Boa Vista to G/Town highway among areas discussed by Guyana, Brazil
– as Pres Ali attends Brazil-Caribbean Summit in Brasilia
“Not vanity projects” – Jagdeo to critics of
“There is room for banks to be more aggressive in lending to private sector”
Court orders forfeiture of $10M from businessman in major bribery probe
GS Jagdeo reaffirms commitment to youth development
Berbice man arrested for years of alleged domestic abuse
Education Minister criticises justice system over disparity in handling genderbased violence
Police destroy $21M worth of ganja at Yarrowkabra
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, June 14 – 04:25h - 05:55h and Sunday, June 15 –07:15h - 08:15h
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, June 14 – 05:50h to 07:20h and Sunday, June 15 –06:35h to 08:05h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with intermittent sunshine. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.91 metres.
High Tide: 06:09h and 18:43h reaching maximum heights of 2.56 metres and 2.39 metres.
Low Tide: 12:15h reaching a minimum height of 0.66 metre
Boa Vista to G/Town highway among areas discussed by Guyana, Brazil
– as Pres Ali attends Brazil-Caribbean Summit in Brasilia
resident Dr Irfaan Ali and his Brazilian counterpart, President Luis Inacio 'Lula' Da Silva, had discussions on a number of infrastructure projects, including a highway connecting Boa Vista to Georgetown.
The two Heads of State held these talks on the sidelines of the Brazil–Caribbean Summit 2025 being held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Itamaraty Palace in Brasília.
During a bilateral meeting on Friday afternoon, President Lula discussed with President Ali, “…the implementation of infrastructure projects that will allow the flow of Brazilian goods throughout the Caribbean, including the paving of the highway connecting Boa Vista to Georgetown.”
five central themes to enhance collaboration between Brazil and the Caribbean. These include climate change, energy transition, food security, disaster risk management, and connectivity.
During his remarks at the opening ceremony, President Lula highlighted the need to improve air, road and sea connectivity between Brazil and the Caribbean. In this regard, it was stated that the South American Integration Routes programme, led by Brazil, aims to create and improve the infrastructure that connects the region to boost trade and reduce transportation costs.
“The lack of connections explains why the Caribbean imports more from the United States (US), China and Germany than from
Boa Vista is located in the Brazilian State of Roraima, which lies on the border with Guyana.
According to a brief statement from President Lula’s office, the two leaders also discussed international mobilisation initiatives related to biodiversity conservation and forest protection, in preparation for Conference of the Parties (COP30), which is being hosted by Brazil in November this year.
President Dr Irfaan Ali joined his colleagues from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to participate in the Brazil–Caribbean Summit 2025. The Guyanese leader arrived at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Brasília Friday morning, and was received by Brazil's Foreign Minister, the Honourable Mauro Vieira.
The two-day High-Level Summit, themed “Bringing Together to Unite,” sought to strengthen ties between Caribbean nations and Brazil, in response to shared challenges such as food security, climate change, energy transition, and connectivity. The Guyanese Head of State delivered remarks during the first day of the summit on Friday, according to a post on the Office of the President’s social media page.
The Brazil–Caribbean Summit 2025 brings together 16 countries in Brasilia to forge closer ties and strengthen partnerships. According to President Lula, this summit sought to strengthen dialogue and promote integrated action for the benefit of all nations. Friday’s meeting focused on
Brazil. The items that supply the region come from distant places, even though the ports of Santana, in Amapá, and Pecém, in Ceará, are neighbouring ports,” said the Brazilian President.
This programme is being funded with a US$5 million investment by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) for projects in South American countries, especial-
ly Guyana and Suriname.
Guyana is already working on a massive road project leading to Lethem, the township that shares a border with northern Brazil. The Guyana Government anticipates that this roadway will open up new opportunities to increase trade with northern Brazil. This new road, coupled with the Corentyne River Bridge linking Guyana and Suriname, is expected to position Guyana has a major transport hub in the region. Only in March, Guyana and the state of Roraima in northern Brazil, renewed efforts to deepen economic ties while placing their respective private sectors as the drivers of investment and business collaboration.
Guyana and Brazil already have close working relations in a number of areas including agriculture, infrastructure development, and military cooperation among others. The ground work for this year’s Brazil–Caribbean Summit was laid in Georgetown last year when President Lula visited.
CARICOM member states, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic, along with key international organisations such as the IDB and the Association of
Caribbean States, are being represented at the two-day event in Brasilia. Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the summit, President Ali also met with the President of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), Sergio Diaz-Granados Guida, in the Brazilian capital on Friday. The Caribbean is a region of growing importance for the Brazilian Government. Despite the potential, trade between Brazil and Caribbean countries is still modest and concentrated in a few products, such as processed foods like soybeans, corn and meats as well as oil, machinery, chemicals and fertilisers. In 2024, Brazil's trade flow with Caribbean countries reached approximately US$4 billion, with a significant Brazilian surplus. Brazilian authorities recognised that there are opportunities for diversification and expansion of Brazilian exports, especially of food, medicines, fuels and manufactured goods.
Brazil has sought to strengthen cooperation ties with the Caribbean, especially through the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC), in areas such as health, agriculture, technical training and civil defence.
President Dr Irfaan Ali engaging in bilateral discussions with Brazilian President, Luis Inacio 'Lula' Da Silva, in Brasilia on Friday
President Dr Irfaan Ali met with the President and other representatives of Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean on the sidelines of the Brazil-Caribbean Summit
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Juvenile justice in Guyana
The commissioning of the Children’s Court at the Charity Magistrate’s Court in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is a landmark development in Guyana’s ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and child-sensitive justice system. Spearheaded by the Judiciary of Guyana in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), this initiative represents a significant investment in infrastructure and also a deep and commendable commitment to the protection, rehabilitation, and empowerment of the nation’s youth.
The $72 million investment represents more than just cosmetic enhancements; it has fundamentally transformed the Charity Magistrate’s Court into a facility that aligns with international standards for child justice. The comprehensive upgrade features a newly constructed annexe, modernised courtrooms, improved washroom facilities, and essential safety enhancements. Together, these developments provide a secure, dignified, and child-friendly environment in which justice can be administered with fairness and compassion.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall rightly described this development as a milestone for the country. As the first Children’s Court in Region Two, it brings much-needed attention and resources to a region that is home to over 15,000 children. His remarks underscored the Government of Guyana’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the nation’s children—its most valuable resource. By ensuring that children are protected, educated, and afforded the opportunity to develop their full potential, the government is actively laying the foundation for a stronger and more just society.
Significantly, the Children’s Court is not an isolated initiative. It is part of a broader legal and social reform agenda supported by the 2018 Juvenile Justice Act. This legislation introduced comprehensive protocols that prioritise rehabilitation over punishment for children who come into conflict with the law. The new court provides a vital space where these principles can be implemented effectively— ensuring that children are treated with dignity and given the opportunity to reintegrate into society.
Equally important is the government’s alignment with international conventions and protocols that protect child welfare. The Attorney General noted Guyana’s adoption of several modern legislative measures related to child custody, adoption, and juvenile justice. These developments are crucial steps toward fulfilling obligations under international human rights frameworks, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The support of UNICEF has also been instrumental in this initiative. Gabriel Vockel, UNICEF’s Representative in Guyana, emphasised that the new Children’s Court represents a vital advancement in fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal 16, which seeks to promote peace, justice, and strong institutions. His affirmation of UNICEF’s ongoing partnership with Guyana reinforces the strength of international cooperation in building a society that prioritises child protection and empowerment.
Region Two’s Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, highlighted the pressing need to move away from outdated methods of child discipline and care. Her remarks resonate deeply in a modern context where holistic, restorative, and rights-based approaches to child welfare are increasingly necessary. The establishment of this court, therefore, represents a timely and progressive shift in how child justice is approached across the region.
Justice of Appeal Navindra Singh offered a compelling reflection on the human impact of the new court. His statement that "children will not be lost in the system" encapsulates the core philosophy of the juvenile justice framework now taking root in Guyana. It recognises that children, even when in conflict with the law, deserve to be heard, supported, and given a second chance. The court’s emphasis on rehabilitation and restorative justice provides young people with a lifeline—an opportunity to make amends and build a better future.
This is not only an achievement in infrastructure or legal reform; it is a bold affirmation of Guyana’s values. It signals that the nation sees its children not as problems to be punished but as individuals to be guided, protected, and empowered. The Charity Children’s Court is a testament to what is possible when policy, partnership, and purpose align.
The establishment of the Children’s Court in Charity marks a significant advancement in Guyana’s justice system and serves as a promising step toward securing a better future for the nation’s children.
Education levels have the strongest association with poverty reduction
Dear Editor, The OGGN (Oil and Gas Governance Network) said the claim that the moderate poverty rate between 2019 and 2024 has been reduced by one half does not find support from the United Nations’ SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) on Guyana (6/10/25).
OGGN quoted UN poverty rates between 2017 and 2022 that averaged 44.5 per cent per annum. Two points are noted here. First, these rates suggest that there has not been any significant reduction of poverty during this 6-year period. Second, the UN figures do not seem to be based on any recent poverty survey; instead, it says that the poverty rates were estimates. What was their source? The statement that Guyana’s “last poverty assessment was undertaken nearly twenty years ago” is incorrect. The most recent poverty survey, the Household Budget and Living Conditions Survey (HBLCS), was completed in 2019, six years ago. The purpose of HBLCS was to com-
bine income and expenditure data with living conditions information and to update the items in the “consumption basket”, as well as assign weights to them based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Currently, the results of HBLCS are not accessible.
In the absence of HBLCS data, the World Bank’s 2019 data on poverty can be used as a reference, although their results differ from those of other agencies. For instance, the second HIES (Household Income and Expenditure Survey) of 2006, which is considered comprehensive, had reported a poverty rate of 36.1 per cent, whereas the World Bank's rate for that same year was 60.9 per cent. Various pre-1992 poverty studies conducted by IFAD, IDB, SIMAP, UNDP, PAHO, and the World Bank also show differences in poverty rates. These variations arise because different agencies utilise different methods and assign different weights to the items (food and non-food) in the "consumption basket".
Guyana recognises that education is a powerful tool for poverty reduction. According to the World Bank, “Among the determinants of poverty, education levels appear to have the strongest association with poverty status... completing secondary education was associated with a significant decline in poverty rates” (Gampat, 2020). The United Nations indicates that Guyana is on track to achieve the 4th Sustainable Development Goal, "Quality Education", by 2030.
Guyana has extended free public education to the tertiary level and all government training programmes by BIT (Board of Industrial Training) and TVET (Technical Vocational Educational Training). Over the last 5 years, more than 35,000 scholarships were awarded. Guyanese students have outperformed CARICOM students at the CSEC and CAPE exams. Tertiary education and training are now accessible to those previously unable to reach them.
