Greek-built ferry arrives in Guyana to service Parika-Supenaam route
…to transport 80 vehicles, over 300 passengers per trip
The Greekmanufactured ferry, ARIS IV, has arrived in Guyana and will soon be deployed to serve the ParikaSupenaam route.
The ferry arrived in Guyana on Thursday evening after completing an impressive 5200-nautical-mile journey from Greece.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, along with representatives from the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) and the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD), was present at the Demerara Sugar Terminal in Georgetown to welcome the vessel to Guyana’s shores.
Government noted that its large accommodation capacity puts the ship in a position to be used on other routes, which may be explored.
The vessel is outfitted with cosy seats, a bar, restrooms and a fully air-conditioned crew cabin, among other amenities.
The Government said this new addition to the Transport and Harbours fleet is timely and in keeping
with its efforts to modernise the current Parika Stelling into a modern port facility.
For 2024, the ParikaSupenaam service made 1965 trips, the highest number of trips ever plying that route.
In fact, reports indicate that the Parika-Supenaam route accounted for more than half of the total cargo and passengers transported in 2024.
The vessel was manufactured in Greece in 2020 and, according to some reports, was sold for approximately US$4.4 million.
Speaking at the sim-
Purchased by the Government of Guyana at a cost that has not yet been disclosed, the ARIS IV is expected to significantly enhance transportation services along the Parika–Supenaam route.
ple welcoming ceremony on Thursday evening, Minister Edghill remarked that this is further evidence of the Government’s investment in the people.
“Their woes of waiting for the next ferry because of in-
adequate amount of space and capacity is being dissolved,” he said.
The ferry can accommodate about 80 vehicles and over 300 passengers, with a travelling speed of 10 knots.
In a statement, the
Cybercrime accused to face new charges including assault, disorderly behaviour
Police in Regional Division 4 C are investigating an incident involving disorderly behaviour at a private school in Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, on Thursday. According to initial reports, ranks responded to information about a disturbance at the school around 19:30h. When they arrived, they observed 43-year-old Raywattie Kemraj from Good Hope, ECD, armed with a baseball bat and confronting two individuals. Police said the woman was warned about her behaviour and subsequently left the area. The two individuals involved, a 34-year-old businessman from Annandale West and a 23-year-old woman from Lusignan, later went to the Lusignan Police Outpost and filed a report. Reports are that while officers were ad-dressing the complaint, Kemraj went to the Lusignan residence of the two individuals and again acted in a disorderly manner. Police responded, and during attempts to arrest her, she alleged-ly resisted and assaulted a Police Inspector, injuring the rank and damaging her uniform. Addi-tional assistance was summoned, and the woman was arrested and taken into custody at the Outpost. The injured Inspector was escorted for medical treatment and was later treated for her injuries. Khemraj has since been charged for malicious damage to property Contrary to Section 160 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. She appeared before Magistrate Abigail Gibbs at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court on Friday and pleaded not guilty to the offence. She was released on $150,000 bail and the case will continue on January 26, 2026.
Kemraj is currently before the court on a cybercrime charge. On November
Raywattie Kemraj
21, Kemraj ap-peared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and pleaded not guilty to that charge.
The prosecution is contending that on November 19, at High Street, Georgetown, Kemraj know-ingly disseminated false information online, resulting in embarrassment to Government Minis-ter of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar, who was on Friday charged under the Cyber Crime Act.
Kemraj’s attorney told the court that this was her first encounter with the law and that she has no other matters before any court. He assured the court that she is not a flight risk and would comply with all conditions imposed. Magistrate Singh noted that the case concerns Kemraj’s social media activity and stressed that someone will need to monitor her to ensure she does not repeat the behaviour. In addition to $150,000 bail, Kemraj was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation, lodge her passport and report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters on the last Friday of every month. The matter was adjourned to December 17.
The Greek-manufactured ferry ARIS IV
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, December 6 –05:20h–06:50h and Sunday, December 7 – 06:10h–07:40h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Alternating thundery showers and light rains are expected during the day, and cloudy skies at night will turn to early morning thundery showers. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East South Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 17:20h reaching a maximum height of 2.78 metres.
Low Tide: 10:54h and 23:28h reaching minimum heights of 0.64 metre and 0.45 metre.
Over 20,000 students across Guyana, Caricom sign up as Guyana Digital School launches
…initiative will transform education delivery across Caribbean” – Barbados PM, Grenada PM
Employing a four-quadrant approach to learning, integrating technology, content, engagement, and hands-on experiences, the Guyana Digital School was officially launched on Friday, promising to transform education and equip students with the skills needed for the 21st century.
The initiative, the brainchild of President Dr Irfaan Ali, saw scores of pupils tuning in virtually from several regions across Guyana. Students from other CARICOM states also joined, with plans in place to extend full access to learners across the region when the programme opens.
According to President
sised that the launch of
Ali, the digital school is more than just an online platform; it is a gateway to digital learning and an enabler of essential skills for students, particularly those who face challenges accessing traditional schooling.
“Importantly, the digital school will have a comprehensive digital library with all the textbooks our students require for CSEC and other examinations. Children across CARICOM, as well as in Guyana, will now have access to these resources.”
He further highlighted that students will have access to all textbooks for CXC and other examinations, not only in Guyana but also across the wider CARICOM region, ensuring standardised learning opportunities throughout the Caribbean.
“No student will be left behind due to lack of textbooks. Every investment we make is designed with our CARICOM brothers and sisters in mind because we are one,” the President said.
A new era in education
President Ali empha-
era in which education is continuous, flexible, and inclusive.
“The world will not slow down for Guyana. Technology will not pause for us to catch up. Opportunity will not freeze in time until we are ready. We must prepare now. We must invest now. We must train now. And through the Guyana Digital School, we are doing exactly that. Today is not the end of a project; it is the beginning of an era in which every Guyanese child has access to the world from wherever they are,” he said.
He added that teachers will be empowered with modern tools, students will en-
gage with digital resources at any hour, and practical, activity-based projects will deepen understanding. The initiative, he noted, also bridges the digital divide while creating equal opportunities for all students to succeed.
Over 20,000 students registered Education Minister Sonia Parag reported that 20,368 students from Grades 10 and 11 across Guyana and CARICOM have already registered for the programme. The platform will expand to Grades Seven through Nine by early 2026.
the Guyana Digital School
marks the beginning of an
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
A new era in Caribbean education
The launch of the Guyana Digital School marks a watershed moment for education in Guyana and across the Caribbean.
Conceived under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, the initia-tive embodies a forward-looking approach to learning, designed to equip students with the skills essential for success in the 21st century. By integrating technology, content, engagement, and hands-on experience, the school introduces a model that is as inclusive as it is innovative.
The platform employs a comprehensive four-quadrant approach to learning. Interactive online classes provide students with access to teachers and a structured curriculum, while a rich digi-tal library ensures all required textbooks, including those for CSEC and other examinations, are readily available. Skill-building programmes extend learning beyond the traditional curriculum, fostering competencies essential for the modern workforce.
Practical projects allow learners to apply knowledge in real-world contexts, deepening understanding and reinforcing critical thinking. AI-supported tools further personalise instruction, enabling students to identify and strengthen areas of weakness and empowering them to progress at their own pace.
Central to the initiative is accessibility. Education across the Caribbean has long faced dispari-ties due to geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, and socioeconomic challenges. The Guyana Digital School addresses these gaps directly, ensuring that no student is disadvantaged by distance or circumstance. President Ali highlighted the digital library as a cornerstone of this vision, guaranteeing that all students, not only in Guyana but across CARICOM, will have access to essential learning materials. By standardising educational resources regionally, the platform sets a precedent for equity and collaboration in Caribbean education.
The launch has already demonstrated remarkable engagement. Over 20,000 students from Grades 10 and 11 have registered, with plans to expand to Grades Seven through Nine by early 2026. Education Minister Sonia Parag emphasised that the school complements, rather than replaces, traditional education. By integrating digital learning with conventional classroom instruction, the initiative ensures continuity in education, bridging the digital divide while rein-forcing established pedagogical methods. Students can engage with lessons and resources at any time, promoting flexibility while maintaining academic rigour.
This model also reflects a strategic alignment with global educational trends. Technology and opportunity do not pause, and the modern workforce demands proficiency in digital literacy, critical thinking, and practical skills. The Guyana Digital School equips students to meet these demands, providing them with the tools to compete not only regionally but also internationally. The initiative is a proactive investment in human capital, designed to future-proof the nation’s workforce while enhancing the quality of learning today.
The regional impact of the platform is equally significant. Leaders including Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell have praised the initiative, recognising its potential to transform education across CARICOM. By extending access beyond Guyana’s borders, the digital school promotes shared growth and collaboration. Students throughout the Caribbean can now benefit from equitable access to technology, expert guidance, and innovative learning tools, narrowing the long-standing gaps in opportunity and resources.
Educators, too, are empowered through the initiative. Teachers gain access to modern instruc-tional tools and are able to engage students in dynamic and interactive ways. Hands-on projects reinforce theoretical learning, ensuring students acquire practical competencies alongside aca-demic knowledge. This holistic approach strengthens pedagogy, preparing learners for higher education and the workforce while fostering problemsolving, creativity, and adaptability.
Ultimately, the Guyana Digital School signifies a national and regional commitment to trans-formation. By integrating technology, content, engagement, and practical experience, the initi-ative establishes a robust framework for inclusive and futureready education. It is a tangible demonstration of how innovation, when combined with strategic vision, can address longstand-ing educational challenges and create opportunities for all learners.
As the Caribbean navigates the demands of a rapidly changing world, initiatives such as the Guyana Digital School provide a model of excellence. The programme ensures education re-mains a right and a tool for advancement.
The will to survive and thrive
By Sandra McLeiSh
It was a busy Thursday morning last week, but when I saw that Jamaica’s Sandra McLeish was one of the panellists on a UN Women Caribbean and COLEAD conference entitled “Climate-Resilient Busi-ness Models for Women Entrepreneurs”, I had to make the time.
McLeish and her husband, Richard, owners of Sankhard Company Limited, had been named a ‘Bold One of Manufacturing’ by the National Baking Company, and we saw the National trucks carrying col-ourful photos of her Springvale natural dressings islandwide.
Now McLeish has embarked on a programme to assist women farmers in Jamaica to enjoy the success that her company has been enjoying. She has created a new company, Agro Cold Storage Limited (ACSL), which she says “is creating sustainable cold storage and logistical solutions for the Jamaican agricultural sector, reducing post-harvest losses, empowering local communities, particularly women, and building climate resiliency”.
McLeish shared women entrepreneurs’ strategies that work: diversifying products, using renewable energy, digital transformation, shared assets, and flexible models. She called for alliances between UN Women,
regional development banks, and the private sector to create a “Gender and Climate Fi-nance facility for the Global South” to support the advancement of women entrepreneurs.
Why is it so important that women be empowered to be independent earners? This is because the more self-sufficient a woman is, the safer she can be. Women are denied education in certain coun-tries in order to subject them to patriarchal tyranny. The world woke up to this fact when 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai, who spoke out against the Taliban in the Swat Valley region of Pakistan, was the victim of an assassination attempt.
McLeish and the other speakers at the conference – from Malawi, Nigeria, and St Vincent and the Grenadines – were passionate about giving women entrepreneurs equal opportunities to access fi-nancing and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. This is because violence against women and girls affects one in three. We need to free our women from the yoke of financial dependence.
End digital violence against women
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW) was celebrated on November 25, launching 16 Days of Activism to End
Gender-Based Violence. As if all the abuse of the past was not enough, one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse is digital violence against women and girls. The theme of this year’s campaign is “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls”.
We should congratulate our lawmakers for passing the Cybercrimes Act, which led to the 2019 convic-tion of a Jamaican man who posted revenge porn, sexually explicit photographs of his former girl-friend. We understand that Jamaica has been ahead of other countries in having such laws.
With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), women and children are having nightmarish expe-riences seeing their faces on vulgar images described as deepfakes – realistic but fake images, vide-os, or audio created using AI to make a person appear to say or do something they never did.
In response to the danger of deepfakes, the US Congress passed the DEFIANCE Act of 2024: Disrupt Explicit Forged Images and Non-Consensual Edits Act of 2024. The Bill establishes a civil cause of ac-tion for individuals who are the subject of non-consensual digital forgeries depicting intimate activity or nudity.
Victims of deepfakes may not speak about the matter but may become withdrawn, depressed, or even suicid-
al. They need to understand that this is a criminal activity that should be reported, and they should be supported and reassured that the shame belongs only to the perpetrator and not to them.
Brilliant start for Reggae Girlz We breathed a sigh of relief last week when we heard that Khadija “Bunny” Shaw would be joining the Reggae Girlz for their first match in their Women’s World Cup campaign. Not in our wildest dreams, however, did we expect such a score: 18-0 against Dominica, surpassing their previous rec-ord in a World Cup campaign of 14-0 against St Lucia in 2014. Shaw was joined by Jody Brown and Kalyssa Van Zanten in scoring hattricks.
My husband, Hubie, and I joined the Jamaican fans to watch our Reggae Girlz in their first Women’s World Cup in France in 2019. We were impressed by young Jody Brown’s close relationship with her parents, Novelette Hall-Brown and Andrew Brown. Since then she has shown star quality and is now playing for Marseilles in Europe.
I noticed there was little excitement around the match compared to the limelight we always shine on our Reggae Boyz. Our girls created their own dazzle and hopefully have begun to earn the respect they deserve. (Jamaica Observer)
Anna Regina on Friday hosted Region 2’s Christmas Tree Light Up 2025 (Regional Democratic Council Region 2 photo)
Canada donates over $27M in equipment to boost newborn care in hinterland
The Health Ministry on Friday received a new batch of medical equipment under the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Project, a programme funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with McMaster University and the Canadian charity, Giving Help to Kids.
