antigua News Room)
The Alfa Nero superyacht that was at the centre of the court case
People remain on the street after an earthquake in Bogota on June 8, 2025
Miguel Uribe Turbay has been a senator for the conservative Centro Democratico party since 2022
National Guard deployed in Los Angeles amid protests against immigration raids
California National Guard arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday, deployed by President Donald Trump after two days of protests by hundreds of demonstrators against immigration raids carried out as part of Trump's hardline policy.
About a dozen National Guard members were seen in video footage on Sunday morning lining up at a federal building in downtown Los Angeles, where detainees from immigration raids on Friday were taken, sparking protests that continued on Saturday.
The complex is near Los Angeles City Hall, where another protest against the immigration raids is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
U.S. Northern Command confirmed National Guard troops had started deploying and that some were already on the ground.
"These Radical Left protests, by instigators and often paid troublemakers, will NOT BE TOLERATED," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform early on Sunday.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused Trump of deploying the National Guard because he wants "a spectacle."
Footage showed at least a half dozen military-style vehicles and riot shields on Sunday at the federal building where the Department of Homeland Security said about "1,000 rioters" had protested on Friday.
Reuters could not verify the DHS account. (Excerpt from Reuters)
3 dead, 21 injured in Russian drone and missile attacks on Kharkiv
Alarge Russian droneand-missile attack targeted Ukraine's second-largest city of Kharkiv on Saturday, killing at least three people and wounding 21 others, according to local officials, as hopes for peace dimmed further.
The warring sides also accused each other of trying to sabotage a planned prisoner exchange, nearly a week after Kyiv embarrassed the Kremlin with a surprising drone attack on military airfields deep inside Russia.
Saturday's barrage — the latest in near daily wide-scale attacks on Ukraine — included aerial glide bombs that have become part of a fierce Russian onslaught in the allout war, which began on Feb. 24, 2022.
Ukraine's air force said that Russia struck with 215 missiles and drones overnight, and Ukrainian air de-
fenses shot down 87 drones and seven missiles.
Several other areas in Ukraine were also hit, including the regions of Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, and the city of Ternopil, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said in an X post.
The Russian Defense Ministry on Saturday said
that its forces carried out a nighttime strike on Ukrainian military targets, including ammunition depots, drone assembly workshops, and weaponry repair stations. There was no comment from Moscow on the reports of casualties in Kharkiv. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Pope Leo criticises political nationalism and prays for reconciliation and dialogue
Pope Leo XIV has criticized the surge of nationalist political movements in the world as he prayed for reconciliation and dialogue.
Pope Leo XIV criticized the surge of nationalist political movements in the world as he prayed Sunday for reconciliation and dialogue — a message in line with his pledges to make the Catholic Church a symbol of peace.
Around the World
Ambassador Wei: China has no interest in control of the Panama Canal
Resident Chinese Ambassador in Grenada, Wei Hongtian has described as a “totally baseless accusation” a claim from U.S President Donald Trump that Beijing is seeking to control the Panama Canal which is a vital sea route for international maritime trade.
Speaking to reporters in St George, the Chinese diplomat said at times it is difficult to understand “what these people are thinking” in the new administration in Washington.
He noted that those running the White House in Washington would have a position today and it is changed tomorrow.
“This is a reality,” he quipped.
According to Ambassador Wei, he wants to make it very clear that China has never sought to control the Panama Canal and has no
interest in doing so “in the past, the present and in the future.”
“This is not our policy, not our practice,” he said.
During his inaugural address in January for his second stint in the White House, President Trump doubled down on his assertion that China runs the Panama Canal.
Noting that Beijing has diplomatic relations and co-operation agreements with Panama, Ambassador Wei said that some countries are deliberately involved in a smear campaign against China.
“We like to co-operate, we don’t want trouble,” he told reporters. (Excerpt from The New Today Grenada)
Liberia's ex-Speaker charged with arson over parliament fire
Liberia's former speaker of parliament has been charged with arson over a fire which destroyed the nation's House of Representatives, local police have said.
The huge blaze broke out last December, a day after plans to remove Jonathan Fonati Koffa from his role as speaker sparked protests in the capital, Monrovia.