Thousands of people living below the revised World Bank poverty line of $6.85 per person per day are expected to rise above it soon. Over the next three years, improvements in education, health, jobs, nutrition, water, and sanitation will significantly reduce poverty beyond 24 per cent. Regarding remittances, they contribute to Guyana's GDP and serve multiple purposes, including reducing poverty, renovating or building houses, buying house lots, covering medical expenses, starting small businesses, paying off debts, handling emergencies, acquiring ICT products, and purchasing durable consumer goods. It may not be accurate, therefore, to assume a direct correlation between high remittances and a perception of high poverty rates. For instance, the interior region which has the highest poverty rate (WB 2019: 65.5 per cent) also has the lowest level of remittances.
Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh
President Dr Irfaan Ali arriving at President Luis Inacio 'Lula' Da Silva’s Itamaraty Palace in Brasília, Brazil. Ali is in Brazil as he meets with CARICOM counterparts who are attending the Brazil–Caribbean Summit 2025 (Office of the President photo)
“There is room for banks to be more aggressive in lending to private sector” – Finance Min Singh
With Guyana’s rapidly growing economy, Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, believes that the local banking sector needs to move away from the risk-free lending practices and be more aggressive in its offerings, especially to the private sector.
“The banking sector has historically been conservative, erring on the side of risk-aversion, which is not necessarily a bad thing, because we want strong banks and strong balance sheets, and we want them to maintain good quali-
lending to the Guyanese private sector,” Dr Singh asserted.
He was at the time interacting with representatives from a 19-member Jamaican Business Mission that were in Guyana on a two-day visit to explore potential investment opportunities here.
Following a presentation to the visiting delegation on Friday at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, the Finance Minister engaged the group, during which he was asked about the diversification of collateral in Guyana beyond the use of land or properties.
has been working with the local banking sector to allow them to be more aggressive in their lending portfolio.
On the policy side to facilitate this, the Finance Minister explained that the Guyana Government has already enacted legislations specifically to allow movable assets to be accepted as security for loans.
“So, that legislation is enforced right now,” he noted.
Back in December 2024, the Security Interest in Movable Property Bill 2024 was passed in Guyana’s National
ty portfolios. But there is room, I believe, for the banking sector to be more aggressive in relation to
In response, Dr Singh revealed that this is a topical issue in the country right now, and Government
Assembly with the aim of establishing a modern, comprehensive framework for secured transactions
involving movable property.
Historically, the requirement for immovable property, such as land, as collateral made it extremely difficult for low-income individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as vulnerable groups to obtain credit. This new law now transforms the lending environment and enable economic opportunities for all thus creating a more inclusive and efficient financial system in Guyana.
The legislation simplified the use of movable assets, such as equipment, inventory, crops, intellectual property, and receivables, as collateral; streamlined the registration and enforcement process by establishing an Electronic Collateral Registry to replace outdated manual systems; and increased credit access for SMEs, women entrepreneurs, and individuals without immovable property, fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, Minister Singh further informed the Jamaican Business Mission that the Guyana Government has also been working with the local banking sector to enable them to accept more financial assets, like receivables and invoices that can be pledged – a standard technology in most sophisticated banking systems around
Release Rodney's name and let him rest
Dear Editor, 45 years ago, on June 13th, Guyana’s foremost academic was literally blown to bits. Dr Walter Rodney devoted his political activity in Guyana to confronting the Burnham dictatorship – then squatting in office by rigged elections – stating that, “We cannot claim to be a politically enfranchised people. We cannot claim to have chosen our own national government." He continuously urged a multiracial class mobilisation as perhaps the most potent form of struggle against the then regime, stating, “When African and Indian workers move together, the local exploiting class will have a very short lease of life."
A 2014 COI into his death finally concluded that then Prime Minister Burnham “knew of the plan and was part of the conspiracy to assassinate
Dr Walter Rodney”. But what has become of the party which he founded? Where is the WPA today?
Around this very period, 5 years ago, the recount totals would have confirmed that the APNU – AFC Coalition, of which the WPA was part, lost that election and tried to rig it.
After both international and local observers began to unearth the fraud in Mingo’s fraudulent Region 4 declarations, WPA leader Dr David Hinds – in a Kaieteur News article –publicly called for the ballot boxes to be destroyed and to “scrap this election".
In 2022, Dr Hinds said he was “claiming Burnham” – and those who didn’t like it “can go to Hell”.
In 2023, Hinds, Tacuma Ogunseye and others made a deluge of racially charged remarks against Indo – Guyanese at a WPA
– PNC rally. Several Indo – Guyanese PNC leaders strongly condemned the remarks – for which he deemed them “slave –catchers”.
In early 2025, Hinds publicly labelled Afro – Guyanese supporting the PPP as “lick – bamzy Africans”. Aubrey Norton, PNC leader, said he could not control what Hinds says nor does.
More recently, PNC Region 4 Chairman Seeram defected to the PPP. Hinds dubbed him an “ingrate” and postulated that he was mere “ethnic window dressing” during his time in the PNC. Hinds was defended by his now WPA – PNC Coalition partner Aubrey Norton, who viewed Hinds’ remarks as “passionately” put. Further, Norton said, “There is no way we will condemn David... He has a right to express his views."
One must seriously ask if Rodney’s own party would
the world. According to the Finance Minister, while some banks are already doing this, Government would like to see more take up of this by the local financial institutions.
“So, the legal framework is in place. Banks now need to respond to that legal and regulatory framework – step out a little bit from their historic comfort zone, which is almost risk-free lending; lending secured by real estate. It’s happening, but it’s not happening as quickly as we would like to see it happen.”
“I think it’s something that we have on the radar to be elevated in the list of priorities in the next five years. But the frameworks are there in place already and it’s really a question of how banks respond to it,”
Dr Singh asserted.
The Security Interest in Movable Property Bill 2024 was the latest instal-
ment in the series of legislation to strengthen the financial sector.
Since assuming office in August 2020, the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration piloted various pieces of legislation in the financial sector as part of a broad agenda to build and strengthen the country’s legal framework. Amongst the pieces of financial legislation already brought to the House over the past five years and later enacted, were the Bank of Guyana legislation and its subsequent amendments, the Financial Institutions Act (1995) and subsequent amendments, the initial Money Laundering and Prevention Act, the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act, the Money Transfer Agencies Act, the Credit Reporting Act, and the Compliance Commission Act.
deem him a “lick – bamzy” for his positions today.
One must seriously ask if Rodney’s own party would term him a “slave – catcher” for his positions today. My only clue on what Dr Rodney himself would've said is taken from his speech at a 1976 street meeting, where he said, “No ordinary Afro – Guyanese, no ordinary Indo – Guyanese can today afford to be misled by the myth of race. Time and time again it has been our undoing.” Nearly five decades later – and his perennial words still reverberate.
People’s Power – No dictator.
Disband the WPA – or formally rebrand it to the ethno-fascist caricature it has now become.
Release Rodney’s name and let him rest.
Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar
Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh
A section of the gathering at the business forum held for the visiting private sector delegation from Jamaica
Adding fractions with like denominators
Like denominators are exactly the same. For example, and have like denominators.
But and do not have like denominators.
To add fractions with like denominators, just add the numerators. Place the total over the denominator.
Add
Example:
Step 1: Add 1 + 2 + 4 = 7
Step 2: Place the total over the like denominator.
You may notice your total is an improper fraction. But you have learnt how to change that into a mixed number if you need to.
Remember:
Like denominators are the same, and are sometimes called common denominators.
Exercise
By Walt
I have heard what the talkers were talking, the talk of the beginning and the end, But I do not talk of the beginning or the end. There was never any more inception than there is now, Nor any more youth or age than there is And will never be more perfection than there is now, Nor any more heaven or hell than there is now. Urge and urge and urge, Always the procreant urge of the world. Out of the dimness opposite equals advance, always substance and increase, always sex, Always a knit of identity, always distinction, always a breed of life.
Sure as the most certain sure, plumb in the uprights, well entretied, braced in the beams, Stout as a horse, affectionate, haughty, electrical, I and this mystery here we stand. Clear and sweet is my soul, and clear and sweet is all that is not my soul. Lack one lacks both, and the unseen is proved by the seen, Till that becomes unseen and receives proof in its turn. Showing the best and dividing it from the worst age vexes age, Knowing the perfect fitness and equanimity of things, while they discuss I am silent, and go bathe and admire myself. Welcome is every organ and attribute of me, and of any man hearty and clean, Not an inch nor a particle of an inch is vile, and none shall be less familiar than the rest. I am satisfied—I see, dance, laugh, sing; As the hugging and loving bed-fellow sleeps at my through the night, and withdraws at the peep of the day with stealthy tread, Leaving me baskets cover’d with white towels swelling the house with their plenty, Shall I postpone my acceptation and realization and scream at my eyes, That they turn from gazing after and down the road, And forthwith cipher and show me to a cent, Exactly the value of one and exactly the value of two, and which is ahead? Continued
To elaborate is no avail, learn’d and unlearn’d feel that it is so.
To be continued
GS Jagdeo reaffirms commitment to youth development
– as PPP/C youth arm grows to over 15,000 members
The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration continues to garner significant support from young people across Guyana, with its Progressive Youth Arm now boasting a membership of more than 15,000.
This growth highlights the increasing engagement of youth in national devel-
surge in membership, now surpassing 15,000, as a testament to the growing enthusiasm among young people to be involved in shaping Guyana’s future.
“After the congress of our party - and I’m general secretary of the people’s progressive party - I made a commitment that we’d establish a 5000 strong youth movement which is called
Jagdeo underscored that such opportunities for young people to rise to positions of national leadership are a hallmark of the PPP/C’s inclusive and forward-looking philosophy. He contrasted this with what he described as a lack of similar support within opposition parties, where youth involvement often takes a backseat to en-
opment and politics, and reflects the administration’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young citizens.
The significant rise in youth membership within the PPP/C was revealed by Vice President Bharrat (VP) Jagdeo, who also serves as the Party’s General Secretary.
He made the announcement on Friday evening during a community outreach with residents of Linden, held at the Watooka Guest House in Region 10 (Upper Demerara–Upper Berbice).
Jagdeo highlighted the
the Progressive Youth Arm of the PPP/C, and I’ve gone to almost every region with the exception of (Region) 10 and [Region 7]; and we now have over 15, 000 members in the youth arm of the people’s progressive party,” he declared.
The VP emphasised that the PPP/C has a long and proven track record of promoting youth development and leadership. He pointed to his own political journey as a reflection of the party’s commitment: becoming Finance Minister while still in his twenties and later assuming the presidency at a young age.
trenched leadership structures.