The equipment was handed over during a ceremony at the Ministry’s Kingston, Georgetown Bond, where Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony formally accepted the donation.
Valued at CAD$183,000 (approximately G$27.5 million), the supplies include HbA1c analysers, hepatitis B test kits, haemoglobin analysers, portable steam sterilisers, and urine test strips. The items will be deployed to Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine to strengthen maternal and new-born health services.
In his remarks, Dr Anthony highlighted the longstanding cooperation between Guyana and Canada in the health sector, noting that recent collabora-
tions have supported both mental health and maternal care initiatives.
“We have a number of exceptional partners in Canada, including Giving Help to Kids and McMaster University, who have worked with us for many years,” he said. He also announced that at least 35 Guyanese doctors are expected to receive training at
McMaster University over the next few years, with additional support coming from institutions in Calgary and York.
Anthony said the new equipment will support early detection of pregnancy-related complica-tions, improve antenatal screening, and advance the care of high-risk mothers. He added that the contribution will
further strengthen ongoing initiatives in remote communities, including maternal waiting homes that have helped several hinterland regions achieve zero maternal deaths.
Director of Primary Health Care, Dr Ertenisa Hamilton, said the donation arrives at a critical time as the Ministry continues efforts to expand MNCH ser-
vices in hinterland regions, where geographical and cultural barriers often affect access to care.
“Early testing and timely interventions can save lives.
We have worked tirelessly to ensure that every mother and newborn receives quality care, and we are now seeing the results of these efforts,” Dr Hamilton stated.
Representing Giving Help to Kids, Senior Manager of Administration and Projects, Aruna Faria, noted that the equipment forms part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to reducing preventable maternal and neonatal deaths. She said the charity has worked with the Ministry for more than a decade to improve neonatal and paediatric care and train specialist staff.
“We are grateful to Global Affairs Canada, McMaster University, and the Ministry of Health for their strong partnership. Together, we continue to give health and hope to the children of Guy-ana,” Faria said.
Canadian High
Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to improving maternal, newborn, and child health both globally and in Guyana. He commended frontline workers for their continued dedication.
“By investing in MNCH, we are investing in the people and the future of Guyana,” he stated. The MNCH Project (2023–2028) aims to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths through improved clinical readiness, stronger referral systems, capacity building for health workers, gender-responsive services, community engagement, and better emergency care for newborns. The equipment donated was 45 boxes of Urine Test Strips (URS 10-in-1); 20 boxes of portable Pressure Steam Sterilisers (18L, YXLM); 20 boxes of Hemocue 301 Hb Analysers; 45 boxes of Hemocue Cuvettes; 45 boxes of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Rapid Test Kits; 10 boxes of HbA1c Analysers; and 15 boxes of HbA1c Reagent Kits.
President Ali has become the most powerful leader of CARICOM and other Global South countries in world affairs
Dear Editor,
The September 1, 2025, election results were the preferred outcome of most Guyanese, many of whom are rooting for their beloved President Dr Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C Government to be successful in the next five years. And so far, His Excellency has done a masterful job in every sector of the economy, in public entities such as health care and education, and in managing the oil reserves and resources. His excellent performance during the first five years in the office, where he gained an abundance of experience, has vastly improved the quality and skills of his leadership and governance. Most would agree that he would do much better in the next five years of his second term and improve the lives of all Guyanese.
Today, Guyana stands on the threshold of becoming a great and successful country because it has a leader in President Dr Ali who is more mature, experienced, skilled, knowledgeable and proficient to make better and more effective decisions on behalf of all Guyanese as well as regionally, hemispherically and globally. There is nothing to indicate otherwise. By having a surprisingly huge num-
ber of votes in the last election is a clear indication of the high level of support the PPP/C Government continues to receive. The truth is the people wanted the continuation of honest and good governance under the genuine leadership of President Ali. For them, the President seems to have the will, courage and motivation to advocate on behalf of Guyana and to represent their interests at all levels on the international stage.
His Excellency strongly believes that we are currently in a different and new world order than had existed before, where the rich and powerful Global North countries no longer dominate the system. Based on President Ali’s animated and persuasive advocacy and a few other Global South leaders, including Mia Motley of Barbados, for a more inclusive world order, a new global system has emerged in which the less developed countries of the Global South, including Guyana, have become familiar with the international system. President Ali’s desire for a free, fair and just international trading system and an end to poverty and all wars, among other global issues, has significantly contributed to such chang-
es that have resulted in the Global South countries being recognised and having a meaningful say in world affairs. Simply put, President Dr Ali has become the single most powerful leader of CARICOM and other Global South countries in world affairs.
As President, Dr Irfaan Ali, in his several outreaches across the country, has never failed to represent the interest of the people, especially the many disadvantaged and deserving Guyanese, regardless of their ethnicity, race, creed or party affiliation. He and his cabinet have a steadfastness to the fundamental principles that everyone should be treated equally
and fairly and the need for racial unity, which are part of his grand initiative of “One Guyana”. Indeed, he has united the people based on race, religion and class as never seen before in Guyana and has seen an inundation of some staunch and prominent members and supporters of the PNC/APNU joining the PPP/C during the last election.
The President has on several occasions stated loud and clear that every Guyanese must benefit from the country’s resources, and they must be respected and served effectively and satisfactorily regardless of who they are, what they look like, or who they voted for. In his first term in office, President
Ali has demonstrated to all and sundry that he is very capable and adept at managing the oil industry, developing the economy, lowering the cost of living, championing the causes of the people, lifting them up to new
Rose
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heights and moving the country in the right direction. There is no doubt that he will continue to do so in his second term.
Yours sincerely, Dr Asquith
Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin formally handing over the donation to Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Director of Primary Health Care Dr Ertenisa Hamilton and other senior health ministry staff
Page Foundation
Polygons
A polygon is a 2D shape with straight sides.
A vertex (plural vertices) is a point where two sides of a polygon meet. Polygons have at least 3 sides, so triangles are the smallest polygon.
Types of polygons
These polygons can be put into two categories:
1. Regular Polygons 2. Irregular Polygons
Regular polygons
Materials
• Plastic Bottle
• Baking Soda
• Measuring Spoons
• Paper Towel or Towel
• Funnel
• Vinegar
• Balloon Instructions
1. Using the funnel, pour vinegar into the bottle until it is ¼ full.
2. Dry the funnel, then use it to pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda into the balloon. You may need a partner to help with this step.
Regular polygons have specific properties, they have equal side lengths and equal internal angles
Irregular polygons
Irregular polygons do not have equal sides and do not have equal angles. If the number of sides is unknown, we call the polygon an n-gon, where n represents the number of sides.
3. Carefully, place the opening of the balloon over the opening of the bottle.
4. When you are ready, hold the balloon up and let the baking soda fall into the bottle. What happens?
(Tip: Hold the balloon where it is attached to the bottle.)
What’s Happening?
A chemical reaction happens when you add two substances together and they create new substances by rearranging their molecules. You used a chemical reaction between an acid and a base to make the balloon inflate!
In this experiment, vinegar (acetic acid) + baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) = carbon dioxide gas (CO₂) + water + sodium acetate. The CO₂ builds pressure and inflates the balloon.
By ErnEst rhys
I dare not speak aloud Your fond name in a crowd; Nor conjure you by night, Nor pray at morning-light, Nor count at all on you: But, at a stroke, a bteath, After the fear of death, Or bent beneath a load; Yes, ragged in the dress, And houseless on the road, I might surprise you there. Yes: who of us shall say When you will come, or where? Ask children at their play, The leaves upon the tree, The ships upon the sea, Or old men who survived, And lived, and loved, and wived. Ask sorrow to confess Your sweet improvidence, And prodigal expense And cold economy, Ah, lovely happiness! CONTINUED
(Source: Poetry (January 1913)]
Write a story where the protagonist goes on the most mundane errand you can think of. Rely solely on the character to make it interesting.
WORD SEARCH
Govt to Sign PSA with Ghana-based
Cybele Energy Limited on Tuesday
The Government of Guyana is set to formalise its partnership with Ghana-based Cybele Energy Limited with the signing of a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) on Tuesday at 09:00h.
This is according to Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, who made the announcement on Friday while delivering remarks at the launch of the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo in Georgetown.
“Let me officially say that we have set Tuesday at 9AM to sign another production agreement with one of the other companies that would have been awarded a shallow block during the last bid round,” Bharrat noted.
“Cybele has really advanced the negotiation with us to the state where we would have finalised the agreement with them, and that is the company that we will be signing with. They will be bringing a partner from one of the major operators in Nigeria as their operator rather. So it is again two major companies coming and joining with the others that we have in Guyana today. So the Guyana basin in our country has been attracting some of the major companies in the world, which we are very happy with.”
This signing will mark the signing of the third PSA following the signing of Guyana’s first PSA in 2016 for the Stabroek Block with Exxon Mobil and co-ventures Hess and CNOOC. This new signing comes weeks after the Government signed a PSA in mid-November for shallow-water Block S4 offshore Guyana with a consortium comprising QatarEnergy (35 per cent), TotalEnergies (40 per cent, operator), and PETRONAS (25 per cent).
Cybele will be signing for Block S7, a shallow-water block offshore of the coast of Guyana. The block is approximately 2000 square kilometres.
Cybele Energy Limited was awarded the block after being among the companies to emerge victorious during Guyana’s 2022 Licensing Round, which attracted interest from multiple international oil giants.
Cybele was among the six companies bidding on eight of the 14 offshore blocks that were up for grabs when the Government held a bidding round which was launched in December 2022 and closed off in September 2023.
Developing offshore oil resources
In October 2023, the Government had announced the award of eight deep- and shallow-water blocks. In total, there were 14 offers made on those blocks: two
deep-sea blocks and six shallow-area blocks.
Among those awarded oil blocks during the bid round was a Guyanese female-led company, Sispro Inc, which received a shallow block (S3) and a deep-water block (D2).
The agreement marks a significant milestone in the country’s effort to further develop its offshore oil resources and diversify the range of international players in its energy sector. Cybele Energy is an emerging player in the oil and gas sector in Guyana. Cybele Energy is a relatively new and smaller oil and gas exploration company. It’s involved in the development of oil resources.
Minister Bharrat explained that the PSA being signed with Cybele will be similar to the PSA signed with Total and company, given that a general template with fixed fiscal terms will be used for the PSA for all companies awarded shallow blocks.
“It’s basically the same PSA that’s online that we signed with Total. It’s the same PSA that we will sign with Cybele next week. The fiscal aspects, as we mentioned, will not change: the 10 per cent tax, 10 per cent royalty, 50-50 profit sharing, 65 per cent cost recovery that would not change in any agreement as we’ve made public,” Minister Bharrat explained.
Standardising agreements
Minister Bharrat clarified that the delay in finalising the PSAs with several companies, including Cybele, was due to efforts to standardise the agreement for shallow-water blocks. This will ensure a unified regulatory framework for all parties involved, streamlining the process for both investors and Government agencies.
“There’s just a few administrative issues that would’ve been negotiated by the team, and when we do the launch on Tuesday, one of the technical officers will make a presentation so you
will have more insight and information as to what are a few of the specifics, but it is the same PSA that is online right now,” Bharrat said.
It was in 2023 that the Government released the draft model petroleum agreements for shallow and deep water blocks that were placed on auction. The new terms improved on provisions in the widely chastised 2016 PSA that was signed for the Stabroek Block. This included a royalty rate increased from two per cent to 10 per cent, a corporate tax of 10 per cent and a cap on cost oil of 65 per cent.
The agreements also include better provisions for the signing bonus, relinquishment terms, activities related to the abandonment of the block, and an increase in the training fee.
Significant oil & gas industry
The entry of Cybele Energy into Guyana’s oil sector highlights the country’s appeal to international oil companies from diverse regions. The Ghanaian company joins a growing list of global players, including ExxonMobil, Hess, Chevron, TotalEnergies, and others, who are capitalising on Guyana’s vast offshore resources.
Minister Bharrat emphasised the significance of the growing number of operators in Guyana, underscoring that the Government aims to foster strong, mutually beneficial relationships with all investors.
“The Guyana Basin is attracting major companies from all over the world, and this only reinforces the importance of our partnership with investors and operators,” Bharrat said.
“It is a relationship based on trust and respect. The other companies coming on board – we’re happy to have them, and we’re going to work on building the same kind of relationship based on trust, respect and mutual benefits for Guyana. That is our only intention; that’s how we treat all investors.”
Guyana’s oil and gas sector has quickly become one of the world’s most significant, with projections indicating the country could become the largest oil producer per capita globally.
Since ExxonMobil’s his-
toric discovery in 2015, the country’s reserves have grown rapidly, with more than 11 billion barrels of oil discovered to date. The production sharing agreements being signed now, including the one with Cybele Energy, will pave the way for further exploration and development.
With a growing number of companies now operating in Guyana, the country is positioning itself as a regional and global energy hub.
Apology and Correction
Guyana Times extends its sincere apologies to United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, for an error published in our December 5, 2025 edition.
In the article titled “Finance Minister warns against economic complacency …as US Ambassador stresses danger of becoming ‘pariah state’”, the newspaper incorrectly reported that Ambassador Theriot delivered remarks at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) 30th Anniversary Dinner held at the Georgetown Marriott.
We wish to clarify that Ambassador Theriot did not speak at the event, and the quotations attributed to her were published in error.