Koffa had been locked in a stand-off with his political opponents, with dozens of lawmakers voting for his impeachment in October over accusations of poor governance, corruption and conflicts of interest.
He has previously denied
any connection to the fire breaking out.
Police said on Friday that there were "credible links" to suggest Koffa was "strategically involved" in the incident. Five other lawmakers have also been detained in connection with the case.
Police chief Gregory Colman said Koffa had been charged with a string of offences including arson, criminal mischief, endangering other people, and attempted murder.
Colman said Koffa had used his office and staff "to co-ordinate sabotage efforts from as early as November 2023", according to news agency AFP.
Koffa and several other lawmakers were summoned to the Liberian National Police headquarters on Friday as "persons of interest" in the case, local media reports.
The former speaker and three sitting members of the House of Representatives were then remanded to Monrovia Central Prison on Saturday, newspaper FrontPage Africa reported. The blaze on 18 December 2024 destroyed the entire joint chambers of the West African nation's legislature. No one was inside the building at the time. (Excerpt from BBC News)
IDF told to "take whatever measures necessary" to stop Greta Thunberg aid boat from reaching Gaza
“Where there is love, there is no room for prejudice, for ‘security’ zones separating us from our neighbors, for the exclusionary mindset that, tragically, we now see emerging also in political nationalisms,” the first American pontiff said.
He did not name any specific country or politician.
Leo also recalled the words
The pope celebrated Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square in front of tens of thousands faithful, and asked the Holy Spirit to “break down barriers and tear down the walls of indifference and hatred.”
of late Pope Francis, who — on the feast of Pentecost in May 2023 — observed that in our world “we are all connected, yet find ourselves disconnected from one another, anaesthetized by indifference and overwhelmed by solitude.”
The pope also condemned wars, which “are plaguing our world,” and asked the Holy Spirit for “the gift of peace.”
He has also appealed for a genuine and just peace in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza. (Excerpt form ABC News)
Israel's defence minister has threatened to "take whatever measures necessary" to stop an aid boat carrying Greta Thunberg from reaching Gaza.
The climate campaigner, 22, is one of a dozen activists aboard the Madleen, which set sail from Sicily last Sunday on a mission aiming to break Israel's sea
blockade.
The activists have said they plan to reach Gaza's territorial waters as early as Sunday to deliver humanitarian aid.
But in a post on X, Israel's defence minister Israel Katz said he has instructed the IDF to prevent the vessel reaching the shore and to "take whatever measures necessary".
Addressing Thunberg and the other activists, he said: "You should turn back – because you will not reach Gaza."
He wrote: "I have instructed the IDF to act so that the 'Madeleine' hate flotilla does not reach the shores of Gaza – and to take any means necessary to that end. (Excerpt from Sky News)
The Madleen is heading for Gaza
Resident Chinese Ambassador in Grenada, Wei Hongtian
Firefighters tackle a blaze after a Russian attack that hit a residential building in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Saturday, June 7, 2025
Members of the National Guard stand outside the Edward R Roybal federal building in Los Angeles on Sunday (CNN)
Simplify matters rather than stir things up. Stability is your ticket forward; staying on track will get you where you want to go. Refuse to let outside influences lead you astray. Your life, your decisions.
Take matters into your own hands. Allowing anyone to intervene or trusting them to do what's best for you will backfire. Do what you want to do; don't try to please someone else.
Situations are not as they appear. Anger isn't the answer. Thinking and acting for yourself will help your counter emotional fallout. Jump into action. Forward thinking and motivation are key. Trust yourself.
Consider what you say and how you react to others. What's important is that you do justice to yourself and those you encounter by being kind and honest. Help people and express gratitude for the help you receive.
Play to win. Keep an open mind, but don't be too credulous. Life is too short to follow someone else. Do your own thing.
Making a move prematurely will leave you in limbo. Putting a plan and budget in place will eliminate doubt when the time comes to make a move.
Don't distort the truth, no matter how admirable your motives. Speak honestly and from the heart, and the right people will help you reach your goal.