“When we look at our counterparts, they run a gerontocracy – meaning that you had to be over 65 to get into their cabinet; so we walk the walk with young people, we just don’t talk about empowering young people,” he noted.
The VP reaffirmed that the PPP/C remains committed to empowering young Guyanese, not only by including them in governance but also by equipping them with the tools, resources, and platforms to lead meaningful change.
Jagdeo stressed that
Teen granted bail amid wave of terrorism-related charges
Nineteen-year-old
Jadon Sim, also known as ‘JJ’, was on Friday granted $150,000 bail for attempted robbery under arms, nearly six weeks after he was first remanded to prison, as authorities cracked down on violent unrest in the capital. Sim, a construction worker from Friendship, Buxton, East Coast Demerara, is accused of attempting to rob Shurlan Critchlow, also called ‘Black Boy’, at Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown, while armed with a gun on April 28, 2025.
He made his first court appearance on May 5 before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, where he was denied bail and remanded to prison.
Jadon Sim
During his latest appearance, this time virtually before Magistrate Annette Singh, his attorney, Stacy Goodings, successfully argued for his pre-trial release. The magistrate noted that Sim had been incarcerated for over a month and
youth development must go far beyond sports, noting that while athletics play an important role, young people also need access to a broader range of opportunities and essential services.
He emphasised the importance of providing youths with access to housing, quality healthcare, education, and job opportunities; critical pillars that contribute to their overall well-being and long-term success.
“We don’t believe that young people’s issues are only sports, giving them a football or a cricket bat and then you can satisfy their concerns. We think young people have ideas; they need to be listened to; they have skills; we must talk about housing for them so that everyone could have your own home; we must talk about jobs for them; we must talk about education and health care for
cent endorsements from members of the opposition reflect the growing strength and appeal of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C).
He noted that these developments signal the party’s continued evolution into a truly multi-ethnic and inclusive national political movement, one that resonates with a broad cross-section of the
Region 10 will soon benefit from enhanced access to healthcare services. He revealed that the Government is moving ahead with plans to rehabilitate the decades-old Linden Hospital Complex, bringing it in line with modern medical standards.
The upgrade, he noted, forms part of the administration’s broader commitment to improving public
young people, because in it is in your hands that the future of this country will be entrusted,” he advised.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday, the VP had stated that re-
Guyanese population.
Improved Health Infrastructure
Moreover, Jagdeo announced that residents of Linden and the wider
healthcare infrastructure across the country, ensuring that all citizens—regardless of location have access to quality and reliable medical services.
that there was no witness statement filed in his matter, a key factor that tipped the scale in favour of bail.
Sim’s charge was one of many stemming from the violent fallout following the release of autopsy results in the death of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge. Although the post-mortem confirmed she had drowned, Georgetown and Berbice descended into chaos, where businesses were looted, roads were set ablaze, and innocent persons were attacked.
Sim was among several individuals arrested and charged during this period.
The matter involving Sim was adjourned until July 11, 2025, as the court awaits further disclosure.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Sections of the Linden audience at the Watooka Guest House on Friday
Dealing…
…with Doctors
Back in the day, becoming a doctor – or a lawyer –was very much prized!! It pulled persons out of the drudgery and anonymity of the despised and derided lower classes into the ranks of the middle class. If you were a poor “bright” boy – or sometimes a girl – it was assumed you and your parents would do everything in your power to get you to become a “professional”. It was your ticket to being somebody. Jagan became a dentist and Burnham, a lawyer. The salary was structured to ensure the professional could maintain a lifestyle befitting his status! This was seen as being eminently fair – especially for doctors – since they literally held lives in their hands.
In the intervening years, there’s been a veritable explosion of “white collar” jobs that allow their practitioners to combine status with the good life –but medicine and law retained their cachet. Now, your Eyewitness – having never entered that rarefied fraternity – was a tad surprised to learn – via a very public and nasty spat – about the pay scales of our medical professionals. With the government expanding the medical system by building new hospitals like they’re going out of style, your Eyewitness had wondered how they’d be staffed. After all, creating doctors ain’t a matter of just waving a wand!!
They gotta complete a rigorous 5-year MBBS degree –including practical sessions on site at GPHC. Then a gruelling one-year internship rotating through at least half-a-dozen different departments to gain exposure before they can enter the lowest rung of the medical profession – a “Government Medical Officer” (GMO) in the Ministry’s hospitals or a “Resident” at GPHC. If they so choose, they can specialise by completing a threeyear Master’s degree in a particular field such as, say, orthopaedics. The pay varies from about US$1200/month for interns to US$2000/month for residents!! Piddling!!
The present brouhaha exposed this when the Regional Health Officer (RHO) issued a directive compelling residents in Reg 4 to be “on call” ten days monthly – meaning work additional 4-hour shifts for 12 hours straight!! The labour law says any hours worked beyond an 8-hour day should count as overtime – with pay @time-and-a-half! But the medical profession circumvented this by specifying a flat additional US$20/ for the extra 4 hour.
Ironically, they were mirroring, but at a better rate of pay and hours, the system in place at GPHC!! There, residents got an additional US$22 for a 12-hour on-call shift on top of an initial 12-hour shift!! Working 24 hours straight, with no proper facilities – or even a canteen!!
The RHO instigated “regular folks” to “check your gross salary…and then that of a GMO (Basic is US$2000/ monthly). Who deh BAD?”
Sounds like doctors “deh bad”!!
…with Mad Maduro
In case you forgot, Dear Reader, your Eyewitness had warned for years that there’s a method to Mad Maduro’s madness. After every escalation, he sets the stage for another provocation. Take his elections for a Governor and MP’s of “Guayana Essequiba” – which many discounted as having no relevance since we occupy the territory – as we’ve done for a century and a quarter. Well, the election followed his paper “annexation” and that’s now followed by an objection to our development efforts in Essequibo at an international forum!! Give the madman an inch (Argyle Agreement) and he takes a mile!!
So here our representatives were, minding what we thought was our business – discussing the topic of “Improving Physical Connectivity between Brazil and the Caribbean” – when the madman’s Vice Foreign Minister for the Caribbean to the decades-old South American initiative jumped up!! “Essequibo is ours!!”, he cried. That’s exactly what they’d done to scuttle Burnham’s Mazaruni Hydro Project. We’ll have to fight tooth and nail so they can’t repeat the damage!!
…with defence
Back in 2001, we’d bought an old River-class minesweeper – the HMS Orwell – from England and renamed it the “Essequibo”. It formed the nucleus of our sea defence but was just retired – without seeing any action.
2025 Regional and General Elections GECOM approves modified nomination form to curb misuse, ensure accuracy
In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and preventing electoral fraud, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has approved a modified version of the Nomination Form that political parties must submit with their Lists of Candidates for the 2025 General and Regional Elections. A release from GECOM stated that the revised form, proposed by Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud, is designed to ensure accuracy and safeguard against misuse, especially in light of controversies surrounding the nomination process during recent elections.
The decision was announced just one day after
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo publicly called on GECOM to take firm and impartial action against any political party found fraudulently inflating candidate lists or intimidating citizens to suppress political participation. Speaking at his weekly press conference, Jagdeo raised alarm over what he described as repeated instances, primarily involving opposition-aligned parties, of persons being misled into signing nomination forms without their informed consent.
Jagdeo referenced both a 2018 investigation into alleged fraudulent practices by the Alliance for Change (AFC) and more recent claims from the 2023 Local
Government Elections, where individuals alleged they were deceived into signing nomination lists under the pretence of community improvement petitions. He urged GECOM to take “strong action against those who are doing this fraudulently”, asserting that such behaviour undermines public trust in the electoral process.
In response to these concerns and the pattern of complaints, GECOM has implemented key changes to the nomination form. The updated version now carries explicit language on every page to ensure nominators are knowingly and willingly participating. The header reads:
“We, the undersigned, knowingly and willingly provide our particulars and append our signatures as Nominators for the National Top-up/ Geographic Constituency/ Regional Democratic List of Candidates for the Party.”
According to GECOM, this addition is vital to ensuring clarity and accountability. The Commission noted that during the 2023 Local Government Elections, numerous nominators claimed they did not understand the purpose of the documents they were signing. These incidents delayed the processing of Lists of Candidates and caused considerable public controversy.
GECOM is urging all political parties and contestants to use the modified form as part of their preparations for Nomination Day, which has been officially set for July 14. On that day, the Chief Election Officer will accept submissions at the Umana Yana, Kingston, Georgetown, from 10:00h to 14:00h.
The timeline for related activities includes: July 15: Notification of any death or withdrawal of candidates and feedback on defects in the lists; July 17: Submission of corrected lists and further withdrawals; July 18: Issuance of approval or rejection notices by GECOM; July 20: Deadline for appeals to the High Court; July 21: Deadline for notifications of joinder of lists; and July 23: Publication (gazetting) of the approved Lists of Candidates. The electoral body has emphasised that using the updated form is crucial for avoiding disputes and ensuring that all lists are processed efficiently within the tight statutory timeline.
LNDCH4 Guyana announces arrival of BESS to support GtE Project
LNDCH4 Guyana on Friday announced the arrival of the Backup Battery Storage System (BESS), a critical part of the power plant’s emergency support system, that is engineered to ensure uninterrupted energy delivery in the event of turbine failure.
The arrival of the BESS marks significant progress of the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project, and highlights LNDCH4’s
commitment to Guyana, the company said in a press release.
The BESS, which arrived at the John Fernandes wharf Friday, reinforces LNDCH4’s commitment to delivering a reliable power solution for Guyana, it added.
With a total capacity of 30 megawatts (MW), the system was shipped in 22 containers, which comprise battery racks, six inverters,
auxiliary transformers, and a fully integrated Power Distribution Centre (PDC) shelter.
It also includes an Energy Management System (EMS), Battery Management System (BMS), Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), Fire suppression system and HVAC units to ensure optimal performance and safety under all conditions.
Designed to respond in-
stantaneously, the BESS provides critical backup power to protect the integrity of the electrical grid and maintain operational stability in unexpected scenarios.
The company said that its latest delivery joins the growing list of critical components already received for the project, including two state-of-the-art gas turbines, each capable of generating 45 MW of electricity.
“This shipment demonstrates our continued commitment to the highest standard of operational excellence,” Country manager, Humberto Lopez, stated.
As a key component of Guyana’s landmark GtE initiative, the BESS will enhance the project’s efficiency and reliability; helping to stabilise the national grid, reduce carbon emissions and support the delivery of affordable electricity to homes and businesses across the country.