Guyana Times regrets this mistake and the misrepresentation it caused. We reaffirm our commitment to accurate, responsible journalism and will continue to strengthen our editorial processes to prevent such occurrences.
We extend our apology to Ambassador Theriot, the United States Embassy in Georgetown, and our readers for this oversight.
Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, speaking at the Energy Conference & Supply Chain launch
GPF Christmas Awards $226M in awards distributed as female officer named Best Cop
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Friday celebrated one of its most successful years yet, both in performance and rank recognition, as it hosted its annual Christmas Awards Ceremony at the Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, where more than
oath one year later, proudly bearing Reg. No. 17364. From those early days in the General Office and the Commissioner’s Office, she has served under several Commissioners of Police and earned the respect of her superiors, peers and the ranks under her com-
mand. Over the years, she has worked in several critical areas of the Force, including Force Control, the Firearm Department, and briefly in 4A, demonstrating versatility, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to duty. Her career re-
flects a steady climb built on competence and hard work. Beyond her policing duties, W/Supt Fredericks has also brought honour to Guyana as a national volleyball player, representing the country in 1997. She has shown that discipline, team-
$226 million in cash and prizes were distributed to officers nationwide.
In a year marked by significant gains in policing, female officers dominated the top honours, with Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredericks of the Police Narcotics Branch earning the prestigious title of Best Cop for 2025. Fredericks began her journey with the GPF on 29 August 1996 as an apprentice and took the
Sussing out…
… the PFG assaults?
Your Eyewitness is quite intrigued by the continued – THREE times now according to releases sent out and published rather prominently by the Oppositionaligned news rags!! – “assaults” on the HQ of the Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) in GT!! Now PFG, according to its website, “is a network of civic organisations which came into existence in 2015”. Seemingly like Athena – who appeared fully born from the brow of Zeus – PFG gave itself the mandate to monitor the Government on all sorts of woke activities like climate warming, freshwater preservation, tree hugging and most pertinently “transparency” on the use of our natural resources. And – seemingly as an aside –“electoral transparency”!!
Your Eyewitness uses the term “assaults” because from the reports, it seems that in each instance a window, or windows, was pried open but nothing was taken from the office!! So it’s like the perpetrator mounted an “assault” on the premises but was prevented by something from entering the facility!! Or do we have a local bumbling burglar to rival Inspector Clouseau of Pink Panther fame?? What makes the assaults even stranger is that the facility – which also houses the Guyana Human Rights Association HQ – is guarded by a private security firm, MMC, and they’ve never been able to catch the window priers in the act!! Now MMC boasts twenty-five years in the security business and provides electronic alarms, monitoring, etc.!! Your Eyewitness can’t figure out why – after even the second “assault” – MMC didn’t recommend an alarm or CCTV?? Or is it they provided one of our Guyanese proverbial “Watchmen” who’re more accurately described as “Sleepmen”??!!
work, and resilience on the court translate into leadership and courage in the field. Currently, as the Head of the Narcotics Branch, W/Supt Fredericks leads from the front in one of the most challenging and highstakes areas of law enforcement. Within just one year, she and her team have dismantled several drug networks and destroyed multiple illicit farms, striking decisive blows against those who profit from the destruc
tion of communities. This is policing that protects families, youth and the future of the nation. The W/Supt is also the third female officer in the Force’s history to achieve this prestigious title. Fredericks, who hails from the remote Amerindian village of Hosororo in Region One, said the award reflected the collective strength of every officer who continues to serve “with courage, resilience and excellence”.
PFG, however, took a darker view of the “assaults” - as explained by their (unnamed) coordinator after the last one. They noted he assaults “come at a time when PFG has been publicly vocal on matters relating to the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI), particularly regarding governance and transparency surrounding civic participation. “While nothing was stolen today, the persistence and precision of these actions leave us deeply unsettled. What once appeared random now seems far more deliberate. Yet, Policy Forum Guyana remains firm in our commitment to transparency and accountability – and we will not be intimidated into silence.”
Intimidation!! The plot thickens, eh?? It wasn’t coincidental that PFG's housed in the GHRA building – its guiding light (and director) is the same fella who heads the just-as-amorphous GHRA!! So what’s alleged is the Government wants to silence these heroes who’ve decided to serve our Guyanese interests not at the polls – but as NGOs whose foreign funding don’t have to be accounted for!!
Sounds like a false flag operation to your Eyewitness!! You know…you do something to throw blame at your opponent – and here, get bigger funding!!
…Venezuelan threat
It seems all analysts are in agreement with what your Eyewitness’ been saying for months – once there’s a regime change in Venezuela that involves force against Mad Maduro – we can expect to be hit by another wave of Venezuelan refugees. And this gonna pose a clear and present danger to our national security – no matter how you slice it; dice it or puree it!! The greatest threat’s gonna come from Mad Maduro’s minions – who’ll be fleeing retribution from those who they’d trampled on for the last two decades.
Now, as our old people advise, we can’t wait to build latrine till cramps tell us we gotta go!! We should be deploying our GDF troops right now along our northwest border to stop the infiltration!! We’re all appreciative of the human tragedy of those Venezuelans who might be authentic refugees – but we better be safe than sorry!!
We should work with the international refugee agencies to build some temporary camps in Region One!! Till they’re vetted!!
…Trans-p
Your Eyewitness was pretty pleased with the new ferry – the MV ARIS IV – which just arrived to ply the Parika–Supenaam route. This ship is from Piraeus, Greece – and you can tell from the aesthetics it ain’t Chinese!!
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Scenes from the police Christmas awards ceremony
Fiona Fredericks
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond
Mechanic dies after speeding drunken driver crashes car
Thirty-year-old lor -
ry driver Devendra Sydney of Bush Lot Village, Corentyne, is now dead after his drunk-en friend crashed the car they were in while speeding. The incident occurred around 23:20h on Thursday night along the Corentyne Highway at Alness Vil-lage.
According to investi -
gators, motor car PWW 6986, owned and driven by a 31-year-old man from John’s Settlement, Corentyne, was travelling east at a fast rate of speed when the driver lost control. The vehicle veered off the roadway, slammed into a utility pole, and overturned several times before coming to rest in a nearby drain. Sydney, the
lone passenger, sustained severe injuries and was pro-nounced dead shortly after.
Police said the driver appeared intoxicated, and a breathalyser test later confirmed that he was above the legal limit. He remains hospitalised under Police guard as the investigation continues.
TURN TO PAGE 10
The grieving mother, “Asha” Tomby
The vehicle after the fatal crash
Dead: Devendra Sydney
Zero tolerance for Police misconduct – Home Affairs Minister warns
ome Affairs
HMinister Oneidge Walrond has noted declining public confidence in the Guyana Police Force (GPF), underscoring a firm zero-tolerance approach to misconduct among officers. She made the remarks whilst delivering an address during the GPF’s Christmas Awards Ceremony on Friday. “We must confront an uncomfortable truth,” she said.
“Public trust is fragile. One act of misconduct can undo
months of hard work,” the Minister admitted.
While she acknowledged that there are many honest and hard-working officers within the GPF, Walrond noted that “we have seen incidents where individual malpractice cast a shadow over the institution”.
Against this backdrop, the Minister made it clear that “there will be zero tolerance for malpractice, abuse of authority or any behaviour that dishonours this uni-form.”
She noted that every officer must commit to the highest standards of integrity, accountability and service. “The people of Guyana deserve nothing less.”
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, in his remarks at the ceremony, revealed that for the year, 20 police officers have been criminally charged and placed be-fore the courts. Just recently, a Police Constable from Region One (Barima-Waini) was remanded to prison af-
ter he was caught on video brandishing and indiscrimi-nately firing an AK-47 in public while threatening to shoot civilians. The video, which was
released on various social media platforms, showed the cop in a drunken state, dressed in civilian attire, threatening to shoot civilians.
Also on Friday, Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken confirmed that Hicken said that for the year 2025, 20 cops have been charged for various offences and are currently before the court. In November Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum had said that among the offences that police ranks who are currently before the courts are charged for were murder, rape, robbery under arms and robbery with aggrava-tion.
Police find ganja hidden at Mahdia arcade
Police in Regional Division Eight are investigating the discovery of a quantity of suspected cannabis during an operation conducted on Thursday, at Mahdia Arcade, Potaro, Region Eight
((Potaro-Siparuni).
During the exercise, ranks conducting searches in the area found a black plastic bag, concealed under garbage and zinc in an abandoned area. Inside the plastic bag was a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.
The cannabis was taken to the Mahdia Police Station where it was weighed and amounted to 90 grams. No arrests were made and investigations are continuing.
Mechanic dies after...
Sydney’s mother, Sorojine “Asha” Tomby, said the family is shattered by the sudden loss of her only son. Speaking from her Bush Lot home, she recounted that he had left earlier in the afternoon for work and had only made two trips fetching sand when work was called off because of the persistent rain.
She explained that her son had been working hard throughout the day before the fatal trip.
Tomby said although her son worked long hours, he always checked in at home between jobs. But on Thursday, he stopped in with a friend before coming home.
She recalled that her daughter tried to call her
brother’s phone, but the call went unanswered. However, someone returned that call from the same phone and informed her of the crash.
“When I reach the hospital… my son deh down there,” she said in tears, adding that the sight of her son lying motionless is an image she cannot erase.
Tomby described him as a quiet, respectful and disciplined young man who was known for his strong work ethic.
“He don’t give trouble. He does work hard,” she said, noting that she now has only two daughters.
She noted that the family is struggling to cope with the sudden tragedy, espe-
cially since the driver who caused the crash had reportedly been drinking.
“I know that before they come home, like they went and had two beer…” she said.
Meanwhile, the driver is expected to face multiple charges, including causing death by dangerous driving, once he is discharged from hospital.
Police say statements from witnesses and CCTV footage from nearby locations are being reviewed as part of the probe.
Sydney’s death adds to a growing list of recent fatal crashes along the Corentyne Coast, many linked to speeding and driving under the influence.
The cannabis that was found by Police
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond
Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo 2026 launches with focus on industry growth, innovation
The 2026 edition of the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo was officially launched under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today” at a simple ceremony on Friday held at Aiden by Best Western in Georgetown.
The event marked the beginning of preparations for what is expected to be a landmark edition of the conference, set to take place from February 17th to 20th, 2026, at the prestigious Guyana Marriott Hotel.
The conference will open with a feature address by President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Mark Phillips, with other notable government officials, including Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall, and Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, delivering speeches on the policies shaping Guyana’s energy sector.
In attendance at Friday’s launch ceremony were key figures in the country’s energy sector, including Minister Vickram Bharrat and President and General Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd, Alistair Routledge. The event was chaired by the conference’s Communications Director, Alex Graham, who underscored the conference’s growing significance in the global energy landscape.
Guyana a model for new oil producers Minister Bharrat, in his remarks, reflected on Guyana’s extraordinary progress in the oil and gas sec-tor, noting that the country is now one of the world’s largest per capita producers of hydrocarbons.
“This conference has established itself as a major partner in the development of the oil and gas sector of Guyana. Today, Guyana is recognised as being one of the largest producers of hydrocarbons per capita in the
world. That is a story that we need to tell, and if we don’t do it, no one else will. So that is something that we should be proud of as a country,” Minister Bharrat noted.
“We have one of the most successful exploration records offshore, and that success is directly tied to the growth of the energy sector and the ongoing success of this conference.”
He added that the conference has become an important driver of business growth in the sector and has helped position Guyana as a model for other new oil producers globally.
“Today Guyana is rated and seen as one of the best-managed oil and gas sectors in the world among new oil-producing countries. Leading to conferences where Guyana is being used as an example for new oil producers around the world. If you’re looking for a model, if you’re looking for a framework to manage the sector, then look at Guyana’s model because they have done so successfully over the last few years,” Bharrat noted.
The Minister also highlighted the ongoing developments in the gas sector, particularly the Gas-to-Energy project, which is poised to provide more affordable and reliable electricity once completed.
Investment and collaboration
In his remarks, ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd’s President and General Manager, Routledge, also emphasised the importance of continued investment and collaboration in the development of Guyana’s energy resources.
“I’m looking forward to the 2026 edition of the energy conference. To us talking about the progress that we’ve all made and what is needed in order to continue on this remarkable journey in Guyana,” Routledge noted.
“And of course it is going
to need us to talk about the investments that are needed, whether that be infrastructure offshore and onshore. The finance that’s going to be required in order to support that; the human capacity and capabilities needed to execute all of that. And then, of course, the collabora-tions that bring all of that together.”
He also noted that the energy conference has become not just a regional focal point but a global one, drawing attention from industry leaders and governments around the world.
As the conference prepares to celebrate its fifth year, expectations are high for the 2026 edition. With continued growth in attendance, participation, and the range of topics covered, the event is set to play an even more vital role in shaping the future of the energy sector.
Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo
The Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo is widely recognised as one of the most im-portant events for the energy sector in the region. Graham emphasised the role the event has played in facilitating international partnerships and business opportunities over the years.
“The Energy Conference continues to provide the best opportunities in Guyana for executive network-ing and B2B marketing,” Graham noted.
“We have tried to keep track of all the relationships. All of the deals, all of the agreements struck as a result of the Energy Conference, and we have not been able to do that. Not because we didn’t have the skills or capabilities, but because the sheer volume of transactions that are bartered at the Energy Conference is overwhelming, and you have to wait for people to tell you their stories of how they met, how
this idea came together, who came together. To recognise the significant impact that the Energy Conference is playing in the growth of business in the sector, and that’s something we’re particularly proud of,” Graham noted.
The conference will bring together top leaders, innovators, and experts to discuss the future of energy in Guyana and globally, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological advancement.