Address unresolved issues and finish what you start before moving forward. Don't run from your mistakes; fix them and carry on. Let your actions speak for you.
Pay attention to what's happening in your backyard. Focus on home and family. Put your energy where it counts, and you will prosper.
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Alcaraz stuns Sinner in extraordinary French Open final
Defending champion
Carlos Alcaraz recovered from two sets down – saving three championship points on the way – to beat Jannik Sinner in an incredible French Open men’s singles final.
Alcaraz’s reign on the Roland Garros clay looked to be over when world number one Sinner closed in on victory at 5-3 in the fourth set.
But the 22-year-old Spaniard showed extraordinary fight to win 4-6 6-7 (47) 6-4 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (10-2) after five hours and 29 minutes –the longest French Open final in history.
In an electrifying atmosphere on Court Philippe Chatrier, Alcaraz produced the finest performance of his career to claim a fifth major title.
In his victory speech, he told Sinner: “The level you have is amazing.
“It is a privilege to share a court with you in every tournament and in making history.”
The world number two had never previously won a
Kylian Mbappé scored his 50th international goal as France beat Nations League hosts Germany in their third-place play-off.
The Captain finished well for the 45th-minute opener following a pass from Real Madrid team-mate Aurelien Tchouameni.
And Mbappé set up the second goal six minutes from time when he pounced on a mistake from Robin Koch and unselfishly squared the ball for Michael Olise to slot into the empty net.
Germany had their chances, though, with both a penalty award and goal overturned by the video assistant referee (VAR).
First, Karim Adeyemi was awarded a spot-kick after being brought down by France keeper Mike Maignan, but the Germany forward was instead booked for diving after a VAR check.
And then Deniz Undav’s effort was disallowed after Niclas Fullkrug was deemed to have fouled Adrien Rabiot in the build-up.
Adeyemi also had three shots saved by Chelsea target Maignan, while Florian Wirtz struck a post.
But France could have added to their goal haul in Stuttgart too. Marcus
match after losing the opening two sets.
Alcaraz is the first man to win a Grand Slam title after saving match point since Novak Djokovic beat Roger Federer in the 2019 Wimbledon final.
Sinner, who was bidding for his maiden Roland Garros triumph, was denied his third successive major after a gruelling, gritty and glorious encounter.
“It’s easier to play than talk now,” said the 23-yearold, who was playing in only his second tournament since returning from a three-month ban for failing two doping tests.
“I’m still happy with this trophy – I won’t sleep very well tonight, but it is OK.”
All-time classic more than lives up to the hype
The first Grand Slam showpiece between the two dominant players on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour had been a tantalising prospect –and it surpassed the hype.
Both pushed themselves –and each other to the limit –in a classic contest who showcased all of their shot-making, athleticism and resilience.
The majority of the 15,000 fans were jumping to their feet after every point in a thrilling finale, where both players continued to execute top-quality shots that often defied belief.
Thuram’s curling strike hit the post, while Mbappé missed the target several times and forced a great save from MarcAndre ter Stegen. Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany have now failed to win in three games, including Wednesday’s semi-final defeat by Portugal.
Captain Joshua Kimmich told RTL: “We should have been leading 3-0 after six minutes. Then we went into the break a goal behind.
“We lost patience too early and lost our structure in
the second half. We made too many mistakes and gave them what they wanted.”
Les Bleus boss Didier Deschamps added: “Mike [Maignan] was a fantastic last line of defence and he kept us in it at the start.
“I thought the scoreline at half-time against Spain [2-0] was incredibly severe. I’m not going to sit here and lie to you and say that we deserved to go into half-time today in the lead, but it allowed us to go on and become better.” (BBC Sport)
Alcaraz flew out of the blocks in the first-to-10 match tie-break of the fifth set, sapping every last bit of energy of Sinner before sealing victory with a whipped forehand winner down the line.
He fell flat on his back before Sinner trudged around the net for a warm, heartfelt embrace.
Alcaraz somehow found the energy to sprint off court,
climbing up the stands to celebrate with his Coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, the rest of his team and family members, including his parents.
After the second longest major final in history, both players were given rapturous rounds of applause as they collected their trophies.