The statement added that LNDCH4 continues to meet international standards in quality, health, safety, environment and innovation.
With our team working on-site around the clock, focused on meeting international quality standards and the arrival of the BESS, the project moves one step closer to completion, ensuring Guyana’s transition to a more modern, energy-secure future, it concluded.
“Not vanity projects” - Jagdeo to critics of infrastructure, economic enhancements
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has pushed back firmly against critics who dismiss the government’s expansive public infrastructure programme as superficial or politically timed, asserting instead that the new roads, bridges, hospitals, and hotels are strategic investments that are already reshaping Guyana’s economic and social fabric.
“These are not vanity projects,” Jagdeo stated in a wide-ranging address. “They are vital arteries of national development that reduce costs, create jobs, open up land, drive investment, and provide services to people who never had proper access before.”
Citing the Heroes Highway, Jagdeo explained that infrastructure like this not only shortens tran -
sit time and cuts costs for commuters and businesses but also triggers major secondary economic activity. He pointed to the boom in hotels, malls, and housing near new road corridors as proof.
“Just look at the growth from South Georgetown outward,” he said. “That development didn’t just happen. It’s the result of planning and strategic investment in infrastructure.”
He also noted how new access roads are linking hospitals like Diamond Hospital to surrounding communities, improving emergency healthcare response and making medical services more accessible.
Opening up the hinterland and the coast Jagdeo highlighted the
Linden–Lethem corridor, where 45 concrete bridges are being constructed (with one remaining— the Kurupukari Bridge), replacing ageing wooden structures that frequently collapsed, and limited trade.
“These bridges are crucial for trade with Brazil and for lowering the cost of living in Regions 8 and 9,” Jagdeo said. “When goods can move by road instead of air, it transforms economic opportunity.”
Similarly, the new
Demerara River Bridge, which will be toll-free and capable of handling heavy container traffic 24/7, is expected to dramatically reduce congestion, unlock development in Region Three, and enable more reliable port access.
“The old bridge was a bottleneck for everything— from goods to people,” he said. “Now you’ll have night and day movement of freight without restrictions.”
Jagdeo also pointed to major investments in utilities and public services, including 13 new water treatment plants for safer potable water, the gas-to-energy project, slated to transform electricity reliability and costs by 2026, and six new regional hospitals, with Diamond
already opened and others nearing completion.
“These are long-term projects that started years ago—not election gimmicks,” Jagdeo said, countering accusations that the flurry of openings is timed for political advantage.
He also highlighted the success of government incentives in attracting 12 new hotels, which will create an estimated 6,000 jobs and bolster Guyana’s ability to host tourists and business visitors. These include land price concessions, tax holidays, and repatriation incentives introduced even during the pandemic.
“Those hotels didn’t appear out of thin air. They’re the result of deliberate policy choices and confidence in this government’s direction,” he stated.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Sophia attempted murder: VC demands $1M settlement as case file remains in limbo
A29-year-old man accused of attempted murder is at the centre of a developing legal standoff, as the virtual complainant (VC) in the matter has requested a $1 million settlement to resolve the case.
The matter, which stems from a violent altercation in Sophia in May, remains stalled in the legal system as the prosecution struggles to retrieve the case file from the necessary authorities.
Septon Barton, of Plum Park, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was charged on April 10 with the attempted murder of Roger Vyfhuis following an incident that occurred two days prior.
During the altercation, Barton allegedly inflicted multiple stab wounds on Vyfhuis. The charge was laid following a police in-
vestigation and a video-recorded statement in which Barton reportedly admitted to the act.
Barton has remained on remand since his initial court appearance, as efforts to secure bail were denied.
The matter was most recently called before Magistrate Annette Singh; however, proceedings were once more hindered by administrative delays.
Prosecutors informed the court that although the file in the matter had already received legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), it was not currently in the possession of the police or the prosecution.
According to the prosecutor, the file had been sent to the Deputy Commissioner of Law Enforcement (DCLE) for signing after advice was issued by the DPP.
However, when an officer attempted to uplift the signed file from the station the following day, no authorised individual was available to release it. As a result, the file remains somewhere within the administrative chain, delaying further action on the
matter.
In court, Barton’s attorney, Dominick Bess, indicated that there had been some informal discussions between the parties regarding a possible settlement. He stated that his client may be willing to consider resolving the matter amicably, subject to terms acceptable to the VC. However, he noted that no formal proposal had yet been finalised or brought before the court.
At this point, Vyfhuis, who was present in court, requested to address the bench. Speaking directly to the magistrate, he confirmed that an offer had been made to him in the amount of $100,000, but he
deemed it inadequate. “I cannot accept $100,000,” Vyfhuis told the court. “I can’t work since the incident. I’m still on medication… antibiotics and other drugs.”
When asked by Magistrate Singh what amount he would be willing to accept, Vyfhuis responded that he believed a settlement of $1 million would be fair, given the severity of the injuries he sustained and the financial and physical toll the incident had taken on him.
The magistrate emphasised that, due to the nature of the charge, any possible withdrawal of the matter would require the approval
of the DPP.
Even if both parties express a desire to settle, the prosecution cannot proceed with a discharge unless the DPP formally signs off on it.
Bess indicated he would relay the demand to his client and discuss the possibility of a revised settlement offer. The magistrate advised that if the parties were serious about a resolution, they should engage in meaningful dialogue before the next hearing.
The matter was adjourned to June 18 for further updates, including the status of the file and any developments regarding a possible out-of-court settlement.
Septon Barton
Education Minister criticises justice system over disparity in handling gender-based violence
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
has criticised what she described as a troubling disparity in how the justice system handles gender-based violence and cybercrime against women compared to other, less serious offences— following the case of recording artist Daniel Wharton, popularly known as “Baby Skello”, in which he was remanded for blasphemous libel.
According to the education minister, while she strongly condemned the actions of the artist, she questioned the judiciary’s priorities.
“The bench needs to be consistent and sensible in its application of the law. We are jailing someone for mumbling or trying to sing something offensive against a female goddess (which was terrible, should never be encouraged or listened to, and which I personally condemned),” Manickchand stated.
However, she went on to point out what she called the judiciary’s failure to adequately address more serious matters, particularly those
involving crimes against women.
“The judiciary has been failing to address matters where women are at the mercy of the court—failing to address cases of cyberbullying where women’s nude photographs are published online without their consent and other truly egregious crimes against women,” the minister said.
She added that she hopes the artist has legal representation that could potentially reverse what she referred to as an “odd decision” at the
High Court. Wharton has been charged with blasphemous libel and has been remanded to prison. He made his first court appearance on Friday at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Judy Latchman. The matter is set to be called again on July 1.
The charge stems from a song he released on social media that contained several vulgar lyrics about the Hindu deity Maha Lakshmi.
Berbice man arrested for years of alleged domestic abuse
Just one day after Joanne Ramoutar reported enduring years of gender-based violence at the hands of her boyfriend, Karran Sukhan, he has been arrested.
The suspect was apprehended in Regional Police Division #5, transferred to Division #6, and is currently in custody at the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, Berbice. He is expected to be arraigned Thursday.
Police have since taken a statement from Ramoutar, and a medical examination has been completed. It was just a day ago, that she broke her silence, revealing the struggles she has faced.
Ramoutar alleged that her boyfriend, Karran Sukhan, is responsible for years of abuse.
Despite filing a report with the police five days ago, she claimed that no action was initially taken.
She also alleged that Sukhan had gone into hiding and that neither she nor her children could leave the house.
According to Ramoutar, her nightmare began shortly after the relationship started.
She said Sukhan would
beat her with hoses and pelt her with anything he could get his hands on—plates, cups, phones, shoes—whenever something displeased him.
This included not finishing dinner before he got home, asking him to stop cheating, or simply not wanting to have sex.
Ramoutar also recounted a terrifying incident during her pregnancy, when Sukhan tied a wire around her neck, fastened it to a grill, and attempted to pull her off the bed while threatening to kill her.
She said he isolated her, refused to help with the children, and spent most of his time attending to his own affairs—only to return home and continue tormenting her.
The most disheartening
part of the entire ordeal, she said, was the response from the police, which showed no empathy.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security confirmed that upon learning about the situation, it immediately dispatched a specialised team from the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU) to intervene and provide support.
The Ministry stated that its priority is to ensure the victim receives comprehensive and compassionate care. It also reaffirmed its commitment to addressing all reported cases of domestic violence and pledged to continue working tirelessly to provide assistance and foster a safer society for all.
Karran Sukhan
Daniel Wharton also known as “Baby Skello”
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
Lethem energy supply surpasses demand
Residents of Lethem and surrounding communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are now benefitting from a reliable and sustainable electricity supply that exceeds current demand, following significant Government investment in integrated renewable and hybrid energy infrastructure.
On Friday, the Prime Minister’s office said that the combined power generation capacity in the Lethem grid—which serves communities including St Ignatius, Kumu, and Moco Moco, has reached 5.7 megawatts (MW). This
ators. Peak electricity demand in the area currently stands at approximately 2.1 MW, leaving a surplus of 3.6 MW available to support continued development and future population growth.
According to release, the 1 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) farm in Lethem, commissioned in August 2022 at a cost of $490.46 million has generated more than 3,594 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable energy as of June 11, 2025. This output has resulted in fuel savings equivalent to 5,877 drums of diesel and avoided carbon dioxide emissions totalling 2,875 tonnes. The project alone
the town, the Government constructed a 0.7 MW hydropower plant at Moco Moco and a 1.5 MW hydropower plant at Kumu. These facilities, built at a combined cost of G$2.679 billion, has further strengthened the Region’s clean energy backbone. The hydropower plants and the solar PV farm will supply the electricity needs of approximately 7,000 residents in Lethem and its environs, ensuring a substantial share of renewable energy generation under favourable hydrological and solar conditions.
“The availability of surplus energy has already begun transforming ev-
includes 2.2 MW from hydropower at the Kumu and Moco Moco falls, a 1 MW solar farm in Lethem, and 2.5 MW from diesel gener-
has significantly contributed to both economic and environmental benefits for the region. To further decarbonise
eryday life and economic activity in Region Nine. Residents and businesses are now experiencing improved reliability in pow-
Court orders forfeiture of $10M from businessman in major bribery probe
High Court Judge Justice Peter Hugh ordered the forfeiture of $10 million from businessman Naitram Outar, also known as ‘Sweetman’, for his involvement in fraud, bribery, and money laundering.
The Court directed that the funds be forfeited to the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU), ruling that the sum constituted tainted property and the proceeds of crime. The judge further ordered that the funds be paid into the Consolidated Fund, in accordance with Section 82 of the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act, Cap. 10:11.