The 2025 edition of the conference saw over 10,000 participants, 200 exhibitors,
and 75 speakers from more than 40 countries. The event continues to be a pivotal meeting point for global investors, suppliers, and policymakers in the oil, gas, and energy sectors.
A 2026 addition to the conference will be an “Innovation Challenge” designed for school students ranging from Grade 7 to CAPE levels. The challenge will task participants with identifying local prob-lems that can be addressed using artificial intelligence. A prize will be awarded to the winning team on the first day of the conference.
In addition to the Innovation Challenge, the conference will feature a “5KM Energy Walk/Run”, aimed at promoting health and wellness among participants while raising awareness for sustainable energy practices. Another feature will be the “Taste of Guyana” section, which will showcase local food, arts, crafts, and cultural displays. This feature will be relocated to the Marriott Hotel to integrate more seamless-ly into the overall conference experience.
Police Force achieves 61% crime clear-up rate in 2025 – Top Cop
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) recorded a 61 per cent crime clear-up rate in 2025, a landmark achievement that underscores the force’s commitment to proactive and professional policing, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken announced on Friday during the GPF’s annual Christmas Awards Ceremony at the Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary.
“As I give my presentation this morning, I want to start with a quote: ‘The time is always right to do what is right’ – Martin Luther King,” Commissioner Hicken said. “These words remind us that policing is not merely about what we achieve, but the integrity with which we serve. Today, as we honour our ranks, we recognise their constant commitment to the people of Guyana,” he said.
Highlighting the force’s strategic approach under its 2022-2026 plan,
Commissioner Hicken said 2025 marked a year of transformation, with investments in technology, infrastructure, and per-sonnel aimed at modernising the service and strengthening public trust.
“We began this year with a clear vision to modernise policing, strengthen professionalism, and deepen our partnership with the public we serve,” he noted.
Under the operations pillar, the GPF strengthened traffic and road safety enforcement through technological innovations, including the Safe Roads Intelligence System and 30 newly installed speed cameras.
E-tickets rose from 800 in 2024 to 24,793 in 2025, while traffic cases increased by 10 per cent.
Overall, accidents fell 15.2 per cent, demonstrating the effectiveness of data-driven enforce-ment and targeted public education.
Crime-fighting efforts
also saw significant progress. Commissioner Hicken highlighted that serious crime dropped 25.22 per cent, while the clearup rate reached 61.76 per cent, an achieve-ment he described as “all-time hard work”. He credited the success to proactive policing and the establishment of regional and district intelligence networks that en-
able the force to detect, prevent, and respond to threats with precision.
The Commissioner also emphasised the Force’s focus on developing its personnel. In 2025, 3510 ranks were promoted through a merit-based system, 1961 officers received scholarships or sponsorships, and training was expanded to include foreign languages
like Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin to better serve Guyana’s multilingual population.
Welfare initiatives were also strengthened, including the introduction of therapist units and day care facilities in multiple regions.
Infrastructure improvements were equally significant, with five new command centres, upgrad-ed Police stations, boathouses, and IT facilities, as well as 120 new vehicles and vessels to en-hance operational mobility.
“In 2025, we are not just constructing buildings; we are building capacity,” Commissioner Hick-en said.
He also stressed the importance of accountability and professionalism, highlighting the re-cruitment and training of prosecutors, ethical performance evaluations, and a new fleet man-agement assessment system to ensure transparency.
“Accountability became a system. Professionalism was further strengthened through revised Police standards, training, and oversight to safeguard state resources,” he said.
The Commissioner concluded by urging officers to continue rising to the expectations of a mod-ern Police force.
“As we enter a new era of policing, the standards will rise, expectations will sharpen, and our nation will depend on us more than ever. Let us answer that responsibility with honour, lead with professionalism, and build a Police force that is worthy of trust and integrity,” he said.
The ceremony recognised officers across various ranks for their dedication, commitment, and exemplary service throughout the year, marking a fitting close to a year of transformative achievements for the GPF.
Over 20,000 students across Guyana, Caricom sign up as...
Minister Parag explained that the school’s FourQuadrant Approach integrates interactive online classes, a rich digital library, skill-building programmes beyond the standard curriculum, and practical projects that allow students to apply knowledge.
“Educators and curriculum experts have commended the depth and vision of this model. Students gain direct access to teachers, explore digital resources at any time, and engage with AI-supported tools that personalise learning and strengthen weak areas. These elements collectively create a forward-looking, dynamic learning environment,” she said.
She emphasised that the digital school complements rather than replaces traditional schooling.
“This is not an abandonment of traditional schooling; it strengthens it. It
introduces new avenues for learning so no child falls behind due to distance, circumstance, or pace,” she added.
Transform Caribbean
Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Amor Mottley lauded President Ali’s bold vision, stating that it gives every Caribbean child the tools to learn, grow, and succeed.
“Whether in the coastlands or hinterlands of Guyana, Barbados, St Kitts, or St Lucia, children now have access to learning at their fingertips. This is a momentous day for education across the region,” she said.
Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell also congratulated the Government of Guyana, highlighting the platform’s potential to enhance student performance and provide equitable access to te -
chnology and guidance.
“I have instructed our Minister of Education to ensure Grenada is actively involved in this initiative. I am confident it will transform education delivery across CARICOM,” he stated.
The Guyana Digital School employs a blended learning model that combines technology, content, engagement, and handson experience. Students benefit from AI-supported learning tools, live classes with trained educators, and access to a comprehensive digital library. The platform also supports skill-building beyond the traditional curriculum, helping learners acquire practical and digital competencies essential for the modern workforce.
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken
Scenes from the official opening of One Guyana Christmas Village & Supermarket, December 5, 2025
GDF engineers deployed to Jamaica to support post-hurricane recovery efforts
Acontingent comprising one officer and 40 other ranks from the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Four Engineers Battalion have departed Guyana for Jamaica to support reconstruction efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
The contingent, according to the GDF, is made up of both regular and re-
serve ranks, as the deployment underscores Guyana’s strong sense of regional responsibility and soli-darity as Caribbean neighbours continue to recover from the storm’s severe impacts.
The Engineers, many of whom have previously participated in similar regional missions, will work alongside Jamaican authorities to help restore infrastructure, rebuild affected communi-
ties and support ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Acting Chief of Defence Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, MSM, briefed the troops be-fore departure, reminding the ranks that their professionalism and experience remain critical to the success of the mission. He emphasised that the team carries the responsi-bility of representing their unit, the GDF, and the nation.
Visitor arrivals exceed 2024 as of October 2025 – GTA
The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has announced that Guyana has already exceeded the 2024 visitor arrival figure of 371,271, with total arrivals reaching 371,446 as of October 2025.
October 2025 alone registered a remarkable 28.9 per cent year-on-year growth, welcoming approximately 42,306 visitors, it noted. From
January to October 2025, arrivals reflect an overall 24 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Based on current trends, Destination Guyana is expected to close December 2025 with at least a 20 per cent overall increase in arrivals, marking the highest annual total in the country’s tourism history.
These results under-
score the growing appeal of Destination Guyana and highlight the effectiveness of ongoing tourism strategies, the GTA added, as the sustained upward trajectory positions Guyana as a competitive and attractive destination in the region while providing strong evidence to guide future policy, investment, and marketing initiatives.
$226M in awards...
While acknowledging that leading a male-led unit has tested her limits, she credited her team for standing firmly with her. “I dedicate this award to my village, Hosororo, the little Amerindian community that shaped me and taught me resilience. This is indeed an extraordinary privilege at this time of my career,” Fredericks said. She urged ranks across the Force to remember why their service matters. “To my fellow officers, may this moment remind you that sacrifice does not go unnoticed. Commitment makes
Guyana safer every day. Keep striving and proving that we are worthy. To every rank, just remember your sacrifice matters, your service matters. Continue to honour the badge, continue to rise,” she encouraged. Assistant Superintendent Henry of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was named runner-up for Best Cop. Addressing the gathering, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond commended ranks for their commitment to duty and the standard they continue to set for the GPF. “Excellence is not an oc-
casional act; it is a habit, a culture, a commitment, demonstrated consistently over time. You have shown what the Guyana Police Force is capable of at its finest,” Walrond said. With the festive season underway, she called on officers to recommit themselves to the oath they swore to protect and serve. “Guyana is changing rapidly, and policing must evolve with equal speed. Our force must remain adaptable, professional, fair, community-focused and trusted,” she emphasised.
“Expectations are high, but I am confident you will deliver and represent the Com-mander-in-Chief with pride. Guyana is emerging as a leader in regional disaster re-sponse, and your continued excellence ensures we are always welcomed,” he stated.
He praised the Force’s strong record on previous deployments and encouraged the contingent to uphold the same standard.
Colonel Roberts also acknowledged the timing of
the deployment, noting that although the Christmas season is traditionally a time for family and celebration, the ranks have reported fully and are prepared to serve.
He highlighted that this is the first GDF deployment of its kind during this period, under-scoring the soldiers’ professionalism and the Force’s ongoing commitment to regional support.
“The GDF is proud to answer the call when our region needs us. Go forward, do your best and give us a
good showing,” he charged.
The deployment is a fulfilment of a commitment by President and Commanderin-Chief Dr Irfaan Ali.
The GDF extended best wishes to the contingent as they undertook their mission and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regional partners in times of need.
Their service continues to exemplify Guyana’s leadership, compassion and unwavering commitment to the Caribbean community.
ERC reports probe of 95 ethnicity-based complaints
…as body promotes peace, unity nationwide
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) continues to implement initiatives aimed at fostering peace, mutual respect, and understanding among Guyana’s diverse communities. November 2025 saw the Commission advance its mandate through education, training, and public en-gagement.
According to the ERC, the Public Education & Awareness Unit (PEAU) maintained a strong na-tionwide outreach programme, engaging schools and conducting diversity-focused training for adults. The unit’s work emphasised shaping young minds, strengthening community ties, and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
A highlight for the month was the launch of five Harmony Club pilot programmes in collabora-tion with the Ministry of Education. Clubs were established at Stella Maris Primary on October 29; St Gabriel’s Primary on November 14; Comenius Primary on November 19; St Ambrose Pri-mary on November 20; and North Georgetown Primary on November 28. These clubs provide pupils with structured spaces to learn about Guyana’s ethnic groups, major religions, cultural traditions, and the value of respect. Early participation has indicated positive engagement, with the clubs expected to promote long-term peaceful coexistence and cross-cultural friendships among students.
In addition to school pro-
grammes, the ERC said it continued diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training for public servants. On November 11, 16 staff members of the Public Service Min-istry’s Training & Development Department participated in a session, followed by a second session on November 17 for 21 Bureau of Statistics employees. Training focused on cultural awareness, preventing workplace discrimination, and fostering appreciation of Guyana’s shared identity.
The Media Monitoring Unit (MMU) also remained active, reviewing broadcast media and social media platforms from September to October. The unit identified 31 instances of racially or eth-nically offensive language and addressed them according to ERC protocols, including issuing cautionary statements. One case was forwarded to the Investigative Unit for further review. The ERC emphasises that these efforts are intended to promote respectful dialogue, not to censor public expression.
The Investigative Unit (IU) continues to serve as a channel for citizens report-
ing race- or ethnic-ity-based discrimination. In 2025, 95 complaints were received, including four in November. Of these, 28 cases are under active investigation, 22 have been closed, 12 completed, and 13 await initial processing. Additional cases are pending sub-committee review, legal advice, re-ferrals to external agencies, or statutory decisions. Under Article 212D of the Constitution, the ERC prioritises alternative conflict-resolution mech-anisms such as mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and referrals to relevant agencies. While the Commission cannot prosecute individuals, it works to guide parties toward amicable solu-tions and, where necessary, refer matters to the appropriate authorities.
Looking ahead, the ERC said that it will host its Annual Toy Distribution and the UNITY FEST 2025 on December 14 at the National Park, Georgetown. The event will be open to the public with free admission, featuring cultural performances, food, and activities representing all eth-nic groups of Guyana.
Acting Chief of Defence Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, briefs troops before departure
Newborn removed from NA Hospital... Human Services Ministry says protocols followed, family regularly updated
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has issued a statement to explain why a newborn was taken from the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. The Ministry said that throughout the process, the family was consulted, kept informed, and treated with compassion and respect. This statement follows public concern over comments from 20-year-old Keshma Jagdeo, a mother from Port Mourant, who reported that she was not properly informed about her baby’s situation after giving birth at home and being transferred to the regional hospital for care.
In a press release issued
on Friday, the Ministry said the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) was alerted by medical staff shortly after the delivery due to concerns that both the young mother and her own mother appeared to show signs of developmental delay.
This triggered a standard child-safeguarding assessment, which included home visits, interviews and efforts by officers to determine whether the family could safely care for the newborn. According to the Ministry, CPA officers found the family's Port Mourant home in a severely unsanitary condition despite repeated guidance on how to improve the environment for a newborn.
Man jailed for life after fatally stabbing girlfriend 25 times as she slept
ASophia man who launched a vicious knife attack on his sleeping girlfriend in 2023 was ordered to spend the rest of his life behind bars on Friday. The sentence was handed down by Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the Demerara High Court, who ruled that the sheer savagery of the killing left no room for leniency.
25-year-old Linden Benjamin, of Sophia, had earlier pleaded guilty to killing 31-year-old Lisa George, who he stabbed 25 times while she lay in bed beside her two children at their C Field, Sophia, home. The murder occurred on April 26, 2023. Benjamin admitted to the crime on September 16, and returned to court on Friday for his fate to be revealed.