Sinner gives “everything” on Grand Slam comeback
Sinner has emerged as the standout player on the ATP Tour over the past 18 months, with a machine-like brand of tennis reminiscent of 24-time major champion Djokovic in his prime.
Little appears to faze the mild-mannered Italian on or off court – even the controversy surrounding the doping case which rocked the sport.
Sinner agreed to a threemonth ban with the World Anti-Doping Agency shortly after retaining his Australian Open title in January, meaning he did not miss a Grand Slam tournament and was able to take his place at Roland Garros.
It was like he had never been away.
Sinner did not drop a
set on his way to his maiden French Open final, losing serve only three times in his six matches – the fewest since Spanish great Rafael Nadal in 2012.
But his serve instantly came under intense pressure against Alcaraz in an elongated start which included a 12-minute opening game.
The quality of his service game varied as the contest ebbed and flowed, but landing 54 per cent of his first serves over the whole match was a telling statistic.
Alcaraz broke him seven times as a consequence and swarmed over Sinner’s second serve to take control of the final-set tie-break.
Questions were raised about Sinner’s fitness and durability if the final went long, given he is still in the early stages of his comeback, but he answered them in the longest match of his career.
Addressing his team afterwards, he said: “We tried our best today. We gave everything we had.
“Some time ago, we would have loved to be here [in the final], so it’s still been an amazing tournament.” (BBC Sport)
Navasky Anderson delivered a landmark performance at the Mission Run Baltimore High Performance meet on Sunday (if ratified), setting a new Jamaican national record in the men’s 800 metres with a time of 1:44.61. Anderson, representing UA Baltimore 800, edged out Morocco’s Moad Zahafi in a thrilling duel down the home stretch. Zahafi, the 2022 US National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) cham-
pion, clocked 1:44.72 for second, while Ghana’s Alex Amankwah finished third in 1:45.50.
The performance saw Anderson break the previous Jamaican record of 1:44.70 set on July 30, 2023, in Washington, DC. It is the latest in a string of strong performances for the former Mississippi State standout, who continues to cement his place as Jamaica’s premier half-miler.
Sunday’s performance is not only a personal best for
Anderson but a timely confidence boost as he ramps up preparations for the upcoming national championships in Kingston later this month and ultimately, the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September. The race was part of the UA Mission Run High Performance series, designed to provide elite competition opportunities for middle-distance and distance athletes looking to hit qualifying marks for global events. (Sportsmax)
Navasky Anderson
Kylian Mbappé is the third France player to reach 50 goals after Olivier Giroud (57) and Thierry Henry (51)
Carlos Alcaraz is only the fifth man to win backto-back French Open titles in the Open era
Unfettered England hunt down 197 in style to seal 2-0 series lead
Harry Brook had said at the toss that he “fancied a chase” in the second T20 International (T20I) in Bristol. Well, he was handed one all right, as West Indies obliged in trademark style, serving up a six-laden display of power-hitting that included five in a single 31run over from Adil Rashid –the second-most expensive in England’s T20 history –and 75 runs off the final four overs of their innings.
Despite 15 blows over the ropes in total, and a stiff target of 197, even that was not nearly enough to rein in a newly-liberated England batting line-up that responded with a salvo of cameos to hunt down their target with nine balls to spare.
Fresh from his match-winning 96 on Friday, Jos Buttler was once again the top-scorer, with 47 from 36, while Brook led as he would wish to be followed with 34 from 20. However, the star turns came from the young guns Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton in the middle order, whose combined haul of 56 from 21 balls drove England to an unassailable 2-0 series lead with Tuesday’s final match in Southampton still to come.
Wood brings the wheels
In a match marked by such formidable hitting, however, it was a bowler in his first international appearance since September 2023 who made the ultimate difference. Brook had wanted a “point of difference”, he said, in confirming Luke
Wood’s recall. His left-arm pace is an attractive option at the best of times, but with a strong cross-wind cutting across the County Ground, the conditions were tailor-made for his inswinger to the right-hander.