The confiscation stems from a search conducted on July 15, 2024, at about 14:00h, when SOCU officers, supported by ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), searched Outar’s
Businessman Naitram Outar, also known as ‘Sweetman’
property at Lot 242 Second Avenue, Block X, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. During the search, SOCU discovered $10 million, which Outar failed to account for satisfactorily. The money was subsequently seized and detained as suspected proceeds of crime.
A money laundering investigation was launched,
er supply, while key public services such as health centres and schools are benefiting from stable and continuous electricity. The surplus also provides scope for new industries and income-generating ventures, particularly in small-scale manufacturing and tourism,” the release said.
According to the Prime Minister’s (PM) Office, the energy transformation unfolding in Lethem is part of a wider national strategy to decentralise and diversify Guyana’s power generation mix, especially in hinterland regions. These efforts fall under the Government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which aims to promote sustainable economic growth through increased use of renewable energy.
PM, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips, who has portfolio responsibility for energy, emphasised the transformative impact of reliable power on rural development. “This energy
which revealed that in May 2024, Outar conspired with another city businessman interested in purchasing two acres of land at Ogle for G$50,000,000. The deal allegedly involved individuals associated with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA). According to investigators, Outar arranged the transaction for $40,000, with the remaining $10M earmarked as a kickback.
As the investigation continues into others allegedly involved in the scheme, Deputy Commissioner and Head of SOCU, Fazil Karimbaksh, issued a stern warning to those seeking to corrupt the system. He emphasised that SOCU remains committed to dismantling illicit networks and bringing perpetrators to justice. SOCU was represented in court by attorney-at-law and prosecutor David Brathwaite.
surplus represents more than just kilowatts (kW)— it represents opportunity.”
He further stated that, “When communities have reliable, clean energy that exceeds their immediate needs, they can dream bigger. They can establish cottage industries, enhance their agricultural processing capabilities, and create sustainable livelihoods that were previously impossible. This is how we build prosperity from the ground up in our hinterland communities.”
Residents of Region Nine more broadly are also benefitting under the Government’s expanded hinterland electrification programme with the distribution of over 30,000 Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Home Energy Systems to hinterland and riverine communities across all 10 Administrative Regions of Guyana. This initiative has resulted in the installation of a combined 4.8 MW of solar PV capacity, significantly boosting renewable
energy access in remote areas.
The Government has launched a second round to distribute an additional 7,230 Solar Home Energy Systems to households in remote communities during 2025. This will bring the total to over 37,000 systems distributed over a threeyear period, contributing to 99 per cent of the hinterland population—approximately 144,900 persons— having access to solar PV by the end of 2025.
The PM’s office said that with the success seen in Region Nine, similar renewable energy systems are being implemented in other hinterland communities. In this regard, PM Phillips recently announced that the Government has allocated more than $800 million to roll out additional solar mini-grids and retrofit renewable systems in Amerindian and remote villages, aiming to replicate the development gains seen in clean energy across Guyana.
Police destroy $21M worth of ganja at Yarrowkabra
PLinden/Soesdyke Highway.
The farms measured two acres and one acre, respectively.
According to the police, the two-acre farm had about 4,500 cannabis plants ranging from three feet to five feet in height along with a makeshift camp and a barrel containing 140 lbs of dried ganja.
In addition, about 1500
cannabis plants ranging from one foot to two feet in height were found on the other farm. The plants and the dried cannabis from both farms were destroyed by fire. Police estimated the street value of the narcotics to be approximately $21,083,664. No arrests were made.
Lethem Power Company
olice on Friday reported that they have found and destroyed two cannabis farms at Yarrowkabra Backdam,
The ganja set on fire
The dried cannabis found in a barrel
Over 50,000 afforded tertiary education through GOAL, UG in last 5 years
...“It's a huge impact" –Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has announced that more than 52,000 Guyanese have accessed tertiary-level education through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship initiative and the University of Guyana (UG) over the last five years—a milestone he described as unparalleled in the nation’s history.
Commenting on the progress made thus far, Jagdeo noted that the GOAL programme alone accounted for nearly 39,000 awardees, while UG produced more than 13,000 graduates during the same period. He hailed the achievement as a transformative investment in Guyana’s human capital.
“When you look at 52,000 persons receiving tertiary education in a population of just over 600,000 adults, it means over 8 percent of our adult population has benefited from free tertiary education in a single term,” Jagdeo said. “That scale of access and equity is virtually unheard of globally.”
The vice president emphasised the broad demographic reach of the GOAL programme, highlighting its accessibility to Guyanese of all backgrounds—young and old, men and women, from every ethnic group and region.
“What we saw at the Cultural Centre this
week was a microcosm of Guyana—diverse, determined, and deeply invested in the future,” Jagdeo said. “This is what people-centred policy looks like.”
“I'm convinced that we'll be entrusting the leadership of the country into safe hands. And when I speak of leadership of the country, it doesn't have to necessarily be in the political field. It would be in agriculture, smart agriculture, and the exciting programme that we have for expanding agriculture. It would be the leadership of delivering on worldclass health care and education for our people. It's the leadership in the digital society that we will be creating or we are working towards. So, I'm very excited about that future,” he added.
He expressed confidence that many of the graduates would emerge as leaders—not only in politics, but across sectors like smart agriculture, healthcare, education, and digital innovation.
In addition to formal tertiary education, Jagdeo noted that tens of thousands more have undergone free training under the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WINN) and Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programmes.
Through the government’s WINN programme being spearheaded by the Ministry of Human
Services and Social Security, over 17,000 women have been trained in job readiness and upskilling, while some 13,000 participants have been trained in trade and technical fields through the BIT initiative.
When combined with the GOAL and UG figures, over 83,000 Guyanese have benefitted from free education or training programmes since 2020.
“This is not just an education statistic—it’s a developmental revolution,” Jagdeo declared. “It’s about giving people the tools to shape their own destinies in a rapidly evolving economy.”
Jagdeo reiterated that all GOAL scholarships and UG access are fully free, in keeping with the PPP/C’s election promise. Moreover, the government has pledged to write off student loan debts incurred within the last four years and is now examin-
ing options to compensate students who previously paid tuition out of pocket.
“This is about fairness and future-readiness,” Jagdeo said. “We’re not just building hospitals, schools, roads, and bridges—we’re building people, and that’s the real foundation of national transformation.”
“It's a huge impact. I don't think anywhere in the world, in any country, they've had such a major impact in such a short period on tertiary education or providing tertiary education for the citizens of the country. And what is important is that it's all free. Free; consistent with our promise. Because even those who paid – now we remove the fee at the University of Guyana –we've made it clear that those who paid in, or still have loans from the last four years, those would be written off too.”
Guard charged for murder of ECD man
Messiah Mussenden, a 25-year-old security guard attached to Force Security Solutions, was on Thursday formally charged with the murder of Rondell Clarke, a 29-yearold construction worker of Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD), after forensics confirmed that the fatal bullet from the shooting was fired from an AR rifle issued to Mussenden.
Mussenden, who hails from Buxton/Friendship, ECD, appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where the indictable charge was read to him. He was not required to plead and was remanded to prison until July 15. The matter was transferred to the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court for report and the filing of statements.
The charge stems from the fatal shooting that occurred on the night of June 8 at Second Street, Foulis, during what police described as a confrontation between Clarke and two armed security guards employed by the private firm.
According to police reports, officers responded to the sound of gunfire after neighbours reported an argument followed by gunshots between 7:30h and 7:45h Clarke was discovered conscious but seriously wounded. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he later succumbed despite emer-
gency surgery efforts.
A post-mortem examination conducted on June 11 revealed that Clarke died from gunshot injuries. Forensic pathologists recovered a damaged metal fragment from his body, which was sent to the Criminal Investigations Department’s (CID) Crime Laboratory for ballistic testing.
The results, police say, confirmed that the fatal round was fired from an AR rifle issued to Mussenden. Additionally, a spent 9mm shell casing found at the scene was linked to a pistol carried by another guard, Devon Boucher, also employed by the same firm. Both weapons have since been taken into custody as evidence.
Boucher remains in police custody as investigations continue into the full circumstances that led to the fatal use of force.
Guyana wooing GraceKennedy to set up manufacturing plant here
The Guyana government has invited GraceKennedy out of Jamaica to expand operations here, citing possible collaborations with local spice and coconut farmers.
“We would be delighted to have Grace manufacturing stuff [here], and there are no qualifiers to that because GraceKennedy has a huge global footprint,” Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, stated on Friday.
He was at the time responding to a query from a representative of the food manufacturing and distribution company during a business forum hosted at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.
GraceKennedy is among several Jamaican companies that were part of a 19-member business mission that was in Georgetown on a twoday visit to explore investment opportunities here.
The delegation was led by Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator Aubyn Hill.
During an interactive
session, the Grace official asked about incentives for Jamaican businesses to set up operations in Guyana.
According to the finance minister, agro-processing is a major focus for the Guyana government, and Grace’s global brand could augur well in getting local products into the international market.
“We have huge fruit and vegetable crops that we grow that could quite easily be packaged or branded as Grace products, and of course, [the] Grace name is one that has global recognition already,” he posited.
Dr Singh went on to outline that the government is already working with the domestic private sector to push agro-processing and get local products out into the global market.
For instance, the government has supported a private operator with the production of spices, sauces and condiments. These are made with produce sourced directly from local farmers, and the processed product is exported under a local brand.
“But we see the potential
for a lot more of that to happen,” the finance minister noted.
He added that Guyana’s coconut industry is another area that the Jamaican company can capitalise on.
“We could introduce you to some of the coconut people, because the truth is, GraceKennedy coconut water should have in the fine print ‘Product of Guyana’. GraceKennedy coconut cream, coconut milk, coconut powder. Your coconut should not come from Thailand; your coconut should come from Guyana.”
“And so, we'd be very happy to introduce you to the coconut people to say, how can we get Guyanese coconut? How can we get a GraceKennedy factory? And we would be happy to partner with you on that,” the minister noted.
Dr Singh pointed out that as a Caribbean nation, he feels a sense of pride when he visits mainstream supermarkets in countries like the United States and sees Grace products on the shelves – something which he feels could be even bet-
ter if the products are made in Guyana or with Guyanese produce.
“So even, for example, the guys who are doing the spices, sauces and condiments, they're selling it under their own brand. It's being sold on Amazon and so on. It's being exported and so on. But you may very well speak to them and say, 'Can you manufacture under licence for GraceKennedy and we will buy from you? It's
a Guyanese manufacturer; you work with them on your standards, and your branding, and your labelling and so on. So that's also a possibility, and there's a huge Diaspora market,” the finance minister stated.