During the sentencing hearing, State Counsel Darin Chan and Latifa Elliot described the attack as one of staggering brutality. They reminded the court that the victim was asleep and utterly defenceless when Benjamin armed himself with two knives and unleashed the fatal blows. The prosecutors highlighted that “a dangerous and deadly weapon was used in the commission of the offence, to wit, a knife,” and noted that Benjamin displayed “absolutely no remorse.”
Chan told the court the murder fit into a troubling pattern of domestic violence devastating families across the country, stressing, “Too frequently these incidents are happening; we have a duty to protect women in society.” He urged Justice Chandra-Hanif to impose a life sentence, saying the extreme nature of the case demanded the harshest possible punishment.
“Your Honour, justice must speak loudly today. It must reach every home, every community, and every man who believes that a woman’s life is his to threat-
en, his to injure, or his to take. This sentence must say to all men that the women of this country are entitled to safety, dignity, and life, and that the courts will protect that right without hesitation,” Chan pleaded in a powerful address.
In response, defence attorney Buelah Williams asked the court to consider imposing a lesser sentence, saying her client’s mother was deeply affected and adding that imprisonment should also allow for “betterment and rehabilitation”.
Justice Chandra-Hanif, however, was unmoved. She said the court was troubled by Benjamin’s complete absence of remorse and the “persistent and merciless” nature of the violence.
“He should have walked away… There is no remorse; he needs to be held accountable for his actions,” she said, before delivering a life sentence. Benjamin will only become eligible for parole after serving 30 years, minus the time he has already spent on remand.
Inside the courtroom, grief filled the air as members of George’s family spoke about their loss. Her sister, Lauren George, fought through tears as she said, “Lisa was my rock. She did not deserve to die like that.
I hope he spends life in prison.”
George’s teenage son, who witnessed his mother’s murder, told the court, “My mother was very loving and caring. I was in shock and fearful for my life. The incident keeps replaying in my head. When it comes to Christmas and birthdays, there is always an empty space in my heart.”
Statements from George’s parents were also read, expressing the same heartbreak and ongoing trauma.
Benjamin himself addressed the court afterward, offering a brief statement in which he attempted to justify his actions. Appearing to show no genuine remorse, he said, “I wasn’t a good citizen. I wouldn’t disrespect her or her relatives. I used to be taken advantage of; I used to get beat. I never take anything to beat or hurt her. I apologise.”
According to the prosecution’s case, the fatal attack unfolded between 02:00h and 02:30h. Benjamin had earlier demanded that George “open her phone”, a request she refused. She later went to bed with her children, and Benjamin joined them shortly after.
In the “stillness of the early morning hours”, prosecutors described, he armed himself with two knives and began stabbing her repeatedly as she slept. After inflicting twenty-five wounds, he made no effort to get help. When he attempted to leave the bedroom, he was confronted by the victim’s father, Colin George, who prevented his escape until Police arrived. Benjamin was arrested shortly afterward and charged with the capital offence.
The life sentence now imposed closes a painful chapter for George’s family, who said they continue to live with the emotional scars of witnessing a mother and daughter taken in such a horrific manner.
Officers also noted that the family relied heavily on neighbours for routine support and that the maternal grandmother informed them she is ill and requires weekly hospital visits, factors that raised concerns about their capacity to manage round-theclock newborn care. The Ministry said several attempts were made to work with the family to improve the situation, including discussions on hygiene, monitoring and safe-sleep conditions. However, the living space remained unsuitable.
The release further stated that although the CPA explored kinship-care options, the individuals proposed by the family were not known caregivers or relatives with established ties. In some cases, the Ministry said, the persons
put forward were strangers or people the family barely knew and could not reasonably be entrusted with a newborn. Medical staff at New Amsterdam Hospital also advised that prolonged hospitalisation of the baby carried increasing infection risks and that the facility could not continue to keep the newborn indefinitely. With no suitable caregiver identified and the home circumstances unchanged, the CPA said it was obligated to secure a temporary alternative placement in the best interest of the child. The Ministry emphasised that both CPA officers and hospital staff attempted to contact the mother and grandmother through multiple channels on the day the baby was scheduled to be discharged but were unable to reach them. It added that efforts were also made the day prior to discharge. The baby has since been placed in the protective care of the CPA. The Ministry says its ultimate goal remains family reunification, once the environment meets minimum standards required for an infant.
A senior official from the Region Six Department of Health confirmed that both the Port Mourant and New Amsterdam Hospitals have been instructed to submit full documentation on the case, including patient records, staff notes,
and transfer details.
The Regional Health Officer, Dr Vineshri Khirodhar, said the region is cooperating fully with the Human Services Ministry.
Family still seeks clarification
However, the mother and grandmother, continue to insist that no one explained to them that the baby would be removed from their care or placed in protective custody. The grandmother previously told this newspaper that the family only realised something was wrong when they were no longer allowed to see the newborn.
Relatives say they remain deeply distressed and want a clearer explanation of what transpired during the assessment, why they were deemed unfit and why none of the individuals they proposed were accepted as temporary caregivers. They also maintain that they were not contacted on the day of the discharge, contradicting the Ministry’s statement. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Human Services says it will continue working with the Port Mourant family to improve their living conditions and address any limitations identified during the assessment. Once those concerns are resolved, and the home meets required safety standards, the Ministry said efforts will be made to reunite the child with the mother.
Life sentence: Linden Benjamin
Shanti Sookoo and her daughter Keshma Jagdeo
GFSL receives certification from GNBS
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) on Thursday, December 4, 2025, certified the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) to the National Standard, GYS-170:2021 – General requirements for the operation of a laboratory.
The certification marks a significant step forward in strengthening the quality and reliability of forensic services in Guyana. It underscores the laboratory’s commitment to accuracy, competence and continuous improvement in support of the justice system and public safety. During the certification ceremony at the laboratory’s Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown location, GNBS Executive Director Trevor Bassoo presented a plaque to Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Andre Ally while GNBS Head of Certification Services (ag) Keon Rankin presented the certificate to Director (ag) of GFSL Charis Griffith.
Also present were GFSL’s Quality Officer, Abidin Mohamed, GNBS Technical Officer, Orlando Sturge, and others. Ally, in his remarks, said that the laboratory’s certifi-
cation goes beyond mere compliance, reflecting its commitments to quality, competence and continuous improvement. Recognising the laboratory’s mandate, he further highlighted the importance of reliable results, especially in life-changing decisions such as legal and judicial outcomes. “By attaining this certification, we have strengthened the foundation that we have already built, aligning our operations with the national requirements that govern laboratory management and performance in Guyana,” Ally affirmed. He emphasised that certification ensures that the laboratory’s systems, policies and procedures not only meet international expectations but also reflect local regulatory needs and best practices, reinforcing its dedication to impartiality and confidentiality.
The laboratory is now certified to conduct Chemistry and Biology testing, including presumptive and confirmatory analyses for cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamine-type stimulants and rapid DNA testing, as well as presumptive and confirmatory tests for blood and se-
men. The GNBS Executive Director commended the GFSL for taking the necessary steps to achieve certification under the GYS 170 programme. He noted that such certification offers formal recognition of a laboratory’s management system and helps clients identify reliable, trustworthy testing services.
Bassoo disclosed that the laboratory has been added to a list of 40 oth-
er laboratories to be certified by the GNBS and is the sixth non-medical Government laboratory to be certified. “It gives me pride and joy that organisations, agencies and, more so, laboratories responsible for providing scientific and evidence-based results are taking their roles seriously and taking the steps necessary to qualify their results and provide confidence to their clients and stakehold-
Elon Musk’s X fined £105m over
The EU has fined Elon Musk’s social media platform X €120m (£105m) over its blue tick badges – prompting an angry reaction from the US.
The European Commission said by allowing people to pay for a blue verified check mark on their profile, the platform “deceives users” because the firm is not “meaningfully verifying” who is behind the account.
“This deception exposes users to scams, including impersonation frauds, as well as other forms of manipulation by malicious actors,” it said.
But US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have criticised the EU regulator, accusing it of attacking and censoring US firms.
“The European Commission’s fine isn’t just an attack on X; it’s an attack on all American tech platforms and the American people by foreign governments,” Rubio wrote in a post on X.
“The days of censoring Americans online are over.”
His remarks were reposted by Musk, who added,
“Absolutely.”
Earlier on Friday, FCC chair Brendan Carr had accused the Commission of targeting X merely because it was “a successful US tech company”.
“Europe is taxing Americans to subsidise a continent held back by Europe’s own suffocating regulations,” he wrote.
Their comments echo those made by US VicePresident JD Vance on Thursday.
He lashed out at the EU amid rumours of its forthcoming fine – claiming the platform was be-ing punished “for not engaging in censorship”.
“The EU should be supporting free speech, not attacking American companies over garbage,” he said.
Social media expert Matt Navarra said the comments showed the fine was not “just a punish-ment [but] a statement” of the EU’s willingness to enforce its regulation of tech firms.
“Evading accountability”
In addition to taking issue with its use of blue ticks, EU regulators said X was also failing to pro-vide transparency around its ad-
petence, maintaining impartiality and ensuring consistent operations.
“Today, by meeting the requirements of the GYS170:2021 standard, we have demonstrated that our internal systems, policies and processes remain robust, compliant and fully aligned with national expectations,” she pointed out.
ers,” he said. Meanwhile, the Director (ag) of GFSL noted that this achievement represents not only a milestone for the institution but also a significant step forward in enhancing quality, accountability, and scientific excellence within Guyana’s forensic system. She added that the certification reflects the GFSL’s unwavering commitment to meeting national requirements, demonstrating com-
“deceptive”
verts, and it was not giving researchers access to public data.
“The fine issued today was calculated taking into account the nature of these infringements, their gravity in terms of affected EU users, and their duration,” the Commission said.
Henna Virkkunen, the regulator’s executive vice-president for tech sovereignty, said it was “holding X responsible for undermining users’ rights and evading accountability”.
“Deceiving users with blue checkmarks, obscuring information on ads and
shutting out re-searchers have no place online in the EU,” she said.
The decision means X must tell the Commission how it will bring the allegedly violating measures into compliance with EU laws or face further, periodic fines.
The action constitutes the Commission’s first decision on a platform’s “non-compliance” with its Digital Services Act (DSA) –one of two rulebooks online firms must follow in order to operate their services in the EU.
The DSA sets out obligations for platforms around
Through its Laboratory Certification Programme, the GNBS ensures that certified medical and testing laboratories operate in accordance with the National Standard. Certification also provides formal recognition that a laboratory has implemented a laboratory management system, thus providing a ready means for customers to identify and select reliable testing, measurement and calibration services to meet their needs. Surveillance audits are carried out throughout the certification period to verify continued compliance. To learn more about this standard, please visit the gnbsgy.org website or contact GNBS at the following telephone numbers: 2190064-66, the GNBS hotline at 219-0069, or WhatsApp us at 692-4627. (GNBS)
blue ticks
content, data and advertising, while the Digi-tal Markets Act establishes how companies should operate in order to benefit consumers and competition.
Such rules have come under increased scrutiny from US leaders, who warned against tougher regulation of tech firms by governments and regulators.
Musk’s controversial blue tick changes
Musk’s shake-up to verification formed part of a sweeping set of changes he made after acquir-ing Twitter in late 2022.
It saw the previous system – which functioned similarly to other social media verification schemes, displaying someone as verified if they supply proof of who they are – cast out and replaced with one tied to its Premium subscription tier.
This required people to pay a monthly subscription fee if they wanted a blue tick displayed next to their account name on the site.
To get a verified checkmark, an X account must have a display name and profile picture, a con-firmed phone number and have been active in the previous
30 days. They also cannot be “misleading or deceptive” or have engaged in spam activity.
Musk launched the new system as a way to incentivise people to subscribe and boost X’s overall income. It also gave blue tick holders a higher presence in replies and was mooted as a way to tackle the number of bots on the platform. But it proved highly controversial, with warnings it might open users up to scams by impersona-tors or fake accounts and increase the profile of bad actors and misleading content.
Mr Navarra said Musk’s new system marked a departure from the way platforms usually verify users.
“It’s a trust signal, not a transaction, but on X that was flipped,” he told the BBC.
“There’s no meaningful ID check, there’s no rigorous validation, and I think that’s where the EU has drawn the line,” he said – adding X had made itself “an easy first target” for the Commission’s scrutiny of deceptive design on social platforms. (BBC)
(L-R) GFSL Quality Officer, Abidin Mohamed; Director (ag) of GFSL, Charis Griffith; PS-Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally; GNBS ED, Trevor Bassoo; GNBS Head of Certification Services, Keon Rankin; and GNBS Technical Officer, Orlando Sturge
Riddara electric vehicles launched in Guyana
HSM Motors Guyana Inc, the official dealer for Riddara in Guyana and a company born out of Trinidad-based HSM Marketing Company Ltd, on Wednesday official-ly launched its Riddara brand in the Guyanese market.
The event took place
at the Tribe Gastronomic Lounge in Georgetown and marked a major step forward in the evolution of Guyana's electric mobility land-scape.
The launch event brought together an impressive list of distinguished guests and industry stakeholders. Guests
were given an exclusive first-hand look at the Riddara RD6, a fully electric, four-door pick-up designed for both modern lifestyles and outdoor adventure. The showcase provided an up-close experience of the brand's innovative features, advanced technology and commitment to sus -
taina-bility.
The evening also included a vibrant cocktail and social hour, giving invitees the opportunity to interact with the HSM Motors Guyana team, network with fellow leaders, and explore the Riddara models on display in a relaxed and stylish atmos-phere.
Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HSM Motors Guy-ana Inc., Mikhail Hosein, expressed his excitement for the brand's introduction in-to the local market and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Guyana's transition into smarter transportation solutions.
With Riddara's arrival, Guyanese consumers can look forward to a new era of electric mobility that blends power, comfort and innovation. HSM Motors Guyana Inc. extends its gratitude to all attendees and partners who contributed to the success of the launch. The company looks forward to building strong
relationships with customers, stakeholders and the wider Guyanese community as Riddara moves toward full market availability. The event was attended by Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat; Director of Trade and Investment at the Consu-late General of Guyana Ganga Singh; Acting High Commissioner to Guyana from Trinidad and Tobago Candice
and Tobago, expanding its footprint in the region to support the growth of sustainable mobility solutions.
Trump admin’s new foreign aid model cuts out the ‘NGO Industrial Complex’
The United States (US) is overhauling how it distributes foreign aid to prioritise direct investment in partner nations and eliminate waste by bypassing the “NGO (“non-Governmental organisation) industrial complex,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Thursday. Rubio unveiled the new policy during the signing of a $2.5 billion Health Cooperation Framework with Kenya. The US will provide up to $1.6 billion over the next five years to support priority health programmes, while Kenya will increase domestic health spending by $850 million to foster its longterm health self-reliance.
Rubio said the previous system funnelled aid through foreign or US-based NGOs that absorbed funding through overhead and administrative costs while limiting host-country control.
“We would go to a country and say we are going to help you with healthcare needs, and then we would drive over to northern Virginia somewhere and find an NGO, one of these organisations, and give them all the money and tell them to go to this country and do their healthcare programme for them,” Rubio said. “By the time it got down to it, the host country had very little influence … and only a percentage of the overall money ever actually reached the patients.”
Instead, Rubio made the case for working directly with partner countries, such as Kenya, to cut out what he
describes as the “NGO industrial complex”.
“If we’re trying to help countries, help the country. Don’t help the NGO to go in and find a new line of business,” he said.
State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott told The Daily Wire that foreign aid funding should “not pad the pockets of overpaid executives in the NGO industry.”
Top executives at health NGOs backed by American taxpayer dollars frequently have very high salaries.
In 2024, the President of Research Triangle Institute earned over $1.4 million, and two of its Vice Presidents earned more than $850,000 each. At Johns Hopkins University’s Jhpiego Corporation, one executive earned over $1.08 million. Other top salaries included $598,348 at Management Sciences for Health, $545,290 at Family Health International, and $506,371 at Pact Inc.
In 2023, the President of the Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation earned $577,275, and the President of PATH earned $703,405.
“Ultimately, the best aid is the aid that ends because it’s worked to solve problems or build capacity of partner countries. Our partnership with Kenya is an example of this approach in action,” Pigott said. The framework with Kenya will direct American funding to go towards programmes focused on HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, polio erad-
ication, disease surveillance and infectious disease outbreak response and preparedness, according to the State Department. While Kenya is the first, Rubio said he hopes to sign 50 such agreements with other countries during the signing.
“When developing the dozens of America First Global Health Strategy bilateral agreements we will sign in the coming weeks, we always start with the principle that American sovereign resources should be used to bolster our allies and should never benefit groups unfriendly to the United States and our national interests,” Jeremy P Lewin, Senior Official for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs & Religious Freedom, said.
Brad Smith, Senior Advisor for the Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy at the State Department, said that for over two months, the US Government has been in “very productive discussions” with other Governments around the world for similar agreements. In the coming weeks, dozens more multi-year health agreements will be signed as part of the America First Global Health Strategy, according to the State Department. “These landmark agreements will advance a comprehensive and shared vision directly between the United States and recipient country Governments for continued future cooperation on global health issues,” a statement from the State Department’s
spokesperson’s office said.
The agreements are designed to improve efficiency and accountability by integrating American pro-
grammes into local health systems, focusing resources on frontline services, engaging private and faith-based partners, and encouraging
recipient countries to co-invest in healthcare workers and essential commodities.
(Source: Daily Wire)
Shade; and CEO of Vision Equipment Supply Mark Maloney, among others. HSM Motors Guyana Inc. is the authorised dealer for Riddara electric vehicles in Guyana. The company is an extension of HSM Market-ing Company Ltd and HSM Motors in Trinidad
One of the electric vehicles offered on the Guyanese market
Minister Vickram Bharrat and other officials at the launch on Wednesday
Bill Clinton visits Jamaica
The 42nd president of the United States Bill Clinton spent Thursday in Jamaica, meeting with Government officials and flying over storm-ravaged communities to assess the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Energy Minister Daryl Vaz accompanied Clinton on the aerial tour, which was aimed at helping generate additional support for reconstruction efforts. Later that evening, Clinton was welcomed at AC Hotel Kingston by Sandals Resorts International Executive Chairman Adam Stewart. He and his team were hosted for a private dinner attended by Government ministers, private-sector leaders and Rolando Gonzalez Bunster, a Clinton Foundation board member and member of the Clinton Global Initiative’s Energy Committee.
Minister Olivia Grange,
who is currently overseeing Government operations while Prime Minister Andrew Holness is overseas, said Jamaica intends to pursue a partnership with the Clinton Foundation to bolster recovery efforts. In a Facebook post, she said it was a “pleasure to share the evening” with Clinton and thanked him for the support
already extended.
The Clinton Foundation is an international non-profit known for its work in disaster recovery, climate resilience, health, and economic development – areas that Jamaican officials say align directly with the country’s urgent post-Melissa needs. (Jamaica Observer, Caribbean National Weekly)
7 tonnes of cocaine seized off Colombia, 11 arrested unharmed, navy says
More than seven tonnes of cocaine were seized from boats in the Caribbean in recent days, Colombia's navy said, as the US continues to conduct lethal strikes on alleged drug-ferrying vessels in the region.
Authorities confiscated about 7.1 tonnes of cocaine during two operations in the Caribbean, the country's navy said in a social media post on Wednesday. One interdiction took place 90 nautical miles from Barranquilla, a city on Colombia's northern coast, and the other one occurred about 70 miles south of that in the Gulf of Morrosquillo.
More than 7 tonnes of cocaine were seized from boats in the Caribbean Sea in recent days, Colombia's navy said on X
Chinese hospital ship to provide free medical care in Barbados for Christmas
Barbadians will be able to access free medical and surgical services during Christmas week when the Chinese naval hospital ship Silk Road Ark docks on the island later this month.
The ship is scheduled to arrive on December 20 and remain in port until December 27, with the public able to access services from Sunday, December 21, to Friday, December 26, between 08:00h and 11:00h, and again from 14:00h to 17:00h daily, the Ministry of Health and Wellness said.
The visit forms part of the vessel’s first overseas humanitarian medical mission and will provide Barbadians with access to more than 60 types of medical and surgical services, including consultations, diagnostics and selected procedures.
The Silk Road Ark is equipped with five major medical zones for casualty transfer, triage, outpatient care, inpatient services and
evacuation, as well as eight operating rooms. It also carries a helicopter for emergency response and includes 14 clinical departments and seven auxiliary diagnostic units.
Services will be offered in key areas such as cardiovascular medicine, respiratory medicine, gastroenterology, general surgery, orthopaedics, ophthalmology, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, dermatology, otolaryngology, and traditional Chinese medicine physiotherapy, along with imaging and special examinations.
Among the procedures that may be performed are appendectomies, hernia repairs, breast lump and skin lesion removals, fracture fixation, cataract treatment, routine endoscopies, urological procedures and selected obstetric services, as well as acupuncture and cupping therapy.
Health officials have encouraged Barbadians to take advantage of the visit, describing it as a major humanitarian medical outreach by the People’s Republic of China during the holiday season. (Barbados Today)
A&B: Inflation falls to 1.4%; sharpest drop since pandemic – PM
Antigua and Barbuda has recorded its sharpest decline in inflation since the COVID-19 pandemic, with consumer prices rising by an average of just 1.4 per cent between January and August 2025, Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced Thursday in the presentation of the 2026 national budget.
Minister, the downward trend reflects stronger global supply conditions, easing freight costs and Government interventions aimed at stabilising household expenses. He pointed to ongoing fuel and electricity subsidies and the Government’s suspension of the 42 per cent Common External Tariff on selected food imports as key factors restraining price increases.
Food and fuel – two of the most pressure-sensitive categories for families – have shown signs of stabilising in recent months, he said. The Government’s partnership with Guyana to import lower-cost staples is also expected to reinforce price relief heading into 2026.
Authorities released images of the operations, showing photos of the boats involved as well as bricks of the alleged narcotics displayed on the ground next to officers and the detained suspects.
The cocaine was valued at more than $340 million, and 11 persons – eight Colombians, two Venezuelans and one Jamaican – were arrested "without affecting their integrity or their lives," the navy said in a separate statement.
The seizures come as Colombian President Gustavo Petro is calling on the US to end strikes in the region against apparent drug-carrying vessels. The US announced another strike Thursday in the Pacific Ocean that the Pentagon said killed four persons. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Honduran Presidential candidate says Trump interfered in election
Salvador Nasralla, the centrist candidate in Honduras’s Presidential election, has accused United States President Donald Trump of election interference amid reports of other irregularities in electoral proceedings.
The US President last week endorsed conservative candidate Nasry Asfura, 67, and labelled Nasralla a “borderline ”communist” –two moves that Nasralla alleges could cost him a victory.
“It hurt me because I was
winning by a much larger margin,” Nasralla, 72, told the Reuters news agency on Thursday in an exclusive interview.
Trump has cast a long shadow over the closely fought election to decide the next President of the Central American country.
The US President alleged without proof that Sunday’s otherwise peaceful vote was fraudulent after early – and incomplete –results showed a “technical tie” between Nasralla and Asfura.
The US President has previously threatened to cut off aid to Honduras if Asfura did not win and said there would be “hell to pay” if officials tampered with election results.
As of Thursday evening, election authorities said they had counted 87 percent of the ballots, but 17 percent of the ballots showed “inconsistencies” and are under review, according to Reuters. They have until December 30 to submit their final results, Reuters said.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Browne said the cooling is especially significant given that inflation surged to nearly 10 per cent in 2022 as global supply chains tightened and fuel and food prices spiked. He added that in September 2025, overall prices actually fell by one per cent, marking the first month of deflation in years.
According to the Prime
Browne said these measures are expected to produce “cheaper supermarket prices in the coming weeks,” noting that importers will now land several essential items at a lower cost. He warned retailers not to absorb the duty savings, saying the reductions must reach consumers.
The Prime Minister told Parliament that cost-of-living support programmes will remain in place, including the doubling of the food voucher initiative, continued LPG subsidies and assistance for nearly 7000 pensioners and more than 1600 vulnerable households. Budget debate continues next week. (Antigua Observer)
Bolsonaro's senator son touts father's backing for 2026 Brazil Presidential run
Senator Flavio Bolsonaro said on Friday that his father, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, has backed him for a Presidential run next year, jilting markets that had bet on a more seasoned candidate consolidating support on the right.
The senator wrote on social media that his father had chosen him for "the mission of carrying on our project for the nation."
The head of Bolsonaro's right-wing Liberal Party, Valdemar Costa Neto, confirmed in a statement that the ex-President, who is
serving time for a failed coup plot, had tapped his eldest son as the party's Presidential candidate.
Some investors had bet on Bolsonaro backing a more market-friendly name with executive experience, such as Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas, his former minister, to challenge leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva next year.
The former President's decision, if confirmed, could "implode" ties between the right-wing movement he forged and more centrist political parties, said Andre Perfeito, an economist at Garantia Capital.
The ex-President's endorsement on Friday underscored his eldest son's standing as the Bolsonaro family's most established politician in Brasilia.
Flavio Bolsonaro, 44, was elected to the Senate in the 2018 general election in which his father rode a right-wing groundswell of anti-establishment sentiment to the presidency.
The senator served previously as a state lawmaker in Rio de Janeiro and mounted an unsuccessful run for Rio mayor in 2016, drawing 14 per cent of votes in the first round. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Former US President Bill Clinton (left), Sandals Resorts International Executive Chairman Adam Stewart (right), and Rolando Gonzalez Bunster (centre)
OIL NEWS
Oil climbs to 2-week high on Fed rate-cut signals, supply concerns
Oil prices edged up nearly one per cent to a twoweek high on Friday on increasing expectations the US Federal Reserve will cut interest rates next week, which could boost economic growth and energy demand, as well as geopolitical uncertainty that could limit supplies from Russia and Venezuela.
Brent futures rose 49 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to settle at US$63.75 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 41 cents, or 0.7 per cent, to settle at US$60.08.
For the week, Brent was up about one per cent and WTI was up about three per cent, marking a second straight weekly gain for both contracts.
Investors digested a US inflation report and recalibrated expectations for the Fed to reduce rates at its December 9-10 meeting.
US consumer spending increased moderately in September after three straight months of solid gains, suggesting a loss of momentum in the economy at the end of the third quarter as a lacklustre labour market and the rising cost of living curbed demand.
Traders have been pricing in an 87 per cent chance that the Fed will lower borrowing costs by 25 basis points next week, according to CME Group's FedWatch Tool.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Treasure trove found in Egyptian tomb solves long-standing mystery
in
Atreasure trove of 225 funerary figurines has been discovered inside a tomb in the ancient Egyptian capital of Tanis in the Nile Delta, a rare find that experts say has also solved a "long-standing archaeological mystery".
Payraudeau, who leads the French Tanis excavation mission, said the remarkable discovery was made on the morning of October 9.
The team had already excavated the other three corners of a narrow tomb occupied by an imposing, unnamed sarcophagus.