So Evin Lewis discovered with an Exocet of a first delivery – full, fast, tailing in at the toe, and extracting an immediate verdict from umpire Martin Saggers, even as Wood charged down the pitch in full celebrappeal mode. His follow-up to Shai Hope was not quite as intended – a wild full-toss as the yorker slipped out – but two overs for four runs in the powerplay kept West Indies very much under wraps.
Brydon Carse’s introduction gave a more accurate reflection of the car-
SCOREBOARD
Wood restored a degree of decorum – and capped an excellent comeback with figures of 2 for 25 – as Shepherd was run out for 19 off 11, but Roston Chase smacked his first and only ball down the ground for six, the 15th of the innings, as West Indies finished on a healthy 196 for 6 that included 75 from the final four overs. Brook had got his chase.
Banton and Bethell apply the late flourish
not out 30 Will Jacks c Chase b Joseph 7 Brydon Carse not out 6 Extras (b 4, lb 2, nb 1, w 8) 15 Total 18.3 Ov (RR: 10.75) 199/6 Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Jamie Smith, 1.2 ov),
nage to come, however. With England once again opting for just two frontline quicks, Carse’s more conventional angles were very much to Hope’s liking – with two fours and three sixes, each of them creamed over longoff as he opened his stance to take advantage of the short straight boundaries.
Hope and Charles fail to kick on England’s plethora of spin options were rolled out after the powerplay, as Hope’s early momentum was stalled. Johnson Charles, who had hitherto been the silent partner in their second-wicket stand, took a few early lumps out of Bethell and Rashid, whom he slammed over midwicket for six, through the grasp of a leaping Wood on the boundary’s edge.
In the same over, however, Rashid followed up with a ripper – a dipping, fizzing legbreak to Hope, that turned sharply past the edge for Buttler to complete the stumping as West Indies’ Captain toppled out of his crease for 49 from 37 balls.
At 90 for 2 in the 11th, Sherfane Rutherford was pushed up the order in a bid to pick up the tempo. But Will Jacks – a decent match-up to the left-hander – cramped his style with a series of offbreaks across his body, before Bethell sent him on his way for 6 from 8, as Banton hoovered up a slog to long-on.
Charles connected for a third six, off Rashid, but 15 dot-balls out of 38 told a tale of an innings without fluency. Carse returned with a change of ends to make amends for his profligate opening gambit, but it was Wood who prised him out – second ball of his second
spell – via a deflection onto middle stump as he followed the batter outside off.
Power surge to finish West Indies’ extraordi-
Buttler, Duckett start with poise With 10 an over needed from the outset, Jamie Smith did not hang around, twice slogging Holder through the line and holing out to the second attempt for 4. But his second-over departure meant the in-form Buttler had all the longer to marshal the chase, and in Holder’s next over, he signalled his poise with an im-
nary depth of power-hitters means that someone is bound to come good in the end … or several people, as it turned out. Rovman Powell was briefly the man as he brought Friday’s hero, Liam Dawson, down to earth with 20 off his final over, and he had blatted his next ball, from Carse, over deep midwicket for another six before Wood clung onto an excellent tumbling take on the cover boundary.
But, with Brook trusting his senior man Rashid to bowl the 19th over, Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd turned on the afterburners, amid scenes of certain carnage that were reminiscent of that infamous final over in Kolkata in 2016. Rashid was smoked for five sixes out of six – the exception being a scuffed single to backward square from Holder off the fourth ball, to mock boos from an enthusiastic contingent of West Indies’ fans.
perious driven six over longon.
Ben Duckett, however, was the impish source of early impetus, with his array of sweeps and dinks including a scoop over the keeper for six. He had a life on 11, when Lewis could not cling on at point, but – after setting up the chase in a 58-run powerplay – Duckett miscued a pull off Shepherd and was spectacularly grabbed by a leaping Powell at wide long-on for 30 off 18.
Buttler took up the cudgels, including an audacious reverse-hoick for six off Gudakesh Motie’s second delivery. But, on 43 from 29, he had a reprieve in the midst of a pacy over from Alzarri Joseph, in which he was tempted to take on the short straight boundaries and instead miscued a short ball to deep midwicket. Charles, however, could not settle under the swirling ball, and the moment was lost.