While he promoted these areas for possible collaborations, Dr Singh assured that the company will have the freedom to adopt any investment model should they expand to Guyana. He
even offered to arrange a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and the GraceKennedy representatives to materialise this venture.
“We'd be happy to have a conversation with you on if you would like us to partner with you and how. We'd be very happy to have that conversation. I would like to see GraceKennedy establishing manufacturing operations in Guyana… I'm very happy to introduce you to the spices people. I'd be very happy to introduce you to the coconut people. And we can speak about building a coconut manufacturing facility – you buy the coconuts from local manufacturers, or you partner with them, however you want to do this,” Minister Singh noted.
Founded in Jamaica in 1922, GraceKennedy is one of the Caribbean’s largest and most dynamic corporations with a strong presence in food and finance. The company already operates in Guyana through its remittance service provider – Western Union.
Messiah Mussenden
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh in conversation with Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Aubyn Hill, and the representative of GraceKennedy at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Friday
Around the World
OOIL NEWS
Oil up 6%, paring sharp gains as Israel strikes avoid Iran oil sites
il prices fell off multi-month highs hit earlier on Friday as Israeli air strikes avoided Iranian oil sites, but prices are still up about 6% as investors worried that the tensions could disrupt Middle East oil supplies.
Brent crude futures were up $4.11, or 5.9%, to $73.47 a barrel by 11:12 a.m. EDT (1712 GMT), after earlier soaring over 13% to an intraday high of $78.50, the strongest level since January 27.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was up $4.38, or 6.4%, at $72.42, after earlier jumping over 14% to its highest since January 21 at $77.62.
Friday's gains were the largest intraday moves for both contracts since 2022, when Russia's invasion of Ukraine caused a spike in energy prices.
The National Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company said oil refining and storage facilities had not been damaged and continued to operate.
One primary concern, according to analysts, was whether the latest developments would affect the Strait of Hormuz, said Nikos Tzabouras, senior market analyst at Tradu.com
About a fifth of the world's total oil consumption passes through the strait, or some 18 to 19 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil, condensate and fuel.
In other markets, stocks dived, and there was a rush to safe havens such as gold and the U.S. dollar and Swiss franc. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Panama dumps Chinese telecom towers under
US pressure in strategic trade route battle
The US Embassy in Panama announced Wednesday that Washington will spend $8 million replacing Chinese Huawei telecommunications equipment with American technology across 13 strategic locations.
The project targets critical infrastructure surrounding the Panama Canal, where approximately 40% of all US container traffic passes annually, representing roughly $270 billion in cargo value.
Ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera confirmed the two-year initiative will install seven new communication towers across four provinces while removing existing Huawei equipment.
The Ministry of Public Security of Panama partners with Washington on this telecommunications overhaul, which officials describe as countering malign Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere.
The timing proves significant. President Trump
has repeatedly threatened to reclaim the Panama Canal, claiming Chinese soldiers operate the waterway. Panama's government denies these assertions, but the country has already made major concessions to US pressure.
Earlier this year, Panama became the first Latin American nation to withdraw from China's Belt and Road Initiative following Secretary of State Marco Rubio's February visit.
The Panama Canal handles roughly 6% of global shipping traffic, making control over surrounding infrastructure a strategic priority.
The project completion, scheduled for 2027, will eliminate Chinese telecommunications equipment from key security installations across Panama.
This represents another victory for Trump's campaign to reduce Chinese influence near America's critical trade routes.
(Excerpt from Rio Times)
Israeli operation hits Iran's nuclear programme, kills top military officials –
Iran launches hundreds of missiles at Israel following attack
Shortly before sunrise in Iran on Friday, Israel launched the first strikes of its operation against the regime's nuclear program. Tehran launched retaliatory strikes against locations across Israel on Friday.
The Israeli operation, called Rising Lion, had two prongs: heavy airstrikes against at least one of Iran's enrichment sites and more targeted strikes in Tehran to decapitate the regime's military leadership.
It aimed to halt what Israel said was Tehran's rapid progress in developing nuclear weapons.
Israel's attack came after years of threats and days of heightened speculation but without the United States blessing.
The Trump administration stressed that Israel acted unilaterally and that Washington was not involved".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation would continue for as many days as it takes to eliminate Iran's nuclear threat. Tehran, which insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, says it has no option but to respond .
Iran has not seen such a widespread assault in a single day since the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s. Israel targeted locations all across the capital city, Tehran, and
around the country.
The first explosions tore through Tehran at around 3.30 a.m. Friday. Videos geolocated by CNN showed flames and smoke billowing from buildings across the city.
In a televised address, Netanyahu said Israel had taken action to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival and said it would continue its operation for as long as it takes to remove these threats .
Several of the most important men in Iran's military and its nuclear program were killed in Israel'strikes.
Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami, head of the secretive Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was the highest-profile of those
J'ca Cops on high alert after 440 Gang leader shot dead
Jamaica police in the St Andrew South Division are on high alert following the fatal shooting of the alleged leader of the notorious 440 Gang, which operates out of the Olympic Gardens area.
The alleged gang leader has been identified as Mark Harrison, otherwise called Mark 2, of a 440 Drive address.
Police believe that the killing of the influential gang leader has significantly increased the potential risk of retaliation.
According to reports, Harrison was at his house on 440 Drive about 11:00 pm Wednesday when he was approached by a man who residents said lives at a Drewsland address.
It is alleged that the man pulled a firearm and shot Harrison several times in his upper body before fleeing on foot. Harrison was taken by residents to hospital,
where he died while undergoing surgery.
Residents told the Observer that in the days leading up to the fatal shooting, both men were frequently seen in the community, engaging in friendly interactions, socialising, drinking, and spending time together in a manner that gave no indication of conflict.
Police sources say no motive has yet been determined for the attack, as the suspect had been taken into the 440 Drive community by Harrison and appeared to have been elevated to a top-tier position in the gang, which has been linked to murders, shootings, extortion, and contract killings.
The 440 Gang is also embroiled in a deadly feud with gangsters from the nearby community of Samacan. This conflict has resulted in multiple murders, shootings, and arson attacks. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
killed.
Israel also said it killed Maj. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of Iran's armed forces; Ali Shamkhani, a close aide to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei; and Ali Hajizadeh, commander of the IRGC's air force.
Iran retaliated almost immediately. The IDF said Tehran fired more than 100 drones toward Israel on Friday morning, in what Iran called the beginning of its crushing response . But most appear to have been intercepted.
The Israeli military warned that all of Israel is under fire after the retaliatory strikes.
CNN's teams in Tel Aviv
and Jerusalem could hear large explosions, and video from Tel Aviv showed incoming rockets and smoke rising amid the city's skyscrapers.
Seven people were lightly and moderately injured following an Iranian strike that hit on the border of Tel Aviv and the city of Ramat Gan in Israel, according to the head of Israel's emergency services, Eli Bin. Images and video released by Magen David Adom, Israel's affiliate of the Red Cross, showed civil defence workers surveying mangled cars and collapsed building facades in central Israel. (Excerpt from CNN)
I realised I was alive: Sole survivor of Air India crash recounts tragedy
The only survivor of the Air India plane crash says he couldn't believe he made it out alive after escaping from a broken emergency exit in a deadly crash that killed 241 people.
Shortly after Thursday's crash, social media footage showed Viswashkumar Ramesh, limping down the street in a blood-stained t-shirt and with bruises on his body.
The British national was sitting in seat 11A on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that was flying in to London when the plane crashed into a medical college hostel moments after taking off from India's northwestern city of Ahmedabad.
Ramesh, 40, told India's national broadcaster DD News from his hospital bed on Friday that he thought he was also going to die.
"But when I opened my eyes, I realised I was alive,
and I tried to unbuckle myself from the seat and escape from where I could. It was in front of my eyes that the air hostess and others [died]," he said.
He was travelling with his brother Ajay, who had been seated in a different row, members of his family said.
The side of the plane I was in landed on the ground, and I could see that there was space outside the aircraft, so when my door broke, I tried to escape through it, and I did, Ramesh said.
The opposite side of the aircraft was blocked by the building wall, so nobody could have come out of there, he added.
He explained that the plane had seemed to have come to a standstill midair for a few seconds shortly after taking off and felt the engine thrust, which later crashed with speed into the hostel. (Source: Al Jazeera)
Hossein Salami, Mohammad Bagheri and Ali Shamkhani were killed in the Israel operation
SUDOKU
Listening to others will help you see your life and current situations more clearly. Take a moment to collect your feelings. Be realistic regarding what you want and expect.
Start heading in a direction that offers promise and positive change. Connect with people from your past who can help you reflect on where you come from. Sometimes, looking back can clear the passage forward.
Get your facts straight and study the possibilities. Aligning yourself with people who share your beliefs will help you build the momentum you require to achieve your goal.
Look in the mirror and ask yourself tough questions. You may not please everyone and have to pay the price, but peace of mind will be worth its weight in gold if you do what's best for you.
Mixed emotions will lead to questions. Review your dreams and consider how equipped you are to fulfill them. Don't quit before you give your desires a chance to grow into something substantial.
You may relish change, but impulsive action is not the answer. Gather information and cozy up to those who can help you broaden your knowledge and credentials. Social events will spark your imagination.
Take a little "me time" and enjoy your space and loved ones. Conversations will be heated, but honesty can illuminate the best way to move forward. A lifestyle change will tempt you.
Set off on a learning expedition, and you'll discover something you can develop and make useful. It's time to let go of what you cannot change and make room for people and pastimes that enhance your life.
You're in a better position than you realize. Stick to the truth. Enforce discipline and ingenuity at home and when dealing with outside influences.
Know what and who you are dealing with before engaging in conversations. Expect to hear exaggerated versions of what's happening. Pour your time and energy into what matters most.
You can follow your heart, but you must be ready to deal with the consequences. A change you make will be advantageous if executed correctly. Don't give in to anger or impulse. Choose peace over discord.
Choose a place, group or activity that offers freedom and peace of mind while you take a break from stressful interactions and an exhausting lifestyle. Kick back and enjoy yourself.
Markram, Bavuma put SA in sight of glory
South Africa can dare to dream. With Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma playing the most significant innings of their careers, the latter while carrying a hamstring injury, they closed with 69 runs of claiming the World Test Championship, which would be the finest hour for a cricket nation steeped in history but short on silverware.
The second-wicket pair combined to add 143 in 38 overs of wonderfully controlled batting, a partnership that will go down in South African folklore barring extraordinary events on the fourth morning, with Markram reaching his eighth Test century from 156 deliveries in the closing moments of the day. They repelled everything Australia threw at them on a pitch that, with the sun out for most of the day, was at its friendliest for batting in the Test. The way Australia’s last-wicket pair of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood had earlier been able to add 59 in 22 overs had foretold what was to come.