The team then set up lights to work through the night. It took 10 days to carefully extract all of the 225 small green figurines. They were "carefully arranged in a star shape around the sides of a trapezoidal pit and in horizontal rows at the bottom,"
Payraudeau said.
The royal symbol on the newly discovered figurines also solves a long-standing mystery by identifying who was buried in the sarcophagus. It was Pharaoh Shoshenq III, who reigned from 830 to 791 BC.
This was "astonishing" because the walls of a different tomb at the site –and the largest sarcophagus there – bear his name, Payraudeau said.
"Why isn't he buried in this tomb?" the expert asked.
"Obviously, for a pharaoh, building a tomb is a gamble because you can never be sure your successor will bury you there," he said.
"Clearly, we have new proof that these gambles are not always successful," Payraudeau said with a smile. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Around the World
Prominent anti-Hamas militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab killed in Gaza
Aprominent Palestinian militia leader in Gaza who opposed Hamas has been killed.
Yasser Abu Shabab headed the so-called Popular Forces group, which has dozens of fighters and operates in Israelicontrolled territory near the southern city of Rafah.
The Popular Forces said in a statement that Abu Shabab was shot while "attempting to resolve a dispute" between members of the Abu Seneima family. It dismissed as "misleading" reports that he was killed
by Hamas, which had accused him of collaborating with Israel.
An earlier statement from Abu Shabab's Bedouin tribe, the Tarabin, said he had been killed "at the hands of the resistance" and accused him of betraying the Palestinian people.
Other sources said his death was the result of an internal power struggle.
A Hamas statement said the "fate that befell" Abu Shabab was "the inevitable fate of all who betray their people and homeland and are content to be tools in the hands of the oc-
cupation [Israel]", without claiming involvement in his killing.
Israel's Army Radio cited a security source as saying that Abu Shabab had died of his wounds after being evacuated to Soroka Hospital in the southern Israeli city of Beersheba. But the hospital denied that he died under their care.
The statement from the Popular Forces pledged to continue on Abu Shabab's "path until the last terrorist is eliminated from the soil of Gaza and a bright and secure future is built for our people, who believe in peace". (Excerpt from BBC News)
RSF massacres left Sudanese city “a slaughterhouse”,
satellite images show
The Sudanese city of El Fasher resembles a “massive crime scene”, with large piles of bodies heaped throughout its streets as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) work to destroy evidence of the scale of their massacre.
Six weeks after the RSF seized the city, corpses have been gathered together in scores of piles to await burial in mass graves or cremation in huge pits, analysis indicates.
With the capital of North Darfur state still sealed off to outsiders, including UN war crimes investigators,
satellite evidence has revealed a network of newly dug incineration and buri-
al pits thought to be for the disposal of large numbers of bodies.
While the final death toll of the massacre remains unclear, British MPs have been briefed that at least 60,000 have been murdered in El Fasher.
Sarah Champion, chair of the Commons international development select committee, said, “Members received a private briefing on Sudan, at which one of the academics stated, ‘Our low estimate is 60,000 people have been killed there in the last three weeks.’”
As many as 150,000 residents of El Fasher remain unaccounted for since the city fell to the RSF. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
US Supreme Court to consider Trump’s bid to end
The US Supreme Court has agreed to decide the legality of President Donald Trump’s bid to end birthright citizenship, as the Republican Administration continues its broad immigration crackdown.
Following its announcement on Friday, the conservative-dominated court did not set a date for oral arguments in the blockbuster case, but it is likely to be early next year, with a ruling in June.
birthright citizenship
Trump signed an executive order on January 20, his first day in office, decreeing that children born to parents in the US illegally or on temporary visas would not automatically become US citizens.
Lower courts have ruled the order to be a violation of the 14th Amendment, which states: “All persons born or naturalised in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and
of the State wherein they reside.”
Trump’s executive order was premised on the idea that anyone in the US illegally, or on a visa, was not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the country and therefore excluded from this category.
The Supreme Court rejected such a narrow definition in a landmark 1898 case.
The Trump Administration has also argued that the 14th
Amendment, passed in the wake of the Civil War, addresses the rights of former slaves and not the children of undocumented migrants or temporary US visitors.
In a brief with the court, Trump’s solicitor general, John Sauer, argued that “the erroneous extension of birthright citizenship to the children of illegal aliens has caused substantial harm to the United States.” (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Kremlin adviser says Putin, US envoy Witkoff understand each other
The Kremlin's top foreign policy adviser said on Friday that Russian President Vladimir Putin and US envoy Steve Witkoff have achieved a level of understanding that made their discussions "truly friendly".
Yuri Ushakov also said that the inclusion in Tuesday's Kremlin talks of US President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, had added a sys-
tematic element to the talks.
"I would say that the tone – and I am not afraid to say this – was constructive and friendly," Ushakov told Russian state television as Putin visited India.
"Putin knows Witkoff well; he's met him six times. And their conversations are truly friendly. They understand each other without things actually being said."
Putin met Witkoff and
Kushner for five hours in the Kremlin, focusing on a USbacked plan for a settlement of the war in Ukraine, where Moscow launched a full-scale invasion in 2022. Putin later described the talks as "very useful".
In his comments, Ushakov said Kushner's participation had been "quite timely".
"Alongside Witkoff's charm and friendliness, he added an element of a sys-
tematic approach. I personally believe that if some sort of plan leading to a settlement continues to be drawn up on paper, Kushner will be doing much of the writing."
Witkoff met with Ukraine's senior negotiator Rustem Umerov in Florida on Thursday and was due to meet him there again on Friday, a source familiar with the matter said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Yasser Abu Shabab led the Rafah-based Popular Forces militia
A treasure trove of 225 funerary figurines have been discovered inside a tomb in the ancient Egyptian capital of Tanis
the Nile Delta
Satellite imagery from November 2023 (left) shows people, vehicles and carts around the livestock market in El Fasher, while an image taken on 17 November 2025 (right) shows no signs of life
Emotions and overreacting will lead to trouble. Choose to use your intelligence and imagination and to pursue people, places, and pastimes that put a smile on your face. Travel, reunions, and educational pursuits will spark your creativity and provide you with plenty to consider regarding prospects. Romance is in the stars, and a lifestyle change looks inviting.
Don’t lose sight of your aspirations, longterm plans, and relationships you want to develop. Nurturing the relationships with those who can help you advance or improve your lifestyle will pay off. Be sure to abide by the rules and regulations to avoid setbacks. Stick to what and who you know you can trust.
Pay attention to how you present yourself to others. A new look will attract attention and boost your ego. Let your intelligence prevail when dealing with concerns. Someone is likely to use deception to mislead you. A chance to travel or learn something new will help you establish what you want to pursue next.
Your emotions will be front and center. Gauge how you respond to avoid revealing your feelings. Elaborating on how you use your skills will put you in a new category in the workforce. Discipline and hard work will pay off. Don’t be shy about showing what you can do. Demonstrate your skills.
Sign up for something you enjoy and you’ll meet someone special. It’s time to enhance your life through connections, pastimes, or selfimprovement projects that boost your confidence. Share your feelings with someone you love and find out where you stand. A lifestyle change may require learning or doing things differently. Romance is in the stars.
Observe and learn. Not everyone will be upfront with you. Take your time, notice any discrepancies, and ask questions to clarify information. You are overdue for a change, even if you don’t want it initially. Be honest with yourself and others and listen to sound advice from someone you can trust, and you’ll discover what’s best for you.
A pick-me-up will brighten your day. Distance yourself from anyone trying to upset or take advantage of you. Focus on doing something you enjoy with people who bring out the best in you. A positive mindset will offset any negativity you encounter along the way. Clear a space to house a project you want to pursue.
Speak up, be honest and bold about how you feel, what your intentions are, and where your plans will take you. Opportunity is apparent, and it’s up to you to utilize every means at your disposal to take advantage of what you want. Refuse to let someone else control or dictate the outcome.
A steady pace is the best way to reach your goal. Refuse to let onlookers sidetrack you. Do what works best for you and refuse to take on others’ responsibilities at a cost that dampens personal gains and satisfaction. Offer suggestions, but focus on what counts. Turn thoughts into actions. Romance and selfimprovement are favored.
Select your path and turn your aspirations into a reality. Trust your instincts, use your intelligence, and you’ll master your presentation to achieve better results. Invest time and money in your future, and a positive lifestyle change will be yours. If you believe it and dream about it, you can make it happen.
A change at home may not initially delight you, but once it starts to unfold, you will see the benefits. Take the initiative to participate in what’s happening around you, and the input you offer will help you control the outcome. Utilize your skills to your advantage and channel your energy into helping those who need your support.
Confusion will set in if you let outsiders interfere in the choices you make. Use your intelligence and do your research to avoid being misled. Your intuition is on target, so don’t allow anyone to tell you it isn’t. Take advantage of an opportunity to socialize, learn something new, or expand your interests and circle of friends.
ARCHIE
Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, headline Group J with a squad still led by Lionel Messi. Coach Lionel Scaloni has kept the Qatar 2022-winning core team intact. The South American powerhouse enters as favourite to advance from the group.
Group J presents a diverse and challenging mix of opponents. Austria brings European pedigree under coach Ralf Rangnick. Algeria returns to the World Cup as African qualifiers. Jordan competes in their first-ever World Cup appearance after stunning wins in qualifying.
Argentina’s path begins against Austria on June 22, in Arlington, Texas. The Albiceleste possess deeper squad depth and tournament experience after their 2022 triumph. Coach Scaloni continues building on the foundations of backto-back Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024.
Austria represents a stern European test under Ralf Rangnick’s tactical direction. The Austrian side qualified with strong performances in their UEFA group. They bring disciplined defending and counter-attacking ability to challenge the favourites. Argentina face different tactical systems compared to
their regular Copa America competition.
Algeria returns after 12 years away from World Cup
Algeria’s qualification marks a remarkable return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014. The Fennecs won their CAF group convincingly to earn direct qualification. This African representative brings hunger and determination after being absent from the global stage for 12 years.
Riyad Mahrez leads the Algerian attack with his Premier League pedigree. The team qualified from a competitive African qualifying tournament containing nations like Guinea, Uganda, and Mozambique. Algeria’s presence adds unpredictability and a fresh dynamic to Group J’s competitive balance.
Jordan makes historic World Cup debut in Texas Jordan completes Group J as a historic first-time qualifier. The West Asian team shocked regional rivals in qualification to earn their first-ever World Cup berth. This represents a monumental achievement for Jordanian football development. They bring youthful energy and nothing to lose
as debutantes.
Jordan’s journey saw them overcome stronger-seeded nations in the Asian confederation. The team will play their three group matches at various North American venues. Despite lacking World Cup experience, Jordan’s qualification story energised supporters across West Asia.
Can Argentina edge out Austria, Algeria, and Jordan to Top Group J?
Group J shapes up as Argentina’s to lose given their championship pedigree and depth of talent. However, Austria’s European quality, Algeria’s returning hunger, and Jordan’s unpredictable debut create genuine complications. The group will likely feature two clear favourites – Argentina and Austria –battling for top position.
The draw locks the stage for June action across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Group J matches offer compelling narratives: defending champions seeking validation, a European side proving its credentials, African representation after years away, and debutants seeking upset glory. The group stage begins June 11, with knockout rounds following June 28. (RED94)
World Cup 2026 draw...
Norris leads Verstappen during 2nd practice in Abu Dhabi
McLaren driver
Lando Norris set the pace during Friday’s second practice session for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, leading the way from Red Bull rival Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ George Russell, with teammate Oscar Piastri back in 11th. Norris got down to a time of 1m 23.083s with Pirelli’s soft tyres across the one hour of running, putting him 0.363s ahead of reigning four-time World Champion Verstappen, and a further 0.016s clear of Russell.
After nine “rookie” drivers appeared in Free Practice 1 (FP1), a stream of regular racers returned to the cockpit for the more representative twilight FP2 – including Piastri, the only championship contender who sat out the opening session.
Despite mechanics making a host of adjustments
to his McLaren just a few minutes before the session’s green light at 17:00h local time, the Australian hit the track early on and got his practice programme under way without any dramas.
There was some early drama elsewhere, though, with Verstappen having to hurriedly get out of Norris’ way exiting Turn 1 via some confusion over the radio with his engineer Gianpiero Lambiase – the Red Bull driver ending a lap while the McLaren man started one.
“What’s this guy doing?
I almost crashed,” Norris complained afterwards.
However, while the stewards noted the incident and took a closer look at it, they ultimately decided against any further action, meaning no risk of a penalty being applied.
As the session reached its one-quarter mark, it was Racing Bulls rookie –
and 2026 Red Bull racer –
Isack Hadjar who led the way thanks to a 1m 24.167s on softs, marginally quicker than Haas’ Ollie Bearman (also softs) and Norris, Verstappen and Piastri (mediums).
Not long after, Verstappen made the switch to the soft rubber and lowered the benchmark to 1m 23.446s, only for Norris to produce 1m 23.083s and move comfortably clear when he bolted on the redmarked compound.
Attention then turned to what Piastri could do on his first qualifying-style simulation, but a low-key lap left him down in 10th, behind both Mercedes cars, both Kick Saubers, Bearman’s Haas, Hadjar’s Racing Bulls and Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari.
Meanwhile, there were problems for Williams to contend with in the form of
a dramatic snap for Carlos Sainz through the highspeed Turn 2/3 sweeps, which the Spaniard did well to save and move on from, and apparent engine woes for Alex Albon.
Once those qualifying laps were out of the way, drivers moved their focus to longer runs to gather some valuable data for Sunday evening’s race, meaning Norris’ aforementioned 1m 23s effort remained the best time over Verstappen (who reported more bouncing late on) and Russell at the chequered flag.