With the run-rate nudging above 11, it was Brook’s turn to come to the party in a 20-run over off Shepherd that included an extraordinary cut for six off a fast, straight full toss, as well as a misfield from Charles that earned him further stick from an invested Bristol crowd. But, just when it seemed the worm was turning in England’s favour, Buttler reversed his hands on a sweep off Akeal Hosein – fresh off the plane at 7:30am after his visa issues – and that man Charles was on hand at deep third to send him on his way for 47. Brook greeted the offspin of Chase with an open-shouldered launch down the ground, but two balls later, he picked out Powell for an easier grab in the deep. At 126 for 4, the innings was in danger of slipping away.
Banton, however, slogswept his first ball for six to lay down a marker, and though Motie’s next over started tightly, Banton showed his versatility with a reverse for four and a muscular straight six to keep the chase right on track. Bethell immediately got the memo with three more startling blows over the ropes in Joseph’s next over – his fast hands belying his apparently slight frame.
He ruined his cameo by dinking the final ball straight to Chase at short third, but his 26 from 10 balls had broken the requirement into tiny pieces. Jacks picked out cover for 7 but by then Joseph had already wrecked any hope of a fightback with five wild wides down the leg-side. Banton and Carse duly closed out the chase to make it five wins in five for the Brook regime. (ESPNcricinfo)
Jason Holder slammed an unbeaten 29 off nine balls, including three of five sixes off one Adil Rashid over
Rovman Powell takes the plaudits after a spectacular catch in the deep
Tom Banton swings into the leg side in his match-winning cameo
Grove Primary crowned Demerara Future Warriors’ Champions
After a scintillating final of the ExxonMobil Guyana Future Warriors tapeball blast Demerara leg on Sunday, Grove Primary emerged as the new champions after beating the reigning champions, Stella Maris Primary by six wickets.
In the main event at the National Stadium, Providence, following overnight showers, the East Bank Demerara-based Grove Primary won the toss and inserted the city side, Stella Maris.
Stella Maris Primary were contained to 47 for two after their eight-over allotment expired; Grove Primary survived an early scare to even-
tually reach 49 for four with 10 balls to spare.
Wayne Green provided a late impetus for Grove, hitting two fours and a six during his
top score of 17 not out while getting support from Roles Melville, who made 12 from six balls.
Titus Allicock chipped in
with nine not out to see his side over the line.
Eyeon Glasgow was the pick of the bowlers for Stella Maris, taking 2-14 after re-
Sunday night action in the inaugural June Madness Futsal Championship powered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and ANSA McAL was nothing short of epic as the final six matches in the first round marinated the atmosphere.
Fans and players alike soaked up some riveting ac-
tion especially in the third match of the night between Linden All Stars and Show Stoppers. Linden were limited in terms of firepower from the onset as they only had five players available while their opponents had their full complement.
It would have seemed like a setback for the side that travelled a few hours to play,
but they showed grit and determination to book a place in the next round. Damien Williams fired Linden into the lead in just the first minute and that advantage was doubled in the fourth minute when Omar Williams netted the first of his hat-trick.
Show Stoppers pulled one back off the boots of Yannick Norton in the 11th minute and then were again on target in the 19th to bring them level. With the score locked at 2-2 at the end of regulation time, extra time was needed to arrive at a winner.
Even with this being required, Show Stoppers would have fancied their chances of victory but that was not to be as Linden All Stars found the will to battle, play for play. Four of the Linden players were issued yellow cards in the first half for not wearing shin pads and when the scorer of their first goal, Damien Williams received a second card with 5’ 13” on the clock to full time, it meant that they were further constrained, now having to play with just four players.
It certainly was not a setback for them. Omar Williams netted his second in the first minute of extra time, but two minutes later, Show Stoppers’ Darius Chester drew them level at 3-3. With just one minute remaining in the allotted 10 minutes of
extra time, Lamar Phillips handed Show Stoppers the lead and they felt that that was enough for the win.
However, Omar Williams’s shot across the Show Stoppers’ goal nestled in the back of the net on the buzzer and while the initial call by the referee was to disallow the goal, the fans and players erupted in support of a goal.