Still, Australia felt like favourites when they set about defending 282. Despite the early loss of Ryan Rickleton, edging a very full delivery from Starc which was confirmed by the third umpire, there was a notable urgency to South Africa’s batting. In the first innings it took until the 20th over to reach 30 (and cost them three wickets), whereas this time they were 47 for
1 after 10.
Starc struck again to have Wiaan Mulder caught low at cover, but then came a vital moment when Bavuma, on 2, edged to Steven Smith at first slip. Smith was standing so close - he was wearing a helmet as the carry off the surface continued to die - and the chance burst through his hands, leaving him with a compound dislocation of his right little finger. The agony was clear on his face as he immediately left the field. By the end of the day, it was likely shared by his teammates.
Shortly before tea, Bavuma joined the injury list when he picked up a hamstring injury, but he defied the pain, mixing hobbling between the wickets with some crisp stroke play. It was going to take much more than a tweaked muscle to stop Bavuma. There was, however, a question to be asked as to whether Australia could have squeezed an injured batter hard in the field. The closest Bavuma came to a mistake was when he top-edged Nathan Lyon towards deep square leg on 43, but Sam Konstas, on as a substitute, couldn’t quite make enough ground with a full-length dive that left him with a mouthful of grass.
Meanwhile, Markram was all but faultless. He kept the scoreboard ticking - Australia sent down just three maidens in 56 overs - alongside a selection of handsome boundaries,
none better than the backcut off Starc, which bisected deep third and deep point with precision and left the bowler waving his arms in frustration. He would then move to 97 with the sweetest of straight drives against Hazlewood. As the close neared, and it appeared he may have to wait for the morning, his crowning moment arrived with a whip through the leg side.
Pat Cummins went through all the options at his disposal, but nothing could conjure the moment to create an opening. Lyon caused some problems out
of the rough and came very close on a few occasions, while Travis Head’s first delivery ragged sharply at Markram. They will need a miracle on Saturday.
It was South Africa’s surge with the ball on the second day that had kept them in the game after conceding a lead of 74, but Alex Carey had pushed the advantage over 200. When Lyon was lbw to Kagiso Rabada in the third over of the day - his ninth wicket of the matchit appeared Australia’s innings would end swiftly, but the last-wicket pair had other ideas.
It was not the first time Starc and Hazlewood had combined in such a fashion, surviving 18 overs together against India in Perth last year, while Hazlewood has also previously shown his stickability when helping Cameron Green add 116 against New Zealand in Wellington earlier in 2024.
There was rarely anything expansive about the partnership, but for large stages, the duo was untroubled, which was a hint at the changing batting conditions.
Starc shielded Hazlewood on occasions, particularly against Rabada and Marco Jansen, but Hazlewood produced one of the shots of the partnership when he ramped Jansen over the slips.
Starc has always had bat-
ting pedigree and at times has underdelivered for his talent in Test cricket. This half-century, coming off 131 balls, was his first since Old Trafford in 2019, and it ended as the second-most deliveries he had faced, behind the career-best 99 (a Test high score he shares with wife Alyssa Healy). At times South Africa seemed strangely flat, but so, too, did the pitch for the first time in the game. In the end it was the sixth bowler used in the session, Markram, who ended the resistance when Hazlewood drove off the back foot to cover. And so the final question was posed: was 282 chaseable? The answer, historically so for South Africa, would appear to be in the affirmative. (ESPN)
Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma coaxed South Africa towards their target
Mitchell Starc scored a 50 and took 2 wickets.
Temba Bavuma
Aiden Markram brought up his eighth Test century
SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 2025
MCYS/Ansa McAL
June Madness Futsal…
Berbice’s United Ballers, Linden
All Stars and Festival City headline latest Rd-of-16 qualifiers
On another pulsating night of action when the only sure reality is that winners advance, five more teams inked their names in that box when the inaugural June Madness Futsal championship powered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and Ansa McAL continued at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
It was the continuation of the round of 32, with the two out-of-city teams, Ballers United of Berbice and Linden All Stars, making their presence felt in a heavy way.
Ballers United were clinical in their defeat of Kitty Hustlers, whom they trounced, 6-2. Their use of the yellow ball, which lasts for two minutes, and once it scores, the result is doubled, saw them becoming the first team to score twice with this ball.
Tierre Phillips sounded the early warning to the city side when he fired the Berbicians into the lead with only 18 seconds on the clock, and this advantage was doubled by Ray Rodrigues in the 3rd minute.
But Kitty Hustlers fought back to hit back-toback goals through Allistair Holder in the 12th minute and two minutes later from Wesley Greendige to
knot the score. As the minutes kept ticking away and both teams knowing the importance of a win, Ballers United was the one that took the bold step to request the yellow ball.
It proved a success as Phillips drilled a shot past the Kitty Hustlers goalie to instantly double their goal tally from 2 to 4 in the 22nd minute. The two minutes expired for the yellow ball, and Kitty took their chance by also requesting the yellow ball almost immediately after, but it did not work in their favour.
It was Ballers United that scored again; this time it was off the boot of Rodrigues in the 26th minute, with both Rodrigues and Philips credited with a hat-trick of goals each.
Linden All Stars continued their successful run after a come-from-behind 4-3 first-round triumph over Show Stoppers via kicks from the penalty mark following a 3-3 regulation time and 4-4 extra time draw, to turn back the challenge of Albouystown Ballers, 4-1.
Unlike their first match, when they only had 5 players and then 4 after a second yellow received by a player, they came with a full complement of players for this clash and tasted success once again.
Jeshawn Freeman led the way this time with a double, scoring in the 17th and 20th minutes with one each from Malachi Todd (22nd) and Emmanuel Atkins in the 28th minute, which formalised the win and sealed their round-of-16 spot. Albouystown Ballers got their lone goal from Joshua Samuels in the 11th minute.
North East made light work of West Side Ballers, recording a 2-0 win, thanks to goals either side of play from Tyler Lyle in the 14th minute and Dwayne James in the 29th minute.
Z Tekk needed Mocha Red Force compliments of David George’s 6th-minute effort.
And, Festival City, on the back of a brace each from
Rid-O-Pes Inc. joins DCB T10 Cup as corporate partner
The Demerara Cricket Board’s forthcoming fundraiser T10 Cup at the LBI Ground, East Coast Demerara, has received the sponsorship of Rid-O-Pes Inc. The one-day competition is scheduled for July 6th, weather permitting. Rid-O-Pes Inc., a second-generation Guyaneseowned pest control company, has been in business for over 40 years. Founded by the late Eric Clayborn Tucker in 1983, the family-run business is situated at Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown. According to operations manager Eric Tucker Jr, Rid-O-Pes is thrilled to be a business partner of the DCB T10 Cup and to help advance cricket in Demerara.
He highlighted that the executives are monitoring the current weather conditions, with the hope that they improve in time for the July 6 event. Ramgobin emphasised that proceeds from the tournament will go towards the development of female and youth cricket in Demerara. Rid-O-Pes Inc. joins Survival Group Inc., Petama Enterprise, Premier Insurance, CIC Insurance Brokers (Guyana) Inc., L.
Mahabeer and Son Cambio, Office Express, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Anil Beharry Real Estate, Construction and General Business Services, and Naven’s Construction as partners of the tournament. Eight first division teams from the county will compete for top honours at the LBI Ground, with the format being a one-game knockout. Better Hope, Enterprise, Herstelling A, Helena One and Two, LBI, Lusignan, Meten-Meer-Zorg East, and Transport Sports Club are the teams. The oneday tournament will feature awards and a total cash
Mark Carrega (4th, 5th) and Tyrese Louisy (17th, 19th), edged Make It Happen, 4-3. For the losers, Deandre Linton had given them the lead in the 1st minute and then scored again in the 8th. Even an own goal scored by Festival City’s Jerome Permaul in the 14th minute could not have denied the lads from Festival City their glory on the night.
Meanwhile, a blockbuster night of rivalry on Fathers Night is anticipated with six matches listed.
Headlining the night would be the clash between national futsal champs Sparta Boss and North Ruimveldt, with the main supporting clash between the Brazilian side Road Warriors and Footsteppers.
Road Warriors created quite a huge stir when they played in the national championship in December 2024 and January 2025. Laing Avenue will play Bent Street in the fourth match of the night; Kingstown faces Back Circle ‘A’ in match three, while Bomb Squad will tangle with YMCA in the second game, and the opening showdown from 20:00h brings together Back Circle ‘B’ and Gaza Squad.
Blairmont, Port Mourant set to battle for Leslie Amsterdam’s trophy on Sunday
Blairmont Centre Cricket Club and Port Mourant Cricket Club are set to clash headon for the Leslie Amsterdam Trophy on Sunday, June 14, 2025.
This match-up is to honour one of the best cricket servants of Berbice, Guyana & West Indies Cricket, Leslie Amsterdam. The game in the form of a 50/50 white ball is set to bowl off at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground at 10:00h.
Leslie Amsterdam (17 July 1934 – 12 March 1999) was a Guyanese cricketer who played eight firstclass matches for British Guiana from 1958 to 1965. Amsterdam served as President of the Berbice Cricket Board in 1969 and from 1987 to 1999. He also served as Vice President of the Guyana Cricket Board from 1987 to 1999.
Further, he was a national selector from 1969 to 1998 and the manager of the senior West Indies team in 1983. Amsterdam hailed from Itachac Village, West Bank Berbice, and played an important role in the development and administration of Blairmont Centre Cricket Club.
The BCCC Blazers comprise Shabeer Baksh (Capt),
prize of G$500,000. Each team is permitted to have two guest players from other counties, even though the teams will be represented by players from the corresponding organisations. The winning squad will get G$250,000 in cash and a trophy, the runners-up G$150,000 and a trophy, and the losing semi-finalists G$50,000 apiece. A trophy will be awarded to the Man of the Match in the semi-finals and final on the individual side. Supporters will pay G$1,000 to enter the venue, and the action will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end under floodlights. Rebel Tennis Youth Club hosts Father’s Day Fun
Run
The Rebel Tennis Youth Club, in partnership with STRIDE592, invites the public to celebrate Father’s Day with a morning of movement, mindfulness, and community support at the Father’s Day fun run, walk, and yoga on Sunday, June 15, commencing at 6:00h at the Seawall Bandstand.
This vibrant wellness event will help raise funds for the Rebel Tennis Youth team’s upcoming training and tournament trip to Sunrise, Florida. Whether you’re a runner, walker, yoga enthusiast, or simply want to support a good cause, there’s something for everyone!