Bearman ended up a high-flying fourth for Haas, edging out the similarly impressive Saubers of Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. “Mate, the car is insane! I don’t know how it’s so good,” the British rookie commented over the radio mid-session.
Hadjar was another
youngster to enjoy a strong start to the weekend in seventh, ahead of Leclerc, Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso and the other Mercedes of Kimi Antonelli, leaving Piastri just outside the top-10 positions. Lance Stroll followed teammate Alonso in 12th, from Williams' pair Sainz and Albon, who sandwiched Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari, the Haas of Esteban Ocon, outgoing Red Bull racer Yuki Tsunoda, Liam Lawson’s Racing Bulls and the Alpines. Drivers and teams will now regroup in the Yas Marina paddock to dig
through the data and ponder any setup changes before Saturday’s third and final practice session, which is set to begin at 14:30h local time. (F1)
AHope holds firm as West Indies drag New Zealand into five-day battle
stinctive. But to his credit, Greaves appeared to take a cue from Hope, choosing restraint instead. He played only when the ball was at his body, using his height to ride the bounce and fend safely. While he was a lot more enterprising against spin, the fundamental of his knock was crease occu-
at a Henry away-swinger while being rooted to the crease – West Indies were collapsing swiftly and were 72 for 4.
Indies on the ropes at 72-4 and produced a marathon 196-run fifth-wicket partnership.
depleted New Zealand attack – effectively reduced to just two-and-a-half frontline bowlers – was made to toil as a defiant West Indies rear-guard stretched the contest into a fifth day on an increasingly docile Hagley Oval surface. Forced off the field on day three by an eye infection, Shai Hope returned with sunglasses under his helmet to compile an unbeaten 116. It followed his first-innings 56 and marked his second century in three innings, a seamless extension of the defiance he showed while stonewalling India for long periods in New Delhi in October.
If Hope was the fulcrum, Justin Greaves was the anchor beside him. He reined in his instincts to play a composed, almost uncharacteristically restrained
gloves due to Tom Blundell's torn hamstring that ruled him out of not just this Test but the next – was left to lean heavily on Rachin Ravindra and Michael Bracewell's part-time spin around pacer Jacob Duffy. On a surface that only got easier to bat on against the old ball, Hope and Greaves settled in and applied themselves admirably.
Having begun with positive intent, Hope was tested periodically with the short ball, Duffy setting a square leg halfway to the rope along with a short leg and fine leg for the pull. Hope mostly swayed and ducked out of harm's way, and on the rare occasions he was tempted into the shot, he did well to keep it down. He brought up his fourth Test century off 139 deliveries.
Duffy employed a similar plan to Greaves, whose natural game is far more in-
Hope and Greaves laid down the template for those who perished prior to their arrival. Tagenarine Chanderpaul and John Campbell were put through a stern new ball test by Foulkes and Henry as they repeatedly tested both their edges in an engaging first spell. Chanderpaul's propensity to shuffle across got him into trouble more often than not, and he was out to a short ball that he inside-edged to the keeper for 6 off 45 balls.
Campbell – out an over earlier – was taken out by Foulkes as he jabbed at an away-swinger with no feet movement as Bracewell took a superb low catch at second slip. In the overs prior to his dismissal, Campbell wore a blow on his boot as he smashed one back off an inside edge, making him groan in discomfort. This may have eventually had a hand in his dismissal.
Alick Athanaze never got going, and the frustration of being unable to score had him attempt a pull, only to be rushed into the stroke by Bracewell. He only managed to toe-end a pull to mid-on. And when Roston Chase fell in eerily similar fashion to his dismissal in the first innings – nibbling
Van Lange shines for West Indies U-19s with bat & ball
Guyanese cricketer
Jonathan Van Lange is the true definition of an all-rounder.
At the recently concluded seven-match 50-over series in Grenada, Van Lange delivered 210 crucial runs across the series against England.
In addition to his vital runs, Van Lange claimed five wickets at an average of 15.80, with his best bowling figures being a highly economical 4 for 17 at a medium pace. He scored those 210 runs at a strike rate of 112.90. His batting exploits included top scores of 80, 57*, and 52. Van Lange was crucial to the team as the West Indies Under19s clinched the series 5-2.
Head coach Rohan Nurse expressed his satisfaction with the development shown by the players over the seven matches, especially after their 4-3 series victory over Sri Lanka earlier in the summer.
"It was a very consistent performance by the team in terms of meeting many
of the targets we set and sometimes exceeding them," Nurse said.
"We feel very proud of the group in the way they adapted in potentially challenging situations. They were able to find answers for the challenges that were put in front of them, and there was a bit more consistency throughout this series, as opposed to the series against Sri Lanka."
"What impressed me the most was the improved belief in their abilities. This was exemplified in game six,
when the team was six for two after the first two overs and still was able to reach 80 within that first power play, with the loss of the same two," Nurse explained.
The squad will prepare for the ICC Under-19 World Cup starting next month.
West Indies will play in Group D alongside Afghanistan, South Africa, and Tanzania, against whom they will commence their tournament campaign on January 15 in Namibia and South Africa.
A four-day defeat loomed until Greaves and Hope dug in to give the West Indies some hope even as New Zealand's tired attack wheeled away in the hope of a mistake. That wasn't to come, as the West Indies took the fight into the final day even though hopes of scaling down the 531-run target they were set seem just a pipe dream for now.
Earlier in the morning, New Zealand surprised many by choosing to bat on. Perhaps this was to give their bowlers more rest on a placid surface, considering the slew of injuries. Kemar Roach picked up three of the four wickets to fall, finishing with figures of 5 for 78 to take his wickets tally to 290.
Day5
New Zealand sensed victory in the first Test against the West Indies with a two-wicket strike, including century-maker Shai Hope, as the tourists reached 2956.
Hope, who frustrated New Zealand for 234 deliveries, was eventually out for 140, leaving Justine Greaves not out on 97 and Kemar Roach on 12.
With only four wickets and two sessions remaining, the West Indies were a mammoth 236 short of their 531-run target.
Hope and Greaves came together with the West
With the injury-hit home side reduced to two fit pace bowlers, the pair frustrated the limited attack for 64 overs.
The West Indies resumed the next day at 2124, and Hope and Greaves, batting confidently, added 23 in six overs of spin and then blunted the new ball attack for more than 12 overs before Hope was dismissed.
A short ball from Duffy
moving away from the batsman was deflected down the leg side, and wicketkeeper Tom Latham took a remarkable one-handed catch diving to his left.
Zak Foulkes, New Zealand's only other available fast bowler, then trapped Tevin Imlach lbw for four.
The match is the first for New Zealand in the latest edition of the World Test Championship, while the West Indies have played and lost five games so far.
(Espncricinfo, CricketNews)
Hope credits class act Roach for WI fightback
West Indies' premier batsman Shai Hope credited his countryman Kemar Roach after the fightback shown by the men in maroon on Day Four.
Roach started, ball in hand, as West Indies finished New Zealand's innings early in the day.
Roach claimed 5-78, his 12th five-wicket haul in Tests, and now has 291 Test wickets.
Hope, who ended unbeaten on 116 at stumps on day four, reflected on the day and praised Roach. "The wicket has tamed off a bit compared to the first innings. They were a bowler down as well, Kemar is
a class act. The time away from the game has helped him as well. You can always depend on him, be it for an economical spell or two or three quick ones. It shows he still is one of the finest bowlers in the Caribbean," Hope said.
Hope shared in a century-run stand with Justin Greaves, who scored 55 not out on Day Four. According to Hope, Greaves is a fine all-rounder.
He also hinted that the West Indies could hunt down the 319 runs remaining on Day Five, "Justin is a wonderful all-rounder. The eye is better, but not where I want it to be. But good enough for me to have a good
then
for
the
would go; we will
if we have a
star said. After the first Test, West Indies and New Zealand will face off against each other from Tuesday, December 9, in the second Test.
look at the ball and score the runs. If someone knows me,
they
go
it
sniff,"
Barbadian
Shai Hope celebrates his century
Shai Hope on the go during his century
Jonathan Van Lange receiving one of his Player of the Match awards
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2025
Guyana delivered a commanding performance on the opening day of the 2025 Inter-Guiana Games at the National Track & Field Centre, sweeping several marquee events and reinforcing its regional sprinting and middle-distance dominance.
In the Girls 14-18 100 m, Quinyla Burnette surged to victory in 12.30s, followed closely by compatriot Nyah Gravesande, giving Guyana an early Gold-Silver finish.
French Guiana’s Jozuana Dawane secured third in 12.60s. The boys’ sprint was equally impressive, with Guyana’s Ezekiel Millington clocking a swift 10.80s to edge teammate Deuquan Farrell, who finished in 10.88s.
Guyana continued its medal sweep in the 400 m events. Tianna Springer captured the Girls 400 m title in 57.40, while Tishawn Easton powered to a 49.07 win on the boys’ side, with teammate Ade Sealey just behind in 49.81. Middledistance athletes also shone: Adanya Glen and Kamayra Lacon secured a 1-2 finish in the Girls 1500 m, while Ebo McNeil and Jonathon Bristol dominated the Boys 1500 m, finishing in 4:12.00 and 4:18.40, respectively.
In distance action,
Bikepacking Guyana 592 and Kaieteur Attack Racing, with support from The Off-Road Experience and Savannah Tours Guyana, hosted their off-road mountain bike race "Nasty November" on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
The event saw the participation of two female and 13 male cyclists, representing various clubs in Guyana.
The course ran for 35 km and included asphalt, grav-
Guyana added another gold through Esther McKinnon, who won the Girls 3000 m in 11:09.50, narrowly holding off French Guiana’s Clara Delpey. The field events maintained the trend: Courtney Haynes cleared 1.90 m to win the Boys' High Jump, completing yet another Guyanese sweep with teammate Yanick Williamson finishing second.
Guyana’s throwers contributed significantly as well. Nathaniel Samaroo claimed the Boys Discus Throw with a mark of 34.13 m, while Beyoncé Chandler topped the Girls Shot Put at 9.59 m. The day concluded with dominant relay victories. Guyana’s Girls 4×400 m squad clocked 4:17.50, and the boys’ team followed with a strong 3:35.10 finish to close a stellar day for the host nation. Suriname and French Guiana trailed in both events.
Nearly 500 athletes and officials from the three territories – Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname – are in Guyana for the event, which runs from December 5 to 7, and features a range of sporting disciplines aimed at fostering camaraderie, development, and international exposure for young athletes.
At the opening cere -
el, white sand, loam, single track, swamp, and jungle canopy trails to test the racers physically and mentally. The intense start saw the likes of Kwame Ridley, Briton John, Jamual John, Mark St Claire, Ajani Cuttings and many other club and national cyclists.
However, at the end of the thrilling experience, Briton John from the We Stand United Cycle Club crossed the finish line first,
mony, Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr, in his remarks, emphasised the importance of the Games in supporting youth development and strengthening regional ties.
“…Our opportunity to host and it is also a representation of President Ali's vision,” Ramson said. “After seven years of hiatus – which is really sad, because – for that hiatus to happen – because this year is an investment in youth. You can't say that you are investing in athletes and you're not investing in the Inter-Guiana Games.”
Highlighting the significance of the age categories and the competitive disciplines included, Ramson noted that for many young participants, this event serves as their first exposure to international competition.
“These games are very important; this is their first experience with international exposure and competition,” he said. “The fact is that these games will always help to develop talent of young people, especially at that very early age. So, we're very happy to have it in the country.”
The three-day tournament will see athletes competing in track and field, chess, volleyball, basketball, swimming, and futsal.
followed by Ajani Cuttings and Jamual John from Kaieteur Attack Racing, and Alexander Leung from the Continental Cycle Club close behind.
In the female category, Kristel Hopkinson dominated the race, followed by Rebecca Daymon, both from the Kaieteur Attack Racing Club.
The winners rode off with cash prizes ranging from $100,000 to $30,000.
As teams settle in and competitions begin, the atmosphere around Leonora and other communities is charged with anticipation, pride, and friendly rivalry. For many young athletes,
the 2025 Inter-Guiana Games offer not only an opportunity to represent their home countries but also to build lasting regional friendships. The Games will con -
clude on Sunday, December 7, with medal presentations and a closing ceremony celebrating the achievements of the region’s rising sporting talent at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The Caribbean Boxing Organization (CBO) announced on Friday that the highly anticipated “Boxing Day Showdown”, originally slated for December 26, 2025, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), has been postponed.
The event has been rescheduled to January 24, 2026, due to unforeseen issues affecting the availability of several key fighters.
In a statement issued to partners and stakeholders, the CBO noted that the decision was made after extensive consultation with its board members. While acknowledging the disappointment that often accompanies schedule changes, the organisation stressed
that the shift was necessary to ensure the integrity and quality of the event.
According to the release, the absence of prominent fighters, central to the evening’s marquee matchups, made it clear that proceeding as initially planned would compromise the standard of entertainment the CBO aims to deliver.
The rescheduled date, they said, will allow the CBO to present a card befitting fans’ expectations and sponsors’ investment.
The CBO reaffirmed its
commitment to staging a world-class night of boxing, highlighting that their priority remains the well-being of the athletes, as well as maintaining strong relationships with supporters across the region. They also expressed appreciation for the patience and flexibility shown by fans and partners as logistical adjustments are made. Despite the postponement, anticipation remains high as the new date promises an electrifying start to the 2026 boxing calendar.
Boxing Day Showdown postponed to next year
The male competitors
The two lone females in the race
Athletes and officials at the opening ceremony