Earnest deliberations for a few minutes eventually saw the referee signalling to the centre confirming that the goal stood, much to the delight of all and sundry. The ensuing kicks from the penalty mark saw Linden All Stars converting their four, with Show Stoppers only being able to convert three, handing the Linden team a memorable win and a place in the next round.
The round of 32, which will feature the first-round winners against the top 16 seeded teams, is set to kick off on Wednesday at the same venue. Albouystown will open against Bent Street B at 20:00h.
This would be followed by Spaniards facing Stabroek B, Game Changers v Stabroek Ballers, Corinthians taking on Espanyol and Youngs Stars challenging Gold is Money.
The following are the full results from Sunday night.
moving Sherwin Bunbury and Terrence Frank with three deliveries.
Earlier, Stella Maris were gifted 26 extras as Glasgow top-scored with 12 not out from 20 balls.
Melville ended as the leg’s Most Valuable Player and leading wicket-taker with nine scalps to his name while Stella Maris’s Clyde Jacobs finished as the leg’s leading run getter with 88, scoring the tournament’s lone half-century.
In the semi-finals, Stella Maris opened the day with a victory over West Ruimveldt Primary in a one-sided nine-wicket win.
Stella Maris won the toss and inserted West Ruimveldt Primary who made 67 for three after Steven Orie clubbed four boundaries in his innings of 20 not out.
Support came from Seon Harsham (13) and Eli Henry (12 not out).
Stella Maris then raced to 69 for one in five overs as Jacobs smashed five fours and a six on his way to a top score
In a major step towards strengthening the standards of boxing officiating in Guyana, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) successfully concluded a four-day Referees and Judges Seminar held from May 29 to June 1 at the Andrew “Six Head” Lewis Gym in Albouystown. Georgetown.
The seminar was conducted by James Beckles, an esteemed International Boxing Association (IBA) Three-Star Referee and Judge.
Beckles, who also serves as an Olympic and World Boxing Referees Instructor and Evaluator, brought unparalleled expertise to the certification process. Most notably, he recently served as the Chief Instructor and Lead Evaluator for officiating at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a testament to the high calibre of instruction received by participants.
The seminar was a blend of theoretical training and hands-on practical application, offering participants a well-rounded understanding of the rules, ethics, and procedures involved in boxing officiating.
of 35 not out. Aaron Perkins belted two sixes in his 12-run cameo. In the second semi-final, Grove Primary benefited from three dropped catches by St Pius to advance with a six-wicket victory. Grove had won the toss and elected to field, containing St Pius to 40 for four as no batsman reached double figures and extras accounted for 22.
Melville continued his impressive form with the ball, taking 2-8.
In the chase, Joshua Ramotar, who opened the batting, steered his side to victory with a composed 14-ball 24 not out. His innings featured three fours and one six. Kevon Pile looked to secure St Pius’s spot in the final, taking 3-10, but it ultimately came down to dropped catches causing them to lose the match.
The tournament now heads to Berbice, where 16 teams will compete this weekend.
The initiative comes as part of the GBA’s ongoing efforts to professionalise the sport, particularly at a time when amateur boxing in Guyana is undergoing a significant resurgence, especially within its youth and junior divisions.
A total of 15 individuals successfully completed the course and earned their certifications. At a modest closing ceremony, each participant was presented with a certificate in recognition of their achievement.
Beckles, alongside GBA President Steve Ninvalle, handed over the certificates and officially welcomed the new referees and judges to the sport. Ninvalle praised the group for their commitment, and expressed optimism about the positive impact their involvement will have on the future of local boxing.
The seminar marks another key milestone in the GBA’s strategic push to improve officiating and uphold interna
tional standards, ensuring that the next generation of Guyanese boxers competes in a fair and professionally-managed environment.
Mocha Red Force enjoyed a big win
The tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Roles Melville of Grove Primary collects his prize from ExxonMobil Guyana’s Suzie DeAbreu
Bowled! Part of the action on the final day at the National Stadium, Providence
North Ruimveldt’s win was decided in extra time