Event highlights include yoga with Tatiana – find your flow and start the morning grounded; raffle prizes from Massy and Haliborange; discount vouchers from Supreme Laundromat; Ministry of Health (MOH) health vouchers & screenings by Executive Medical Clinic; refreshments for sale plus games, music, and fun for all ages; and trophies will be up for grabs by Trophy Stall.
The event is sponsored by Print Zone, Massy, Yellow Steel Inc., Smalta, Trophy Stall, Supreme Laundromat, STRIDE592, Kai Design Studios, Tandy Manufacturing, Executive Medical Clinic and the Rebel Tennis Club Parents.
It will be a day to celebrate dads and youth sports with purpose and positivity. The public is urged to come out since it will be a family-orientated event.
Shakir Saffie,
Narendra Hemroop, Afraz Mazoor and Manager Samad Baksh. The PMCC team includes Rampertab Ramnauth (Capt), Rampersaud Ramnauth, Vishual Williams, Joshua Ramsammy, Joshua Harichand, Salim Khan, Navin Boodwah, Ravin Boodwah, Ruben Latcha, Gibran Yacoob, Balram Chappelle, Dharmesh Seonarine, Kushal Muthan, Dudnauth Sewmangal, George Hughes, Balram Chappelle and Metesh Sanicharran. The team’s managers are Jaipersaud Rawana and Vejai Seonarine.
Daniel Milne, Andrew Rambarran, Zeynul Ramsammy, Travis Kadir, Tomani Cascar, Shawn Pereira, Suraj Bissiondyial, Abdul Ramsammy, Justin Doobay, Keyon Gangoo, Ricardo Dhanesar,
Operations Manager Eric Tucker Jr. (left) presents a trophy to DCB Chairman of Competition Avishkar Ramgobin
Ballers United (Blue and Red) came from behind to dominate with the yellow ball
Members of the Blairmont Blazers
Dr Karen Pilgrim is 1st female to chair Caribbean RADO
Guyanese Dr Karen Pilgrim is the first female Chairperson of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO), following her unopposed election at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Barbados on June 8, 2025.
Representing Guyana, Dr Pilgrim currently serves as the country’s member representative and is a retired veterinarian and former vice president of the Guyana Olympic Association.
She previously held the position of Director on the Caribbean RADO Executive Committee. As she assumes leadership, Dr Pilgrim emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships and capacity-building across the region.
“Our relationships with our respective governments and national Olympic committees will be of paramount importance,” Dr Pilgrim.
Calling for the development for more human resources with respect to anti-doping within the
Caribbean, Dr Pilgrim added, that while the Caribbean RADO has done a lot as an organization, their goal now is to build greater capacity in each of their 18 Member Countries.
“We would love to see at least one dedicated fulltime staffer assigned to anti-doping programmes in each country. Increasing funding will also be a priority for our organisation, following the establishment of our marketing committee,” Dr Pilgrim said.
Joining Dr Pilgrim on the new Executive Committee,
JAPARTS lends support to Lusignan Golf Club
In support of the Lusignan Golf (LGC) during the relentless rainy season, Chief Executive Officer Terry Singh has loaned a tractor to the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) for a period of five weeks. This generous contribution comes at a time when the club is battling persistent rainfall and trying to keep the course in playable condition.
LGC President Anasha Ally expressed deep appreciation on behalf of the club and its membership. “On behalf of the club and its members, I’m very grateful for the help that JAPARTS and Terry Singh have given to the club,” Ally stated. “The rainfall has been relentless, and keeping the course in fairly good condition has been a challenge over the past two months. We couldn’t do it without the help of Terry Singh and some members of the club, including Patanjilee Persaud, Dino Bissessar, Pandit Ravi, Manager Vishal Changur, and ground staff.”
The provision of the tractor is not merely a convenience—it is essential. During the rainy season, course maintenance becomes particularly challenging as water accumulation
and rapid grass growth demand immediate attention.
Without the proper machinery, such upkeep would be both time-consuming and costly. The tractor allows the LGC grounds team to respond promptly, helping to prevent deterioration of the playing surface and preserving the safety and enjoyment of members and visitors.
“To rent a tractor of this kind for five weeks would typically cost the club well over two million dollars,” President Ally added. “When we have the corporate community and well-wishers who support the club in such a generous manner, it helps LGC a lot, and the club is extremely grateful.”
included a Member Country Capacity Building Training Workshop on the AntiDoping Administration and Management System (ADAMS), conducted by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) on June 6.
On June 7, member country representatives participated in an intensive strategic planning workshop led by Jane Rumble, Chief Executive of UK AntiDoping, as part of the leadup to Caribbean RADO’s next strategic cycle (2026–2030).
CEO Terry Singh’s commitment to the development of sports and community initiatives is evident in this act of generosity. His support underscores the critical role the private sector can play in sustaining recreational infrastructure, especially during times of environmental strain.
The Lusignan Golf Club continues to thrive thanks to the support of stakeholders like JAPARTS. Alongside the assistance of dedicated club members and the leadership of the executive committee and grounds superintendent Deno Bissessar
The LGC looks forward to a continued partnership with Japarts in the future, as well as the wider corporate community.
all elected unopposed, are outgoing Chairperson Patrick Werleman (Aruba), who now serves as ViceChair; former Vice-Chair Adrian Lorde (Barbados); and Rheeza Grant (Trinidad and Tobago), who continue as Directors.
The newest addition is Mitchell de Palm of Bonaire, who also heads the newly formed Marketing Committee.
De Palm outlined sustainability as a central
theme for the committee’s upcoming term, pointing out that “revenue generation will be one of the major things on our agenda. The primary task right now is assessing our previous efforts and building on those efforts while exploring new approaches to securing funding for future endeavours. These initiatives will then benefit all of our member territories.”
The AGM on June 8 capped a busy weekend that
The weekend concluded with a joint celebratory dinner with the hosts, the National Anti-Doping Commission (NADC) of Barbados, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Caribbean RADO will mark its 20th anniversary on November 12.
The Virgin Islands were confirmed as hosts for the next AGM in 2026, which will take place in St Thomas.
Guyana out of U23 3x3 in Paraguay at quarter-finals
Ahard-fought 14–18 loss to Paraguay knocked Guyana out of the U23 3x3 tournament at the quarter-final stage in Asunción on Friday.
Guyana’s squad featured US-based Anish Ramlall, alongside Domitre Rankin, Stephen George, and Arren Vanlewin, who battled a well-rounded and disciplined Paraguayan team on their home court.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging buckets throughout. With just 33 seconds remaining and the score tied at 14, Paraguay converted an and-one play and converted the free throw to edge ahead 16–14.
Ramlall and Vanlewin each had clear view of the rim to cut the deficit but couldn’t capitalise.
With nine seconds left on the clock, George committed Guyana’s seventh team foul, putting Paraguay in the bonus and sending them to the line for two free throws. The home team calmly knocked down both, extending their lead to 18–14.
George’s last-second attempt grazed the rim, but time expired before Guyana could close the gap, bringing their impressive run to an end.
The tournament served as the culmination of Guyana’s week-long 3x3 High Performance Training Programme in Paraguay, held in preparation for this year’s Junior Pan Am Games.
Guyana’s participation in the tournament followed the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the Paraguayan Olympic Committee, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing sports development.
Other participating nations included Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, the British Virgin Islands, Argentina, Grenada, and the Cayman Islands.
President of the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF), Michael Singh, expressed gratitude to the GOA for facilitating Guyana’s involvement.
“These are all young
players, and we know they soaked in everything they were taught in Paraguay,” Singh said. “We’re going to be investing heavily in the 3x3 format, and these are exactly the kinds of international experiences we want for our players. So, thank you to the GOA.”
Singh said the GBF will be working closely with Coach Willon Cameron, who also participated in the training camp, to develop a structured 3x3 programme aimed at fostering the growth of the game among both male and female youth players.
The GBF President added that the Federation plans to host a National U23 3x3 Tournament, which will complement the upcoming National Senior 3x3 Championships.
The LGC will have the benefit of a tractor compliments of Japarts
(L-R) Arren Vanlewin, Domitre Rankin, Anish Ramlall and Stephen George
New Chair Dr Karen Pilgrim and other officials
Outgoing Chair Patrick Werleman (Aruba) passing the gavel to new Chair Dr Karen Pilgrim
announce team as GSL launched
The Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) have unveiled a star-studded team of local and international talents that will don their team’s outfit for this year’s second edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20.
The announcement came on Friday evening at the GAW’s Camp Street, Georgetown, Box Office, where this year’s instalment of the tournament was officially launched.
There, ExxonMobil Guyana Country Manager for Public and Government Affairs, Matthew Scharf, expressed the company’s excitement at being the global event’s title sponsor once again.
“We were very excited to be part of the first-ever Global Super League last year, and we’re even more excited for this year, bringing champion teams from around the world and a bigger and better experience for the cricket players and all the fans here in Guyana. This is a really fantastic opportunity, both tonight and over the next month, to highlight the development of world-class sports tourism in Guyana. Cricket is leading the way, of course, but we’ve also seen and, in some cases, been able to sponsor events for squash, basketball and many others. So, we’re excited about the development of sports tourism in Guyana,” Scharf shared at Friday’s gathering.
He went on to add, “At ExxonMobil, we believe in the power of sport and national events to unite, and we’re committed to supporting these initiatives in Guyana. So, I’d like to say thank you to the Government of Guyana, to the Global Super League organisers, to all the other sponsors, several of whom are in the room, including especially the new sponsors
this year. To Cricket West Indies and to all of the people who are helping make this tournament a possibility. We’re delighted to strengthen our connection to cricket and to the community here in Guyana, and we’re excited to celebrate cricket and share Guyana with the rest of the world.”
Limacol, Demerara Bank Limited, Champion, and ENet are amongst the tournament’s long list of sponsors. Meanwhile, the Guyana Amazon Warriors team reads: Imran Tahir, Shimron Hetmyer, Gudakesh Motie,
Romario Shepherd, Evin Lewis, Johnson Charles, Moeen Ali, Saif Shakeel, Dwaine Pretorius, Akeal Hosein, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mark Adair, Jewel Andrew, Shamar Springer and Amir Jangoo.
The 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League will see five teams competing for a USD $1M prize purse at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, from July 1018.
The competing teams include defending cham-
pions
Tickets are currently available for the Guyanese showpiece at the GAW Box Office, located at 233-234 Camp Street, Georgetown.
Rangpur Riders of Bangladesh, hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors, Australia’s Hobart Hurricanes, New Zealand’s Central Stags and the Dubai Capitals.
ExxonMobil Guyana Country Manager for Public and Government Affairs, Matthew Scharf
More scenes from the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League launch
Guyana Amazon Warriors Manager Leon Johnson unveils the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League championship trophy